Series & First Appearance
Aleister Crowley III, also known as Arystar Krory III, appears in the manga and anime series D.Gray-man, created by Katsura Hoshino. He first debuts in Chapter 65 and Episode 34 of the anime adaptation, which aired in 2006.
Profile at a Glance
Arystar Krory III is 28 years old and stands at 190 cm (6 ft 3 in) tall, weighing 77 kg. As a member of the Black Order and an Exorcist, he plays a prominent role in the battle against Akuma. His signature abilities revolve around his Innocence, which resides in his teeth and grants him a Feral-type ability, granting strength, regeneration, and unique blood manipulation techniques.
Personality & Motivations
Krory is characterized by his dual nature, exhibiting a kind-hearted and emotional personality that shifts dramatically into a fierce, battle-ready demeanor when facing enemies. Despite his fearsome abilities, he harbors a deeply empathetic soul, striving for acceptance after being shunned as a child. His love for Eliade, an Akuma, represents a pivotal emotional conflict, motivating him to reconcile his identity as both a fighter and a compassionate individual. Quirky traits include his trademark hairstyle, which reflects his emotional state—soft and down in peace, wild and spiked when enraged.
Abilities / Powers
Krory’s primary weapon is his Innocence, which grants him several unique abilities:
- Blood Manipulation: He can manipulate his own blood and, to some extent, the blood of others, using it for offensive and defensive strategies.
- Crimson Ability: This technique allows him to poison Akuma by inoculating them with his blood, although it comes at a significant personal cost, weakening him in the process.
- Feral-type Strength: His Innocence enhances his physical capabilities dramatically, enabling him to engage effectively in combat with powerful foes.
- Bloody Krory: This ability lets him create a blood mannequin that can fight independently, though it leaves him exhausted post-use.
There are limitations to his powers; while he can drain Akuma poison from others, he is not immune to its effects himself. If fatigued, he struggles to process it fully, potentially endangering himself.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Krory’s journey is marked by significant character development:
- Backstory: Raised in isolation within a castle, Krory’s early life was fraught with misunderstanding and isolation, as villagers feared him, believing him to be a vampire due to his appearance and instinctual attacks on Akuma.
- Joining the Black Order: His recruitment by Allen Walker and Lavi serves as a critical turning point, integrating him into the larger struggle against the Millennium Earl and the Akuma, and introducing him to friendship and camaraderie.
- Love and Conflict: His unrequited love for Eliade raises moral and emotional questions about good versus evil, amplifying his internal struggle and influencing his growth as an Exorcist.
- Friendship with Allen and Lavi: The bond with his new allies helps him understand both his powers and deeper layers of compassion, leading to maturity that impacts his role within the Black Order.
Notable Relationships
- Allen Walker: A central ally and friend who helps Krory navigate his place within the Black Order and the larger battle against Akuma.
- Lavi: Another ally, whose playful teasing provides comic relief and camaraderie, particularly with the nickname "Kro-chan." This friendship is vital in helping Krory find acceptance among his peers.
- Eliade: A significant figure in his backstory, her dual identity as an Akuma and his early love interest complicates Krory’s feelings and serves as a major emotional anchor throughout the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs during a confrontation with Akuma, where Krory demonstrates his ability to drain Akuma poison from a comrade, showcasing both his skill and his willingness to risk himself for others (Chapter 88). Another scene involves his emotional struggle upon learning Eliade’s true nature, encapsulating his tragic yet powerful persona, resonating deeply with fans.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Krory’s character design features a unique aesthetic, with distinct hairstyles and color schemes that symbolize his emotional state.
- In Japan, Krory is voiced by Yoshinori Fujita, while his English counterpart is voiced by Chris Sabat, noted for their expressive portrayals that capture his dual nature.
- Krory has consistently ranked among fan-favorite characters, with over 235 members adding him to their lists, reflecting his popularity and strong fanbase within the D.Gray-man community.
With a mix of strength, compassion, and emotional depth, Arystar Krory III stands out as a complex character who captures the hearts of many in the array of unique beings that populate the D.Gray-man universe.
