English Dub Review: Nippon Sangoku “Dragon Vs. Tiger”

Overview:

Nippon Sangoku recently dropped its latest episode, “Dragon Vs. Tiger,” in which one character in particular might have a big moment that could make or break the threat of war.

Our Take:

Things start out with Ohga Wajima speaking to the Seii army, calling upon them to conquer Yamato. Making preparations to claim it once and for all by targeting the Kanazaki Bridge, Yamato is planning their own response. However, Ryumon decides to take matters into his own hands and go to the bridge alone. The decision seems dangerous and doomed to failure, but others respect Ryumon’s plan.

Meanwhile, at Seii, Ryumon’s appearance has indeed caught Wajima and her forces off guard. Finding him alone, Wajima isn’t too suspicious, but she isn’t willing to take any chances. He is shot in the chest, but it becomes clear that he planned to set himself on fire. Throughout the series so far, viewers have been wondering what Ryumon has been up to, what with him seemingly being the only member of the generals’ class with any sense.

As rain pours down, Ryumon is left scorched, but he appears satisfied seeing his actions have at least caused Wajima’s confidence to crack. Of course, anime fans can expect some sacrifice to unfold within the cast as the threat of war looms. It is a theme fans have seen time and time again. Sailor Moon even ended its first season with a bunch of kamikaze attacks.

Meanwhile, as this is going on, Aoteru is seen on his way to meet the emperor. As Ryumon himself noted, his quick wit just might be what is needed to prevent conflict. Of course, an encounter between the childlike, put-upon emperor and the farmer with the mind of an ancient philosopher is something fans will surely want to see.

Overall, this episode makes a big impression on fans. The animation in this episode is really one to highlight, especially as it reaches Ryumon’s big moment. Throughout the season so far, viewers had to have picked up on what the story was going to do with him, even if fans didn’t want to see it delivered in such a way. In a sense, throughout these conflicts, he seemed to amicably bide his time in the shadows, waiting for his chance to intervene. Of course, it might be bad taste to say that this was his time to “shine,” considering what happens, but the sentiment is still there.