The Dance of Falling Stars
Scene 1
Scene 2
Scene 3
Scene 4
Scene 5
Scene 6
Scene 7
Scene 8
Scene 9
Scene 10
Scene 11
Scene 12
Scene 1
Newscaster
Today, a girl claiming to be the 99th Vessel
gave a speech in front of the diet building.
gave a speech in front of the diet building.
Newscaster
In order to prove her claim, she cut her own
throat with a blade...
throat with a blade...
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Ugh... the same old story, every day.
Isn't there any happy news anymore?
Isn't there any happy news anymore?
Petite Dancer
Nope. Not since the world started ending.
Saya
(Deep breath in... Let it out...)
Saya
(You can do this. You've practiced.
Just visualize it all...)
Just visualize it all...)
Saya
(From Fifth Position, step...
Then pirouette...)
Then pirouette...)
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
And they still haven't found the last
Vessel? I wish she'd hurry it up.
Vessel? I wish she'd hurry it up.
Petite Dancer
The world's just gonna keep getting
worse until she shows herself.
worse until she shows herself.
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Look how bad things have gotten in
just this one year.
just this one year.
Saya
(Feel your whole body... Keep your
balance and poise...)
balance and poise...)
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
An earthquake on this channel, a flood
on that one, and... a famine here? Ugh!
on that one, and... a famine here? Ugh!
Petite Dancer
Wait, wait! Go back a channel!
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Huh? Why? It's nothing but commercials.
Petite Dancer
They're playing Mirai's new song!
Watch, I can do that dance perfectly!
Watch, I can do that dance perfectly!
Saya
(Keep up the speed into the spin...!)
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Ah, hey, watch out!
Saya
...!
Petite Dancer
Ah! Sorry, Saya!
Petite Dancer
Were you rehearsing? Sorry, I didn't see
you there...!
you there...!
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
What did I tell you? That looked nothing
like Mirai, anyway!
like Mirai, anyway!
Petite Dancer
You're so mean!
Saya
You're imitating Mirai? Not warming
up for rehearsal, then?
up for rehearsal, then?
Petite Dancer
Eh, it's just rehearsal. We'll have it
down by the real thing!
down by the real thing!
Saya
You know there are talent scouts
coming, right? Come on, focus up.
coming, right? Come on, focus up.
Petite Dancer
Look, I said I was sorry... besides, you're
the only one with a shot there.
the only one with a shot there.
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
If we screw up, it'll just make you look
better, you know?
better, you know?
Saya
You can't be serious. All of us have to
give our best to make this work.
give our best to make this work.
Saya
Try not to torpedo everyone's morale
the day before the show, okay?
the day before the show, okay?
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Who's torpedoing whose morale here,
huh? Who died and made you queen?
huh? Who died and made you queen?
Petite Dancer
H-hey! Uh, haha, anyway, sorry about
that, everyone! Let's get started!
that, everyone! Let's get started!
Saya
......
Saya
(You did it again. Idiot.)
Saya
(Taking out your frustration on
everyone else... you're the worst.)
everyone else... you're the worst.)
Antares
Sorry, sorry! I'm here!
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Oof, bad timing.
Antares
Timing...? Ah! Sorry, I know today's
really important!
really important!
Saya
Did you oversleep again?
Antares
Urk! Uh, no! I didn't! It's just, uh, well...
Kitten
Nyaa...
Petite Dancer
Hey! You can't bring pets in here!
Antares
No, she's not a pet... I found her by the
side of the road.
side of the road.
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Oh, a stray kitty? How cute!
Antares
She was shivering, and I just couldn't
leave her there... I'm so sorry!
leave her there... I'm so sorry!
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
It's okay, we won't tell the teacher.
Saya might, though.
Saya might, though.
Saya
...
Saya
...Antares. Here.
Antares
Wah! Um... what is this? A towel?
Saya
Use it. You can dry the kitten off,
or something.
or something.
Antares
T-thank you!
Saya
I'm going to the studio. Hurry up and
get changed.
get changed.
Antares
Okay!
Petite Dancer
...phew. You're lucky she didn't get
mad at you, Antares.
mad at you, Antares.
Antares
Come on, now. Saya's a good person.
Kitten
Myaa!
Ballet Teacher
No, no! Stop the music! What do you think
this is, a circus?!
this is, a circus?!
Saya
No, Miss. I'm sorry.
Ballet Teacher
This is the climax here. The Vessels
battle one another for Her power,
battle one another for Her power,
Ballet Teacher
until only one remains. It's a glorious
victory full of ineffable emotion!
victory full of ineffable emotion!
Ballet Teacher
Do you understand how important it
is that you capture that emotion?!
is that you capture that emotion?!
Sleepy-Eyed Dancer
Whoa, Madame's really intense today...
Saya
I-I'll practice it more. I'll have it perfect
by tomorrow, I promise—
by tomorrow, I promise—
Ballet Teacher
No. You have the technical skill. What
you lack is emotion.
you lack is emotion.
Ballet Teacher
You're too focused on the technique.
What emotion do you bring?
What emotion do you bring?
Saya
What emotion...?
Ballet Teacher
...we'll have to cut the final set of
99 pirouettes down to 10.
99 pirouettes down to 10.
Saya
Huh?!
Saya
B-but... the pirouettes are the
centerpiece of the whole performance!
centerpiece of the whole performance!
Saya
99 pirouettes for 99 Vessels giving
their lives. If we cut that...!
their lives. If we cut that...!
Saya
If people think I can't manage it, I'll
never make it as a professional!
never make it as a professional!
Ballet Teacher
If this is all you're capable of, you'll never
make it as a pro anyway.
make it as a pro anyway.
Saya
...!
Ballet Teacher
Your leg is injured, isn't it?
Saya
...
Ballet Teacher
You're favoring your left leg. It's no
wonder you can't focus right now.
wonder you can't focus right now.
Ballet Teacher
I understand you want to impress the
scouts, but rest is important, too.
scouts, but rest is important, too.
Saya
...okay.
Antares
You can do it, Saya! ...uh, I mean, you
can, not do it too much...?
can, not do it too much...?
Ballet Teacher
Back to your places, everyone!
From the top!
From the top!
Antares
...ah, you must be the scouts! Over here,
please!
please!
Antares
I'm Antares. I'm dancing the part of
the Vessel of the Goddess's Hope.
the Vessel of the Goddess's Hope.
Antares
This show, Requiem, is a new
production, so allow me to explain.
production, so allow me to explain.
Antares
Every 100 years, the Goddess of our
world is reborn into human flesh.
world is reborn into human flesh.
Antares
100 shards of her power fall from the
heavens, and inhabit 100 Vessels.
heavens, and inhabit 100 Vessels.
Antares
Her kindness, wisdom, courage, love,
nobility, decisiveness, refinement...
nobility, decisiveness, refinement...
Antares
Each of us represent one of her 100
Gifts.
Gifts.
Antares
Saya's role is the Goddess's Grace.
Antares
She may bend, but never break, as
she struggles against the others...
she struggles against the others...
Antares
...yes, the story is pretty much the
same as how things really work.
same as how things really work.
Antares
The big difference is that our Vessels
tend to die fulfilled and content.
tend to die fulfilled and content.
Antares
There's no way it goes that smoothly
in real life, I'm sure...
in real life, I'm sure...
Antares
Ah, it's time for Saya's solo. Let's
watch from the wings!
watch from the wings!
Saya
(...it's almost time for the finale, but
my leg...!)
my leg...!)
Saya
(Focus, damn it! You've shed blood
and tears for this day...!)
and tears for this day...!)
Saya
(You're going to become a pro, then
rise to be the danseur étoile.)
rise to be the danseur étoile.)
Saya
(I'll shine so bright, no one will ever
be able to ignore me again.)
be able to ignore me again.)
Saya
(I don't care what anyone says. I'm
doing the full 99 pirouettes...!)
doing the full 99 pirouettes...!)
Antares
Ah, there! This is the grand melee
of the Vessels, the climactic scene!
of the Vessels, the climactic scene!
Antares
All the other Vessels fall, one by one,
until Grace is the only one left...
until Grace is the only one left...
Saya
(The talent scouts are watching me.)
Saya
(If I mess this up, it's all over. I have
to do this perfectly!)
to do this perfectly!)
Saya
(Here we are, the pirouettes. I'm feeling
great!)
great!)
Saya
(Four... six... ten! I can do it! I can get
to 99!)
to 99!)
Saya
(I need to focus on my emotion. I need
to bring my emotion to the audience!)
to bring my emotion to the audience!)
Saya
(...what emotion?)
Saya
(...I'm scared to fail. My leg hurts.
I'm afraid of what the scout thinks...)
I'm afraid of what the scout thinks...)
Saya
(No, no! Grace needs to feel free!
She needs to be free and happy!)
She needs to be free and happy!)
Saya
(Happy... happy. Happier than anyone,
brighter than anyone...)
brighter than anyone...)
Saya
(...how am I supposed to be that happy?!)
???
...
Saya
(W-what... out in the audience... who is
that?)
that?)
Saya
(A girl with... horns...?)
Saya
Aah...!
Antares
Saya!
Ballet Teacher
Stop the music!
Saya
(Huh...? What happened?)
Saya
(Why am I on the floor?)
Saya
(No... no! Did I fall?!)
Ballet Teacher
Saya, are you alright?! You're not hurt,
are you?
are you?
Saya
I... did I mess it up?
Ballet Teacher
Don't worry about that now. Here, you
ought to rest.
ought to rest.
Saya
N-no! It's not like that, Madame, I—
Saya
I saw a girl with horns! Right there,
behind the scouts!
behind the scouts!
Ballet Teacher
Horns...? Come on, Saya. Don't make up
stories.
stories.
Saya
It's the truth! I just got distracted.
Let me dance it again!
Let me dance it again!
Ballet Teacher
...there's no need. The scouts are already
leaving.
leaving.
Saya
Wha... But...
Ballet Teacher
Don't worry, Saya. What you need now
is a chance to rest and recuperate.
is a chance to rest and recuperate.
Ballet Teacher
I can see how much this scouting
business has been wearing on you.
business has been wearing on you.
Antares
Don't worry! There's always next—
Saya
Stop it! I don't need your pity!
Saya
I'm going to be an étoile! I'm
going to shine... brighter than anyone!
going to shine... brighter than anyone!
Saya
The world is ending, you know! Who's
to say I'll ever get another chance?!
to say I'll ever get another chance?!
Antares
Ah, I... I'm sorry...
Saya
...
Saya
...No, I'm sorry. I...
Saya
I need to go.
Antares
W-wait! Saya! At least let me bandage
that scrape!
that scrape!
Ballet Teacher
Let her go.
Antares
Saya...
Scene 2
Saya
Ow...!
Saya
This really stings. Where are the cold
compresses...
compresses...
Saya
Oh... of course we're out. Forget it.
I don't want to go buy more.
I don't want to go buy more.
Saya
Ah! A voicemail from Mom! Maybe she's
on her way home?!
on her way home?!
Saya's Mom
Sorry, Saya, I won't be able to make your
show. Dad and I will be—
show. Dad and I will be—
Saya
...shut up.
Saya
You'd think they could make time for
my big break on the stage.
my big break on the stage.
Saya
Or at least be here when I'm hurt...
Saya
...or when I'm so lonely, I could cry...
Saya
...whatever. I'm going to bed.
Saya
It sure is windy out, though. How am I
supposed to sleep with—
supposed to sleep with—
Saya
Waah!
Saya
W-what the...?! I saw that oni girl
again...!
again...!
