Named after a popular soft-drink in Japan, Ramune is one half of the comedic duo Ramune & Kalpis (also commonly known as Tic & Tac) modeled after classic American comedians Abbott & Costello. Usually depicted as happy-go-lucky, but bumbling, henchmen or assistants, Ramune & Kalpis often make an appearance when the story is in danger of becoming overly serious or dark. Ramune is usually the “straight man” of the duo, the one who sets Kalpis up for the punch line. He’s the tall, skinny “Abbott” to Kalpis’ short, fat “Costello”. Although purposefully not designed to have much of a personality on his own, as the straight tman in the relationship, certain character traits have emerged. Ramune is very protctive of Kalpis, much like an older brother – often to the point of being quite bossy. He has a short temper, and his bluster is often an unsuccessful attempt to hide his cowardice. On his own he can be quite clever, but his greed usually derails his plans (most often to comedic effect). (Source: Tezukainenglish)