Masaki Shi Pu Suwan Pei

**Madama Butterfly** (1918 - 1946; aged 28)

## Appearance

Masaki Shi Pu Suwan Pei is a character who exudes femininity despite identifying as male. She has a possibly agender face, characterized by her blackish brown hair that beautifully complements her fair skintone. Her light brown eyes add depth and warmth to her overall look. When it comes to attire, Masaki is often seen wearing a dark greenish Furisode, a traditional Japanese kimono with long, flowing sleeves. This Furisode is adorned with delicate butterflies patterns, adding an enchanting touch to her dress. To secure her kimono, Masaki wears a blackish Obi, a sash that accentuates her waist and provides a contrasting element to her overall outfit. Masaki's hair is adorned with Kanzashi, traditional hair ornaments that enhance her elegant appearance. These accessories serve to further highlight her unique style and add a touch of sophistication to her look. To complete her ensemble, Masaki chooses to wear Geta, traditional Japanese wooden sandals. These footwear choices not only provide practicality but also contribute to the overall traditional aesthetic that Masaki embodies. In addition to her captivating appearance, Masaki wields Nagamakis as her weapons. These Nagamakis feature black handles, which add a touch of sleekness and elegance to her combat style. Overall, Masaki Shi Pu Suwan Pei's character presents a captivating blend of femininity, agender expression, and traditional Japanese elements, showcasing her individuality and strength.

## Travia

* The character Madama Butterfly draws its name from the main antagonist in the series "Flock'⁴⁵." This character serves as the inspiration for the opera composed by Giacomo Puccini, which is based on the short story "Madame Butterfly" written by John Luther Long. In both the opera and the story, the character Butterfly (also known as Cio-Cio-san in the opera and Cho-Cho-san in the story) is a young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American serviceman. The serviceman marries her for convenience, with the intention of leaving her once he finds a suitable American wife. Butterfly becomes pregnant with his child and patiently waits for three years for his return, only to discover that he has come back with his new wife. Heartbroken, Butterfly agrees to give up her child to the couple before tragically taking her own life using her father's knife. She commits jigai, a female form of seppuku, to preserve her family's honor.
	+ In addition to the opera and story, there is an episode titled "Madame Butterfly's Illusion" in the 11th episode of the second season of a series. This episode depicts a battle between Madama and Roxann. Additionally, there is a 1940 Japanese animated short film called "Madame Butterfly's Illusion," directed by Wagorō Arai, who interestingly was a dentist. Arai created nearly a dozen short films between 1939 and 1947 in the unique style of silhouette animation. The episode features flashbacks presented in silhouette animation, showcasing the childhood of Masaki Suwan and her relationships with Ryōsuke, as well as her sisters from the series "7 Shoguns of the Sun."
	+ The character's name, Masaki Shi Pu Suwan Pei, is a reference to the Chinese spy Masaki Shi Pu Suwan Pei, who operated during the Cold War era. Her character has been compared to both Madama Butterfly and the real-life story of He became a spy and obtained secrets from Bernard Boursicot, an employee in the French embassy, during a 20-year-long sexual affair in which the performer convinced the man that he was a woman. He claimed to have had a child that he insisted had been born through their relations. The story made headlines in France when the facts were revealed, Similar to Madama Butterfly, Shi Pei Pu was a male who often cross-dressed and had secret relationships with the French diplomat, while also lying about his true gender.

* Despite Masaki Shi Pu Suwan Pei appearing to have Hmong influences, he is actually of Thai descent, as half of his name has Chinese origins. It is uncertain whether he is half, quarter, or if he may have some Chinese ancestors. Growing up in the Chiang Mai province, Masaki had exposure to a Chinese community, mainly in a Chinatown area where he was born. It was during his time there that he eventually crossed paths with Ryōsuke. Additionally, Masaki had an ex-girlfriend who had Chinese ancestry, further suggesting the presence of Chinese heritage in his life.
* Masaki has a penchant for both Thai curry and chicken soup when it comes to favorite food choices.