Ep 13. The Pure White Buranshe - Kaede's Smile

The Pure White Buranshe - Kaede's Smile is the 13th episode of season 1 of the anime series Angelic Layer. The episode centers around the character Kaede Saito and her Angel, Hikaru.

The episode opens with Kaede practicing her Angelic Layer skills at a nearby park. She is approached by Misaki Suzuhara, the show's main protagonist, who is impressed with her abilities. Misaki invites Kaede to participate in the upcoming Angelic Layer tournament, but Kaede is hesitant, citing that she has never competed before. Misaki reassures her and convinces her to join the tournament.

Meanwhile, it is revealed that Kaede is suffering from a chronic illness and has been hospitalized for quite some time. Her mother informs her that she may need to undergo surgery and there is a chance that she may not recover. This news devastates Kaede, as she worries about the impact her illness will have on her loved ones.

Back at the tournament, Kaede competes fiercely with Hikaru, impressing the audience with her skills. As the tournament progresses, Kaede's health begins to deteriorate, and she is forced to withdraw from the competition.

Later that day, Misaki visits Kaede in the hospital and offers her support and encouragement. She tells Kaede how much she admires her strength and determination, and how much she believes in her. As Misaki leaves, Kaede smiles, knowing that she has made a friend who cares about her.

The episode ends with Kaede undergoing surgery, and Hikaru standing by her side, ready to continue their journey together.

Overall, The Pure White Buranshe - Kaede's Smile is a touching episode that explores themes of friendship, determination, and perseverance in the face of adversity. It showcases the power of the Angelic Layer game as a means of bringing people together and providing hope during difficult times.