Cross Ange (Rondo of Angel and Dragon): Season 1/ Episodes 9 to 16 – Overview/ Review (with Spoilers)
Overview While hope may exist, it seems not everyone is as open minded as Momoka. Topic 1: Momma, It’s Me – Hilda Topic 2: Sylvia, It’s Me – Ange Topic 3: The Betrayal – Hilda & Ange Review (with Spoilers) – Below Episode 9 – The Hometown of Betrayal Topic 1: Momma, It’s Me – Hilda…
Overview
While hope may exist, it seems not everyone is as open minded as Momoka.
Topic 1: Momma, It’s Me – Hilda
Topic 2: Sylvia, It’s Me – Ange
Topic 3: The Betrayal – Hilda & Ange
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Episode 9 – The Hometown of Betrayal
Topic 1: Momma, It’s Me – Hilda
After robbing a store for a new dress, and eventually finding her old home, Hilda comes face to face with her mother. Someone who seemingly hasn’t any real memory of Hilda, but still makes apple pies just like when she was a kid.
Commentary
With us seeing how Hilda was snatched as a child, it does make you wonder what happened over the 10+ years since she was taken? I mean, we see Hilda has a new little sister, talked about more below, but is there therapy or anything for those who give birth to Normas? If just because, based on how Hilda’s mom acted to losing her kid, it does make you wonder what happens after the child is gone? Like with the mother who lost her baby, in episode 1, do they compensate or just blame the parents?
Topic 2: Sylvia, It’s Me – Ange
For Ange, her fight back to the palace is much more difficult than Hilda’s journey to her mother. The reason is Akiho, a former friend, who shows how far Norma prejudice goes. It destroys friendships, no matter how close or long they were. So, not only is Ange forced to tie up Akiho, but also she has to fight off cops all the way to the palace. The place where she sees Sylvia waiting for her, calling out her name.
Commentary
I hope that, sooner or later, someone will fully explain how all the stereotypes and hatred of Norma came about. For truly, I feel quite lost. Like, I get Norma break the mana spells which has made life exponentially easier for people, but I don’t fully understand the outright damnation, and ostracizing, of Norma. Especially considering they aren’t even given a chance to be bad or do anything. Though being in Black dude in the United States, perhaps I shouldn’t even question the Norma situation as if it is completely foreign.
Topic 3: The Betrayal – Hilda & Ange
Hilda learns of the depths Norma prejudice goes first. For not only has her mother had a 2nd child, who she named Hilda, but also she outright tells Hilda the first to get out of her life. She even throws some of her apple pie at her. Then, to make matters worse, she seemingly calls the cops on her and this leads to one of the last images of Hilda being her getting beaten by cops.
As for Ange, Sylvia and Julio seemingly were in cahoots it seems. For not only does Sylvia try to kill Ange, or at least injure her, but then Julio shows up to gloat and announce a trial. Mamoka, however, doesn’t seem a part of this plot. At least as of now.
Commentary
Admittedly, I got a little teary eyed upon the betrayals. For while Hilda has been a monster to Ange, at the same time it was because she got to have normalcy, much less the life of royalty, longer than anyone. She got to grow up in the normal world and didn’t have to deal with her life constantly being on the line, or sexual assault. So her being jealous was understandable. Making it where when her wish was granted, and she got to see her mom, and then was rejected, it hurt a little bit strangely.
But when it comes to Ange, oh things were worse. For never mind Sylvia’s betrayal, but Sylvia blaming her for the tragedies of her life like being unable to walk, and their mother’s death, you can see that really breaks the drive which has gotten Ange this far. Almost to the point it makes you wonder if, during this trial Julio has planned, will she even fight? After all, she just lost the last thing to really fight for. Unless you count Momoka.
Episode 10: Goodbye from the Gallows
Overview
As Ange faces the punishments which come from being a Norma, much less a deserter, it seems her next move is to destroy those who degraded, humiliated, and rejected her.
Trigger Warning(s): Torture
Topic 1: Execution – Ange
Topic 2: Knights of Villkiss – Tusk and Ange
Topic 3: I Who Have Nothing – Ange & Hilda
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Topic 1: Execution – Ange
After Sylvia beats Ange with a whip, and Julio announces both their mother and father are dead, the dad by execution, he then announces a new empire in which he will be king. All the while, he speaks on being glad he manipulated Momoka to bring her back. If only because it gives him the satisfaction of watching her die. However, before the noose is put around Ange’s neck, as the Hitler Youths scream in excitement, Ange sings her mother’s “Endless Song.” Something which infuriates the royal family to the point of speeding up the execution and it leads us to watch Ange hang.
