Tropes applying to the Tribal Chief of the du Cronos Dynasty, Freki du Cronos
Action Dad: At the start of "Under World," we find out that he's a proud dad to a son named James with his girlfriend Megan. And guess what? He's super stoked to hear the news that he and his girlfriend Mary are gonna have a baby too! That little bun in the oven will eventually grow up to be the one and only Juni from ND10.
Berserk Button: He has a few:
- Never harm or talk badly about the du Cronos Dynasty, especially the ones who are his direct family... on the other hand...
- Defiance within the Dynasty is strictly forbidden. He's not one to jump straight to violence for every slip-up, often preferring to offer his family or subordinates another opportunity, displaying an uncommon form of practical villainy among dragons. However, disobeying or showing disrespect to him, particularly within earshot, is a grave error. Your best outcome in that scenario? Facing his terrifying death glare. The alternative? Let's just say it involves a not-so-pleasant encounter with the ground.
- If you use the word "bitch," Freki will quickly get aggressive, especially if you're referring to one of his wives or his daughter. Unless there is something else that requires his immediate attention, calling him a son of a bitch will undoubtedly result in a fight.
Freki has no patience for people who can’t take a loss and move on. In fact, after their first fight, he actually had a bit of respect for Quincey. For a human, Quincey put up an impressive show, strong enough that Freki gave him more acknowledgment than anyone would expect from the Tribal Chief toward a mere man. But Quincey’s insistence on a rematch? That got old fast. Freki had moved on, fully consumed by his rivalry with Medea, the only opponent he truly saw as worthy. But Quincey’s relentless nagging, his constant challenges, started to wear down even Freki’s considerable patience. Finally, in the thick of the Atlantic War, Freki had enough. In one brutal move, he put an end to Quincey’s pursuit once and for all, bringing his foot down on Quincey’s spine with a crushing force that left him paralyzed.
Perpetual Frowner: Freki isn't exactly the type to go around with a big smile plastered on his face, just like his mom. They got this shared trait of being kinda reserved when it comes to busting out in laughter or flashing those pearly whites. But hey, when he's with his loved ones, that's when you might catch a glimpse of that rare smile breaking through.
Benevolent Boss: As a proper Noble Demon, Freki is very protective of his Dynasty and rewards those who show loyalty.
The Leader: As the head of the du Cronos Dynasty, a mafia-like organization of dragons and wolves, he is currently spearheading their covert operation to gradually gain control of the four dragon realms from within.
The Perils of Being the Best: Coupled with a dose of The Chains of Commanding due to his title of Tribal Chief. As the best mortal warrior of his generation in the du Cronos Dynasty, Freki shoulders an immense weight. He’s got it in his head that he has to be the “Head of the Table”—the one who keeps the whole clan fed, respected, and safe. The pressure of that role sits heavy on his shoulders, a constant reminder that slipping up isn’t an option. And he’s not one to back down, even if it means going all out against his own blood. If his younger brothers try to challenge him, Freki’s more than prepared to put them in their place, no matter how much he once cared for them. The clan’s survival and his position as alpha come first, and he’s ready to unleash his full strength and fury to hold onto that power.
Hot Skitty-on-Wailord Action: It's unclear how Freki's parents, a she-wolf and a 70ft dragon, managed to conceive him. One can only imagine the logistics involved in such a union, but hey, stranger things have happened in the World of Norrington's Desire.
- It was believed that Akane and Anthony just got freaky in their human forms, but that's just boring. The truth is way more interesting —and a bit bizarre, to be honest. So, after Laurel found out about their forbidden love, she punished Anthony by turning him into a black wolf for a whole year, sans his dragon powers. But instead of letting this setback hinder their romance, the two of them got even closer— and I mean really close. Let's just say that Anthony's new wolf form came in handy for more than just chasing rabbits in the forest.
Even Bad Men Love Their Mamas: Freki is a wolf that takes offence to any disrespect directed towards his mother pretty seriously, regardless of how much of his actions are genuinely motivated by his desire to preserve his Dynasty or by self-interest. Losing his mother hit him hard, man. She was everything to him, and her absence left a deep mark on his soul.
Wacky Parent, Serious Child: The calm, collected, serious, stoic, and aggressive Head of the du Cronos Dynasty is the son of the flamboyant, extroverted, flirtatious, and lustful dragon sun god. Inverted with his own daughter Juni Stivron.
Animal Motifs: Wolf. Duh!
Law of Chromatic Superiority: In the du Cronos Dynasty, there's an intriguing hierarchy among the wolves and the dragons. You see, among this pack of majestic creatures, Freki's one standout individual with a distinctive feature: a striking red coat. Now, what's fascinating is that this wolf, who happens to be their leader, is not only visually distinct but also holds tremendous might. Despite being surrounded by powerful dragons, he has solidified his dominance by conquering any challenger bold enough to question his authority. It's no wonder he's earned the moniker "The Big Red Machine."
Fatal Flaw: When Medea Norrington, whose very clear Fatal Flaw is Wrath, looks at you and says, "Mate, you're way too violent, always itching for a fight," you better think you might have a problem. I mean, think about it. Medea's known for her own no-nonsense, take-no-prisoners attitude when it comes to throwing down. She has the disposition and gut of a Professional Killer, and is ready to resort to brutal violence if she feels provoked enough. She is telling you to chill on the aggression. Damn...
- For more details see ''Soldier versus Warrior'' above, you might understand why Medea believes Freki might have a problem!
''Well Done, Son!'' Guy: Quite Downplayed. Freki runs the show his own way. He makes his own calls, follows his gut, and leads the du Cronos Dynasty exactly how he sees fit, with little concern for anyone else’s opinions. But if Anthony actually shows pride in him, Freki can’t help but feel a genuine, visible satisfaction. He might not go looking for validation, but catching that look of pride from Anthony lights him up in a way that nothing else does.
Animalistic Abomination: Downplayed. But Freki is an enormous wolf, towering and formidable, with small but striking traits that hint at his dragon lineage. His fur is an unnatural shade of deep crimson, almost as if it were dyed in blood, making him stand out even among other wolves. His eyes are dark and unsettling—pitch-black sclerae surrounding irises that narrow into sharp, vertical slits, giving him a look that’s both piercing and alien.
