Arslan (アルスラーン Arusurān? ) is the main character of the anime series based on the Arakawa manga. He is the crown prince of Pars, and the leader of the resistance against the Lusitanian invasion, the Camp of Arslan.
Appearance[]
His basic appearance is that of a fragile and skinny, weak boy and because of this, people usually consider him a weakling. For example, Kharlan’s soldiers call him a dead weight. He is depicted with long, silver hair, which he keeps in a low ponytail. He has light blue eyes and his pupils are big compared to others. He is also shorter than average, but this is most likely due to him being a child, and he is as tall as Elam and Etoile, who are at the same age as him. He wears golden earrings in both ears. His skin complexion is noticeably fair and much lighter than other Parsians. He wears high quality clothes because he is a prince. In battle, he wears golden armor, but had lost the helmet in one of his battles. He also always carries his sword with him.
Personality[]
Arslan is depicted as a gentle prince, being very kind and soft-spoken, which is the exact opposite of his father. He cares about those around him and values their lives over his own. Young Arslan isn’t considered a very strong successor. He lacks his father’s ruthlessness and stubborn bravery, but has a strong heart and is very perceptive. After the battle in the field of Atropatene, the soldiers he left behind weighed upon his mind and made him despondent. He also had come believes that all men are equal, after his meeting with Etoile. He doesn’t consider slaves and Lusitanians to be the same as animals and is willing to talk with them. [1] He also became friends with Elam, who is a former slave and Etoile, who is a Lusitanian soldier.
At first his mind was weak and he didn’t like fighting, but it all changed at Atropatene, after taking a Lusitanians life for the first time, even though it made him feel terrible at that moment. After that experience, he had no trouble killing someone, even Parsian men and now, he is willing to fight if he needs to. He is willing to do whatever it takes to protect his friends, family and kingdom, and has been shown to be a skilled fighter[2] despite his frail appearance. He greatly values and trusts his company and when he learns about their trust in him, he vows to become a worthy king before they despair on him and starts to have build more self-confidence.
He is also very intelligent and insightful as he made a court-hating Narsus join him and figured out that the slaves may aid the enemy. He also grows smarter and wiser as journey goes, wanting himself to be a king fit for his people to serve and not despair of.
Plot[]
Ecbatana is Burning[]
In the morning, Arslan practiced swordplay with Vahriz, and easily got defeated. Afterwards, the servants helped him get dressed while he was complining about his daily sword practices, thinking that Vahriz is going too hard on him, After hearing that, with a smile, Vahriz stated that it was only the basics. After he finished getting dressed, they went on their way to see the Queen and Vahriz also lectured him about the importance of swordplay while they were walking.
They joined Queen Tahamine on the balcony. After the newly appointed soldiers of Pars saluted her and Arslan, the Queen wished them good luck on their duty and left. Arslan went after her mother, and apologized for being late. However the Queen didn't think that he needed to apologize because he was busy with his daily sword practice and left without listening Arslan’s comments on swordplay.
Arslan and Vahriz went to the courtyard, and they heard the sounds of the distant birds. One of them came down and knocked Arslan over. The servants got concerned about him, however Arslan was happy to have Azrael back. Then Marzban Kishward approached Arslan and commented on how Azrael likes Arslan more than himself despite Kishward being its master. After chukkling a bit, he gave his report concerning the latest campaign to Vahriz, telling that Parsian forces crushed Lusitania and saved their ally, Maryam, and the army has returned to Ecbatana.
Arslan and Vahriz went to greet King Andragoras III and the Marzbans that have returned from battle. Arslan happily rushed towards his father and showed that he was concerned about about his health, which King Andragoras sternly retorted that defeat wasn't a possibility and left Arslan.
In the afternoon, Arslan went out to wander around Ecbatana as he usually does. His guardian followed him to ensure his safety and tried to persuade Arslan to go back to the palace. Arslan refused as he wanted to talk with the Lusitanian slaves, hoping to hear their stories about the Kingdom of Lusitania. But the slaves were very aggressive and attacked him, making it impossible to talk.
