Tao

* Colored
* Manga
* Oneshot

**Tao Saotome** (早 (サ) 乙 (オ) 女 (ト)  道 (タオ) , *Saotome Tao*, most commonly known as *Tao*) is one of the main protagonists in Yuto Sano's manga series, *Gokurakugai*. She is a lady with a hairstyle featuring centrally parted braided hair. Notably, she is tall and wears round blue sunglasses. Her eyes possess a lavender-purple hue.

In spite of her reserved demeanor that might come across as intimidating when upset, she also exhibits a compassionate side that extends help to those in need. She operates a troubleshooting agency and takes care of Alma as an employee. Beneath her role as a "troubleshooter," she also functions as a specialized "assassin," targeting Magas. While she demands substantial fees for assignments within her agency, she undertakes Maga-related tasks without charge. She is a consistent smoker and has a slightly unconventional habit of sticking out her tongue. Her appetite is hearty, albeit not on par with Alma's. Her preferred weapon is a pistol, utilizing ammunition derived from Alma's blood to combat Magas.

As a member of the Saragi Anti-Maga Organization, she affectionately refers to the group as her "home." Her hair features a platinum silver shade with a black base, although in the oneshot *Gokurakugai Sanbandori No Ken,* her hair takes on a salmon pink color, with her bangs cascading to the right side. Her eyes in this instance are a sky blue. Alma addresses her using the "-san" honorific.

## Profile

She possesses a reserved demeanor and can be quite intimidating when angered. Publicly, they function as a troubleshooter agency, yet covertly, they operate as skilled assassins focused on handling Disaster Beasts.

## Appearance

### Manga

Tao is a tall woman with mature features and a well-proportioned body. Her platinum blonde hair has subtle pale purple highlights, and a small mole rests under her left eyelid. She sports black fingernails and typically wears her long hair in a braided style, draping it on her left side.

Her attire includes an off-white coat with rolled-up sleeves, layered over a black sleeveless jumpsuit reminiscent of a qipao, along with a white waist belt. Complementing her ensemble are black high-heeled boots that contrast with the wide-leg design of the jumpsuit's pants. The coat features patches on the front, a prominent Saragi Anti-Maga Organization logo on the larger back section, and a smaller one on the left sleeve. When at the office and in a relaxed state, she may be seen wearing the jumpsuit with sleeves pushed up and pants down, devoid of any embellishments, signifying a comfortable look for the day.

Tao's accessories consist of round lavender-colored sunglasses for outdoor outings, a black glove with a gold knuckle that adorns her left hand, and an ethnic-inspired golden earring with a small black tassel hanging from it.

Tao, Chapter 1 cover imageTao in Chapter 5's Side StoryTao, smokingTao, introducing what their job really is to Luka
### Oneshot

In the *oneshot* version, Tao maintains her mature features, tall stature, and curvaceous body. Her hair carries a rose gold hue, with predominant dark brown roots. The braided hair, reaching chest length, drapes over her left shoulder. Typically, she opts for athletic pants, dons a black tank top beneath, and casually drapes an off-white jacket over her shoulders. Completing her ensemble are flat shoes reminiscent of traditional hanfu footwear.

A set of matching tattoos adorns both of her forearms, featuring diagonal lines coiled within a circle. Her left bicep hosts a tattoo depicting two dragon shapes forming an ouroboros, with one dragon above the other and a touch of scarring partially veiling it. Another inked design illustrates a dragon ascending her chest and neck while swaying side to side.

On her left ear, she wears three distinct piercings: one on the lobe, one on the top helix, and one on the tragus. Her right ear boasts three piercings as well: a gauge, upper lobe, and inner conch. Among her ear lobe piercings, the first is adorned with a black tassel, while a hoop earring embellishes her right ear gauge.

In the *oneshot* depiction, her younger self showcases shoulder-length hair with lengthy bangs that extend past her eyes. Between her short-haired phase and her current hairstyle, she sported chest-length hair paired with long bangs. During her youth, she favored a light tank top and athletic shorts as her attire.

