Personality: A very strict and professional individual, Howard Link is what one might consider the epitome of propriety. A religious upbringing has ensured that he is of strong faith, well educated, and (above all) utterly obedient, and he devoutly supports the Catholic Church in the war against the Millennium Earl, his army of demons, and the Noah family. Initially, he seems like nothing more than a meddling bureaucrat that displays a penchant for closely observing rules and regimens and his typical direct and straightforward approach can sometimes make him come off as condescending. It's not uncommon to catch him correcting those that fail to conduct themselves in a proper, orderly manner.
As expected, Link is shown to be very respectful of his superiors. Perhaps the most influential of his relationships would be with Chief Inspector (sometimes Secretary) Malcolm C. Lvellie, whom Link answers to and serves without question; as one of the most prominent figures in Central, a division of the Vatican that oversees the Black Order itself, Lvellie's word is law in Link's mind and any explicit orders given by him are to be followed. Before taking up his position as Allen Walker's private supervisor, Link acted as Lvellie's administrative assistant, though it remains unknown precisely how, when, or why Link became his personal secretary. His purpose is sometimes ambiguous but his usefulness undeniable, as recent developments show Lvellie going to great extents in order to save Link's life after an encounter with a sentient Innocence (the Apocryphos) results in a grievous, mortal wound. Once Link makes a recovery and his memory of the event altered so he believes the Noah to be responsible, he continues to willingly act on Lvellie's orders without question. While this strong connection may be directly affected by their different ranks, Link clearly trusts Lvellie and has been known to express outright concern for the older man's wellbeing, often seeing him off or offering escorts in dangerous times. Link even shares Lvellie's hobby for baking and reveres him as a master at his craft.
Lvellie himself issues the order for Allen Walker to undergo nonnegotiable, twenty-four-hour supervision until further notice, and perhaps as another testament to his rigid upbringing, Link strictly adheres these orders and takes his duty very seriously. As to fully investigate Allen's connection to the Fourteenth Noah, Link is found wherever Walker is throughout most of his appearances. This surveillance continues through several story arcs, during which Link gradually becomes more than a mere stickler for rules. After a bit of stubborn prodding, one realizes that Link, though still very serious and dedicated to his work, can be considered generally tolerant of most things that are not blatant misconduct. Time spent subjected to Allen's attitude has slowly shaped him, and he sometimes appears more human than he is given credit for; he bends the occasional rule, his nagging could be likened to bickering or mothering, and his presence has become so predictable that Allen sometimes confides in him. It becomes clear that despite how distant and blunt he remains, Link has actually come to care for those he spends regular time with and often concerns himself with their welfare. Before the calamity surrounding Allen's collapse and escape takes place, Link shows a more forgiving (albeit still stern) side, alluding to the notion that a tentative camaraderie has developed.
Recent events in canon have shed more light on Link's internal conflicts. In time, he reveals that in order to survive, he and a small group of orphaned children were taken in by an underground organization serving the Church; given the years he spent in the their care, this is perhaps the best explanation for his firm devotion and tolerance for the Church's more secretive, unethical practices. In addition, his enthusiasm to conform and blind obedience have become the source of much guilt, especially when his childhood friends are revealed to be subjects in a dangerous experiment and are then either killed out of necessity or abducted by the enemy. His death is later faked and he's announced officially deceased on account of Allen Walker, and as a result he's unable to return to Central or the Order. Now on the run and a host for the Chang family's powerful healing golem, Atuuda, his fate has become remarkably grave; finally, he's seen expressing a desire to see whether or not people can escape their fates by sheer willpower alone. His situation becomes even more uncertain when he witnesses the Cardinal, a member of the highest ranking officials in Central (and actually the Apocryphos in disguise), defeating Exorcist Kanda Yu with little effort. Faced with evidence of their own officials performing unthinkable acts, it seems his faith has been shaken and inevitable seeds of doubt have been sown.
