I automatically assumed Mamoru attacked the cat there out of fear since I had no better explanation. The Ethics committee already said that they don't interfere with the Education department though, so I wonder if they'll make such a case by stopping a kill.

I'm not quite "feeling" Maria's attachment to Mamoru still. Time has passed, but it still feels pretty jarring to me how it's gone from:

"I love Saki and don't give a shit about Mamoru"

to

"Mamoru!!!!"

My interpretation is torn between bonobos-love and a weak-brother/overanxious-sister relationship.