TV-Series
Description
Shiro Mahoroba, known by his roadname Billy the Shot, is a core member of the J9-II team in Galactic Gale Baxinger. His real name is Shiro Mahoroba, and he pilots a Cosmobike called the Reppun, which is one of the five machines that combine to form the super robot Baxinger. The character is directly inspired by Okita Souji, the famous captain of the Shinsengumi, the Japanese special police force from the late Tokugawa period whose story forms the foundation for the series.

Billy the Shot is portrayed as a young man with a calm and collected demeanor. He maintains a close, almost brotherly bond with his teammate Shuteken Radcliff and their leader Dan Condor, a relationship that mirrors the deep loyalty and family-like structure of the Shinsengumi officers who inspired them. As a member of J9-II, his primary motivation is to fight against the lawlessness plaguing the solar system under the banner of the Bakufu government, acting as a kind of space vigilante for justice.

A significant aspect of Billy the Shot's character arc involves a recurring illness. At one point in the series, this sickness worsens, causing him to lose his eyesight. Despite this severe setback, he adapts by honing his other senses to a remarkable degree. He learns to perceive his surroundings without sight, comparing his new awareness to that of a bat, which allows him to continue fighting effectively. His resilience is demonstrated when he participates in a duel with his comrade Shuteken and wins, proving that his combat abilities remain sharp even while blind.

During this challenging period, he shares a deeply emotional reunion with a woman named Lily. They confess their love for one another, and a song called Starlight Lullaby, which Billy describes as an old melody his older sister loved, plays during their time together. This romantic subplot adds a layer of personal vulnerability and emotional depth to his character beyond his role as a fighter.

In terms of abilities, Billy the Shot is a highly skilled rider and combatant. He is proficient with his Cosmobike, the Reppun, and his nickname likely speaks to his exceptional marksmanship. However, his most notable power is his unwavering spirit and the extraordinary sensory perception he develops to compensate for his blindness, which allows him to sense the presence and position of others without using his eyes. This ability makes him a formidable fighter even under severe physical limitation, highlighting his determination and adaptability as a member of the J9-II team.