Saya
N-no, I'm just tired. I'm tired, and
my mind is playing tricks on me!
my mind is playing tricks on me!
Saya
That's it. It has to be. It has to be...
Saya
(I couldn't sleep a wink. My leg still
hurts, and it's pouring rain... this sucks.)
hurts, and it's pouring rain... this sucks.)
Saya
(What if that oni is there tonight?
I'll end up embarrassing myself again.)
I'll end up embarrassing myself again.)
Saya
(No! Don't think like that! Demons don't
exist!)
exist!)
Saya
(Be positive. You have to be.)
Saya
...to the theater, please.
Taxi Driver
Understood.
Saya
(At least I was able to snag a taxi...)
Taxi Driver
There's some flooding ahead. Mind if we
take an alternate route?
take an alternate route?
Saya
Ah, sure. Whatever gets us there
the fastest, please.
the fastest, please.
Taxi Driver
Pardon me for asking, but are you
dancing in the show today, miss?
dancing in the show today, miss?
Saya
I am, why?
Taxi Driver
My daughter's dancing too, you see.
Just a minor part, but she's thrilled.
Just a minor part, but she's thrilled.
Taxi Driver
I get off shift soon, so I plan to go see her.
I'm looking forward to it.
I'm looking forward to it.
Saya
...what a nice father you are.
Taxi Driver
Ah... are your parents not coming today?
Saya
Forget today, they've barely ever come
to any of my shows.
to any of my shows.
Saya
I'm sure they couldn't care less about
ballet.
ballet.
Taxi Driver
Well... to be honest, I don't understand
the appeal myself.
the appeal myself.
Saya
But you love your daughter, right?
Taxi Driver
Of course I do.
Saya
...I'm sorry. Please forget I said anything.
Taxi Driver
If there's something you wanna get
off your chest, I'd be glad to listen.
off your chest, I'd be glad to listen.
Saya
...thank you.
Taxi Driver
By the way, miss, what role are you
dancing?
dancing?
Saya
I'm the lead.
Taxi Driver
Wow, really?! That's amazing! My
daughter would love to meet you.
daughter would love to meet you.
Taxi Driver
All roles are important, sure, but the
stars are something else, she says.
stars are something else, she says.
Saya
...I worked hard for it. I've done
everything I can do.
everything I can do.
Saya
But I always fail at the critical moment.
I let everyone down, myself included.
I let everyone down, myself included.
Taxi Driver
I see. It sounds like being a star's not
always nice.
always nice.
Saya
Is it ever nice? I feel like I'm always
angry and afraid, no matter what I do.
angry and afraid, no matter what I do.
Saya
...there's a girl in my class who tries to be
my friend. Despite how cold I am.
my friend. Despite how cold I am.
Saya
I want to be friends with her too, but
I'm so twisted up inside...
I'm so twisted up inside...
Saya
...it's fine. I don't have the time or
energy for it anymore, anyway.
energy for it anymore, anyway.
Saya
She's the type to rescue a stray kitten.
I'm sure I'd just end up hurting her...
I'm sure I'd just end up hurting her...
Taxi Driver
Miss, if it makes you feel that bad,
then why do you keep dancing?
then why do you keep dancing?
Saya
Huh? I...
Saya
...to have people look at me, I guess.
Saya
When I'm dancing, the audience is
watching... and I feel like it's okay.
watching... and I feel like it's okay.
Saya
Like it's okay that I'm here. Okay to
be myself. I think that's why I dance.
be myself. I think that's why I dance.
Taxi Driver
So you've been suffering this whole time,
then? All for this performance?
then? All for this performance?
Saya
...I suppose so. Hah. It's pretty silly,
isn't it?
isn't it?
Saya
But ballet is the only thing I'm any good
at, so...
at, so...
Taxi Driver
Give it up.
Saya
Huh?
Taxi Driver
Ballet. If it hurts that much, then just
go ahead and give it up.
go ahead and give it up.
Saya
D-don't say that! You don't know what
I've given up to get where I am!
I've given up to get where I am!
Saya
Not just friends, but movies, fashion,
tasty food... I've given it all up.
tasty food... I've given it all up.
Taxi Driver
There's a whole big world outside ballet,
you know. You oughta see it.
you know. You oughta see it.
Taxi Driver
Then you'll see. Ballet's just a little tiny
bit of the world, not all of it.
bit of the world, not all of it.
Saya
Just a bit...? But I'm going to be an
étoile...
étoile...
Taxi Driver
It won't make you happy, you know.
Taxi Driver
The more you build it up, the more you'll
be let down. You know that.
be let down. You know that.
Saya
S-stop it! You don't know anything about
me!
me!
Saya
It's been hard, but I'll get through it!
It'll all be worth it in the end!
It'll all be worth it in the end!
Taxi Driver
I see... you find it that hard to imagine
a world without ballet?
a world without ballet?
Saya
I do! Of course I do! Without ballet, I...
I wouldn't be me...
I wouldn't be me...
Taxi Driver
You're a stubborn one, aren't you?
Guess it's time for shock therapy.
Guess it's time for shock therapy.
Saya
Huh...?
Taxi Driver
You're going to learn there's so much
much more to you than ballet.
much more to you than ballet.
Saya
H-hey! We're in the wrong lane!
Taxi Driver
The time has come for you to take the
first steps into your new life.
first steps into your new life.
Saya
No, no, we're going to crash!
Taxi Driver
Hold on tight, missy. Time for a little dip
in the river.
in the river.
Saya
What?! Ah...aaah...
Saya
Nooooo...!
Taxi Driver?
...phew. That was certainly unpleasant.
Cyrus
Can't say I enjoy tormenting young
ladies, but there's nothing for it.
ladies, but there's nothing for it.
Cyrus
This is nothing compared to what's
coming her way...
coming her way...
Scene 3
Saya
(......?!)
Saya
(S-so cold... I can't breathe! Where...
where am I?!)
where am I?!)
Saya
(The taxi...! That driver... he tried to kill
me!)
me!)
Saya
(I need to swim up...! Gotta get this
seatbelt off!)
seatbelt off!)
Saya
(It's not coming loose! No, no, no, please!)
Saya
(I can't... it's getting dark...
Am I... dying?)
Am I... dying?)
Saya
(No... I still haven't...
No one's ever... loved me...)
No one's ever... loved me...)
Saya
(Just once... just once, before I died,
I wanted...)
I wanted...)
Saya
(...!)
Saya
(...I can move?)
Saya
(My head's cleared. I see what to do...
I know exactly what to do!)
I know exactly what to do!)
Saya
(My chest feels hot. I feel like I'm on
fire, even down in the water!)
fire, even down in the water!)
Saya
(I'm out! I can swim! I can make it!)
Saya
(I'm still alive...!)
Saya
(...light! It's so bright—)
Antares
Every 100 years, the Goddess of our
world is reborn into human flesh.
world is reborn into human flesh.
Antares
100 shards of her power fall from the
heavens, and inhabit 100 Vessels.
heavens, and inhabit 100 Vessels.
Antares
Saya's role is the Goddess's Grace.
Antares
She may bend, but never break, as
she struggles against the others...
she struggles against the others...
Nanami
...no, I must insist.
Nanami
You don't have the necessary facilities
to treat a Vessel here.
to treat a Vessel here.
Male Doctor
But surely we should wait for her
regeneration...
regeneration...
Saya
Nnh...
W-where...
W-where...
Nanami
See, she's awake. What did I tell you?
Saya
(Who...?)
Male Doctor
So that's the Vessels' regenerative
power in action...
power in action...
Nanami
Indeed. I'll explain it to her. Could you
give us some privacy?
give us some privacy?
Saya
(What are they talking about...?)
Male Doctor
Understood. Please take your time.
Nanami
...now, then. How are you feeling?
Saya
(H-her ears... rabbit ears? Am I
hallucinating again?)
hallucinating again?)
Nanami
...can you not hear me? I can write if you
need it. Hello?
need it. Hello?
Saya
S-sorry, I can hear you!
Nanami
Okay, then.
Saya
...w-what time is it?!
Nanami
Just a bit after 7:00 PM.
Saya
I... I missed it...
Nanami
Hm? Missed what?
Saya
...I had a ballet show tonight. I was...
I was supposed to dance the lead.
I was supposed to dance the lead.
Nanami
Ah, that Requiem show? That
was four days ago.
was four days ago.
Saya
F-four...?
Nanami
Sorry, I don't mean to confuse you. Let me
take things in order here.
take things in order here.
Nanami
I'm Nanami Unohana. Think of me as...
something like an instructor, I guess.
something like an instructor, I guess.
Saya
O-okay...
Nanami
You went missing four days ago. A
camera picked you up hailing a taxi...
camera picked you up hailing a taxi...
Nanami
The taxi went off the bridge. And you
weren't found for three days.
weren't found for three days.
Saya
Three days...?
Nanami
A helicopter went out to look for your
body, but they found you alive.
body, but they found you alive.
Saya
It's... it's a miracle. It has to be, right?
Nanami
...if only it were.
Saya
Huh?
Nanami
This is going to be hard to hear, but I need
you to stay calm and listen.
you to stay calm and listen.
Nanami
You stayed alive, for three days, at the
bottom of the river.
bottom of the river.
Saya
...what? How is that possible?
Nanami
It's not. Unless you're immortal.
Unless you're a Vessel.
Unless you're a Vessel.
Saya
...?!
Nanami
Until the Requiem battles start, the
100 Vessels cannot die. By any means.
100 Vessels cannot die. By any means.
Nanami
All Vessels heal abnormally fast. You
can't die... even if you want to.
can't die... even if you want to.
Saya
W-wait, please. There has to be some
mistake.
mistake.
Saya
I've never had any sort of... of power
or godlike talent.
or godlike talent.
Saya
If I had, I wouldn't have had to work
so hard on my ballet!
so hard on my ballet!
Saya
I just... it can't be true. It can't be!
Nanami
...I understand your fears. I wouldn't
wish this on my worst enemy.
wish this on my worst enemy.
Nanami
But you're the 99th Vessel. Your old
life is over now... please try to understand.
life is over now... please try to understand.
Saya
B-but that's...
Saya
Oh...
Taxi Driver
You're going to learn there's so much
much more to you than ballet.
much more to you than ballet.
Taxi Driver
The time has come for you to take the
first steps into your new life.
first steps into your new life.
Saya
(It's all just like that taxi driver said...
But...but...!)
But...but...!)
Saya
It's not a new life...
Nanami
Hm?
Saya
It's not a new life! The Vessels don't
get lives!
get lives!
Saya
99 of them will die before they hit 20!
All for "the sake of the world!"
All for "the sake of the world!"
Saya
When the 100th Vessel's found...
I'm going to die, right?
I'm going to die, right?
Saya
If I'm just going to get butchered
anyway, I'd rather have drowned!
anyway, I'd rather have drowned!
Nanami
......
Nanami
...I see. Just tell me one thing.
Nanami
If a Vessel was standing right in front
of you, would you say that to her too?
of you, would you say that to her too?
Saya
Huh...?
Nanami
"You don't get a life."
Look me in the eyes and tell me that.
Look me in the eyes and tell me that.
Saya
You're... you're a Vessel, too...?
Nanami
I am.
Saya
...
Nanami
I'm here to help you adjust to your new
role. If you plan to let me, that is.
role. If you plan to let me, that is.
Saya
I... I'm sorry. I didn't mean...
Nanami
It's okay. I've been told worse.
Nanami
"You talk big for a dead girl walking,"
for instance.
for instance.
