Series & First Appearance
Conrad Weller, also known as Sir Conrart, makes his debut in "Kyou kara Maou!" (also known as "God Save Our King!"), a light novel series created by Tomohito Ohsaki, which has been adapted into manga and anime. He first appears in Episode 1 of the anime adaptation. The series is well-regarded for its unique blend of fantasy, comedy, and character-driven storytelling.
Profile at a Glance
Conrad appears to be in his early twenties but is actually 96 years old due to his half-Mazoku heritage. He serves as a protector and bodyguard to the main protagonist, Yuuri Shibuya, and holds the title of Commander of Security in Shin Makoku. Notably, he has no demonic magic (maryoku) due to his mixed lineage but is renowned as the best swordsman in the kingdom, wielding his skills with a German infantry sword.
Personality & Motivations
Conrad possesses a gentle, mild demeanor, often characterized by an unassuming smile that hides his fierce loyalty and dedication to protecting Yuuri. His sense of humor, while attempting to be lighthearted, often results in bad jokes that contrast with his serious nature. He is deeply motivated by the desire to safeguard Yuuri, whom he refers to as "Heika" (Your Majesty), emphasizing his respect for Yuuri’s role as King. He also had a close bond with his mother, Cecilie, and expresses a unique connection to family names and legacies.
Abilities / Powers
Conrad’s primary standout ability is his unmatched skill in swordsmanship, making him a formidable adversary in battle. His combat style is influenced heavily by traditional sword-fighting techniques, employing speed and precision. Despite lacking magical power due to his human-Mazoku heritage, he demonstrates remarkable physical prowess and tactical ingenuity in various confrontations. An essential aspect of his character arc involves his left arm, which serves as a key to the four magical boxes that threaten the world’s existence. After losing this arm in battle, Conrad is later seen with a new arm, showcasing his resilience and adaptability.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
One critical plot point occurs during the Battle of Lütenburg where Conrad and Yozak are the only survivors, significantly shaping Conrad’s character and resolve to protect his home and loved ones. He also plays a vital role in Yuuri’s transport from Earth to Shin Makoku and oversees his integration into this new world. In a dramatic twist, Conrad initially appears to betray Shin Makoku by aligning with Big Cimaron, but his true intentions revolve around protecting the kingdom. His eventual choice to spare Yuuri during a command to execute him underlines his unwavering loyalty and moral complexity. Conrad’s relationship with Yuuri evolves from protector to an essential ally, culminating in moments of trust and camaraderie.
Notable Relationships
Conrad’s relationship with Yuuri Shibuya is central to his narrative, embodying the mentor-mentee dynamic. Yuuri’s nickname for him, "Conrad," signifies their growing bond. Additionally, his connection to his family—particularly his mother Cecilie and his brother Gwendal—highlights the importance of lineage and legacy in his motivations. His past with Julia von Wincott adds layers to his character, creating a more profound narrative about loyalty and sacrifice.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One notable moment occurs in Episode 6, when Conrad aids Yuuri in understanding his responsibilities as king, guiding him through early challenges with advice and reassurance. He expresses his unwavering commitment to Yuuri by saying, "I will protect you with my life," a line that solidifies his role as a dedicated guardian. Another memorable moment is during his confrontation with King Belar, where he chooses to defy orders to mechanically execute Yuuri: "I won’t let you harm him!" This pivotal scene illustrates his deep loyalty and serves as a turning point in the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Conrad Weller’s character design reflects his German military influence, exemplified by his 1914 German Infantry uniform. His voice in the Japanese version is provided by Daisuke Namikawa, known for a range of anime roles, while the English voice is delivered by Lucien Dodge. Conrad ranks as a favorite among fans, often finding a place in character popularity polls, indicative of his strong impact on the series. His character’s name, “Conrad,” resonates not only with his role in the narrative but also ties back to real-world cultural references, as August is referred to as “Yuuri” in some contexts, connecting his backstory with Yuuri’s naming.
Conrad Weller stands as a pivotal figure in "Kyou kara Maou!" balancing themes of duty, loyalty, and the complexities of identity between different worlds, making him a compelling character in the series’ vibrant tapestry.
