Merlin Wolford presents as an elderly man distinguished by white hair and a long silver beard reaching past his neck, typically clad in a magician's robe. His younger self possessed short black hair and violet eyes, bearing a physical resemblance to his adoptive grandson, Shin. Emotionally expressive, Merlin frequently cries during sentimental moments and experiences depressive episodes when overlooked. He maintains a lax approach to discipline yet becomes fiercely protective upon sensing any political exploitation of Shin. Historical records depict a more violence-prone youth, where he resolved conflicts through force over negotiation, earning him epithets such as "Crimson Devil King" and "God of Destruction." He gained renown by subduing the first documented demon alongside Melinda Bowen, an act cementing their status as national heroes. The couple had a son named Train, who aspired to be a magic craftsman. Train's death during a demonic beast attack caused profound regret and led to Merlin and Melinda's divorce due to the emotional distress of remaining together. Years later, seeking shelter from rain in a forest, Merlin discovered the infant Shin amidst the wreckage of a demon-attacked carriage. After healing the child's injuries, he adopted Shin, naming him and raising him as his grandson. During Shin's upbringing, Merlin focused exclusively on imparting magical knowledge, neglecting basic life skills and social education. He taught advanced magical principles from infancy, expressing pride in Shin's rapid mastery of complex spells like "Vacuum Wave" at age eight and "Vibration Sword" at ten. When Shin demonstrated unprecedented capabilities against a demonized grizzly bear, Merlin dismissed Melinda and Michel's suspicions about Shin's otherworldly origin, affirming his unconditional acceptance of Shin as family based solely on their emotional bond. His relationship with Melinda evolved into an amicable dynamic post-divorce. They collaborated in Shin's education and occasionally lived together for his benefit, with Melinda frequently scolding Merlin for enabling Shin's ignorance of societal norms and reckless magical experimentation. Despite their history, they shared mutual concern for Shin's wellbeing. Following Shin's fifteenth birthday celebration, Merlin relocated with him to the capital on King Diseum von Earlshide's recommendation, accepting royal assurances against Shin's political exploitation. Diseum maintained cordial relations with Merlin dating back to when Merlin saved the kingdom from a demon. Merlin exhibits cognitive traits described as lacking common sense, potentially indicative of a mental disorder. His birthday is July 21.