The Drifting Classroom was my introductory meal to Kazuo Umezz's brand of storytelling, granted it was a story that I appreciated at the time of reading, but rather mixed or uncertain of my feelings in retrospect. There was concern that the same would be for Orochi. While this time its stories are anthological rather than linear, it managed to bring some intrigue through the curious relationship of its titular character shares with the various figures that she finds herself stumbling (or imposing, really) upon. Due to the observant nature of these stories, emotional investment felt unrequired, but encouraging for analysis. Seeing events unfold in their horrifying and baffling fashion established a sense of shock towards life's melodramatic unfolding. Suffering is at the centre of its two stories, often internally generated and outwardly manifested. While deliberate in its perspective, it was an appreciated experience, despite being left hollow.