Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World [Season 2 Episode 1]

Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World Season 2 Episode 1: A Long-Awaited Return

After nearly four years of waiting, Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World (or KimiSen for short) has finally returned with its second season, and fans couldn’t be more hyped—or more conflicted. The first episode of Season 2 picks up right where the story left off, diving back into the war-torn world of the Empire and the Nebulis Sovereignty, where swordsman Iska and princess Aliceliese continue their star-crossed dance of rivalry and romance.

The Good, The Bad, and The Nostalgic

The reception to this long-awaited return has been a mixed bag. On one hand, fans are thrilled to see Iska and Alice back in action, with their signature banter and undeniable chemistry stealing the show once again. The episode wastes no time reigniting their dynamic, culminating in a hilarious and heartwarming moment where they coincidentally order the same dish at a restaurant—a callback to the charm that made Season 1 so enjoyable.

However, not everyone is sold on the changes. Some viewers have pointed out the noticeable shift in animation style, with critiques ranging from the softer linework to the altered color palette. One fan lamented, “The eyes look different, and the captain’s crest is gold now instead of that cool aqua blue. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s definitely jarring.” Others defended the new look, praising the smoother animation and improved character movements, arguing that it’s a natural evolution for the series.

Pacing: Too Fast or Just Right?

One of the biggest talking points is the episode’s breakneck pacing. The story jumps from Sisbell’s political maneuvering to Iska’s team being hired for a mission, all within minutes. Some fans felt overwhelmed, with one commenter noting, “It’s edited like a trailer—everything’s moving so fast that it’s hard to catch your breath.” Others appreciated the brisk storytelling, arguing that it keeps the energy high and avoids unnecessary filler.

The world-building, a standout feature of KimiSen, remains strong. The episode delves deeper into the tensions between the Sovereignty and the Empire, with Sisbell’s schemes adding a layer of intrigue. Fans are already speculating about her true motives, especially after her cryptic interactions with Alice.

The Romance Takes Center Stage

If there’s one thing everyone agrees on, it’s that the romance between Iska and Alice is the heart of the show. Their interactions are as electric as ever, blending humor, tension, and just the right amount of tsundere energy. One fan gushed, “Their romance is finally getting the spotlight it deserves, and I’m here for it!”

That said, the harem elements haven’t gone unnoticed. With multiple female characters vying for Iska’s attention, some viewers rolled their eyes at the tropey setup. “Another anime where every girl falls for the bland protagonist? Groundbreaking,” quipped one sarcastic commenter. Still, even the critics couldn’t deny the charm of Alice and Iska’s dynamic.

Final Verdict: Worth the Wait?

For fans who’ve been patiently waiting since 2020, KimiSen Season 2 Episode 1 is a satisfying—if imperfect—return. The animation may have changed, the pacing might be divisive, and the harem tropes are still present, but the core appeal remains intact: the thrilling conflict, the rich world-building, and, most importantly, the irresistible chemistry between Iska and Alice.

As one fan perfectly summed it up: “It’s not perfect, but after four years, I’m just happy to have this show back. Here’s hoping the rest of the season delivers!”

So, if you’re a fan of fantasy romances with a side of political intrigue, Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World Season 2 is off to a promising start. Just don’t expect it to slow down anytime soon.