5:20 PM 3/8/2025
TOUKEN RANBU KAI KYODEN
E1 - A Recurring Dream
Ah, so this series will be about the Oda clan.
I guess the Dategumi will always rule the Hanamaru series instead.
I love how the different brothers are being shown together. Like the Kunihiro brothers here.
I like the look of this series so far. It's not predominantly battle, like Katsugeki. It's not all fluffy slice of life, like Hanamaru. Nice mix. Good animation quality. And that mix of fluffy and battle is what we love about the original videogame, I think. β¦That and the bishonen/ikemen. lol
Now this is interesting, because in the previous series, Hanamaru, Kashuu and Yamanbagiri were training against each other, but Kashuu was trying to catch up to Yamanbagiri. In this series, they're equal. Or maybe Kashuu has more skill because he was able to back up Yamanbagiri into wall AND sweep his ankles. But now Kashuu is saying Yamanbagiri manifested first. I thought at first this was saying it was like a continuation of Hanamaru, in some slight way. But I guess it's saying this is a completely different Citadel. The Saniwa (from what we can see of them) seems different, after all. And the Saniwa's attendant is Mikazuki instead of Heshikiri.
I love all of Tsurumaru's comments so far. "Let's have a free for all sparring match instead of 1 on 1!" "I wish I was drunk on amazake!" LOL Gawd, I love the Dategumi. ^-^
I'm surprised Yamanbagiri offered to join the tour. He's usually so focused on keeping to himself. But if he's taking over the actual guide role from Souza, that's really nice of him. He noticed Souza was uncomfortable about talking.
Ookurikara close up! ^u^ Dategumi!!!
I forgot how serious Hasebe can be.
Now I get why this series focuses on the Oda swords. They all have so much drama about their relationship to Oda. Some of them hate him, love him, or have accepted ambivalence.
The thing is that if Souza feels bad because he was sheltered as a symbol, more than used as a swordβ¦He can still fight right now. He's got a new master.
That's the interesting thing about all the Touken Danshi: Some of them are fixated on their original owners, even if they're bitter towards them. But some of them focus more on their new master, the Saniwa, and that keeps them going.
Soβ¦
Hasebe has moved on from Oda onto the Saniwa.
Souza hasn't moved on from Oda and is sad about it.
Fudou Yukimitsu hasn't moved on from Oda and is happy about it.
Yagen has moved on from Oda onto the Saniwa.
So I guess their character arcs will require the ones who haven't moved onto the Saniwa to move. And maybe for Hasebe to reexamine his bitterness towards Oda, even though he already has moved on.
It's interesting that Yamanbagiri is getting such focus again. He was commander of the "cooler squad" in Katsugei. And he's in a lot of Hanamaru. I didn't know he was so popular. I meanβ¦He got 2 Nendoroids and was in the butai stage playsβ¦And he's one of the 5 starter swordsβ¦ So I guess it makes sense. It's just so odd to me, because I'll always think of Kashuu as the first starter sword. Maybe that's just because I watched Hanamaru first. But wait. Wasn't he the first Touken Ranbu Nendoroid? Maybe that's why.
The end credits sequence is on stairs, like the butai stage show. lol
Also, this episode focused a lot on Souza, and I realized "Oh, this is how people see Viktor from Arcane's character design." There's a kind of elegance I've seen in the fanon around Viktor that I feel like matches part of Souza's canon aura.
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I finally watched the Dungeon Meshi episodes where Kabru meets Laios, and I don't think I agree with that video essayist.
A while ago, I watched a Dungeon Meshi video essay, discussing characters, despite me being very behind on the series, because social media keeps spoiling Dungeon Meshi for me anyway. Like, I was seeing Chimera-Falin on my Dashboard and timelines before I even knew that would happen to her. But thankfully, my usual immunity to spoilers has kept up. Ever since Madoka Magica proved a different experience for me, when I reached later episodes that I had not been already spoiled on, I had been worried that I was no longer indifferent to spoilers. But Dungeon Meshi has been spoiled to me, fairly frequently, and I still enjoy it.
That video essayist ABSOLUTELY HATED Kabru. I prefer to like characters. I have dropped several good series because of one or 2 characters that just irritated my dislike. So I was worried that listening to that video essayist's seething hatred of Kabru, would influence my first impressions of him and maybe even lead to be dropping Dungeon Meshi.
But strangely, I still don't sense anything really bad from Kabru. And a big reason, I think, is the reaction of his party members. Even when Kabru is killing someone, his party members just turn around, act unphased, and let him kill people. That tells me that they trust his judgement. That likely, they know Kabru to not be a threat to them, even if Kabru is killing someone else. That tells me that Kabru likely isn't some random, dangerous killer, but someone who rationally chooses to be dangerous only to those who deserve it, like actual threats. And it also speaks to how Kabru probably treats his comrades well. To not act horrified, they would either have to fully trust Kabru or just be sociopaths themselves. But what are the chances of getting together a group of sociopaths? (Sociopaths are too anti-social and would be too busy backstabbing each other anyway, right?)
I've seen some reactors frightened at Kabru simply talking about the common vital points of humanoids. And I don't understand why someone planning ahead of time, to defend themselves or fight in a dungeon, full of monsters, rivals, and possible murderers, would be a bad thing. I would expect someone, going into such a dangerous situation, to be thinking ahead of time, how to kill opponents. But apparently, some people/reactors think that anyone who thinks ahead of time how to dispatch enemies, makes them bad. There's nothing wrong with being a little cold-blooded. It's needed sometimes. Like when you explore a dangerous dungeon. And how is his lack of understanding how his demeanor could be considered scary to others, any different from Laios's lack of understanding of how strange he is to others? And people have been praising, up and down, Laios's lack of understanding how odd he is. I don't see why suddenly Kabru is considered "crossing a line", especially given their situation/environment. Some people get scared and make overly broad assumptions, just because a character isn't afraid to kill or has thought about killing. But killing can be done kindly, or dispensed with rational decision-making, or even be discerned to allow some justified, petty cruelty. Just casting a broad blanket of decisions on a character's morality, for simply engaging with death, seems odd to me.
I mean, the ease with which Kabru kills, analyzes, and manipulates people, might seem cold. But aren't a lot of his actions the type of proactive smarts that lots of people wish characters would have, instead of making stupid mistakes? Whenever there's an "idiot plot", it usually causes complaints about characters not noticing things, not analyzing, not deducing clues/foreshadowings, and not being more careful. People complain about characters hesitating or holding back when fighting. So why would people hate Kabru for doing those very things?
Well, that video essayist did explain that he just had a real life bad experience with manipulative, two-faced people, so he was biased against any character that reminded him of those false friends he had in real life. Even so, there are ways people act, which I've long not understood why it was frowned upon. I remember when I was younger, my sister and I discussing not understanding the disdain against being "two-faced". Why is it bad to have different demeanors when interacting with people that you have different relationships with? Some mannerisms aren't appropriate with other people, as they are with others. My sister and I both agreed that you wouldn't act the same way with parents as you would with friends, and you wouldn't act the same way with acquaintances as you would with close friends, etc. So what's wrong with tailoring your mannerisms to be appropriate for different relationship situations? Since then, I've often wondered if the American ideals about being constantly forthright just clash with our Asian(-American) ideals about appropriate mannerisms. So I don't understand disparaging Kabru for "holding his cards close" and being careful with Laios---who is mostly a stranger to him at the beginning, except that they suspect Laios's group has probably robbed them twice. If anything, Kabru has more reason to be smart by not telling Laios his true thoughts and carefully sculpting a non-threatening act.
Anyway, I'm glad that I'm able to disagree with that video essayist, proving that my perception of Kabru has not been influenced by his bias.
So far, I like Kabru. He's smart, in both his masks and fighting style. Also, I like cold-blooded killer archetypes without malice, that don't understand why killing efficiently is "strange". They're usually amusing. Or at least relatable, in their lack of understanding "normal human behavior/ideals". ...Though, I'm not quite sure yet if Kabru is exactly that archetype. But so far, I like what I see of him. I don't really sense anything bad.
Iβve been watching Knights & Magic from the beginning (finally ;p ) and I just want to post my reactions before I forget.Β So my fandom records can stay closer to chronological.Β Even if I donβt have time to polish this...I wouldnβt recommend reading this jumbled mess.Β ^.^;
6:20 PM 6/5/2018
Kights & Magic ep1
Kurata is Ernie, huh?
