Rickert

The sole survivor of the Band of the Hawk who guarded Casca through the darkness.

Rickert is the only member of the Band of the Hawk to survive the Eclipse untouched by its horrors. Initially a young apprentice within the mercenary group, he witnessed the brutal slaughter of his comrades and the fall of Griffith before Guts entrusted him with the care of the mentally broken Casca. While Guts waged a vengeful war against Apostles armed only with the Dragonslayer and a prosthetic arm, Rickert remained at Godo's side alongside the blacksmith and his adopted daughter Erica, guarding their charge. His survival made him a crucial link to the past, eventually rejoining Guts years later as the Black Swordsman traveled toward Elfhelm.

Quick Facts

Role: Survivor; Company Member
Affiliation: Band of the Hawk (formerly), Kushan Resistance

Lore & Background

Rickert's journey is defined by his role as a witness and guardian following the catastrophic Eclipse. After Guts was branded and lost an eye and an arm while protecting Casca from Femto, he entrusted Rickert to watch over Casca at Godo's forge. This period separated Rickert from the main conflict, allowing him to maintain a thread of humanity amidst the chaos. When Guts returned after years of wandering as the Black Swordsman, he found Casca missing, prompting a reunion with Rickert who had remained steadfast in his duty.

Later, during the Kushan invasion and the subsequent war against Falconia, Rickert played an active role. He led a group of Kushan warriors, including Silat and Daiba, to board Guts' ship after the destruction of Elfhelm. In this capacity, he was drafted into the resistance against Griffith's forces, helping to rally defenses when the Apostle Rakshas unleashed trolls upon a city during a royal gathering.

Reader's Guide

Rickert serves as a vital historical anchor for Guts' company, being the only Hawk untouched by the Eclipse. His primary narrative function shifts from a protected ward at Godo's forge to a leader within the Kushan resistance. He is instrumental in reuniting with Guts after Casca goes missing and later coordinates military efforts against Griffith's new empire, Falconia. Key actions include leading the boarding party of the Seahorse alongside Silat and Daiba, participating in the defense of a city under attack by Rakshas, and aiding in the preparation for war against Falconia while Guts confronts his inner darkness within an ancient tomb.

Frequently Asked Questions

What role does Rickert play in the story?

His primary function is acting as a guardian for the mentally regressed Casca while Guts fights alone against the Apostles. He also serves as a vital living link to the past, eventually reuniting with Guts years later to help him understand his current situation.

Does Rickert have any special powers?

Rickert possesses no supernatural abilities or magical weapons like other characters in the series. His strength lies entirely in his unwavering loyalty and resilience as a human survivor who endured the trauma of the Eclipse.