Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons

Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons is a visually enchanting and passionately narrated anime series that was broadcast on Anime Network from 2014 to 2015.

The primary narrative of this captivating series filters through a strict and technology advanced alternate universe where "Mana," a supernatural power, has comfortingly established a utopian society. The use of Mana, formulating a class of people known as "Norma," changes the way humans live, communicate, travel, and even wage war. The societal structure in this world is dependently built upon the all-inclusive application of this power.

The central character around which the storyline revolves is Angelise Ikaruga Misurugi, the first princess of the Misurugi Empire. As a beloved royalty, Angelise’s life is one of luxury, easy, and ignorance towards the plight of the Norma, individuals incapable of using the Mana and who are antagonistically perceived in society. The princess holds the same prejudice towards Norma, like her kin and subjects, until a sudden revelation rattles her life - Angelise herself is a Norma. The shocking disclosure devoids her of all royal privileges and leads her from a palatial life to isolation on a remote island, overseeing the lives of other Normas.

While this might seem like just another "zero to hero" storyline, the actual series dives much deeper. It is on this remote island where she, deprived of her old life privileges, is trained to pilot a mechanically advanced "Paramail" and fight off dragons descending from another dimension. The princess, now a pariah, has to learn how to survive and combat for her existence in this unfeeling environment.

Despite all the odds stacked against her, Angelise adapts and rechristens herself as Ange. The series meticulously unfolds her journey from being a despised outcast to rising as a respected warrior. Amidst her journey, Ange discovers that the dragons they are asked to combat are not what they seem. The plot takes a turn when begin she untangles the twisted web of lies that surround these dragons, Norma, and the reality of the Mana-reliant world.

As she navigates the harsh realities of her new life amongst the Norma, Ange befriends a diverse group of women who help her and she brings hope to their otherwise grim existence. This story magnifies concepts of friendship, loyalty, and survival while highlighting the genuine value of individuality and courage.

Visually, Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons captures one's vision with its spectacular landscapes and futuristic battle scenes. The design and detailing of the Paramail and the dragons draw admiration and help in creating a lifelike alternative universe for viewers. The animation style is compelling and the pacing exhilarating as it switches between emotional character moments and gut-wrenching combat scenes.

A key aspect of what makes this show so enticing is its effort to delimit the characters. The series unfolds well-endowed characters who are much more than their surface roles. This commentary about prejudice, manipulation, and the ever-changing definition of good and evil sets it apart from typical anime tropes. The series not only provides a gripping tale of survival but also balances it with thoughtful character development, social commentary, and a dash of romance.

Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons has successfully woven intricate narratives refined with alluring visuals and stellar performances. The interesting blend of genres it involves — from action, science fiction, and mecha to tit-bits of drama and romance —gives the show an appealing edge over other shows of the same genres.

The outstanding music score adds to the allure of the series, providing the perfect atmosphere to every scene, from heart-breaking monologues to thrilling fight sequences. Throughout its run, Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons maintains a sound rhythm and keeps the viewers engaged.

With a complex yet relatable lead character, an accompanying varied cast, and a compelling storyline, this series provokes deep thoughts about societal norms and personal principle. While the series depicts some moments of distress and despair, ultimately, Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons is an uplifting tale that stands in testament to the resilient nature of humanity and the triumph of the individual will over societal prejudice.