Series & First Appearance
Yue is a character from the anime and manga series Cardcaptor Sakura, created by the iconic CLAMP. He makes his first appearance in Chapter 15 of the manga and Episode 35 of the anime. CLAMP is known for its distinctive art style and intricate storytelling, both of which are evident in Yue’s design and character arc.
Profile at a Glance
Yue appears to be a young man but is actually over 300 years old. He serves as one of the two Guardians of the Clow Cards and acts as the judge for those who aspire to become the next Master of the Clow. His signature abilities include manipulating wind and water, alongside impressive magical combat skills.
Personality & Motivations
Yue is characterized by his cold and aloof demeanor. He often comes off as serious and intimidating, presenting a formidable presence. However, beneath this stoic exterior lies a complex character who is deeply committed to his duties. His primary motivation is to ensure the rightful use of the Clow Cards, and he upholds a sense of duty that sometimes places him at odds with the more lighthearted characters in the series. A notable quirk is his tendency to refer to individuals in a formal manner, highlighting his noble demeanor.
Abilities / Powers
Yue possesses a wide array of magical abilities, largely connected to his rulership over wind and water. His powers include:
- Magical Barriers: Capable of conjuring powerful shields.
- Energy Manipulation: He can gather energy around his hands, utilizing it in a combat-like fashion.
- Crystal Attacks: Yue has the ability to summon deadly crystal shards to attack adversaries.
- Energy Arrows: He can shoot energy arrows with a magical bow that he summons at will.
- Telekinesis: This ability enables him to manipulate objects from a distance.
While Yue’s powers are formidable, he is bound by the need to maintain balance and order in the use of the Clow Cards and must abide by a code that limits his actions against his own kind.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Yue plays a pivotal role during the Clow Card capturing arc, particularly as Sakura Kinomoto becomes the new Master of the Clow. In the transformation arc when Sakura captures the last Clow Card, The Earthy, Yue’s role evolves, and he must come to terms with the power shift as Sakura becomes the rightful Master. His character experiences a crucial development when he becomes a supportive ally to Sakura, navigating between his responsibilities as a guardian and emerging feelings towards her. This growth culminates in the second movie, where his character further embraces the idea of change and adaption in his role.
Notable Relationships
Yue shares a complex relationship with fellow guardian Keroberos (Kero), serving as both colleagues and rivals in their respective duties. Their contrasting personalities—Kero’s more carefree nature compared to Yue’s serious disposition—create a dynamic filled with tension and synergy. Another significant relationship is with Sakura, as he transitions from a guardian testing her resolve to an ally who offers his support in her journey, highlighting the growth of mutual respect and understanding. Additionally, his ties to Clow Reed, the creator of the Clow Cards, add depth to his character, emphasizing the generational aspect of his responsibilities.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One iconic moment occurs during Episode 36 when Yue battles Sakura to test her abilities. His stern demeanor during this confrontation provides a profound insight into the importance of her role as a Cardcaptor. His quote, “You must always remember that magic has a price,” encapsulates his perspective on power and responsibility, resonating deeply with fans who appreciate the moral weight of magical abilities.
Another memorable scene appears in the second movie, Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie 2, where Yue evolves from a stoic guardian to a compassionate supporter, emphasizing the theme of growth and acceptance, both personally and at a narrative level.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Yue’s character has gained significant popularity, reflected in his Member Favorites ranking, which stood at 694. The character is voiced by Megumi Ogata in the Japanese version, while Sam Vincent and Steve Staley voice him in English adaptations. Fans appreciate his aesthetic, which features long silver braided hair and violet (or "alice blue" in the anime) cat-like eyes, symbolizing both elegance and mystery. His design exemplifies CLAMP’s artistry, contributing to a timeless allure in the character.
Yue’s presence is often celebrated for embodying themes of duty, balance, and transformation, making him a favorite among long-time fans of the series. The blend of charm and depth not only establishes Yue as a critical figure in Cardcaptor Sakura but reminds viewers of the complexities inherent in responsibility and power.
