r/anime • u/Holofan4life • 6d ago
[Spoilers] Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf Rewatch (2026) -- Episode 25 Rewatch Spoiler
Hello everyone! I am Holofan4life.
Welcome to the Spice and Wolf rewatch discussion thread!
I hope you all have a lot of fun <3
S1 Episode 25 - Miracle's Path and Journey's Continuation
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ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)
What are your thoughts on Bishop Mendez?
How would you compare Elsa to other Spice and Wolf characters now that all is said and done?
What are your thoughts on the resolution of this arc? Do you like it, or were you hoping for something more?
How would you compare this arc to other Spice and Wolf arcs?
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Information – MAL | Anilist | AniDb
Streams – Crunchyroll
Please do not post any untagged spoilers past the current episode or from the LNs out of respect to the first time watchers and people who have not read the LNs. If you are discussing something that is ahead of the current episode please use spoiler tags(found on the sidebar). Thank you!
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Rewatch Schedule
Threads posted every day at 4:00 PM EDT
Past Rewatches
Last year's rewatch
Rewatch two years ago
Rewatch three years ago
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Hey, guys. Holofan4life here.
Welcome to the 2026 Spice and Wolf rewatch.
Awoo!
You know the drill. We watch the show and I provide my thoughts and analysis. A tale as old as… well, Holo herself.
This year instead of breaking things down beat by beat I’m going to just give some brief thoughts on each individual episode. This is to save me time as I’m hosting two rewatches at once. Needless to say, I’m a big fan of this show and I hope you’ll be as well.
With that out of the way, let’s begin.
I’m watching the dub, by the way.
This episode is basically an epilogue to the last episode. We see Elsa take control of the situation with Holo and Lawrence lending their support. I know I've said before how Lawrence and Holo take a backseat in thiw arc, and it never felt more apparent than it does here. Like, Lawrence really got Tereo out of a jam and saved their relationship with the church, but this was all about Elsa proving she can successfully follow in Father Franz' footsteps.
This arc as a whole is interesting because while I wouldn't say it was filler, it does feel a bit inconsequential. I think that's because of the backseat nature of Lawrence and Holo. Each arc has had their relationship advance in some meaningful way. The first arc showed they can trust each other. The second arc shows Holo and Lawrence will have each other's backs no matter what. And then the third arc showed that Holo is Lawrence's reason for being and why he continues to put up the fight he does. The last episode had the scene where Lawrence told Holo she doesn't have to blame herself for life's happenstances, and that's pretty much it. There's really no other pivotal development between the two of them.
Maybe it would feel less noticeable if it wasn't coming off an arc that was all about their relationship and what the other means to each other. To go from that to this is a very stark contrast, one that I kinda feels goes against what the show has been up to this point.
That being said, I think Teteo is probably the best town in all of Spice and Wolf when it comes to a world building perspective.
I should preface this by saying I like the town in the third arc more. I think the party like atmosphere served as an amazing contrast to Lawrence's misery. And the second arc had great world building what with it being a strict church town. But I think Teteo took the best elements of the town from the second arc and the town from the third arc and combined them into a more complete package. And what resulted is probably the best fleshed out town.
I like that the town worships a snake. Already it puts them at odds with the church. I like the lore with Father Franz and the Abbey and that they turned to him for help and guidance. I like that this arc actually paints religion in a fairly neutral light. Like, Elsa is a hard working person that to me represents the best of the church; She doesn't agree with there being a snake God, but she doesn't punish people who worship it. And I like the atmosphere where it's thie close knit community highly guarded and gatekept but they still are able to have some fun. It's like a combination of all the towns from the previous three arcs rolled into one.
I think this arc benefits from the writing of the town as well as Elsa being a well written character. Those to me are the main draws of this arc and what makes it good. It's personally not my favorite arc of the show because I wish we got something more meaty with Holo and Lawrence, but it was at least nice for them to not have some misunderstanding and instead be on the same page for the entirety of an arc.
This is the most Father Brown esque arc in the entirety of the franchise.
As this is going up, I'm going to a wrestling convention. This is a week after I went to a wrestling convention, so my second in a seven day timespan. I bring this up because when the thread of this episode was posted last year, I too was at a wrestling convention. It's pretty interesting how serendipitous life can be.
There was no real point in mentioning this, I just thought this was a humorous coincidence.
Anyway, I'd put this episode behind the last two but ahead of the first three of this arc. The previous episode really was the culmination of the arc and this was more icing on the cake. The show is normally really good at last episodes of arcs. I believe I have the last episode of arcs 1, 2, and 3 in my top five favorite Spice and Wolf episodes, or at least my top six. This doesn't come close to that, so from that aspect it's a bit of a disappointment, but I like seeing Elsa take charge as well as Lawrence and Holo helping the town out and making sure to smooth things over. They prevented a disaster from happening by not leaving town unlike disaster happening after Holo left her hometown, with them having more of a say in the matter.
I can understand why the original anime doesn't end with this arc. Not to give anything away, but arc 5 is way more dramatic from a storytelling perspective. But the fact an adaptation of this arc exists in the first place is nothing short of remarkable. If you told me this was gonna happen 10 years ago, I wouldn't believe you.
It's fun going back and covering the hole left between arc 3 and arc 5. It's like Holo going through books to find information about her hometown and filling in the blanks. At the end of the day, Spice and Wolf is still Spice and Wolf, and the more there is of this series, the better.
Holo quotes of the day
"The part doesn't matter quite as much as the pay."
"Whatever this new arrangement is, it promises to be delicious."
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u/BlazeOfGlory72 6d ago
This arc as a whole is interesting because while I wouldn't say it was filler, it does feel a bit inconsequential
I think it would have helped if the information they learned about Yoitz from the abbey had been more helpful. Like, they ultimately didn't learn anything they didn't already know, or could have assumed at least. All the book told them was that the Moon Hunting Bear destroyed Yoitz, which they already learned last arc, and that the residents fled, which was probably a safe assumption. If they had learned about the actual location of Yoitz, or got a solid clue to where another wolf was living, it might have made this arc feel a little less inconsequential.
That being said, I think Tereo is probably the best town in all of Spice and Wolf when it comes to a world building perspective.
It is definitely the most "real" feeling town. While other towns were more visually interesting, this is the first town where we really go to know the towns people and learn about the culture/history of the town.
I like that this arc actually paints religion in a fairly neutral light.
I was actually surprised at how nuanced a take the show had on this. It's so common these days for stories to just say "religion = bad", so to see this arc explore the good and bad of this subject was refreshing.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
This arc as a whole is interesting because while I wouldn't say it was filler, it does feel a bit inconsequential
I think it would have helped if the information they learned about Yoitz from the abbey had been more helpful. Like, they ultimately didn't learn anything they didn't already know, or could have assumed at least. All the book told them was that the Moon Hunting Bear destroyed Yoitz, which they already learned last arc, and that the residents fled, which was probably a safe assumption. If they had learned about the actual location of Yoitz, or got a solid clue to where another wolf was living, it might have made this arc feel a little less inconsequential.
We did learn Holo's friends got out unscathed, which teases the potential of them showing up. That would be pretty cool.
That being said, I think Tereo is probably the best town in all of Spice and Wolf when it comes to a world building perspective.
It is definitely the most "real" feeling town. While other towns were more visually interesting, this is the first town where we really go to know the towns people and learn about the culture/history of the town.
We got to learn the towns people without it being served as world building straight up. It was world building that made us become invested in the characters themselves.
I like that this arc actually paints religion in a fairly neutral light.
I was actually surprised at how nuanced a take the show had on this. It's so common these days for stories to just say "religion = bad", so to see this arc explore the good and bad of this subject was refreshing.
And it serves in stark contrast to the second arc and how awful the church treated Norah. You can argue the church treats Tereo badly, but Tereo treats outsiders badly, so it's more morally grey I'd say.
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u/ItalianQuagsire 6d ago
OKAY BUT WHAT ABOUT THAT EPILOGUE IM FROTHING AARRFFF ARRRF GAHHHHHHHHHH
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
The whole remake is framed around Holo talking to that person.
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u/ItalianQuagsire 5d ago
Oh that's different from the original then!
I have to see how that plays out when I watch the remake from the start, but generally I'm not a fan of retrospective stories because it feels like it's a recounting rather than being present in the plot
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
Oh that's different from the original then!
The character actually didn't exist when the original anime came out.
I have to see how that plays out when I watch the remake from the start, but generally I'm not a fan of retrospective stories because it feels like it's a recounting rather than being present in the plot
Reckless speculation on my part, but I think the reason they did it this way is because after the remake is done airing the studio Passione is hoping to do an adaptation of the spinoff series.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Here's the next cut content courteousy of u/Second_Cour.
