Quantum Ex Machina
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???
A ruined building lit by the setting sun.
Almost poetic, isn't it?
Almost poetic, isn't it?
???
Sunrise Luxury Apartments. Sounds
like they had high-class clientele in mind.
like they had high-class clientele in mind.
???
And now it's just an overdesigned
headstone of concrete and ruined glass.
headstone of concrete and ruined glass.
???
What are you muttering about, Kazuto?
I hope you aren't losing your nerve.
I hope you aren't losing your nerve.
Kazuto
Hah, not likely.
???
I certainly hope not. I don't need you
interfering with my mission.
interfering with my mission.
Kazuto
I wouldn't dream of it, Your Excellency
Astrid.
Astrid.
Astrid
See that you don't. Are you mentally
prepared to breach the building?
prepared to breach the building?
Kazuto
Yeah. Have been for ages.
Astrid
Then why are you standing around?
We could use some more scouting data.
We could use some more scouting data.
Kazuto
Ah, so that's what you've been doing?
Scouting?
Scouting?
Astrid
But of course. Thorough reconnaissance
is vital for any infiltration mission.
is vital for any infiltration mission.
Kazuto
So I've been told. Did you find what you
were looking for?
were looking for?
Astrid
Huh? What do you mean?
Kazuto
We already had our entry points
established when we showed up.
established when we showed up.
Kazuto
Seems pretty dangerous to be walking
around this building without cover.
around this building without cover.
Kazuto
So you must have been looking for
something useful. Something specific.
something useful. Something specific.
Astrid
Well, I... I mean...
Kazuto
...or were you just wandering around
to look useful to the Commander?
to look useful to the Commander?
Astrid
Wha—!
Kazuto
That's fine and all. Just save enough
strength to help the hostages later.
strength to help the hostages later.
Astrid
T-that is not...!
I...!
I...!
???
This is Command. Respond.
Astrid
...Commander Luther! Astrid speaking.
We are on standby!
We are on standby!
Kazuto
Kazuto here. Also on standby.
Astrid
Nothing further to report!
Luther
Good.
Luther
...hm? Astrid, your pulse is elevated.
Did something happen?
Did something happen?
Astrid
N-no, that is...!
Luther
Elevated bioresponses can cause your
nanobot field to fail. As you well know.
nanobot field to fail. As you well know.
Astrid
...I-I apologize. I'll be more careful.
Luther
Make sure you are.
Now then. On to the briefing.
Now then. On to the briefing.
Luther
We captured this image with a scouting
drone not long ago.
drone not long ago.
Kazuto
Six girls, cuffed and bound...
No sign of the terrorists, though.
No sign of the terrorists, though.
Luther
We believe they're staying out of sight
to avoid giving away their position.
to avoid giving away their position.
Kazuto
So they're expecting us...
Luther
Most likely.
Luther
We've also discovered the hostages'
identities, as well as a trait they share.
identities, as well as a trait they share.
Kazuto
And that is?
Luther
All of them are gifted athletes, models,
or artists. In other words, prodigies.
or artists. In other words, prodigies.
Kazuto
So these guys are after ransoms from
rich families.
rich families.
Luther
Possible but unlikely, especially since
we have received no demands.
we have received no demands.
Luther
What do you think? Any other
explanations come to mind?
explanations come to mind?
Astrid
...! Could the terrorists be looking for
the final Vessel?!
the final Vessel?!
Kazuto
By kidnapping naturally gifted young
women. The logic follows, at least.
women. The logic follows, at least.
Astrid
Vessels can't die before the Requiem
starts, right?
starts, right?
Astrid
A fatal wound would suffice as a test,
which means...
which means...
Astrid
Commander, if we don't act quickly,
those girls will be in grave danger!
those girls will be in grave danger!
Luther
I came to the same conclusion. I knew
I picked you two for a reason.
I picked you two for a reason.
Luther
Especially you, Astrid. Now, turn that
quick-mindedness toward the mission.
quick-mindedness toward the mission.
Astrid
Understood! I swear I'll save each and
every hostage!
every hostage!
Luther
Kazuto, scour the building for any
information about these terrorists.
information about these terrorists.
Luther
We may be able to catch them before
they strike again.
they strike again.
Kazuto
Understood.
Astrid
Finally... Father's trusting me to lead
a mission...
a mission...
Luther
Ah, right on time. Astrid, Kazuto, these
two will be your backup.
two will be your backup.
Kazuto
These two...?
???
Astri!
Astrid
Huh? What...?
—aah!
—aah!
???
Astri, Astri! I've been dying to meet you!
Astrid
W-what are you doing, leaping upon
me like that?!
me like that?!
Anya
Astri? ...Astri, it's me! Anya!
Astrid
Don't call me by some nickname, I don't
even know you!
even know you!
Anya
...huh? But I... what are you saying?
Astrid
I could ask the same of you. Don't you
realize this is a strategy meeting?
realize this is a strategy meeting?
Astrid
Fan of mine or no, I expect you to
remember your decorum in the future.
remember your decorum in the future.
Anya
B-but I...
I...
I...
Kazuto
Hey, the kid's just excited to meet you,
Astrid.
Astrid.
Kazuto
Don't be too hard on her, you'll bring
down her morale.
down her morale.
Astrid
Fine, fine. Whatever.
Astrid
Anya, was it? I'm sorry I snapped at you,
but you can't act like this out in the field.
but you can't act like this out in the field.
Anya
...r-right.
???
Honestly, after I warned her not to jump
out at you...
out at you...
Kazuto
And who might you be?
Reina
Reina Fujiwara, graduate of Shinano
Academy, practicing M.D.
Academy, practicing M.D.
Kazuto
Shinano Academy? Then you're one
of the Church's Vessels?
of the Church's Vessels?
Astrid
What is a Vessel doing here?!
Reina
Weren't you told? This is a joint
operation.
operation.
Kazuto
Between the Red Dragon Institute
and the Church?
and the Church?
Reina
That's right. Given the likely motive of
these kidnappings, it seemed wise.
these kidnappings, it seemed wise.
Reina
We don't have the resources to deal
with threats like this, but the RDI does.
with threats like this, but the RDI does.
Astrid
Working together with the Church...
Reina
Astrid, was it? I'm told your missions
frequently cause casualties.
frequently cause casualties.
Reina
As a doctor, I'd appreciate it if you
avoided making extra work for me, okay?
avoided making extra work for me, okay?
Astrid
W-what?! Casualties?! When have I
ever—
ever—
Kazuto
Cool it, Astrid. You're sparking again.
Astrid
I...!
C-Commander, this isn't what...!
C-Commander, this isn't what...!
Luther
I expect results from you, Astrid,
not excuses.
not excuses.
Astrid
Y-yes, sir! I will do my utmost!
Luther
Now, on to tactics. You'll be acting
in teams of two.
in teams of two.
Luther
Anya will guard Kazuto. Reina and
Astrid, you're to free the hostages.
Astrid, you're to free the hostages.
Luther
If an opportunity arises to capture the
perpetrators, prioritize that over all.
perpetrators, prioritize that over all.
Kazuto
(This little girl, guard me? From what,
puppy dogs?)
puppy dogs?)
Kazuto
Hey. The name's Kazuto. Good to have
you with us.
you with us.
Anya
R-right...
Kazuto
(I have a bad feeling about this...)
Kazuto
(Whatever. If I have to, I can manage
on my own.)
on my own.)
Kazuto
(We may not have Gifts, but we've got
our nanofields. Our Ex Machina.)
our nanofields. Our Ex Machina.)
Kazuto
(...I won't let another tragedy happen
on my watch.)
on my watch.)
Luther
Now, I formally declare this operation
underway!
underway!
Luther
Red Dragon Squad! Enter the Sunrise
Building, and rescue the hostages!
Building, and rescue the hostages!
Scene 2
Astrid
This is Astrid. No contact so far.
Making my way to the hostages.
Making my way to the hostages.
Astrid
(I will make this mission a success!
I swear I will!)
I swear I will!)
Astrid
From the culprits' psychological profile,
I believe the hostages are on the 1st floor!
I believe the hostages are on the 1st floor!
Kazuto
No, the room in the drone shot was
on the 3rd floor, west side.
on the 3rd floor, west side.
Kazuto
You saw it too, remember?
Astrid
How can you be so sure?
Kazuto
My drone snapped the pic. I just took a
look at the location data.
look at the location data.
Astrid
...of course. Guess that explains why you
weren't scouting earlier.
weren't scouting earlier.
Kazuto
We have our location. Stop muttering
already.
already.
Astrid
I-I wasn't muttering!
Kazuto
We're moving up to the 5th floor.
Radio if you need backup.
Radio if you need backup.
Astrid
We won't. Come along, Vess—
...excuse me. Reina.
...excuse me. Reina.
Reina
Of course. Oh, but before we go...
Anya?
Anya?
Anya
...?
Reina
May fortune favor you in your battles.
Kazuto
Huh? What was that about?
Anya
Oh, um, she just... she just wished me
luck.
luck.
Kazuto
Luck, huh...
Alright. Let's go.
Alright. Let's go.
Anya
O-okay.
Kazuto
Looks like they never got around to
finishing anything above the 3rd floor.
finishing anything above the 3rd floor.
Anya
I guess not...
Kazuto
(She's nervous... or just shaken up about
that thing with Astrid.)
that thing with Astrid.)
Kazuto
...so, "Anya." Is that a nickname, or...?
Anya
Huh? Um... yes, it is. My real name is
Anastasia.
Anastasia.
Kazuto
That so? And how old are you?
Anya
I'm... fifteen.
Kazuto
Fifteen? That's a surprise. I'd have
guessed twelve.
guessed twelve.
Anya
Twelve? T-that's not... I mean, I know
I'm short... b-but...
I'm short... b-but...
Kazuto
Hey, I didn't mean anything by it. That's
just how you look.
just how you look.
Anya
...hmph.
Kazuto
(I know the Cube implants in our brains
have an impact on development...)
have an impact on development...)
Kazuto
(But this much? She looks like she'd
collapse in a stiff breeze.)
collapse in a stiff breeze.)
Kazuto
...we're almost there. I'll take the lead.
Let me handle any trouble.
Let me handle any trouble.
Anya
Huh? O-okay...
Kazuto
Let's get to it. Creating drones...
Activating...
Activating...
Anya
Wow! You made all those drones appear
out of thin air?!
out of thin air?!
Kazuto
(Set them to all-range mode... Let's say
fifteen total for this floor.)
fifteen total for this floor.)
Kazuto
If they left any traces or traps behind,
I'll find them.
I'll find them.
Astrid
—I repeat. We've made it to the 3rd floor.
Reina
That room in the corner. Could that
be where the hostages are?
be where the hostages are?
Astrid
Seems likely. Let's proceed with caution.
Astrid
...how strange. It's too quiet.
Reina
It could be that the hostages are being
monitored.
monitored.
Reina
Or perhaps they're already...
Astrid
—we have to move! There's no time
to waste!
to waste!
Reina
I agree. We can't let them die.
Astrid
This is the Red Dragons! Drop your
weap... huh? It's empty.
weap... huh? It's empty.
Reina
This is definitely the room from the
drone footage...
drone footage...
Astrid
Could they have moved the hostages
to another room?
to another room?
Reina
That seems like the only plausible
explanation.
explanation.
Astrid
...
Reina
My, don't you look relieved! I suppose
you're glad the girls aren't here.
you're glad the girls aren't here.
Astrid
W-what?! Of course not! That would be...
Reina
If they were here, half the credit for
finding them would go to Kazuto.
finding them would go to Kazuto.
Reina
You want to find and rescue them all
on your own. Isn't that right?
on your own. Isn't that right?
Astrid
...no. Human lives are far too precious
to use as pawns.
to use as pawns.
Astrid
But I suppose I can't expect a future
murderer to understand that.
murderer to understand that.
Reina
What a strange way to look at it.
Reina
You think a thief doesn't understand
the value of what she steals?
the value of what she steals?
Astrid
What?
Reina
Oh, nothing. Now's hardly the time for
such a debate anyway.
such a debate anyway.
Reina
But if I may... I value my life more
highly than theirs. Or yours.
highly than theirs. Or yours.
Astrid
(She values herself. That should be
only natural, and yet...)
only natural, and yet...)
Astrid
(That cold, clinical tone...
Vessels truly are fearsome creatures.)
Vessels truly are fearsome creatures.)
Reina
In any case, we can't rescue the hostages
if they're nowhere to be found.
if they're nowhere to be found.
Reina
If we don't hurry, I'm afraid Kazuto's
drones will beat you to the punch.
drones will beat you to the punch.
Astrid
...I'm sure the hostages will be happy
for our haste, no matter what.
for our haste, no matter what.
Astrid
Yes... the question of who finds them
first is immaterial.
first is immaterial.
Reina
Haha, so it is. Let's make this fast, for
their sakes.
their sakes.
Astrid
Yes, of course!
Astrid
(If the culprits know we're entering from
below... aha!)
below... aha!)
Astrid
Reina, search the floors as you ascend the
building. I'm going to the roof.
building. I'm going to the roof.
Reina
The roof? Why?
Astrid
Call it a soldier's intuition!
Astrid
(They will expect us to use the stairs.
Perhaps they hope to ambush us...)
Perhaps they hope to ambush us...)
Reina
Astrid? That's a window. Are you
planning to jump?
planning to jump?
Astrid
No. I'm planning to fly!
Astrid
Behold the power of my Ex Machina!
Reina
She's using her flames as a rocket
engine? My, how reckless...
engine? My, how reckless...
Scene 3
Anya
Kyaa! W-what was that sound?!
Kazuto
Ah... take a peek out the window.
Anya
Um, I see a giant plume of smoke...
Kazuto
Yeah, I figured. That was Astrid, using
her Ex Machina to fly.
her Ex Machina to fly.
Anya
F-fly? Isn't that dangerous? Is she going
to be okay?
to be okay?
Kazuto
Sure, as long as they don't have any
surface-to-air missiles.
surface-to-air missiles.
Anya
Missiles...
Kazuto
I'm joking. Lighten up.
Anya
B-but they're terrorists...
What if they really do...?
What if they really do...?
