Otogizoushi: Episode 13

Angst, and more angst, was the result of the inevitable confrontation between Hikaru and Mansairaku. She tried to kill him three times to no avail until she realized how to end the chaos. She played her flute causing Sai to hesitate on pulverizing the capital. With grim determination she forced her way into the magatama barrier til she couldn’t hold it any longer. Seeing Hikaru in flames, Sai decided to halt his psycho tendencies and ran toward his beloved. A few moments later, the tragic couple were beamed into the sky.

Sadamitsu and Kintarou survived the catastrophe. One could assume that they’d be hanging out together for the rest of their stay natural life. BTW, Sadamitsu knew of Hikaru’s real identity. He sort-of let it slip a couple of episodes ago but he actually said the words this time. And with that, the Heian chapter ends…

A pretty good conclusion for the arc with a couple of minor nitpicks especially the cheesy vibe surrounding the flute scene. However, once Hikaru advanced toward the magatama, it was golden. Mansairaku’s last actions were very indicative of his real feelings on Hikaru. Despite his mental instability, he abandoned his mission in order to be with Hikaru. Their final scenes reminded me of Romeo and Juliet, romantic but stupid. But seriously, it was an awesome scene.

Although a strong bias for Otogi makes me turn blind eye to its minor misses, I admit to having a slight dissatisfaction on the remaining plot holes. But then again, Production I.G. has thirteen more episodes to answer some of the obvious questions. Who is Mansairaku? Is he human? What’s his connection to Matsumushi? How does Raikou fit in this web of mystery? Was there a specific need for Hikaru and Sai to be nekked? Can we rewrite the script and have Sai take me instead of Hikaru? Will we ever see Sai’s evil fan in the contemporary arc?

With fingers crossed, we can only hope for a great second arc.