The Unbreakable Bonds of Spy X Family Season 2: Unveiling Yuri's True Allegiance

Highlights

This episode of Spy x Family focuses on Yuri Briar and reveals a more sympathetic side to his character, adding depth to his personality.

Yuri is assigned a mission to gather information on reporter Franklin Perkin, who is accused of spreading anti-Ostanian material, which ultimately results in his apprehension.

The episode also features a comical segment highlighting Bondman and Loid's comical attempts to parent Anya.

Episode 3 of Season 2 of Spy x Family, titled "Mission and Family/The Elegant Bondman/The Heart of a Child/Waking Up," is currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The episode has an unconventional structure, with a series of short gags in the latter half. However, the main focus of the episode revolves around Yuri Briar, Yor's rarely-seen brother who is excessively protective and obsessed.

The episode centers on Yuri as he carries out his duties as a member of the State Security Service. While in the past, Yuri has been depicted as unsettling and possessive in his interactions with Yor, as well as harsh and ruthless when interrogating traitors to their country, this week unveils a more compassionate side to him, previously unseen by the audience. Despite his potential to be a significant obstacle for Twilight, Yuri is also a part of his family, and this narrative adds a layer of complexity to his character.

Secret Observation

Yuri springs into action, assisting in the successful takedown of a notorious group of spies engaged in illicit information trading. Impressed by his skills, Yuri is assigned a new mission - to keep a close watch on the activities of Franklin Perkin, a former journalist suspected of spreading anti-Ostanian propaganda in Westalis. Eager to prove his worth, Yuri becomes consumed with gathering every possible detail about Perkin's daily life. His reports are thorough and meticulous, but his superior can sense that Yuri is pushing himself beyond his limits. Concerned for his well-being, the superior insists that Yuri take a much-needed break. However, oblivious to his own exhaustion, Yuri dismisses the suggestion without a second thought.

After being pestered by his landlord for unpaid rent, Perkin sets off with his camera in search of inspiration. While strolling around capturing snapshots of his surroundings, Yuri and his supervisor tail him. Eventually, Perkin comes across a group of children engrossed in play with a Bondman pistol, sparking an idea. Acting swiftly, he seizes the pistol from one of the youngsters and hurls it into a nearby dumpster. The boys quickly rush to retrieve their prized possession, their actions skillfully documented by Perkin's camera as he plans to craft an article highlighting the distressing reality of children resorting to scavenging in garbage for sustenance.

For The Sake Of Family

At his home, after diligently completing his article, Perkin is interrupted by the entrance of his elderly father. Concerned for his son's safety, the father questions Perkin's involvement in perilous affairs. Nonetheless, Perkin maintains that he is solely endeavoring to make ends meet. Observing Perkin's impassioned outburst, Yuri contemplates whether familial responsibilities are the driving force behind Perkin's actions, but swiftly dismisses the notion. The following day, Yuri discreetly witnesses Perkin transmitting his article through his employment at the local post office, thus solidifying his active participation in disseminating this propaganda.

Soon, Perkin's home is surrounded by Yuri and several SSS agents, ready to apprehend him. Spotting them through his window, Perkin reluctantly accepts his inevitable fate and descends to face his arrest. Despite this, he cannot resist taking one final dig at Yuri, questioning who is more pitiful - the dog or the man who once fought for his country. In response, Yuri calmly asserts that he would never bring unhappiness to his family and, with a touch of sympathy, assures Perkin that his father will be taken care of. With his mission accomplished, Yuri decides to pay a visit to Yor at the Forgers' residence. Immediately, she detects a lack of his usual spirited demeanor, prompting him to confess that he only came to see her face. Yor affectionately pats him on the head to reassure him, and he quickly resumes his typically passionate and sister-obsessed self.

A Little Levity

The rest of the episode is dedicated to a few additional comedic scenes. Firstly, there is a parody segment called Bondman, where he uses his charm to attract a group of attractive partners. However, they eventually become disillusioned and annoyed with him for constantly pursuing other women, and they ultimately beat him up. After the credits, there are more short clips showing Loid attempting to be a parent to Anya. This includes scenes of him allowing her to ride a polar bear and taking her to the pool.

The centerpiece of the episode centers around Yuri, marking the first time in a while that his character is explored exclusively. In contrast to the generally relaxed tone of the series, this particular episode adopts a significantly more serious approach. While previous episodes have touched on darker themes, this story takes on a completely solemn tone, providing greater insight into the world of Ostania and shedding light on the societal dynamics at play. Furthermore, this episode brings Yuri's character to life in a profound way, showcasing his moments of compassion and empathy despite his relentless nature and obsessive tendencies.