Yukihira Soma, the tenacious and unconventional chef, doesn’t technically join the Elite Ten Council in the traditional sense during the main anime series of Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma. However, he effectively holds a position of similar authority after the Council undergoes significant reform. Therefore, the closest answer is season 5, episode 13, “Towards a New Plateau,” which depicts the formation of the New Elite Ten Council.
While not formally joining a pre-existing structure, Soma secures a seat on the newly established council, essentially becoming a founding member and wielding considerable influence over Totsuki Academy’s future. This culminates years of struggle, growth, and culinary innovation. This article will explore the events leading up to this significant moment, clarifying the nuances of Soma’s position and answering common questions about his journey to the peak of Totsuki’s power structure.
The Road to Culinary Supremacy: Soma’s Path
Soma’s ambition to surpass his father, Joichiro Yukihira, drove his every action at Totsuki Culinary Academy. From his initial disruptive entrance to his countless shokugekis, he consistently challenged the status quo and pushed his own culinary boundaries. The Elite Ten, initially perceived as an impenetrable fortress, became a symbolic representation of the power Soma sought to attain.
Challenging the Establishment
Soma’s initial encounters with Elite Ten members were often antagonistic. He challenged their authority, questioned their decisions, and ultimately, proved his culinary prowess time and time again. His participation in events like the Autumn Elections and the Regiment de Cuisine against Central served as critical stepping stones, showcasing his talent and unwavering spirit to the entire academy. These events were instrumental in weakening the grip of Azami Nakiri and his restrictive culinary philosophy.
The Azami Nakiri Era and its Aftermath
Azami Nakiri’s takeover of Totsuki represented a significant turning point. His focus on “Central” and his rigid culinary standards threatened the very essence of free-spirited cooking that Soma embodied. The Regiment de Cuisine, a team battle against Central, saw Soma and his allies fighting to restore the academy’s values. Their victory was crucial in dismantling Azami’s regime and paving the way for a new era.
Forming the New Elite Ten
After Azami’s defeat, the existing Elite Ten was disbanded, deemed complicit in his schemes. A new system was implemented, reflecting the ideals of culinary freedom and innovation that Soma and his allies championed. In “Towards a New Plateau,” the episode shows the formation of this New Elite Ten Council, with Soma as a prominent member. This new council aimed to foster creativity and encourage individual culinary expression, a stark contrast to the rigid structure of the past.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Soma and the Elite Ten
This section addresses some common queries surrounding Soma’s relationship with the Elite Ten, clarifying details and dispelling potential misunderstandings.
Q1: Did Soma ever officially “join” the original Elite Ten Council?
No, Soma never became a member of the original Elite Ten Council before its dissolution. He consistently challenged its authority and aimed to reform the system, not integrate into it.
Q2: What were the criteria for being on the Elite Ten Council before the reforms?
The pre-reform Elite Ten was primarily based on seniority and adherence to established culinary doctrines. Power and influence were also key factors, often leading to a system that favored tradition over innovation.
Q3: Who else was on the New Elite Ten Council with Soma?
While the exact full roster isn’t explicitly shown, Erina Nakiri, Takumi Aldini, Megumi Tadokoro, and possibly other members of Soma’s generation, are implied to be part of the New Elite Ten Council.
Q4: What was Soma’s specific rank or position on the New Elite Ten Council?
The anime doesn’t explicitly state his exact rank. However, his significant contribution to dismantling Central and his obvious culinary prowess strongly suggest he held a prominent and influential position.
Q5: Did Soma’s father, Joichiro Yukihira, ever serve on the Elite Ten Council?
Yes, Joichiro Yukihira (then Saiba) was a member of the Elite Ten Council during his time at Totsuki, holding the prestigious first seat at one point.
Q6: Why did Soma refuse to challenge for a seat on the original Elite Ten?
Soma’s goal was never simply to hold a title. He aimed to fundamentally change the system. Challenging for a seat on the existing Elite Ten would have been a symbolic victory at best, failing to address the underlying issues.
Q7: What powers or responsibilities did members of the New Elite Ten Council have?
The New Elite Ten Council was responsible for shaping the curriculum, managing academy events, and ensuring that Totsuki remained a place of culinary innovation and freedom. They acted as representatives of the student body and advocated for a more open and inclusive culinary environment.
Q8: How did Soma’s cooking style contribute to his eventual influence at Totsuki?
Soma’s “anything goes” approach, his emphasis on creativity, and his ability to adapt to any situation were crucial in inspiring others and challenging the rigid culinary doctrines promoted by Central.
Q9: Was the New Elite Ten Council a democratic organization?
While not explicitly stated, the implication is that the New Elite Ten Council operated on a more democratic basis than its predecessor, valuing diverse opinions and fostering collaboration.
Q10: What impact did the New Elite Ten Council have on the future of Totsuki Academy?
The New Elite Ten Council ushered in an era of culinary freedom and innovation at Totsuki. It created a more inclusive and supportive environment for students, allowing them to explore their culinary passions without the constraints of rigid doctrines.
Q11: Did Soma ever use his position on the New Elite Ten Council to settle personal scores?
No, Soma consistently demonstrated a commitment to fairness and integrity. He used his influence to promote culinary excellence and create a better learning environment for all students, not to settle personal disputes.
Q12: What happened to the former members of the Elite Ten Council after Azami’s defeat?
The fates of the former Elite Ten members varied. Some, like Erina, were ultimately redeemed and played a crucial role in dismantling Central. Others faced consequences for their complicity in Azami’s regime. The anime doesn’t fully detail the outcomes for all of them.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Soma and Totsuki
While episode 13 of season 5 marks a significant moment in Soma’s journey, it is crucial to understand the context surrounding it. He didn’t simply join an existing power structure; he helped create a new one. His dedication to culinary freedom, his unwavering spirit, and his innovative cooking style were instrumental in shaping the future of Totsuki Culinary Academy. The formation of the New Elite Ten Council, with Soma as a key member, represents a victory not just for him, but for all aspiring chefs who dare to challenge the status quo and embrace their own unique culinary voice. The episode truly signifies the beginning of a new plateau, one where creativity and innovation thrive.