Ep 4. The Concerto of Encounter & Departure

The episode "The Concerto of Encounter & Departure" of Scrapped Princess season 1 introduces one more main character, Pacifica's brother, Prince Forsyth. In the previous episodes, Pacifica and her companions were trying to reach the Royal Capital to prevent the prophecy that predicts Pacifica's role in the end of the world. However, their journey is becoming more complicated as they encounter various factions that want to capture or kill Pacifica.

In this episode, Pacifica and her companions reach a small town where a music festival celebrating the Spirit of Fire is taking place. The locals are excited to meet Pacifica, whom they believe is the Spirit of Fire's vessel. This might sound like a blessing, but in reality, this puts Pacifica in danger as several factions are searching for her whereabouts.

While in the town, Pacifica reunites with her brother, which feels more like a reunion between strangers. Forsyth has been raised as the crown prince, while Pacifica was concealed in the countryside to prevent the prophecy. Forsyth is resentful and jealous of Pacifica's carefree life, which he thinks is the reason for his burden as the next king. Forsyth's arrival is meant to help Pacifica fulfill the prophecy, but Pacifica doesn't want to accept it since it means she is doomed to be a sacrificial lamb.

As the music festival approaches, tensions rise, and many factions are trying to kidnap Pacifica to prevent the prophecy. The festival's conductor, who is also Pacifica's guardian, wants her to play in the concert as the guest of honor. He knows that Pacifica's voice has the power to calm people's sentiments, including the religious fanatics. However, he also understands that the concert is risky as it could reveal Pacifica's location to her enemies.

As the concert takes place, it becomes apparent that Pacifica's singing has a magical quality that tames the restless spirits of the Fire Spirit Shrine. The concert's most poignant moment is the duet between Pacifica and her brother Forsyth, who plays the violin. The music and the lyrics express their mutual envy and longing for each other's lives, which is a touching portrayal of their shared pain.

Finally, the concert ends, and the heroes realize that their enemies have already caught up with them. The concert has been their cover, but now they have to run for their lives. The episode finishes with an unexpected twist, which sets up the plot for the next episode.

In summary, "The Concerto of Encounter & Departure" is a pivotal episode in Scrapped Princess's first season because it introduces Pacifica's brother, Forsyth, and explores their relationship. The episode also showcases Pacifica's singing abilities and emphasizes the power of music. The concert becomes a symbol of unity between factions that share the same values despite their differences. However, as usual, the peace is temporary, and the tension is rising, leading to an exciting and action-packed finale.