I don't like his co-workers talking shit about Kurata just because he has a whole room full of gunpla. Β
I really like that Addy and Kid are set up like Ernie's siblings. Β I'm so sick of the "girl is too tsundere to admit she has a crush on the protagonist for almost the entire series" thing. Β Plus, I love siblings and trios of friends. Β ^____^ Β
Ok. Β I'll admit it. Β I understand now why all the aniTubers I respect called this series trash. Β Thsi first episode is just a big exposition dump with nothing really important happening. Β I mean, "show, don't tell" is important, but...These parts of Ernie's background aren't interesting enough, emotionally to warrant taking the time to show. Β Maybe if some scenes were used in a flashback, during a later episode...This might work. Β But for now...Is any of this reason to get invested in Ernie as a main character? Β Are any of the scenes experiences that an audience would enjoy viariously feeling? Β Sadly, no. Β In fact, the only reason I'm sticking with this, the only reason any of these scenes are interesting to me at all, is because I've already watched the entire 2nd half of this series, and I grew to really like Ernie from there. Β (I guess that's why I like in medias res so much. Β ^^; ) Β This is just Mary Sue exposition dump...For an ENTIRE episode. Β O_O; Β
I still don't get why Addy and Kid don't like or act like they're afraid of thier stepsister. Β With all this exposition, you'd think they'd explain what type of person she is. Β I mean, maybe I'm out of the loop because I'm American, but what kind of presumedly treatment do they get for not being in the line of succession? Β And does their stepsister really take advantage of their lower class status? Β I have a feeling this is going to get demonstrated instead of explained.
"What's a robot?" Β "What every man dreams of!" Β I used think I like Ernie because of his overwhelmingly infectious, positive enthusiasm. Β But maybe another way of saying that is that I love that he's a geek. Β A completely unabashed, proud geek. Β ^-^ Β
I can't help it. Β I still really like this show. Β ^___^ Β It's like an action version of a "slice of life". Β Even Dog Days wasn't as tame and iyashikei-like as this. Β LOL Β Nothing really happens, nothing is traumatic, it's just the thing for people with anxiety problems. Β ^__^ Β
9:09 PM 6/5/2018
Knights and Magic ep2
As much as I love watching the protag being all confident and having fun... Β What just happened? Β It would have been nice if they explained why Ernie's attack would bring down the Behemoth, before he actually attacked. Β Then we could understand why what we're seeing is supposed to be cool. Β
LOL Β I love how everyone in this show is so seriousl about their circumstances, but Ernie (and Addie and Kid) are just non-chalantly having fun with everything. Β ^o^ Β
9:52 PM 6/5/2018
Woops. Β Crunchyroll started ep3 without me. Β I'll have to go back later and see if ep2 had something before or after its end credits. Β
"I'm making them because they don't exist! Β If they existed, I wouldn't need to make them." Β I know that feel. Β Actuallly, I think every crafter or artist does. Β ^^; Β
Well, Deitrich bounced back. Β Did something happen at the end of ep2 that I missed??? Β Wasn't he still moping in ep3? Β Well, it's good to see him feeling better. Β
I know that technically, nothing is really happening story-wise or drama-wise, but I really like all this technical design stuff. Β Testing designs, honing based on feedback, watching even a little success in an experiment, the way Ernie's brain is constantly working on the next step/design,...This is all my jam! Β ^u^ Β
This series is really just running past the emotional toll on the pilots. Β I wonder if it's on purpose, like a refutation of all the mecha series that have focused on pilot angst ever since Eva. Β LOL Β But I like it. Β I like the lighthearted tone, how everyone can just have a friendly fight and be friends again the next day,... Β Yeah, there's no drama. Β But I don't like drama. Β I like iyashikei and "slice of life", nothing emotionally draining or even close to a rollercoaster ride. Β This is what happens when you have anxiety. Β I'm just glad a series that I watch for _entertainment_ doesn't add to the drama already in my head. Β It's soothing. Β ^_^ Β
Helvi perked up when she heard Ernie say "The path of a Silhouette Knight isn't trod in one day!" Β Oh, I guess she was really putting everything into that sparring match, huh. Β Here, I was thinking in terms of a designer, like Ernie, who just saw it as a test with inevitable failings, just glad it didn't blow up, and very happy to see the new model get as far as it did. Β I was even impressed with Helvi modifying her tactics to accomodate the Telestale's lack of precision. Β But while a designer is going to just see this model's preformance as a stepping stone to the next experiment, Helvi probably put all her pride into it and took all the blame into herself, when she didn't get a clear victory. Β But really, I thought she did win, and it was clearly the experimental model's failing. Β But I guess this identifying with the preformance one's mecha is the type of thing that commonly happens in angsty mecha pilot anime. Β
I've been thinking about how a character design like Helvi's is reflective of a lot of Japanese "manly" characteristics. Β She shows a lot of skin, she wears her jacket with the top down, and she's not all modest and proper. Β Although there have been a lot of anime in the past who use their tomboys as an opportunity for fanservice costume designs, Helvi's design seems to much more focus on just making her seem like a tomboy by layering Japanese "masculine" costume designs on top of her. Β I really like that, because I grew up on the "harem anime" genre and by now, I'm tired of the boobs busting out and jiggling everywhere. Β
10:23 PM 6/5/2018
Wow. Β Ep4 started without a commercial break! Β O.o
Oh this show is so cute! Β I love how Ernie is so unbound to humanoid forms and this joke about him being frustrated that Addy came up with that non-human form solution to the mana capacity/output problem instead of him, when it's his speciality, is just funny. Β ^_^ Β I love silly sibling dynamics. Β ^__^ Β
I thought you just said "maybe we shouldn't fire this in town"?!? Β Why are you firing it again? Β LOL Β
"Creativity and challenging yourself are wonderful goals in and of themselves, don't you think?" Β Yes, Ernie! Β Yes they are! Β ;u; Β Who knew this show would have so many "creative motivation" lines? Β ^u^
"I need more Ernie in my life. Β I haven't hugged him in a week!" Β LOL Β I love how Addy says everything that people addicted to cute things are thinking. Β ^u^ Β She's like Taki Toru from Natsume Yuujinchou! Β ^o^ Β
I'm glad that there MIGHT be a reason Addy and Kid have to believe that their father isn't just using them to spy on Ernie and claim credit by association (in that the siblings believe if their father tells the king about Ernie's designs before the government's Lab finds out, then the King might protect Ernie from the Lab stealing his designs and maybe shutting him out of further development). Β But there's been this ominous tone the entire time and I'm just waiting for what horrible ulterior motive someone has, fighting over Ernie's designs---that aren't even done yet! Β Maybe the Bronze Fang spies were supposed to take on on the suspicious undertoines, but I'm still worried about all these Marquis and officials screwing Ernie over. Β If they shut Ernie out, just so they can get good standing with the King for claiming to come up with the designs themselves, I'm going to be very sad for Ernie being unable to complete development. Β There's nothing worse than leaving a project hanging before perfecting the final process. Β
LOL Β I love how Ernie just DEFLATES all the tension! Β This entire episode has been building up tension about Ernie getting screwed over by the Marquis, and Ernie just turns everything into cheerful skipping. Β LOL Β
That flashback to the Marquis realizing how similar Ernie's ambition was to the King, was really effective. Β ...But wait. Β I only know that was the young version of the King because I've seen the 2nd half of this series. Β Well, I guess a first-time watcher would just have to rely on the fact that the Marqui was suddenly backing off of trying to intimidate Ernie, to realize that person in the flashback was someone he respected from his memories. Β
That was really sweet how the Boss found a way for everyone to visit Ernie and take the edge off not getting to ride Ernie's new designs anymore. Β
11:07 PM 6/5/2018
ep5
I'm glad that village was saved. Β
The fact that I was really effected by the engineer dwarves getting killed by the spies, msut be a testament to how sensitive I am to need to avoid drama from a show with real ups and down. Β I mean, there was nothing special about the direction, and everyone getting killed wasn't given special attention by the camera to warrant being this effected by it. Β In fact, the camera was pretty distant and quick about the portrayal. Β But I think that because this series has spent all this time, getting me attached to the repair workers at the school, that it was easy to conflate them with the workers at the Marqui's fort. Β They were just doing their jobs! Β ;o;!!! Β
Damn. Β I just realized the Haimerwort is using a big hammer. Β That means his fighting style is imprecise and slow. Β He already lost the advantage that the old mechas had against the Telestales. Β ~_~; Β
Wow! Β The students have got this precise targetting and control over the new units, down! Β ^u^ Β
Is no one going to mention how Ernie just took his Silhouette Gear without being surprised it was even there? Β LOL Β
How many automatic functions just happened with Kid's Silhouette Gear and just so happened to save him just now?! Β LOL Β
Teh fact that Edgar lasted this long with the old model of mecha is pretty impressive. Β I forgot for a while that he was using the old model. Β
Well, looks like they used up their animation budget for fight scenes. Β ^^; Β This last battle is all stills and narration. Β But tying it back to the Demon Beast attack on Darie Village makes it seem like that was the whole reason that village attack happened. Β But it was also the reason the spies were able to get into the Marquis's fort. Β
I guess the demon beast attacks were foreshadowing for Frankholm and the Marqui to realize they were attacked by another country's spies, after they found the Cursed Bait. Β
I'm so glad this conversation after Edgar so seriously began say, "Helvi, there's something I have to tell you," turned out to not be anything romantic. Β ;u;! Β I'sm so done with that cliche! Β It's way more touching that Edgar was just trying to confess that the stolen mech was Helvi's personal mecha and he's promising to get her "partner" back. Β Yujo!!!!!! Β ;u;!!! Β
11:48 PM 6/5/2018
I guess I should stop and do my daily drawing challenge before midnight. Β ~.~ Β I guess. Β I guess I can use ep6 as incentive to get up early tomorrow. Β
2:48 AM 6/6/2018
Also, I forgot to mention that I really love that annoyed, exasperated look in Ernie's eyes when Addy or her step-sister hug and squee over him. Β LOL Β Me too, Ernesti. Β Me too. Β And by that, I mean it's really nice to see a male character for once simply be tired of the "girls fighting over him" cliche. Β This series feels more like it's also annoyed with this cliche. Β Lots of mecha anime are overtaken by harem genre cliches and romance polyhedrons. Β It makes me feel better about this series re-steering the focus of mecha anime, away from pilot angst and a motif to lay over a harem anime, and more towards just fanboying over mecha. Β ^.^ Β I just love that geeky attitude! Β ^o^ Β And hey man, not everything needs to be about romance. Β
I love this silly sibling dynamic between Ernie and Addy. Β Any other series, and it'd be a really annoying romantic relationship, either between tsundere(s) or "the indecisive harem guy who doesn't know how to handle the overly-forward girl". Β
It's funny seeing Marquis Kunt Dixguard suddenly not drawn like an antagonist now. Β
These are all some names I needed to remember: Β
Magus Engine
Ether Reactor
Knightsmiths
Bat
Uh...How about you not say aloud how you're going to backstab the protagonist, Chief?
