What happened to the animation crew from the first episode? Did they get stuck in Niigata following the earthquake or something? It's not ski season yet, is it?

Yes, the animation has taken a serious dive, and being a Madhouse show, I don't understand why. It's odd. The poor English voice acting is getting annoying, too.

On the other hand, I do like the way the story is progressing. That's what's most important, I guess.

Yah the engrish was horrible in this episode.. though animation wise it did seem like it was missing some thing... other than that good episode... and i dunno but is ray and his sister supposed to be american born/nationality cause they could use some english lessons :P

well Ryuusuke and Maho are native Japanese but they lived in NY for 8 years IIRC (have to check the manga to be sure :p)