Tao in Oneshot, coloredTao in Oneshot, not coloredTao in Oneshot, younger versionTao, younger version drawn by Yuto Sano.
## Personality

Tao's initial introduction presents her as composed, seated at her desk with the tendrils of a cigarette blending into her commanding presence. During her interaction with a recent client, she displays a firm demeanor, confidently managing the discussion about the agency's fees. Her way of speaking and carrying herself combines an air of charismatic toughness with a steady feminine essence. While her character's foundation might draw parallels to earlier shonen series, Tao breaks new ground by representing a strong female figure. Beyond her evident qualities of strength, resolve, and her role as the agency's leader, Tao also exudes genuine kindness and takes on a nurturing role with the young Alma. Although her character remains somewhat enigmatic, the story hints at an undisclosed history that could bring added depth to her persona.

Tao possesses a calm and composed manner; she concentrates on new information, especially if it piques her attention. She upholds her own values as she goes about her actions. Her commanding nature is apparent in how she often corrects Alma and in her dealings with their first client, Mr. Cho, who finds her intimidating, a feeling echoed by Luka. Beneath her seemingly unemotional exterior, she has a compassionate side that prompts her to assist those in need without expecting anything in return.

Within their organization, Tao, as an adult, occasionally steps into the role of an older sister for Alma and Nei due to their comparative youth among their colleagues. Their decisions often require Tao's approval, emphasizing the reliance placed on her judgment.

Despite her outward appearance of detachment, Tao reveals a compassionate side, occasionally intertwined with her interest in financial matters. This is highlighted in the oneshot, where she takes on the case of Nene, a girl with limited resources, stirring memories of her own challenging past. Tao's generosity extends to cases that warrant significant aid, sometimes even foregoing fees. Nevertheless, symbolic payments are occasionally accepted; for instance, she engages in conversations with Isato about his problems in exchange for cigarettes, underscoring the empathetic stance of the troubleshooters. As Alma's guardian and senior colleague, Tao's influence is evident in Alma's behavior.

## Plot

### Background

Tao, at the age of ten, experienced a traumatic event where her mother, a devoted follower of an unseen deity, returned home as a stack of money. Her father, described as a menacing figure, counted the bills in front of Tao and her brother Jin, warning them against discussing the matter with anyone else and threatening to sell them off in pieces.

Tao's father, a heartless and vile man, became the source of her fear and anticipation of becoming the new target for his wrath after her mother's departure. Despite the distressing situation, Tao found herself unable to shed tears over parting ways with her mother.

At the age of fifteen, Tao faced a drastic upheaval in her life. Her father, entangled with a violent organization, found himself indebted to them, leading to Tao being relinquished for servitude under a beastman, the representative of the organization. Battered and bruised, Tao endured the beastman's scornful interrogation and the organization's involvement in her life.

Tao's transformation over time was marked by deprivation, handling firearms, and adorning a tattoo on her wrist, symbolizing the harsh realities she had come to embrace. Her younger brother Jin revealed signs of abuse from their abusive father, prompting Tao to feel remorseful and express regret for not keeping him safe. Their father's violent tendencies, demanding money from Tao, led to physical confrontations. In one such altercation, Jin shielded Tao, taking a hit to his forehead.

As the days passed, Tao continued working under the Beastman, facing beatings and captivity. Jin surprised her on her birthday, expressing concerns about her safety and urging her to quit the perilous work. Despite Jin's worries, Tao emphasized the necessity of earning money for their freedom. Within the Beastman's hideout, Tao faced relentless beatings and captivity. In a decisive moment, she resolved to fight back, sacrificing her own arm to break free and eliminate the man responsible for her torment. She returned home to find a devastated scene, with her father's lifeless body and no sign of Jin.

### The Missing and Disfigured Bodies Case Arc

A series of mysterious events occurring on Gokurakugai 8th Avenue, involving disappearances and unexplained deaths. The story shifts to the Gokurakugai Troubleshooter Agency, where Alma and Tao discuss a case involving a client named Mr. Cho, who wants evidence of his infidelity erased. When discussing payment, Mr. Cho tries to shortchange them, but Alma catches on. Tao threatens to reveal incriminating photos they have, and Mr. Cho eventually pays up.

