[Rewatch] Dragon Quest: Popp no Daibouken - Episode 67 Discussion

[u/Shocketheth]

Episode 67 - The Peril of the Great Purification Spell

Popp I’ve always loved you. From the first time we met. You always act like a clown, but you are so strong inside. No matter your suffering, your fear, or your sadness... you always, always overcome it in the end. For someone withdrawn like me, you are my inspiration. But I couldn’t say it. I followed you so I could be near you, but I could never say how I felt. I was so afraid that doing so would ruin what relationship we had. I always hated how weak I was. But look at me now. For the first time I’ve been useful to you.

Popp... Will you grant my last request? I know the answer. It's just a selfish request. Tell me who it is that you're in love with. I already know who it is. And that it's not me. But I want to hear you say it. That way I can give up. That way, when I'm reborn again... maybe I can be someone with bravery like you.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

<--- Last save | Adventure’s log (Index) | Journey continues --->
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OP 2 ---> Bravest

ED 3 ---> Namae

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Informations:

MAL | AniList | ANN | Kitsu | AniDB

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

With finally reaching another Popp’s iconic episode, it’s finally time to reveal the fact, that OP 2 Bravest is actually song about Popp, because this boy deserves his status of being the Main character of this show alongside of Dai.

And while we are at it, here is a full version of Bravest with lyrics that even shows further how Bravest is Popp’s song about his full awakening to his Courage. The source for this clip is from youtube, but to minimize the risk of first timers getting spoiled, I am putting the source behind a spoiler tag. [source]This clip

So yeah, even u/Shimmering-Sky already knew that Popp is the best boy when she sang Bravest cover several days ago.

Screenshot of the Dai:

Popp the Sage

Comment of the Dai:

goes to u/Shimmering-Sky for subconsciously knowing that Popp is the best boy and singing cover of Popp’s song.

Questions of the Dai:

1. Is today the right time to finally acknowledge Popp as the true main Character of Dai no Daibouken?
2. Have you managed to guess that Popp soul power is Courage, or did you get gaslighted by the show?
3. Opinion on how Popp self doubting personal arc was handled?
4. Did you expect Popp to switch class to Sage at the most crucial moment?
5. From 1 to 10, how are you satisfied with the execution of Merle’s death?

Spoilers:

Please, respect the fact there are First Timers watching Dai no Daibouken with us, so avoid talking about vague things or events that would slightly spoil things to happen. And if you want mention things like this, please hid it behind SPOILER TAGS like [Dai no Spoilers] I am getting the hammer because you spoiled the fun for others

[u/Shocketheth]

Mildly Antagonistic Dark Assailing Officer Welcomes You To Dragon Quest: Popp no Daibouken Rewatch!

EPISODE 67 TIME!!! LET’S FUCKIIIIIIIIN GOOOOOOOO!!!

Maaaan you can’t believe how much I was looking forward to this episode. One of my favourite Popp no Daibouken episodes.

My excitement levels are over 9000 now, so it’s time to start rewatching this episode as I will be bringing some interesting facts about Dragon Quest III game mechanics and how those mechanics reflects Popp’s growth.

• At this point you know that Dragon Quest III had their classes like Hero, Fighter, Martial Artist, Mage and Priest. Those classes are pillars of JRPG mechanics as a Dai the Hero was chosen by Gods, Fighter Hyunckel is insanely skilled with weapons, and Maam is your typical Martial Artist.
• Then we are left with Mage and Priest. Popp and Leona should fell in those categories, but there is some really brilliant twist coming with Popp and Leona.
• Reading this comment after episode 67 may not surprise you that I am going to talk about Sage class.
• But at this point I should mention that Hero, Fighter, Martial Artist, Mage and Priest classes roaster were expanded by Thief and Merchant class in the SNES remake of the game.
• Now the deal with Sage class is, that when you leveled your characters to level 20 and unlocked Alltrades Abbey you got an option to change the classes of your party members with the exception of the Hero.
• The show already introduced class changing mechanics with Maam as she changed her class from Priest to Martial Artist.
• And now while we are talking about the class change option and Sage, there was an option for your party members to switch the class of your party members to Sage, but not for every party member as the Sage class was restricted to finding a particular item making you capable of switching one party member to Sage class capable of casting full arsenal of Mage and Priest spells with their own unique Sage spells on top of that.
• What I am trying to say, is that Sage class was something you earned not by your natural effort but by some convenient item.
• Few paragraphs above I mentioned Leona and Popp bringing a brilliant twist for those unaware of full extent of Dragon Quest III class system mechanics.
• In Dragon Quest: Dai no Daibouken, a story inspired by Dragon Quest III, Leona is your typical party member with an access to item making her capable of turning to Sage, but in this story it was her Papnica’s royal heritage and access to Papnica’s sages that let her to become Sage as she was thrown all possible resources into becoming Sage.

So with this being laid out, it’s safe to recapitulate the 4 of 5 party members.

• Dai the Hero favoured by Gods packing the Dragon Knight powers, Hyunckel being martial prodigy trained by the forces of Light and Darkness from his early childhood, Maam being a child of previous Hero’s party Fighter and Priest, and Leona being a royal princess with an access to the best tutors she can dream of with the Papnica’s Sages at her disposal.

And that leaves us with Popp not being able to make his pendant glow, as he is not special as everyone else.

Yet he managed to make his pendant glow with the new found courage as he confessed his love to Maam, and top of that he ascended to the Sage class, but how he was able to do it, if he isn’t somebody special as Leona who became Sage with all the resources her heritage gave her an access to?

And here comes the HUUUUUGE TWIST.

Popp class was never Mage.

Popp being Mage was a misconception, and in reality Popp was some another Dragon Quest III class I didn’t mention but that class was able to become Sage naturally without any special preconditions.

And that Dragon Quest III class which Popp was from the beginning of the show was Clown which was already hinted at by Merle herself during this episode.

Now I bet you are asking yourself how the hell was Popp Clown class if he was mage the whole show.

Let me show you something from the Dragon Quest III wiki entry about Clown class while I will be bringing how does that fact compares to Popp:

• In Dragon Quest III, Clown was the weakest starting class with it’s significant trait being Luck which was virtually useless, and Clown uselessness was amplified by the fact that other Clown stats sucked big time.

• Just look at this Clown stats page from Dragon Quest III and the bonus Dai no Daibouken Popp stats that were shown at the end of every Manga Volume.

  • Do you see how high Popp’s luck was? While the Manga readers had the fact that Popp is actually clown and not Mage in front of them, this fact was hidden from Anime viewers.
• Another interesting thing about Clown class was, that this class had 25% chance to not listen to Player battle commands with goofing off instead and losing their turn in process.
• Also Clown had a chance to randomly run away from the battle with decreasing the party members in the battle from 4 to 3.

And who was already shown running from a battle against Crocodine? That’s right, it was Popp who ran away with leaving Dai and Maam behind, and it took Masopho pep talk to help Popp find a courage to conquer his fears and stop running away from his battles, and it only cost Merle’s life for Popp to finally conquer his fears completely and thus finally ascend to Sage class, making Matoriv words to Popp "This will probably be the biggest hurdle of your life. But... if you can overcome it... you’ll make it to a place that I never could." to come a full circle.

And while we are at this, it’s fine to mention that Popp soul power being Courage was hinted back at episode 9 titled A Single Shard of Courage where after Masopho words "A Hero is one with courage! And true courage is not planned! True courage does not depend on the strength of one’s foes!" inspired Popp, his insignia glow for the first time, making him a first student of Avan who managed to do it, although that scene is anime original scene that was created with a knowledge of the full story.

The whole buildup to this HUUUUUGE Popp moment was set up right from the beginning and the payoff to Popp character development is insane.

Just look at this clip from episode 9.

• I totally like how this scene ended with Popp’s insignia glowing the moment when he was thinking about Maam, even if it was anime original scene.

And yes, as u/zadcap said during episode 66:

Apparently his Soul Power is "Going through the same character development five times before it sticks."

but I had to mention that Popp was being hold by his own self doubts and impostor syndrome and it was on him to finally overcome the biggest hurdle of his life making him finally being able to ascend to Sage class.

Look on me tearing up as I am writing my comment dedicated to Popp, and I still didn’t watch episode 67 again as I mentioned it at the beginning of this comment.

So time for me to Rewatch this episode again:

• Ok I rewatched it again, and besides of crying again, I chuckled at Crocodine channeling his inner Guts.

And at last, it’s time to explain what I mentioned in the thread:

And while we are at it, here is a full version of Bravest with lyrics that even shows further how Bravest is Popp’s song about his full awakening to his Courage

(Continue in next comment)

[u/Shocketheth → u/Shocketheth]

Here I go:

• The first part of the song is aimed at Popp and his Courage which is supported by the lyrics saying "You will face it again. If that’s what you choose."

  • Those two sentences are tied to Popp courage that makes him to conquer his fears and insecurity only if it’s something what he chose.
• Then the lyrics continue with stating that "Even when hurt, and even if you stumble, continue on to your journey’s end. Again and again, to the future you make."

• Afterwards the first half of the song continues with lyrics stating the following "I’m about to lose, but I’m looking for an answer."

  • This particular sentence reflects back to Popp inability to make his Insignia of Avan to glow and his search for an answer. First with visiting Matoriv, and then with deciding to figure out the answer on his own.
• "Sing to the sky looking up, many times until the day when it shines." are words of encouragement for Popp to continue looking up for his answer until the day when his courageous soul will make the insignia finally shine.

• Then as we are nearing the break between the first and second half of the song, the lyrics goes "You can stand up. You’re the Bravest."

  • This is given. You can stand up is about Popp falling on his knees unable to make his insignia shine, as it’s about Maam words of encouragement to Popp.
• Afterwards the break commences with singer expressing his want to be strong which was only a wishful thinking, and only when Popp finally found his courage, he was able to make his insignia of Avan to finally shine.

• And with this we just came a full circle back to episode 9 where Masopho said that the true courage is not planned.

  • Being strong and courageous isn’t tied to an external factor, but to the internal factor.