Kazuto
Geez... look, everything we've seen has
been amateur hour so far, right?
been amateur hour so far, right?
Kazuto
You should be able to guess what kind
of firepower we're dealing with here.
of firepower we're dealing with here.
Anya
Oh, um...
Kazuto
Come on, it's just a matter of field
experience.
experience.
Anya
Well... I... um...
Kazuto
You... have field experience, right?
This isn't your first mission, right?
This isn't your first mission, right?
Anya
It is...
Kazuto
You're joking. A hostage rescue with
lives on the line?!
lives on the line?!
Anya
I'm sorry.
Kazuto
No, it's not your fault. Damn it...
What the hell is the Commander doing?
What the hell is the Commander doing?
Anya
Kazuto, sir?
Kazuto
First missions should be logistical
support or perimeter control...
support or perimeter control...
Kazuto
Not something that puts you right in
the line of fire!
the line of fire!
Anya
But this is what the Commander wanted
me to do...
me to do...
Kazuto
Who cares?! You're still a human being,
not some pawn for him to use!
not some pawn for him to use!
Kazuto
...I didn't mean to shout. Here, I'll make
you a shelter. You can hide there.
you a shelter. You can hide there.
Anya
Hide...? N-no! I was given a mission!
I need to prove I can do it!
I need to prove I can do it!
Kazuto
...you sound just like Astrid. Mission this,
prove that...
prove that...
Anya
But I—
...huh? What is that?
...huh? What is that?
Kazuto
Sorry, but your mission's over. Stay put
and stay quiet until—
and stay quiet until—
Anya
...!
Anya
Get down, sir!
Kazuto
What—?!
Kazuto
Nngh... it... it doesn't...hurt?
Kazuto
What the hell? I was right next to that
explosion, but...
explosion, but...
Kazuto
What is this? A shield? Where did it come
from...?
from...?
Anya
K-Kazuto, sir! Are you alright?!
Kazuto
Y-yeah, I think so. Wait, did you make
this thing?
this thing?
Anya
Yes. This is my Ex Machina power.
I, um... I call her Aegis.
I, um... I call her Aegis.
Kazuto
Instantaneous material creation...
You have the same power as me, then!
You have the same power as me, then!
Kazuto
Phew... You really saved my ass.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Anya
Oh, no, I'm... just glad I could help.
Kazuto
(She blocked that whole explosion...
Wonder if her Cube is overclocked.)
Wonder if her Cube is overclocked.)
Kazuto
(Maybe she's some kind of secret project
of the Commander's.)
of the Commander's.)
Kazuto
That explosion was on a different level
from any of the other traps we've seen.
from any of the other traps we've seen.
Anya
Yes. It was... terrifying.
Kazuto
And my drones didn't pick it up at all.
That's some serious camouflage.
That's some serious camouflage.
Kazuto
(But then, how did Anya notice it?
No, I can worry about that later.)
No, I can worry about that later.)
Anya
What if all the other traps we found
were fake ones, to disguise this one?
were fake ones, to disguise this one?
Kazuto
Then... I guess they wanted to lead us
right into it.
right into it.
Anya
But why?
Kazuto
Maybe to test us. Maybe just for kicks.
Kazuto
Anyway, let's meet up with Astrid. She
must have heard that explosion too.
must have heard that explosion too.
Anya
Right. Reina and Astri... Astrid could
be in danger.
be in danger.
Kazuto
Let's ask what floor they're...
——Ah, crap.
——Ah, crap.
Anya
What is it?
...ah! The radio!
...ah! The radio!
Kazuto
Looks like that explosion fried it.
Anya
No! How are we going to find them now?
Kazuto
We know they're above the 3rd floor,
but this place has 20 floors in total.
but this place has 20 floors in total.
Anya
And Astrid's probably not with Reina
anymore, if she flew up somewhere...
anymore, if she flew up somewhere...
Kazuto
Right. The terrorists must have moved
the hostages from the 3rd floor, meaning—
the hostages from the 3rd floor, meaning—
Kazuto
...Astrid's on the roof.
Anya
The roof? How do you know?
Kazuto
Call it a soldier's intuition.
Kazuto
Come on, let's hurry.
Anya
U-um, do you want me to come with you
now?
now?
Kazuto
Of course. Just don't do anything
reckless.
reckless.
Anya
O-okay! Um... I'll do my best! I promise!
Kazuto
(Her power could be our trump card.
No sense leaving her behind...)
No sense leaving her behind...)
Kazuto
And I won't be able to protect her if I
don't keep her close.
don't keep her close.
Anya
Sir? Did you say something?
Kazuto
Heh. Just bummed that I'll have a little
girl following me around, that's all.
girl following me around, that's all.
Anya
...I know I'm young, but...
But...
But...
Kazuto
Come on, run! There's no time to lose!
Anya
O-okay!
Scene 4
Astrid
Looks like this floor was supposed to be
the penthouse.
the penthouse.
Astrid
No traps... I suppose they didn't have
time to set any up.
time to set any up.
Astrid
I see this place was relatively close to
being finished.
being finished.
Astrid
A veranda pool, a full bar... This really
was planned to be the lap of luxury.
was planned to be the lap of luxury.
Astrid
This whole skyscraper is a monument
to empty vanity in a dying world...
to empty vanity in a dying world...
Astrid
Oh... what a cute music box. I used
to have one just like it.
to have one just like it.
Astrid
This does remind me of my childhood
home. Especially the emptiness...
home. Especially the emptiness...
Astrid
(After Mother died, I was often left
alone in that huge, cold house.)
alone in that huge, cold house.)
Astrid
(Father locked himself in his lab,
refusing to even look at me.)
refusing to even look at me.)
Astrid
(Every night, I cried myself to sleep
in loneliness...)
in loneliness...)
Astrid
(If I had only had a playmate...
A sister, perhaps. Then...)
A sister, perhaps. Then...)
Astrid
A sister. If I had had a sister, surely—
Astrid
What was that?! Did something explode
further down?
further down?
???
Kyaaaaa!
Astrid
...! That scream sounded close!
Astrid
A criminal would have stifled their
reaction. That was a hostage!
reaction. That was a hostage!
Astrid
(I've found them. But the terrorists are
likely to be in there too.)
likely to be in there too.)
Astrid
(Can I subdue them while protecting
the hostages? It may be difficult...)
the hostages? It may be difficult...)
Astrid
I ought to call for backup.
Astrid
...the radio isn't connecting?
Astrid
...
Astrid
(The hostages are in danger... and
rescuing them is my mission.)
rescuing them is my mission.)
Astrid
If I must go alone, then—
Kazuto
Astrid! Don't rush in!
Astrid
Kazuto!
Anya
Huff... huff...
Astrid, ma'am... you're alright...
Astrid, ma'am... you're alright...
Kazuto
Were you just about to bust in there alone?
Good thing we came running.
Good thing we came running.
Astrid
Well, I... h-how did you know I was here?
Did you find any evidence?
Did you find any evidence?
Kazuto
Not yet. We have more important things
to worry about now.
to worry about now.
Kazuto
We could be standing in a trap.
Astrid
What?
Kazuto
That explosion was an enemy trap. One
that was hidden amazingly well.
that was hidden amazingly well.
Kazuto
They pulled back to draw us upstairs,
and we followed right behind them.
and we followed right behind them.
Astrid
If you knew that, why didn't you report it
over the radio?
over the radio?
Kazuto
Well, uh... it kind of got... blown up.
Astrid
You blew up your radio?!
Honestly, Kazuto!
Honestly, Kazuto!
Kazuto
Hey, it wasn't on purpose!
Astrid
Fine... I'll use mine, then.
Astrid
Reina? This is Astrid.
Astrid
The situation has changed. Secure an
escape route. We'll join you shortly.
escape route. We'll join you shortly.
Astrid
Be prepared to receive hostages,
possibly injured. Out.
possibly injured. Out.
Astrid
...losing your radio on-site is a rookie
mistake, you know.
mistake, you know.
Kazuto
Yeah, yeah. So, the hostages are in
there?
there?
Astrid
Yes. I believe there may also be
enemies within.
enemies within.
Kazuto
Then you focus on the rescuing. I'll
smack around the bad guys.
smack around the bad guys.
Astrid
Let's move. Anya, you—
Anya
I-I'll do anything I can!
Astrid
No, you're to evacuate and meet up
with Reina on the ground.
with Reina on the ground.
Anya
Huh? Oh...
Kazuto
No, she's coming with us.
Astrid
What? Why?
Kazuto
It makes sense. Her power's similar to
mine, if not even stronger.
mine, if not even stronger.
Astrid
Stronger...? Really?
Anya
I-I'll do my best, I promise!
Astrid
Fine. Come along, then. Just don't get us
in trouble.
in trouble.
Kazuto
On three.
Kazuto
One, two... three!
Kazuto
We're the Red Dragon Squad! Hands up
over—
over—
Kazuto
...there's no one here?
Astrid
The hostages are unconscious.
No external injuries, though.
No external injuries, though.
Anya
W-wait! This one's awake!
???
A-aaah, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Please,
don't hurt me any more!
don't hurt me any more!
Astrid
Easy, now. We're the Red Dragons.
We're here to rescue you.
We're here to rescue you.
???
Rescue...! R-really?
Astrid
I know you must be frightened, but
you'll be safe soon, I promise.
you'll be safe soon, I promise.
???
Oh, thank you...
Thank you...!
Thank you...!
Kazuto
You're the chess grandmaster,
Yuriko Kamakiri, right?
Yuriko Kamakiri, right?
Yuriko
Y-yes. Well, ex-grandmaster, now, but...
Could you get these cuffs off, please?
Could you get these cuffs off, please?
Kazuto
Sure, leave that to me.
Astrid
We'll search the room, then. There may
be traps set up here.
be traps set up here.
Kazuto
What the... I've never seen engineering
like this. What are these?
like this. What are these?
Kazuto
Just like that explosive. These terrorists
got their hands on some advanced tech...
got their hands on some advanced tech...
Kazuto
This is going to take me a while to get
through.
through.
Astrid
No traps or clues... so, where did these
terrorists get off to?
terrorists get off to?
Astrid
(...Anya's staring at me again.)
Astrid
Is there something you'd like to say
to me?
to me?
Anya
Aah! N-no, I... um...
Astrid
Then why are you staring at me? I can
feel it every time I look away!
feel it every time I look away!
Anya
I-I'm sorry...
I-it's nothing, really...
I-it's nothing, really...
Astrid
(It hardly seems like "nothing."
She clearly has something to say.)
She clearly has something to say.)
Astrid
(She may have impressed Kazuto, but
I don't think she's cut out for this.)
I don't think she's cut out for this.)
Astrid
If we were anywhere else, I would give
her a piece of my mind.
her a piece of my mind.
Astrid
What a troublesome girl...
Kazuto
Okay, now I... tch, no, that's not it...
Let's try...
Let's try...
Yuriko
You're good with machines, aren't you?
Kazuto
Hm? Finally starting to settle down?
Yuriko
Yes, I think I've tired myself out. Will
it distract you if we talk a little?
it distract you if we talk a little?
Kazuto
(I'm focusing over here... but probably
better not to upset a hostage.)
better not to upset a hostage.)
Kazuto
Nah, go for it.
Yuriko
Then, um... when did you join the army?
The Red Dragons, I mean?
The Red Dragons, I mean?
Kazuto
Had my surgery at six, joined up at
fourteen. It's been four years since then.
fourteen. It's been four years since then.
Yuriko
Six... wasn't it hard? To have all those
surgeries and experiments done?
surgeries and experiments done?
Kazuto
Not really.
Ah, I see, this goes like that...
Ah, I see, this goes like that...
Yuriko
It's called the Cube, right? Your implant?
I hear it has all sorts of side effects.
I hear it has all sorts of side effects.
Kazuto
Yeah, mine did a number on me, or so
I'm told.
I'm told.
Yuriko
I thought so. My brain is how I make
my living. I could never risk that.
my living. I could never risk that.
Yuriko
...do you regret joining up with the
Red Dragons?
Red Dragons?
Kazuto
Sorry, hang on. Okay, I think I've
got this...?
got this...?
Kazuto
Yeah, okay, then... hah!
That was a breeze!
That was a breeze!
Kazuto
As for regrets... can't say I don't have
them. I lost someone important to me.
them. I lost someone important to me.
Kazuto
But it's work only we can do. We do
what has to be done. That's all.
what has to be done. That's all.
Yuriko
Yes... I agree. Work only we can do...
What has to be done...
What has to be done...
Yuriko
I agree completely!
Kazuto
Wha—!
What are you doing?!
What are you doing?!
Astrid
What is the meaning of this?!
Step away from him, now!
Step away from him, now!
Yuriko
I'm afraid I can't. This is step one of
my plan, after all.
my plan, after all.
Astrid
Plan...? You're one of the terrorists?!
Yuriko
Haha. I bet you weren't expecting that.
Yuriko
Time for step two. Come on out!
Astrid
W-what is this?
Anya
They all have the same face...!
Astrid
Disguises? That's just unsettling...
Yuriko
If you think that's unsettling, how about
this?
this?
Anya
There are so many!
Astrid
What are you trying to pull here?!
Kazuto
(They're like mass-manufactured drones.
In that case, maybe...!)
In that case, maybe...!)
Kazuto
Don't underestimate me, terrorist!
Yuriko
What?!
Yuriko
Where did that drone come from?!
Spawned it from your nanofield, huh...
Spawned it from your nanofield, huh...
Kazuto
Tch. Felt like you were planning to
strangle me there.
strangle me there.
Anya
Kazuto! Are you okay?
Kazuto
Yeah. But have a look at that.
Astrid
...w-what?!
Anya
Are those machine parts... under her
skin?!
skin?!
Kazuto
It's an android. One as smart as a
human. That's theoretical tech.
human. That's theoretical tech.
Yuriko
Whoops, the secret's out. Well spotted,
Red Dragons.
Red Dragons.
Astrid
What are you after? The last Vessel?
Yuriko
Yes, that's right. We need her to begin
the Requiem.
the Requiem.
Yuriko
Otherwise, this chaos will only get
worse, and more people will suffer.
worse, and more people will suffer.
Kazuto
Why did you lure us in here?
Yuriko
I wanted to learn more about you.