On his way back to the palace, he heard a scream. His guardian drew his sword, and told the young prince to wait. Suddenly, a child rushed towards the guardian and knocked him unconscious with a vase. Arslan saw that the child had a hostage, so he kindly asked him to release the boy and surrender. But after seeing Arslan's high quality clothing, he threw the boy away and captured Arslan instead. He started to run, dragging Arslan with him. The Parsian soldiers began chasing them across the capital until they finally cornered them. The boy and Arslan managed to get away by jumping down into the water. Then, they took the route of the rooftops, and a giraffe suddenly appeared. When the boy was about to fall down, Arslan saved him and the giraffe threw them back to a rooftop. The boy was shocked by the animal and stated that he had never seen something that long, before they once again began to run.
Etoile was surprised by Pars’s wealth. Arslan explained him the Parsian life and culture, saying that Etoile would live happily if he submits being a slave. This last statement caused the Lusitanian child to become furious. Pushing, Arslan down, declaring that he is a warrior in service of the god Yaldabaoth, and that he will kill all the heathens. He announces that his god doesn't support slavery, seeing all men as equals. Arslan took these words under consideration until the Parsians soldiers continued their pursuit, corning them. Etoile grabbed Arslan, jumping into the river. Not realizing Etoile was a slave, other soldiers helped the two young boys out of the water. Etoile quickly ran, stealing a horse and attempted to escape. Marzban Daryun, after being filled in about the prince's kidnapping, attempted to shoot the fleeing boy. Seeing this, Arslan rushed into Daryun’s vision, causing him to miss.
Daryun asked why he had stopped him, Arslan responded that it just happened. The two decided to agree that Daryun missed because the sun blinded him. On their way back to the castle, Arslan was met with three boys who were previously beaten and captured by Etoile. They begged for forgiveness of the misfortune as their parents tried to take the blame; however, a soldier advised that they must be gravely punished for endangering the prince's life. Unconcerned about the events, Arslan asked the soldier to release them. The children, moved by his decision swore to join the army and protect Arslan’s life. As Arslan thought back about the things that Etoile had told him, he saw multiple men carrying the corpses of the Lustanian slaves that had been captured. Terrified by what he had seen, Arslan asked why they had killed the slaves. The slave trader answered, stating they were wild and unruly. On his way back home, he questioned Daryun about why those men didn't submit into becoming slaves, Daryun simply replied that when Arslan ascends to the throne, he will introduce a friend of his to him.
Arslan talking with Kharlan
Daryun and Arslan
Three years pass, and Arslan has greatly improved his swordsmanship, but still could not defeat Vahriz. A messenger arrives delivering a message to Vahriz, learning that their ally Maryam has fallen to the Lusitanians and King Andragoras III has declared war. Soon after, the Parsian army goes to the Fields of Atropatene to participate in the battle, which would be Prince Arslan's maiden battle . Marzban Kharlan questions Arslan's nervousness, noting that it was his first maiden battle and tells him to not be worried, for Pars has not lost a battle in years. Arslan begins, but is interrupted as Azrael came back. Despite the sky being clear, he notices Azrael’s feathers are damp, telling Kharlan to scout the area. The terrain is quickly filled by a sudden fog as Arslan explores. The three boys from three years ago, now served as Arslan’s guards swearing to protect him for sparing their lives. Vahriz arrives, warning the prince to not wander far, and wonders if the fog would be a disadvantage or not. He quickly changes subjects, asking Arslan if he would like to spar to take his mind off of the concerns until a soldier appears, saying that a problem has occurred between the King and Vahriz's nephew, Daryun. Arriving to his majesty's tent, they find Daryun speaking out, asking the king to fight another day because of the fog. Furious, King Andragoras dismisses Daryun from his post as Marzban. Eran Vahriz quickly intervenes, requesting to give Daryun a chance to gain his rank again after the battle and forces his nephew to apologize. Andragoras agrees, then notices Arslan, immediately ordering him to leave.