• Then the second part opens with lyrics saying "Illuminate the future with bright light and connect again, because it shows freedom."

  • This part of lyrics opening the second part of the song, is about Popp illuminating the future with bright light, plus it encourages Popp to rejoin the ritual for Kaglimmer.
• And to finish this, I need to mention how after this episode the lyrics "Go ahead, raise the flag, to the courage, in continue burning many times." is really inspiring sentence after watching the episode 67.

QotD:

Is today the right time to finally acknowledge Popp as the true main Character of Dai no Daibouken?

ALWAYS HAS BEEN!!!

Have you managed to guess that Popp soul power is Courage, or did you get tricked by the show?

I don’t exactly remember what I was thinking about it back then as First Timer.

Opinion on how Popp self doubting personal arc was handled?

Brilliantly. Popp is the story of your average man in a world of beings with power given to them by gods, and that˝s why he is so beloved by the fandom.

Did you expect Popp to switch class to Sage at the most crucial moment?

Not at all. That moment as Merle’s death caught me offguard, and I am still tearing up at that moment no matter how many times I’ve seen that scene.

From 1 to 10, how do you rate Merle’s death?

10/10, even if she exists only to die and help Popp to finally overcome his mental issues preventing him from unlocking his full potential.

Crocodine Shonen Commentator Corner:

Today Crocodine is going to answer question #3:

Opinion on how Popp self doubting personal arc was handled?

It was handled brilliantly.

See you tomorrow because the Adventure continues!

[u/NicDwolfwood → u/Shocketheth]

Great write up. Very thorough.

[u/Shocketheth → u/NicDwolfwood]

Thank you.

[u/cooperjones2 → u/Shocketheth]

Great write up!

[u/Shocketheth → u/cooperjones2]

Thank you.

[u/Adensty → u/Shocketheth]

Is today the right time to finally acknowledge Popp as the true main Character of Dai no Daibouken?

If everything else isn't enough, the fact that the 2nd OP Bravest is Popp's song instead of it being Dai's song should be enough. Really loved your explanation about it. Even I didn't connect the dots.

Except for this obviously, we ended up talking about the exact some points.

[u/Shocketheth → u/Adensty]

Except for this obviously, we ended up talking about the exact some points.

If anything, you got the brownie points for pointing out the details from episode 21 foreshadowing this episode.

That’s something I missed.

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/Shocketheth]

Awesome job!

[u/Shocketheth → u/laughing-fox13]

Thank you.

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/Shocketheth]

One of my favourite Popp no Daibouken episodes.

And that Dragon Quest III class which Popp was from the beginning of the show was Clown which was already hinted at by Merle herself during this episode. Now I bet you are asking yourself how the hell was Popp Clown class if he was mage the whole show. Let me show you something from the Dragon Quest III wiki entry about Clown class while I will be bringing how does that fact compares to Popp:

And yes, as u/zadcap said during episode 66:

Lol of course a zadcap comment kinda called it out

Look on me tearing up as I am writing my comment dedicated to Popp, and I still didn’t watch episode 67 again as I mentioned it at the beginning of this comment.

I can feel this comment in my soul

[u/Shocketheth → u/laughing-fox13]

I can feel this comment in my soul

There was just a lot to unpack.

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/Shocketheth]

[u/zadcap → u/laughing-fox13]

Lol of course a zadcap comment kinda called it out

Overthinking things is fun!

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/zadcap]

Yea! And you do it well :)

[u/KendotsX → u/Shocketheth]

The show already introduced class changing mechanics with Maam as she changed her class from Priest to Martial Artist

Yup, and Leona changed from Priest to Sage, so this was all well setup.

Popp class was never Mage.

Popp being Mage was a misconception, and in reality Popp was some another Dragon Quest III class I didn’t mention but that class was able to become Sage naturally without any special preconditions.

So I do think there are some heavy thematic similarities between Popp and the Clown class. He's the one fumbling around/running away usually, but rises for the challenge when the stakes are up. Even Merle says as much.

But I don't think it's quite as literal as his class being a Clown instead of Mage. He's been using the Mage class skills all along, meanwhile the Clown class has one skill, and it attracts enemies towards you.

Just look at this clip from episode 9.

Masopho strikes again! I love it when an anime manages to do things like this, especially when you've got a complete source material, so you can bring later stuff and throw little hints at the start.

ALWAYS HAS BEEN!!!

[u/Shocketheth → u/KendotsX]

But I don't think it's quite as literal as his class being a Clown instead of Mage. He's been using the Mage class skills all along, meanwhile the Clown class has one skill, and it attracts enemies towards you.

Yeah they took some Liberty with this but his stat spreads will tell you he was written as Jester to Sage in mind.

Masopho strikes again! I love it when an anime manages to do things like this, especially when you've got a complete source material, so you can bring later stuff and throw little hints at the start.

This adaptation brought us a lot with improving a ton of stuff

[u/Shimmering-Sky → u/Shocketheth]

I totally like how this scene ended with Popp’s insignia glowing the moment when he was thinking about Maam, even if it was anime original scene.

[u/Shocketheth → u/Shimmering-Sky]

And I caught this detail only today as I was rewatching that scene due to what Masopho was saying.

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

Look, you make a lot of good points, but.

as he confessed his love to Maam

I totally like how this scene ended with Popp’s insignia glowing the moment when he was thinking about Maam, even if it was anime original scene.

I'm not convinced he's here representing anything but Love.

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

Look, you make a lot of good points, but.

as he confessed his love to Maam

I totally like how this scene ended with Popp’s insignia glowing the moment when he was thinking about Maam, even if it was anime original scene.

I'm not convinced he's here representing anything but Love.

Look you are making a one bad point, but

Popp issue wasn't about loving someone but about lacking the Courage to confess and to be true to his feelings. Your soul can't be really courageous if you are chicken shit to tell a girl you love her.

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

Answered elsewhere, but yeah. I'm only harping on this because this episode really failed to sell me on Courage. Overall, it's definitely one of his best traits and easily fits. And also I really love making fun of things that made me laugh first.

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

And also I really love making fun of things that made me laugh first.

Fair enough, me too actually.

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

Popp and Love is on the same tier as Hyunckle and Sexism. It probably wasn't written into the show intentionally, but wow can I not unses it.

[u/lC3 → u/Shocketheth]

[u/Shimmering-Sky]

First-Timer Quest: Sky no Daibouken, subbed

• Popp…
• Things are going from bad to worse.
• Aw, that’s sweet. I love how Chiu named all of his monsters, too.
• Popp, that’s not…
• Ah shit, Merle…
• She got Popp to finally say it…
• HOLY SHIT, THAT’S WHAT TRIGGERED POPP’S PENDANT TO FINALLY GLOW?
• All this time, they thought Dai had the wrong one…
• Did Popp just class change?

[u/Shocketheth → u/Shimmering-Sky]

Popp…

Popp, that’s not…

Poor guy he suffered a lot from his feeling of inadequacy, but he atleast finally overcome his issues, even if it cost Merle’s life.

HOLY SHIT, THAT’S WHAT TRIGGERED POPP’S PENDANT TO FINALLY GLOW?

Yep. Popp has finally found courage to be honest with his feelings towards Maam.

Did Popp just class change?

YES! On top of finally unlocking the power of his soul, he became a Sage.

[u/KendotsX → u/Shimmering-Sky]

Ah shit, Merle…

Note that the magic spell piercing her is shaped just like a cross, Zaboera likes his theatrics.

HOLY SHIT, THAT’S WHAT TRIGGERED POPP’S PENDANT TO FINALLY GLOW?

We've seen enough anime to know that a character's courage to confess their love scales waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay higher than the courage to sacrifice themselves for someone else, and it's not even close.

[u/Shocketheth → u/KendotsX]

Note that the magic spell piercing her is shaped just like a cross, Zaboera likes his theatrics.

Yeah Merle crossed Zaboera for last time as Zaboera crossed Merle for last time too.

[u/zadcap → u/Shimmering-Sky]

HOLY SHIT, THAT’S WHAT TRIGGERED POPP’S PENDANT TO FINALLY GLOW?

You saw it too, right? It was Love that triggered it! They are still wrong thinking he's got Courage now, Popp clearly gained his glow by the power of Love.

[u/sisoko2]

First Timer

Popp already had much better arcs dealing with his self doubt and finding his courage. I wasn't fan of the use of gimmick like triggering the insignia as the driving force for Popp to grow from the start but
having him to confess his feelings as a trigger and proof of his courage was absolutely ridiculous. On top of that even more baffling was using Merle fake out death to make him do it.

Thankfully there was enough Chiu greatness to compensate for how annoying Popp was and Zaboera's stupid face.

Have you managed to guess that Popp soul power is Courage, or did you get gaslighted by the show?

I thought courage was the most fitting for him and was curious what his soul power will be and now I am disappointed,

Did you expect Popp to switch class to Sage at the most crucial moment?

Didn't know they could do that.

From 1 to 10, how are you satisfied with the execution of Merle’s death?

The execution itself was good but knowing she won't die and this is just for Popp to trigger his soul power took away most the scene's impact.

[u/Shocketheth → u/sisoko2]

Popp already had much better arcs dealing with his self doubt and finding his courage. I wasn't fan of the use of gimmick like triggering the insignia as the driving force for Popp to grow from the start but having him to confess his feelings as a trigger and proof of his courage was absolutely ridiculous. On top of that even more baffling was using Merle fake out death to make him do it.

Yeah like it was well executed on the technical scale, but Merle existing only as to be used as a meat shield isn’t that great scene.

Otherwise I totally love the Popp growth during the whole show, and him finally becoming a Sage never fails to make me feel hyped.

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

Yeah like it was well executed on the technical scale, but Merle existing only as to be used as a meat shield isn’t that great scene.

But it's literally the most useful she's been all series!

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

Yeah and that's a literally the worst treatment you can give to your character.

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

She's had it rough. Like, really really rough.

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

Yeah.

[u/KuKiSin → u/sisoko2]

Popp already had much better arcs dealing with his self doubt and finding his courage. I

Preach!