Nanami
Or "why bother making friends with
a Vessel anyway?" That sort of thing.
a Vessel anyway?" That sort of thing.
Nanami
I hate to say it, but it's best for us just
to avoid regular humans.
to avoid regular humans.
Saya
(That's awful... not that I can blame her
for the attitude.)
for the attitude.)
Saya
(I always thought of the Vessels as part
of the ballet, like a fairy tale, but...)
of the ballet, like a fairy tale, but...)
Saya
(These girls really do kill each other...
All to save the world.)
All to save the world.)
Nanami
It's not all bad, you know. The Academy
is very supportive of our dreams.
is very supportive of our dreams.
Saya
Academy...?
Nanami
It's a school, chock full of luxuries.
It's basically Heaven for us girls.
It's basically Heaven for us girls.
Saya
Basically Heaven...
Nanami
Yeah. If a Vessel runs away before the big
day, humanity is kind of screwed.
day, humanity is kind of screwed.
Nanami
So they do their best to make us
comfortable. Provide for us, you know?
comfortable. Provide for us, you know?
Saya
(...so it's death row. We just get to enjoy
ourselves before our execution.)
ourselves before our execution.)
Saya
(I wonder what it'll feel like, knowing
that. I don't really want to find out.)
that. I don't really want to find out.)
Saya
...um, what about my parents? What
should I tell them?
should I tell them?
Nanami
Ah, I contacted them myself. Sorry, that's
just how it's done.
just how it's done.
Nanami
They sent you all these flowers, see?
Saya
...flowers?
Nanami
...
Saya
Their daughter is being sent to die,
and they only send flowers...?
and they only send flowers...?
Antares
Saya!
Saya
Antares...?
Antares
Saya, Saya, Saya!
You're alive...! Thank the Goddess!
You're alive...! Thank the Goddess!
Saya
H-hey, easy...
Antares
Waaah... wen yu dident come to da sho,
I waz zo saaad, an den, an den...
I waz zo saaad, an den, an den...
Saya
Oh, come on, blow your nose! I can't
understand a word you're saying!
understand a word you're saying!
Antares
Sniiiiiiiiiff...
Sorry...
Sorry...
Antares
...huh? Oh, am I interrupting something?
Nanami
No, not at all. Don't mind me.
Nanami
I'll be outside. Saya, come find me...
When you're ready to go.
When you're ready to go.
Saya
...
Antares
Huh? What does she mean, ready to go?
Saya
I...
Saya
Antares, I...
Antares
Saya...?
Saya
I... waaaah!
Scene 4
PA System
[Now arriving at: Shinano Academy.
This is the last stop. Thank you for...]
This is the last stop. Thank you for...]
Kitten
Myaaa...
Saya
Ssshh. You have to stay quiet.
Saya
I'll feed you when we get to the station,
okay? Just wait a bit.
okay? Just wait a bit.
Kitten
Nya!
Saya
Oh, you're a clever girl, aren't you?
Saya
...I wish I had had something to give
Antares in return...
Antares in return...
Antares
You have to go to a school for Vessels...?
Saya
Yeah... so they can all be in one place.
For the Requiem, I mean.
For the Requiem, I mean.
Saya
I need to go today, apparently...
Saya
It's ironic, isn't it? I was the lead in
Requiem. Now I'm a Vessel too.
Requiem. Now I'm a Vessel too.
Antares
...
Saya
...I wish I'd gotten to dance it, though.
Now I won't get any applause.
Now I won't get any applause.
Antares
Yeah... that really is such a shame,
isn't it...
isn't it...
Kitten
Mew?
Myaaa!
Myaaa!
Saya
Aah?! W-what the?!
Antares
Hey, no jumping on Saya! She's not
feeling good right now.
feeling good right now.
Kitten
Nyaaa.
Saya
You even brought it into the hospital...
Antares
S-sorry. I don't want to let her out of my
sight, so...
sight, so...
Saya
No, it's fine. I like the way you break
the rules, Antares.
the rules, Antares.
Saya
Ballet's a cutthroat world. People do
whatever it takes to be the star.
whatever it takes to be the star.
Saya
I hated the thought of cheating, so I
resented the ones who broke the rules.
resented the ones who broke the rules.
Saya
But you always broke the rules for
others, not yourself. I... respected that.
others, not yourself. I... respected that.
Antares
You really thought that much about it?
Saya
...yeah. I'm glad I got to say it. I wish
I'd had the courage sooner, though.
I'd had the courage sooner, though.
Antares
...
Kitten
Myaaaa!
Saya
Hey, that tickles! Don't lick me—haha!
Antares
Aww! She really likes you, huh?
Saya
Really? Maybe she just likes the blanket.
Antares
No way! She's a stray, so she's very shy.
She's never nuzzled me like that.
She's never nuzzled me like that.
Saya
Haha. Hey, now. If you're going to be
friendly, be friendly to your owner.
friendly, be friendly to your owner.
Kitten
Nyaaa...
Saya
She really is cute... and so soft. And she
smells nice, too. That's weird.
smells nice, too. That's weird.
Antares
Saya... would you take her with you when
you go?
you go?
Saya
Huh?! N-no, I couldn't possibly! You
adopted her, didn't you?
adopted her, didn't you?
Saya
Besides, I'll be living in a dorm, no pets
allowed. I can't break the rules.
allowed. I can't break the rules.
Antares
Not even for a tiny kitten?
Saya
But... I mean, me wanting to keep her is
just being selfish, right?
just being selfish, right?
Antares
And what's wrong with that? Why not try
breaking a few rules yourself?
breaking a few rules yourself?
Saya
Breaking a few rules...?
Antares
Saya, your life belongs to you. Not to
anyone else.
anyone else.
Antares
Don't get so focused on others that
you forget to care for yourself.
you forget to care for yourself.
Saya
(In the end, Antares kind of pushed her
on me.)
on me.)
Saya
(I wonder what's going to happen...
Both for her, and for me.)
Both for her, and for me.)
Saya
Come here, kitty.
Kitten
Nyaa?
Saya
I'm... I'm scared.
Saya
So this is the Vessels' school?
Saya
It's definitely fancy, just like Nanami
said. And so big, too... wow...
said. And so big, too... wow...
Nanami
Saya!
Saya
Ah! Nanami...
Nanami
I've been waiting for you. I'm so glad you
decided to come!
decided to come!
Saya
(...someday, we're going to fight to the
death, aren't we?)
death, aren't we?)
Saya
(How can she say she's glad to see me...?)
Nanami
Uh, Saya? You okay?
Saya
Ah, yes. I'm fine, sorry.
Nanami
You must be tired from the trip. Want
a snack? We have 3-star chefs on call.
a snack? We have 3-star chefs on call.
Saya
...I'm sorry. I'm not really hungry.
Nanami
Your dorm, then? Any of these escort
cars will take you right there.
cars will take you right there.
Saya
W-wait a minute. Escort cars? You mean,
those black luxury cars?
those black luxury cars?
Nanami
Yes. They'll take you anywhere you want,
no charge at all.
no charge at all.
Saya
(I'd heard they treated Vessels well,
but this is something else...)
but this is something else...)
Saya
Um, I'm okay, really. I'm not tired, so—
Nanami
I see! Then how about a quick walking
tour of the campus?
tour of the campus?
Saya
Um, well, I...
Saya
(Nanami's a lot more, uh, forceful than
I expected.)
I expected.)
Nanami
Today's Sunday, our day off. But
everyone's keeping busy, as you can see.
everyone's keeping busy, as you can see.
Nanami
Martial arts, sports, marching band,
singing, painting...
singing, painting...
Nanami
Our school festival is next weekend,
so everyone's busy with prep work.
so everyone's busy with prep work.
Saya
Decorations... huh. It almost seems
like an ordinary high school.
like an ordinary high school.
Nanami
Of course it does. They're ordinary high
schoolers, after all.
schoolers, after all.
Nanami
Our school festival is most famous for
the chocoyaki.
the chocoyaki.
Nanami
It's like takoyaki, but with chocolate
instead of octopus.
instead of octopus.
Nanami
I can't say it's good, exactly, but
it sure is distinctive!
it sure is distinctive!
Student A
Look, over there...
Is that...?
Is that...?
Student B
Yeah, she has to be...
Saya
(Why's everyone looking at me?)
Saya
(Ah... of course. I'm the 99th Vessel. Just
one more to go. No wonder they're afraid.)
one more to go. No wonder they're afraid.)
Nanami
Now, I've been here for a while, so I
can tell you all our urban legends, too.
can tell you all our urban legends, too.
Saya
Oh, right. You're not a student, are you?
Nanami
No, finding the Vessels has taken so
long that I actually graduated last year.
long that I actually graduated last year.
Nanami
But since I'm a Vessel myself, I can't leave.
So they made me a teacher instead.
So they made me a teacher instead.
Nanami
There are a few of us like that. You'll
meet the rest of them soon, I'm sure.
meet the rest of them soon, I'm sure.
Saya
(She talks about it so casually...)
Saya
(Why? Isn't she afraid of the Requiem?
Of dying...?)
Of dying...?)
Nanami
Oh, right, there's something I want to
show you. Come on, this way.
show you. Come on, this way.
Saya
Huh...?
Nanami
What do you think? Not bad, huh?
Saya
Wow... it's huge!
Saya
There's all sorts of barres set up, and...
a piano?
a piano?
Saya
No. No way you have a live pianist
for rehearsals!
for rehearsals!
Nanami
Do most ballerinas not?
Saya
Of course not! Only the pros do!
Wow... I can't believe this!
Wow... I can't believe this!
Nanami
What do you know? I guess being a Vessel
has some perks after all.
has some perks after all.
Nanami
We don't actually have any other dancers,
at the moment.
at the moment.
Nanami
So if you want the studio, it's yours!
Here's the key.
Here's the key.
Saya
Oh...
Nanami
This may feel like buying you off, but...
Would you dance at the festival?
Would you dance at the festival?
Saya
Huh?
Nanami
You lost your starring role, right? I
can't imagine how that must hurt.
can't imagine how that must hurt.
Nanami
If you want to, you can dance here.
I'm sure everyone would enjoy it.
I'm sure everyone would enjoy it.
Saya
...enjoy watching the competition, sure.
Nanami
Saya...
Saya
What's the point of holding a festival,
anyway? We're all going to die soon.
anyway? We're all going to die soon.
Saya
You and I will have to murder each
other. Why act so nice to me?
other. Why act so nice to me?
Saya
...am I really a Vessel? Is it absolutely
certain?
certain?
Nanami
...that much is certain, Saya. As for
everything else...
everything else...
Nanami
There's no harm in having fun. No matter
what fate awaits you.
what fate awaits you.
Saya
I didn't say it was harmful. I just don't
feel like I can go along with it.
feel like I can go along with it.
Nanami
If you would prefer not to, I won't force
you to participate.
you to participate.
Nanami
But I advise you stop feeling sorry for
yourself. It only makes things harder.
yourself. It only makes things harder.
Nanami
I understand if you need some time.
Want me to give you some space?
Want me to give you some space?
Saya
...yes, please. I'd... I'd like to be alone.
Nanami
Alright.
Saya
......
Saya
How am I supposed to just... act like
nothing's wrong?
nothing's wrong?
Scene 5
Kitten
Mew, mew!
Saya
Ow, ow, ow. Watch your claws...
Saya
Mm... what time is it? Ugh, it's not even
4 AM...
4 AM...
Saya
Are you hungry? Is that it?
Kitten
Mew, mew!
Saya
Haha, okay, okay. Hang on, I'll—
Saya
Hm? Something fell...
