Synopsis
As technology continues to advance rapidly, humanity develops hIEs—human-like robots serving as both public and personal assistants in society. The compassionate high school student Arato Endou treats these androids as equals, though his limited finances prevent him from ever owning one. His ordinary life is disrupted when a simple trip to the grocery store takes a terrible turn. Attacked violently by a rogue hIE, Arato finds himself near death, but he is rescued by an unusual hIE carrying a coffin-like weapon. Her name is Lacia, one of five exceptionally advanced hIEs that have recently escaped from the mysterious MemeFrame Corporation. When a hacked car threatens to run them over, Lacia proposes a deal to Arato: in return for saving his life, he must register as her new owner, assuming full responsibility for her actions. With no real alternative, he agrees to trust this artificial girl and lets her live in his home. As Lacia grows accustomed to her newfound peaceful life, she warns the fascinated Arato of one important fact—she does not possess a soul.