Series & First Appearance
Ravel Phenex is a character from the anime and manga series High School DxD, created by Ichiei Ishibumi. She first appears in Volume 2 of the light novel series.
Profile at a Glance
Ravel is a High-Class Devil and a Bishop in Issei Hyoudou’s peerage. At an apparent age of 16, she serves as a second-year high school student at Kuoh Academy and is affiliated with the Phenex Clan. Her signature abilities include fire manipulation, immortality, and strategic combat skills, making her a formidable against any enemy.
Personality & Motivations
Initially portrayed as spoiled, arrogant, and snobbish, Ravel undergoes significant character development throughout the series. She emerges as modest, polite, and intelligent, showing loyalty to her family, especially to her oldest brother, Riser, whom she initially sees as invincible. After witnessing his defeat at the hands of Issei, Ravel’s feelings shift, leading to her infatuation with him, portrayed in a tsundere manner. She is driven by a desire to support Issei, demonstrating a blend of stubbornness and fragility that makes her both relatable and complex.
Abilities / Powers
As a member of the Phenex Clan, Ravel possesses inherent abilities typical to devils, enhanced further by her Bishop Piece:
- Immortality: She can regenerate from severe injuries and recover from wounds almost instantly, although this ability is dependent on her demonic power and mental state.
- Fire Manipulation: Ravel can create and control fire strong enough to damage powerful magical defenses, showcasing her raw offensive capabilities.
- Wind Manipulation: Her control over wind adds versatility to her combat style.
- Enhanced Magic Power: As a Bishop, her magical abilities are amplified, allowing for powerful spells and protections.
- Strategic Combat: Ravel is adept at close-quarters combat and is highly intelligent, able to devise strategies that outmaneuver older and supposedly more experienced devils.
- Clothing Manipulation: Ravel can alter her attire seamlessly, adding to her style points.
Though fiercely competent, Ravel’s powers can wane if her mental state deteriorates or if her demonic energy is depleted.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Ravel’s character development is most evident following her brother Riser’s defeat in the Rating Game, where her loyalty begins to shift from familial obedience to deeper personal motivations as she becomes intrigued by Issei. Her role evolves from being Riser’s subordinate to an essential part of Issei’s peerage, which culminates in her determination to be one of his trusted bishops. This transition is marked by several key moments, including her strategic inputs during various battles, demonstrating her maturation as both a fighter and a tactician.
Notable Relationships
- Riser Phenex: As her older brother, Ravel initially looks up to him, believing in his strength and authority. Their relationship is tested after his defeat.
- Issei Hyoudou: Ravel’s love for Issei grows from admiration to romantic interest, significantly altering her motivations and alliances within the narrative.
- Koneko Toujou: A rival of sorts, with tension arising due to both girls’ affection for Issei, showcasing Ravel’s more childish and possessive traits.
- Lady Phenex: Ravel’s mother, who trades her after Riser’s defeat, thus playing a crucial role in her transition to Issei’s side.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs when Ravel expresses her strategic prowess during diplomatic discussions with other factions, highlighting her evolution from the petulant younger sister to a master tactician. Another impactful moment is when she tenderly supports Issei after their defeat against Dulio’s team, demonstrating her vulnerability and deepening bond with him. Her quote, “As long as I’m by your side, I will always support you," encapsulates her loyalty and motivations.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Ravel ranks as one of the most popular female characters in High School DxD, appearing consistently in reader polls, and has garnered a following for her distinctive personality and character arc. Her character is voiced by Yukari Tamura in the Japanese version and Kira Buckland in the English dub, both of whom bring her complex traits to life effectively. Ravel’s design, featuring her signature curls and elegant outfits, reflects her noble lineage and adds to her visual identity within the series.
In summary, Ravel Phenex is a multi-faceted character whose journey from arrogance to loyalty encapsulates themes of growth, power dynamics, and the quest for purpose, making her a beloved figure in the High School DxD universe.
