Plunderer

In a post-apocalyptic world, society is structured around the concept of "Numbers," which are personalized metrics branded onto each individual. These Numbers, or "Counts," can represent various aspects of a person's life, ranging from physical activities like the distance they have traveled to social interactions such as compliments received. The significance of these Counts is profound, as they influence a person's well-being and social standing within this harsh new world.

The society's reliance on Counts creates a delicate balance where maintaining or increasing one's number is vital for survival and respect. Conversely, a drop to zero can have catastrophic consequences, pushing individuals into despair or social marginalization. This system has transformed personal identity into a measurable and quantifiable asset, making the Counts a vital aspect of everyday life and societal functioning.

Set in the year 305 of the Alcian calendar, the story centers on Hina, a young woman who inherits a crucial mission from her mother. Her mother’s Count has fallen to zero, which is traditionally seen as an indicator of a person's decline or impending demise within this society. Recognizing the importance of preserving or restoring her mother’s life and dignity, Hina embarks on a journey to find the legendary Red Baron, a figure surrounded by myth and mystery, believed to possess the power to influence Counts.

Throughout her quest, Hina encounters a variety of characters, some of whom are driven by desperation, hope, or secrets. One notable character she meets is Licht, a swordsman who wears a half-mask to conceal his true identity. Licht's low Count has earned him a reputation as a degenerate, leading to societal rejection despite his skills as a warrior. His mysterious demeanor and hidden past add layers of intrigue to the story, as Hina learns more about the complexities of individual worth beyond the Counts.

The narrative explores themes of identity, societal judgment, and the true value of a person beyond numerical measures. Hina’s pursuit of the Red Baron symbolizes her quest for hope and understanding in a world where numbers often overshadow human essence. As she and Licht navigate the dangers of their environment, they challenge the oppressive order that reduces humans to mere numbers, highlighting an enduring human spirit that strives to find meaning beyond superficial metrics.