Badass Family: Considering he's the son of a couple of Big Bads, and the first wolf to lead a realm of dragons and wolves, has two dhampir witch girlfriends and his daughter is part of a different main trio.
Half-Breed Discrimination: As a result of his mixed heritage, Freki made the choice to remain within his mother's pack, thinking he would at least be kind of safer there. The Southern Dragons, with their rigid views on bloodline purity, never truly embraced him as one of their own. Although it's worth noting that they refrained from attacking him, it wasn't out of genuine acceptance or kinship, but rather out of fear of provoking the wrath of the Crimson Emperor and the Shape of Heaven.
- The dynamics within the wolf pack were not exactly friendlier, as their feelings towards Freki were rooted more in fear than hatred. This fear intensified as Freki's size and strength surpassed that of any other wolf in the pack. It became increasingly apparent that he was growing into a dominant force, both physically and in terms of his position within the du Cronos Dynasty.
Child of Forbidden Love: Freki was born from an affair by Anthony du Cronos, the dragon god of the sun, and Akane, the general, mediator, and (at the time) acting commanding officer of Arctic wolves clan. Due to the clan's oath of service to Laurel (through her familiar), it was forbidden to mate with dragons, especially those who are part of the du Cronos bloodline. There's also the fact that Akane was married at the time...
Stealth Expert: Like the prowling predator that he is, Freki possesses a unique talent for blending into the shadows and approaching his targets with stealth and cunning. The du Cronos Dynasty's wolves are similarly adept at remaining unnoticed until the moment they strike. Though their intimidating size and fierce howls might suggest otherwise, they are masters of deception and prefer to operate in silence, and they are not noticed until they want to be noticed.
Why Did You Make Me Hit You?: As the Tribal Chief, Freki perceives any challenge to his power as an affront that warrants a violent response. He argues that his supremacy entitles him to maintain his position, and any attempt to undermine him is seen as a direct threat to his family's security. From Freki's perspective, those who refuse to submit to his authority are responsible for the consequences they face.
Debt Detester: If there's one type of person that gets under Freki's skin almost as much as those who have wronged him, it's the ones he owes a favor to. Freki is usually pretty quick in finding a way to settle the debt, especially when he's in a good mood. But on a bad mood, well, let's just say the debtor might end up regretting it more than they did before.
- Medea is precision and discipline personified, the very image of a seasoned Soldier—calculated, deliberate, and ruthlessly efficient. Her approach to combat is meticulous, every movement honed for effectiveness, and when it comes to eliminating her targets, she’s all brutal pragmatism, sparing no time for hesitation. She operates with a steely focus that makes her a lethal force and a model professional killer.
- Freki, on the other hand, is the pure, unfiltered spirit of a Warrior. There’s a touch of refinement to him, yes, but it’s overshadowed by an untamed, almost regal savagery. He commands respect through his sheer, unyielding power and a personal code that revolves around dominance and survival. Freki lives for the thrill of raw strength and the enduring power of his lineage. .
Vetinari Job Security: Freki is like a necessity for the du Cronos Dynasty and even for the entire Four Realms, if you ask me. When he's out of the picture or unable to act, chaos erupts in the criminal underworld and among a good chunk of the draconic population. It's a real pain in the ass for Medea. Sure, Freki might just be a mortal like the rest of us, but it's the whole "devil you know" mentality that keeps everyone in line. Criminals and heroes alike tolerate him because, well, they figure he's the lesser of many evils. And that's what makes Freki the Tribal Chief, ruling the roost with his own brand of authority.
Long-Haired Pretty Boy: With shoulder-length red hair passed down from his father, he was once a remarkably good-looking young man. However, his piercing gaze, accentuated by unnaturally eerie eyes, was enough to make those attractive features easily overlooked. Nowadays, it works in his favor, as he has developed a rugged and masculine handsomeness, complete with a well-groomed beard, perfectly complementing his role as the Tribal Chief.
Anti-Villain: Though not enough to cause a complete Heel-Face Turn, he is honourable enough to seek out fair combat with his opponents and recognizes when to draw the line (as in the cases of Warren and Oceanus). In a sense, he has subtly transitioned towards a less antagonistic (although still not heroic) role since The Atlantic War, or at the very least, he no longer seeks to actively antagonize the V7D as long as they stay away from his territory.
The Dreaded: Almost everyone who has encountered him understands the importance of not getting on his bad side. The V7D managed to leave the du Cronos Dynasty's territory without any trouble because they had earned his respect and were granted permission to do so.
Repressive, but Efficient: The unofficially dubbed "Fifth Dragon Realm," more commonly recognized as the du Cronos Dynasty, may be ruled with an iron fist by Freki and the du Cronos family, but it is prosperous. Within its boundaries, there is no room for crime or poverty, and its citizens enjoy the benefits of free healthcare. Betrayals are scarce, and the inhabitants find themselves engaged in fulfilling work that aligns with their unique talents. Surprisingly, there are no correctional facilities in the realm, for any transgressors are easily dealt with through execution or, in rare cases, banishment if luck favours them. While the primary responsibility of each individual is to procure their sustenance through hunting, it serves more as a means to sharpen their hunting skills rather than a necessity for survival.
Generation Xerox: Freki embodies a unique combination of his parents' traits. He displays his mother's strong leadership skills, respect for worthy adversaries, and stoic demeanour, while also inheriting his father's pride, burning determination, and sharp intellect.
Did You Just Punch Out Cthulhu?: In the second book, a bunch of demons decided to crash the du Cronos Dynasty party, and let's just say they weren't exactly the life of it. The dragons in charge were struggling to handle the situation, and Freki, being the Tribal Chief, got fed up with their incompetence. He stepped up and showed them how it's done by delivering a solid punch to one demon's face, sending it and its pals running for the hills. Those demons had no clue that Freki had some godly blood running through his veins, but after that demonstration, they probably thought twice before messing with him again.
