About this blog:
I write about the manga I read ,
the anime/tv shows I watched and somtimes, the PS2 games I played. I tend to summarize them so beware, this blog is filled with spoilers and they are not 100% perfect. Feel free to point out my mistakes. Occasionally, I would blog about myself and other misc. things. ^_^
Layout:
In the blog pic, the girl on the moon was taken from JumpC
Edited in Photoshop CS2.
The quote is by Les Brown.
The blue background is from
All Free Backgrounds.
The GB animated gif used to be
from this site,
Gin-san of Gintama is a screecap from piyopiyo2006 in Youtube and Pleinair by
Takehito Harada is from JumpC.
Gin and Pleinair edited and animated in Photoshop.
Random Anime Blahs
Tuesday, September 19, 2006 @ 02:04 p.m.
I had finished watching Tsubasa Chronicle season 1. The story is about this young archeologist, Syaoran who is friends with the princess of their land, Sakura. One day, Sakura, hypnotized or something, went to the ruins where Syaoran is excavating and lost all her memory feathers. There is this Chinese-looking couple observing them from a mirror who seems to be behind it and are after Sakura’s power which was presumebably to be pretty strong. Anyway, Syaoran with Sakura got send off to a different dimension to a witch who can help Syaoran find the feathers, lost in different worlds. That witch is Yuuko from Xxxholic. Upon arriving there, Syaoran met Kurogane, a warrior who got sent there by his princess for he just loves fighting too much and Fye, a magician who is in the running from a certain Ashura. Yuuko gave them a package deal of traveling together with the price of things that are important to them: Sakura’s memories of Syaoran, Kurogane’s sword and Fye’s tattoo on the back. With Mokona, the ‘rabbit’ from Rayearth, they get to travel worlds and get the feathers.
The first few worlds they traveled are pretty boring and predictable that I can even do some paperwork while watching it and I can still know what’s happening. I actually wanted to stop watching halfway and so I checked some blogs if it is still good enough to get the rest. It was only when I saw Seiichirou/Sakurazakamori [Tokyo Babylon/X] would be in it that I stayed on with the series. As I thought, the world where he appeared was the only world arc that is quite good. Overall, the Outan/Sakura world is the only descent one to watch since their enemy is powerful and there are some things revealed about the characters. The art is just okay but then, I didn’t read the manga to compare it with. The music is okay though I kind of like the chorus bgm and I don’t like the opening/closing songs. My fave character of the five travelers is Kurogane and the one I find most irritating is Mokona. I find the flashbacks of what happened in past episodes a bit annoying. I guess it is because I’m watching the episodes in 1-3 sittings that I wanted to say, I already know that, stop repeating it again and again. Lastly, the story actually reminds me of Kingdom Hearts with Syaoran as Sora and with two travelers and a mascot. Xxxholic is actually a bit better than this one even if it is episodic. Though both series isn’t exactly a priority-watch.
Bleach still in the fighting with Bounts but this time in Soul Society. Almost all of the Sifs except Lulu is dead in Blood +. I’m waiting for the rest of it to be finished so that I can watch it in one sitting. Honey & Clover II is still good as the first season though this is more on the inevitable separation of the group. I really got into Morita’s past [the haves and have-nots] and Hagu’s accident. Only two episodes more to watch and it is finished. Nana has already passed what happened in the movie and it is now moving towards Hachi-Takumi story. The new ending song needs getting used to. NHK no Youkoso! is still good as more on the story of a hikkomori and the people around him. The animation is quite inconsistent as to be expected from Gonzo. I wonder if this will be left hanging or they would invent an ending for it since I think the manga is still running. I’m still enjoying School Rumble 2nd Term except for the ones which are really not related to the story like episodes 20-21. In Utawarerumono, there is another war with monster-mecha type enemies and then, there is now a focus on Hakuoro’s past as to why he has that mask while Zegapain is getting interesting as it seems that Shizuno and the school president are actually different from the rest and they seem to be up to something and well, gards-orms know Shizuno. Zero no Tsukaima is still in the love-hate relationship of the main characters and well, their adventures. More revelations about the other characters – their past and circumstances. It is still good.
I had also finished watching the available subs of Saiunkoku Monogatari. From consort to entrance examinee to servant ala Cinderella, that is how Shurei’s current life is. But then, like Cinderella, she has many fairy godmothers around her to help her when she needs it. There are a lot of secret identities in this story and they are pretty much the ones that are interesting in the story. I can’t help but think that the story could have been better if it is done much better like the conspiracies and etc – make it more exciting but then, there wasn’t that it seems flat and forgettable. I actually thought from the opening that this is some adventure/fantasy series. ^^;; but it is just the life of Shurei who rise up from being just an ordinary woman to become an official in the palace. Is it like Dae Jang Geum who is quite famous for becoming from cook to doctor of the emperor? Unlike Jang Geum though, this one seems to be more on a reverse harem and I have a feeling that she would end up with the emperor if just basing it on the opening. The character I find intriguing is Seiran, the exiled prince..as to why was he exiled anyway though I think it would be way, way after many episodes before that is revealed. Anyway, hope that it would improve later on. There are still some anime that I had downloaded but not watched like Night Head Genesis and Ouran High Host Club.
Autumn season is coming and so are new anime as many anime are going to end. The ones I’m interested are in: Black Blood Brothers [another vampire series], D. Gray-man, Death Note, Busou Renkin and Kekkaishi [these shounen series will depend if the trasition from manga to anime is good]. I would be checking out La Corda D’Oro [a shoujo about musicians though I’m not quite sure if it is good, seems to be a reverse harem], Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge/Perfect Girl Evoution [though I’m cautious since I didn’t like the manga that much and well, it seems that my fave seiyuu is in it ^^; ], Kanon [ again, my fave seiyuu is in it and well, this is a remake by Kyoani. Even if I’m not into girl harem type series, the animation is really great. Weird though for the opening song from the promo sounds awfully familiar.], Shounen Omnyouji [about the grandson of Abe no Seimei and pretty much exorcism], CODE GEASS - Lelouch of the Rebellion [mecha with Clamp character designs], Bakumatsu Kikansetsu Irohanihoheto [because of sword fighting ^^;], Tenpou Ibun Ayakashi Ayashi [people with powers fighting monsters..well, Bones made this one], and Hataraki Man [slice of life on a working woman]. There are some others but then, will see if it is quite good than their summaries. Also, everything depends if the series are actually subbed. ^^;;
Thought of the day:
Life is the sum of all your choices. ~ Albert Camus.
Gintama [Chapter 133]
Monday, September 18, 2006 @ 03:43 p.m.
The chapter starts with a narration about it all start in this small bar – Otose’s. They are all eating there when Gin told Catherine that her eyebrows are going to ‘meet’ together [become a unibrow] so Catherine goes off to tweezer them off. Then, Otose notices on the news about a girl’s eyebrow suddently wasn’t the same anymore and they don’t know what happened. Then, they noticed that Catherine is acting strange. She then looked up to them. To their surprise, her eyebrows became thick and became one – unibrow. She is also drooling with eyes blank like a zombie. They were all laughing at her when she attacked Otose. Gin told Shinpachi to let them be but then to their surprise, Otose also became like Catherine. Otose tries to attack them that they quickly ran out of the bar as they wondered what is happening.
While running, Shinpachi saw a taxi and tries to call it to stop for they would ride on it. It doesn’t stop. He calls out again saying that a unibrow zombie is after them. The driver looks his way and the driver also became a unibrow zombie. He crashed from the window and tries to attack Shipachi. Gin quickly kicked the driver away. Then, there was an announcement about the invasion of unibrow zombies attacking people and making them into unibrow zombies. The trio are then hiding in an alley as they are surrounded by unibrow zombies. Then, they saw Katsura wounded hiding there also. Katsura then told them that it is like hell and while he is trying to escape, he actually fell down the stairs hence the injuries. While Katsura brief Gin regarding them unibrow zombies and they are pretty much arguing again, some unibrow zombies found them. Katsura then goes ‘aw’ when Gin actually called them as Katsura insist that Gin calls them. Gin kicked him for being like that which is why Katsura irritates him. They are then surrounded in both sides that someone from a window above told them to go up there.
They climbed up to see Touzo [the guy who can’t get a permanent job and wears shades] as the one called them up. They discovered that they are actually in the pachinko [kinda like a gambling slot machine using silver balls] store. He told them that he has injured his right shoulder so they should go on ahead for he will be a burden to them. Touzo says that maybe he is old for he saw this weird guy [guy with top hat, magician coat and underwear] called out that Touzo, die and shot Touzo. Some more shouting that I don’t quite understand. Katsura blushing for his term for them unibrow zombie is being used and Gin kicks him again. Shinpachi helps Touzo walk as Touzo says that it would be only a matter of time when the unibrow zombies get there. Shinpachi said that he doesn’t want Touzo to just stay there and wait for death. Someone then said that it is also impossible to go out. It was Sacchan [Gin’s stalker]. She pointed out to the door which was barred that outside, there are already a lot of unibrow zombies and they are coming from a certain bar. They were shocked for they are now trapped.
