The highly anticipated eighth episode of the anime series, “This Monster Wants to Eat Me” (Japanese: Watashi o Tabetai, Hito de Nashi), delivers a pivotal installment that deepens character motivations, unveils a new side of Shiori, and propels the central narrative forward. Released between November 20 and 23, 2025, this episode, titled “Episode 8” across various platforms, has garnered significant discussion among fans for its dramatic turns and compelling revelations.
A Deeper Dive into Hinako’s Shifting Will
Episode 8 kicks off with Hinako, the protagonist, following Ayame to a storage area, setting the stage for a tense confrontation. Previously, Hinako harbored a vague wish to die after losing her family, accepting Shiori’s promise to eventually devour her as a form of desired end. However, this episode marks a significant turning point in Hinako’s perspective. As Ayame, who is revealed to be a murderous spirit, attacks her, Hinako instinctually dodges, realizing she no longer wishes to die. This newfound desire to live, despite her past suicidal ideations, highlights a crucial evolution in her character, suggesting that her bond with Shiori and the experiences she’s accumulated have fundamentally altered her outlook. The axe strike only grazes her arm, but the encounter serves as a catalyst for Hinako to confront her own mortality and desires.
Ayame’s Complex Identity and the Mermaid Blood Revelation
The character of Ayame receives substantial development in “This Monster Wants to Eat Me” Episode 8. Initially appearing as a kindly older figure, Ayame is exposed as a yōkai, a murderous spirit born from a human whose head was split open with an axe. This origin story provides a tragic backdrop to her current existence, explaining her ability to blend seamlessly with humans. She reveals that only her head is truly vital, making her incredibly difficult to defeat.
A key revelation occurs during Ayame’s attack when she senses mermaid blood mixed within Hinako, a detail that deeply confuses Hinako and suggests a deeper connection to Shiori than previously understood. Ayame’s complex portrayal is further underscored by flashbacks during the credits, which paint her as a woman and mother who felt suffocated by her family, rather than a purely malicious entity. Her attack is triggered not by Hinako’s “deliciousness,” but by Hinako mistakenly calling her “mom,” hinting at Ayame’s buried emotional wounds.
Shiori’s Monstrous True Form and Unyielding Protection
Shiori, the mysterious mermaid who pledged to eat Hinako, takes center stage with a powerful display of her true abilities. Upon sensing Hinako’s danger, Shiori rushes to her aid, intervening in the fight against Ayame. In a dramatic sequence, Shiori assumes her true form – a gigantic, deadly, and monstrous mermaid – and swiftly incapacitates Ayame. This transformation is a visual spectacle and a pivotal moment, revealing the raw power Shiori possesses and the depth of her protective instincts towards Hinako.
The episode further explores the nuances of Shiori’s character. Despite her monstrous capabilities and initial “I’ve come to eat you” premise, her actions consistently demonstrate a deep, albeit complicated, care for Hinako. Miko, another character, even questions Shiori about her knowledge of Hinako’s scars, hinting at Shiori’s past involvement in Hinako’s life or a deeper understanding of her condition. This episode solidifies Shiori as a “big softie” beneath her scaly exterior, actively protecting Hinako’s life under the guise of “saving her meat for later”.
Impact and Future Implications
“This Monster Wants to Eat Me” Episode 8 is hailed as one of the strongest sections of the story yet, pushing the narrative in powerful and dramatic directions. The conflict between Hinako, Ayame, and Shiori recontextualizes much of what viewers thought they knew about these characters and their relationships. The revelation of mermaid blood in Hinako’s veins adds a new layer of mystery to her existence and her irresistible appeal to yōkai.
The episode leaves audiences contemplating Hinako’s future, particularly her evolving desires and the full extent of her connection to Shiori and the yōkai world. With the anime slated for a 13-episode season, Episode 8 sets the stage for crucial confrontations and revelations regarding Shiori’s true motivations and Hinako’s ultimate fate. Fans can look forward to upcoming episodes, with new installments releasing weekly on platforms like Crunchyroll.
