Stella Star Arc

Anya sets out to earn Stella Stars and become an Imperial Scholar, and after rescuing a drowning boy at a hospital she earns her first commendation, sparking her wish to obtain a pet dog.

The Stella Star Arc centers on Anya's efforts to earn the coveted Stella Stars at Eden Academy, prestigious commendations awarded for exceptional achievement. Eight Stellas elevate a student to the rank of Imperial Scholar, the honor most likely to bring Loid into contact with Donovan Desmond at school events, making the stars a direct objective of Operation Strix. With Loid and Yor's support, Anya tries various approaches to earn recognition, though her poor academic performance makes the goal difficult. Her breakthrough comes during a visit to a hospital, where she overhears the panicked thoughts of Ken, a young patient who has fallen into the rehabilitation pool and is drowning. Unable to swim well herself, Anya dives in and saves the boy, an act of genuine courage that earns her first Stella Star from the school. Afterward, her friend Becky mentions the rewards her own family gave her for earning a Stella, including a pet dog, and Anya learns that Damian also owns a dog. Intrigued and eager to grow closer to Damian for the mission, Anya decides she wants a dog of her own, directly setting up the events of the following arc.