Ep 3. Ragazzo - Young Boy

In episode 3 of Gunslinger Girl season 1, titled "Ragazzo - Young Boy," the audience is taken on a journey of self-discovery and the moral dilemma of using young children as assassins. This episode follows the story of a young boy named Mario Bossi who is unknowingly about to be recruited to become a member of the terrorist organization, Padania. However, before Padania can get their hands on him, the Social Welfare Agency intervenes and decides to use him as a test subject for their cyborg program.

As the episode progresses, the audience learns that the transformation process is not an easy one, as the young children are forced to give up their previous lives and become something completely new. In Mario's case, this means that he must relinquish his past and become a ruthless killer in the name of righteousness. Despite the Agency's promises of giving the children the chance to reclaim their childhoods once the mission is complete, it's clear to the audience that these children are damaged and altered forever.

Throughout the episode, Mario struggles with his new life and the morality of his actions. In one scene, after completing his first mission, Mario breaks down and cries as he realizes the true extent of what he has done. The audience is left to wonder if the ends justify the means.

Meanwhile, the Agency works to ensure that their program is a success. Henrietta, one of the cyborgs who has undergone the transformation process, is tasked with training Mario and monitoring his progress. Henrietta, who has fully accepted her new life as an assassin, sees a lot of herself in Mario. She sympathizes with his struggles and tries to show him the ropes in hopes that he too will eventually come to accept his new life.

The episode also delves into the twisted psyche of Padania's members and the lengths they will go to achieve their goals. Throughout the episode, Padania's leader is shown expressing no remorse for his actions and even goes as far as brainwashing his own son to be a loyal member of the organization.

Overall, "Ragazzo - Young Boy" is a powerful episode that tackles difficult moral questions and showcases the dark side of human nature. With its well-rounded characters and thought-provoking storyline, Gunslinger Girl continues to impress and captivate its audience.