Ashaf - Witch and the Beast

 Ashaf (アシャフ Ashafu^?) is a First-Class Mage and a member of the Order of Magical Resonance. He travels with his partner, Guideau, in search for the Witch who cursed her.

Appearance

Ashaf is a tall, young-looking man with delicate features, slender build, and pale skin. Ashaf has light-colored eyes (blue in anime) with dark circles around his eyes and thick black lashes. He has short black hair that always slicked back and rarely seen without cigarette in his mouth. His left ear is pierced with a chain earring and his forearms are tattooed with black runes.

Like Guideau, he changes outfits quite frequently, but seems to consistently wear stylish suits with long-sleeves shirts, coats, and are often black in color.

Powers and Abilities

Ashaf is a First-Class Mage and is very skilled with numerous type of spells. He has magic inscriptions tattooed on both his forearms to aid in casting. As Guideau serves as the frontline fighter, Ashaf provides support with his magic and seems to favor a defensive style of fighting.

Magic

• Rune Magic: Ashaf is able to cast magical writings in order to cast the most basic of spells.
• Protective barriers: Ashaf can summon magical force fields by runs his hand over the inscriptions. He refers to them as "layers" with an increasing level indicating a stronger force field. The most layers used so far is three^[1] and can shield multiple people at a time.^[2]
• Summoning: Crows are Ashaf's familiars and can command crows to do his bidding various ways, using them for transportation, reconnaissance, or body doubles. By covering one eye, he can see through the eyes of his crows and he can attack with a swarm of crows. ^[1] Ashaf speak through his crows and can even summon a large crow to ride on its back. He can also summon a black panther and a large snake.
• Healing: Ashaf is good with healing spells, able to heal wounds and restore lost limbs. He also used his power to paralyze Guideau’s body. For greater degree of healing, he draws up a magic circle for treatment. However, his was unable to fully heal the damage caused by mechanizing his brain and needed to help to fix.
• Mind Control: A spell that allows him to command someone.^[1]
• Magical Bindings: Restrictive magic bindings.^[1]
• Matter manipulation: A spell that allows him move and control objects, including liquids. Ashaf favors using his magic to manipulate water.^[2]
• Compress spell: A spell to compact mass into a small sphere to either entrapped opponents or carry items easier.
• Contract spell: Ashaf know how to perform a contract spell, a magically-binding agreement between two or more people.
• Pyrokinesis: Ashaf can generate fire using magic, which he usually perform to light his cigarettes.
• Spell-picking: Asha is capable of undoing spells and considers it to be one of his specialties. Ashaf states his skill at it is better than be a witch.

Other skills

• Markmanship: Ashaf owns a gun, though he rarely uses it.
• Martial Arts: Ashaf demonstrate some basic hand-to-hand combat skills when defending himself from Guideau.

Personality

Ashaf is calm, mature, charming, and gentlemanly, often sporting a knowing smile and possesses an enigmatic aura. He seems to enjoy smoking cigarettes, rarely seen without one. He has a playful, dry sense of humor, and enjoys bantering with others, especially when dealing with Guideau, who he enjoys teasing. Ashaf is loyal to the Order and takes pride in the organization's work and power.

In contrast to his wild partner, Ashaf is polite, soft-spoken, and patient when interacting with people and prefers to avoid unnecessary conflict. He noted to be cautious by nature and attempts to be prepare for anything with a measured hand, but is able to admit when he is taken by surprise. Nevertheless, Ashaf excels in keeping his wits about him and is good at improvisation, handling unpredictable situations with relative ease.

Ashaf is very intelligent and clever, knowledgeable about about many magic-relate topics and is one that handles the investigative aspect of his cases with Guideau. Ashaf is exceptionally good at reading people and at making observations, allowing him to astutely asset situations and act accordingly. He is very confident in his abilities and takes great pride in being a First-Class mage, but knows what his limitations are.

A responsible and dutiful man, Ashaf has good morals, caring to those he's close to, and provides comfort and honest opinions to others without platitudes. He put in great effort to guide and teach Guideau, even when she being difficult and resistant to his words. Due to the nature his job and the chaotic world he lives in, Ashaf possesses a certain level of ruthlessness and can have a rather flippant attitude to the numerous dangers and bloodshed he faces.

While Ashaf rarely lose his composure, he demonstrate a different side when in comes to Guideau and her well-being. While in Orlencia Sett, Ashaf shows to be willing to risk his own life by mechanizing his own brain and angrily attacks Dunward L. Colvect for endangering Guideau.