Commentary
With the empire wide hatred for Norma, I increasingly feel the need to know the full history of the Mana vs. Norma issue. For truly, the comments made by the people of Misurugi seemed so indoctrinated that it is hard to not want to know when this all began. Like, were Mana users once treated like Normas and then they honed their power to flip things? Either way, I feel that there needs to be at least one episode, of the reported 25, which gives some sort of background.
Topic 2: Knights of Villkiss – Tusk and Ange
As Ange hangs, and seemingly is about to face death, Tusk flies in and saves her. Leading to Ange getting some revenge, though no fatalities, and then her, Momoka, and Tusk escaping the execution. Leaving the question: Why did Tusk save Ange? Well, it was due to Jill and Tusk being a Knight of Villkiss. Which, unfortunately, isn’t defined in this episode. However, he does make it known he does have feelings for Ange, something which she doesn’t seem to mind, outside of him continuously landing in her crotch.
Commentary
With Julio mentioning Norma sympathizer terrorist, and Tusk swooping in, it makes you wonder how long it maybe until the Knights of Villkiss are revealed, much less when we may get to understand Tusk’s flashback which shows Jill walking with the world in flames behind her? Also, considering what is talked about in Topic 3, will Ange’s wishes come true? Much less, how will that effect Arzenal?
Topic 3: I Who Have Nothing – Ange & Hilda
Upon return to Arzenal’s shores, Jill greets Ange with a punch in the stomach for deserting and she then finds herself in a cell. When awaken she is told her punishment is lost of money and property, which seemingly includes Villkiss and Momoka, and that pretty much she has lost the trust of many in her crew. She isn’t alone though. Hilda shares a cell with her, beaten and bruised, mentally and physically, and she has lost Chris and Rosalie and seemingly wished the cops who beat her would have just killed her.
Though, despite losing their old lives completely, they haven’t fully submitted to fate. Ange is ready for revenge, and Hilda says she’ll help. Leading you to wonder if Jill, the commander at Arzeneal, may one day lead an uprising.
Commentary
As of now, I just want to know what the Knights of Villkiss are and how long will it be until Ange has her Villkiss back. Much less, will Salia try to ride the vehicle and if the Knights of Villkiss are known amongst Norma? For while Jill seems to be the all-knowing one, who is to say the Knights haven’t long been rumored about? After all, surely there must be a reason Salia wants Villkiss besides to impress Jill. Maybe she knows about the Knights and wishes to join them. Be more than a disposable body, but someone fighting for Norma freedom. Either way, Cross Ange keeps the interest and excitement going.
Episode 11: Dragon Song
Overview
Arzenal gets attacked and we learn more about Salia’s obsession with piloting Villkiss.
Topic 1: The Deceiver – Julio & Sylvia
Topic 2: Why Weren’t We Good Enough? – Jill & Salia
Topic 3: Attack on Arzenal – Ange
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Topic 1: The Deceiver – Julio & Sylvia
With Sylvia perhaps questioning what she did to Ange, she goes to Julio’s room for reassurance and catches him in the position of having sex with the dark haired woman who has yet to be named. Someone who, for a lack of a better monster, seemingly maybe a succubus. One who has Julio wrapped around her finger and is in the pursuit of the singular point. Something Sylvia overhears and, as she tries to run, a tail wraps around her neck and she calls out for Ange.
Commentary
Until recently, what happened in Misurugi seemed of little consequence since the show was neglecting it, much less it seemingly was put in stasis until Ange returned. However, Ange’s reappearance has shaken things up and it seems we may finally know the real reason Julio decided to push his sister out as publicly, and violently, as he has. First reason being that Ange was shown more favoritism, and then this woman with dark hair. Someone who, with wings and a tail, surely is some sort of demon, if not humanoid DRAGON, who has plans for Julio and may have some sort of mind control over him. Something which can be seen by her dripping a old colored liquid into his mouth. Though, all things considered, between him calling her mama, and her perhaps having sex with him on the regular, who knows if she even needs to use whatever liquid she is.
