STORY
Compared to the usual stuff from the series, this episode is more relevant to the characters themselves, namely Alicia and Akari, and reveals that Alicia does have her weaknesses (who'd have guessed).
It also hints at what is to eventually come.
For a 30-minute OVA I had the impression it was longer. Not that it's bad - moar Aria is never bad - in fact, it only made the enjoyable experience longer.
ART
The background, CG and animation were just about perfect, but I can't bring myself to like the different drawing style of the character's faces compared to the TV series. The cheeks are too thin, and the eyes a touch too big, making the faces rather...disproportionate. A contant distraction.
SOUND
On par at least with what we've been getting from the franchise. The OP takes some getting used to, but I liked it; it fit very well with the overall tone.
CHARACTER
With the dearth of development for the sempais for the TV series, a huge dose of delicious jailbait Alicia backstory is just what the doctor ordered.
ENJOYMENT
As relaxing and uplifting, with a touch of melancholy. Though as mentioned above the faces were a constant distraction.
OVERALL
Still can't get over the drawing style, but otherwise a great OVA.