Worthy Opponent: He regards Medea as a worthy opponent, and the feeling is mutual. He seemed upset when it appeared that Medea had died in Warren's dimension, and he was impressed when she not only survived but outsmarted him within his own game. Now, don't get it twisted. Freki still wants to have Medea's head in his royal chamber. He's hungry for that victory. But at the same time, he recognizes that if he's gonna be defeated, Medea is the perfect candidate to take that win. It's a complex form of respect, an unconventional admiration for her extraordinary abilities.
''You and I, we are equals, of a kindred spirit. You hold respect for my prowess and I your resolve, despite our differing paths. Only your hand may wield the blade that ends my existence, as mine may yours. Perhaps it's your attention I seek, or maybe it's the stirrings of affection. Together, we propel each other to uncharted summits, bound by fate, entwined in destiny's embrace.''
- Later on, he develops a similar opinion of Donatello, Medea's adopted son, even referring to him as "Priest," a moniker that, back in the original Norrington's Desire, was often exclusively attributed to Medea.
Blue-and-Orange Morality: Freki was raised and lived with THE example of ambiguous morality, and has inherited his father's rather interesting sense of right and wrong. Keeping one's "pack" and "territory" safe is the only morality that matters to him. For Freki, weakness, incompetence, irresponsibility, and disloyalty are the ultimate wrongdoings, far worse than malevolence. He believes that in order to survive in their dangerous world, one must be strong and fiercely loyal to their kin, even if it means making difficult and morally grey decisions.
Defiant to the End: Even though Freki managed to survive the encounter in the end, he faced the Seraphim with the mindset that he was engaging in a confrontation he was not going to come out alive from. So, with a self-assured smirk on his face, he taunted her about his achievement of daring to draw blood from her.
Overshadowed by Awesome: He confronts Oceanus' army of dragons in the Atlantic War by holding his own and even scoring some significant victories. It's very easy to miss, however, given the feats of the superpowered V7D, Seraphim and the Awakened Anima.
The Don: of The du Cronos Dynasty, which basically operates like a dragon mafia instead of an empire. Anthony du Cronos was not amused at the change; however, he trusted his son enough to give him a chance in his new direction of the Dynasty... which basically skyrocketed their influence on at least two other dragon realms and various other civilizations.
Dumb Muscle: While Freki boasts tactical prowess, his inherent inclination towards pettiness and a short fuse often prompt him to discard strategic approaches in favor of brute force. Underestimating opponents due to arrogance is another weakness. Exploiting these flaws, however, proves to be not very easy, given Freki's superhuman strength, which provides him with a reason to be confidently smug even when opting for a less strategic approach.
The Man Behind the Man: If V7D crew is on a mission, chances are pretty high that any dragon or wolf they come across is either under Freki du Cronos' command or connected to him in some way. We're talking better than fifty-fifty odds here.
Asskicking Equals Authority: As the physically best (mortal) fighter in his generation of the du Cronos Dynasty (who also believes he's the best of his generation period), Freki was declared the Tribal Chief after his father renounced the title after their godhood. He didn't hesitate to accept his brother's challenge to establish his right to the title.
Insistent Terminology: Freki has a peculiar habit of consistently referring to Medea as "Priestess," hardly ever using her actual name. It has become almost customary for him to employ this title when addressing her. However, on the rare occasions when he does utter her name, it is often accompanied by an air of disdain, implying an intention to insult or belittle her.
It Runs in the Family: Much like his father uses knee strikes and his mother uses kicks, Freki likes to use his legs during battle, he likes to stomp his opponents when they're laying on the ground, to be precise.
Non-human Humanoid Hybrid: Freki was born from the union of a common she-wolf and a dragon. He can take a human form because royal-blooded dragons are born with the ability to do so.
Small Parent, Huge Child: Zig-zagged. When the two are seen side by side, the vast difference in height between Freki and his father is immediately apparent. In his human form, Freki towers over his father, whose head only reaches up to her son's collarbone. However, in their true forms, the tables are turned, and Freki is so small in comparison that he can walk upon his father's back.
Anger is Not Enough: During his ultimate confrontation with Medea, Freki is driven by his anger and animosity toward his rival... but it falls short of securing his victory. In fact, it almost results in Freki's death, saved only by Medea's insight that making him a martyr would be unwise.
Bishounen: When he was a young adult, he had a handsome, boyish appearance. However, when they saw his unsettling eyes, most people chose to disregard this.
Bash Brothers: To everyone's surprise, Medea and Freki in Under World. As they face a common enemy in Oceanus' army, their mutual respect for each other grows, and they put their past rivalry aside to focus on the battle. Although they are weakened and exhausted, their combined might and skill allow them to tear through Oceanus' army with ease, leaving their opponents in awe.
Heartbroken Badass: Although it was familial love and he doesn't like to express it often, Akane's death hit him hard.
Pragmatic Villainy: Freki is quite efficient at avoiding fights that are unnecessary or needlessly dangerous. Additionally, he is generally kind to his Dynasty subordinates (as long as they don't betray him) and will provide a hand when they are in need. Not because he truly cares for them—some of his subordinates bullied or feared him when he was a cub—Instead, it's because he values loyalty and doesn't see the point in having his subordinates hate him. Oh, and get this—dude hardly throws fists at anyone. He's more of a smooth talker, convincing people to do his bidding. But hey, don't cross him or let him down. If you do, he'll unleash a world of hurt on you without holding back. His primal ferocity lies just beneath the surface, prepared to surge forth without a hint of mercy.
Let's Get Dangerous!: Freki rarely takes a fight seriously, but when he does, he truly is a beast! He was the one dominating and defeating The V7Ds War, and he is the first character to not be completely annihilated by Amun, fighting the hellhound to a draw.
Dramatic Deadpan: A lot. If he raises his voice, it means some serious shit has gone down.
Lack of Empathy: After his promotion to Head of the Table, Freki no longer fights with honour or respect for anyone. The closest he comes is when it involves brothers Ma'at du Cronos and Nick du Cronos. When Nick wasn't pleased with this, he explained through gritted teeth that he didn’t want to beat nine circles of Hell out of him, but that he will gladly do so anyway to prove that he is the family's Tribal Chief.
