Driven by their fear, Dornkirk and Folken put together their own plan to drive a wedge between Hitomi and Escaflowne. Aiding their efforts is the complicated web of romance that is growing between all the main characters. Not only Hitomi, but Millerna as well, are conflicted about their own desires. Millerna acts impulsively and choses Dryden, triggering the series of events that foreshadow disaster. All of this feeds into Folken's plans, and the destiny engine is brought to bear.

Up to now, the romantic element in Escaflowne has provided a light backdrop to the deeply serious politic situation, but now politics, science and romance mix - and not very well. Destiny now takes its place as the major theme of the series, not only as fate, but as a weapon as well. This is the true menace of the powers of Atlantis, unleashed on a world before their time. How far can Dornkirk's engine reach? Can events on Gaea influence Earth?

One think you can never accuse this series of is oversimplification. The plot is built in layers, mixing the magical with hard science. In doing so, Escaflowne creates its own genre, with a far broader appeal than was originally anticipated. It has not received the wide acceptance in the US it received in Japan, mostly due to poor marketing. I continue to encourage viewers to consider this set as an excellent example of what commercial anime can be when the highest production standards are applied.