OVA
Description
Drake Anderson serves as a mercenary operative hired by the British Library's Special Operations Division, bringing a distinct set of skills to a team otherwise dominated by individuals with superhuman abilities. An American by nationality, Drake previously served in the United States special forces before transitioning to a career as a hired gun. At the time of his initial missions, he is thirty-five years old, placing him on the older side for active combat duty, though his experience more than compensates. Physically, Drake possesses a tall and muscular build that is beginning to show signs of age, with a slightly softened midsection. His features are distinctly Caucasian, complemented by blonde hair that he typically wears tied back in a short ponytail, and he is often seen in practical combat gear consisting of layered shirts, a black vest, and baggy pants equipped with numerous pockets for carrying weapons and communication devices. A green knit cap, or toque, is a consistent part of his attire and serves a secondary function as a storage pouch.

In terms of personality, Drake presents a complex mixture of traits that defy the simple mercenary archetype. He maintains a gruff, cynical, and pessimistic exterior, frequently commenting on his own bad luck and approaching situations with a blunt-spoken, no-nonsense attitude. He is a realist who understands that war is not a game and dislikes using deadly force except when absolutely necessary. Despite this hardened demeanor, he harbors several unexpected qualities. Drake is notably superstitious and obsessed with the concept of luck, often attributing outcomes to fortune or misfortune. He possesses a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, finding peace in traditional activities such as pottery, and he enjoys reading during quieter moments. Underneath his tough exterior lies a chivalrous and romantic nature, though he often seems to struggle in his relationships with women, having been separated from his daughter's mother. He also displays a somewhat prudish streak, becoming flustered in certain situations.

Motivations for Drake are grounded in personal responsibilities rather than grand ideologies. He is driven by a need to provide for his sixteen-year-old daughter, Maggie, whom he adores and visits whenever possible. His mercenary work is primarily a means to pay for child support and to buy presents for her. His fatherly instincts also extend to other young characters, who often find themselves drawn to him despite his rough appearance. While he may grumble about his assignments and the people he works with, Drake possesses a strong internal moral code. He is deeply loyal to those he considers friends, and if his orders conflict with his personal sense of right and wrong, he has no hesitation in disobeying his superiors to do what he believes is correct.

Within the story, Drake functions as the critical support element and the conventional muscle for his team. Having no superpowers of his own, he occupies a narrow but vital position in a world dominated by individuals with extraordinary abilities. He is often the first partner viewers meet, and his relationship with Yomiko Readman is central to his role. He finds her frustrating, childish, and reckless at times, yet he consistently sides with her against her enemies, even when those enemies are his own employers. He eventually admits to a deep admiration for her. Drake's role evolves from a reluctant hired gun to a trusted ally. In the television series, he initially appears as a bodyguard for a former British Library worker, but he later plays a crucial role in rescuing the main characters and supporting them during the final conflict against the British Library. He is a trustworthy partner who, despite his constant complaints, provides thorough and reliable backup.

Drake’s key relationships are defined by his loyalty and protective instincts. His bond with Yomiko Readman is the most significant professional relationship, built on a long history of shared missions and mutual respect. He is also noted to have a complex, somewhat flirtatious but ultimately strained dynamic with the agent known as Miss Deep, who seems more interested in Yomiko than in him. His role as a father to Maggie is his primary personal motivation, and his interactions with her reveal his softer side. He also demonstrates a chivalrous nature in his role as a bodyguard, becoming enraged when a person under his protection is killed.

Throughout the narrative, Drake Anderson shows signs of development from a cynical mercenary simply collecting a paycheck to a man who takes a stand based on personal conviction. When he suspects that Yomiko's apparent betrayal of the British Library must have a valid reason, he chooses to support her, believing she is not the type to misuse her powers. He eventually semi-retires from mercenary work to join the fight against the Gentleman's resurrection plan, solidifying his shift from a detached operative to a committed ally. His notable abilities lie entirely in his conventional combat prowess. An expert in most firearms and special weapons, he employs a vast array of equipment including sniper rifles, grenade launchers, automatic pistols, shotguns, and explosives. Beyond his weapons expertise, Drake is extraordinarily tough and resilient. He consistently survives extreme physical trauma including blows to the head, helicopter crashes, deep slash wounds, and falls from great heights, remaining combat-effective throughout. He also possesses keen tactical focus and is able to operate submarines and other military hardware.