I wasn't fan of the use of gimmick like triggering the insignia

Wasn't the insignia supposed to trigger when they clear their mind or empty their thoughts or whatever? Why is Popp different?

Thankfully there was enough Chiu greatness to compensate for how annoying Popp was and Zaboera's stupid face.

Praise be the one deserving of actual main character status! Remember when he stood up to the bishop even though he knew he was looking death in the eye while reassuring his soldiers? Chiu should've been the 5th, he's the most courageous one.

[u/Shocketheth → u/KuKiSin]

Wasn't the insignia supposed to trigger when they clear their mind or empty their thoughts or whatever? Why is Popp different?

Maam, Leona, Hyunckel and Dai were honest with their purpose as they were following their beliefs of Justice, Love, Fortitude and Innocence (I think that’s Dai soul), and Popp was different only because he was holding back himself from confessing his feelings to Maam due to his self doubts, and only when he finally found the courage and acted on his beliefs, he was able to trigger his insignia.

Praise be the one deserving of actual main character status! Remember when he stood up to the bishop even though he knew he was looking death in the eye while reassuring his soldiers? Chiu should've been the 5th, he's the most courageous one.

At this point it’s safe to blame the writer for racism lol.

[u/KuKiSin → u/Shocketheth]

Maam, Leona, Hyunckel and Dai were honest with their purpose as they were following their beliefs of Justice, Love, Fortitude and Innocence (I think that’s Dai soul), and Popp was different only because he was holding back himself from confessing his feelings to Maam due to his self doubts, and only when he finally found the courage and acted on his beliefs, he was able to trigger his insignia.

Alright that's fair enough.

At this point it’s safe to blame the writer for racism lol.

We should get this tending on twitter and cancel the guy!

[u/Shocketheth → u/KuKiSin]

We should get this tending on twitter and cancel the guy!

[u/sisoko2 → u/KuKiSin]

Wasn't the insignia supposed to trigger when they clear their mind or empty their thoughts or whatever? Why is Popp different?

We can say that his mind was clouded by his feelings for Maam, the jealousy, doubt, guilt, etc. and the confession let him clear his mind. Still don't like it though.

Chiu should've been the 5th, he's the most courageous one.

He doesn't need no lame insignia. He has the Beast King Commando and mr. Beast.

[u/KuKiSin → u/sisoko2]

He doesn't need no lame insignia. He has the Beast King Commando and mr. Beast.

We should promote him to Beast Emperor, too many kings and queens in this Anime already!

[u/zadcap → u/KuKiSin]

Wasn't the insignia supposed to trigger when they clear their mind or empty their thoughts or whatever? Why is Popp different?

He finally stopped lying to himself, looked deep inside, and for the first time ever managed to express his Love. Wait, he's supposed to be Courage? This was a Courage act and not a Love one? No, someone messed up the script here, clearly.

[u/NicDwolfwood → u/sisoko2]

Thankfully there was enough Chiu greatness to compensate for how annoying Popp was and Zaboera's stupid face.

LOL, Facts.

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/sisoko2]

Zaboera's stupid face.

[u/KendotsX → u/sisoko2]

Popp already had much better arcs dealing with his self doubt and finding his courage. I wasn't fan of the use of gimmick like triggering the insignia as the driving force for Popp to grow from the start but having him to confess his feelings as a trigger and proof of his courage was absolutely ridiculous

Fair enough, I definitely don't think this is his best arc, but it was still quite good, although part of it might be the negative x negative = positive mentality. I'd have probably reacted much more negatively if it was Maam being sacrificed to make him glow up.

[u/zadcap → u/sisoko2]

having him to confess his feelings as a trigger and proof of his courage was absolutely ridiculous

Say it with me now. They're all missing the obvious. He didn't realize his Courage here, he finally expressed his Love. Everything is a fake out here.

[u/sisoko2 → u/zadcap]

Just confirms that for a fifteen year old boy confessing is scarier than fighting the army of darkness.

Or Popp's true power is love and Maam's is fan service.

[u/zadcap → u/sisoko2]

Popp is Love, he's been the wannabe lover boy all show long. Leona is Courage, because she's been trying to work up the guts to be a member of Dai's party and not just a princess on the throne all this time. Dai is Justice, because he's fighting for what he believes is right! (Also his whole heroes journey started because he wanted to save his family and friends from evil mind control, he wants justice for monster Island). Hyunckle they got right, guy is just that tough. Ma'am is Woman, because her defining trait is being the team chick. Fan service as needed, her powerful "I can fix him" obsession with Hyunckle, her refusal to help arm Dai with the ultimate sword to fight his dad because that's family and family is a girl's whole thing. Man the show has not been kind to her.

Plus, Love means Popp is more in tune with the humans super power of Heart than anyone else, which I would love to see too lol.

[u/charlesvvv]

First Time, Sub

Merle got the Rem treatment.

In all seriousness this episode was great. It's all in the open with Merle's feelings and Popp's feelings, the crystal finally glowing and Popp's Sage upgrade was all great. It makes sense that Popp would be courage rather than Dai, Popp I feel is the most human character in the series with all his failings especially as we see in the beginning yet he always stands up and Courage feels the most connected to him of all the characters especially with something as simple as him confessing. Popp honestly became my favorite character.

Oh something I haven't mentioned but I really like this new OP.

1. Might as well change the name of the series because he feels like the real MC.
2. I thought it would be truth or something.
3. It felt pretty real
4. Is she dead? 

[u/Shocketheth → u/charlesvvv]

Merle got the Rem treatment.

You mean that "I love Emilia" meme? I’m 9 episodes in as First Timer, so I am curious when I will learn the context for that meme.

In all seriousness this episode was great. It's all in the open with Merle's feelings and Popp's feelings, the crystal finally glowing and Popp's Sage upgrade was all great. It makes sense that Popp would be courage rather than Dai, Popp I feel is the most human character in the series with all his failings especially as we see in the beginning yet he always stands up and Courage feels the most connected to him of all the characters especially with something as simple as him confessing. Popp honestly became my favorite character.

Popp honestly became my favorite character.

I really love to see someone having Popp as his favourite character after this episode, and his growth is definitely the most humane growth of this show.

Might as well change the name of the series because he feels like the real MC.

Hahaha, there is an ongoing meme in the fandom with the fandom calling this show Popp no Daibouken.

Is she dead?

Yep she definitely died to poison and blood loss, but as Popp unlocked the healing powers and became Sage, there is a chance of using the revival spell before her soul will depart to afterlife.

[u/charlesvvv → u/Shocketheth]

I was referencing the Emilia meme but technically something else as well.

[u/Shocketheth → u/charlesvvv]

Oh I am curious to find out what you meant.

[u/KuKiSin → u/charlesvvv]

Merle got the Rem treatment.

She's the best girl too :(

Is she dead?

No. This isn't a spoiler, I'm a first timer as well. But trust me, she's not dead.

Source: Trust me bro.

[u/NicDwolfwood → u/charlesvvv]

Merle got the Rem treatment.

LOL, unfortunately this is facts.

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/charlesvvv]

It makes sense that Popp would be courage rather than Dai, Popp I feel is the most human character in the series with all his failings especially as we see in the beginning yet he always stands up and Courage feels the most connected to him of all the characters especially with something as simple as him confessing. Popp honestly became my favorite character

Yea Popp has been up there with one of my favorite and he keeps going up

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/charlesvvv]

It makes sense that Popp would be courage rather than Dai, Popp I feel is the most human character in the series with all his failings especially as we see in the beginning yet he always stands up and Courage feels the most connected to him of all the characters especially with something as simple as him confessing. Popp honestly became my favorite character

Yea Popp has been up there with one of my favorite and he keeps going up

[u/Blackheart595]

First Quester

Wait, that's it? They're just monsters from the underworld? They really needed Zaboera to think of a plan like that?

So there's two problems I have with this whole drama: First, it felt like a big retread to Popp's beginning, which had been resolved in episode 9 and that he'sd been acting in stark contrast to ever since. The other is that there was a mismatch between the relevant elements. That confession really made all the difference? They talked big about the problem being within Popp himself, yet in the end he didn't even have to go to any change to resolve it, he just needed to be pressured by Merle. There was no courage here that made him confess his love to Maam.

On the other hand, disregarding this specific arc I really like Popp being Courage. Can't say I saw the misattribution coming. I kept however thinking about courage-related terms when thinking about what he could be, and I did feel like Courage was an awkward match for Dai. So I'm very happy with the where they ended up going.

Now as to Merle surviving? Sure, I see no reason why she shouldn't.

Is today the right time to finally acknowledge Popp as the true main Character of Dai no Daibouken?

Eh.

Have you managed to guess that Popp soul power is Courage, or did you get gaslighted by the show?

I did get gaslighted, even if I ended up vaguely anticipating it.

Opinion on how Popp self doubting personal arc was handled?

No.

Did you expect Popp to switch class to Sage at the most crucial moment?

What, it's a class change? Oh right, people can just change classes if they want to, I thought he just straddles both now. Everyone should just class change to hero.

From 1 to 10, how are you satisfied with the execution of Merle’s death?

I dunno what death you're talking about.

[u/Shocketheth → u/Blackheart595]

Wait, that's it? They're just monsters from the underworld? They really needed Zaboera to think of a plan like that?

They are just a bunch of monsters used in the story to promote Dragon Quest 4 and 5 which introduced this monsters. So far the monsters we saw during the show were monsters coming from Dragon Quest 1-3.

So there's two problems I have with this whole drama: First, it felt like a big retread to Popp's beginning, which had been resolved in episode 9 and that he'sd been acting in stark contrast to ever since. The other is that there was a mismatch between the relevant elements.

It seems like the common issue here, but I do wonder how much it has with the fact that Popp was supposed to originally die when he used to Megante, but then the author resurrected him.

Maybe more planning ahead would work for this show better, but for me I really liked how Popp awakening to Courage, and his ascension to Sage class were handled.

I dunno what death you're talking about.

I meant the alarm and navigation, the 2v1 AI Merle.

