I heart Saitou, Hajime

I heart Saito because he is one badass who remains true to his own beliefs, and yet can show a friend-like softside for those of the Kenshin-gumi without being obvious about it. I adore his frenemy status with Kenshin, and his mock annoyance with Sano. He probably is Kenshin's greatest opponent if it came down to a battle. I believe Watsuki even said that were it a straight fight, Saito would win. But if Kenshin were protecting someone/something, then Kenshin would win.