Series & First Appearance
Veldora Tempest is a notable character in the anime and manga series That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (Japanese: Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken). He first appears in Volume 1, Chapter 1 of the light novel series written by FUSE and illustrated by Mitsuba Hirone. The anime adaptation debuted in Episode 1, which first aired in October 2018, produced by 8bit.
Profile at a Glance
Veldora Tempest is a High-Ranking Holy Magic Spirit of the Dragon-kin, often referred to as the Storm Dragon. Although his exact age is unknown, he is implied to be ancient by dragon standards. He serves as both a protagonist and a mentor figure within the story and is deeply connected to the main character, Rimuru Tempest, who gives him the name "Tempest." His signature abilities include Death Heralding Wind, Black Lightning, and Storm of Destruction, while his ultimate skill is Investigation King.
Personality & Motivations
Veldora is characterized by his boisterous and laid-back demeanor, which often contrasts with his immense power. He possesses a child-like enthusiasm for companionship and adventure but also carries a deep-seated desire for freedom, having been sealed away for centuries. His catchphrase, often exuding his self-confidence, is “I am the Storm Dragon, Veldora!” He also displays a whimsical side, particularly when expressing excitement over storytelling and new experiences with Rimuru.
Abilities / Powers
As the Storm Dragon, Veldora possesses incredible magical capabilities and combat prowess. His standout skills include:
- Death Heralding Wind: A powerful wind attack capable of obliterating enemies.
- Black Lightning: An offensive technique delivering devastating electrical damage.
- Storm of Destruction: A large-scale attack that can wipe out vast landscapes.
- Ultimate Skill – Investigation King: Allows him to gather intelligence and stretch his influence over different battlefields.
- Barrier and Spatial Transfer: Although these abilities have evolved from his original powers, they showcase his versatility and strategic capabilities in combat.
Veldora’s powers have shown significant growth since his introduction, adapting to combat situations and often allowing for clever team strategies with Rimuru. However, his abilities are somewhat limited under the terms of the agreement with Rimuru, who restricts his powers to prevent catastrophic consequences.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Veldora’s character arc begins when he meets Rimuru shortly after the latter’s reincarnation. Initially sealed behind a barrier for over 300 years, their encounter sparks a significant transformation in Veldora’s circumstances and mindset. When Rimuru frees him, this marks the beginning of Veldora’s quest for freedom and adventure.
His narrative develops further in the Tempest Country Arc, where he aids Rimuru in establishing the Jura Tempest Federation. Veldora’s involvement expands his understanding of friendship and loyalty, particularly evident during the Battle against the Holy Kingdom and the Walpurgis Banquet, where he showcases his ability to contribute to strategic plans.
Notable Relationships
- Rimuru Tempest: As the central figure in Veldora’s life, their bond serves as a critical element in the series. Rimuru’s naming of Veldora solidifies their connection as friends and allies.
- Shion and Shuna: Veldora forms a bond with Rimuru’s other followers, sharing camaraderie and developing a protective attitude towards them.
- Other Dragons: Veldora is the youngest brother among the four powerful Dragon-kin, creating a complex family dynamic explored throughout the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs during his introduction, where Veldora gleefully recounts how he was sealed and expresses his eagerness for freedom and adventure upon meeting Rimuru. His impactful lines often center around claiming his identity and power, such as, “I am the storm! I am Veldora!” This affirmation not only establishes his character but also sets the tone for his relationships and conflicts throughout the narrative.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Veldora Tempest is voiced by Takahiro Sakurai in the Japanese version and Ryan Bartley in the English dub. He is a popular character among fans, reflected in his ranking among the top characters in various popularity polls, with over 1,400 favorites listed. His design and character concept draw inspiration from traditional dragon archetypes but are infused with a distinctive personality that sets him apart in anime lore.
Overall, Veldora Tempest stands out as a complex character within That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, embodying themes of friendship, freedom, and the ongoing journey for self-discovery. His growth alongside Rimuru and impact on the narrative demonstrates not just his might as a dragon but as a pivotal supporting character in the series.
