Ep 1. Fallen Princess

Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons Season 1 Episode 1, "Fallen Princess," introduces us to a world where humans live in a society divided between those who have magical powers and those who don't. Our protagonist, Princess Angelise Ikaruga Misurugi, is a member of the royal family and a powerful mage who is loved and adored by the people of her kingdom. Angelise, however, is ignorant of the harsh realities of the world she lives in and the discrimination her fellow humans are subjected to because of their lack of magical abilities.

The episode begins with Angelise preparing for her coronation ceremony, where she is set to become the next ruler of the Misurugi Empire. As Angelise is dressed in her ceremonial garb, she sends her servant away to apply the finishing touches to her hair and makeup. However, when she's alone, her true personality is revealed. She is rude, self-centered, and dismissive of her servant's feelings. Her attitude is a clear indication of how she views those around her who don't possess magical powers as inferior.

As Angelise makes her way to the ceremony, her carriage is attacked by a group of rebels who are fighting against the empire's oppressive regime. The rebels, who call themselves "Norma," are humans who have been stripped of their magical powers and are considered social outcasts. Angelise is horrified by their ability to attack her, but even more so by the revelation that she herself is a Norma. Her magical powers were just a facade, and her family had hidden her true identity from her.

Angelise is captured by the rebels and taken to Arzenal, a military base where they reside. Arzenal is a prison for the Norma, where they are trained to become soldiers and fight against the dragons that threaten the very existence of their world. Angelise, now known as Ange, is treated as just another prisoner and is subjected to the same harsh treatment as the others. Her pride is shattered, and she struggles to come to terms with her new reality.

As she spends time at Arzenal, Ange meets Hilda, a tough-as-nails fighter who is the leader of the group. Hilda immediately takes a liking to Ange when she realizes who she is and how powerful she could be in their fight against the dragons. Ange is stubborn and initially refuses to join the fight, convinced that her family will come to rescue her. However, as she witnesses the bravery and selflessness of the Norma, she begins to see them as real people and not just social outcasts.

The episode ends with Ange's first battle against a dragon. Faced with a creature she thought only existed in fairy tales, Ange is terrified, but she doesn't back down. She proves herself a capable fighter and gains the respect of her fellow prisoners.

Overall, "Fallen Princess" sets up a fascinating world that explores themes of oppression, discrimination, and identity. The characters are complex, and their relationships with each other are intriguing. The plot is full of twists and turns, and the action is intense and exhilarating. It's a strong opening episode that hooks you in and leaves you eager to see what happens next.