One thing about a formula is that when you break from it, the mere lack of predictability can be a shock to the system. When this one opened with no dream sequence, the Toraya sweet shop temporarily closed (closed!) and Tora's uncle in hospital, I think my heart rate increased.
The last of those was particularly troubling. The uncle character isn't even my favourite, but I'm so invested in this group of characters that the idea that one of their lives could be in danger was mortifying... if that's not a sign this series has won me over, I don't know what is.
Things got less stressful as it went along. The unique scenery and the presence of Mifune ensured that I didn't mind the focus being on the new characters and their storylines as much as I usually would, and overall, it was a very strong entry into the series.
The last of those was particularly troubling. The uncle character isn't even my favourite, but I'm so invested in this group of characters that the idea that one of their lives could be in danger was mortifying... if that's not a sign this series has won me over, I don't know what is.
Things got less stressful as it went along. The unique scenery and the presence of Mifune ensured that I didn't mind the focus being on the new characters and their storylines as much as I usually would, and overall, it was a very strong entry into the series.