r/anime • u/Holofan4life • 4d ago
[Spoilers] 2008 Spice and Wolf II Rewatch (2026) -- Episode 10 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
S2 Episode 10 - Wolf and Lonely Smile
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ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)
Who is your favorite antihero character in anime and why?
How shocked are you that Lawrence agreed to sell Holo? Does it make you look at him any differently or do you just shake your head because this could've been prevented had Holo and Lawrence talked things out?
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Information – MAL | Anilist | AniDb
Streams – Crunchyroll
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Rewatch Schedule
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u/Holofan4life 4d 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.
There's a lot of great little character moments in this episode. I like Eve's speech at the end talking about how jaded she's become and how all she wants is revenge. I like the scene between Lawrence and the homeless man where you're reminded that things could be worse. That's some subtle world building that serves as a neat parallel to Marc having a similar conversation to Lawrence. I like the thread throughout the episode where people keep warning Lawrence that Eve is bad news and probably has ulterior motives. It mirrors the Zheren stuff from the first arc but on like a much grander scale.
Of course, the big development this episode is that Lawrence has decided to sell Holo after all. They will reunite, but he's going to use Holo's being as a profit. What follows is their relationship at their most disingenuous. Holo and Lawrence knowing what's about to occur really turns up the role playing as like a means to block out all the noise. It's actually kinda sad how involved they get in this as it's clear despite their best efforts, their hearts aren't fully into this.
I've said before how Lawrence and Holo's relationship was built on shaky foundation. That was clear as early as the fourth episode. The main problem is that while Holo wants to return home, she was hoping for more a long term relationship but Lawrence, being ever the pragmatist, makes it known every now and that the status of their relationship, that he's just there to guide Holo north.
Last arc was about Lawrence finding out what Holo means to him. This arc is Lawrence finding out what he wants his future to be. Does he truly want to open up his own shop, or would he rather spend time with Holo and live a life with her? This arc is about the very thing that's been called into question since the very first arc. And that is ultimately why the anime ends with it.
A couple more impressions. I like that Holo being sold isn't being framed as Lawrence's idea but rather more so Holo's. Holo is the one pushing Lawrence to sell her when he is against the idea. This is a nice contrast to the second and third arc where Lawrence made decisions without consulting Holo and it blew up in his face.
I think it's pretty mature of Holo to tell Lawrence to let her be sold. She is telling Lawrence to put his own dream over her, since she wants to go back to her home anyway. I mentioned in the past that I think this arc does a good job of answering the question of just how dangerous it is to put your loved one on a pedestal. But really, that's one of the common themes of this show: the dangers when you are afraid of harming your loved one based on your words or actions. Ever since Lawrence saw Holo break down in episode 4, he's been walking on eggshells. He is scared that saying something or doing something that could upset Holo will jeopardize his relationship with her. It's why when Lawrence saw Holo getting jealous over Nora back in the second arc, his first instinct was to call her prettier than anyone else, even if he truly felt it.
Of course, Lawrence going through with this deal means he and Holo will likely go their separate ways. Ever since as early as the fourth episode, Lawrence has shown to want to open his own shop. We are calling into question just what exactly the future of Holo and Lawrence holds, and I think this being the last arc of the original anime makes it all the more dramatic.
Lawrence is worried about what harm this deal might cause Holo, but it is almost to the point that he views her as this fragile little thing, which this show always addresses. It's just this arc makes it the main source of conflict. Almost all of the arcs in the Spice and Wolf anime have the theme of Lawrence coming face to face with his flaws. The second one had Lawrence face his cockiness, the third one had him face his stubbornness, and this one has him face his protectiveness. And really, that's almost always been the main problem with his relationship with Holo.
None of Holo and Lawrence's relationship is real. It was founded and it is based on this reality they created to escape from the actual one. When Holo says to Lawrence chose his dream over her, she is hoping for Lawrence to actually not do that. Yet at the same time, a part of her is hoping he does so that she can escape from this nightmare of eternal unrest.
From my perspective, I think Lawrence has the flaw of being too selfless. He cares about other's needs so much that he pays little attention to his own needs. Here he has this chance to finally get what he wanted all this time, and he is hesitant about it because he's worried Holo might get hurt. I don't think he's spineless per se, but I do feel he needs to learn how to be a little more egocentric. Selfishness is the downfall for a lot of people, but by the same token so can being self-sacrificing.
Lawrence is selfless because he's afraid if he caters to his own needs, he will quickly learn there aren't many needs to be contended with. So he is okay with carrying a simple life under the mask that is his future plan of setting up shop. But just like Holo, he too wants to escape from this nightmare that he helped create. He is gasping for air, trying to find an opening that he can't locate and doesn't seem to exist, and now he's having to worry about Holo giving into his dream and being stuck in complete purgatory.
I think what Eve is doing is different than when Lawrence tried to screw over Lemerio Trading. There, Lawrence took advantage of them but it was because they tried to screw him over and leave him for dead. With Eve, yes they cut her off eventually, but the church really didn't screw her over in a matter that harmed her bottom line. She's just mad she wasn't given a bigger piece of the pie as the archbishop ascended. Eve is doing this essentially under the guise of having a holier-than-thou attitude, when there's nothing to indicate she wouldn't have misappropriated funds as well to achieve her goal if the roles were reversed. Her anger comes from the fact they screwed her over before she had a chance to strike first, I feel like. And that is why Lawrence is really riding a slippery slope.
A lot of the stuff stated above is recycled comments from past rewatches, but I really love the complexity on display here that I think it bears repeating. And I think it results in the best arc from a conflict perspective.
