[DreadBringer]

More character building this episode.

Seems to be consistent that Hotaro's vice is a bit pride, where like Supana before, here he gets riled up when Riku takes him for granted. I mean obviously Hotaro's still caring and protective to Riku, but that still exists, like even Supana offering to explain in condescending way, though it'd offend Hotaro, maybe setting aside his pride is still best course of action.

Though despite failing and having to buy drink, seems that Riku opens up more to Hotaro afterwards to talk about why he's so closed off regarding his promise. Twice Hotaro interacts with the aloof smart kid, Rinne and then Riku. I have a feeling that Riku's dad may be the MOTW (Malgam Of The Week). (Attempt of) can-kicking of an orange drink feels Geats before.

Renge's opportunistic side also shows up here, though like above being comedic, with her insisting to take anything for herself like credit for the Chemy capture or payment. Using coupon is nothing wrong (anyone'd do it ofc) but it fits her trying to spend as less as possible.

She'd view Rinne as a bit of a thorn of her side to keep an eye on her for her money-oriented approach, while Rinne's dutiful nature is also emphasized here of her being unfamiliar to even mundane stuff like food ordering, as she said of forgoing making friends before Atropos approaches her. Ironic though, I thought being smart student means she'd memorize said order easily.

Hotaro's naivety is also highlighted here to simplify Riku and Sabo's situation with him putting Chemies on pedestal, while Rinne upholds the law about Chemies disrupting natural order. Speaking of Chemies, their cards are durable enough to shield Hotaro and still be functional.

Sabi is so much of a wreck that he has a meltdown when his tablet's battery runs out. Supana has earned Sabi's animosity for forcing his belief to anyone, while it's revealed that Sabi collects Chemies for grade. Even Minato is supportive to Hotaro's belief to some extent.