Ep 2. King of the Wasted Forest

In the second episode of Utawarerumono, titled "King of the Wasted Forest," we delve deeper into the mysterious world of the show. The episode opens with Haku waking up in a strange new place. He has no recollection of how he got there or who he is. Thankfully, a kind woman named Kuon comes to his rescue and helps him navigate the dangerous forest they find themselves in.

As they journey through the forest, Haku learns that Kuon is a member of a tribe called the "Kamunagi," and that the area they find themselves in is known as the "Wasted Forest." The forest is home to terrifying creatures, including giant spiders and ferocious wolves. However, Kuon is more than capable of defending herself and Haku, and they make it through unscathed.

As they continue their journey, Haku and Kuon come across a group of bandits who have been terrorizing nearby villages. The unlikely duo decides to take on the bandits and free the villages from their grip. The fight is intense, with Haku using his impressive strategic skill to come up with a plan while Kuon takes on the bandits head-on. In the end, they emerge victorious and earn the praise of the freed villagers.

Although Haku has proved himself to be a competent strategist, he still cannot remember anything about himself. Kuon is determined to help him regain his memories, and she suggests they travel to the capital city where they can find answers. Along the way, they come across a young girl named Rurutie. She joins their group, and they continue their journey together.

As they near the capital city, they encounter a ferocious creature known as a "hexen." Kuon once again proves herself to be a skilled fighter, managing to take down the creature with ease. However, her victory is short-lived, as they are quickly ambushed by a group of soldiers from the capital city. The soldiers take Haku, Kuon, and Rurutie prisoner, accusing them of being spies.

The episode ends with Haku, Kuon, and Rurutie imprisoned, awaiting judgment. It is clear that the trio is in grave danger, as the soldiers have already judged them guilty.

Overall, "King of the Wasted Forest" is an action-packed episode that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. We learn more about the show's world and meet new characters, all while Haku struggles to regain his memories. The fight scenes are intense, and the animation is stunning. It's a great continuation of the story from the first episode and sets up the rest of the series nicely.