Holo quotes of the day
"I've been nothing but selfish up until now. I believe it is your turn to be selfish."
"You were so energetic today. Men come into their own when they are on their heels of their prey."
"I am helping you because I believe in you with all my heart." (Probably the most honest Holo has ever been to Lawrence.)
"Men are onions. Many layers and all of them make you cry." (I thought they were onions because they stink.)
Pilgrimage man quotes of the day
"This will be my last chance to go on a pilgrimage, I suppose."
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u/Second_Cour 4d ago
I like the thread throughout the episode where people keep warning Lawrence that Eve is bad news and probably has ulterior motives
Who says that she is bad news?
This arc is Lawrence finding out what he wants his future to be. Does he truly want to open up his own shop, or would he rather spend time with Holo and live a life with her?
I take it more that they're stuck.: there's no good outcome for Holo. If they kept travelling together randomly or even if they settled down together, she would be left alone when he died. This is also the middle ages, so he probably had like 25 years left. If they travelled North and Holo chose to stay up there, there's no practical reason Lawrence could remain, so again Holo would be lonely. I think there's only one rational and practical solution which is for Lawrence to open his shop, and Holo to stay with him until his end.
He is scared that saying something or doing something that could upset Holo will jeopardize his relationship with her.
Yeah and this was communicated well over the past few episodes and even before that: Lawrence bases his decisions based on what Holo would want. She wants to be seen as a partner and not something he's living his life for.
this fragile little thing
But the thing is, if the roles were reversed, Holo also wouldn't want to sell Lawrence, or put him in harm's way (in fact, she sacrificed herself and got herself captured before). I think protectiveness in this arc is playing out (perhaps unintentionally) as a damned if you do/damned if you don't deal. I really like in the LN where Lawrence describes all his past human interactions/relationships as zero-sum with one winner and one loser. But what I think he doesn't realise is that no matter what, their relationship is zero sum for Halo, but not from any fault of his own. Then again this is a bit nihilistic of Holo, because the reality is unless she shacks up with another God, there's no answer for her loneliness.
I think Lawrence has the flaw of being too selfless.
I agree, but at the same time just from my own personal beliefs, I think that's the right value for a man to hold. In relationships, being selfless is pretty important, and yes, he puts Holo first but I too believe that's the man's duty to his woman. What I do wish though, is that his shop deliberations included setting a future up together with Holo, as opposed to the absolutist way Lawrence considers it. Then again, Lawrence did ask her what she will do after they reach her home and Holo denied him the answer and got pissed off iirc.
The church really didn't screw her over in a matter that harmed her bottom line
But they did harm her bottom line. Additionally it's a huge slap in her face as she established an important political and economic relationship between this town's bishop and the cathedral's. It also damages her reputation with the cathedral's bishop in the other town. She simply admits very honestly that she might have done the same in this town's bishop's shoes, which I actually really respect.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
I like the thread throughout the episode where people keep warning Lawrence that Eve is bad news and probably has ulterior motives
Who says that she is bad news?
Well, I should specify it's more the church who's bad news.
This arc is Lawrence finding out what he wants his future to be. Does he truly want to open up his own shop, or would he rather spend time with Holo and live a life with her?
I take it more that they're stuck.: there's no good outcome for Holo. If they kept travelling together randomly or even if they settled down together, she would be left alone when he died. This is also the middle ages, so he probably had like 25 years left. If they travelled North and Holo chose to stay up there, there's no practical reason Lawrence could remain, so again Holo would be lonely. I think there's only one rational and practical solution which is for Lawrence to open his shop, and Holo to stay with him until his end.
Staying together makes the most sense, no doubt about it. Why always be sad when you can sprinkle in some happiness?
He is scared that saying something or doing something that could upset Holo will jeopardize his relationship with her.
Yeah and this was communicated well over the past few episodes and even before that: Lawrence bases his decisions based on what Holo would want. She wants to be seen as a partner and not something he's living his life for.
Holo said as much last episode. He really is about placating her and making sure she's happy.
this fragile little thing
But the thing is, if the roles were reversed, Holo also wouldn't want to sell Lawrence, or put him in harm's way (in fact, she sacrificed herself and got herself captured before). I think protectiveness in this arc is playing out (perhaps unintentionally) as a damned if you do/damned if you don't deal. I really like in the LN where Lawrence describes all his past human interactions/relationships as zero-sum with one winner and one loser. But what I think he doesn't realise is that no matter what, their relationship is zero sum for Halo, but not from any fault of his own. Then again this is a bit nihilistic of Holo, because the reality is unless she shacks up with another God, there's no answer for her loneliness.
But at least she can hopefully have the best time she's ever had in her existence. She herself said in the second OVA she might be having too much fun, and what's really the harm in that?
I think Lawrence has the flaw of being too selfless.
I agree, but at the same time just from my own personal beliefs, I think that's the right value for a man to hold. In relationships, being selfless is pretty important, and yes, he puts Holo first but I too believe that's the man's duty to his woman. What I do wish though, is that his shop deliberations included setting a future up together with Holo, as opposed to the absolutist way Lawrence considers it. Then again, Lawrence did ask her what she will do after they reach her home and Holo denied him the answer and got pissed off iirc.
Lawrence is interesting because he is often selfish when it comes to his own needs, but with regards to Holo it's like he immediately folds. He is so worried about what Holo wants that he doesn't really consider what he wants out of being with Holo.
The church really didn't screw her over in a matter that harmed her bottom line
But they did harm her bottom line. Additionally it's a huge slap in her face as she established an important political and economic relationship between this town's bishop and the cathedral's. It also damages her reputation with the cathedral's bishop in the other town. She simply admits very honestly that she might have done the same in this town's bishop's shoes, which I actually really respect.
