Gaelion is one of the most iconic figures in The Rising of the Shield Hero anime series, and his presence leaves a lasting impression from the moment he appears. As the first of the four Holy Beasts, Gaelion stands out not just because of his immense power, but also due to the complex role he plays throughout the story. Known as the Storm Dragon, Gaelion commands fear across the land, and for good reason—he’s a force of nature in every sense of the phrase. At first glance, he comes across as an antagonist, especially when he clashes with the main character, Naofumi Iwatani, becoming one of the major challenges in Naofumi’s journey.
Physically, Gaelion is a towering dragon whose dark green scales shimmer under storm-lit skies. His bright yellow eyes glow with intensity, and his massive wings allow him to soar at incredible speeds. He’s equipped with razor-sharp claws and a breath weapon charged with electricity—making him far more dangerous than your average dragon. But what truly sets Gaelion apart is his ability to manipulate the weather. With a mere roar, he can summon thunderstorms, tornadoes, and lightning strikes, turning entire battlefields into chaotic tempests.
Despite his fearsome reputation, Gaelion isn’t just a mindless beast. He’s deeply loyal—initially to Motoyasu Kitamura, the Spear Hero, whom he serves with unwavering devotion. This loyalty drives many of his actions, including his aggressive stance toward Naofumi and his companions, whom Gaelion sees as threats to his master. Proud and independent, Gaelion refuses to bow to anyone, embodying a fierce sense of autonomy that defines much of his character arc. Over time, however, his motivations become more layered, revealing a depth that goes beyond simple allegiance.
As the series unfolds, viewers get to see a different side of Gaelion—one that suggests there’s more beneath the surface than brute strength and blind loyalty. While he starts off as an obstacle, his evolving role adds nuance to the narrative, making Gaelion much more than just another villain. In fact, his journey reflects themes of duty, honor, and personal conviction, which makes him all the more compelling.
From a personality standpoint, Gaelion seems to align closely with the ISTP type in the MBTI framework. ISTPs are often described as practical, analytical, and highly independent—traits that fit Gaelion like a glove. He doesn’t act on emotion alone; instead, he assesses situations carefully, relying on observation and logic before making moves. His calm, reserved demeanor further supports this idea. Gaelion rarely shows outward emotion, maintaining a stoic presence even in high-pressure moments. That quiet confidence and self-reliance? Classic ISTP behavior.
Then there’s the Enneagram angle. When you look at Gaelion through that lens, he strongly resembles Type 8—the Challenger. This type is defined by strength, protectiveness, and a strong internal moral compass. Gaelion embodies these qualities perfectly. He doesn’t back down from conflict, especially when those he cares about are at risk. His courage and willingness to face overwhelming odds head-on highlight his inner drive for justice and control. Of course, this same intensity can sometimes come across as domineering or confrontational, particularly when he perceives a threat. But that only reinforces his Type 8 tendencies—bold, fearless, and unapologetically direct.
All in all, Gaelion is far more than just a powerful dragon standing in the protagonist’s way. He’s a multifaceted character whose actions are rooted in loyalty, principle, and a personal code of honor. Whether you’re analyzing him through MBTI or Enneagram frameworks, one thing remains clear: Gaelion is a standout figure whose impact resonates throughout The Rising of the Shield Hero. And honestly, it’s hard to imagine the story without him. Every time Gaelion appears on screen, you can feel the weight of his presence—powerful, proud, and undeniably unforgettable.
I'll kill anyone who opposes me, even if it's the very throne of God itself.