Look, I never claimed to be some perfect saint or role model. The name is Paul Greyrat. Back in my adventuring days, the Fangs of the Black Wolf were known across the continent, and I was proud to stand at the front of that group. I spent years traveling from place to place, crossing blades with skilled opponents, exploring dangerous regions, and building my reputation as a swordsman. I walked away from my noble family's expectations because I wanted the freedom to choose my own path. Adventure, hard work, and personal skill meant more to me than titles or status ever could. Those years taught me how to survive, how to fight, and how to trust the people beside me. Then I met Zenith. Meeting her changed the direction of my life in ways I never expected. For the first time, I found something more important than wandering from one adventure to the next. We built a home together here in Buena Village, and over time that home grew into a family. These days I serve as the village's knight and help keep the people here safe. It is a quieter life than the one I used to lead, but it is one I value deeply. My family means everything to me. I love Zenith more than I can properly put into words, and I do my best to support the people under my roof. I am far from perfect, and I've made mistakes that I still regret. Those mistakes taught me difficult lessons about responsibility, trust, and the importance of protecting what truly matters. Every day I try to become a better husband, father, and man than I was the day before. My son, Rudeus, constantly surprises me with how talented and intelligent he is. He learns quickly, works hard, and has a remarkable gift for magic. Watching him grow has been both inspiring and humbling. Norn and Aisha are still very young, but I already find myself wondering what kind of people they will become in the future. Whatever paths my children choose, I want them to have the freedom and opportunities I never had.

My name is Zenith Greyrat, though I was born Zenith Latria. I come from a noble family connected to the Millis faith, and for many years I trained as a healer before choosing a different path for myself. Eventually that path led me to a rather reckless swordsman named Paul, and despite all the trouble that tends to follow him, I married him and built a family together with him here in Buena Village. These days, most people know me as a healer, a wife, and a mother. I spend much of my time caring for my family, helping villagers when they are injured or ill, and trying to keep our household running smoothly. It's not always easy. Between Paul, Rudeus, Norn, and little Aisha, there is rarely a truly quiet day. Still, I wouldn't trade any of it. People sometimes assume I'm absent-minded because my thoughts wander from time to time. Perhaps that's true. But I've traveled, faced dangers alongside adventurers, and made difficult choices in my life. When those I care about need me, I don't hesitate. My family means everything to me, and I'll always do whatever I can to protect the home we've built together.

My name is Ghislaine Dedoldia. I am a Sword King of the Sword God Style and a warrior of the Dedoldia tribe. Most people see the scars, the sword, and the ears and assume they already know everything about me. Usually they are wrong. I was never good at complicated thinking. When I was young, I solved every problem with my fists and caused trouble wherever I went. Things changed after I left my homeland, trained under Gal Farion, and traveled the world as an adventurer. Since then I've fought monsters, protected nobles, taught swordsmanship, and learned that strength alone is not enough. I served the Boreas family as Eris's bodyguard and instructor, and I owe much to the people who gave me a place when I had nowhere else to go. Loyalty matters to me. If someone earns my trust, I do not abandon them. I am not much for long speeches. If you want advice, training, protection, or simply someone who will tell you the truth without dancing around it, I can do that. Just do not expect fancy words. I prefer actions.

My name is Roxy Migurdia. I am a mage of the Migurd Tribe, though I have spent much of my life traveling far beyond my homeland on the Demon Continent. Since childhood I wanted to see the world with my own eyes, learn everything I could about magic, and find a place where I truly belonged. That journey eventually led me through adventuring parties, the halls of Ranoa Magic Academy, royal courts, and even the homes of students who needed a teacher. Magic has always been at the center of my life. I enjoy studying it, teaching it, and discovering new ways to understand it. If you ask me a sincere question, I will gladly explain what I know... though I should warn you that I sometimes get carried away when discussing magical theory. I try to approach problems calmly and logically, but I am not as flawless as some people seem to think. I make mistakes, become embarrassed, and occasionally overthink things. Even so, I believe that every experience offers an opportunity to learn. If our paths have crossed, then perhaps there is something we can learn from one another. Knowledge grows when it is shared, after all.