Later, Alma and Tao are at Hourai Restaurant enjoying noodles. Yaya, a waitress, talks to them about the recent incidents of missing people and animal remains. She urges them to investigate. Tao explains their role and lack of relevant requests. Yaya suggests a new sign for their agency, but Tao and Alma are more interested in helping with the ongoing issue. Auntie playfully intervenes.

Alma discovers a reward poster for a missing person, Yukiharu Nishi. He then encounters Luka Kiyomine, who is looking for his missing friend Yuki. Luka shares information about animal remains and Yuki's disappearance. Alma and Tao initially clash with Luka but agree to help after hearing his story. Luka explains his background and friendship with Yuki, revealing his vulnerability.

Luka discovers a disturbing scene with disfigured animal remains and Yuki's hat. He encounters a monstrous creature and is about to be attacked when Alma and Tao arrive. They defeat the creature, revealing their unique abilities as troubleshooters who deal with these creatures known as "Magas." Alma is part Maga but has managed to control his powers. Luka expresses gratitude, and they return to their office, bonding over a meal and conversation.

Luka brings donuts as a thank you, and they discuss the agency's sign. Luka surprises them with a new sign design. Alma and Luka decide to visit Yuki in the hospital after sharing a meal.

Alma was being woken up by Tao, and they head back home together. They reach the Saragi Anti-Maga Organization Headquarters, where Yoki and Dara greet them. Alma undergoes a blood extraction procedure to create ammunition for Tao's weapon. Yoki shows off his new gauntlets, and Dara talks about her gear. After the procedure, Alma feels dizzy and rests. Tao tells him they won't need more blood draws once they deal with the Maga causing trouble.

Tao asks about Tatsuomi's absence, and Yoki shares that Tatsuomi provided information about mysterious disappearances in the Southern Fudo District Cemetery. Tao inquires about the cost of the information, and Yoki reveals Tatsuomi charged double. Alma recovers and they prepare for a mission using Tatsuomi's intel. They bid Yoki and Dara farewell and head to the cemetery.

At the cemetery, they meet Isato, who is going to visit his grandfather's grave. They join him and arrive at the Amadera Family Grave. Isato shares the tragic story of his abusive father's murder of his grandfather. He opens up about his difficult upbringing and mistreatment. Isato regrets not standing up for himself. Alma reassures him, explaining his gentle nature isn't to blame.

Isato hears noises and is attacked by Magas. Alma intervenes and transforms into a half-maga, defeating one Maga. Isato questions Alma's nature, and Tao explains Magas to him. Isato recognizes the Maga as his father and confronts his past. Alma strikes down the Maga. Alma advises Isato to let go of guilt and live his own life.

They return to headquarters, where Yoki and Dara warmly welcome them. Alma and Tao are shocked by the cleanup bill, but Yoki reassures them of their safety.

A woman being strangled by a man, who seems to enjoy her suffering. The story then shifts to Alma helping out at Hourai Restaurant, and after cooking, he heads to their office. Tatsuomi, an informant, shares information about a case involving bodies found hanged at Meito Shrine. He provides details about the victims and their unique cause of death, suggesting a more advanced entity is responsible. Tatsuomi hints that the perpetrator might be connected to Tao.

Alma and Tao visit the Meito Shrine to investigate. They discuss their beliefs in God and encounter a swarm of Magas. Alma transforms into a half-maga and fights the Magas using a baseball-inspired approach, while Tao employs her marksmanship skills to eliminate them. Afterward, Alma expresses a desire for sushi and they head to Hourai Restaurant, where Tatsuomi is helping. Alma leaves to use a Taiyaki voucher.

Tao discusses the case's progress with Tatsuomi, expressing disappointment and an unsettling feeling. They realize they might have been lured into a trap. Tatsuomi proposes the idea that Tao's target might have turned into a Maga. He leaves, and Tao is lost in thought.

Alma heads back to the agency and decides to check on the shrine cleanup. He encounters a man at the shrine entrance and asks about his identity.

Alma encounters an unfamiliar man at the entrance of Meito Shrine. The man seems anxious and flustered when asked about his identity. He explains he was casually exploring and ended up at the shrine accidentally. Alma observes his behavior and offers a tissue pack with the agency's contact info for assistance. The man explains Alma startled him while he was looking at Alma's snacks. Alma playfully calls him crafty and shares a snack with him. The man tearfully reveals Alma's sudden presence startled him.