Leaving his father's tent, Arslan’s men come to prepare for the oncoming battle. Arslan begins questioning if he would be worthy enough to be a prince, if he has proved himself in the battle. Putting on his helmet, Arslan proceeds to follow his comrades into the fight. As the Pars army charges, they are faced with traps set by the enemy forces. Arslan is quickly stopped by a soldier from falling into a large pit filled with oil. Suddenly, flaming arrows fly into the hole, burning many of the Parsians to death, leaving Arslan shocked by what he had seen. As the battle continued, the Parsian army quickly found itself on the verge of being defeated by Lusitania. Being forced from the fight, Arslan tries to flee from a Lusitanian, who strikes the Prince's horse causing him to fall off. Arslan fought the single enemy, eventually managing to kill him, leaving the young boy shocked. Standing between corpses, he wandered to find his father and comrades until he is found by Kharlan, only to find him with Lusitanian soldiers much to Arslan’s surprise.
Arslan after killing a Lusitanian soldier
The former Marzban begins attacking Arslan, telling him he needs to die. The skirmish is quickly stopped as Daryun rushes into action, forcing Kharlan to retreat. Daryun offers his horse to the prince, urging him to ride it as they leave the battlefield. On their way, they rescue a Parsian from an enemy soldier. The soldier tells them that the King fled the battle, before dying from his heavy injuries. Shocked by what he had heard, Arslan wondered if his father is alright. He wanted to return to the capital, but Daryun replies that the road will be dangerous, telling him they should go to his friend Narsus for his assistance.
Siege of Ecbatana[]
They break off Kharlan's pursuit and entered into a forest. On their way, Daryun gave him some information about Narsus, up until an arrow suddenly fly towards them. they hear a voice warning them that if they advance any further, they will die. Once Daryun introduced himself, a boy comes out andd accompanies them to Narsus’s hideout. Narsus accepts them into his home.
When they start to eat dinner, Narsus tells Arslan how he defeated the Alliance of Three Kingdoms without a single soldier. Narsus then talks with Daryun about Atropatene as Daryun tells him that he should stop making bad paintings and help them. They discuss about art, leading to Arslan finding Narsus very interesting. When Arslan asked what he should do, Narsus told him to abolish slavery, but that this way of thinking made the king hate him. Arslan said that his father also hates him and Daryun too, so they would make a good company, surprising Narsus. The two spend the night at Narsus’s house.
When he woke up, Arslan wished to become friends with Elam, attempting to help him in the kitchen, but ended up breaking lots of plates and causing more work for Elam. He talked with Elam about his parents who were former slaves and asked him if he should free all the slaves or not, and Elam replies to him that he needs to find his own answer.
Before breakfast, Kahrlan's soldiers arrive, Daryun soon tells Arslan that they had passed near Kharlan’s castle on their way, causing Narsus to become furious, saying that Daryun was trying to force him to cooperate with them. Before the men entered, Arslan and Daryun hid themselves. During their talk, they reveal that Vahriz has died, making Arslan feel very sad. They offer a position for Narsus, but he refuses the offer and captures them with a trap. Noticing Arslan crying, he states that they should have breakfast. While they were eating, Arslan requests that Narsus joins him, promising to appoint him as Court Painter once he was king. Narsus gladly accepts the offer and starts to tease with Daryun, who opposes the idea. Arslan also accepts Elam into their company, saying that his cooking is delicious and to continue following Narsus.
They leave the house and start heading for Ecbatana, but Kharlan’s men ambush them, prompting them to take shelter in a cave. Arslan plays chess with Narsus to spend time. As they continue playing, Narsus states that Ecbatana is most likely under attack, telling the Prince they can’t help them because the enemy’s numbers are too great. After waiting for a while, they leave the cave.
Prince Arslan Takes a Stand[]
Elam infiltrats Ecbatana to learn about the enemy’s situation and comes back after a while. He said that there weren’t anyone who knows about King Andragoras’s whereabouts and that Kharlan left Ecbatana with a 1,000 cavalrymen in search of Arslan. When Arslan ask Narsus if he knows what Kharlan is planning, Narsus said that Kharlan will burn villages and kill innocents to lure them out. Arslan immediately orders everyone to get ready to stop Kharlan.
Narsus prepares a plan to capture Kharlan. Before the ambush, Elam gives his bow to Arslan for protection. He uses it to kill many enemy soldiers. Everything went according to the plan, before Kharlan charged toward Arslan. Arslan attempted to shoot him, until he realized he was out of arrows. Arslan questions the former Marzban for his reason to betray Pars. Kharlan ignores him, attempting to attack, before Daryun came to protect Arslan.