Yuriko
About your Ex Machina, capable of
matching a Vessel... and about you.
matching a Vessel... and about you.
Yuriko
But now I have what I need, and now I
can start building countermeasures.
can start building countermeasures.
Kazuto
So this was all for data collection...
Yuriko
I do want to know one more thing, if
it's not too much trouble.
it's not too much trouble.
Yuriko
The Red Dragons' stance on altruism
and the greater good.
and the greater good.
Astrid
I don't like the sound of that...
Yuriko
Five minutes from now, ten of the bombs
from before will go off at once.
from before will go off at once.
Kazuto
What?! That kind of force would bring
down the whole building!
down the whole building!
Yuriko
Exactly. How can you escape in five
minutes while my androids pursue you?
minutes while my androids pursue you?
Kazuto
...why, you—!
Yuriko
That's right. Abandon the hostages...
Yuriko
Or all of you will die along with them.
Anya
That's... awful...
Yuriko
Which will you choose? Your own lives,
or those of helpless innocents?
or those of helpless innocents?
Yuriko
Haha... hahahaha...
Hah... h... hhh——
Hah... h... hhh——
Scene 5
Astrid
L-let us negotiate! We can transmit
your demands to the Commander!
your demands to the Commander!
Kazuto
No use. The robot's fried.
Anya
B-but... it seemed just like a person a
second ago...
second ago...
Astrid
This is close to the worst possible
situation.
situation.
Kazuto
Hey, those things have guns! They're
coming right for us!
coming right for us!
Kazuto
Machine pistols! Astrid, you're up!
Astrid
You want data on what I can do, huh?!
Take this!
Take this!
Anya
Wow! The blast wave blew away all
the androids!
the androids!
Kazuto
Anya, shields!
Anya
O-okay! Aegis, we need your help!
Astrid
Ah...! I see, so this is your power.
Specialized for defense, is it?
Specialized for defense, is it?
Kazuto
Anya, cover me. I need to get these
cuffs off the hostages!
cuffs off the hostages!
Anya
O-okay!
Astrid
Then I will take the front lines. It's time
to stretch my wings!
to stretch my wings!
Kazuto
...if things get tight, just leave me behind.
Astrid
Don't be ridiculous. The Red Dragons
don't abandon those in danger.
don't abandon those in danger.
Anya
R-right! We won't leave anyone behind!
Kazuto
Hah... yeah. That's how we do things,
isn't it?
isn't it?
Kazuto
Alright, Anya, on me!
Anya
O-okay!
—Ah, Astrid, ma'am...
—Ah, Astrid, ma'am...
Astrid
Don't worry about me. My flames can
handle those bullets.
handle those bullets.
Kazuto
Anya! I need cover!
Anya
S-sorry!
Anya
Go, Aegis!
Kazuto
Alright, I'm getting started! Keep them
off me!
off me!
Anya
I-I've got you!
Anya
(Astrid is handling the front line, so
there aren't many back here.)
there aren't many back here.)
Anya
(It shouldn't be hard to protect Kazuto
and the hostages...)
and the hostages...)
Anya
(But I'm worried about her. Will she
really be alright on her own?)
really be alright on her own?)
Anya
(Astri...)
Kazuto
Damn it, this is taking too long...
My head hurts... getting to my limit here.
My head hurts... getting to my limit here.
Kazuto
Screw it, I'll fry my brain if I have to!
I'm not letting anyone die here tonight!
I'm not letting anyone die here tonight!
Kazuto
—that's four hostages freed now.
Huff, huff...
Huff, huff...
Kazuto
Moving on... to hostage five.
Anya
...?!
Anya
(They changed their attack pattern.
But I can keep up!)
But I can keep up!)
Anya
(I'm a soldier, too. And... I don't want
to go back there!)
to go back there!)
Anya
(Not after I finally met her!)
Anya
...huh? The firing stopped?
——Aah!
——Aah!
Anya
(The androids are mobbing Astrid!
There's no way she can handle them all!)
There's no way she can handle them all!)
Anya
(If Astri dies, then... then...!
No! I need to save her!)
No! I need to save her!)
Kazuto
That's all of them! Ugh, my head...
...huh?
...huh?
Kazuto
Anya? H-hey, where are you going?!
Anya
Astri... Astrid's in danger!
Kazuto
We need to cover the hostages...! Ngh,
I can't make any more drones...!
I can't make any more drones...!
Anya
Aaah!
Anya
K-Kazuto!
Astrid
(Kazuto's drones are shutting down?)
Astrid
No... what happened back there?
Astrid
Out of my way! I said move!
Astrid
Anya! What happened?!
—Kazuto!
—Kazuto!
Anya
Ah... aaah...
Anya
It's... it's my fault... I looked away...
Now he's... he's...
Now he's... he's...
Astrid
Anya! Focus!
Anya
Kazuto's bleeding... it just won't stop...
Astrid
I see that. Focus on your shields.
Those androids are still after us.
Those androids are still after us.
Anya
But I...
Astrid
Take a deep breath! Control yourself,
or your nanofield will run riot!
or your nanofield will run riot!
Kazuto
(......back hurts... I got shot. Damn it...)
Kazuto
(They're not hurt, but... at this rate...)
Kazuto
(I swore on her grave... I'd never let
anyone else die... Miyu...)
anyone else die... Miyu...)
Kazuto
Miyu... Miyu...
Anya
Kazuto!
Anya
Kazuto, sir! I-I'm so sorry!
Kazuto
I'm... fine...
Astrid
Ngh...!
Astrid
The explosions have started. We have
to at least save the hostages!
to at least save the hostages!
Astrid
The floor's buckling! We're not going
to make it in time!
to make it in time!
Anya
No... it's all my fault... all my fault...
Everyone's going to die...
Everyone's going to die...
Anya
No, no, no, no, nooooo!!
Astrid
W-what is this?
Light—?!
Light—?!
Kazuto
Back then, I was in too much pain to
realize what really happened.
realize what really happened.
Kazuto
The explosions, white light... I thought
for sure we had all died.
for sure we had all died.
Kazuto
But no. We survived. Or rather, we were
saved.
saved.
Kazuto
By Anya's true power...
Scene 6
Kazuto
Anya's been in a coma ever since...
Astrid
Yes. For days on end...
Astrid
Are you fully healed now?
Kazuto
Yeah, I guess. You?
Astrid
I'm cleared for duty. Though I still have
my psychological debrief to do.
my psychological debrief to do.
Kazuto
I see...
Wonder when Anya will wake up.
Wonder when Anya will wake up.
Astrid
Are you worried? You must have taken
quite a liking to her.
quite a liking to her.
Kazuto
Don't make it weird. I'm just
concerned for her as a fellow soldier.
concerned for her as a fellow soldier.
Astrid
Really? You're not seeing your sister
in her?
in her?
Kazuto
...
Astrid
...you said you were concerned?
Kazuto
Yeah. I didn't realize Reina was going
to be acting as her lead physician.
to be acting as her lead physician.
Astrid
This is a Red Dragon hospital. It does
feel strange to have a Vessel here.
feel strange to have a Vessel here.
Kazuto
On one hand, the Church, who wants
to see the Goddess brought back...
to see the Goddess brought back...
Kazuto
And on the other, the Red Dragons, who
make nanofields to surpass Her.
make nanofields to surpass Her.
Kazuto
We may not officially be enemies, but
our philosophies are directly opposed.
our philosophies are directly opposed.
Kazuto
I know we scuffle with them sometimes,
in the back alleyways and so on...
in the back alleyways and so on...
Astrid
They hate us for daring to escape from
under the Goddess's thumb, after all.
under the Goddess's thumb, after all.
Astrid
Yet one of their Vessels is working
with us. It makes no sense.
with us. It makes no sense.
Kazuto
Yeah. I don't like it either.
Kazuto
My guess is, it all has to do with Anya.
One way or another.
One way or another.
Astrid
Could that attack have been a Church
setup? A conspiracy?
setup? A conspiracy?
Kazuto
Conspiracy? ...maybe.
Kazuto
Hey. Do you remember what happened
back there?
back there?
Astrid
When the skyscraper collapsed?
Astrid
...Anya screamed, and a white light
enveloped us.
enveloped us.
Astrid
It felt as though time stopped. Even
the explosions were negated.
the explosions were negated.
Astrid
I can hardly believe it, even now.
Such a power...
Such a power...
Kazuto
It goes beyond what's theoretically
possible for the Ex Machina, yeah.
possible for the Ex Machina, yeah.
Kazuto
It could be that Command's been
working on this in secret.
working on this in secret.
Astrid
Command?
Kazuto
It's just a theory. But it makes a lot
of things make sense.
of things make sense.
Astrid
...
Luther
Well, well. Astrid and Kazuto.
Here to visit Anya?
Here to visit Anya?
Astrid
Father... ahem, Commander! Yes, we
wanted to look in on her.
wanted to look in on her.
Luther
Maybe so, but you should be focusing
on your own recoveries.
on your own recoveries.
Astrid
Well, yes, but...
Kazuto
May I ask something, Commander?
It concerns Anya.
It concerns Anya.
Luther
Oh? Go ahead.
Kazuto
In the field, we witnessed Anya using
an unbelievable power.
an unbelievable power.
Kazuto
Commander, you know what that
power is, don't you?
power is, don't you?
Luther
Unbelievable, you say? Anya's Ex
Machina is strong, but not that strong.
Machina is strong, but not that strong.
Kazuto
Then what was that light that saved us?!
Luther
...hmm. Astrid, did you see this light
as well?
as well?
Astrid
Y-yes, clearly. That light... Anya's power
is the only reason we survived.
is the only reason we survived.
Luther
Hmm. How strange.
Kazuto
Strange?
Luther
We have no records of any sort of light
at the Sunrise Building.
at the Sunrise Building.
Kazuto
What? But...
Luther
I can only assume you two hallucinated
as a result of nanofield interference.
as a result of nanofield interference.
Kazuto
You're saying that was all just a
hallucination?
hallucination?
Luther
You, and Anya, were saved by an evac
helicopter, not by any mysterious light.
helicopter, not by any mysterious light.
Luther
Or do you think a rookie on her first
mission saved all your lives at once?
mission saved all your lives at once?
Kazuto
Well...
Reina
Ah, so that's what all this commotion
out here is about.
out here is about.
Reina
I was outside the building, and I saw
the evac helicopter too, as it happens.
the evac helicopter too, as it happens.
Kazuto
Reina! Is that true?
Reina
Yes. I didn't see a light of any kind.
Astrid
...really?
Reina
Yes. As a Vessel, I swear on the name
of the Goddess Pandora.
of the Goddess Pandora.
Luther
You see? There was no light. You were
rescued by medical personnel.
rescued by medical personnel.
Luther
Know that we are all grateful to you
for saving the lives of the hostages.
for saving the lives of the hostages.
Luther
Now, rest yourselves. You'll be back in
the field when we get a new lead.
the field when we get a new lead.
Astrid
...understood. Excuse me.
Kazuto
......
Excuse me.
Excuse me.
Luther
Reina... I don't recall asking for you
to chime in.
to chime in.
Luther
Those two distrust you. Your input
may end up backfiring on us.
may end up backfiring on us.
Reina
Unfortunately, they saw what they saw.
It won't be easy to change their minds.
It won't be easy to change their minds.
Reina
Whether they trust me or not, I was
there. My word will carry some weight.
there. My word will carry some weight.
Reina
...besides, the helicopter cover story
was my invention to begin with.
was my invention to begin with.
Reina
The Church was hounding me. I had
to come up with something to tell them.
to come up with something to tell them.
Luther
Is that so?
Reina
You have no idea how hard it is to sell
falsified reports to those people...
falsified reports to those people...
Luther
I suppose I don't. More importantly,
did they believe you?
did they believe you?
Reina
Of course they did. They can't fathom
the idea..
the idea..
Reina
...that a sliver of the Goddess might lie
to them.
to them.
Luther
As long as you're sure. Now, how is
Anya?
Anya?
Reina
Recovering. From the data, she should
be up again soon.
be up again soon.
Luther
Foolish girl. I told her so many times
not to reveal her true strength.
not to reveal her true strength.
Reina
She's the only survivor of our quantum
induction process, a living computer.
induction process, a living computer.
Reina
Able to bend even reality to her will.
And she saved everyone in that building.
And she saved everyone in that building.
Reina
Are you really going to punish her for
showing such stunning potential?
showing such stunning potential?
Luther
...fine. Do what you will with her.
Reina
Indeed I will. Perhaps a little change
in her treatment plan is warranted.
in her treatment plan is warranted.
Reina
Oh, don't give me that look. It's a
simple matter, nothing big.
simple matter, nothing big.
Reina
I just think it's time for her to get
to know her older sister.
to know her older sister.
Scene 7
Letter
Dear Anya,
Letter
My student life in the Red Dragon
Institute is about to begin.
Institute is about to begin.
Letter
I'm so excited. You know how
long I've looked up to them.
long I've looked up to them.
Letter
I do worry about the surgery...
The side effects are said to be harsh.
The side effects are said to be harsh.
Letter
But I can hardly be a scaredy-cat
after you were so brave, now can I?
after you were so brave, now can I?
Letter
I eagerly await the day when we
can share our school life together.
can share our school life together.
Letter
Praying for your swift recovery,
Your loving sister, Astrid
Your loving sister, Astrid
Anya
Astri...
Anya
(This letter comforted me so much
when I was in the hospital.)
when I was in the hospital.)
Anya
(It's my treasure. I only made it through
because Astri was waiting for me...)
because Astri was waiting for me...)
Anya
I was looking forward to meeting her,
and telling her how she saved me...
and telling her how she saved me...
Anya
So why was she so cold to me?
Anya
Astri...
I wish I could have hugged you...
I wish I could have hugged you...
???
Hey, there you are! Hey there! Hi!
Anya
Huh?! U-um... who are you?
???
You're Anya, right?
Anya
Um, yes, but—
Luna
Great, great! I'm Luna!
Luna
I'm a freshman too! Ah, but you just
started today, I guess, huh!
started today, I guess, huh!
Luna
You can call me Luna! Or would you
prefer a nickname?
prefer a nickname?
Anya
Um...?
