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Irina: The Vampire Cosmonaut S01 - WBDP vs. RigAV1

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# WBDP

# RigAV1

# ------------------------------------------------ EP 01 ------------------------------------------------

Altitude 5,000... 6,000!

Altitude: 5,000... 6,000!

First stage jettison complete.

First stage separation confirmed.

Temperature stabilized at 20C.

Temperature stabilized at 20°C.

Heart rate: three times normal.

Respiratory rate: four times normal. No issues.

Leaving the atmosphere. We're officially zero-G.

Orbit insertion successful!

Vital signs normal. It's alive in space!

Vital signs normal.

It's alive in space!

That day, an animal flew in space for the first time in history.

The UZSR's incredible feat shocked the entire world.

Someday, I'll go!

Sinus Iridum, Palus Somni, Mare Tranquillitatis...

In an era where humans have yet to reach the cosmos,

this is the story of a boy and girl who risk their lives for their love of space.

After the World War which divided the globe,

After the World War that divided the globe,

the east's Zirnitra Union

the East's Zirnitra Union

and west's United Kingdom of Arnack

and the West's United Kingdom of Arnack

set their sights on space, which was yet unclaimed.

The UZSR moved first.

On October 4th, 1957, the UZSR launched the first satellite into orbit.

One month after, they put the first animal into space.

One month later, they put the first animal into space.

The United Kingdom's response exploded two seconds after launch.

The UZSR was unstoppable.

The UK triumphs at making burgers, but the UZSR triumphs at lunar landings.

The UK triumphs at making burgers,

Their dignity on the line,

but the UZSR triumphs at lunar landings.

With their dignity on the line,

the nations raced to claim the first human spaceflight.

Cosmonaut Lev Leps has returned home!

Who's a cosmonaut now?

You're just a reserve.

In spirit, okay? In spirit...

Thank goodness. The trip's finally over.

Hey, Lev!

What is it, sir?

Follow me. Comrade Chief wants to talk.

Follow me.

Comrade Chief wants to talk.

The Chief?

What'd you do now?

Nothing at all!

It's gotta be something. He wouldn't come way out here for nothing.

It's gotta be something.

He wouldn't come way out here for nothing.

Was nice knowing you.

Hurry up, Lev!

Yes, sir!

Long time no see.

I take it you're training hard to be selected for the first, human spaceflight?

I take it you're training hard to be selected for the first human spaceflight?

Yes, Comrade Chief!

Though after your incident, you were demoted to a reserve candidate.

Your marks are high, but presently, there's zero chance that you're chosen.

Your marks are high, but presently, there's zero chance you'll be chosen.

I understand that.

But I have other uses for your talent. I'm assigning you to a certain project.

But I have other uses for your talent.

Huh? Yes, sir!

I'm assigning you to a certain project.

The Manned Spaceflight Project, "Mechta"

Huh?

Yes, sir!

The Manned Spaceflight Project: "Mechta."

Our mission is the same, but the Committee has added a new objective.

Let's finish the UK off!

Let's finish the UK off once and for all!

When we put a human in space, I want it broadcast live to the world!

A live broadcast? But if we fail, we can't cover it up like we have before.

A live broadcast?

Precisely. That presents us with a huge problem.

But if we fail, we won't be able to cover it up like before.

Isn't that right, Dr. Mozhaysky?

Precisely.

There're things a dog can't tell us:

That presents us with a huge problem.

Can people function in zero gravity? Will seeing the globe break their spirit?

Isn't that right,

Our cosmonauts are like heroes.

Dr. Mozhaysky?

If one is hurt or killed during the broadcast, it'll be a disaster.

Yes, there are things a dog can't tell us:

Can a person function in zero gravity? Will seeing the globe break their spirit?

Our cosmonauts are viewed as heroes.

If one is injured or killed during the broadcast, it'll be a disaster.

When we brought this up to the Committee,

they demanded we perform an outrageous experiment.

To use people?

Experimental subjects are mere objects.

Test subjects are mere objects.

The Supreme Leader has given us the order. If we fail, our lives may be forfeit.

The Supreme Leader has given us the order.

If we fail, our lives may be forfeit.

What must I do?

Hmm?

I'm the subject, right?

I'm the test subject, aren't I?

You fool. If we sent you to space, you'd be a full-fledged cosmonaut.

Then who is?

Then who is it?

Not a human, but a vampire.

Vampire?

A vampire?

Vampires are a rare species, isolated deep in the mountains of UZSR territory.

Vampires are a rare species, isolated deep within the mountains of UZSR territory.

Most people have a terrifying image of them from movies and novels,

Most people have a terrifying image of them from films and novels,

but have never seen one.

Lev was one of those people.

Come out of there.

That girl's a vampire?

That's right. Tracking ID: N44.

That's right.

Codename N44.

Though their species has peculiar traits and abilities,

they're biologically close to humans.

they're biologically similar to humans.

Therefore, an ideal subject for our experiment.

They don't classify as humans, so it won't count as human flight.

And if she dies, it's an easy cover-up.

Now then, Lev...

Yes, sir!

Your mission is as follows...

You have four objectives.

One: for roughly two months until launch, you're to monitor and train N44.

Two: keep N44's identity a secret from civilians.

Irina Luminesk... Age 21?

Irina Luminesk...

Age 21?

Three: ensure N44 does not escape.

Four: live in the adjacent room to monitor N44 at all times.

Wait... I'm living here, too?

Your personal effects were moved to the next cell.

Stand up, N44.

Lev, when you take her outside, make sure to hide her ears.

We can go outside?

Think of it like walking a dog so the solitude doesn't bore you to death.

Think of it as walking a dog so the solitude doesn't bore you to death.

Well, I'll be on my way.

I'm all on my own?

As if. You'll have a helper well-versed in vampires.

As if.

You'll have a helper well-versed in vampires.

Anya!

She's young, but bright. She'll fill you in on the details.

Nice to meet you! I'm N44's health manager, Anya!

Nice to meet you!

I'm N44's health manager, Anya!

N-Nice to meet you.

I think you know, but treat N44 like an experimental subject--like an object.

I think you know, but treat N44 like a test subject—like an object.

Yes, sir!

My dreams are done for.

May I continue now?

Yeah, sorry.

Vampires are weak against sunlight, so training will last from dusk till dawn.

Meaning I've gotta sleep all day long?

By the way, does sunlight turn 'em into ashes?

By the way, does sunlight really turn them to ashes?

