[DreamSword]

Episode 5: Carnival Dances with Lost Memories

"Happy Birthday, Rouge."

This episode is alot to take in. Visually, literally, and metaphorically. On its surface level, it's about Naomi saving Rouge from some Neans with Usurper tech.

Far more importantly than that though, it's a dream episode, resulting in some really out there visuals, jarring editing, and dialogue that's full of implications. And it's all done on purpose.

The ambiguity of the ringmaster is definitely what caught my attention most. He claims to be giving Rouge the ability to be free, but the implication that he's using her memories as a means of manipulation is definitely there, especially with that shot of the Copy Rouge during the ending bits.

Speaking of Rouge's' memories though, we do get a bit more elaboration on what exactly Rouge's' mission is all about, as well as a peak into her origins. She's out for revenge against the Immortal Nine for killing her creator; A mission started by her brother. Her brother also being the source of her love of chocolate, and is implied to be the one who set the Immortal Nine down their paths to begin with.

I did really like how Rouge has consistently been keen on noticing when things are off. While the past her set off on the mission of revenge without question, the current her realizes that the Neans she's been hunting are far more complex than what the feelings brought about by her brother would suggest. Viola just wanted to sing, and Verde hated how much suffering his people were going through on a daily basis. Did they really deserve to die? Does anyone?

No clear answer is presented, and the episode ends simply with Rouge deciding to follow whatever path her heart desires to head towards, with Naomi by her side. It really makes me wonder how exactly the last five of the Immortal Nine will factor into all this, given I assume they're the Gladiators we see in the opening credits. But who knows, maybe it's all been bait this entire time. I could see that setting some people off, but if they pull it off well, then I think I'd be happy to give it to 'em.

But ah, I'm getting ahead of myself. Excited to see where this will all go!