Boyle, Arthur: The Unwavering Knight with the Plasma Excalibur

Introduction

Arthur Boyle is an eccentric yet undeniably formidable Fire Soldier from Special Fire Force Company 8, serving as Shinra Kusakabe's partner throughout *Enen no Shouboutai: Ni no Shou* and beyond. Visually striking, he sports a wild, spiky blonde hairstyle and is almost always seen with his signature "Excalibur" – a sword of pure plasma generated from his own Ignition Ability. From his very first appearance, Arthur establishes himself as a character living entirely within his own chivalrous fantasy, convinced he is a valiant "Knight King" battling demons and protecting his kingdom. This self-proclaimed noble identity shapes every interaction and action, making a lasting and hilariously baffling first impression that quickly turns into endearing charm. His constant delusion is both his greatest quirk and, surprisingly, one of his most powerful assets in the fight against Infernals.

Personality & Traits

Arthur's personality is almost entirely defined by his unwavering and profound delusion of being a Knight King. He views the world through a filter of medieval fantasy, interpreting Infernals as "demons," his comrades as fellow knights or subjects, and his missions as quests to protect his kingdom. This singular focus makes him incredibly simple-minded in day-to-day interactions, often oblivious to social cues, sarcasm, or even basic common sense. Despite this, Arthur possesses an unshakeable bravery; his knightly code compels him to face any danger head-on, regardless of overwhelming odds, because a king never backs down. He is fiercely loyal to his "kingdom" (Company 8) and especially to Shinra, whom he often refers to as his "squire." Beneath the layers of his peculiar fantasy, Arthur is kind-hearted and possesses a pure, albeit misguided, sense of justice. His childlike innocence often provides much-needed comic relief, puncturing tense moments with his absurd declarations and actions.

Role & Abilities

In the narrative of *Enen no Shouboutai: Ni no Shou*, Arthur serves multiple crucial roles. He is a primary source of comic relief, with his unwavering knightly persona providing countless humorous moments that lighten the series' often dark themes. More importantly, he is a highly skilled Second Generation pyrokinetic, capable of generating and manipulating plasma. His signature ability involves forming his plasma into a scorching hot blade he calls "Excalibur," which can cut through almost any material and even produce a blinding flash of light. This formidable power makes him a frontline combatant, an invaluable asset in Company 8's battles against the Evangelist's forces. His partnership with Shinra is a cornerstone of their combat effectiveness, with Arthur's raw power and Shinra's speed often creating devastating combinations. While his relationships with others are often filtered through his delusions, his genuine loyalty and protective instincts towards his comrades, particularly Tamaki Kotatsu and Maki Oze, highlight his underlying good nature.

Final Verdict

Arthur Boyle is an unforgettable character who masterfully balances being both an effective fighter and a constant source of comedic gold. What could easily have been a one-note joke is elevated by his unwavering conviction and surprising depth. His delusion isn't merely a quirk; it's a fundamental aspect of his strength, allowing him to remain fearless and focused in the face of terror, perceiving every challenge as another trial for his "kingdom." He proves that true strength can come from the most unexpected places, making him a beloved and integral member of the Special Fire Force. Arthur's unique blend of absurdity, loyalty, and sheer power solidifies his place as one of the most memorable characters in *Enen no Shouboutai*, leaving viewers always eager to see what new "quest" the Knight King will embark upon next.