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原始文本

開啟檔案

# WBDP
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 01 ------------------------------------------------
Altitude 5,000... 6,000!
First stage jettison complete.
Temperature stabilized at 20C.
Heart rate: three times normal.
Respiratory rate: four times normal. No issues.
Leaving the atmosphere. We're officially zero-G.
Orbit insertion successful!
Vital signs normal. It's alive in space!
That day, an animal flew in space for the first time in history.
The UZSR's incredible feat shocked the entire world.
Someday, I'll go!
Sinus Iridum, Palus Somni, Mare Tranquillitatis...
In an era where humans have yet to reach the cosmos,
this is the story of a boy and girl who risk their lives for their love of space.
After the World War which divided the globe,
the east's Zirnitra Union
and west's United Kingdom of Arnack
set their sights on space, which was yet unclaimed.
The UZSR moved first.
On October 4th, 1957, the UZSR launched the first satellite into orbit.
One month after, they put the first animal into space.
The United Kingdom's response exploded two seconds after launch.
The UZSR was unstoppable.
The UK triumphs at making burgers, but the UZSR triumphs at lunar landings.
Their dignity on the line,
the nations raced to claim the first human spaceflight.
Cosmonaut Lev Leps has returned home!
Who's a cosmonaut now?
You're just a reserve.
In spirit, okay? In spirit...
Thank goodness. The trip's finally over.
Hey, Lev!
What is it, sir?
Follow me. Comrade Chief wants to talk.
The Chief?
What'd you do now?
Nothing at all!
It's gotta be something. He wouldn't come way out here for nothing.
Was nice knowing you.
Hurry up, Lev!
Yes, sir!
Long time no see.
I take it you're training hard to be selected for the first, human spaceflight?
Yes, Comrade Chief!
Though after your incident, you were demoted to a reserve candidate.
Your marks are high, but presently, there's zero chance that you're chosen.
I understand that.
But I have other uses for your talent. I'm assigning you to a certain project.
Huh? Yes, sir!
The Manned Spaceflight Project, "Mechta"
Our mission is the same, but the Committee has added a new objective.
Let's finish the UK off!
When we put a human in space, I want it broadcast live to the world!
A live broadcast? But if we fail, we can't cover it up like we have before.
Precisely. That presents us with a huge problem.
Isn't that right, Dr. Mozhaysky?
There're things a dog can't tell us:
Can people function in zero gravity? Will seeing the globe break their spirit?
Our cosmonauts are like heroes.
If one is hurt or killed during the broadcast, it'll be a disaster.
When we brought this up to the Committee,
they demanded we perform an outrageous experiment.
To use people?
Experimental subjects are mere objects.
The Supreme Leader has given us the order. If we fail, our lives may be forfeit.
What must I do?
Hmm?
I'm the subject, right?
You fool. If we sent you to space, you'd be a full-fledged cosmonaut.
Then who is?
Not a human, but a vampire.
Vampire?
Vampires are a rare species, isolated deep in the mountains of UZSR territory.
Most people have a terrifying image of them from movies and novels,
but have never seen one.
Lev was one of those people.
Come out of there.
That girl's a vampire?
That's right. Tracking ID: N44.
Though their species has peculiar traits and abilities,
they're biologically close to humans.
Therefore, an ideal subject for our experiment.
They don't classify as humans, so it won't count as human flight.
And if she dies, it's an easy cover-up.
Now then, Lev...
Yes, sir!
Your mission is as follows...
You have four objectives.
One: for roughly two months until launch, you're to monitor and train N44.
Two: keep N44's identity a secret from civilians.
Irina Luminesk... Age 21?
Three: ensure N44 does not escape.
Four: live in the adjacent room to monitor N44 at all times.
Wait... I'm living here, too?
Your personal effects were moved to the next cell.
Stand up, N44.
Lev, when you take her outside, make sure to hide her ears.
We can go outside?
Think of it like walking a dog so the solitude doesn't bore you to death.
Well, I'll be on my way.
I'm all on my own?
As if. You'll have a helper well-versed in vampires.
Anya!
She's young, but bright. She'll fill you in on the details.
Nice to meet you! I'm N44's health manager, Anya!
N-Nice to meet you.
I think you know, but treat N44 like an experimental subject--like an object.
Yes, sir!
My dreams are done for.
May I continue now?
Yeah, sorry.
Vampires are weak against sunlight, so training will last from dusk till dawn.
Meaning I've gotta sleep all day long?
By the way, does sunlight turn 'em into ashes?
No! That's a myth!
It'll just cause their skin to tingle, but they do seem to get heatstroke easily.
However, night vision allows them to see in the dark.
Yeah?
Lev, here's today's schedule.
Meal, city tour, sleeping until dusk tomorrow...
Meal?
Does she drink blood?
No, she'll have the same meals as you.
Not blood?
No! The other candidates are in the cafeteria, so go introduce her!
Roger that.
Let's go, Irina. Put these on.
Lev! You mustn't use her name!
I'll call her Irina when we're around town.
Why?
If I call her N44, people will ask questions.
But, that's...
You look like a regular candidate now.
About 9,000 people live in this city doing space research.
But it's not on the map and they're not registered citizens.
'Cuz space research is a national secret.
Here's the cafeteria. I'll introduce you to everyone.
Take off your hat. Might as well show 'em right off the bat.
This is N44, Irina Luminesk. All right, guys?
Let's go.
--What, her? --Who's that?
Her ears are pointy.
Fangs?
Does she bite?
She's got the vampire skin and eyes.
She looks human.
But she's a monster.
I'll suck your blood! I'll suck your blood!
Can it, Yustin.
Eh?
You're an idiot.
Would you say that without backup?
I oughta--!
So tasteless. That's why I hate humans.
What?!
H-Hey...
She hates humans...
Hold on! Guys, just listen!
She eats the same food as us. Didn't Lt. Gen. Viktor tell you guys?
Welcome to the forefront of space research!
What?
She devoted her life to helping us. Let's be thankful!
Mikhail...
Why don't we let Lev take over from here?
Yeah.
Tsk!
Hey, where's our food?
Eh?
You eat what humans do, right?
That's borscht--a Zirnitra specialty.
Also, I was told to give you this.
Milk?
Yup!
The residential sector has all sorts of places--libraries, schools, restaurants...
Even a lake you can skate on in winter.
What's up? Something wrong?
Don't look!
Stay back, human!
But, the cross...
Huh? What?
Did you read that that's our weak point in a book or something?
So, you're okay?
It's all nonsense that humans made up.
Uh, what's that?
That's...
What is it?
Well, that's the grave of the first dog in space, Maly.
You mourn the lives you treat as objects? That's backwards.
It wasn't always this way.
If anything, Maly was loved.
Three years ago, the regime demanded the first animal spaceflight.
Except, Maly's ship was incomplete and wasn't built to return.
But the regime's words were final.
Rapid heart rate and breathing.
Engine cut-off. Ship is now zero-G.
It's alive in space!
They achieved a historical feat, but...
Anomalies!
Internal temperature is rising! 42! 43C!
Due to the extreme heat, Maly died in a few hours.
A few hours? I read it flew for a week in the paper!
Was that a lie?
I've said too much.
After that tragedy, it became an unwritten rule to treat subjects like objects.
Isn't that just running away from the guilt?
Who knows?
I guess that makes you lucky--that I'm a cursed species and not a cute dog.
That's not--
It's fine.
I don't want some human's sympathy anyway.
Experimental subjects are mere objects.
No. To me...
It's so damn cold.
It's me. I'm coming in.
Are you cold? Want a blanket?
No, I'm not cold. Don't you know my species handles cold just fine?
Oh, the weak against heat thing...
So leave already.
Sorry for not knowing.
And sorry for not stopping them from saying mean things in the cafeteria.
And, as for me... Sorry for treating you like an experimental subject.
That guy and that Anya girl...
If they get orders to kill me, they won't think twice about it.
I won't let my guard down. Humans can't be trusted.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 02 ------------------------------------------------
There are 20 cosmonaut candidates in total.
Out of 3,000 applicants from the UZSR army,
these elites were selected for being the brightest and the best.
However, even for these elites, cosmonaut training is no easy feat.
Dear me, those poor souls. I wonder if that vampire girl will hold up?
It's Lev! I'm coming in!
Go ahead.
Morning! It's time for training... Huh?
You didn't use it...
Let's start already.
Leave your necklace behind.
Why?
You'll have to take it off everywhere we go.
It's pretty. What gem is that?
Don't look. You'll defile it.
Defile...?
I'll take it off.
So? What's the training plan?
The same one as the candidates!
We run 12 times around the track to build up endurance.
It's your first time, so go easy. Run at your own pace.
Ready...!
Start!
Wait! It's not a race! Go all out and you won't last the day!
Humans are just slow.
She doesn't wanna listen, huh?
In that case, I won't let her show me up!
You're going too fast!
Vampire...!
That was over the top for a warm-up!
I know!
Still, she kept up with you! She can fill in for a candidate, no problem!
I was worried training might be too hard, so that's a relief. But...
I lost to a human...
Her competitiveness... That could pose a problem. Right, Anya?
I'm very intrigued by her body!
It's your first physical, so let's be thorough!
Height, weight, blood pressure, breasts, hips, butt size, X-ray, and blood test!
She's all yours, Anya. I'll sit over here.
Why are you staying?
Huh?
Would you stay for a human girl?
No way. But I'm monitoring you.
Get out.
But--
Get out!
But--!
Get out!
Human men are so insensitive.
Now she hates me more.
Whoa! So white and smooth!
Don't stare.
158 centimeters... 43 kilos...!
That's light.
And breasts... 82!
Don't touch.
A very human reaction! Let's see...
What are you doing now? Why are you wiggling your fingers?
Hey! Stay away!
Ooh! Don't worry, it won't hurt!
I hope not!
Okay, okay. Now show me your breasts, please!
You've gotta move your hands!
She's an object...
Is this toothpaste?
It's space food.
Space food...
Don't expect too much. Scientists make the stuff.
Eat it all! This is training, too!
You like it? The stuff tastes awful.
Since it seems you don't know, we don't have a palate.
So you can't taste stuff?
Yeah. But we do feel textures, heat, and cold.
Smell and texture matter more than taste.
Wow. Wasn't expecting that.
If you eat the same stuff as us, why are you called blood-suckers?
Don't you guys drink blood?
Drinking blood is banned for being barbaric. I've only done it once.
On my tenth birthday for a traditional ritual.
I didn't like it, but I had to. They say it's to remember our roots.
What was it like?
Delicious.
My body felt warm and I was filled with strength.
Before you ask, I don't drink human blood. It would taint me.
If all that's true, I don't get the whole "cursed species" thing.
It's human nonsense. Back during the plague, they put all the blame on us.
Ever since, that's how they've portrayed us in books.
Milk... Are you wondering why vampires drink it?
Yeah.
Because teats are made from blood.
Huh?
Milk's a substitute for blood. Have you had it before?
I have.
Yeah?
In space, the ship is controlled at 20C, but issues could make it hot.
This is training to help endure it. You'll stay in a 90C steam bath for an hour.
Maly died due to extreme heat. If a vampire weak to heat can endure it,
we can assume a human cosmonaut can survive it, too.
Sorry to keep you.
It's okay.
Today's schedule is hot room and load training.
People should be asleep this time of day, and I'm stuck training this filth?
N44, I'll go first to--
Wait! Have her put this on first.
Why?
To restrain the filth.
I don't think she'll run away.
She's just hiding her fangs. Bind her!
Um...
You can bind me.
Huh?
They're just accessories to me.
Got your cross and garlic, scaredy cat?
You little...!
Vice-Director Sagalevich...
Enough! Let's begin!
Right.
It's hell in there!
N44, give the signal if it's too much.
You stink. Go away.
She's melting.
Don't push yourself.
W-Water!
You hung in there!
That was nothing!
More!
Done, are we? Next!
Six-G!
When rockets launch, they go against gravity.
Passengers aboard feel crushed by many times their own weight.
Right now, Lev is probably nauseous, in pain, and his body feels like lead.
Go for five minutes. Try not to throw up!
Of course, I won't.
Franz!
Huh?
Tighten it!
It already is.
I don't care! Tighten it more!
Uh... Right.
Weak! Give her two months of training in one go!
R-Right.
Up it more!
J-Jeez...
This is dangerous!
Don't like how I do things?! Well, then, hit me! Isn't that what you do?
Today's training is over! Franz, cleanse everything with holy water!
You okay?! Can you stand?
I'm fine.
Blood! I'll patch you up!
Don't worry, it's just chafing. You'd do that for me?
Of course! Not caring for live subjects is a researcher's sin!
I'll get the first-aid kit!
The color of their blood is the same as ours.
Not a single complaint yet. Forget running away; she's giving it her all.
And she's doing exceptionally. Research subject? It's more like...
I'm done.
Good work. Has it healed?
Where are you looking?
Huh? I wasn't!
Like I believe that.
Hey, about training... When do we practice flying?
The ship? We don't.
Then how do we fly?
The machine does it all. You just sit there.
We only study to fill out the log and train our bodies for launch.
Oh, but there is one thing. You've gotta master the parachute landing.
Why?
There's no other way to land but a parachute.
The ideal re-entry would be a retrothrusted soft-landing.
But we don't have that technology yet.
Our plan is for an in-flight ejection.
After atmospheric re-entry and falling to 7km, the whole seat is ejected.
It all happens automatically; the problem is after.
You need to detach from the seat and land safely with a parachute.
Nobody's ever done it like this before.
You've never used a parachute before, right?
Right. I've never flown, either.
Two months is just not enough time.
It's fine, as long as the seat is properly ejected.
One more thing: she might lose consciousness on re-entry.
Landing unconscious is...
Doesn't matter. It's an experiment to measure risk.
In other words, it's fine if N44 has a crash landing and dies.
Let's get you used to the height. Slide down to the bank on the left first.
You listening?
Are you scared?
Of course not!
The air force academy said this to anyone who was afraid:
Tuck your chin or get whiplash!
Huh?
Go!
You okay?!
I'll jump on my own next time, so don't do that!
Hey!
I'm fine.
Are you afraid of heights? Let's stop for today.
Just a sec.
Hmm?
Here.
What is it?
Soda water. It's good stuff.
I told you I can't taste.
You'll feel the fizzle, though. It's invigorating.
That's the best! Try it.
Hmm? You afraid to drink it? Humans chug it.
I'm not afraid!
You like that?
You tricked me!
Sorry! But it's invigorating, right?
It was. Huh?
Lemon seltzer is good, too. Tastes real crisp.
Lemon seltzer...
Want some?
Nope! Let's hurry back before the sun rises!
I said I didn't want it!
Who even drinks this?
Tasty!
How's your after-shower drink?
Good, yeah?
Not at all!
It's good with booze, too!
Shut up, human!
Don't look! Quit peeping! Keep out, pervert! Lecher!
I don't care about your soda water, but it's a waste to dump it!
How's the unit coming along?
Less than 50% done. The cargo is much bigger than a dog, so it's not easy.
How about N44?
No resistance. She's training earnestly.
Picking him was the right choice.
But why assign Lev, the reserve?
Because of what happened after the test run of 0.
Out of the thousands of people who've seen my child, only he showed respect.
To him, the species difference is likely a trivial matter.
His demotion wasn't a big deal, either.
But violence towards a superior officer is a code violation, regardless of why.
Anyway, keep a close eye on things.
Is something happening?
No, but you understand.
When it comes to space research, our true enemy isn't just the UK.
We have enemies within, too.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 03 ------------------------------------------------
Irina...
I'm fine. This is nothing.
You sure about that?
Don't make fun!
It's been ten days since Irina started training.
Her performance in practically all of the training rivaled the finest candidates.
The only exception... being this.
Need a hand?
No need. It's just...
I'm imagining what it'll look like when I crash full speed into the ground.
We've gotta fix that.
The capital of Zirnitra Union, Sangrad.
Within the massive walls of its Citadel, a secret cabinet meeting was being held.
Currently, experiment subject N44 is strong and healthy.
Training is going well. We believe she's capable of handling the test flight.
I see, I see! Comrade Chief, is the unit progressing well?
Yes. Assuming all goes well with N44, final tests will conclude next March.
Then, plan for the real deal in April.
Now, regarding the subject's handling post-experiment--
Execution!
Until our human flight is complete, it's necessary to study space's after-effects.
But afterward, she need not live! Once her part is done, we should dispose of her!
Launch is yet far off, so there's no need to make any firm decisions.
They're difficult to go back on later.
Damn those old-fashioned dinosaurs!
I've had to do one damn purge after another!
How much manpower must they make me waste?!
In that case, just find a reason to send them to prison camp.
It's man's first spaceflight-- a feat which will prove
we're the world's foremost superpower!
And yet, these goons!
Mmm. So sweet.
These days, getting ahead in spaceflight may be a more potent weapon than nukes.
Yes, perhaps. But in order to outwit everyone,
we must think how to utilize our secret ingredient--
"N44," the vampire, Irina Luminesk.
Lev. Are you off-duty today?
Yeah.
Poor dude's gotta watch a monster every day!
How are things going with the experiment subject?
Irina-- She's been exceptional. Training has gone... really well.
She can hold her own against us candidates--
Don't group us with her.
She's just an experiment so we can make it to space.
Besides, you're no longer a candidate.
Though, if you ask me, it's nice that a top candidate got demoted.
Quit it.
There's just one pilot and we've already got Mikhail and Roza.
If you were in the race, too, there'd be no chance for the rest of us!
I've never been more thankful for your short temper!
Sorry to bug you, Lev.
To be honest, some among us don't look kindly upon N44.
After all, nobody in history has gone to space before.
And although she's an experiment, she'll be the first one to do so.
Mikhail!
Yeah! I'm coming.
"No longer a candidate," huh?
I guess you've lost a little weight. Is training tough?
Not really.
Then I'll have to ask Natalia to whip up a new menu.
Any other concerns?
Nope.
Irinyan!
Huh?
Do you mind if I call you that?
I'm not a candidate, so their rules don't apply to me!
In return, you can call me Anya!
Suit yourself.
Thanks, Irinyan!
Aren't you--
Anya.
Anya!
Anya, aren't you afraid of me?
What?
Even knowing the cursed species thing is a lie,
there are plenty of humans who fear and loathe us.
I'm a researcher, Irinyan. I couldn't do my job if I feared you.
Understanding something is the best way to beat your fear of it.
Besides, Irinyan is super cute! Oh, yeah!
Soda water! You like lemon seltzer, don't you?!
How do you know?
Lev told me!
So you don't have taste, but you make up for it with texture and smell?!
I'm very intrigued!
He had to open his mouth...
Training has gone... really well.
I said that, but...
"Fear of heights is a normal animal instinct.
However, the period of fear is short at under 30 minutes
and will gradually diminish.
With repetitive exposure to heights, it may resolve the fear in the patient."
I've gotta do something.
If she's seen as a poor choice for the flight, she'll be killed for sure.
Our motherland doesn't know the word "failure." Only "accidents" and "purges."
Experiment subject N44, Irina Luminesk, won't be remembered in space's history.
Soaring through the sky is so beautiful, too.
If only Irina knew.
That's it! If only she knew!
Today, we'll be doing special training to overcome your acrophobia.
Your wild imagination is only making it worse.
So? What's the plan?
Some drastic measures--flying!
Huh? Flying?
We're here.
Here we go!
We'll keep going up till we're above the clouds!
Open your eyes!
I'm trying!
The first time I flew, it felt like I had wings! It changed my outlook on life!
Here's hoping you feel freedom now, not fear!
Freedom...
Welcome to the boundary of land and space! You all right?!
Yeah, I'm good!
When will I go beyond this sky?
Hey, Irina.
What?
Uh, never mind.
Isn't your homeland just over there?
Wanna closer look?
No, let's go back. The sun's coming up.
Thanks.
Huh?!
I'm not afraid anymore!
That's good! That's real good!
Good, good!
Dummy.
That's blood for emergencies.
What happened?!
An accident at Albinar! A few engineers got hurt!
Albinar?
It's a base that launches rockets and satellites.
So much panic. Was it really just a few people?
An ICBM had exploded during a test launch.
That's what truly happened at Albinar.
Over 500 people were killed in the accident.
However, it was covered up.
Publicly, they announced it had been an airplane accident.
But within the government, there was talk that it had been part of someone's scheme.
The night flight seemed to largely remedy Irina's fear of heights.
Her training was progressing, but...
Five-point landing! Feet, calves, thighs, hips, back!
Ouch.
I hit my nose!
Still, you've gotten a bit better. Let's take a break.
It's nice that they gave us soda water.
What about the Albinar accident? Did it interrupt the plans?
In a few days, they'll have someone new in charge to get things going.
I see.
Why did a missile explode at a space base?
Because of the engine fuel?
No.
Huh?
Why were they test launching missiles?
Don't you know the reason rockets are being developed?
To fly to space, right?
No, for weapons of war.
Instead of firing nuclear warheads at the UK, we'll launch people into space.
The first human spaceflight... is the first human missile.
Just kidding. I hope rockets are being made
for the sole purpose of going to space.
Is that how the future will be?
In an ideal world.
Just after the war ended, my elementary school teacher told me:
"Planes are for soaring the sky, not weapons for killing people."
But the next day, she was taken by the Delivery Crew--
the Committee for State Security.
Sensei!
That's all it took.
She was treated like an enemy of the state for telling the truth.
That's awful.
I hope she's alive, somewhere out there.
That's enough of the past. Let's get back to training.
With just one month till launch in December,
we took Irina's parachute training to the next level.
I'll take care of everything this time, so just relax!
But...!
Whatever you do, stay calm. If we get tied up, we might fall to our deaths.
Quit scaring me!
Get ready!
Three! Two! One! Zero!
Don't panic! Open up your arms and legs!
L-Like this?!
Yeah! That's it!
It's hard to breathe!
Hurry! Our parachute!
Stay focused. There's a lot to remember to land safely.
You okay? The first time is a sensory overload.
That's enough for--
Let's go again.
Huh?
There's time till sunrise. Let's go while it's fresh in my memory.
O-Okay.
She sure is something. I'm honestly impressed.
She puts up with everything the vice-director throws at her.
Hey, Franz.
Hmm?
Why do you think she pushes so hard?
What?
It'd make sense if she were a candidate.
Love for the motherland, a soldier's honor... We all have reasons we applied.
There're people who just wanted to fly, too.
I'm not a candidate anymore.
But she's different. Why does she do it? Why does she push so hard?
Maybe you shouldn't try to understand.
Huh?
Lev, it feels like you're getting too attached to the subject.
Well...
Careful. If you develop feelings for her, it'll only get harder.
Yeah.
Almost there... Almost there...!
I won't lose.
I won't lose. Not even if I die.
I... won't lose!
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 04 ------------------------------------------------
Comrade Leps, N44's launch has been scheduled for December 12th.
Training continues till the week prior to launch. That is, three more weeks.
How is N44's progress?
Excellent. She'll be good to go by that date.
I see. Very good.
Lt. Gen. Viktor, any updates on the ship or rocket?
We're short on time! Reduce emergency rations and other equipment!
I want the weight down! I'll take responsibility, got it?!
--Yes, sir! --Yes, sir!
To launch N44, who was much larger than a dog,
the ship had to be fortified more than expected.
Each delayed upgrade increased the chance the ship wouldn't work as intended.
I can't collapse just yet!
Basically, after orbiting the world for one hour and 50 minutes,
you'll re-enter the atmosphere and land in Palma Plains.
Like I mentioned, you'll eject from the ship and descend with a parachute.
You haven't parachuted on your own, but you've got three weeks to master it.
Got it. Can we start training already? In the centrifuge, right?
That day, the space suit was delivered to the Training Center.
Not even the candidates have worn it yet!
Guess I'm the first!
The equipment was made for secrecy and durability.
The bright orange is to locate you, even if you land in snow.
So hot... and heavy!
You've gotta wear that when you parachute, too. Get used to it!
Hey, you're gonna catch a cold.
Huh?! Don't stare!
I-I wasn't!
If you're in charge of me, where's my change of clothes?!
I hear the vampire wore the space suit?
Yeah, but she looked ridiculous.
Aren't you annoyed that a vampire will beat us to the punch?
And you're helping it happen.
I'm just doing my duty.
Duty, huh?
Whatever. Once her role's over, the vampire will be disposed of.
How heart-wrenching to be aiding her death.
Don't go saying that.
She seems awfully obedient. Maybe she's actually a UK spy?
She's not that kinda person.
Person? You think the experiment is an actual person?
She's an object. Get it right.
Irina...
If you have something to say to me, say it to my face.
Even if your launch is successful, I won't acknowledge you.
I don't care what humans think.
I don't wanna hear it from a vampire!
Could you two calm down?
Hmph! Let's hope you don't die. Watch out or she'll suck your blood, Lev.
You overheard us talking?
Part of it.
Don't worry about it. Roza is arrogant and is like that with everyone.
Hey, what do you think of me?
Uh, don't misunderstand. Not in a weird way.
People think I'm a spy, but you hardly ask about me. I'm just curious.
Well, I don't think you're a spy, but you do seem obedient for being forced here.
Forced?
Huh? Weren't you?
Not quite. When the UZSR people came to my village, I volunteered.
Volunteered?
Yeah. There were other candidates, but I came of my own free will.
You did? I had it wrong then.
I figured you were abducted and your family held hostag--
Don't invent your own story.
Uh, right. Sorry. But why did you--?
You're forgetting to treat me like an object.
The Arctic Air Mass known as Moroz let out an icy breath.
LAIKA44's long and harsh winter had begun.
Next week is solitude training in the anechoic altitude chamber.
What was that weird thing you said?
Anechoic altitude chamber.
It's a room with increased oxygen levels and lowered air pressure.
You can't hear anything, inside or out. It absorbs sound like the air is dead.
And you're stuck in there for days with sensors attached to you.
What's the point of it?
Because the cabin you fly in is cut off from everything.
It's training for the solitude.
Another reason is that, if there're any issues,
you could be in space for up to a week.
How long will I be shut in there?
More than a day, but less than ten. It's over when the door opens.
I dread it more than anything else, so I like to relax or have fun before it.
Uh, but it's up to you...
I'm curious; where would you go?
Me? I sometimes go to the jazz bar.
The bar? To drink?
Do you not like alcohol?
In my village, we don't drink till we're 20.
Huh?
And I'm 17, so...
Huh? Seventeen? Doesn't your ID say 21?
I heard it makes things easier if I'm an adult.
No wonder you looked young. Mmm, good on you for following the rules.
Anyway, I'm fine with that.
Huh?
I'm fine with the jazz bar.
Do you like jazz? 'Cuz if you don't drink...
That's not--! Um, I...
You don't know what it is? Still, there're other drinks, too, and music as well.
But why--?
Whatever! Just take me there!
First time seeing you in plain clothes.
Makes me antsy.
Me, too.
Me, too.
It's cold.
Not really.
Hmm? What's that?
Huh? Oh, that's a phonograph.
It plays music with the spinning disc.
I've never heard this music.
Jazz being from the United Kingdom, it was banned to play,
but it was made legal not long ago.
What's the name of this song?
"My Beloved."
I like it. Not that I know what they're saying.
Should we order some drinks?
To think you'd order soda water...
I'll drink it just for you.
She likes it after all.
What?
Oh, nothing.
I hate to admit, but it's good.
What? I said it's good.
No, it's...
What kind of drink is that? It's a pretty red.
Nastoyka--of oleaster soaked for three weeks in zhizni. Want a sip?
Nope. I told you, I'm 17.
Here in the UZSR, drinking age is 16. You might like it as much as soda water.
Hmm. Just a sip then.
M-My mouth! My tongue is burning!
I'm not ready for that yet.
Hey, Lev.
Huh? Lev? She called me by my name...
Did you hear me? Wh-Whoa!
Sorry! You okay?
I'm fine.
Hey, Lev. When did you first wanna go to space?
Huh?
I wanna know.
When I was five.
Five?
Yeah. I saw an airplane crossing in front of the full moon.
I thought a plane could take me there.
It seems dumb looking back, but that's what I thought.
I just wanna go to the Moon. UK cosmonauts probably think the same.
And yet, for how beautiful space is, the world is ugly and dirty.
We shouldn't bring war into space!
They'll arrest you.
Natalia! What are you doing here?
Hmm? You expect me to live in the kitchen making soup?
No, I just wasn't expecting to see you.
More importantly, you should keep it down about the UK.
The Delivery Crew might be listening.
Sorry.
Poor Irina here has to deal with "Snow Thaw" Lev.
Snow Thaw?
Natalia! Don't mention that!
He gets so heated up when talking about space, people say he thaws snow.
Oh?
What?
Sorry for interrupting your day off together.
--It's not... --...like that!
See you later, you two.
Well, what next?
What else is there?
A movie, billiards... And skating, I guess.
Welcome, Comrade Leps. What brings you here?
To look at your ice skates.
--What?! --What?!
I guess Roza's not the only pretty soldier...
You have such unique and pretty eyes!
Private Luminesk! Pick out the training gear and let's go!
Huh? Private?
It's all ours!
Nobody's skating on a night this cold.
Won't you?
I'm here to monitor you.
Hey, hold on!
That was fun!
Going to space seems so far-fetched. Though, being a reserve, I can't anyway.
Why are you a reserve?
I thought you had high marks.
I was violent toward a superior.
Violent?
The son of an engineer chief blamed a new graduate
for their own failure and got him fired.
The graduate was apologizing, and yet, that only got his head stepped on.
I couldn't hold back and charged in.
That's "Snow Thaw" Lev for you.
Could you not call me that?
Hmm? What's up?
Experiment subjects are disposed of, huh?
You heard that?
To humans, I wonder what we are?
When I was three, my parents got caught up in the war and were burned to death.
A lot of the villagers were killed.
The meaning of my name... is "peace."
And yet, why?
Did you know vampires are "People of the Moon?"
Yeah. I believed it when I was little.
Since we're People of the Moon, we're hated on this planet.
Lunny kamen. This moonstone was passed down for generations.
Sinus Iridum, Lacus Somniorum, Palus Somni...
Oceanus Procellarum, Mare Vaporum, Palus Putredinis, Sinus Fluctus...
I wanted to take this stone to the Moon, but I don't have wings and can't fly.
