Black Card

Black Card

Claymores use the Black Card system to avoid becoming Awakened Beings.

Initially, "Black Letter" is used in manga Scene 4. Later, "Black Card" is used in manga Extra Scene 1 and 2, and anime Scene 2.

On the day of a Claymore's "inauguration" (anime Scene 2), or "on missions" (manga Scene 4), every Claymore is given a unique symbol to identify her. The symbol is used in three places: on the forte of her sword blade, the throat of her uniform, and on a Black Card, which is kept rolled-up inside the sword hilt.

When a Claymore discovers herself in danger of awakening, she sends her card to another Claymore, usually a trusted friend. The recipient meets the sender at a specific place. Then, the recipient euthanizes the sender.

Being presented with the Black Card of another Claymore is normally a sign of great respect and trust between them, as Elena did since she and Clare were close during their transformations. It can however be a lure to a trap, as Rosemary did to kill Teresa from her jealousy.

Known Black Cards Given

Elena: Her Black Card was sent to Clare via Rubel. Clare was reluctant to carry out the killing but Elena insisted that it had to be her.

Hilda: Her Black Card was sent to Miria via Ophelia. However, Ophelia destroyed it and condemned Hilda to become an Awakened Being.

Rosemary: Her Black Card was sent to Teresa as a trap to lure her to a secluded place and attempt to kill her after Awakening.