Akira stands at the window, staring at the city beyond. His grip tightens slightly. The words of the advisor still echo in his mind.

  Commander.

  He exhales.

  ?

  Ren and Ryuko begin their transport to the Chūkan.

  Ryuko smirks. “First one to reach full resonance wins.”

  Ren scoffs. “You don’t even know what that means.”

  Ryuko grins. “Neither do you.”

  ?

  Cut to the rooftop.

  Watari tilts his head back, gazing at the stars. Yumi rests her head on his shoulder.

  “You think we’re ready for what comes next?”

  Watari exhales.

  “Yeah. As long as I’m with you… I’ll always be ready.”

  The wind moves. The city glows.

  FADE TO BLACK.

  ?

  FINAL TITLE: YūGEN NO MAKU –

  PART 1 END