Katsura asks why she is there. Sacchan says that it is because of a new store. Katsura asks if there is a reason about the unibrow. Sacchan says it is because they are uncle. It started in some gambling dens and barbershops, the places where uncle likes to go so they would become like uncle – Ryo II. Sacchan says that it is something like a biological weapon used by a certain people while fighting with certain gorilla fighters. They used Ryo II which infects both men and women to make them become like useless uncle. It is a hellish weapon. Sacchan that she learned about it from her missions. Katsura then screams that it is the end of the earth. Then, he notices that Gin and Touzo are already playing pachinko as Shinpachi is joining them. Katsura shouts that earth is in trouble, why are they playing. Gin says that it is okay for they would only turn into a useless uncle. Katsura shouts what is the use of a useless uncle in the world. Then, Sacchan goes on about still liking Gin even if he becomes a useless uncle but Gin snubs her as he kept on playing. Then, Sacchan says about this top hat guy saying to her that he likes her so she should die. Shinapchi then asks who the heck is that guy. Then, some more nonsense shoutings. Gin says that they should calm down for it is just like a cold, it would go away the next day. Since the unibrow zombies are all barred out, they would be safe in there and there are a lot of food in that place, too. Kagura just stuffed herself with the food.
Shinpachi pointed that out so Gin says that they would survive a day without food. Shinpachi says that he has some chocolates, would they want some. Gin says the others to just eat up and don’t worry for it isn’t like a demon king is coming to get them. Then, the glass door got smashed open. It is Otae who has also become a unibrow zombie. She is different for she is smiling. Gin freaks out as Shinpachi says that the demon king has just arrived.
Hehe, I guess this would be more fun if I actually know more about Kochira Katsushika-ku Kamearikouen-mae Hashutsujo/Kochikame. This is Gintama’s tribute to the 30 year running manga in Jump. Ryo-san also had a cameo here like in One Piece. Ryo is the lead in the Kochikame series. I read that he is like Homer Simpson of Japan. Nothing much to say here but I do wonder how the author would end this. Would it be like the alien giant cockroaches arc? And would they actually survive Otae who can single handedly defeat them. Mm..I don’t think that the shinsengumi would appear here though.
Thought of the day:
Laugh a lot, and when you're older, all your wrinkles will be in the right places ~ Anonymous.
Weekly Jump Update: Bleach, Naruto, One Piece and D. Gray-man
Saturday, September 16, 2006 @ 09:29 p.m.
In Bleach [c. 243], Ichigo was surprised at seeing Ishida’s weapon that he asked if it is a bow. Ishida told him that it is for that is the weapon of choice of Quincys. Ishida then traded some insults/who is best with the arrancar he is fighting – my running technique is better to my attack is better than yours. In the end, Ishida won, -- I think for it seems that his attacks all hit through the hollow. Then, Sado fought with the other arrancar who turned out to be still alive even if his mask was shattered. I thought Sado got him already in the last chapter. Of course in the end, Sado blasted him away. Well, I guess that concludes the ‘I will show Ichigo my new powers/results of my training.’ Hehehe
There is also some fighting in Naruto [c. 323]. Everyone was surprised that Hidan is still alive even after they stabbed him in his vital organs. Hidan then noticed a bandana with the word ‘fire’ on Asuma’s waist and realized that Asuma also has a bounty that Hidan is already complaining about going back to the bounty station. Asuma then says that Akatsuki usually goes around in a two-people team so they thought finishing him first would be a good strategy. Hidan says that unfortunately, they got the wrong guy first. Then, his partner, Kakuzu tried to hit Shikamaru so Shikamaru was forced to let Hidan go. They are now in a pinch for they had underestimated the Akatsuki. Hidan wanted to use them as his ‘sacrifice’ for the ritual so he told Kakuzu that he would fight them though he would give the Asuma’s bounty to Kakuzu. Kakuzu agrees as Hidan uses his blood to create a symbol. Asuma told them that retreat isn’t going to work so they just have to fight. He would fight with Hidan and let Shikamaru get him using his shadow if he has a chance while the other two would protect Shikamaru in case Kakuzu attacks. Asuma attacks but Hidan easily edged him out that Asuma got wounded on the face. Asuma then tries to use some powder attack but when the smoke clears, he was the one burned in one side of his body. Hidan told him that he has already fallen for his curse and his face became like a skull. Mm..doesn’t look good and I have a feeling that Asuma might die though not really sure since the author doesn’t seem to kill off those who have a ‘foreboading of death’ and it is usually in an instant, say third hokage. They would be extremely lucky if they all survive also, Tsunade underestimated the Akatsuki. Weren’t 3 sensei already have a hard time with just two akatsuki – Sasuke’s bro and the fish looking guy? I guess they got confident when they managed to kill the puppet Akatsuki guy. I’m thinking that Hidan’s powers seems to be inspired from voodoo with the curse he mentioned.
And here in One Piece [c. 427], the long fight finally finishes. Usopp calls out to Luffy and Luffy notices him. Luffy says that he has come back. Usopp then says that it is just to save Robin and it isn’t for him. To Luffy’s surprise, Usopp then challenges Lucci to fight him. Luffy shouts for Usopp to stop it for he might die but Usopp answers back that he isn’t in the condition to say so for he [Luffy] can’t even stand up. Usopp shouted that this isn’t hell yet and that he shouldn’t make people worry about him. This made Luffy stand up again. Usopp shouted for Luffy to finish Lucci off so that they can all go. Luffy shouts of course. Lucci told him that he should worry about his crew for he is going to send them to where he is going. Luffy managed to block all of Lucci’s deadly finger attack but got himself stabbed again when Lucci used his tail to hold Luffy. All of a sudden Luffy is behind Lucci, or I think I’m missing a page, anyway, Luffy remembered what all the others saying that being with Robin is no good, Robin did it all for them and they are all going down with Robin. As he remembers those things, he put all his strength into punching Lucci multiple times until the end, Lucci is down. He falls down as everyone looks at what happened in the fight. Lucci’s pigeon goes to him. The marines were shocked that Lucci got defeated as Luffy shouts that we are going, Robin! Robin then smiles as she cries and says Luffy’s name. Then, there was an announcement that Luffy defeated Lucci. Finally and it does seem that Usopp’s words got to Luffy to give him the last bit of strength he needed to defeat Lucci. So, their getaway is the last problem and I’m guessing that Sanji is going to do something about that.
In D. Gray-man [c. 90], Rinali falls down into the ground that the others [Allen, Kanda, Rabi, Crowley and this guy-Chowsi] tried to grab each other but got pulled in, too. Then, they noticed a cube [like a rubix cube] on the sky with puzzle pieces falling down. They wondered what it was as Bookman is saying some things in a different [XXXX] language. Bookman says that it is Noah’s ark and wondered about its destination. Inside, those who got pulled in topple on each other. Kanda wondered where they are as Allen says that it is in the ark. Then, Rabi noticed a pumpkin umbrella, Relo squished underneath Rinali. It shouts for them to get off. Kanda and Allen threatens to kill it if it doesn’t tell them the way out. It says that there is no way out. From inside Relo’s mouth, came out a balloon Earl who told them that the ark has finished its mission and so it is going to self-destruct. They have three hours to get out of there or else, well, they are dead. The Earl told Rinali that she has such good friends that they are all going with her so that she won’t be lonely. The balloon floats away he says that those who were left would also be joining them soon. Outside, giant akums are coming at the others. Theodore then noticed a light from his bag so he took it out and says to it, Go. It went up to the ark. Inside the ark, everything is crumbling down as they try to find which house has the exit. Relo insisted that there isn’t one since the ark has already stopped. Everyone except Rinali started to punch/kick it. Then, the ground they are standing on has started to crumple when someone call out and hold out a key, saying that there is an exit. The last blurb was who it was. Well, the trio are together hehehe. I wonder where they would ‘land’.
On a side note: There is a somewhat of a tribute to Kochira Katsushika-ku Kamearikouen-mae Hashutsujo in Jump. I think it is it’s 30 year running in Jump anniversary. I don’t actually watch/read this but it is about the life and adventures of a middle-aged policeman, Ryo-san. He is quite famous for his unibrow. I noticed him in One Piece together with some marines. There was a mention that there was in D. Gray-man but I couldn’t find it. And well, I saw Gintama raws and it is a story about zombies where everyone is becoming zombies with unibrow. ^^;; Gin and others try to get away but were trapped. Hehehe, just found it in D. Gray-man. He is in the title page next to the title.
Word of the day:
God often meets our deepest need with the help we gain from others ~ D. De Haan.
Gintama [Chapters 131-132]
Friday, September 15, 2006 @ 09:22 p.m.