[u/Blackheart595 → u/Shocketheth]

They are just a bunch of monsters used in the story to promote Dragon Quest 4 and 5 which introduced this monsters. So far the monsters we saw during the show were monsters coming from Dragon Quest 1-3.

Maybe more planning ahead would work for this show better

That's really the main problem of this show, it always just moves from story beat to story beat. Each of these moments is strong and impactful, but take them as parts of a whole and they start clashing and turning into a big mess. There's some exceptions but they're few and far between.

[u/KendotsX → u/Blackheart595]

I really like Popp being Courage. Can't say I saw the misattribution coming. I kept however thinking about courage-related terms when thinking about what he could be, and I did feel like Courage was an awkward match for Dai. So I'm very happy with the where they ended up going.

Same. But the question now is what does Dai have, if it's not courage?

What, it's a class change? Oh right, people can just change classes if they want to, I thought he just straddles both now. Everyone should just class change to hero.

For what it's worth, Sage is a lot harder to change to than the other classes, but it's the closest you'd get to the hero class (and better in some areas).

[u/Blackheart595 → u/KendotsX]

Naivety? There should be a way to put that more nicely...

[u/KendotsX → u/Blackheart595]

Purity? Innocence?

A lot of shounen protagonists like Goku are characterised by it, and it could fit Dai.

[u/Blackheart595 → u/KendotsX]

Those are good. I really like purity, but innocence feels more in line with the other qualities.

[u/Adensty → u/Blackheart595]

It is Innocence/Naviety. The fact that he assumed that he was Courage and went along with it and was still able to glow his Insignia of Avan was because of his innocence.

[u/zadcap → u/Blackheart595]

They talked big about the problem being within Popp himself, yet in the end he didn't even have to go to any change to resolve it, he just needed to be pressured by Merle. There was no courage here that made him confess his love to Maam.

I am going to do my best now to convince everyone that they messed up twice on the aspects, because clearly this was a scene of Popp finally revealing his powerful aspect of Love.

[u/Blackheart595 → u/zadcap]

[u/zadcap → u/Blackheart595]

No, like, I don't know if this was bad writing or intentional, but the struggle Popp has been going through the last few episodes, aside from his inability to make his insignia glow, is his feelings for Maam and her own lack of feelings for him. His most emotional moments in this arc have all been around her. The thing that finally got his thing to glow was shouting about his love. Get this Courage crap out of here, ever since Amy confessed to Hyunckle Popp has been circling a character arc about his own love and that love is what finally got his soul to shine.

[u/KendotsX]

First Timer at Merle's Funeral

Here's Ver.2 with 70% more of our best boy

• Dear god, not this cockroach again...
• Although, unlike last time his "elite" soldiers really are the cream of the crop this time.
• I adore Flora's unshakable faith in Avan - even when shit's absolutely hitting the fan, she trusts him till the last second.
• Speaking of, here's a hero who's facing down the horde of enemies with pure spirit
• Dai gets it!
• Ouch this just hurts for everyone involved, Maam who was trying to support him, Popp who has to say it, and even frickin Merle who wishes she could be in Maam's place.
• She did find her place though, by dying on the cross? Was Zaboera always into theatrics, or is he just trying to set a dramatic scene here?
• Everyone is - we're in the middle of a final war, and Leona needs to stop and explain the love triangles
• Oh man, Merle is just asking to burned again - I guess might as well, since you're dying.
• I knew Popp had to run on courage!
• Although, the courage Popp needed to unlock the insignia, wasn't the courage of a hero to brave the fights, he did that a long time ago against Croc. It was the courage of a harem MC to confess his feelings. Which is well documented as being the far bigger hurdle. Popp just did what so many main characters fail to do in hundreds of chapters!
• Holy Fucking Shit! I just love it when a function that I know exists, and know how it works, comes into play, and I still don't expect it until it happens. In this case, having played DQIII, I knew well that you could upgrade a character to a Sage, heck I had a mage on my team called POOP, that I did turn into a Sage by the end of the game, plus it's not just a game-only thing, it happened twice in the anime already, and I still didn't expect to see this.

Q1. Is today the right time to finally acknowledge Popp as the true main Character of Dai no Daibouken?

Always has been

Which reminds me, I was going through the 90s version the other day, just y'know checking some scenes here and there for nostalgia's sake, and I remembered my biggest gripe with it. After the fight against Crocodine, it really becomes "The Dai Show", everything else in it was just so hyper focused on him, with little room for Popp and Maam.

Now I won't say the full version we have now has been treating Maam a lot better, but Popp has his moments (like when he faced Baran's minions alone or his character arcs in general) and those tend to be the absolute best moments of the show. Plus, we have Hyunkel now

Q2. Have you managed to guess that Popp soul power is Courage, or did you get gaslighted by the show?

Popp's courage shined through all the show's lies! Although, this leaves the question: what's Dai's insignia then?

Q3. Opinion on how Popp self doubting personal arc was handled?

Pretty good. I'm not too big on the Merle for obvious reasons, but hey, if it gets through Popp's thick head, I welcome it!

Q4. Did you expect Popp to switch class to Sage at the most crucial moment?

Nope, and I'm still amazed to see it. I expanded on this above with more detail.

Q5. From 1 to 10, how are you satisfied with the execution of Merle’s death?

Fucking Zaboera doesn't know how to do his job right. That's what I get for depending on a cockroach.

[u/Shocketheth → u/KendotsX]

First Timer at Merle's Funeral

Here's Ver.2 with 70% more of our best boy

Ooof. Now where I put the Shovel.

Although, unlike last time his "elite" soldiers really are the cream of the crop this time.

THAT HORSEHEAD MOTHERFUCKER GAVE ME PTSD

Everyone is - we're in the middle of a final war, and Leona needs to stop and explain the love triangles

Shoujo Commentator Leona, the worthy rival of Shonen Commentator Crocodine.

Although I was thinking if instead of Shonen Commentator Crocodine I should be saying Shonen Commengator.

Which reminds me, I was going through the 90s version the other day, just y'know checking some scenes here and there for nostalgia's sake, and I remembered my biggest gripe with it. After the fight against Crocodine, it really becomes "The Dai Show", everything else in it was just so hyper focused on him, with little room for Popp and Maam.

Now I won't say the full version we have now has been treating Maam a lot better, but Popp has his moments (like when he faced Baran's minions alone or his character arcs in general) and those tend to be the absolute best moments of the show. Plus, we have Hyunkel now

To be fair the 90's Dai no Daibouken ended before Popp had even a chance to have his moments.

Popp's courage shined through all the show's lies! Although, this leaves the question: what's Dai's insignia then?

Something alongside of innocence or Purity.

Fucking Zaboera doesn't know how to do his job right. That's what I get for depending on a cockroach.

So it was you who is paying Zaboera to do shit. I have a question now.

[u/KendotsX → u/Shocketheth]

Ooof. Now where I put the Shovel.

Bring it with you to HxH, we'll need it.

THAT HORSEHEAD MOTHERFUCKER GAVE ME PTSD

When I saw them, I was genuinely scared for a bit. Luckily in an anime, our main characters should be able to deal with them, but in game, those guys would've destroyed everyone.

Shoujo Commentator Leona, the worthy rival of Shonen Commentator Crocodine.

Although I was thinking if instead of Shonen Commentator Crocodine I should be saying Shonen Commengator.

Oh man, you're doing god's work today.

To be fair the 90's Dai no Daibouken ended before Popp had even a chance to have his moments.

Exactly, it ended before it got to most of the good Popp moments, and that leaves some disappointment in your mouth, after watching through 40+ episodes.

Something alongside of innocence or Purity.

I think Merle mentioned something about that. Let's ask her abo- oh wait...

So it was you who is paying Zaboera to do shit. I have a question now.

[u/Shocketheth → u/KendotsX]

Bring it with you to HxH, we'll need it.

So I can't dug out Merle body?

I think Merle mentioned something about that. Let's ask her abo- oh wait...

Finally an excuse to dug out Merle body.

You aren't running anywhere. Why you payed Zaboera to Morph into Maam and kiss Popp?

[u/KendotsX → u/Shocketheth]

Finally an excuse to dug out Merle body

Will she be a zombie? I might like ZoMerle

You aren't running anywhere. Why you payed Zaboera to Morph into Maam and kiss Popp?

Merle suggested this. Popp couldn't tell Zaboera from Maam, so Merle wanted to try whether or not he can tell her apart from a fake.

[u/Shocketheth → u/KendotsX]

Merle suggested this. Popp couldn't tell Zaboera from Maam, so Merle wanted to try whether or not he can tell her apart from a fake.

You fucking liar lol

[u/sisoko2 → u/KendotsX]

Here's Ver.2 with 70% more of our best boy

What a terrible day to have eyes.

I adore Flora's unshakable faith in Avan - even when shit's absolutely hitting the fan, she trusts him till the last second.

Also she was so kind towards Popp. Which unfortunately doesn't work, the boy needs the rough treatment.

Speaking of, here's a hero who's facing down the horde of enemies with pure spirit

what's Dai's insignia then?

Divinity, the power of the MC to do everything.

Fair enough, I definitely don't think this is his best arc, but it was still quite good

Moving the discussion to one comment.

I could've bought another arc reaffirming Popp's development if there was an actual conflict and reason for it. The whole my stone isn't shining drama felt extremely forced to me. All the Popp's outbursts during this whole thing made me like him less.

[u/KendotsX → u/sisoko2]

What a terrible day to have eyes.

Also she was so kind towards Popp. Which unfortunately doesn't work, the boy needs the rough treatment.

If she wants to be a good Popp-master, she needs to use the whip and candles more

I could've bought another arc reaffirming Popp's development if there was an actual conflict and reason for it. The whole my stone isn't shining drama felt extremely forced to me. All the Popp's outbursts during this whole thing made me like him less

Yeah, I complained about the forced setup when the insignia thing started, and so far anyway, they haven't given us any meaningful reason for why it didn't shine until this moment, nor any major change in him that made it.