Daryun almost defeats him until Kharlan is struck by his own spear after falling down the hill. While Narsus was questioning Kharlan, Arslan came and orders him not to die. Kharlan, surprised by the young prince's actions and his group, reveals that the king is alive. Arslan once again, orders him not to die. Nevertheless, Kharlan tells him he cannot follow his command then dies. After his death, Arslan is welcomed with two more fighters joining their company. They introduced themselves as Gieve and Farangis. Gieve tells him that the Queen was safe when he had departed from Ecbatana. Arslan ask for Gieve to tell him everything, but was interrupted by Narsus, saying that they must leave before Kharlan’s men come back. Before leaving, Arslan request Farangis to offer up an elegy for the death of Kharlan and his men, surprising everyone. She accepts and begins to sing.
While Narsus and Daryun were looking for the king in Ecbatana, Arslan stayed with the rest of his company outside Ecbatana. Arslan worried about them, but Elam told him that nothing would ever happen to them because those two are very strong. When Elam wanted to leave to fetch water, Arslan ask to come with him too and managed to convince him. He tells Elam that even he is capable of a chore until the rope got cut by the mechanism. Before leaving to find a replacement, Elam told Arslan to stay in a house close by.
While waiting for Elam, Arslan saw some Lusitanian soldiers picking on a Parsian woman. Arslan took an axe and told the Lusitanians to leave her. Before they began to fight, their commander stopped them and told the woman and her father to leave. After looking at him for a while, Arslan realized that he was the Lusitanian boy who captured him three years ago.
The Lusitanian was surprised that Arslan had survived, telling him that their positions have completely switched from back then and now they can’t turn them into slaves. The Prince states that he wouldn’t turn them into slaves, but Etoile remarks that even if he wouldn’t Arslan and Andragoras would because they are demons with horns and tails, unaware that he was talking with the prince himself. While they were discussing the faith of Yaldabaoth, Elam appeared with a sword in his hand. Arslan quickly told him that there isn't any reason to fight as Etoile was his friend. The Lusitanian soldier quickly comments that he isn’t Arslan’s friend, but didn’t fight because he wanted to repay his debt from three years ago. Before leaving, he asked about the slaves who were with him, Arslan answers that they were all killed. He gave Arslan the holy book of Yaldabaoth and left.
Kashan Fortress[]
After Narsus and Daryun returned from Ecbatana, they gave a report to Arslan about his parents. Arslan stated that there are too few of them and asked about the ways to gain more allies. Narsus stated that they intend to change lots of things that the kingdom has supported up to now, so it won’t be easy to gain allies. He told Arslan to make sure he wants what he wants to accomplish and to leave the rest to them. In the morning, the company has to attempt to break away from a pursuing Lusitanian army. After a while, Daryun returns and tells everyone to follow him. Suddenly, they hear the sound of a horn as the Parsian army appears. The archers kills many Lusitanians, forcing them to retreat.
Arslan enters Kashan Fortress with his company, where a feast was prepared for them. Lord Hodir became very happy after Arslan had remembered his name. He stated that he was worried about Arslan after the battle and couldn’t do anything against the Lusitanians, as he had no means within his power. He also told Arslan about his beautiful 13 years old daughter and he will be very happy if he marries with her. This suggestion caused Arslan almost choke. When he asked Arslan what steps does he intend to take in order to strike back at the Lusitanians, Arslan said that he intends to free the slaves and Hodir supposedly agreed.
When they were about to go to their rooms to rest, Daryun got angry as he wasn’t placed in Arslan’s room to protect him. He said that he would even sleep on the floor, however Narsus managed to convince him. After a while, Hodir entered the prince's room. He urged Arslan to marry his daughter and not to free the slaves before leaving. Then, Arslan traversed across the balconies to reach Narsus, and got surprised when Gieve tried to attack him. Arslan told Narsus what Hodir had told him. Narsus said that he has done good job and now must get ready to leave at a moment’s notice. He commands Gieve to escort Arslan back to his room and deliver the message to Farangis. Later, Hodir came back to his room, stating that Daryun and others can’t be trusted, so he will eliminate them. Arslan calls to his companions, telling the lord they will be leaving immediately. Daryun and the others soon appear, attempting to leave the castle, but Hodir followed them and attempted to apologize to Arslan. He wanted his men to lead his horse out, but Farangis and Gieve killed them as they were carrying concealed daggers. More soldiers come out as they start a fight. Daryun kills Hodir before he reached Arslan. After seeing this, his soldiers stopped fighting, releasing Arslan's company.
