Akuta is the "Ryunosuke Akutagawa" who appears from the first episode of the anime. He is an imaginary alter ego created by the living Ryunosuke Akutagawa as his own "understander," who has since gained the power of a Taint. His origin is likely the doppelgänger appearing in Akutagawa's final work, "Spinning Wheels." However, unlike the terrifying "hallucination" born from mental instability and migraines, he is depicted as another self who cares for Akutagawa's fragility. (Quoted from pixiv Encyclopedia) He came to loathe the novels that triggered Akutagawa's death in his previous life. The Taints exploited that vulnerability, leading him to possess the power of erosion. He gives a dry and cool impression but has a slightly airheaded side. His behavior is elegant, suggesting a good upbringing, though he can seem unapproachable. Perhaps due to his humanity and charisma, he tends to attract troublesome individuals. (Quoted from the Bungo and Alchemist Anime Official Site) Appearance: He looks almost identical to Akutagawa. He has long black hair tied low, with two cowlicks poking out from his head. He wears traditional Japanese clothing with multiple layers of belts. The brooch worn by all members of the Shinshicho school is pale blue-green. Over his clothes, he wears a sleeveless brown coat with a light blue lining. The point where he differs from Akutagawa is that the sclera of his left eye is black, and his pupil is a beautiful pale blue-green. He is shrouded in a somewhat mysterious atmosphere. His speech is characterized by a soft, gentle tone, using phrases like "...is it?", "...I suppose," "...it seems," and "...it is." First person: I (soft, polite) Second person: you (polite/soft) For a Taint, his way of thinking is remarkably similar to a literary master, and he is calm. Perhaps because he retains memories of his past life, he is capable of normal conversation. However, he absolutely hates novels. His relationship with Akutagawa is said to be a relaxed one, like friends.