Series & First Appearance
Mordred first appears in the Fate/Apocrypha light novel series created by Yuichiro Higashide and is illustrated by Shidzuki Morita. The character was introduced in the 2012 light novel and subsequently appeared in the associated Fate/Apocrypha anime adaptation produced by A-1 Pictures, which premiered in 2017. Additionally, Mordred’s presence also occurs in the broader Fate franchise, including the Fate/stay night series where she is featured in a flashback.
Profile at a Glance
Mordred, despite being referred to as the "son" of King Arthur, is actually a female character who was raised as a male due to her unique origin as a homunculus. She serves as a Servant for Shishigou Kairi and is part of the Red Faction in the Turifas Holy Grail War. Her signature weapon is Clarent, a sword capable of unleashing powerful attacks complemented by her exceptional combat skills.
Personality & Motivations
Mordred is characterized by her rebellious and defiant nature, often expressing disdain for authority and a yearning for recognition. She struggles with her identity and the legacy of her father, leading to a blend of anger and deep-seated admiration toward King Arthur. Notably, her desire to be acknowledged as her father’s true successor drives her actions throughout the series. A recurring quirk is her bluntness and inability to showcase vulnerability, often masked by a facade of bravado. While she does not have a specific catchphrase, her dialogue reflects her inner conflict regarding legacy and acceptance.
Abilities / Powers
Mordred is known for her unparalleled combat skills and agility as a Saber-class Servant. Her primary abilities include:
- Clarent: A noble phantasm that can unleash powerful, destructive energy attacks.
- Instinct: Enhanced reflexes that allow Mordred to predict and counter opponents’ moves effectively.
- Rider of the Wind: Her agility and speed enable her to perform acrobatic maneuvers in battle, giving her an edge over slower opponents.
However, her strength is balanced by her limited lifespan as a homunculus, meaning she cannot sustain prolonged battles without drawing upon her magical reserves, a significant limitation as the series progresses.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Mordred’s development culminates in several pivotal plot points throughout Fate/Apocrypha. Initially introduced as a fierce warrior, her arc deepens when she confronts her own identity and her relationship with King Arthur. A significant moment occurs when she faces off against Saber of Red, leading to revelations about her origins and feelings of inadequacy. Her journey reflects a struggle between wanting to surpass King Arthur while grappling with her own existence as a reflection of that legacy.
In her interactions with her master Kairi, Mordred displays both loyalty and conflict, highlighting the impact of her upbringing. The climax of her story arc emphasizes her desire for acceptance, contributing to her emotional growth and eventual realization of her identity beyond mere legacy.
Notable Relationships
Mordred’s narrative is heavily defined by her relationship with King Arthur (Arturia Pendragon), her biological father, and by extension, her mother, Morgan le Fay. Her rivalry with the various incarnations of Saber underscores her internal struggle for recognition. Furthermore, her complicated dynamic with Shishigou Kairi, her master, allows her to explore feelings of loyalty and independence, diverging from her initial rebellious disposition. The bond with Kairi is significant in her eventual development, as she begins to understand the value of teamwork and camaraderie.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the standout moments for Mordred occurs during her fierce battles, especially the confrontation with Saber of Black in Episode 20 of Fate/Apocrypha, where she declares, "I will become the King of Britain!" This line encapsulates her internal conflict regarding legacy and identity, resonating profoundly with fans.
Another impactful scene is her communion with Kairi, wherein she admits her vulnerabilities, showcasing a softer side that contrasts sharply with her outwardly aggressive demeanor. These moments solidify her complexity as a character and endear her to the audience.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Mordred has garnered a significant following within the Fate community, amassing over 2,419 member favorites on various anime databases. In the Japanese version of Fate/Apocrypha, she is voiced by Soma Saito, who brings depth and emotion to her character, while in the English dub, Kyle McCarley takes on the role. Mordred is often ranked highly in popularity polls within the Fate franchise, showcasing her resonance with fans as a character who embodies rebellion against predetermined legacy.
Overall, Mordred stands as a compelling figure in the Fate universe, navigating the complexities of identity, legacy, and acceptance, capturing the attention of audiences with her fierce personality and tragic backstory.