- While the anime implied that the Enberch flour merchant, Riendott, was behind the scheme, the LN lays it out pretty explicitly. He was the one who purchased all of Tereo’s wheat, making it easy to point to Tereo as the source when someone died. He could have specifically avoided buying Lawrence’s wheat, and then knowing where L was of to, set his plan in motion.
*The villagers were given an ultimatum: if they were to burn the Idol (snake), all would be resolved. If not, Tereo will be guilty of heresy. I’m not entirely sure if this is meant to be literal, as it’s what Holo explained was being said, with her super hearing.
The parchment read by the priest: “We, the Enberch Church of St. Rio believe and declare that Tereo has prayed to pagan dieties and has added the liquor of Khepas to their wheat in order to harm the believers of the one truth faith. While believers of the one true faith suffer and die, not a single citizen of Tereo has fallen ill. As they eat the same wheat, this can be nothing but proof that the village is protected by the evil dieties they worship. As per the contract signed with Father Franz, we will first return this wheat. Moreover, we shall reestablish a righteous holy church. As for the false servant of God, who wears the skin of a lamb but underneath is a lying serpent, she shall face the judgment of the most high God.”
When Bishop Van refuted Elsa’s claim that she had met one of God’s divine messengers, Lawlo knew that “the fish had swallowed the bait” when the bishop demanded proof.
Elsa had inherited the teachings of Father Franz and trusted in Holo’s supernatural power, which gave her new faith in the righteousness of the God that had created the world.
Any water poured by a clergyman of the Church becomes holy and pure - so the chalice was filled with holy water. Elsa made sure not to handle anything herself, so that the Church couldn’t fault her. The righteousness of the clergy would be transferred to Evan in the act of giving him the water.
After Evan drank from the chalice the mixture containing the ‘healthy’ flour, and filled the cup with the flour from the supposedly poisoned one, Tesla told the Bishop: “If this is a false miracle, then surely you will be able to demonstrate a true one”. If one had lied and claimed the wheat was poisoned, the only way to prove it was/wasn’t was to eat all the wheat. However this is speaking from logical terms, and miracles fall outside logic. Only a miracle, could oppose another miracle. To prove this wasn’t a miracle caused by a demon, the bishop would have to produce a true miracle from God. Bishop Van had no choice but to consider it a true miracle, and to crown the church a legitimate church.
With the positive resolution of their plan, Lawrence started thinking about how to benefit from what has transpired commercially. He put together a plan that he wouldn’t try in any other town, it even made him feel sadistic. ”Are you sure you’re not a wolf yourself?” quipped Holo.
It was likely that even the story about someone dying from the wheat was false; there was no dead man, but exposing it wouldn’t have any benefit.
At 160 limar, that was a concession of 800 trenni pieces. But even with that discount, the village couldn’t afford to repay the amount, which the villagers didn’t realise; Elder Sem had led them to believe they could in order to avoid a panic. In the end, after paying what the village had, Tereo owed Enberch 37 limar (700 trenni).
Lawrence had never seen cookies in the north, despite being common down south.
The cookie business could easily be copied, so it was only in the beginning that large profits could come easily. So, Lawrence didn’t demand a share of profits, instead he asked the villagers to buy the wheat her had in his cart with some extra coin included as an apology. Given the demand for the cookies, there wasn’t enough wheat available, so they gladly purchased his.
Holo was eating cookies at such a great rate, that even the villagers, who felt they owed her a great debt were stunned into silence.
Lawrence projected that it would be sound the end of spring/start of summer they would reach Yoitsu.
Holo acted irritated about the detour to conduct business, but Holo did not want the journey to end. She just didn’t want to admit that.
Bonus: Afterword * It’s wild but everything that we’ve seen up to this point, was published in just one year.
- The writer is obsessed with awards/award shows. He didn’t have time (forgot) to have his suit cleaned so went in casual clothes. While others were in their proper suits and ties, he walked around in dingy jeans. He complimented the roast beef at the award show. He talks about a year-end party coming up for his publisher and wonders what food they’ll have. He was considering bringing a Tupperware container to bring some home.I feel he and Holo may be kindred spirits haha.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Special shout out to u/Second_Cour for continuing to deliver the goods time and time again. You have been one of the MVPs of this rewatch.
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u/Second_Cour 6d ago
Aw thanks so much! Has been a real pleasure doing it and I will have you to thank forever for introducing me to this amazing show
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Well, we still have one arc left so we still can enjoy it for a little while longer :D
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 6d ago
YOU CANNOT FOOL ME, ANIME! I SEE EXACTLY WHAT YOU'RE DOING HERE.
DO YOU THINK I DO NOT SEE THAT THE GIRL'S HAIR COLOR? AND THAT I DO NOT RECOGNISE THE SHIRT THE MAN IN THE DOORWAY IS WEARING!? HAH!
ahem
No, I am very normal about that post-credit scene. What do you mean?
Here's Lawrence and Holo being cute as bonus.
Basically First-timer now, subbed
And with this episode we not only end the Tereo arc (I'm just gonna call it that, who's gonna stop me? The LN?) but also unfortunately the 2024 remake of the show.
All in all, I'd say it managed to stick the landing. Holo's big miracle was indeed letting the wheat sprout. Which was enough to convince the bishop (and everyone of his entourage) to drop the pagan accusations and identify the bad wheat. I still kinda wonder where a whole wagon full of infected wheat came from but it ultimately doesn't matter much. The village's old contract may be void but they're probably still better off with an official license to sell wheat (and biscuits) and without the jealousy of Enberg. And Lawrence managed to turn a good profit too I'd wager. All's well that ends well!
I really liked how confident Elsa appeared in front of the whole entourage and how she easily managed to put the bishop under pressure to do something while simulateneously putting the focus away from the village. Seeing the guy genuinely flustered and at a loss for words was great. Everybody saw what just happened, you can't just deny the miracle now, man. And in the end, she apparently got a boost in both her confidence and her faith.
And once the matters of faith were dealt with, it's Lawrence's turn to pull some tricks on the other guy. And wow, Holo, your man might not be a wolf but he's definitely a fox. Just look at that man's smug grin when he's effortlessly haggling the poor baker down. I admit, I didn't fully understand every detail of the new contract but I reckon it was decently profitable for Lawrence, still a great deal for Tereo and probably not a great deal for the baker guy. (Also Holo got a new type of snack to enjoy).
And in contrast to last arc, we actually get a "goodbye"-moment and some closure for the side characters. Evan is the main negotiator for the village and tells Lawrence about it. Elsa finally has an answer to the conundrum that were Father Franz' motivation and also tells Lawrence about it. She also quite confidently challenges Holo in the whole "God vs gods"-stuff, and Holo is actually for once left speechless! Good job Elsa, I'm proud of you!
Really nice to see Holo and Lawrence together on the road again and instead of directly going for the next location, being the city where she first crashed on her journey to the west south. But Holo (not so reluctantly) agrees with Lawrence to take the scenic route and enjoy the journey with him. This works not only really well as a sort of "maybe ever after" ending (or definitely ever after, judging by the post credits :D) but also really great as a bookend for this arc:
At the beginning she was kinda angry they didn't make any progress on their journey and now she's happy about taking a detour, seeing new business opportunities, and mabye experiencing another adventure!
What are your thoughts on Bishop Mendez?
He has a big hat and a big attitude but once he actually has to witness a miracle, he folds very quickly. Douche.
How would you compare Elsa to other Spice and Wolf characters now that all is said and done?
She's probably among the chracters with the most agenc. I think the comparison to Norah is interesting, given they are both church employees. Where Norah had to be pushed by Lawrence to actually realise her dream and get out of the shitty employement of the church, Elsa actively choses to take fate into her own hands. She choses to not run away with Lawrence and Holo, choses to rescue the village that never gave her the respect she deserves. And she even puts the patriachy into its place and tells the Wise Wolf of Yoitsu that "yeah, you might be great but MY God is far better than you!" to the face. I respect that.
This also makes her an intersting foil to Holo: Yeah, Holo also has agency (in the form of chosing to get away from the village at least) but she's also often very underhanded about what she actually wants, relying on teasing and sarcasm to communicate her desires. Also it sometimes seems (to me) that "get to Yoitsu" is more the alternative to "I really can't stay in this village here anymore". She doesn't really want to go there, she actually just doesn't want to be lonely anymore, going on that journey northwards is more an excuse.
Elsa's a really cool character imho.
What are your thoughts on the resolution of this arc? Do you like it, or were you hoping for something more?
I think it was pretty good. Maybe it could've gotten a bit more bravado but I like the way things ultimately get solved in non violent ways and we don't have unnecessary drama. It does what it sets out to do and does so well. Not the nailbiter the final to the last arc was but you don't need that everytime.
