Ep 2. Survival of the Fittest

In Guilty Crown season 1 episode 2, titled "Survival of the Fittest," we see a continuation of the events that took place in the pilot episode. The leader of the resistance group Funeral Parlor, Gai, has recruited our protagonist, Shu, to assist him in his mission to take down GHQ, the ruling organization in Japan.

Shu is initially resistant to joining the group, as he is afraid of the potential danger and consequences that may come with it. However, with the help of Funeral Parlor's sharp-tongued but kind-hearted female member, Inori, he eventually decides to take the plunge and help them out.

The episode begins with Gai and his team targeting a GHQ laboratory, where they hope to find a sample of the "Void Genome." The Void Genome is a genetic component that gives people the ability to wield special powers, known as "Voids." These powers are incredibly useful in combat and give the wielder immense strength and agility.

As Gai and his team infiltrate the laboratory, they come face-to-face with the GHQ's defenders. The ensuing fight scene is intense and action-packed, with each character utilizing their unique abilities to gain the upper hand.

Meanwhile, Shu and Inori have been tasked with locating the specific Genome sample that Gai is looking for. They sneak into the facility, only to be caught by a group of GHQ soldiers. Shu is able to use his newly-gained power, the ability to extract Voids from people, to defeat the soldiers and find the sample they were looking for.

However, obtaining the sample proves to be more difficult than they anticipated. The sample is encased in a glass tube, and breaking it would risk contaminating the Genome. Shu realizes that the only way to retrieve it is by using his newfound power to extract the Void from Inori, as her Void is a sword-like weapon that can safely cut through the glass.

At first, Inori is hesitant to let someone else extract her Void, as it is an incredibly personal and intimate process. However, she eventually agrees to let Shu do it, and he is able to successfully retrieve the sample.

As Gai and his team make their escape from the facility, they come across a group of schoolchildren who have been stranded in the midst of the fighting. Gai is unwilling to risk slowing down the team to help them, but Shu steps in and uses his power to extract a void from a nearby truck, which turns out to be a crane. He uses the crane to rescue the children and reunite them with their families.

The episode ends with Shu and Inori reflecting on the day's events. Shu is still apprehensive about the group's mission, but he is beginning to realize the positive impact they can have on others. Meanwhile, Inori expresses her admiration for Shu and his bravery, hinting at a potential romantic connection between the two.

Overall, "Survival of the Fittest" is a thrilling and action-packed episode that sets the stage for the rest of the series. The dynamic between the characters is compelling, and the introduction of new powers and abilities keeps the audience engaged and excited for what's to come.