- Said and done, Nick actually challenged his older brother to a fight for the position of Tribal Chief, and despite putting up a good fight, Freki eventually demolished him and had him banished from the family after he refused to acknowledge Freki as his Tribal Chief.
The Big Guy: He towers over his fellow du Cronos dynasty members and boasts the most impressive physique among them, making him an imposing figure.
Strong and Skilled: Freki has a very unrefined sort of fighting style while having immense strength to back it up. Subverted when going up against opponents such as Amun, Medea's hellhound who, as a supernatural watchdog from the Underworld, is way more powerful... and even then, he managed to fight him to a stalemate.
Soft-Spoken Sadist: Freki contrasts with almost every du Cronos in the entire Dynasty because of how calm he acts. No matter how cruel he may treat you in a fight or how much he hates you, he'll never get louder than maybe somewhat of an outdoor voice because of the nature of the game.
Face of a Thug: He used to be kind of a Nice Guy, but inherited his mother's infamous wolf stare. The dragon realm feared he would end up like his grandfather, a warmonger, but he turned out to be a very honourable (if heavy-handed) wolf.
Villain Respect: Freki stands out as the antagonist who holds the utmost respect for Medea, going to the extent of addressing her as "Priestess."
Expy: Of the Norse God Thor, let's count the similarities, shall we?:
- Fiery red hair and beard? Check.
- Son of a top god and a non-god race (wolf/jotunn)? Check.
- Widely feared among his enemies? Check.
- The warrior son of a non-combatant god? Check.
- Fathered two children with similar names (James/Modi and Juni/Magni)? Check.
- Fought and survived an encounter with Death (Elli/Medea)? Check.
Time-Passage Beard: During flashbacks, Freki's facial hair consisted of a perpetual five o'clock shadow, but in the present day when he meets with the V7D, he sports an imposing and untamed beard of command.
Friendly Enemy: With Medea, he makes it clear that he disagrees with her position in the Underworld hierarchy, but once in private, he expresses no personal animosity toward the Eye herself, and when asked, he promised to keep Gerard Way safe while his parents were fighting Oceanus, even though he decided the Dynasty would not participate.
Mr. Fanservice: Creepy eyes aside, he is a long-haired, Tall, Dark, and Handsome Hunk. In his showdown with Quincey, when he shed his vest and suit, his raw masculine appeal was too much for some of the onlookers, with even Medea commenting on the audience's audible excitement.
Lightning Bruiser: Medea is astounded that someone so large can move so quickly and with such precision. It's what allowed him to be the first character to emerge from a fight with Amun (the V7D's trump card at the time) still in fighting shape.
Colour-Coded for Your Convenience: Freki is the only wolf in the du Cronos Dynasty to be a direct offspring of a dragon, and as a result, he is the only one with distinctive red fur (though given his enormous size, it'd be difficult to overlook the fact that he's half-dragon).
Rite of Passage: The majority of wolves—if not all—experience this as a hunt. Freki was accepted into his mother's pack shortly before it was merged with the du Cronos Dynasty after passing his rite of courage and cowardice.
Scary Shiny Glasses: He wears glasses that glow with a yellow light.
Super Mob Boss: The Tribal Chief is the best example of a crime lord (technically a ruler) who can go head-to-head with our four heroes, presenting a formidable challenge and remaining a constant threat. What sets him apart is his indispensability, making him too valuable to eliminate like a disposable villain.
Baddie Flattery: Freki had no issue with calling Quincey "a world-class athlete with a wrecking ball for a right hand," yet he asserted once more that he was still unable to defeat him.
Afraid of Needles: Like your typical canine, Freki has a crippling fear of needles. But instead of whimpering and running away, they trigger an intense fury in him. The very idea of a shot is enough to set him off, which is totally out of character for him.
Mad God's Handsome Son: He's the firstborn of Anthony, who later became the god of the Sun and Madness.
Practically Different Generations: Though Freki's comments make it clear that they are close, he and his sister Isis du Cronos do have a 19-year age difference.
Face–Heel Turn: Downplayed, as Freki, in full du Cronos fashion, has never been more than just neutral. After he became The Tribal Chief of the du Cronos Dynasty, Freki started playing a role similar to that of a no-nonsense Mafia Don. Just like his father, family became his top priority, and he made sure he was the one in charge. He showed his subordinates tough love, embodying the "tough but fair" mentality. At times, he even displayed moments of being Affably Evil, like when he initially refused to fight his brother Nick out of love, and when he aided Medea in her pursuit of Emma Norrington, Jr. and is settled with using fear as a weapon of control and power.
- Fear also became Freki's weapon of choice for maintaining control and power. He knew how to manipulate and instil fear in others without getting his own hands dirty. He cunningly convinced his brother Ma'at du Cronos to hunt down Medea, fully aware that Ma'at would not survive the encounter. In fact, that was exactly what Freki had planned all along.
Parents as People: Freki may not win the "Father of the Year" award, but he does care about his kids, no doubt about it. He's got a special soft spot for his daughter Juni, but his way of showing it can be a bit, well, intense. See, Freki's all about tough love. He wants to make sure his little girl is ready to handle anything life throws at her. That means he's not afraid to push her to her limits and beyond. He's got this fear deep down that if Juni shows even a hint of weakness, the world will pounce on her like a hungry predator. And let's face it, this world isn't exactly known for being merciful to the vulnerable.
Third-Person Person: He will occasionally address himself as "your Tribal Chief". Whether he's talking to a member of the du Cronos Dynasty or not.
Groin Attack: Freki had Quincey on the ropes, totally dominating the fight for a solid ten minutes. He was showing off his skills, landing blow after blow with precision and power. But just when it seemed like Freki had it all under control, Quincey found an opportunity. With Megan momentarily distracted, Quincey pulled a sneaky move and delivered a swift kick right to Freki's groin (Talk about a low blow). It was a desperate move, a last-ditch effort to turn the tables and gain the upper hand in the fight.
Villain Has a Point: So, when Diorah hears that Medea offed Ma'at, she decides to go after Medea for payback. But surprisingly, Freki intervenes on Medea's behalf. He points out that it was Ma'at who initiated the fight with clear murderous intent. Freki argues that it's unjust to mark Medea for death when she was simply defending herself. Freki doesn't give a shit about Ma'at's death, though, as he deliberately set things in motion for Medea to unknowingly become his executioner.
