In this episode, not all Tuskumogami are down with Hyoma, who is living with Botan. Even though Agoi tells them that he just stays there to observe, they do not buy it. Hyoma goes to Taiju Kadomori, a representative of Kyoto’s, to smooth things out. However, things get out of hand when conflict arises between them.
The dialogue between Hyoma and Taiju Kadomori, a new character, captures attention. It propels the plot forward. It reveals the opposing views of both characters about Botan’s circumstances. It shows their characteristic traits, especially Hyoma, who knows what Botan has gone through and how the six Tsukumogami treat her, as shown in Episode 6. He shows kindness and compassion toward her. In this episode, he sees her as a human who does not pose a threat to him or to society. He does not seem to be afraid of her or concerned about what she will become if the marebito inside her is awakened. It is as if he focuses more on their relationships than the uncertainty of her future.
That is not the case for Taiju Kadomori. He sees her as a threat due to the marebito inside her. If it is awakened, he fears the negative consequences may turn out to be the same as the theory and the Tsukumogami he once heard. However, he does not know that. He could be wrong about her because of her upbringing, but his fear consumes him. He wants to play it safe by asking Hyoma to join him in getting rid of her.
The opening does not capture the interest of the discussion between Agoi and Suzuri. Some Tsukumogami groups believe there is more to the story about Hyoma staying with Nagatsuki’s family. Others keep quiet for the time being. The background music and the portrayal of his three clients as silhouettes foreshadow that something bad is coming. Yet, the feeling of unease is low. There is little to no evidence of how dangerous the marebito in Botan is or how Hyoma can have a negative impact on her by awakening the marebito in her. In Japanese legend, it alludes to a magical creature that brings blessings.
Overall, this episode is okay, even though the opening does not have much impact. The conflict between the Nagatsuki and other Tuskumogami is predictable. Not everyone agrees with each other on certain issues, just like the Saenome. In the closing, Kadomori’s dirty secret is revealed, which is confusing as to why he reveals it to Hyoma. They just met for the first time. Does he think he can get away with it even if Zohie’s grandson knows his secret?
Rating: 6.5/10
| Characters, Season 1 Episode 7 | Cast |
| Hyoma Kunato | Takeo Ootsuka |
| Botan Nagatsuki | Yuuki Takada |
| Kagami | Aimi Tanaka |
| Agoi | |
| Tsubaki Kadomori | Saori Oonishi |
| Taiju Kadomori | Nobuaki Kanemitsu |
| Suzuri | Yoshiki Nakajima |
| Nagi | Hidenori Takahashi |
