English Dub Review: The Elusive Samurai “The Man Called Masashige Kusunoki”
Overview
Having grown closer over a game of dice, Mima invites Tokiyuki and his companions on a tour of Kyo. Even though they know she is the daughter of their enemy, the Elusive Warriors accept her kindness and spend a brief, youthful moment enjoying themselves as ordinary boys and girls. However, upon returning to the Saionji residence, Tokiyuki and the others are informed of a plan for an uprising.
Our Take
Picking up from the previous episode, Tokiyuki and his companions become involved in Yasuie’s dangerous plan to assassinate the Emperor. While preparing an escape route in case things go wrong, the group encounters Kusunoki Masashige, a legendary general whose mastery of evasion rivals Tokiyuki’s own. Recognizing their shared talents, Masashige offers Tokiyuki valuable advice on embracing his strengths rather than relying on conventional fighting methods.
One of the episode’s biggest highlights is the relationship between Tokiyuki and Masashige, who feel like kindred spirits despite serving opposing sides. Their interactions reinforce the idea that intelligence, patience, and knowing when to retreat can be far more effective than brute strength. The episode also strikes a great balance between humor and tension, from Mima teasing the girls about their feelings for Tokiyuki to the increasingly dangerous political schemes unfolding around them. Visually, the vibrant colors and fluid movements continue to give the anime a distinctive identity.
Overall, this is an excellent episode that combines strong character development, intriguing historical figures, and suspenseful storytelling. Masashige’s introduction is particularly memorable, and his interactions with Tokiyuki provide fascinating insight into our protagonist’s approach to survival. Meanwhile, the growing political tensions and increasingly dangerous proposals create a compelling sense of uncertainty about what lies ahead. With its engaging writing, striking animation, and well-paced buildup, the episode leaves a strong impression while setting the stage for an exciting continuation.