Papa Wolf: A literal example. Freki was essential in ensuring Gerard's safety and survival during the Atlantic War; though comes with the requirement that he be named the child's sponsor. Medea did not object to the condition, and Freki proclaimed that anyone attempting to harm Gerard would have to account for him. Nobody dared.
- Later, during ND10, the Big Red Machine is shown to be a very caring father, very protective of his daughter Juni, albeit not to the point of spoiling her.
Due to the Dead: Following the loss of his younger brother Ma'at at the hands of The V7D, Freki's priority is to retrieve his sibling's body and provide him with a dignified burial. Despite the heinous crime committed against him, Freki is motivated by a sense of duty and compassion to honour his brother's memory. He recognizes the importance of allowing Ma'at's mother to grieve and cradle her son one last time, as it is a necessary step in the healing process for both her and the rest of the family.
Fights Like a Normal: Freki fights like a bulldog with anger management issues, channelling his inner prison thug and backyard brawler. Forget about fancy footwork or fancy moves. Freki's style is all about brute force and pure brutality. He's not here to dance around the ring or show off his fancy techniques. No, he's all about getting up close and personal, engaging in bone-crushing grappling, unleashing savage punches, and going for those ruthless chokeholds. And when he finally goes full wolf mode, you better believe he's ready to unleash some serious woof-ass.
Faux Affably Evil: Freki tries to come off as this calm, collected badass, like he's this unshakeable force who gives props to his rivals. This is just a front. He's only pleasant when he thinks he's got the upper hand. The moment someone steps up and gives him a real run for his money, he loses it. Suddenly, he's all over the place, flying off the handle, and getting downright brutal. Like Father, Like Son indeed.
Proud Warrior Race Guy: At first, he was too proud of his true heritage to even consider taking his human form. But Reality Ensues and he eventually has to concede that this form is not only practical, but it's also life-saving. Well, Freki (and by extension, the wolves of the du Cronos Dynasty overall) is more like a Proud Hunter Race Guy. He holds a deep pride in hunting and sees it as an integral part of his identity. This pride extends to the point where he and his fellow wolves view rival dragons as a mere game to be hunted. As Freki's hunting skills improved, so did his desire for more dangerous prey. Even when it came to Medea, he initially saw her as nothing more than a simple deer to be taken down.
Fair-Play Villain: Given his two fights with The V7Ds Medea and Quincey, Freki has demonstrated that he possesses adequate combat standards.
- He made the decision to forgo using any of his superhuman wolf abilities during their battle after he learned that Quincey was simply a human.
- During his fight with Seraphim, he decided to test her power with his human form (as it was the first time Freki had fought something in god territory) but once he realized that the angelic powerhouse was on a whole other level of overwhelming power, Freki knew he couldn't hold back any longer. It was time to unleash his true form, the ferocious wolf within. .
Older Than They Look: After the Post-War 10-year time skip, the 56-year-old Freki doesn't look a day older since the first time he met The V7D. Justified due to his dragon heritage.
Friendless Background: Making friends with other kids is a real challenge when your whole clan either despises you or is terrified of you. But oddly, this didn't get him down too much; instead, it molded his mindset on how to control his people through fear
Furry Reminder: There have been plenty of instances proving that, despite standing tall and boasting the smarts and pride of a true du Cronos, he's still a wolf, with all the typical quirks and traits.
- Whenever he's in danger or feeling tense or angry, his hair puffs up. It's similar to how actual dogs raise their hackles when they're experiencing strong emotions like fear, anxiety, or excitement.
- Even if he maintains his stoic demeanor, Freki's wolf ears are the ultimate truth-tellers about how he's really feeling. Whether they perk up, droop down, or stay halfway, you can discern Freki's state of mind by observing his ears. Freki seems to be wise to this, which is why he masks his ears to resemble more human-like pointy ones.
Fish out of Water: Since he exhibits several dragon-like traits that don't clearly belong in a wolf pack, he initially struggles to blend in with his mother's Wolf pack.
Uriah Gambit: Freki manipulated Ma'at into believing that if he could successfully kill Medea on his own, he'd be granted reentry into the Dynasty, no questions asked. But let's face it, taking down Medea isn't exactly a piece of cake, and Freki knew that better than anyone. It turned out to be a convenient way for Freki to rid himself of Ma'at while putting Medea's prowess to the test against a dragon with divine blood. And the icing on the cake? Freki walked away from the entire ordeal without a hint of guilt or blame.
Hard Work Hardly Works: Freki dedicated a good chunk of his life to delving into the secrets of the Underworld, making fervent supplications to Laurel and sparing no effort to become the next Eye of the Gods, only to discover that Medea had already been chosen by Laurel even before her birth, despite studying it for a far shorter time. The news hit him like a thunderbolt, igniting an all-consuming flame of resentment and envy within him.
Happily Married: Very happy with his girlfriends Mary and Megan, although they're not married.
Parental Favoritism: Anthony bragged about Freki to the point where Matt despised him, culminating in their duel for the du Cronos Dynasty, in which Freki was forced to defeat and later disown his brother.
Laurel: ''Anthony takes immense pride in every member of his Dynasty, but there's something special about the way he looks at Freki. When his eyes meet Freki's, it's as if he sees a reflection of his own accomplishments and potential. Freki has a way of bringing out the best in Anthony and igniting a sense of self-pride that he never knew existed. It's not just about the pride he feels for Freki; it's the pride he feels for himself, knowing that he has played a significant role in shaping the remarkable leader that Freki has become. Something tells me he feels that the wolf Freki has become would've been exactly the kind of wolf his late wife would be proud of.''
Wild Hair: Freki's untamed spirit is reflected in every aspect of his appearance, from the fierce glint in his eyes to the wild, unruly mane of hair that frames his face. His locks flow freely, as wild and free as the wolf within him, an outward reflection of the untamed strength and power that lies within.