Plot

Upon arriving at Sanguine Lotus train station, he and Guideau started asking about the witch in the city. They encountered a young girl, who claimed to be the witch's apprentice. They managed to find the witch quickly, as she was famous as the "heroic witch". As Guideau tried to attack the witch, but was captured, Ashaf came to rescue her and they retreated. Later they visited the witch house, where they encountered the witch's apprentice again as she was accepting guests for the commemoration day, but refused to let them in.

As they stayed in the hotel and Ashaf looked at the data he requested from the order, he realized for what the commemoration days was. As they attempted to leave the hotel, the police officers, charmed by the witch engaged them, but were no match for them.

white haired fairies

 

The depiction of white-haired, beautiful men in Asian and Chinese as well as in Japanese anime  dramas is rooted in a combination of cultural aesthetics, symbolism, and the influence of historical fiction and fantasy genres. These characters are often portrayed as delicate, beautiful, and ethereal for a many reasons

The white-haired, beautiful men in Chinese and Asian dramas are crafted to embody an ideal of beauty, wisdom, and supernatural power. Their delicate features, combined with their often complex personalities and hidden strengths, create a character archetype that is both visually captivating and emotionally resonant with audiences. Whether in fantasy, historical settings, or even modern dramas, this portrayal has become a beloved and iconic aspect of Asian pop culture

Symbolism of Purity and Otherworldliness:

• White hair often symbolizes something mystical, rare, and otherworldly in many cultures, especially in Chinese and Asian fantasy genres. It is seen as a sign of immortality, wisdom, or divine origin. These characters are often not bound by normal human limitations, suggesting that they belong to a higher, almost ethereal realm.

• In Chinese fantasy (such as Xianxia or Wuxia genres), characters with white hair are often immortal beings, gods, or demons, and their beauty reflects their celestial nature. Their otherworldly look makes them appear more delicate and fragile, which contrasts with their immense power or supernatural origins.

Aesthetic Appeal:

• The delicate and beautiful portrayal of these characters is a deliberate choice to appeal to visual aesthetics. The combination of pale, flawless skin and silvery or white hair creates an almost dreamlike, idealized beauty that resonates with fans.

• The character's soft features, angular faces, and elegant clothing (like robes and flowing garments) contribute to this ethereal, "delicate" look, often portrayed as the ideal of beauty in these genres. White hair is used as a way to elevate a character's gracefulness.

Cultural Influence:

• In Chinese culture and mythology, figures with white hair often hold a higher status or have mystical associations. For example, in Chinese legends, characters like immortal sages or gods often have supernatural features like white hair. The representation of these figures in dramas connects to the idea that they are rare, highly revered, and possess powers that elevate them above ordinary humans.

• Also, anime and manga have heavily influenced the portrayal of characters with white hair. These depictions have been adopted and adapted by live-action dramas, further reinforcing the image of delicate, beautiful, and powerful white-haired characters.

Contrasting Strength and Vulnerability:

• There's also a powerful juxtaposition in the delicate appearance of these white-haired characters against the immense strength or intelligence they might possess. Their fragility in appearance can emphasize their inner power, creating an interesting contrast that makes them even more intriguing to viewers.

• This vulnerability also makes these characters more relatable to the audience, as the delicate appearance allows for the exploration of complex emotions, such as love, sorrow, or loneliness, despite their seemingly otherworldly powers.

Influence of Historical Figures and Art:

• In Chinese historical dramas, characters often resemble ancient scholars, philosophers, or deities who were portrayed in art with delicate features. The elegance and poise of historical figures have translated into the modern fantasy genre, giving rise to these white-haired, beautiful characters.

White haired male characters in Anime Anime 

In many Asian cultures, beauty is not strictly masculine or feminine—rather, a blend of both is admired. White-haired characters often embody a fluid beauty, making them more mysterious and emotionally complex. a strong example is in depictions in Japanese animes

Inuyasha (Inuyasha) – Half-demon warrior with dog-like features.

Sesshōmaru (Inuyasha) – A full-blooded demon prince, whose white hair and aristocratic features reinforce his regal yet deadly presence.

Kurama (Yu Yu Hakusho) – His Yoko form is a perfect blend of ferocity and refinement, making him one of anime’s most iconic bishounen.