In chapter 131, Gin went back to Sanyou’s room. Sanyou asked what did he and Yamazaki talked about but Gin says it is nothing and it just something that guys watch on vhs [I’m assuming porn]. Sanyou said that guys are always like that, when they are having fun, they don’t want girls to get involved. Everyone left her and [Hijitaka] didn’t even look back. Gin says that guy is really too much for leaving such a beautiful girl like her. Sanyou laughs and said that is true so she decided to find someone who would give her happiness. She then told him that it has been a year already and her body’s condition has been worrying Okita so making herself happy would make Okita be more relax/relieved. She then says, that she must be find happiness. Gin then remembers Yamazaki telling him that Sanyou’s fiancé is involved in some rebellion. Gin snapped out of it when she hears Sanyou coughing. Gin told her to rest early. Sanyou says it is alright for she still wants to talk to him. Then, Gin noticed that there is blood from her coughing then it got worse. The next scene was Okita and Kondou hurrying into the hospital. They saw Gin looking into the window where Sanyou was being treated. He told them that Sanyou’s condition has turned for the worse and the doctor said for them to ‘prepare themselves for the worst’. Okita was shocked.
At the pier, Yamazaki told Hijitaka to go to the hospital for at a time like this, who cares about work and it is even Sanyou’s fiancé. What Hijitaka is doing isn’t wrong either for if they left them be, who knows how many people would be killed by the weapons that are being smuggled in but this isn’t the time for that, for the place where he [Hijitaka] should be should be there. Hijitaka says that if he is trying to tell him to quit it, he wouldn’t do that for that guy’s fiancée is in critical condition and yet, he is still here doing this thing – smuggling. He then told Yamazaki to keep this a secret from everyone. Hijitaka walks away as he kept on telling Yamazaki to keep it a secret, only the two of them should know. [Hehehe, yeah, right.] At the hospital, Kondou urges Okita to rest up for he haven’t slept since yesterday. Okita points out that Kondou has much darker eyebags. Gin who was ‘sleeping’ on the bench says it is just make-up. Kondou then wonders why Gin is still there. Kondou then says that Okita and Hijitaka fought and it seems Okita has lost. Okita says don’t mention that guy. Kondou continues saying that guy told him that he [Hijitaka] won’t lose to the current him [Okita]. Okita then shouted to Kondou that he doesn’t want him mentioning Hijitaka. Okita says what is up with people who kept on saying Hijitaka this, Hijitaka that. Okita looking scary looks at Kondou and asks him so where is this guy now when his sister needs him the most. The woman that he [Hijitaka] left, he doesn’t care if she is still alive or dead. Then, I think he said something insulting. Kondou then told him that he is just tired so he should just sleep. Okita says that has no connection [with what he is saying] as Kondou told him to sleep. Okita then says that he is just an obstruction and isn’t like Hijitaka. That made Kondou angry as he grabbed Okita’s collar. Just then, Yamazaki came in, calling out to Kondou for something big happened regarding Hijitaka.
Back at the pier, the shipment has arrived and they were being loaded as Sanyou’s fiancé, Douma. [I’m assuming that is his name ^^;] Then, Hijitaka points his sword to him saying that he is under arrest and that he should hold his hands up. Douma then says that he was the one who came to the house before. Hijitaka says that he just commited a grave crime for the shipment of illegal weapons. Douma laughs and says that he shouldn’t even do such a thing to the fiancé of a friend. Hijitaka says that it got nothing to do with it. Douma then says that for a shingsengumi, he really has a lot of guts. From behind, a machine gun is pointing at Hijitaka. Back at the hospital, Kondou is strangling Yamazaki when he learned that Hijitaka went to the mission alone and why did Yamazaki told him only now. Yamazaki says that it was because Hijitaka doesn’t want them to know. I didn’t quite get what Yamazaki said but it seems that the others already know about it and that Okita staying at Shinsengumi, he can’t be protected. Okita was surprised. Kondou says that Hijitaka is really such a reckless guy for trying to do/solve things alone. Okita remembers Hijitaka saying that he doesn’t care about things regarding Okita. Okita wanted to go but Kondou stopped him. Kondou told him that he just be beside his sister and that he is already tired, and might not be able to fight well so he should just believe in them. Okita then says that he isn’t the type of person to belive in people, he isn’t as nice as Kondou thought him to be, and he isn’t the same as them so that is why Kondou and his sister went to Hijitaka’s side.
Kondou then punched Okita hard that he went flying and hit a nurse’s cart. Okita says that was quite harsh of him. Kondou says that it is because he is still a kid and if Hijitaka said the same thing, he would also send Hijitaka flying for that is their kind of relationship. If there is someone going the wrong path, the other two would beat him back into the right path so that they won’t change into bad but stay to what is right. Kondou says that he won’t hesitate in doing that again if Okita is going the wrong way and that they are quite lucky to have two friends who are like that. As Kondou leaves, he told Okita that if he ever goes in the wrong path, until then, he can hit him. Then, while Hijitaka is still fighting the smugglers’ goons. Okita, sitting on the ground as Gin is ‘sleeping’ [I think he has been faking with that loud snore of his =P even earlier on] on the bench, rants on how Hijitaka irritates him then, he changed tune. He said that he knows that his sister couldn’t love such a guy, even if they are together, Hijitaka couldn’t give happiness to Sanyou and that is also a reason why Hijitaka turned her down, and that Hijitaka also wishes for Sanyou’s happiness. He then says that even if he knows these things, why can’t he get along with him. Okita then says, even if he can’t get along, it doesn’t matter. He then stood up and thanked Gin for listening to him rant for half a day. He says that Gin should keep it a secret even if he isn’t listening. He then takes his coat, says that guy has already taken his important things even so, he should go even if Kondou says that he might die but then, at least, he has finally release out all the pent up emotions and stuff as he voiced it all out. Gin then says that the important thing inside, did you include that guy. Gin was awake as he stretches. Gin says that he told Sanyou that he is his friend so they should try to make it true for he is going with him. Okita points out to Gin’s eyebags. Okita then thought that he is quite lucky for he isn’t the type to have friends, and yet he has three of them [Kondou, Hijitaka and Gin]. Meanwhile, Sanyou is already awake and looking out. I’m thinking she overheard everything.
In chapter 132, back at the pier, Hijitaka is still busy fighting. Douma’s associate says that it isn’t the same as what Douma said for didn’t he said that he had already ‘tamed’ the dogs [Shisengumi]. One of them says that the one fighting is Hijitaka, vice captain has been killing many of them. Douma says not to worry for Hijitaka is all alone and they can easily finish him off. Just then, Hijitaka got hit by a bullet on the right knee that he fell on the ground. Everyone then surrounds him. Just then, Sanyou slipped back to a bad condition as her pulse has weakened. The doctors are now going to try their best to what they can do for her. In the streets, Okita riding on Gin’s motorcycle, asking for Sanyou’s forgiveness [I’m not sure if the blurb in the cover is what Okita is thinking being continued but it has forget those happier times of them together]. The other shingsengumi in their police cars are also rushing into the scene. Kondou thought that Hijitaka is really stupid for trying to do it all alone, aren’t they all ‘partners’. Why would he only carry the burden and make himself the ‘villain’. Kondou then concludes, that he knows why because his [Hijitaka] feelings for Sanyou is --
At the pier again, Hijitaka managed to escape as he was limping and blood is dripping. He went to an open area only to be surrounded. Douma standing on some crates says that Sanyou’s friend [Hijitaka] death would hurt Sanyou. He wanted to be friends with them and use them as his ‘army’ that is why he got engaged with Sanyou but he didn’t expect her to be sickly. He even got in good terms with Okita but then, he learned that Sanyou won’t live long. It is such a waste. Hijitaka says that the marriage is just to ‘pacify’ them so he used Sanyou. Douma says that he did loved her for anyone would but then, doing this [smuggling] would also give him happiness. Hijitaka then remembers Okita telling him that he just wants Sanyou to be happy until she dies. Hijitaka says that he isn’t in the position to lecture Douma for he also has done some hurtful things [leaving Sanyou and beating up Okita] and even when she is dying, he is going to kill her fiancé. Douma says that what Hijitaka said was right. Hijitaka then prepares to fight saying that he isn’t really that great and he really just wished the woman he loves to find happiness but since he is using the sword, he can’t give that to her so he wanted her to marry an ordinary man and have kids. That is all to it. Douma says is that so but then, that is something that people like me would understand. Just as Douma gives the order to fire, there was an explosion. Kondou and the shinsengumi has arrived. There was an explosion and Hijitaka’s coat went flying.
In a car, Douma tries to escape as he thought that it was all a big miscalculation for he has no chance against those ‘monkeys’ and then orders his driver to bring him to the hospital for he can still make Sanyou a hostage. Then, he got stabbed on the shoulder. It turned out that Hijitaka is on the roof of the car. One of the men goes trying to shot Hijitaka but he was saved by Gin who hit the man on the head. Hijitaka was surprised as to why he was there when Gin told him to relax and tosses a spicy junk food to him, saying he just came to buy that. Gin then uses his wooden sword to hit the tire. Then, Okita standing in front of the road, says that they should send them so that Sanyou would be happy. Hijitaka was surprise to see him and then goes to hit the other wheel. Both Hijitaka and Okita thought of making sure that they won’t go the wrong path [to move on to what they belive] as a flashback of leaving Sanyou. Okita then slices the car in half. Back at the hospital, Kondou and the rest of the shinsengumi were downcast as they learned from the doctor about Sanyou. Okita goes to Sanyou, apologizing for taking away her happiness, he isn’t a good brother to her. Sanyou then touches Okita’s face, saying that it is alright for he had done his best. Up to now, she is still happy for she has a brother like him, he is her brother whom she could be proud of. Then, Okita noticed that her hand dropped. She took it and put it on his face as he cries. At some park, looking out the sea, Hijitaka bandaged up, is eating the spicy snack that Gin has brought. He shouts that it is really spicy so spicy that he is crying but he still eats it. Gin was sitting on the ground beside a huge pole, light pole, I think. He also took one of the snack and bite into it, saying it is spicy.