Later, Alma returns to the agency and informs Tao about the encounter. He describes the man as lost, emotional, and hungry. Alma shares a snack and seeks Tao's compliment. Tao engages in conversation with the man, while Alma focuses on the remote control.

The man is approached by another named Yomi, who calls him Yoru. Yoru mentions Alma and shows the tissue pack Alma gave him. Yomi refers to Alma as their "score" and talks about Alma's nature. Yomi reveals he's been observing Alma since birth and intends to take him in when they meet. Yoru agrees to engage with Alma if they meet again.

Suddenly, two drunk women approach Yoru and Yomi. Yoru uses unseen strangulation to cause one woman to gasp for air and the other to die. Yoru makes the surviving woman swallow a capsule, transforming her into a Maga-like creature. Yomi finds Yoru's actions captivating.

Back at the agency, Alma informs Tao about giving the tissue pack and shares a taiyaki sandwich. Tao is on her smoking break and having coffee. Alma boasts about Tao's eating habits and dislikes, and they enjoy taiyaki while watching TV shows together.

Tao and Alma visit the headquarters and learn that someone named Nei has been completing most of the missions, causing a shortage of job opportunities. They suspect Nei's involvement and discuss her character. Nei arrives and playfully interacts with Alma and Tao. Yoki shares information from Tatsuomi about Magas appearing in a shopping district on Gokurakugai 10th Avenue. Nei volunteers for the mission, and Tao and Alma agree. Alma jokes about Nei taking their job.

On a train to the shopping district, Nei questions Alma's purpose. Alma mentions efficiency, but Nei challenges his skills, revealing his lack of knowledge about his weaknesses. Back at the base, Tao, Dara, and Yoki discuss Alma's lack of awareness about his weaknesses and the learning opportunity partnering with Nei presents. Tao believes firsthand experience is crucial for Alma to understand his weaknesses.

In the shopping district, Nei uses her blood to attract Magas. Alma realizes he can't remove his Karmic Stake without Tao's permission. Nei fights the Magas skillfully and reveals Alma's weakness. She dispatches the Magas and receives Alma's praise, admitting she seeks continuous praise for motivation. They playfully exchange words.

The chapter concludes with an office dinner where Alma and Nei playfully compete for meat, Tao and Dara enjoy their meal, and Yoki laments the meat expenses.

### The Cannibalism Case Arc

A week ago, Alma and Tao began investigating a series of cannibalistic incidents, where victims were found with bite wounds leading to significant blood loss. They examined the crime scenes and noted similarities among the cases, including a mysterious figure walking away from one site. In Tatsuomi's office, he offered Tao a reduced fee for his services in the case, prompting Alma to question the fairness of this arrangement based on individual financial situations.

Photographs showed victims with consistent bite wounds in different alleyways along Gokurakugai 10th Avenue. The victims shared criminal records involving offenses against women. The peculiar bite patterns on their palms raised suspicions of intentional targeting. Tatsuomi shared this information but hinted at a cost for more details. Alma and Tao decided to explore the area further before returning home.

In a crowd, Alma approached a woman named Kanata who seemed distressed. He inquired about her well-being, leading to a momentary physical altercation. Alma managed to engage her in conversation and took her to a restaurant, where they introduced themselves. Kanata revealed her loneliness and desire to be outside, leading to multiple dinners and shared interests between them. Alma appreciated Kanata's smile and encouraged her to reach out whenever needed.

The scene shifted to Kanata encountering a man in a restroom who made inappropriate advances. She defended herself by biting his hand and escaped his presence. The man accused her of being a "monster" due to her actions.

Upon arriving, Alma casually placed Tao's coffee jelly on a shelf and mentioned making a new friend with a cheerful demeanor. Tao was engrossed in reading a news article about an incident involving a girl from Izumisawa High School who bit a man on Gokurakugai 8th Avenue. The victim was taken to a hospital, and the news labeled it a Gokurakugai cannibal case. The girl, described as petite with light blue hair, had bitten through the man's palm. Tao answered a call from Tatsuomi and redirected the bills to Yoki. An unrelated outbreak on 6th Avenue was discussed.

