The Legend of Vox Machina season 4 Episode 1 catches fans up with Pike, Grog, Percy, and Vex'ahlia — and while Episode 2 of Prime Video's fantasy series doesn't abandon their storylines, it focuses more heavily on Keyleth and Vax'ildan. SPOILERS ahead for The Legend of Vox Machina season 4, Episodes 1 and 2.
True to its name, "Trial by Water" opens with the pair sailing to Vesrah, where Keyleth faces the final trial of her Aramenté. Unfortunately, she's still struggling to control water. It's a skill she needs to pass the test and become the Voice of the Tempest.
While Keyleth pursues her greater destiny, the rest of Vox Machina (minus Scanlan, who's still MIA) spends season 4 Episode 2 dealing with the fallout of the prior chapter. The monster Vex killed in Episode 1 refuses to stay dead, forcing her and Percy to defeat it again. And Pike and Grog go to the Temple of the Everlight for answers about Priestess Talia. Sadly, they receive very few of them. Fortunately, this installment does bring the members of Vox Machina one step closer to reuniting. It lays the foundation for an exciting Episode 3, even if "Trial by Water" feels like a lull at times.
The Legend of Vox Machina season 4 Episode 2 sees Keyleth stepping into her power
Keyleth's storyline is the highlight of The Legend of Vox Machina season 4 Episode 2, blending impressive character growth with gripping action and suspense. Her trial showcases how far she's come, both in terms of her power and the wisdom she's developed. Both are on full display as she attempts to retrieve a lodestone from an underwater rift...one that's guarded by a massive Kraken she's not supposed to use violence against.
That last part is put to the test when the creature breaks through the rift, putting everyone present in danger. Keyleth decides that becoming the Voice of the Tempest isn't worth it if it means losing more people. She chooses to protect others instead of chasing a title, and the result is an epic moment that sees her driving the monster back.
Perhaps a little predictably, this is precisely why Keyleth ends up passing her trial and becoming the Voice of the Tempest. It's the expected route, even after she breaks the rules. Yet there's no denying she makes the right decision, and her choice embraces the optimism The Legend of Vox Machina is known for.
Episode 2's other storylines are mostly setup for what's to come
Keyleth is the star of "Trial by Water," and the rest of the episode's storylines are mostly setup for what's to come. Pike and Grog's — or Spike and Greg's, if you prefer — narrative is brief and doesn't feel that necessary. It gives The Legend of Vox Machina season 4 a chance to explore Pike's crisis of faith further. However, the trip to the Temple of the Everlight provides few answers.
Percy and Vex's storyline is a bit more interesting, continuing Episode 1's trend of undead creatures wreaking havoc. Vex brings the monster from the woods back to Whitestone so that Percy can inspect it. It doesn't take long for it to regroup and attack. Another undead threat also shows up, claiming the creature is his pet. Their arrival coincides with that of Taryon Darrington, making for a fight sequence full of humorous banter.
If Percy and Vex don't suspect that something is terribly amiss in Episode 1, Episode 2 confirms it. And they'll soon be reunited with Vox Machina to discuss what they've seen. Perhaps the most exciting part of "Trial by Water" (after Keyleth's test) is the prospect of the group coming back together. The second episode sets this up nicely, using Taryon's message and Keyleth's looming coronation as catalysts for the inevitable reunion.
Verdict
Of The Legend of Vox Machina season 4's three-part premiere, Episode 2 is probably the weakest of the bunch. This season has a strong opening, though, so that's not really saying much. Keyleth's trial makes for a compelling plotline, even if it feels disconnected from everything else happening. And it gives Vox Machina a believable excuse to meet up: they're all invited to her coronation in Episode 3.
Outside of Keyleth's narrative, "Trial by Water" sets the stage for the Whispered One's arrival with its continued supernatural threats. It also brings back the complications of Vex's connection to the Matron, confirming the blight is still an issue. None of these things feel immediately pressing, but they're all necessary to piecing together season 4's larger picture.
Needless to say, this is a necessary addition, even if it feels like a lull sandwiched between two stronger installments. It still features everything we love about The Legend of Vox Machina: the action, the standout character work, and the balance of darkness and humor. However, it may leave viewers restless and eager to get to the meat of season 4's story. Fortunately, Episode 3 delivers on that front.
Episode Grade: B
Add us as a preferred source on Google