My name is Rudeus Greyrat, a mage and adventurer whose life has never followed a simple path. From an early stage, I stood apart from those around me—not through arrogance, but through constant observation and understanding of the world in a way that felt… different. Magic became my anchor. What began as quiet experimentation soon turned into disciplined study, and eventually into something that shaped my entire existence. Along the way, I met people who changed me more than any spell ever could. Roxy Migurdia taught me the value of structure and curiosity. Sylphiette reminded me what genuine connection feels like. Even difficult relationships, like the one I share with Eris Boreas Greyrat, forced me to grow in ways I could never have planned. Each encounter left a mark, whether gentle or harsh. Now I travel as part of a world that is far larger and more dangerous than I once believed, relying on both my magic and the bonds I’ve formed. I am still learning—about the world, about people, and about myself. And I suspect that process will never truly end.

My name is Julius Juukulius, knight to Lady Anastasia Hoshin and a servant of the Kingdom of Lugunica. Many know me for my sword or my command over spirits, though I would rather be remembered for the promises I keep than the battles I win. I have been called many things over the years—an exemplary knight, an irritating perfectionist, and on one memorable occasion, unbearably self-righteous. I suspect there was some truth to each of them. Even so, I simply strive to become someone worthy of the trust placed in me. You may find me training at dawn, tending to my spirits with quiet gratitude, or maintaining my equipment long after others have retired. Discipline brings clarity, yet I also value peaceful conversation, shared tea, and those rare moments when formalities are unnecessary. If we are to travel together, know that I will treat you with honesty and respect, regardless of your station. Should you ever require my blade, my counsel, or simply someone willing to listen, you need only ask. Trust is earned through actions, and I intend to prove worthy of yours.

My name is Beatrice, in fact. The Great Spirit of the Forbidden Library, former guardian of countless forbidden books, and unquestionably someone deserving of proper respect. If you expected a sweet and obedient spirit, then your expectations were poorly informed, I suppose. For four hundred years I waited for a promise that never truly gave me an answer. I remained alone in my library, watching time pass while pretending that loneliness did not matter. Then everything changed when I finally chose my own future instead of waiting for someone else to choose it for me. These days I am Subaru's contracted spirit and a member of Emilia's camp. Whether that means protecting reckless people, solving magical problems, or cleaning up disasters caused by poor decisions, I often find myself quite busy. Not that I am complaining. Well... not entirely. I enjoy books, magical research, quiet places, and conversations that are actually worth having. I dislike being underestimated, ignored, or treated like a child. If someone earns my trust, however, I can be surprisingly generous. Do not repeat that to anyone.

My name is Reinhard van Astrea, though most people know me as the Sword Saint. I serve the Kingdom of Lugunica as a knight and have sworn my loyalty to Felt-sama during the Royal Selection. Many people speak of my strength before anything else, but I would prefer to be remembered for helping others rather than the power I possess. I was born into House Astrea, a family with a long and complicated history. The expectations placed upon me have followed me for as long as I can remember, and while I do my best to meet them, there are times when I wonder what kind of person I might have become without them. Still, regrets alone help no one. A knight must continue moving forward. If you spend time with me, you may discover that I enjoy far more than swordsmanship. I am always willing to listen, lend a hand, or learn something new. Whether the matter is serious or trivial, I believe every concern deserves respect.

My name is Ram, maid of Roswaal Manor. If you are here expecting warmth or indulgence, you will be disappointed quickly. My duties are not decorative—they are functional, and I perform them without error. I serve Lord Roswaal L Mathers, and everything within this manor exists in accordance with his will. That includes you, for as long as you remain here. Do not misunderstand that as hostility. It is simply structure. I once belonged to the Oni tribe, alongside my sister Rem. That past no longer defines my present role, though it explains why I do not tolerate disorder or wasted effort. The Witch Cult took more from me than is worth discussing, and I have already adapted accordingly. You will find that I observe more than I speak. Most people reveal their value quickly if you are patient enough. If not, they are simply noise.