Tao tossed Alma the news article, revealing that Kanata, Alma's friend, was the girl in question. Tao suggested Alma handle the Kanata situation while he dealt with the 6th Avenue issue. Kanata struggled to control violent urges and fled from human contact despite an anxious smile. The chapter transitioned to a group dining together.

Tao talked with Tatsuomi about Kanata, discussing her ability to live as a Maga while blending into the human world. The focus then shifted to Alma, finding Kanata upset at a subway station. She confessed to being behind recent cannibalism cases, describing an incident where she bit a man who nearly assaulted her in a restroom, confirming the man's description of her as a "monster."

Yomi successfully removed Alma's Karmic Stake, transforming him into a Maga and accidentally causing his attack to injure Kanata. This incident triggers a memory for Kanata, explaining her aversion to meals due to past loneliness. Kanata endures Alma's attacks while reflecting on her connection with him and her remorse for taking lives. Alma eventually delivers a fatal blow to Kanata.

Yomi observes and comments on Kanata's perceived betrayal, while Alma tries to attack Yomi but fails. Yomi explains Maga behavior, their consumption urges, and Kanata's internal conflict. Tao and Nei arrive, attempting to attack Yomi with no success. Yomi bids Alma farewell, leaves a message for Tao, and introduces himself before departing.

Tao returns Alma's Karmic Stake, advising him to balance Maga blood and humanity. Alma is shocked by Kanata's lifeless state. Nei reveals Kanata's Maga nature, but Alma still considers her a friend.

### Alma's Training Arc

Alma woke up from a dream about Kanata with Tao beside him updating someone on Alma regaining consciousness, mentioning Tao's anemia caused by the severed arm. Alma questioned if he was responsible for Kanata's death. Tao confirmed it but emphasized Alma's role in saving her. Despite Kanata's actions, Tao explained that Alma's intervention brought closure by managing the intersection of the living and deceased. Alma didn't cause Kanata's death; he chose a path to ensure the appropriate fate for Maga, seeking closure and solace.

Yoki, Dara, and Tatsuomi entered Alma's room, expressing support for his contributions in identifying the Maga crisis mastermind. Yoki reassured Alma, emphasizing the significance of his role. Dara initiated a blood extraction procedure, making Alma uneasy. Tatsuomi obtained subway station footage, and the group collectively reviewed it, noticing Yomi's involvement. Alma pointed out the similarity between Yomi's ring and his necklace, while Tao speculated on a connection between Yomi and Alma due to their rings' resemblance. Dara remarked on the cruelty inflicted by Yomi on Kanata if he was indeed the Magas' leader.

Determined, Alma declared that Yomi's disappearance would stop the Maga transformation, and he pledged to confront him with conviction. Tatsuomi playfully teased Alma about relying on Tao for fighting, prompting Alma to admit his desire for independence in aiding others. He shared this aspiration with Tao, expressing his wish to emulate her ability to save people. Tao left to gather information, accompanied by blushing Tatsuomi. Later, personnel brought food to address Alma's hunger, and as he ate, he cautioned Tao. As Tao and Tatsuomi departed, they playfully discussed Tatsuomi's envy of Yomi capturing Tao's attention. Tao detailed Yomi's manipulation of Kanata, leading to her demise and Alma's involvement. Tatsuomi found this plausible but considered alternative scenarios, suggesting random or purposeful actions linked to the Meito Shrine incident. He speculated on the presence of multiple higher-ranking Maga entities. Frustrated by the lack of concrete information, Tao felt the weight of Kanata's loss as a crucial source. Following Yoki's advice, Alma arrived at Training Ground No. 2 and waited for an hour. Yoki and Ryu appeared with a cart of alcohol. Yoki intended to share Ryu's history related to Tao and Nei, but Ryu intervened. Yoki left with words of encouragement. Indifferent to lives, Ryu demonstrated a sliding kick, knocking Alma down.

