The titular “line” in this case is the line crossed by several characters in this episode. In some cases, it’s a line of morality; in others, a line of good judgment. Whatever the case, that parallel structure is one of the better aspects of what would otherwise be a slow transitional episode.

The best subplot belonged to Mr. Bennett, who took his war against the Company to another level. Up to this point, his actions were largely covert, undermining the Company’s apparent initiatives. This episode is a potent reminder that Mr. Bennett’s violent side was simply being held in check. After all, he took down his manager in a fit of anger, however justified, so the potential was still there. With this action, he crosses a line, killing a former ally in the name of destroying the Company. One can only assume this is only the beginning.

Back in the past, Hiro finally brings Kensei to a turning point in history. He is ready to take on Whitebeard and claim his place as a great hero of Japan. Unfortunately, Hiro ends up using his ability to save Yaeko at a critical moment, and when they are alone, the story slips into cliché. Hiro kisses Yaeko, Kensei watches it happen, Kensei turns traitor, and history is seemingly broken. Hiro’s impulsive decision to cross the line led to potential disaster (potential, because the final outcome is still unknown).

One aspect of this subplot that I dislike is Yaeko’s characterization. Yaeko’s love is quick, almost unbelievably so, and tied directly to deeds rather than intentions. She was in love with Kensei when he was the mighty hero ready to save her father, despite his obvious and proven flaws. I would have been more impressed if Yaeko had been more observant and shrewd in her choices, and therefore a stronger character overall.

Mohinder already crossed the line of good judgment by taking Molly to the Company, but he had little choice in that. This episode draws him further down the spiral, providing some insight into the methods and justifications within the Company. If the majority of the Twelve were involved with the creation of the Company on some level, and some of them continue to support its less savory aspects, is the war against them truly unjust?

Whatever the case, Mohinder finds himself in a difficult position. He cannot leave the Company, but he also cannot sanction the experiments on unwilling victims. If Bob backed down and chose to train Monica, there had to be an ulterior motive. More to the point, Bob may have decided that another subject would be better. While it’s unclear if he is telling the truth, Bob seems to believe that Adam Munroe is enough of a threat to justify any means of defense. Here again, there is a line being crossed, particularly from Mohinder’s point of view.

It’s quite possible that Peter will be forced to cross a line himself, especially if he discovers that the Company is somehow responsible for the impending plague. Mohinder has warned Bob and others that the powered-specific virus could jump to the general population, and that vaccines and genetic manipulation would only enhance that possibility. It seems like that Adam could be manipulating Peter into serving his own ends, but there’s not enough information at this point.

Speaking of manipulation, Sylar is doing a perfect job of using Maya’s earnest desire for salvation against her. What’s better is Alejandro’s realization that Sylar is using them for his own ends. Sylar is certainly not hiding his true nature from Alejandro, which should put to rest any speculation that he’s simply misunderstood. He wants to add to his collection of abilities, and he’ll happily murder Maya and Alejandro to do it.

The most egregious line might have been crossed by the writers in their treatment of Claire, thanks to the influence of a deeply annoying West. West has made it very clear that he finds his ability liberating and that Claire should feel the same way. Claire has every reason to hide her ability. When around West, Claire throws caution to the wind, and she doesn’t seem to realize that West has little interest or concern for her pain. It’s one thing to expose herself saving the world; it’s quite another to expose herself during high school antics.

All of the disparate subplots were united by the common theme and some general overlapping, but the overall story was advanced only incrementally. This is becoming a source of great frustration for many fans, and it is beginning to show in the ratings. At this point in the first season, threads were coming together more quickly. While I would like to believe that the “Heroes” audience is patient, the writers may be pushing their luck.