- Due to Valentine Michael Strafford's Nazi-like ideologies and Freki's status as a literal wolf—one of the vampires' primary enemies—he, like Warren, rejects any affiliation with him.
- Freki, of course, is willing to offer his protection to Medea's infant son during the Atlantic War.
Combat Pragmatist: When it comes to throwing down in a fight, Freki's got some serious natural strength on his side. But here's the thing, my friend: he's not picky about how he dishes out the pain. Whether it's guns, swords, or even a freakin' kitchen sink, if the situation demands it, Freki will turn anything into a weapon of mass destruction.
Twin Threesome Fantasy: He lives with his girlfriends, Mary and Megan, in the du Cronos Dynasty's main household, loving each other and, as it was revealed during the Atlantic War, having children with both sisters.
Hellish Pupils: Freki's vertical slit pupils are a physical characteristic that is often associated with dragons, and which reflect his unique lineage as a half-wolf, half-dragon hybrid. This feature serves as a visual reminder of his dragon heritage, and sets him apart from other wolves in the pack.
Affair? Blame the Bastard: The union of Akane and a dragon proved a source of great turmoil for Askari, the she-wolf's mate. Fueled by sheer fury, he kept coming after young Freki, seeking vengeance for what he viewed as a betrayal to their pack. Despite Askari's relentless anger, Akane and Anthony remained resolute in their protection of their cub, going to great lengths to keep him out of harm's way. Ultimately, it was the sheer might of the Big Red Machine that overcame the assailant, enabling Freki to thrive and fulfill his own rites of passage as he grew into a formidable young wolf.
Precious Photo: Amidst the jumble of documents and armaments in his quarters, there resides a particular place reserved for a precious memento: a photograph. Hidden away in a drawer, it depicts a younger him, smiling ear to ear along with his parents..
I Know What You Fear: Freki has the ability to reveal a person's darkest fears, similar to how Medea's supernatural eyes allow her to perceive the chthonic creatures. Because of this, he has a deep insight into what people are fearful of, which he uses to his advantage, planting seeds of doubt. It was revealed that, analogous to how Medea earned her eyes from Laurel, Freki acquired this talent from his dad.
Jerk with a Heart of Gold: Despite his aloof, arrogant, and violent tendencies, he's always on the front lines whenever a clearly powerful threat emerges, and he's capable of working with The V7D as well when they're on the same page. He has also shown genuine care for a number of characters, including his late mother, parents, siblings, and even Medea.
Disappointing Older Sibling: He is first regarded as such by his maternal family due to his status as a Fish out of Water and an illegitimate cub. He ultimately takes control of the du Cronos dynasty (and, indirectly, his mother's wolf pack, as the pack was incorporated into the Dynasty as well) after demonstrating greater competence than was initially thought possible and forging a close bond with his half-brother.
Achilles' Heel: Being kicked in the dick. It's the only surefire way to bring the mighty du Cronos leader to his knees - quite literally. Despite his impressive record and skill in battle, Freki's been taken down more than once by a well-placed strike to his vulnerable nether region. It's a sore spot (pun intended) for the wolf, and one that his opponents are quick to exploit. Perhaps it's time for Freki to consider some protective gear before his next bout.
Child of Two Worlds: Half-wolf, half-dragon. He ends up leading a mafia-like organization of both dragons and wolves, though admittedly at first more to honour his dad than for caring for them. He also considers himself a wolf.
Slasher Smile: His default smile is creepy, but this is subverted because it is his wolf instincts that cause him to smile like this, not his intent. Usually...
Tranquil Fury: Seems to have a bit of this going on when he's in serious warrior mode. He's very good at controlled aggression, keeping his cool even when he's laying down a serious beatdown. He's in his own zone, focused solely on dishing out punishment without wasting energy on unnecessary trash-talking or screams. Although when Freki starts losing ground, when things aren't going his way, that's when the burning fury kicks in. It's like a switch flips, and he becomes even more intense, more reckless. He's willing to throw caution to the wind and go all out, consequences be damned.
Mangst: He rarely speaks about it, but he blames himself for what his parents went through. His mother's decision, having to be raised by Anthony, and then, just as he thought they'd be reunited, Akane died. He keeps the photograph of his parents' wedding and a picture of his birth in a secret spot in a cabinet in his room, wishing he could have had that family, and he works very hard to ensure that his children will never feel the same way.
Mixed Ancestry: Born of a union between a she-wolf and a dragon, Freki's lineage is one of mixed greatness. Yet, despite his illustrious ancestry, he outwardly resembles an ordinary —albeit unusually massive—wolf.
Interspecies Romance: Since the guy is a giant wolf and his human form is merely a disguise, his relationship with Mary & Megan kind of counts (they are dhampirs).
Tom the Darklord: The du Cronos Dynasty's Head, a red wolf the size of an African Elephant with blazing, angry-looking amber eyes, is named... Freki. Which is indeed a Meaningful Name (named after a wolf from Norse mythology) but is not exactly... intimidating.
Noble Wolf: His moral compass revolves around protecting, fortifying, and feeding his pack and territory. And, if at all possible, he will try to avoid conflict. However, after ascending as the Head of the du Cronos Dynasty...
Number Two: As the firstborn, he holds the second seat in the du Cronos dynasty, just under Anthony who presides as their patron deity. But in practice, Freki takes charge of day-to-day operations, strengthening and uniting the Dynasty, while Anthony offers external assistance, leading them into battle and representing their highest authority. Picture Anthony as the symbolic leader, while Freki is the diligent, hands-on Prime Minister.
Red Is Violent: Freki is mostly red in colour and much more ferocious than other wolves (perhaps because he is as strong and powerful as a teenage dragon and does not truly require the wolves' typical pack assault antics).
Lineage Comes from the Father: Subverted. The blood of dragons runs through Freki's veins, lending him his awe-inspiring stature and piercing gaze, yet at first glance, he appears to be nothing more than a normal –albeit elephantine in size– wolf.
Psychopathic Manchild: Believe it or not, beneath the formidable persona of the Tribal Chief, renowned for his uncompromising demeanor among villains, lurks a man burdened by entitlement and insecurity. He craves the admiration of dragons and wolves who have historically regarded him with fear and disdain since his early days. The psychopathic part lies in his response to feeling undervalued: if he doesn't receive the respect he believes he deserves, he swiftly directs his pent-up frustration and rage toward the nearest target, often with brutal consequences.