Saya
Ah, it's the key to the studio. I forgot
Nanami gave me that...
Nanami gave me that...
Saya
I guess it couldn't hurt to practice a little.
Can you be good while I'm out?
Can you be good while I'm out?
Kitten
Myam, myam, myam...
Saya
I should probably name you at some
point, huh.
point, huh.
Saya
Whoa, it's dark in here. Where's the
light switch?
light switch?
Saya
Ah, here it is.
...the whole studio's empty.
...the whole studio's empty.
Saya
Let me bring up the final track from
Requiem, and...
Requiem, and...
Saya
Huh? What was that? Some kind of draft...?
Hibiki
Alright! Bring it on, ya bastards!
Saya
Kyaaah?!
Hibiki
Nn? Ah, hi.
Saya
Y-you... w-what are...?!
Hibiki
Aah?! Damn it, damn it, damn it!
Saya
H-huh?!
Hibiki
You little... aaah! Dang it, I died...
Guess I'm starting over.
Guess I'm starting over.
Saya
I-is that a game?
Hibiki
Hm? Yeah, why? You like rhythm games?
Saya
N-not at all.
Hibiki
That so.
Hibiki
Arright, one more time! I'm gonna win
this time, dang it!
this time, dang it!
Saya
...h-how long have you been here?
Hibiki
Hell yeah! Looking good!
Saya
Um, excuse me. Hello?
Saya
Hey. Who are you, anyway? Are you a
student here?
student here?
Saya
Why are you following me around?
Hibiki
Huh? You're the one following me.
Hibiki
I always come here at night.
Saya
...are you a dancer, then?
Hibiki
Pfft, no.
Hibiki
This place has good wifi, that's all.
Saya
If you come here every night, you must
have a key, right?
have a key, right?
Hibiki
Uh, well... something like that, I guess.
Saya
So, why were you at the dance hall?
Or in my garden?
Or in my garden?
Hibiki
Don't know what you're talking about.
I'm super forgetful, sorry!
I'm super forgetful, sorry!
Saya
(She's lying through her teeth.)
Hibiki
All done with your interrogation, officer?
I'm a bit busy here.
I'm a bit busy here.
Saya
(You're just playing a video game!)
Saya
I'd like to use this room for its actual
purpose, if you don't mind.
purpose, if you don't mind.
Hibiki
Okay, sure. What's stopping you?
Saya
...your game volume is up too high.
I can't concentrate.
I can't concentrate.
Hibiki
Y'know, I've gotta ask. Is it tough?
Saya
What? Is what tough?
Hibiki
Dancing with that stick up your ass.
Saya
E-excuse me?!
Saya
Hey, don't raise the volume! I told you,
I can't concentrate!
I can't concentrate!
Hibiki
Hmm? Sorry, can't hear you!
Saya
You...!
Hibiki
H-hey! Gimme back my phone!
That's theft! You're a thief!
That's theft! You're a thief!
Saya
I'm practicing my dance for the school
festival! I'm not here to play around!
festival! I'm not here to play around!
Saya
Do you understand that? Get out!
Hibiki
Give that back!
Saya
...!
Hibiki
So you get off lecturing others, huh?
That's lame as shit.
That's lame as shit.
Hibiki
Tch. It's always the goody two-shoes
girls who're the biggest bitches.
girls who're the biggest bitches.
Saya
What is her problem?!
Saya
Hmph... whatever. Forget her.
Saya
Nn. My leg still hurts.
Saya
But I'm not as rusty as I expected.
That's good...
That's good...
Girl's Voice
Um, excuse me. May I come in?
Saya
Ah, please.
???
Good morning. You must be the new
transfer student, yes?
transfer student, yes?
Saya
Um, yeah...
Charlotte
Oh, good. We heard the music from the
studio and thought it must be you!
studio and thought it must be you!
Charlotte
Right, Kotone?
Kotone
Hmmm...?
Mm...
Mm...
Saya
(Huh? Is she... asleep?)
Charlotte
Oh, here, these are for you. We're from
the school's baking club!
the school's baking club!
Charlotte
Here, Kotone, have some sugar and
wake up, please.
wake up, please.
Kotone
Nmgh... mm...
Hrgmhmrhmrgh...
Hrgmhmrhmrgh...
Saya
(She's just stuffing cookies into that girl's
mouth. Is she okay?)
mouth. Is she okay?)
Kotone
Hgmhrnrh...
Saya
(Seriously, isn't she going to choke?!)
Kotone
Aah! My mouth is a desert!!
Saya
(...I don't understand what's going on here
at all.)
at all.)
Saya
(At least the cookies are good.)
Saya
Um, thank you. I'm Saya. Who are you
two?
two?
Charlotte
This is Kotone, a first year. She's...
Let's call her our club taste tester.
Let's call her our club taste tester.
Kotone
I'm Kotone... but you can call me the
Sleeping Lion if you want. Yaaawn...
Sleeping Lion if you want. Yaaawn...
Charlotte
And I'm Charlotte, a third year. My
favorite dessert is soufflé cheesecake!
favorite dessert is soufflé cheesecake!
Kotone
She's also known as the Smiling Devil.
Saya
U-um... I think I'll stick with Charlotte.
Charlotte
Then I'll call you Saya!
Charlotte
It's almost time for homeroom. Do you
know your way to class?
know your way to class?
Saya
(This again...)
Saya
(We'll have to kill each other soon, but
everyone's so buddy-buddy.)
everyone's so buddy-buddy.)
Saya
(But, well... I don't gain anything by
making enemies, I suppose.)
making enemies, I suppose.)
Saya
I'd appreciate someone showing me the
way. Thanks.
way. Thanks.
Charlotte
As you know, only the 100 Vessels are
allowed to attend school here.
allowed to attend school here.
Charlotte
Classes are small, so it's easy to get
to know each other and make friends.
to know each other and make friends.
Saya
(Friends... I just can't wrap my head
around the idea.)
around the idea.)
Saya
(It's not like I had any real friends
before I came here, though.)
before I came here, though.)
Kotone
Your class is under Lightning Hare
Nanami, right, Saya?
Nanami, right, Saya?
Saya
Nanami? Oh, right...
Charlotte
Oh, you've already met her?
Charlotte
She can be intimidating, but she's a
good person. I'm sure you'll like her.
good person. I'm sure you'll like her.
Kotone
She's strong. You should fight her
sometime.
sometime.
Kotone
It'll make your throat go hwooop, and
close right up.
close right up.
Saya
...sorry, what?
Nanami
Good morning, everyone. To your seats,
please.
please.
Kotone
Speak of the Lightning Hare...
Charlotte
We'll see you later, Saya.
Saya
Ah...
Nanami
First off, we have a new student joining
us today.
us today.
Nanami
Saya, would you like to introduce yourself?
Saya
R-right. I'm Saya Saionji. Nice to meet you
all.
all.
Student A
...
Student B
...
Saya
(Everyone looks so cold. Just like the girls
who noticed me yesterday.)
who noticed me yesterday.)
Nanami
Saya is our 99th Vessel. There's only one
left who hasn't been found.
left who hasn't been found.
Nanami
She could be found today, and the Requiem
would begin tomorrow.
would begin tomorrow.
Nanami
Or she could stay hidden for weeks, months...
Years, even.
Years, even.
Nanami
When the time comes, it comes. For now,
just live your lives to the fullest.
just live your lives to the fullest.
Saya
(...I don't see how.)
Nanami
Alright, time for roll call. Nao Aida.
Rika Ooishi. Sakura Kashiwazaki...
Rika Ooishi. Sakura Kashiwazaki...
Nanami
Hibiki Himeno——
Hibiki?
Hibiki?
Saya
(Hibiki... could she be that oni girl I saw?)
Nanami
Skipping again? I swear...
Sayumi Matsubayashi....——
Sayumi Matsubayashi....——
Saya
(So she's in my year? She looked older
than me, I thought.)
than me, I thought.)
Nanami
Ok, that's the end of homeroom. Your
teacher will be in soon for first period.
teacher will be in soon for first period.
Nanami
Saya, you're to report to the medical
room for a physical.
room for a physical.
Saya
Y-yes, miss.
Saya
(A physical, already? Guess they want
to see how good the new Vessel is.)
to see how good the new Vessel is.)
Scene 6
Saya
Hello? Excuse me. I'm Saya Saionji...
Saya
...is anyone here?
Reina
Do forgive me, I had to step out for a
moment. I'm Reina Fujiwara, the nurse.
moment. I'm Reina Fujiwara, the nurse.
Saya
(Huh? She doesn't look much older than
me either.)
me either.)
Reina
I also work as a teacher, so I figured
we'd meet each other in due time.
we'd meet each other in due time.
Saya
Ah, i-it's my pleasure...
Reina
You seem confused. I'm a Vessel too,
don't worry.
don't worry.
Saya
Oh, um, it's not that. You just seem...
young.
young.
Saya
That, and I was wondering what subject
you teach...
you teach...
Reina
Haha. You're a lot more easily shaken
than you look.
than you look.
Reina
I understand the feeling. We live such
brief and fleeting lives, after all.
brief and fleeting lives, after all.
Saya
Brief and fleeting...
Saya
You're right. It's honestly amazing how
calm everyone seems here.
calm everyone seems here.
Reina
Is it? Everyone's just enjoying the perks
of being a Vessel.
of being a Vessel.
Saya
What perks? The food? The cars? Those
aren't worth dying for.
aren't worth dying for.
Reina
Oh, dying isn't so bad. Some girls here
do it all the time.
do it all the time.
Reina
Why not give it a try? I'm sure you could
find someone to help you out.
find someone to help you out.
Saya
Huh...?
Reina
Coming back from the dead is certainly a
perk, wouldn't you agree?
perk, wouldn't you agree?
Reina
It's not true death, of course, but the
adrenaline high is incomparable.
adrenaline high is incomparable.
Reina
I recommend it highly, if you ever have
the time.
the time.
Saya
(W-what is she talking about?)
Reina
Ah, but perhaps it isn't advisable in your
case. What with your temperament...
case. What with your temperament...
Saya
My temperament? What do you mean?
Reina
Your left leg's bothering you, isn't it?
Saya
...I haven't even been favoring it.
How did you...
How did you...
Reina
That medical degree on the wall's not
for decoration, you know.
for decoration, you know.
Reina
We Vessels are capable of recovering
from even death, given time to rest.
from even death, given time to rest.
Reina
It's even theorized that the Requiem won't
start if any one of us is injured.
start if any one of us is injured.
Saya
Injured...?
Reina
Yes. We can't say for sure why.
Reina
Maybe the Goddess wants all 100 of us to
have a chance to kill.
have a chance to kill.
Reina
The problem is, that means some
students have gotten hooked on death.
students have gotten hooked on death.
Reina
If they're always hurt, the Requiem
can never begin, or so they think.
can never begin, or so they think.
Saya
(If the alternative is death, I can see how
that might be better...)
that might be better...)
Reina
I just hope you're not among them.
Reina
Now then, your results look fairly
decent overall.
decent overall.
Reina
Nothing I could find explains your leg
though, I'm afraid.
though, I'm afraid.
Saya
I see... could I have some medicine for the
pain, at least?
pain, at least?
Reina
Of course. As long as you can offer me
something in return.
something in return.
Saya
In return...?
Reina
Have any information that might come
in handy during the Requiem?
in handy during the Requiem?
Saya
I only just arrived here yesterday.
What could I possibly know?
What could I possibly know?
Reina
Ah, of course. The name of your Gift will
be quite enough, then.
be quite enough, then.