What a nice ending to this arc. I had already expected Sanyou to die though as I remembered in this other arc, the girl’s brother who helped Takasugi has died. Hijitaka turns out to really like Sanyou but decided he wasn’t right for her so he left without her. I think he is just faking about crying because of the spiciness of the snack. I'm thinking that Sanyou's illness is tuberculosis since she is coughing blood. Just thought that since in real life, Okita died of it though, yeah, it isn't really a disease that is inherited. Anyway, overall it is great – about friends and a slight love story. I guess next chapter would be back to the comedy.
Thought of the day:
A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down. ~ Arnold Glasow.
The next day, Ren was back to his cheerful self when he met Kyouko and Itsumi. Kyouko immediately apologized regarding what happened last night [not telling everything to him]. Ren casually says it is alright for he seems to be a ‘nobody’ to him that she didn’t bother to tell him even after all that he has done for her [helping her for the role]. Then, he goes into his dark mood and told her not to talk to him anymore unless it is work-related. He then looks away as Kyouko looks surprised. To her relief, it turned out to be a dream. She felt that there is a high possibility that dream is a premonition that will happen later on when they meet. She sighs for she hopes that Ren would look at her in the eyes like before when he is angry for she couldn’t bear it when he looks away from her – couldn’t face her. She then looks at the clock, it is still 5am. She decided to do something to cheer her up.
Outside, in a small forest, Ren can’t sleep either so he is taking a walk near the river. He was imagining that there is a high possibility of Kyouko apologizing then quickly retreating from him that she won’t open up to him anymore after how he reacted last night. He thought that he lost himself when he learned Shou rescued Kyouko. He told himself that he already knew something is wrong when Yashiro briefed him on it and when Kyouko called before. He wondered why she didn’t tell him the something scary has already happened. Somewhere else in the forst, Kyouko is happily slashing water on her face from a small stream. She thought that since there is a waterfall in the hotel, she thought that it could be connected to a river. She happily skips and thought of fairies around cheering her up. She wanted to go to the river where the small stream branches out. She thought that it is the same when she first met Corn. She then moves some branches which leads to an opening and she muses it is really like before. She hears the river and that Corn won’t be there though like before. Then, when she came out, she saw Ren. The sun has just about to rise which made Ren’s hair color lighter. The two of them were shocked to see each other.
Kyouko was thinking she was surprised for the sun actually made Ren look like Corn. Then, she thought that isn’t the great surprise but more on why is Ren there. While Ren was also thinking why she was there and that probably she was lead by her fairies. Both thought of each other’s face as stiff as they don’t know how to react to each other after last night’s incident. Ren thought that if he doesn’t do this right, Kyouko might run away like his imagination and that he wanted to show that he isn’t angry because of her so she doesn’t have to be afraid. He then decided to make it a normal greeting. He then greets Kyouko a good morning and that today’s weather is nice. Kyouko’s reaction wasn’t good for she thought it is the same as her nightmare. She was so scared that she stepped back which made Ren a bit worried. Kyouko then thought that this is a good time to talk while he is looking at her. Ren was in a low mood as he thought that it won’t be the same before when he heard Kyouko say something. Ren then asked what it is. Kyouko then screams asking if she can go to where he is and told him not to make her repeat it anymore for she will lose her nerves. Ren then thought that the real reason why he was angry was because he wasn’t the one who saved Kyouko and smiles his ‘heavenly’ smile and told Kyouko that she can, she is most welcome to [go to where he was].
It isn’t quite eventful in terms of plot but then, it is really romantic in some way. It did revealed as I thought, Ren’s hair color must have been different when he was young for Kyouko assumed he was a fairy before. I like the build up on how they met again like before. ^_^ I actually anticipated it since the setting was in Karauisawa and there was scene of Kyouko being reminded of the forest in Kyoto. ^_^ It is interesting that Kyouko haven’t realized her feeling for Ren when most of it seems to be like she is falling for him. There is no way though that she will admit that after being hurt by Shou.
Thought of the day:
The human spirit needs places where nature has not been rearranged by the hand of man. ~ Author Unknown.
In chapter 62, Hawkeye has finished her story on the Ishval war/massacre. Edward/Ed comments that it will be hard for Roy since their country is a military country. Hawkeye says that everyone who participated in the war would then pay for their crimes in order to ensure peace in the future. They all know it and they have no qualms about it. Edward doesn’t want that since he wants everyone to be happy. Hawkeye says that it is like him, who would do everything to bring back Al/Alfonse’s body. She told Ed that she is trying to think positive about being station to Bradley. Ed leaves and told her to pass the message to Roy that Scar is still around and thanked her for telling everything to him. Meanwhile, Knox is also telling the same story to Al, Ran Fan and Mei as he told them that he is the examiner for all the bodies that Roy burnt and because of that, he doesn’t want them [Ran and Mei] to fight. Al then bid Knox goodbye as he is going back to the hotel. Mei then thanks him for helping her. Al introduced himself and told Mei to keep it [his body is just a hollow armor] a secret. Mei then wondered if he looks like Ed. Al quickly became defensive and enumerated his ‘would-be’ features which is the opposite of Ed. Mei imagined it and falls for him as she hopes that he gets his body back.
While walking Al was thinking about how things turned out that way when they just wanted to see their mother again through alchemy. Then, he saw Ed coming towards him. Ed was going to get Al from Knox. Both brothers muses about knowing what happened at the war and wonders what they would the future. Then, Ed remembers that Mei and Scar were able to use alchemy when all of them couldn’t. Ed wanted to interrogate Mei the next day. At the dungeon, Scar was very angry over hearing it all but then, doesn’t want to kill Marcoh. Scar then asks him to tell him about Kimbley and wanted him to decipher some of his brother’s notes. Scar had a plan for them to escape. Later on, Father and Envy went to check on Marcoh only to find a bloodied mess with a word revenge on the wall. Envy was angry for Scar got Marcoh but then, Father noticed that one of chimera is missing and wonders about it. Outside, Scar led Marcoh to the slums so he won’t stand out, wearing rags.
Ed and Al were shocked that Mei had already left, since she wanted to find her companion, Scar. Ed goes crazy over wanting a manhunt for Mei as Al keeps Ed in check. Mei managed to find Scar and others. She got introduced to Marcoh. Scar told them that Marcoh was the one who made the philosopher’s stone. Mei asked how it is done but Scar told her not to know. Scar said that he spared Marcoh since he could be used and destroyed Marcoh’s face so that he won’t be recognized by the others. Scar told the others that after Mei stops Marcoh’s bleeding, they would head to the North where he kept his brother’s notes. At the military, Roy’s men went to their new assignments. Hawkeye warned Roy about Scar and told him not to die. She then bid him goodbye. After she left, Roy took out some chess pieces and from the king piece, he opened the bottom and there was a note in it. In some bar, Roy then gave the paper to the woman bartender. From a military office, Graham gets a call from the woman bartender as Graham muses that they still have a use for him. Somewhere, Ed and Al are still looking for Mei by showing them a picture of Xiao Mei [panda].
In chapter 63, Ed and Al didn’t had any success in finding Mei. They were found by Roy though. They told him to help them find Mei and told him the reason. Roy then asked back the money he lend Ed. Ed was going to give it back but decided not to until Roy becomes the fuhrer and if that is done, he would get something from him again. Roy muses that it seems Ed doesn’t want him to die. They bid each other goodbye and to their shock, Roy was picking up a woman to give a ride. They promised themselves that they don’t want to become like Roy. Upon arriving on their hotel, they found Fuu who was waiting for them. They brought him to Ran. At first, Fuu was angry that she lost their master, Ling and she also lost her arm but later on, Fuu was sad about it. Ed wanted to introduce them to the Rockbells for they could make an automail for Ran. Fuu turned down the request since it is very risky since Winry is already being watched and he doesn’t want to involve Winry’s grandmother. Fuu said that they have done enough for them. Fuu and Ran got dressed in Western clothes and bid the others goodbye. Fuu thanked Knox for saving Ran as Ran also thanked him. Knox was speechless but then, told them to leave immediately and don’t get caught. Outside, Fuu told Ran that their king’s condition is worsening and they have to hurry and get back Ling and a way to immortality. Ran swears to return. From the military building, Greed Ling was watching.