But then, the UZSR people showed up.
I'm fine with being an experiment or using the power of humans.
I just wanted to go to space.
So that's why she's put up with training without a single complaint.
Ever since then, you...
I wanna go to space before a human!
Huh?
If I can do that, I don't care if I'm disposed of.
I just want to see the Moon before humans defile it.
So, stick with me a little while longer.
Of course. I'll take you to space.
No matter what happens, I'm your ally.
You're a weird person... But I'm glad it's you monitoring me.
I think I'll skate more!
Okay.
I can't remember anything about yesterday.
You got back from the lake and slept.
What lake?
Oh, Irina...
Being isolated from humans? I welcome it.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 05 ------------------------------------------------
Oh! Good morning, Lev. Is the training going well?
Yeah. But she's got her own thing, so I'm back to being a reserve for now.
Hmm? Long time no see, Lev! You get fired from monster duty?
Not quite. Iri-- N44 is in the anechoic altitude chamber.
Ugh. Not that.
For the time being, you guys are stuck with me.
And how's that going?
If she doesn't fulfill her duty, it'll cause problems for us.
Excellent. She's been in there for three days and is still going strong.
That's incredible!
I just want to see the Moon before humans defile it.
Irina... What are you thinking about in there?
I want this off me.
Today, a special inspector is visiting from Sangrad.
Lyudmila Kharlova. I've brought a letter for you candidates from Comrade Gergiev.
Fellow comrades: The importance of this mission to our motherland
is something that needs not repeating at this point.
The United Kingdom has selected their seven pilot astronauts--the Hermes Seven.
Therefore, the UZSR must do the same, but rise above.
Our Dream Six--our Mechta Shest.
We will select six of our top-performing elites
who will become our official cosmonauts.
The selection will take place in January.
The pride of our motherland rests upon your shoulders.
Are you prepared, Comrades?
--Yes! --Yes!
Now that's a good response.
If you wish to observe training--
Before that, are there any questions?
You. Go ahead.
Mikhail Yashin. How is the development of the ship coming along?
Are you wondering about the Albinar incident, perhaps?
When there was a huge explosion at Albinar not long ago,
we all were reminded of another terrible incident.
Two experiment dogs died in the launch.
It got everyone thinking: "What if I had been in there?"
Relax. That was unrelated to your mission. The ship is progressing well.
We'll be testing Parusnyĭ Six shortly.
Besides, you guys have N44 as an experiment subject.
The UK plans to send a chimpanzee to space next January,
but N44 is launching this December. We're well ahead of them.
Either way, our vampire should prove more useful than some primate.
Th-That's right! After all, N44's meant to be a stand-in for us!
That's what she's for.
Yeah. It's a sound plan.
I'll show you around.
I can't wait.
Though training covers many facets, the parachute landing is of vital importance.
Unless it's done correctly, the parachuter risks...
Not good! He's in a spin! If he goes unconscious...
Hang in there, Yustin! You'll be all right!
That's too bad. He's out of the running.
Congratulations, Comrade Lev Leps.
Huh?
Since he's out, you've been promoted. Now you've got another shot.
I can't be happy about another's misfortune.
Really? I wonder about the others.
Comrades! If an accident like this fazes you,
you'll never be a hero of the motherland!
Only six of you will be chosen.
Whose name shall be remembered in our motherland's history?
Who here will be our next hero?
Not so fast. I'm tired of all this silly training.
Come, Comrade Leps. There's something I want you to show me.
What are these questions? I'm not a little child.
When will you let me out?
I wanna take a shower. What day is it now?
It's time. Lights off.
Hmm? So that's N44. How cute--she's like an animal.
N44 is not an animal. Like us, she's a--
Vampire.
A being like us, but different.
Their species is loathed by many. She's no human.
But she... After the experiment, what will happen to N44?
At this point, who knows? Why do you care?
Ah, you want her as a cute pet after it's over?
O-Of course not.
Don't bring feelings into your duty.
The Nosferatu Project won't tolerate failure.
Now then, I should be getting back. Farewell!
You'll get released tomorrow. You're almost there! You've got this!
--Experiment subject... --Dispose of her...
Dispose of her... Will they kill me, too?
No. I won't lose to humans.
I won't lose... I won't lose...!
Lev!
You okay?
You hung in there.
Lev...
Hmm?
Here's your reward.
Lemon seltzer!
You thought I'd be happy?
Huh?
Still, it's a waste to toss it, so I'll drink it.
What are you grinning for?
Uh, nothing...
I can't say I'm glad she used my name, or she might bite me for real.
Well, seems you've recovered.
I wish I could say you can rest today, but there's not enough time.
Let's get back to training.
How bad was the solitude training?
It was nothing.
Really?
What? You think I'm lying?
That's not it. I was worried about you.
Our first time, none of us made it past three days.
Yeah? You humans lack willpower.
Maybe. Humans might not be as great as we think we are.
Yeah. I truly believe that.
Yeah. I think so, too. Really.
Is it true, Lev?
That you took N44 parachuting right away.
Yeah. Parachuting is all about experience.
I wanna take her as much as possible. It could save her life.
What a harsh instructor.
I don't care if she thinks I'm harsh. I will not let her die. I won't.
You like her, don't you?
--Huh? --You do.
Wh-What are you saying? I'm her monitor.
I might have to leave the city soon.
Franz? Are you quitting?
No. Transferring, I think.
Is it the vice-director's doing? You can talk to me if--
It's fine. Forget it.
Now then, it's time to save the princess from the hell room, Lev.
Hmm? Right.
Listen... Going solo is the same routine as tandem.
Float on your belly and use your hands and arms to control yourself.
After you pull your chute, aim for the landing zone.
Don't forget to tuck your chin!
Mmm!
Don't worry, I'll be next to you!
Mmm.
Ready whenever!
Okay!
Three! Two! One! Zero!
Irina! Your hand!
Lev!
It's okay! I've got you!
Yeah!
Don't look down! Look at me!
It's time!
Yes!
Now to land! Five-point landing! Feet, calves, thighs, hips, back!
I landed!
Irina! You did it!
Well done!
Mmm!
Irina!
Don't touch me... human!
You were off target, but it's good for your first time.
I won't miss next time.
No, we'll practice for a spin next.
A spin?
Yeah. It can happen when you re-enter the atmosphere and the ejection goes bad.
The pilot falls towards the ground, spinning rapidly.
If it happens, you've gotta regain control before you pull your chute.
It's that or lose consciousness and hit the ground.
It's no joke. We'll get you used to it jumping tandem.
This is dangerous. If you think I'm being harsh, so be it.
--I don't. --Huh?
I don't think you're being harsh. It's training to come home safe, right?
Y-Yeah.
An experiment to dispose of...
Huh?
That's how I'm treated here. And yet, you wanna help me live.
Irina...
You're weird for not treating me like an object.
Well, I guess. But I wanna go to space. You're a comrade that shares my dream.
You can think that, but to me,
humans are the enemy that killed my parents and burned my village.
Right. Sorry.
Don't apologize. It doesn't make sense for you to.
Still, you're about the only human I think isn't bad.
What?
That's all I'm gonna say.
Hmm? What's that?
Huh?
A meteorite?
--What was that?! --Let's go see.
Is that a cabin? Why would one...?
We'll be testing Parusnyĭ Six shortly.
You don't think...?
Hey, Lev. Look!
They were supposed to launch a dog. That's probably...
Irina!
You okay, Irina?
Keep it together.
Lev!
I want you to explain everything.
I thought the launch of Parusnyĭ Six was successful.
It was successful.
It maintained orbit and all the data was good.
So, what happened?
However, there were issues during re-entry.
Due to problems with the heat shield and re-entry angle,
we issued the flight termination command.
You blew it up, then.
So, will N44's launch proceed as scheduled?
The plan must not be held up.
--Yes. --At what success rate?
At the moment, 30%.
I heard it'd be 50%.
With improvements, we'll reach that by launch.
Good. Well, I wager we'll fill the cabin with explosives for when it happens.
That's--!
She's an experiment subject. No different than a dog.
In the event it lands in another country, we must preserve our secrets.
Right.
Anything for our great Motherland.
Comrade Chief!
I'm all right.
Surely, next time...!
I think you know, but keep quiet about this.
Right.
It's a shame that you had to witness that.
Is she okay? If she's unable to fulfill her duty...
She's just experiencing shock. N44 will recover. I'll make sure of it.
Unless you're right, they won't stop at your head. They'll take mine, too.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 06 ------------------------------------------------
Good night, Irina.
Irina...
Took you long enough.
Could you not sleep?
Why?
You've got eye bags.
You've got worse ones than me.
It was too cold to sleep.
Let's go.
Yeah.
What's up with Irinyan?
Who knows? Maybe she's just tired?
I've never seen her like this. I'm worried.
Yeah...
Not eating?
I was just about to.
Wait!
This can't be good...
You okay?
Yeah.
That's more like it! Experiment subjects should look defeated.
She seems out of it today.
Yeah.
I wonder if she can handle launch.
Listen, you two...
I'm completely fine.
In that case, it's straight to the next one!
Time for centrifuge and hypoxia training!
I heated up some borscht.
No thanks.
You only had water today.
I can't stomach human food.
It's never stopped you before.
Are we doing parachute spin training today?
Not today, don't be stupid. You're accident prone in that state.
I'm fine! Time's running out! I'm not one of you weak humans!
Irina! You okay?!
I'm fine. I just slipped.
--Go see the doctor. --I said I'm fine.
Enough already!
Push too hard and it'll all go to waste.
Fine.
She's likely anemic.
Anemic?
But since she's not human, let's just wait and see for now.
Roger that.
What happened to you?
Look at the state you're in. Answer honestly.
I had a bad dream.
A dream?
A rocket exploded and I turned into ash like that dog.
Ever since, my body's been acting weird.
Good thing it's Sunday tomorrow. Take it easy and rest.
Yeah.
Even after resting all day, she's no better.
Have some of this. It's milk porridge.
And the doctor already gave up, thinking human treatments won't work.
At this rate, she can't handle training, let alone the launch.
I get that she's exhausted from training, but it seems like a mental problem.
She always acts strong and hides the pain.
Maybe pushing too hard caught up with her.
She acts all tough, but she's just 17. And to think she's prepared to die?
I failed to understand her. It's all my fault.
Lev!
Still, how does a vampire get to be anemic?
She said milk's a substitute for blood, but if she doesn't drink...
Blood!
Delicious.
My body felt warm and I was filled with strength.
Blood! Hey, Anya! What if we have her drink blood?
I think it's worth trying out!
No! No way! I'm not drinking that!
But you said blood gave you strength.
But we don't know where or what that blood came from!
True, but...
I refuse. It'll defile my body and make me even worse.
But it might help.
I'd rather die!
To think, all your effort will be for nothing...
If only I hadn't taken her to the crash site...
Unless I do something, Irina's dream...
I wanna go to space before a human!
If I can do that, I don't care if I'm disposed of.
Irina, I...
Hey, what if it's my blood?
If it's me, you'll at least know where the blood came from.
Yeah, but...
So let's do it.
W-Well...
Biting my neck sounds scary, so use my arm.
--Hold on! --Huh?
Are you serious?
Yeah. I wanna do all I can to make your dream of going to space come true.
Fine. I'll drink your blood.
Yeah.
U-Um! I'll make sure nobody comes in!
Um, how should we do this?
I dunno. Up to you.
That doesn't really help me much. Wait, why are you blushing?
Beats me.
I'll pretend like it's a shot.
Should I brush my teeth?
No need.
I'm nervous.
Me, too.
This good?
Yeah.
Here I go.
You finished?
Yeah.
Wipe your mouth.
W-Wait! Don't look.
Irina, you look way less pale now. Maybe it helped?
You're right. My body's warm and I feel light again.
Now I've got your going-to-space blessing.
Aren't you scared?
Of what?
Riding a missile into space that might explode.
I'd be lying if I said no, but it's a dream I'd risk my life for.
Risk your life...
If there's a reason I live, it's to go to space. I'd give up everything for it.
But why go that far?
For lots of reasons, but it's hard to put it in words.
If anything, it's the passion to go to space.
Still, yours might be more than mine. You became an experiment to get there.
I guess.
We don't ride missiles that kill, but rockets that carry dreams.
Those don't explode.
Maybe you're right. But if you're gonna fly, you've gotta get promoted first.
You're grinning again!
You're seeing things. Uh, I'll go bring Anya back.
Lev...
Thank you.
You want the launch postponed?
Yes, until the safety level is higher.
Numbers don't matter. It works or it doesn't.
Currently, the success rate is 30%.
If the test flight works, that's plenty.
But with an extra month, there's a better chance...
It's not happening. The date is firm.
But--!
Just make it work by the real launch. We make the impossible possible.
Isn't that right, Comrade Chief?
He's ignoring me.
Perhaps you should rest, Chief.
Worry about the ship, not me! We must succeed, whatever it takes!
It hurts!
Don't panic! Hang in there!
You okay?
Yeah.
The Committee has an update regarding the test flight.
They told us to put explosives on the ship like the animal test flights.
Explosives? And that's final?
Yes. If it nears our borders, it'll be detonated to preserve state secrets.
To think it might be pointless, no matter how hard she tries...
What is it?
Nothing. That's it for today. Next time, you'll go solo.
Tomorrow will be your last chance to practice.
Self-destruct, huh? That's unfortunate to hear.
A plan this cruel should just be canceled.
Huh?
They're forcing an impossible schedule just to beat the UK.
She's a sacrifice in their war.
You should leave it at that.
I think you're right, but I want you to be a cosmonaut.
So please, don't stray from the path.
I know. Thanks, Franz.
This could be the last time we drink here.
Hey, what was that red drink you had at the jazz bar?
Oleaster nastoyka?
Yeah, nastoyka! In my village, we can drink when we're 20.
So on my 20th birthday, I wanna try it again.
We'll celebrate, too.
Yeah.
She outlasted the Vice-Director's bullying.
Now he's napping.
Wh-What?
Isn't she done yet?
The machine is being weird.
Huh?
Is it broken? It won't stop!
She'll die at this rate!
Franz, stop it!
Shit!
What's all the fuss?
It's broken! It won't stop!
Shit!
What do you think you're doing?!
Killing the power!
Don't you dare!
I told you to stop!
Stop, dammit!
It's my duty to protect Irina!
It's slowing!
Irina...
Irina!
You okay?
I thought I was a goner.
I'll get the doctor!
Do you have any idea what you've done?!
The machine broke 'cuz that filth was in it! Disgusting!
What are you looking at?!
I'm staring down a pathetic human.
What?! Who do you think you are?!
I guess the god of you humans teaches violence.
Y-You filth! I hope you die in space, just like that dog!
Stop it!
Now you're insulting her dreams? Who's the filth now?!
You little...!
I'm embarrassed to be a human when there are ones as heartless as you.
Don't strike Irina ever again!
Apologize to her!
Lev, I'm fine.
Do it!
Stop!
Enough.
Assault and battery of a superior officer...
Destroying property, disobeying orders... You'll be court-martialed!
You're done for!
Wait! This was my fault!
What happened?!
It's all his doing! Seize him!
Sorry we couldn't do solo spin training, but I know you'll be fine.
Lev...
Sorry, Franz!
You're stuck here till further notice!
This test flight is a state secret.
Anyone who isn't in the know thinks we're launching a mannequin.
Um, what will happen to Lev?
Listen to me, N44. Don't wander around the base without permission.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 07 ------------------------------------------------
While in flight, you'll go by the call sign, "Lycoris."
Lycoris?
One of the mission objectives
is to test if voice transmissions can be received from space.
Here's the text you'll be reading.
"Lycoris Cooking Show"?
You're to read the borscht recipe if you experience no health issues in zero-G.
If you're unwell, read the cheeseburger one.
This wasn't in the mock launch. Why the recipes?
It's like a codeword.
What do you think will happen if the UK intercepts your transmission from space?
Hmm?
They'll suspect we're sending someone to space in secret.
But with a recipe, they'll think it's a cooking show.
Such secrecy.
This is important.
When in the air, say nothing but the recipe until communications are cut.
You saw the bomb during mock launch, right?
Yes. Beneath the seat.
Don't do anything unless instructed to, understand?
It won't be long till launch.
You're... Natalia?!
Here.
Thanks.
Hey! You can't bring that along!
Let go!
Hand over the stone!
Wait!
Huh?
Lev!
They made what happened the other day go away.
The centrifuge wasn't broken, it was meant to hurt you.
What?
I was told the truth.
The one responsible was Franz.
Huh? Why would Franz do that?
Someone opposing the chief ordered him to.
If N44 died, the plan would fail and the chief would be demoted.
What will happen to Franz?
No record of such a person exists here.
That's unbelievable.
That's the kind of country we're in. Anyway, I'm glad I can see the launch.
Thanks for the necklace.
I know you wanna take it, but let me hold on to it.
All right.
Though if a day comes that you go to the moon, take it with you.
Sorry. No can do.
I-I see.
'Cuz you'll be taking it there.
Huh?
Wh-What?
I've got it!
Now you won't be mistaken as an enemy.
It's time. Move out.
There's your ride.
Lev, thanks for all your work.
Yes, sir.
Lycoris, board the cabin. After the final checks, we'll launch.
It'll be in 108 minutes.
Yes, sir!
You've become a fine cosmonaut.
Thanks to my fine teacher.
This might be goodbye to this planet... and Lev.
No, I'll return... I will.
No mistakes. Our success depends on all of you.
Everyone, stay focused!
Polnoc, this is Lycoris.
Polnoc here. Go ahead.
Comm tests are complete.
One hour till launch.
We're wrapping up final tests.
Roger.
Cabin pressure is normal.
Thirty minutes till launch.
Heart rate: 64. Respiratory: 24. No issues.
Fifteen minutes till launch.
Lycoris, we're running a little late.
Don't worry. All launches go like this.
Roger.
We'll ignite once final checks are complete. There won't be a countdown.
Roger. Preparing for launch.
Final checks!
Range finder, go.
Comms, go.
Propulsion, go.
All systems, go!
Set keys!
Keys set!
Ignition sequence!
Preliminary stage!
Intermediate stage!
Lycoris, hold on tight.
Roger!
Engine ignition!
Main combustion!
Engines firing.
Launch!
Irina... Go!
Yes! She made it!
Yippee!
Silence! The real deal starts now!
Altitude: 4,000... 5,000!
Tracking the rocket. Position and acceleration look good.
Engine temp and pressure, normal.
It doesn't affect the flight. Fix it.
First stage separation.
Cabin temp maintaining 20 degrees.
Wh-What?! Heart rate is 150! Breathing is rapid!
Not good!
What?!
Shoot! She'll lose consciousness!
This is Polnoc! Lycoris, what's the recipe?! Respond, Lycoris! Lycoris!
No response? Are we connected?
We should be.
Lycoris! Do you copy? What's the recipe?!
95,000!
Respond, Lycoris!
100,000! 101,000!
Altitude broke ten kilos.
Fairing jettison.
Flight is maintaining course.
Second stage jettison.
Third stage ignition.
Where's the picture?!
Still investigating.
Third stage burn complete. Third stage jettison.
Altitude stable. Orbital velocity reached.
Launch was successful!
Lycoris! Is it borscht or cheeseburger?!
Did her brains get scrambled?
Is she dead?
No...!
I'm...? Huh, what?
Lycoris! Which recipe?!
Huh? Uh, right!
Today's recipe is... borscht!
Borscht! It's borscht!
Yeah!
--Yay! --Woohoo!
Th-This is the Lycoris Cooking Show!
First, peel your carrots, potato, and beets and cut into bite-size portions.
Then dice some cabbage and slice the onions as well.
Next, heat oil in a pot and sauté the meat.
Add the salt, carrots, and celery. And once they soften up,
add water and half a quartered tomato.
Add bay leaves, consommé, and season to taste, simmering for an hour.
Next, add the rest of the veggies and simmer for 20 more minutes.
Keep the heat low so the potatoes don't overcook.
While that's simmering, prepare your sour cream.
At this point, you can taste and plate.
Sprinkle some parsley if desired, and your tasty borscht is complete!
All done! Enjoy!
It's a success so far, but don't lose focus! Re-entry is full of challenges!
So beautiful.
I really did make it to space...
That's where I lived...
To think, I can't even talk about what I'm feeling right now...
I want to tell Lev what it feels like to float... and how pretty the view is.
Hmm? A recipe!
Next, a drink to pair with your borscht!
Huh? A drink?! We gave no such orders!
Is it spy code?!
Comrade Chief, standby with the bomb.
I recommend oleaster nastoyka.
--Nastoyka? Huh? --Drop rock sugar on oleaster in a cup and fill it with zhizni.
--Drop rock sugar on oleaster in a cup and fill it with zhizni.
--Nastoyka's a flavor of our motherland, just like borscht. It's all right. --Drop rock sugar on oleaster in a cup and fill it with zhizni.
--Nastoyka's a flavor of our motherland, just like borscht. It's all right. --Add some cotton thistle as a secret ingredient!
--She prefers booze over blood? You're vampire's a drunkard. --But not too much! Then give it a lid and put it somewhere dark.
--Begging for her life by humoring us? --Let it infuse for at least three weeks so it tastes nice and mellow!
--Let it infuse for at least three weeks so it tastes nice and mellow!
--Huh?
--She's not begging for her life. Only us two know about oleaster nastoyka.
--It'll turn red and delicious! But it's alcohol, so don't give it to kids.
--Instead, give 'em lemon seltzer!
--Lemon seltzer! --Instead, give 'em lemon seltzer!
Sinus Iridum...
Lacus Somniorum...
Palus Somni...
Oceanus Procellarum...
Going to the moon... is an impossible dream.
I don't wanna die.
Compared to training, this is nothing!
It's no use! We can't restore comms!
Why?! We're past re-entry blackout!
The cable was cut! Could be antenna damage!
What else is wrong?!
Temperature rising! The heat shield may be flawed! It might burn or break up!
Irina! Answer me!
Hey! Don't interfere!
Irina!
Where will it fall?! If it's not our land, blow it up!
No, it's in our borders, but retrofiring wasn't perfect.
It's 100 kilometers off course, so it'll be hard to locate.
Chief! Can I assist with the search?!
Mmm. Of course.
Viktor! Aid in the search.
Yes, sir!
The landing area is the 100 kilometers around latitude 51.6, longitude 47.4.
The search team is struggling. N44's status is unknown.
The seat was ejected.
Which means...!
Irina!
Irina!
I've gotta find her before dark, 'cuz by that time, she'll...
I thought she was a vampire, but she's an ordinary girl.
One that hates people, is stubborn, and gets upset when teased.
When did I start seeing her as a normal person?
This is the first manned spaceflight in history. Enjoy it.
Be back soon.
What's that?
Irina!
And she's conscious? Well done, Lev!
Affirmative. We'll head there immediately.
I... came back.
Yeah. All the way from space.
Let's wait it out till help comes.
Lev, you're bleeding.
It's no big deal.
So stubborn.
You're one to talk.
Your nastoyka reached me loud and clear.
I'm glad.
Thank goodness you're safe.
Welcome home, Irina.
I'm home, Lev.
Her amazing feat may never be known by anyone in the future.
She'll never receive any praise, nor will her name go down in history.
Much the opposite--her existence will be swept into the shadows.
But the truth is different--
She was the world's very first cosmonaut.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 08 ------------------------------------------------
If you hit it with that much force, you may have broken a bone.
Get it looked at.
All right.
We're glad to have you back!
Come, everyone! Let's give N44 a round of applause!
How was space?
Huh?
Yeah, tell us all about it!
It was hot and awful. You made me ride a hunk of junk.
Huh?
Hunk of junk, huh? Good one. We can talk about that later.
For now, let's toast with your favorite oleaster nastoyka.
It's not my favorite.
Oh, right. You can't drink till after your health exam.
That's not--!
Still, a job well done!
Congrats, Irinyan!
Hunk of junk... Hear that, guys? We've got lots of work ahead of us!
Is everyone ready?!
--Yeah! --Yeah!
The only thing the UK is good for!
--Yeah! --You like that?!
--Long live Zirnitra! --Bye-bye, Arnack!
--Long live the Motherland! --Hear, hear!
How is your leg, Lev?
Well, the painkiller's wearing out.
That's no good. You're returning to Laika tomorrow, right? See the doctor.
Thanks, I will.
--By the way... --Hmm?
Tomorrow morning, N44 will go to Sangrad with the chief
to attend a private committee meeting.
Private?
To discuss the details of the flight.
Awaiting my return to Laika44 were the usual sights of the city.
There was no celebration for Irina; just the same repetitive, ordinary days.
The centrifuge I broke was said to have "broken down due to age."
Vice-Director Sagalevich and Franz, who caused the incident,
were transferred elsewhere.
Being a mere reserve candidate, I didn't know what powers were behind their move.
More surprising was that, despite all the pain, my leg was mostly fine,
and that Natalia kept working as dorm matron.
There really wasn't a whole lot to be sad about.
She really flew up there, huh?
Reserve cosmonaut candidate, Lev Leps, reporting in.
The Nosferatu Project was successful. Thanks for your work.
Of course.
For the time being, the Committee wants us to continue studying N44's biology.
Now, Lev, as for you...
Sir?
Comrade Lev Leps. You're hereby promoted to candidate for your outstanding duty.
Obey the rules, or you're demoted again.
Yes, sir!
Awesome!
The candidate graduation test will take place on January 26th and 27th.
Only six will be chosen--our Mechta Shest.
Furthermore, the top three will compete to fly as the world's first cosmonaut.
If all goes as planned, the Mechta Project will happen in spring.
Spring...
With your restoration as candidate, you'll return to the dorms.
Huh?
The examiner will take charge of her now.
And after her health exam?
Listen, Comrade Leps.
The world's first cosmonaut must shoulder great responsibility.
Your statements will no longer be your own.
You're expected to devote your life to our motherland and set aside your loved ones.
Are you prepared to do so?
Of course. My dreams are our motherland's dreams.
Excellent. You did a great job. I look forward to seeing you again.
You helped me get promoted. Thanks.
It's not like I did it for you. Anyway, your leg...
I don't wanna hear you failed the test 'cuz of me. How is it?
I'm completely fine. It'll heal.
Fine?
Ouch!
--Huh?! --Huh?!
How is that fine?!
It's your fault!
Cut it out! Hey, that's dangerous!
Hey, enough already!
Oh. It's the experiment.
Oy.
Heard you're back in the running.
Yeah. No more calling me "reserve."
You could still fail the test, though.
I'll do my best not to.
Did you curse his leg?
You're just upset that I went to space first.
You're lower than a dog.
Says the snow bug.
Who's a snow bug?
Quiet, you swarming insect!
Huh?! Move it. You're in our way.
Hold on.
The launch is over. Let's not do this.
Lev is right. Thanks to her, the space program is moving ahead.
We should appreciate her efforts, just like the space dogs'.
I'll curse you.
I've been waiting for you, Lev! Irinyan!
What's all this?
Equipment to analyze her body when sleeping.
When did all this get here?
This room was emptied out this morning.
They sure work fast.
Hey, what will happen to Irina now?
Sorry. I haven't heard anything about that.
I see.
Hey, Irina. Did they talk about anything at the Committee meeting?
Like what?
What will happen after your exam?
--My disposal... --Huh?
...wasn't brought up.
Really?
Yeah. Nothing's decided yet. Also, worry about yourself first.
Huh?
I'll flip out if you lose to those guys in the test.
I don't wanna lose either.
Could you have sounded any more weak?! At least lie and say, "You bet I'll win!"
I'm the first one in space and you were my instructor!
I can't keep an eye on her anymore. Think you can step in for me?
Of course!
Bye.
The Nosferatu Project was a complete success.
Once the original, first manned spaceflight takes place,
we should reward N44 for cooperating with our research.
Following the Nosferatu project's success,
the UZSR turned its focus towards their next step to space--the Mechta Project.
Furthermore, discovering further value in N44, Irina Luminesk,
her disposal was again postponed for the time being.
However, with the postponement setting aside any plans for her disposal,
some wished for an "accident" to protect state secrets.
My comrades! Soon, it will be 1961!
Let us join as one, uniting to make this year shine bright,
and continue moving forward!
Long live the motherland! Long live Zirnitra!
What's this about?
I was bored! Can't a person sketch for fun?
It's fine to sketch, but carrots on a pancake?
--It's a rocket on the moon. --Huh? What?!
So, what are you here for? Another exam? But it's New Year's Eve.
That's precisely why I came!
This is...!
Yup! A native dress of Lilitto!
But why bring it?
Isn't it obvious? To celebrate New Year's together!
Irinyan, you're too cute!
It looks good! You're super cute!
Y-Yeah?
Now, let's go!
Huh?
I was born in Lilitto, too.
But being a war orphan who was raised in Sangrad, I don't remember much about it.
How did you end up in Laika?
I joined the Air Force Medical Institute after graduation.
That's where I read about vampires.
I was totally intrigued!
Not scared?
The orphanage teachers were scarier. They're all like Sagalevich.
Yuck.
Right?
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Hey, you two!
Happy New Year!
Oh! You're from the store!
Happy New Year!
Take one!
What's this?
She's Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden.
Happy New Year, Snegurochka.
Yup!
And that over there is Ded Moroz.
In the UZSR, they go hand in hand with New Years.
Yeah?
Bye, you guys!
Bye!
I wonder what she'd think if she knew I was a vampire?
I think she'd be more shocked to know you went to space.
That goes for my hometown, too. They probably think I'm dead.
If they had any idea I was getting along with humans...
I know! Let's celebrate, Lilitto style!
Huh?
If you throw a pine cone into a river,
it'll be purified by water and grant your wish.
There's no lake in Laika44, so we'll have to settle for this man-made lake.
Except it's not gonna sink through the ice.
But...!
--When spring comes, the ice will melt! --When spring comes, the ice will melt!
What was your wish?
Huh?
Mine was to get along even better with you!
You really are a strange one.
You think?
Mine was...
Yeah?
Long live the motherland.
Huh?
You know... "Long live the motherland! Long live Zirnitra!"
No fair! You're so lying!
Am not!
Hey! Don't you run from me!
Wait! Wait!
I hope this year's a good one.
Yeah.
The first cosmonaut must be a hero worthy of history
who properly represents our motherland!
Strive to do your very best!
Hey! Are you even trying?!
Wh-What?
If not, then run along home!
--Don't get cocky, woman! --Got a problem with women?!
Cut it out. Roza is right. People who don't give their all shouldn't be here.
Oh, yeah?! You think you're so special!
C'mon, let's go!
Yeah!
Here we go!
I'm sure she's fine.
How did the planet look?
Like it was wrapped in a beautiful, blue veil. So pretty.
It felt odd to think I lived way down there.
I see.
The stars looked like chervil flowers.
Chervil?
A lovely little white flower. You should look it up.
I will once we're back.
The moon was pretty, too.
