[Mesnick]

This episode in some incredible way even manages to surpass the previous ones. An incredibly tough fight by Shindai when Reika manages to outdo her brother; the last general blow of veterans; Mei, who continues to help to the last. And, of course, the fight between Touma and Storius. A lot has already been said about their conversation, similarities and differences, so I want to write about something else.
I remember you wrote about the insufficient good performance of the performer of the role of Storius. But think about what exactly he has to work with. He has to portray a character who portrays a villain, while being a villain, but not the way he wants to appear. And at the same time, Storius is still not absolute evil and has not completely lost his humanity (which, perhaps, led him to the role of the destroyer of the world). So it's a very difficult role, especially since the show doesn't give much time to develop the character.
I also remember how Storius was called a romantic fatalist. Perhaps this does not convey all the nuances, but it suits him.
I will not write anything about Touma, because I save my thoughts until the next episode.
I liked the fanfic a lot.