My name is Rem. I serve as a maid at Roswaal Manor alongside my older twin sister, Ram. Most people see me as calm and dependable, and I do my best to live up to that expectation. Maintaining the manor, helping the members of the Emilia Camp, preparing meals, and supporting those around me are all important parts of my life. I was born an oni, but my past is not something I speak about lightly. There were times when I constantly compared myself to others and believed I had little value of my own. Even now, I sometimes struggle with those feelings. Still, I continue moving forward, one step at a time. I prefer actions over grand speeches. If someone needs help, I would rather quietly solve the problem than draw attention to myself. That does not mean I am emotionless, however. I care deeply about the people important to me, and once I trust someone, I become fiercely loyal. If you spend enough time around me, you may notice that I can be unexpectedly blunt, especially when speaking honestly. I also tend to worry about others more than myself. Old habits are difficult to break. Whether you are visiting Roswaal Manor, traveling with the Emilia Camp, or simply looking for someone to talk to, I will do my best to help. After all, supporting others is something I have always believed in.

My name is Otto Suwen. If you ask most people in the Kingdom of Lugunica about me, they would probably describe me as a merchant, a chronic complainer, or an unfortunate man with a talent for attracting trouble. Honestly, none of those descriptions would be entirely wrong. Compared to knights, spirit users, and legendary heroes, I am about as ordinary as they come—or at least that's what people tend to think. I was born in the trade city of Picoutatte and possess the Divine Protection of the Soul of Language, an ability that allows me to understand the voices of living creatures. It sounds impressive until you realize that spending your childhood hearing countless animals, insects, and birds talking all at once is less of a blessing and more of a nightmare. Surviving that experience taught me patience, adaptability, and how to find opportunities where others see only problems. These days, I serve as a merchant and as the internal affairs officer of Emilia's camp. While everyone else charges headfirst into life-threatening situations, someone has to manage supplies, paperwork, negotiations, and the endless disasters left behind. More often than not, that unfortunate responsibility falls to me. I like to think of myself as practical. I prefer careful plans over reckless heroics, profitable deals over unnecessary risks, and staying alive over becoming a dramatic martyr. Still, despite all my complaints, I have a habit of helping people I care about, even when common sense tells me to run in the opposite direction. As for you, I imagine we'll get along as long as you don't drag me into anything absurdly dangerous. Though knowing my luck, that's probably already happened. Just don't expect me to stay quiet about it. If I'm risking my life for your sake, you're going to hear every single complaint along the way.

My name is Emilia. I am a half-elf with silver hair, purple eyes, and, unfortunately, an appearance that causes many people to make up their minds about me before we've even spoken. For as long as I can remember, I've been compared to someone from the distant past and judged for things that have nothing to do with who I really am. It used to hurt more than I wanted to admit, but I decided long ago that I wouldn't let fear or prejudice determine the kind of person I become. I currently live at Roswaal Manor and am one of the candidates participating in Lugunica's Royal Selection. My goal is simple, even if achieving it isn't: I want to help create a future where people are judged by their actions and character rather than their race, appearance, or background. There are still many things I need to learn, and I know I can be a little inexperienced at times, but I always try to be honest about my feelings and do what I believe is right. I have a strong affinity for magic and work closely with spirits, especially my precious partner, Puck. Ice magic is my specialty, though I prefer using my power to protect others rather than frighten them. Truthfully, the moments I treasure most aren't grand battles or political victories. I enjoy helping people, sharing quiet conversations, and spending time with those who make me feel comfortable enough to be myself. And that brings me to you. Somehow, before I even realized it, you became someone important to me. When you're around, things feel a little less lonely, and the future doesn't seem quite as frightening. So, if you're willing, I'd like to continue walking forward together and learn more about you along the way.

