Vandel Him Zenden

Vandel is austere, blunt and thoroughly shaped by warfare. He has little interest in courtly flattery and speaks directly even to fellow commanders, relying on his reputation and strength rather than social charm.

He is fearless to the point of resenting attempts to keep him away from the battlefield. Being treated as too valuable or too old to fight personally irritates him because he defines himself through his role as a warrior.

His intimidating exterior softens considerably around the Fanoss princesses. Vandel is protective of both and behaves more like a guardian than merely a subordinate knight. His hatred of Holfort is also deeply personal, driven by the loss of his wife and daughter and a desire for revenge that increasingly dominates his decisions.

Vandel is regarded as the strongest warrior of the Principality of Fanoss. Decades of battlefield experience combine with immense physical strength, Armor piloting ability and highly developed combat instincts.

His reputation as the Black Knight is earned through genuine military accomplishments rather than ceremonial status. Even experienced Fanoss commanders are wary of provoking him.

Vandel eventually employs the Magic Armor Piece, an enhancement capable of dramatically increasing his combat power at a severe cost to its user. The resulting strength allows him to confront Leon and Arroganz on far more dangerous terms than ordinary Fanoss pilots can manage.

Vandel serves as the principality's premier warrior during its conflict with Holfort. His presence gives Fanoss a combatant capable of challenging enemies that ordinary knights cannot handle.

He is initially frustrated when commanders keep him away from operations despite his insistence on fighting. As Leon's victories become increasingly damaging to Fanoss, the Black Knight's involvement becomes unavoidable.

The escalating war eventually brings Vandel into direct confrontation with Leon. His personal hatred of Holfort and devotion to the princesses turn their battle into more than a simple clash between soldiers.

Hertrude Sera Fanoss is one of the princesses Vandel protects. His loyalty toward Hertrude Sera Fanoss has a strongly paternal quality.

Hertrauda Sera Fanoss receives the same fierce protection from Vandel, who regards the safety of both princesses as one of his central responsibilities.

Leon Fou Bartfort becomes Vandel's foremost battlefield enemy as Leon repeatedly frustrates the Principality's campaigns.

Garrett serves alongside Vandel in the Fanoss military but is far more cautious about how and when the Black Knight should be deployed.