I really like seeing these Knights who were portrayed so ominously before (but by association to the building ominous portrayal of the Marquis, plus the ominous storm to foreshadow the Bronze Fang's attack), just so easily on friendly terms with Ernie now. Β ^-^ Β I really like seeing everyone on good terms. Β ^___^ Β
I like how Bad, Kid, and the Boss are enthusiastic vs intimidated by the announcement of the mock battle with the Lab in 10 months. Β Like Ernie's enthusiasim is rubbing off on others. Β ^_^ Β It would be so easy for another anime to turn this into a conflict point, everyone arguing with Ernie about "how did you get us into this mess", being scared to fight the government lab's mechs. Β But this scene just keeps flowing. Β ^___^ Β
Yes! Β Increased speed mech! Β
Option Works
"That may make your dream come true, huh?" Β "Yeah. Β I can still only get glimpses of it...I couldn't reach it in my dreams, but this is reality, and I can grab it with my own hands." Β Ever since I realized this series peppers in so many relatable experiences of the creative process, it's become so interesting or even inspirational. Β There's a story I heard once about how the music a composer achieves will never be as perfect as the music they hear in their head. Β It's supposed to be a warning against perfectionism and taking the angst of the creative ambition too far. Β So it's really inspiring to hear Ernie say that he will achieve the creation he dreamed of, in reality. Β It's like that post going around Tumblr, encouraging artists to, when they feel down about their art, remember that they "created something out of nothing, LIKE A GOD!" Β ^o^ Β
Aw~ Β Edgar is so nice! I'm glad they didn't just leave the new students (or where they new graduates?) with the Boss's scary introduction. Β Edgar talks like an actual formal commander! Β O.o Β
Oh, new carefully designed character. Β New main character. Β Nora Frykberg. Β Oh, that's nice! Β She's special security so the school won't get the Order of the Silver Phoenix's designs leaked again. Β ^u^ Β Oh, so this is the Order of the Azure Hawk. Β Run by Marquis Duxgard, right? Β Convenient that she has blue hair. Β
Uh-oh. Β Addy's jealousy just went from "older sister/aunt who wants to squeeze your cheeks" to "jealous girlfirend" tropes. Β o~o; Β Thank goodness I've seen the rest of this series already, so I know I don't have to worry about this erring towards romantic tension BS. Β It'll stay towards the "older sister"/"I like cute things" vibe. Β ...But in retrospect, maybe the trope was just a quick way to get Addy into a Silhouette Knight, vs just sticking to the Silhouette Gears. Β ^^; Β That's fine. Β They kept the jealous romance tropes to a minimum. Β Now just focus on Addy piloting and Ernie's mecha experiments and I'll be happy. Β
Oh, Addy is just taking measurements and observing the test? Β I thought Ernie was asking her to pilot while he would take notes. Β ^o^; Β
LOL Β Ernie is the only one not phased by the Boss yelling at them for destroying that Kaldatoah. Β ^o^ Β He's probably still mentally rambling improvement ideas to himself. Β
Huh? Β "How long are you going to let a girl be covered in soot?" Β What? Β That's out of nowhere. Β But their clothes seem to imply this isn't just some obligatory fanservice scene. Β Otherwise, Addy would be wearing MUCH less than a dress-length shirt and there'd be a drawn-out scene of both of them just undressing. Β Even Helvi's top is the same as she always wears, so there's nothing to really draw the eye, after all these epsiodes of being accostomed to seeing that strapless corset on her everywhere. Β Wait...Don't tell me this is going to turn into one of those "girl talk" scenes where the older character prods the younger to vent out her romantic problems weighing down her thoughts. Β ~.~; Β Well, if they do go in that direction, I hope it's just Helvi re-affirming to Addy that she doesn't have to try so hard to be a "cool girl"; just be herself. Β They don't have to cover that Addy is trying to be a "cool girl" who can pilot a Silhouette Knight and fight in battle, because she got jealous of Nora and afraid that Ernie only likes "cool girls". Β If the conversation just sticks to Helvi encouraging Addy to accept herself as-is, then I'll be fine with this scene. Β And Helvi, being a "cool girl" is the perfect character type to talk to Addy about this. Β ^-^ Β
Thank you, Addy. Β She wanted to invite Ernie to bath with them. Β LOL Β "Ernie's not a guy! Β Ernie is Ernie!" Β Look at that expression on Helvi's face! Β LOL Β I love how Addy makes the possible "romance" undertones of this show a complete non-starter! Β ^o^! Β (I just want to say that as much as I love being a fujoshi and obsessing over my OTP being in romantic relationships, platonic relationships are still VERY important to me and I'm so glad to see more series, even one generally dismissed by the anime critic community, take the focus off romantic relationships. ;u;!!! ) Β
Oh that swivel on Addy's pilot seat is so cool! Β ^o^
Ooh! Β So excited for the testing duel! Β ^o^ Β Even though Ive seen it already from when I first strated this series! Β LOL Β
Wow. Β The pilots wear big armor inside their mechs. Β I forgot: It was like that at the fort raid too, huh? Β
They descreased teh STrand-Type Crystal-Tissue? Β o.O
Capacity Blame solves the "mana pool drain issues" AND improves defense?! Β *o*
Oh this is so cool! Β The quadraped reveal! Β ^o^ Β
The Marquis is sighing again because he knows how Ernie is now. Β LOL Β Was he the one who was telling Ernie that Silhouette Knights are supposed to resemble humans and Ernie just questioned that imemdiately? Β Maybe it was the Knightsmiths' Boss?
Omg, I'm so excited for this next epsiode---that I've already seen before! Β LOL Β
After seeing some series analysis about how Darling in the Franxx is just an allegory for sexual "coming of age" and how their pilot system is pretty much just positioning the female and male pilots the same was as "doggy style" sex, Addy and Kid's pilot positions being similar makes me kind of uncomfortable. Β But why should I let a completely different series ruin the one of few series I've finally found, devoid of sexual innuendo and fixation on romance? Β
10:52 AM 6/6/2018
ep7
10:54 AM 6/6/2018
Ok I have to get on with my day. Β I can't just marathon this anime and write reactions to every scene all day.
