Ep 2. Training

The show Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom takes us into a dark world of assassination, crime, and power struggle. The series follows a young man named Zwei who is kidnapped and trained to become an assassin by a secret organization. This episode, titled "Training," revolves around Zwei's rigorous training to become a master assassin while also throwing light on the relationship dynamics between the various characters.

The episode begins with Zwei struggling to cope with his new, highly disciplined lifestyle. He's trained to be a perfect killing machine, and the toll it takes on him is clearly visible. However, the show doesn't explore this angle too deeply as it quickly shifts its focus to Zwei's training.

Zwei is taken through various phases of training, which include physical fitness, combat exercises, weapon training, and survival skills. The training sequences are intense, and they showcase the discipline and dedication that's needed to become an assassin. Zwei's instructor, Ein, is a tough taskmaster who demands nothing but the best from Zwei. She's cold, calculating, and devoid of emotions, which makes her an ideal assassin.

Throughout the episode, we see Zwei's progress as he gradually becomes better at his tasks. He initially struggles with his combat training, but with time, he develops impeccable precision and accuracy. Similarly, his weapons training is brutal, but he learns to handle and fire weapons like a pro. The show does a fantastic job of capturing Zwei's transformation from an ordinary civilian to a skilled assassin.

However, the best part of the episode is the relationship dynamics between the central characters. Zwei and Ein have an interesting dynamic that's built on mutual respect and admiration. Ein is not only Zwei's instructor, but she's also responsible for training him as an assassin for Inferno, the secret organization he's working for. Zwei, on the other hand, is torn between his loyalty to Inferno and his conscience, which tells him that he's doing wrong.

Apart from Zwei and Ein, the episode also introduces a new character named Claudia. Claudia is an enigmatic woman who's affiliated with Inferno. She's shrouded in mystery, and it's clear that she holds a lot of power within the organization. Claudia's motives are unknown, and it's clear that she's a force to be reckoned with.

The show also hints at the larger power struggle within Inferno, with several factions vying for control. It's clear that Zwei and Ein are just pawns in a much larger game, and their loyalty to the organization is tested time and again.

Overall, "Training" is a fantastic episode that serves as a great introduction to the show's central characters and themes. The episode sets the tone for the rest of the series and showcases the show's strengths, which include great action sequences, complex relationships, and a dark and gritty atmosphere. The show is not for the faint-hearted, and it features plenty of violence and gore. However, if you're a fan of action and crime dramas, Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom is a must-watch show.