I have two reasons for buying this series. The first was to try and fill the void that the ending of Noir brought. Being about two women with mysterious pasts it sounded to be in the same vein. It wasn't but I didn't hold that against it. The second is Hilary Haag. I know purists prefer the original Japanese dialogue, but ADV's Industrial Smoke & Mirrors (ISM) has some of the best English VAs in the business. I simply love Hilary Haag's voice.
The series is supposed to take place in the future where 17% of our current land is covered by water, though this is never really touched on in the series, save for a few seconds where we see a sunken city.
The plot is reminiscent of Blade Runner in that Najica, a Perfume mogul by day a secret agent by night, has to hunt down rogue androids. Though, in this case instead of "retiring" them, she has to return them to their manufacturer.
This volume shows the deepening bond between Najica and Lila, an android she is tasked with babysitting. It is hard to really appreciate what their relationship is since Najica seems to go back and forth between caring for her android partner or detesting her. This revolves around Najica's desire for the naive Lila to be able to make her own decisions about her life and her frustration at the android's seeming inability to do so.
While the series does touch on some interesting ideas and raises good questions, it never really comes up with it's own answers. There is fun to be had here, but don't expect to be dwelling on it days later as was the case with Noir. Also, the rumors are true. This series is heavy on fan service. Particularly in the numerous panty shots.