Ep 4. The Cracked Portrait

In season 1 episode 4 of Pumpkin Scissors, titled "The Cracked Portrait," the story follows the team of Pumpkin Scissors as they investigate a suspicious case involving a portrait of a famous painter. The portrait is stolen and replaced by a fake one, and the thief seems to be targeting wealthy individuals associated with the painter.

The team is led by Alice L. Malvin, a noblewoman who is determined to protect the people and restore justice in a post-war society. Her team includes the hot-headed and brave Sergeant Major Randel Oland, the resourceful and intelligent Lieutenant Oreldo, and the tech-savvy Lieutenant Machs. Together, they navigate the complexity of the case and the possibility of political corruption.

As they investigate, they discover the dark history behind the famous painter and his association with a secret organization. Alice and her team must race against time to uncover the truth behind the theft and stop the culprit from harming others. With each clue they find, their suspicion grows deeper, and they begin to question their own allies.

The episode explores themes of greed, power, and corruption. The tension builds as secrets are revealed and the team faces dangerous adversaries. The animation style is detailed and immersive, bringing to life the post-war setting and the characters' emotions. The voice acting is top-notch, adding depth and nuance to the characters' personalities.

Overall, "The Cracked Portrait" is a thrilling episode that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. It showcases the strengths and weaknesses of each team member and highlights the importance of trust and loyalty in the face of adversity. Fans of mystery and action will enjoy this episode and the series as a whole.

Note: This description is based on the anime series Pumpkin Scissors and not the manga or novel versions.