The episode began to fully explore Riku's mindset during a climatic battle. I cannot say it's a mindset I agree with but it is something I can understand. The writing failed to make me invested on the village's growth as they are more of a fodder to the plot. Both an obstacle and asset that a story revolving around them makes it lackluster. The pacing was rush and so the conclusion barely made a dent to me, emotionally.