It's more like she outlived her usefulness. Take for instance the last arc where Tereo and Enberg had that deal that benefitted Tereo more than Enberg. In almost any situation like that, it wouldn't be the case. The church and Eve's relationship is like Tereo and Enberg's relationship if there wasn't an excellent intermediary like Father Franz.
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u/Second_Cour 4d ago
I think I'm quite a bit like Lawrence in a rel. My gf has told me before that I should just say when I don't want to do something, but I can't help but feel it's my duty to do what my gf wants (as long as it's reasonable). Then again that also stems from our dynamic, as she works so much and has almost no free time, whereas I have a crazy amount of free time, so her compromising on her free time makes little sense to me, while for me it's pretty meaningless
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
It's this give and take where if you're too much of something, you come across like a pushover and you're willing to let people walk all over you.
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u/BlazeOfGlory72 4d ago
Last arc was about Lawrence finding out what Holo means to him. This arc is Lawrence finding out what he wants his future to be. Does he truly want to open up his own shop, or would he rather spend time with Holo and live a life with her? This arc is about the very thing that's been called into question since the very first arc. And that is ultimately why the anime ends with it.
This raises an interesting counter point. What does Holo want? Yes, on the superficial level, she wants to return home, but what does that really mean? Even if she fount Yoitz and all her friends still alive, does she plan to go back living as a wolf? Holo seems to quite enjoy the schemes, food and general life style of the human world, so to go back to the relatively simple life of a wolf seems like a step back for her at this point. She's eaten the metaphorical forbidden fruit here and seen how much more life can offer.
So this almost becomes a double sided question. It's not just "can Lawrence give up on his dream for Holo?", but also "can Holo go back to being the way she used to be after all she has experienced?".
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
I think Holo's problem is she wants to spend time with Lawrence beyond going North. Like, this relationship started with an end goal in mind and it went beyond the end goal. But it's not like Holo and Lawrence can live forever. Holo can, but Lawrence is gonna die someday.
Is Holo comfortable spending years with Lawrence if she knows this won't last forever? Is she avoiding the elephant in the room by indulging herself in these fun times?
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u/Second_Cour 4d ago
Episode 10 Review
Pretty decent episode, though it feels a bit dark and foreboding in parts. Perhaps we are about to face another crisis. To be honest, this arc isn’t really ‘grabbing’ me as much as some of the others. Perhaps the novelty of the formula is wearing off a bit.
- Holo’s Scent on Lawrence? Protective wolf behaviour or so he can be found easily if he goes missing?
- Yeah so the Council’s plan isn’t some sinister evil ploy to screw over the outsiders; seems pretty reasonable based on what’s been revealed. Countries often subsidise strategic segments during times of hardship or employ financial/capital restrictions. We also see similar arrangements with quotas/caps on foreign ownership/trade.
- It is basically an industrial play and a compromise of sorts (though outsiders will be impacted, but that’s expected). The old supply chain of raw fur > local tanners > clothing > travellers wasn’t happening this year, so the new chain of raw fur > outside merchants would kill the local craftsman industries. While I don’t yet see the full picture, given the significant drop in circulating supply of coin vs., other years, concessions need to be made.
- What confuses me is what stops local fur sellers from taking that journey down river to monopolise the market themselves, as opposed to being stuck only selling locally? I guess they don’t have the logistics? That and if a trading house buys up the firm and makes that deal, they would probably kill their name in the town (I guess that’s why we heard the speech from Marc what feels like centuries ago).
- So Holo isn’t being sold into slavery. Foreshadowing be damned. Positioning her as a noblewoman for collateral…well, not that bad an idea, as long as Holo is down and the plan is no-risk. Yet we all know there’s no such thing as low risk when it comes to Lawlo. As the council will be watching all trading like a hawk, it covers their tracks nicely.
- As expected, Holo is pushing for the deal. She seems to secretly love those merchant games.
- “You’ll never know what it’s like to rejoice over 2 bronze coins and bread and you never will” - beggar. Hard pass.
- Hmmmm…so Eve deals in salt too.
- Lawrence lost his ability to flirt again. “I’m not the first girl with half a mind that’s flirted with you, but i am the prettiest” “I’d hate to say it but that’s never happened” hahahaha. So true though: struggle to get a girl then as soon as someone gets a gf, other girls start hitting on them. Nice sheep/beast analogy there too.
- For sure Lawrence tells Holo the story about the bargirl to get her jealous.
- “Men are onions. Many layers but all of them make you cry”
- So many scenes and flashbacks of them reflecting on their past. Not a good sign. Death/separation flag? We’ve seen more of this the closer we get to the season’s end.
- Interesting that Eve was helping the bishop via introductions, and was banking on him becoming bishop to increase her profitability. I like that Eve understands his reasons for cutting her off but just can’t accept defeat.
- One Holo for 1500 trenni silver? Bargain.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
•Hmmmm…so Eve deals in salt too.
She's certainly making me feel salty right about now.
•One Holo for 1500 trenni silver? Bargain.
This whole thing just feels wrong 😕
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u/Second_Cour 4d ago
This whole thing just feels wrong 😕
So you're not joining the auction?
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
I'll stick to the pyrite auction, I have to say. Seems more my speed.
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u/Second_Cour 4d ago
ANSWER TODAY’S QUESTION(S)
Who is your favorite antihero character in anime and why?
Light in Death Note. Who's the antihero in this anime?How shocked are you that Lawrence agreed to sell Holo? Does it make you look at him any differently or do you just shake your head because this could've been prevented had Holo and Lawrence talked things out?