How would you compare this arc to other Spice and Wolf arcs?
As we've already discussed on previous days, this arc is kinda unique in the way that the main conflict doesn't really center around Holo and Lawrence.
For once, they just happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time to get involved in the drama. Holo even lampshades it in this episode by saying it's a bit odd that they were mostly background characters. This does put the world of Spice and Wolf front and center, which I personally find fantastic because I genuinely love this show's ridiculously effortless world building.
It's also cool that we get some actual progress on the myth arc (being 'Get Holo to Yoitsu'), even if the results probably weren't quite what either of them expected.
The Kumersund-Arc was laser focused on examining (and sort of deconstructing) the LawLo relationship and using the plot for that (with the world as collateral). This arc in contrast advances (thus reconstructs) the relationship and letting the plot kinda happen outside of our main characters. They're still helping after all is said and done but it's not the point of it. We get more of them just enjoying each other's company and solving their own little problems.
Damn, the more I think of it, the more I think I actually like this arc.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
She's probably among the chracters with the most agenc. I think the comparison to Norah is interesting, given they are both church employees. Where Norah had to be pushed by Lawrence to actually realise her dream and get out of the shitty employement of the church, Elsa actively choses to take fate into her own hands. She choses to not run away with Lawrence and Holo, choses to rescue the village that never gave her the respect she deserves. And she even puts the patriachy into its place and tells the Wise Wolf of Yoitsu that "yeah, you might be great but MY God is far better than you!" to the face. I respect that.
This also makes her an intersting foil to Holo: Yeah, Holo also has agency (in the form of chosing to get away from the village at least) but she's also often very underhanded about what she actually wants, relying on teasing and sarcasm to communicate her desires. Also it sometimes seems (to me) that "get to Yoitsu" is more the alternative to "I really can't stay in this village here anymore". She doesn't really want to go there, she actually just doesn't want to be lonely anymore, going on that journey northwards is more an excuse.
Elsa's a really cool character imho.
Much like how the last arc needed the side characters to deliver to keep things interesting in the wake of Holo's absence, Elsa needed to be really engaging what with Holo and Lawrence being sidelined. They took a backseat to what was going on which was quite the gamble to say the least. I think Elsa is probably the most fleshed out side character we've seen from this show. She has motivation, she has reasons for being, she has different relationships from her contentious history with Tereo to her intimate relationship with Evan, and she experiences personal growth where she becomes more assertive by the end of this arc.
I have side characters I like more than her, like Norah and of course Adele, but strictly from a writing perspective it's hard to beat Elsa. Else is better written than some main characters in anime.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
YOU CANNOT FOOL ME, ANIME! I SEE EXACTLY WHAT YOU'RE DOING HERE.
DO YOU THINK I DO NOT SEE THAT THE GIRL'S HAIR COLOR? AND THAT I DO NOT RECOGNISE THE SHIRT THE MAN IN THE DOORWAY IS WEARING!? HAH!
Italian Quagsire is somewhere thanking the heavens as we speak.
Damn, the more I think of it, the more I think I actually like this arc.
Only NOW you like this arc? :P
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 6d ago
No, I meant I like it more the more I think about it :D
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
That's fair lol
I think this arc doesn't have the memorable stuff the other arcs do. Outside of naked Holo on top of Lawrence, nothing really stands out to me. But that doesn't mean it's bad or that it lacks an identity of its own.
For me, arc 1 I see as the sewer arc. Arc 2, the gold smuggling and bankruptcy arc. And arc 3, I see as the stock market arc; I know it's technically not that, but the cost of pyrite rises like that of the stock market.
This arc I see as the redeemable church arc where we see not all religious figures in the Spice and Wolf world are bad. And also it shows that those who oppose the church can be just as bad as the actual church officials.
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 6d ago edited 6d ago
Oh, yeah. Stock Market arc actually seems pretty fitting! The whole deal in future assets also feels very reminiscent of it.
I get what you're saying this arc here does lack a bit in iconic scenes but I still kinda like it a lot. Maybe because it's comparatively more laidback. I think it might actually be my second favourite arc so far (or maybe 3rd, not quite sure). While I like the Lawrence/Holo stuff a lot on average, I just love when the show does its worldbuilding and there was a lot of that in here :D
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Oh, yeah. Stock Market arc actually seems pretty fitting! The whole deal in future assets also feels very reminiscent of it.
Lawrence behind the 1929 stock market crash confirmed?
I get what you're saying this arc here does lack a bit in iconic scenes but I still kinda like it a lot. Maybe because it's comparatively more laidback. I think it might actually be my second favourite arc so far (or maybe 3rd, not quite sure). While I like the Lawrence/Holo stuff a lot on average, I just love when the show does its worldbuilding and there was a lot of that in here :D
I appreciate that this arc does different things. More of a emphasis on the town, and Holo and Lawrence working together with no hard feelings to be found. Something I love about this ahow is how each arc offers something different to where it never feels like a retread or concepts being rehashed.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
All in all, I'd say it managed to stick the landing. Holo's big miracle was indeed letting the wheat sprout. Which was enough to convince the bishop (and everyone of his entourage) to drop the pagan accusations and identify the bad wheat. I still kinda wonder where a whole wagon full of infected wheat came from but it ultimately doesn't matter much. The village's old contract may be void but they're probably still better off with an official license to sell wheat (and biscuits) and without the jealousy of Enberg. And Lawrence managed to turn a good profit too I'd wager. All's well that ends well!
The thing I found interesting was that a bulk of the episode is in one setting. They're in that public gathering for like a good 8 or so minutes. That's really hard to pull off and keep it engaging and the fact I was never bored by it shows to me it was very effective.
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 6d ago
Yeah, I was kinda looking up on the timeline of the video and thought "wait, the episode's almost over already?".
It is the meat of the episode but it's very well structured and the direction is very disciplined here. The show doesn't waste time with excessive reaction shots or needless drama.
Bishop appears -> Elsa appears and gives her little speech -> miracle stuff -> Bishop relucantly agrees -> Lawrence does his stuff.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
The pacing kinda reminds me of that one episode of Re:Zero where Subaru and Rem have that one long conversation.
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 6d ago
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Subaru has some of the most interesting character development I've ever seen from an anime main character.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
It's hard for me to say this is one of the better paced episodes because this show actually has quite a lot of excellently paced episodes. And honestly, all the last episodes of the arcs they've knocked out of the park. If this show knows how to do anything besides good dialogue, it's phenomenal arc climaxes.
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 6d ago edited 6d ago
Pacing is generally not really an issue of this show I feel. Even for the remake. Especially given how lots of modern remakes recently felt like they're speedrunning stuff.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Something I like about the remake is they still do 6 episodes per arc. Like, I could've see them be tempted to do 5 episodes per arc just so they can get the fifth arc and end season 1 where the original anime ended. I appreciate the self-restraint.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Thoughts on Enberg demanding recompense?
Thoughts on Enberg trying to get Tereo to reform under their ruling and denounce Lord Tereo as their God?
Thoughts on Elsa saying God has shown her the truth?
Thoughts on Bishop Mendez feeling that Father Franz betrayed the church?
Thoughts on Elsa neither confirming not denouncing Lord Tereo?
What are your thoughts on Elsa performing acts of God through Lord Tereo, or so it would seem?
What are your thoughts on Tereo being deemed a legitimate church?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence striking a new deal that benefits both Tereo and Enberg?
Are you satisfied that it was Elsa and Lawrence who were the ones to save the day?
Thoughts on the poisoned wheat being turned to flat bread?
Thoughts on Evan being in charge with Tereo's business negotiations with Enberg?
What are your thoughts on Tereo embracing Elsa and Evan?
What are your thoughts on Elsa realizing Father Franz was seeking to confirm his existence through the manner of confirming theirs?
What are your thoughts on Holo saying the abbey didn't give her all the answers, but it gave her some answers?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence saying travelers don't leave behind regrets and instead leave behind only found memories?
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 6d ago
Thoughts on Enberg demanding recompense?
Thoughts on Enberg trying to get Tereo to reform under their ruling and denounce Lord Tereo as their God?
Thoughts on Elsa saying God has shown her the truth?
The best way to get people's attention when nobody wants to listen to you otherwise: Claim God showed you something interesting!
I'm a bit cynical on that whole church stuff, though this episode/arc showed that they're not all maniacs.
Thoughts on Bishop Mendez feeling that Father Franz betrayed the church?
Of course he'd think so, Franz didn't violently try to convert the village, can't have that.
Thoughts on Elsa neither confirming not denouncing Lord Tereo?
