Episode 12 of Ave Mujica, titled “The Die is Cast,” delivers an emotionally charged narrative, serving as a pivotal lead-up to the season finale. Premiering on March 20, 2025, the episode delves into the complex relationships within the band, particularly focusing on Sakiko and Hatsune, and sets the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
Sakiko’s Defining Moment
The episode showcases Sakiko Togawa as the driving force of Ave Mujica. From the beginning, Sakiko is determined to confront Hatsune and seek answers. Instead of complying with her grandfather’s instructions to travel to Switzerland, Sakiko chooses to run away and return to Hatsune’s home island, demonstrating her resolve and defiance. This act marks a turning point for Sakiko, solidifying her role as a leader who takes control of her own destiny and the band’s future.
Reunited with Hatsune
Sakiko’s return to Hatsune’s home leads to a heartfelt reconciliation. The two recount their childhood, specifically the limited memories they share due to Hatsune’s deception as Uika. Despite the lies and revelations, Sakiko accepts Hatsune, symbolized by her literally “shipping herself back together with Hatsune”. Sakiko acknowledges that their current relationship, like everything else, will eventually end, yet she chooses to embrace it for now.
Letting Go of CRYCHIC
Episode 12 also signifies Sakiko’s final departure from CRYCHIC and her past connection with Tomori. Sakiko is now able to apologize to Tomori without worrying about the “rain”, acknowledging that their bands, MyGO and Ave Mujica, are two sides of the same mirror. Even though Sakiko goes to Hatsune’s home, she grabs Tomori’s notebook. This symbolizes Sakiko at last reaching the end of this story she’d been sitting out at her grandfather’s house.
Uika’s Confession and its Aftermath
Sakiko’s reaction to Uika’s confession is a crucial element of the episode. Sakiko is understandably shocked that Uika had been lying to her. However, she responds with composure, choosing to process the information rather than lash out. Uika’s true identity as Hatsune Misumi, the illegitimate daughter of Sakiko’s grandfather, is fully revealed, marking a significant shift in their dynamic. Uika stops pretending and embraces her true self, Hatsune. This allows her to write lyrics from a genuine place, benefiting Ave Mujica in the long run.
Hatsune’s Ties to Uika
Episode 12 explores Hatsune’s past, revealing that she is the illegitimate daughter of Sadaharu. She was raised on Shodoshima by her mother, who worked as a caretaker for the Togawa family, along with a foster father and younger half-sister named Uika. Forbidden from seeing Sakiko, Hatsune impersonated Uika to spend time with her. After her foster father’s death, she assumed Uika’s identity and joined Sumimi.
Determination and a Bold Declaration
With the band seemingly reunited, Sakiko gathers the members and makes a shocking declaration: “I will become God.” This statement, which quickly trended online, highlights Sakiko’s ambition and determination to control her own destiny and lead Ave Mujica to greatness. Sakiko’s declaration signifies her intention to use anything and everything for the sake of Ave Mujica, showcasing her unwavering commitment to the band’s success.
Overcoming Obstacles
The episode portrays Ave Mujica facing numerous challenges, including Sakiko’s grandfather’s attempts to separate Sakiko and Hatsune, and the weight of their past secrets. Despite these obstacles, the band demonstrates resilience and determination to fight against fate. Sakiko rejects her grandfather’s authority and chooses her own path, defying expectations and embracing her own agency.
Production and Storytelling
Episode 12 is praised for its masterful storytelling, direction, and animation. SANZIGEN’s animation, art direction, and storyboarding are executed with remarkable finesse, seamlessly integrating CG technology to enhance the emotional weight of each scene. The voice acting, especially the nuanced performances of Sakiko and Hatsune’s actors, adds depth and emotion to the narrative. The episode’s pacing is well-balanced, allowing for thorough exploration of the characters’ development and plot threads.
Symbolism and References
The episode incorporates several symbolic elements and references to previous events in the series and It’s MyGO!!!!!. These include:
- Puddles and an umbrella: Symbolic of MyGO’s “Hitoshizuku”.
- Sakiko scraping her knee: Mirroring her attempt to save Tomori on the bridge.
- Hatsune and the stars: Connecting Hatsune to Tomori, who also loved the stars.
- Sakiko finding a new doll: Symbolizing Hatsune as someone Sakiko can control.
Loose Ends
Some plot threads are left unresolved, such as Sakiko’s father’s potential reformation. These dangling threads may be further explored in the mobile game or future installments of the franchise.
A Tense and Moving Prelude
“The Die is Cast” serves as a tense yet moving prelude to the finale, heightening the emotional melodrama and setting the stage for a climactic resolution. The episode showcases character development, unexpected twists, and significant developments, all while maintaining the series’ signature tension and unpredictability. With Sakiko and Hatsune’s relationship evolving and the band facing external pressures, the finale promises to be a dramatic and emotionally resonant conclusion to the Ave Mujica saga.