Abilities/Powers: The "badass-normal" trope fits Link like a glove. Unlike the accommodators—or Exorcists, as they're officially called—he possesses no Innocence (a holy weapon and the only thing capable of cleansing mechanical demons known as 'akuma') and he relies on the extensive training he received after being taken in by the church. As a member of Central's elite combat division, CROW, Link is fully capable of holding his own and has shown himself to be one of the strongest humans seen thus far.
While it doesn't seem like much, he's armed with a hidden switchblade on each wrist and a stash of paper talismans that allow him to perform various abilities and magic. With a flick of the wrist, these spells can restrain enemies and allies, form protective barriers, or deliver quick explosions to the designated target. The talismans themselves appear to be reusable as long as they aren't destroyed or the incantation doesn't fail and seem to be available in mass quantities. The talismans quickly slip out of his sleeve when needed, though exactly where and how he stores them remains a mystery.
He's highly intelligent and an incredible tactician, even besting a deceased chess champion in the midst of a heated battle. He's also a skilled baker (specializing in pastries) and note-taker extraordinaire, with a strong affinity for memorization.
As of chapter 213, Link plays host to a curious creature known as the Atuuda. Once the golem of sorcerer Zhu Mei Chang, it was passed to Link when its abilities were used to save him from death. Unlike other golems, however, it isn't a small, mechanical device used strictly for communication. It looks to be organic and resembles a giant tadpole or catfish. When summoned, it can heal others at the cost of Link's own life energy but the effectiveness is entirely dependent on his strength at the time.
Items/Weapons: Two switchblades, paper talismans
Sample Entry: [This video may be sudden but it's hardly accidental. The poster has taken great care to keep his face hidden while directing the audience's attention elsewhere. To what, exactly? Behold. A dusty can of beans. Why? To make a trade, of course. You can't get something for nothing.
Once he feels enough time has passed, he speaks calmly, firmly, professionally:]
Good evening and pardon the interruption. I've only just arrive and I'm seeking information. Those who offer a suitable answer in a timely manner will receive this in compensation. Despite its appearance, I assure you it's unopened and in good condition. Should you have doubts, I've no issue with providing a closer look. [A beat. The video remains focused on its lifeless subject, suggesting the speaker has no intention of revealing his face.] Also, I would appreciate it if any interested parties refrain from threats or lies. I've no time for foolishness.
Sample Entry Two: The air was crisp, the sky clear and black as ink. No longer obscured by excess light pollution, stars glittered like jewels and, for one brief moment, he thought it might be beautiful. Behind him, the derelict remains of a once-magnificent subway station loomed, threatening to swallow him whole with its massive tunnels and ominous shadows; if he strained his ears, he could barely make out the faint patter of what was probably rats but also reminiscent of small footsteps. It made him rather uneasy.
Who (or what) lay hidden in the dark?
Eager to escape the eerie sensation of being watched, Link set a brisk pace towards the apartments. He'd be returning empty-handed, a notion that left him extremely troubled and (if he were being honest with himself) somewhat conflicted. Did he really hope to find Walker here? Wouldn't he be better off back home? They were difficult questions to answer. In one world, Allen was a wanted fugitive and he'd be pursued relentlessly; in the other, he'd struggle for survival and there was no telling who (or what) else had come with them. Which was the lesser of two evils? He couldn't say. Instead, perhaps Link should ask himself what he'd do if he ever found Walker in this place. Lvellie's absence didn't excuse him from his tasks; one day, he would need to side with the Fourteenth, but losing Walker here would mean losing everything. For the time being, it would be best to focus on leaving Haven in one piece. Only afterwards would he consider his other duties.
Doubling his efforts, he began to run, the chill leaving his chest aching where wicked hands had pierced him. The leftover scar gave him grief when temperatures dropped but it was nothing he couldn't endure. From the looks of things, the cold would be the least of their worries. As he ran and the dark windows of the apartment building eased into view, he noticed the weight of something small and compact jostling in his coat pocket. Ah, that's right. His hand delved inside and closed around the strange communication device. Slowing to a walk, his fist pressing below his scar in an attempt to soothe the dull ache, he withdrew his phone, gave it a short inspection and then, after no further deliberation, thumbed a button. It was rather late but his questions couldn't wait any longer.
