English Dub Review: The Eminence in Shadow “John Smith”

Overview

John Smith’s skill is leagues above even the most skilled fighters! Who is this Mysterious Person?


Our Take

In response to the recent troubles they’ve been facing, Alpha dispatches Delta to pursue John Smith following their defeat in the previous episode. However, Delta discerns that “John Smith” is actually Cid, identified by his distinct scent. Cid, posing as an undercover operative, deflects Delta temporarily by assigning her to hunt against Juggernaut. This results in Alpha assuming that John Smith has eliminated Delta. Subsequently, Alpha and Gettan independently discover John Smith’s plan for a bank run. When Beta attempts to convey the financial crisis to Cid, she mistakenly believes it irks him due to her verbal use of financial jargon. Nonetheless, Cid clarifies that Delta is unharmed, alleviating Beta’s concerns. Alpha’s attempt to confront John Smith leaves her bewildered, questioning why Cid would attack their own allies and undermine Shadow Garden.

Undeterred, Alpha persists in proving her utility for Cid’s secret plans. Yet, Cid demonstrates the vast difference in their capabilities and announces a temporary departure from Shadow Garden until his plans are fulfilled, leaving Alpha heartbroken. Yukime successfully replaces fake notes with gold from both banks, rendering them bankrupt. In a poignant moment, Yukime shares her heart-wrenching history with Gettan, revealing her motivation. Thanks to Cid, the MCA is on the brink of collapse, making Gettan vulnerable to Yukime’s personal and impending confrontation…

Overall, this episode is a game-changer in multiple aspects. The dynamics have shifted with Cid’s undercover mission, leaving Alpha heartbroken and Delta on a solo mission. The flashback sequence also effectively works as it recontextualizes Yukime’s motivation, providing insightful and tragic details about her past. But to say she has a score to settle with Gettan is one hell of an an understatement. At the very least, the two separate storylines nicely tied with the theme of people who are ironically destroying those they claimed to protect. Whatever direction this takes next, I’m curious to find out!