Luna
Ah, right, right! I'm supposed to be
showing you around.
showing you around.
Anya
Showing me around...?
Luna
Wow, your hair is really pretty! And
you're really slender and cute!
you're really slender and cute!
Anya
T-thank you?
Luna
And you're so pale! Are you from the
mountains or something?
mountains or something?
Anya
O-oh, um... I'm from here, I was just
in the hospital, so...
in the hospital, so...
Luna
Wait, the hospital? For your Cube
surgery?!
surgery?!
Anya
For a hereditary condition, mostly, but
this last time was for Cube side effects...
this last time was for Cube side effects...
Luna
So you've already had it! I haven't
gotten permission for mine yet.
gotten permission for mine yet.
Luna
They say I'm "dispositionally immature!"
How rude! Solas already got his, so—
How rude! Solas already got his, so—
Luna
Oh, right, getting distracted! Here,
follow me.
follow me.
Anya
(I-I don't know if I can keep up with
this girl...)
this girl...)
Luna
Anya? What's the matter?
Anya
C-coming!
Luna
Hmm, where should we go first?
Luna
I guess the cafeteria! The terrace seats
are the place to hang out.
are the place to hang out.
Anya
Hang out...
Anya
(I probably won't need to worry about
that anytime soon...)
that anytime soon...)
Luna
Oh, and they serve cake once a month!
I recommend the black tea cake!
I recommend the black tea cake!
Anya
O-okay...
Luna
Okay, next! Let's pick up the pace!
Anya
Please don't pull me...!
Luna
Here's the training area! It's really
kind of a bland place.
kind of a bland place.
Anya
Well, it doesn't really need decorations,
does it...?
does it...?
Luna
Of course it does! Everywhere needs
decorations! Cute ones!
decorations! Cute ones!
Anya
A cute training area...
Luna
Okay, next!
Anya
Waaah! D-don't spin me around, please!
Luna
Here's our crown jewel! The central
library! I don't come in here much.
library! I don't come in here much.
Anya
So many books...! Ah, and such adorable
machines!
machines!
Luna
Adorable? These guys? You like stuff
like this?
like this?
Anya
Yes, I spent most of my time in the
hospital only attended by machines, so...
hospital only attended by machines, so...
Luna
Ah... that sounds really rough.
Anya
A bit, but... huh? Is that...?
Luna
What's up? What'd you see?
Anya
Oh, um, it's nothing. Just... could I have
a little while to myself?
a little while to myself?
Luna
Yeah, sure! Buuut...
Luna
You spotted that third year Kazuto
Matsuda, didn't you?
Matsuda, didn't you?
Anya
Um, yes. Why... why are you looking
at me like that?
at me like that?
Luna
Oh, nothing, nooothing, hehehe.
I just smell a little crush, that's all!
I just smell a little crush, that's all!
Anya
Cru... n-no, it's not like that! It really
isn't...!
isn't...!
Luna
I'm sure it isn't, hehehehe!
Anya
It's really not...!
Luna
Sorry, sorry. You wouldn't be the
first, but he's not interested in dating.
first, but he's not interested in dating.
Anya
He isn't?
Luna
Well, this is all gossip! But they say
he's not really interested in people at all.
he's not really interested in people at all.
Anya
Oh, I see...
Luna
Hehehehe!
Anya
S-stop that! It's not what you think,
I swear!
I swear!
Luna
Sure, sure! Anyway, here's my cell
number.
number.
Luna
Text me if you need any love advice!
And see you later! Bye!
And see you later! Bye!
Anya
Honestly...
Anya
Still... not interested in other people?
He didn't seem that way on the mission.
He didn't seem that way on the mission.
Anya
(The mission... if I hadn't panicked,
Kazuto wouldn't have gotten hurt.)
Kazuto wouldn't have gotten hurt.)
Anya
(All that blood, all that pain...
All because of me.)
All because of me.)
Anya
(I need to apologize to him.)
Anya
But how...? I guess I should call out
to him, but...
to him, but...
???
Hey. How long are you going to keep
standing there?
standing there?
Anya
Huh? A-a drone?!
Kazuto
Hey now, this is a library. Don't shout.
Anya
I-I'm sorry! Is your drone okay?
I didn't break it, did I?
I didn't break it, did I?
Kazuto
You really think my drones are that
fragile?
fragile?
Kazuto
Here, give me your hand.
Anya
T-thank you...
Kazuto
What are you doing here anyway?
Are you stalking me?
Are you stalking me?
Anya
N-not you too!!
Kazuto
I'm joking, don't get mad.
So? What is it, then?
So? What is it, then?
Anya
Oh, um... I... I wanted to apologize
to you.
to you.
Kazuto
Apologize? Why?
Anya
F-for the mission... you got hurt
because of my stupid mistake.
because of my stupid mistake.
Kazuto
Ah, that. Look, newbie. All I'll say is,
don't get full of yourself.
don't get full of yourself.
Anya
Full of myself?
Kazuto
Yeah. Everyone screws up sometimes.
Some are worse than others, sure, but.
Some are worse than others, sure, but.
Kazuto
Point is, you did well. What happened
happened. Don't beat yourself up.
happened. Don't beat yourself up.
Anya
O-okay...
Kazuto
And what about you? Are you alright?
We heard you were in a coma.
We heard you were in a coma.
Anya
I-I was, but only for a little while.
I'm used to that by now.
I'm used to that by now.
Anya
It happens when I use my power too
much. The Commander was mad, too...
much. The Commander was mad, too...
Kazuto
He was mad at you? Why?
Anya
Because I knocked myself out again, I
think. Because I'm too inexperienced.
think. Because I'm too inexperienced.
Kazuto
Inexperienced, huh...
Kazuto
(He wouldn't risk hostages' lives with
a real newbie. He's hiding something.)
a real newbie. He's hiding something.)
Kazuto
Did the Commander say anything else?
Anya
Huh? Well...
Reina
Studying up, you two?
Anya
Oh, Reina.
Kazuto
Look at you, Ms. Church Official,
walking around without an escort.
walking around without an escort.
Reina
I've proven my trustworthiness to the
RDI, haven't I?
RDI, haven't I?
Reina
The Commander wants to see you two
right away. We have leads.
right away. We have leads.
Kazuto
...finally. Let's go, Anya.
Anya
O-okay.
Scene 8
Luther
I see everyone's here. Phase 2 of our
counterterror operation begins now.
counterterror operation begins now.
Luther
Take a look at this hologram.
Astrid
Are these the remains of those androids?
Luther
Yes. R&D has been analyzing the
fragments we recovered from the ruins.
fragments we recovered from the ruins.
Luther
Every aspect of their construction
outstrips modern engineering completely.
outstrips modern engineering completely.
Kazuto
In other words...
Luther
In other words, this is cryptotech...
Or divine providence.
Or divine providence.
Reina
Divine? You seem to be implying that
a Vessel is behind all this.
a Vessel is behind all this.
Astrid
Indeed he is.
Astrid
Who but a Vessel could create anything
so advanced without our knowledge?
so advanced without our knowledge?
Luther
The heads of R&D agree with Astrid's
assessment.
assessment.
Kazuto
Then all we have to do is use Reina to
track down the mole in their ranks.
track down the mole in their ranks.
Kazuto
This is a joint operation, after all.
Surely there's no problem?
Surely there's no problem?
Reina
Unfortunately, we have our hands full
dealing with disasters around the world.
dealing with disasters around the world.
Reina
And every unoccupied person we have
is looking for the 100th Vessel.
is looking for the 100th Vessel.
Reina
We have no time or manpower to spare
for matters not relating to the Requiem.
for matters not relating to the Requiem.
Luther
Indeed. This operation falls under our
purview first and foremost.
purview first and foremost.
Luther
As such, we will resolve the matter
with our own resources.
with our own resources.
Kazuto
Some "joint" operation...
Kazuto
If nothing else, we'll need Church
permission to search Shinano Academy.
permission to search Shinano Academy.
Kazuto
There's a 99% chance the Vessel
working with the terrorist is there.
working with the terrorist is there.
Reina
The Academy is a top-security complex.
Entry permissions are strictly controlled.
Entry permissions are strictly controlled.
Reina
And members of the heretical Red
Dragon Institute will hardly be welcomed.
Dragon Institute will hardly be welcomed.
Astrid
In that case, we'll need some pretense
to enter.
to enter.
Anya
Um, I actually... have an idea, about that.
If it's okay.
If it's okay.
Kazuto
Really?
Luther
Let's hear it.
Anya
U-um...! A-actually, it might not be
that good an idea...!
that good an idea...!
Reina
Don't be shy. Anything could help.
Anya
O-okay. Then, um... maybe...
An intramural competition...?
An intramural competition...?
Kazuto
Between the Institute and the Academy?
Huh... that just might work.
Huh... that just might work.
Reina
Using the Church and Institute's power
struggle against them... fascinating.
struggle against them... fascinating.
Astrid
We infiltrate, posing as team members,
and catch the conspirator. Brilliant.
and catch the conspirator. Brilliant.
Anya
Ehehe...
Luther
Let's prepare immediately. This mission
is top-secret — don't tell a soul.
is top-secret — don't tell a soul.
Kazuto
Speaking of... my drones just got a ping
by the door.
by the door.
Reina
Let's see here...
Luna
Waah! I-I was just passing by, that's
all, I wasn't eavesdropping or—
all, I wasn't eavesdropping or—
Anya
Luna?
Kazuto
You know her, Anya?
Anya
Y-yes, she was showing me around
campus.
campus.
Luna
I swear I didn't hear anything about
any top secret missions, no sir!
any top secret missions, no sir!
Luther
Sigh...
Bring her inside.
Bring her inside.
Luther
Now. Your name and the reason for
your eavesdropping, if you please.
your eavesdropping, if you please.
Luna
Luna Fairweather, first year! As for
reasons... um, I actually can't say!
reasons... um, I actually can't say!
Luther
Then should we try you for espionage
as a foreign agent, perhaps?
as a foreign agent, perhaps?
Luna
O-okay, okay, I'll talk! I was actually
wondering how things were going...
wondering how things were going...
Luther
...
What "things?"
What "things?"
Luna
Um, things, you know?
Between Anya and Ka—
Between Anya and Ka—
Anya
Waaah! L-L-Lunaaa! I told you, it's not
like that at all!
like that at all!
Luna
But my radar was going off! So, I
thought I ought to follow you...
thought I ought to follow you...
Luther
...we've heard of you, Fairweather.
Energetic, but irresponsible.
Energetic, but irresponsible.
Luna
That's me, energetic and—
Wait, huh?
Wait, huh?
Luther
It seems we have no choice but to
include you on this operation.
include you on this operation.
Luna
Me?! On an operation?! G-gladly!
I'd be happy to go!
I'd be happy to go!
Luther
Your performance during the operation
will decide your handling afterward.
will decide your handling afterward.
Luna
Handling? I don't get it...
Oh, well! I won't let you down!
Oh, well! I won't let you down!
Luna
Let's do our best, Anya! And... I'll be
rooting for you with you-know-who!
rooting for you with you-know-who!
Anya
You-know-who?!' N-no, you don't know
anything!!
anything!!
Scene 9
Luther
After a week, our preparations for the
infiltration are complete.
infiltration are complete.
Luther
Astrid, Anya, Kazuto, and Luna will
enter Shinano Academy as athletes.
enter Shinano Academy as athletes.
Luther
While your chief objective is to locate
the terrorist's co-conspirator Vessel...
the terrorist's co-conspirator Vessel...
Luther
The Institute's reputation is also riding
on this contest. Do not fail us.
on this contest. Do not fail us.
Reina
Well, we're here. Welcome to Shinano
Academy.
Academy.
Astrid
It looks surprisingly normal...
???
Of course. We're just like any other
fancy academy, after all.
fancy academy, after all.
Reina
Nanami. Good of you to come.
Nanami
Welcome back, Reina. And you must
be the Red Dragon team, right?
be the Red Dragon team, right?
Reina
I suppose introductions are in order.
This is one of the Academy's teachers—
This is one of the Academy's teachers—
Nanami
—and Academy graduate, Nanami
Unohana. Nice to meet you.
Unohana. Nice to meet you.
Astrid
Graduate? Then you're a Vessel as well?
Nanami
That's right. I see you're well informed.
I've heard of you too.
I've heard of you too.
Nanami
This really is an intriguing proposal
you've come up with, I must say.
you've come up with, I must say.
Nanami
Follow me to your lodgings. We can
talk details along the way.
talk details along the way.
Nanami
We'll start tomorrow, with 4 individual
contests and 1 group contest.
contests and 1 group contest.
Astrid
Yes, that's what we were told as well.
Nanami
We have several different formats set
up for the individual contests.
up for the individual contests.
Nanami
The group contest will be good old
Capture the Flag.
Capture the Flag.
Astrid
With points scored by bringing the
enemy's flag back to base, yes.
enemy's flag back to base, yes.
Nanami
That's about it, I think. This should be
a good time — let's have fun with it.
a good time — let's have fun with it.
Astrid
Indeed. May the best man win.
Nanami
Here's your dorm. You should—
Wah?!
Wah?!
???
Hello there! You must be the Red
Dragon Institute team.
Dragon Institute team.
Charlotte
My name is Charlotte. I thought I'd
bring you all some cookies!
bring you all some cookies!
Charlotte
Isn't that right, Kotone?
Kotone
I guess, yeah...
Yaaawn...
Yaaawn...
Astrid
My, they smell amazing.
Luna
Yeah! Oh wow, and they look great too!
Are you sure we can have these?
Are you sure we can have these?
Kotone
Go right ahead...
Luna
Great! Don't mind if I—
Reina
Stop. You're not allowed sweets while
recovering from Cube implantation.
recovering from Cube implantation.
Luna
Awww, come ooooon! One tiny bite can't
hurt!
hurt!
Reina
Would you like to be written up for
insubordination?
insubordination?
Luna
T-that sounds really official...
Okay... I guess I won't...
Okay... I guess I won't...
Reina
I'll want to adjust the rest of your Cubes
as well before the games tomorrow.
as well before the games tomorrow.
Nanami
We told you two to save the treats for the
welcome party tomorrow night...
welcome party tomorrow night...
