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Still on the Same Track – A True Slow-Life Experience!
Entertainment: I’ve added an extra star for Volume 2, because while the progression remains very slow and the daily routines are still described in great detail, we do get two main "plot points" in this volume. The first half sees a change of location for our hero Eizo (yes, he goes to forge in another town…! lol), and the second half introduces a new character. That said, nothing groundbreaking or particularly exciting happens. The major “events” are quite mundane. For instance, the big event in the second part is simply a new customer arriving to have her sword repaired, and we follow Eizo’s day-to-day process for the two weeks it takes to complete this task. We’re far from world-shaking plots or epic stakes here!
Language Learning: As with the previous volume, the Japanese level remains manageable, though the same challenges persist with the highly specific terminology related to blacksmithing and weapon crafting. In this volume, there’s even more focus on traditional Japanese forging techniques and materials, which could be an interesting way to expand your vocabulary (if that’s something you’re looking to do!).
Overall: If you enjoyed the first volume, there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy this one too. On the other hand, if you disliked the first, this won’t change your mind. However, if you’re like me—neither loving nor hating the first but finding yourself somewhat intrigued—then it’s worth giving Volume 2 a try, especially if you have the time. It’s slightly more “dynamic” (in the loosest sense of the word) than the previous volume.
We still don’t learn much about the outside world or the larger plot threads introduced in Volume 1, like the demon queen or the reasons behind Eizo’s reincarnation, but I imagine we’ll get there eventually… In the meantime, I remain curious, though not particularly excited, about where this story will go. The characters are charming but still lack the depth I’d hope for. So far, it’s focused on the practical aspects of daily life, and I’m hoping future volumes will explore the emotional dimensions of the characters more fully.