Motoko's mother died when she was very young and she was adopted by three combat specialists. These "Three Fathers" trained her in karate, swordsmanship, submission techniques, close quarters combat and the handling of firearms. As a result of their rigorous training, she developed three distinct personalities collectively known as "HiFuMi". Motoko sees HiFuMi as a burden and wants to live a normal life, but knows they are just trying to look after her safety.