Series & First Appearance
Cadis Etrama Di Raizel, commonly referred to as Rai, is the central character of the manhwa series Noblesse created by Son Jae-ho and illustrated by Lee Gwang-soo. He first appeared in Chapter 1 of the manhwa, which launched in 2014 and was later adapted into an anime series by Production I.G that premiered in Fall 2020.
Profile at a Glance
Rai is over 3000 years old, a member of the Noble race, and serves as the titular Noblesse, a powerful protector of balance among the Noble society and the human world. Though often portrayed as a protagonist, his complexity allows him to take on roles that involve confrontation with rogue Nobles. Rai primarily relies on his noble abilities and skills in combat while navigating the modern world, particularly through his alter ego as a student at Ye Ran High School.
Personality & Motivations
Rai is depicted as elegant and mysterious, characterized by a calm demeanor and a strong sense of duty. He holds deep-rooted ideals about justice, often working to correct the injustices perpetrated by wayward Nobles. Despite his serious role, Rai’s unfamiliarity with the 21st-century technology often leads to comedic blunders, endearing him to fans. His fondness for ramen stands out as a humorous quirk that humanizes him in an otherwise serious narrative.
Abilities / Powers
As a Noble, Rai possesses several extraordinary abilities:
- Enhanced Strength & Speed: Capable of overwhelming human opponents and rival Nobles.
- Regeneration: Demonstrates rapid healing abilities, making him nearly immortal.
- Telekinesis: An adept user of powerful energy blasts and manipulation.
- Blood Manipulation: Can control and influence others through the blood connection he shares with them.
Rai’s powers significantly evolve during key battles throughout the series, whereby he learns to adapt his abilities to deal with various threats effectively. However, his lack of familiarity with the modern world occasionally limits his strategic approach.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Rai’s narrative arc largely revolves around his awakening after an 820-year slumber, where he finds himself thrust into the challenges of a rapidly changing world. His initial focus is on re-establishing his place in society and understanding contemporary issues, including the conflicts among Nobles and humans. Key developments occur when he confronts enemies like M-21 and obstructs the nefarious plans of rival factions, ultimately leading him to reaffirm his commitment to protecting both Nobles and humans.
Notable arcs include his struggle against the Union, a villainous organization, which serves as a catalyst for character growth, prompting Rai and his allies to confront their beliefs about power and responsibility.
Notable Relationships
- Frankenstein: Rai’s loyal servant and mentor who aids him in navigating the complexities of modern life. Their relationship is one of mutual respect and loyalty.
- M-21: A former enemy who becomes one of Rai’s close allies, evolving from conflict to camaraderie.
- The Noblesse Family: Rai carries the weight of his lineage, often reflecting on his responsibilities towards his family and their legacy.
These relationships are pivotal as they showcase Rai’s growth from isolation to collaboration as he engages with both allies and adversaries.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Chapter 5, when Rai first experiences modern technology, leading to a hilarious interaction with a smartphone. This scene not only highlights his naivety but also builds comedy that appeals to the audience.
Another iconic quote from Rai is his declaration, “To protect the weak and uphold justice is the responsibility of the Noblesse.” This articulates his central motivation and further resonates with fans who appreciate narratives centered around heroism and moral duty.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Rai’s design and character were well-received in popularity polls, consistently ranking high among favorite characters in the Noblesse manhwa, with over 1,928 member favorites reported. In the anime adaptation, he is voiced by Nobunaga Shimazaki in Japanese and Kyle McCarley in English, both of whom bring depth to his character. Rai’s aesthetic, marked by his striking red eyes and long black hair, has made him a standout figure within the vampire genre of anime and manhwa.
Rai’s penchant for ramen not only serves as comic relief but also ties into elements of cultural appreciation, reflecting his unique blend of traditional and modern characteristics that resonate with both Japanese and global audiences.
Overall, Cadis Etrama Di Raizel stands as a multifaceted character whose blend of humor, depth, and complexity continues to captivate fans throughout the Noblesse series.
