The Enchanting Saga of Gundam: Unveiling Mysteries on Mercury

Throughout the series, Suletta consistently recites a mantra passed down from her mother: "Moving forward yields double, running yields single." Regardless of the challenges she faces or the obstacles in her path, this simple mantra serves as a grounding force, propelling her to forge ahead.

In Episode 22, this mantra takes center stage, serving as a powerful demonstration of its effectiveness. In the preceding episodes, numerous characters have found themselves in a state of despair, grappling with regrets and unsure of their next steps. However, this episode showcases their journey of self-reflection and acceptance of past mistakes, enabling them to finally confront their adversaries and progress forward.

The Importance of Moving Forward

After experiencing a series of devastating events, including betrayal from her closest friend, abandonment by her mother, and the loss of her trusted partner, Suletta Mercury finds herself in a state of despair. Despite the overwhelming circumstances, Suletta manages to gather the strength to rise above her pain. Although there are many aspects of her situation that she doesn't yet comprehend, she is determined to embrace her new reality and do whatever she can to assist those around her.

Unbeknownst to her, Miorine Rembran, during her initial visit to Earth, unintentionally brings chaos and destruction. What was supposed to be a peaceful meeting for a treaty swiftly descends into a scene of violence and bloodshed. While Miorine is not directly responsible for the deaths of innocent individuals, she becomes the scapegoat for the tragic incident. Overwhelmed with guilt, she blames herself for her own shortcomings and lack of awareness, which resulted in the loss of numerous lives. Like Suletta, Miorine isolates herself in her room, consumed by self-condemnation.

But then, Suletta arrives at her doorstep, urging Miorine to gather her strength and confront her past mistakes. Suletta seeks Miorine's assistance in overthrowing Prospera and Aerial. Motivated by Suletta's plea, Miorine pushes herself to rise, acknowledge her errors, and progress forward in order to face her adversary.

Confronting Your Mistakes

“Making mistakes, learning from them, and emerging stronger” appears to be a prevailing theme in Gundam: The Witch from Mercury. This notion is particularly evident in the second season of the series, where nearly every major character experiences moments of failure and subsequent redemption. Noteworthy instances include Nika's disclosure of Plant Quetta to Shaddiq, Martin's betrayal of Nika, Guel accidentally causing the death of his own father, Miorine allowing Prospera to take the lives of numerous innocent individuals, and Suletta's unwavering trust in others leading to the loss of almost everything she holds dear.

They all struggle to escape the depths of their own despair, including Suletta who bears no responsibility for what has happened. Nika and Martin find themselves consumed by regret over their past choices, while Guel and Miorine are overwhelmed by guilt and sorrow. Suletta, on the other hand, grapples with a profound loss of identity, teetering on the edge of a severe crisis.

Fortunately, each of them manages to find the strength to rise again and stand on their own. Some are able to do so independently, while others are fortunate enough to have supportive individuals who help lift them out of the seemingly bottomless pit of depression. As they conquer their personal demons and make their triumphant return, they emerge as individuals who are not only wiser but also mentally stronger.

Character Development, World Building, and Story Progression

Placing characters in dire circumstances is a highly effective technique for their growth and evolution. In Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, these events not only advance the plot but also play a vital role in character development. Essentially, the series of unfortunate events that have unfolded since the conclusion of the first season act as a crucial catalyst, allowing for natural progression of the characters, expansion of the story's universe, and overall advancement of the narrative. Additionally, these events serve as a means to forge a closer connection between the viewers and the characters. Witnessing their failures and witnessing their determination to learn from their mistakes, move forward, and confront their adversaries makes it easier for us to empathize with and support them.

The emphasis on characters marks a departure for the Gundam franchise. Historically, the series has been driven by its plot, with its memorable moments centered around epic battles, iconic mobile suits, and the clash between good and evil. While the main characters have had their own iconic qualities, they haven't necessarily been memorable. However, recent major series such as Mobile Suit Gundam: Origin, Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt, and Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphan have started to change that to some extent.

With Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, the showrunners have chosen to heavily prioritize the development of the characters. The presence of Gundam itself is minimal in this series, but we are given ample opportunity to delve into the personal lives of the characters. This shift towards a character-driven narrative is a welcome evolution for this long-standing franchise.