The Alcoholic: Downplayed. Freki is an avid wine enthusiast, but he exercises restraint when it comes to alcohol and rarely indulges to the point of intoxication.
Reverse Arm-Fold: Freki purposefully strikes a pose with arms folded behind his back, creating an intimidating facade intended to assert dominance over his adversaries. When you're a 6'6 behemoth, though, it's hard not to look down on most people.
Equal-Opportunity Evil: The du Cronos Dynasty welcomes everyone, regardless of their gender, social status, race, or creed. As long as they initially acknowledge Freki as their Tribal Chief.
Sharp-Dressed Man: He is never seen without an extremely well-kept and expensive-looking suit. Fitting for his role as some sort of kingpin for the du Cronos Dynasty.
Always Someone Better: He is this to Quincey Harker. Once he fought Quincey, and even though he was aided by the V7D member with the most brutal strength, Yuuki, and was attacked by a knee/kick combination from Yuuki and Quincey, it was not enough to knock Freki out, and he ended up defeating Quincey anyway in what could be considered for Freki little more than training.
- On the other hand, Medea, as Seraphim, is this to Freki. Despite Freki's expertise in technique, drawn from his deep understanding of wolf nature and extensive training as a warrior and hunter, he falls short in comparison to Seraphim in nearly every other aspect. Whether it's speed, where he barely keeps up, or strength, where he's outmatched, Seraphim stands as the stronger contender. Even Freki's transformations into a werewolf or his full wolf form can't bridge the gap in power.
Badass Baritone: He has the deepest voice in the dynasty. Hell, his voice claim is the deep voice of Benedict Cumberbatch.
Man of Wealth and Taste: He's sharp-dressed, soft and well-spoken, has fine taste in food, and is one of the most powerful and feared entities in Norrington's Desire.
Sophisticated as Hell: This dude, he's a real charmer, all fuckin' class in how he dresses and talks, but trust me, he's as goddamn foul-mouthed as Medea.
Big Brother Instinct: He has a huge soft spot for his sister Isis du Cronos.
The Mafia: Once in control, Freki oversaw the du Cronos dynasty's slow transformation from a brutal monarchy into a mafia-like organization, with members of the du Cronos bloodline given prominent roles.
The Rival: He is one to Medea for the title of Eye of the Gods. His initial reaction to the unexpected arrival of The V7D is less than welcoming, and their ensuing encounter bears all the markings of a battle between two apex predators vying for dominance at the top of the food chain.
- Quincey also views him as his Arch-Enemy, but unfortunately for him, Freki hardly even considers him to be a concern. To Freki, there's only one person who can truly rival him - Medea. While Quincey may harbour a fierce animosity towards Freki, it's clear that the feeling isn't mutual.
Evil Virtues: He has a few:
- Honor: Despite his reputation as a formidable mob boss, Freki is renowned for being a man of integrity. Beyond his intimidating demeanor, he prioritizes honesty and trustworthiness and holds a deep sense of loyalty towards individuals he deems deserving of respect.
- He doesn't take it personally or get angry when Medea lashes out at him and he shows genuine respect for The Eye of Laurel for saving his daughter's life, letting her and her team leave the Dynasty unharmed.
Shout-Out: Almost everyone, but notably Anthony, refers to Freki by the Red Baron The Big Red Machine, which is also a moniker for the former wrestler Kane. Though Nicoletta didn't miss the opportunity to call him Clifford, the Big Red Dog.
Woobie, Destroyer of Worlds: Freki's transformation into the ferocious "Tribal Chief" was the result of years of verbal aggression and killing attempts from the dragons, fear from the wolves, trauma brought on by the loss of his mother, the heavy burden of providing for his large Dynasty, and being gradually rejected as a potential Eye throughout the course of the story despite his repeated contributions to Laurel. It's all adding fuel to his already intense desire to be "acknowledged," to the point that he'd be willing to control the criminal underworld and the four dragon realms to do it.
- The fact that all of this animosity was shown immediately before Ma'at's original challenge, which he never moved on from as seen by his continuous hatred of his younger brother even after banishing him, didn't help matters either.
Death Glare: He's damn good at giving these, even if he's not even remotely annoyed, he looks like he wants to punch you. And it gets even more terrifying once he actually is furious.
Heir Club for Men: Zig-zagged. In the Dynasty, inheritance is handled in a different way. See, they hand down power and status from mothers to sons and fathers to daughters. Freki was appointed as the Tribal Chief of the du Cronos Dynasty since, even though Anthony took the role of Emperor, she took it while in female form, or also because the original alpha of the pack was his mother, Akane. So, by the time of ND10, he's clearly grooming his teenage daughter Juni to one day lead the du Cronos Dynasty.
Polyamory: Is in a happy, healthy, loving, and mutually supportive relationship with twin sisters Mary and Megan.
Defeat Means Friendship: Maybe the word ''friendship'' is too much, but in light of his repeated failures to fully break Medea's Umbrakinesis barrier, he develops a certain amount of respect for her. This happened soon after the day before when he demolished Quincey. This was the start of a lifelong rivalry in which Freki deemed Medea the only one allowed to defeat him.
Game-Breaking Injury: In the battle against Seraphim, Freki held his ground... until the moment his opponent delivered a bone-shattering blow that fractured one of his legs. The once-powerful wolf was left unable to move with the speed and agility of a predator, relying instead on dragging himself away with his remaining functioning leg. It was in this moment of weakness that Seraphim capitalized.
Hidden Disdain Reveal: For both Ma'at du Cronos and Nick du Cronos. Freki carried a serious chip on his shoulder when it came to the twins, never quite forgiving them for what he saw as a major betrayal that almost cost him his title as Tribal Chief. Despite putting on a façade of civility and cordiality for years, the truth was made clear during their brief reunion – Freki's grudge against them was still alive and kicking, and he had no plans to bury no hatchet.
