English Dub Review: How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom “Contrary to Wishes”

Overview (Spoilers Below):

The Three Dukes meet to discuss what to do about King Souma. In Amidonia, Gaius receives word from Georg accepting his aid and prepares to invade Elfrieden over the objections of his finance minister…

Our Take:

Now we’re getting into the thick of it. Souma finally meets with the Three Dukes. He gives them an ultimatum about joining him. For being a conversation about possibly going to war with each other it was very respectful. Like the stipulation that if any of the leaders are killed or captured their forces would join the other side. I thought this was a really interesting take on warfare and it kind of gives the impression that no one wants to fight this war but I could be wrong.

A couple of new characters were introduced, Carla the daughter of Duke Vargas. I am pretty sure is voiced by Madeline Morris. After spending so much time listening to her in Otherside Picnic I am pretty sure. One of the characters in Amidonia is definitely voiced by David Matranga. So I think they will play a bigger part as we go into this next arc.

I thought Juna looked an awful lot like Duchess Excel and I think that’s cause they’re related. She was apparently sent to spy on Souma by Excel but I’m sorry their resemblance is just too much. They HAVE to be related in some way. But I guess it’s also harem time soon? The episode opens with Juna lulling Souma to sleep and essentially taking on some wifely duties that maybe Liscia can’t?

I’m not against it per se and they did establish how it would be normal for him to have multiple wives but just I don’t know… I prefer it to focus on him and Liscia but maybe that’s just me.

I am really excited to see where this arc goes. Souma has shown he is a genius when it comes to social reforms and things of that nature. But how will he fare during wartime? He idolizes Machiavelli so perhaps he will truly shine during this time of crisis. I am also intrigued about this subjugation that was mentioned. We will see in the next episode I suppose.