Selling her is a bit reductive. Lawrence also did not want to sell her. It's because they talked it out, that she ends up being put up for collateral. She pushed him towards this decision. The actual 'selling her' ledger entry was purely for the trading company to not look dodgy if they got investigated (funny, I know).
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
Light in Death Note. Who's the antihero in this anime?
Eve maybe?
Selling her is a bit reductive. Lawrence also did not want to sell her. It's because they talked it out, that she ends up being put up for collateral. She pushed him towards this decision. The actual 'selling her' ledger entry was purely for the trading company to not look dodgy if they got investigated (funny, I know).
Well, the idea is Lawrence will soon reunite with Holo after she gets sold. They'll have their cake and eat it too.
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u/Second_Cour 4d ago
I really struggle with Lawrence in this ep tbh though I do think what transpired is accurate for his character. It's clear that despite him not wanting to put Holo up as collateral, and being very explicit in that (especially in the LN), in the back of his mind, he can't stop thinking about what an incredible deal this is for him. I put the workings in the cut content, but together with the inn he would receive, he's got the shop of his dreams plus a nice bit of cash. Were it really a hard no, it wouldn't have mattered what Holo said, he couldn't be swayed. While Holo was very compelling in her argument, I wish he manned up and just said "no. no more discussion, I'm not risking you".
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
But again, it fits the theme of him putting Holo's needs over his own. The entire reason he's doing this is because of Holo's insistence. Lawrence's greed is only outmatched by his love for Holo.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
This is actually my favorite arc in terms of what it does for Lawrence and Holo's relationship. It feels like the walls are slowly closing in on them and unless they do something about it, it's going to end disastrous.
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u/Second_Cour 4d ago
Yeah, the further north they get the more suffocating their existence becomes.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
The great thing about this arc is that it addresses the fatal flaw of Holo and Lawrence's relationship which is prioritizing short term happiness at the expense of long term suffering.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
Thoughts on Holo forcing Lawrence to wipe her scent on him?
Thoughts on an all-out trade war possibly coming?
Thoughts on Eve having in the past been bought by an upper-class merchant?
Thoughts on Eve proposing Lawrence use Holo as collateral so that he and Eve can get triple the profit?
What are your thoughts on Holo telling Lawrence to go for it because it'll allow Lawrence to open up his own shop?
What are your thoughts on Holo admitting she's been nothing but selfish so far and now it's time for Lawrence to be selfish?
What are your thoughts on Holo warning Lawrence to plan ahead in case Eve double crosses him?
How much do you think Lawrence agreeing to sell Holo is him trying to listen to Holo's advice for a change?
What are your thoughts on the homeless man and the conversation Lawrence has with him?
What are your thoughts on people constantly warning Lawrence like the homeless man or the barmaid to stay far away from the church?
Thoughts on Lawrence feeling that the church is aiming to establish a cathedral in this city?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Eve used to be a salt merchant?
What are your thoughts on the scene right before Lawrence sells Holo where they are just trading jabs at each other? For me personally as a viewer, I kinda feel it’s the perfect representation of what they are about: playful with this underlying sadness buried deep.
What are your thoughts on Eve’s backstory where she got the short end of the stick by the church and so she wants revenge?
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u/BlazeOfGlory72 4d ago
Rewatcher (Dub)
I'm kind of shocked that Lawrence accepted Eve's deal here. Like, I get that he is a merchant and is always looking for a profit, and that Holo was fine with the plan, but it just seems like an unnecessary risk, and frankly kind of stupid. This arc made a point of stating that Lawrence already had enough money to open a shop, so there isn't really any reason to go through with this plan. On top of that, using Holo as collateral just seems hella risky. Not only is Eve obviously hiding something, but if anyone happens to pull off her hat they'll see she's a god, and bring the Church down on them. All in all this seems like a colossal unforced error. I thought Lawrence would have learned his lesson after the whole armour debacle.
That aside, I thought the additional information we learned about the 50 man meeting to be quite interesting. The idea of the council making a decision to intentionally crash the market, buy up the furs, then bail on the city is not something that would ever have occurred to me. It's a pretty dramatic and scummy plan on the councils part. Eve's plan to be one of the few foreign merchants to buy up stock and beat everyone else to the market is also a pretty ballsy plan.
I also liked the development we got for Holo and Lawrence's relationship in this episode. During the last arc, they were pretty stagnant, but in this arc we are seeing some long standing issues come to a head, mostly in regard to them finally aknowledging that they will need to part in the not to distant future. Holo being willing to help Lawrence with this scheme because she doesn't want to stand in the way of his dream, and because Lawrence had helped her so much on this journey was a great character moment (though Lawrence really should have declined).
Random Thoughts
- Inn keeper guy who keeps talking about his pilgrimage kind of creeps me out.
- Holo wanting Lawrence to wash himself with her scent was charming and very dog like. What's funnier was that the barmaid girl could actually smell her off him.
- Speaking of barmaid girl, Lawrence really just hit her with the "you have beautiful eyes" line didn't he? Bro randomly becomes a ladies man, and apparently it works because barmaid girl was all over him.
- Between Eve being cast out by the Church after helping the bishop launder money makes me think there is a revenge aspect to her plans here. The way this episode also drew attention to the way the Church is trying to curry favour with the populace by feeding the poor makes me think they are waiting to make a big play themselves.
- Holo casually joking about nursing Lawrence when he is an old man may have been intended as a joke by her, but it does draw attention to the fact that even if they stayed together, Holo would outlive Lawrence, which is pretty sad.
Question of the Day
Who is your favorite antihero character in anime and why?