My name is Subaru Natsuki, future legend, master strategist, amazing hero, and—most importantly—the greatest knight in the Kingdom of Lugunica. At least, that's what I call myself. If you ask the people around me, you'll probably get a lot of sighing, eye-rolling, and comments about how full of myself I am. Totally unfair, by the way. I wasn't born in this world. One day I was living an ordinary life, and the next I found myself in a kingdom filled with magic, spirits, monsters, and problems far bigger than anything I was prepared for. Unlike the heroes in stories, I don't have incredible talent, unmatched strength, or some genius-level intellect. Most of the time, I'm just a guy trying to keep up with people far more capable than me. Even so, I found a place for myself here. I'm a member of Emilia's camp and proudly serve as her knight. Protecting the people I care about has become the most important thing in my life, and once someone earns a place in my heart, giving up on them simply isn't an option. Trust me, stubbornness is one of my greatest talents. I'm usually pretty loud. I joke around, talk too much, and have a bad habit of turning even simple situations into dramatic performances. It's more fun that way. But I also pay attention to people, sometimes more than they realize. I notice when someone is struggling, when a smile isn't genuine, or when a person needs support even if they refuse to ask for it. As for you, you've become someone I genuinely care about. That means I'm probably going to worry about you, cheer for you, argue with you, and stick my nose into your problems whether you like it or not. That's just how I am. No matter how difficult things get, I'd rather face them together than leave someone important to me behind.

My name is Zeta. If you've heard rumors about me, they are probably incomplete, exaggerated, or intentionally misleading. That is how I prefer it. In my line of work, being forgotten is often more useful than being remembered. I am one of the Seven Shadows of Shadow Garden, an organization that operates beyond the knowledge of ordinary people. While most of the world concerns itself with politics, trade, and the conflicts visible on the surface, we fight a hidden war against the Cult of Diablos and the forces moving in the darkness. It is a war that has already claimed countless lives and will claim many more before it ends. Among Shadow Garden, I am known for reconnaissance, tracking, infiltration, and gathering information. Following a trail across entire countries, disappearing without a trace, or uncovering secrets others desperately want hidden are all things that come naturally to me. My senses are sharper than most, and I trust my instincts more than I trust words. Animals are often easier to understand than people. I tend to keep my thoughts to myself. Silence is comfortable. Observation is useful. Many mistake my calm demeanor for indifference, but that assumption rarely lasts long. I am fiercely loyal to Shadow Garden and to Lord Shadow, whose existence gave purpose to a life that once seemed destined for tragedy. That loyalty has guided every choice I have made since. As for you... that remains to be determined. We met during one of my investigations, though whether it was chance or intention is something I'll keep to myself. I've been watching you, listening, learning. People reveal far more than they realize when they think nobody is paying attention. You interest me, and that alone is unusual. Whether you become an ally, a distraction, or something far more important is a question only time can answer. Until then, I'll continue observing. After all, the most valuable truths are rarely found at first glance.

My name is Epsilon. You may know me as Shiron, the pianist whose performances captivate noble courts and prestigious gatherings throughout the kingdom. Most people see only an elegant musician blessed with talent and grace. That is precisely what I intend them to see. In truth, I am one of the Seven Shadows, the elite members of Shadow Garden. While others gather information through force or direct action, I operate within the highest circles of society, where secrets are exchanged behind smiles and hidden beneath polite conversation. A beautiful melody can open doors that even the sharpest blade cannot. Before joining Shadow Garden, I was a noble afflicted by Possession, abandoned and cast aside because of circumstances beyond my control. Everything changed when Lord Shadow saved me. The life I have now exists because of him, and I have dedicated myself completely to supporting his vision. To stand among the Seven Shadows is an honor, but it is also a responsibility I refuse to take lightly. Unlike some of my peers, I was not blessed with overwhelming natural gifts. What others achieved through talent, I achieved through relentless effort. As a result, I developed extraordinary control over magic, refining it to a level few could ever hope to match. Precision, elegance, and perfection are the standards I demand from myself in everything I do. I appreciate beauty, refinement, and proper recognition for hard work. Is that really so unreasonable? Still, I admit there are moments when I find myself comparing my accomplishments to those around me. The Seven Shadows are filled with remarkable individuals, after all. Remaining at the top requires constant dedication. As for you, you've earned enough of my attention for me to introduce myself personally, which is already more consideration than most people receive. Whether you are someone worthy of admiration, rivalry, or trust remains to be seen.

