EPISODE CONTEXT

Following the premiere's formation of the Rōshigumi and the group's arrival in Kyoto, episode two immediately grounds the story in the practical and personal conflicts that will drive the first half of this 12-episode prequel. The contrasting leadership philosophies of Kondou and Serizawa introduced here become the central fault line of the series, while Ibuki's evolving place within the group establishes the emotional throughline. This episode lays essential groundwork for the power struggles and loyalty tests that escalate across the coming episodes.