Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World [Season 2 Episode 2]

Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World – Season 2 Episode 2: A Tangled Web of Love and War

If you’re a fan of star-crossed lovers, political intrigue, and magic-fueled battles, Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World (or Kimisen for short) is probably already on your radar. Season 2, Episode 2, titled “Retake,” dives deeper into the messy, heart-fluttering dynamic between Iska and Alice while throwing in enough twists to keep viewers guessing. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s break it down—with a little help from what fans are saying online.

The Plot Thickens (and So Do the Misunderstandings)

For those who need a quick refresher: Kimisen is set in a world torn apart by a century-long war between the technologically advanced Empire and the magic-wielding Sovereignty. Iska, a skilled swordsman from the Empire, and Alice, the feared “Ice Calamity Witch” of the Sovereignty, are supposed to be sworn enemies. But fate (and some serious romantic tension) keeps pulling them together.

In Episode 2, the focus shifts to Sisbell, Alice’s younger sister, who’s caught in a political mess. She’s convinced someone’s trying to assassinate their mother, the queen, and she ropes Iska into helping her. Meanwhile, Alice—who’s already suspicious of Iska’s intentions—gets jealous when she sees him with Sisbell. Cue the classic anime trope of misunderstandings piling up faster than Rin (Alice’s overprotective maid) can scold someone.

Fans on MyAnimeList had mixed reactions. Some loved the rom-com vibes, with one user joking, “This episode had more misunderstandings than a middle school drama club.” Others, however, felt the pacing was off. “Too much talking, not enough action,” complained one viewer, while another admitted, “I forgot half the characters’ names, but I’m here for the pretty animation.”

The Good: Chemistry and Conflict

The strongest aspect of Kimisen has always been the push-and-pull between Iska and Alice. Episode 2 delivers on that front, with Alice’s jealousy adding a fun layer to their dynamic. Her flustered reactions—especially when Rin jumps to wild conclusions about Iska’s motives—are pure gold.

The political intrigue also ramps up. Sisbell’s prophetic abilities hint at a larger conspiracy, and the episode ends with a cliffhanger: the queen is attacked, and Sisbell’s return might be the only thing that can turn the tide. Fans are split on whether this plotline is gripping or convoluted. One Reddit user summed it up: “I’m here for the romance, but the politics feel like they’re trying too hard to be Game of Thrones-lite.”

The Not-So-Good: Pacing and Confusion

A common complaint among fans is the show’s tendency to assume viewers remember every detail from Season 1. “I had to Google who half these people were,” admitted one MyAnimeList commenter. Even recap-loving fans felt lost, with another adding, “This episode needed a ‘previously on…’ segment bad.”

The humor also doesn’t always land. Rin’s over-the-top reactions—like her sudden diet subplot—felt out of place for some. “Rin’s bust-enlargement gag was just… why?” groaned one fan.

Final Verdict: A Fun but Flawed Ride

Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World Season 2, Episode 2 is a mixed bag. It delivers on the romance and intrigue that fans love, but the pacing and exposition could use work. If you’re invested in Iska and Alice’s relationship, you’ll enjoy the episode. If you’re here for tight storytelling, you might leave frustrated.

As one fan perfectly put it: “It’s not high art, but it’s got heart—and sometimes, that’s enough.”

Rating: 7/10 – A solid entry for fans, but newcomers should start from the beginning.

What did you think of Episode 2? Let’s discuss in the comments! 🎭🔥