Appearance in Anime

Elam is a cunning and resourceful individual, often serving as a spy and scout for Arslan’s camp. His ability to disguise himself and gather intelligence makes him an invaluable asset in stealth operations and reconnaissance missions. He is attentive and careful, always ensuring that he provides accurate and useful information to aid Arslan’s strategies.

In combat, Elam is proficient with both a sword and a bow, though he prefers long-range attacks as an archer. Despite his skills on the battlefield, he also takes great pride in his culinary abilities, frequently receiving praise for his cooking from Narsus, Daryun, and Arslan.

Loyalty is one of Elam’s defining traits he is devoted to Narsus, having served him since childhood, and remains steadfast in his commitment to Arslan’s cause. However, he is also proud and somewhat sensitive about his position as a servant, occasionally feeling the need to assert his importance within the group.

While generally polite and cooperative, especially toward Arslan, Elam has moments of immaturity, such as his petty rivalry with Alfreed over whose cooking Narsus prefers. Despite such occasional childish spats, he remains a dependable and trustworthy ally, always striving to prove his worth to his comrades.

Elam appears to be around the same age as Arslan, though he may be slightly older. In the 2015 anime and 2013 manga adaptation, he is depicted with short brown hair and large green eyes, giving him a youthful yet sharp appearance. His typical attire consists of a light tan, short-sleeved tunic worn over a long-sleeved black shirt, complemented by a long brown scarf, green pants, and black thigh-high boots, which allow for agility and ease of movement in battle.

In the OVA adaptation, Elam’s appearance differs significantly. He is portrayed with darker skin and long black hair, which he ties into a low ponytail. This version gives him a more mature and composed look, aligning with his role as a capable and dependable attendant to Narsus.

Elam and his parents were originally slaves, but they were freed by Narsus, who opposed slavery. After gaining his freedom, Elam chose to continue serving Narsus as an attendant, rather than as a servant bound by obligation. His parents, grateful for Narsus’ kindness, entrusted their son to assist and support him in his daily life.

Elam lived alongside Narsus, who treated him more like a son than a mere attendant. Under Narsus’ care, he received discipline and guidance, shaping him into a sharp-minded and capable individual. Narsus took a strict yet caring approach to raising him, occasionally scolding or disciplining him when necessary, ensuring that Elam grew up strong, independent, and resourceful. Through this upbringing, Elam became loyal and deeply dedicated to Narsus, eventually extending his allegiance to Prince Arslan’s cause.

Elam’s name is derived from the historical Kingdom and Empire of Elam, which preceded the Persian civilization. The region, located in what is now southern Iran, was known as Elam from approximately the 30th century BCE until it was conquered by the Persians in 540 BCE. Even after the fall of the Elamite civilization, a province in southwestern Iran continued to bear the name, signifying its lasting historical importance.

In biblical tradition, Elam is also the name of one of the sons of Shem, who was in turn a son of Noah. According to the Bible, Elam is regarded as the founder of the Elamite Kingdom, linking his name to both ancient history and religious tradition. This connection reinforces Elam’s symbolic significance in The Heroic Legend of Arslan, where he serves as a loyal companion to Narsus and Arslan, playing a key role in their fight for Pars’ future.

Narsus
Elam is deeply loyal to Narsus, intending to serve him until he is old enough to live independently. As Narsus was the one who liberated him from slavery, Elam sees his service not as a duty, but as a personal choice born out of gratitude and admiration. Despite respecting Narsus, Elam is not afraid to chastise him, often pointing out his incompetence in daily tasks such as laundry, cleaning, and buying painting supplies. This dynamic highlights their close bond, as Elam freely teases Narsus while still holding him in high regard.

Elam is also protective and possessive of Narsus, jealously disliking Alfarīd whenever she gets too close to him. His devotion to Narsus is so strong that he refuses to leave his side, even when given the opportunity to live safely with Narsus’ friend in Gilan. Although he occasionally complains about Narsus’ shortcomings, he values his master’s wisdom above all else and acknowledges that Narsus is helpless without him.

Daryun
Elam and Daryun knew each other prior to Narsus’ exile, suggesting a long-standing familiarity. While they do not interact frequently, they are both devoted protectors of Arslan, prioritizing his safety and well-being above all else.

Arslan
Elam initially treats Arslan with formal respect and professionalism, maintaining a master-servant dynamic. However, as the story progresses, their relationship evolves into a genuine friendship, with Elam gradually seeing Arslan as an equal rather than just a noble he serves.

Elam is proud but also sensitive about his position as a servant, leading him to initially refuse Arslan’s help out of a belief that it is his duty to serve, not to be served. However, after Arslan saves his life, he struggles with shame over needing assistance but eventually warms up to the prince, coming to respect him not just as a ruler, but as a friend.

Elam’s loyalty to Arslan grows stronger over time, to the point where he is willing to risk his life to protect him, solidifying his place as one of Arslan’s most devoted allies.

Gieve
Elam is initially skeptical of Gieve, viewing him as untrustworthy and self-serving. However, after Gieve saves him and reunites him safely with Daryun and Farangis before reaching Peshawar, Elam reconsiders his opinion and begins to trust Gieve as an ally.

Alfarīd
Alfarīd brings out Elam’s jealous and competitive side, particularly in matters concerning Narsus. The two frequently argue over who Narsus favors more, with Elam disliking Alfarīd’s casual attitude toward their master. Elam often uses his long history with Narsus as leverage, asserting that he knows Narsus better and is therefore more important to him. Their rivalry is often lighthearted, though it underscores Elam’s deep attachment to Narsus and his reluctance to share that bond with anyone else.