- Despite the news of both twins' deaths, he remained eerily composed. In fact, there are whispers that he ordered Ma'at's hunt for Medea, knowing full well that he would meet his end at her hands. But even as he plotted his own brother's demise, he couldn't help but retrieve the twins' lifeless bodies, determined to give them a proper burial - a grim reminder of the depths of his twisted sense of loyalty.
Adaptational Heroism: Downplayed. Freki was initially intended to be a horrible monster, a wolf cursed to eat his mother and younger sister, prompting Anthony to bind him up and lead him to be disowned. Matt & Nick would then be sent to kill him and break the curse that would cause him to become blindly infuriated. Even as the Tribal Chief, while still an antagonistic individual leading a mafia-like Dynasty of dragons and wolves, is way better than the mindless monster he was supposed to be. He's also clearly Anthony's favorite cub while Matt & Nick have way more secondary roles in the story.
Large and in Charge: He stands as a mighty leader among dragons, a towering wall of a figure, with a build as solid and unyielding as that of a human fortress.
Asskicking Leads to Leadership: The firstborn of his kin, and thus the successor to his father's authority in the dynasty. Not only does he bear the weight of leadership, but he also possesses the fearsome strength of a dragon, making him a truly perilous wolf. His size and power are unmatched, a force to be reckoned with by any who dare challenge him.
Meaningless Villain Victory: Downplayed, as it was not completely meaningless. In their epic two-out-of-three falls match, Freki scored the first victory while Medea was in her human form. Medea got her payback in the second round. But the third and final fight was something else — an inferno match. Freki managed to set Medea on fire, technically winning the match. The problem? Medea, now transformed into Seraphim, didn't seem to notice the flames. She just kept wailing on Freki until she broke one of his legs and left him battered and bruised.
- So why isn’t this victory a hollow one for Freki? For starters, it secured his role as the Tribal Chief because, by the rules, Medea being set on fire meant Freki won the match. But the real clincher came after the fight. Despite the brutal showdown, Medea didn’t go for a humiliating final blow. Instead, she extended a hand to help Freki up and, in front of the entire Dynasty, said something none of his two brothers ever dared to say to him:
Medea: ''I acknowledge you, Tribal Chief.''
Royal Harem: Subverted. Freki doesn't see Mary and Megan as a harem. They hold the esteemed positions of royal consorts to the Head of the du Cronos Dynasty, rather than being treated as mere concubines. However, Anthony is not against the idea of her son having at least a few concubines or one-time lovers so the du Cronos Dynasty could keep growing.
Long-Lived: As a result of his dragon heritage, his lifespan is many times longer than that of wolves, as he doesn't look to have aged a day during the decade time skip after the Atlantic War. There's no indication of him being immortal; his aging process is just exceptionally slow.
Changed My Mind, Kid: At first, he told Medea that the du Cronos Dynasty wouldn't be getting involved in the war, citing disrespect from the House of Laurel as the reason. But when he saw his father being overwhelmed by Oceanus, he couldn't remain passive, leading him and the Dynasty to intervene despite their initial decision..
Black Eyes of Crazy: His irises blaze with a fiery amber yellow, while his sclera is pitch black - a striking contrast that seems to be inherited from Akane, as both her mother and her brother have these black sclerae. And that's not all - he's got a look that could kill! Even though he's not always annoyed (despite appearances), Freki's default expression is one of intense seriousness, making him look like one intimidating wolf.
Dire Beast: At first, Freki was just a typical wolf pup in terms of size, but as he grew up, things got seriously interesting. After a year, he was almost as big as his own mom. By the time his mom passed away, he'd already grown to the size of a Hummer truck. And nowadays, he's as massive as an African Elephant. Let's not overlook vibrant red fur, glowing golden eyes and pointy, dragon-like eyes.
Evil Sounds Deep: His voice rumbles with a growl so deep and menacing, it'll send shivers down your spine. It's a vocalization that commands immediate attention and respect, serving as a stark reminder that this wolf is a force to be reckoned with. Through this voice, he exudes his power and indomitable might.
Dragon-in-Chief: Though the elders of the Dynasty, especially Anthony himself, wield the ultimate authority in the family, anyone on the active Dynasty roster must acknowledge Freki du Cronos as the Tribal Chief. Even when Mia was explicitly "sent" by the God to act as the fourth and final member in Freki's team against The V7D, Freki made it clear that he was unequivocally the leader for those standing with him during combat, a statement to which Mia acquiesced without hesitation.
Stronger Sibling: Even though he's younger than his maternal half-brother Sephiroth, he's already got some serious strength on his side thanks to his dragon lineage. That, coupled with his colossal size, makes him one formidable force.
- Quite zig-zagged with his paternal half-brothers Matt and Nick, who are quite stronger than him due to being not only full-blooded dragons but also sons of a dragon goddess, however, Freki's skill and experience had made him the victor anytime he had sparring contests with them.
Our Werewolves Are Different: He is a gigantic wolf who can turn into a human, and he has the ability to revert to that shape both partially and completely.
Working-Class Werewolves: Inverted. Freki was born into a noble family, and it shows. His luxurious lifestyle and antique-looking shelter are artistic choices; he lives an opulent and indulgent life much like all of the various du Cronos seen in the franchise.
The Clan: When you measure the House of Laurel against the du Cronos, the du Cronos are more into this trope than being a Badass Family. They're more like a, well, dynasty with tons of side branches rather than one straight lineage, even if it's pretty clear that those with the name "du Cronos" are the big players.
Dominant Species Genes: Despite the potential for dragons to crossbreed with a wide array of species, their distinctive features remain predominant. According to Anthony, if a human were to produce offspring with a dragon, that child would essentially grow up to closely resemble a pureblooded dragon upon reaching full adulthood. Cases similar to Freki's are exceptionally uncommon, where Anthony's dragon DNA was somehow tempered by Akane's wolf DNA, although Freki retains the size, eyes, fangs, and claws characteristic of a dragon.
- Another significant example is with Juni, Freki's daughter. Despite her lineage as the child of a wolf and a human, she possesses the ability to undergo a complete transformation into a she-wolf. Moreover, even in her human form, distinct wolf features remain.