I wanted to go there, but thought, "I don't wanna die."
Lev.
Hmm?
Um, seeing the moon in space made me realize something...
And that's...
N44! Private Lev Leps!
N44! Private Lev Leps!
I told you not to sneak in here!
What's this?
A gift for the world's first cosmonaut.
Th-Thanks.
What was the point of this?
There're so many flowers, it completely messes the smell up.
Sheesh.
Ever since my parents died, nobody's ever held a celebration for me.
I wish the world's three billion people could celebrate what you've done.
More importantly, how did the test go?!
I did my best. Now it's just "wait and see."
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 09 ------------------------------------------------
On January 30th, 1961, the UK sent a chimpanzee into space
as part of Project Hermes, their manned spaceflight program.
Though nearly dying due to equipment failure, it safely returned.
The chimpanzee was named Sam and quickly became famous.
Unbelievable! At this rate, we'll be passed up by the UK!
My apologies. We're currently working on improvements to the cabin
to fix the issues which occurred on N44's flight.
Yes.
Yes.
Absolutely. By spring, as planned.
Good. I'm counting on you, Comrade Chief.
You're too worked up over a little monkey.
I won't be beat by those hamburger lovers!
Still, it's a problem if our cosmonauts don't come home alive.
Our Mechta Shest... I can't wait to see who's chosen.
Good morning, Lev.
As for the results of the graduation test:
These top three Mechta Shest will be selected as cosmonauts
with the other three as reserves.
Private Mikhail Yashin.
Sir!
Private Roza Plevitskaya.
Sir!
Finally, the last of the three.
Private Lev Leps.
Huh? Uh... Sir!
And now for the reserves: Private Semyon Adamov.
Sir!
Private Stepan Levitzky.
Sir!
--I was chosen...! --Private Zhores Rimsky.
--I'm going to space! --Sir!
Mikhail! Roza! Congratulations!
Only the first cosmonaut will be remembered. The others, not so much.
I know that, but we're comrades in the race to space, and I'm proud of that.
Apparently, the brass values that view of yours.
But your tongue is honey and your heart is ice.
Uh...
So, congrats. Hmph!
See you, Lev.
Whatever. I am who I am. Oh, right! I'll let her know!
Yeah?
Huh? I was picked as a cosmonaut, just like I promised!
You're not excited?
You weren't picked to fly first yet, right? And, third! You barely made it in!
Oh, Irinyan!
She says that, but she was dying to know the results!
What's more, she threw a pine cone into the lake and prayed for you--!
Anya!
Pine cone?
I-It's nothing. Don't worry about it.
Hey! What's that face supposed to--?!
Don't laugh! You could be the world's first cosmonaut!
No, the world's first cosmonaut is--
Don't you dare lose to another human.
I'll suck out your blood and make you a mummy!
I'll do my best.
You better!
A sudden stop at 100 kilometers an hour?
N44 passed out just before she entered zero-G.
But for the real flight, we need you conscious at all times.
We'll have you sit in this special device to experience drastic deceleration.
Insane.
Don't worry. Our tests already demonstrated that it's safe.
So, who wants to be first?
Me! I'll do it!
With the data gained by N44 and the Nosferatu Project's success,
training was adapted to incorporate what was learned.
If Irina handled this, I can, too!
I promised her that I'd go to space!
Irinyan! Irinyan!
I knocked, but...
I come bearing the latest news from the training center!
No surprise, the top candidate is Comrade Yashin.
He has high social standing, high scores, and he's handsome!
Next is the White Rose of Sangrad, Comrade Plevitskaya!
You already know all about her.
The White Rose of Sangrad... Her? Though, I can't deny she's full of thorns.
Still, the fact she's a woman is causing a stir.
Is that bad?
The UZSR claims both genders are equal, but her chances are slim.
So, what are Lev's chances?
Oh? Curious about him, are we?
Good grief! You don't have to run away!
I'm just going for a walk!
In that outfit?
Something wrong?
N-No.
Hey, Anya.
I've proven useful, right?
Huh?
The things you've learned from my body have been helpful, right?
I still have value, don't I?
Of course! Thanks to you, the ship is being improved!
And their training, too!
Let's hope so.
It's okay, Irinyan.
It'll all be okay.
Eating in the suit makes it all seem so real. We're even training in the cabin.
You think?
Yeah! Doesn't the thought of going to space excite you?
What makes you think you'll be flying?
Jeez. Your attitude's something else.
See you in the drop zone!
Good!
Shoot!
It's not serious. It shouldn't impact your training.
However, I'm advising three days of rest.
You sure get hurt a lot, don't you?
Sorry.
Hey, Lev!
Trying to get yourself killed?!
...is what I'd like to say, but I'll let it slide this time.
Well done, Lev. You risked peril to save a comrade. That's what soldiers do.
Thank you.
Mmm.
Um... And how is Roza?
We're lucky no one was hurt.
And we get three days off? Everyone will be envious.
Yeah.
Why... did you save me?
Why? When a pal's about to die in front of you, you don't really think about it.
A pal, huh?
Your tongue is honey... and your heart is ice.
Correction: Your heart is honey, too. Enough to pair it with sugar and jam.
Ugh. Talk about heartburn.
Hey, lemme grab a drink.
Huh?
My treat. Shall we sit down?
I'm out of the running.
Huh?
If you hadn't saved me, I probably would've died.
My body wouldn't move. I thought it was over.
When I joined the Air Force, I was looked down upon for being a woman.
That's why I refused to lose to anyone.
I crushed everyone who made fun of me in dogfights.
After doing it long enough, I was called "The White Rose of Sangrad."
But...
There's nothing beautiful about me.
I've been pushing so hard since becoming a final candidate.
I knew I had to completely outscore you and Mikhail.
Otherwise, they'd never pick a woman to fly first.
I don't think gender matters much when it comes to space.
You're the only one who thinks that.
I hate to admit it, but you're stronger than me.
Both emotionally and physically. And today proved that.
That's not true.
I didn't want to lose, no matter what it took.
By attacking others, I felt like I was protecting myself.
There's no beautiful bloom, just a thorny vine. That's me.
Lev Leps.
I apologize for my behavior. I'm sorry for the things I've said.
Y-Yeah.
To her, too.
Oh, Irina?
Yes. I don't know why I said those nasty things to her.
She endured the training and returned from space.
N44 is an incredible cosmonaut.
It's Irina. Irina Luminesk.
Irina... That's right. She has a name, too.
The experimental subject... The vampire that beat humans to space.
Where is she now?
Was she disposed of?
No.
She can't be. That would be injustice.
What's wrong, Irinyan?
Changed my mind. Forget soda water, let's go shopping.
Eh?
It's unusual for you to wanna come shopping here.
I'm not a shut-in all the time. And I won't be able to come here soon.
Well...
Irinyan, what will you tell Lev?
The same thing they told me.
But, that's...
It doesn't concern Lev.
That's right--no matter what I do.
Irinyan!
Irinyan!
Hey! What was that?!
Are you two okay?
Natalia...?
Wait!
Why?! I was just getting rid of the vampire for our motherland!
We're an organization. We mustn't act without orders from above.
B-But as long as she lives, there's a threat of our secrets leaking--!
--He's late! --He'll be here soon.
I thought soldiers were supposed to be punctual.
Huh? What?
You protected her and got hurt?
Yeah, but it's nothing serious. See? I'm fine!
Long time no see, Lev.
Yeah. With all the training, I haven't had a chance to come for like a month.
Is that why you're mad?
No. I'm sure our future "hero" is a busy guy.
Your hands are full drinking soda water with your comrades.
Soda water? True, we're banned from drinking alcohol for now, but...
Hmm? That's all you wanted to tell me?
Uh, no... Not exactly...
Then what?
I'm leaving this city.
Eh?
I'm transferring--leaving here and going to Sangrad.
I'll undergo health exams while working at the Design Bureau.
Are you serious?
Yeah. Got a problem?
Comrade Chief insisted upon it.
Irina is a quick learner and he thinks her flight experience might be invaluable.
I see. Well, that's a relief.
Except she's supposed to start March 1st.
Huh? That's in two days.
Yeah, and I know tomorrow is sudden,
but how about a farewell party for her and to wish you luck?
Sure, of course. Hmm? Isn't tomorrow Armed Forces Day?
It's a national holiday, so we'll all be off.
Yup! Let's play all day! Though in our case, I suppose all night.
Aren't you glad?
Go on, Irinyan.
I-I don't need a farewell party, but we should wish you luck.
Don't get me wrong! I just don't want some other human to win!
Thanks, Irina.
It's settled, then!
But unfortunately, since I made plans to go to Sangrad tomorrow,
it'll be just you two.
--Eh? --Huh?
Wh-What? That's news to me!
Huh? Didn't I mention it?
Anya!
And in this country, one mustn't go back on their plans, right?
Y-Yeah.
So, tomorrow at six.
Anya.
Yeah?
Thanks.
Those two are such a handful. Sometimes they need a push!
Right on time, huh?
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 10 ------------------------------------------------
What a bad planner. So much for my farewell party.
Sorry.
Hold up. I thought today was to wish me luck, not your farewell par--
Quit your yapping. Wishing you luck... might've been part of it.
Oh, well. Let's try somewhere else.
Mmm.
What's this? Hey! When?! Who?! They're on the moon?! It can't be real!
--It's not real. --Huh? It's not?
It's just a movie.
Movie?
--Wanna watch it? --Mmm!
Awesome! Is that real?! Look, it's flying!
Yeah.
Awesome!
Wh-Whoa! Look out! Ack!
Ahh, look what you did.
Sorry.
No problem. We'll clean it later.
Let's not miss the movie.
Mmm.
--Well done! --Hey, sit down!
Huh? Oh.
Thank goodness! What a relief!
I'm getting hungry.
Wanna get something?
No, look!
Anya said to bring this. It's dinner... for two.
Hmm?
Great. Then let's go somewhere with a view. It's a night picnic.
Mmm!
What's this?
Open and see.
Whoa, is that kholodets?!
Did you make this?
Anya said it's food for celebrations in the UZSR.
A celebration? For what?
A pre-celebration! 'Cuz if you get picked to fly, I probably won't be around.
I'll cut it for you, so have some.
Sure.
--Here. --Yeah, thanks.
Well?
It's good. It's really good!
Thank goodness! I was worried 'cuz I can't taste it.
Speaking of which, how'd you nail the flavor?
I had Anya be my taste tester.
That must've been rough.
Hey, since you ate that, you better get picked as the first cosmonaut.
Of course. Otherwise, you'll turn me into a mummy.
I saw the aurora from space, too.
It looked like a curtain over the globe.
So pretty.
Mmm.
I want her to suck my blood.
I want to feel that sweet pain once more.
I can't make sense of why, but my instincts want it.
Not in my arm, but with a bite in my neck.
Irina.
It's not weird.
Mmm.
Irina, go ahead.
Right.
What's wrong?
--The bus is coming. --Huh?
You don't want to be seen with me, right?
Sorry.
That's not true. You've done nothing wrong.
But--
Say nothing more.
Lev...
No. Don't worry about me. Do your best.
When you get back from space, we'll meet again.
It's a promise.
Lev? Why are you way out here?
A picnic.
Huh?
Are you ready to go, Irinyan?
Yeah.
I spoke with the capital a moment ago.
The flight will occur sometime between April 10th and 20th.
In the earliest case, that gives us less than one week to go.
I'm sure you're all anxious to know which cosmonaut it will be.
A special committee at Albinar is supposed to make the decision,
but we don't know exactly when.
Understood.
At 5 o'clock today, we'll leave the city to prepare for the launch.
--Go get ready! --Yes, sir!
After leaving Laika44, the bus headed not for the Albinar Cosmodrome,
but for the Founder's Mausoleum in Sangrad.
That is, to preserve on film a record of the first human spaceflight.
However, the only ones being filmed were Lev and Mikhail.
In other words, the decision had been narrowed down to those two.
You two look far too tense.
Huh?
Though, if you're paying respect to the Founder, I suppose a stern look works.
It's supposed to be a glimpse into your daily lives. Try to look happy.
You're...!
Yes. Long time no see.
Comrade Secretary.
What are you doing here?
Isn't it obvious? This seemed interesting.
Um, you said we're filming our daily lives?
Yes, I did.
Except, this is Sangrad.
Indeed. What that means is...
Since before and after the launch, this has been your home.
I see. The public can never know about the closed city, Laika44.
Great, good job! Let's take a break.
It's pretty tiring to act out daily life.
It sure is.
Watching people get filmed is surprisingly boring.
I think I'll get going, but first, let me share something with you.
If the flight is a success, we'll be holding a ceremony here.
Some 200,000 people will gather for the largest celebration since our founding.
As far as the eye can see-- people, people, people.
Their 400,000 eyes staring at a hero.
Knowing that, what kind of person should the first human in space be?
Someone suited to be a great hero.
Mmm. That's correct. And Lev?
The most suitable person is me.
...is what I want to say, but I don't know.
How honest.
But I know what they'll need more than anything.
Hmm?
The yearning to fly in space, even if it costs their life.
That's also correct. Thanks for your answers. Goodbye.
Um...!
What is it?
For reference, what kind of person do you think a cosmonaut should be?
H-Hey...
Let's see... A revolutionary who will lead us to the new world.
Or something. Let's meet again when you get back from space.
Well, safe travels.
Hey, do you think everything she said was a lie?
Yeah, maybe.
They're selling ice cream, Irinyan!
Hey, Anya. Could you stop calling me Irinyan?
Huh? Why's that?
Because you're older than me.
Hmm.
Well, how about Irina-chan?
--Chan? --Is that bad?
Suit yourself.
Okay, I will!
I'll get ice cream, so wait right here, Irina!
Mmm.
Jeez, that Anya...
That's...!
Lev...
Lev...!
Lev!
Where are you going?
Irin--!
Keep an eye on her!
My apologies.
Irina!
Don't run off on your own.
Open your mouth.
I'm transferring--I'll be working at the Design Bureau.
Of course I'm not working at the Design Bureau.
I wonder if he still believes it.
Though I am undergoing exams, so half of it is true.
But that'll stop when a human goes to space.
After the flight, my existence is nothing but a nuisance.
I'll probably be...
Good job with the exams, Irina.
Hey, who was with Lev today?
That was Mikhail.
Then, if those cameras were filming them...
One of them will be picked as the cosmonaut!
I knew it.
It's incredible! Lev is just one step away from fulfilling his dream!
Yeah.
All right. Let's make him our motherland's hero.
Very well. Also...
The Delivery Crew has done enough follow-up exams for N44.
They want to dispose of her.
Is there value in keeping her around?
She's too cute to simply kill. Sell her as an actress or singer.
The UK has a dhampir star or two.
You're kidding, right?
I'm kidding, but it's true that I welcome a revolution of this boring world.
A revolution that consumes both the UK and the Delivery Crew in one go.
Don't you as well?
The vampire, Irina Luminesk...
Couldn't she be a weapon for that purpose?
The launch will be in three days, on April 12th at 9 in the morning.
As for who's flying...
Private Lev Leps, it's you.
Huh?
Sir!
Why?! I've done better than him in every field!
Why was Lev chosen?!
Our motherland's rocket flies with everyone's dreams.
Only someone who can make people smile and carry their dreams
is fit to be our hero.
That was the basis for choosing?
No, that's my personal opinion.
Private Mikhail.
If Lev is unable to, you will fly instead.
Be prepared to do so.
Yes, sir.
Whoa!
It's been a while.
It has, Chief.
How are you doing? You've lost weight.
I feel great, now that I've seen your face again.
My call sign?
Yeah. I wanted to pick one with you now that you're going to space.
How did you come up with Irina's "Lycoris"?
That? The meaning of lycoris as a flower.
It's, "I hope we meet again soon."
Did you tell her?
I did. She was glad to know it meant I hoped she came back safe.
I see.
Well, is there a flower for praying that someone far away stays safe?
I want to wish someone that from space.
There is! Aster!
Aster...
Irina.
Lev?
It's time, Irina.
Mmm.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 11 ------------------------------------------------
The flight plan is similar to hers.
Right.
After we've confirmed you're safe in space,
we'll announce the launch was successful and broadcast its status live.
They'll play the transcript on the evening news. Did you read the notes?
You mean, reporting that I feel fine during the flight, even if I don't?
Yeah. The old ploy of our motherland: if something's inconvenient, lie about--
Chief!
How are you feeling, Comrade Leps?
Very relaxed.
U-Um...!
What?
I'm sorry. Could we stop the bus?
What's wrong? Tell me.
Um...
I've gotta pee.
Don't worry us like that, you goon!
You, too?
I'm not like you.
Sorry. You wouldn't make yourself look like a fool.
--Congrats. --Huh?
You're the one who can carry people's dreams and make them smile. It's true.
Mikhail...
If I'd been picked, I would've played the perfect hero. Forget pissing.
To be honest, when you stopped the bus, I hoped that you suddenly felt sick.
What's more, I've been hoping that you'd find an issue with your space suit.
Now I finally understand why you were chosen and I wasn't.
You'll make everyone's dreams come true.
Thanks.
Can you take my dreams to space, too?
Yeah.
To think, they really chose you!
Yustin!
--Sign this one, too! --Sure.
Morning!
It's perfect weather for a launch.
Chief! You okay?
Don't worry. I'm managing.
Comrade Lev Leps, people have dreamed of going to space for ages.
Today's the first step of fulfilling that dream.
What's wrong? Starting to feel nervous?
No.
Take care of Irina when she joins the Bureau.
Hmm? What do you mean?
Huh?
I've heard nothing of the sort.
I'm transferring--leaving here and going to Sangrad.
I'll undergo health exams while working at the Design Bureau.
Was that a lie?
You should get going. I'll do everything in my power.
Listen, Lev. The space you yearn for is within grasp.
Your dream is ours... and her dream as well.
Come back safe, for her sake, too.
Long live cosmonaut Lev Leps!
Long live--
Let's meet again when you get back from space.
Irina... I know how you feel.
Let's go.
All systems are good to go. No issues reported.
This is Dawn. Can you hear me, Aster?
I can.
We're late, but it won't be long.
Roger.
One minute to launch.
Roger. Preparing for launch.
Set keys!
Keys set!
Ignition sequence!
Preliminary stage!
Intermediate stage!
Engine ignition!
Here we go!
Launch!
Dawn here. Do you copy, Aster?
Aster here. I feel good. We're flying steady.
First stage separation.
Heart rate: 159. Rising to 160!
This is Dawn! Aster, come in! Aster, come in!
Fairing jettison.
Aster here. I see the surface.
Yes!
No issues with me or the cabin.
It's beautiful.
Second stage jettison.
Third stage ignition.
Third stage jettison.
The launch was successful! The ship is in orbit!
We did it, Comrade Chief.
Yeah.
What's the point of doing this?
Irina had enough in her log.
Aster here. The cabin is stable at 60% humidity and 20 degrees.
The planet... I can see the globe beneath me.
How did the planet look?
Like it was wrapped in a beautiful, blue veil. So pretty.
It looks like it's wrapped in a blue veil.
Irina... Here's space through your eyes.
The stars... They're sparkling like blooming chervil flowers.
The moon...
I can't see the moon from here.
Um, seeing the moon in space made me realize something...
And that's...
Aster here.
Let's celebrate this great achievement with kholodets,
while giving all our thanks.
Notice from Sangrad! Notice from Sangrad!
On April 12th, 1961, the UZSR spacecraft "Mechta"
has gone to space with a human on board!
The cosmonaut is Major Lev Leps from the Zirnitra Union!
I repeat, the cosmonaut is Major Lev Leps from the Zirnitra Union!
Our motherland, wielding the power of science,
has opened the era of space conquest!
--Hurrah! --Hurrah! --They did it!
Huh?
Zirnitra, hurrah! Major Lev Leps, hurrah!
I-It launched!
--Huh? --Lev is flying through space!
He is?! Huh?
Irina!
Lev is in space!
He says that our planet looks to be wrapped in a blue veil!
What? That's what I said!
And the stars look like blooming chervil flowers!
I said that, too!
You didn't even know what a chervil was!
Zirnitra, hurrah! Major Lev Leps, hurrah!
Zirnitra, hurrah! Major Lev Leps, hurrah!
Lev?
Why? Is it because I'm a vampire?
Lev, why did you use my words?
Also, he wanted to share this message with everyone:
Answer me, Lev!
"Let's celebrate this great achievement with kholodets,
while giving all our thanks."
Irina!
Kholodets... That's a message from Lev to you, isn't it?
Mmm.
It's painful, no? It's sad, no?
That this is the only way anyone will know what you've done.
But, I know! Lev knows, too!
We know how hard you worked for it! We know the feelings you put into it!
My dear comrade, Lev Leps.
It's an honor to speak with you, who took our motherland to space.
It's thanks to my comrades that the flight was successful.
Comrade Leps, being the first human to ever fly in space,
your name will be immortalized in history.
There's no greater honor.
Now then, I'll take you to your lodgings.
The world's first cosmonaut, huh?
It's time for work, Mr. Hero. Do try to be friendly.
--Major Leps! --Can I have a word?
--What was the flight like? --Can you tell us anything more?
You were here? You should've said so.
Well done coming home.
Allow me to thank you, Private Lev-- Major. Congrats on the promotion.
Thank you.
Hmm? What's wrong?
If you're tired already, you won't last tomorrow's celebration.
It's the newspaper.
Hmm?
Your name wasn't mentioned in it.
That's all you're worried about?
I don't mind. If I thought it'd help our budget, I'd print my face everywhere.
--Also... --Hmm?
The reason I was able to come home safe--
Is thanks to Lycoris.
You seem concerned about her, Aster.
I intend to do all I can, but I make no promises.
I told you at the start: you're expected to set aside everything.
Do you know why I recommended you as cosmonaut?
No.
Because I believed you had the resolve to lead the world into a new age.
Resolve, huh?
Nope, zero points.
Not enough gratitude to our motherland or leader. Do it again.
It seems like your head is in the clouds.
Thinking about our cute experiment subject, perhaps?
Aren't you forgetting to treat her like an object?
Irina. What will happen to her?
We dispose of things we don't need. That's how our country works.
After yesterday, your life changed.
Delicious.
Now you carry the responsibility of being the first cosmonaut in history.
You should've known it wouldn't always be pleasant.
Say, do you remember what I looked for in a cosmonaut?
A revolutionary who would lead us to the new world.
Yes. Having gone to the new world of space, you could lead the people.
You have the power to cause a revolution.
You can drink in the sweet-as-chocolate praise,
or feed them a poison, like lycoris.
Do hurry up with your speech.
Revolution? Gimme a break.
We've received orders from him. It's to happen at 3 PM tomorrow.
Comrade Chief... This is a threat masked as a plea.
What is it?
Preparation is complete.
Tomorrow will go down in history.
Indeed. People will-- No, the world shall remember it forever.
Long live the motherland!
I have new orders. After tomorrow, I'm not assigned to you anymore.
Huh?
It was only supposed to last till the manned launch.
I see.
Anya, could you do me a favor?
Give this to Lev and tell him "Congrats."
That's...
Give it to him yourself!
But, I...
Giving up doesn't suit the person who opened the path to space!
Don't you wanna see Lev?!
I do! I wanna talk to him!
All right. I'm very angry right now--at this country where one can't love freely!
Anya...
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 12 ------------------------------------------------
Nearly 200,000 people gather to see the world's first cosmonaut.
The celebration scheduled for 3 PM
will be the Republic's first simultaneous live broadcast to the world.
Remember what to say?
Yeah.
Don't mess it up. Three billion people will be listening on the radio and TV.
Cosmonaut Major Lev Leps has just arrived by plane at Sangrad Airport!
It's Major Lev Leps!
Major Leps is coming down the ramp!
He has just reached the ground!
He's being welcomed by a huge crowd!
The officers rejoice at their hero's triumphant return!
The military's drugs sure are potent.
--Let's go. --Mmm.
I became the world's first cosmonaut for our motherland.
Mmm.
I'll gladly fulfill my next mission to further honor our motherland.
Congratulations.
Well done, Lev.
Thank you.
Look, your parents are waiting.
I wish to personally thank you for raising your child into a hero.
You never told us a thing.
He's been reunited with his parents!
Major Leps will soon depart for Glorious Square!
--Escape? Are you serious?! --Shh!
Most of the security will be at the ceremony tomorrow.
If we sneak into the crowd, they'll never see us.
But, if I escape--
After seeing you and Lev put your lives on the line,
I want to do something, too.
Anya...
It's your decision. If you want this, I'll help however I can.
Are you okay?!
Yeah, I guess.
All right. Let's try to hurry.
--Anya. --Hmm?
Why even go this far?
To make sure it comes true-- your real New Year's wish.
Yes. We'll seize the experiment subject at 3:00 as planned.
Did something bad happen?
Eh?
It shows on your face.
I'm just tired, that's all.
--You're hiding something, aren't you? --Not really.
State secrets? I won't force you to answer.
Major Lev Leps, hurrah!
Your mother and I lived our entire lives in this country.
We've lost friends to war and have seen numerous purges.
Our motherland disposes of anything inconvenient.
It makes truths out of lies and lies out of truths.
I wonder, Lev, what do all these people expect from you?
--Major, it's time! --Right.
You flew through space. Don't let the country hold you down.
Soar ahead to a new era.
Irina!
Your face is so red! The sun...!
It's fine. Let's keep going.
As the world looks on, Major Lev Leps arrives at the square!
The hero's celebration is about to begin!
What happened?
Unbelievable.
Irina, there he is! It's Lev!
Lev...
We'll now commence the ceremony for Comrade Lev Leps!
Irina, let's get in the shade.
I present: the hero of Zirnitra Union, Major Lev Leps.
He will now address his countrymen and all of humanity.
My dear comrades...
My dear Fyodor Gergiev...
Thank you for letting me, an ordinary person,
become the world's first cosmonaut.
To all the workers who built the spaceship:
Not once did I doubt our success.
Our supremacy in science will unlock the secrets of space!
To my fellow candidates who endured the grueling training
Soon, you will take to space and become the 2nd and 3rd cosmonauts in history.
The first artificial satellite, animal spaceflight, manned spaceflight!
At this moment, I am overjoyed!
My dear Fyodor Gergiev...
You were the first to embrace and congratulate me after flying in space!
I wanted to congratulate him first.
Irina...
I give my thanks to all the people who supported me!
Thanks, Anya.
Huh?
W-Wait!
Let's go back together.
Long live Zirnitra Union!
Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah!
Long live my dear comrades!
Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah!
Also...!
What's wrong?
He forget his lines?
What? I see... Got it.
Sorry. I finally remembered what I was going to say.
My dear comrades, I'd like to correct something:
I'm not the world's first cosmonaut.
The first person in space was a 17-year-old girl.
Her name: Irina Luminesk. Not a human, but a vampire!
Wh-What? You're kidding!
--This is treason! --Calm down. No need to panic.
The hell--?
Hey, what kind of speech is this?
An unexpected one.
Stop him!
Impossible--he's a hero. How would you explain it to the world?
Just let him continue. We'll make excuses later.
Irina went to space to test the effects of zero-G and the safety of the spaceship.
She's the reason I could come home safely.
Unfortunately, she couldn't be here today.
Lev...!
She's probably hiding from the sun somewhere.
Do you hate vampires for being a "cursed species"?
I'll be honest.
Much like all of you, I believed vampires were to be loathed and feared.
That's absurd. None of it is true.
She's in no way different than my friends or family.
Irina!
She's just a sweet girl who has her own dreams and yearns for the stars.
She loves lemon seltzer, gets drunk with a sip of zhizni,
and makes delicious kholodets.
She conquered her fear of heights, likes jazz and ice skating,
--and yelled watching her first movie. --Please, set already!
--This girl, like you and me... --Hey you! Stop!
...is another person on this planet.
Know that this girl, confined to solitude, reached space before anyone else!
--People of the world, honor her! --Stay away!
Behave yourself, girl.
--Irina! --Huh?
Stop!
What?!
Irina! Go!
Mmm!
This was the second cosmonaut, Lev Leps!
Lev!
Irina!
Don't shoot! Wait for orders!
Irina!
That way! The stairs!
Mmm!
Lev!
Irina!
Um, Lev...
You surprised me.
Let's introduce you to everyone.
Everyone, this is the girl I spoke of:
Irina Luminesk, the world's first cosmonaut.
That's a real vampire?
--Disguised as human? --Filthy!
--We'll be cursed! --A monster went to space?
Go ahead, Irina.
Huh?
Introduce yourself as a cosmonaut.
Unbelievable!
Be proud of yourself. You've done incredible things.
Didn't you realize something seeing the moon?
You were going to say something on the plains.
Why not share that with everyone?
That day... What I wanted to say...
Lev, I'm fine now.
I am Irina Luminesk.
Get lost, vampire!
Seeing the world from space was incredibly beautiful, um...
I always wanted to go to space-- to go there before humans did.
Go home, monster!
--Yeah! --Yeah!
I hated humans. I resented them.
--You devil! --It's her true colors! --Kill her!
I thought all humans deserved to die.
And though I was like that, Lev here made me into a cosmonaut.
He made my dream come true! And now, my new dream is...
...to go to the moon with him! This was Irina Luminesk, cosmonaut of Lilitto!
Wonderful!
Wonderful speech! Thank you!
Thank you for all you've done!
My dear comrades! The actions of Lev Leps and Irina Luminesk
shall forever be praised!
Now then, I'd like to apologize.
A few issues arose before this worldwide live broadcast.
As a result, Comrade Luminesk arrived late and this confusion ensued.
Said trouble was caused by the so-called "Delivery Crew."
They wanted to kill this vampire.
However, are we to stand by and let our neighbors be killed?
No! Purges are a thing of the past!
Furthermore, countries that discriminate and exploit dhampir are behind the times!
This is outdated thinking!
In our progressive country, even the dreams of vampires can come true!
--Long live Zirnitra Union! --Long live Zirnitra Union!
What was that? It's like you planned for me to reveal everything.
I did.
We prepared two statements.
If you hadn't said anything, we wouldn't have criticized the UK or Delivery Crew.
You knew I would...
Did you know Comrade Chief sent a threat?
A threat?
Yes. "If you kill Irina, I'll kill the rocket."
Chief...
So much for treating her like an object.
I moved exactly how you wanted today, didn't I?
Meaning?
You wanted a revolutionary who would lead us to the new world.
I did.
We're not pawns for your revolution!
But, thank you for acknowledging me. Now I can proudly go to the moon.
You're serious? It's 380,000 kilometers away.
We'll go, for sure.
Stay here until the press conference, all right?
380,000 kilometers.
"We'll make the impossible possible."
The words of the 20th-century scientist who pioneered rocketry.
And it came true.
For ages, people around the globe have dreamed of going to the moon.
We should all cooperate, even with the UK.
You think it's possible?
I do.
Didn't you see it from space? There are no borders to be seen...
...on this blue, beautiful, planet.
During the 21st century, I'm sure lots of people will live in space--
regardless of race or ethnicity.
I believe that what we achieved was a small step towards the future.
Now, let's go...!
...to our future!

