[DreamSword]

Episode 24: The Big Aerial Battle

Now this was more like it.

Pretty much the entirety of this episode is dedicated to the fallout that occurs now that Ryugunoh is out of the picture, and I am here for it.

The character drama is on high, Baron Bloody is an intriguing new villain, Koichi gets a plot hook that's far more interesting than anything he had before, and even the townsfolk aren't left out, with alot of their secrets getting exposed.

I could see alot of modern viewers considering it as relatively minor, but I think the piece of the episode that impressed me the most was actually that bit I used for the thumbnail. The episode sets itself up for the easiest "misunderstood for gay" joke ever, and yet it... doesn't take it.

Instead the moment is actually treated with some grace; with those around Kenji either not minding at all that he might have a thing for Fudo, or understanding immediately that he's talking about Fudo being his ideal work partner. Either way, it's a surprisingly progressive move for a show made in 2006, and is really only rivaled by Faiz's' obvious relationship between its two male leads.

Anyway, the atmosphere all around for this one was really good, and everyone in the cast was very likable in their own way; either via their actions or their interactions. The action this time around wasn't much to speak of, but it's clear that that wasn't anywhere near the main focus. Overall this was a really enjoyable episode and it's so nice to see Ryukendo be back on its feet again.

Oh, also, new ED out of nowhere. It's alright.