Though I will say that I'm so glad that not every character with sharp eyes or a stoic demeanor is proven to be anatagonistic in the end. Β When I first saw this series/episode, I thought for sure that the Director of the King's Lab would turn out to be a traitor becasue he was drawn with sharp eyes that usually indicate suspicious danger. Β But this series didn't go for that easy cliche. Β It's safe to have faith in people, in this series. Β ^-^ Β
It's funny how they kept the Lab Chief's eyes and general character design so cartoonish that it was unreadable. Β So I was totally able to buy that he was going to be an antagonist, but it also perfectly fit when he proved to be just another geek like Ernie, excited to talk with another geek. Β ^o^ Β
Everything ends all happy and fun. Β No grudges. Β No one hurt during the mock fight. Β No real battles barging in, to interrupt the sparring match. Β Etc., etc. cliches. Β When other people complain about overused tropes, I will often counter that cliches become cliches for a reason: they're effective. Β But I think this series, dropping cliches, exchanged it for something I value more or equally: Β the same safe, cheerful, soothing atmosphere as an iyashikei. Β I understand that for most people, the lack of drama and tension leaves a story boring. Β But I can't stand drama. I hate "Oscar bait" movies and TV drama shows. Β It often forces characters to be portrayed as artificially generating problems through jumping to misunderstandings and assuming the worst, vs SIMPLY communicating with each other (especially between characters that consider each other FRIENDS) and having faith in other people. Β I NEED A BREAK FROM THAT. Β DESPERATELY. Β So I don't care if people call this series trash, I'm loving every bit of it. Β ;u;!!! <3 <3 <3
I like that the quadraped Silhouett Knights switched to 1 pilot. Β The 2 pilot system seemed risky if it'll cut troop numbers in half.
I forgot that this was teh saem episode with the King retiring and the duel with Prince Emrys. Β That was also really fun too! Β
I'm pretty sure I wrote a reaction before about how I liked the King's motives in fighting over the Goldleo with Emrys. Β Where is that thing?
I like that the quadraped Silhouett Knights switched to 1 pilot. Β The 2 pilot system seemed risky if it'll cut troop numbers in half.
I forgot that this was teh saem episode with the King retiring and the duel with Prince Emrys. Β That was also really fun too! Β
12:00 PM 6/6/2018
ep8
Wait. I don't recognize this episode. Β o.o
Wait. Β The former King came to fight the shellcased horde too?! Β O.o Β I know retiring let's him have fun without worrying as much, but still! Β
It's nice to see Dietrich leading his own squad with confidence. Β ^_^ Β He's not burdened by that freak-out he had at his introduction anymore. Β ^_^
Every time I see Edgar fight, I'm surprised he's still using the same mech, but I guess I just got confused. Β His mech has been continually upgraded, it just doesn't have the back arms and they focused development on upgrading his shield instead. Β That shield has gotten more and more functions since the test sparring match vs the Lab. Β ^o^ Β
Weaponizing the mecha's transportation carriage is cool!
Oh yeah, I already forgot about that brain frying tactic Ernie used on teh Behemoth. Β
Ether Reaction construction method! Β *o*! Β I'm so happy for Ernie. Β ^_^
Alvs. Β
Changing Ones = humans.
"He doesn't give up that easily on his hobbies." Β I like that Ernie's geeky enthusiasm is on parr with the former King's fighting ambition. Β Like they're kindred. Β
The funny thing is that as "flat" as I keep admitting this series and its character dynamics to be, I really like everyone. Β I've been atched to them for a while now. I Β regret not buying that Nendoroid Ernesti! Β Everyone's personalities seem fundamentally rooted in Compassion, my favorite ideal. Β Even if Emrys or the former king could be misperceived as one of my most annoying pet peeves "confusing Power with Strength", they don't seem to make that fallacy. Β They love to fight with brute force and powerful mechas, but they seem more like the positive portrayals of continual Growth/ambition in Fighting Spirit, rather than jerks who confuse Power with Strength, by forgetting Compassion. There have been plenty of opportunities for them to be callous or Malicious, but they haven't. Β They've just been non-chalant, warm, and even encouraging others to share their ambition and confidence. Β I sense they're good guys, and they were most primed to be in positions of setting off one of my pet peeves. Β So I'm glad they and everyone is staying good, good people, and that's all I need from "good characters". Β
"...But we're lazy...For the first 100 years, we're like the Changing Ones. Β But then after 200-300 years we spend most of our time sleeping or in thought." Β Yup. Β That's immortality for you.
Can the Alvs Elder see Ernie's past life?
"Thinking is the most valuable thing for us. Β We simply saw the value in one another." Β Did the Elder see how Ernie's mind never stops thinking? Β
WAit. Β Ether Reactors are the heart of living things? Β Is that why they harvested that Behemoth heart? Β That reminded me of Escaflowne and I guess I just assumed they used it the same way, to power their mechs, but they never really talked about it, huh. Β
More terms:
Catalyst Crystals (heart of Ether Reactors)
So Ether Reactors turn air into Mana. Β And Catalyst Crystals turn mana into magic, but also sometimes ether into mana. Β
Ether Reactors are really sounding more and more like a living thing. Β But then when they start talking about dense scripts, it sounds like computer programming. Β ^.~ Β
Alvs and Demon Beasts have Catalyst Crystals inside them.
So are mined Catalyst Crystals from prehistoric Demon Beasts? Β ^o^
"Astonishing even the Alvs...In 3 months he learned all their secrets." Β I know we're not supposed to like OP Mary Sues...But I really like Ernie. Β The way we all know he's just going to be so cheerful and casual about all this new knowlege/power of his, that confidence in him to not see Power turn him into a prick, just makes him learning stuff feel like his enthusiasm over enjoying his obby is infectious instead. Β
I guess the Alv Elder can see Ernie's past life, after all. Β
Oh, that's so cool. Β Addy is using the flying spell with the gun rod that Ernie usually only uses. Β Does everyone use those gunrods now? Β
OMG YOU NEVER SEE THAT! Β I'M SO HAPPY! Β I'm so glad Nora saw that Addy was just jealous and insecure about staying close to Ernie, now that Nora was talking with him alone a lot, but instead of getting upset that "this kid is bothering her" or playing with her feelings, she saw Addy's underlying feelings and reassured her instead. Β She even trusted her with her secret as a spy! Β ;u; Β What a kind and mature person! Β ;U; Β I'm so glad this is turning out to be an anti-melodrama show! Β ;U; Β (I mean, I like melodrama in terms of overacting grandness can be fun, but I hate "drama" as in excessive relationship tensions.) Β
1:00 PM 6/6/2018
ep9
Western Grand Storm? Β "These lands all used to be ruled by 1 king! Let's go reclaim it!" Β Well, that's a pretty stupid reason to start a war. Β Maybe THE stupidest reason. Β ~___~;
Still sniffly at Eleonora saying goodbye to her father. Β
I know serious stuff is happening, but Ernesti turning battle into just a fun game is just...fun. Β
"Silver Phoenix Merchant Association". Β LOL Β
Well, this time watching this episode, now I know who the blue-haired maid spy is. Β ^_^ Β Who knew Nora had such a big setup before. Β Probably just to give Addy some depth. Β
"What are those horse things? Β Well, it doesn't matter. Β We're destory them." Β This Gustav Mardonnes guy is stupidly reckless. Β Oh, this is the guy who became like Dietrich's kind of nemesis.
I've never heard of this Mabus Animation Studio or Bigbowl before. Β
1:26 PM 6/6/2018
ep10
I really have to stop paying attention now , and owrk on artist alley stuff. Β
3:11 PM 6/6/2018
ep13 / Last ep.
Are they setting up a romance between Nora and D?