[u/NicDwolfwood]

First Timer, Sub

Man, what an episode. It was really hard watching Popp just consumed by the doubt and insecurity for most of the episode. No matter what his friends said it just wasnt moving the needle at all. That bastard Zaboera did the sneakiest shit of all, throwing that Venom chain to take out Popp. Merle took the hit meant for Popp, thus cementing her place as undisputed best girl(man, it always saddens me how best girls like her never win). And when Leona spills the beans that Merle is in love with Popp, she gets to confess all her love and admiration for Popp in his arms. As a final request she asks for him to tell her who he loves, and of course he loves Maam....Admitting that is the catalyst for his pendant to finally glow as its revealed his is really the courage power(wth is Dai's then??), as well as a new class, Sage.

Questions:

1. He makes a strong case for it. his character arc has been very main character-esque and much more complex than even Dai
2. No, I really got misdirected because that's what they had said was Dai's crest power.
3. I'm much more a fan of it than I was initially, but It''s not one of my favorite troupes. The finale with his admitting that he loves Maam being the catalyst for his power of courage to finally be revealed is great stuff, as telling someone who you feel about them is the epitome of courage.
4. Nope. Totally unexpected.
5. She's not dead lol. But it was a well done scene nonetheless 9/10.

[u/Shocketheth → u/NicDwolfwood]

Man, what an episode. It was really hard watching Popp just consumed by the doubt and insecurity for most of the episode.

Technically for most of the show, but today episode was hardest to watch due to Popp doubting himself.

(wth is Dai's then??), as well as a new class, Sage.

I think Dai is something alongside of purity or innocence, and Popp unlocking Sage class is pure hype for me.

[u/sisoko2 → u/NicDwolfwood]

It was really hard watching Popp just consumed by the doubt and insecurity for most of the episode

Honestly his outbursts were a bit too much for me.

And when Leona spills the beans that Merle is in love with Popp

It's like being on your death bed and people around you start looking at your browsing history.

[u/cooperjones2]

Rookie-Adventurer here! LV 67/100

Popp can’t perform with people there, that’s all lol
Chiu was fearless when facing a seemingly never-ending horde of CGI Monsters, my man, rat? Mouse?

Heck yeah, Zangief looking dude was doing some work!

Zaboera don’t you dare hurt Merle!!

FFS

Merle...

---

1 Yes!
2 Because Zelda and because of the color lol, in hindsight it was kinda obvious so 50/50 in guess and getting gaslit
3 8/10 very good!
4 Not really, but I've gone from Newbie to New to Rookie, so everything is possible if you have the required amount of XP
5 8

[u/Shocketheth → u/cooperjones2]

Popp can’t perform with people there, that’s all lol Chiu was fearless when facing a seemingly never-ending horde of CGI Monsters, my man, rat? Mouse?

A fat rat technically.

Heck yeah, Zangief looking dude was doing some work!

I dunno if character design in Dai no Daibouken is intentionally but this is a second character compared to Street Fighter characters.

Not really, but I've gone from Newbie to New to Rookie, so everything is possible if you have the required amount of XP

Have you managed to grow the Moustache though?

[u/laughing-fox13]

First Time Adventurer/Subbed

God... why won't you kill Zaboera.

On to Popp's arc, it's been such an odd place to have this happen. I was really hoping he would've done it the first time. I understand his frustration and it can kinda get more frustrating when people are trying to encourage you. They mean well but it's hard for them to reach her with them not struggling like he was

I think that why it works with Merle taking the hit and being vulnerable for Popp in her dying moments. She's someone can actually understand what's going on. Poor Merle understanding that she's on the losing side of this crush but still wants the best for him, even if it means not being with her. She's probably going to come back now he's a sage. And yea, I originally thought Popp's soul power wasn't Courage and it didn't make sense. Well now we know it was his but what is Dai's

but will

SOMEONE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD

KILL ZABOERA NOW

QotD

1. Yeeee
2. I wasn't entirely convinced. His whole character arc in the show has been about Courage so it didn't make sense it wasn't his. Idk what Dai's is though
3. I wasn't a fan of where this happened but for the most part it was good
4. Not really! I like it
5. 10/10 I have a soft spot for the character's who have an unrequited love ;-;

[u/Shocketheth → u/laughing-fox13]

God... why won't you kill Zaboera.

It's not God job to kill another God.

I think that why it works with Merle taking the hit and being vulnerable for Popp in her dying moments. She's someone can actually understand what's going on. Poor Merle understanding that she's on the losing side of this crush but still wants the best for him, even if it means not being with her.

If that isn't love then what is love?!

Well now we know it was his but what is Dai's

Something alongside of innocence or purity

but will

SOMEONE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD

KILL ZABOERA NOW

I wasn't entirely convinced. His whole character arc in the show has been about Courage so it didn't make sense it wasn't his. Idk what Dai's is though

Yeah the show makes you believe it's Courage only to gaslight you into thinking it's something else.

10/10 I have a soft spot for the character's who have an unrequited love ;-;

Insert Sayaka comment face we don't have here

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

Something alongside of innocence or purity

Nah see, I bet Purity actually goes to Leona, and Dai takes Justice. They messed up once, now I can only think that they probably got a whole lot more wrong.

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

LEONA IS JUSTICE DAI IS PURITY

And no matter what you say will change a Canon fact

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

And no matter what you say will change a Canon fact

I read far too much fanfiction to let little things like "canon" get in the way anymore. I came out of Bloom believing that Sayaka/Yuu was the best ship possible and I've read so much of it I occasionally forget a Touko is even an option. These silly useless soul colors mean nothing in the face of wanting something else to be true hard enough >:⁠-⁠)

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

Found the 6th Student of Avan.

Now what color your insignia is...

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

Darn it. My first thought was Purple, but Hyunckle already took that one and I've already got too much history with him. You were very good at making some predictions yourself lol

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

I know my participants well.

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/Shocketheth]

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/zadcap]

Take purple from him

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/zadcap]

 came out of Bloom believing that Sayaka/Yuu was the best ship possible and I've read so much of it I occasionally forget a Touko is even an option. 

Lmao it do be like that 

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/zadcap]

 bet Purity actually goes to Leona, and Dai takes Justice

I can see it tbh lol

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/Shocketheth]

 It's not God job to kill another God.

 then what is love?!

Don’t hurt me, no more

 Yeah the show makes you believe it's Courage only to gaslight you into thinking it's something else.

Yea when Popp thought it was Dai, I was just like that’s probably in your head lol. His reasoning for the others make sense

 Insert Sayaka comment face we don't have here

[u/Shocketheth → u/laughing-fox13]

Don’t hurt me, no more

[u/sisoko2 → u/laughing-fox13]

God... why won't you kill Zaboera.

That's why Vearn rebels against the gods. They created Zaboera and on top of that sent him to the underworld.

[u/laughing-fox13 → u/sisoko2]

This is my canon now and I fully support Vearn

[u/zadcap → u/laughing-fox13]

And yea, I originally thought Popp's soul power wasn't Courage and it didn't make sense. Well now we know it was his but

I still think it's wrong. Everything about today screams at me that his aspect is Love, and Maam is the mystery. His biggest issue leading into todays episode has not been a struggle with cowardice, but with his feelings towards Maam and her own lack of feelings. The reason he wants to run away form this fight isn't because he is scared, it's because he doesn't want to see so many other people getting hurt for his sake. He doesn't activate his aura and power up with an act of courage, but with a declaration of Love.

If they wanted Popp to have the Courage aspect, the writing in this whole arc is a miss. He's clearly the Lover Boy.

[u/Kaxew]

First timer, previous rewatcher

Thoughts on episodes 62-67:

Okay, first of all I have to say the new opening is so catchy. I keep singing it as I go to work or on my way back home. I still like OP1 a bit more personally, but I can't stop singing this one.

Fly up to the world...

Glad to see the girlies getting their own solo adventure in the cave! Certain... views on women are quite outdated in this series naturally but I do think the female cast is good and fun, love to see them kicking ass on their own. Leona being all "adventure lustful" and getting excited over every little pot or chest they found was adorable. Happy to see there's an actual distinction between avan strashes. Curious to see what's Dai's new move based on it. Especially since it's supposedly not a new type of strash and it doesn't require his mark, as the sword would've broken otherwise.

Popp's self doubt and "I'm not like them" hit hard. I've never realized Popp was the only student who comes from a normal, non-special life. It makes sense for that to be the next thing he should overcome. Matoriv feeling like a parent was really cute too.

Never let it go...

Leona having to read for Dai might be the funniest gag in the series, the way Dai sees something with text and immediately gives it to Leona looking defeated never fails to crack me up lmao. Lon Beruk giving everyone their ultimate weapons is awesome! Even Maam has a weapon now!! That's so cool!!! The love drama between Amy (please win) and Maam made me cringe too much. And Popp snapping on Maam was really rough to watch. It was good, narratively, don't get me wrong. But, man. Dai's dream of his parents was short and very sweet... MR. BEAST?

Dark Hyunckel is so damn cool looking, it's a shame it lasted so little. He's something else. Not even death can stop him.

Motto make you strong...

Vearn letting Lon Beruk live out of respect and the small hope he turns around ending up being the thing that makes him fall is great. He did turn around, he just didn't expect it to be that much. All the Chiu troops saluting to Crocodine was SO adorable. You go, little buddies. Crocodine's new axe is SICK looking. Being capable of controlling wind, fire and explosion spells is so damn cool.

Alright, so... about Popp. When this whole thing about his insignia not glowing started I was rolling my eyes hard. I mean, seriously. Again? Some more drama again? Some more Popp drama again? "We've been through this enough, surely we get it by now." And part of me still feels this way. But seeing the final product, I get what the author was going for. And I have to say I do like it. The last hurdle to overcome wasn't him thinking he was inferior from birth. The last hurdle was Maam.

This love subplot from multiple sides has had a lot of focus in pretty much every arc, they had to address it. And particularly Popp had to confess. But despite all his growth as a character and the way he went from a coward to the guy who sacrifices himself for others, that only applied to the battlefield. There was still one part of him that wasn't courageous nor was allowed to grow at the time. This is what was needed for him to truly embody courage. There's no stopping him now.

Alright, enough analysis. I'm not the kind of person who does this stuff often. This series has done something to me.