Saya
I don't know that either! I only learned I
was a Vessel yesterday!
was a Vessel yesterday!
Reina
That's strange. Why would they admit
you without recording your Gift?
you without recording your Gift?
Reina
Do you have any recollection of using
superhuman abilities recently?
superhuman abilities recently?
Saya
Superhuman...
Saya
(My chest feels hot. I feel like I'm on
fire, even down in the water!)
fire, even down in the water!)
Saya
(I'm out! I can swim! I can make it!)
Saya
(Was that my Gift...?)
Reina
I can guess, given your history. Junior
Ballet Champion 3 times running, hm?
Ballet Champion 3 times running, hm?
Reina
Definitely a physical Gift. Flexibility,
perhaps, or Poise...
perhaps, or Poise...
Saya
But I never had any talent for ballet.
I worked hard to get where I am!
I worked hard to get where I am!
Saya
It's not like I just breezed through because
I had a Gift...
I had a Gift...
Reina
Or so you think. We get a lot of girls
who feel that way, at first.
who feel that way, at first.
Reina
No one likes to admit they're just
following the rails ahead of them.
following the rails ahead of them.
Saya
...you're trying to rile me up so you can
get more information, aren't you?
get more information, aren't you?
Reina
Trust me, I would if I could. But no, I'm
telling you the truth, Saionji.
telling you the truth, Saionji.
Saya
Do you enjoy kicking people where it
hurts? Do you want to win that much?
hurts? Do you want to win that much?
Reina
Of course. I don't want to die.
Saya
You're awful. You, the other Vessels,
everyone who just accepts this...
everyone who just accepts this...
Reina
You're decent, Saionji. I like girls like
that, and I consider myself decent too.
that, and I consider myself decent too.
Reina
But decency won't keep you alive. Not
in here, and not out there.
in here, and not out there.
Reina
Lots of girls refuse the physical, so no
one else knows what their Gift is.
one else knows what their Gift is.
Reina
But you never even considered that,
did you? That will be—
did you? That will be—
Saya
How much?
Reina
Hm?
Saya
How much was my effort, and how much
was the Goddess's?
was the Goddess's?
Saya
Was everything I've accomplished...
only because I'm a Vessel...?
only because I'm a Vessel...?
Reina
...haha.
Saya
W-what's so funny?!
Reina
You get hung up on the most pointless
things, that's all.
things, that's all.
Reina
Vessels aren't the only ones born with
Goddess-given talents, you know.
Goddess-given talents, you know.
Reina
You've seen piano prodigies or math
geniuses on TV before, haven't you?
geniuses on TV before, haven't you?
Reina
Does it matter if their skill is genetic,
a whim of the Goddess, or pure luck?
a whim of the Goddess, or pure luck?
Reina
You were born with talent. That's all there
is to it.
is to it.
Saya
(That's all there is to it? Can it really be
so simple?)
so simple?)
School PA
[All students. 3rd Period is about to
begin. Report to the practice field.]
begin. Report to the practice field.]
Reina
Oh, off to the practice field with you,
I see.
I see.
Saya
Practice field? What are we practicing?
Reina
What do you think?
Reina
Killing, of course.
Scene 7
School PA
[All students, please report to the
practice field for combat practice.]
practice field for combat practice.]
Saya
(Goddess-given talent, killing practice,
and someday soon, the Requiem...)
and someday soon, the Requiem...)
Saya
(If all of this is just fated... then aren't
we just the Goddess's playthings?)
we just the Goddess's playthings?)
Nanami
Saya. Go ahead and pick a weapon.
Saya
Oh, Nana— er, Miss. You use a katana,
then?
then?
Nanami
Yes. It's beautiful, isn't it? Though
obviously pretty dangerous.
obviously pretty dangerous.
Saya
I-is that a real blade?!
Nanami
Of course. But there's no need to worry.
Nanami
Even if you bleed out, or lose all your
limbs, you won't die.
limbs, you won't die.
Saya
(That's nowhere near as reassuring
as she thinks it is.)
as she thinks it is.)
Nanami
If you can't decide, why not start out
with the katana yourself?
with the katana yourself?
Nanami
It's relatively light and has good reach.
Easy to handle, I'd say.
Easy to handle, I'd say.
Saya
(A katana... they are kind of pretty.
I've never seen a real one before...)
I've never seen a real one before...)
Saya
(When I was 5, I wanted to learn kendo
because I loved a samurai anime.)
because I loved a samurai anime.)
Saya
(If I'd known this would happen, I would
have insisted to my parents...)
have insisted to my parents...)
Nanami
Not sure which to pick? Just go with
your gut and see how it feels.
your gut and see how it feels.
Saya
Okay...
Saya
(Whoa! I-it's heavy!)
Saya
(I guess dancing doesn't really tone
your arms much...)
your arms much...)
Nanami
Go ahead and try a practice swing
or two.
or two.
Saya
O-okay.
Saya
(I can't let them see me struggling. I'll look
weak.)
weak.)
Saya
Ha!
Haah!
Haah!
Nanami
Hm. Not bad, for your first time.
Nanami
But it's a bit heavy for you. Dual-
wielding daggers might be a better fit.
wielding daggers might be a better fit.
Saya
(She saw right through me!)
Nanami
Your build is more suited to a hit-and-
run style than fighting head-on anyway.
run style than fighting head-on anyway.
Nanami
Here, try this short blade. It's the perfect
size for you.
size for you.
Saya
T-thank you...
Nanami
The Requiem is likely starting soon.
We have to work with what you've got.
We have to work with what you've got.
Saya
(What I've got...
She means the Goddess's Gift.)
She means the Goddess's Gift.)
Nanami
Alright, everyone! Form up!
Nanami
We'll go tournament-style. No dirty tactics,
but don't hold back either.
but don't hold back either.
Nanami
Think of this as a rehearsal battle, and
give it everything you've got!
give it everything you've got!
Nanami
Now, then... Saya, I'm pairing you with
Kotone.
Kotone.
Saya
Huh...?
Kotone
...let's have a good fight, Despondent
Dancer.
Dancer.
Saya
S-sure...
Kotone
This is your first time, right?
...I'll give you the first strike.
...I'll give you the first strike.
Kotone
Come at me however you like.
Saya
O-okay. Here I come...!
Saya
Haa! Take this!
Kotone
...mm, no. Sorry.
Saya
Urk!
Saya
(She's so small, but she swings that
hammer like it's nothing!)
hammer like it's nothing!)
Saya
(Focus up! You have to focus...
Focus... focus...!)
Focus... focus...!)
Saya
(...?! My pulse is racing, like when I
dance... No, even faster than that!)
dance... No, even faster than that!)
Saya
(This is like... in the river. Like my blood
is boiling...)
is boiling...)
Kotone
Getting so close to me is dumb, you know.
Hup!
Hup!
Saya
(I can see where her strike will go!)
Saya
(Her swings aren't that fast... and she's
wide open after they land!)
wide open after they land!)
Kotone
I see you over there!
Saya
Haaa!
Kotone
Ngh...!
Saya
(I got her!)
Kotone
...not bad, ballerina. But it won't happen
again!
again!
Saya
(Here she comes!)
Kotone
Nn...?
Saya
(Huh? She stopped moving?)
Kotone
Zzz...
Saya
...s-she fell asleep?!
Charlotte
Oh, Kotone... you always fall asleep at the
worst possible time.
worst possible time.
Nanami
The match is over! Winner: Saya Saionji!
Saya
Huh? W-wait, really? I won?!
Hibiki
......
Nanami
Enough! Winner: Saya Saionji!
Nanami
Saya Saionji wins! That's the end of the
semifinals!
semifinals!
Nanami
Well done, Saya. You've made it all the
way to the finals.
way to the finals.
Saya
But... but how? How could I...
Saya
I don't want to fight. I kept hoping I'd
lose, but my body won't let me...
lose, but my body won't let me...
Charlotte
So you say, but you look positively
radiant right now, you know.
radiant right now, you know.
Saya
Charlotte? So you're my last opponent?
Charlotte
Yes. I do hope you'll go easy on me.
Saya
(She's using a spear and a shield?)
Charlotte
Your streak of beginner's luck ends here,
I'm afraid!
I'm afraid!
Saya
(I can't aim for her shield side. She'll
just block me—)
just block me—)
Saya
Aah?!
Charlotte
There!
Saya
...! No, you don't!
Charlotte
...!
Saya
(I got her! But... but how?)
Charlotte
Haaa!
Saya
(Her expression didn't even change!
Isn't she in pain?!)
Isn't she in pain?!)
Saya
Nnh...
Charlotte
I didn't expect this to take this long.
Charlotte
But you know, I must admit...
I really enjoy battles of attrition.
I really enjoy battles of attrition.
Saya
(She's all cut up and bloody, but she
just keeps coming!)
just keeps coming!)
Saya
(It's not her body that's strong,
it's her spirit.)
it's her spirit.)
Saya
(If I don't end this in the next few
minutes, I'm done for.)
minutes, I'm done for.)
Saya
(So... I'll go for her shield! I'll feint,
then—!)
then—!)
Charlotte
What are you—
Charlotte
...?!
Saya
(Her vitals are exposed!)
Charlotte
Guh...!
Nanami
Enough! Saya Saionji is the winner!
Saya
I... I did it...?
Student A
No way...
What kind of monster is she?
What kind of monster is she?
Student B
Now I feel like an idiot for ever thinking
I could win...
I could win...
Saya
(Ah...)
Saya
(No wonder no one's happy for me...
Their lives are on the line, after all.)
Their lives are on the line, after all.)
Saya
(It's nothing like it was at the studio.)
Saya
(...or is it? Did my dancing ever really
make anyone happy...?)
make anyone happy...?)
???
That. Was. Rad.
Saya
You...
Hibiki
You tore through them like a meteor!
Good job, prima ballerina.
Good job, prima ballerina.
Kotone
...ah. It's the Super Slacker.
Nanami
You're late, Hibiki. Practice is already
over.
over.
Nanami
If you came to fight Saya, then you'll
have to wait until next time.
have to wait until next time.
Hibiki
Oh, don't mind us.
Hibiki
We don't need a supervisor.
Saya
(She drew her sword?!)
Nanami
Hibiki!
Hibiki
Let's continue our chat from this
morning, eh?
morning, eh?
Saya
(She's rude, a slacker, and a delinquent,
too? What a charmer.)
too? What a charmer.)
Charlotte
She only just arrived, Hibiki. You can't
traumatize her so soon.
traumatize her so soon.
Kotone
Yeah. The tournament's over.
Kotone
If you want to show off, there'll be
another one next week.
another one next week.
Saya
(Traumatize me...? Is she that strong?)
Saya
(...so she's the sort who skips class and
just coasts on her talent, then.)
just coasts on her talent, then.)
Saya
(I hate people like that. "Talent"...
I hate that word, too!)
I hate that word, too!)
Saya
It's alright. I'll take her on.
Nanami
Not you too, Saya! Give me a break here.
Hibiki
Hell yeah, ballerina! Show me how you
dance.
dance.
Saya
...you asked for it.
Scene 8
Saya
Haa!
Hibiki
You call that an attack?!
Hibiki
Is that really all you got? Talk about a
disappointment!
disappointment!
Saya
Ngh!
Nanami
Personal fights are against school rules!
Drop your weapons, now!
Drop your weapons, now!
Nanami
...they're not listening.
Saya
I've got you!
Hibiki
You're so slooow.
Saya
(I can't even touch her! She's in a
league of her own...!)
league of her own...!)
