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Strike the Blood steps up the pace with action, terrorism, and possession in the latest episode.

We start slowly learning more things about some of the minor characters in this episode.  For example, Nagisa freaks out so badly when Gardos’s demon lackeys show up because she was in a train accident involving demons four years ago.  Although some specifics would help to contextualize her reaction of intense fear at the sight of the demons, it’s nice to get to know at least a little bit about her past, especially when her injuries were so severe that it was thought she wouldn’t wake up.

On top of that, we get a lot of information about Motoki in this episode, and in an incredibly brief amount of time.  He takes pills (potentially called “Hyper Adaptor”) to activate his power of sound control.  I’m assuming his headphones amplify that power somehow.  Apparently, if he takes enough pills, he can use this power to astral project, an ability he uses to try to keep an eye on Asagi and the others after they’re kidnapped.  Before, I was suspicious of Motoki, but I don’t know anymore.  He can’t really be that bad if he’s trying to keep an eye on his friends when they’re in trouble.

I don’t really buy that Vatler is only interested in what the Black Death Emperor Faction is doing because he’s bored.  I think there definitely has to be something else behind it.  While being a powerful, immortal vampire could get boring, I really think this is going to be a plot point to come back later.

Speaking of plot points to show up later, who or what possessed Nagisa?  What does it want?  It seems to be on the protagonists’ side, but if so, why doesn’t it show itself?

And, of course, this episode ends on a cliffhanger with Kojou about to take on Nalakuvera.  While we all know he’s going to win, it will be interesting to see just how he goes about it.

Strike the Blood Episode 8 Preview

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