English Dub Review: Ragna Crimson “Determination and Readiness”

Overview (Spoilers Below):

The battle begins at sunset, but before they confront an uncertain fate, Starlia asks Ragna to listen to a heartfelt request.

Our Take:

The ultimate showdown draws near as Ragna and the Corps continue to prepare for their upcoming struggle against the dragon Monarchs. Of course, their final preparations mean another batch of exposition-heavy dialogue for us to endure. Fortunately, this would be the last episode to go in this direction before we get back to the dragon-slaying business in later episodes. Since the Monarchs are already destroying the human race, it serves the purpose of advancing the plot toward the confrontation.

One of those moments worth noting is the conversation between Ragna and Starlia. Starlia informed Ragna that she’d bargain for her civilians’ safety by joining the Solarian Church as a Dragon Scourge and requested Ragna to take her place if she perished in battle. Unsurprisingly, Ragna rejected her request by promising to protect her instead, leaving the princess flustered once more. At that point, we’re a bit tired of seeing Starlia become a nervous wreck whenever Ragna talks or even gets close to her. However, it’s hardly a bother if the execution continues to provide suitable results, mainly Ragna’s determination to protect those in need and Starlia’s reactions.

Beforehand, Crimson advised Ragna to avoid using his powers against Olto Zora and Taratectra, as that would attract the powerful Woltekamui. Instead, Ragna infuses his Silverine body into three of Starlia’s swords to avoid his potential demise from Woltekamui. The question now is whether it’ll work against the invading Taratectra. With Borgius volunteering to sacrifice himself to demolish his enemies, we can only hope it does, as the thrilling battle between the dragons and the Argentum Corps commences.  

I didn’t expect to be so engaged in Ragna Crimson, but it proved me otherwise. The series has done a great job with its animation and story, making its genre elements enticing with its violence and characters. Although there are a few issues with the show’s comedic moments, especially from Slime, the first half of the season is good enough to get me excited for the remaining episodes.

8