Re: Howard Link | D.Gray-man | Reserved
As expected, Link is shown to be very respectful of his superiors. Perhaps the most influential of his relationships would be with Chief Inspector (sometimes Secretary) Malcolm C. Lvellie, whom Link answers to and serves without question; as one of the most prominent figures in Central, a division of the Vatican that oversees the Black Order itself, Lvellie's word is law in Link's mind and any explicit orders given by him are to be followed. Before taking up his position as Allen Walker's private supervisor, Link acted as Lvellie's administrative assistant, though it remains unknown precisely how, when, or why Link became his personal secretary. His purpose is sometimes ambiguous but his usefulness undeniable, as recent developments show Lvellie going to great extents in order to save Link's life after an encounter with a sentient Innocence (the Apocryphos) results in a grievous, mortal wound. Once Link makes a recovery and his memory of the event altered so he believes the Noah to be responsible, he continues to willingly act on Lvellie's orders without question. While this strong connection may be directly affected by their different ranks, Link clearly trusts Lvellie and has been known to express outright concern for the older man's wellbeing, often seeing him off or offering escorts in dangerous times. Link even shares Lvellie's hobby for baking and reveres him as a master at his craft.
Lvellie himself issues the order for Allen Walker to undergo nonnegotiable, twenty-four-hour supervision until further notice, and perhaps as another testament to his rigid upbringing, Link strictly adheres these orders and takes his duty very seriously. As to fully investigate Allen's connection to the Fourteenth Noah, Link is found wherever Walker is throughout most of his appearances. This surveillance continues through several story arcs, during which Link gradually becomes more than a mere stickler for rules. After a bit of stubborn prodding, one realizes that Link, though still very serious and dedicated to his work, can be considered generally tolerant of most things that are not blatant misconduct. Time spent subjected to Allen's attitude has slowly shaped him, and he sometimes appears more human than he is given credit for; he bends the occasional rule, his nagging could be likened to bickering or mothering, and his presence has become so predictable that Allen sometimes confides in him. It becomes clear that despite how distant and blunt he remains, Link has actually come to care for those he spends regular time with and often concerns himself with their welfare. Before the calamity surrounding Allen's collapse and escape takes place, Link shows a more forgiving (albeit still stern) side, alluding to the notion that a tentative camaraderie has developed.
Recent events in canon have shed more light on Link's internal conflicts. In time, he reveals that in order to survive, he and a small group of orphaned children were taken in by an underground organization serving the Church; given the years he spent in the their care, this is perhaps the best explanation for his firm devotion and tolerance for the Church's more secretive, unethical practices. In addition, his enthusiasm to conform and blind obedience have become the source of much guilt, especially when his childhood friends are revealed to be subjects in a dangerous experiment and are then either killed out of necessity or abducted by the enemy. His death is later faked and he's announced officially deceased on account of Allen Walker, and as a result he's unable to return to Central or the Order. Now on the run and a host for the Chang family's powerful healing golem, Atuuda, his fate has become remarkably grave; finally, he's seen expressing a desire to see whether or not people can escape their fates by sheer willpower alone. His situation becomes even more uncertain when he witnesses the Cardinal, a member of the highest ranking officials in Central (and actually the Apocryphos in disguise), defeating Exorcist Kanda Yu with little effort. Faced with evidence of their own officials performing unthinkable acts, it seems his faith has been shaken and inevitable seeds of doubt have been sown.
Abilities/Powers: The "badass-normal" trope fits Link like a glove. Unlike the accommodators—or Exorcists, as they're officially called—he possesses no Innocence (a holy weapon and the only thing capable of cleansing mechanical demons known as 'akuma') and he relies on the extensive training he received after being taken in by the church. As a member of Central's elite combat division, CROW, Link is fully capable of holding his own and has shown himself to be one of the strongest humans seen thus far.
