Hiyoko Saionji

34

Hiyoko Saionji, is a student of Hope's Peak Academy's Class 77-B, and a participant of the School Trip. Her title is the Ultimate Traditional Dancer. Hiyoko was born as the heiress to the Saionji Clan, the head of the school of traditional Japanese dance. Her traditionalist family was very overbearing due to this important role. Making things worse, her chosen bloodline was constantly targeted due to jealous people. Although Hiyoko's father was distinct from her other relatives because he was just a married relative, she developed a strong bond with him during her formative years living with her parents. In her account, Hiyoko described her father as a protective and supportive figure who never left her side and was always there to watch her dance. When Hiyoko performs her traditional dance, which she thinks is "boring", her dad promises to remain awake throughout the performance, which is something she values and cherishes deeply. She also mentioned how she always felt calm whenever her dad is near her, unlike her mother whom Hiyoko disregarded as "all pride and no talent" and "a waste of oxygen." Knowing the weight that comes with being the head of the family, Hiyoko's father expressed his desire to shield Hiyoko from that responsibility. However, having such a low position in the family meant that his opinion had no bearing on Hiyoko's future. Very soon after this, Hiyoko's grandmother took her from her parents and intended to raise her up in accordance with the family's rigid traditions to preserve the honor of the Clan. She didn't permit Hiyoko to see her parents, as she considered her father to be a bad influence on her. While Hiyoko had a low opinion of her grandmother, calling her a "hag", she was also grateful for being raised by her.