Kotone
She who dares, wins...
Or apparently not...
Or apparently not...
Charlotte
We just thought they might appreciate
a snack after their trip.
a snack after their trip.
Charlotte
It was lovely to meet you all. See you
tomorrow!
tomorrow!
Kotone
See you...
Good night...
Good night...
Nanami
Do you have things in hand here?
Reina
Yes, as long as you can keep the other
girls from prying too much.
girls from prying too much.
Nanami
Don't worry, I'll manage them.
Come on, everyone, back to your rooms!
Come on, everyone, back to your rooms!
Reina
As for us... why don't we head to the
nurse's office?
nurse's office?
Reina
Welcome to my castle. You can be at
ease here. It's a secure location.
ease here. It's a secure location.
Anya
Um, Reina? What was that about
adjusting our Cubes?
adjusting our Cubes?
Reina
Just an excuse. My equipment isn't
sophisticated enough for that.
sophisticated enough for that.
Luna
Oh, that was a lie? But you said it with
such a straight face...
such a straight face...
Reina
I have a few leads on who our mole
might be, and I'd like to review them.
might be, and I'd like to review them.
Kazuto
Leads? Why didn't you tell us before
we arrived?
we arrived?
Reina
This is a very delicate situation here.
We want to avoid any chance of leaks.
We want to avoid any chance of leaks.
Reina
This info is top-secret, you see. I was
only given access to it a little while ago.
only given access to it a little while ago.
Kazuto
Guess that makes sense. Alright then,
who's on the list?
who's on the list?
Reina
We have three possible suspects.
Astrid
You've narrowed it down that far
already?
already?
Reina
Yes, but this is only a rough estimation.
Little better than a psych evaluation.
Little better than a psych evaluation.
Kazuto
It's better than nothing, I guess.
Reina
Our first suspect... Charlotte Gottlieb.
Anya
Charlotte? The girl who gave us
cookies? But she seemed so sweet.
cookies? But she seemed so sweet.
Reina
The major flag here is that she refuses
to share what her Gift is with anyone.
to share what her Gift is with anyone.
Reina
Her combat scores are consistently
high as well. Too high.
high as well. Too high.
Reina
And as you've seen, she proactively
seeks out contact from outsiders.
seeks out contact from outsiders.
Kazuto
Nothing decisive, but definitely worth
keeping an eye on...
keeping an eye on...
Reina
Next is Rio Kikuchi. Her Gift is the
Goddess's Innovation.
Goddess's Innovation.
Reina
She spends most of her time in her
room tinkering with new inventions.
room tinkering with new inventions.
Reina
Which makes her suspect #1, given
the sophistication of those androids.
the sophistication of those androids.
Luna
Huh... yeah, that is sketchy!
Reina
Our third suspect is... her.
Hibiki Himeno.
Hibiki Himeno.
Reina
We don't know her Gift either. But she's
strong, strong enough to beat Nanami.
strong, strong enough to beat Nanami.
Reina
We know she can teleport, and she
likes to skip class. That's all.
likes to skip class. That's all.
Reina
Take care: she's fiendishly intelligent.
You can't let your guard down around her.
You can't let your guard down around her.
Astrid
I see...
Kazuto
We'll draw attention if we stick together.
We should split up to investigate.
We should split up to investigate.
Astrid
And it will be dark soon. We're short
on time as it is.
on time as it is.
Luna
Then I'll go find that Rio girl. It has to
be her, I just know it!
be her, I just know it!
Kazuto
You want to go alone?
Luna
Aww, you big worrywart! I can take care
of myself!
of myself!
Kazuto
That's unconvincing. Reina, can you
babysit her for us?
babysit her for us?
Reina
Sure, I don't mind.
Luna
Babysit?! H-hey!
Astrid
Then I'll locate Hibiki Himeno. I'm
curious about her.
curious about her.
Anya
C-could I... come with you? I-I won't get
in your way, I promise.
in your way, I promise.
Astrid
So long as you make yourself useful.
Anya
I-I... I will. I promise I will.
Astrid
As you wish, then.
Kazuto
Then I'll look into Charlotte, I guess.
Seems like I got the easy mission.
Seems like I got the easy mission.
Astrid
Maybe so, but be careful not to let
your guard down.
your guard down.
Luna
Oh, and be sure to get more cookies
if you can!
if you can!
Luna
...why is everyone looking at me like
that? It was just a joke! Aww, c'mon!
that? It was just a joke! Aww, c'mon!
Scene 10
Anya
(Wow... I'm really walking right next
to Astri...!)
to Astri...!)
Astrid
Hm? What is it?
Anya
Ah... n-nothing. Sorry.
Astrid
You seem tense. Are you still recovering
from your coma?
from your coma?
Anya
N-no, I'm fine. I'm just... happy to be
walking with you, that's all.
walking with you, that's all.
Astrid
This again. I don't understand why you
insist on idolizing me.
insist on idolizing me.
Anya
Idolizing...
Anya
A-Astrid, ma'am. Do you, um... have you
ever had symptoms of memory loss?
ever had symptoms of memory loss?
Astrid
Memory loss? What makes you think
that?
that?
Anya
Oh, it's just, I've heard the Cube
implantation can do that sometimes...
implantation can do that sometimes...
Astrid
Given the strain the nanofield places
on the brain, it's not impossible.
on the brain, it's not impossible.
Astrid
I do suffer migraines occasionally,
but no, I've had no memory loss.
but no, I've had no memory loss.
Anya
I see... I-I'm sorry. That was a weird
thing to ask.
thing to ask.
Astrid
Yes, it was. What made you bring it up?
Anya
I-I... it's just...
Astrid
Just?
Anya
It's just that, well, you seem to have
forgotten me...
forgotten me...
Astrid
Forgotten you? We met for the first
time on the Sunrise mission, didn't we?
time on the Sunrise mission, didn't we?
Anya
N-no, we...! I...
Anya
...it's nothing. I'm sorry if I've bothered
you, ma'am.
you, ma'am.
Astrid
Anya. I know these first missions are
stressful, but I must ask you to focus.
stressful, but I must ask you to focus.
Astrid
If you don't, someone else might pay the
price. Like Kazuto's sister did.
price. Like Kazuto's sister did.
Anya
...Kazuto's sister?
Astrid
Yes. Her name was Miyu.
Anya
(Miyu... the name Kazuto kept repeating
after he was shot.)
after he was shot.)
Anya
Um... what happened to her?
Astrid
She passed away two years ago, on her
first mission... right in front of Kazuto.
first mission... right in front of Kazuto.
Anya
What...?
Astrid
I am told it was a simple assignment,
but they got caught in a trap.
but they got caught in a trap.
Astrid
The enemy ambushed them when they
were alone.
were alone.
Astrid
Kazuto was torn between protecting
Miyu and fulfilling the mission.
Miyu and fulfilling the mission.
Astrid
He lost control of his emotions, and
his nanofield went haywire.
his nanofield went haywire.
Astrid
By the time he came to, Miyu had been
fatally shot...
fatally shot...
Astrid
He's lived with the guilt of that day
ever since.
ever since.
Astrid
It's little wonder he prefers to distance
himself from the rest of us.
himself from the rest of us.
Anya
Oh... but he's always been very kind
to me...
to me...
Astrid
He may see something of Miyu in you.
Though he'd never say so.
Though he'd never say so.
Anya
That's why he was so mad back then...
Why he told me to stay hidden and wait.
Why he told me to stay hidden and wait.
Anya
T-thank you for telling me all this.
Astrid
Don't mention it. Ah, here we are.
Astrid
This is Hibiki Himeno's room. And it
appears to be locked.
appears to be locked.
Anya
What should we do? Can we get a key
from Reina, maybe?
from Reina, maybe?
Astrid
There's no time. Perhaps I can melt
through the lock...
through the lock...
???
Hey, hey! What do you think you're
doing to my door?!
doing to my door?!
Astrid
Are you Hibiki Himeno...?
Hibiki
That's me... and you're from RDI, right?
What's this, collecting enemy intel?
What's this, collecting enemy intel?
Astrid
Oh, so you're on the Shinano team...?
Astrid
...yes, that is correct! We've come to spy
on you!
on you!
Hibiki
Whoa, just come right out and say it,
why don't you!
why don't you!
Anya
(I-is it really okay to tell her that?)
Astrid
(This is better than being suspected
for our investigation. Back me up.)
for our investigation. Back me up.)
Anya
T-that's right, we're spies!
Hibiki
...okay, sure.
Astrid
Now, we will have you explain your
Gift to us. Hurry up!
Gift to us. Hurry up!
Hibiki
That's not really how spying works,
you know...? Right, Saya?
you know...? Right, Saya?
Saya
Don't get me involved in this.
Fran
Mew...
Anya
Ah, what a cute kitty!
Saya
Her name is Fran. Want to pet her?
Anya
C-can I? She's so soft and cute...
Saya
Do you like cats?
Anya
Yes, but I've never owned one...
Ah, she licked my finger!
Ah, she licked my finger!
Saya
I think she likes you. You remind me
of a friend of mine, actually.
of a friend of mine, actually.
Anya
A friend?
Saya
Her name's Antares. She—
Hibiki
I hate to break up the feel-good here,
but they're spies, remember?
but they're spies, remember?
Saya
I know. But this one likes cats, so she
can't be all bad. Don't you agree?
can't be all bad. Don't you agree?
Hibiki
Uh, what? Sure, I guess...
Anyway, I'm not telling you my Gift.
Anyway, I'm not telling you my Gift.
Hibiki
But I will tell you something else.
Like a hint, I guess?
Like a hint, I guess?
Astrid
A hint? About what?
Hibiki
Oh, nothing in particular.
Hibiki
All I can tell you is... us Vessels are all
liars. Remember that.
liars. Remember that.
Astrid
Vessels are liars... what's that supposed
to mean?
to mean?
Hibiki
Who knows! C'mon, Saya. We can brush
Fran in your room instead.
Fran in your room instead.
Saya
Okay, I guess...
But what do you mean, all liars?!
But what do you mean, all liars?!
Hibiki
Hey, don't smack me! Anyway, see you
tomorrow, Red Dragons! It'll be fun!
tomorrow, Red Dragons! It'll be fun!
Saya
Hibiki!
Anya
Liars... I wonder what she meant
by that?
by that?
Astrid
It feels like a diversion to me... oh well.
Let's return to our rooms.
Let's return to our rooms.
Anya
O-okay.
Kazuto
...what am I even doing...
Charlotte
Less talking, more stirring, Kazuto!
That pudding needs to be well-mixed!
That pudding needs to be well-mixed!
Kazuto
Okay, okay, geez!
Kazuto
(I was only here to gather information.
Why am I helping make pudding?)
Why am I helping make pudding?)
Kazuto
(Seriously, what am I doing...)
Kotone
Pudding is the foundation of all life.
Kazuto
I came here to talk to you, not to be your
stirring slave!
stirring slave!
Charlotte
Of course, and we'll be more than happy
to talk... as soon as the pudding sets.
to talk... as soon as the pudding sets.
Kotone
Sorry, buddy... once she gets like this,
there's no stopping her...
there's no stopping her...
Kazuto
What did I do to deserve this...
Kazuto
Okay. Is this good enough?
Charlotte
Yes, now it just needs to chill.
Thank you very much.
Thank you very much.
Kazuto
(I didn't realize cooking was such
physical work. My arms are tired.)
physical work. My arms are tired.)
Charlotte
It's so nice having a third set of hands
around! What else can we make...?
around! What else can we make...?
Kazuto
Mercy, please...
Charlotte
I'm only joking. So, what was it you
wanted to talk about?
wanted to talk about?
Kazuto
Ah, right. I was just curious about
something.
something.
Charlotte
I'll tell you anything you want, aside
from my cookie recipe.
from my cookie recipe.
Kazuto
Then... does the word "android" mean
anything to you?
anything to you?
Charlotte
Android? That's science fiction, isn't
it? I'm afraid I don't know much there.
it? I'm afraid I don't know much there.
Charlotte
How about you, Kotone? Does that
sound familiar at all?
sound familiar at all?
Kotone
There are some good movies about 'em.
I can tell you my favorites...
I can tell you my favorites...
Kazuto
I'm not asking about movies. Okay then,
how about cryptotech?
how about cryptotech?
Charlotte
Crispy tech? Is that used to make a
nice golden-brown crust?
nice golden-brown crust?
Kotone
It all comes back to baking for her...
Kazuto
No, I mean...
You know what, nevermind.
You know what, nevermind.
Kotone
You tried your best. Just remember...
Pudding makes it all worth it...
Pudding makes it all worth it...
Kazuto
Are you sure about that?
Kotone
I've already decided my last meal's
going to be Charlotte's pudding...
going to be Charlotte's pudding...
Charlotte
Don't say that. It's better for all of us if
we don't talk about such gloomy things.
we don't talk about such gloomy things.
Charlotte
Let's make some more sweets for
tomorrow instead!
tomorrow instead!
Kotone
I'm okay with whatever, so long as I
get to eat pudding tonight...
get to eat pudding tonight...
Kazuto
Man... I don't understand you Vessels.
Kazuto
(I'm no closer to getting any useful
information.)
information.)
Kazuto
(I hope the others are doing better.
And that Luna's not screwing up...)
And that Luna's not screwing up...)
Luna
Hi there! Hello! Can I come in?
???
Well, well. It's rare that I get visitors
to my workshop. Who are you?
to my workshop. Who are you?
Luna
I'm Luna, the Red Dragons'
up-and-coming supernova!
up-and-coming supernova!
Rio
Ah, I see. I'm Rio. You look more like
a white dwarf to me, but come on in.
a white dwarf to me, but come on in.
Luna
White dwarf? I don't really get it,
but that sounds cool too, I guess.
but that sounds cool too, I guess.
Luna
So, I know this is sudden, but... are you
working with them?
working with them?
Rio
Working with whom?
Luna
You know, the te—
Mmph?!
Mmph?!
Reina
Phew... I made it in time. Please refrain
from running your mouth, Luna.
from running your mouth, Luna.
Luna
Hmghmghm?!
(What are you doing?!)
(What are you doing?!)
Reina
(This is a secret mission. You were
about to spill everything to her.)
about to spill everything to her.)
