Tales of Wedding Rings Season 2 Episode 9: The Ultimate Cockblock (And Why We Still Can’t Look Away)

If you’ve ever sat through a harem anime and screamed “just kiss already!” at your screen, Episode 9 of Tales of Wedding Rings Season 2 is here to validate every single one of those frustrations. Let’s cut to the chase: this episode is all about the “Bride’s Trial” training arc—except instead of sword fights or magic drills, it’s the princesses trying their damndest to seduce Satou, and Satou being the world’s most stubborn saint (or, depending on who you ask, a total buzzkill).

First, let’s set the scene: Satou and his crew are supposed to deepen their bonds to defeat the Abyss King. But the elder has other plans—she locks them in a room and basically says, “Go bond… romantically.” Cue every princess taking turns to make Satou blush harder than a tomato in summer. Nefritis (the elf princess) goes full bold with a surprise kiss, Granart (the catwoman) gets steamy enough to fog the screen, and even Amber (the dwarf) has her moment of playful teasing. But the real highlight? When Hime and Satou are finally about to cross the line—Hime even uses a magic spell to prevent pregnancy!—and then the elder interrupts with a cloud of aphrodisiac gas. Talk about worst timing ever, lady.

Now, let’s get into what the fans are saying (because let’s be real, their takes are half the fun). Over on MyAnimeList, some viewers loved the chaos: one comment called the episode “amusing” because it gave each princess a chance to shine, and another praised the sweet bonding moments (like Nefritis admitting she’s okay with being second to Hime). But others? They were fuming. “Get blue-balled mfker!” one fan ranted, summing up the frustration of watching Satou resist every advance. Another joked that Satou is a “symbol of Japan’s decaying birth rate” (ouch, but fair). And don’t get me started on the elder—fans are split between finding her funny (that voyeur room? Wild) and wanting to throw their remote at her for ruining the moment.

Then there’s the best girl debate. Morion, Hime’s sister, stole the show for many viewers—one comment begged the writers to make her the sixth wife. Who can blame them? She’s sassy, fun, and doesn’t take Satou’s nonsense. And let’s not forget the fan service: Amber’s ass got a shoutout, Saphir’s tiny chest was called “precious,” and Nefritis’ bold move had fans declaring “Elf wife supremacy!”

But here’s the thing: this episode is a classic example of why harem anime are both loved and hated. On one hand, the character dynamics are gold—each princess has her own personality, and their interactions with Satou feel genuine (even if he’s being a total prude). On the other hand, the constant teasing without payoff is enough to make anyone want to drop the series. As one fan put it: “This anime’s only saving grace is the fan service, and even that is ruined by the MC being a gay loser.” Ouch, but I get it—we’re all here for the drama, not just the longing looks.

Let’s talk about Satou for a second. Is he a hero for sticking to his principles, or a fool for ignoring the world’s fate (and the princesses’ feelings)? Fans are divided. Some say his resistance is honorable—he’s loyal to Hime, after all. Others argue that he’s being selfish: the world is ending, and deepening his bonds with the princesses is the only way to save it. “I’m surprised that the world hasn’t been destroyed yet,” one fan wrote. “Satou refuses to get into any type of relationship with any other of the girls except for Krystal. He does realize the world is in peril right?”

At the end of the day, Episode 9 of Tales of Wedding Rings Season 2 is exactly what you’d expect: a mix of humor, fan service, and frustration. And while we’re all waiting for Satou to finally give in, let’s be honest—we’ll keep watching anyway. Because where else are we gonna get a show where the world’s fate depends on one guy’s ability to kiss his wives?

So, should you watch this episode? If you’re already invested in the series and love the chaotic energy of a group of girls fighting for one guy’s attention (and the world’s survival), then yes—this episode is full of laughs and sweet moments. But if you’re tired of the same old “will they/won’t they” trope and just want Satou to stop being a saint, you might want to skip this one (or at least fast-forward to the good parts).

Next episode, let’s hope the elder keeps her mouth shut and Satou finally stops being a buzzkill. Until then, let’s rewatch Nefritis’ kiss scene—because elf wife supremacy is real, and we all need a little pick-me-up after that cockblock.

P.S. If you’re team Morion, you’re not alone. Let’s start a petition for her to become the sixth wife. Who’s with me? ✋️