Topic 2: Why Weren’t We Good Enough? – Jill & Salia
First off, before the commander’s name was Jill, it was Alektra and she was Villkiss’ pilot. Albeit not the one destined, or able, to pilot Villkiss properly, but she did attempt to ride the machine. Hence her eventual arm loss. However, with Alektra being cool, awesome, and a young Salia being impressionable, she saw her hero injured and wanted to avenge her, while at the same time trying to gain her respect. Something we have seen through all her studying, becoming a leader of a squad, and the final thing would have been piloting Villkiss. However, it seems, like Jill, Salia can’t pilot Villkiss without it eventually rebelling against her. Thus further increasing her jealousy of Ange, especially as Jill makes her seem more important than Salia.
Commentary
It was interesting to see the kids of Arzenal running around, whether it was Salia or those in present day, and realize that by the time they become teenagers, they will be treated as disposable pilots just like everyone else. Though perhaps the more surprising angle, which we may never see, is that these kids know the pilots and captains names, and aspire to be in their squads. Which is only odd to me since there doesn’t seem to be a buddy program. Though, all things considered, if Salia can walk onto the beach, as a child, and approach Alektra after crash landing in, likely these kids watch Salia and crew in awe.
The kids aside, I further crave to know how Jill lost her arm, much less how she got connected with Tusk. Also, I really do wonder why she changed her name? Was it out of shame, wanting to simply start a new chapter, or what? Then, on top of those questions, did she ever pilot after losing her arm? Much less, how did she become the top Norma after all that? For with Salia’s past covered, and the source of her ambitions as well, I think it is time to either move to Jill, or maybe go through the rest of the squad a little bit.
Topic 3: Attack on Arzenal – Ange
A DRAGON portal opens up over Arzenal with so many dragons coming through that it can’t be estimated how many there are to fight. So, even with this seemingly like an anomaly, a command is issued and all hands end up on deck. Well, with the exception of Ange & Hilda. For most of the battle they are still imprisoned, with only bed and water, and not having the opportunity to bathe since they got back. However, with a dragon crashing through their cell they are given freedom, and Jill immediately orders Ange to get Villkiss. Something she was unable to do because Salia took it, but with Hilda piloting a paramail [1], and Ange jumping onto Villkiss as it was ready to become Salia’s coffin, she takes on not only the dragons, but these three dangerous paramail which, in one attack, wipe out half of Arzenal island [2].
Leading to a battle between Ange and this one woman. Both who sing a song and, with singing this song, Ange’s machine evolves and uses this attack which causes both Ange, and the other woman, to enter another universe. One which, in the background, we see them fight through different ages. Thus leading to a slew of questions which include: What is a false citizen, and what is the true star song?
Commentary
This undeniably is the best episode of the season thus far. It had its touching moments with Salia, some intrigue with Julio, and the action was just so good. Plus with us being a little less than halfway through the season, it is nice it gave us this jolt now rather than later. However, there are so many questions which come with all that has happened. Especially in terms of the woman Ange faced who she seemingly has been battling for generations. Much less, how do the knights play into this, and whether Ange’s opposition has control over these portals? Like, could the woman using Julio be an agent for them? Oh, next week can’t come soon enough!
Things To Note
Salia is 17
[1] With Ange behind Hilda, who is driving the paramail, and Ange pressing up against Hilda, it seems Hilda definitely maybe lesbian or bi for she feels something with Ange. And while you could assume being away from Chris and Rosalie, or women period, is what got her blood pumping, we see when she picks up Salia it isn’t the same. Leading to the question if Hilda is falling for Ange? Especially after all they’ve been through in the past few episodes.
[2] Jill and Jasmine talk about a plant which was lost in the fight, but the significance of this plant isn’t detailed.
Episode 12: Her Right Arm’s Past
Overview
As the truth behind Norma and Mana relations are revealed, as well as Jill’s past, we also learn quite a bit about the upcoming war and why Ange is almost obligated to join.