Before they left, Arslan tried to free the slaves, but they were angry as Arslan had killed their master. After they set a camp for the night, Narsus told Arslan that being a slave under a generous master is an easy way to live and he wanted Arslan to experience what happens when the master is suddenly taken away. After looking at his company and seeing their trust in him, Arslan vowed to become a great ruler.
Road to Peshawar[]
While they were travelling, Arslan thinks about the things that will make one a good ruler. Suddenly, Elam approached and told him not to go that fast as the horse will get tired and they still have a long way to go. Arslan asked Elam what does he want to do in the future. Elam replies that his future will be decided by Narsus. When Arslan said that he will work hard, Elam told him that he will be a good king, as Daryun and Narsus is there to help him. Arslan thanked Elam for supporting him, but he said it is nothing worthy of his praise and started to ride faster.
In the night, Farangis told him that the djinn are in foul mood, meaning their pursuers must be nearby. Eventually, they have caught up to them. Daryun went to confront the enemy, losing Farangis and Narsus on their way. Elam stated that they will meet at Peshawar, causing them to continue. The Lusitanians finally reached them, causing them to start fighting. Arslan killed many of them as they fought through the army. Elam, who was protecting the back, fell down as his horse got killed. Elam urged them to continue. However Arslan returned and saved him. When more soldiers came, Gieve distracted them by throwing gold to the ground letting them escape. On their way was a cliff, leading them to a dead end. They quickly hid themselves and made the enemy think that they had jumped into the river, only one enemy remained and Gieve killed him.
When they got away, Elam apologized that he endangered Arslan’s life. Arslan stated that it is fine, as he saved him because he is his friend, but Elam stated that he can’t become friends with him as his parents were former slaves. Then, Arslan told him that he wouldn't have any friends if he were to insist upon rank. He then apologized to Gieve as he threw away his gold for them. Gieve, surprised, asked if Arslan spent time outside the palace when he was young, which Arslan answered he did. He told Arslan that is why he is different from normal royalty and stated that he can’t wait to see what kind of kingdom he will build when he becomes the king. They continue to move forward to Peshawar. While they were continuing, Arslan stated that this is the farthest that he has ever come and Elam asked him if he knows about the legendary cities. He tells Arslan that in a vast desert of nothing lies the cities which are only mentioned in legends. He said that he wants to study their histories and Arslan told him to share those stories with him as well. Gieve then managed to spot Peshawar, but Arslan heard something.
While an enemy was about to attack Daryun, Arslan came and saved him. The enemy came out of the ground and attacked him. Arslan fell down from his horse, but Elam caught him before he hit the ground. The enemy once again came to attack Arslan, but Daryun rushed and saved him. Following the enemy's defeat, Daryun came and apologized to have placed the prince in danger; however, Arslan said that he is fine. He also stated that Daryun always saves him, so there isn’t a problem if he saves him for once. They went on their way to Peshawar.
Two Princes[]
As they got closer to Peshawar, the Lusitanians had numerous ambushes for them. Before the last ambush, Kishward and Narsus appeared with soldiers on their sides. Kishward's forces made the Lusitanians to retreat. Kishward welcomed Arslan and his company to Peshawar.
When they entered Peshawar, the soldiers started to salute Arslan, but the company was shocked as Alfreed stated that she is Narsus’ wife. Gieve stated that even Narsus will fall victim to temptation and Arslan asked if its true. Narsus stated that they got everything wrong and asked Alfreed to explain. She said that they aren’t officially married, so she is his lover. This shocked the company even more. Narsus said that he just saved her when she was getting attacked and tried to avoid further questions. Bahman and Kishward came and welcomed Arslan. Arslan stated that they will launch their counterattack from Peshawar and this made Kishward happy. He said Arslan grew up in such a short time and stated that the 80,000 soldiers in Peshawar will swear their loyalty to Arslan.