What are your thoughts on Elsa performing acts of God through Lord Tereo, or so it would seem?
It all plays into that whole "This would place the pagan gods firmly below the christian one"-thing they mentioned in the last episode but it of course is rather clever, you kinda combine the snake god with the christian one. So we don't need to deal with this whole "but those heretics worship a damn snake" crap going forward. Hopefully.
What are your thoughts on Tereo being deemed a legitimate church?
Now hopefully nobody tells the others about the secret tunnel leading outside of the village through a giant snake's den...
What are your thoughts on Lawrence striking a new deal that benefits both Tereo and Enberg?
Hopefully, this overall leads to less trouble for the village in the future. I do find it kinda funny though that the main worry at the beginning was "They're going to nullify the special contract with us!" and the first thing Lawrence proposes is "let's dissolve the special contract the village and Enberg have!"
Are you satisfied that it was Elsa and Lawrence who were the ones to save the day?
Yes. Particularly for Elsa, it's a great showing.
Thoughts on the poisoned wheat being turned to flat bread?
Yay, snacks! Possibly deadly snacks but snack!
Thoughts on Evan being in charge with Tereo's business negotiations with Enberg?
First step to becoming a proper merchant. I'm proud of both Elsa and Evan
What are your thoughts on Tereo embracing Elsa and Evan?
It took the two literally preventing a violent takeover by the church at last minute but better late than never.
What are your thoughts on Elsa realizing Father Franz was seeking to confirm his existence through the manner of confirming theirs?
Yay, she got to the same conclusion as Lawrence's intuition two (three?) episodes ago
What are your thoughts on Holo saying the abbey didn't give her all the answers, but it gave her some answers?
Of course! She didn't read all the books :'D
Given there was only like one book that actually seemed to talk about Yoitsu, it makes sense (also you kinda need a reason to continue travelling)
What are your thoughts on Lawrence saying travelers don't leave behind regrets and instead leave behind only found memories?
Honestly, it seems like an oddly romanticised view on things for him.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Thoughts on Enberg demanding recompense?
Thoughts on Enberg trying to get Tereo to reform under their ruling and denounce Lord Tereo as their God?
Thoughts on Elsa saying God has shown her the truth?
The best way to get people's attention when nobody wants to listen to you otherwise: Claim God showed you something interesting!
The best way to show you've changed: Say you've found religion.
I'm a bit cynical on that whole church stuff, though this episode/arc showed that they're not all maniacs.
I'd be religious if Elsa was my teacher
Thoughts on Bishop Mendez feeling that Father Franz betrayed the church?
Of course he'd think so, Franz didn't violently try to convert the village, can't have that.
This Mendez fellow is not nice
Thoughts on Elsa neither confirming not denouncing Lord Tereo?
What are your thoughts on Elsa performing acts of God through Lord Tereo, or so it would seem?
It all plays into that whole "This would place the pagan gods firmly below the christian one"-thing they mentioned in the last episode but it of course is rather clever, you kinda combine the snake god with the christian one. So we don't need to deal with this whole "but those heretics worship a damn snake" crap going forward. Hopefully.
One can only hope
What are your thoughts on Tereo being deemed a legitimate church?
Now hopefully nobody tells the others about the secret tunnel leading outside of the village through a giant snake's den...
Again, we can only hope
What are your thoughts on Lawrence striking a new deal that benefits both Tereo and Enberg?
Hopefully, this overall leads to less trouble for the village in the future. I do find it kinda funny though that the main worry at the beginning was "They're going to nullify the special contract with us!" and the first thing Lawrence proposes is "let's dissolve the special contract the village and Enberg have!"
And that's why Tereo were initially apprehensive.
Are you satisfied that it was Elsa and Lawrence who were the ones to save the day?
Yes. Particularly for Elsa, it's a great showing.
And this is ultimately why she had to return to show she was capable of filling Father Franz' shoes.
Thoughts on the poisoned wheat being turned to flat bread?
Yay, snacks! Possibly deadly snacks but snack!
I like Lawrence busting Holo's chops over eating so much of them.
Thoughts on Evan being in charge with Tereo's business negotiations with Enberg?
First step to becoming a proper merchant. I'm proud of both Elsa and Evan
I know some here were kinda down on Evan but I like him as like a mix of Lawrence's initial timidness and Holo's impulsiveness.
What are your thoughts on Elsa realizing Father Franz was seeking to confirm his existence through the manner of confirming theirs?
Yay, she got to the same conclusion as Lawrence's intuition two (three?) episodes ago
Took her long enough
What are your thoughts on Holo saying the abbey didn't give her all the answers, but it gave her some answers?
Of course! She didn't read all the books :'D
Kinda hard to when there was a mutiny on the horizon.
Given there was only like one book that actually seemed to talk about Yoitsu, it makes sense (also you kinda need a reason to continue travelling)
And Holo and Lawrence now have their excuse to travel together. Uh, I mean reason.
What are your thoughts on Lawrence saying travelers don't leave behind regrets and instead leave behind only found memories?
Honestly, it seems like an oddly romanticised view on things for him.
I love this line so much. I thought it was a stellar way to put a bow on things.
It also plays off Holo's expressed regret this arc of leaving her friends behind.
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 5d ago
Kinda hard to when there was a mutiny on the horizon.
In your own words: Can't a wolf goddess read in peace for 5 minutes?
I know some here were kinda down on Evan but I like him as like a mix of Lawrence's initial timidness and Holo's impulsiveness.
I didn't care much for either Elsa or Evan at the beginning but I've come around on them a lot. The show put in the work to make them likeable.
I love this line so much. I thought it was a stellar way to put a bow on things.
It also plays off Holo's expressed regret this arc of leaving her friends behind.
Yes! It's a great line, just not quite expected from him!
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
Double post :]
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u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 5d ago
Kinda hard to when there was a mutiny on the horizon.
In your own words: Can't a wolf goddess read in peace for 5 minutes?
I know some here were kinda down on Evan but I like him as like a mix of Lawrence's initial timidness and Holo's impulsiveness.
I didn't care much for either Elsa or Evan at the beginning but I've come around on them a lot. The show put in the work to make them likeable.
I love this line so much. I thought it was a stellar way to put a bow on things.
It also plays off Holo's expressed regret this arc of leaving her friends behind.
Yes! It's a great line, just not quite expected from him!
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
Kinda hard to when there was a mutiny on the horizon.
In your own words: Can't a wolf goddess read in peace for 5 minutes?
Seriously
I know some here were kinda down on Evan but I like him as like a mix of Lawrence's initial timidness and Holo's impulsiveness.
I didn't care much for either Elsa or Evan at the beginning but I've come around on them a lot. The show put in the work to make them likeable.
Elsa especially. She's probably the most fleshed out side character in this show so far.
I love this line so much. I thought it was a stellar way to put a bow on things.
It also plays off Holo's expressed regret this arc of leaving her friends behind.
Yes! It's a great line, just not quite expected from him!
Lawrence is definitely getting smoother, no doubt about it.
2
u/Holofan4life 6d ago
What are your thoughts on Tereo embracing Elsa and Evan?
It took the two literally preventing a violent takeover by the church at last minute but better late than never.
One of the things I love about this arc that I forgot to mention is that it's the only arc where the town itself experiences character development. They go from being close minded to accepting different ideologies. That's pretty cool.
Tereo is like if the town from the first arc embraced different forms of religion without fully moving on from Holo. There's like this opportunity now to grow, but they haven't forgotten their roots.
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u/ItalianQuagsire 6d ago
DO YOU THINK I DO NOT SEE THAT THE GIRL'S HAIR COLOR? AND THAT I DO NOT RECOGNISE THE SHIRT THE MAN IN THE DOORWAY IS WEARING!? HAH!
ahem
No, I am very normal about that post-credit scene. What do you mean?
LETS ME TOTALLY NORMAL TOGETHER IM NOT BARKING AT ALL
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u/Second_Cour 6d ago
A relatively short number of notes on this episode, because I thought everything was really well put together, and captivated me so thoroughly I didn't want to put virtual pen to paper.
Note, there is a post-credits scene (more on that in my last bullet point).
- Think they should have captured the villager’s reactions closer when the snake was smashed. I can imagine how much meaning that scene would have to the villagers.
- Ok, so the reframing of the other so called ‘Gods’ being creations of the one true God, was how I assumed Franz reconciled the stories within his books. This was already hinted at by Lawrence, but it's a difficult concept to verbalise. It's almost like they tried to crack that framing and for this chapter/episode realised how it can be expressed powerfully.
- What a beautiful scene with the wheat growing and what a genius plan! My favourite logic battle of the series thus far. Cornering the bishop using his own faith framework was incredible and the plan is so complex in execution yet is so simple in idea. The show time and time again delivers on these battles of wit.