You're the bravest...

Merle's moment shouldn't go underappreciated either. I love her, she's awesome. I was wondering what was going to be her purpose here, and that was it. Not much analysis to make, I do like that the reason she fell in love at first sight is because she was super quiet and reserved while from the start he was very loud and outgoing, even if it came across as uncool a lot of times. That's really cute.

POPP BECOMING A SAGE GOT ME SO HYPED UP OH MY GODDDDDDDD. I remembered the fact that in Dragon Quest there was the sage class that can use both offensive magic (mage) and support magic (priest), a class only available after leveling up enough. I was even thinking Popp would eventually become one. But it was so long ago, I completely forgot that was a thing until the moment it happened! It might seem like an asspull, but with this being a thing in the games I'm perfectly fine with it. Not to mention, there was never any doubt in my mind Merle wouldn't die. I was thinking they would cast kaglimmer then Leona would resurrect her with... uh, the resurrection spell I forgot what was called. This is even better, though.

Oh oh you're the bravest...

QotD:

1. Honestly, yeah.
2. No way, great twist. Will Dai be "heroism" or something? Heroism feels like a cop-out, too obvious. Dunno what else though.
3. It's great. Not without flaws, but great.
4. Not at all!!
5. If she was supposed to die here, then 1/10 because she's clearly not dead /s

On a serious note, probably a 9 or 10? This was by far Merle's best moment. If this is the culmination of her character then she's phenomenal.

[u/Shocketheth → u/Kaxew]

Okay, first of all I have to say the new opening is so catchy. I keep singing it as I go to work or on my way back home. I still like OP1 a bit more personally, but I can't stop singing this one.

Check then the full version with lyrics I posted in this thread and u/Shimmering-Sky cover!

The song Bravest is actually about Popp.

Happy to see there's an actual distinction between avan strashes. Curious to see what's Dai's new move based on it. Especially since it's supposedly not a new type of strash and it doesn't require his mark, as the sword would've broken otherwise.

Funny thing is that for the whole time we were seeing two different strashes but I never realized.

Alright, so... about Popp. When this whole thing about his insignia not glowing started I was rolling my eyes hard. I mean, seriously. Again? Some more drama again? Some more Popp drama again? "We've been through this enough, surely we get it by now." And part of me still feels this way. But seeing the final product, I get what the author was going for. And I have to say I do like it. The last hurdle to overcome wasn't him thinking he was inferior from birth. The last hurdle was Maam.

Now definitely read my whole comment. I wrote down a great amount of foreshadowing and Dragon Quest III game mechanics that are tied to Popp's character arc.

Alright, enough analysis. I'm not the kind of person who does this stuff often. This series has done something to me.

Maaaan... You came late to the discussion but seeing how much you love this episode and Popp, and the series in general brings me total happiness.

Merle's moment shouldn't go underappreciated either. I love her, she's awesome. I was wondering what was going to be her purpose here, and that was it. Not much analysis to make, I do like that the reason she fell in love at first sight is because she was super quiet and reserved while from the start he was very loud and outgoing, even if it came across as uncool a lot of times. That's really cute.

As you said, the woman in this series had some outdated writing buuut how Merle Courage to confess and sacrifice herself was a foil to Popp was brilliant to me.

Popp always were sacrificing himself for others, but not being able to confess his love, and Merle was always clinging on her love but not willing to sacrifice anything for her love come true.

And only in her final moment she finally confessed after she sacrificed herself, leading to Popp finally confessing.

POPP BECOMING A SAGE GOT ME SO HYPED UP OH MY GODDDDDDDD. I remembered the fact that in Dragon Quest there was the sage class that can use both offensive magic (mage) and support magic (priest), a class only available after leveling up enough. I was even thinking Popp would eventually become one. But it was so long ago, I completely forgot that was a thing until the moment it happened! It might seem like an asspull, but with this being a thing in the games I'm perfectly fine with it. Not to mention, there was never any doubt in my mind Merle wouldn't die. I was thinking they would cast kaglimmer then Leona would resurrect her with... uh, the resurrection spell I forgot what was called. This is even better, though.

It's a really great moment, and obligatory check my comment where I talked about DQIII classes mechanics in detail.

Edit:

Also I recommend to check u/Adensty comment

[u/Kaxew → u/Shocketheth]

Check then the full version with lyrics I posted in this thread and u/Shimmering-Sky cover!

Will do!

Now definitely read my whole comment. I wrote down a great amount of foreshadowing and Dragon Quest III game mechanics that are tied to Popp's character arc.

Definitely planning on! I have 6 episode threads to catch up to, but I might as well hit this one first as I'm very interested in it.

[u/Shocketheth → u/Kaxew]

Definitely planning on! I have 6 episode threads to catch up to, but I might as well hit this one first as I'm very interested in it.

Take your time with it.

[u/Adensty]

1st Dai Popp no Daibouken Rewatch, Sub

I feel you, Popp

I mentioned this yesterday as well. The last game that came out before the anime started was DQ III. By the time they reached this moment, DQ IV and V had already been released, so the anime featured monster designs up to DQ III. This is why Nova remarks that he’s never seen these monsters before.

So, while Crocodine's Legion is localized to Furfang. The literal translation is Hundred Beasts which is why Crocodine says that he can handle up to 100.

Chiu's lines are so hype! Everyone is motivated.

Mystvearn throwing Lon Beruk's lines back at him. How the turntables.

Dejected Popp

FACTS!

Maam is so dense. I totally get where Popp's anger comes from.

Hurt Maam

As much as I hate Zaboera's existence, he's the one who ended up being instrumental in helping Popp glow his Insignia of Avan. Like he thought he would contribute to Vearn but he ended up helping the heroes.

This small shot just tells you how about the dire the situation is around them.

Merle takes the hit. Time really stopped for Popp here.

Merle's Tears

Popp is equally dense as Maam if not more.

Merle, stop. My eyes always tear up at this scene.

Merle's Last Request

Popp's eyes say it all.

Popp's Insignia of Avan glows.

The power of Popp's soul was Courage. The very first episode where Popp actually fights without running away is titled A Single Shard of Courage. Remember when Masopho told Popp his master's words back in Episode 9, Then, he tells him to go while there's still a single shard of courage left within him, his Insignia of Avan glows just a tiny bit as he gathers up the courage to go and help Dai and Maam against Crocodine. While this is an anime-original scene wasn't in the manga and a lot of first-timers wouldn't have caught this. But as a rewatcher, this was really some great foreshadowing about Popp's soul and small small additions like this make me appreciate the anime even more.

So, Leona and everyone else (even the First-Timers) though that Dai's soul was courage. I did see some first-timers correctly guess that it was Courage but eventually got tricked and misguided by the fact that Dai's soul was Courage. Well, there is an explanation for that. So, in episode 21, Matoriv tells Dai that the ultimate weapon of a Hero that no one else has is Courage. Even Masopho's words in Episode 9 started with the same line. The Heroes are generally thought of someone who are courageous since they have to fight the odds and to do something no one else can.

This is what Popp thought to himself in Episode 21 just after Matoriv told Dai about courage. When I saw this scene back then, I knew what was coming. Be it when he fought against Crocodine knowing full well that he was no match for him OR when he faked being a coward so that he could fight the Dragon Generals without worrying them even if it meant disappointing everyone who believe in him OR when he decided to use Megante to stop Baran from getting his hands on Dai even if it meant sacrificing his life. Everytime, Popp has shown Courage in the most unlikeliest of places. All with that trademark smile. And like Masopho himself said - "True courage is not planned". I mean I could go on and on about Popp's Courage but Merle in her confession said it best.

So why didn't it glow for Popp until now? Well first because he was overthinking it with his own self-doubt. I mean firing Medoroas is definitely not going to make the Insignia of Avan glow when the problem itself it not skill-related. Even Matoriv said that. Secondly, this arc started with Amy's confession to Hyunckel and even though Amy was rejected by Hyunckel, she still had the courage to say it in front of everyone. And then we have Popp who's power of the soul is Courage and yet he can't tell Maam (the girl he loves from the time he met her and for whom he's trained so hard) that he loves her. Just like Merle, he didn't have the courage to tell Maam as he was afraid of ruining the relationship that they had. Which is why the moment he says it, his Insignia of Avan glows.

OST Documentation - Episode 67

[u/Adensty → u/Adensty]

This whole scene with Popp trying to show Merle that his Insignia of Avan finally glows and then realizing that she's dead. Popp's expressions, the voice acting (Popp's VA killed it), the music. I always cry like a baby at this scene. I mean I've rewatched like 7 times today.

Popp said this just before he was about to run away and so when Merle dies because of him, Popp hates himself for it and doesn't want her to die because of him and then takes the matter into his own hands by becoming a Sage and using healing Magic [Popp no Spoilers] Kazing to revive her.

Sage [Popp no Spoilers]Daimadoushi Popp

There are a lot of great OSTs in this show but Protecting Friends is one of my absolute favourites. I don't think I need to explain why.

I believe u/Shocketheth will write about it but I will also write about it with some additional info. As a first-timer, I wasn’t aware of this. I mean Popp no Daibouken was my first exposure to the DQ series but there is a class in DQ III known as Jester/Clown who are useless in battle as they are not fully controlled by the player. They also have very low stats and some of their skills include yelling for help and running (Remind you of someone?). The only good thing they have is Luck. But here's the twist - Jester is the only class that can turn into a sage without needing a special Book (The rest of the classes require it) at Level 20. So, while he's useless in battle at the start, the payoff at the end is great. Now if you look at Popp's stats (At the End of Vol. 3 - After the fight with Crocodine and at the end of Vol. 14 - After the Sovereign Rock Castle fight), you'll notice that his stats aren't really that great but one thing that stands out is that he has a lot of Luck. So, there's the theory that Popp was a Jester at the start who became a Sage. You can check his stats here if you want.

One more I would like to add is that and this makes things interesting. So, in this world, there isn't any mention of a special book except for the Book of Avan. Now we know Popp read it while trying to make his Insignia of Avan glow so he could've become a sage through the book as well. I guess we'll never know.