While it doesn't seem like much, he's armed with a hidden switchblade on each wrist and a stash of paper talismans that allow him to perform various abilities and magic. With a flick of the wrist, these spells can restrain enemies and allies, form protective barriers, or deliver quick explosions to the designated target. The talismans themselves appear to be reusable as long as they aren't destroyed or the incantation doesn't fail and seem to be available in mass quantities. The talismans quickly slip out of his sleeve when needed, though exactly where and how he stores them remains a mystery.
He's highly intelligent and an incredible tactician, even besting a deceased chess champion in the midst of a heated battle. He's also a skilled baker (specializing in pastries) and note-taker extraordinaire, with a strong affinity for memorization.
As of chapter 213, Link plays host to a curious creature known as the Atuuda. Once the golem of sorcerer Zhu Mei Chang, it was passed to Link when its abilities were used to save him from death. Unlike other golems, however, it isn't a small, mechanical device used strictly for communication. It looks to be organic and resembles a giant tadpole or catfish. When summoned, it can heal others at the cost of Link's own life energy but the effectiveness is entirely dependent on his strength at the time.
Items/Weapons: Two switchblades, paper talismans
Sample Entry:
[This video may be sudden but it's hardly accidental. The poster has taken great care to keep his face hidden while directing the audience's attention elsewhere. To what, exactly? Behold. A dusty can of beans. Why? To make a trade, of course. You can't get something for nothing.
Once he feels enough time has passed, he speaks calmly, firmly, professionally:]
Good evening and pardon the interruption. I've only just arrive and I'm seeking information. Those who offer a suitable answer in a timely manner will receive this in compensation. Despite its appearance, I assure you it's unopened and in good condition. Should you have doubts, I've no issue with providing a closer look. [A beat. The video remains focused on its lifeless subject, suggesting the speaker has no intention of revealing his face.] Also, I would appreciate it if any interested parties refrain from threats or lies. I've no time for foolishness.
Sample Entry Two:
The air was crisp, the sky clear and black as ink. No longer obscured by excess light pollution, stars glittered like jewels and, for one brief moment, he thought it might be beautiful. Behind him, the derelict remains of a once-magnificent subway station loomed, threatening to swallow him whole with its massive tunnels and ominous shadows; if he strained his ears, he could barely make out the faint patter of what was probably rats but also reminiscent of small footsteps. It made him rather uneasy.
Who (or what) lay hidden in the dark?
Eager to escape the eerie sensation of being watched, Link set a brisk pace towards the apartments. He'd be returning empty-handed, a notion that left him extremely troubled and (if he were being honest with himself) somewhat conflicted. Did he really hope to find Walker here? Wouldn't he be better off back home? They were difficult questions to answer. In one world, Allen was a wanted fugitive and he'd be pursued relentlessly; in the other, he'd struggle for survival and there was no telling who (or what) else had come with them. Which was the lesser of two evils? He couldn't say. Instead, perhaps Link should ask himself what he'd do if he ever found Walker in this place. Lvellie's absence didn't excuse him from his tasks; one day, he would need to side with the Fourteenth, but losing Walker here would mean losing everything. For the time being, it would be best to focus on leaving Haven in one piece. Only afterwards would he consider his other duties.
Doubling his efforts, he began to run, the chill leaving his chest aching where wicked hands had pierced him. The leftover scar gave him grief when temperatures dropped but it was nothing he couldn't endure. From the looks of things, the cold would be the least of their worries. As he ran and the dark windows of the apartment building eased into view, he noticed the weight of something small and compact jostling in his coat pocket. Ah, that's right. His hand delved inside and closed around the strange communication device. Slowing to a walk, his fist pressing below his scar in an attempt to soothe the dull ache, he withdrew his phone, gave it a short inspection and then, after no further deliberation, thumbed a button. It was rather late but his questions couldn't wait any longer.
Where are you, Allen Walker?