While this episode gives us a bit more in terms of character development, it still suffers largely from the same problems as the previous episode. The viewer is still stuck frantically trying to catch up to what's going on with all the different characters who largely go unidentified.
A lot of the character development comes in the form of a quick flashback, where Kotori reminisces about her childhood friendship with Kamui. It's established that he used to be a kind boy who saved her from falling when they were climbing a tree. Even after being knocked unconscious, his grip on her hand never slipped, allowing others to come to their aid.
It was a sweet moment, maybe too sweet as it does come off a bit on the cheesy cornball side, but it was still a nice moment that established what Kamui was like before.
I have to say, the character needed it as his current incarnation is kind of a schmuck. No, really, I hate Kamui. Maybe I've just grown weary of the brooding anti-hero who just wants to be left alone, but I've seen even that archetype done so much better. This guy just annoys me. It's not helped by the fact that the guy has next to no personality, and what little personality he does have is annoying.
It's weird that someone who has no interest in the lives of others and wants nothing to do with all of these supernatural people and events is so obsessed with getting the divine sword. You'd think he'd want nothing to do with it, but I guess he feels entitled, which is also pretty annoying.
We also get to know two other characters, Sorata Arisugawa and Yuto Kigai. The prior is one of the seven who was quickly introduced in the beginning of episode one and the latter is an agent working for...someone. While the two fight, they seem to be on good terms as they exchange humorous banter. Also, both seem to show concern for the well being of others as they move the fight to another dimension in order to ensure that there is no damage or casualties in the "material plane". They had far less screen time than Kamui, but both come off as far more likable and developed as a result of it.
I know the show is trying to play up the idea that Kamui is either the savior or the destroyer of the world, but he's such an annoying prat that you just wish that he wasn't in it. Honestly, I can get behind almost every other character, regardless of whether I know their name or not, but Kamui just rubs me the wrong way. This show has flaws, but he is, by far the biggest.
Still, hope springs eternal, and as time goes on, hopefully the characters will be able to better establish themselves and Kamui can become less of a snit.
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