Even from a critical point of view, Tougen Anki Episode 8 has done almost everything right for a shonen anime. At first, I genuinely got concerned for Kuina’s condition, because even though she had the confidence, the Ugly that appeared next was on a whole other level. In fact, it’s fair to say it felt a bit too overpowered.

Kuina’s Blood Release Technique, which initially seemed quite strong, didn’t stand a chance against this new type of Ugly. So I was left thinking, now what? Sure, I hoped Kiriyama might pop off at that moment, but what I didn’t expect was to see such a romantic backstory for him. And strange as it sounds, his power basically stems from his first (dead) crush, Lulu!

Maybe a Bit Generic, but Kiriyama’s Backstory Was Done Pretty Well

Kiriyama uses his Blood Eclipse Technique | Credits: Studio Hibari

Just when Kuina was getting brutally beaten by the Ugly (which I’m not sure if it was more of a fight or fan service), the Kiriyama glow-up moment really got me hyped to some extent. Now, some may say this was some typical Shonen stuff, but it wasn’t exactly boring to watch.

The whole thing with Kiriyama’s backstory wasn’t even half bad. The death of his first crush from illness really left him broken into pieces, and honestly, it can be quite relatable to many. Anyone would be inflicted with serious emotional damage if something like that happened.

It was this extreme trauma that rendered him almost powerless and left him constantly doubting himself. Until he realizes that if he doesn’t act now, no one else will come to save Kuina. While there was surely no ulterior motive, just his own determination, he managed to regain his powers.

But how exactly? Basically, his first crush became the source of his Blood Eclipse Technique, Frigid Ashes DANCE – Mental Recovery. Kiriyama’s imagination created an artificial Lulu, thinking that she would be disappointed in him if she were here.

Also, Kiriyama’s transformation looked pretty cool, too. It was as if he were wearing blood-forged, ancient Japanese traditional attire, holding hand fans to control blood-made cherry petals that slice through his enemies. This is quite overpowered if used correctly, as he swiftly defeated the Ugly in no time.

The Ultimate Showdown Between Shiki & Tsubakiri Is Finally Upon Us

In the latter half of the episode, we saw Shiki talk with Mei, and surprisingly, he appeared to be quite a reliable hero for her. He gave her hope to stay alive. But then, why is Episode 8 titled ‘The Unreliable Hero’? Maybe it’s because, no matter how I look at it, I don’t expect Shiki to just beat Tsubakiri as of now.

Shiki uses his Blood Eclipse Technique in Tougen Anki | Credits: Studio Hibari

In fact, without much delay, Shiki himself approached Tsubakiri, and the two met. At that moment, if I were Tsubakiri, I must have thought, ”The prey has come walking to the predator, hasn’t it?” I know Shiki doesn’t realize he’s Tsubakiri’s prime target, but still.

However, being the hot-headed dude he is, Shiki immediately challenges Tsubakiri, pulling out his blood-forged, Bazooka-esque missile launcher and even firing at him. But oh boy, it wasn’t even a little surprising to see Tsubakiri dodge it like it was no big deal.

There’s definitely more to come in this fight in Tougen Anki Episode 9, that’s for sure. So, what do you think? Does Shiki have any chance of inflicting any damage? Personally, I don’t think so.

Tougen Anki is currently available to watch on Netflix.
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