Series & First Appearance
Astolfo, known as Rider of Black, is a character from the anime adaptation of Fate/Apocrypha, which premiered in 2017. The series is based on the Fate franchise created by Type-Moon, with character designs by Takahiro Miura. Astolfo’s character first appears in Episode 1, fully established as a part of the expansive narrative interconnected with various mythologies and ideals.
Profile at a Glance
Astolfo appears to be in his late teens, though his age as a Servant is technically ageless. He serves as the Rider-class Servant of Selenik Icecol Yggdmillennia, representing the Black Faction in the Turifas Holy Grail War. Notable for his charm and good looks, Astolfo wields a variety of magical abilities, alongside his signature weapon, the Paladin’s Lance, which he uses in combat but also boasts light-hearted charm during missions.
Personality & Motivations
Astolfo embodies a vibrant, carefree spirit characterized by his upbeat demeanor and tendency to blabber. He is often perceived as a source of comic relief due to his tendency to wander into awkward social situations. Despite the chaos that follows in his wake, he remains earnest and loyal. His primary motivation revolves around friendship, famously expressing that his decorative hair ornaments symbolize the bonds he cherishes. He aims to restore harmony among allies, particularly focusing on aiding his troubled companion Orlando.
Abilities / Powers
Astolfo possesses a suite of unique abilities that highlight his role as a Servant:
- Noble Phantasm – "Hippogriff": Astolfo can summon a Hippogriff, a legendary creature that serves as both a steed and a combat companion. This ability showcases his ties to the fantastical elements of his lore.
- Magic Resistance: As a Servant, Astolfo exhibits resistance against magical attacks, enhancing his durability in battle.
- Riding: His skilled Riding ability allows him to operate various vehicles and mythical creatures, giving him versatility in combat situations.
While Astolfo is formidable, he somewhat lacks strength compared to other Servants, often relying on clever tactics rather than brute force.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Astolfo’s journey in Fate/Apocrypha explores themes of friendship and loyalty. Key arcs include:
- His initial appearance alongside Selenik, where he helps establish her character and reveals his whimsical nature.
- His interactions with the protagonist, leading him to confront challenges in the Holy Grail War while remaining steadfast in his dedication to camaraderie.
- A pivotal moment occurs during the war, leading to intense confrontations that test his abilities and convictions; he often acts as a mediator in tense situations, exemplifying his drive to unite rather than divide.
Notable Relationships
Astolfo’s relationships define his character:
- Selenik Icecol Yggdmillennia: His Master and strong ally, Selenik represents the anchor for Astolfo’s motives, as he desires to protect her and assist in her ambitions during the Holy Grail War.
- Orlando Furioso: A significant connection from his lore, he seeks to aid Orlando in overcoming his madness and mental struggles, leveraging their bond to heal emotional crises.
- Other Servants: Astolfo interacts richly with other Servants, often contributing to humorous or poignant moments while forging unexpected alliances and rivalries.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Astolfo’s memorable moments occurs when he uses his Noble Phantasm to rescue Selenik in Episode 3, showcasing his brave yet charming personality. His declarations of friendship resonate throughout the series, encapsulated in his phrase, "Together we can overcome anything!" This sentiment solidifies his role within the narrative, reinforcing bonds and unity among allies.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Astolfo’s design has garnered significant popularity, making him one of the most favored characters in the Fate series, boasting over 4,600 unique favorites on fan databases. His voice is brought to life by Nobunaga Shimazaki in the Japanese version and Brittany Cox in the English adaptation. Notably, Astolfo’s playful nature and aesthetic, including his iconic pastel hair and princess-like attire, provide a fresh take on the traditional knight archetype, often blurring gender lines, making him a beloved character among diverse fan groups.
Astolfo’s quirky charm and unyielding loyalty resonate deeply, earning him a lasting place in the hearts of fans and the broader labyrinthine world of Fate. Three fate popularity polls frequently see him ranking high, showcasing his appeal across cultural lines and fan communities.