Back at Knox house, Knox muses that he became a doctor again for saving Ran. Then, he has visitors – it is his wife and his son. They greeted each other. Knox told them that he is still doing an autopies but lately, he helped two people. His son was happy about it and proudly pronounces that he would also be going to become a doctor. Knox tried to tell him what he did during the war but his son insist that he shouldn’t be bound by the past and they can still save people. Knox asked why he is being thoughtful/optimistic. His son replies that it is because they are family. Knox then invites them in as he prepares some coffee. He silently prays that they can enjoy the coffee even after all the things he had done. At the station in East City, Mei bought some groceries as she overhears some military searching for Scar. She then bumped into an old woman who helped her pick up the things she dropped. When there was an announcement for the northbound train, Mei hurries for it as she thanked the old woman. The old woman then noticed Xiao Mei running towards Mei who is holding to a guy in cloak – probably Marcoh.
In prison, Kimbley got a pardon and got released from prison. He still have a crystal philopher’s stone. Everyone was shocked as to how could he had been released. Kimbley then played a trick on the guard by making a time bomb watch which couldn’t be removed. When the time is up, only a chick on spring came out – like jack in the box. When outside, a vehicle was waiting for him. It was Envy using the form of Havoc. Envy showed his real form to Kimbley who then realized that they got him out. Envy told Kimbley that they are quite shorthanded lately so they wanted him to help. He briefed Kimbley that Marcoh escaped and could be with Scar. Kimbley’s mission is to get Marcoh back and to teach him a lesson by destroying the town that Marcoh loves using a philosopher’s stone made from Marcoh’s assistants since the one that Kimbley has isn’t powerful enough. The other one was to kill of Scar. Envy gave him some money and files about the job.
At Hughes’ grave, Roy was standing there when the old woman who bumped into Mei was there. They muses about another death as a funeral passes by. To Roy’s surprise, the old woman turned out to be Graham. Roy then told him that the homoculi and that the Central are involved. Graham remembered Raven telling him about making soldiers immortal but he was against it. Graham was then demoted to East Headquarters. Then, Graham mentioned about Cornello, the priest on Letoism [chapter 1] who made trouble before but was stopped by Ed but then, the east military were stopped from getting involved as the Central got in on it. With Central on it, things got worse. Roy asked that Graham wouldn’t let things go bad in his territory and he can actually do lots of things since the East army is the largest and strongest army in the country. Graham laughs as he gets all fired up again as he thought of his ambition [to be on top again, I guess]. Roy then asked if he wants to have a cup of tea. Graham turns him down then notices the picture of the panda that Roy is carrying. In Central library, Ed is still researching about Xing and found no information on it. He thought of going to Xing but then the prospect of passing the desert makes it impossible for his automail easily heats up. Armstrong then came and passes on the message regarding the panda that he learned from Roy. Ed was happy and wants to go to the North as soon as possible. Armstrong then gave a sealed letter of introduction to Ed to carry it with him for he might not know if it would be useful or not. Armstrong told him it is for Briggs Armstrong who is at North Headquarters.
And so the history lesson has finally ended. Everyone are moving ahead after their ‘defeat’. New characters are introduced. I guess Roy does still have some cards left. It is interesting that Kimbley is back in the story. The story’s setting would then be on the North. Mm..did Ed’s father also went that way? I do wonder about Ling though..he seems to be still himself in some way or did he had a deal with Greed since he actually see Fuu and Ran off. I’m quite doubtful that he would be just watching the city lights. I’m amused that Al and Mei are being paired off. I wonder what is the relation of Armstrong with Briggs though.
Thought of the day:
He who cannot forgive breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass. ~ George Herbert.
Blood+ [Chapter 14]
Tuesday, September 12, 2006 @ 04:27 p.m.
Diva yawns as she is quite bored and hopes that the carnage in the ship finishes up soon for she can’t wait to play with Saya. Elsewhere, Ansem noticed that Diva stopped singing. He then called up Van who was on a helicopter above. Ansem told Van to release the test subjects so that he can observe them. Meanwhile, everyone are still busy rescuing others as there was an announcement regarding the damage to the ship. Saya, Haji and Kai arrived as Kai says that it seemed that there are a lot of people in ‘Red Shield’. Saya felt a bit guilty. Kai then says that he is worried about Riku. Then, they were distracted by a woman who was screaming in grief over a demise colleague as she shouted why did one of their own [Saya] has done this. The woman then threw a piece of metal [I would have said a rock but then, they are on ship ^^; so I’m assuming it is a piece of the wreckage] on Saya’s forehead. It wounded Saya. The woman shouted for Saya to bring back the deceased man and called Saya a ‘monster’. Saya was just surprised for she couldn’t react. David then came and stopped the woman from throwing another thing at Saya. David told the woman that joining Red Shield, she must have known the possibilities of such things happening. The woman slapped his hand away and run away.
David then asked if Saya is alright. Saya just replies that she has taken away their loved ones so it is not surprising that they would lash out on her. David was about to show Saya a cross with a crystal when Lewis called their attention about a helicopter above. David looks up to see some kids on helmets with black capes. When they smiled, fangs showed. Before David knew it, one of them is behind his back, ready to attack. David managed to evade it as Lewis fires on the assailant. The wound immediately heals as Saya shouted that it is a chiroptera. Saya quickly fights and was even wounded on her face [left cheek]. She managed to defeat it using her blood on the sword. Kai asked if she is alright as Saya wonders why this is happening now. Then, they realized that they were surrounded. David asked if they are chevaliers. Saya says that they aren’t, they are like humans though isn’t really the same. Then, Saya noticed that the wound on her left cheek wouldn’t heal. There was a scream. Kai said that they must be attacking and Saya thought there isn’t much time left – [the ship is sinking, I assume].
In the clinic, Riku was bloodied on the floor. I guess he tried to resist Solomon from kidnapping him. Solomon carries unconscious Riku on his shoulder when he noticed one of the helmet-cape soldier, whose face was crystallized. He checks it out as he thought that this is what his brother [Ansem] planned for D67 [the medicine to make humans into chiroptera]. As he removed the helmet, Solomon was shocked as he wondered what is this all about. [Mm..it looked like Saya though most of the face is covered by Solomon’s hand] He then found Saya and Haji fighting. He was even more surprised that their wounds aren’t healing. Elsewhere, Ansem and Van were observing the fight via monitor. Ansem calls the helmet-cape soliders as Corpse Corps aka chiroptera killers. Van reports that the corpse corps can delay the healing of chiropteras and can heal immediately like chiropteras. Ansem approves of the corps fighting abilities as Van thanked him for his praise. Ansem smiles that bring them to Red Shield as testing area was quite a good idea.
Saya is still fighting though she seems to be tired as Haji covers her back. The corps doesn’t seem to be diminishing. David and Lewis are hiding behind some wreckage. Lewis said that those kid chiroptera [corps] are quite strong. David noticed that he doesn’t have much bullets left and wondered what is happening for the wounds of Saya and Haji aren’t healing. Then, one of the corps grabbed Saya’s face. Kai saw it and tries to go to her. David managed to grab his hand and hold him back, saying what he plans to do. While they argue about helping Saya, a corp jumps down on them. Saya saw it so she quickly disposes of the one holding her by cutting its hand and hurries to them. The corp cuts off Saya’s hand – the one with the sword. David, Kai and Hagi were shocked. Saya, in her fit of anger or rather adrenaline rush, shoved her bleeding wrist into the corp’s mouth. She shouted for it to drink and the corp’s body crystallized. Many more corps prepares to attack that she waved her cut off wrist around and her blood slashed on the corps’ faces which blinded them as Saya shouted for the others not to come near. Saya was then breathing heavily as Kai calls out to her. Saya then smiles and looks up to Kai while holding her bleeding wrist. She asked him if he is hurt. Kai then asked why did she did such a thing. Saya then says that it is because she doesn’t want another loved one to die that she even caused a lot of trouble for the Red Shield – killing innocent people and wrecking the ship headquarters. She then says that she isn’t really asking for forgiveness but she will protect everyone.
Saya then tells David, trying to smile, that such a monster like her shouldn’t even be stay at Red Shield. David then told Saya that his father died in the Vietnam war in Saya’s hands. The cross with the crystal is his memento. He said that if he said he doesn’t hate her, he would be lying but then, he wants to finish his father’s works of wanting to get rid of all the chiroptera. Her powers make it possible. Even if she is a monster, he will still work with her for his goal. Saya smiles as it seems to have cheered her up. Kai then taps Saya’s back and showed her cut off hand. Saya freaks out. Kai asks why she is freaking out. Saya says it is because of the way Kai is holding it. Kai then tears off a part of his sleeve and uses it as a bandage to hold together Saya’s hand to her wrist. Saya then asks that this is the current situation doesn’t he feel bad. Kai says that he understands how she feels though he doesn’t want her to do things recklessly for she is a girl. Saya blushes until Kai mentions that he actually saw her panty when her skirt flies up. Saya freaks out. One of the corps is still alive and was going to attack them when it was fired from above by a machine gun. There was a helicopter above and it was Joel who was asking if they are alright. He told them to evacuate the ship for it is sinking and ride on the helicopter. Kai then remembered Riku and asked Joel where Riku was. Joel pauses then told them that Riku was kidnapped by a chevalier. Julia tried to stop him but was severly injured. Kai wanted to go back for he wanted to save Riku. It made David angry and shouted back that Kai doesn’t even know where Riku was. Kai said that it isn’t the problem but more of he couldn’t leave for his own safety and leaving Riku behind. Saya was a bit stunned over the news when an image of injured Riku flashes on her mind. She became worried as she looks at Kai and thought that it isn’t possible.
