TV-Series
Description
Kyros, also known as Cyrus gios Apollodorus, is a supporting character from the anime Altair: A Record of Battles. He is the son of Apollodorus, the former caesar of the city-state of Phoiníkē, and is introduced as a young man of seventeen who is nineteen by the later events of the story. Kyros has a lean build, dark hair tied into a small ponytail, and is often seen with dark circles under his eyes, which were originally the result of makeup he wore early in the story. He has a dark lizard tattoo on his left arm, a reference to his alias, the Lizard of the Black Alley, which he used while working as a spy for the Turkish leader Süleyman.

Kyros grew up disillusioned with his father’s privileged lifestyle and the dishonesty he perceived in politics, which led him to leave his family home out of fear that he would turn out the same way. He is a thrill-seeker who yearns for a meaningful life and holds a strong distrust of politicians, frequently criticizing them for lacking common sense. Despite his often detached and observational demeanor, he is deeply principled, values honesty and directness, and does not hesitate to speak out when provoked. For example, he angrily confronts Antonio Lucio of Venedik for failing to support Phoiníkē during its crisis. His feelings toward Venedik are complex, rooted in resentment over their inaction, and this carries over into a tense, sometimes childish hostility toward the Venedik spy Abiriga, even though they are able to cooperate when necessary.

Kyros plays a key supporting role in the story, representing the interests of Phoiníkē, a neutral trading city caught between larger powers. Initially introduced during a crisis in Phoiníkē, he questions Mahmut Tuğrul’s motives for helping his homeland, but Mahmut’s sincerity earns his trust, and the two become allies. Kyros assists Mahmut in navigating diplomatic and military challenges, using his sharp intelligence and practical knowledge. He is well-educated in sea warfare, owns a galley ship with a crew of childhood friends, and possesses familiarity with light signal codes used by ships in the Centro Sea. This skill proves valuable when he and Abiriga are captured by Sultan Baraban in Mızrak; he covertly communicates with Abiriga using the signals to turn the situation in their favor. Though not a front-line combatant, he demonstrates quick reflexes and a defensive fighting style when necessary.

Throughout the series, Kyros’s experiences expose the emotional weight of war and the cost of political inaction. His initial rebellion against his father’s legacy evolves into a commitment to protecting Phoiníkē and working alongside Mahmut. He embodies the perspective of those caught in the political crossfire, and his growth involves learning to trust others despite his deep-seated suspicion. According to the creator of the series, Kyros is the character she would most like to be friends with. He enjoys eating mutton, has a hobby of muscle training, and prefers women with lovely hair.