Did Kojass come from our world too? Β "Maximize" is an English word. Β
It's funny to hear Ernie now advocating for mechas to reflect human form. Β I guess Kojass's Wyvern is like an extreme of the "inhumanness" that Marquis was trying to ward Ernie('s designs) away from. Β Still, I don't see any reason to stay so human. Β And if this series was going to get symbolic about human form equating good human traits like being humane, then they didn't consistently set that up. Β
I like that this climactic battle is all a group effort. Β There is no one moment of victory where only the protagonist is the only proactive agent of every the victorious moment. Β
3:10 PM 4/6/2018
Just watched Knights and Magic ep7. Β I really like this show. Β
I feel kind of bad for feeling this way, when Mother's Basement said this series was bad. Β I mean, shouldn't I defer to an expert? Β And really, have I been watching enough anime lately to have any sense anymore? Β I mean, I just keep watching the same series over and over again, instead of exposing myself to anything new. Β And actually, I've been watching more YouTube than anime lately---these past FEW YEARS. Β
But I do like this series. Β Like, just this ep, episode 7: Sure, nothing really happened, and nothing dramatic happens too much in the characters' growth. Β Even the old engineer who was growling at the demo fight of Ernie's new mechas, who looked like he might be a bitter problem later, ended up just bonding with Ernie over their love of fanboying over mechas. Β Even the whole thing with the Prince and his Grandpa didn't change anything between them, or within them individually. Β Prince Emyrs didn't even know that his Grandpa had any special meaning to their duel. Β Only Ernie and his comrade got to see that, without Emrys knowing. Β It was more like a peek into their lives. Β And I think that's what I like about this series. Β It strikes me as a "slice of life". Β Even if big mechas are clashing and everyone's talking about monster attacks, and later in the series, there are attacks, death, and wars initiated by another nation who brings some intrigue, Ernie smothers it all with his unwavering positive enthusiasm. Β It's still a safe, "nothing really happens" series. Β
And I think that's why I've been avoiding anime lately. Β Every time I think, "I shoudl catch up on this series that everyone's talking about", I just can't commit to that kind of emmersion and focus, or I'm in too fragrile a mental/emotional state to deal with anything dramatic, even the slightest bit. Β
But this show, Knight's & Magic may be just the thing I need. Β It won't make me bawl my eyes out like Natsume Yuujinchou (my favorite series) or March Comes In Like a Lion (which I desperately need to catch up on). Β There aren't any bully characters that make me feel traumatized by spending time in their company, like Boku no Hero Academia. Β I'm continually baffled that I'm not watching any of KyoAni's recent series, when they've been like the "kind of slice of life" to me, for so many years. Β But I just can't get into Dragon Maid---And I'm tearing my hair out, trying to figure out why! Β ;o; Β I love dragons! Β I love slice of life! Β Androgynous heroine who dresses in more "masculine" clothing? Β My favorite! Β I used to read nothing but the "chicks in pants" subgenre of fantasy novels. Β
9:12 PM 11/11/2017
WAtching KNights and Magic for the first time. Β ep9. Β Getting flashbacks of Escaflowne. Β REmember when all these mecha battles were hand-drawn? Β And it was BEAUTIFUL! Β *o* Β Really surprised this isn't a Sunrise series. Β
9:32 PM 11/11/2017
Starting ep10. Β I like this Ernesti kid. Β He's just so perpetually enthusiastic about everything! ^u^ Β His expression never changes! Β His eyes are so bright, all the time! Β ^o^ Β I was just telling my brother that Ernesti must be so perpetually happy because everything in this world is about mechas. Β LOL Β "Bloody wars? Β Princess in peril?" Β "It's all good because we get to fight with mechs!" Β LOL Β Evne the opening theme is just so peppy, despite this war going on with already dramatic stakes established with kings fighting suicide duels just so his daughter can escape. Β
I want Kojass and Ernesti to be friends so much! Β Have geek-outs together! Β LOL Β The funny thing is that while Ernesti's complete dismissal of the seriousness of battle looks innocent and silly, because he's a mecha geek, on the bad guy side, that sort of detatchment from people's lives being taken, looks more sociopathic. Β Even though they have the same priorities! Β ...Though, I guess the difference in their geekiness, is that while Ernesti is happy to see people with more knowledge than him, so he can learn new ideas from them, from anyone, and from anywhere, Kojass gets defensive that his superiority is challenged. Β ^^; Β
This princess Eleonora is a little frustrating, but she's just so sweet, I can't quite feel annoyed about it. Β (Unlike my brother.) Β But I firmly believe that leaders who prioritize Compassion and value themselves last, are the best leaders. Β So I really think she has what it takes to be a benevolent leader, she just needs to learn more confidence and get some experience. Β I get a little frustrated with Archid/Kid not knowing enough to answer her questions with philosophical answers. Β Like, "What's the worth in rescuing her?" Β She's not the one who gets to decide what her worth is! Β As long as she's alive, her country's people still has a figurehead to rally behind and retain their identity. Β "Why are you being kind to someone like me?" she asked. Β Because who wouldn't want to be kind to anyone? Β Who wouldn't want someone who feels bad, to cheer up? Β But Kid doesn't seem intellectual enough to provide logical answers like that. Β But his genki type is good for cheering up people and being emotional. Β That's why when he got out of his armor to encourage the princess to accept her rescue, while my brother watching that scene was impatient that they were wasting time with guards on their way to stop the rescue, I said, "No, it's the right thing to do." Β He's a good kid. Β ^_^ Β Maybe it'll inadvertantly set up a romance between them, when she'll have to eventually have to marry someone else for political reasons or won't be allowed to marry a lower rank like knight, but for now, it's good for them. Β ^_^ Β
1:17 PM 5/17/2018
Just finished Knight's and Magic ep12.
I love this show. Β ^_^ Β It's just a bunch of fun. Β Even with the voices of aniTubers I respect, in my head telling me that the show sucks, I just have a good time. Β LOL Β When I first heard they thought it was a bad show, I asked myself why it was fun, and I realized that nothing really happens in this series. Β Episodes begin and end with characters in teh same state without much or any growth. Β It's essentially a "slice of life" with occaisional mecha battles. Β Nothing really serious happens, and I think that for people with anxiety like me, I just really love that. Β After all, for the past few years, I've been watching exclusively moe, "slice of life" series, and iyashikei. Β Why would I need a bunch of serious drama or heart-shattering moments in a series? Β That's the last stuff I need! Β Not when my anxiety has finally gotten to this point of agoraphobia! Β So I love this show. Β I love Ernstie's unflappable genki demeanor, I love how he cuts through whatever tone is going on around him, to just make the situation about having fun as an engineer playing with his mecha, and that even the final stakes of this show for our protagonist seem to be about his pride in his hobby...It's relaxing and fun. Β ^o^ Β
And considering that most of the "good" mecha series out there are metaphorical sexual "coming of age" stories", and I'm gray-asexual, it only makes sense that I'd rather watch Knights and Magic vs Darling in the Franxx. Β I mean, my favorite mecha show is Code Geass, for gods' sakes! Β Whatever sexual "coming of age" metaphores there are, are in the background. Β And most of the other generally acclaimed shows I like, that are about sexual "coming of age", I only tolerate because they shift towards a conversation about gender more than sexuality. Β Like Utena; as sensual as that show is, and as much as it goes on about hetero relationships and lesbian relationships kind of standing-in for hetero dynamic conventios (until near the end of teh series), it spends a lot more time talking about gender. Β Ranma 1/2, Maze, etc...are gender series, some with mecha, but not so much about dating, heterosexual negotiations, and awkward learning about sex, but about what it means to be a certain gender and questioning definitions of gender. Β
1:22 PM 5/17/2018
I need to get back to work in 10 minutes, but I'll watch a little bit of ep13.
1:32 PM 5/17/2018
As soon as they made that hard turn to port, after ramming speed, I exclaimed "HUH?!?" Β Because who chases after and OBVIOUS feint/decoy tactic?!?! Β Seriously?! Β (Besides Sanada Yukimura, okay.)
And I can't beleive the enemy is using the Blood Grail already. Β Pushed to the corner that early? Β C'mon. Β If you can't fight with what you've already got, then throwing aroudn a big weapon that you've already been warned is a "double-edged sword", is gonna blow up in your face. Β Or at least going to prove a weak spot, when your crutch gets taken out. Β That's why Ryu Maho always trained to fight without a weapon, despite being a natural genious with a sword. Β This is why I always played 2D fighting games with basic moves vs relying on special attacks. Β
1:08 PM 6/7/2018
Knights and Magic ep7 re-watch
Listen. Β I realize they want Prince Emrys's introduction to be intriguing, but putting that shadow on just his face, when he's in the full sunlight, away from anything that could create shade, is just weird. Β The audience already doesn't know who he is, that's mystery enough. Β Might as well just show is full face and let the auidence think "Who is that? Β I don't recognize him." Β
------------------
last eps re-watch
What I really like about finally watching this series from the beginning, is that when I get back around to the end, seeing these students suddenly now leading units with the new equipment designs, lets us see their evolution. Β But whereas most series focus on the characters' dramatic evolutions, in the final eps of this series, I can just look across the squad of new designs, now into production models, and see how that reflects how far these characters have come. Β I realize that that may be indirect drama for most people, but it's really effective for me, even emotionally. When I look at these mecha, I remember what they started as, the initial designs, how they slowly improved, better and better, then eventually became finalized versions which were good enough to be put into production models...It's just a long swath of history and indiviudal evolution in each design. Β I know that's how most people think about characters in a series, but I really feel that way, just looking at these mecha, since the series focused more on their design evolution and progression, more than the characters' drama. Β I think maybe this shift in focus towards emotional attachment to the mechas' progress/evolution was effective for me, becasue I think in terms like Ernie, focused on design and creative projects, knowing how much goes into each reiteration and what an epiphany each new design is. And similary, I focus less on social interactions. Β I am thoroughly engrossed in all these exposition dumps of Ernie explaining his designs and whatever new limmitations he's trying to think around. Β I love weighing all the options and problem solving along with him. Β I just really feel in sync with this series more than most other mecha drama. Β (Which is why I've avoided Darling in the Franxx. Β As much praise as that's getting, I suspect it's just not my thing.) Β
1:27 PM 6/7/2018
ep7 rewatch
Addy and Kid do have gunrods. Β And they're swords too! Β O.O Β Really, why are all the other wizards even using magic wands/staffs? Β Ernie's gunrod idea is a multifunctional tool now! Β *o*
1:41 PM 6/7/2018
It's funny when I think now of when I first watched this series, starting in the middle, I asked my brother who was crushing on who, who was jealous, etc. Β Because almost all series, especially big casts of mecha pilots are always about who is crushing on who. Β Doesn't mean I like series like that. Β In fact, I hate it. Β But if I'm going to sit in front of the TV while my brother continues a series he's watching, I might as well know what's gong on. Β I can at least brace myself for when characters act jealous or act weird instead of just working together in the midddle of a battle maneuver. Β I don't like it, but I can at least brace myself against it. Β I'm even more glad now, discovering that this series isn't about interpersonal drama at all.Β Β
I'm getting into BNHA, after having given it 3 or 4 chances before and ending up dropping it each time. Who knew, all I had to do was skip around? But also, there's something different in my brain, that I'm not as bothered anymore by the characters that used to enrage me so much, that I dropped BNHA those previous times.
