Episode 9 of *Gachiakuta* opens with a poignant scene: Rudo, his face twisted in obvious agony, diligently washes his gloves. Each movement seems to exact a toll, as he grits his teeth and groans, determined to see the task through. Upon exiting the bedroom, he finds Riyou already waiting in his bed, her eyes filled with concern. She had heard his struggles and couldn't help but inquire if everything was alright.
It's then that Riyou discovers Rudo is as much in the dark as she is about the true nature of his afflicted hands. The mystery behind them, it turns out, is known only to his parents—a revelation that strikes a chord with Riyou. She muses aloud on the profound impact our parents have on us, leaving behind a legacy of both blessings and burdens.
The following day, the team gears up for their upcoming mission. Rudo's mask, still a work in progress, means they'll have to proceed without it. Their target is Gob, a giver with the ability to inscribe spells onto individuals. While Gob is frequently seen at their headquarters, his recent absence has prompted a direct visit to his residence: the City of Graffiti, also known as Canvas Town.
Accompanying them on this mission are the usual suspects—Riyou, Zanka, and Enjin as givers, with Follo, Gris, and Tomme providing support. But this time, they're joined by some fresh faces: Delmon and Tamsy, Cleaners from the "Eager" team. Tamsy exudes a calm demeanor, contrasting sharply with Delmon, who is built like a fortress and possesses a voice that could shake the foundations. Yet, beneath his boisterous exterior lies a heart full of compassion, especially when it comes to Rudo's plight.
Canvas Town, like many cities in their world, is shaped like a dome, a strategic design to shield its inhabitants from the constant threat of falling debris. But its defenses extend beyond the physical. As Rudo and the Cleaners effortlessly pass through the city's gates, two other men find themselves barred entry. Their exclusion hints at darker intentions, a stark reminder of the city's vigilant guard.
Gob possessed the extraordinary ability to create drawings imbued with mystical effects, like crafting gates through which "those with ill intentions could never pass." His companions approached him, hoping he could work similar magic to shield them on their impending mission.
Suddenly, a tearful child collided with Enjin and, without a word, dashed away. Before the group could even process what had happened, the mayor emerged, bearing grave news: Gob had passed away that very morning.
The entire group stood before the painter's body, shrouded in blankets, as the mayor explained that Gob's death was caused by body pollution. He hadn't confined his artistry to the safety of clean zones but had painted indiscriminately, often neglecting to wear his protective mask. Over time, the toxic substances seeped into his body, slowly poisoning him.
Rudo's mind flashed back to the moment he had seen Gob at the Cleaners' headquarters, and he watched the memory replay in his mind with a sense of dread. Despite Tamsy's attempts to console him, Rudo couldn't shake the guilt gnawing at him as a Spherite, blaming himself for the rampant trash and pollution that plagued their world.
Gob's vital instrument, a source of immense power, was known for its generational transmission—passing from one individual to another, each inheritor wielding its extraordinary abilities. This time, fate had chosen the young girl they had seen weeping earlier. The mayor expressed profound sorrow that someone so young would have to bear such a heavy burden.
Enjin reassured the mayor not to fret over their mission, announcing their immediate departure. He bid farewell to the girl, Remlin Tysark, but her response was not what he expected.
With a sudden leap, she screamed, "No more!" and dashed to the rooftop, clutching the vital instrument. She declared it was time to celebrate, for Gob would never find peace if they all remained mired in sorrow. She intended to honor his life with a grand party.
The instrument transformed into a paintbrush, and Remlin drew a mark on the floor that triggered a dazzling display as several spray paint cans erupted into fireworks. Inspired by her act, the entire city seized their own paints and tools, joining in the festivities. The sight left Rudo spellbound, a magical spectacle that enchanted the boy.
