As I suspected, neither of the two plotlines that were the entirety of the end of the Second Season Complete Box Set of Magic Knight Rayearth, were enough to hold my attention.

At least twice, I thought “Surely we must be past Hikaru’s self-confidence issues (i.e., Nova)?” But no, both times we’re dragged back to re-re-re-re-face the darkness in her heart. And the last of the plotlines was resolved in the only way that made any sense, really, from the very beginning.

For the rest, the girls befriend enemies and land, once again, back at Tokyo Tower, probably incapable of ever really returning to a normal life. Sure, “will” can help us overcome difficulties in our world, but they’ve been trained to associate “will” with whipping out a weapon and fighting. That’s going to be awkward next time they get in an argument in school. Just kidding – they’ve all proven repeatedly that they can fight with their brains and hearts, as well. Still…you can’t tell me Umi won’t reget not being able to kick someone’s butt every once in a while. ^_^

I felt generally unsatisfied with the ending. Mostly because it took three disks too long to arrive. Most of the final two disks were fluff, while they put the end of the story off. I was watching only an episode or two at a time, and it just felt too delayed, much like the final episodes of Sailor Moon Stars…we *know* what’s gonna happen and we get that we have to get through certain things, but…3 episodes of recaps on two episodes of action…ugh.

Ratings:

Art – 6
Story – 3
Characters – 6
Yuri – 4
LoserFanBoy – 4

Overall – 5

The second season was just not as satisfying as the first season – too loosely plotted, not enough content for its length. And Nova will forever remain in my mind as a total bore. She also kills the family-friendliness of the series, to no real end. She could have been just as annoying without boob-grabbing. Sigh.