Clarissa Harfouch is the vice commander of the German IS special forces unit, Schwarze Hase, respected by her subordinates as "big sister" and well-known for her strict yet caring leadership style. Her fondness for Japanese shoujo manga has heavily influenced her understanding of Japanese culture—often giving her skewed and comical takes, which she enthusiastically shares with Laura Bodewig, sometimes causing unintended confusion.
Clarissa wears an eyepatch similar to Laura Bodewig, which has become a trademark for both of them.
She dons the standard uniform of Schwarze Hase, reflecting her military discipline and rank as captain.
She is both stern and affectionate, taking care of her squad members while expecting discipline and excellence.
Her enthusiasm for Japanese subculture makes her endearing yet occasionally misguided, as her advice can be based on manga clichés rather than reality.
Clarissa is German national, age 22, and serves as vice commander in the elite IS deployment unit Schwarze Hase—known in English as Black Rabbit Squad.
She’s admired by the team, especially for her efforts in bridging emotional gaps between squad members, notably helping Laura open up after her feelings for Ichika Orimura blossomed.
Her combat prowess is said to be on par with Maya Yamada, marking her as one of the most dangerous operators in the series.
She pilots her exclusive IS unit, Schwarzeer Zweig—translated as Black Branch—which demonstrates advanced technology and her formidable battle skill.
Clarissa maintains a big-sisterly role with the squad, earning their trust and the affectionate nickname "big sister."
Her bond with Laura Bodewig is especially strong—Clarissa is often Laura’s adviser, though her guidance tends to be heavily (and hilariously) influenced by Japanese media.
She was instrumental in helping Laura relate to others after Laura experienced romantic feelings for Ichika Orimura.
Clarissa is the reason Laura Bodewig uses quirky Japanese phrases like “my wife” (even though it’s grammatically wrong, since Clarissa translates it from her manga reading).
She is doubted by some fans as a “true Japanophile” since most of her cultural knowledge comes from manga, light novels, and games, leading to many misconceptions.
She shows up as a mention in the spin-off game Archetype Breaker, and as a guest in Laura’s ultimate move, alongside other squad members, in Super Heroine Chronicle.
“Laura, you must seize happiness like the heroines in those manga!”
“Of course ‘my wife’ is a proper declaration… That’s how it’s always done!”
“You can always come to me for advice. I’ll share everything I know!”
Role in the Schwarze Hase
Clarissa serves as vice commander in Schwarze Hase, supporting Laura Bodewig while guiding younger squad members through military challenges.
Her leadership ensures that the team stays united—even when Laura’s former emotional barriers led to a colder atmosphere, Clarissa’s nurturing helped transform Laura into a cherished comrade.
Laura Bodewig’s Transformation
After Laura Bodewig develops an interest in Ichika Orimura, Clarissa is the one Laura turns to for love advice.
Clarissa is delighted to witness Laura’s personal growth and offers her heartfelt, if sometimes incorrect, romantic guidance, helping Laura navigate these new emotions and social dynamics.
Portrayal Across Media
Clarissa connects with Laura using the IS Core Network in the original work, showing her technical expertise.
In the anime, she uses a cell phone, blending military procedure with mundane daily life.
Her major IS unit is Schwarzeer Zweig, signifying her position and tailored abilities within the Black Rabbit Squad.
She is voiced by Kei Mizusawa in the Japanese version.
Her influence is directly felt in Laura Bodewig’s actions and speech, especially post-character development.
Popular tags associated with Clarissa Harfouch include Infinite Stratos, Laura Bodewig, eyepatch, “it’s usually Clarissa’s fault,” and military otaku.
💬 Community Discussion
Talk about this anime with people who actually care.