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# RigAV1
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 01 ------------------------------------------------
Altitude: 5,000... 6,000!
First stage separation confirmed.
Temperature stabilized at 20°C.
Heart rate: three times normal.
Respiratory rate: four times normal. No issues.
Leaving the atmosphere. We're officially zero-G.
Orbit insertion successful!
Vital signs normal.
It's alive in space!
That day, an animal flew in space for the first time in history.
The UZSR's incredible feat shocked the entire world.
Someday, I'll go!
Sinus Iridum, Palus Somni, Mare Tranquillitatis...
In an era where humans have yet to reach the cosmos,
this is the story of a boy and girl who risk their lives for their love of space.
After the World War that divided the globe,
the East's Zirnitra Union
and the West's United Kingdom of Arnack
set their sights on space, which was yet unclaimed.
The UZSR moved first.
On October 4th, 1957, the UZSR launched the first satellite into orbit.
One month later, they put the first animal into space.
The United Kingdom's response exploded two seconds after launch.
The UZSR was unstoppable.
The UK triumphs at making burgers,
but the UZSR triumphs at lunar landings.
With their dignity on the line,
the nations raced to claim the first human spaceflight.
Cosmonaut Lev Leps has returned home!
Who's a cosmonaut now?
You're just a reserve.
In spirit, okay? In spirit...
Thank goodness. The trip's finally over.
Hey, Lev!
What is it, sir?
Follow me.
Comrade Chief wants to talk.
The Chief?
What'd you do now?
Nothing at all!
It's gotta be something.
He wouldn't come way out here for nothing.
Was nice knowing you.
Hurry up, Lev!
Yes, sir!
Long time no see.
I take it you're training hard to be selected for the first human spaceflight?
Yes, Comrade Chief!
Though after your incident, you were demoted to a reserve candidate.
Your marks are high, but presently, there's zero chance you'll be chosen.
I understand that.
But I have other uses for your talent.
I'm assigning you to a certain project.
Huh?
Yes, sir!
The Manned Spaceflight Project: "Mechta."
Our mission is the same, but the Committee has added a new objective.
Let's finish the UK off once and for all!
When we put a human in space, I want it broadcast live to the world!
A live broadcast?
But if we fail, we won't be able to cover it up like before.
Precisely.
That presents us with a huge problem.
Isn't that right,
Dr. Mozhaysky?
Yes, there are things a dog can't tell us:
Can a person function in zero gravity? Will seeing the globe break their spirit?
Our cosmonauts are viewed as heroes.
If one is injured or killed during the broadcast, it'll be a disaster.
When we brought this up to the Committee,
they demanded we perform an outrageous experiment.
To use people?
Test subjects are mere objects.
The Supreme Leader has given us the order.
If we fail, our lives may be forfeit.
What must I do?
Hmm?
I'm the test subject, aren't I?
You fool. If we sent you to space, you'd be a full-fledged cosmonaut.
Then who is it?
Not a human, but a vampire.
A vampire?
Vampires are a rare species, isolated deep within the mountains of UZSR territory.
Most people have a terrifying image of them from films and novels,
but have never seen one.
Lev was one of those people.
Come out of there.
That girl's a vampire?
That's right.
Codename N44.
Though their species has peculiar traits and abilities,
they're biologically similar to humans.
Therefore, an ideal subject for our experiment.
They don't classify as humans, so it won't count as human flight.
And if she dies, it's an easy cover-up.
Now then, Lev...
Yes, sir!
Your mission is as follows...
You have four objectives.
One: for roughly two months until launch, you're to monitor and train N44.
Two: keep N44's identity a secret from civilians.
Irina Luminesk...
Age 21?
Three: ensure N44 does not escape.
Four: live in the adjacent room to monitor N44 at all times.
Wait... I'm living here, too?
Your personal effects were moved to the next cell.
Stand up, N44.
Lev, when you take her outside, make sure to hide her ears.
We can go outside?
Think of it as walking a dog so the solitude doesn't bore you to death.
Well, I'll be on my way.
I'm all on my own?
As if.
You'll have a helper well-versed in vampires.
Anya!
She's young, but bright. She'll fill you in on the details.
Nice to meet you!
I'm N44's health manager, Anya!
N-Nice to meet you.
I think you know, but treat N44 like a test subject—like an object.
Yes, sir!
My dreams are done for.
May I continue now?
Yeah, sorry.
Vampires are weak against sunlight, so training will last from dusk till dawn.
Meaning I've gotta sleep all day long?
By the way, does sunlight really turn them to ashes?
No! That's a myth!
It'll just cause their skin to tingle, but they do seem to get heatstroke easily.
However, night vision allows them to see in the dark.
Yeah?
Lev, here's today's schedule.
Meal, city tour, sleeping until dusk tomorrow...
Meal?
Does she drink blood?
No, she'll have the same meals as you.
Not blood?
No!
The other candidates are in the cafeteria, so go introduce her!
Roger that.
Let's go, Irina. Put these on.
Lev! You mustn't use her name!
I'll call her Irina when we're around town.
Why?
If I call her N44, people will ask questions.
But, that's...
You look like a regular candidate now.
About 9,000 people live in this city doing space research.
But it's not on the map, and they're not registered citizens.
That's 'cause space research is a national secret.
Here's the cafeteria.
I'll introduce you to everyone.
Take off your hat.
Might as well show them right off the bat.
This is N44, Irina Luminesk.
All right, guys?
Let's go.
What, her?
Who's that?
Her ears are pointy.
Fangs?
Does she bite?
She's got the vampire skin and eyes.
She looks human.
But she's a monster.
I'll suck your blood!
Can it, Yustin.
Huh?
You're an idiot.
Would you say that if you were alone?
I oughta—!
So tasteless.
That's why I hate humans.
What?!
H-Hey...
She hates humans...
Hold on! Guys, just listen!
She eats the same food as us.
Didn't Lt. Gen. Viktor tell you guys?
Welcome to the forefront of space research!
What?
She devoted her life to helping us.
Let's be thankful!
Mikhail...
Why don't we let Lev take over from here?
Yeah.
Tsk!
Hey, where's our food?
Huh?
You eat what humans do, right?
That's borscht—a Zirnitra specialty.
Also, I was told to give you this.
Milk?
Yup!
The residential sector has all sorts of places—
libraries, schools, restaurants...
Even a lake for skating in the winter.
What's up? Something wrong?
Don't look!
Stay back, human!
But, the cross...
Huh? What?
Did you read that that's our weakness in a book or something?
So, you're okay?
It's all nonsense that humans made up.
Uh, what's that?
That's...
What is it?
Well, that's the grave of the first dog in space, Maly.
You mourn the lives you treat as objects? How hypocritical.
It wasn't always this way.
If anything, Maly was loved.
Three years ago, the regime demanded the first animal spaceflight.
However, Maly's ship was incomplete and wasn't built to return.
But the regime's words were final.
Rapid heart rate and breathing.
Engine cut-off. Ship is now zero-G.
It's alive in space!
They achieved a historical feat, but...
Anomalies!
Internal temperature is rising!
42... 43°C!
Due to the extreme heat,
Maly died within a few hours.
A few hours?
The papers said it flew for a week!
Was that a lie?
I've said too much.
After that tragedy, it became an unwritten rule to treat subjects like objects.
Isn't that just a way to escape the guilt?
Perhaps.
I suppose you're lucky, then—
that I'm a cursed species and not a cute dog.
That's not—
It's fine.
I don't want some human's sympathy anyway.
Test subjects are mere objects.
No. To me...
It's so damn cold.
It's me. I'm coming in.
Are you cold?
Want a blanket?
No, I'm not cold.
Don't you know my species handles cold just fine?
Oh, right... the weakness to heat.
So leave already.
I'm sorry for not knowing.
And I'm sorry for not stopping them from saying those things in the cafeteria.
As for me...
I'm sorry for treating you like a test subject.
Him and that Anya girl...
If they get the order to kill me, they won't think twice.
I won't let my guard down.
Humans can never be trusted.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 02 ------------------------------------------------
There are twenty cosmonaut candidates in total.
Out of 3,000 applicants from the UZSR army,
these elites were selected as the brightest and the best.
However, even for these elites, cosmonaut training is no easy feat.
Dear me, those poor souls.
I wonder if that vampire girl will hold up?
It's Lev! I'm coming in!
Go ahead.
Morning!
It's time for training...
Huh?
You didn't use it...
Let's start already.
Leave your necklace behind.
Why?
You'll have to take it off everywhere we go.
It's pretty. What gem is that?
Don't look. You'll defile it.
Defile...?
I'll take it off.
So?
What's the training plan?
The same one as the candidates!
We run twelve laps around the track to build up endurance.
It's your first time, so go easy.
Run at your own pace.
Ready...!
Start!
Wait!
It's not a race!
If you go all out now, you won't last the day!
Humans are just slow.
She doesn't want to listen, huh?
In that case,
I won't let her show me up!
You're going too fast!
Vampire...!
That was over the top for a warm-up!
I know!
Still, she kept up with you.
She can fill in for a candidate, no problem!
I was worried the training might be too hard, so that's a relief.
But...
I lost to a human...
Her competitiveness...
That could pose a problem.
Right, Anya?
I'm very intrigued by her body!
It's your first physical, so let's be thorough!
Height, weight, blood pressure, breasts, hips, butt size, X-ray, and blood test!
She's all yours, Anya. I'll sit over here.
Why are you staying?
Huh?
Would you stay for a human girl?
No way. But I'm monitoring you.
Get out.
But—
Get out!
But—!
Get out!
Human men are so insensitive.
Now she hates me more.
Whoa! So white and smooth!
Don't stare.
158 centimeters...
43 kilos...!
That's light.
And breasts... 82!
Don't touch.
A very human reaction!
Let's see...
What are you doing now?
Wh-Why are you wiggling your fingers?
Hey!
Stay away!
Ooh! Don't worry, it won't hurt!
I hope not!
Okay, okay. Now show me your breasts, please!
You've gotta move your hands!
She's an object...
Is this toothpaste?
It's space food.
Space food...
Don't expect too much.
Scientists make the stuff.
Eat it all! This is training, too!
You like it?
The stuff tastes awful.
In case you didn't know, we don't have a sense of taste.
So you can't taste anything?
No.
But we do feel texture, heat, and cold.
Smell and texture matter more than taste.
Wow. Wasn't expecting that.
If you eat the same food we do, why are you called blood-suckers?
Don't you guys drink blood?
Drinking blood is banned for being barbaric.
I've only done it once.
On my tenth birthday, for a traditional ritual.
I didn't like it, but I had to.
They say it's to remember our roots.
What was it like?
Delicious.
My body felt warm, and I was filled with strength.
Before you ask, I don't drink human blood.
It would taint me.
If all that's true, I don't understand the "cursed species" stigma.
It's human nonsense.
Back during the plague, they put all the blame on us.
Ever since, that's how they've portrayed us in books.
Milk...
Are you wondering why vampires drink it?
Yeah.
Because milk is made from blood.
Huh?
It's a substitute for blood.
Have you had it before?
I have.
Yeah?
In space, the ship is kept at 20°C, but malfunctions could cause it to overheat.
This training helps you endure it.
You'll stay in a 90°C steam bath for an hour.
Maly died due to extreme heat.
If a vampire weak to heat can endure it,
we can assume a human cosmonaut can survive it, too.
Sorry to keep you.
It's okay.
Today's schedule is hot room and load training.
People should be asleep at this hour,
yet I'm stuck training this filth?
N44, I'll go first to—
Wait!
Have her put this on first.
Why?
To restrain the filth.
I don't think she'll try to run.
She's just hiding her fangs. Bind her!
Um...
You can bind me.
Huh?
These are just accessories to me.
Got your cross and garlic ready, scaredy-cat?
You little...!
Vice-Director Sagalevich...
Enough! Let's begin!
Right.
It's hell in there!
N44, give the signal if it's too much.
You stink. Go away.
She's melting.
Don't push yourself.
W-Water!
You hung in there!
That was nothing!
More!
Done, are we? Next!
Six Gs!
When rockets launch, they accelerate against gravity.
The passengers inside feel crushed by many times their own weight.
Right now, Lev is probably nauseous, in pain, and his body feels like lead.
Go for five minutes. Try not to throw up!
Of course I won't.
Franz!
Huh?
Tighten it!
It already is.
I don't care! Tighten it more!
Uh... Right.
Weak! Give her two months of training all at once!
R-Right.
Up it more!
J-Jeez...
This is dangerous!
Don't like how I do things?!
Well, then, hit me! Isn't that what you do?
Today's training is over!
Franz, cleanse everything with holy water!
You okay?!
Can you stand?
I'm fine.
Blood! I'll patch you up!
Don't worry, it's just chafing.
You'd do that for me?
Of course!
Neglecting a live subject is a researcher's greatest sin!
I'll get the first-aid kit!
The color of their blood is the same as ours.
Not a single complaint yet.
Forget running away; she's giving it her all.
And she's performing exceptionally.
A research subject? It's more like...
I'm done.
Good work.
Has it healed?
Where are you looking?
Huh? I wasn't!
Like I believe that.
Hey, about training... When do we practice flying?
The ship? We don't.
Then how do we fly?
The machine does it all.
You just sit there.
We only study to complete the logs and condition our bodies for the launch.
Oh, but there is one thing.
You must master the parachute landing.
Why?
There's no way to land other than by parachute.
The ideal re-entry
would be a retro-rocket soft landing.
But we don't have that technology yet.
Our plan is for an in-flight ejection.
After atmospheric re-entry and descending to seven kilometers, the entire seat is ejected.
It all happens automatically; the problem comes afterward.
You need to detach from the seat and land safely with a parachute.
Nobody's ever done it like this before.
You've never used a parachute before, right?
Right. I've never flown, either.
Two months is just not enough time.
It's fine, as long as the seat is properly ejected.
One more thing: she might lose consciousness on re-entry.
Landing unconscious is...
Doesn't matter. It's an experiment to measure risk.
In other words,
it's fine if N44 has a crash landing and dies.
Let's get you used to the height.
First, slide down to the left bank.
You listening?
Are you scared?
Of course not!
The air force academy used to say this to anyone who was afraid:
Chin to the chest or get whiplash!
Huh?
Go!
You okay?!
I'll jump on my own next time, so don't do that again!
Hey!
I'm fine.
Are you afraid of heights?
Let's stop for today.
Just a sec.
Hm?
Here.
What is it?
Soda water. It's good stuff.
I told you I can't taste.
You'll feel the fizz, though.
It's invigorating.
That's the best!
Try it.
Hm? You afraid to drink it?
Humans chug it.
I'm not afraid!
You like that?
You tricked me!
Sorry! But it's invigorating, right?
It was.
Huh?
Lemon seltzer is good, too.
Tastes real crisp.
Lemon seltzer...
Want some?
Nope! Let's hurry back before the sun rises!
I said I didn't want it!
Who even drinks this?
Tasty!
How's your after-shower drink?
Good, yeah?
Not at all!
It's good with booze, too!
Shut up, human!
Don't look!
Quit peeping! Keep out, pervert! Lecher!
I don't care about your soda water, but it's a waste to dump it!
How is the unit coming along?
Less than 50% done.
The cargo is much bigger than a dog, so it's not easy.
How about N44?
No resistance. She's training earnestly.
Picking him was the right choice.
But why assign Lev, the reserve?
Because of what happened after the test run of zero.
Out of the thousands of people who've seen my child,
only he showed respect.
To him, the species difference is likely a trivial matter.
His demotion wasn't a big deal, either.
But violence toward a superior officer is a code violation, regardless of why.
Anyway, keep a close eye on things.
Is something happening?
No, but you understand.
When it comes to space research, our true enemy isn't just the UK.
We have enemies within, too.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 03 ------------------------------------------------
Irina...
I'm fine. This is nothing.
You sure about that?
Don't make fun of me!
It's been ten days since Irina started training.
In almost every discipline, her performance has rivaled that of the top candidates.
The only exception...
being this.
Need a hand?
No thanks.
It's just...
I keep imagining what it'll look like when I crash into the ground at full speed.
We'll have to fix that.
The capital of the Zirnitra Union, Sangrad.
Within the massive walls of its Citadel, a secret cabinet meeting was being held.
Currently, test subject N44 is strong and healthy.
Training is going well.
We believe she's capable of handling the test flight.
I see, I see!
Comrade Chief, is the unit progressing well?
Yes. Assuming all goes well with N44, final tests will conclude next March.
Then plan for the real deal in April.
Now, regarding the handling of the subject post-experiment—
Execution!
Until our human spaceflight is complete, it's necessary to study the after-effects of space.
But afterward, she need not live!
Once her role is done, we should dispose of her!
The launch is still far off,
so there's no need to make any firm decisions now.
They're difficult to go back on later.
Damn those old-fashioned dinosaurs!
I've had to do one damn purge after another!
How much manpower must they make me waste?!
In that case,
just find a reason to send them to a prison camp.
It's man's first spaceflight—a feat that will prove we're the world's foremost superpower!
And yet, these goons!
Mmm. So sweet.
These days, getting ahead in spaceflight may be a more potent weapon than nukes.
Yes, perhaps.
But to outwit the world,
we must consider how to best utilize our secret ingredient—
"N44," the vampire, Irina Luminesk.
Lev.
Are you off-duty today?
Yeah.
Poor dude's gotta watch a monster every day!
How are things going with the test subject?
Irina—
She's been exceptional.
Training has gone...
really well.
She can hold her own against us candidates—
Don't group us with her.
She's just a test subject so we can make it to space.
Besides, you're no longer a candidate.
Though, if you ask me, it's nice that a top candidate got demoted.
Quit it.
There's just one pilot spot, and we've already got Mikhail and Roza.
If you were still in the running, the rest of us wouldn't stand a chance!
I've never been more thankful for your short temper!
Sorry to bug you, Lev.
To be honest, some among us don't look kindly upon N44.
After all, nobody in history has gone to space before.
Even if she is just an experiment, she'll still be the first.
Mikhail!
Yeah! I'm coming.
"No longer a candidate," huh?
It looks like you've lost some weight.
Is training tough?
Not really.
Then I'll have to ask Natalia to whip up a new menu.
Any other concerns?
None.
Irinyan!
Huh?
Do you mind if I call you that?
I'm not a candidate, so their rules don't apply to me!
In return, you can call me Anya!
Suit yourself.
Thanks, Irinyan!
Aren't you—
Anya.
Anya!
Anya, aren't you afraid of me?
What?
Even knowing that the "cursed species" thing is a lie,
there are plenty of humans who fear and loathe us.
I'm a researcher, Irinyan.
I couldn't do my job if I feared you.
Understanding something is the best way to overcome your fear of it.
Besides,
Irinyan is super cute!
Oh, yeah!
Soda water!
You like lemon seltzer, don't you?!
How do you know?
Lev told me!
So you don't have a sense of taste, but you make up for it with texture and smell?
I'm very intrigued!
He had to open his mouth...
Training has gone... really well.
I said that, but...
"Fear of heights is a natural animal instinct."
"However, the duration of fear is brief, typically under thirty minutes,
and will gradually diminish."
"Repetitive exposure to heights may eventually resolve the patient's fear."
I have to do something.
If she's seen as a poor choice for the flight,
she'll be killed for sure.
Our motherland doesn't know the word "failure." Only "accidents" and "purges."
Test subject N44, Irina Luminesk,
won't be remembered in space's history.
Soaring through the sky is so beautiful, too.
If only Irina knew.
That's it!
If only she knew!
Today, we'll be doing special training to overcome your acrophobia.
Your wild imagination is only making it worse.
So? What's the plan?
Some drastic measures—
flying!
Huh?
Flying?
We're here.
Here we go!
We'll keep going up until we're above the clouds!
Open your eyes!
I'm trying!
The first time I flew,
it felt like I had wings.
It changed my outlook on life.
I hope you feel freedom now, not fear.
Freedom...
Welcome to the boundary between earth and space!
You all right?
Yeah, I'm good!
When will I finally go further than this sky?
Hey, Irina.
What?
Uh...
never mind.
Isn't your homeland just over there?
Want a closer look?
No, let's go back.
The sun's coming up.
Thanks.
What?
I'm not afraid anymore!
That's good!
That's real good!
Good, good!
Dummy.
That's blood for emergencies.
What happened?
An accident at Albinar!
A few engineers got hurt!
Albinar?
The base where they launch the rockets and satellites.
So much panic.
Was it really just a few people?
An ICBM had exploded during a test launch.
That's what truly happened at Albinar.
Over five hundred people were killed in the accident.
However, it was covered up.
Publicly, they announced that it had been an airplane accident.
But within the government, there was talk that it had been part of someone's scheme.
The night flight seemed to largely remedy Irina's fear of heights.
Her training was progressing, but...
Five-point landing! Feet, calves, thighs, hips, back!
Ouch.
I hit my nose!
Still, you've gotten a bit better.
Let's take a break.
It's nice of them to give us soda water.
What about the Albinar accident?
Did it interrupt the plans?
In a few days, they'll have someone new in charge to get things going.
I see.
Why did a missile explode at a space base?
Because of the engine fuel?
No.
Huh?
Why were they test-launching missiles?
Don't you know the reason rockets are being developed?
To fly to space, right?
No, for weapons of war.
Instead of firing nuclear warheads at the UK, we'll launch people into space.
The first human spaceflight...
is the first human missile.
Just kidding.
I hope rockets are being made for the sole purpose of going to space.
Is that what the future looks like?
In an ideal world.
Just after the war ended, my elementary school teacher told me:
"Planes are for soaring through the sky, not weapons for killing people."
But the next day, she was taken by the Delivery Crew—
the Committee for State Security.
Sensei!
That's all it took.
She was treated like an enemy of the state for telling the truth.
That's awful.
I hope she's alive, somewhere out there.
That's enough of the past.
Let's get back to training.
With just one month until the launch in December,
we took Irina's parachute training to the next level.
I'll take care of everything this time, so just relax.
But...!
Whatever you do, stay calm. If we get tangled, we'll both fall to our deaths.
Quit scaring me!
Get ready!
Three!
Two!
One!
Zero!
Don't panic! Open up your arms and legs!
L-Like this?!
Yeah! That's it!
It's hard to breathe!
Hurry! Our parachute!
Stay focused. There's a lot to remember to land safely.
You okay? The first time is a sensory overload.
That's enough for—
Let's go again.
Huh?
There's still time before sunrise. I want to go while it's fresh in my memory.
O-Okay.
She sure is something.
I'm honestly impressed.
She puts up with everything the vice-director throws at her.
Hey, Franz.
Hm?
Why do you think she pushes so hard?
What?
It'd make sense if she were a candidate.
Love for the motherland, a soldier's honor...
We all have our reasons for applying.
There are people who just wanted to fly, too.
I'm not a candidate anymore.
But she's different.
Why does she do it? Why does she push so hard?
Maybe you shouldn't try to understand.
Huh?
Lev, it feels like you're getting too attached to the subject.
Well...