In the bath, Gieve recalled their journey, and was angry because Daryun spent lots of time with Farangis in his place. Arslan suddenly appeared and apologized for that, surprising Gieve. Gieve asked him why is he still awake and Arslan told him that he wanted to thank him for their journey thus far. Gieve stated that as long as they are at war with the Lusitanians, he doesn’t care that he has to serve Arslan. Arslan stated that he is very interesting, and this made Gieve thank him and blush. Then Gieve said that he wasn’t in low spirits by any means in his earlier talk.
Later, Arslan fed Azrael for saving him earlier and Kishward stated that he is one lucky hawk. Arslan asked what happened to Soroush, which was always with Azrael. Kishward stated that he sent him to Ecbatana along with a few of his trusted men, but has not heard from them since. Arslan suddenly told Kishward that he will raise an army and retake the capital, and after taking Ecbatana, he will abolish slavery. Kishward got surprised and said that he doesn’t have any objections, but lots of lords won’t take his side if Arslan does such a thing. Arslan stated that if he manages to save his father, he may be willing to listen.
The next day, they met with Bahman, who stated that they can’t raise an army. He said that there is nothing to be gained from rushing things, so they shall wait for the new year to attack. Daryun questioned his decision and after Narsus called him an old coward, Bahman became angry and left the room. Narsus noted that he pretended to be angry to avoid further questions. After the meeting, Kishward told them that Vahriz sent Bahman a message before the battle at Atroepene, and Bahman has been acting weird since then. Kishward, however, did not know the contents of that message.
Arslan went out to get some air and started to think about his rebellion, but suddenly a man with a silvermask appeared. Arslan realized that he is the Lusitanian strategist that Narsus spoke of and asked him how did he come here. The man surprised Arslan by saying that he knows this place like the back of his hand. Arslan took out his sword and introduced himself, but the man told him that he is nothing but a miserable pup born to a wretched usurper and started to laugh. He stated that he can’t control his rage, but he won’t kill Arslan at once. He said that first, he will cut his right hand and the next time they meet, he will take his left hand. Arslan charged at him, but Silvermask easily forced him back and finally unarmed him. When he was about to cut Arslan’s right hand, Arslan found a torch and started to swing it. Silvermask got frightened by the fire and Farangis came to Arslan’s help. More men came and Silvermask tried to escape, but Narsus suddenly appeared in his way. After fighting for a while, he jumped down, but Kishward attacked him and said that he will slay anyone who invades the castle. Silvermask once again jumped down, but Daryun and Narsus confronted him there. While they were fighting, Arslan once again told him to say who he is. The Silvermask stated that he is the son of the previous king Osiris, Hilmes. While everyone was shocked by this, Hilmes defeated Farangis and charged at Arslan, but Bahman protected him by taking the blow on himself. Bahman told Hilmes to withdraw. Daryun came and tried to go after Hilmes, but Bahman stopped him and said that if he kils Hilmes, the bloodline of the royal family of Pars will end. This shocked Arslan and Daryun. Bahman told Arslan to become a good king and died. Suddenly, a soldier came and reported that a Shinduran force numbering 20 to 30 thousand is breaching the border under the cover of night.
Relationships[]
Family[]
Andragoras and Tahamine[]
Arslan's father and mother, Arslan is respectful and caring of his parents, referring to them as "Lord Father" and "Lady Mother." His parents, however, do not reciprocate these feelings, his mother is even more cold and distant to Arslan than she is to her husband and his father is incredibly strict with him. Due to Andragoras indulging Tahamine and neglecting Arslan, it has caused speculation that Arslan is not his son by blood. It is later discovered Arlsan is related to neither his mother or father, instead was birthed by a foot soldier and a serving girl. It is speculated that Arslan was adopted as the prince because Andragoras and Tahamine were unable to produce an heir and since Arslan resembled Tahamine, they could pass him off as their son.
