Derflinger

ZERO NO TSUKAIMA

Saito with Derflinger

Derflinger, or ‘Derf’ — as called by Saito Hiraga — seemed like a cheap sword, with a bargain price of 100 Ecu. Meanwhile, Louise de la Vallière was a student at the Tristain Academy of Magic. However, she was inept in magic, which was a blow to her pride. Adding insult to injury, she had summoned Saito — a boy as normal as he is human — instead of a powerful familiar. In a fit of anger, she purchased Derflinger, which suited Saito's lowly status. 

Over time, Louise found out — to her disbelief — that Saito is actually a familiar that is said to only exist in legends. Known as God’s Left Hand, Saito turns into a superhuman when he wields a weapon. More surprisingly, he was able to show his true potential with Derflinger. Although it looked shoddy, Derflinger is actually a legendary sword. It was created using elven magic in ancient times to kill Brimir, the first Void Mage.

Saito and Louise

Derflinger is unique in that 'he' is sentient — a byproduct of elven magic. As such, he can speak, and provided advice — espcially romantic ones — to Saito and Louise on several occasions. By then, the sword was already more of a close friend than a weapon to them. Derflinger helped greatly in bringing the two of them closer together. Although they weren't on good terms at the start, their feelings for each other developed — with Saito selflessly rescuing Louise when she was in danger.  

Ancient Dragon

Also, Derflinger can detect and absorb magic. However, its true power lies in his ability to transfer his consciousness to another sword — even if the original is destroyed. This was invaluable in several instances, when Saito had to battle powerful adversaries. In one of the most memorable episodes, Derflinger sacrificed his body to save Saito from the flames of Ancient Dragon. Thankfully, a sword was nearby for he to transfer his consciousness to. 

Saito was able to slay the dragon using the — augmented — Derflinger, thus ending the war. In the aftermath, Saito and Louise were reunited and lived happily ever after.

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