CONFIDANT

Kazama, Kazama. Where to start? While initially the relationship between Shuji Kazama and Shinogu seems to be nothing more than roommate and co-worker, as the series progresses it becomes clear how important their bond is to Shinogu.

It is thanks to Kazama that Shinogu is able to leave home as quickly as he does. Had he not had a roommate to split the cost with, it would have been much harder for him leave when he needed to. Kazama provides him with an escape.

More than this, Kazama also understands Shinogu a lot more than most of the other characters do. While he doesn't know of Shinogu's feelings for Hatsumi until later in the manga, he overcomes his surprise quickly and offers the following:

Kazama: But the Narita Shinogu I know...
Kazama: Ain't the kinda dude that goes around blurtin' stuff he swore he'd never say.
Kazama: So if you told her...seems to me it was killin' ya not to.
Kazama: You love her that much, why you backin' off? 'Cuz she got a fella?
Kazama: So what? Just take her away from 'im!

This excessively long quote goes to show you how well Kazama really understands and accepts Shinogu. Yeah, he's shocked, but in the same instant, he's instantly supporting his friend and his feelings. Kazama helps Shinogu become more determined in his actions and gives him the nudge he needs to try capturing Hatsumi's heart once more.

Kazama: But if you tore her all up, ain't you gotta do somethin' 'bout that?
Kazama: Make it all better. Make her happy, dude.
Kazama: You know she loves you.

Next to Azusa, he knows the most about Shinogu's past and situation, and explains to Hatsumi how much Shinogu is sacrificing for her (see: cherub); he is a veritable bridge between the two, who are so confused and enveloped in their emotions, that they can't see what's going on right in front of them.

Would I call Kazama, Shinogu's best friend? Well, yes and no. I think their relationship is definitely strong enough to be defined in such a way and it's really up to individual interpretation - after all, Azusa is a strong contender for that title, especially later on in the series.

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