Midland no Ou

The king initially appears measured, pragmatic and more open-minded than many members of his aristocracy. He recognizes that Griffith's military results matter more than his birth and repeatedly rewards the Hawks despite objections from conservative nobles.

He is deeply attached to Charlotte and protective of her. That affection, however, contains emotional problems that become increasingly apparent as Griffith grows closer to the princess.

The king is also capable of extreme vindictiveness when he feels personally betrayed. His response to Griffith ultimately abandons the restraint and judgment he displays earlier in the Golden Age.

The king has no supernatural abilities and is not portrayed primarily as a warrior. His power is political and institutional.

As sovereign, he commands Midland's armies, grants titles and determines the kingdom's military leadership. His patronage is essential to Griffith's transformation from mercenary commander into a noble officer.

The king's decisions therefore have enormous strategic consequences even when he does not personally enter battle.

The king encounters Griffith through the Band of the Hawk's military service and becomes increasingly impressed by his achievements. He raises Griffith through Midland's hierarchy and entrusts the Hawks with crucial missions, culminating in the capture of Doldrey.

After victory in the Hundred-Year War, Griffith appears poised to rise still further. His relationship with Charlotte, however, crosses a boundary the king cannot accept.

When the king discovers that Griffith has slept with Charlotte, he has him imprisoned and subjected to prolonged torture. His obsession with Charlotte subsequently deteriorates into an attempted sexual assault on his own daughter, destroying their relationship.

The king spends the following years obsessively searching for Griffith while Midland deteriorates from war, plague and political instability. He eventually dies after a prolonged decline.

Charlotte is the king's daughter and heir. He initially appears deeply protective of her, but his feelings become incestuous, culminating in an attempted assault that causes Charlotte to reject him as her father.

Griffith receives extraordinary royal favor because of his victories. After discovering Griffith's sexual relationship with Charlotte, the king has him imprisoned and tortured.

Julius is the king's younger brother and commander of the White Dragon Knights.

Adonis is the king's nephew through Julius.

Queen of Midland is the king's second wife, though their marriage lacks the affection he held for Charlotte's mother.