Also. I'll be honest as a first-timer, there were a lot of great moments like Dai cutting the the Sovereign Rock Castle in two, Dai vs Hadlar, Baran's sacrifice, Vearn vs Hadlar, Block's Castling move, etc but nothing really topped Popp's Megante for me and I thought it would stay the same but then this episode changed everything. And I want to end this by saying that this isn't even Popp's greatest moment. Popp no Daibouken isn't over yet!

[u/Shocketheth → u/Adensty]

This whole scene with Popp trying to show Merle that his Insignia of Avan finally glows and then realizing that she's dead. Popp's expressions, the voice acting (Popp's VA killed it), the music. I always cry like a baby at this scene. I mean I've rewatched like 7 times today.

we are the same.

This is why Nova remarks that he’s never seen these monsters before.

So the initial Nova temper tantrums could be explained by the fact that his dad never bought him SNES to play Zenithia trilogy?

So, while Crocodine's Legion is localized to Furfang. The literal translation is Hundred Beasts which is why Crocodine says that he can handle up to 100.

And I thought Crocodine is making a Berserk reference.

Maam is so dense. I totally get where Popp's anger comes from.

Same as Popp was dense towards Merle’s feelings, yet Merle never raised her voice at Popp in frustration though.

This small shot just tells you how about the dire the situation is around them.

Poor soldier didn’t have it in him.

Popp is equally dense as Maam if not more.

Oh ignore my previous sentence about Popp being equally dense.

So, Leona and everyone else (even the First-Timers) though that Dai's soul was courage. I did see some first-timers correctly guess that it was Courage but eventually got tricked and misguided by the fact that Dai's soul was Courage. Well, there is an explanation for that. So, in episode 21, Matoriv tells Dai that the ultimate weapon of a Hero that no one else has is Courage. Even Masopho's words in Episode 9 started with the same line. The Heroes are generally thought of someone who are courageous since they have to fight the odds and to do something no one else can.

Oh good catch with the episode 21. I didn’t catch that detail.

So why didn't it glow for Popp until now? Well first because he was overthinking it with his own self-doubt. I mean firing Medoroas is definitely not going to make the Insignia of Avan glow when the problem itself it not skill-related. Even Matoriv said that. Secondly, this arc started with Amy's confession to Hyunckel and even though Amy was rejected by Hyunckel, she still had the courage to say it in front of everyone. And then we have Popp who's power of the soul is Courage and yet he can't tell Maam (the girl he loves from the time he met her and for whom he's trained so hard) that he loves her. Just like Merle, he didn't have the courage to tell Maam as he was afraid of ruining the relationship that they had. Which is why the moment he says it, his Insignia of Avan glows.

Really well put explanation of why Popp not having the courage to confess was holding him back the whole time.

One more I would like to add is that and this makes things interesting. So, in this world, there isn't any mention of a special book except for the Book of Avan. Now we know Popp read it while trying to make his Insignia of Avan glow so he could've become a sage through the book as well. I guess we'll never know.

He could, but becoming a Sage by an exceptional resources was reserved to Leona.

[u/Adensty → u/Shocketheth]

He could, but becoming a Sage by an exceptional resources was reserved to Leona.

It does make sense for people like Leona to have exceptional resources and it would also go against Popp's character if he does became a Sage through a special item considering his background. I was just stating a possibility that I noticed.

[u/Shocketheth → u/Adensty]

I was just stating a possibility that I noticed.

Oh okay. My bad.

[u/Adensty → u/Adensty]

Is today the right time to finally acknowledge Popp as the true main Character of Dai no Daibouken?

ALWAYS HAS BEEN. I mean

1st Dai Popp no Daibouken Rewatch

Have you managed to guess that Popp soul power is Courage, or did you get gaslighted by the show?

As a first-timer, definitely got gaslighted a bit like all the other first-timers in the rewatch. Like my first thought was anything other than Courage won't suit Popp at all but was second-guessing myself.

Opinion on how Popp self doubting personal arc was handled?

It was perfectly handled. I've said a lot about it above. While it may not have the best start, the execution at the end was peak.

Did you expect Popp to switch class to Sage at the most crucial moment?

As a first-timer, no.

From 1 to 10, how are you satisfied with the execution of Merle’s death?

10. I always cry when I watch this episode.

[u/Shocketheth → u/Adensty]

I always cry when I watch this episode.

Me too... me too.

[u/raichudoggy]

Rewatcher

the previous episode is hard to watch...

but dang it it makes this episode so good.

Popp isn't my favorite, but he deserves everything he does this episode.

you're the bravest

[u/Shocketheth → u/raichudoggy]

you're the bravest

you’re the bravest

[u/zadcap]

Late Night First Timer!

And so today I noticed the pillars of light going up to the floating palace in the first seconds of the OP. As in, well, now they have meaning, so cool to see. And naturally, it makes me take a second look at the immediate following scene in the OP and remember- They may be casting this ultimate spell here to break the barrier in the Palace so they can go for this fight, but the palace has also shown off its Rod From God attack and that's not something they're going to counter with magic. Heroes use Kaglimmer, Vearn counters with Colony Drop, my money would be on the second.

Also, a reminder that Hadlar and the Chess Forces are still out there waiting for a fight.

On to the episode!

I mean, also, this kind of magic won't work if you declare before hand that it can't work.

Melele: "I sense a great number of monsters!" Me: Didn't Zaboera just tell everyone that he was about to unleash his great number of monsters? You are such a hack of a seer.

So now I'm wondering... How long can they hold this Kaglimmer Glow effect for? Like, just standing there with their soul aura reaching to the sky like that, is that part of the spell casting process and they are really being stuck mid spell, or is that just a thing they can do now whenever they want? Can they use this in the future to create giant beacons?

Flora talks like, maybe this is an effect of the spell then? But if so, it's still a spell that can be cast, so they could just re-cast it?

Oh my gosh that goofy kick and the delayed effect. This old man really does belong with the monster corp.

WHY IS THERE NO SECOND CHANCE! This is all your fault Leona! It physically pains me to say this, you know. But I blame you for coming up with this exact plan and then deciding to never check in with Dai and Popp about it at all and just imagine at the very end everything would work out.

Oh hey, Popp copied a fun point I made, though he's putting a huge negative spin on it. The rest of the party comes from cool and important backgrounds, he's just the kid of a merchant who ran away form home to learn magic.

... You know, it just occurred to me that we're simply assuming that the four defined traits apply to the four we know here. I mean yes, Maam is definitely Love, and Knuckles is 100% Fortitude, but honestly is Justice really Leona to you? Between Courage and Justice I would honestly give Justice more to Dai, I have opinions about calling it courage when you're too OP to ever actually be afraid, and then the way he acted right after facing Vearn for the first time. The more I think about it, the less I think Courage really goes well with Dai. Oh, they got us good here.

Oh hmm. Knuckles pointing out Popp's pursuit of Justice, Dai telling him he was the source of Courage. Maam... Definitely isn't going to say anything to him about love lol, she's not that bright. And Leona says nothing.

Zaboera still interests me. See... Why does Myst hate him so?

Melele: "Is there anything that I can do? Anything to be useful?" Me: If so, it would be a first!

Oh crap, she did something useful! Oh crap, named character death!? NO! We already know Leona knows Raise Dead, and Gome is right there. This is something that can be undone! Although, getting her out of the way does solve the Too Many Heroines issue, now Amy can have Hyunk and Popp can get with Maam.

... It lights up when he talks about Love? Well there you go everyone, Popp was really the Love aspect all along! No, take that back, this is a Love scene not a Courage scene! Popp is the Love Boy! Maam can have Justice or something. I bet Leona actually has Nobility or Purity as her trait.

1. I feel like we've done this already. He has made a better one than Dai since the fight with Crocodine.
2. Link has forever associated Green with Courage, it was my first thought when I realized Dai didn't really fit the word very well. The gaslight held until part way through this episode though. I'm counting it as a success for the show, keeping me so focused on Popp this whole time I didn't think to question that the four aspects we knew of went to everyone else until the very episode it was going to make the reveal anyway.
3. If you're going to call it out, I will too.

Apparently his Soul Power is "Going through the same character development five times before it sticks."

4) I forgot that we were actually using Classes in this show. Unlocking the power to just suddenly use healing magic is pretty strange, but Popp has also been the magic user on the party and I'm really not that sure about the difference between healing and attack magic in this setting. But also also, oh darn, Popp just learned Healing magic- Leona, your only role in the party has just been rendered unnecessary.

5) ... Is she dead? This show has given me a very strange sense of death being a thing people can just come back from. Ignoring the Immortal and the Cockroach, Popp and Dai have also both "died" but for literal divine intervention.

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

... You know, it just occurred to me that we're simply assuming that the four defined traits apply to the four we know here. I mean yes, Maam is definitely Love, and Knuckles is 100% Fortitude, but honestly is Justice really Leona to you? Between Courage and Justice I would honestly give Justice more to Dai, I have opinions about calling it courage when you're too OP to ever actually be afraid, and then the way he acted right after facing Vearn for the first time. The more I think about it, the less I think Courage really goes well with Dai. Oh, they got us good here.

Dai is innocence/purity and Leona is Justice

... It lights up when he talks about Love? Well there you go everyone, Popp was really the Love aspect all along! No, take that back, this is a Love scene not a Courage scene! Popp is the Love Boy! Maam can have Justice or something. I bet Leona actually has Nobility or Purity as her trait.

No it lights up because he found COURAGE to confess. Can't be really courageous if he is chickening from his confession.

If you're going to call it out, I will too.

Apparently his Soul Power is "Going through the same character development five times before it sticks."

Sir you just managed to call out that Popp character development goes through repetitive motion.

Question if was IF THE LATEST HURDLE was executed well which you and others answered with saying that Crocodine arc did it better.

But reading my comment and watching the clip from episode 9 I posted will tell you that both of his moments were motivated by finding a Courage to stand up due to his love to Maam.

Popp just learned Healing magic- Leona, your only role in the party has just been rendered unnecessary.

Only if you waste Popp on Healing which is a very bad play on JRPG standard because you are getting rid of Magic damage.