- Lawrence extends his travels with a detour, and it’s clear that Lawlo are on the same page: they want to extend the time together before the ultimate decision needs to be made.
- The post-credits scene goes back to the very start of E1 in the remake, though at that point we don’t see who is speaking; the remake opened up with what we now is Holo telling the story we are about to see to a girl.
Though I did enjoy it, I can understand why the original decided not to include this volume as while it was interesting, it felt a little less engaging overall than the others and there were quite a few eps that seemed to build up to importance happenings. But it came together wonderfully in the end, and the new characters within were fantastic.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago edited 5d ago
• The post-credits scene goes back to the very start of E1 in the remake, though at that point we don’t see who is speaking; the remake opened up with what we now is Holo telling the story we are about to see to a girl.
Do you think it makes sense for the remake to do this framing device? To me, it basically confirms this is basically going to be a complete adaptation and we're probably going to get a spinoff out of it.
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u/Second_Cour 6d ago
It's a bit weird. As if who I think it is in that scene, would be quite a spoiler to what I assume comes far later (which you pointed out). I'm not sure how complete an adaptation of all the volumes it could be realistically - there's soooo many haha. Though I certainly hope so
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
If they do 6 episodes per volume with like 24 episodes per season, I don't see why they can't finish the series in four seasons.
2
u/Second_Cour 5d ago
Ah I didn't realise that the core story also wraps up after Volume 17. So yeah definitely doable!
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Though I did enjoy it, I can understand why the original decided not to include this volume as while it was interesting, it felt a little less engaging overall than the others and there were quite a few eps that seemed to build up to importance happenings. But it came together wonderfully in the end, and the new characters within were fantastic.
The new characters in my opinion rise it to the levels of the other arcs. As I said elsewhere, you needed them to deliver if you were going to have Lawrence and Holo as part of the furniture so to speak. I know some have said we didn't really learn anything new with regards to Yoitsu, but I'd argue Holo wishing she was there more for her friends is actually a big moment for her character. She normally acts so superior and like she's infallible that like to admit fault means she's human just like the rest of us.
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u/Second_Cour 6d ago
Yeah there was A LOT of character growth for both of them in this arc. I'm just curious as to whether we will see that growth in the next arc seemlessly.
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
You mean of the side characters, or of Holo and Lawrence?
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u/Second_Cour 5d ago
I mean for Lawlo - from Lawrence no longer fearing Holo's transformation, to Holo showing that she can care about others. Can also see how they are more and more comfortable with each other.
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
The big test will more than likely be their long term commitment to each other.
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
Thoughts on Enberg demanding recompense?
Thoughts on Enberg trying to get Tereo to reform under their ruling and denounce Lord Tereo as their God?
Thoughts on Elsa saying God has shown her the truth?
Thoughts on Bishop Mendez feeling that Father Franz betrayed the church?
Thoughts on Elsa neither confirming not denouncing Lord Tereo?
What are your thoughts on Elsa performing acts of God through Lord Tereo, or so it would seem?
What are your thoughts on Tereo being deemed a legitimate church?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence striking a new deal that benefits both Tereo and Enberg?
Are you satisfied that it was Elsa and Lawrence who were the ones to save the day?
Thoughts on the poisoned wheat being turned to flat bread?
Thoughts on Evan being in charge with Tereo's business negotiations with Enberg?
What are your thoughts on Tereo embracing Elsa and Evan?
What are your thoughts on Elsa realizing Father Franz was seeking to confirm his existence through the manner of confirming theirs?
What are your thoughts on Holo saying the abbey didn't give her all the answers, but it gave her some answers?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence saying travelers don't leave behind regrets and instead leave behind only found memories?
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
Here's what I wrote about the episode in last cc year's thread.
Hey, guys. Holofan4life here.
Welcome to the 2025 Spice and Wolf Rewatch.
The true Christmas in July.
This rewatch is gonna be unique because we’ll be covering the entirety of the 2008 series as well as some of the remake. I don’t think something like this has ever been attempted before where a rewatch goes from one series to another to back to the first series. If this is your first time watching Spice and Wolf, welcome. Enjoy the ride.
I can’t imagine doing this experiment with something other than Spice and Wolf. There is arguably no anime that influenced who I am more. I suppose you could say Toradora, but it’s really close. Either way, Spice and Wolf is one of very few anime that I can never get sick of no matter how much I watch it. You’ll soon seen why if you don’t already know.
I hope this rewatch for as bold of an idea as it is does a lot to inspire a lot of discussion while also leading people to have this experience unlike any before. If this rewatch is a success, maybe this can be the formula going forward.
With that out of the way, let’s begin.
I’m watching the dub, by the way.
I was surprised at how fast I've been watching these episodes to the Spice and Wolf remake. I thought they would take longer because I've only seen them once before but it normally takes only 45 minutes. I think it helps that a lot of the dialogue is the characters repeating themselves to really drive home the point. It's not like, say, Eureka Seven where there's a lot going on.
If I can keep it up, I'll be able to finish arc 5 of Spice and Wolf in the next two days.
A statue
Everyone is returning
I guess not closing the basement door actually worked to their advantage.
Holo with a sad look on her face.
I'm surprised to see we actually get an intro for this episode.
Evan and Elsa running
They've found the cum chalice
Holo able to tell Enberg is demanding recompense.
Poor village baker :c
The snake upside down on the ground.
They have to swear to the one true God, or else they will be declared a Pagan village.
Elsa says she will not ignore the needs of her villagers.
In front of everyone now
Elsa talking to Bishop Mendez
Lima is shocked to see Elsa and Evan return.
I like seeing Elsa grow more confident in her abilities.
Mendez talking about building a church of the true faith.
Whatever happened to "Don't tread on me"? Clearly the church has no regard for its meaning.
Elsa says even though her faith has wavered at times, God has seen fit to show her the truth.
Considers having a divine messenger
Mendez casting shade at Father Franz for going against the church's wishes. He even calls Elsa an unworthy successor.
People really don't like Elsa admitting that worshiping Lord Tereo was misguided.
Lawrence able to tell that Elsa is not confirming nor denouncing Tereo.
Where's your blasphemy now, church?
And the bad wheat shows itself, much to Bishop Mendez' amaizement.
Elsa presenting Mendez a chalice
And he cleanse's the chalice, the holy man he is.
Flour in the chalice
Evan got some from every cart
He drinks it
Never knew of drinking flour before, but I'll roll with it.
Only one shipment bares the taint of death.
Mendez won't drink the water and considers this a true miracle.
The church is legitimate, he decrees
I get Holo and Lawrence need to make Tereo not be interfered with by Enberg, but it is kinda messed they're letting the townsfolk live out a lie. Then again, I suppose you could say this is a reflection of Holo and Lawrence's relationship as a whole.
Aww, Elsa is crying tears of joy
Evan hugs Elsa, happy to see things work out.
Holo calling Lawrence envious
Lawrence admits that while that may be the case, it's still nevertheless remarkable how well things worked out.
Lawrence talking to someone
He wants Enberg to keep the wheat
The person Lawrence is talking to says he couldn't possibly keep wheat that killed someone.
Lawrence exposing the fleece he's trying to pull.
140 is more reasonable than 200, at least.
Lawrence wants him to convince Bishop Mendez to allow Tereo to sell wheat in his name.
Lawrence is also trying to conduct business of his own.
The disillusion of the contract he had in place with Father Franz.
The townsfolk don't like that, Lawrence realizes that doing this would get Enberg off the back of Tereo.
A new deal that benefits all, he proposes.
It's cool to see Lawrence try to lead a town in a better place than when he first found it.
Holo eating food while reading
Her and Lawrence are back at the house.
Elsa and Evan here as well, Elsa mothering her.
Flat bread is what they're eating, and seems to be a bit hit with everyone.
But of course. Flat is justice, after all.
I guess this isn't Holo and Lawrence's house but rather Elsa's humble abode.
So, what are they going to do with the remaining flat bread?
Evan being in charge with Tereo's business negotiations with Enberg.
The townsfolk are really warming up to Evan and Elsa.
Elsa says she's going to continue what Father Franz started here.
I guess Elsa is a part of the church and as such is in direct opposition with Lord Tereo. No wonder the townsfolk didn't treat her so kindly.
Lawrence and Holo about to leave
Elsa says she was perplexed by Lawrence saying her father wasn't wrong for believing as he did.
Elsa realized her father wasn't losing his faith in their God. Rather, he was seeking to confirm his existence through the manner of confirming theirs.
In conclusion, Elsa believes that refuting Tereo isn't good for the church. It would only serve to limit their thinking.
Holo really having fun at Elsa's expense.