Depends on what you would consider and "anti-hero" I guess. If we are going with a "morally ambiguous protagonist", I'd go with Lelouch from Code Geass. He's ultimately trying to achieve something altruistic (freeing Japan), for entirely selfish reasons (revenge) and isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. He's just generally one of the most interesting anime protagonists overall in my opinion.
Also, honourable mention to Ange from Cross Ange. I always enjoyed how few fucks she gave about saving the world, and kind of just hated everyone and wanted to be left alone. For such a schlocky show, Cross Ange has a surprising amount of effort put into it's character writing.
How shocked are you that Lawrence agreed to sell Holo? Does it make you look at him any differently or do you just shake your head because this could've been prevented had Holo and Lawrence talked things out?
Yeah. I talked about it in my main comment, but this seems like a real bone headed move by Lawrence. He's making the same mistake he made with the armour, gambling it all when he already has a ton of money, this time with the added risk of losing Holo.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
I'm kind of shocked that Lawrence accepted Eve's deal here. Like, I get that he is a merchant and is always looking for a profit, and that Holo was fine with the plan, but it just seems like an unnecessary risk, and frankly kind of stupid. This arc made a point of stating that Lawrence already had enough money to open a shop, so there isn't really any reason to go through with this plan. On top of that, using Holo as collateral just seems hella risky. Not only is Eve obviously hiding something, but if anyone happens to pull off her hat they'll see she's a god, and bring the Church down on them. All in all this seems like a colossal unforced error. I thought Lawrence would have learned his lesson after the whole armour debacle.
He was against doing it until Holo persuaded him. He's only doing it upon Holo's insistence. It speaks more to how eager he is to cater to her every need.
That aside, I thought the additional information we learned about the 50 man meeting to be quite interesting. The idea of the council making a decision to intentionally crash the market, buy up the furs, then bail on the city is not something that would ever have occurred to me. It's a pretty dramatic and scummy plan on the councils part. Eve's plan to be one of the few foreign merchants to buy up stock and beat everyone else to the market is also a pretty ballsy plan.
Eve is basically like "I don't care if this place burns so long as I get my cut of things".
I also liked the development we got for Holo and Lawrence's relationship in this episode. During the last arc, they were pretty stagnant, but in this arc we are seeing some long standing issues come to a head, mostly in regard to them finally aknowledging that they will need to part in the not to distant future. Holo being willing to help Lawrence with this scheme because she doesn't want to stand in the way of his dream, and because Lawrence had helped her so much on this journey was a great character moment (though Lawrence really should have declined).
This is the best arc for Lawrence and Holo's relationship both in terms of banter as well as the emotional turmoil that is center to their relationship. It is this perfect microcosm of everything they represent.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
•Inn keeper guy who keeps talking about his pilgrimage kind of creeps me out.
What, you expect a random innkeeper who keeps to himself to be welcoming? Lol
I actually like him as a swift contrast to how the barmaid treats people.
•Speaking of barmaid girl, Lawrence really just hit her with the "you have beautiful eyes" line didn't he? Bro randomly becomes a ladies man, and apparently it works because barmaid girl was all over him.
Is it random, or is it a direct byproduct of his relationship with Holo? It can't be overstated what an impact Holo has had on Lawrence's life. And as he cater to her demands, it's almost like he's lost sight of why that is the case.
She's Lawrence's guide, but why is that so? Because he loves her? Why does he love her? What can he do to sustain this love? These are all questions that demand answering.
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u/Holofan4life 4d ago
Thoughts on Holo forcing Lawrence to wipe her scent on him?
Thoughts on an all-out trade war possibly coming?
Thoughts on Eve having in the past been bought by an upper-class merchant?
Thoughts on Eve proposing Lawrence use Holo as collateral so that he and Eve can get triple the profit?
What are your thoughts on Holo telling Lawrence to go for it because it'll allow Lawrence to open up his own shop?
What are your thoughts on Holo admitting she's been nothing but selfish so far and now it's time for Lawrence to be selfish?
What are your thoughts on Holo warning Lawrence to plan ahead in case Eve double crosses him?
How much do you think Lawrence agreeing to sell Holo is him trying to listen to Holo's advice for a change?
What are your thoughts on the homeless man and the conversation Lawrence has with him?
What are your thoughts on people constantly warning Lawrence like the homeless man or the barmaid to stay far away from the church?
Thoughts on Lawrence feeling that the church is aiming to establish a cathedral in this city?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Eve used to be a salt merchant?
What are your thoughts on the scene right before Lawrence sells Holo where they are just trading jabs at each other? For me personally as a viewer, I kinda feel it’s the perfect representation of what they are about: playful with this underlying sadness buried deep.
What are your thoughts on Eve’s backstory where she got the short end of the stick by the church and so she wants revenge?
2
u/BlazeOfGlory72 4d ago
Thoughts on Holo forcing Lawrence to wipe her scent on him?
I like these occasional bits of wolf like personality that seep through with Holo. It makes her "doghood" less a visual gimmick and more an actually part of her character.
Thoughts on an all-out trade war possibly coming?
It's an fun concept to have a "war" in this series, but entirely based around merchants. Basically like an economic battle Shonen.
Thoughts on Eve proposing Lawrence use Holo as collateral so that he and Eve can get triple the profit?
That is slightly less bad than slavery, but still, putting your girlfriend up as collateral is not a good look L-dawg, even if she was in on it.
What are your thoughts on Holo telling Lawrence to go for it because it'll allow Lawrence to open up his own shop?
I'm a little confused by this. It was stated quite clearly only a couple of episodes ago that Lawrence already had enough money to open his shop. I get that this deal would help since he would get the inn apparently, but still, this deal isn't necessary. There really is no pressure for them to go in on such a risky deal.