Topic 1: My Story – Jill (Alektra) & Ange
Topic 2: The Truth Is Revealed – Vivian & Ange
Topic 3: End of An Era – Ange & Julio
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Topic 1: My Story – Jill (Alektra) & Ange
Jill reveals that back when she was called Alektra, she came to Arzenal under similar circumstances [1] to Ange. Meaning, she too was of royal blood and yet turned out to be a Norma. Leading to us learning she struggled like Ange, and also found herself being able to use the VillKiss due to her ring, and seemingly royal blood. However, there are multiple locks to using VillKiss’ full power, which we saw in the last episode, and Jill wasn’t able to unlock VillKiss’ full potential. Leading to the loss of her royal ring, her arm, and a lot of comrades in the Libertus struggle – gone into in Topic 3.
Commentary
The story of Alektra was certainly interesting, but it is far from complete. For one, we were just given Alektra’s background, what Ange knew of her [2], and the fact VillKiss played a major role in the arm loss. What wasn’t mentioned is when VillKiss messed up, how Jill knows Tusk personally, how she became commander, and how was her being found out as a Norma handled? Like, was it similar to how Julio handled Ange, or something more peaceful? Also, what happened to her family since, in the beginning of the episode, the Loewenherz [3] didn’t seem to be at the table. So when Jill was talking about Misurugi, and the royal family, were no more, was she basing that information off what happened to her family after she was found out around 10-ish?
Topic 2: The Truth Is Revealed – Vivian & Ange
With Jill speaking about Libertus, the revolution to be done by Norma and the Ancient Ones (Human Beings), comes the question of why were the humans we saw last episode fighting alongside DRAGONs? Well, the answer comes with us seeing Vivian become a DRAGON, for reasons unexplained, and Ange singing the Mother’s Song allowing her to become human.
Though things get a bit complicated when Ange not only realizes all the DRAGONs she has been killing were Norma, but then Jasmine piled their bodies into a pit and set them on fire. Perhaps to destroy evidence. However, in tune with what Jill says in Topic 3, it seems “God,” aka Embryo, has made it where what should unite people is always a mutual hatred. Of which, seemingly DRAGONs were to be what united those who could be considered, at their core, humanity.
Commentary
To imagine this show from episode one, when it seemed like soft-core hentai, to get this deep, would have been hard for me. But perhaps it shows that just because sex is involved, and not necessarily for pleasure but power, doesn’t mean the anime is going to be your usual silly ecchi story. For thus far, while it still has some fan service with the nudity, pretty much the story eclipses those moments to the point you can’t even say nudity is about sex, or even power all the time. Sometimes the nudity is just for the sake of cleaning or showing trust. Like with Jill telling Ange her story and her wanting them to be in a completely exposed and vulnerable position.
That thought aside, seeing Vivian turn into a pink DRAGON made me wonder how does one become one of the huge DRAGONs? Are those the “Anicent Ones” or what? Much less, what is the Mother’s Song and how is Ange able to turn people from DRAGON to human? Also, when she was on an island with Tusk, who was the person she killed and were they trying to communicate with her or simply defend themselves?
Topic 3: End of An Era – Ange & Julio
In a council composed of Julio, Embryo, King of the Rosenblum, another man, and one woman, it is questioned what to do about VillKiss, as well as those who possess Ragna-mail – A god like machine capable of mass destruction. Well, the options, from Embryo include surrender to DRAGONs, and the Ancient Ones; An all out war; and then to destroy everything and rebuild. Of the three, the final option seems to be destroying everything, meaning that Embryo would orchestrate, once more, a restart.
Something done before when the Ancient Ones nearly destroyed the planet leading to the rise of Mana users. However, Norma began to surface and had to be dealt with, hence Arzenal. Though, with some humans still living after all that had happened, and them being treated as Norma are, it led to Norma and Humans joining forces for Libertus, a revolution. One which Jill was supposed to perform, but failed. However, it seems Embryo is ready to just wipe out all Norma, with Julio at the helm of the project, but you can’t fully be sure. Either way, Jill doesn’t trust Embryo, especially with it seeming Norma are to be evacuated out of Arzenal under peaceful conditions. Almost with equality sounding possible.
Commentary
While Tusk is a spy, and let Jill know the truth about Embryo’s plans, I can’t even fathom what is to come next. Well, outside of Tusk’s story and what is left out of Jill’s background. Though, at the same time, I would like to know who the two unnamed council members, who sit with Julio, are. Plus, there comes the need to maybe go into more detail about the human destruction, their stealing of Ragna-mail, and what they have been doing all this time. So perhaps I shouldn’t say I can’t fathom what is to come, but what will come first and with how much detail?