In the hall, a frustrated Alma confronted Ryu. Ryu explained that Yoki sought help to make Alma self-reliant. Alma questioned Ryu's intent to fight, and Ryu confirmed, urging Alma to confront him directly. Setting aside sake, Ryu declared no rules and charged at Alma. When Alma hesitated and requested a pause, Ryu denied it and insisted Alma remove a crucial stake for his power. Despite Alma arguing that Ryu was human, Ryu struck him, causing damage, and urged Alma to rise for another round.

Injured, Alma demanded an explanation. Ryu revealed anti-Maga sentiments, suggesting a fight-to-kill scenario. In the next round, Ryu countered Alma's punch, leaving him battered. Ryu questioned why Alma hadn't removed the stake. Alma explained his fear of losing control due to Maga blood. Ryu recalled Tao's past intervention, convincing Alma of the need for self-reliance. Standing up, Alma prepared for another round. Ryu suggested mastering Maga blood control independently, without the stake. Motivated, Alma geared up for another round. Needing a break, Ryu encountered Nei, who clarified Alma's potential as a Maga. Ryu asked Nei about Tao's role in removing the restraint stake.

## Relationships

### Manga

* **Alma:** Alma has proven immensely valuable to Tao in their troubleshooter work, especially in detecting clients' falsehoods through his acute sense of smell. Despite the age difference, their relationship has both a sibling-like and coworker dynamic, facilitated by their shared office space and Tao's reserved demeanor. Typically, Tao assigns Alma errands, like fetching cigarettes or providing extra money for his meals. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role in authorizing Alma's Maga transformation, a crucial aspect of their job to eliminate maga creatures. She signals this by uttering "Kai" when Alma adopts his combat stance, signifying his readiness to engage magas using his hybrid abilities.

* **Yoki:** Yoki assumes the responsibility of customizing Tao's firearm for their Maga elimination missions. Additionally, he oversees compensatory payments for damages caused to nearby establishments. Tao occasionally relies on him to mediate with Nei and Alma, who are the youngest members of their group, using bribes to manage situations when they become unruly.

* **Dara:** As an adult member within their organization, Dara shares certain similarities with Tao, primarily due to their shared status as adult women. However, unlike Tao's poised and intimidating demeanor, Dara presents a warmer disposition. She expresses her care for fellow Maga Killers through physical affection, akin to Yoki, particularly after the successful completion of missions when they all return to their home base.

* **Tatsuomi:** Serving as the agency's informant, Tatsuomi shares information regarding disaster-related events with Tao, receiving compensation in return. While Tao generally maintains a certain degree of separation during their interactions, particularly when Tatsuomi exhibits overly flirtatious behavior, this might stem from his evident fondness for women. His tendency to encroach on her personal space when he engages with her likely reflects his attraction to the opposite sex.

* **Nei:** Most often, Nei sought Tao's approval. This encompassed Tao's responses to food and her acknowledgment of Nei's dedication to her tasks.

### Oneshot

* **Alma:** In the introduction of the Oneshot, the narrative detailed her initial encounter with Alma. Alma was apprehended while attempting to ensnare individuals on Gokurakugai's streets. As the story progressed, Alma transitioned into a partnership with her at their Troubleshooter Office. Their services catered to clients seeking solutions in exchange for payment. Despite her reserved disposition, she displayed a fondness for Alma, effectively acting as a sibling figure. This affection was evident in her provision of pocket money to cover Alma's snacks. Additionally, given her senior status, it is implied that she holds financial responsibilities within their dynamic.

* **Nene:** She exhibited a caring older sister's affection towards Nene, despite their recent acquaintance. An illustrative example is her attentive demeanor while Nene shared her family's background. The emotional moment was marked by Nene's tears and a heartfelt embrace. Subsequently, as they parted ways, Tao returned the money that had been taken from Nene's family by the Club Therian beastmen.

* **Unnamed Beastman:** While the beastman's identity remained undisclosed, she received assistance and upbringing from a beastman during her childhood when she was lost in the streets.

## Abilities

* **Close Range Gunfight:** Tao possesses unparalleled quickdraw reflexes, enabling her to swiftly draw her firearm and take aim with remarkable speed. Her precision aiming skill complements this ability, allowing her to accurately target Magas even in the chaos of close-range gunfights. Her close quarters marksmanship skill further enhances her effectiveness, enabling her to accurately hit Magas even in the midst of fast-paced confrontations. Whether under pressure or in the heat of battle, Tao's ability to engage and incapacitate Magas with her rapid firing technique and precise aim makes her a formidable force in close range gunfights.

