Otogizoushi: Episode 06

As expected, Hikaru and her companions infiltrated the pirates’ camp and successfully retrieved the prized water magatama. However, as the group escaped to the seemingly calm sea, the clear clouds turned grey, the treacherous waters overturned their vessel, and the party of four was separated from each other. It’s still early in the game so the players shouldn’t be allowed to die at this point, right? ^^

As the episode progressed, I became more invested with the tragic love story of Ayatake and Torikuma. Ayatake, a local village maiden, made the mistake of falling in-love with an outlaw, Torikuma. Although their intentions were pure, the villagers refused to acknowledge the partnership which later caused a high price. A typical Romeo-and-Juliet scenario, perhaps, but the execution is beautifully done that one cannot help but shed a tear for star-crossed lovers. To carry such emotional weight for a non-recurring character in a short amount of time is a feat itself. Instead of mourning over Torikuma’s body descending down the sea, his death gave audiences (for me, at least) a sense of closure. How can one harbor dislike to this man when he sensed the gentleness and innocence (even the secret) of our heroine Hikaru and relayed upon her his peaceful dream?

While the tsunami served its purpose to isolate each group member, it could also be seen as a form of cleansing for the cursed island of Noroi-Jima. With the magatama out of their land and waters, the island starts anew. Will these jewels really save the ravaged capital? If so, why does it bring unhappiness to the villages that comes in contact with it? Senmei’s motives are becoming much more darker by the minute. And how are the jewels connected to the five beasts shown at the opening, a dragon, a snake, a tiger, a phoenix, and another creature I couldn’t quite figure? I am assuming they represent each one magatama, similar to the five elements.

So far, I have no major complaints with the storyline. Tsuna and Sadamitsu truly complement each other. Whatever lies beneath Urabe’s calm facade is still in question. Creepy Senmei and the much creepier Matsumushi (she look’s like a life-sized doll which I find very disturbing) also act dubiously. And Hikaru’s portrayal of a strong female warrior is extremely enjoyable. Being spoiled with such solid episodes early in the season can be quite worrisome if it fail to deliver the goods in the latter half.

Lest I forget, the next episode should have ’shippy moments which I gleefully await.