Okay, Let's Talk Vanitas: Chapter 1
Confession time! I have a slight… obsession with anime that features vampires. And beautiful, complicated men? Even better! So, of course, I dove headfirst into The Case Study of Vanitas.
Chapter 1 had me hooked. It's a whirlwind of steampunk Paris, mysterious books, and a dude named Vanitas who claims to be a doctor for vampires. Intriguing, right?
Noé's First Impression
We meet Noé Archiviste, our charming (and slightly naive) vampire protagonist. He's on a mission to find the Book of Vanitas. Apparently, it's pretty important, and maybe a bit dangerous.
Then BAM! He meets Vanitas. Not exactly what he expected, I'm guessing. Our boy Vanitas isn't some brooding, elegant vampire lord. Nope! He's... quirky.
And maybe a little bit of a troll? Just a hunch. He's definitely got a chaotic energy that I'm living for.
Unpopular Opinion Time: Vanitas is Kinda... Annoying?
Okay, don't hate me! I know Vanitas is supposed to be the cool, mysterious one. And he *is* interesting. But in chapter 1, he mostly just yells and acts dramatic.
He spends a lot of time declaring himself a doctor. A very loud doctor. Is it me, or is he trying a little too hard?
Maybe it's just me, but I found Noé instantly more likable. He's genuinely trying to do the right thing, even when faced with Vanitas's shenanigans. Bless his heart.
The Jeanne Situation
Let's not forget Jeanne. The fierce, beautiful knight! She's also a vampire, obviously. And she's not thrilled about Vanitas poking around.
Their little fight scene was pretty epic. I love a good damsel in distress... rescuing herself! Jeanne is definitely a force to be reckoned with.
And let's be honest, the animation during that fight? Chef's kiss! It was gorgeous and made Vanitas's screaming a little more bearable. Just a little.
That Ending Though!
Chapter 1 ends with a major cliffhanger. Vanitas saves Jeanne (sort of). And now they're... working together? Or at least, not actively trying to kill each other. Progress!
Honestly, the dynamic between Vanitas and Jeanne is already so entertaining. Their bickering is top-tier, and I can't wait to see how their relationship develops.
Final Thoughts (and More Unpopular Opinions)
Overall, Chapter 1 of The Case Study of Vanitas is a solid start. It sets up the world, introduces the main characters, and throws in a healthy dose of mystery.
While I find Vanitas a bit grating at times, I appreciate his chaotic energy. And I'm definitely invested in seeing where this story goes. Especially if it involves more vampire drama and beautiful scenery.
Plus, Noé deserves all the happiness in the world. He's too pure for this world of cursed books and screaming doctors. Someone protect him!
So, yeah, that's my take on chapter 1. Feel free to disagree with me. But be warned, I'm prepared to defend my Vanitas opinions to the death! (Or at least, until the next episode airs.)