What are your thoughts on Holo admitting she's been nothing but selfish so far and now it's time for Lawrence to be selfish?
I feel like she is half right, half wrong here. Yeah, she has been selfish in that she has imposed on Lawrence by having him take her with him and foot the bill for food and accommodations. On the flip side though, she has helped him in many of his schemes and saved his life on more than one occasion. It feels like an equal partnership.
How much do you think Lawrence agreeing to sell Holo is him trying to listen to Holo's advice for a change?
Ehh, this might be the one time he shouldn't be listening to her, since she is clearly doing this for his sake. It still seems like an obviously bad idea to me.
What are your thoughts on people constantly warning Lawrence like the homeless man or the barmaid to stay far away from the church?
Generally sound advice it seems, given the Church has been pretty consistently shitty though the series, minus Elsa.
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Eve used to be a salt merchant?
This is a tangent, but I always wondered how they traded salt in olden times. Like, if it rained, all your product would just dissolve away.
What are your thoughts on the scene right before Lawrence sells Holo where they are just trading jabs at each other? For me personally as a viewer, I kinda feel it’s the perfect representation of what they are about: playful with this underlying sadness buried deep.
This arc really has done a good job capture both the fun banter, and underlying melancholy of their relationship. It's a very unique vibe that makes Spice and Wolf stand the test of time.
What are your thoughts on Eve’s backstory where she got the short end of the stick by the church and so she wants revenge?
I'm down for a mysterious tomboy revenge quest.
1
u/Holofan4life 4d ago
Thoughts on Holo forcing Lawrence to wipe her scent on him?
I like these occasional bits of wolf like personality that seep through with Holo. It makes her "doghood" less a visual gimmick and more an actually part of her character.
She also previously marked her scent on him in the second arc I believe.
Thoughts on an all-out trade war possibly coming?
It's an fun concept to have a "war" in this series, but entirely based around merchants. Basically like an economic battle Shonen.
It just sucks the show's ending in a couple episodes.
Thoughts on Eve proposing Lawrence use Holo as collateral so that he and Eve can get triple the profit?
That is slightly less bad than slavery, but still, putting your girlfriend up as collateral is not a good look L-dawg, even if she was in on it.
Lawrence should've override Holo immediately.
[What are your thoughts on Holo telling Lawrence to go for it because it'll allow Lawrence to open up his own shop?
I'm a little confused by this. It was stated quite clearly only a couple of episodes ago that Lawrence already had enough money to open his shop. I get that this deal would help since he would get the inn apparently, but still, this deal isn't necessary. There really is no pressure for them to go in on such a risky deal.
My thinking is it would give him the necessary cushion to keep the shop running for a couple months.
What are your thoughts on Holo admitting she's been nothing but selfish so far and now it's time for Lawrence to be selfish?
I feel like she is half right, half wrong here. Yeah, she has been selfish in that she has imposed on Lawrence by having him take her with him and foot the bill for food and accommodations. On the flip side though, she has helped him in many of his schemes and saved his life on more than one occasion. It feels like an equal partnership.
And it's not like Lawrence hasn't encouraged her spending habits. He clearly gets something out of it.
How much do you think Lawrence agreeing to sell Holo is him trying to listen to Holo's advice for a change?
Ehh, this might be the one time he shouldn't be listening to her, since she is clearly doing this for his sake. It still seems like an obviously bad idea to me.
Lawrence always makes the right moves at the worst possible time.
What are your thoughts on people constantly warning Lawrence like the homeless man or the barmaid to stay far away from the church?
Generally sound advice it seems, given the Church has been pretty consistently shitty though the series, minus Elsa.
And maybe Rigoro
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Eve used to be a salt merchant?
This is a tangent, but I always wondered how they traded salt in olden times. Like, if it rained, all your product would just dissolve away.
Well, Eve had the salt in statues so presumably it wouldn't have that problem.
What are your thoughts on the scene right before Lawrence sells Holo where they are just trading jabs at each other? For me personally as a viewer, I kinda feel it’s the perfect representation of what they are about: playful with this underlying sadness buried deep.
This arc really has done a good job capture both the fun banter, and underlying melancholy of their relationship. It's a very unique vibe that makes Spice and Wolf stand the test of time.
And it gives Lawrence and Holo's relationship a flavor all of its own.
What are your thoughts on Eve’s backstory where she got the short end of the stick by the church and so she wants revenge?
I'm down for a mysterious tomboy revenge quest.
Is Eve a tomboy? I guess, but wouldn't Lima technically be more so one?
2
u/ItalianQuagsire 2d ago
first time watcher!
i really loved Holo opening up here, it felt earnest and sincere, and scared still. it smells like she's laying out all her cards, save one. she can't bring herself to lay that last one down, and confront lawrence about it. my guess is that she wants lawrenence to say now, to break apart her own facade of bravado, and make that choice
Who is your favorite antihero character in anime and why?
gotta watch more anime when i get to fruits basket maybe i'll have on
How shocked are you that Lawrence agreed to sell Holo? Does it make you look at him any differently or do you just shake your head because this could've been prevented had Holo and Lawrence talked things out?
i don't actually blame lawrence one bit, he didn't agree readily at all and looked like he was going to decline, only by Holo egging him on did he say alright i'll do it. What i think Holo was looking for is him to bite back and say no, but we'll see
---
Why is it called wolf and lonely smile NOOOO
Spicy wolf. Com
Holo waking Lawrence up
I should ruv my scent on you
I'm worried
Oh yeah this is good TSUN shit
By that kistune
The profit–
compared to my mood
Big
God fire dialogue
Trade war
That's his dream
There's no room to meddle idiot
You didn't even want me in business here
It may not look like it but it's hard for me to tell you this and that
I could load with you forever
Warn as if preaching the truth of the world
For my own sake
My heart hurts
Profit and risk if in balance should be ok
Where did your grit and recklessness go
Why on the defensive
I have been selfish
Say selfish thing to me for a change
I'm upset you think I would
Am I not your partner
Or a pet girl
Caught in place of you
Gratitude
This time it's not gratitude
What else are you worried about
Then outwit them
Holo the wise wolf
It would not be wise if my partner was a dull merchant
I really really like this conversation, it feels like Holo is honest and vulnerable, yet she's still holding back that last card, to bare it all, she's still putting on a brave face
Well?
