They sure seemed to be taking their sweet time in earlier chapters. But these last few feel like they have been given an ultimatum (is the ax hammer looming). The story now feels like they are rushing to finish it. Goodness knows that Aoi cherry was probably GOING to get plucked within the week ... and no amount of plot devices and/or armor could stop the pending dickening.
Also, good job getting your friend killed MC. Well, he's not technically dead yet but it seems like both check and mate. Crazy boots (sword girl) over there might just fuck him instead of killing him, LOL ... she's good for it.