Careful. If you develop feelings for her, it'll only get harder.
Yeah.
Almost there...
Almost there...!
I won't lose.
I won't lose.
Not even if I die.
I... won't lose!
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 04 ------------------------------------------------
Comrade Leps, N44's launch has been scheduled for December 12th.
Training continues until the week prior to launch. That is, three more weeks.
How is N44's progress?
Excellent. She'll be ready by the scheduled date.
I see. Very good.
Lt. Gen. Viktor, any updates on the ship or the rocket?
We're short on time! Cut emergency rations and any spare equipment!
I want the weight down!
I'll take responsibility, got it?!
Yes, sir!
Yes, sir!
To compensate for N44's size, which was much greater than that of a dog,
the ship had to be fortified more than expected.
Each delayed upgrade increased the chance the ship wouldn't work as intended.
I can't collapse just yet!
Essentially, after orbiting the Earth for one hour and fifty minutes,
you'll re-enter the atmosphere and land in the Palma Plains.
As I mentioned, you'll eject from the ship and descend via parachute.
You've never jumped on your own, but you have three weeks to master it.
Got it. Can we start training already? The centrifuge, right?
That day, the spacesuit was delivered to the Training Center.
Not even the candidates have worn it yet!
Guess I'm the first!
The suit was designed for secrecy and durability.
The bright orange color is to help locate you, even if you land in the snow.
It's so hot... and heavy!
You've gotta wear it for parachute training, too. Get used to it!
Hey, you're gonna catch a cold.
Huh?! Don't stare!
I-I wasn't!
If you're in charge of me, where's my change of clothes?!
I hear the vampire wore the spacesuit?
Yeah, but she looked ridiculous.
Aren't you annoyed that a vampire will beat us to the punch?
And you're the one helping her.
I'm just doing my duty.
Duty, huh?
Whatever.
Once her role's over, the vampire will be disposed of.
How heart-wrenching, aiding her to her death.
Don't say things like that.
She seems awfully obedient. You sure she isn't a spy for the UK?
She's not that kind of person.
Person? You think the test subject is an actual person?
She's an object. Get it right.
Irina...
If you have something to say to me, say it to my face.
Even if your launch is successful, I won't acknowledge you.
I don't care what humans think.
I don't want to hear it from a vampire!
Could you two calm down?
Hmph.
Let's hope you don't die.
Watch out or she'll drain you dry, Lev.
You overheard us talking?
Part of it.
Don't worry about it. Roza is arrogant and acts like that with everyone.
Hey, what do you think of me?
Uh, don't misunderstand. Not in a weird way.
People think I'm a spy, but you hardly ask about me.
I'm just curious.
Well, I don't think you're a spy, but you do seem obedient for someone forced to be here.
Forced?
Huh? Weren't you?
Not quite. When the UZSR people came to my village, I volunteered.
Volunteered?
Yeah. There were other candidates, but I came of my own free will.
You did?
I had it wrong then.
I figured you were abducted and your family held hostage—
Don't make up stories.
Uh, right. Sorry.
But why did you—?
You're forgetting to treat me like an object.
The Arctic air mass known as Moroz released its icy breath.
LAIKA44's long and harsh winter had begun.
Next week is solitude training in the anechoic altitude chamber.
What was that weird thing you said?
Anechoic altitude chamber.
It's a room with increased oxygen levels and lowered air pressure.
It's designed to be perfectly silent— it swallows sound until the air feels dead.
You'll be locked inside for days with sensors attached to you.
What's the point of it?
Because the cabin you'll fly in is completely isolated.
It's training for solitude.
Beyond that, if anything goes wrong, you could be stuck in space for up to a week.
How long will I be shut in there?
More than a day, but less than ten. It's over when the door opens.
I dread it more than anything else, so I like to relax or have fun beforehand.
Uh, but it's up to you...
I'm curious; where would you go?
Me?
I sometimes go to the jazz bar.
The bar? To drink?
Do you not like alcohol?
In my village, we don't drink until we turn twenty.
Huh?
And I'm seventeen, so...
What? Seventeen?
Doesn't your ID say 21?
I heard it makes things easier if I'm considered as an adult.
No wonder you look so young.
Good on you for following the rules, then.
Anyway, I'm fine with that.
Huh?
I'm fine with the jazz bar.
Do you even like jazz? 'Cause if you don't drink...
That's not—! Um, I...
You don't know what it is?
Well, they have other drinks and the music is nice.
But why—?
Whatever! Just take me there!
First time seeing you in plain clothes.
Makes me antsy.
Me, too.
Me, too.
It's cold.
Not really.
Hm? What's that?
What?
Oh, that's a phonograph.
It plays music using a spinning disc.
I've never heard music like this.
Jazz is from the United Kingdom, so it used to be banned.
It was only made legal a short while ago.
What's the name of this song?
"My Beloved."
I like it.
Even though I can't make out the words.
Should we order some drinks?
To think you'd order soda water...
I'll drink it just for you.
She likes it after all.
What?
Oh, nothing.
I hate to admit, but it's good.
What? I said it's good.
No, it's...
What kind of drink is that? It's a pretty red.
Nastoyka—oleaster berries soaked for three weeks in zhizni.
Want a sip?
Nope. I told you, I'm seventeen.
Here in the UZSR, the drinking age is sixteen.
You might like it as much as soda water.
Hmm. Just a sip, then.
M-My mouth! My tongue is burning!
I'm not ready for that yet.
Hey, Lev.
Huh? Lev?
She called me by my name...
Did you hear me?
Wh-Whoa!
Sorry!
You okay?
I'm fine.
Hey, Lev. When did you first wanna go to space?
Huh?
I wanna know.
When I was five.
Five?
Yeah. I saw a plane crossing in front of the full moon.
I thought it could take me there.
It seems silly looking back, but that's what I believed.
I just want to go to the Moon.
UK cosmonauts probably feel the same.
And yet, for as beautiful as space is, the world remains ugly and dirty.
We shouldn't be bringing our wars into space!
They'll arrest you.
Natalia! What are you doing here?
What, do you expect me to stay in the kitchen making soup?
No, I just wasn't expecting to see you.
More importantly, you should keep it down about the UK.
The Delivery Crew might be listening.
Sorry.
Poor Irina here has to deal with "Snow Thaw" Lev.
Snow Thaw?
Natalia! Don't bring that up!
He gets so fired up talking about space, people say he could thaw the snow.
Oh?
What?
Sorry for interrupting your day off together.
It's not
like that!
See you later, you two.
Well, what next?
What else is there?
A movie, billiards... And skating, I guess.
Welcome, Comrade Leps.
What brings you here?
We'd like to look at your ice skates.
What?!
What?!
I guess Roza's not the only pretty soldier...
You have such unique and pretty eyes!
Private Luminesk! Pick out the training gear and let's go!
Huh? Private?
It's all ours!
Nobody's skating on a night this cold.
Won't you?
I'm here to monitor you.
Hey, hold on!
That was fun!
Going to space seems so far-fetched.
Though, as a reserve, I can't anyway.
Why are you a reserve?
I thought you had high marks.
I was violent toward a superior.
Violent?
The son of a chief engineer blamed a new graduate for his own mistake and got him fired.
The graduate was apologizing, and yet, that only got his head stepped on.
I couldn't hold back and charged in.
That's "Snow Thaw" Lev for you.
Could you not call me that?
Hm? What's up?
Test subjects are disposed of, huh?
You heard that?
I wonder what we are to humans.
When I was three, my parents got caught up in the war and were burned to death.
Many of the villagers were killed.
The meaning of my name... is "peace."
And yet, why?
Did you know vampires are "People of the Moon"?
Yeah. I believed it when I was little.
Since we're People of the Moon, we're hated on this planet.
Lunny kamen.
This moonstone was passed down for generations.
Sinus Iridum, Lacus Somniorum, Palus Somni...
Oceanus Procellarum, Mare Vaporum, Palus Putredinis, Sinus Fluctus...
I wanted to take this stone to the Moon, but I have no wings and cannot fly.
Then the UZSR people arrived.
I'm fine with being an experiment or using the power of humans.
I just wanted to go to space.
So that's why she's endured the training without a single complaint.
Ever since then, you...
I want to reach space before any human!
What?
If I can do that, I don't care if I'm disposed of.
I just want to see the Moon before humans defile it.
So, stay with me a little longer.
Of course. I'll take you to space.
I'm by your side, no matter what.
You're a strange person...
But I'm glad it's you monitoring me.
I think I'll skate some more!
Okay.
I can't remember a thing about yesterday.
You got back from the lake and fell right asleep.
What lake?
Oh, Irina...
Being isolated from humans? I welcome it.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 05 ------------------------------------------------
Oh, good morning, Lev.
Is the training going well?
Yeah. But she's got her own thing, so I'm back on reserve for now.
Hm?
Long time no see, Lev! You get fired from monster duty?
Not quite. Iri— N44 is in the anechoic altitude chamber.
Ugh. Not that.
For the time being, you guys are stuck with me.
And how's that going?
If she doesn't fulfill her duty, it'll cause problems for us.
Excellent. She's been in there for three days and is still going strong.
That's incredible!
I just want to see the Moon before humans defile it.
Irina... What are you thinking about in there?
I want this off me.
Today, a special inspector is visiting from Sangrad.
Lyudmila Kharlova. I've brought a letter for you candidates from Comrade Gergiev.
"Fellow comrades: The importance of this mission to our motherland
needs no repeating at this point."
needs no repeating at this point."
The United Kingdom has selected their seven pilot astronauts—the Hermes Seven.
Therefore, the UZSR must do the same, but rise above.
Our Dream Six—our Mechta Shest.
We will select six of our top-performing elites
who will become our official cosmonauts."
who will become our official cosmonauts."
"The selection will take place in January."
"The pride of our motherland rests upon your shoulders."
"Are you prepared, Comrades?"
# Yes!
Yes!
Now that's a good response.
If you wish to observe training—
Before that, are there any questions?
You. Go ahead.
Mikhail Yashin. How is the development of the ship progressing?
Are you wondering about the Albinar incident, perhaps?
When that explosion occurred at Albinar, we were all reminded of another tragedy.
Two test dogs died in the launch.
It got everyone thinking: "What if I had been in there?"
Relax. That was unrelated to your mission. The ship is progressing well.
We'll be testing Parusnyĭ Six shortly.
Besides, you have N44 as a test subject.
The UK plans to send a chimpanzee to space next January,
but N44 is launching this December.
We're well ahead of them.
Either way, our vampire should prove more useful than some primate.
Th-That's right! After all, N44's meant to be a stand-in for us!
That's what she's for.
Yeah. It's a sound plan.
I'll show you around.
I can't wait.
Though training covers many facets, the parachute landing is of vital importance.
Unless it's done correctly, the parachutist risks...
Not good! He's in a spin! If he goes unconscious...
Hang in there, Yustin! You'll be all right!
That's too bad. He's out of the running.
Congratulations, Comrade Lev Leps.
Huh?
Since he's out, you've been promoted. Now you've got another shot.
I can't be happy about someone else's misfortune.
Really? I wonder if the others feel the same.
Comrades! If an accident like this fazes you,
you'll never be a hero of the motherland!
Only six of you will be chosen.
Whose name shall be etched into our history?
Who here will be our next hero?
Not so fast.
I'm tired of all this silly training.
Come, Comrade Leps.
There's something I want you to show me.
What are these questions? I'm not a little child.
When will you let me out?
I wanna take a shower. What day is it now?
It's time. Lights off.
So that's N44. How cute— she's like an animal.
N44 is not an animal. Like us, she's a—
Vampire.
A being like us, yet different.
Their species is loathed by many. She's no human.
But she...
After the experiment, what will happen to N44?
At this point, who knows? Why do you care?
Ah, do you want her as a pet when this is over?
O-Of course not.
Don't let feelings interfere with your duty.
The Nosferatu Project won't tolerate failure.
Now then, I should be getting back. Farewell!
You'll be released tomorrow.
You're almost there! You've got this!
Test subject...
Dispose of her...
Dispose of her...
Will they kill me, too?
No. I won't lose to humans.
I won't lose... I won't lose...!
Lev!
Are you okay?
You hung in there.
Lev...
Hm?
Here's your reward.
Lemon seltzer!
Expected me to be overjoyed, did you?
Huh?
Still, it's a waste to toss it, so I'll drink it.
What are you grinning for?
Uh, nothing...
I can't say I'm glad she used my name, or she might actually bite me.
Well, it seems you've recovered.
I wish I could say you can rest today, but there's not enough time.
Let's get back to training.
How bad was the solitude training?
It was nothing.
Really?
What? You think I'm lying?
That's not it.
I was worried about you.
Our first time, none of us made it past three days.
Yeah? You humans lack willpower.
Maybe. Perhaps humans aren't as great as we think we are.
Yeah. I truly believe that.
Yeah. I think so, too. Really.
Is it true, Lev?
That you took N44 parachuting right away.
Yeah. Parachuting is all about experience.
I wanna take her as much as possible. It could save her life.
What a harsh instructor.
I don't care if she thinks I'm harsh. I will not let her die.
I won't.
You like her, don't you?
Huh?
You do.
Wh-What are you saying? I'm her monitor.
I might have to leave the city soon.
Franz? Are you quitting?
No.
Transferring, I think.
Is it the vice-director's doing? You can talk to me if—
It's fine. Forget it.
Now then, it's time to save the princess from the hell room, Lev.
Hm? Right.
Listen... Going solo is the same routine as tandem.
Float on your belly and use your arms and legs to control yourself.
After you pull your chute, aim for the landing zone.
Don't forget to tuck your chin!
Mm!
Don't worry, I'll be next to you!
Mm.
Ready whenever!
Okay!
Three!
Two!
One!
Zero!
Irina! Your hand!
Lev!
It's okay! I've got you!
Yeah!
Don't look down! Look at me!
It's time!
Yes!
Now to land! Five-point landing! Feet, calves, thighs, hips, back!
I landed!
Irina! You did it!
Well done!
Mm!
Irina!
Don't touch me...
human!
You were off target, but that's good for your first time.
I won't miss next time.
No, next we'll practice for a spin.
A spin?
Yeah. It can happen during re-entry if the ejection goes wrong.
You'll fall toward the ground, spinning rapidly.
If it happens, you have to regain control before pulling the chute.
Otherwise, you'll lose consciousness before you hit the ground.
It's no joke. We'll practice it tandem until you're ready.
This is dangerous. If you think I'm being harsh, so be it.
I don't.
Huh?
I don't think you're being harsh.
It's training so I can come home safe, right?
Y-Yeah.
A test subject to be disposed of...
Huh?
That's how I'm treated here. And yet, you want to help me live.
Irina...
You're weird for not treating me like an object.
Well, I guess.
But I want to go to space, and you're a comrade who shares that dream.
You can think that, but to me,
humans are the enemy who killed my parents and burned my village.
Right. Sorry.
Don't apologize. It doesn't make sense for you to.
Still, you're about the only human I've met who isn't bad.
What?
That's all I'm gonna say.
Hm? What's that?
Huh?
A meteorite?
What was that?!
Let's go see.
Is that a cabin? Why would one...?
We'll be testing Parusnyĭ Six shortly.
You don't think...?
Hey, Lev. Look!
They were supposed to launch a dog.
That's probably...
Irina!
You okay, Irina?
Keep it together.
Lev!
I want you to explain everything.
I thought the launch of Parusnyĭ Six was successful.
It was successful.
It maintained orbit and all telemetry was good.
Then what happened?
There were complications during re-entry.
Due to problems with the heat shield and re-entry angle,
we issued the flight termination command.
You blew it up, then.
So, will N44's launch proceed as scheduled?
The plan must not be held up.
Yes.
At what success rate?
At the moment, 30%.
I heard it'd be 50%.
With improvements, we'll reach that by launch.
Good. Well, I wager we'll rig the cabin with explosives for when the time comes.
That's—!
She's a test subject. No different than a dog.
In the event it lands in another country, we must preserve our secrets.
Right.
Anything for our great Motherland.
Comrade Chief!
I'm all right.
Surely, next time...!
I think you know, but keep quiet about this.
Yes, sir.
It's a shame you had to witness that.
Is she okay? If she's unable to fulfill her duty...
She's just in shock. N44 will recover.
I'll make sure of it.
I hope you're right. Otherwise, they won't just take your head. They'll take mine, too.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 06 ------------------------------------------------
Good night, Irina.
Irina...
Took you long enough.
Couldn't you sleep?
Why?
You have bags under your eyes.
Yours are worse than mine.
It was too cold to sleep.
Let's go.
Yeah.
What's up with Irinyan?
I'm not sure. Maybe she's just tired.
I've never seen her like this.
I'm worried.
Yeah...
Not eating?
I was just about to.
Wait!
This can't be good...
You okay?
Yeah.
That's more like it! Test subjects should look defeated.
She seems out of it today.
Yeah.
I wonder if she can handle the launch.
Listen, you two...
I'm completely fine.
In that case, straight to the next one!
Time for centrifuge and hypoxia training!
I heated up some borscht.
No thanks.
You've only had water today.
I can't stomach human food.
That's never stopped you before.
Are we doing parachute spin training today?
Not today, don't be stupid. In your condition, an accident is guaranteed.
I'm fine! Time's running out! I'm not one of you weak humans!
Irina! You okay?!
I'm fine. I just slipped.
Go see the doctor.
I said I'm fine.
Enough already!
Push too hard, and it'll all go to waste.
Fine.
She's likely anemic.
Anemic?
Still, she's not a human. Let's keep her at rest and monitor the situation.
Understood, sir.
What happened, Irinyan?
Look at the state you're in. Answer us honestly.
I had a bad dream.
A dream?
A rocket exploded, and I turned into ash like that dog.
Ever since, my body's been acting weird.
It's a good thing tomorrow is Sunday. Take it easy and rest (Diff note: I somehow removed a period here.)
Yeah.
Even after resting all day, she isn't any better.
Have some of this. It's milk porridge.
The doctor has already given up, thinking human treatments won't work.
At this rate, she can't handle training, let alone the launch.
I get that she's exhausted from training, but it seems like a mental problem.
She always acts strong and hides her pain.
Maybe pushing too hard caught up with her.
She acts all tough, but she's just seventeen. And to think she's prepared to die?
I failed to understand her. It's all my fault.
Lev!
Still, how does a vampire become anemic?
She said milk's a substitute for blood,
but if she doesn't drink...
Blood!
Delicious.
My body felt warm, and I was filled with strength.
Blood!
Hey, Anya! What if we have her drink blood?
I think it's worth a try!
No! No way! I'm not drinking that!
But you said blood gave you strength.
But we don't even know where that blood came from!
True, but...
I refuse. It'll defile my body and make me even worse.
But it might help.
I'd rather die!
To think, all your effort will be for nothing...
If only I hadn't taken her to that crash site...
Unless I do something, Irina's dream...
I want to reach space before any human!
If I can do that, I don't care if I'm disposed of.
Irina...
I...
Hey, what if it's my blood?
If it's me, at least you'll know where it came from.
Yeah, but...
So let's do it.
W-Well...
Biting my neck sounds scary, so use my arm.
Hold on!
Huh?
Are you serious?
I am. I want to do everything I can to make your dream of reaching space come true.
Fine. I'll drink your blood.
Yeah.
U-Um! I'll make sure nobody comes in!
Um, how should we do this?
I dunno. Up to you.
That doesn't really help much.
Wait, why are you blushing?
Beats me.
I'll just pretend it's a shot.
Should I brush my teeth?
No need.
I'm nervous.
Me, too.
This good?
Yeah.
Here I go.
Are you finished?
Yeah.
Wipe your mouth.
W-Wait! Don't look.
Irina, you look way less pale now. Maybe it helped?
You're right. My body's warm, and I feel light again.
Now I've got your going-to-space blessing.
Aren't you scared?
Of what?
Riding a missile into space that might explode.
I'd be lying if I said no, but it's a dream I'd risk my life for.
Risk your life...
If there's a reason I live, it's to go to space.
I'd give up everything for it.
But why go that far?
For lots of reasons, but it's hard to put into words.
If anything, it's just the passion to get there.
Still, yours might be greater than mine. You became a test subject just for the chance.
I guess so.
We aren't riding missiles meant to kill; we're riding rockets that carry dreams.
Those don't explode.
Maybe you're right.
But if you're gonna fly, you'll need to get promoted first.
You're grinning again!
You're seeing things.
Uh, I'll go bring Anya back.
Lev...
Thank you.
You want the launch postponed?
Yes, until the safety margins are higher.
Numbers don't matter. It either works or it doesn't.
Currently, the success rate is 30%.
If the test flight works, that's plenty.
But with an extra month, there's a better chance...
It's not happening. The date is firm.
But—!
Just make it work by the actual launch. We make the impossible possible.
Isn't that right, Comrade Chief?
He's ignoring me.
Perhaps you should rest, Chief.
Worry about the ship, not me! We must succeed, whatever it takes!
It hurts!
Don't panic! Hang in there!
You okay?
Yeah.
The Committee has an update regarding the test flight.
They've ordered us to rig the ship with explosives, just like the animal tests.
Explosives? And that's final?
Yes. If it nears our borders, it'll be detonated to preserve state secrets.
To think it might all be for nothing, no matter how hard she tries...
What is it?
Nothing. That's it for today. Next time, you'll go solo.
Tomorrow will be your last chance to practice.
A self-destruct charge? That's unfortunate to hear.
A plan this cruel should just be canceled.
Huh?
They're pushing an impossible schedule just to beat the UK.
She's a sacrifice in their war.
You should leave it at that.
I think you're right, but I also want to see you become a cosmonaut.
So please, don't stray from the path.
I know.
Thanks, Franz.
This could be the last time we drink here.
Hey, what was that red drink you had at the jazz bar?
Oleaster nastoyka?
Yeah, nastoyka!
In my village, we can drink when we turn twenty.
So on my twentieth birthday, I wanna try it again.
We'll celebrate, too.
Yeah.
She outlasted the Vice-Director's bullying.
Now he's napping.
Wh-What?
Isn't she done yet?
The machine is acting strange.
Huh?
Is it broken? It won't stop!
She'll die at this rate!
Franz, stop it!
Shit!
What's all the fuss?
It's broken! It won't stop!
Shit!
What do you think you're doing?!
Killing the power!
Don't you dare!
I told you to stop!
Stop, dammit!
It's my duty to protect Irina!
It's slowing down!
Irina...
Irina!
Are you okay?
I thought that was it for me...
I'll get the doctor!
Do you have any idea what you've done?!
The machine broke 'cause that filth was in it! Disgusting!
What are you looking at?!
I'm staring down a pathetic human.
What?! Who do you think you are?!
I suppose the god you humans worship teaches violence.
Y-You filth! I hope you die in space, just like that dog!
Stop it!
Now you're insulting her dreams? Who's the filth now?!
You little...!
I'm ashamed to be human, knowing people as heartless as you exist.
Don't strike Irina ever again!
Apologize to her!
Lev, I'm fine.
Do it!
Stop!
Enough.
Assault and battery of a superior officer...
Destroying property, disobeying orders...
You'll be court-martialed!
You're done for!
Wait! This was my fault!
What happened?!
It's all his doing! Seize him!
I'm sorry we couldn't do the solo spin training,