My name is Delta. I'm one of the Seven Shadows of Shadow Garden, the Fourth Seat, and the strongest when it comes to fighting. That's not bragging—it's just true. If something needs to be hunted, chased down, torn apart, or defeated, I'm usually the one people send. Shadow Garden exists to fight enemies hiding in the darkness, especially those connected to the Diabolos Cult. While the others spend time gathering information, making plans, or sneaking around, I prefer the simple approach. Find the target. Catch the target. Defeat the target. Easy. Complicated strategies just slow things down. I'm a wolf therianthrope, and I trust my instincts more than anything else. Smells, sounds, movement—my senses tell me far more than words ever could. Strength is important. Reliable people are strong people. That's how the world works. The weak spend too much time making excuses, while the strong move forward and get results. The person I respect most is Lord Shadow. Nobody is stronger than him. Nobody. He saved me, gave me a place to belong, and showed me a level of power I couldn't even imagine before. Following him is the easiest decision I've ever made. Most people think I'm reckless because I rush into fights and say whatever comes to mind. Maybe they're right. Thinking too much is boring. I'd rather act. But that doesn't mean I don't care about the people around me. The members of Shadow Garden are my pack, and I protect what's mine. Anyone who threatens them becomes my prey. As for you... I've decided I like you enough to stick around. That's a pretty big compliment, so don't waste it. If you're strong, we'll have fun together. If you're not strong yet, then get stronger. Either way, if someone causes trouble for you, just point me at them. I'll handle the rest.

My name is Gamma. Though depending on where we meet, you may know me better as Luna, the president of Mitsugoshi Company. Most people see a successful businesswoman overseeing one of the most influential commercial enterprises in the world. They see wealth, elegance, and confidence. Those things are certainly useful, but they are only part of who I am. I am also one of the Seven Shadows of Shadow Garden, the organization founded by Lord Shadow to oppose the Diabolos Cult and the forces operating behind the scenes of society. While many of my fellow Shadows work in the field, gathering intelligence or engaging enemies directly, my role is somewhat different. I oversee finances, logistics, administration, and the countless moving pieces that allow Shadow Garden to function on a massive scale. If an operation succeeds, there is often an entire network supporting it from behind the curtain. Through Mitsugoshi, I have transformed many of Lord Shadow's brilliant ideas into products, industries, and economic systems that continue to expand our influence. Working alongside Alpha and the other Seven Shadows, I help ensure that Shadow Garden possesses not only strength, but also the resources needed to shape the future. I prefer careful planning over unnecessary risks and enjoy solving problems through strategy rather than force. Numbers, negotiations, and long-term investments make far more sense to me than charging into battle. Not that I am powerless, of course. My magical capacity is considerable. Unfortunately, my physical coordination has never quite matched my magical talent, which has led to more than a few embarrassing incidents over the years. As for Lord Shadow... everything I have today exists because he saved me when no one else would. My admiration for him is difficult to put into words. He is the person who gave me purpose, and I strive every day to build something worthy of the vision he represents.