Luna
Hmgmgh!!!
(OH RIGHT!!!)
(OH RIGHT!!!)
Rio
Hello, Reina. I hear you're working
at the Institute's labs lately.
at the Institute's labs lately.
Reina
That's right. I'm here to assist
with medical care for the competition.
with medical care for the competition.
Rio
Right, right. So, what was that 'te' thing
she was about to mention?
she was about to mention?
Reina
Ah, she meant the tengu. You know,
the winged demons.
the winged demons.
Rio
Tengu?! Huh... can't say I've ever met
any tengu, sadly.
any tengu, sadly.
Reina
I didn't think so.
Rio
...you might want to ease up on your
grip a bit, Reina.
grip a bit, Reina.
Luna
Mmgh... ggh...
(Can't... breathe...)
(Can't... breathe...)
Reina
Oh, right! Haha. How forgetful of me.
Luna
Gaaaasp! Huff, huff... my life was
flashing before my eyes...
flashing before my eyes...
Rio
Haha. Would you like some tea?
It's just about breaktime for me.
It's just about breaktime for me.
Reina
Ah, that would be lovely.
Luna
W-wow, look at all these machines!
They're all shiny and glowy!
They're all shiny and glowy!
Rio
Yes, I'm particularly proud of that one.
It should solve world hunger within a decade.
It should solve world hunger within a decade.
Luna
What about this one? And this one?!
Rio
That one should help devise a perpetual
energy machine in the future.
energy machine in the future.
Luna
Wow! That's amazing! I didn't
understand a single word you said!
understand a single word you said!
Rio
Of course, none of them are done yet.
They still have some pretty major flaws.
They still have some pretty major flaws.
Reina
The Goddess's Innovation is amazing.
Some of this borders on cryptotech.
Some of this borders on cryptotech.
Rio
That's a bit much. I'm just refining
what others have already created.
what others have already created.
Reina
Even so, if you unveiled these, you
would be world-famous.
would be world-famous.
Rio
I don't need fame, really. It's nice to get
praised, but...
praised, but...
Rio
If I'm just going to die, I'd rather my
inventions got famous instead.
inventions got famous instead.
Reina
That's selfless of you.
Rio
Selfless? I don't think so. My situation's
no different from any other Vessel's.
no different from any other Vessel's.
Rio
I just want my inventions to serve
humanity when I'm gone. That's all.
humanity when I'm gone. That's all.
Reina
I... see.
Luna
Hey, Miss Inventor! What's this thing?!
Rio
That is something you really shouldn't
touch, please.
touch, please.
Luna
Whoops, I touched it. Hey, the lights
are red now! Aah, is that smoke?!
are red now! Aah, is that smoke?!
Rio
Oh, boy. Hold still, I'll fix it.
Reina
We're all going to die... perhaps sooner
rather than later.
rather than later.
Scene 11
Kazuto
It doesn't seem like we got any solid
evidence last night.
evidence last night.
Astrid
The competition starts today. Remember
we're ordered to win it as well.
we're ordered to win it as well.
Kazuto
Isn't there some saying about how he
who chases two hares catches neither?
who chases two hares catches neither?
Astrid
This mission was given to us directly
by the Commander. We must not fail!
by the Commander. We must not fail!
Kazuto
Yeah, yeah, I know.
Astrid
Why are you always like this?!
Anya
L-let's not fight! We have to work
together!
together!
Luna
Yeah! Hmph, fighting on the mission.
You ought to learn from my example!
You ought to learn from my example!
Kazuto
Don't get ahead of yourself, rookie.
Who's on babysitting duty today?
Who's on babysitting duty today?
Reina
I'll pass. I have to head the medical
team today.
team today.
Luna
Okay, then I'll babysit! Who am I
babysitting?
babysitting?
Kazuto
I wonder...
Announcer
Preparations are complete. The first
round is about to begin.
round is about to begin.
Kazuto
Looks like we're starting.
Astrid
As discussed, I will take the field first.
Kazuto
You got this.
Anya
...do your best, Astrid!
Luna
They're sending... wah! Nanami?!
No fair! She's a teacher!
No fair! She's a teacher!
Astrid
Haha. Finally, a worthy opponent.
Our battle will be legendary!
Our battle will be legendary!
Kazuto
Astrid. You're sparking again.
Astrid
T-this is... an intimidation display!
Yes! To unnerve her!
Yes! To unnerve her!
Anya
I-is she going to be okay?
Kazuto
Probably, yeah. In the meantime, we
should keep investigating.
should keep investigating.
Luna
Nuh-uh! You have a more important
mission, Kazuto!
mission, Kazuto!
Kazuto
Huh? And what's that?
Luna
You... have to go buy snacks!
Kazuto
What?
Luna
There are food stalls set up all over!
The Culinary Club's selling cookies too!
The Culinary Club's selling cookies too!
Kazuto
And you want some?
Luna
Yeah!
Kazuto
Go buy them yourself, then.
Luna
But I'm up next! I need my sugar fix
before my match!!
before my match!!
Kazuto
You little...
Anya
Um, I can go buy them, if you want.
Luna
No! You're our team mascot, Anya!
Anya
M-mascot?
Luna
Yeah, so you're busy! Kazuto's the
only one not doing anything!
only one not doing anything!
Kazuto
...fine, fine. I'll go get your snacks.
Luna
Get enough for everyone, please!
Astrid
I did not expect to face you in the very
first match.
first match.
Nanami
You know what they say, the first strike
decides the battle! We'll take this win.
decides the battle! We'll take this win.
Astrid
I have to disagree.
Judge
No restrictions on Gifts or Ex Machina.
Fight until unconsciousness or tap out.
Fight until unconsciousness or tap out.
Judge
Are we clear?
Astrid
Yes. Let's have a good, clean fight.
Nanami
I'm itching to get started!
Judge
Round 1...
Fight!
Fight!
Kazuto
Sounds like the match is starting.
I'm sure Astrid will be fine.
I'm sure Astrid will be fine.
Kazuto
Ah, there's the Culinary Club.
Hey, anyone here?
Hey, anyone here?
Kotone
Yaaawn... Oh, hi...
Kazuto
Napping already, Kotone?
Kotone
It's nice out. Everybody should be
napping... Yaawn...
napping... Yaawn...
Kazuto
I see. Anyway, I hear you're selling
cookies here?
cookies here?
Kotone
Hee hee. Are you on a snack run?
Kazuto
Yeah, for my underclassmen.
...where's Charlotte, by the way?
...where's Charlotte, by the way?
Kotone
Mm... hmm? Did she leave again...?
Kazuto
Does she do that a lot? Without telling
you where she's going?
you where she's going?
Kotone
Well, she's a pretty mysterious girl...
Kazuto
I see.
Kotone
Mmh? Didn't you want cookies...?
Kazuto
Sorry, I'll come back later.
Kotone
And he's a mysterious boy...
Kazuto
(Could the mole really be Charlotte?)
Kazuto
I'll have my drones search...
Kazuto
Not in the courtyard... not in the
gardens... ah! There she is!
gardens... ah! There she is!
Kazuto
Behind the school building...
Where's she off to in such a hurry?
Where's she off to in such a hurry?
Charlotte
Okay, it's all clear! Come on out...
Kazuto
Charlotte! What's going on here?
Charlotte
O-oh! Wait, stay back!
Kazuto
Who are you working with?
Come out already!
Come out already!
???
—meeeeew!
Kazuto
Aah! A-a cat?!
Fran
Mew~
Kazuto
H-hey, knock it off. Stop rubbing
on my legs.
on my legs.
Charlotte
Would you look at that? She's usually
so skittish!
so skittish!
Charlotte
That's why I asked you to stay back
there.
there.
Kazuto
Wait, so you've just been feeding
a cat this whole time?
a cat this whole time?
Charlotte
Huh? Yes, I give her kitty treats. But
Saya gets mad if I spoil her, so...
Saya gets mad if I spoil her, so...
Kazuto
O-oh... guess I jumped the gun on this
one...
one...
Kazuto
Sorry for bothering you.
Charlotte
Wait, what did you mean by 'who I'm
working with?'
working with?'
Kazuto
Uh...! W-well...
Charlotte
Hmm? Are you hiding something?
Kazuto
N-no, I... uh...
Charlotte
Don't worry. I know you can't tell me.
Charlotte
We're pudding comrades, so I'm certain
you're not a bad person.
you're not a bad person.
Charlotte
In return for my secrecy, would you mind
not telling anyone about Fran's treats?
not telling anyone about Fran's treats?
Kazuto
Is that all?
Charlotte
Oh, I'm sorry, should I ask a bigger favor?
Here, then...
Here, then...
Kazuto
...huh? A key?
Charlotte
This is Kotone's room key. I usually
tidy things up for her, but I'm busy today.
tidy things up for her, but I'm busy today.
Charlotte
Could you do it for me?
Kazuto
Clean Kotone's room? But I'm a boy!
Are you sure that's okay?
Are you sure that's okay?
Charlotte
It's a sign of our trust, you see?
I believe I can trust you, after all.
I believe I can trust you, after all.
Kazuto
(I can't tell if she's genuinely spacy,
or if this is some kind of trick...)
or if this is some kind of trick...)
Kazuto
Alright, sure. I'll take care of it.
Charlotte
Please do! Come along now, Fran.
Fran
Mew mew~
Kazuto
Sigh... I don't understand these Vessels
at all.
at all.
Scene 12
Judge
Round 2...
Fight!
Fight!
Luna
Hoho! So you're my opponent?
Bad luck for you!
Bad luck for you!
Luna
You can give up if you don't wanna
get hurt! I won't mind.
get hurt! I won't mind.
Saya
I never give up.
Luna
I was trying to be nice. Don't come
crying to me afterward, then!
crying to me afterward, then!
Luna
(My Cube is already active. I'm a real
soldier now — a strong soldier!)
soldier now — a strong soldier!)
Luna
I'll show you my strength right now!
Haaaa!
Haaaa!
Saya
Here she comes...
Luna
Taaaake this! Aaaaand that!
Aaaand...... huh?
Aaaand...... huh?
Saya
......
Luna
...hmm?
Luna
Hnngh... huh? Nothing's happening...
Saya
Seems like a case of stage fright.
My turn, then.
My turn, then.
Luna
Hyaa!
Saya
My blade is sharp. Don't move, or your
head will roll.
head will roll.
Luna
I-I give up...
Judge
The match is over! Shinano stands 2-0!
Luna
Sniffle... sniff...
I looooost...!
I looooost...!
Anya
A-are you okay? Here, have a tissue.
Luna
Anyaaaaaaaa!
Anya
H-hey, you're all snotty...!
Reina
It seems Luna hasn't quite figured
out her new abilities yet.
out her new abilities yet.
Reina
I'm sure you'll master them at some
point.
point.
Reina
Assuming the Commander doesn't
court-martial you first.
court-martial you first.
Luna
Anyaaaaaaa...! I'm done fooooor...!
Anya
You're not done for yet, okay?
Here, blow.
Here, blow.
Luna
This is all your fault, Kazuto! What
happened to my snacks?!
happened to my snacks?!
Kazuto
I really don't think I'm the one to blame
here.
here.
Kazuto
Besides, I had things to take care of.
Luna
Hmmph! Fine! I'll go get my own
snacks from now on!
snacks from now on!
Kazuto
Please do. By the way, where's Astrid
gone?
gone?
Anya
She went to go look for the mole
to "clear her name..."
to "clear her name..."
Kazuto
Oh, right... I forgot how she gets when
she loses.
she loses.
Announcer
Now, let's move to round 3!
Contestants, assemble!
Contestants, assemble!
Kazuto
I guess that's me. If I lose, we're out
for sure... hmm.
for sure... hmm.
Kazuto
...that kinda ticks me off.
Anya
Kazuto, sir? You seem kind of angry...
Kazuto
No, I'm calm. Unlike our resident
firework girl.
firework girl.
Kazuto
Alright, I'm off. Cheer me on, mascot.
Anya
O-okay. Do your best!
Astrid
That announcement...
It must be Kazuto's turn.
It must be Kazuto's turn.
Astrid
...I disgraced myself...
Nanami
I've seen several Ex Machina in my
time, but nothing quite like this!
time, but nothing quite like this!
Astrid
I assure you, I am nothing like the
others! Haaaa!
others! Haaaa!
Nanami
You really are something special.
But...
But...
Astrid
S-so fast...!
Nanami
You claim to equal the Goddess, but...
This is all you've got, huh?
This is all you've got, huh?
Astrid
(My flames! Was that... a shockwave?!
No... I'm not done yet!)
No... I'm not done yet!)
Nanami
You're stubborn, I'll give you that!
Astrid
(I... I can't even follow her attacks!)
Astrid
A-aaaaah!!
Astrid
To think there would be such a gap
in our abilities...
in our abilities...
Astrid
I am well and truly shamed. If I can't
locate the mole...
locate the mole...
Astrid
How will I be able to face my father?!
Astrid
This must be the place. That girl's
smug bearing... she's hiding something!
smug bearing... she's hiding something!
Astrid
The door is locked, as expected.
Then I will unlock it!
Then I will unlock it!
Astrid
I should have done this from the very
beginning.
beginning.
Astrid
She will notice the burn marks,
of course...
of course...
Astrid
But we'll simply chalk it up as our
"spying" from last night.
"spying" from last night.
Astrid
...messy, but otherwise unremarkable.
I must find proof.
I must find proof.
Astrid
This statue... Pandora? Mm. Its eyes
are unsettling.
are unsettling.
Astrid
Yet there is a strange allure to it.
Even in silence.
Even in silence.
Astrid
...I suppose that is not unusual for
a Vessel's room. I will look elsewhere.
a Vessel's room. I will look elsewhere.
Astrid
There... there's nothing here?! But...
but I thought...
but I thought...
Astrid
...If I stay here, I'll be found. I should
rejoin the others.
rejoin the others.
Rio
Clash of the machines, I see. The
difference in our skill is evident, though.
difference in our skill is evident, though.
Kazuto
Hah. We'll see about that.
Rio
Oh, you constructed drones to sweep for
my mines? Not bad at all.
my mines? Not bad at all.
Rio
But what about bombs from above?!
