There were a few extras who appeared to be leaving at the end of episode 5, but I'm guessing the director felt that it would make for a more striking final image if they just focused on the Magnificent Seven. After the first Redshirt was nabbed by the bear, I counted twelve people in the circle, so I guess they…

For better or worse, I'm pretty sure the White Walker conflict has always been the endgame that both the books and the show are building towards.

It really did feel like that was the direction they were going for for a while. To cope with what happened to Ashi, I've decided to imagine that time travel operates like it does in Stein;Gate, where there is both linear time travel and alternate timelines. My headcanon is that there is an alternate timeline where…

Personally, I don't think a conventional ending would be inappropriate for this series. I feel like it would be a little too depressing if they made Jack lose both the past and a chance at a happy future with Ashi. Until the revival, I never thought there would ever be a conclusion to the series, so I see what we have…

Normally, I'm fairly neutral when it comes to shipping characters, but I've grown attached to this pairing for some reason. With all of their similarities and relatively equal amount of emotional support, it just feels right to me.

As a member of the audience, I just find it satisfying to see two likable characters who have known nothing but abuse and hardship for the vast majority of their lives manage to attain some measure of happiness. It didn't absolutely have to come in the form of a romance, but I fail to see how it's such a big deal.

I can't get behind this sentiment. Jack and Ashi grew to mutually respect and care for each other over a period of time. They are basically kindred spirits with a lot in common, and both have played a crucial role in resolving the other's crippling psychological issues.

"What did you expect? A hug and a kiss?" "I… like your hair. And dress." Not to mention the scene with the doe and stag, and the visual parallels between Jack and Ashi and Jack's parents. The foreshadowing for the romance path was subtle up until this episode, but it was there.

Shocking twist: the real Ashi died when Jack dropped her off a cliff, and Aku has just been screwing with Jack the entire time.

I know it's not officially the case anymore, but I still consider this season 2B.

I used to think Bismuth might be the other half.

Beta is apparently airing in Canada tomorrow.