A monstrous sea flower is growing in the lake and it has the animal villagers all in a tizzy. At this rate, it will turn the water salty! Time to call for a Nomad (traveler) to save the day. But when the hero arrives, it’s actually his apprentice, a girl named Belle who is “featureless”, which in this world of furry friends means she has no tail, horns, or hair on her body. But she does have a giant sword and both the strength and know-how to wield it to good effect, so the villagers swallow their disgust and accept her aid. The dispatching of the monster soon turns into a mercy kill for young Belle, though, as she hears the creature’s voice, longing for its home and the sea. Its heartbreak moves her because she too does not have a home; she too is unwanted. Except, that is, by her Enola, the instructor who raised her. Upon returning home to him with her prize of tasty flower meat, the two realize that the time has come for Belle to take the Nomad test and become a traveler in her own right. Only to do so, she must first accept a curse.
Wow! That felt like watching an entire movie in just twenty-three minutes. I am impressed! First off, Belle is a refreshing protagonist: she is confident, but can also read the room; capable, but not overpowered; and best of all, her character design is realistic—that is, she has the build of a teenager and dresses like one too. No crazy outfits or hairdos. A realistic female action-adventure anime MC? Yes please, thank you very much. And one voiced by Ai Farouz, aka Power, Kuujou Jolyne, and Yumiella Dolkness?! Even better! She’s been on fire since her debut in 2019. (Also looking forward to Saori Hayami joining in the next episode!) Second, the score. The music is thoughtful, with a beautiful piano composition during the battle, building to a haunting orchestral piece with Bjork-like vocals during the climactic scene. Another fabulous score in the making here from Kevin Penkin of Made in Abyss fame. The animation is solid, with some cool layouts sprinkled throughout. As for the story, I have high hopes. So far, the way Belle’s quest and trials have been framed speak to me of some depth to the writing, particularly the discussion of homesickness, which really hit home, if you’ll pardon the pun. There are some intriguing details in the world-building too, like the reference to monsters as flowers. I’m really looking forward to seeing how this one develops, both in terms of the world-building and Belle’s journey. I have a good feeling about this one, folks! Count me in.
Bye Bye, Earth is streaming on Crunchyroll.
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