: The trio joins the massive Uesugi Alliance , which has gathered to defeat the powerful Kishin of Awaji Island, Yamata no Orochi .
: Despite improvements, the animation remains a point of criticism, often described as "functional" rather than spectacular for a modern shonen. Orient Episode 13
: Some fans found the episode's "gatekeeping" elements—where Musashi is constantly prevented from meeting Uesugi to ask about Kojiro's father—to be tedious. : The trio joins the massive Uesugi Alliance
Reviewers from platforms like Anime News Network and Reddit generally viewed this episode as a solid "setup" that successfully expanded the show's scope. : Reviewers from platforms like Anime News Network and
: While not a massive leap, some viewers noted that the animation and character designs felt slightly more "crispy" and polished compared to the first 12 episodes.
: The introduction of the "Four Blights" (powerful Kishin) raised the stakes for the upcoming battle. Weaknesses :