but I know you'll be fine.
Lev...
Sorry, Franz!
You're confined here until further notice!
This test flight is a state secret.
Anyone who isn't in the know believes that we're launching a mannequin.
Um, what will happen to Lev?
Listen to me, N44. Do not wander the base without permission.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 07 ------------------------------------------------
While in flight, you'll go by the call sign "Lycoris."
Lycoris?
One of the mission objectives is to test whether voice transmissions can be received from space.
Here's the text you'll be reading.
"Lycoris Cooking Show"?
You're to read the borscht recipe if you experience no health issues in zero-G.
If you're unwell, read the cheeseburger one instead.
This wasn't in the mock launch. Why the recipes?
Think of it as a code.
What do you think will happen if the UK intercepts your transmission from space?
Hm?
They would suspect we've launched a secret manned mission.
But with a recipe, they'll think it's just a cooking show.
Such secrecy.
This is important.
When in the air, say nothing but the recipe until communications are cut.
You saw the explosive charge during the mock launch, right?
Yes. Beneath the seat.
Don't do anything unless instructed to.
Understand?
It won't be long till launch.
You're...
Natalia?!
Here.
Thanks.
Hey! You can't bring that along!
Let go!
Hand over the stone!
Wait!
Huh?
Lev!
They made the incident from the other day disappear.
The centrifuge wasn't broken; it was sabotaged to hurt you.
What?
I was told the truth.
The one responsible was Franz.
Huh? Why would Franz do that?
Someone opposing the chief ordered him to.
If N44 died, the mission would fail, and the chief would be demoted.
What will happen to Franz?
No such person exists in our records.
That's unbelievable.
That's the kind of country we're living in.
Anyway, I'm glad I get to see the launch.
Thanks for the necklace.
I know you wanna take it, but let me hold on to it.
All right.
Though if a day comes when you go to the moon, take it with you.
Sorry. No can do.
I-I see.
'Cause you'll be taking it there.
Huh?
Wh-What?
I've got it!
Now you won't be mistaken for an enemy.
It's time. Move out.
There's your ride.
Lev, thank you for your hard work.
Yes, sir.
Lycoris, board the cabin. After the final checks, we'll launch.
It'll be in 108 minutes.
Yes, sir!
You've become a fine cosmonaut.
Only because I had a fine teacher.
This might be goodbye to this planet... and to Lev.
No, I'll return...
I know it.
No mistakes. Our success depends on all of you.
Everyone, stay focused!
Polnoc, this is Lycoris.
Polnoc here. Go ahead.
Comm tests are complete.
One hour to launch.
We're finalizing the pre-flight checks.
Roger.
Cabin pressure is nominal.
Thirty minutes to launch.
Heart rate: 64. Respiratory: 24.
No issues.
Fifteen minutes to launch.
Lycoris, we're running slightly behind schedule.
Don't worry. This is standard for any launch.
Roger.
We'll ignite once the final checks are complete.
There will be no countdown.
Roger. Preparing for launch.
Final checks!
Range finder, go.
Comms, go.
Propulsion, go.
All systems are go.
Set keys!
Keys set!
Ignition sequence!
Preliminary stage!
Intermediate stage!
Lycoris, hold on tight.
Roger!
Engine ignition!
Main combustion!
Engines firing.
Launch!
Irina...
Go!
Yes! She made it!
Yeah!
Silence! The real mission starts now!
Altitude: 4,000!
5,000!
Tracking the rocket. Trajectory and acceleration nominal.
Engine temperature and pressure nominal.
It won't affect the flight. Fix it.
First stage separation.
Cabin temperature holding at 20°C.
Wh-What?!
Heart rate is 150! Breathing is rapid!
This isn't good!
What?!
Damn it! She'll lose consciousness!
This is Polnoc! Lycoris, what's the recipe?! Respond, Lycoris! Lycoris!
No response? Are we connected?
We should be.
Lycoris! Do you copy? What's the recipe?!
95,000!
Respond, Lycoris!
100,000!
101,000!
Altitude has exceeded one hundred kilometers.
Fairing jettison.
Flight path remains stable.
Second stage separation.
Third stage ignition.
Where's the visual?!
Still investigating.
Third stage burn complete. Third stage separation.
Altitude stable. Orbital velocity reached.
The launch is a success!
Lycoris! Is it borscht or cheeseburger?!
Did her brains get scrambled?
Is she dead?
No...!
I'm...? Huh, what?
Lycoris! Which recipe?!
Huh? Oh, right!
Today's recipe is...
borscht!
Borscht! It's borscht!
Yes!
Yeah!
Woohoo!
Th-This is the Lycoris Cooking Show!
First, peel your carrots, potato, and beets, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Then dice some cabbage and slice the onions.
Next, heat oil in a pot and sauté the meat.
Add salt, carrots, and celery.
Once they soften, add water and half a quartered tomato.
Add bay leaves and consommé. Season to taste and simmer for one hour.
Next, add the remaining vegetables and simmer for another twenty minutes.
Keep the heat low so the potatoes don't overcook.
While that simmers, prepare your sour cream.
At this point, you can taste and plate your dish.
Sprinkle with parsley if desired, and your delicious borscht is served!
All done! Enjoy!
It's a success so far, but don't lose focus! Re-entry is full of challenges!
So beautiful.
I really did make it to space...
That's where I lived...
To think, I can't even talk about what I'm feeling right now...
I want to tell Lev what it feels like to float... and how pretty the view is.
Hm? A recipe!
Next, a drink to pair with your borscht!
What? A drink?! We gave no such orders!
Is it a spy code?!
Comrade Chief, prepare to detonate.
I recommend oleaster nastoyka.
Nastoyka? What?
Place rock sugar and oleaster in a cup and fill it with zhizni.
Nastoyka's a taste of the motherland, just like borscht. It's all right.
Add some cotton thistle as a secret ingredient!
She prefers booze over blood? Your vampire's a drunkard.
But not too much! Then, cover it and store it in a dark place.
Begging for her life by humoring us?
Let it infuse for at least three weeks to ensure a smooth, mellow flavor!
Huh?
She isn't begging for her life. Only the two of us know about oleaster nastoyka.
It'll turn red and taste delicious!
But it's alcohol, so don't give it to children.
Instead, give them lemon seltzer!
Instead, give them lemon seltzer!
Lemon seltzer!
Sinus Iridum...
Lacus Somniorum...
Palus Somni...
Oceanus Procellarum...
Going to the moon... is an impossible dream.
I don't want to die.
Compared to training, this is nothing!
It's no use! We can't restore the comms!
Why?! We're past the re-entry blackout!
The cable was cut! It could be antenna damage!
What else is wrong?!
Temperature rising! The heat shield might be compromised! It could burn up or disintegrate!
Irina! Answer me!
Hey! Don't interfere!
Irina!
Where will it fall?! If it's not our land, blow it up!
No, it's within our borders, but the retrofire wasn't perfect.
It's a hundred kilometers off course. Locating it will be difficult.
Chief! Let me assist with the search!
Mm. Of course.
Viktor! Join the search.
Yes, sir!
The landing zone is within a 100-kilometer radius of latitude 51.6, longitude 47.4.
The search team is struggling. N44's status remains unknown.
The seat was ejected.
Which means...!
Irina!
Irina!
I have to find her before nightfall.
By then, she'll...
I thought she was a vampire,
but she's just an ordinary girl.
She hates people, is stubborn, and gets upset when teased.
When did I start seeing her as just a person?
This is the first manned spaceflight in history. Enjoy it.
I'll be back soon.
What's that?
Irina!
And she's conscious?
Well done, Lev!
Affirmative. We'll head there immediately.
I... came back.
Yeah. All the way from space.
Let's wait here until help arrives.
Lev, you're bleeding.
It's no big deal.
So stubborn.
You're one to talk.
Your nastoyka reached me loud and clear.
I'm glad.
Thank goodness you're safe.
Welcome home, Irina.
I'm home, Lev.
Her incredible feat may never be known by future generations.
She will never receive praise, nor will her name be etched into history.
Much the opposite—her existence will be swept into the shadows.
But the truth remains—
She was the world's very first cosmonaut.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 08 ------------------------------------------------
If you hit it with that much force, you may have broken a bone.
Get it looked at.
All right.
We're glad to have you back!
Come on, everyone!
Let's give N44 a round of applause!
How was space?
Huh?
Yeah, tell us all about it!
It was hot and awful. You made me ride in a hunk of junk.
Huh?
"A hunk of junk," she says.
Good one. We can talk about that later.
For now, let's toast with your favorite—oleaster nastoyka.
It's not my favorite.
Oh, right. You can't drink until after your health exam.
That's not—!
Still, a job well done!
Congrats, Irinyan!
"Hunk of junk"...
Hear that, guys? We've got plenty of work ahead of us!
Is everyone ready?!
Yeah!
Yeah!
The only thing the UK is good for!
You like that?!
Yeah!
Long live Zirnitra!
So long, Arnack!
Long live the Motherland!
Hear, hear!
How is your leg, Lev?
Well, the painkillers are wearing off.
That's no good. You're returning to Laika tomorrow, right? See a doctor.
Thanks, I will.
By the way...
Hm?
Tomorrow morning, N44 will go to Sangrad with the chief
to attend a private committee meeting.
Private?
To discuss the details of the flight.
The usual sights of the city awaited my return to LAIKA44.
There was no celebration for Irina; just the same repetitive, ordinary days.
The centrifuge I broke was said to have "broken down due to age."
Vice-Director Sagalevich and Franz, who caused the incident, were transferred elsewhere.
As a mere reserve candidate, I didn't know what powers moved behind the scenes.
More surprising was that, despite the pain, my leg was mostly fine,
and that Natalia kept working as the dorm matron.
There really wasn't a whole lot to be sad about.
She really flew up there, huh?
Reserve cosmonaut candidate, Lev Leps, reporting in.
The Nosferatu Project was successful. Thank you for your service.
Of course.
For the time being, the Committee wants us to continue studying N44's biology.
Now, Lev, as for you...
Sir?
Comrade Lev Leps. You're hereby promoted to candidate for your outstanding duty.
Obey the rules, or you're demoted again.
Yes, sir!
Awesome!
The candidate graduation test will take place on January 26th and 27th.
Only six will be chosen—our Mechta Shest.
Furthermore, the top three will compete to fly as the world's first cosmonaut.
If all goes as planned, the Mechta Project will launch in spring.
Spring...
With your reinstatement as candidate, you'll return to the dorms.
Huh?
The examiner will take charge of her now.
And after her health exam?
Listen, Comrade Leps.
The world's first cosmonaut must shoulder great responsibility.
Your words will no longer be your own.
You're expected to devote your life to our motherland and set aside your loved ones.
Are you prepared to do so?
Of course.
My dreams are our motherland's dreams.
Excellent.
You did a great job. I look forward to seeing you again.
You helped me get promoted. Thanks.
It's not like I did it for you.
Anyway, your leg...
I don't wanna hear you failed the test 'cause of me.
How is it?
I'm completely fine. It'll heal.
Fine?
Ouch!
Huh?!
Huh?!
How is that "fine"?!
That was your fault!
Cut it out!
Hey, that's dangerous!
Hey, enough already!
Oh. It's the test subject.
Wait.
Heard you're back in the running.
Yeah. No more calling me "reserve."
You could still fail the test, though.
I'll do my best not to.
Did you put a curse on his leg?
You're just upset that I went to space first.
You're lower than a dog.
Says the snow bug.
Who are you calling a snow bug?
Quiet, you swarming insect!
What?!
Move it. You're in our way.
Hold on.
The launch is over. Let's not do this.
Lev is right. Thanks to her, the space program is moving forward.
We should appreciate her efforts, just like the space dogs'.
I'll curse you.
I've been waiting for you, Lev! Irinyan!
What's all this?
Equipment for analyzing her body while she sleeps.
When did all this get here?
Your room was cleared out this morning.
They sure work fast.
Say, what will happen to Irina?
Sorry. I haven't heard anything about that.
I see.
Hey, Irina. Did they talk about anything at the Committee meeting?
Like what?
Like what happens after your exam?
My disposal...
Huh?
wasn't brought up.
Really?
Yeah. Nothing's decided yet.
Besides, worry about yourself first.
Huh?
I'll be furious if you lose to those morons during the test.
I don't plan on losing.
Could you sound any weaker?!
At least lie and say, "You bet I'll win!"
I'm the first one in space, and you were my instructor!
I can't keep an eye on her anymore. Think you can step in for me?
Of course!
See you then.
The Nosferatu Project was a complete success.
Once the first manned spaceflight takes place,
we should reward N44 for cooperating with our research.
Following the success of the Nosferatu Project,
the UZSR turned its focus toward its next step to space—
the Mechta Project.
Furthermore, discovering further value in N44—Irina Luminesk—
her disposal was once again deferred for the time being.
However, even as the postponement set aside plans for her disposal,
some still wished for an "accident" to ensure state secrets remained buried.
My comrades! Soon, it will be 1961!
Let us join as one, uniting to make this year shine bright,
and continue moving forward!
Long live the motherland! Long live Zirnitra!
What's this about?
I was bored!
Can't someone just sketch for fun?
It's fine to sketch,
but carrots on a pancake?
It's a rocket on the moon.
Huh?
What?!
What?!
So, what are you here for?
Another exam?
It's New Year's Eve.
That's precisely why I came!
This is...!
Yup! A traditional Lilitto dress!
But why bring it here?
Isn't it obvious? To celebrate New Year's together!
Irinyan, you're too cute!
It looks good! You're super cute!
Y-Yeah?
Now, let's go!
Huh?
I was born in Lilitto, too.
But since I was a war orphan raised in Sangrad, I don't remember much.
How did you end up in Laika?
I joined the Air Force Medical Institute after graduation.
That's where I read about vampires.
I was completely fascinated!
Not scared?
The orphanage teachers were scarier.
They were all like Sagalevich.
Yuck.
Right?
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Hey, you two!
Happy New Year!
Oh! You're from the store!
Happy New Year!
Take one!
What's this?
She's Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden.
Happy New Year, Snegurochka.
Yup!
And that over there is Ded Moroz.
In the UZSR, they go hand in hand with New Year's.
Yeah?
Bye, you guys!
Bye!
I wonder what she'd think if she knew I was a vampire?
I think she'd be more shocked to know you went to space.
That goes for my hometown, too.
They probably think I'm dead.
If they had any idea I was getting along with humans...
I know! Let's celebrate, Lilitto style!
Huh?
If you throw a pine cone into a river,
it'll be purified by the water and grant your wish.
There's no river in LAIKA44, so we'll have to settle for this man-made lake.
Except it's not gonna sink through the ice.
But...!
When spring comes, the ice will melt!
When spring comes, the ice will melt!
What was your wish?
Huh?
Mine was to get along even better with you!
You really are a strange one.
You think so?
Mine was...
Yeah?
Long live the motherland.
Huh?
You know... "Long live the motherland! Long live Zirnitra!"
No fair! You're so lying!
Am not!
Hey! Don't you run from me!
Wait! Wait!
I hope this year's a good one.
Yeah.
The first cosmonaut must be a hero worthy of history, one who properly represents our motherland!
Strive to do your absolute best!
Hey! Are you even trying?!
Wh-What?
If not, then run along home!
Don't get cocky, woman!
Got a problem with women?!
Cut it out. Roza is right.
People who don't give their all shouldn't be here.
Oh, yeah?! You think you're so special!
C'mon, let's go!
Yeah!
Here we go!
I'm sure she's fine.
How did the planet look?
Like it was wrapped in a beautiful, blue veil. So pretty.
It felt odd to think I lived way down there.
I see.
The stars looked like chervil flowers.
Chervil?
A lovely little white flower. You should look it up.
I will once we're back.
The moon was pretty, too.
I wanted to go there, but thought, "I don't want to die."
Lev.
Hm?
Um...
Seeing the moon from space made me realize something...
And that's...
N44!
Private Lev Leps!
N44!
Private Lev Leps!
I told you not to sneak in here!
What's this?
A gift for the world's first cosmonaut.
Th-Thanks.
What was the point of this?
There are so many flowers,
it completely messes the smell up.
Sheesh.
Ever since my parents died,
nobody's ever held a celebration for me.
I wish the world's three billion people could celebrate what you've done.
More importantly, how did the test go?!
I did my best.
Now we just wait and see.
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 09 ------------------------------------------------
On January 30th, 1961,
the UK sent a chimpanzee into space
as part of Project Hermes, their manned spaceflight program.
Though nearly dying due to equipment failure, it safely returned.
The chimpanzee was named Sam and quickly became a sensation.
Unbelievable!
At this rate, we'll be surpassed by the UK!
My apologies.
We're currently working on improvements to the cabin
to fix the issues that occurred during N44's flight.
Yes.
Yes.
Absolutely. By spring, as planned.
Good. I'm counting on you, Comrade Chief.
You're too worked up over a little monkey.
I won't be beaten by those burger-munchers!
Still, it's a problem if our cosmonauts don't come home alive.
Our Mechta Shest...
I can't wait to see who's chosen.
Good morning, Lev.
As for the results of the graduation test:
The top three Mechta Shest will be selected as cosmonauts,
with the remaining three serving as reserves.
Private Mikhail Yashin.
Sir!
Private Roza Plevitskaya.
Sir!
Finally, the last of the three.
Private Lev Leps.
Huh?
Uh... Sir!
And now for the reserves: Private Semyon Adamov.
Sir!
Private Stepan Levitzky.
Sir!
I was chosen...!
Private Zhores Rimsky.
I'm going to space!
Sir!
Mikhail! Roza! Congratulations!
Only the first cosmonaut will be remembered. The others, not so much.
I know that, but we're comrades in the race to space, and I'm proud of that.
Apparently, the brass values that sentiment of yours.
But your tongue is honey, and your heart is ice.
Uh...
So, congrats.
Hmph!
See you, Lev.
Whatever. I am who I am.
Oh, right! I have to tell her!
Yeah?
Huh?
I was picked as a cosmonaut, just like I promised!
You're not excited?
You weren't picked to fly first yet, right?
And third place! You barely made it in!
Oh, Irinyan!
She says that, but she was dying to know the results!
She even threw a pine cone into the lake and prayed for you—!
Anya!
A pine cone?
I-It's nothing. Don't worry about it.
Hey! What's that face supposed to—?!
Don't laugh!
You could be the world's first cosmonaut!
No, the world's first cosmonaut is—
Don't you dare lose to another human.
I'll suck out your blood and make you a mummy!
I'll do my best.
You better!
A sudden stop at a hundred kilometers per hour?
N44 lost consciousness just before entering zero-G.
But for the actual flight, we need you conscious at all times.
You'll be placed in this special device to simulate drastic deceleration.
This is insane.
Don't worry. Our tests have already demonstrated that it's safe.
So, who wants to be first?
Me! I'll do it!
Using the data from N44 and the success of the Nosferatu Project,
the training was adapted to incorporate what was learned.
If Irina handled this, I can, too!
I promised her that I'd go to space!
Irinyan!
Irinyan!
I knocked, but...
I've brought the latest news from the training center!
No surprise, the top candidate is Comrade Yashin.
He has high social standing, high scores, and he's handsome!
Next is the "White Rose of Sangrad," Comrade Plevitskaya!
You already know all about her.
The White Rose of Sangrad... Her?
I can't deny she's full of thorns.
Still, the fact she's a woman is causing a stir.
Is that bad?
The UZSR claims both genders are equal, but her chances are slim.
So, what are Lev's chances?
Oh? Curious about him, are we?
Good grief! You don't have to run away!
I'm just going for a walk!
In that outfit?
Something wrong?
N-No.
Hey, Anya.
I've proven useful, right?
Huh?
The things you've learned from my body have been helpful, right?
I still have value, don't I?
Of course!
Thanks to you, the ship is being improved!
And their training, too!
Let's hope so.
It's okay, Irinyan.
It'll all be okay.
Eating in the suit makes it all feel so real.
We're even training inside the cabin now.
You think so?
Yeah! Doesn't the thought of going to space excite you?
What makes you think you'll be flying?
Jeez. Your attitude's something else.
See you in the drop zone!
Good!
Shoot!
It's not serious. It shouldn't impact your training.
However, I'm advising three days of rest.
You sure get hurt a lot, don't you?
Sorry.
Hey, Lev!
Are you trying to get yourself killed?!
...is what I'd like to say, but I'll let it slide this time.
Well done, Lev.
You risked your life to save a comrade. That's what soldiers do.
Thank you.
Mm.
Um... And how is Roza?
We're lucky no one was hurt.
And we get three days off? Everyone will be envious.
Yeah.
Why... did you save me?
Why?
When a pal's about to die in front of you, you don't really stop to think.
A pal, huh?
Your tongue is honey...
and your heart is ice.
Correction:
Your heart is honey, too. Sweet enough to go with sugar and jam.
Ugh. Talk about heartburn.
Hey, let me grab a drink.
Huh?
My treat.
Shall we sit down?
I'm out of the running.
Huh?
If you hadn't saved me,
I probably would've died.
My body wouldn't move. I thought it was over.
When I joined the Air Force, I was looked down upon for being a woman.
That's why I refused to lose to anyone.
I crushed everyone who made fun of me in dogfights.
Eventually,
they started calling me "The White Rose of Sangrad."
But...
there is nothing beautiful about me.
I've been pushing myself so hard since becoming a final candidate.
I knew I had to completely outscore you and Mikhail.
Otherwise, they'd never pick a woman to fly first.
I don't think gender matters much when it comes to space.
You're the only one who thinks that.
I hate to admit it, but you're stronger than me.
Both emotionally and physically.
And today proved that.
That's not true.
I didn't want to lose, no matter what it took.
By attacking others, I felt like I was protecting myself.
There is no beautiful bloom,
just a thorny vine.
That's me.
Lev Leps.
I apologize for my behavior. I'm sorry for the things I've said.
Y-Yeah.
To her, as well.
Oh, Irina?
Yes. I don't know why I said those nasty things to her.
She endured the training and returned from space.
N44 is an incredible cosmonaut.
It's Irina. Irina Luminesk.
Irina...
That's right. She has a name, too.
The vampire test subject who reached space
before humanity.
Where is she now?
Was she disposed of?
No.
She can't be.
That would be an injustice.
What's wrong, Irinyan?
I changed my mind. Forget soda water, let's go shopping.
What?
It's unusual for you to want to go out here.
I'm not a shut-in all the time. Besides, I won't be able to come here much longer.
Well...
Irinyan, what will you tell Lev?
The same thing they told me.
But, that's...
It doesn't concern Lev.
That's right—no matter what I do.
Irinyan!
Irinyan!
Hey! What was that?!
Are you two okay?
Natalia...?
Wait!
Why?! I was just getting rid of the vampire for our motherland!
We are an organization. We do not act without orders from above.
B-But as long as she lives,
our state secrets are at risk of leaking—!
He's late!
He'll be here soon.
I thought soldiers were supposed to be punctual.
Huh? What?
You protected her and got hurt?
Yeah, but it's nothing serious.
See? I'm fine!
Long time no see, Lev.
Yeah. With all the training, I haven't had a chance to come for like a month.
Is that why you're mad?
No.
I'm sure our future "hero" is a busy guy.
Too busy drinking soda water with his comrades.
Soda water? True, we're banned from drinking alcohol for now, but...
Hmm?
That's all you wanted to tell me?
Uh, no... Not exactly...
Then what?
I'm leaving this city.
What?
I'm transferring—leaving here and going to Sangrad.
I'll undergo health exams while working at the Design Bureau.
Are you serious?
Yeah. Got a problem?
Comrade Chief insisted on it.
Irina is a quick learner, and he thinks her flight experience might be invaluable.
