Series & First Appearance
Zero Kiryuu is a prominent character in the supernatural romance anime and manga series "Vampire Knight," created by Matsuri Hino. He first appears in Chapter 1 of the manga and makes his anime debut in Episode 1. The series blends elements of romance, action, and horror within a school setting focusing on the coexistence of humans and vampires.
Profile at a Glance
Zero Kiryuu is an apparent 17-years-old (though his actual age increases due to supernatural circumstances) and serves as both a protagonist and an anti-hero in the narrative. He is affiliated with Cross Academy, specifically within the Day Class, and is a member of the Vampire Hunter organization. His signature weapon is "Bloody Rose," a gun gifted by Headmaster Cross, used primarily to hunt vampires and defend those he cares about from threats.
Personality & Motivations
Zero exhibits a complex personality characterized by a deep-seated resentment toward vampires due to his tragic past. Key traits include determination, loyalty, and a brooding demeanor that stems from his internal struggles with his vampiric nature. As the series progresses, Zero grapples with his feelings for Yuuki Cross, oscillating between affection and anger after discovering her true vampire identity. Notably, he often expresses his conflicting emotions through stoicism and sarcasm, using quips as a shield against vulnerability.
Abilities / Powers
As a former human turned vampire, Zero possesses enhanced physical abilities, including strength, speed, and endurance, comparable to that of a typical vampire. However, his body rejects blood tablets, which are typically used to suppress a vampire’s thirst. This biological limitation forces him to find alternative means to satiate his bloodlust. Drinking Yuuki’s blood originally helped him maintain his sanity, although he ultimately seeks to control his urges without relying on her. Over time, Zero acquires the abilities of a Level D vampire after consuming his twin brother Ichiru’s life force, further complicating his struggle against his predatory instincts.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Several pivotal story arcs shape Zero’s character:
- Family Tragedy: Zero’s transformation into a vampire occurs after Shizuka Hio attacks his family, setting him on a path of hatred toward vampires.
- Conflict with Yuuki: The revelation of Yuuki as a Pureblood vampire leads Zero to confront his feelings about her and vampires in general. His internal conflict peaks as he oscillates between wanting to protect Yuuki and his desire to hunt her kind.
- Brotherly Duel: The arrival of his twin brother Ichiru, who aligns with their family’s enemy, Rido Kuran, challenges Zero’s loyalties and leads to an emotional confrontation with his brother.
- Final Decision: After Ichiru’s death and the acceptance of his own nature, Zero decides to wait for Yuuki’s decision on their future, highlighting his character’s growth towards acceptance and love.
Notable Relationships
- Yuuki Cross: The primary relationship that defines Zero’s character arc. Their bond oscillates between love and conflict, particularly following the revelation of her true identity and the tragic events that unfold throughout the series.
- Ichiru Kiryuu: Zero’s twin brother whose actions and ambitions create emotional turmoil within Zero as he struggles with betrayal yet maintains a sense of familial loyalty.
- Kaname Kuran: A Pureblood vampire and Yuuki’s protector, his rivalry with Zero further complicates the love triangle integral to the plot.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One iconic moment occurs during an emotional confrontation where Zero tells Yuuki, "I’ll kill you if I ever become a Level E." (Chapter 12) This line encapsulates his fierce determination to maintain control over his fate and his complicated feelings towards Yuuki. Another poignant scene unfolds during a one-year time skip, where Zero confesses to Yuuki that he will wait for her to choose him, underscoring his evolution into a more emotionally open character.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Zero Kiryuu is voiced by Yuichi Nakamura in the Japanese version and by Dan Green in the English adaptation. The character remains popular, often ranking within the top tiers of character popularity polls related to "Vampire Knight." His struggle against vampirism and his complex relationships resonate with themes of love and sacrifice, which have garnered him a dedicated fanbase. Additionally, Zero’s design reflects traditional vampire motifs, contrasting with his human past and embodying the internal conflict that defines his character.
This character spotlight delivers an organized overview of Zero Kiryuu, shedding light on his complexities and the deep emotional landscape he navigates throughout "Vampire Knight."