5:18 PM 7/21/2026
Finally watching Witch Hat Atelier season 1 ep13 (final ep of the season).
5:21 PM 7/21/2026
That's right. If Agott is still using the Sylph shoes that Coco redrew, then Agott must like them. Yay!
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Coco blushing about it only encourages the Owl House parallels, after hearing Shirahama is a fan of Owl House. lol I barely know anything about Owl House, but I do know the protagonist did eventually start dating her intially-confrontational rival.
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Have to note the adorable brushbuddy on Qifrey's shoulders. "Your specialty is straight lines."
5:25 PM 7/21/2026
My HDMI cable keeps flickering out and disconnecting. 5:26 PM 7/21/2026
Riche: "Grr."
LOL
5:27 PM 7/21/2026
Oh! I like that Euini came up with a solution, way to hide so suddenly!
5:30 PM 7/21/2026
Richeh smoke bombs and then sticks her tongue out at the Brimmed Cap?! LOL
5:31 PM 7/21/2026
I thought they were going to slip and slide, but they're doing a tobagan! ^o^
5:32 PM 7/21/2026
Lots of slowed time for Richeh realizing she doesn't know enough spells, and Euini loaning her his notepad of spells. (I forgot what their notepads are called.) But it's an appropriate weight to the moment.
5:35 PM 7/21/2026
It was a good gambit, Agott. But none of us counted on the Brimmed Caps regarding the Pointed Caps as liars. But I guess that's the foundation of their society, or at least, the Day of the Pact.
5:37 PM 7/21/2026
I didn't expect the Brimmed Cap to try this long, trying to sell the apprentices on their philosophies. But at least it makes it clear what their motivations and beliefs are. They really believe the world would be better if people weren't restricted in magic. I can see how that could come from an altruistic core/root. That makes them less scary. I'm not that afraid the apprentices will get murdered.
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Starting to sound like some transhumanism too.
5:39 PM 7/21/2026
Wait. "Hasten that moment's arrival"? Are the Brimmed Caps aiming to undo the memory erasure from the Day Of The Pact? is that what they're trying to do?
5:40 PM 7/21/2026
Uh-oh. "Sacrifices must be made"? Now I'm afraid for the apprentices again.
5:42 PM 7/21/2026
Listen. I find it impressive with how inventive and quick everyone thinks up innovative spells as solutions to their problems. But then they're immediately countered, and it's a little...unsatisfying? Maybe I'm just scared for the kids.
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It was really cool how Richeh and Euini destroyed the path beneath the Brimmed Cap though. But Agott's right: that Brimmed Cap has been flying around all this time.
5:47 PM 7/21/2026
I'm worried about Euini saying all these things to himself out loud. Because it sounds like the Brimmed Cap is recruiting. And if they offer him what he wants, proving he's not hopeless within the constraints that his master made him believe he was restricted to...
5:50 PM 7/21/2026
and then he gets snagged by the Brimmed Cap. But instead of recruiting, they just agreed with Euini about doing different magics...and now they're going to attack him. Great. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuuuuhhhhhhhhh! Someone save these poor kids!
5:53 PM 7/21/2026
The worst part about this is that even if the kids get saved, this isn't like other magic worlds where they just take Euini to their own healers to undo the lycan spell. Because the Pointed Caps don't believe in using magic on humans, the will just refuse to heal him.
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Is this the thing the Brimmed Cap was talking about, to force Coco to use their magic to help a friend?
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Damnit. He just wanted to pass his test. And he was finally doing better than his previous 2 tries.
5:56 PM 7/21/2026
The Brimmed Cap just cast a spell without fully knowing what it'd do?????????????????
5:58 PM 7/21/2026
Jeeze. I knew this whole experience was supposed to teach Richeh past her limitation of refusing to learn others' spells. But damn. This is really written to hurt.
5:59 PM 7/21/2026
I've watched spoilers of this brushbuddy scene soooooooooooo much.
6:01 PM 7/21/2026
I think you should check teh back of Qifrey's neck ore than his broken glasses. Even if some glass got into his face. Check where his spine might've gotten injured.
6:02 PM 7/21/2026
I thought the people turned into gold, became unthinking statues?????
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I love how magical this whole story is. It's so new, compared to most fantasy tropes I'm used to. Kind of like when I was little and watched The Neverending Story. It's not a ripoff of LOTR. It's not just standard, dragons, wizards, and knights. There's just a lot of unexpected fantastical stuff here. Kind of like Pan's Labyrinth.
6:05 PM 7/21/2026
Really unusual to have such ominous horns repeating in the background music, while Qifrey is trying to be so encouraging towards Coco. Hm.....
6:07 PM 7/21/2026
I guess we'll see during next season. ...Unless I splurge on the manga. Which I don't have money for. aaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh...
6:08 PM 7/21/2026
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH AND THAT'S ALL THE WITCH HAT ATELIER ANIME FOR THIS SEASON! ;O;!!!!!!!!!!!!!
6:09 PM 7/21/2026
https://tongari-anime.com/en/character/
So the first Brimmed Cap that sold the spellbook to Coco is Iguin. And the one being fought on the Romonon road is Sasaran.
6:11 PM 7/21/2026
Time to watch reactions to ep13, now that I finally can.
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"If she learns everythingβ¦How is she any different from us?"
Yup, yup. Agott sure grew up with a lot of elitism, burned into her mindset, huh? I thought it would just make her feel inferior, but I guess it explains her looking down on "Outsiders". I guess that implies the adults around her kept saying something like "only magic users have worth". I mean, I already knew that from spoilers, but seeing her mind shift towards empathy towards Coco, instead of being mean to her all the time, makes me believe she could start to be nicer from this scene onward. So now I'm staring to not dislike her.
8:49 PM 6/15/2026
COCO: "There aren't that many spell I'm fully confident in. I'll probably end up falling back on the same seals."
QIFREY: "If you ask me⦠spells you can complete consistently and drawing without much effort are what I'd call your specialty."
This especially hits me, after learning that the mangaka got the idea for this magic system because she realized how dazzled people are by drawing, treating it like magic.
I like this idea that Qifrey just said, because very often in the online art community, we'll talk about "going outside your comfort zone" and "you'll never improve if you only draw the things you're good at", etc. Which is difficult for me, because I need to draw the things that I can already draw well, for the self esteem boost, for the motivation to keep practicing. But when I try to go outside my comfort zone and train on my weaknesses, I not only get so discouraged from the results, but also from knowing I worked so long and hard, and still got ugly results. It's very disheartening. So I like this idea that it's okay to draw what you already can. Maybe I'll stretch beyond my boundaries little by little, but in the meantime, I like the validation that it's okay to draw what I can draw well. It's just "my specialty".
8:59 PM 6/15/2026
Seeing Coco compliment Riche's crystal ribbons, after a scene where Coco was gushing over spells and Riche was saying Coco really needed to expand her vocabulary for compliments, and remembering how Coco won over Olruggio by complimenting him excessively too... It's made me realize that Coco's character embodies how the mangaka described people enchanted by the skill of drawing. So that's why Coco is so gushy. That is exactly how people who can't draw gush over artworks/artists, from what I've seen.