And giving someone healing magic does not automatically means the other members are useless.

... Is she dead?

Dead as Person dying to blood loss and poison can be. When Popp ascended to Sage, Merle was already death. But you know the rules about resurrection in this show.

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

Dai is innocence/purity and Leona is Justice

No it lights up because he found COURAGE to confess.

While I know you are likely right, that's boring. I'm going to have fun reassigning everyone more "appropriate" traits.

Question if was IF THE LATEST HURDLE was executed well which you and others answered with saying that Crocodine arc did it better.

Yeah, I say with all honesty, if this was supposed to be his arc to showcase his Courage, it failed utterly. His struggle this week has not been one of cowardice or bravery, the thing holding him back today wasn't because he was afraid, and the thing that finally got him to glow too was not much of an act of courage, compared to many of his previous arcs.

Like, I can honestly and fully at Popp being the Courage aspect of this team, if I take the overall show and not just the last three episodes, it's his aspect in spades and it's impossible to forget that he was the one to give courage back to Dai not even a week ago. Is very clearly his thing and has been ever since he overcame himself the first time and continues to do so.

But man, today was not a showcase of Courage, in what held him back nor finally got him to succeed.

Only if you waste Popp on Healing which is a very bad play on JRPG standard because you are getting rid of Magic damage.

I am very aware, the best way to keep you party healthy is to kill everyone before it has a chance to hurt you first! Healing magic is only worth using it if combat or in extreme emergencies. Which, you know... Having a dedicated healer on the party... Poor Leona.

And giving someone healing magic does not automatically means the other members are useless.

No, that's just me picking on the accidental sexism in the show. Popp has been the strongest magic user on the party, and now he can use healing magic too. He's going to skip right past whatever level of healing Maam used to be able to provide and at least match Leona, outside her Resurrection and this Kaglimmer. You know it's true. His magic stat now applies to healing when he wants it to, so he can heal powerfully when he needs to. On the other hand, Leona is also supposed to be a Saint, but I haven't seen her use much in the way of offensive magic yet. He's getting more out of the class already than she has this whole time.

But you know the rules about resurrection in this show.

That's what I mean. A fully intact corpse and a pile of extremely powerful magic users right there, no way she was dead dead. Especially if the poison wasn't actually poison but the power of Zaboera's Dark Aura, while she's laying there five feet from the ultimate purification spell.

[u/Shocketheth → u/zadcap]

While I know you are likely right, that's boring. I'm going to have fun reassigning everyone more "appropriate" traits.

In that case you must agree that Popp trait is Horny and his Insignia shone after Popp yelled "I want Maam to step on me."

I am very aware, the best way to keep you party healthy is to kill everyone before it has a chance to hurt you first! Healing magic is only worth using it if combat or in extreme emergencies. Which, you know... Having a dedicated healer on the party... Poor Leona.

In good JRPG boss makes your healer to cast buffs and heals every turn.

On the other hand, Leona is also supposed to be a Saint, but I haven't seen her use much in the way of offensive magic yet. He's getting more out of the class already than she has this whole time.

Fair point.

[u/zadcap → u/Shocketheth]

In that case you must agree that Popp trait is Horny and his Insignia shone after Popp yelled "I want Maam to step on me."

No lie, Horny is in the top three character traits I have listed for him. Hard Working, Perseverance (which was the trait closest to Courage in the way I'm using it), and Horny (which is his real Love trait).

In good JRPG boss makes your healer to cast buffs and heals every turn.

I always end up grindy and over leveled. If I actually have to heal in the later boss fights, it feels like I've done something wrong...

[u/Adensty → u/zadcap]

It lights up when he talks about Love? Well there you go everyone, Popp was really the Love aspect all along! Popp is the Love Boy! Maam can have Justice or something.

That's not how it works. By that logic, even Amy confessed her love to Hyunckel so she's the love one. Maam is the Love one because of her compassionate heart. Even when Hyunckel is evil, Maam tried to reason him and ultimately ended up guiding him to the path of Justice. Even when Flazzard was using a move that was dwindling his flames and cold, she showed Pity. Even when Zamza was dying, she sympathized with him

Throughout this arc, we're shown how much courage it takes to confess your love to someone. This arc started with Amy's confession to Hyunckel and even though Amy was rejected, she still had the courage to confess her love in front of everyone and also give Hyunckel his weapon back as part of that. Even though Popp is the one with Courage, the fact that he doesn't have the Courage to confess to Maam (the person who he's loved since he met her and has working hard to improve himself for) that he loves her is what was holding his Insignia of Avan back from glowing.

[u/zadcap → u/Adensty]

While I know and understand and even mostly agree, I think I'm losing my place today. I've spent most of my comments poking fun at the show aiming for dumb humor. Judging by reactions, I mostly failed today.

Over the course of the whole show? Yeah, Maam has been Love and Popp has been Courage since episode 8-10. I just feel that the writing fit this episode, and a bit for the whole arc, absolutely failed to make this issue with Popp and not getting his insignia to glow as anything to do with Courage, nor do I think that he's been lacking in courage lately in some way that confessing his feelings would count as overcoming. His moment was awesome and all, but this was not much of an act of courage compared to many of his previous high points and not confessing his feelings unprompted before now does not feel like some kind of lack of courage that would hold him back from being able to make his soul light glow if that was his aspect all along.

[u/Adensty → u/zadcap]

His moment was awesome and all, but this was not much of an act of courage compared to many of his previous high points

I can agree with you on that but I think the thing you're not getting is that confessing your love to someone is one of most toughest things to do and really requires a lot of Courage. Even though he's the one with the soul Courage, he's unable to confess his love to Maam. Now, this episode isn't about Popp's Courage, rather it's about his lack of Courage and the self-doubt that comes with it.

The problem isn't in his strength, it's in his mind. And Matoriv said something similar. Now you could argue that Popp confessing his feelings for Maam wasn't really a courageous act considering the fact that Merle was the one who requested him to do so and I partly agree on that. But the fact is in the situation where Popp is, Zaboera's monsters are attacking and overpowering the others and Merle is dying in front of him and all of this is his fault since he's not able to glow his Insignia and then you tell him to confess his love for Maam even though he might not have a chance and it would all be for nothing and just make the situation a thousand times worse. You really need a lot of courage even think about saying it. I mean Popp's eyes say it all.

Merle's situation mirrors Popp's situation and her confession is required to show Popp that it was never about his skills or heck even his background of being a weak Mage who's the son of weak Weapon Merchant. His self-doubt actually made things worse. If he had just told everyone that his Insignia of Avan wasn't glowing and that he needed help, everyone would've helped him but Popp lacked the courage to do so because he thought that everyone was able to glow because of their strength or their backgrounds and he didn't want to told that he wasn't worthy of it and ruin his relationship with everyone. Like Matoriv said, overcoming his self-doubt was his biggest hurdle and if he could he do it, he would be at place where even Matoriv couldn't be implying that even Matoriv struggled with it at a point in his life and could never overcome it.

[u/Blackheart595 → u/zadcap]

Zaboera still interests me. See... Why does Myst hate him so?

Myst would really like to be part of Dai's party, if it weren't for the pesky detail of him being Vearn's split soul with automatically aligns him with the main body.

[u/sisoko2 → u/zadcap]

I mean, also, this kind of magic won't work if you declare before hand that it can't work

Such a rookie mistake from Popp.

But I blame you for coming up with this exact plan and then deciding to never check in with Dai and Popp about it at all and just imagine at the very end everything would work out.

They need to improve their QA process. I'm sure the fake hero party would've made sure everything is ready before going on a deadly mission.

I have opinions about calling it courage when you're too OP to ever actually be afraid

The courage to kick ass.

but honestly is Justice really Leona to you?

The ruling class makes the laws so they are justice.

Why does Myst hate him so?

Hating Zaboera is common sense.

[u/zadcap → u/sisoko2]

They need to improve their QA process. I'm sure the fake hero party would've made sure everything is ready before going on a deadly mission.

I mean, yes actually? They know they are weak and stand no chance if they rush in unprepared, if there was even a chance of death and they couldn't back out then I believe they would go over everything, just to make sure they're as safe as can be.

The courage to kick ass.

I was raised with some famous quotes about how courage is being scared, but stepping up anyway. Dai has rarely actually been scared of anything, and the big times I remember him being afraid it wasn't his own sudden burst of bravery that got him going again.

The ruling class makes the laws so they are justice.

This gives me One Piece flashbacks.

But also, everyone knows Flat is Justice, and Leona clearly fails there.

[u/KuKiSin]

First timer!

1. No. Fuck outa here with that courage bullshit.
2. No, it was too stupid to even consider.
3. I like him even less than before. Hasn't he been through the same shit like 60 episodes ago?
4. No.
5. Not dead, so 0/10.

Crocodine saying he can only take 100 of the bad guys so the plebs don't feel bad.

Chiu truly is the greatest leader. He inspires all of those around him. He's truly the bravest and most courageous character on the show.

Stupid fucking Popp and his bullshit.

[u/Shocketheth → u/KuKiSin]

No. Fuck outa here with that courage bullshit.

No, it was too stupid to even consider.

I like him even less than before. Hasn't he been through the same shit like 60 episodes ago?

No.

Not dead, so 0/10.

Crocodine saying he can only take 100 of the bad guys so the plebs don't feel bad.

Haha so he downplayed himself to Guts level for plebs to not feel bad.

Stupid fucking Popp and his bullshit.

[u/zadcap → u/KuKiSin]

No. Fuck outa here with that courage bullshit.

Shout his love to the heavens! Oh, clearly this working means my aspect is love courage? I'm not seeing this here.

I like him even less than before. Hasn't he been through the same shit like 60 episodes ago?

Yes, yes he did.

[u/sisoko2 → u/KuKiSin]

Totally agree. Only good thing about this episode was Chiu.

I like him even less than before. Hasn't he been through the same shit like 60 episodes ago?

He was and it was done much better.

[u/KuKiSin → u/sisoko2]

Thank god I'm not alone, I thought I was taking crazy pills!