Speed Grapher Season 1 Episode 9 At the baths

At the baths is the title of the ninth episode of the first season of an anime series called Speed Grapher. The story follows the life of Tatsumi Saiga, a former war photographer who has turned into a private investigator. Tatsumi's hunt for the secrets of Roppongi Club, a secret society of powerful people in Tokyo, leads him to different places and people. In this episode, Tatsumi and his partner Ginza are visiting a traditional Japanese bathhouse to relax and gather information.

The episode starts with Tatsumi and Ginza arriving at the bathhouse, which is situated in the outskirts of the city. The bathhouse is an old building with a traditional design showcasing the Edo period architecture. Tatsumi is immediately impressed with the place and tells Ginza that it has a distinct feel. Ginza, on the other hand, asks Tatsumi if he knows how to use a public bath, to which he replies that he knows the protocol.

They enter the bathhouse, and Tatsumi is surprised to see a lot of customers, including many Yakuza members who are behaving peacefully, letting go of their tensions. Tatsumi and Ginza go to the changing room, take off their clothes, and wrap themselves in the towel. Then they go to the main bath where they immerse themselves in the hot water. Tatsumi is relaxed, but Ginza is tensed, saying that she cannot relax in the male-dominated environment.

While they are in the bath, they observe other people who are present in the bath. They notice a man who has a scar on his back, which Ginza suspects is a gang mark. They also spot a Yakuza leader who is discussing the business deal with his associates. Tatsumi informs Ginza that the Roppongi club might have a hand in the deal, and they need to gather more information.

At that moment, the man with the scar is attacked by another Yakuza who has a grudge against him. The attacker pushes the man's head into the water, and he drowns. Everyone in the bathroom are shocked, and the attacker leaves the scene. Tatsumi and Ginza quickly get dressed and pursue the killer, but they lose him in the alleyway.

The incident shocks Tatsumi, and he wonders why people have so much hatred in their hearts. He also theorizes how people resort to violence and crime in the absence of love and affection in their lives. Ginza replies to Tatsumi, saying that it's easier for someone to take down another person than to raise them.

Later, Tatsumi meets with a Yakuza boss who is associated with Roppongi Club and enquires about the recent deal. The boss confirms that Roppongi Club is involved and the deal is related to a new type of drug that turns people into Euphorics, who are immune to bullets and have superhuman strength. The boss also warns Tatsumi to stay away from the club's affairs, reminding him that the club has the power to dispose of anyone who comes in their way.

The episode ends with Tatsumi and Ginza walking in the city, where Tatsumi contemplates the "superhuman" drug and the effects it may have on society. Ginza consoles Tatsumi and says that he must not lose his hope and fight for the betterment of society. Tatsumi agrees and says that he will continue his mission to bring justice and end the evil that lurks in the shadow of Tokyo's society.

In conclusion, At the baths is a dramatic episode of the Speed Grapher series that showcases the power of the Japanese bathhouses. The episode emphasizes Tatsumi's character and his inner conflict, as he sees the darker aspects of the society he wishes to reform. Ginza's role is also prominent, as she provides the moral support to Tatsumi, reminding him that his cause is just. The episode sets the tone for the next episodes and is a must-watch for the fans of this anime series.