9:04 PM 6/15/2026
Earlier, I saw a clip spoil the Snugstones, and I don't remember Olruggio calling them a "placebo". I know he used a dismissive word, and my first thought was that Snugstones cannot be unimportant! You could use them in arctic environments and harsh winters! IT COULD SAVE PEOPLE FROM HYPOTHERMIA. He should sell them to hospitals! It will save lives!!!
This reminds me⦠I never studied for the SAT tests. I always thought of SATs as gauges for whatever my current level of knowledge was. It wouldn't be accurate if I studied right beforehand. (Though the very last SAT I took, was so far from my early math classes, that I did review a few equations, for a few minutes, before that last SAT I ever took.) It was only much later that I found out people put so much pressure on themselves to get high scores on the SATs, so that colleges would accept them. I had no idea that was what was at stake. But it turned out ok for me. I still don't know how the SAT scores work or what is considered a "high score". But apparently, mine were so high that I got 2 scholarships, going into college. You don't always need to study for tests. Sometimes, they're just to inform you of what level you're at, and where to train from there.
9:08 PM 6/15/2026
"Everyone always feels like they haven't prepared enough. Just approach it as the person you are now. That will serve the person you'll be the next time."
9:29 PM 6/15/2026
I really like this idea of helping the myrphons migrate, to take responsibility for past witches ruining their migration route in the first place. It's like wildnerness corridor bridges. What are they called? ...Wildlife crossings. I've always thought those were so cool.
So the Romonon society's themes are gold, avarice, elitism, isolationism, and stagnancy. Makes sense. Exactly the things to test Agott's elitism and Riche's "stagnancy" (from refusing to look at other spells). Maybe Euini is there to contrast them? Or bring their flaws to the surface, during the test? Not on purpose; I mean his function as a character plotted out by an author.
9:34 PM 6/15/2026
ep12
But I understand Riche's perspective of not wanting to do the "one right answer, prescribed by others". If you're always being told what to do, and you're only allowed to do selective few things, that's also a form of Stagnancy. It chases away innovation and individuality. Treating the world, as having "only one right answer" will do that.
9:43 PM 6/15/2026
"Always sticking to what's 'right; is what I don't want to do."
I got the sense from Riche, during earlier episodes' dialogue from her, that she was treated as an object, more than a child. It reinforced well, Qifrey's insistence vs the Knights Morales to respect his apprentices as beings. And now, in this episode, Qifrey taking insult that the children are just problems to the other teacher/Master. Then last episode layered atop previous episodes, made it seem like Riche was treated as a function or tool, for what she could do.
So I completely understand and support Riche. I've seen too many people act horribly by treating art as having only "one right answer", when that's not the point of art. Its closed-minded, Stagnant, etc.
But also, Riche needs to confront her own versions of Stagnancy, so I see how this test would challenge her and be good for her character arc.
"I don't want to throw out who I am."
9:50 PM 6/15/2026
There we go. "Proper". The worst word sometimes. As a woman, I've heard that often used when gender gets "policed". It really narrows down what you're allowed to be. And it stamps out your individuality and your validity as a person, And then Richeh's old master took away her personal spells while telling her to stick to only what he thought was "Proper". Ugh. I get it.
10:02 PM 6/15/2026
9:55 PM 6/15/2026
Aw. And now Agott has to learn to deal with the myrphon not simply doing the "one proper path" that Agott wants it to do. So thematically relevant.
It's interesting to think about these idea in terms of art too, like the mangaka's original inspiration for this magic system. Art really is about not sticking to only one way to do things. There really is no "right answers". Once in drawing class, my professor asked me, "Where are you getting this idea that there's a specific(?) way to do things?" Even if I never ended up very good at art, I'm glad I got my degree in it, because studying it really helped me think outside of boxes that I didn't realize I was in. I wasn't about to let her know that my unconsciously narrow way of thinking probably came from me originally being from the Science college. LOL All my life: Science, science, science! But I didn't really learn to think until I came to the Art college.
"There is no 'right answer' with magic. There's no rule saying it has to be some way. β¦You may have taken this test before, but I wish you'd stop blathering on about 'right answers' and telling us what to do before we even try."
It's an interesting subversion for the character telling them what to do, to be so timid, that we don't notice how his words are dictating a prescribed, singular way they "should" do things.
I respect what Richeh has been standing up for all this time, but the problem with refusing to look at other people's spells is that you then can't "stand on the shoulders of giants". A lot of advancement in culture/society, comes from building atop what came before. Otherwise, people waste a lot of time, RE-discovering things, and thinking they were the first ones to ever think of it. When they could have read old books, found the idea that resonated with them, then taken it steps further than the original author or previous conceiver ever dreamed of.
10:07 PM 6/15/2026
"I want to be myself. I don't want to become a witch who isn't me. So I'll reach the endo f this road using only my own spells."
I mean, it's possible to re-discover things "from first principles", get down to the root, foundational truths, and then shoot off into a whole new direction that previous people have never thought of before. So there is some merit in not blindly following/studying knowledge that has come before.
But studying previous knowledge is ALSO not meritless. It's good to try a little of both. But the problem with Richeh is that she's not tempering her pure, solo innovation with previous knowledge, at all. How much knowledge was lost from the Roman Empire, during the Medieval period, that had to be rediscovered during the Renaissance? But also, how much new thinking was allowed to come into existence, because they were not bound by adherence to the Roman Empire's knowledge?
Again, it's so unexpected, but fits so well, that all this dogmatic recitation comes from an unconfident, broken character. They're unexpectedly such a good representative for the rigid thinking of traditionalists. Euini is afraid. That's why he's saying all this. But he is inadvertently becoming the mouthpiece for dogmatic tradition, because his self confidence has been beaten out of his spirit.
10:17 PM 6/15/2026
"That's just not how the world works. And this is a test, so it has 'right answers'. We're apprentices, and inexperienced, and children, so we have to do it by the book... If I don't, I'll fail again. That's just how a test---"
10:20 PM 6/15/2026
Did I ever mention how my printmaking teacher came up with a new way to make intaglio relief prints without waiting days for multiple layers of resin/shellac to dry? She used the foil from packing her sandwich. She said to us, if it works, it works. lol And it did. And it's what she taught us, instead of that inefficient, but traditional shellac method.
EUINI: "But if you use a spell that hasn't been tested, it could failβ¦"
RICHEH: "If I do it so it'll work, it'll work!"
10:22 PM 6/15/2026
AGOTT: "Learn form your failures, and it becomes knowledge. Knowledge that fuels future success."
I was about to say, who knew Agott would say the moderating statement during their arguing. But she's repeating what Qifrey told her. Again, previous people's knowledge can be useful at times. Just don't blindly and strictly follow.
10:28 PM 6/15/2026
10:24 PM 6/15/2026
But at the same time, Richeh and Agott are exactly who Euini needs to learn from. It's a good combination of characters.
RICHEH: "If there's something you can't do, change the method to something you can."
10:34 PM 6/15/2026
10:30 PM 6/15/2026
Oh wow. Agott giving the fact-based, undeniable encouragement, O.O! But given her previous episode's scene, where her mentality shifted to try to accept Coco, it's easier to accept it as encouragement, despite her yelling and angry tone. Now I see that earlier scene, shifting her mentality, was setting up the audience perception of her too.
"You said you want to be yourself⦠but I wish I could stop being me."
Psychosomatic effects from anxiety are so relatable. I literally was reminded just this morning about my post talking about how the body's reflexive anxiety symptoms could explain the difference between Soma's timid Catherine from the logs, vs the confident Catherine that travels with Simon. When the body is separated from the mind, sometimes it's easier to leave behind the physiological reflexes that reinforce anxiety. So relatable.
I liked how Richeh just kept coming up with alternative options, whenever Euini said he couldn't do something.
10:39 PM 6/15/2026
Wait. It'd be funny if the Brimmed Caps wore masks because they also needed to not have people look at them while they draw spells. Like Euini right now. lol
10:42 PM 6/15/2026
EUINI: "No one's disgusted or laughing, or making fun of me. No one but me."
;U;!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I feel like this is something I should remember the next time I need encouragement.
EUINI: "Make it something you can do, and you can do it."
There's that theme from earlier again. I guess I missed a theme when I was listing them before.
10:48 PM 6/15/2026
10:45 PM 6/15/2026
"I get it. The only one casting a curse to sabotage me... was just myself in the mirror."
"Being hidden means being alone. Now I can concentrate and not worry about people looking at me."
10:50 PM 6/15/2026
I keep transcribing so many quotes, because it's all very relatable and encouraging for someone with anxiety and low self worth, like me.
I like how Richeh teaching Euini this, validates to her as well, that her philosophy isn't wrong.