Things To Note
[1] Jill pretty much says she is Alektra, but Ange seems to not strongly react to it at all. She is more focused on the task, if not imposed destiny, Jill gives her.
[2] Records make it seem she died before becoming a teenager.
[3] Jill’s full name was Alektra Maria von Loewenherz
Though, admittedly, it is a slightly pervy thing to note, I must admit it was sort of nice to see that Jill didn’t have the usual perfectly symmetrical breast that are usually seen. Just for the sake of realistic depictions of breast.
Riza is the succubus like woman who is with Julio.
Collected Quote(s)
“Peace, friendship, equality, we speak of beautiful things, but the history of humanity is a cycle of war, hatred and prejudice. That is the true nature of human beings.”
— “Her Right Arm’s Past.” Cross Ange
“Secrets should be shared when completely exposed.”
— “Her Right Arm’s Past.” Cross Ange
Episode 13: Arzenal, in Flames
Overview
As the show transitions to its 2nd half, familiar locations, and characters, are left behind.
Trigger Warning(s): Dead Children
Topic 1: The Utter Destruction of Arzenal – Ange, Salia, Hilda, and Jill
Topic 2: The Launch of Aurora – Jill
Topic 3: I Will Take Your Sins – Ange
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Topic 1: The Utter Destruction of Arzenal – Ange, Salia, and Jill
With Julio on his way, for a “rescue,” Jill sees through this nonsense and calls for operation Libertus to begin. Something the majority of the cast we know agree to. However, Ange still, even after seeing the bodies, seems not fully convinced to be on Jill’s side. Especially as Salia is supposed to escort her to the lowest decks of Arzenal.
Meanwhile, under Julio’s command, a genocide of Normas commences and no one is safe [1], not even the children.
Commentary
Though, to a certain degree, it was quite obvious that this whole rescue operation wouldn’t end peacefully, it was a bit surprising Jill just called for an open rebellion. Making you wonder why was Emma Bronson the sole Mana user at Arzenal? For considering how well trained, and resourceful, most Norma are, having one sole Mana user sort of seems ridiculous all things considered. Especially Emma since, as has been seen a multitude of times, she is quite overwhelmed.
Topic 2: The Launch of Aurora – Jill & Hilda
While Ange goes off, as noted in topic 3, and Ersha looks for the children of Arzenal, Jill is prepping for this ship named Aurora to launch. Which is a bit difficult since between Arzenal being invaded, and the few paramail riders out there being swarmed by these spinning razor discs, launching wasn’t a simple check the engines and go. Especially since, because numbers are important, Jill was waiting as long as she could for everyone to get on the ship, which for some reason included Emma – perhaps as a hostage.
Now, as for Hilda? Well, she was topside trying to hold off invaders, first by trying to get to her, Chris, and Rosalie’s paramail. However, invaders slowed them down and took Chris out. Afterwards though, she got in her paramail and was able to provide time for Aurora to launch and Jill to send them the coordinates.
Commentary
While death is always needed to really put an exclamation point on a series shifting, I must admit Chris’ death didn’t pack a real strong punch for me. Perhaps it is because she was always mousy to me, even when she decided to take Hilda’s place in the lesbian relationship with Rosalie. So her dying, versus Hilda, just seemed like the show was cutting some fat more than taking something from the main meal, sort of speak.
With that said though, I’m curious as to where Jill is going, and who is on the ship? For I believe Ersha is, perhaps with some children, but who else? For with the death of one or two characters usually comes replacements in tow. Making you wonder if we may get any unnamed, but interesting, Norma appearing under Jill’s command, or were Embryo and the other VillKiss user, from Arzenal’s destruction, the replacements?
Topic 3: I Will Take Your Sins – Ange, Tusk, and Embryo
As Hilda fights close to Arzenal, and Jill plots the escape, Ange breaks away from Salia, thanks to Momoka, and goes out on VillKiss to fight against Julio. First by taking out his navy fleet, then but facing him head on. It should be noted though, in the process of getting to him, VillKiss turns red and gets this light barrier making all attacks against her null and void. So pretty much, after a certain point, she is just flying through ships to destroy them.
But then comes the face to face meeting with Julio. Someone who, as always, is a bad ass when there is an army in front of him, but becomes a coward once he faces the enemy face to face. So, first things first, Ange shoots him and tells him to call off the attack, which he does, and then Embryo shows up as she goes to kill him.
