From episode 9. This descrition contains spoilers! After withdrawing from the final exam competition, Ayla talks to her coach. Although she is resigned to what happened and was happy to have one last race with Jessie, it is obviously a bittersweet moment for her. Fortunately her coach is there to comfort her. ;-) One of the things that surprised me about Battle Athletes was its willingness to eliminate major characters from competition. This made for a less predictable than usual plotline, and some very moving scenes. If only my two favorite characters weren't the first to go! :-(