EUINI: "I-It's a little embarrassing to do it this way, but I think⦠this might be who I am."
RICHEH: "You don't want to not be yourself anymore?"
EUINI: "Yeah. A little less, anyway."
RICHEH: "Next time, don't just say you can't do it right away. You're not worthless at all."
Ah, Darkness, my oldest friend.
I like how I'm so wrapped up in relating to the internal struggles of the characters, that I have virtually nothing to say about Alaira getting kidnapped by a freaking Brimmed Cap. lol
Maybe it was my imagination, but the direction in this episode felt a little slow. But still, they were focusing in on Tartah's struggles, though mostly external, the pain was shown to be mostly internal, and I can understand a more introspective tone for that.
I'm so glad the spell that returned powders to their original whole forms was just temporary. I was just imagining the doctors who had spent the time, drying and grinding ingredients into powders, needing to do it all over again. Actually, I was already worried when Tartah removed the water from the medicines. Medicine is just as much about proportions as ingredients. Some ingredients will have specific proportions of water mixed with them, to control dosage or enable consumption. The doctors will have to do that all over again too. lol
Actually, what I really thought Coco would say to cheer Tartah up, was that she didn't need him to do magic or find medicine for her, but that she just needed him to sit with her. The earlier scene set up that she was just afraid to be alone in the clinic/hospital. So I thought Tartah just sitting with her would be enough. And there were enough beds in the hospital for him to sleep over, which would have solve his problem of missing the ferry. So I was a little surprised that they ended up continuing to search for the correct medicine together. But though it complicated the situation, I will say, it's what made the story. It's what revealed more backstory for Tartah, enabled Coco to experiment and learn more about magic, and gave Tartah a breakthrough realization for his character arc.
What I really hate, is that I've been so conditioned by media, to expect a romantic subplot. I kept looking at Tartah and Coco getting closer and wondering when the direction was going to shift to the usual cues to imply they were developing a romantic crush. And yes, I know they're just kids. That's one reason why I hate so much that that was my reflexive reaction. The other reasons are knowing that this reflexive expectation has been conditioned into me, and that I am naturally aroace! I hate that I have grown so accustomed to romantic cues being shoved into everything, even stories involving children, that I would expect the development of a childhood crush, so many times during this episode. Ugh. But that's my problem with me, not with the show. The show did great, keeping things platonic. And it's such a relief.
I realized that Coco still never got a custom pen, just for her. And she needs a custom pen, more than other witches, since her drawing muscles were developed for holding pigment stones. So I'm glad that Tartah promised to make a custom pen for her. But does he know about her weird drawing style, enough to make the type of custom pen she needs?
Also, another thing about Coco's drawing style: I can't help but wonder, throughout the series so far, if her insufficiency in drawing with a regular pen on small sheets of paper, have been continually portrayed as her weakness, so that later, it will feel satisfying when her natural, odd way of drawing (for magic circles), that she learned from marking fabric, will be revealed as superior. It's the exact type of story structure I've come to expect from anime/manga. It is very effective, after all. And it's been foreshadowed by her passing her first test by relying more on her fabric drawing techniques, than the dip pen and paper techniques that are more typical of witches. Plus, it's been explained once that a spell is more powerful when it's drawn at a larger scale. And Coco just so happens to have practiced and feel more natural at drawing techniques more suited to drawing on large bolts of fabric. It's always made me suspicious that so often, characters will criticize Coco's ability to draw, when as an artist myself, I know that drawing big, maintining smooth lines at large scale, is much more difficult and more more proof of superior skill. So---not that I know any spoilers from the manga, but---I can't wait to see Coco's ability to draw smoothly, at large scale, with the techniques she learned from drawing on fabric, prove at a crucial moment to be a "difficult skill that no one expected anyone else to be able to do".
Also, the story, especially this episode, have been setting up a dual nature to Qifrey that is clearly meant to be a surprise. And even before watching this episode, I've seen several video essay thumbnails/titles suggesting that "Qifrey is actually evil!" or whatnot. But again, I think this is another instance I've run into of people being strangely unaccepting of dual natures. People act like just because a character (or real life people, frankly) have a dual nature, then they are "deceptive", "two faced", and "all those things are bad". I was talking to my sister about this once, a long time ago, and we didn't understand how people wouldn't know that it was the most natural thing to act one way in front of some people and another way in front of others. How you act with your friends isn't appropriate for how you act towards you parents, was an example we talked about. We didn't understand this lack of acceptance of dual natures, and we concluded that it "must be an American thing". (Even though we are both American, we are also Asian, so we could say that, I think.)
But I encountered this reaction again, when I became a fan of characters like FE3H's Claude von Riegan. People in the fandom acting like because a character has dual natures, could be deceptive, or had skills with manipulation, that "they must be bad". But in the case of Claude, he was dual because he was biracial and bi-cultural. He had to be deceptive about his identity, or he could be assassinated. The FE3H DLC even had an assassin NPC looking for him. And sure, you may call it "manipulation", but Persuasion and the ability to negotiate and facilitate diplomacy, instead of reducing everything to coercion by force, is still better than violence. And frankly, it's a more difficult skill, to resolve problems without force or violence, so I didn't understand why people labelled Claude as "evil" for having Persuasion, forethought, calculation, and his fanon "silver tongue". Calling all Manipulation as "evil", doesn't make the directness of physical force, shake-down-styled coercion, or violent war, somehow better.
Anyway, my point being that I've seen enough fo Qifrey's character to be willing to trust he has good intentions, genuinely loves his students, and authentically cares about other people's well-being. If he is being two-faced or manipulative, I trust his actions to be non-malicious. He's been non-malicious so far, even in his surprisingly "dangerous" moments. I trust his decisions to be non-malicious, even while he breaks witch laws and does dangerous things, even involving others. I always reserve the right to keep my guard up and not be utterly surprised when my trust is disappointed. But until that happens, I prefer to extend my trust, even if it is a risk. (I even kept giving Edelgard the benefit of the doubt, until she repeatedly disappointed all my trust.) So far, Qifrey has demonstrably proven, TO ME at least, that he is still trustworthy, even if he has a dual nature.
I like the little bit of seamless exposition that Tetia explained about how sigils can be adjusted. Now we know it's not just the size of magic circles that effect their power. The exposition wasn't a boring "exposition dump". Her lively characterization really helped make the scene/dialogue still fun.
9:12 PM 5/28/2026
Agott really is a kid; she knows nothing. Explaining or teaching someone else what you know, is a tried and true way of learning yourself. It's how you verify that you thoroughly understand a subject.
Even though Agott seems to annoy me in every episode, with her lack of empathy (compared to the other girls) or her selfishness (which I don't care if it can be waved away by her tragic backstory or her being a dumb kid, because the result is still annoying), I do have to commend the mangaka for seeming to write her so precisely, to demonstrate flaws and conflicts to overcome. She so specifically epitomizes certain mistakes that need to be addressed, in order for the plot to be about overcoming such flaws. So I can respect that she was written to be intentionally annoying to me.
9:20 PM 5/28/2026
I know that in terms of screenwriting, Richeh is saying Stagnant things that would be moralized as "bad" and "wrong". But I just couldn't agree with her more. Being an adult sucks. And doing things you don't want to do is something life asks too much of already.
9:28 PM 5/28/2026
I was wondering if Qifrey was desperate to cure the blindness in his eye or if he had already accepted it.
9:32 PM 5/28/2026
They're here!?! O.o!!!
9:34 PM 5/28/2026
Shouldn't tea that helps you sleep be taken right before bed thought?
9:36 PM 5/28/2026
"Just what are you plotting?"
HUH? I thought Agott has been annoyed all this time, from not getting her shoes returned sooner (among other things).
9:37 PM 5/28/2026
Ah. This is that "I can't trust kindness from others" trauma response. Hopefully, Agott will start being less annoying to me from now on.
9:39 PM 5/28/2026
Oh. Coco didn't even say she wanted to prove herself, in order to overcome her guilt. She says she choose to go thru with the test, even tho Agott pushed her into it. I liked the quick flashes of Coco's guilt nightmare that cut in, instead of her explicitly saying she wants to be proactive vs her guilt.
9:41 PM 5/28/2026
Puffpuff is the brushbuddy's name now. <3
...Or maybe not. lol
9:42 PM 5/28/2026
It's just a sleep deprivation fever, right?
9:44 PM 5/28/2026
omg Kahln is like a maze town! lol Good thing they ran into Tartah.
9:45 PM 5/28/2026
I love how gentle we've come to know Qifrey from his voice and all his mannerisms and demeanor with the children...but at the same time, he's up to something and willing to do severe magic to others for it.