Now, throughout the episode Embryo pops up multiple times, mostly in Arzenal [2], but now he appears to admire Ange’s anger, and to wipe Julio off the face of their planet. Something he does with ease, and then he turns his sight onto Tusk who, with Vivian, is trying to get Ange to come with them. Especially since Tush, like Jill, doesn’t trust Embryo. So, to get rid of the pest, Embryo goes to kill Tusk but then Ange rescues him by Villkiss turning blue, and them teleporting.
Commentary
With all we learned from “Her Right Arm’s Past,” I must admit I am seriously craving information on what the hell is going on. For I can’t tell, fully, if Embryo should be considered a villain, or someone indifferent; why is VillKiss changing colors; who in the world is Riza; and where did Tusk, Ange, and Vivian go? Much less, with Ange sending Salia into the ocean, what is her fate? For with no ability to use her paramail, and Arzenal being abandoned, and her possibly thinking of revenge, could this be the last time Salia is on the same side as Ange? Will we even see Salia again? Well, only future episodes will tell.
Things To Note
[1] Julio’s objectives were 1. Ange; 2. VillKiss; and 3. The capture of trained mail riders. Of which, supposedly, a few were captured.
[2] Being that Embryo has some sort of god like powers, he walks into Arzenal and helps bring the dead back to life. Including a child Ersha holds in her arms.
Riza, the succubus like woman who is usually with Julio, she escapes his fate.
Episode 14: Ange and Tusk
Overview
Ange, Tusk, and Vivian find themselves 500+ years in the future, and seemingly the last beings alive.
Topic 1: Stir Crazy in Isolation – Ange, Tusk, and Vivian
Topic 2: Apologies and Intimacy – Ange & Tusk
Topic 3: Welcoming The False Citizens – Ange
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Topic 1: Stir Crazy in Isolation – Ange, Tusk, and Vivian
We learn Villkiss transported Ange, Tusk, and Vivian 538 years into the future, a post-World War VII world where there seems to be nothing but plant life. However, Ange refuses to accept this so she rides Vivian, who is back to being a dragon, all around looking signs of life. What she ends up with though is pent up frustration and disappointment. Something she takes out on Tusk for after an AI reveals the world was essentially destroyed, she begins to talk bad about the whole Libertus plan which dealt with destroying the world and creating a world for the Ancient Ones and Norma to exist out of hiding. Thus leading Tusk to be offended for his parents, 10 years before the series’ start, died in Libertus, and he lost many friends during that rebellion.
Commentary
With this time jump comes the question of how will they get back? For, as of now, Ange’s control of Villkiss is limited to combat and flying. Time travel, or even going from dimension to dimension, isn’t something she has learned to do yet. So it leads you to question what she may learn in the future which may help her get to the past.
Also, I wonder if we may ever get a full-length episode focusing on the first failed Libertus. For while we have seen bits and pieces focused on Jill/Alektra, it would be nice to see other major players in the first attempt. Especially from the Human/ Ancient Ones side.
Topic 2: Apologies and Intimacy – Ange & Tusk
After Ange says insensitive things to both Tusk and Vivian, she apologies, hugs Vivian, and then really mellows out with Tusk. To the point we are reminded there is something mutually between them. For with the finding of a hotel, and Ange and Tusk being left alone, she decides to invite him to sleepover. Especially once she realizes him protecting her isn’t solely out of duty, but his own personal feelings.
Which isn’t to say the situation isn’t a little complicated. For both are very much shy about intimacy, and Ange feels a bit unworthy of love after causing so much death and being a part of so much chaos. However, Tusk finds her deserving for she has been through so much instability. And with this acceptance of her sins, and her feeling comfortable once more with him, they kiss.
Commentary
When the series is near its end, I wonder if these two may get a happy ending? For thus far the show has shown it has no real issue killing off characters, but arguably it never violently cut one of the main ones out. For while Julio is dead, Chris, and a few others who were named characters, we haven’t had a seriously major character die. So perhaps could Tusk be the one? Another person ripped from Ange making it seem happiness will be within her grasp, but limp due to death?
