Information
| Audio | Japanese |
| Subtitle | English |
| Aired Dates | 7 October 2020 |
| Genres | Fantasy, Romance, Action and War/military |
| Quality | 360p, 720p, 1080p HD |
| Downloadable Quality | 1080p HD |
| Duration | 23 Minute |
| Stream | DotAnime HUB Web Stream |
Screenshots
Overview
In a world ravaged by a relentless century-long conflict, two superpowers stand at a permanent stalemate, representing the ultimate clash between industrial science and ancient magic. The Heavenly Empire is a titan of mechanical innovation, utilizing advanced weaponry and disciplined military might to suppress the threat of the supernatural. Opposing them is the Nebulis Sovereignty, a sanctuary for astral mages who wield the volatile power of the stars to defend their sovereignty against those who fear them. This series explores the complex nuances of war, portraying neither side as purely evil, but rather as two desperate nations trapped in a cycle of hatred and misunderstanding. The aesthetic of the show juxtaposes the cold, metallic structures of the Empire with the ethereal, crystalline beauty of the Sovereignty, creating a visually stunning backdrop for its central narrative. At its heart, the story is a romantic tragedy reminiscent of classic star-crossed lovers, where two idealistic warriors from opposing sides discover that they share a singular dream: to end the war and create a world where peace is more than a fleeting fantasy. The action sequences are high-octane and strategic, blending swordplay with magical phenomenon, while the political intrigue delves into the internal corruption and secret agendas lurking within both governments. It is a tale of chivalry, forbidden attraction, and the heavy burden of duty in a landscape where every choice could lead to the rise of a new world or the total destruction of the old one.
The military aspects of the show are presented with a focus on specialized units and elite combatants known as "Saints" and "Purebreds," who represent the pinnacle of their respective civilizations' power. As the protagonists navigate the treacherous waters of international diplomacy and battlefield skirmishes, the series examines the human cost of long-term ideological warfare. The budding romance between the leads serves as the emotional anchor, providing moments of levity and hope amidst the dark themes of systemic oppression and tactical espionage. With its blend of high fantasy elements and modern military strategy, the show offers a unique perspective on how individual connections can potentially bridge the deepest of societal divides.
Synopsis
The story begins with Iska, a youngest-ever Saint Disciple of the Heavenly Empire, being released from a year-long imprisonment. He was originally jailed for treason after freeing a captive mage, driven by a desire to avoid unnecessary bloodshed. To regain his status and pursue his goal of ending the war, the Empire’s leadership tasks him with a mission of extreme importance: to assassinate the "Ice Calamity Witch," the most powerful astral mage of the Nebulis Sovereignty. Iska and his specialized unit, including the stoic Captain Mismis, the sniper Jhin, and the mechanic Nene, head to the front lines where they encounter the legendary witch, Aliceliese Lou Nebulis IX.
During their first encounter on the battlefield, Iska and Aliceliese are shocked to find that they are evenly matched. Iska’s unique dual swords, capable of cutting through and reflecting magic, allow him to counter Alice’s overwhelming ice powers. However, their fierce combat is interrupted by their mutual realization that neither of them takes pleasure in the slaughter. Fate intervenes shortly after when they coincidentally meet in a neutral city's opera house and later at an art gallery. In these neutral zones, where combat is strictly forbidden, they share conversations about culture, food, and their shared vision for a peaceful future. This forbidden rapport creates a deep, unspoken bond between them, even as they return to their respective armies to lead their troops.
As the season progresses, the conflict intensifies through various military operations. Iska’s squad is sent to a desert region to secure a strategic fuel resource, where they once again face Alice and her loyal maid, Rin. The battle is complicated by the appearance of a monstrous experimental weapon from the Empire, forcing Iska and Alice to briefly work together to protect the innocent. Meanwhile, political unrest grows within the Sovereignty as the extremist Zoa Family attempts to seize power and push for a total genocide of the Imperial citizens. Iska is later captured by the Sovereignty after a mission goes wrong, leading Alice to hide him in her own palace to keep him safe from her mother, the Queen. This reversal of roles deepens their understanding of each other's worlds.
The climax of the season involves the search for the Sovereignty’s youngest princess, Sisbell, who possesses a rare magic that can reveal the truth of the past. Both the Empire and the rogue factions within the Sovereignty want her for their own purposes. Iska protects Sisbell from an Imperial kill-squad, proving his commitment to justice over blind nationalism. Alice arrives to find Iska defending her sister, and despite the growing pressure from their respective superiors to kill one another, they decide to form a temporary, secret alliance. The season concludes with the two protagonists parting ways once more, standing on the border of their warring nations. They acknowledge that while they are still technically enemies who must lead their soldiers, they are no longer fighting for their leaders, but for a future where they can finally be together without swords drawn.