Summary
I've been putting of watching this volume, mostly because it took a long time to come out and I had other things on my watching list. This series has been one of the best in the last few years, and it's worth lingering over. Now that I've seen it I can honestly say that it is even better than I expected.
Director Shuko Murase has proved himself an expert in keeping the various threads of this plot afloat, and in using the loose ends to build tension and mystery. Now in four episodes he brings things together brilliantly, creating an absolutely satisfying conclusion.
As the story unfolds we learn Robin's own mysterious role in events as well as revealing several surprises in the STNJ staff. Yurika suddenly develops character as does the office manager. The core plot turns on the conflict between Solomon, the central witch hunting organization, and the Factory, headed by Zaizen. Integral to this is the source and purpose of the Orbo and a secret thread of history known only to Father Juliano, Robin's benefactor.
Several other series have begged the question of the difference between the hunter and the hunted, but Witch Hunter Robin collapses the spectrum completely. And the question becomes not just hat is a witch, but what is a human as well.
Production remains superb throughout. As one of the actors is proud to point out in an interview, the flow of the scenes as they shift is meticulously done, the design is a fine combination of modern and gothic, artistic execution spares nothing, and the musical work by Taku Iwasaki is memorable. As I've said all along, this is the series to watch. Ten stars.