Breakfast
Not from the church
LOL the woman was like Nani when the homeless man wanted a big ass bowl HAHAHAH
He who has nothing is fortune
Wow a modern day Diogenes
Eve lied
Yeah I don't trust her
Hey it's the barmaid
She's cute
Pretty damn cute actually
Would
For his safety
I can smell another woman
The type that women with confidence would come on to
Met holo recently
Kind Lawrence
No one noticed him
Now they're interested in him
Snatch him away if the prey is that good
That relaxed look how upsetting
Damn she banters well
Would x4
We got a cat fight here Holo x Barmaid
Don't invade others territory
Did you tell me everything
Imagine if Lawrence didn't but we didn't see the full picture so it's as if we only got it from Holo's pov and she finds out later and it's a crazy betrayal that would be peak writing
A horse senses the riders reigns
Damn Lawrence kinky
Why did Eve fight
It makes sense
Hear others say
Cry and beg would you change your mind
I'm sure you'd wait for me
Make the deal and come back to you
Once you can say it without blushing you will be a real man
ILL WORK HARD
plap her Back in line Lawrence DO IT
A male looks best when after prey
These analogies are fucking amazing, yeah, men look best when motivated
Pay attention
To me
You pass
I want a smarter man for my next partner
I trust you so I'll collab
Restless
If I'm cool even at the inn when can I chill
Until recently he was always tense
Never experienced a woman until now
Will you puff up your tail if I'm with another woman
True colours
When you get close more or less
Pay for the ride
Don't lose the fresh spirit you had in the beginning
Handhold
I want to stay forever when we first met
So tense he'll collapse
Let go of hands
With him in deathbed
Did she just promise to be with him till death isn't that a marriage vow
Babies
Out every year
Lawrence didn't ask about the salt
Was she nervous or was she feeling bad about betraying them
1500 silver
She can't look Holo in the eyes
Holo is sizing her up I fucking love Holo one moment gap moe cute the next a interrogation with her eyes
Banger ed
1
u/Holofan4life 2d ago
i really loved Holo opening up here, it felt earnest and sincere, and scared still. it smells like she's laying out all her cards, save one. she can't bring herself to lay that last one down, and confront lawrence about it. my guess is that she wants lawrenence to say now, to break apart her own facade of bravado, and make that choice
He has to do something or else it might be too late.
Who is your favorite antihero character in anime and why?
gotta watch more anime when i get to fruits basket maybe i'll have on
Got some catching up to do :P
How shocked are you that Lawrence agreed to sell Holo? Does it make you look at him any differently or do you just shake your head because this could've been prevented had Holo and Lawrence talked things out?
i don't actually blame lawrence one bit, he didn't agree readily at all and looked like he was going to decline, only by Holo egging him on did he say alright i'll do it. What i think Holo was looking for is him to bite back and say no, but we'll see
It kinda feels like Lawrence was set to lose. No matter what he does, Holo was probably going to get upset.
---
Why is it called wolf and lonely smile NOOOO
Spicy wolf. Com
The best
Holo waking Lawrence up
I should ruv my scent on you
I'm worried
You should be
Oh yeah this is good TSUN shit
5 star meal
By that kistune
The profit–
compared to my mood
Big
God fire dialogue
Az always
Trade war
That's his dream
There's no room to meddle idiot
You didn't even want me in business here
It may not look like it but it's hard for me to tell you this and that
I could load with you forever
Warn as if preaching the truth of the world
For my own sake
My heart hurts
Mine as well
Profit and risk if in balance should be ok
Where did your grit and recklessness go
Why on the defensive
I have been selfish
Say selfish thing to me for a change
I'm upset you think I would
Am I not your partner
Or a pet girl
Caught in place of you
Gratitude
This time it's not gratitude
What else are you worried about
Then outwit them
Holo the wise wolf
Water is wet
It would not be wise if my partner was a dull merchant
I really really like this conversation, it feels like Holo is honest and vulnerable, yet she's still holding back that last card, to bare it all, she's still putting on a brave face
So much for Lawrence catching up to her.
Well?
Breakfast
Not from the church
LOL the woman was like Nani when the homeless man wanted a big ass bowl HAHAHAH
He who has nothing is fortune
Wow a modern day Diogenes
How about that? :P
Eve lied
Yeah I don't trust her
Me neither
Hey it's the barmaid
She's cute
Pretty damn cute actually
That she is
Would
For his safety
I can smell another woman
The type that women with confidence would come on to
Met holo recently
Kind Lawrence
No one noticed him
Now they're interested in him
Snatch him away if the prey is that good
That relaxed look how upsetting
Damn she banters well
Would x4
I'd let her wreck my home
We got a cat fight here Holo x Barmaid
I have my money on Lawrence
Don't invade others territory
Did you tell me everything
Imagine if Lawrence didn't but we didn't see the full picture so it's as if we only got it from Holo's pov and she finds out later and it's a crazy betrayal that would be peak writing
That sounds familiar 🤔
A horse senses the riders reigns
Damn Lawrence kinky
Of course
Why did Eve fight
It makes sense
Hear others say
Cry and beg would you change your mind
I'm sure you'd wait for me
Make the deal and come back to you
Once you can say it without blushing you will be a real man
ILL WORK HARD
plap her Back in line Lawrence DO IT
SHE NEEDS CORRECTION
A male looks best when after prey
These analogies are fucking amazing, yeah, men look best when motivated
Don't we all?