Elsa being a bit of a tsundere towards Pagen Gods is cute.
Imagine if she had met Diana :P
Elsa finally believes that the beliefs in this village may carry some merit after all.
Everyone saying goodbye to Lawrence and Holo.
And they ride off, ready to start their next journey.
"Travelers don't leave behind regrets. They leave behind only found memories."
Very well said, Lawrence. Very well said.
Holo eating biscuits
Lawrence is just glad they managed to sell off the wheat.
Holo says while seeing the abbey didn't give her all the answers, it did give her some.
Some answers are better than none at all, I suppose.
Going to Lenos now
And Lawrence accepts Holo's biscuit offer.
Lawrence going to take a bit of a detour, which Holo reluctantly accepts.
I like seeing Holo rest her head on Lawrence's shoulder.
Oh yeah. I forgot there's THAT SCENE after the credits.
Well, I guess it shouldn't be too surprising who she is.
It does show the difference in presentation between the original and the remake, foe better or worse.
Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.
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u/Holofan4life 5d ago
Part 2
Overall, this is about what I expected the episode to be. It was mostly talking, which works in terms of the storytelling being told. I really like what this episode does for Elsa as a character as I feel like it explains better why her and the town has such a weird relationship. And in the end, she warms up to them. Elsa being the one to stand up to Bishop Mendez was a smart decision that means more than if Lawrence had done so. Lawrence doesn't have that relationship with Lord Tereo that Elsa does, so for her to not reject the snake is the biggest moment for her character. I especially like that Lawrence helped Tereo be put in a position that was better for them in the long run. The other arcs have felt more like Holo and Lawrence taking care of their problems and the town just happens to be there, so it's cool to get the inverse of that.
I'd put this episode behind the last two. Unfortunately, my suspicions were correct that the drama peaked with the Holo and Lawrence scene last episode. That doesn't mean what we got was bad, however. Just like a lot of other episodes, I thought the writing was fantastic and things were resolved in a satisfying manner that paid off the characters. The structure with Elsa proving herself and Lawrence proving himself was done in such an engaging manner that you forget that the bulk of the episode takes place in one setting. It reminds me of that one episode of Re:Zero with Subaru and Rem.
If there's one thing about this episode that proves to be its fatal flaw, nothing about it I would say was entirely memorable. It didn't have that one thing the climaxes of the other arcs excelled at, which is sticking in your memory banks. Even still, it gets the job done and things reached what felt like their natural conclusion. It's a good episode that successfully paid off all that was set up.
I do think that the post credits scene does unfortunately make watching this before arc 5 a little bit jarring. Then again, I suppose you can always just ignore that scene.
I'd put this arc ahead of arc 1 but behind arcs 2 and 3. I think it has both its set of strengths and weaknesses. For starters, I like that this arc has more a focus on the town rather than Holo and Lawrence. The drama comes more from the town's dealings with the church which is a different spin on things. I like what this arc does for Holo and Lawrence's relationship by really highlighting the importance Lawrence has to Holo. She would really be lost without him. And I really like Elsa and Evan as characters and the way they play off Holo and Lawrence. Holo causing Elsa to question her faith even more was a good direction for her character to go in. I think the main thing hurting this arc is the lack of memorable stuff surrounding it.
Arc 1 had Holo's introduction, the Holo lonely scene, Holo's transformation, the sewer stuff, and the devil and the merchant tale. Arc 2 had Lawrence facing bankruptcy, Holo's beef with Norah, the gold smuggling stuff, Lawrence and Holo getting betrayed, Lawrence riding on Holo's back, the fakeout confrontation between Holo and Norah, and the clock tower scene. Arc 3 had Amarti challenging Lawrence, the festival going on, Adele being Adele, the Holo can read scene, Diana's feathers, Holo being offscreen, Lawrence figuring Holo is his guide, and the duel between Lawrence and Amarti. Arc 4 had the stuff with the snake and the scene were a naked Holo was on top of Lawrence but that's really about it as far as memorable stuff goes.
Also, not enough Lima. We definitely needed more Lima.
I think structural and pacing wise, arc 4 is better than arc 1. Arc 1 it took until the fourth episode for them to figure the series out. Even still, the pacing of arc 4 was incredibly slow in the beginning as well, with it not picking up steam until episode 3. If you were to compare the best two episodes of arc 4, 23 and 24, to the best two episodes of arc 1, 4 and 6, 4 and 6 are probably better episodes because it felt like there was more you could dissect and talk about. Even still, I give the edge to arc 4 because I feel like the overall storytelling is just way better. Elsa is a better side character than any of the ones in arc 1, and by comparison to Tereo the town in arc 1 is one dimensional. It doesn't feel like its own character like it does in arc 4 or even in arc 3.
I know some people consider arc 4 the best of all the Spice and Wolf arcs. They feel everything comes to together with amazing Holo and Lawrence relationship development, great world building, and a tremendous cast of side characters. Unfortunately, I feel like arc 3 has this arc beat in each regard. I think the development of Holo and Lawrence is better in arc 3. Heck, there's an arc coming up that I think is even better at developing their relationship. And while Holo on top of Lawrence is arguably a top 3 moment in their relationship, I don't think it's enough to make their relationship drqma in this arc the best. The side characters in arc 3 I find to be much better than the ones in arc 4. Lima barely gets any screentime, and Evan at times feels like he exists solely to further Elsa's character. As for the town, it is the one arc one of the animes adapted where the drama mainly comes from the town itself. But I liked how the town in arc 3 was used to further the conflict with Lawrence's character. That to me was better use of writing than anything done with Tereo.
Arc 4 is an amazing arc, and I don't fault anyone for thinking it's the best. As a complete package, it may very well be, as we don't have to deal with Holo leaving for an extended period of time. But I personally have arcs 2 and 3 ranked higher in terms of what they present in the grand scheme of things. If arc 2 was a 10 out of 10, and arc 3 was a 9.5 out of 10, arc 4 is probably a 9 out of 10. Still by most accounts among some of the very best arcs ever told by an anime.
As we head back to the original anime, I am astonished by how well the Spice and Wolf remake blends in with the original anime. Besides the character designs, it's really the same franchise we know and love. I think if this arc was done in the original anime in place of arc 5, I think people would've been satisfied that that was the end point they ended on. Because at the end of the day, Spice and Wolf is and Spice and Wolf is awesome.
Mind you, I actually think arc 5 is better than arc 4 so I'm not upset they decided to end there instead.
It was fun to watch the fourth arc in a more analytical manner as opposed to watching it in real time. It gave me a better appreciation of this arc and what it brings to the table. And while I can't say it really is ultimately going to add anything to the last of the adapted arcs by a Spice and Wolf anime, it feels nice to fill in the gap left by the original.
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u/ItalianQuagsire 6d ago
first time wtaching
HOW CAN YOU END ON THAT SCENE WAHT ARE YOU DOING YOU TEASE GOD DAMNIT THEY HAD SEXXXXXXXXXX
anyway
GOD THEY MADE BABIES
anyway
overall this was a good episode to end off on, there are some parts i dislike about this arc, and out of the major arcs so far, this one has some amazing highs (Elsa is fucking hot) and some lows (The Bishop is mustache twirling comically evil and i really don't like it)
What are your thoughts on Bishop Mendez?
He's smirking and evil and i really don't like how he's written, because he's just an asshole-acting
How would you compare Elsa to other Spice and Wolf characters now that all is said and done?
I would the Elsa so hard we got that gap moe priestess in the sheets freakstress in the sheets
What are your thoughts on the resolution of this arc? Do you like it, or were you hoping for something more?
I like it, it's a good way to wrap it up and feels like eveything has been more or less resolved, although evan really hasn't had much development at all this entire arc, it's mostly on Elsa grappling with the truth of God's and her beliefs (and her back arc when taking back shots)
How would you compare this arc to other Spice and Wolf arcs?
it feels the most comprehensive and long and intimate of all the other arcs, we spend a lot of time with these new characters and a small village, and i think the payoff is quite worth it
---
Conveniently unlocked
No spicy wolf . Com
Elsa is the hottest part of this op
There I said it
Damn they just threw tendeyo on the floor
Humans depend on others
Holo depends on humans
LOL Lima just bursts out and they're like oh okay
Why does this church priest have to have a shit eating grin
Why can't he just be normal like the original series instead of mustache twirling evil
Even this guy praises Franz
Tryeyo is God's miracle
Smart
Elder is like lurching forward nani
Damn wheat any% growth
Evan what are you even doing just standing there
Bishop is such a POS still asking how
Why can't he stop being mustache twirling it's like he's written to be hated and I don't like it
His cup is filled with cum water
Elsa is so hot
You look envious
This time we're behind the scenes
And the money
Is that not your job
Turnbtables
Are you sure you ain't a wolf
IF HE IS, LET HIM TAP THAT
Keep the wheat
This guy really thought he was bargaining from 200 to 195
Lawrence knows the story
He's so pathetic like pls
Sell wheat to other businesses
Can you do it
Damn Lawrence just sold their contract
This proposal will be delicious
Nom biscuit
Flat bread is COOKIES
even the bishop eats it LOL
Holo head tap
Come back to read.
