One episode where the drawing style is noticeably different. Just look at LJ from this and from last episode.
Rick’s new invention does not quite work yet. LJ makes quite a few jokes about it which is quite unusual. But it’s all in good fun between them. Rick clearly is frustrated. I always found it annoying that they did not stand that much apart from each other but where still shouting like crazy.
Uh-oh, Ming interferes!
Ming implats a chip to make sure he knows LJs thought at all times. In order to save Rick, LJ has to sabotage the Defenders. If he doesn’t, Rick is history. No chance to get out of this because Ming can read LJs thoughts.
Rick is not responding but they have to leave urgently. I liked this scene where Mandrake notices something is going on with LJ but LJ lets him think he’s just worried about Rick.
LJ is going what he is told but is placing everyone in great danger because their weapons won’t function.
They realize it’s sabotage but who could it be? Kshin is shown here but he barely features in this episode.
We learn once again that LJs full name is Lothar Junior. Later Dynak tells the adults who reprogrammed her and they are all shocked.
But LJ are also making demands of his own and wants to see Rick. He uses Rick’s invention to get out of this mess.
Only nine of ten tigers appear.
This manoveur is called “follow the leader” and is mentioned again in another episode.
He chip is taken out - so they do have a medical room, too?
I wish there would have been a scene between LJ and Lothar too.
But I do love their friendship!
I do like the idea of forced sabotage and Ming controlling one of the Defenders who has to do what he says in order to keep someone else safe. However, I feel like the others should have been more at risk - going into battle with non-functioning weapons and such and maybe LJ having to make a decision to save Rick or to save the rest of the team and the innocent people of New York City (which were getting attacked in his episode). The adults should have talked with LJ and made sure he is ok afterwards. Of course it was not his fault but I doubt “chip gone, all good” applies here. Surely this must have been more dramatic for LJ? I do like the friendship between Rick and LJ and the fact that Mandrake noticed something was going on and initiated a conversation.
