[SPECIAL THANK YOU] Four's Story: And As a Soldier

For those that have followed me on Twitter for a while, I'm guilty of summarizing something based on deep-dive discussions (and sometimes forgetting to finish them--hello, ZZ summaries!). The mythical mini-novel for Four Murasame was no exception. Forever and a day ago, I started translating this as part of my archiving efforts. So, here we are! This is a special thank you to everyone who is supporting my Gundam efforts!

In the February 1986 issue of “Animage” (published by Tokuma Shoten), a novel supplement depicted Four before the events of Zeta Gundam. This sidestory was an original work by one of the screenwriters, Akinori Endo. The work delves into the unspoken aspects of the main story, exploring the elusive “lost memories” that Four yearned to uncover. In this story, she was known as Kyou before being named Four. Additionally, Jill, the younger brother of Miharu Ratokie from Mobile Suit Gundam, makes an appearance.

Initially, the novel was a rare find due to its limited release as a magazine supplement. However, in 2001, it was revised, restructured, and published as a paperback under the Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko series titled “Four’s Story: And As A Soldier…” (ISBN 4-04-411906-6). I'll eventually go back and make notes comparing the original version. For example, the opening of the novel originally went something like this:

　The girl was called Kyou.
　"It's a nickname," she said curtly. It was the only thing she had said in the room.
　The young staff member by her side added that it was a nickname from her time at the police concentration camp.
　With her short hair, the girl appeared submissive, but her gaze subtly scanned her surroundings with a sharpness that indicated her instincts were on high alert. It was a testament to the harsh life she had endured.
　That is why a bubbly name like Kyou was not very fitting.
　Dr. Murasame wasn't particularly fond of it.
　"Can you think of a better name, Miss Namika?"

So you can see it's a bit jarring to read that there were "police concentration camps" in the Zeta era, something I think had to do more with his still somewhat unfamiliarity with the setting for the series. Other changes include a city that was supposedly the same one that Kamille was born on Earth, which would make their connection even stronger in retrospect. Either way, I hope this is something that you all will enjoy!

May 11 Update: Should have the finalized PDF available now!