Hilmes[]
Company[]
Daryun[]
Daryun and Arslan
Daryun is Arslan's loyal retainer who serves him without fault. He is immensely protective of Arslan and will give his own live to protect him. During the Battle of Atropatene, Daryun challenged Kharlan and his man and managed to rescue Arslan. Daryun thinks of Arslan as a gentle and kind child and that Arslan can give Pars peace. Arslan also believes in Daryun and is protective towards him as he is always concerned when Daryun is fighting'with a large number of enemies.Arslan even threatened someone for the first time in his life when they cause the possibility of Daryun being hurt. Daryun at first protects Arslan because his uncle 'asked him to watch over him but as they travel together, Daryun becomes loyal to him as a person and rejects the offer of sleeping in a bed and asks to sleep on the ground in Arslan's room in order to protect him. Daryun is Arslan's closest companion and the two value each other greatly.
Narsus[]
Narsus is one of Arslan's companions. Arslan respects Narsus' intellect and values him greatly for his advices and strategies. Arslan promised to appoint Narsus as Court Painter once Pars has been reclaimed. Narsus finds Arslan interesting for his kindness and caring of other people and believes that Arslan will become a great king. Narsus sometimes makes schemes such as the slaves hating Arslan because killing their master, so Arslan can learn things through experience.
Elam[]
Elam travels with him because of his wish to serve Narsus. At first Elam doesn't like Arslan because he is a prince
Arslan riding with Elam
and Elam's family was former slaves. As their ages are the same and he never had a chance to make a friend, Arslan tries to get along with Elam, but Elam finds it irritating. As Arslan saves Elam during battle Elam questions why Arslan endangered his life just to save him and changes his prejudice against Arslan. Now, Elam is loyal and also protective against Arslan. Arslan also thinks that Elam's cooking is delicious.
Gieve[]
Gieve is in the company just so he can stay close to Farangis. At first he doesn't really care about Arslan but after Arslan risked his life to save Elam, Gieve became interested in Arslan. Even though he doesn't really care about Arslan ascending the throne, he protects him because he is one of the company.
Farangis[]
Pars[]
Vahriz[]
Kharlan[]
Arslan was deeply shaken by Kharlan's betrayal and was very sad when he died. He didn't believe that Kharlan would just betray them for gold, and thought that he has a reason for his actions.
Kishward[]
Azrael[]
Shindra[]
Rajendra[]
Lusitania[]
Etoile[]
At first oblivious to the dark parts of Pars, after meeting Etoile[3], Arslan becomes more aware of the evil his country is capable of and desires to learn about Lusitanian beliefs. Even though he captured him as a hostage, Arslan saved him before he fell down from the roof and prevented Daryun from shooting him. In their second meeting, Arslan called him his friend and told Elam not to attack him. After learning the fate of his friends, Etoile doesn't threaten Arslan, but instead gives him a Bible of Lusitania, and tells him that if he converts, she will welcome Arslan to the castle and even treat him to dinner. They later meet again as Etoile infiltrates Peshward, posing as a maiden. Arslan helps her leave the citadel, not realizing her as the Lusitanian boy. Although she still thinks of him as a heathen, Etoile begins having second thoughts after he explains his desire to help the country of Pars. She seems to care about him to an extent of warning him not to lose his life in the war and praying for his safety or not fighting him in the future.
Abilities[]
At first Arslan was very bad with swords, such as calling a basic attack 'a finishing technique', but due to high regular training with Eran Vahriz, he became somehow sufficient in using swords as he was able to kill Lusitanian soldiers and Parsian traitors in different occasions. He is a sufficient archer. He also has no problems riding horses or using hawks.
Trivia[]
- "Aslan" is the Turkish word meaning "Lion".
- Arslan is fond of Azerael, one of Kishawrd's hawks.
- Arslan is based on the character Arsalan, protagonist of the asian epic Amir Arsalan.
Quotes[]
- "What exactly is a great king? (立派な王になるとは、何なのだろうな? )" [4]
- "My father despises both Daryun and I, as well. We might as well be despised together. (私もダリューンも父上にきらわれておる。どうせなら、仲よくきらわれようではないか? )" [5]
- "I would rather have Narsus paint a living portrait of me, than have a famed Lusitanian artist paint my death portrait. (私は、ルシタニアの高名な画家に死に顔を描かれるより、ナルサスに生きた姿を描いてもらいたい? ) [6]