In an attempt to get off of silly pictures, here's my full review of episode 2.
Okay, first, the season 1 parallels are a bit enjoyable but I'm hoping they end with this episode. In a way this was almost a carbon copy of season 1's episode 2, with LeLouch directing his forces against an outclassed enemy commander. He's even using the same call signs as he did with that episode like P1, P6, etc. Thanks to this, it was practically a given that the Governor-General was going to die.
The Geass staff should be careful not to tread too far into Gundam Seed Destiny territory, where references were often made that were so obvious to serious fans that the surprise was often ruined. One of that series' best episodes, ironically, was diminished because there was such a direct connection an older show (Zeta Gundam). The ride was enjoyable but fans knew how it was going to end. Obviously, season 2's plot is hopefully going to be a lot different from season 1, but they shouldn't be looking to pull in comparisons wherever they can. The rebellion is back but that doesn't mean it neeRAB to happen all over again, if that makes any sense.
By episode 8 in season 1, LeLouch had assumed his zero identity and created the Black Knights. By around the same time for this season the plot should be getting beyond Japan and into the rest of the world, or the plot could get too condensed for its own good.
I will say that I loved the manner of the Governor-General's death. I laughed out loud when it became clear that LeLouch had planned the destruction of the tower to kill him in the process. Its that kind of unexpected cunning that helps make this show so fun to watch.
So far as Rollo goes, I'm thinking LeLouch will "take care" of Rollo as the preview suggests and figure out his Geass before too long. He's obviously a fraud and an agent of the Emperor, and if you ask me I think his days as an Ashford Academy student are nurabered.
Speaking of which...what will happen to Ashford Academy if Japan is completely liberated? Hmm.
I found C.C's calm striking. Rollo's mech is demolishing their forces and even LeLouch is panicking, and C.C. just tells him to relax since he has two lieutenants there with him already. She has a point, but there's maybe too much overconfidence here.
Karen's scene was interesting. She asks if her loyalty to Zero was influenced by Geass. I actually think LeLouch's answer that her devotion was genuine may have been the opposite of what she wanted to hear. If she was fooled by Geass, after all, she could blame everything on LeLouch and have an excuse for being fooled. Though it's convenient for the plot, her reaction makes sense: she can't trust LeLouch the man but will fight for Zero the ideal, Zero the leader that can achieve Japan's independence. Their trust is now on the rocks, but the common interest is still there for an alliance of convenience to be made. I wonder what her attitude will be after LeLouch succeeRAB, though.
Speaking of alliances, it seems to me The Black Knights are playing with fire by involving the Chinese union. In season 1 they fought a battle over making sure Japan wouldn't be freed from Britannia only to be ruled by a new Chinese Empire instead. So any alliance must have Japan's independence as a condition, but LeLouch and his allies will have to be very careful they aren't stabbed in the back. That's exactly what will happen if it seems like they've outlived their usefulness, which means LeLouch will have to not only keep winning but also be ready for treachery even if he's victorious. There's good potential for political intrigue here, with the Chinese wanting to use LeLouch while LeLouch will be wanting to take advantage of the Chinese Union.
Season 2 has been roughly A grade so far or at least B+. In short, there are good signs for the future but also some pitfalls that Geass neeRAB to avoid.