Reviewers noted that this episode marked a return to form for Hiro Nakamura. After seasons of being used for "comic relief," Hiro regains his purpose by mentoring Emma and deciding to right a past wrong: the death of Charlie Andrews at the Burnt Toast Diner. The episode ends with Hiro teleporting back three years to the diner in Odessa, Texas.
: Still in the hospital, Hiro helps Emma Coolidge embrace her ability to see sound. He stages a magic show using his time-stopping powers to show her the "beauty" of her gift. Before Peter returns with the healing power, Hiro realizes he has a destiny to fulfill and disappears, leaving a note for Peter that simply says "Save Charlie" . Key Character Arc: Hiro's Redemption "Heroes" Chapter Five 'Tabula Rasa'(2009)
Critics gave the episode mixed to positive reviews, often calling it a "return to Season One roots" due to its focused character development and creative use of powers. Reviewers noted that this episode marked a return
praised the writing of Samuel Sullivan as a complex antagonist and the emotional weight of Noah Bennet's attempts to redeem his past failures. : Still in the hospital, Hiro helps Emma