Saya
(What should I do? At this rate, she's
going to win without breaking a sweat!)
going to win without breaking a sweat!)
Nanami
I guess it's too early to expect her to
hold her own against Hibiki...
hold her own against Hibiki...
Saya
(Shut up...! Don't just say that to my
face!)
face!)
Saya
(This is just like before...)
Ballet Teacher
...we'll have to cut the final set of
99 pirouettes down to 10.
99 pirouettes down to 10.
Ballet Teacher
If this is all you're capable of, you'll never
make it as a pro anyway.
make it as a pro anyway.
Saya
Don't just assume I can't do it...
Before I've even tried!!
Before I've even tried!!
Hibiki
?!
D-damn it...
D-damn it...
Kotone
Huh...
She got one in on the Super Slacker.
She got one in on the Super Slacker.
Charlotte
...Saya! You can do it, Saya!
Saya
Huh?
Student A
Hey, look. Hibiki actually looks kind
of upset!
of upset!
Student B
Not bad, transfer student! Go on, give her
hell!
hell!
Saya
(Cheering? But why? They were all
so cold just a few minutes ago.)
so cold just a few minutes ago.)
Nanami
Honestly...
Nanami
Still, we could be seeing the end of
Hibiki's perfect win streak here.
Hibiki's perfect win streak here.
Hibiki
Huh?! How come everyone's cheering
for her, huh?!
for her, huh?!
Hibiki
Cheer for me too, damn it!
Saya
(Ah... I think I understand.)
Saya
(Hibiki is probably too strong.
So everyone just feels like...)
So everyone just feels like...)
Saya
("Why even bother? Hibiki is just going
to win the Requiem, anyway.")
to win the Requiem, anyway.")
Saya
(But if that certainty can be shaken,
even for a moment...)
even for a moment...)
Saya
(Then they can still have hope!)
Saya
Haaaa!
Hibiki
Gah! Damn it...!
Saya
(No one, absolutely no one, wants
to just give up on everything!)
to just give up on everything!)
Hibiki
Enoooough!
Saya
Aah...!
Charlotte
She knocked one of Saya's blades out of
her hand!
her hand!
Kotone
Ah, well. It was nice while it lasted.
Charlotte
...the match isn't over yet, Kotone.
Hibiki
Come on, come on! We were just getting
to the fun part!
to the fun part!
Saya
Ah...! Nngh!
Saya
I'm not just going to sit here...
And take it!
And take it!
Hibiki
Ow!
Charlotte
She cut Hibiki's ankle!
Kotone
Are they really gonna kill each other...?
Hibiki
You just don't know when to quit!
Saya
Not yet... not enough, not yet!
Nanami
Both of you, stand down! Now!
Saya
......
Hibiki
...you're insane, you know that?
And that's a compliment.
And that's a compliment.
Nanami
Put your weapons away, right now.
Get to medical, both of you!
Get to medical, both of you!
Saya
Y-yes, Miss.
Hibiki
Bleeeh!
Reina
Hard to believe you got so cut up on your
first day. You might be trouble.
first day. You might be trouble.
Saya
Trouble? I don't...
Reina
And you, Himeno. Try not to bully the
new girl too much, hm?
new girl too much, hm?
Hibiki
Says the girl who gets off on bullying
everyone else.
everyone else.
Reina
Now, why would you think that?
Reina
You seem to be in high spirits, Himeno.
No painkillers necessary for you, then.
No painkillers necessary for you, then.
Hibiki
H-hey!
Saya
(What am I even doing, getting all
worked up like that?)
worked up like that?)
Saya
(But I guess it did feel kind of nice.)
Charlotte
Pardon me.
Kotone
Hey, we're here...
Saya
Charlotte, Kotone!
Charlotte
How are your injuries? Do you feel
alright?
alright?
Saya
Oh, yeah. I'm told I'll heal up overnight...
since I'm a Vessel and all.
since I'm a Vessel and all.
Charlotte
Still, don't overdo it. Here, I brought
your homework from our later classes.
your homework from our later classes.
Saya
Ah, thanks...
Sorry for the trouble.
Sorry for the trouble.
Kotone
Oh, and... c'mere. I have a secret for you.
Saya
Huh?
Kotone
We also brought this.
Saya
Brought... wait, what?
Kitten
Nya...
Saya
Huh?! W-wait a minute...!
Kotone
Keep it down, kitty. And you too, Saya.
Charlotte
So sorry to startle you. It's just, when
we heard you'd be staying the night...
we heard you'd be staying the night...
Charlotte
We went to fetch you a change of
clothes, and, well, we found her.
clothes, and, well, we found her.
Kotone
Fluffiness is next to godliness. She'll
help with your recovery.
help with your recovery.
Saya
T-thanks... but I was really hoping to
keep her a secret.
keep her a secret.
Charlotte
We know. Don't worry, we were ready
to run if we saw a teacher!
to run if we saw a teacher!
Saya
(They were willing to go that far for me?
That's really nice of them...)
That's really nice of them...)
Charlotte
By the way, Saya. You did wonderfully
today.
today.
Saya
Huh? You mean, at combat practice?
Charlotte
Yes. You were truly captivating...
Though it stings my pride to admit.
Though it stings my pride to admit.
Kotone
Same. You were so amazing, I thought I
was dreaming.
was dreaming.
Saya
R-really? All that flailing and sweating,
I was sure I looked like a fool...
I was sure I looked like a fool...
Charlotte
Haha. The ballerina wants to be
elegant even on the battlefield, I see.
elegant even on the battlefield, I see.
Charlotte
Just remember there's more to beauty
than how you look, Saya.
than how you look, Saya.
Saya
Ah...
Saya
Thank you.
Permed Student
Like, what the heck, Hibiki! Are you
okay?!
okay?!
Pierced Student
When you got taken out, we were all like,
WTF?!
WTF?!
Hibiki
Aw, shut up! Just gimme the goods
and get going.
and get going.
Permed Student
It's gonna cost you. We had to go to the
far convenience store for this!
far convenience store for this!
Hibiki
Fine, fine. How much you want?
Pierced Student
10 grand.
Hibiki
Gah, come on! I just wanna eat my dang
maple cookies in peace, okay?!
maple cookies in peace, okay?!
Permed Student
Just kidding, geez! Here, open your
mouth, I'll toss it to ya!
mouth, I'll toss it to ya!
Charlotte
It sure is lively over there.
Kotone
Just getting Hibiki to lie down at all
is a victory, I think.
is a victory, I think.
Saya
Oh, no... how am I supposed to sleep
with her next to me?!
with her next to me?!
Kitten
Nya, nyaa!
Saya
W-wait, come back!
Hibiki
Wah! What the heck?!
Permed Student
A kitty cat! Omigoddess, it's so cute!
Like, how'd you get in here?!
Like, how'd you get in here?!
Hibiki
Hey! Keep your nose outta my cookies!
Kotone
So she's a cat burglar, huh...
Saya
(Come back here! Ah, but then they'd
know I'm keeping her...!)
know I'm keeping her...!)
Charlotte
Saya, we ought to get going...
Saya
Right... sorry to keep you. Thanks again.
Saya
(Though I have to say...)
Kitten
Nyaaa...
Purr purr purr.
Purr purr purr.
Hibiki
D'aww, how'm I supposed to stay mad!
You little thief!
You little thief!
Saya
(That little traitor. I'm her owner, not
Hibiki.)
Hibiki.)
Saya
(...I know. I'll name her Fran.)
Saya
(After the cheating male lead Franz
from Coppélia.)
from Coppélia.)
Saya
(Well, everyone's gone home. I should
get started on my homework.)
get started on my homework.)
Saya
(If I read through my textbooks, I should
be able to figure it out...)
be able to figure it out...)
Bang!
Saya
Hyah?!
Hibiki
Haha, look at you jump!
Saya
W-what was that?
Hibiki
Gum.
Saya
(...bubble gum...)
Hibiki
Ugh, I'm bored. Bored, bored, bored,
bored, bored, bored.
bored, bored, bored.
Saya
(It's your own fault, you know...)
Hibiki
...pfft!
Hahahaha!
Hahahaha!
Saya
(What is it this time?)
Saya
(Ah, some manga in a magazine? She sure
is carefree.)
is carefree.)
Hibiki
Hell yeah, got another life. Let's gooo!
Saya
(And back to her game...
Ugh, I can't hear myself think.)
Ugh, I can't hear myself think.)
Hibiki
Hell yeah! Here we go!
Saya
(I have to ignore her, or it'll just annoy me
even more.)
even more.)
Hibiki
Yeah, yeah!
Saya
(Ignore her...)
Hibiki
Alright, alright, alright, alright!
Saya
Oh, come on! Can't you be quiet for
ten minutes?!
ten minutes?!
Hibiki
Sorry, Your Majesty.
Saya
You're doing this on purpose. The studio,
the fight, and now this!
the fight, and now this!
Hibiki
Huh? Sounds like somebody's got a
victim complex.
victim complex.
Saya
Worst of all, you stalked me before I
even knew I was a Vessel!
even knew I was a Vessel!
Saya
Do you do that to everyone? Is that why
no one likes you?!
no one likes you?!
Hibiki
Hang on, what—
Saya
Is this some sick mental game for the
Requiem? Well, it won't work on me!
Requiem? Well, it won't work on me!
Hibiki
...hmm.
Saya
What, is that it?
Hibiki
Nah. I'm not bullying anyone. Not you,
and not the others, either.
and not the others, either.
Hibiki
I'm just trying to live how I want to.
That's all.
That's all.
Saya
(How she wants to? So she likes making
trouble for other people...?)
trouble for other people...?)
Hibiki
Being Vessels sucks. We don't even get a
chance to say no, y'know?
chance to say no, y'know?
Hibiki
So like, why not do what we want
sometimes? We deserve it, don't we?
sometimes? We deserve it, don't we?
Saya
...I guess you're not wrong there.
Hibiki
I was interested in you. But I wasn't
trying to spook you. Promise.
trying to spook you. Promise.
Saya
Why the hell would you be so interested
in me?
in me?
Hibiki
You're the first I've ever seen work so
hard at something she hates so much.
hard at something she hates so much.
Saya
...what?
Hibiki
Ballet. You hate it, don't you?
Saya
...
...of course not.
...of course not.
Hibiki
Liar. You're graceful, sure, and good
at it. Your dancing's pretty, too.
at it. Your dancing's pretty, too.
Hibiki
But there's no feeling to it. 'Cause you
don't feel anything yourself, right?
don't feel anything yourself, right?
Saya
That's not...
Hibiki
You can just kinda... tell. Least, I can.
It's something in your eyes.
It's something in your eyes.
Saya
Shut up...
Saya
(I hate to admit it, but... she's right. I
wasn't excited for Requiem at all.)
wasn't excited for Requiem at all.)
Saya
(I wanted people to see my dance, and
praise me. That's all it was...)
praise me. That's all it was...)
Hibiki
See, folks try to suppress their emotions,
but it doesn't really work.
but it doesn't really work.
Saya
Suppress—!
Saya
...I'm done with this. I'm done with you.
Hibiki
Ah, hey, wait! You're gonna tear your
stitches!
stitches!
Fran
Nya!
Nyaa!
Nyaa!
Hibiki
Not you, too! This place doesn't allow
pets, dang it!
pets, dang it!
Hibiki
...there they go.
Hibiki
Aw, what the hell... why do I feel like
I'm the bad guy here?
I'm the bad guy here?
Scene 9
Saya
(1, 2, 3, then turn and step...)
