Roland Fortis is the Sixth Paladin of the Chasseurs, a church-backed vampire-hunting order, bearing the title "Jasper" represented by a green gem. He wields Durandal—a transformable weapon shifting between spear, dual swords, and chain whips—and augments his elite combat prowess with specialized drugs granting superhuman strength, speed, and stamina. Formerly mentor to Paladin Astolfo Granatum, he also pilots aircraft like the Abeille and cooks homely meals. Physically, Roland stands over six feet tall with fair skin, a broad build, round face, pronounced cheeks, and large green eyes. His short blond hair appears fluffy in art, often lacking eyebrows as a stylistic choice. He wears the Chasseur uniform: black pants, cassock, white harness, purple ribbon-like belt, dark boots, white armored gloves, and a green rosary (white in anime adaptations). Born circa 1863 in urban poverty, Roland joined the Chasseurs partly for financial stability, having cared for younger siblings. He rescued Astolfo from vampires but failed to save Astolfo’s sister Louisette, fueling Astolfo’s lasting hatred. Roland remained composed around him and once guided Mikhail in the Catacombs, later searching for the vanished child. Initially fanatical and socially oblivious regarding church doctrine, Roland masks sharp intelligence—strategically omitting details in reports and manipulating situations. He exhibits unconditional protectiveness toward Vanitas, fearing he might "shatter" if neglected. Symbolized by his August 19 birth flowers, his optimism aligns with the resilient Canna Lily (cheerfulness, "wild ideas"), and his vigilance with the Goldenrod. Relationships define his evolution: he shifts from viewing Vanitas as a victim to devoted fascination after recognizing his autonomy. He reclassifies Noé Archiviste from enemy to friend upon witnessing his humanity and bond with Vanitas. Olivier, his confidant and ex-vice-captain, restrains Roland’s impulsiveness; their mutual loyalty includes Olivier vowing to leave the Church if Roland died protecting him. Roland and Gano share deep distrust, with Gano deeming him a salvation-obsessed hypocrite. A turning point occurs when Roland sees Vanitas and Noé laughing together in the Catacombs, challenging his belief in inherent vampire evil. This sparks an ideological shift: he concludes "God’s love" encompasses vampires equally and investigates human-vampire coexistence—aligning him with figures like Ruthven and Chloe, but as a Chasseur insider risking treason accusations. Olivier warns him; Roland persists, driven to "confirm and clarify" his beliefs, reflecting the Rose Campion’s "unchanging love." Key quotes trace his journey: early vows brandish duty as "indestructible blades" against vampires, while later reflections marvel at human-vampire bonds and seek "peaceful resolution." His final line—"It’s no good, Olivier. I can’t… save this boy. Not ever…"—hints at unresolved turmoil.

Titles

Roland

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