Spice and Wolf (2024) – 02 – Exchange Rate Transaction

As he continues to travel with Holo the Wise Wolf of Yoitsu, Kraft learns more and more about her, like her ability to sense when it’s about to rain, or when someone is lying. Holo also leaves nothing to the imagination where her body is concerned, as after getting caught in said rain she has no issue gallivanting about their room in the buff.

After conversing with a wine merchant about the benefits of trading supplies without exchanging hard currency, they Kraft attracts the attention of a rookie merchant named Zheren. Both his look and his voice suggest he might not be the most trustworthy, but with Holo’s input Kraft decides to at least express interest in Zheren’s scheme regarding silver coins.

When they’re back on the road, talk turns to wolves, of which Holo is one, and she inadvertently hits a sore spot, as Kraft has encountered wolves eight times and at least one of those, he had to flee while others were killed and eaten. It’s the first real tiff between Holo and Kraft, but Holo ensures they’re even by showing vulnerability.

Obviously, Holo and Kraft are the whole show here. Holo is never not charming in her haughtiness, while Kraft really knows his merchant stuff. That said, this was a much rougher-looking episode visually, and I fear Passione may not have been the best studio to re-adapt this iconic tale. I also didn’t really notice Kevin Penkin’s score, something I never thought I’d say.

While thge production shortcomings are definitely an issue—this doesn’t look anywhere near as good as Frieren—the characters and story of their journey together should be enough to sustain my interest.

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Author: magicalchurlsukui

Preston Yamazuka is a staff writer for RABUJOI.

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