Kazuto
...she's riding a glider?! Where did that
come from?!
come from?!
Kazuto
(I can avoid attacks from the ground,
but air attacks are harder...)
but air attacks are harder...)
Kazuto
(And she's using the thermals from
the bombs to lift her glider!)
the bombs to lift her glider!)
Rio
Haha! How's this? Enjoying my
minibombs?
minibombs?
Rio
They're AI-enabled, so they won't miss!
Isn't that amazing?
Isn't that amazing?
Kazuto
Damn it, she's got all angles covered!
Anya
Don't give up, sir! You can beat her!
Reina
You've taken a real liking to him, hm?
To think you were so shy before.
To think you were so shy before.
Anya
Y-yes. He and Astrid have been very
kind to me.
kind to me.
Reina
Even after that shock from before?
Anya
That was... oh, I wanted to ask you
about that, Reina.
about that, Reina.
Reina
Hm?
Anya
Can the Cube surgery cause...
memory loss?
memory loss?
Anya
I wonder if maybe, that's what happened
to Astrid...
to Astrid...
Reina
It's not unheard-of, though it is a rarely
seen side effect.
seen side effect.
Reina
But there's no chance we would miss
such an impact on her.
such an impact on her.
Reina
In my trained opinion, Astrid does not
suffer from any memory loss.
suffer from any memory loss.
Anya
B-but... she sent me a letter in the
hospital. Saying she loved me.
hospital. Saying she loved me.
Anya
If she hasn't lost any memories,
then... how...?
then... how...?
Reina
...maybe it's time for me to tell you.
Reina
But it won't be easy to hear. Are you
prepared?
prepared?
Anya
...it's about Astri, isn't it? My sister.
Anya
Tell me... please, tell me! I'm ready!
Reina
I was told not to inform you by
Command, but...
Command, but...
Reina
As your caretaker, I believe you have
the right to know.
the right to know.
Anya
P-please tell me.
Reina
Then, read this medical record. The
truth will become clear.
truth will become clear.
Anya
Anastasia Treatment Log...?
This is... about me?
This is... about me?
Record
Subject shows immense potential, but
her condition is unstable.
her condition is unstable.
Record
Artificial stabilization matrices have
proven ineffective.
proven ineffective.
Record
Update: A photograph of subject's sister
has improved stability.
has improved stability.
Record
Command has authorized utilization
of subject's sister in treatment.
of subject's sister in treatment.
Record
Artificial stabilization treatment
has proven highly effective.
has proven highly effective.
Record
A copy of the treatment is included
below for future reference.
below for future reference.
Letter
Dear Anya,
Letter
My student life in the Red Dragon
Institute is about to begin.
Institute is about to begin.
Letter
I'm so excited. You know how
long I've looked up to them.
long I've looked up to them.
Letter
I do worry about the surgery...
The side effects are said to be harsh.
The side effects are said to be harsh.
Letter
But I can hardly be a scaredy-cat
after you were so brave, now can I?
after you were so brave, now can I?
Letter
I eagerly await the day when we
can share our school life together.
can share our school life together.
Letter
Praying for your swift recovery,
Your loving sister, Astrid
Your loving sister, Astrid
Anya
This is... my letter? It's... it's the same...
Reina
The "letter from your sister" was
written by a stranger, Anya.
written by a stranger, Anya.
Anya
A... stranger? Then... it wasn't from her
at all...?!
at all...?!
Reina
Yes. I'm afraid Astrid has never seen
that letter in her life.
that letter in her life.
Reina
In fact... she thinks her younger sister
is dead.
is dead.
Anya
.........dead? But... but why?
Reina
It was all for your sake, Anya. You see...
Reina
You underwent a procedure cruel enough
to make grown adults cry for death.
to make grown adults cry for death.
Reina
Throughout all of that, you held onto
the belief that she was waiting for you.
the belief that she was waiting for you.
Reina
That belief maintained you, even when
your body longed to die.
your body longed to die.
Reina
But if you met in truth, you would
lose that strong, pure belief.
lose that strong, pure belief.
Reina
So, for your own safety, we had to
distance you from Astrid.
distance you from Astrid.
Anya
But you told her I was dead? You went
that far...?!
that far...?!
Anya
That's... that's too much. Then, all this
time, I've... I've...
time, I've... I've...
Anya
(I've spent my life dreaming...)
Anya
(Of warm, happy, quiet days with
my sister by my side...)
my sister by my side...)
Anya
(And it was... never real? I never had
a hope, at all...?)
a hope, at all...?)
Anya
It can't be...
Reina
It can. There is no sister waiting for you.
Nowhere in the world.
Nowhere in the world.
Anya
(Nowhere... then... then what was all
my effort for? What...)
my effort for? What...)
Anya
It can't be... it can't be true...
No, no, no, no...!
No, no, no, no...!
Reina
Why don't you lie down? Don't worry.
I'm here for you.
I'm here for you.
Reina
I'm here...
Kazuto
Huff... huff...
Rio
I'm impressed you've managed to keep
your production up at this speed.
your production up at this speed.
Rio
But you must be getting tired. Let's end
this already.
this already.
Rio
Look upon my works, and despair!!
Kazuto
(That thing is huge. I won't be able
to withstand the blast...)
to withstand the blast...)
Kazuto
But I... still have some tricks left up my
sleeve.
sleeve.
Kazuto
Active camouflage drone! Pick up that
bomb!
bomb!
Rio
Huh?! You've had a drone hidden there
this whole time?!
this whole time?!
Rio
H-hey!! My bomb!
Kazuto
—and give it right back!
Rio
Uwaaaaah!
Kazuto
Hey, you okay?
Rio
Ow... if I hadn't set up my defenses,
I'd be squashed flat.
I'd be squashed flat.
Rio
Did you know I wasn't going to fall?
Kazuto
I figured you had some kind of backup.
So? We continuing?
So? We continuing?
Rio
Mm, no. I'm not even sure I can stand
right now...
right now...
Rio
I surrender.
Judge
We have a surrender! The Red Dragons
win!
win!
Rio
You're good! Let's have a rematch
sometime. No holds barred.
sometime. No holds barred.
Kazuto
Haha...
Kazuto
I'd really rather not.
Scene 13
Kazuto
Ow, damn...
Reina
Are you alright?
Kazuto
Just need to rest, that's all. You're up
next, Anya.
next, Anya.
Kazuto
No pressure, but if you lose, we're out...
Anya?
Anya?
Anya
......
Kazuto
Hey, what's wrong?
Reina
It seems she's a little nervous.
Kazuto
Nervous? I guess so...
Astrid
I'm back. I see you won, Kazuto.
Kazuto
Yeah, barely. Have you been searching
for the mole?
for the mole?
Astrid
Yes, but I haven't had any luck.
Astrid
Anya? Is something the matter?
Anya
...I-I...
Astrid
She ran away as soon as she saw me...
Kazuto
Reina says she's nervous.
Astrid
That didn't look like nerves...
Kazuto
Right, I'm heading out.
Astrid
Where are you going?
Kazuto
Just getting some air. I'll be back soon.
Anya
(The sister I dreamed of... doesn't exist...)
Anya
(What do I have left to live for, then?)
Hibiki
Hey, Tiny. You okay? Whatcha staring
off into space for?
off into space for?
Anya
I'm... fine.
Hibiki
That so? Then let's get this started.
Judge
Ah, of course. Round 4 — Fight!
Hibiki
Here I come! You better be ready
for some pain!
for some pain!
Anya
...
Hibiki
C'mon, I said!
Anya
...
Hibiki
Well, this is boring. Feels like fighting
a doll.
a doll.
Anya
A doll...
Anya
(Right. I'm just a doll. My body and
my heart are both fake...)
my heart are both fake...)
Anya
(There's no reason for me to even live
anymore...)
anymore...)
Hibiki
Hey, hey, hey! Come on, now!
Anya
...!
Hibiki
Look, if you're not feeling it, we can just
end this.
end this.
Anya
...it's already over for me.
Hibiki
Huh?
Anya
Everything I thought was real was just
a lie. Everything...
a lie. Everything...
Hibiki
Huh? What are you talking about?
Anya
I... I'm worthless...
Hibiki
Oh, for crying out loud!
Anya
...!!
Hibiki
What do you mean, worthless? Who the
hell's worth anything?
hell's worth anything?
Anya
...?
Hibiki
You're still alive, aren't you? So there
you go!
you go!
Anya
I... everything I thought I knew was all
fake...
fake...
Hibiki
Ugh, geez! Then just start over from
square one!
square one!
Anya
Start over... from the beginning?
I don't understand.
I don't understand.
Hibiki
As long as we're alive, we can start over!
Don't you get it?
Don't you get it?
Anya
(Even if my past is a lie, my future, my
present... they're still mine.)
present... they're still mine.)
Anya
(I can make a new start... I see...
I think I understand.)
I think I understand.)
Anya
As long as we're alive...
Anya
I didn't realize it was so simple.
Hibiki
Huh, already feeling better?
Anya
No, but I can see the light now.
Oh, can I get a retraction?
Oh, can I get a retraction?
Hibiki
A retraction? Of what?
Anya
Of you calling me a doll!
Hibiki
W-whoa! She's speeding up!
Hibiki
Now that's what I'm talking about!
Let's do this, Tiny!
Let's do this, Tiny!
Anya
Don't... call me Tiny!
Reina
It looks like Anya's shaken off her blues.
Astrid
I'll return to my scouting, then.
Reina
You aren't going to stay and watch her
fight?
fight?
Astrid
We're wasting time. And I've disgraced
myself too much already.
myself too much already.
Reina
I like people who speak their mind, but
self-pity suits you poorly, Astrid.
self-pity suits you poorly, Astrid.
Reina
Believe me when I say she wants you
to watch her.
to watch her.
Astrid
(She's always been watching me, hasn't
she...)
she...)
Astrid
(The thought does make me somewhat
happy. I wonder why.)
happy. I wonder why.)
Astrid
If you insist... then I will stay.
Kazuto
That was some cheer back there.
I wonder what happened?
I wonder what happened?
Kazuto
Guess I'll get that cleaning done and
hurry on back.
hurry on back.
Kazuto
Pretty messy in here, geez...
Kazuto
Stuffed animals go on the shelf...
At least pick up your books...
At least pick up your books...
Kazuto
There's something under her pillow...
Dream Diary? Huh.
Dream Diary? Huh.
Kazuto
Ah, crap, it fell under the bed!
Kazuto
Okay, got it... hmm? What are these
papers?
papers?
Kazuto
...I've never seen these formulas before.
Kazuto
These are... drawings? No. They're
blueprints.
blueprints.
Kazuto
Blueprints... for high-spec androids.
Kazuto
...but why? How?
Kazuto
She should be in the clubroom. I need
to find her!
to find her!
Charlotte
Welcome! Ah, Kazuto. Are you all done
with your chores?
with your chores?
Kazuto
Not the time. Where is she?
Charlotte
You mean Kotone? She's... hm? She was
just here.
just here.
Kazuto
(She knew I was coming...?)
Kazuto
Hey, Charlotte. What is Kotone's power
anyway?
anyway?
Charlotte
I... can't just tell you. Our Gifts are
closely guarded secrets.
closely guarded secrets.
Kazuto
Your friend may be wrapped up in
some bad stuff here, okay?
some bad stuff here, okay?
Charlotte
...
Kazuto
It's not just innovation like Rio's Gift.
Kotone...
Kotone...
Kazuto
She can see the future, can't she?
Charlotte
...!
Kazuto
I knew it. So she's the one working
with the terrorist!
with the terrorist!
Kazuto
(But if she can see the future, she's
probably already fled...)
probably already fled...)
Charlotte
Um, what do you—
Kazuto
Sorry, I can't explain. But if she comes
back, keep her here. Please.
back, keep her here. Please.
Charlotte
...alright.
Kazuto
I'm counting on you!
Hibiki
Hey, you're not bad at all, Tiny!
Anya
I am not Tiny, and I'm not a doll.
My name is Anya!
My name is Anya!
Anya
(I'm my own person. No matter what,
that will never change.)
that will never change.)
Anya
I'm my own person! I'll never let
anyone use me again!
anyone use me again!
Anya
Haaaaaaaa!
Hibiki
Wha—! She's pushing me back?!
Anya
It's over!!
Hibiki
Seriously?!
Anya
Take thiiiiis!!
Hibiki
Whoa, whoa! Hold it! I give up, okay?
I surrender!
I surrender!
Judge
We have a surrender! The Red Dragons
win again!
win again!
Hibiki
Phew... you got me good there.
Dang, you're strong.
Dang, you're strong.
Anya
I am... because I know my big sister
is watching me!
is watching me!
Astrid
I don't believe it! She defeated Hibiki
Himeno!
Himeno!
Reina
Has the sight stirred any familial pride
in you?
in you?
Astrid
Familial... what do you mean? My only
remaining family is my father.
remaining family is my father.
Reina
Yes, I heard about your mother. Death
in childbirth is always cruel.
in childbirth is always cruel.
Astrid
But if my sister had survived... she
would be about Anya's age.
would be about Anya's age.
Astrid
...look at me. I've been way too
sentimental lately.
sentimental lately.
Reina
She's a fine soldier, Astrid. Have faith
in her, won't you?
in her, won't you?
Astrid
Faith? In Anya...?
Saya
...you were holding back, weren't you?
Hibiki
Who can say? Ah, well. We'll show 'em
in the team battle!
in the team battle!
Saya
Right. We'll have to win that one
for sure.
for sure.
Hibiki
You betcha!
Scene 14
Astrid
2-2... a tied score. The team battle will
decide the winner.
decide the winner.
Astrid
...and just where is Kazuto, at a crucial
time like this?
time like this?
Luna
Maybe he got lost? Nom nom. Mm!
These snacks are fanastic!
These snacks are fanastic!
Reina
Walking with your mouth full is bad
manners, Luna.
manners, Luna.
Luna
It's okay, I was looking around too!
Here, have a prize, Anya!
Here, have a prize, Anya!
Anya
Oh, a candied apple! It's so sweet...
Thank you!
Thank you!
Astrid
Do you have no sense of urgency
whatsoever?
whatsoever?
Reina
There's a call for you on the radio, Astrid.
