By Shanel Kamara

As a child, I was sensitive; it wouldn't take much to make me cry. However, I initially thought that with age I would change. Don't get me wrong, I have a lot more mental resilience than I ever thought I could have (thank God) and I can confidently say that I have matured and that I am no longer the weak, easily offended cry-baby who can't take constructive criticism without tearing up (to God be the glory). Therefore, maybe the reason for my constant tears, throughout this episode, is due to my hormones or maybe it's just this show. I don't know, but what I do know is that this episode was just so sad. Honestly, I was shocked at first; I didn't expect the death of such an influential character. Except for Jojo's Bizarre Adventures, I can't actually think of a series where the opening features a character that eventually dies.

It was so heartbreaking to see Nina, who I deem to be the most charismatic, fearless, and cheerful female protagonist ever, to break down after the shock of losing her closest friend finally hits her. The overlap of the time when she lost her father magnifies her grief further and emphasizes just how significant her friend was to her. Despite how sorrowful this entire scene was, it was highly cathartic, and by the end of it, I felt as if we were reminded once again of the great mental fortitude that both Nina and Jeanne D'arc have. In spite of the fact that both of these females have been wrongly accused, imprisoned, and hurt emotionally, they continue to fight and remain unyielding. These women are not your typical passive, weak minded, or irrational female characters. Nina's determination and resolution to confront Charioce and even stop him is beyond admirable.

On a side note, the fact that Allesand's act of betrayal and murder severely backfired on him was profound. Allessand's decision was one made out of desperation, and a desperate man is a dangerous man. His desire to redeem himself and prove himself worthy to join the Onyx Knights moved him to do something (I believe) out of character. Albeit, the outcome was not one he was expecting. He assumed the Onyx Knights would bring him honor and valor but instead it brought him dread, guilt, confusion, and misery. The moral of his story is nothing good comes from doing something wrong.

The entire series is nearly ending, and I will be very sad to see it go, but I honestly can't wait to see how Nina will confront Charioce and how the impending war will end.

Score: 5/5

Shingeki no Bahamut: Virgin Soul E.021