Saya tugs on Haji’s sleeve and told him something. She then told Kai and the others to escape as she will be the one who would rescue Riku. Kai then said what is she talking about for she isn’t really in good condition [to fight]. Saya then grabs on Kai as she buries her face on his chest. Kai was surprised. Then, Saya with tears, smiling, told him not to look under girls’ skirt again. Saya runs off as Kai shouts that she is the one letting people see it. Kai tries to call Saya back but was stopped by Haji. Haji told him that only Saya and he would be going to save Riku. Kai tries to protest but Haji tossed him in the helicopter. Kai goes near the helicopter door as the helicopter prepares to leave. Kai shouts at Haji for being stupid and why did he did that. Haji says that if there are no humans, Saya could concentrate on fighting. Kai insist that it isn’t the problem and that it is because he is Saya’s ..[brother] but he didn’t finish as Haji says that he is Saya’s lover. It stunned Kai long enough for Haji to close the helicopter’s door. As the helicopter flies up, David wasn’t too happy about leaving Saya behind either. David then thought protesting about it is useless when the person isn’t there. Then, David noticed that Kai is being quiet, just staring outside the window, still stunned. David asked what’s up with him. Kai just replied that it is nothing and then he tries to say something. David thought that Kai has gone crazy/flipped out as Lewis told David to let Kai be. Below the ship, Haji remembers Saya hugging Kai and muses that Kai still lacks guts/what it takes to be an adult/guy -something like that.
Somewhere in the ship, Diva wakes up. Nathan who was watching her told Diva that sleeping in such a place could have killed her if Saya came. Nathan tells her to just go back home. Diva refuses. Diva says that Ansem’s ‘corps’ died one by one and Red Shield is finished. Nathan then says that isn’t that what Diva wanted. Diva kept on ranting about things not being fun and snubs Nathan. She laments that Karl her playmate is also gone. It was more fun before for Ansem would be beside her always and Saya would always visit her. She then remembers when she was chained inside the room. Saya exclaims about not having a name. Diva laughs that no one calls her anyway so she doesn’t need a name. Saya was angry about it and says that she will think of a name for her. Saya then suggests Diva since she likes to sing. Saya tells her that will be how she will call her from then on. Diva repeats her name. Saya then asks if she doesn’t like it. Diva then asks Saya to call her name again and again. Back to present, Diva then muses that in that dungeon, only Saya is her sun. Diva smiles and stands up. She says that for that dream, she has agreed with Ansem not to meet with Saya until the dream was accomplished. Diva shouts that she doesn’t care about that anymore for if Ansem doesn’t want to play with her, she is going to play with Saya. Diva then gleefully smiles about it. Below, Haji returns to tell Saya that Kai and others have safely left. Saya smiles with relief and prepares her sword as she is going to defeat Diva and rescue Riku. There is a really nice colorspread of Saya, Hagi and Kai for this chapter. ^_^ And an ad for the Blood+ game.
This is quite a surprising chapter. First, the corpse corps can actually wound Saya and Haji and for the wounds not to heal/slow to heal. I was pretty surprised when Saya’s hand got cut off. I’m guessing that it will attach back later on. I think the corpse corps are using Diva’s blood or was created from it as mentioned in the anime hence the effect on Saya and Haji. Second, Haji actually saying that he is Saya’s lover. The effect was as Haji expected of Kai. It does seem that Ansem is the real boss here and used Diva’s wanting to see Saya as an excuse to test out his corpse corps. Solomon was actually surprised about the corps so I wonder if that would be the reason of their falling out as in the anime. Nathan has been demoted to babysitter of Diva. ^^; It does appear that Diva really likes Karl that she considers him her playmate. I guess this is a reason why Karl here is a child while in the anime, he isn’t. Does Diva knew that Ansem had sacrificied Karl? Apparently, Diva wanted Riku to replace Karl as her playmate. And well, Diva here is really childlike. There was an emphasis on Saya naming her Diva and well, Diva really is fond of Saya as the one who befriended her when no one else wouldn’t. Did Ansem left Diva there since she isn’t useful to him anymore [his corpse corp is finished] or would he rescue her from Saya if Saya attacks? I think Saya talking to Diva would actually help more than trying to kill Diva since Diva adores Saya and would probably do whatever Saya wants of her. Obviously, I thought that there isn’t a need for Saya to kill Diva.
Thought of the day:
Life is like a game of cards. The hand you are dealt is determinism; the way you play it is free will. ~ Jawaharial Nehru.
Weekly Jump Update: Bleach, D. Gray-man, Naruto and One Piece
Monday, September 11, 2006 @ 08:28 p.m.
In Bleach [c. 242], Ishida is dragging Ichigo, running away from the hollow as Sado is also running. Ichigo asks why they are running away that Ishida pointed out that they could be in the basement and if they fight there, the structure might collapse. Then, they were in an open area. Ishida wanted to go further upwards but another hollow blocks their path. Ishida pointed out that they aren’t that powerful as the human-looking arrancar that they have met on the human world. One of them wasn’t too happy to hear that they attack Ishida. Then, some minor evading and teamwork, Sado managed to finished off one of them and Ishida shows his new power. When I saw Ishida’s new bow, I quickly thought, isn’t that Usopp’s kabuto? ^^; Anyway, this chapter is just to show that Ishida and Sado has become more powerful than before while Ichigo takes the sidelines- just watched or rather forced to watch. Hehe
Allen has arrived in D. Gray-man [c. 89] but then, the Count and the Noahs have retreated. At first, Rabi and Kanda thought that Allen was an akuma. There is the usual insult fighting of Kanda and Allen. It turned out that the Count has other plans and told Tiki that his ‘work’ of killing Allen has came back. They seemed to have rode on the ark that Allen rode on. The Noahs who were after Cross were too late for Cross had already left. At some place, Theodore briefed Bookman as to why he was there and that Cross actually planned everything. He told them to get away from the fight since only few exorcists are left in the world. Meanwhile, Allen had a brief reunion with Rinali only for her to disappear all of a sudden. And so, the Count has planned something for Rinali’s innocence is indeed special and well, could be the heart innocence everyone was looking for. I would rather it be in some unlikely person though ya, the first assumption before is it was on Allen’s. Anyway, I wonder if the trio – Allen, Kanda and Rabi would be on a mission together on well, damsel-in-distress Rinali mission. That would be fun though.
While in Naruto [c. 322], Naruto continues his training and passes out. Yamato and Kakashi has to seal his fox spirit which tried to get out. Kakashi told Yamato that this training would be worth it later on. Kakuzu has finished counting his money and told the guy in charge that he couldn’t kill Hidan and that is a reason why Hidan is his partner. Outside, Hidan thought that Kakuzu has finally come out to his surprise, it is Asuma and the others. Yehey, finally some action though I’m not hoping for a really drag out one like the fight of Naruto and Sasuke before. Anyway, we will get to know the powers of these two Akatsuki.
In One Piece [c. 426], the trashed tower revealed Lucci and Luffy fighting. The crew briefed Luffy on the situation of Robin being saved and that they are just waiting for him. Luffy was happy about that as he tries to finish the fight. The Admirals then focus their attack on the crew and taking Robin with them. Everyone was fighting except for Kokoro and others who says they are just civilians. Around this time, Sanji has gone missing again. Meanwhile, Lucci told Luffy that he isn’t going to let them get away and he would hunt them all down even if they escape. Luffy said that he won’t let that happen. In the end, Luffy was caught off guard and was stabbed. He had fallen on the ground. Usopp saw it and was almost killed by a marine if it haven’t been for Zoro. Usopp then took off his mask and shouted for Luffy. That was quite a surprise. Luffy was defeated in the boss fight. Sanji is missing so he could be busy doing a back-up plan as he always does. I wonder if Usopp would do something since in this arc, he was under-utilized. There is a colorspread this time, it is nice.
Thought of the day:
You cannot teach what you do not know, nor lead where you do not go. ~ Our Daily Bread.
Gantz (Phase One)
Friday, September 8, 2006 @ 08:11 p.m.
