Kita ze Inbou! - キタぜ陰謀!

[ Episode 2: Runaway Justice ]

Is it wrong that I’m enjoying this show?

This episode was much better than the first! Now that the awkward power gain has passed by, Kouichi and the others are now trying to settle into the aftermath of the previous battle. Before that though, we’re shown more of JUDA and of the antagonists. As far as the antagonists go, their goals are still a mystery but it is clear that they need LINEBARREL to achieve them. JUDA is an organization that employs Factors just like Kouichi. From my count (which might be off), there are five of them so far. One guy who jumped out of a helicopter, two girls whoapparently control one MACHINA, and the two girls who fought along with and against Kouichi. I’m interesting in seeing more of them soon so I hope Kouichi joins JUDA soon (as indicated in the OP sequence).

As for Kouichi, the dude is really on a serious power trip. I can understand the feeling of having the kind of power he has and might get carried away just a little (who wouldn’t want to kick the asses of bullies?) but I don’t think I’d go around declaring everyone my enemy because my justice is above all. I was surprised when he started attacking the two girls who were basically his allies but I figure he can’t really help but be controlled by the adrenaline running through him. Still, I think it’s only a matter of time before he’s given a wake-up call by fighting against someone who will totally school him regardless of the abilities of LINEBARREL. Emi’s identity is still up in the air at this point as well and while I felt as if she should try to somehow talk to Kouichi about his actions, her loss of memory probably won’t help her much in that regard. Kouichi’s friends are obviously concerned about him and I can only wonder what their role in the story will be as it progresses. After all, they appear to have been his only friends since they were children.

Anyway, Kurogane no Linebarrels has charmed me into anticipating yet another episode. Is it the best show I’m watching right now? Nah, but I do enjoy watching it quite a bit and Hirai Hisashi’s designs have quickly brought my mind to rest in comparison to the manga (in short I like both). Not to mention the performances of the seiyuu are topnotch, especially Kouichi.