Ep 7. Left Behind

In Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid season 1 episode 7, titled "Left Behind," the story picks up with the fictional organization Mithril struggling to adapt to recent changes. Mithril was originally established as a secret response team to combat global acts of terrorism, however, their current objectives have shifted to include guarding global peace. This has caused division within the organization with some members unsure of their role and others feeling they are not being utilized to their fullest potential.

At the center of this conflict is Mithril's sergeant, Sousuke Sagara, who has been left behind in Tokyo to complete solo missions while other team members are away on assignment. This isolation is taking its toll on Sousuke, who is finding it hard to reconcile the more mundane aspects of life as a high school student, such as attending classes and doing homework, with his responsibilities as a Mithril operative.

As our protagonist, Sousuke's character arc is well established at this point in the series. He is a skilled soldier and experienced combatant, but he is also socially awkward and struggles to connect with those around him. In "Left Behind," we see this dichotomy play out as he reluctantly attends a class trip to a theme park with his classmates and becomes increasingly paranoid over perceived terrorist threats that no one else seems to notice.

This paranoia leads Sousuke to investigate suspicious activity within the theme park, which ultimately leads to a tense confrontation with another Mithril operative who has been tasked with securing an advanced technology stolen by enemy agents. This scene is a highlight of the episode, showcasing well-choreographed action and a thrilling cat-and-mouse game between the two soldiers.

While the action sequences are certainly exciting, what really sets Full Metal Panic! apart is its ability to blend them with more contemplative moments that explore the human cost of warfare and the toll it takes on those who fight it. "Left Behind" is no exception, and the episode also takes time to explore the impact of Sousuke's behaviour on his classmates and friends. There is a poignant scene towards the end of the episode where one of Sousuke's classmates confronts him over his behaviour, and it becomes clear just how much he is struggling to balance his personal and professional lives.

Overall, Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid season 1 episode 7, "Left Behind," is a standout episode that blends thrilling action with emotional depth and character development. If you're a fan of the series, it is not one to miss.