Anime
The Faraway Paladin
Japan
Saihate No Paladin
Saihate No Paladin
The Faraway Paladin
Alex is a central figure in the anime series The Faraway Paladin (Saihate No Paladin), and his presence leaves a lasting impact on both the story and its protagonist, Will. As a skilled swordsman and deeply principled individual, Alex naturally takes on the role of a mentor and older brother to Will, guiding him through the trials of life, battle, and self-discovery. His journey is one marked by loss, faith, and an unyielding commitment to justice — all of which shape the man he becomes. In the Japanese version, Alex is voiced by Aoi Yuuki, while Brittany Lauda brings him to life in the English dub, each performance capturing his quiet strength and emotional depth.
To understand Alex, it’s important to look back at his past. Originally, Alex served as a paladin under the Holy Church, fighting alongside Will’s parents during a time of great conflict. Tragically, their comrades betrayed them, leading to the deaths of Will’s parents at the hands of evil forces. This devastating event shook Alex to his core, causing him to lose faith in the institution he once devoted himself to. Disillusioned but not broken, he left the church behind and chose a different path — that of a wandering warrior. Though no longer bound by formal religious duty, Alex never abandoned his moral compass. Instead, he forged his own way, protecting the innocent and standing up for what’s right, even when the odds were against him.
Throughout the series, Alex plays a pivotal role in Will’s growth. He doesn’t just teach him swordplay or combat tactics — though those are certainly part of it — but also imparts deeper lessons about honor, teamwork, and the power of forgiveness. There’s a quiet wisdom in Alex, one that comes from experience and suffering, and Will looks up to him not only as a protector but as a role model. Whether they’re facing dangerous enemies or uncovering long-buried secrets about Will’s family, Alex remains a steady presence, offering guidance and support when it’s needed most. Their bond is strong, built on mutual respect and care, and Alex consistently proves that he’ll stand by Will no matter how tough things get.
It’s clear that Alex is far more than just a supporting character — he’s a cornerstone of the narrative. His swordsmanship makes him a formidable ally, but it’s his integrity, resilience, and sense of duty that truly define him. Even with his complicated history involving the Holy Church, Alex continues to walk the path of righteousness, driven by personal conviction rather than dogma. That kind of inner strength is rare, and it’s one of the many reasons why fans find Alex so compelling.
When we examine Alex’s personality more closely, certain patterns begin to emerge. Based on his behavior and mindset, he seems to fit the ISTJ (Introverted-Sensing-Thinking-Judging) personality type quite well. ISTJs are known for being practical, logical, and highly responsible — traits that describe Alex perfectly. He approaches every challenge with careful planning and attention to detail, never acting recklessly. His decisions are grounded in reality, and he values structure, discipline, and consistency. Even in moments of crisis, Alex remains calm and collected, relying on his training and experience to see him through.
Moreover, Alex’s introverted nature aligns with the ISTJ profile. He isn’t one to speak unnecessarily or seek the spotlight; instead, he observes, listens, and acts only when it matters. But don’t mistake his silence for coldness — beneath the reserved exterior lies a deep sense of loyalty and empathy. He understands social dynamics well and respects hierarchy and tradition, especially when it comes to matters of faith and duty. It’s this blend of quiet determination and moral clarity that makes Alex such a reliable and admirable character.
Looking beyond MBTI, Alex also exhibits strong signs of being an Enneagram Type 1 — The Reformer. This type is defined by a powerful sense of ethics, a drive for improvement, and a desire to live a life of purpose and integrity. Alex embodies these qualities in nearly everything he does. He holds himself to incredibly high standards, constantly striving to become stronger, wiser, and more capable. Mistakes — whether his own or others’ — don’t go unnoticed, and his intolerance for laziness or injustice can sometimes make him seem strict or even harsh. Yet, this stems not from pride, but from a genuine belief that people should aim for their best.
His dedication to self-improvement is evident throughout the series. Alex actively seeks out new knowledge, trains diligently, and reflects on his actions, always asking whether he could have done better. While this pursuit of perfection occasionally leads to self-criticism or inner turmoil, it also fuels his compassion. Because he understands struggle so intimately, Alex is often quick to help others who are trying to do the right thing. He may not always show it openly, but his actions speak volumes.
In the end, Alex stands out as one of the most layered and inspiring characters in The Faraway Paladin. His journey from a disillusioned former paladin to a self-made guardian of justice resonates deeply with viewers. Through his relationship with Will, his unwavering principles, and his quiet heroism, Alex reminds us that true strength isn’t just about power — it’s about character. Whether you’re drawn to his tactical mind, his moral resolve, or his heartfelt mentorship, there’s no denying that Alex plays a vital role in shaping the heart and soul of the series. And honestly, it’s hard to imagine Will’s journey without him.