[eggplant]

Just saw Episode 16.

Spoiler for Episode 16:

Was anticipating this for the new ending song, so was taken by surprise when the opening song from the first series, Undine was played. Wondering if this was a one time switch or not, not that I have any qualms about it, as both songs feature the wonderful singing of Makino Yui.

The story itself was a sentimental one about the final trip on Akari's gondola after reaching its lifespan, although President Aria probably had more voyages on it than she did. I guess that was the reason why they chose Undine for the opening song.

As for the new ending song Smile Again, I think Hazuki Erino (Akari) did a good job on it. The medium tempo shuffle beat matches well with the positive lyrics, as well as the overall ARIA image. Never heard her sing before besides the opening song from Tonagura! where I can't tell who's singing what (anyone notice the ARIA, N.H.K., Tonagura! relationship?) , so it was better than I imagined.

Then again, I think we're in for some drama in the upcoming episodes, so I'm savoring the heartwarming stories while I can.