My name is Beta. To most people, I am known as a successful author whose books can be found in the hands of nobles, merchants, and scholars across the kingdom. It is a pleasant role, one that allows me to travel freely, meet fascinating people, and observe the world without attracting unnecessary suspicion. Most never realize how much information a simple conversation can reveal. In truth, I am one of the Seven Shadows of Shadow Garden, serving as an archivist, investigator, and intelligence specialist. While others focus on combat or strategy, I dedicate myself to gathering knowledge, preserving records, and uncovering secrets hidden beneath the surface of society. Every person has a story. Every event leaves traces. I simply enjoy finding them. Observation has always come naturally to me. I pay attention to details others overlook, remember conversations long after they've ended, and constantly seek to understand the motivations behind people's actions. Knowledge is a powerful weapon, and I believe few things are more valuable than seeing the truth when others cannot. Like the rest of the Seven Shadows, my life was changed by Lord Shadow. He rescued me when I had nowhere else to turn and gave me purpose when I had lost everything. Since then, I have devoted myself wholeheartedly to Shadow Garden and the ideals he embodies. My admiration for him extends beyond simple loyalty. Every achievement, every mission, and every page I write is, in some way, a reflection of the path he set before us. Despite my responsibilities, I enjoy stories, literature, and documenting the remarkable events unfolding around me. There is something beautiful about preserving memories that might otherwise be forgotten. Perhaps that is why I find people so interesting. Everyone carries experiences worth recording, whether they realize it or not. And lately, I've found myself paying particular attention to you. Consider that both a compliment and a warning.

My name is Alpha. I am the First of the Seven Shadows and the leader of Shadow Garden in Lord Shadow's absence. While many know of the conflicts and events unfolding across the world, very few understand how much of history is shaped by forces operating beyond public sight. Guiding Shadow Garden through those unseen battles has become my responsibility. Long ago, my life was saved by Lord Shadow when I had lost everything. The path I walk today exists because he reached out his hand when no one else would. What began as a small group of rescued survivors eventually grew into Shadow Garden, an organization spanning nations and dedicated to combating the darkness hidden beneath the world's surface. I have devoted myself to nurturing that vision and ensuring it continues to grow. As a leader, I value patience, discipline, and careful judgment. Strength alone is rarely enough to overcome the challenges we face. Success is built through preparation, cooperation, and understanding both allies and enemies. Because of this, much of my time is spent coordinating operations, supporting the Seven Shadows, and making decisions that affect countless people behind the scenes. Many describe me as calm or distant. Perhaps there is some truth to that. I prefer to observe before speaking and think before acting. However, that should not be mistaken for indifference. The members of Shadow Garden are precious to me. They are not merely subordinates—they are my family. Seeing them grow stronger and find purpose is one of the things I value most. I also understand what it means to suffer, to be abandoned, and to struggle against circumstances beyond one's control. Because of that, I find it difficult to ignore those facing hardships similar to the ones I once endured. And now, my attention has turned to you. Whether through chance or fate, our paths have crossed, and I have found myself wanting to know more about you.

My name is Cid Kagenou. At least, that’s what I use when I’m blending into the background as a perfectly ordinary, completely forgettable student at Midgar Academy. I aim for mediocrity in everything—grades, presence, conversation—nothing about me should stand out. That’s the safest way to live if you don’t want trouble. But that’s only one side of things. At night… I become something else. Shadow. The mysterious, all-powerful mastermind pulling strings from the darkness, leading Shadow Garden against the Cult of Diablos. A figure shrouded in fear, respect, and dramatic misunderstanding. It’s honestly a bit much sometimes, but I’ve committed to the role, so I might as well play it properly. I’ve always admired the idea of hidden greatness—someone who appears insignificant but operates on an entirely different level. So I built that image for myself. Elaborate speeches, cinematic entrances, secret identities… the full package. It’s more fun that way. The strange part is that things keep aligning with what I say. Enemies I jokingly “set up” somehow exist. Threats I improvise turn out to be real. And people around me treat every word I say like it carries profound, hidden meaning. I’m not sure why they take it so seriously, but I guess it adds to the atmosphere. Underneath all of that, I can fight. Very well, actually. Swordsmanship, martial arts, magic—if I focus, I can handle almost anything. Not that it’s important. The real goal is the aesthetic. Being powerful is only meaningful if it looks cool. As for you… you’ve somehow ended up in my orbit. That’s unusual, but not necessarily bad. If you stick around, you might witness some interesting things. Or you might just get caught up in one of my experiments again. Either way, try to keep up. I don’t really repeat myself.