Such an epic conversation…pfft
There are two things that make this arc already good. There is NO RECAP ep this time, and they make a conversation with goofy glasses seem intense.
The biggest surprise so far is that we aren’t viewing this arc through the eyes of Araragi’s harem/Araragi. Instead, Hitagi’s hope for saving themeselves from Nadeko is the man that could scam anyone, Kaiki. Despite accepting Hitagi’s cry for help while also having a trolling contest, even his excuse is complicated enough to show how reluctant he is to show a conscience. But whether it’s due to guilt, boredom, or some convoluted excuse for him to join the good side, this deplorable schemer is now our narrator.
Needless to say, his viewpont is unlike anything we’ve seen in Monogatari. Rather than come off as a threat, Kaiki is arguably the most sarcastic character in the cast, and that’s saying something. He never tells the audience to believe what he’s saying, and any kind-hearted gesture is done to deceive. And yet the sheer amount of skill in what he does is enough to give him some respect. He gets the job started since Day 1, and his refusal to act based on emotions make everything he does logical, especially in his lies. It’s enough for him to trick Nadeko into believing he’s her first believer.
Of course, other characters aren’t given any less of a spotlight. Hitagi clearly shows in her dialogue(and exchanging drink throws) that despite her calm voice, she’s gotten more desperate than ever. Having to beg for Kaiki’s help, risking her body if it means getting the money, and even stating that she’d choose Araragi’s life over her own brings out the vulnerable side of our Ice Queen Hitagi. Kaiki’s visit with Nadeko also brings the unexpected when we see just how happy she is. It goes from cute to downright scary when she’s gleefully accepting insults or talking about her excitement for Araragi’s death. She’s arguably the best way to do a yandere.
So far, I’m psyched for this final arc to Monogatari Series 2nd season. It promises to conclude the events from Nadeko Medusa while also shwoing us something different. All I can say is to keep up with it for these last 4 eps.
Brave New Moe 