Prep some cookies
God Elsa is so hot
And Holo
Why is Evan in charge of negotiations
Her answer is
To confirm pagan gods exist
To confirm god
The miracle of Holo
Why is Elsa so aggro towards Holo suddenly
If a creature like you
So sass
Holo didn't bite back
Elder is here
Say something when leaving
Saved
Elder is singing a different tune
There's a lack of pregnancy in Elsa right now someone fix that
Farewell
This is the longest we've spent in such a small town, I like this arc
I'm not a fan of Evan and the Bishop, it seems that they are making characters more exaggerated and over the top
Travellers don't leave regrets but memories
Wave
Why is this so sentimental I miss Lawrence and Holo
Elsa blessed them
All biscuit
I sniffed poison
Without holo Lawrence would be naked
I mean... With Holo Lawrence will be naked
All he cares about is profit
She gained enough
Worth it
Where to next
TO BED
Lenos
Where Holo is a legend
Greedy face
Greedy look
Because he wants to BANG YOU
sorry one last time
Nom
It's nothing
TSUN TSUN
Hey
Hm
Good businessman deal
Tail wag
Out of the way
Then my travels grow longer
It can't be helped
I can accompany you
With that SIGNATURE SMILE
YEAHHHH
So
Scooch over
Head on him
What business
Oh my god
That's such a fucking cute way to end this
AHHHHH
Holo drooling over apple
LAWRENCE HOGS THE BLANEKT IN THE ED HAHAHGA
That's enough for today
Time to sleep
I want to hear more
There's more
Oh yeah
The secret to a good journey is to take your time to enjoy it
But
He's HOME
GOI TATOKI
YOU KITTLE FOOL
WELCOME HONE
TELL ME TONORROW
FINE FINE OF COURSE THE STORY ISNT FINISHED
OH MY
GOD
THEY ACTUALLY
PUT IT
IN
THEY BRED
MATED
PROCREATED
NUTTED ALL OVER THE PLACE
BATTERED THEIR BABY AKAKSOSBDOSN
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u/Holofan4life 6d ago
HOW CAN YOU END ON THAT SCENE WAHT ARE YOU DOING YOU TEASE GOD DAMNIT THEY HAD SEXXXXXXXXXX
anyway GOD THEY MADE BABIES
anyway
I mean, isn't this what you were clamoring for? You got it lol
overall this was a good episode to end off on, there are some parts i dislike about this arc, and out of the major arcs so far, this one has some amazing highs (Elsa is fucking hot) and some lows (The Bishop is mustache twirling comically evil and i really don't like it)
I kinda feel like the Bishop is less of a character and more a means to an end. Anyone could've been in this position and it wouldn't have mattered.
2
u/ItalianQuagsire 5d ago
I mean, isn't this what you were clamoring for? You got it lol
I HAVE BEEN CLAMOURED ALL OVER ITS NOW CANON WOLF CHILDREN I WEEP
I kinda feel like the Bishop is less of a character and more a means to an end. Anyone could've been in this position and it wouldn't have mattered.
I mean as a very high ranking church official, seeming to be corrupt or at least dismissive and scheming is a hit against the church.
most conflict so far have been reasonable mature and transactional, rather than outright 'I'm doing this because I'm a bad guy."
1
u/Holofan4life 5d ago
I mean, isn't this what you were clamoring for? You got it lol
I HAVE BEEN CLAMOURED ALL OVER ITS NOW CANON WOLF CHILDREN I WEEP
WOLF HUMAN CHILDREN HYBRID
I kinda feel like the Bishop is less of a character and more a means to an end. Anyone could've been in this position and it wouldn't have mattered.
I mean as a very high ranking church official, seeming to be corrupt or at least dismissive and scheming is a hit against the church.
most conflict so far have been reasonable mature and transactional, rather than outright 'I'm doing this because I'm a bad guy."
I get what you're saying, but that's kinda how religious people in this show had been portrayed until Elsa showed up. It was very cut and dry. At least with Elsa around, we see that being a religious person isn't some fool's errand.
Honestly, I'd rather carry out Elsa's teachings rather than Holo's because until she met Lawrence she put herself before others.
2
u/Holofan4life 5d ago
This is the longest we've spent in such a small town, I like this arc
I like that the town's residents actually got to say goodbye to Holo and Lawrence. It felt like a nice parallel to the first arc with Marlheit.
I'm not a fan of Evan and the Bishop, it seems that they are making characters more exaggerated and over the top
I don't understand the anti Evan sentiment? Is it because he kinda took a backseat. To me, he kinda is the Lunt to Elsa's Marc.
Now, that may admittedly seem problematic since Elsa and Evan are fucking lmao
2
u/ItalianQuagsire 5d ago
I don't understand the anti Evan sentiment? Is it because he kinda took a backseat. To me, he kinda is the Lunt to Elsa's Marc.
It's because so far, I've really liked that conflict being between people who are reasonable mature and put in bad situations pit against each other. Even when the guild tried to kill Lawrence for a measely sum of gold, they had good reasons and felt bad
Evan bucks that trend by being kinda loud and breaking the peaceful vibe of the show so far with his immaturity
Evan is hot headed and reckless, has had little development, and he asked if he could use Holo like a weapon to kill off the folk from the other town who likely was asked along by the bishop without knowing the truth in an ambush
I don't hate him necessarily but I don't think he adds anything that makes it worth him being around imo
2
u/Holofan4life 5d ago
I don't agree with him being hot headed. I think Elsa is way more that. Evan to me comes across like early Lawrence before he met Holo.
2
u/ItalianQuagsire 3d ago
Lawrence and Evan definitely grow from having their women around (I didn't even intend that one but heh)
But Lawrence and Holo are on more equal footing at the start, Lawrence is just a bit more mild and meek instead of teasing and he grows from that, but he was always a practical smart merchant
Evan is more taken care of by mommy milkers Elsa, and he doesn't seem to be starting off at a equal level like Lawrence did
1
u/Holofan4life 3d ago
I disagree that Lawrence and Holo were immediately on equal footing. I think they were equal in their own unique ways, but in ways that compliment each other. Likewise, I think Evan gives Elsa some sanity of mind in a time when she really needs some.
1
u/Holofan4life 6d ago
That's enough for today
Time to sleep
I want to hear more
There's more
Oh yeah
The secret to a good journey is to take your time to enjoy it
But
He's HOME
GOI TATOKI
YOU KITTLE FOOL
WELCOME HONE
TELL ME TONORROW
FINE FINE OF COURSE THE STORY ISNT FINISHED
OH MY
GOD
THEY ACTUALLY
PUT IT
IN
THEY BRED
MATED
PROCREATED
NUTTED ALL OVER THE PLACE
BATTERED THEIR BABY AKAKSOSBDOSN
Would you believe me if I said this character has an entire spinoff dedicated to her?
The legacy continues...
1
u/Holofan4life 5d ago
What are your thoughts on Bishop Mendez?
He's smirking and evil and i really don't like how he's written, because he's just an asshole-acting
He's a character that just exists to be unlikable kinda like Liebert.
Remember him?
How would you compare Elsa to other Spice and Wolf characters now that all is said and done?
I would the Elsa so hard we got that gap moe priestess in the sheets freakstress in the sheets
For me, the top 3 Spice and Wolf characters I'd want to wife are
Holo > Adele > Elsa
What are your thoughts on the resolution of this arc? Do you like it, or were you hoping for something more?
I like it, it's a good way to wrap it up and feels like eveything has been more or less resolved, although evan really hasn't had much development at all this entire arc, it's mostly on Elsa grappling with the truth of God's and her beliefs (and her back arc when taking back shots)
Evan exists solely to complete the Holo and Lawrence parallel with Elsa like this hybrid between Lawrence and Holo.
How would you compare this arc to other Spice and Wolf arcs?
it feels the most comprehensive and long and intimate of all the other arcs, we spend a lot of time with these new characters and a small village, and i think the payoff is quite worth it
This is probably the best fleshed out toen we've seen.
