7 out of 10. Definitely downgraded from the last. If there isn't any story progression, then there should at least be a main theme or some sort of message that the episode wishes to convey.
The second half tried to to that by sending a message - "it's wrong to betray friends." It was not only a decent idea but also a theme that fitted the series (as well as a good foreshadowing for the upcoming childhood plot that the anime kept reminding us about). This message should've been the main theme, and would've made this episode better if they revolved around the idea.
Sadly, what happened was that the message that they popped in in the last minute just came off as sounding weak and more of a "on the spot improvisation" to make the episode look "deeper". A shame really, because this isn't the first time they'd tried this (sudden development/emotional scenes at the end, like the 7th). And they ended up looking out of place.
As for the actual episode,
First half really wasn't great. The scene where they shouted "The Sea" was a very awkward adaptation that I almost wished they had cut it out. It was good in the novel, but the anime just didn't cut it, because of just how differently everyone acted! You can't expect that one scene to show that clearly and it just came off as chaotic, even if they did follow it up with them admitting it was embarrassing (However, it's not the anime team's fault either. That scene is just incredibly hard to show and I commend them for trying.)
Sena's sunscreen scene with Yozora was drawn out WAY too long. It could've been shorter yet would still be able to serve its purpose (even if it is just fanservice).
The good parts were all thanks to Rika. Train connecter porn? Sheesh. I shudder to think the things she'd come up with if she ever saw a revolving door...or a jackhammer. And that scream after Yukimura applied sunscreen to Kodaka's back? Absolutely excellent. Top notch voice acting. Almost deserves a full point for this episode.
Now the second half was much better. The ghost story was a much fresher theme to work on, and the execution was quite good, especially Yozora's storytelling and how it carried itself until the end of the episode. Although I do think they shouldn't have cut out the last part of it from the novel. It would've made the story even scarier and made the transition into next part (where everyone declined the test of courage in the woods) feel more natural.
For those interested in that part,
See what I mean?
The original flashback about Yozora in cooking class was very nice too, though I had hoped it would've held more significance. As in, they made the flashback, but never developed it further or allow it to affect the story. It was just...dropped as if she was just commenting on the weather.
Not much else to say about the last part other than being a good adaptation of the novel. Rika's dress was a surprise. Though that...particular shot of Yozora in the bathroom was awkward, I mean, anatomically. The crotch ran too far up...looking like she didn't have anything
there to begin with. Awkward...
Nice to see a different side of Yozora. I've never seen her so vulnerable. Even b!tches get scared
Overall, it was a good episode, thanks to the second half and Rika's outstanding voice acting. And wow, they really like to emphasize on pumping out KodakaxYozora and KodakaxSena hints at every chance they get.
Now with the preview, I'm almost certain this season is gonna end with volume 3 (and it's gonna be good too).
7/10
TL;DR? First half almost killed it, thankfully the second half was better.
Author
I have one scene in mind involving her that I hope use in a signature 
Maria forever!
