Episode 3 – “An Austere Elf Dances for Her Comrades” – April 21, 2022

Episode Summary
Behind the scenes, political forces are constantly making shady moves.
However, the Lord of Diento, Tryton du Diento, is furious that the planned assassination of Lauren Luvierte failed. Apparently, a lone knight managed to defeat an entire company of supposedly top-notch mercenaries.
Meanwhile, said knight, Arc, is on a simple mission to clear out a den of bandits. Having done so without any trouble, Arc prepares to return to his home base. Suddenly, a skilled female elf warrior attacks and accuses him of aiding the bandits. Arc tries to explain that the elf has the wrong person, but she refuses to listen. Only when Ponta, who turns out to be a spirit creature, pops up does the elf cease her assault.

The elf explains that she was after the bandits Arc defeated because they had been capturing elf children and selling them into slavery. With a heavy heart, Arc explains that he found evidence of such a crime, but there were no children in the cave. Wanting to help (and wanting to accept a quest from a beautiful elf), Arc offers his assistance, but the elf refuses and runs off.
The next day, Arc comes across a group of men actively hunting elf children. Although the elf warrior warned him about getting involved, Arc can’t simply ignore what he sees. But before he can do anything, the elf warrior appears and takes on the gang. She is doing amazingly well, but the ringleader uses the captured children as a shield, forcing the warrior to lower her sword. However, Arc steps forward and finishes the job.
Amazed by Arc’s willingness to help and immense physical and magical power, the elf introduces herself as Ariane Glenys Maple. Once again, Arc offers his help, and this time Ariane accepts.

Episode Impressions
This series is starting to find a pacing. For due diligence, I’ll wait one more episode to determine whether to change the standing to Good. This change in attitude comes about for several reasons:
- Arc is using his overpowered-ness satisfyingly
- The story is picking
- Skeleton Knight has been fun, just average
Ariane will be a critical key to determining if this series will be worthwhile. If she proves to be a true partner to Arc and not simply a pretty face, then we have the makings of a solid isekai story.
The turning point is on the horizon, and I am hoping for the best.