I had been reading some online Chinese manga lately and saw Gantz. I decided to read it for the heck of it since I had been mildly interested in it before though I’m not too thrilled over what I read about aliens and sex scenes. It turned out to be quite good though I find there are a lot of fanservice for guys. ^^;; Not surprising for this ran in Young Jump aimed at guys. I read halfway in Chinese – well, browse through really, then the other half in English when the translators changed to simplified Chinese. I can more or less understood what happened in the Chinese since nothing much is revealed yet and well, most of it is action. Anyway, the story is about this young high schooler, Kei who is into porn and tends to think of himself. At the train station, he met his childhood friend Katou. Katou being a goody-two-shoes, decided to help a guy who jumped into the tracks and got Kei to help. Well, they got hit by the train and got teleported to a room with a huge black sphere. There are also some people there who are also confused as they were. A girl was also teleported in, Kishimoto. Then, from the sphere, comes out weapons and suits according to their names. Inside the sphere is this naked man. They were told of an alien target and then there was a countdown. One of them Nishi, seems to know what’s his doing and when they are about to confront him, he gets teleported.
Everyone else were also teleported but then, only Kei followed what Nishi did by getting a suit, too. The others found the target, who was a kid and they killed him. It turned out that the father was the real target who went on a rampage and killed them all. Kei discovered that he powered up because of the suit and managed to hold his own against the alien but when he was in trouble, Katou saved him. In the end, the alien was caught and teleported. Only Kei, Katou, Kishimoto and Nishi survived. They learned that Nishi isn’t an amateur but then, he won’t reveal what he knows. He told them a bit about stuff and that the black sphere is called Gantz. They all return back to their homes. Kei turned out to be some loser and has a tendency to be bullied. He lives alone as he requested from his parents whose attention were on his younger brother who is taller and brighter than he is. Katou and his younger brother lives an aunt who felt that they were a burden so Katou wanted to move out of there. Kishimoto is suicidal and for some reason, there is someone identical to her in her house so she left to live with Kei. Kei is more than happy to take her in since he was obsessed with her body. ^^;; Then, a beeping sound and they were all summoned in again in the black room with new strangers. Katou driven by his sense of fairness, told everyone to wear suits and brief them what he knows. Since Kei had brought his suit home to protect him from bullying, he didn’t bring it with him for that mission. Katou swears to protect him since he is the reason why Kei is there.
The next mission is this alien who looks like a puppet but inside, is this alien bird creature. It turned out that there are more of them. Nishi and others got killed. It was Kei who finished off the big bird, if I recall and it is amazing since he didn’t brought his suit. In real life, Kishimoto is in love with Katou and Kei got irritated that he lash out on her so Kishimoto left his house. A yakuza who kept on showing off Gantz weapons were killed because Gantz kills off those who could reveal its existence. Then, they were summoned again. This time to a temple and their targets are these huge Buddhist statues. Kei felt snubbed by Kishimoto that he did it with this new girl who suspiciously looke like Lara Croft [Tomb raider] ^^; Then, he was in a high that he finished off the two huge statues. Thinking it was over, it turned out that, which seems to be the pattern, after killing the target, it makes other aliens/comrades attack them. In the end, they managed to kill all of the aliens but then, only Kei makes it alive as Kantou sealed off his wounds and after the time limit, Kei is still alive. There are also some romance tragic deaths, too. Anyway, in the next mission, to Kei’s shock, he is all alone. The next target looks somewhat like Freezer from Dragonball. After teleporting one, many appeared. He managed to kill all of them except one. It later on came to hunt him in school just when a new student, Izumi got transferred in. Izumi, who reminds me of Takumi from Nana, seems to know a bit about Gantz ahd he questioned Kei about it. Kei denies it or else, he would be dead and around this time, he has a girlfriend, Tae. It was actually a dare for him to be his girlfriend for a couple of weeks. Anyway, the alien decided to kill off all of the students in his class as revenge for his comrades.
Kei at first just walks off from the scene but later on, wanted to save Tae so he returned for her. In the end, he managed to finish off the alien but only him, Tae and Izumi survived in their class. They got transferred to different classes. Around this time, there are new characters introduced. Sakurai being bullied and got his revenge when he got trained by Sakata to use telepathic powers and Kaze who is this huge guy who loves to fight. Then, Izumi has this idea of wanting to go back to Gantz so he went on a murdering spree [killed Sakurai, Sakata and Kaze] in the hope that Kei would kill him. He even used Tae as hostage. Kei managed to kill him off but then, he died, too. Both were teleported to the room. Kei got knocked out by Isumi. When Kei woke up, only Reika, a famous teen idol and this middle age man remains. Kei told them to suit up and he is worried for himself since he doesn’t have his own suit. The next target is this marshmallow looking man but then, the other targers are dinosaurs. They managed to defeat all as they were impressed with Kei though there are some casualties. After the killings, a new group of people came and attacked them. They turned out to be vampires who hates humans. Back at the room, Kei brief everyone about what’s happening as Izumi is slightly jealous of Kei since he doesn’t have a suit and yet managed to get a high score. Everyone then goes to training sessions with Kei except for Inaba [who doesn’t acknowledge Kei] and Izumi. Around here, it is interesting that in Kei’s ordinary life, he is called a loser and such while in his Gantz’s life, he is revered by everyone. Also, Kei’s brother, Akira turned out to be vampire.
Things then went to romance as Kei plans on separating with Tae so as not to involve her with all the things happening. Just when Kei went on a ‘date’ with Reika who had a crush on Kei. Kei has already fallen for Tae and on their mission – some horse knight alien, Tae was there. Kei was charged up to finish everything before Tae was involved since Tae was at the scene. After teleporting, they were told to kill off Tae for she knew of their existence – she has taken pictures and saw them. Kei was in a conflict and tried to save her but in the end, she got killed. Kei was unconsolable until he learned that if one gets 100 points, they have three choices, one: to be free but memories erased, two: get a special weapon or three: revive those in the memory bank which included Tae. In the next mission are these overly powerful ‘oni/demon’ aliens who seems to know the vampires. They managed to finish them all with a finale of Kei-Izumi finish on the final boss. They were puzzled since the rules of the game is changing that everyone can actually see them – before they couldn’t and there is no time limit anymore. At the room, five members got 100+ points. Izumi had it exchanged with a powerful weapon. Sakata to revive his student Sakurai who got killed in the mission. The other three, Reika, middle aged man and Kaze had it exchanged on reviving those whom Kei wanted to – Tae, Katou and Nishi, respectively. Finally, Kei asked for option one to be freed though memories erased since everyone thought he deserved it.
So, all those character development on Kei are all gone as he is back to his old self. He is a bit confused and scared that he was suppose to be Tae’s boyfriend but later on, they are trying to be friends and remember what happened. Then, there was this reporter Kikuchi who is investigating about Gantz. He went to the vampires’ lair and exchanged information. He sold out Izumi who was killed when he tried to protect this girl/ his girlfriend. It is a bit sad that the others that know of the attack didn’t help him. Guess it is like karma for what he did before. But then, from the tv broadcast, they managed to track down Kei. Akira tries to warn him about it but then, Kei is clueless but still, he followed Akira’s advice to be prepared for vampires hates sunlight. He bought some sunlamps and made improvised weapons. He even called up Reika about it. On that night, Kei managed to fight them off and as the others arrived, to their dismay, they are already being called to the room. Kei tried to finish off the vampire boss who has killed of Akira for ratting to Kei but then, Kei wasn’t good enough that he got killed. Reika tried to teleport him back but then a female vampire got her and both teleports as the boss vampire teleports with the middle aged man. So, phase one ends with the lead of the manga, Kei, dead. ^^;; The continuation would be on November 16. From the preview, the vampires did got to teleport with them but then, I doubt they were killed for they got teleported to a place for their mission. Kantou plans to reviving Kei.
Whew, that was 237 worth of chapters wherein a chapter is about 18-20 pages. The story is pretty good with all the twists and turns. It is also gripping since the author is willing to kill anyone just for the sake of the story, even the lead. I even have to psyche myself not to get attached to any characters for they can die but then, now, there is a possibility that they can be revived. It somehow give a similar feel of Death Note to it though instead of battling wits, it is more on fighting, and will to live. I was a bit amused that vampires are even included in the story though I somewhat thought that vampires-aliens don’t mix. Kei’s character development is quite good that I found myself rooting for him in the missions when earlier, I don’t quite care for him. The art is quite good and I read that the backgrounds are cg to look realistic. Actually, too realistic that the blood, gore and everything else is indeed realistic than I want it to be that I felt nauseous at some scenes. ^^; This manga isn’t for everyone and well, the series is for adults. I think that this should be read as a whole for some cliffhangers are really good and well, some chapters feel short/nothing happened in them but as a whole, it is important. So for phase two, I’m not quite sure what to expect with Kei ripped, and what happens next especially in their next mission with no ‘powerful’ ones since Kei and Izumi are dead. It felt like a tag team that Kei is now gone, two people from the first mission replaces him and well, Izumi. Anyway, until November then to see if it is downhill from here, say Death Note or it will still be as good like before.
Thought of the day:
Human life is purely a matter of deciding what's important to you. ~ Anonymous.
Ayaori is sleeping in class and he dreamt of the night when some people were calling out to him to open the door for they wanted to talk to him. He was still young. When he opened the door, they were detectives who wanted to talk to him. I wonder if the paper they are holding is a search warrant. After school, Yukari and Ayaori met. Yukari wanted to ask him about Youko but hesitated. Youko just thought that she should just concentrate on knowing Yasu-kang company and get more jobs for Ryou. At the office, Yukari was surprised at the amount of offers that came for Ryou. Yukari told the president that she will do her best in picking the right ones for Ryou.
