Yuusha no Kuzu Ep.02 - So that's the power of Aki! Makes sense.

Episode 2 of the anime series Yuusha no Kuzu (勇者のクズ) continues from where we left off, with Yashiro and Aki Jougamine preparing to assault the base of the Demon King "Amber Thorn," who took Sara prisoner. Yashiro is adamant about preventing Aki from participating because he thinks that an amateur would just make things worse.

The infiltration goes well, partly thanks to the trail of death the other girl, Yukine, left on her way to reach "Amber Thorn". However, things get complicated in the final battle as the boss goes berserk and is about to kill Yukine and Sara. Yashiro jumps in to save them despite knowing he will likely die as well, but Aki saves the day by cutting off the arm of the berserk Demon King and ending the battle.

What Aki? Have you never seen this classic equipment?!

Yukine really tried her best despite being alone against so many...

The episode also reveals the details regarding the powers of at least three of the main characters. Aki has the power to read other people's thoughts, Yashiro has the power to slow his perception of time, allowing him to analyze the situation better and plan accordingly, and Yukine has the power to teleport across short distances to take enemies by surprise.

Honestly, it is quite a balanced party, and depending on Sara's skill, which we will likely learn about next week, they could actually make a great team together. But what is the endgame here? Sure, they could fight more villains across the city, but I am wondering what the overarching plot of the series is.

Exploring Yashiro's past could be an interesting topic to focus on because there has to be a significant trauma for him to become such a jaded person. Apparently, the light novel is going to resume publication in a new magazine soon (January 23, 2026). It could be an interesting pick just to compare the differences with the anime.

The anime is quite direct and bloody, with characters (both Yashiro and Yukine) killing evil henchmen left and right. Aki seems against it because "heroes don't do that", but it doesn't change the reality. I am sure this will be a point of contention within the group later on, but as it stands right now, it seems to be the best approach to get results.

Gonna need lots of head-pats next week

I can't get over how silly she looks with those eyes!

Judging from the preview segment, the next episode seems like it will go back to the three girls stalking Yashiro to ask him to become their teacher. I guess this will be the beginning of their collaboration. I am really curious to see what personality Sara has. Her full name is Sara Kashiwagi Pendragon, which definitely gives off that "Arthur Pendragon" aura...

Either way, the series continues to be quite a solid one, and I am looking forward to seeing what happens next week.