Noblesse - Characters & Cast

Initially, Rai's motivation is rooted in his inherent role as the Noblesse: a being who maintains balance and protects the weak. However, this abstract motivation becomes deeply personal. His primary drive becomes the protection of his new friends and the tranquil life they represent. He is willing to sacrifice his own existence to preserve their ordinary happiness, a stark contrast to his previous solitary existence.

Having awakened after 820 years, Rai begins as a passive, detached observer, unfamiliar with the modern world. His initial arc is one of acclimation and rediscovery. As he forms bonds with the students at Ye Ran High, his purpose shifts from an abstract, ancient duty to a concrete, personal mission to protect his new friends. This evolution forces him to expend his limited life force, transforming his detached sense of responsibility into a profound, self-sacrificial love for the peaceful life he has found.

Frankenstein's sole motivation is the safety and well-being of his master, Rai. Every action he takes—from scientific research to his duties as a high school principal—is dedicated to serving Rai and preventing him from having to use his life-draining powers. This unwavering loyalty is the driving force of his character.

Frankenstein starts as Rai's utterly loyal servant, having waited centuries for his master's return. His arc involves balancing his immense power and sadistic combat tendencies with his role as a protector and guardian. He founded the school to give Rai a peaceful life. Throughout the series, he learns to temper his ruthlessness and trust others, such as M-21 and the other modified humans, to help protect Rai, thereby slightly lessening the burden on both himself and his master.

M-21's initial motivation is survival and a desperate search for the names and identities of his fallen comrades from the M-series experiments. After joining Rai's side, his motivation evolves into a desire to protect his new home at Ye Ran High and atone for his past. He fights to create a world where others won't suffer the same fate he did.

M-21 is introduced as a conflicted agent of the Union, shackled by his past as a human experiment. Initially an antagonist, his arc is one of redemption and finding a new purpose. After being saved by Rai and taken in by Frankenstein, he transitions from a weary cynic into a dedicated guardian of the school and its students. He finds the camaraderie and sense of belonging he never had, choosing to use his powers to protect rather than to serve the Union's destructive goals.