Saya
(That's half the variations! Now just the
show turn, and—)
show turn, and—)
Saya
Nnh!
Saya
Ow, ow, ow...!
Saya
Why won't this heal? I won't be able
to dance at the festival like this...
to dance at the festival like this...
Charlotte
Saya! Are you here?
Saya
What are you two doing here? Aren't you
busy with prep work?
busy with prep work?
Charlotte
Why, that's just what we're here for.
Behold! Fabric for your costume!
Behold! Fabric for your costume!
Kotone
That, and prep for the stage effects...
Saya
Thank you, but...
Charlotte
Look at all the lovely sequins! Aren't
they so pretty?
they so pretty?
Kotone
They look like sugar candy...
...now I'm hungry.
...now I'm hungry.
Saya
O-okay, okay. Thanks. I'll take it from
here.
here.
Saya
(I have to do something about my leg
before the festival...)
before the festival...)
Charlotte
I've never seen tutu material up close
before. It'll be so beautiful!
before. It'll be so beautiful!
Kotone
I'm looking forward to it. I love watching
you dance.
you dance.
Saya
Huh? But you've never seen me dance
before, have you?
before, have you?
Kotone
Urk...
Saya
I've never been on TV, or posted any
videos of my performances...
videos of my performances...
Charlotte
R-right! We've actually been to your
performances before!
performances before!
Saya
You have? Which one?
Charlotte
Why, Requiem, of course. It
was so beautiful, I actually cried...
was so beautiful, I actually cried...
Saya
...was that really me? I never danced
Requiem on the stage.
Requiem on the stage.
Kotone
Urrrk...
Charlotte
That's strange. I thought it was
Requiem, but maybe not...
Requiem, but maybe not...
Charlotte
I used to go to the ballet all the time
before I learned I was a Vessel.
before I learned I was a Vessel.
Saya
Really?
Kotone
You really are a prima donna, Saya.
An étoile.
An étoile.
Kotone
Dancing in front of like 2000 people...
That's crazy.
That's crazy.
Charlotte
Yes, I agree. Tell me, how does it feel
to have all that attention on you?
to have all that attention on you?
Charlotte
Does it feel good? Or does the crowd just
melt away as you dance?
melt away as you dance?
Saya
I...
Saya
(I've only ever wanted more people to be
watching me.)
watching me.)
Saya
(That, or I was worried I'd fail. I never
had the mental space to enjoy it.)
had the mental space to enjoy it.)
Saya
(Somehow... I can't put it into words.
If I say it out loud, then...)
If I say it out loud, then...)
Hibiki
I'm just trying to live how I want to.
That's all.
That's all.
Saya
(If only I could say, "I dance because
I enjoy it"...)
I enjoy it"...)
Charlotte
...ah!
Charlotte
Oh, dear, we left the soufflé in the oven!
It must be done by now.
It must be done by now.
Kotone
Soufflé...
I... hungry...
I... hungry...
Charlotte
Yes, yes, I know. We'll bring you some too,
Saya.
Saya.
Saya
Ah... okay. Thank you.
Saya
They really enjoy ballet... I feel like I'm
betraying them, somehow.
betraying them, somehow.
Saya
At least my leg doesn't hurt anymore.
I'll give it another pass—
I'll give it another pass—
Saya
Huh? A text?
Saya
...from Hibiki? How did she get my
number?!
number?!
Saya
......
Saya
"Lets go 2 the beach...?"
Saya
As if. Why would I go to the beach with
you?
you?
Hibiki
"Sorry, I'm busy." Ah, there it is, the
miss goody two-shoes act!
miss goody two-shoes act!
Hibiki
So the little ballerina's suspicious of me,
huh...
huh...
Hibiki
Fine. "ok then lets duel. whoever has
more fun tonight wins." Sent!
more fun tonight wins." Sent!
Saya
You've got to be kidding me. What kind
of duel is that?
of duel is that?
Saya
Anyway, I'm busy with the rehearsal.
I don't have time for...
I don't have time for...
Saya
...well, I mean... I guess a break wouldn't
be a terrible idea.
be a terrible idea.
Saya
But I don't want to spend my off-time
with Hibiki! Gah, what do I say?!
with Hibiki! Gah, what do I say?!
Hibiki
I see that little checkmark, Saya! Geez...
Is she ignoring me or something?
Is she ignoring me or something?
Hibiki
Alright, time to put the pressure on!
"r u coming or not! decide!!"
"r u coming or not! decide!!"
Hibiki
"5" "4" "3"
Saya
W-what the... a countdown?! My phone's
just buzzing nonstop!
just buzzing nonstop!
Saya
What should I do? I mean, I'm just...
Saya
Just a puppet. Just borrowing the
Goddess's Gift, and borrowing time...
Goddess's Gift, and borrowing time...
Saya
Does it even matter if I have fun or
not...?
not...?
Saya
...but then, does it even matter if I take
things seriously, either?
things seriously, either?
Saya
Is there any way for me to take back
my life...?
my life...?
Hibiki
"2" "1.5" "1"
Hibiki
......
Saya
...time's up.
Saya
..."Thanks, but"—
Hibiki
"last chance! times up but u get 1 extra
chance free. ur welcome."
chance free. ur welcome."
Hibiki
"lets go"
Saya
Ah...
Saya
...don't act like I owe you one. I didn't
even want a second chance.
even want a second chance.
Saya
But...
Saya
......
Saya
...and sent.
Hibiki
"Fine, I guess I'll keep you company."
The heck?! This girl, I swear!
The heck?! This girl, I swear!
Hibiki
...ehehe.
Hibiki
"bring ur kitty 2!"
Scene 10
Saya
Hibiki sure is late. And she's the one
who invited me...
who invited me...
Fran
Nyaaa...
Saya
...was she just messing with me?
Bang!
Saya
...?!
Hibiki
Yo. Let's get going.
Saya
Again with that gum of yours!
Hibiki
Psssssh...
Bang!
Bang!
Saya
Yes, that gum!
Hibiki
Hahaha! Aw, chill out. It's not a big deal.
Saya
(Maybe I shouldn't have come...)
Hibiki
Hey, give me your hand.
Saya
Huh? My hand?
Saya
Hey, wait, why?! Why are you holding my
hand?!
hand?!
Hibiki
Hush up and hold onto your kitty!
Here we go!
Here we go!
Saya
Huh...?
Hibiki
And here we are.
Saya
Wha... but...
How...
How...
Saya
W-we were just at school—
Hibiki
Oh, yeah. It's like, uh... teleporting?
Saya
Y-you can't just say that so casually...
Saya
Ah, but I guess that's why I saw you
at my house, and at the rehearsal.
at my house, and at the rehearsal.
Hibiki
Oh. You're pretty sharp.
Saya
...did you already know I was a Vessel
by then?
by then?
Hibiki
I dunno, I'm too noisy and dumb to
figure stuff like that out.
figure stuff like that out.
Saya
Oh, please.
Hibiki
Look, here we are in the glitz and the
glam. Try having some fun for once.
glam. Try having some fun for once.
Saya
Don't be ridiculous. I don't know what
you're plotting, but I'm not having it.
you're plotting, but I'm not having it.
Hibiki
Gah, I can't believe how boring you are!
Saya
S-shut up! You don't know anything
about me!
about me!
Hibiki
Huh... y'know, you're right.
Hibiki
I know! Let's go to karaoke! I'll show you
how it's done!
how it's done!
Saya
(K-karaoke?! I've never been...)
Hibiki
Kyahahaha!
Hahahahaha!
Hahahahaha!
Saya
Y-you don't need to laugh that much!
Hibiki
You fumbled the entire rap part! Gah,
I should have recorded that!
I should have recorded that!
Saya
Oh, shut up...
Saya
(I can't take any more of this! I'm so
embarrassed I could die!)
embarrassed I could die!)
Hibiki
Hahaha! But it was great! Really, it was!
Thanks for the laugh, haha!
Thanks for the laugh, haha!
Saya
(But I guess this is... what normal high
schoolers do, isn't it?)
schoolers do, isn't it?)
Hibiki
Aah, phew. Laughed too much, now I'm
hungry.
hungry.
Saya
(She's laughing so brightly... Will we
really have to kill each other?)
really have to kill each other?)
Hibiki
Hey, you want a crepe? I think I can
smell a crepe cart over there.
smell a crepe cart over there.
Saya
H-hey, don't pull me!
Hibiki
Arright, which one you want?
Saya
(I've been on a strict diet my whole life.
I've never had a crepe before...)
I've never had a crepe before...)
Saya
(I'll just pick the one with the fewest
calories.)
calories.)
Saya
Um, I guess...
I'll take the salad crepe.
I'll take the salad crepe.
Hibiki
Huh? Really?
Hibiki
What kind of crepe doesn't even have
whipped cream in it, huh?!
whipped cream in it, huh?!
Saya
F-fine, then what are you getting?
Hibiki
Duh! The double chocolate cheesecake
crepe!
crepe!
Saya
...is it a crepe, or is it cheesecake?
Hibiki
Aw, shut up! This right here is the king
of crepes!
of crepes!
Saya
(...it does look delicious.)
Saya
...then I'll have one of those too. I guess.
Hibiki
Whoa, you want two?! Hell yeah!
Saya
(I hope I don't regret this...)
Fran
Mya, mya, mya!
Hibiki
Haha, look, she's eating your leftovers!
Cats can eat cheesecake, right?
Cats can eat cheesecake, right?
Saya
Urgh... I feel sick...
Hibiki
You really went at that cheesecake crepe.
It's pretty good, huh?
It's pretty good, huh?
Saya
Yeah, I'll admit it... that was the best
thing I've ever eaten...
thing I've ever eaten...
Hibiki
You don't say!
Saya
Yeah...
Scene 11
Hibiki
Alright! Here's what you've all been
waiting for: it's beach time!
waiting for: it's beach time!
Saya
(How long has it been since I've been
to the beach, I wonder?)
to the beach, I wonder?)
Fran
Nyaa!
Hibiki
Ah, so it's your first time here, eh?
Go nuts, Fran!
Go nuts, Fran!
Saya
(No people, or even any cars passing
by... but there's still so much here.)
by... but there's still so much here.)
Saya
(The salt air, the gentle breeze, the sand,
the waves, the stars...)
the waves, the stars...)
Saya
(...all my worries feel so distant, somehow.)
Hibiki
Hey. Whatcha spacing out for?
Saya
Ah...
Saya
...Hibiki. You said before that I work too
hard at something I hate.
hard at something I hate.
Saya
Well, you were right.
Hibiki
Huh?
Saya
When I picked up that sword, I remembered
something from when I was little...
something from when I was little...
Saya
I wanted to learn kendo, but my mom
said ballet was better for a girl.
said ballet was better for a girl.
Saya
I did my best to forget about it, and I
did what they wanted, but...
did what they wanted, but...
Saya
On the practice field, I felt like I got
to do something I wanted for once.
to do something I wanted for once.
Hibiki
...that's kind of messed up.
Saya
I don't know. I had to focus and work
hard to become a pro, so...
hard to become a pro, so...
Hibiki
Well, sure, but why did you wanna be
a pro so bad?
a pro so bad?
Saya
Huh?
Saya
...I guess I wanted to be a star.
Hibiki
A star?
Saya
The best dancers are called étoiles.
They're the shining stars of a troupe.
They're the shining stars of a troupe.
Saya
But I'm not a first-rate, shining star.
Just a dim one that's already dead.
Just a dim one that's already dead.
Hibiki
......
Saya
I thought if enough people looked at me,
if I got enough applause...
if I got enough applause...
