@Peter S: the two scenes you mention highlight for me another one of the series’ strengths - namely that of being able to change mood so effortlessly. I’ve laughed at lot at this show so far but it’s had some really tense and dramatic moments too.

@Hanners:

I got the distinct impression that she knew Murasaki would be taken back by the Kuhouins sooner or later, and that despite that she almost felt that Shinkuorou had already saved her from her fate simply by showing her the real world and in turn giving her a desire to live in it.

I like that theory. It’s difficult to work out exactly what Benika is up to here, because so many of her decisions seem, on the face of it, to be irrational and little-explained. But then, hidden agendas and surprising levels of depth are other things I’ve come to expect from the series so there’s a fair chance (I hope) that this will be explained by the end too.

It’s interesting you bring up Benika’s decision making as a potential plot-hole - From some of her conversations in the last episode, I got the distinct impression that she knew Murasaki would be taken back by the Kuhouins sooner or later, and that despite that she almost felt that Shinkuorou had already saved her from her fate simply by showing her the real world and in turn giving her a desire to live in it.

Aside from that, this is the best show of this season by far - Top drawer stuff.

I am hoping, possibly against hope, that the return to the apartment/hovel and Shinkuru’s pathetic fighting was part of a master plan, in which they fully intend for Murasaki to get taken away. I can’t think of any other reason for such a weak defense. That’s why Shinkuru was happily cleaning his window in the closing tag. Yeah! That’s it! A Master Plan!

But if this is an ongoing series, god only knows. Sigh.

Two things chilled me in that last ep: first, the odd solo piano music which was consistent with the show as a whole but felt strange while watching a favorite character get beaten to a pulp (the music sounded … slightly worried), and second, the calm way Murasaki’s brother spoke to her, like he was gently scolding a slightly naughty little sister. Murasaki’s defeated replies, fighting back tears, only made it worse for me. Kudos to her voice actress. Wonderful job.

On the other hand, the song-and-dance ep was one of the happiest eps I’ve seen in a while, characterization undertones notwithstanding.

The Musical episode was one of the highlights of the series for me, Its covered a lot and as memorable as some of Murasaki’s one-liners are, The 5+ minute theatrical that was done, for no reason at all was absolutely terrific (IMO).

I really do hope the last few episodes give it the send-off it deserves.