English Dub Review: That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: “Prelude to the Disaster”

Overview: The city of Tempest finds itself under attack from not only the forces of Falmuth but that of Clayman’s (John Burgmeier) too as Shion (Michelle Rojas) deals with some unwelcome guests and Myulan’s (Colleen Clinkenbeard) true intentions are revealed.

Our Take: Conflict has begun in Tempest and “Prelude to the Disaster” gets  the ball rolling faster than I had anticipated on multiple fronts. This episode works to bring the various conflicts to the forefront as they make themselves known to Rirumu’s nation. 

First, there’s the egomaniacal musketeers, Shogo, Kirara and Kyoya, as they arrive in Tempest and begin to stir up trouble. They, seemingly, only exist to see who can one-up each other in being high and mighty as well as to royally piss you off. It will surely make for a gratifying asswhooping, which is by design of course. However, one would hope that the show doesn’t let this opportunity pass by and it makes the most of what more humans from the modern day transitioning into this fantasy realm. It could simply be from a character standpoint or even one that emcompasses the world, one that hasn’t focused on the reincarnation or worldhopping aspect too heavily. 

Also, one unexpected aspect is how this season doesn’t tediously draw out the reveal of Myulan being a traitor. This kind of plotline seems like it would’ve been built up a least a little. While I appreciate it’s swiftness, I did think it was abrupt too with how suddenly Myulan’s conversation with Grucius transitions.  

Lastly, Clayman has finally put Malim into play as she is at war with Eurazania. Having threats on all sides creates a lot of tension and taking into consideration Malim’s absolute beast mode level of power, that rings true even more so. We also leave off with Myulan successfully putting up a barrier that cancels out communications and Shion duking it out with Shogo. Episode 5 makes a lot of smart moves in making Tempest city feel like it’s up against the ropes with no Rimuru to be found or, at the very least, hailed, along with magic being nullified creating real danger for not only Shion, but also for Souei, Benimaru and others who rely on it. 

Overall, this episode is a good way to kick off the impending battles set into motion by the Kingdom of Falmuth and Clayman, setting up good tension and thrilling confrontations along the way.