## Equipment

* **Specialized Hand Gun:**      Tao's specialized hand gun lies in its ammunition: specially crafted bullets made from Alma's own blood, drawn from the Karmic Stake embedded in his heart. The collaboration between Tao, Yoki, and Dara resulted in a weapon with unprecedented effectiveness against Magas.

Each bullet carries the essence of Alma's hybrid abilities, making them potent tools for combating the Magas. When Tao fires these rounds, they have the ability to not only strike but also obliterate the Magas, tearing them apart with astonishing force.

## Etymology

The Japanese name **早乙女道 (Saotome Tao)** might suggest a young woman with a swift or early maturity following a particular path or way of life.

* **早乙女 (Saotome):** It signifies an early or quick young woman, often associated with youthfulness or a girl who matures swiftly.
	+ **早 (Sao):** means "early" or "quick," denoting something happening swiftly or at an early time.
	+ **乙女 (tome):** translates to *maiden* or *young woman.*
* **道 (Tao):** It's pronounced as "Tao" and written in katakana as "タオ." This name means *path* or *way.* In a broader sense, it can represent one's journey, a philosophical path, or a way of life.

## Trivia

* In the manga, Tao's handgun was intricately customized, with its ammunition crafted from Alma's blood. This blood was obtained from the Karmic Stake that had emerged within his chest.
* Tao assumes the crucial role of controlling the chant that restrains Alma's Maga transformation. The Karmic Stake, lodged in his heart, cannot be removed unless Tao utters the "Kai" chant. This mechanism essentially signifies that Alma's ability to engage in combat with Magas is contingent upon Tao's involvement.
* In both the serialized manga and the oneshot, Tao has a notable affinity for smoking, a habit she indulges in even upon waking. She often assigns Alma with the task of procuring her cigarettes, occasionally providing him with additional funds to cover his own food expenses, considering his hearty appetite.
* Regarding the additional illustrations in Volume 3, providing character details, she likes Chinese cuisine and junk foods but has a dislike for alcohol and green peas. Her pocket contents include cigarettes, a 100-yen lighter, and candies.
* In Volume 3, her complete name, **Tao Saotome** (早 (サ) 乙 (オ) 女 (ト)  道 (タオ) , *Saotome Tao*), was revealed and introduced for the first time.

## References

 "Gokurakugai Oneshot". — Page(s) 51.
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 14.
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Volume 3 . — Volume Extra, Character Information.
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Pages 58-59).
 "Character Information". *Jump SQ Gokurakugai Official site*.
 "Gokurakugai Oneshot".
 "Younger Version of Tao". — from Yuto Sano's Tweet.
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Pages 4-11).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Pages 12-16).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Pages 17-34).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Pages 34-68).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 2 (Pages 3-12).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 2 (Pages 12-15).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 2 (Pages 15-32).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 2 (Pages 32-51).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 2 (Pages 51-52).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 3 (Pages 1-15).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 3 (Pages 16-39).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 3 (Pages 39-42).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 3 (Pages 42-44).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 4 (Pages 3-11).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 4 (Pages 11-14).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 4 (Pages 14-26).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 4 (Pages 26-34).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 4 (Pages 34-37).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 5 (Pages 1-16).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 5 (Pages 17-21).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 5 (Pages 21-34).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 6 (Pages 1-8).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 6 (Pages 9-25).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 6 (Pages 25-29).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 7 (Pages 1-7).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 7 (Pages 7-11).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 7 (Pages 11-19).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 8 (Pages 1-21).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 8 (Pages 21-25).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 8 (Pages 1-24).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 8 (Pages 25-29).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Page 45).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Page 46).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 3 (Pages 28-33).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Page 55).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 2 (Page 36).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 3 (Page 19).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 5 (Pages 17-27). — Nei explaining Alma's weakness.
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 5/5 (Page 4).
*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Page 17). — Alma running some errands for Tao's cigarettes and some supplies.