Topic 3: Welcoming The False Citizens – Ange
Just before Ange & Tusk end up getting it on, with Vivian watching in the window, The Ancient Ones appear. But not Ancient Ones like Tusk, but like the ones who were the first to attack Arzenal and use the Endless Song to nearly wipe out half the island. However, these Ancient Ones are friendly to the false citizens, and though they have a DRAGON with them, it seems, for now, they are peaceful. Now, as for whether they may remain so? Well, we’ll find out in the next episode.
Commentary
With the arrival of the Ancient Ones comes the question if perhaps they won WWVII, or were the only survivors. For with the location Villkiss teleporting them to being the future of the Misurugi Empire, which Ange is positive of due to the Dawn Pillar, having nothing but corpses of assumed Mana users, it brings to question if the Ancient Ones ended up winning. Though, at the same time, while the Ancient Ones may have won, there comes the question of how? For with the world becoming contaminated due to the draconium reactors destruction, does this just mean the Ancient Ones just time traveled into the future and then began to take over? Hopefully we’ll find out in the next episode.
Things To Note
Tusk ends up in Ange’s crotch again.
Episode 15: The Other Earth
Overview
As we are introduced to the world of Sylphis, the DRAGON homeland, we learn more about the people Ange and co. spent most of their life killing.
Topic 1: Sex Education & A Reuniting of Kin – Ange, Tusk, and Vivian (Mii)
Topic 2: Welcome to The True Earth – Ange & Salamandinay
Topic 3: Aura, And The Monster Known As Embryo – Ange & Salamandinay
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Topic 1: Sex Education & A Reuniting of Kin – Ange, Tusk, and Vivian (Mii)
After what happens in topic 2 and 3, we learn a few minor things. The first being that Vivian is a child of Sylphis, what I believe is the name of the DRAGON’s capital city, and that the women of Sylphis haven’t seen a fully matured humanoid male in years. Especially the humanoid male’s penis it seems. Though with Ange discovering Tusk naked on a table, with metal clamps bounding him mind you, naturally she gets upset. Especially since she thinks he agreed to this so he could have sexual contact with one of the girls.
Commentary
While I complain about the ecchi in shows I watch, I have grown so accustomed to Cross Ange’s use of it that now I just find it comical. For alongside Ange finding Tusk naked, she trips and lands in his crotch region, hinting that she may have landed in such a way to leave a taste in her mouth. Which to me was comical.
As for the Vivian, formerly known as Mii, situation, while certainly nice, it does make me wonder more and more about the families of the other paramail pilots. Also, with Vivian mentioning how her mom smells like Ersha, it makes me wonder if Ersha may have been a DRAGON as well? Though, very likely, her remembering the smell of Ersha probably deals with Ersha being so dutiful toward the kids of Arzenal, of which, since Vivian arrived 10 years ago, she was likely one of the ones Ersha doted on.
Topic 2: Welcome to The True Earth – Ange & Salamandinay
With those of Sylphis bring Ange & Tusk to their capital, to meet their high priestess, comes a lot of attitude from Ange. For with her being in an unfamiliar place, being asked question after question, and her wanting some answers, she becomes slightly belligerent. Thankfully though, Salamandinay, the woman who destroyed Arzenal, seems willing to provide some answers. Such as why Ange’s world is considered the False Earth, noted in topic 3.
But with Ange seeing Salamandinay, and her community, as the murderers of Arzenal, and Ange just being stubborn, there isn’t much listening. For, in the long run, all Ange sees is one side killing the other, and her mindset seems to be geared to thinking it will be a constant battle. However, unlike Ange, Salamandinay believes in forgiveness. For after her people adapted to the environment, through genetic modification [1], and learned to harvest from the toxic environment, they have learned to forgive. If only because they have seen what vendettas and revenge lead to when forgiveness is off the table.
Commentary
I must admit that this parallel universe storyline, in which Salamandinay and co. live on an Earth in which Mana never was concocted, is a bit confusing. Though it especially gets difficult to understand when you factor in Embryo’s role in things. If only because I was under the impression that there was one Earth, that humans, like Tusk, went underground, and that was how things were. With this new information though, alongside the genetic mods angle, I can only hope the next episode helps to normalize the situation a bit more.
Topic 3: Aura, And The Monster Known As Embryo – Ange & Salamandinay
Like in most worlds, the people of Sylphis pray to some sort of Supreme Being. Theirs is named Aura, a golden DRAGON who provided the power needed for all Sylphis’ needs. For with their DRAGON’s munching on dracunium, and turning it into crystals to use, they have found a way to take what made the Earth uninhabitable and empower themselves with it. All the while cleansing the Earth little by little.
