“Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc” episode 3, titled “His Butler, On Loan,” propels the storyline forward with a blend of mystery, emotional turmoil, and a touch of dark humor. As Ciel and Sebastian grapple with the mysterious illness contracted in the Werewolves’ Forest, the episode delves deeper into the secrets of Wolfsschlucht and the enigmatic Emerald Witch, Sieglinde Sullivan.
A Recap: The Queen’s Order
Ciel Phantomhive and his demon butler, Sebastian Michaelis, find themselves in Southern Germany. They are there on the orders of Queen Victoria to investigate a series of mysterious deaths occurring in the infamous Werewolves’ Forest. The forest is rumored to be cursed, and anyone who dares to enter risks a gruesome demise. True to form, Ciel and Sebastian venture into the forest, defying the warnings of the locals and the overseer of the forest, the Emerald Witch, Sieglinde Sullivan.
The Werewolf’s Curse
Their intrusion into the forest doesn’t go unpunished. Ciel and Sebastian are confronted by a cursed miasma and Herr Werwolf (Mr. Werewolf). Subsequently, they begin to exhibit strange symptoms. Ciel starts crying uncontrollably and experiences a nosebleed, prompting Sebastian to retreat with him to the Emerald Witch’s castle for safety.
Episode 3 picks up immediately after these events, with Sebastian also experiencing the effects of the curse. The episode explores the repercussions of their nighttime excursion and sets the stage for Sebastian’s temporary role as Sieglinde’s butler.
Ciel’s Descent into Delirium
As the curse takes hold, Ciel’s condition deteriorates rapidly. He becomes weak, blind, and experiences a regression to a childlike state. He is haunted by traumatic memories of his past, particularly his time as a prisoner of a sinister cult. These memories manifest as vivid flashbacks, causing him immense distress.
Ciel’s distress is so profound that he rejects Sebastian’s presence, clinging instead to Finnian, his loyal servant. This rejection highlights the depth of Ciel’s trauma and the emotional impact of the curse. The scenes depicting Ciel’s vulnerability are particularly poignant, showcasing a new and fragile side to the usually composed young Earl.
Sebastian “On Loan”
Recognizing the severity of Ciel’s condition, Sebastian realizes that Sieglinde Sullivan is their only hope for a cure. He swallows his pride and approaches the Emerald Witch, offering his services as a butler in exchange for her help in healing Ciel.
Sieglinde, intrigued by Sebastian’s offer and recognizing his exceptional abilities, accepts his proposal. She instructs Wolfram, her own attendant, to observe and learn from Sebastian. This arrangement leads to several humorous and insightful moments as Sebastian navigates the eccentricities of Sieglinde’s household.
A Butler’s Duties
While serving as Sieglinde’s butler, Sebastian performs his duties with his usual impeccable skill. He prepares exquisite meals, teaches Sieglinde proper table manners, and assists her with her research. These scenes offer a lighter contrast to the darker elements of the plot, providing moments of levity and showcasing Sebastian’s versatility.
However, Sebastian’s primary focus remains on Ciel’s well-being and uncovering the truth behind the curse. He uses his position to gather information about the miasma in the forest, which Sieglinde explains is an evil magic exuded by werewolves. She reveals that exposure to the miasma can distort individuals, turning them into beast-like creatures, and that her magic is the only known cure.
Unanswered Questions
Episode 3 leaves viewers with several burning questions. Who cursed Ciel and Sebastian? What secrets is Sieglinde hiding? And can Sebastian save Ciel before the curse worsens?
Themes and Analysis
“Emerald Witch Arc” Episode 3 delves into several key themes:
Trauma and Memory
Ciel’s traumatic past continues to haunt him, resurfacing with the influence of the witch’s curse. The episode highlights the lasting impact of trauma and the ways in which it can manifest in unexpected ways.
The Nature of Curses
The episode explores the nature of curses and their ability to manipulate reality and emotions. The curse in the Werewolves’ Forest is not merely a physical affliction but also a psychological one, preying on the victims’ deepest fears and insecurities.
The Bond Between Ciel and Sebastian
The episode tests the bond between Ciel and Sebastian. Ciel’s rejection of Sebastian underscores the fragility of their relationship and the challenges they face in navigating Ciel’s trauma. Sebastian’s willingness to humble himself and serve Sieglinde demonstrates his unwavering loyalty to Ciel.
The Allure of the Past
The episode introduces the concept of Wolfsschlucht being stuck in the past, mirroring Ciel’s own mental state. This theme suggests that unresolved issues from the past can have a powerful influence on the present.
Production and Performance
CloverWorks continues to deliver stunning visuals, capturing the eerie atmosphere of the Werewolves’ Forest and the opulent yet unsettling setting of Sieglinde’s castle. The animation is particularly effective in portraying Ciel’s emotional turmoil and the grotesque effects of the curse.
Daisuke Ono (Sebastian) and Maaya Sakamoto (Ciel) deliver outstanding voice performances, conveying the characters’ complex emotions with nuance and depth. Sarah Wiedenheft as Sieglinde Sullivan, adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to the character.
Reception
Episode 3 of “Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc” has been well-received by fans and critics alike. Reviewers have praised the episode’s pacing, emotional depth, and stunning visuals. The episode’s exploration of Ciel’s trauma and the growing mystery surrounding the Emerald Witch have been particularly lauded.
Episode Summary
“His Butler, On Loan” sees Ciel and Sebastian grappling with the effects of the werewolf curse after their unauthorized venture into the forest. Ciel’s condition deteriorates rapidly, causing him to relive traumatic memories and reject Sebastian. In a desperate attempt to save his master, Sebastian offers his services to Sieglinde Sullivan as her butler. As Sebastian navigates his new role, he uncovers more about the curse and the secrets of Wolfsschlucht, setting the stage for further intrigue and danger.
Key Events:
- Ciel and Sebastian succumb to the werewolf curse.
- Ciel experiences traumatic flashbacks and rejects Sebastian.
- Sebastian offers his services to Sieglinde Sullivan as her butler.
- Sebastian learns more about the miasma and the nature of the curse.
Themes:
- Trauma and Memory
- The Nature of Curses
- The Bond Between Ciel and Sebastian
- The Allure of the Past
Final Thoughts
“Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc” Episode 3 is a compelling and emotionally resonant installment in the series. With its captivating mystery, complex characters, and stunning visuals, the episode leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Ciel and Sebastian’s perilous journey.