Hibiki
...yeah, something doesn't feel right
with that.
with that.
Saya
What do you mean?
Hibiki
Who said you're dim? Everyone's a bright
shining star from the start.
shining star from the start.
Hibiki
You're just overthinking it. Who cares
about being the best at anything?
about being the best at anything?
Hibiki
Just have fun with it! It's not a crime
to enjoy your life for yourself, y'know.
to enjoy your life for yourself, y'know.
Saya
...even if we have to kill people?
Hibiki
Well...
Saya
We're going to kill each other someday.
I can't stop thinking about it.
I can't stop thinking about it.
Saya
We're having so much fun, but soon,
we're going to murder each other.
we're going to murder each other.
Saya
If I can still laugh and have fun with you,
even knowing that...
even knowing that...
Saya
There must be something seriously
wrong with me.
wrong with me.
Hibiki
...when you tear yourself down like that,
you're tearing us all down.
you're tearing us all down.
Hibiki
We're in the same boat, you know.
Saya
...I'm sorry. But have you made peace
with it yet? Being a Vessel?
with it yet? Being a Vessel?
Saya
I don't think I can. Even before this, I
always... I hated my life.
always... I hated my life.
Saya
And now I have to give it up... for what?
What are we even protecting?!
What are we even protecting?!
Saya
I don't want to die. I don't want to have
to kill anyone!
to kill anyone!
Hibiki
...then...
Hibiki
Why don't we run away? Just you and me.
Saya
What...?
Saya
Y-you're not serious.
Hibiki
Course I am. We're strong enough, we
could probably make it work.
could probably make it work.
Saya
B-but the Requiem would never start.
The world would end!
The world would end!
Hibiki
Not right away. Why not get out of here
and really enjoy our lives?
and really enjoy our lives?
Hibiki
If we do it right, we could have a few
good years out there.
good years out there.
Saya
...w-we can't. We just can't.
Hibiki
...I knew it. You really are a goody two-
shoes, huh.
shoes, huh.
Saya
T-that's not it!
Hibiki
I don't get this focus on being good, even
when it kills you to do it.
when it kills you to do it.
Hibiki
Do you hate yourself that much?
Saya
...
Hibiki
We're not dolls in glass cases, y'know.
We're human beings!
We're human beings!
Hibiki
Who cares if we get scuffed up or dirty
before the Requiem?
before the Requiem?
Hibiki
It doesn't make us worth any less. Hell,
it shows we love the world, right?
it shows we love the world, right?
Hibiki
You gotta learn to love yourself too.
Saya
...I don't...
I... don't know how to anymore.
I... don't know how to anymore.
Hibiki
...fine. Suit yourself.
Saya
A-ah, hey, wait!
Hibiki
Shut up! Leave me alone!
Saya
Fine. Then I'm going home.
Hibiki
Go right ahead.
Saya
Fran! We're leaving!
Fran
Myaaa...
Hibiki
......
Hibiki
...Saya!
Saya
Huh?
Saya
Waah! H-hey, that's salty!
Saya
Why, you...
Take this!
Take this!
Hibiki
Ack!
Hibiki
You little...!
Fran
Mya! Nyaa!
Saya
(What am I doing? I should be back
at the studio, practicing...)
at the studio, practicing...)
Saya
(But... but...!)
Hibiki
Don't space out, or I'm gonna soak you!
Saya
Kyaa!
Saya
(This... might be it. The part of me that
was missing.)
was missing.)
Saya
Ha... haha! I'll just get you right back!
Fran
Mew!
Hibiki
C'mon, Fran! Don't just watch, help me
get her!
get her!
Saya
(Goddess... if you have any mercy or
love for me, then please...)
love for me, then please...)
Saya
(Let me spend just a bit longer like this,
alive... with my friend.)
alive... with my friend.)
Scene 12
Charlotte
Welcome to the Bakery! Try our club's
special soufflé and chocoyaki!
special soufflé and chocoyaki!
Kotone
Go ahead... try some...
Reina
So noisy... the injuries always pile up on
festival days. What a pain.
festival days. What a pain.
Nanami
Where's your school spirit? A lively
festival is a good thing, remember?
festival is a good thing, remember?
Reina
Help me treat scrapes and heatstroke
all day, then you can have your say.
all day, then you can have your say.
Nanami
I'll pass, thanks. I have a ballet to watch!
Reina
Ballet? I didn't realize you had such
refined tastes in entertainment.
refined tastes in entertainment.
Nanami
What, do you think I'm a barbarian?
Nanami
I don't really care about it, honestly.
But... I want to see Saya dance.
But... I want to see Saya dance.
PA System
[Attention, please. The ballet show will
begin shortly in the auditorium.]
begin shortly in the auditorium.]
PA System
[The featured routine is The Goddess's
Triumph from Requiem.]
Triumph from Requiem.]
Saya
(So many people...! This stage is so big,
too. I feel totally outclassed...)
too. I feel totally outclassed...)
Saya
(...or maybe not. I've always tried to
present myself like a star, after all.)
present myself like a star, after all.)
Saya
(Ow...! My leg still aches...)
PA System
[Please welcome second year Saya Saionji
to the stage.]
to the stage.]
Saya
(But I have to do this. I'll never get
another chance... focus, Saya!)
another chance... focus, Saya!)
Saya
(You can do this! Just calm down and
dance. They're going to love you...!)
dance. They're going to love you...!)
Saya
(Jump, then turn... A dip to express
sadness and regret...)
sadness and regret...)
Saya
(...I wonder if my parents are here.
Why would they come at this point?)
Why would they come at this point?)
Saya
(I can't see past the stage lights. It's all
just darkness out there...)
just darkness out there...)
Saya
(...why are they all here? Do they like
Requiem? Or are they just bored?)
Requiem? Or are they just bored?)
Saya
(Are they here to see my Gift? That's all
it could really be, I guess.)
it could really be, I guess.)
Saya
(...focus. You're at the big climax, the 99
pirouettes!)
pirouettes!)
Saya
(Ow...!)
Saya
(My leg...! The nurse said she didn't see
anything wrong, but...!)
anything wrong, but...!)
Saya
(It didn't hurt at all on the practice field.
Why is it only when I dance...?)
Why is it only when I dance...?)
Saya
(Is it... that hard for me?)
Saya
(I... don't want to dance. There's so many
other things I'd rather do.)
other things I'd rather do.)
Saya
(But if I just stopped here...
If I quit... that wouldn't be...)
If I quit... that wouldn't be...)
Antares
Saya... your life belongs to you.
Not to anyone else.
Not to anyone else.
Hibiki
Who cares if we get scuffed up or dirty
before the Requiem?
before the Requiem?
Hibiki
It doesn't make us worth any less. Hell,
it shows we love the world, right?
it shows we love the world, right?
Hibiki
You gotta learn to love yourself too.
Saya
(I was the one who decided I had to be
the best, or nothing.)
the best, or nothing.)
Saya
(And in the end... I couldn't manage it.
I can't be perfect. I'm scuffed up...)
I can't be perfect. I'm scuffed up...)
Saya
(...but if that's all I can be...
If that's all I can be...!)
If that's all I can be...!)
Nanami
...Saya? Why did she stop?
Reina
Her leg must be hurting her, poor thing.
Spectator A
Huh? What's going on?
Spectator B
I don't know. I hope she's alright...
Spectator A
Hey, she's saying something.
Saya
...I'm... sorry.
Saya
I'm sorry, everyone! I can't dance anymore!
Spectator A
W-what the...
Spectator B
She came down off the stage?
Reina
Are you going to go after her?
Nanami
No.
Nanami
She had a good look in her eyes.
Kotone
No one wants any samples, huh...
Guess I'll take one for the team...
Guess I'll take one for the team...
Charlotte
Kotone, please! Those are for the visitors!
Saya
Haa... haaa...
Kotone
...was that Saya? Is her performance
already over?
already over?
Charlotte
Even if it was, she was still in her tutu.
What could be going on?
What could be going on?
Saya
(I see now. I see what everyone was
trying to tell me.)
trying to tell me.)
Saya
(I decide what I'm worth. Even a dead
star can still shine bright!)
star can still shine bright!)
Saya
(And any star can be someone's
favorite. Anyone can be...!)
favorite. Anyone can be...!)
Saya
(I thought they were all just trying to
make me feel better, but no.)
make me feel better, but no.)
Saya
(They truly believe that, and they wanted
to help me see it, too.)
to help me see it, too.)
Saya
(I wish... I wish I'd listened to them
sooner. To my friends!)
sooner. To my friends!)
Saya
(I'll eat whatever I want. I'll go out with
friends. I'll even read comics...!)
friends. I'll even read comics...!)
Saya
Huh? My leg...
Saya
It doesn't hurt. It doesn't hurt at all...
Saya
No matter how far I run...
It doesn't hurt at all!
It doesn't hurt at all!
Hibiki
...sigh. This just isn't working.
Hibiki
Stupid dumbass game! Your hitboxes
are stupid and so are you!
are stupid and so are you!
Saya
Hibiki!
Hibiki
Huh?
Hibiki
Hey, what are you wearing...?
Saya
I'm going to protect you.
Hibiki
...what?
Saya
On the day of the Requiem...
I'll protect you.
I'll protect you.
Saya
I want to stay with you. I want to spend
every second we can together,
every second we can together,
Saya
until the very end.
Hibiki
...pfft. What are you talking about?
Saya
I thought about running away with you,
you know.
you know.
Saya
But if we did that, I think I'd just hate
myself even more for it.
myself even more for it.
Saya
In the end... I can't bring myself to cheat.
Hibiki
Because you're a straight-laced goody
two-shoes?
two-shoes?
Saya
I told you, I wanted to be a hero when
I was little, remember?
I was little, remember?
Saya
Being a Vessel, dying to save the world...
I hated the thought of it.
I hated the thought of it.
Saya
But if I can protect you... the one who
gave me my life back...
gave me my life back...
Saya
If I can do that, then I might be able
to love myself, and this Gift, after all.
to love myself, and this Gift, after all.
Hibiki
Saya...
Hibiki
...haha.
Saya
?
Hibiki
Open your mouth.
Saya
Huh?
Hibiki
There you go.
Saya
Mmf. What is this? ...maple?
Hibiki
Tastes like freedom, doesn't it?
Saya
A little bit, yeah.
Hibiki
And there's plenty more where that
came from. For you, and for me!
came from. For you, and for me!
Saya
...yeah!
Hibiki
First things first...
How about a rematch?
How about a rematch?
Hibiki
If you're gonna protect me, then you'd
better be pretty damn strong!
better be pretty damn strong!
Saya
Haha. Alright, then. Would you teach
me?
me?
Hibiki
Sure will. But first, we've gotta wrap
up that match from before!
up that match from before!
Saya
Bring it on!
Hibiki
Pfft.
Hibiki
You must be the only one in the world
who fights in a tutu and ballet shoes!
who fights in a tutu and ballet shoes!
Saya
Oh, you think you have enough leeway
to insult my outfit?
to insult my outfit?
Hibiki
Nope! I'm going all-out from the start!
Saya
Then I will, too!
Hibiki
...hey, Saya.
Hibiki
Thanks.
Cyrus
Well, well. Only a few days later, and
she seems like a whole new person.
she seems like a whole new person.
Cyrus
And they all lived happily ever after...
Or not, unfortunately.
Or not, unfortunately.
Cyrus
This only ends one way... with Hibiki
taking Saya's life.
taking Saya's life.
Cyrus
...sometimes I hate my job.