The Elusive Samurai: Tokiyuki’s First Step in Reclaiming Japan

On July 13, 2024, Tokyo MX and other Japanese channels aired the second episode of The Elusive Samurai anime series. In this installment, Hojo Tokiyuki discovers the truth about his brother Kunitoki’s betrayal and death at the hands of their uncle, Godaiin Muneshige, while on his journey to Shinano.

Despite facing treachery and uncertainty, Tokiyuki remains resolute as he relies on Yorishige’s precognition and the support of his faithful comrades, Ayako and Kojiro. Utilizing his innate skills for evasion, Tokiyuki, aided by Ayako and Kojiro, successfully beheads Muneshige, marking a crucial milestone in his quest.

The Elusive Samurai: Episode 2 Review

Tokiyuki Hojo as seen in the anime (Image via CloverWorks Studios)

On July 13, 2024, The Elusive Samurai, created by CloverWorks studios, was released and once again proved to be a stellar animated production. Although some fans may have been disappointed that they did not get to witness Tokiyuki training with Ayako and Koshiro, this episode highlights his lack of skill in martial arts. The thrilling display of Tokiyuki’s evasive techniques against Muneshige is sure to captivate shonen and action enthusiasts.

In addition, it is commendable that the trio was able to defeat Muneshige by utilizing effective strategies and working together as a team. The decision for Ayako and Koshiro to assist Tokiyuki during the battle was a clever tactic.

Nevertheless, it would greatly enhance the story if viewers were able to witness Tokiyuki’s progression in martial arts, as he is the one tasked with regaining control of Japan from Ashikaga Takauji. The creators of the show should consider dedicating an episode or two to showing Tokiyuki being taught essential sword-fighting techniques by a skilled samurai.

Godaiin Muneshige as seen in the anime (Image via CloverWorks Studios)

Other than that, the animation in the second episode was impactful. It effectively portrayed Muneshige’s devilish appearance as he emerged through a haze of smoke, and also captured Tokiyuki’s emotional turmoil over Kunitoki’s execution. This episode’s significant and intense scenes were highly praised by viewers.

Overall, The Elusive Samurai once again delivered a fantastic performance in this episode. Moving forward, viewers can anticipate the future adventures and progress of Tokiyuki, Yorishige, and their newly formed group.

The Elusive Samurai Episode 2 Recap

Suwa Yorishige and Hojo Tokiyuki (Image via CloverWorks Studios)

As they traveled to Shinano, Tokiyuki, Yorishige, Shizuku, Ayako, and Kojiro were forced to seek shelter in an abandoned house because the city exits were heavily guarded. While Tokiyuki slept, Yorishige kept a watchful eye over him and tried to kiss him on the cheek. However, Tokiyuki avoided the gesture by jumping onto a beam, surprising everyone. Tokiyuki expressed his worries about leaving Kamakura, but Shizuku reassured him that they would be able to pass once the guards had left.

As he peered through the windows, Tokiyuki observed the former Hojo clan subordinates and came to the realization that Takauji’s acts of kindness were merely a front. This caused him to question the reliability of their current allies.

A snapshot from The Elusive Samurai anime series (Image via CloverWorks Studios)

Tokiyuki expressed doubt in Yorishige’s confidence to exact revenge. While in a decimated village, they eavesdropped on a conversation exposing the treacherous actions of Godaiin, who had betrayed Kunitoki to the Nitta clan. Tokiyuki was overcome with hopelessness and suspicion, causing him to become physically ill.

Yorishige reassured Tokiyuki by using holy light, revealing a vision where Godaiin was besieged by soldiers. He implored Tokiyuki to seek revenge for Kunitoki as the initial move in reclaiming his nation. Meanwhile, Godaiin, desperate for acknowledgment, set their sights on Tokiyuki.

Tokiyuki beheads Godaiin (Image via CloverWorks Studios)

As they encountered each other on a hill, Godaiin proposed to Tokiyuki that they depart Kamakura together. In response, Tokiyuki confronted Godaiin about his betrayal of Kunitoki while Ayako and Kojiro launched an attack. However, Godaiin defended his actions and criticized Tokiyuki’s hesitation, emphasizing the importance of skill over status.

Yorishige directed Ayako and Kojiro to observe Tokiyuki’s agility in dodging attacks from Godaiin, noting his evident pleasure in doing so. Impressed by Tokiyuki’s prowess in battle, they pledged their loyalty to him. Yorishige cautioned them against shielding Tokiyuki during the fight, as he expertly evaded Godaiin’s strikes. Ayako and Kojiro then immobilized Godaiin, allowing Tokiyuki to deliver the final blow in honor of his brother, father, and the people of Kamakura.

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