Episode 08 – “Golden Lull”

Now this is what I like to see. Interesting plot development coupled with fantastic KyoAni animation makes for a satisfying watch. This week, we learn that the “lull,” or the “Calm” depending on which translation you watch, is a phenomenon in which youmu (or dreamshades apparently) are severely weakened. During this time, Spirit Warriors are allowed to pretty much run rampant with hunting youmu and a shitload of money. Seriously though, there’s way too much inconsistency with the different translations. But, I guess that’s what I get for watching from different sub groups every week.

When we say youmu, that also applies to our resident half-youmu Akihito, and since half-breeds are so rare, it’s difficult to predict what effects the lull will have on him. I’m still waiting for them to explain how Akihito’s parents hooked up. His mom’s hot, so I’m expecting likewise from his father. All I can say is that it must have been one interesting first date.

There also appears to be some inner turmoil amongst the Spirit Warrior Association. Sure, everything looks all fun and games with them engaging in a night raid against youmu, but Miroko Fujima thinks otherwise. I mean, he threatens the younger Nase siblings for information. Good thing they’re all too badass for him. Mitsuki’s squirrel thing is cool enough to slice up his steering wheel, but actually seems like an incredibly dangerous thing to do. Hiroomi also continues to impress with his magical scarf.

The elder Nase seems to be the talk of the town as well, appearing to be one of the stronger members of the Spirit Warrior association. Ayaka Shindou is not slouch herself, and we finally get to see what her youmu form looks like. Since Ai can transform into a cat, I guess it makes that Ayaka can also turn into an animal, in this case a fox. Despite being badass, Ayaka’s still subject to the lull and requires Izumi’s help against Miroko.

I think my favorite part of this episode is how Sakura’s already become an established member of the cast. She even ships Mirai with Akihito! Although, I think Mirai easily gets shipped with half the cast, but I digress. Now, it’s a race against to time to prevent Akihito from getting out of control in his youmu form. Can Mirai make it in time?

“I feel normal around him.” ~Mirai Kuriyama

B.W.