I see.
Well, that's a relief.
Except she's supposed to start on March 1st.
Huh? That's in two days.
Yeah, and I know tomorrow is sudden,
but how about a party—farewell for her, and good luck for you?
Sure, of course.
Hm? Isn't tomorrow Armed Forces Day?
It's a national holiday, so we'll all be off.
Yup! Let's play all day!
Or in our case, I suppose all night.
Aren't you glad?
Go on, Irinyan.
I-I don't need a farewell party,
but we should wish you luck.
Don't get me wrong! I just don't want some other human to win!
Thanks, Irina.
It's settled, then!
But unfortunately, since I already made plans to go to Sangrad tomorrow,
it'll be just you two.
Eh?
Huh?
Wh-What? That's news to me!
Huh? Didn't I mention it?
Anya!
And in this country, one mustn't go back on their plans,
right?
Y-Yeah.
So, tomorrow at six.
Anya.
Yeah?
Thanks.
Those two are such a handful.
Sometimes they just need a little push!
Right on time, huh?
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 10 ------------------------------------------------
What a lousy planner. So much for my farewell party.
Sorry.
Hold up.
I thought today was to wish me luck, not your farewell par—
Quit your yapping.
Wishing you luck...
might've been part of it.
Oh, well. Let's try somewhere else.
Mm.
What's this? Hey! When?! Who?!
They're on the moon?! It can't be real!
It's not real.
Huh? It's not?
It's just a movie.
A movie?
Wanna watch it?
Yup!
Awesome! Is that real?! Look, it's flying!
Yeah.
Awesome!
Wh-Whoa! Look out!
Ah, look what you did.
Sorry.
No problem. We'll clean it up later.
Let's not miss the movie.
Mm.
Well done!
Hey, sit down!
Huh? Oh.
Thank goodness!
What a relief!
I'm getting hungry.
Wanna get something?
No, look!
Anya told me to bring this.
It's dinner... for two.
Hm?
Great. Then let's go somewhere with a view. It's a night picnic.
Mm!
What's this?
Open it and see.
Whoa, is that kholodets?!
Did you make this?
Anya said it's food for celebrations in the UZSR.
A celebration? For what?
A pre-celebration!
'Cause if you get picked to fly, I probably won't be around anymore.
I'll cut it for you. Have some.
Sure.
Here.
Yeah, thanks.
Well?
It's good. It's really good!
Thank goodness!
I was worried 'cause I can't taste it myself.
Speaking of which, how'd you get the flavor right?
I had Anya be my taste tester.
That must've been rough.
Hey, since you ate that, you better get picked as the first cosmonaut.
Of course. Otherwise, you'll turn me into a mummy.
I saw the aurora from space, too.
It was like a curtain over Earth.
So beautiful.
Mm.
I want her to suck my blood.
I want to feel that sweet pain once more.
I can't make sense of why,
but my instincts crave it.
Not from my arm,
but with a bite on my neck.
Irina.
It's not weird.
Mm.
Irina, go ahead.
Right.
What's wrong?
The bus is coming.
Huh?
You don't want to be seen with me, right?
Sorry.
That's not true. You've done nothing wrong.
But—
Say nothing more.
Lev...
No.
Don't worry about me.
Do your best.
When you get back from space, we'll meet again.
It's a promise.
Lev? What are you doing way out here?
A picnic.
What?
Are you ready to go, Irinyan?
Yeah.
I spoke with the capital a moment ago.
The flight will occur sometime between April 10th and 20th.
At the earliest, that gives us less than a week.
I'm sure you're all anxious to know which cosmonaut will be chosen.
A special committee at Albinar is set to make the decision,
but we don't know exactly when.
Understood.
At five o'clock today, we leave the city to prepare for the launch.
Go get ready!
Yes, sir!
After leaving LAIKA44, the bus headed not for the Albinar Cosmodrome,
but for the Founder's Mausoleum in Sangrad.
This was to preserve on film a record of the first human spaceflight.
However, the only ones being filmed were Lev and Mikhail.
In other words, the decision had been narrowed down to those two.
You two look far too tense.
Huh?
Though, if you're paying respects to the Founder, I suppose a stern look is appropriate.
This is meant to be a glimpse into your daily lives.
Try to look happy.
You're...!
Yes. Long time no see.
Comrade Secretary.
What are you doing here?
Isn't it obvious?
This seemed interesting.
Um, you said we're filming our daily lives?
Yes, I did.
Except, this is Sangrad.
Indeed. What that means is...
As far as the public is concerned,
you've always lived here.
I see.
They can never know about the closed city, LAIKA44.
Great, good job! Let's take a break.
Acting out our "daily lives" is pretty tiring, isn't it?
It sure is.
Watching people get filmed is surprisingly boring.
I think I'll get going,
but first, let me share something with you.
If the flight is a success, we'll be holding a ceremony here.
Some 200,000 people will gather for the largest celebration since our founding.
As far as the eye can see— people, people, people.
Their 400,000 eyes staring at a hero.
Knowing that,
what kind of person should the first human in space be?
Someone suited to be a great hero.
Yes. That's correct.
And Lev?
The most suitable person is me.
...is what I want to say, but I don't know.
How honest.
But I know what they'll need more than anything.
Hm?
The yearning to fly in space, even if it costs them their life.
That's also correct.
Thanks for your answers. Goodbye.
Wait!
What is it?
For reference, what kind of person do you think a cosmonaut should be?
H-Hey...
Let's see...
A revolutionary who will lead us to the new world.
Or something like that.
Let's meet again when you get back from space.
Well, safe travels.
Hey, do you think everything she said was a lie?
Yeah, maybe.
They're selling ice cream, Irinyan!
Hey, Anya. Could you stop calling me Irinyan?
Huh? Why's that?
Because you're older than me.
Hmm...
Well, how about Iri?
Iri?
Is that bad?
Suit yourself.
Okay, I will!
I'll get ice cream, so wait right here, Iri!
Okay.
Jeez, that Anya...
That's...!
Lev...
Lev...!
Lev!
Where are you going?
Iri—!
Keep an eye on her!
My apologies.
Iri!
Don't run off on your own.
Open your mouth.
I'm transferring.
I'll be working at the Design Bureau.
Of course I'm not working at the Design Bureau.
I wonder if he still believes it.
Though I am undergoing exams, so half of it is true.
But that will stop once a human goes to space.
After the flight, my existence will be nothing but a nuisance.
I'll probably be...
Good job with the exams, Iri.
Hey, who was that with Lev today?
That was Mikhail.
Then, if those cameras were filming them...
One of them will be picked as the cosmonaut!
I knew it.
It's incredible! Lev is just one step away from fulfilling his dream!
Yeah.
All right.
Let's make him our motherland's hero.
Very well.
Also...
The Delivery Crew has done enough follow-up exams for N44.
They want to dispose of her.
Is there any value in keeping her around?
She's too cute to simply kill.
We could sell her as an actress or a singer.
The UK has a dhampir star or two.
You're kidding, right?
I'm kidding.
But it's true that I'd welcome a revolution in this boring world.
A revolution that consumes both the UK and the Delivery Crew in one go.
Don't you, as well?
The vampire, Irina Luminesk...
Couldn't she be the weapon we need?
The launch will be in three days, on April 12th at nine in the morning.
As for who's flying...
Private Lev Leps, it's you.
Huh?
Sir!
Why?! I've outperformed him in every field!
Why was Lev chosen?!
Our motherland's rocket flies on the strength of everyone's dreams.
Only someone who can make people smile and carry those dreams is fit to be our hero.
That was the basis for the decision?
No, that's my personal opinion.
Private Mikhail.
If Lev is unable to, you will fly instead.
Be prepared to do so.
Yes, sir.
Whoa!
It's been a while.
It has, Chief.
How are you doing? You've lost weight.
I feel great, now that I've seen your face again.
My call sign?
Yeah. I wanted to pick one with you now that you're going to space.
How did you come up with Irina's "Lycoris"?
That?
It's the flower's meaning.
It's "I hope we meet again soon."
Did you tell her?
I did.
She was glad to know it meant I hoped she returned safely.
I see.
Well, is there a flower for praying that someone far away stays safe?
I want to wish that to someone from space.
There is!
Aster!
Aster...
Irina.
Lev?
It's time,
Iri.
Yeah...
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 11 ------------------------------------------------
The flight plan is similar to hers.
Right.
After we've confirmed you're safe in space,
we'll announce the launch was successful and broadcast its status live.
They'll play the transcript on the evening news.
Did you read the notes?
You mean reporting that I feel fine during the flight, even if I don't?
Yeah. The old ploy of our motherland:
if something's inconvenient, lie about—
Chief!
How are you feeling, Comrade Leps?
Very relaxed.
U-Um...!
What is it?
I'm sorry. Could we stop the bus?
What's wrong? Tell me.
Um...
I've gotta pee.
Don't scare us like that, you idiot!
You, too?
I'm not like you.
Sorry. You wouldn't embarrass yourself like that.
Congrats.
Huh?
You're the one meant to carry everyone's dreams and make them smile.
It's true.
Mikhail...
If I'd been picked, I would've played the perfect hero.
Forget pissing.
To be honest, when you stopped the bus, I hoped that you suddenly felt sick.
What's more, I've been hoping that you'd find an issue with your spacesuit.
Now I finally understand why you were chosen and I wasn't.
You'll make everyone's dreams come true.
Thanks.
Can you take my dreams to space, too?
Yeah.
To think, they really chose you!
Yustin!
Sign this one, too!
Sure.
Morning!
It's perfect weather for a launch.
Chief! Are you okay?
Don't worry. I'm managing.
Comrade Lev Leps,
people have dreamed of going to space for ages.
Today's the first step toward fulfilling that dream.
What's wrong?
Starting to feel nervous?
No.
Please take care of Irina when she joins the Bureau.
Hm? What do you mean?
Huh?
I've heard nothing of the sort.
I'm transferring—leaving here and going to Sangrad.
I'll undergo health exams while working at the Design Bureau.
Was that a lie?
You should get going.
I'll do everything in my power.
Listen, Lev.
The space you yearn for is within your grasp.
Your dream is ours... and hers as well.
Come back safe, for her sake, too.
Long live cosmonaut Lev Leps!
Long live—
When you get back from space, we'll meet again.
Irina... I know how you feel.
Let's go.
All systems are go.
No issues reported.
This is Dawn.
Do you copy, Aster?
Loud and clear.
We're behind schedule, but it won't be long now.
Roger.
One minute to launch.
Roger.
Preparing for launch.
Set keys!
Keys set!
Ignition sequence!
Preliminary stage!
Intermediate stage!
Engine ignition!
Here we go!
Launch!
Dawn here.
Do you copy, Aster?
Aster here. I feel good. The flight is stable.
First stage separation.
Heart rate: 159.
Rising to 160!
This is Dawn!
Aster, come in.
Aster, come in!
Fairing jettison.
Aster here. I can see the surface.
Yes!
No issues with me or the cabin.
It's beautiful.
Second stage separation.
Third stage ignition.
Third stage separation.
The launch was successful!
The ship is in orbit!
We did it, Comrade Chief.
Yeah.
What's the point of doing this?
Irina had enough in her log.
Aster here.
The cabin is stable at 60% humidity and 20°C.
The planet...
I can see the globe beneath me.
How did the planet look?
Like it was wrapped in a beautiful, blue veil. So pretty.
It looks like it's wrapped in a blue veil.
Irina...
Here's space through your eyes.
The stars...
They're sparkling like blooming chervil flowers.
The moon...
I can't see the moon from here.
Um...
Seeing the moon from space made me realize something...
And that's...
Aster here.
Let's celebrate this great achievement with some kholodets,
while giving our heartfelt thanks.
Notice from Sangrad! Notice from Sangrad!
On April 12th, 1961, the UZSR spacecraft "Mechta"
reached space with a human pilot on board!
The cosmonaut is Major Lev Leps from the Zirnitra Union!
I repeat, the cosmonaut is Major Lev Leps from the Zirnitra Union!
Our motherland, wielding the power of science,
has opened the era of space conquest!
Hurrah!
Hurrah!
They did it!
Huh?
Zirnitra, hurrah!
Major Lev Leps, hurrah!
I-It launched!
What?
Lev is flying through space!
He is?! Huh?
Iri!
Lev is in space!
He says our planet looks like it's wrapped in a blue veil!
What?
That's what I said!
And the stars look like blooming chervil flowers!
I said that, too!
You didn't even know what chervil was!
Zirnitra, hurrah!
Major Lev Leps, hurrah!
Zirnitra, hurrah!
Lev?
Why?
Is it because I'm a vampire?
Lev, why did you use my words?
Also, he wanted to share this message with everyone:
Answer me, Lev!
"Let's celebrate this great achievement with some kholodets,
while giving our heartfelt thanks."
Iri!
Kholodets...
That's a message from Lev to you, isn't it?
Mm...
It hurts, doesn't it? It's sad, isn't it?
Knowing this is the only way anyone will ever know what you've done.
But, I know!
And Lev knows, too!
We know how hard you worked for it!
We know the heart you poured into it!
My dear comrade, Lev Leps.
It is an honor to speak with the man who took our motherland to space.
It's only thanks to my comrades that the flight was a success.
Comrade Leps, as the first human to ever fly in space,
your name will be immortalized in history.
There is no greater honor.
Now then, I'll take you to your lodgings.
The world's first cosmonaut, huh?
It's time for work, Mr. Hero.
Do try to be friendly.
Major Leps!
Can I have a word?
What was the flight like?
Can you tell us anything more?
You were here? You should've said so.
Well done coming home.
Allow me to thank you, Private Lev—
Major.
Congratulations on the promotion.
Thank you.
Hm? What's wrong?
If you're tired already, you won't last tomorrow's celebration.
It's the newspaper.
Hm?
Your name wasn't mentioned in it.
That's all you're worried about?
I don't mind. If I thought it'd help our budget, I'd print my face everywhere.
Also...
Hm?
The reason I was able to return safely—
Is thanks to Lycoris.
You seem concerned about her, Aster.
I intend to do all I can,
but I make no promises.
I told you from the start:
you're expected to set aside everything for this.
Do you know why I recommended you as cosmonaut?
No.
Because I believed you had the resolve to lead the world into a new age.
Resolve, huh?
Nope, zero points.
Not enough gratitude to our motherland or leader.
Do it again.
It seems like your head is in the clouds.
Thinking about our cute little test subject, perhaps?
Have you forgotten she is merely an object?
Irina. What will happen to her?
We dispose of things we don't need.
That's how this country works.
After yesterday, your life has changed.
Delicious.
You now carry the responsibility of being the first cosmonaut in history.
You should have known it wouldn't always be pleasant.
Say, do you remember what I looked for in a cosmonaut?
A revolutionary who would lead us to the new world.
Yes.
Now that you've reached the new world of space, you can lead the people.
You have the power to start a revolution.
Sweet words like chocolate can win you praise,
or you can slip them something deadly, like lycoris.
Do hurry up with your speech.
Revolution? Give me a break.
We've received orders from him.
It's to happen at 3:00 PM tomorrow.
Comrade Chief...
This is a threat masked as a plea.
What is it?
Preparations are complete.
Tomorrow will go down in history.
Indeed.
People will—
No, the entire world shall remember it forever.
Long live the motherland!
I have new orders.
After tomorrow, I'm no longer assigned to you.
Huh?
It was only supposed to last until the manned launch.
I see.
Anya, could you do me a favor?
Give this to Lev and tell him "Congrats."
That's...
Give it to him yourself!
But, I...
Giving up doesn't suit the person
who opened the path to space!
Don't you want to see Lev?!
I do!
I want to talk to him!
All right. I'm very angry right now—
at this country where people can't love freely!
Anya...
# ------------------------------------------------ EP 12 ------------------------------------------------
Nearly 200,000 people have gathered to see the world's first cosmonaut.
The celebration, scheduled for 3:00 PM,
will be the Republic's first simultaneous live broadcast to the world.
Remember what to say?
Yeah.
Don't mess it up.
Three billion people will be listening on the radio and TV.
Cosmonaut Major Lev Leps has just arrived by plane at Sangrad Airport!
It's Major Lev Leps!
Major Leps is coming down the ramp!
He has just reached the ground!
He's being welcomed by a huge crowd!
The officers rejoice at their hero's triumphant return!
The military sure can make a potent sedative.
Let's go.
Mm.
I became the world's first cosmonaut for our motherland.
Mm.
I will gladly carry out my next mission to bring her even greater honor.
Congratulations.
Well done, Lev.
Thank you.
Look, your parents are waiting.
I wish to personally thank you for raising your son into a hero.
You never told us a thing.
He's been reunited with his parents!
Major Leps will soon depart for Glorious Square!
Escape? Are you serious?!
Shh!
Most of the security will be at the ceremony tomorrow.
If we sneak into the crowd, they'll never see us.
But, if I escape—
After seeing you and Lev put your lives on the line,
I want to do something, too.
Anya...
It's your decision.
If you want this, I'll help however I can.
Are you okay?!
Yeah, I think so.
All right. Let's try to hurry.
Anya.
Hm?
Why go this far for me?
To make sure it comes true— your real New Year's wish.
Yes. We'll seize the test subject at three o'clock as planned.
Did something bad happen?
Huh?
I can see it on your face.
I'm just tired, that's all.
You're hiding something, aren't you?
Not really.
State secrets? I won't force you to answer.
Major Lev Leps, hurrah!
Your mother and I have lived our entire lives in this country.
We've lost friends to war and have seen numerous purges.
Our motherland disposes of anything it finds inconvenient.
It turns lies into truths and truths into lies.
I wonder, Lev, what do all these people expect from you?
Major, it's time!
Right.
You flew through space. Don't let the country hold you down.
Soar ahead to a new era.
Iri!
Your face is so red!
The sun is...!
It's fine. Let's keep going.
As the world looks on, Major Lev Leps arrives at the square!
The hero's celebration is about to begin!
What happened?
Unbelievable.
Iri, there he is! It's Lev!
Lev...
We shall now commence the ceremony honoring Comrade Lev Leps!
Iri, let's get in the shade.
I present: the hero of the Zirnitra Union, Major Lev Leps.
He will now address his countrymen and all of humanity.
My dear comrades...
My dear Fyodor Gergiev...
Thank you for allowing me, an ordinary man,
to become the world's first cosmonaut.
To all the workers who built the spaceship:
Not once did I doubt our success.
I believe our marvelous ship will take us even farther!
Our supremacy in science will unlock the secrets of space!
To my fellow candidates who endured the grueling training:
Soon, you will take to space and become the second and third cosmonauts in history.
The first artificial satellite, animal spaceflight, manned spaceflight!
At this moment, I am overjoyed!
My dear Fyodor Gergiev...
You were the first to embrace and congratulate me after I returned from space!
I wanted to congratulate him first.
Iri...
I give my thanks to everyone who supported me!
Thanks, Anya.
Huh?
W-Wait!
Let's go back together.
Long live the Zirnitra Union!
Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah!
Long live my dear comrades!
Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah!
Also...!
What's wrong?
Did he forget his lines?
What?
I see... Got it.
Sorry. I finally remembered what I was going to say.
My dear comrades, I'd like to correct something:
I'm not the world's first cosmonaut.
The first person in space was a seventeen-year-old girl.
Her name is Irina Luminesk.
She is not a human, but a vampire!
Wh-What? You're kidding!
This is treason!
Calm down. No need to panic.
The hell—?
Hey, what kind of speech is this?
An unexpected one.
Stop him!
Impossible—he's a hero.
How would you explain it to the world?
Just let him continue.
We'll make excuses later.
Irina went to space to test the effects of zero gravity and the safety of the spaceship.
She's the reason I could come home safely.
Unfortunately, she couldn't be here today.
Lev...!
She's probably hiding from the sun somewhere.
Do you hate vampires for being a "cursed species"?
I'll be honest.
Much like all of you,
I believed vampires were to be loathed and feared.
That's absurd. None of it is true.
She's in no way different from my friends or family.
Iri!
She's just a sweet girl with her own hopes and dreams, yearning for the stars.
She loves lemon seltzer, gets drunk on a single sip of zhizni,
and makes delicious kholodets.
She conquered her fear of heights, likes jazz and ice skating,
and screamed while watching her first movie.
Please, set already!
This girl, like you and me...
Hey, you! Stop!
is just another person on this planet.
Know that this girl, confined to solitude,
reached space before anyone else!
People of the world, honor her!
Stay away!
Behave yourself, girl.
Iri!
Huh?
Stop!
What?!
Irina! Go!
Mm!
This was the second cosmonaut, Lev Leps!
Lev!
Irina!
Don't shoot!
Wait for orders!
Irina!
That way! The stairs!
Mm!
Lev!
Irina!
Um, Lev...
You surprised me.
Let's introduce you to everyone.
Everyone, this is the girl I spoke of: Irina Luminesk,
the world's first cosmonaut.
That's a real vampire?
Disguised as human?
Filthy!
We'll be cursed!
A monster went to space?
Go ahead, Irina.
Huh?
Introduce yourself as a cosmonaut.
Unbelievable!
Be proud of yourself.
You've done incredible things.
Didn't you realize something when you saw the moon?
You were going to say something back on the plains.
Why not share that with everyone?
That day...
What I wanted to say...
Lev, I'm fine now.
I am Irina Luminesk.
Get lost, vampire!
Seeing the world from space was incredibly beautiful, um...
I always wanted to go to space— to go there before humans did.
Go home, monster!
Yeah!
Yeah!
I hated humans.
I resented them.
You devil!
It's her true colors!
Kill her!
I thought all humans deserved to die.
And yet,
despite how I felt, Lev made me into a cosmonaut.
He made my dream come true!
And now, my new dream is...
to go to the moon with him!
This was Irina Luminesk, cosmonaut of Lilitto!
Wonderful!
A wonderful speech! Thank you!
Thank you for all you've done!
My dear comrades!
The actions of Lev Leps and Irina Luminesk
shall forever be praised!
Now then, I'd like to apologize.
A few issues arose before this worldwide live broadcast.
As a result, Comrade Luminesk arrived late, and this confusion ensued.
Said trouble was caused by the so-called "Delivery Crew."
They wanted to kill this vampire.
However, are we to stand by and let our neighbors be murdered?
No!
Purges are a thing of the past!
Furthermore, countries that discriminate and exploit dhampirs are behind the times!
This is outdated thinking!
In our progressive country, even the dreams of vampires can come true!
Long live the Zirnitra Union!
What was that?
It's like you planned for me to reveal everything.
I did.
We prepared two statements.
If you hadn't said anything,
we wouldn't have criticized the UK or the Delivery Crew.
You knew I would...
By the way, did you know Comrade Chief issued a threat?
A threat?
Yes. "If you kill Irina, I'll kill the rocket."
Chief...
So much for treating her like an object.
I moved exactly how you wanted today, didn't I?
Meaning?
You wanted a revolutionary who would lead us to the new world.
I did.
We're not pawns for your revolution!
But... thank you for acknowledging me.
Now I can proudly go to the moon.
You're serious? It's 380,000 kilometers away.
We'll go, for sure.
Stay here until the press conference, all right?
380,000 kilometers.
"We'll make the impossible possible."
The words of the 20th-century scientist who pioneered rocketry.
And it came true.
For ages, people around the globe have dreamed of going to the moon.
We should all cooperate, even with the UK.
You think it's possible?
I do.
Didn't you see it from space?
There are no borders to be seen.
Only our blue, beautiful planet.
During the 21st century,
I'm sure lots of people will live in space—
regardless of race or ethnicity.
I believe that what we achieved was a small step toward the future.
Now, let's go...
to our future!

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Irina: The Vampire Cosmonaut S01 - WBDP vs. RigAV1