In the heart-wrenching eighth episode of "Jentry Chau vs. the Underworld," titled "Fifteen Finger Discount," we are thrust into a maelstrom of revelations and betrayals that shake the very foundations of Jentry's world. As the shèn pearls unveil the harrowing events of the night Jentry received her powers, the narrative takes a dark turn, exploring the depths of Flora's deception and the tragic consequences of her actions.
The episode opens with a somber tone, setting the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that is about to unfold. Jentry, along with the audience, is forced to confront the truth about her parents' deaths and the role Flora played in it. The shèn pearls, once a symbol of protection, now serve as a mirror to the past, reflecting the cold reality of Flora's bargain with Mr. Cheng—a deal made in desperation and executed with fatal consequences.
Flora's plan to honor the bargain to the letter while ignoring its spirit is a classic trope that backfires with tragic results. Her attempt to outsmart Mr. Cheng by giving him the depowered Yellow Emperor's robes, which he technically asked for, is a poignant example of how the letter of the law can lead to disastrous outcomes when the spirit is ignored. Mr. Cheng's violent reaction, leading to Peng's death and the unknown fate of Moonie, is a stark reminder of the high stakes in the world of "Jentry Chau vs. the Underworld."
The episode is rife with tropes that add depth to the narrative. The amicable relationship between Flora and Sena Cho, Jentry's guardian in Seoul, adds a layer of complexity to Flora's character, showing that even in the midst of darkness, there are glimpses of humanity. The bait-and-switch accusation and the false reassurance provided by Mr. Cheng are masterful plot devices that keep the audience on edge, questioning who to trust and what to believe.
Jentry's decision to return her powers to the robes, effectively becoming "brought down to normal," is a pivotal moment in her character development. It signifies her desire to break free from the supernatural life that has been forced upon her and to reclaim her identity. The crushing of the locket, a keepsake from Flora, symbolizes Jentry's rejection of the lies and the beginning of her journey towards self-discovery.
The episode also explores the theme of "I Just Want to Be Normal," as Jentry, with Kit's help, transfers her powers back to the robe. This act is not just a relinquishment of power but a profound statement about the burden of being different and the longing for a normal life.
The queerness of Flora's first kiss with Sena Cho and the queer establishing moment it represents is a subtle yet significant aspect of the episode. It adds diversity to the narrative and humanizes Flora, making her more than just a villain.
The "What the Hell, Hero?" moment when Mr. Cheng calls out Flora on her hypocrisy and Jentry confronts Flora for forcing the powers onto her is a powerful scene that encapsulates the moral conflict at the heart of the episode. It forces both characters and the audience to confront the consequences of their actions and the true meaning of heroism.
In conclusion, "Fifteen Finger Discount" is a wham episode that not only propels the plot forward but also delves deep into the characters' psyches, revealing their motivations, fears, and desires. It is a testament to the series' ability to blend action, horror, and comedy with poignant emotional storytelling, making it a standout in the realm of animated series. As Jentry's world crumbles around her, the audience is left with a sense of uncertainty and anticipation for what lies ahead in the remainder of the season.