However, being that Embryo wanted to create a new world, one powered by magic and mana, he needed an energy source. Said source ended up being Aura who has long been captured. Leading to the reason why Arzenal exists, and the importance of DRAGONs in the “False Earth.” For with these DRAGONs crossing worlds come that precious crystalized dracunium, of which is harvested from their corpses to keep the “False Earth” powered and in existence.
Hence why Salamandinay, and co., decided to wipe out Arzenal. For if their murderers are gone, it presents an opportunity to retrieve what is theirs. Though, with Embryo still being treated as quite formidable, it leads you to wonder how, if possible, he may meet his end.
Commentary
Even with taking notes, and re-watching certain parts a few times, I must admit I don’t have a strong grasp on who, if not what, Embryo is. For while portrayed as human, he seems to be a god, and I’m unsure if his mecha is what grants him such abilities. Either way you slice it though, his build certainly makes for an interesting villain. Though, I must admit, as we learn more about Salamandinay’s Earth, and a bit about Embryo, I do wonder how the rest of the cast is doing.
Things To Note
[1] From what it seems, per Vivian/ Mii’s doctor treatments, there is a D-Type gene which leads to those of Sylphis turning into DRAGONs. However, it seems the women are mostly the pink dragons, like what we’ve seen of Vivian/Mii, and not the large dragons which are seemingly the males. Also, thanks to the genetic modification, most of the humans on this other earth have tails and wings. Something strangely, despite being born in that world, Vivian/Mii doesn’t have.
Episode 16: Resonant Battlefront
Overview
As Ange and Salamandinay bond and forge a friendship, Embryo lurks in the shadows ready to destroy all Salamandinay, and her fellow princesses/ priestess, have worked for.
Topic 1: A (Slightly Unfriendly) Competition – Ange and Salamandinay
Topic 2: Better Off Together Than Alone – Ange and Salamandinay
Review (with Spoilers) – Below
Topic 1: A (Slightly Unfriendly) Competition – Ange and Salamandinay
Being that Ange and Tusk are captives, albeit ones well treated and that eat with their captor, there still remains the question of what will Salamandinay do with them? The answer: She wants Ange to be a soldier for their side. Something which, of course, Ange doesn’t just want to do since even if Ange and Salamandinay share the same enemy, she doesn’t wish for the responsibility which comes with being involved.
So, in light of that, Salamandinay proposes a competition. One in which they play games like golf, tennis, ping-pong, baseball, and twister, to decide whether Ange and Tusk will become free, or if Ange will become Salamandinay’s property. Meaning she would be forced to do her bidding.
Commentary
Every now and then it is nice to be reminded that Ange is not a grown woman. For while she has killed, had horrible things done to her, and is often put in positions of adult responsibility, it is nice to be reminded she essentially is a teenager. One who still isn’t fully comfortable in her body, so sex is both scary and exciting; Someone who may come off bratty, but it is because she wasn’t gracefully acclimated to responsibility, but rather it was forced upon her; and with this episode, I feel we are fully reminded that what is asked of Ange, as a hero, is probably more than what most people her age would be capable of giving in normal circumstances. So it makes all the demands put upon her almost lead to sympathy.
Topic 2: Better Off Together Than Alone – Ange and Salamandinay
With no clear winner in Ange and Salamandinay’s little competition, they put off the stipulation for now. Especially since Embryo unleashes some sort of attack which destroys a large sector of the areas we have thus far been introduced. Luckily though, Ange and Salamandinay are finding that working together, like playing together, brings them closer. Leading to Salamandinay going along with Ange’s plan to stop Embryo’s attack and it working.
Something which may not mean Ange may help Salamandinay, and the high priestess, with their plans to get back Aura and finish this war once and for all, but it is a step in the right direction.
Commentary
With Tusk noting how Embryo controls time and space, I honestly can’t imagine how is his defeat supposed to make sense? Yet, at the same time, the fight against Embryo honestly is one of the few that I feel has had a good build in comparison to any show I currently watch, or any movie I have recently seen. And honestly, I can’t recall an episode of Cross Ange, off hand, which really made me not happy to get up early on a Sunday morning to watch it. Making the fact this only has a few more episodes left a tad depressing.
