The Elusive Samurai Episode 8: A War of Hide and Seek
Manga chapter 22-24
Oshimeter
7 Fans
EPISODE REVIEWS
This episode felt like a real growth moment for Tokiyuki. Running and evasion aren't his only tools anymore — for the first time, we see him ask Fubuki to actually teach him how to properly wield a sword, and that felt like a meaningful step in his development. The technique he learns, "Onishin Butsutou" (Demon-Heart Buddha Blade), is clever: instead of going for a finishing blow, Tokiyuki keeps retreating from his opponent while cutting them, gradually wearing them down through blood loss rather than direct confrontation — which fits his whole "running away" identity perfectly. The fight against Shokan — leader of a gang whose name translates to something like "subjugating the ants" — was tense and satisfying, and I felt like that name reflects Shokan's arrogant view of his enemies, like he sees them as small and easy to crush, just like ants. To be honest though, some of the CGI shots looked a bit off compared to the rest of the beautiful animation, which was the one thing that took away from an otherwise perfect episode. Aside from that, it's a dramatically strong episode with plenty of quiet moments that remind you why you love this anime in the first place.
Fubuki is smart and strong as an individual and he is going to be a big help to Toshiyuki as part of their team. I can't wait to see what the combination of Fubuki and Yorishige can do, and how they would bring out the potential of each character especially Tokiyuki.
The threat of Ashikaga Takauji grows stronger. The episode builds tension as the enemy’s power becomes clearer.
10
