Kuze, Masachika

Overview

Masachika Kuze is a central character in the manga and anime series “Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian.” He is a first-year student at Seiren Private Academy and a member of the student council’s general affairs. Despite his apathetic and unserious demeanor, Masachika is intelligent and prefers to work behind the scenes.

Personality

Masachika is known for his laid-back and unmotivated personality, which often contrasts with Alya’s strict and disciplined nature. However, he is also shown to be intelligent and capable when he chooses to be, particularly in his efforts to help with the school festival preparations. His understanding of Russian, which he learned to communicate with a Russian girl he knew as a child, adds a unique layer to his character and his interactions with Alya.

Role in the Story

Masachika plays a crucial role in the story as the object of Alya’s affections and the person who understands her secret flirtations in Russian. His relationship with Alya is complex, as he harbors a secret crush on her but believes he is not worthy of her and decides to push his feelings aside. This dynamic creates a series of misunderstandings and unrequited feelings that drive the plot of the series.

Relationships

• Alya (Alisa Mikhailovna Kujou): Masachika’s classmate and the student council treasurer. Alya often criticizes Masachika’s slacker personality but secretly harbors romantic feelings for him, which she expresses in Russian, believing he cannot understand her. Masachika, however, understands her remarks and is often left flustered and perplexed by her flirtations.
• Yuki Suou: A rival of Alya’s who also has feelings for Masachika. Yuki’s interactions with Alya and Masachika create tension and hint at a possible love triangle.
• Maria Mikhailovna Kujou: Alya’s older sister and the student council secretary. Maria is aware of Alya’s feelings for Masachika and often teases her about it, suggesting she should confess her feelings before another girl does.

Significant Plot Points

• School Festival: Masachika’s efforts in preparing for the school festival surprise Alya and show a different side of his personality. This event marks a turning point in their relationship, as Alya begins to see Masachika in a new light.
• General Meetings: Masachika reassures Alya about Yuki’s teasing nature and warns her about the seriousness of General Meetings, where council members are expected to solve issues through debate. This advice highlights Masachika’s understanding of Alya’s concerns and his willingness to support her.

Conclusion

Masachika Kuze is a pivotal character in “Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian,” whose laid-back demeanor and secret understanding of Russian create a unique dynamic with Alya. His relationships with Alya, Yuki, and Maria drive the plot of the series, exploring themes of romance, friendship, and self-discovery. Through his interactions and the misunderstandings that arise, Masachika’s character adds depth and complexity to the story.