English Dub Review: The Elusive Samurai “Settling the Score! A Dog-Shooting Competition and then…”

Overview

Toki/Tokiyuki faces off against Sadamune in a dog-shooting competition, even though his opponent excels with the bow and possesses an almost prodigy-like eye for detail.
With a large lead in points, Toki faces defeat as he gets hit.

Our Take

Toki triumphs in the dog-shooting competition, overcoming a point deficit against Sadamune by skillfully knocking him off his horse and securing victory with two well-placed arrows. However, the victory is bittersweet as Sadamune, true to his corrupt nature, refuses to honor the competition’s terms. Armed with an imperial order, he returns to seek out Hojo rebels, unaware that Toki himself is one. The situation intensifies when Yorishige suggests recruiting Genba, a skilled thief with a twisted sense of loyalty shaped by his father’s dying words that only money matters.

The two later form an unlikely but effective duo to steal something big, with Genba’s infiltration skills, making him pretty damn invaluable. However, their partnership is immediately tested as they are discovered while attempting to steal something important while the imperial order is hanging over their heads…

Overall, this episode balances action and humor while deepening the plot with the introduction of Genba. His complex character and skills complement Toki’s idealism, creating an interesting contrast that promises further development in the story. The episode also highlights the ongoing tension with Sadamune and the looming threat of imperial power, setting the stage for potential challenges in the long run for Toki and his pals.