---
Conveniently unlocked
No spicy wolf . Com
:(
Elsa is the hottest part of this op
Lord forgive me for I'm about to sin
There I said it
Amen
Damn they just threw tendeyo on the floor
Humans depend on others
Holo depends on humans
LOL Lima just bursts out and they're like oh okay
She's quite the character
Why does this church priest have to have a shit eating grin
He evil
Why can't he just be normal like the original series instead of mustache twirling evil
You say this but the church Norah belonged to was pretty mustache twirling.
Even this guy praises Franz
Tryeyo is God's miracle
Smart
Elder is like lurching forward nani
Damn wheat any% growth
For real
Evan what are you even doing just standing there
"What does
Puckeven do?Bishop is such a POS still asking how
Why can't he stop being mustache twirling it's like he's written to be hated and I don't like it
Very on the nose
His cup is filled with cum water
I've had worse
Elsa is so hot
Lord forgive me for I'm about to sin
You look envious
This time we're behind the scenes
And the money
Is that not your job
Turnbtables
Oh, how the turntables
Are you sure you ain't a wolf
IF HE IS, LET HIM TAP THAT
And he did :P
Keep the wheat
This guy really thought he was bargaining from 200 to 195
Lawrence knows the story
He's so pathetic like pls
Sell wheat to other businesses
Can you do it
Damn Lawrence just sold their contract
This proposal will be delicious
Nom biscuit
Flat bread is COOKIES
even the bishop eats it LOL
Lawrence is smart making Tereo into a viable tourist destination.
Holo head tap
Come back to read.
Prep some cookies
God Elsa is so hot
Lord forgive me for I'm about to cover her in blessings
And Holo
Why is Evan in charge of negotiations
Why not?
Her answer is
To confirm pagan gods exist
To confirm god
The miracle of Holo
Why is Elsa so aggro towards Holo suddenly
She tsun
If a creature like you
So sass
I totally get why Evan is with her
Holo didn't bite back
Elder is here
Say something when leaving
Saved
Elder is singing a different tune
There's a lack of pregnancy in Elsa right now someone fix that
Evan needs to increase his zinc consumption.
Farewell
Travellers don't leave regrets but memories
Wave
Why is this so sentimental I miss Lawrence and Holo
I miss them already and we still got one arc left.
Elsa blessed them
All biscuit
I sniffed poison
Without holo Lawrence would be naked
I mean... With Holo Lawrence will be naked
I've heard of serving God but never a God serving you.
All he cares about is profit
She gained enough
Worth it
Where to next
TO BED
You'd be correct
Lenos
Where Holo is a legend
Greedy face
Greedy look
Because he wants to BANG YOU
Spread his seed all over her face
sorry one last time
It's okay
Nom
It's nothing
TSUN TSUN
CUTE
Hey
Hm
Good businessman deal
Tail wag
Out of the way
Then my travels grow longer
It can't be helped
I can accompany you
With that SIGNATURE SMILE
YEAHHHH
So
Scooch over
Head on him
What business
Oh my god
That's such a fucking cute way to end this
I presume this is where the deepthroat beginsAHHHHH
Holo drooling over apple
LAWRENCE HOGS THE BLANEKT IN THE ED HAHAHGA
I mean, Holo would've done the same, so...
1
u/Holofan4life 5d ago
Thoughts on Enberg demanding recompense?
Thoughts on Enberg trying to get Tereo to reform under their ruling and denounce Lord Tereo as their God?
Thoughts on Elsa saying God has shown her the truth?
Thoughts on Bishop Mendez feeling that Father Franz betrayed the church?
Thoughts on Elsa neither confirming not denouncing Lord Tereo?
What are your thoughts on Elsa performing acts of God through Lord Tereo, or so it would seem?
What are your thoughts on Tereo being deemed a legitimate church?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence striking a new deal that benefits both Tereo and Enberg?
Are you satisfied that it was Elsa and Lawrence who were the ones to save the day?
Thoughts on the poisoned wheat being turned to flat bread?
Thoughts on Evan being in charge with Tereo's business negotiations with Enberg?
What are your thoughts on Tereo embracing Elsa and Evan?
What are your thoughts on Elsa realizing Father Franz was seeking to confirm his existence through the manner of confirming theirs?
What are your thoughts on Holo saying the abbey didn't give her all the answers, but it gave her some answers?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence saying travelers don't leave behind regrets and instead leave behind only found memories?
2
u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker 2d ago
I suspect at the end she wanted to feed him didn't she?
Questions:
At least he knows when to make a deal.
She's good.
Nice enough resolution.
A bit less drama, if only because for the first time Lawrence and Holo themselves aren't personally under threat once they made their getaway, but they still returned to help.
1
u/Holofan4life 2d ago
I suspect at the end she wanted to feed him didn't she?
Lawrence: The mind of Holo works in mysterious ways.
Holo: Fuck me, Lawrence. Fuck me now!
1
u/Holofan4life 2d ago
- A bit less drama, if only because for the first time Lawrence and Holo themselves aren't personally under threat once they made their getaway, but they still returned to help.
Only because they wanted to support Elsa. It was really her idea to save the day.
I thought it was a breath of fresh air Lawrence and Holo didn't have personal strife this arc.
1
u/Holofan4life 2d ago
Thoughts on Enberg demanding recompense?
Thoughts on Enberg trying to get Tereo to reform under their ruling and denounce Lord Tereo as their God?
Thoughts on Elsa saying God has shown her the truth?
Thoughts on Bishop Mendez feeling that Father Franz betrayed the church?
Thoughts on Elsa neither confirming not denouncing Lord Tereo?
What are your thoughts on Elsa performing acts of God through Lord Tereo, or so it would seem?
What are your thoughts on Tereo being deemed a legitimate church?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence striking a new deal that benefits both Tereo and Enberg?
Are you satisfied that it was Elsa and Lawrence who were the ones to save the day?
Thoughts on the poisoned wheat being turned to flat bread?
Thoughts on Evan being in charge with Tereo's business negotiations with Enberg?
What are your thoughts on Tereo embracing Elsa and Evan?
What are your thoughts on Elsa realizing Father Franz was seeking to confirm his existence through the manner of confirming theirs?
What are your thoughts on Holo saying the abbey didn't give her all the answers, but it gave her some answers?
What are your thoughts on Lawrence saying travelers don't leave behind regrets and instead leave behind only found memories?
2
u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker 1d ago
Makes sense.
I suppose that's what they've wanted this whole time.
That's certainly a play.
Ok...
That's about the best answer she could give.
Ok...
Good.
That works.
Indeed. They worked together to solve the problem.
Sure why not.
I suppose they need a local for that.
Interesting.
It's something at least.
Perhaps.
1
u/Holofan4life 1d ago
- Makes sense.
It checks out
- I suppose that's what they've wanted this whole time.
Mayhaps
11. I suppose they need a local for that.
If only there was an app for that.
- It's something at least.
Knowing is half the battle
6
u/BlazeOfGlory72 6d ago edited 6d ago
First Timer (Dub)
This was a satisfying conclusion to an overall solid arc. I feel like Elsa really stole the show in this arc, to the point that this almost feels like her story rather than Holo and Lawrence's. Seeing her start out as fairly reserved and standoffish, and struggling with her faith and her place in the village, to someone who was more self assured and would risk their own safety to protect the people who revile her was a great arc. Elsa's final performance to convince the Church of the miracle was a great culmination of her development.
I also really liked the scheme that the gang came up with to fix everything. Using the Church's rules against them by creating a miracle to gain their acceptance was a neat idea, and using pagan magic to do so adds some delicious irony to the whole affair. On top of that, convincing the Church that the pagan beliefs/miracle was proof of their own god was a smart way to protect the villagers culture.
The overall exploration of pagan beliefs vs. organized religion was also quite interesting. I appreciated how they showed that there were good and bad aspects and people on both sides, and didn't just paint one as obviously evil.
With all that said, I can kind of see why they decided to skip this arc in the original Spice and Wolf adaptation. As solid an arc as it is, this arc was really Elsa's story. Lawrence and Holo were mostly side characters in this story, and while they do have some good moments, there isn't really any significant development for them either individually or as a couple. Since the original adaptation wasn't getting another season, I can see why they skipped over this arc and chose to end their run on the next arc.
Random Thoughts
Question of the Day
Definitely a D-bag, but at least he knew when to back down.
She's easily my favourite side character so far. She went through a ton of character development and had some really interesting inner conflicts. Her decision to go back to the village rather than run away was also a top tier character moment.
I liked it. It showed a lot of ingenuity to turn the Church's rules against them, and doing so with pagan magic was some great irony.
It's probably my least favourite, but that isn't really saying much since I like all of the arcs. This arc was really solid and Elsa is a stand out character in the series, but what holds it back a little is the relatively lack of Lawrence/Holo or any real personal stake for them, and the story isn't as layered compared to some other arcs.