The Formation of MAVE:

Episode 8. Year 2110

"Lofty goal, you say?"

Ark, an eighteen-year-old soldier who looked remarkably youthful, was listening to Commander Karl in an old tent serving as a makeshift headquarters.

"Yes, a lofty goal. Of course, that doesn't include us."

The bulky man stroked his scruffy beard with a large hand. Indeed, his nickname "Bear" suited him well.

"What does that make us, then?"

"What else? We're targets for elimination."

"Ah..."

Ark turned as Hanna, the white-haired platoon leader who had been listening to music through wireless earphones nearby, interjected. When Ark fell silent at Hanna's words, she chuckled mischievously, much like an ordinary grandmother would.

"You act surprised even though you already knew the answer. Those bastards would never let the Resistance survive, right?"

"Still... isn't there a way to talk to AG?"

Ark furrowed his brow, whether from the chill on his nose or the bitterness of their situation. Seeing this, Hanna's expression turned solemn.

"They're too committed to their beliefs. And they have the power to defend them. From their perspective, we're like germs invading a sterile room."

"Germs... are we?"

Commander Karl chimed in.

"Well, not to belittle us to that extent."

"It's just an analogy, Commander."

As they were engaged in their quiet conversation, the wireless earphone-shaped communicator in Karl's ear emitted a faint beep.

"This is Y. The targets are expected to pass through the designated location soon."

"Understood, Operator."

"Be careful, Commander. Their defenses are getting stronger by the day."

"Ha-ha, if it comes to it, I'll retreat without a second glance, so don't worry too much."

Karl laughed heartily, his voice full of confidence.

"...Understood. Please make a prudent decision based on the situation."

"Got it. See you later, then."

"Yes."

As Karl was about to disconnect the communicator, Hanna interjected from the side.

"Y, I've been enjoying the music you made for me. It's much better than before. Wasn't it worth jotting down those lyrics in my notebook? Ha ha ha."

"Thank you, platoon leader Hanna."

"So, I'll see you again soon. Don't worry too much. Prepare some more good music for me."

"Heh, understood. Until then."

With Hanna's words, Karl's communicator went silent, ending the conversation.

"Such a good kid, isn't she?"

"Yeah."

Turning away from Hanna's indirect remarks, Karl turned around to look at the members of the Resistance.

"It's finally time."

"Yes. Everyone, move to your designated positions and stand by."

"Yes, sir!"