Episode 8 of Übel Blatt, titled “The Hero-Killer” in some listings, sees Köinzell continuing his quest for revenge against the “Seven Heroes.” The anime adaptation is facing criticism, with some reviewers finding it dull and uninspired. Despite this, the story progresses, setting the stage for a new story arc.
Köinzell’s Aimless Wanderings and New Target
Now that Köinzell has dealt with Landgrave Schtemwölech, he finds himself a notorious figure, even depicted negatively in propagandist stage plays. Unable to gather intel on his next target, the paranoid Batterygrave Barestar, Köinzell wanders in disguise.
- Disguise: Köinzell is disguised as a woman to move unnoticed.
- New Target: Batterygrave Barestar is Köinzell’s next target, described as creepy and paranoid.
Political Intrigue and Sieges
The episode introduces political maneuvering, with the right hand of Batterygrave Barestar initiating a siege on a free city, aiming to seize its wealth and control.
- Elsaria’s Ambitions: Elsaria, Barestar’s right-hand, demonstrates charisma and leadership as she attempts to take control of the free city Jullas-Abllas.
- Jullas-Abllas: Köinzell becomes entangled in the conflict around the free city of Jullas-Abllas, where Elsaria and her allies confront him.
- Order of Heaven’s Spear: Glenn has disbanded the Order of the Seven Spears and established the Order of Heaven’s Spear in its place. This new band of super-powered knights sets forth to recruit the strongest fighters in the land.
Criticisms of the Adaptation
Several reviews highlight concerns about the anime adaptation, citing issues with character development, animation quality, and overall engagement.
- Flat Characters: Köinzell’s character is considered underdeveloped, making it difficult to invest in his revenge story.
- Poor Animation: The action animation is criticized as laughably poor.
- Exploitative Content: Concerns are raised about the unnecessary and exploitative depiction of female characters.
Threads for Next Episode
Episode 8 sets up several plot threads to be explored in episode 9 which is titled “Junge Blätter (Young Leaves)”:
- Ichfeis, the Strongest Swordsman: Ichfeis receives direct orders from Glenn to hunt down the “Hero Killer”
- Battles in Jullas-Abllas: Intense battles unfold in Jullas – Abllas as Elsaria and her allies confront Köinzell.