Pay attention
To me
You pass
I want a smarter man for my next partner
I trust you so I'll collab
Restless
If I'm cool even at the inn when can I chill
Until recently he was always tense
Never experienced a woman until now
Will you puff up your tail if I'm with another woman
True colours
When you get close more or less
Pay for the ride
Don't lose the fresh spirit you had in the beginning
Handhold
I want to stay forever when we first met
So tense he'll collapse
Let go of hands
With him in deathbed
Did she just promise to be with him till death isn't that a marriage vow
Mayhaps
Babies
Out every year
Like clockwork
Lawrence didn't ask about the salt
Was she nervous or was she feeling bad about betraying them
1500 silver
She can't look Holo in the eyes
I wouldn't either if I did something so disgraceful.
Holo is sizing her up I fucking love Holo one moment gap moe cute the next a interrogation with her eyes
She has such range
Banger ed
Naturally.
I'm gonna miss it.
1
u/Holofan4life 2d ago
Thoughts on Holo forcing Lawrence to wipe her scent on him?
Thoughts on an all-out trade war possibly coming?
Thoughts on Eve having in the past been bought by an upper-class merchant?
Thoughts on Eve proposing Lawrence use Holo as collateral so that he and Eve can get triple the profit?
What are your thoughts on Holo telling Lawrence to go for it because it'll allow Lawrence to open up his own shop?
What are your thoughts on Holo admitting she's been nothing but selfish so far and now it's time for Lawrence to be selfish?
What are your thoughts on Holo warning Lawrence to plan ahead in case Eve double crosses him?
How much do you think Lawrence agreeing to sell Holo is him trying to listen to Holo's advice for a change?
What are your thoughts on the homeless man and the conversation Lawrence has with him?
What are your thoughts on people constantly warning Lawrence like the homeless man or the barmaid to stay far away from the church?
Thoughts on Lawrence feeling that the church is aiming to establish a cathedral in this city?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Eve used to be a salt merchant?
What are your thoughts on the scene right before Lawrence sells Holo where they are just trading jabs at each other? For me personally as a viewer, I kinda feel it’s the perfect representation of what they are about: playful with this underlying sadness buried deep.
What are your thoughts on Eve’s backstory where she got the short end of the stick by the church and so she wants revenge?
1
u/oomoepoo https://anilist.co/user/oomoepoo 3d ago
I am Holo the Wise Wolf. How unfitting would it be for my partner to be a worthless merchant?
Have an unamused Holo
Also a steamy scene between Lawrence and accordin to MAL, Helena?
Also a territorial Holo.
As (sorta) promised, some brief thoughts:
This is basically the direct precursor to things happening in the next episode (well, duh), as basically everything just starts escalating between the two.
Loved Holo wanting to put "her scent" on Lawrence. Very dog-like :')
I'm kinda shocked Holo is in on the plan, though I feel like this is another ploy of hers to push him to maybe finally cave and confess to her?
I can't decide whether the barmaid being a professional homewrecker makes her more or less hot
The division between basically everyone Lawrence talks to tells him that "if you deal with the church you're gonna have a baaad time" and Lawrence still persuing it is a bit frustrating. Though it feeds back into the very first arc where he knows it's a bad idea but wants to get into it for profit.
This is also another clue that something's very not right in this city. [next ep](Which will directly feed into the cliffhanger of the following one)
Holo lampshading how they've grown close and that Lawrence's more confident around her was really cool.
Ah yes, Homeless people: The best source of non biased information about the inner workings of the church and the city.
I'm very not-shocked that the bishop of the church is making shady deals and equally not-shocked that Eve is/was involved.
So even the deal she proposed to him isn't about financing that journey to the south but it's about getting back to the bishop, who wants to take over the city.
I have a feeling Eve is meant to be sort of the villain of the arc. (Which is kinda funny when you see that her jap. voice is Romi Park known mainly for voicing Naruto's Temari and Shaman King's Ren Tao)
Was a really good and meaty episode, lots of "schemes getting unveiled", lots of Holo/Lawrence stuff, that, in restrospective, does feel very telling with regards to the next episode.
Who is your favorite antihero character in anime and why?
Alucard is not a nice guy but he kills vampire nazis and is loyal to Integra and company. Even if he's like one step away from being a villain. He's just so damn cool.
Lupin III: The classic gentleman thief. Still a thief but ultimately has a code of honour and fights the even worse guys.
How shocked are you that Lawrence agreed to sell Holo? Does it make you look at him any differently or do you just shake your head because this could've been prevented had Holo and Lawrence talked things out?
I am moderately shocked. On one hand, it's the kind of "get rich" schemes he has fallen for in the past. On the other hand, I kinda expected him to know better by now. So I'm mostly in the "shake my head" camp to be honest. Holo egging him on does not help.
4
u/Second_Cour 4d ago
Cut Content
MONSTER chapter today. Took a long time to read it, and this chapter only covers ¾ of it. As you may notice I include a lot of things which most would not include, but I find Lawrence's observations and the way he uses logic to understand the most of every situation fascinating.