Durandal

Durandal^WP: The Unrivaled Sword of Renown (絶世の名剣(デュランダル), Zessei no Meiken(Dyurandaru)^?), also known as Durandal: Ultimate Unbroken Hallow (不毀の極聖(デュランダル), Fuki no Gokushō(Dyurandaru)^?), is the holy sword favored by Roland and one of the many Noble Phantasms stored in Gilgamesh's Gate of Babylon.^[2][3]

Originally the sword of Hector, he converted it into the spear Durindana, and after it later lost its features as a spear, it became Durandal.^[4] It was then later said to have been granted to King Charlemagne of the Frankish Empire by an angel before being awarded to Roland.^[2] It is noted as the symbol of the Battle of Roncevaux Pass^WP told of in the Song of Roland^WP.^[3] Although Roland attempted to break the sword when he was on the verge of death to keep it from falling into the hands of the enemy, it proved to be impossible; it was later prominently featured in Charlemagne's legends, acting as a symbol of Roland's bravery.^[3] Mandricardo briefly wielded it after Roland discarded it.

The sword is a splendidly forged "symbol of power" much like King Arthur's Caliburn, and it is said to hold three miracles within it.^[2] It will not lose its sharpness even should its user's magical energy be depleted, proving indestructible even when Roland tried to destroy it.^[2][3]

It is said to be unbreakable and invincible, and is often compared to Excalibur as an immortal and indestructible holy sword. Several younger relics have been integrated into the pommel since Hector's time, and have turned it into an extremely effective conceptual weapon. It can also perform miracles as a hidden effect. If it is possible, it can grant most things as a phenomenon. However, the cost is extremely high.^[5]

In Roland's possession it has a red gemstone in its pommel, while as part of Gilgamesh's Gate of Babylon the gemstone is white.

Rêve de Durandal[]

Rêve de Durandal: The Unrivaled Sword of Dreams (絶世の儚剣(レーヴ・デ・デュランダル), Zessei no Bō-ken(Rēbu de Durandaru)^?) is the Noble Phantasm of Mandricardo. An Anti-Unit Noble Phantasm that becomes possible to activate upon release of the Oath of Durandal, it is only usable when Mandricardo is finally able to obtain Durandal.

"Once again, I hold in my hands the sword with no rival, Durandal."

Furthermore, Armor of the Nine Worthies which was only a skill, is able to take form as Hector’s holy relic, allowing for a massive increase in defensive power.

In a typical Holy Grail War, for this Noble Phantasm to be activated, he must have full confidence in himself that he is truly able to wield Durandal. As even the information for this Noble Phantasm has been sealed away, even Master cannot comprehend what it is.

During the Fifth Lostbelt, only after having received Durindana (Durandal) from Hector and holding the feeling of wanting to save a dear friend made during his travels, does this Noble Phantasm become possible to activate. In what was a miracle, he successfully blocked the arrow of Artemis and perished.

References[]