In the season premiere of Nikita, we were re-introduced to our heroes and shown how everyone’s been dealing with all the changes from the finale. So after such a spectacular opening episode, I just knew the second one wouldn’t live up to my expectations.

While “Falling Ash” saw the return of Owen to the fold, which I’m always happy about, it was the sub-plot of the episode I wasn’t too interested in. This is going to make those of you who know me laugh, but I thought mind control was just too X-Files for a show that has so far prided itself on spy games.

Amanda: I think your current condition is evidence of how fleeting friendships can be. Our relationship is different. I’m your business partner, and as such I’ll provide you with necessary incentive.

I know spies and sci-fi elements have been combined before on Alias, but it felt just a little out of place for me on this show. I thought the same thing last week, too, when Birkhoff’s high-tech robots showed up to save the day.

Another problem I’m having so far is Michael and Nikita becoming the core of the show while Alex is continuously relegated to the background. I like that we’re getting to see more of our titular character, but I’ve always found Alex to be a lot more interesting. I guess it’s something both the show and I, as a viewer, need to work on.

Michael: But you still don’t believe me.
Nikita: I believe in you and in us.

Other than that, I’m liking Michael and Nikita a lot more this season and love how they already act like an old married couple, even though they’re relationship is still relatively new. It’s refreshing to see them get into an argument but still be able to put aside their differences and make up afterward.

Birkhoff: As much as I love hosting couples therapy, you guys need to hit Craigslist. You got to the end of the week.

I’m also liking Birkhoff a lot more and was even into seeing him get a love interest this week in Alicia (SGU‘s Julie McNiven goes from one nerd to another!). I’m sad we didn’t get to see Alicia stick around longer, but Birkhoff probably has a lot going on anyway with Michael and Nikita still living at his place.

Sean: Do yourself a favor. Next time you have Nikita in your sights, take the shot. Because once she falls into Oversight’s custody, she will not be afforded any mercy … by anyone.

Alex really didn’t have much to do this week except show up and help Nikita out at the party. (See? Alex can’t help but care!) I’m more interested in her conversation with Agent Sean. Was he playing on Alex’s still lingering fluffy feelings towards Nikita?

Owen: You get how lucky you are? You got out of Division with the woman you love. That’s what I used to want for me and Emily.

The main focus of the episode though lies with Owen, who’s had it rough to say the least. Between having to watch Emily die and trying to fight his regimen withdrawals, it’s not too surprising that he’d do anything to take down division, including siding with Gogol. The poor guy is always trying to do the right thing. He just goes about it in all the wrong ways.

Nikita is not going to like this once she finds out he made a deal, but it’s Owen who has nothing to left to lose from it. Will Michael decide to take Owen’s advice and run away with Nikita while there’s still time?

Notes and Quotes:

I loved Alicia’s quick reference to World of Warcraft‘s Azeroth.

Owen: You’re kinda of small. You’d dissolve quick.
Birkhoff: Whatever.

Nikita: Michael, my love. Jag officer, yes. Junkie, no.

Next week:

It’s a game of cat and mouse. Nikita makes a move, and Amanda reciprocates. Will Michael be the one to fall?