Yue (Cardcaptor Sakura) – With his flowing silver hair and angelic wings, Yue is both powerful and melancholic

Griffith (Berserk) His angelic, gender-fluid beauty enhances his charismatic yet unsettling presence.

Undertaker (Black Butler) – handsome Mysterious but creepy mortician.

The Androgynous Beauty Ideal & The Female Gaze

In China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, androgynous beauty is often seen as the height of refinement and attractiveness. Many female audiences find this aesthetic more alluring than traditional Western hyper-masculinity.

• Delicate features do not mean weakness. Instead, they imply mystery, intelligence, and hidden power.

• The "Soft but Strong" Archetype is highly popular—characters who look ethereal but possess immense inner strength (e.g., Kurama from Yu Yu Hakusho).

• Long, flowing hair adds to the "untouchable" and "celestial" look, making the character feel legendary rather than mundane.

In Japanese anime, bishounen (美少年, "beautiful boys") have long been a staple of storytelling, with their beauty often associated with godliness, supernatural power, or tragic romance.

Appeal to Fans of "Feminine Beauty":

• In many Asian cultures, androgynous beauty is celebrated. The portrayal of these white-haired characters as delicate, with softer features and more fluid movements, aligns with the cultural preference for subtlety and grace. This often appeals to fans who appreciate the fusion of both masculine strength and feminine beauty.

• The androgynous aesthetic of these characters further deepens the emotional and visual appeal, emphasizing their ethereal, unattainable qualities that fascinate fans.

The white-haired, androgynous male character has become an iconic figure in Asian anime, dramas, and mythology, representing refinement, wisdom, and supernatural power. Unlike the rugged masculinity often celebrated in Western beauty standards, many Asian cultures appreciate elegance, grace, and ethereal charm. This aesthetic, rooted in historical ideals and mythological depictions, has captivated audiences across China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

In Chinese and Japanese folklore, celestial beings, immortals, and powerful spirits are often depicted with long, flowing white hair, symbolizing agelessness, divine power, or a connection to the heavens. This tradition extends into modern fantasy genres, such as Xianxia and Wuxia dramas, where white-haired characters embody mysticism, nobility, and sometimes tragedy. Similarly, in anime, figures like Sesshōmaru (Inuyasha), Yue (Cardcaptor Sakura), and Kurama (Yu Yu Hakusho) exhibit an otherworldly beauty that contrasts with their immense power, making them both mesmerizing and emotionally compelling.

A key reason these characters appeal to audiences—particularly to the female gaze—is their duality. They may appear delicate, but they are strong; they seem cold, but they have deep emotions; they appear untouchable, yet they long for connection. This contrast creates a layered, emotionally complex character that differs from the hyper-masculine Western hero. Many Asian dramas and anime also embrace androgynous beauty, where soft features and flowing garments do not detract from masculinity but rather enhance a character's enigmatic presence.

Ultimately, the white-haired, ethereal male archetype remains a beloved staple in Asian storytelling, blending cultural aesthetics, mythological significance, and emotional depth. Whether portrayed as gods, warriors, or tragic immortals, these characters continue to enchant audiences with their otherworldly allure and timeless elegance.

アジアや中国のドラマに登場する白髪の美しい男性の描写には、文化的な美学や象徴性、そして歴史的なフィクションやファンタジーのジャンルからの影響が深く関わっています。これらのキャラクターが繊細で美しいとされる理由は、いくつかの要素に基づいています

アジアや中国のドラマに登場する白髪の美しい男性の描写には、文化的な美学や象徴性、そして歴史的なフィクションやファンタジーのジャンルからの影響が深く関わっています。これらのキャラクターが繊細で美しいとされる理由は、いくつかの要素に基づいています

アジアや中国のドラマに登場する白髪の美しい男性の描写には、文化的な美学や象徴性、そして歴史的なフィクションやファンタジーのジャンルからの影響が深く関わっています。これらのキャラクターが繊細で美しいとされる理由は、いくつかの要素に基づいています。

純粋さと異世界感の象徴

• 白髪は多くの文化、特に中国やアジアのファンタジージャンルにおいて、神秘的で稀有な存在、または不死や知恵を象徴するものとされます。これらのキャラクターは通常、人間の制約を超えた存在として描かれ、天上界や神に近い存在であることが多いです。

• 中国のファンタジー（仙侠や武侠など）の作品では、白髪のキャラクターはしばしば不老不死の存在や神、妖怪として登場し、その美しさが彼らの天界的な性質を際立たせます。