Astrid
Kazuto? Where—
Kazuto
I found the mole! I'm looking for her
with my drones.
with my drones.
Astrid
R-really?!
Kazuto
Yeah, it's Kotone, from the cooking
club. She can see the future!
club. She can see the future!
Astrid
The future...? Then, the cryptotech...
Kazuto
She's been recreating technology she
saw in her dreams in the present.
saw in her dreams in the present.
Astrid
I see. We'll come help you immediately.
Kazuto
Thanks.
Astrid
As you all heard, we are taking the field
at once.
at once.
Reina
But what about the team battle?
Winning is part of your mission.
Winning is part of your mission.
Astrid
...you're right. I'll hold down our side
alone, then. The rest of you, aid Kazuto.
alone, then. The rest of you, aid Kazuto.
Reina
You want to fight a team battle all by
yourself?
yourself?
Astrid
There's no other choice.
Anya
I-I'll stay too!
Anya
We'll finish faster with two fighters,
ma'am.
ma'am.
Astrid
And the sooner we finish, the sooner
we can assist Kazuto?
we can assist Kazuto?
Anya
Right. I think that's the best plan...
um, considering...
um, considering...
Astrid
......
Anya
Let's fight! Together!
Astrid
Understood. Anya and I will fight.
Luna and Reina, go to Kazuto.
Luna and Reina, go to Kazuto.
Luna
Kazuto, sir! We're here to help!
Kazuto
Ugh, have some professionalism!
Luna
S-sorry!
Kazuto
Anya and Astrid are staying behind?
Reina
Yes, they're endeavoring to win the
competition for your team.
competition for your team.
Kazuto
I see. Well, we'd better not let them down,
then.
then.
Luna
Kotone is that sleepy-looking girl, right?
Have you found her?
Have you found her?
Kazuto
I have my drones searching all over,
but no sign of her yet.
but no sign of her yet.
Kazuto
If she knew we were coming, she might
have left campus.
have left campus.
Reina
She could try, but she won't make it
out of Shinano.
out of Shinano.
Reina
Not unless future technology can
completely hide her.
completely hide her.
Kazuto
Maybe... active camouflage...
Reina
Isn't that the technology you used
against Rio?
against Rio?
Kazuto
No. Not quite. Modern active camo is
still imperfect.
still imperfect.
Kazuto
But in the future...
Reina
What do you mean?
Kazuto
Full spectrum active camouflage.
It's only theoretical now, but...
It's only theoretical now, but...
Kazuto
If you could avoid not just visible,
but IR and UV frequencies...
but IR and UV frequencies...
Kazuto
You could avoid visual detection, radar,
and anything else.
and anything else.
Reina
So you would be totally invisible?
Kazuto
Visibly, yeah. But if I analyze the air
currents...
currents...
Kazuto
It'll be tough, but it's worth a shot!
Luna
Kazuto, sir? Can you really do it?
Kazuto
Shut up. I'm focusing.
Luna
Whoa, he's gone into lone wolf mode!
Reina
If the culprit's invisible, then we won't
be much help here.
be much help here.
Luna
You're right... hmm. Wanna play catch?
There's some nice rocks here.
There's some nice rocks here.
Reina
No. But perhaps teaching yourself to
juggle will keep you occupied.
juggle will keep you occupied.
Luna
Aww, boo. Ooh, this one's... huh?!
Kazuto
Okay... I've got the data!
Kazuto
They're above us, in the air. Aboard
a helicopter!
a helicopter!
Kazuto
Damn it, how can we stop them?!
The drones? No, that's—
The drones? No, that's—
Luna
Kazuto, sir!
Kazuto
Save it, Luna, I'm busy!
Luna
No, I think I've got it! I know what I
can do!
can do!
Reina
You mean, your Ex Machina?
Luna
Yeah! Can you point out where the
helicopter is?
helicopter is?
Kazuto
It's worth a shot... see that drone?
The helicopter's behind it.
The helicopter's behind it.
Luna
I see it! Here goes...
My Ex Machina power is...
My Ex Machina power is...
Luna
SUPER STRENGTH!
Reina
Oh! The helicopter appeared out of
nowhere!
nowhere!
Kazuto
The camo was damaged! Luna, you did it!
Luna
Ehehe! Looks like I really am the best
after all!
after all!
Reina
It's lost flight control, too. Look, it's
making an emergency landing.
making an emergency landing.
Kazuto
Let's be there to meet them!
Yuriko
Ow... what hit us? Kotone, what just
happened?
happened?
Kotone
We've got nothing left... it's over...
Yuriko
Over?! What?! Did you see something?!
Kazuto
Hands in the air! Nobody move!
Yuriko
The Red Dragons! Did you have fun
with my clones?
with my clones?
Kazuto
So you're the original, I take it?
Yuriko
That's right. I didn't expect you'd bring
us down...
us down...
Kazuto
Save the flattery. We're taking you in.
Yuriko
Hah! I still have work to do. This isn't
checkmate yet!
checkmate yet!
Kazuto
What are you playing at?
Yuriko
I've planted bombs in the stadium.
Enough to blow the place sky-high.
Enough to blow the place sky-high.
Kazuto
You...
Yuriko
I suggest you let us go... unless you want
me to detonate them.
me to detonate them.
Kazuto
Taking hostages again...
Astrid
Huff... huff...
Astrid
(We've held out for a long time already...)
Astrid
(But we're always on the defensive here!)
Astrid
(We can't win unless we take their flag...!)
Anya
Astrid, are you alright?
Astrid
For now, but we are hard-pressed.
We must—
We must—
Astrid
Ngh...!
Anya
Kyaa!
Nanami
Only two of you? This is what you get
for underestimating us.
for underestimating us.
Astrid
Say what you will. We have more
important things to worry about.
important things to worry about.
Nanami
That so? Well, don't come crying to us
when you lose!
when you lose!
Astrid
Gh... aah!
Anya
Astrid!
Astrid
I-I'm fine!
Anya
But...
Astrid
I've been through worse. Worse than
you could ever imagine.
you could ever imagine.
Anya
That might be true... but I've worked
hard to stand by your side!
hard to stand by your side!
Astrid
Anya...?
Astrid
Somehow... you seem more mature now.
Anya
O-oh, I wouldn't say that...
Astrid
Really? Hmm. I see now...
Yes, I think I see.
Yes, I think I see.
Astrid
Anya, I have faith in you. I'll leave the
defense in your hands!
defense in your hands!
Anya
R-right! You can count on me!
Astrid
I'll be back soon!
Nanami
What... they're splitting up?! That's
practically suicide!
practically suicide!
Astrid
(I was fighting to protect my own pride
before...)
before...)
Astrid
(But now, I'll fight for everyone! I'll fight
for Anya!)
for Anya!)
Astrid
(So this is what it feels like to have faith
in someone...)
in someone...)
Astrid
Out of my way!!
Yuriko
I said, out of my way! Do you think I'm
bluffing here?!
bluffing here?!
Kazuto
No, I don't. You've proven you're capable
of this insanity.
of this insanity.
Yuriko
Then step aside!
Kazuto
No. Who knows what you'll do next if
we let you escape now?
we let you escape now?
Kazuto
We're taking you in. Today.
Yuriko
Hahaha... so you've made choice.
Yuriko
It's true the Vessels in the stadium won't
die from a simple explosion...
die from a simple explosion...
Yuriko
But what about your teammates? Will
you sacrifice them?
you sacrifice them?
Kazuto
No. I believe in them. They'll make it
through.
through.
Yuriko
...you're insane.
Kazuto
Maybe so. Maybe not.
Yuriko
Then live with your choice!
Kazuto
(Anya, I believe in you. I know what you
can do!)
can do!)
Anya
(Astri is so cool! Even if she doesn't
remember me...)
remember me...)
Anya
(Her presence still gives me strength
and comfort.)
and comfort.)
Anya
Astrid... Astri! Go for it... Astriiii!
Saya
She's so fast!
Hibiki
Whoa, whoa! That was way faster than
before!
before!
Nanami
She's in our base! Get to the flag!
Astrid
Just a little further...
Astrid
Just... a little further!!
Anya
(She's inside their base! She's almost
there!)
there!)
Anya
(But... something feels wrong. Like...
the skyscraper...?)
the skyscraper...?)
Anya
(No... another bomb?!)
Anya
Astri, don't!
Astrid
I have it! Now to escape!
Astrid
...?
Astrid
What's that sound...?
Anya
Get away from the flag! Astriiiii!
Astrid
Huh?
Anya
I won't... let you... hurt her!!!
Astrid
T-the flag exploded?! But I'm unharmed...
Nanami
What was that? I thought I heard an
explosion.
explosion.
Saya
The blast was contained. As if by a
force field.
force field.
Astrid
Force field...? ...Anya?! Anya!!
Anya
Huff... huff...
A-Astri... you're okay...
A-Astri... you're okay...
Astrid
Yes. Everyone is safe, Anya. Thanks to
you.
you.
Anya
Even if it was all a lie... I know...
You really are... my...
You really are... my...
Astrid
What do you...? Never mind. Here, let me
get you out of here.
get you out of here.
Anya
We did it... I'm sure the Commander will
be proud.
be proud.
Astrid
Yes, he will. So just rest for now, okay?
Anya
Okay... good night...
Kazuto
Astrid, is everything alright over there?
Astrid
Yes, thanks to Anya.
Kazuto
I see. She really is something, huh?
Astrid
Yes. She did wonderfully.
Astrid
How are things with you?
Kazuto
Uh, that's a long story. Gather the
Shinano students for me?
Shinano students for me?
Astrid
Understood.
Astrid
We explained Yuriko's plot, and her
placement of the bombs...
placement of the bombs...
Astrid
And Kazuto identified Kotone as her
co-conspirator.
co-conspirator.
Yuriko
If the Requiem doesn't start soon,
the whole world will suffer!
the whole world will suffer!
Yuriko
Invasions from beyond are already
starting! We need Pandora!
starting! We need Pandora!
Charlotte
I'm sorry, Kotone. This is all I can do
for you now...
for you now...
Kotone
No... it's okay. Thank you for the
pudding... and goodbye, Charlotte...
pudding... and goodbye, Charlotte...
Charlotte
Kotone... I'm sorry! I'm so sorry...!
Astrid
We took Yuriko into custody, and the
Church took in Kotone.
Church took in Kotone.
Astrid
Yuriko fought to the last, but Kotone
seemed resigned to her fate.
seemed resigned to her fate.
Astrid
Anya, the judging is about to start.
Shall we listen?
Shall we listen?
Astrid
...I guess you're still asleep.
Astrid
The doctors say recovery will take time...
I hope not too much.
I hope not too much.
Nanami
And now, the scores for the Shinano-RDI
competition.
competition.
Nanami
Both teams fought very well. We should
all be proud.
all be proud.
Nanami
As for the scores... the individual
matches sit at 2-2.
matches sit at 2-2.
Nanami
The team battle ended with no score.
In other words, the contest is a draw.
In other words, the contest is a draw.
Nanami
However, the Red Dragons succeeded in
apprehending a terrorist.
apprehending a terrorist.
Nanami
May their bravery and heroism be an
example to us all!
example to us all!
Nanami
Kazuto Matsuda...
Luna Fairweather...
Luna Fairweather...
Nanami
Astrid von Draclow...
Anastasia von Draclow...
Anastasia von Draclow...
Nanami
A cheer for their bravery!
Astrid
Anastasia...? Von Draclow...?!
Astrid
Anya...? It couldn't be...!
Soon enough, the day melted into a
quiet evening.
quiet evening.
Reina
Come in... ah, Nanami. What can I do
for you?
for you?
Reina
I won't be coming back to Shinano, just
so you're aware.
so you're aware.
Nanami
I heard about Kotone. Is it true?
Reina
You got the same explanation I did.
That's all there is to it.
That's all there is to it.
Nanami
But she's such a sweet girl. What could
drive her to do something like that?
drive her to do something like that?
Reina
What makes you think I know?
Nanami
...it's just...
Reina
Hmm?
Nanami
My gut's never wrong. You know
something about this, don't you?
something about this, don't you?
Reina
You just don't want to believe one of
your students could be a terrorist.
your students could be a terrorist.
Nanami
...I want to know the truth, Reina.
Reina
The truth...
Reina
You're too noble, Nanami. It'll catch up
to you someday.
to you someday.
Nanami
What's that supposed to mean?
Reina
Mm, to put it simply...
Reina
I'm the one who put Kotone and
Yuriko into contact.
Yuriko into contact.
Nanami
What?! Why?!
Reina
To get her out of the way. Why else?
Nanami
How could you?! She's such a gentle girl!
Reina
Gentle... and more importantly,
prophetic. I needed her gone.
prophetic. I needed her gone.
Reina
She'll be kept captive, maybe even
tortured, until the Requiem.
tortured, until the Requiem.
Nanami
Do you have any idea what you've done?!
Reina
Yes. I'm keeping both of us alive.
Nanami
I have no intention of surviving!
I won't harm any of my students!
I won't harm any of my students!
Reina
I knew you would say that.
Reina
Well, then. Why not... refuse to start
the Requiem at all?
the Requiem at all?
Nanami
That's impossible.
Reina
No, it isn't. Not anymore.
Reina
The girl, Anya... her power is nothing
short of miraculous.
short of miraculous.
Nanami
Miraculous?
Reina
She should have died any number
of times in her life, logically.
of times in her life, logically.
Reina
But she survived. And she'll continue
to survive.
to survive.
Reina
I believe the universe sees her as
someone already dead.
someone already dead.
Nanami
That doesn't make any sense.
Reina
It does. She should have died when
she was first born.
she was first born.
Reina
But she didn't. Her very existence goes
against the whims of Fate.
against the whims of Fate.
Reina
The dead miracle, the quantum
supercomputer, Anya.
supercomputer, Anya.
Reina
In time, who knows what she'll
be capable of...?
be capable of...?
Nanami
What are you planning...?
Reina
It's simple. The Requiem exists
because Pandora exists.
because Pandora exists.
Reina
If we kill the Goddess...
Then we'll finally be free.
Then we'll finally be free.
Reina
With her help... it's possible.
I'll make it possible...!
I'll make it possible...!