Merlin Wolford

Merlin Wolford is a legendary figure in the anime Wise Man's Grandchild (Kenja no Mago), known as the "Sage" or "Wise Man." He is the adoptive grandfather of the protagonist, Shin Wolford.

In his younger days, Merlin was a renowned hero of the Kingdom of Earlshide, celebrated for his unparalleled magical prowess—he famously defeated powerful threats like the first Demonoid (alongside his then-wife, Melinda Bowen), earning titles such as a national hero and one of the most powerful mages in the world. After those accomplishments, he chose to retire from public life and live quietly in a secluded forest home.

Years later, he discovers an orphaned baby (Shin, a reincarnated modern-day Japanese man) in the aftermath of a demon attack on a carriage and adopts him, raising Shin as his grandson. Merlin dedicates himself to teaching Shin advanced magic, combat skills, and everything he knows—often spoiling him with endless lessons and little in the way of discipline or common social/worldly knowledge.

In the anime's present, Merlin is portrayed as a kind, humble, and laid-back elderly man with a gentle, pleasant demeanor. He's a classic "cool old guy" archetype—extremely powerful yet modest, loving toward his grandson, and somewhat hands-off or clumsy in actual parenting. His past self was more intense and battle-oriented, but by the time of the main story, he's mellowed into a supportive, doting grandfather figure who still retains immense magical ability when needed.