美的魅力

• 白髪と透き通るような肌の組み合わせは、視覚的に非常に魅力的であり、理想的な美しさを強調するための選択です。白髪のキャラクターはしばしば柔らかい特徴や優雅な服装（例えば、流れるようなローブなど）を持っており、繊細さと優雅さを強調しています。

• その美しさと優雅さは、キャラクターを一種の夢幻的な存在にし、視聴者に強い印象を与えます。

文化的影響

• 中国の文化や神話において、白髪のキャラクターはしばしば高貴や神聖な存在を象徴しています。たとえば、不老不死の仙人や神などはしばしば白髪で描かれ、これがドラマのキャラクターにも反映されています。

• また、アニメやマンガの影響も大きく、白髪のキャラクターはしばしば幻想的な存在として描かれます。このような描写は、ライブアクションドラマにも取り入れられ、繊細で美しい白髪のキャラクター像が強調されています。

 力強さと脆さの対比

• 白髪のキャラクターはその繊細な外見と、しばしば圧倒的な力や知恵との対比によって、非常に魅力的に描かれます。彼らの儚げな外見は、内面的な力を引き立て、美しさと強さが絶妙に組み合わさったキャラクター像を作り出します。

• この脆さは、視聴者にとって感情的に共感できる部分を作り出し、人間的な葛藤や愛、悲しみなどの感情が描かれることで、キャラクターに深みを与えます。

 歴史的な人物や芸術からの影響

• 中国の歴史的なドラマにおいて、白髪のキャラクターはしばしば古代の賢者や哲学者、神々に似た存在として描かれます。これらの人物像は、視覚的に優雅で上品な特徴を持ち、その美しさが現代のファンタジー作品に受け継がれています。

「女性的な美」に対する魅力

• アジア文化において、中性的な美がよく賞賛されます。白髪のキャラクターが繊細な外見と流れるような動きを持つことは、こうした美学に合致しています。このビジュアルは、男性的な力強さと女性的な美しさを融合させる形で、ファンに強くアピールします。

• 中性的な美は、視覚的に幻想的で魅力的であり、またこれらのキャラクターが持つ高い力と感情的な深さが、ファンにとって非常に魅力的に映ります

白髪の美しき男性キャラクターは、アニメやドラマ、神話において象徴的な存在であり、洗練された美しさ、知恵、そして超越的な力を表している。西洋の美の基準ではしばしば力強さや男らしさが重視されるのに対し、中国、日本、韓国、東南アジアでは優雅さや中性的な魅力が高く評価される傾向がある。この美的感覚は、歴史的な理想や神話の描写と深く結びついており、多くの人々を魅了し続けている。

中国や日本の伝承において、不老不死の仙人や神々、霊的な存在は長く流れるような白髪を持ち、時を超えた存在、神聖な力、天界とのつながりを象徴する。こうした伝統は現代のファンタジージャンルにも受け継がれ、仙侠（シエンシャー）や武侠（ウーシャー）ドラマでは、白髪のキャラクターは神秘的で高貴な存在、時には悲劇的な運命を背負った者として描かれる。同様に、アニメでは殺生丸（『犬夜叉』）、ユエ（『カードキャプターさくら』）、蔵馬（『幽☆遊☆白書』）などが、その超越的な美しさと圧倒的な強さで観客を魅了してきた。

これらのキャラクターが特に女性視点（フェミニン・ゲイズ）で魅力的に映る理由の一つは、彼らが持つ二面性にある。見た目は繊細で儚げなのに、実は強大な力を秘めている。冷たく見えるが、実は深い感情を持っている。孤高の存在でありながら、どこかでつながりを求めている。 このコントラストが奥深く、感情豊かなキャラクター性を生み出し、西洋の典型的なヒーロー像とは異なる魅力を放つ。また、アジアのドラマやアニメでは中性的な美しさが好まれ、柔らかい顔立ちや流れる衣装が男性らしさを損なうのではなく、むしろ神秘的な雰囲気を強調する要素として機能している。

結果として、白髪の神秘的な男性キャラクターはアジアの物語において欠かせない存在となっている。彼らは、文化的な美意識、神話的な象徴性、そして感情の奥深さを併せ持ち、観る者を惹きつけてやまない。神、戦士、あるいは悲劇的な不死者として描かれる彼らは、今後も時代を超えた魅力と優雅さで多くの人々を魅了し続けるだろう