On the way to the company, Ryou was met by the Yasu-kang couple. [I made a mistake, it turned out that Ebisu is the bald guy and well, Kano is the lady. Kano is like a headhunter/recruiter: getting people from other company for the company he/she is working for]. Ryou says he has work and tries to walk away but then, Kano asks if he ‘likes’ Ayaori, the no. 1 star. She continues that their relationship is quite good and being on the same company, Peacock. Ryou said that Ayaori is his competition though he respects Ayaori so they shouldn’t asks such nonsense questions. Kano says that they came for him just because of that. Ryou tries to leave but Ebisu holds him to prevent him from escaping. Ryou was surprised when Kano says that the ‘criminal’ is near him, how does it feel? Does he think that Yasu-kang doesn’t know about it? Just then, Narazaki is passing by and notices them. He walks away for Yukari wasn’t there. All of a sudden, Ebisu rushes to Narazaki that Ryou called out to Narazaki to watch out. Narazaki prevented Ebisu’s punch from behind by using his wooden katana. Kano was angry at Ebisu for running off and reprimands him. Kano says that’s it for now and told Ryou to think about things.
At the company, Yukari happily shows to Ryou the offers that they had but Ryou’s reaction wasn’t too happy. He told her that he would dress up first then they can go home. Ryou just finished some acting training class. After Ryou left, Yukari thought that Ryou would be more happy about the offers when she easily evaded Narazuki’s attack. Narazuki praised her and that she has become a good manager. He told her that he just met someone who fought with him and Yukari’s stance is really different. Yukari blushes as Narazuki praised her for having attain self-confidence. Yukari thought that Narazuki is trying to cheer her up for she has been a bit uneasy about her discovery regarding Youko and Yasu-kang company. Yukari then asks if the one who fought him was a bald guy. [Where did Yukari got his picture? ^^;] Narazaki said that it is the guy and it seemed that Ryou also knew them. Yukari was surprised as to why they approached Ryou and quickly left to go to the president.
She suddenly thought that maybe Ayaori isn’t the one in danger but Ryou. She called out to the president and says that she has something to report. In the office, Yukari asked about the thing between Ryou and Ayaori. The president then told Yukari that he has a ‘good eye’ and he used to work in Yasu-kang. Does Yukari know whom he had his eye on. Yukari immediately answered that it is Youko. The president smiles and says that it seems that Yukari also has a ‘good eye’. The president says that before he isn’t a famous manager but whenever he sees her, he thought to himself, this person will be a superstar – it turned out that Youko used to have glasses and her hair is in pigtails. Since Yasu-kang isn’t really paying much attention to her or helping him out, he decidd to form his own company, Peacock and got Youko. They made lots of movies and shows that she got many nominations at the lion award. Yukari then told him that she has saw her when she was eight years old, and had noticed her silver rainbow wings. The president then asks if this is destiny and then, asks if Ryou’s wings are like that, too. Yukari then thought about it when Ryou sometimes sprout larger wings and told the president, it is the same. The president then says, no wonder she is the mother. Yukari was surprised for she learns that Youko is actually Ryou’s mother. Meanwhile, while they were talking, Ryou was looking for Yukari. The secretary says that it seems she and the president is having a long talk. Ryou then told the secretary that he is leaving ahead and asks her to tell Yukari. Obviously, he is going to talk with the Yasu-kang group.
Well, it is obvious that Yasu-kang has an ax to grind at Peacock. The president created a rival company and ‘stole’ one of their talents but then, it is Yasu-kang’s group fault for not discovering Youko’s talents. Their plan seems to be recruit back ‘Youko’ by getting Ryou then they can use him to rival against Ayaori. From Kano’s hints and Ayaori’s flashback, it does seem that Ayaori’s relative/father is the cause of the accident. The story would indeed be a good story for the press – the son of the actress and the son of the cause of the accident living together. It does seem that Ryou doesn’t blame Ayaori but then, why blame Ayaori when he doesn’t have anything to do with the accident. I do wonder why Ebisu attacked Narazaki. Do they have a relation or Ebisu just wanted to test his strength? Ebisu also seem to have an interest in Yukari during the party. Hehehe, people here likes to pat heads. ^^;; It is also interesting to note that Youko’s change from ordinary to pretty is pretty much like Ayaori’s – ordinary to handsome, complete with glasses. Hidden admiration? Next chapter from the raws, Ryou falls for the trap as Yukari and Ayaori to the rescue.
Thought of the day:
Jumping at several small opportunities may get us there more quickly than waiting for one big one to come along. ~ Hugh Allen.
Weekly Jump Update: Naruto, One Piece, Bleach and D. Gray-man
Monday, September 4, 2006 @ 05:21 p.m.
In Naruto [c. 321], Kakashi just told Naruto that the rasengan which was taught to him is actually unfinished and that Naruto has the possibility of finishing uup the technique. The two Akatsuki has finished collecting their bounty and are about to leave while Asuma and others are still trying to find them. Asuma told Shikamaru that the one taken was an old friend. Nothing much I can say here. So moving on, to One Piece [c. 425], the ship is ready and they are only waiting for Luffy to come to them. The admirals reported that they have finished the bombing and will proceed to the bridge [where the others were] which was the only one left. They then learned that the Franky family, shipwrights, frog, giants and everyone else who helped them has been bombed by the admirals. Chopper then thought that if Luffy haven’t fought with Lucci, there would be casualties among them. Nami said that it must have been Luffy’s instinct. Meanwhile, Luffy and Lucci are still fighting but it is somewhat of a tie. Nothing to say here either, maybe the next chapter would be the conclusion of the fight but then, they still have to worry about escaping from the admirals.
In Bleach [c.241], the trio are making their way into Huenco Mundo. Chad falls and Ishida taunts them for having a hard time. Ichigo said that he is cheating for he is using his powers to make a flatform that he can glide on the ‘path’. Chad then asked Ishida about his dad’s deal about not dealing with shinigami to get his powers back so why is he there. Ichigo then exclaims that it is the first time he heard of it. Ishida then said it is so. A bit of flashback wherein Ryuuken is taking a smoke outside the training area while Ishida is all worn out from practice. Urahara then came by making a hole then told Ishida that he wants a word with him and it is a good thing that Ryuuken wasn’t there. Ishida learned that Inoue was abducted by arrancar as ordered by Aizen. Ishida protests that Urahara leave for he isn’t going to help Ichigo in rescuing Inoue for he would do it himself. Then, he realized that Urahara just said that Ichigo will be going alone, too. Urahara told him that the soul society won’t be involved in the matter so Ichigo decided to go on his own. Ishida then said that he would go with Urahara. End of flashback. Ichigo asked what that the it doesn’t matter for he is still a shinigami. Ishida insists that Ichigo is just a substitute shinigami who was abandoned by soul society so he isn’t really breaking the deal. Ichigo says that he is being tricky but Ishida insist that he would make a good lawyer. Ichigo then says, that is why he is being tricky. The two argue as Chad smiles that the two are quite similar.
At the training area, Ryuuken returns only to find a piece of paper instead of Ishida. Someone from behind then told him that it seemed that Ishida has escaped. Ryuuken then asked what he was doing there. It was Ishin. Then, Ryuuken noticed that Isshin got his powers back. Isshin asked him how it looked. Ryuuken says that he wants to vomit. Isshin asked if he isn’t going to look at Ishida’s note. Ryuuken said that he already knows what is written so why bother. Isshin said that it seemed that he deliberately let Ishida go. Ryuuken told him that he just helped Ishida gain his powers back and it is up to Ishida if he wants develop it or not, if he wants to live or die. Isshin said that Ryuuken is such an awful dad. Ryuuken says that at least, he is a bit better than Isshin. Isshin pauses, looking at the moon and said he is right.
Also, looking at the moon, Inoue thought that the arrancar told them to keep still but she is bored and getting hungry. She then thought that her powers could actually help revive many more strong arrancar as what happened with Grimmjow. Remembering wounded Tatsuki and Ichigo, she thought that it is best to make it appear that she is useful so that the others could make their preparations for the battle ahead. Then, the whole place shakes. Aizen then muses that they have come. The trio has arrived at Huenco Mundo. Ichigo was surprised that it is like they are inside a building for he thought it would be a gross-like place. Ishida tries to keep him quiet but then, Ichigo still can’t get over his surprise. A hollow then found them, asking who they are.
This chapter pretty much confirms that Isshin and Ryuuken knew each other and even knew that Isshin has lost his powers before. It is really amusing for their relationship is like their son’s. Hehehe Ryuuken is indeed right when saying he is better than Isshin as a father for he actually trained his son while Isshin kept it a secret but then, maybe all those sudden attacks on Ichigo are actually Isshin’s way of training. ^^; I’m thinking that maybe Urahara personally knows Ryuuken, too. How could he have know about the deal? I’m thinking that Isshin is planning to ask Ryuuken to help or something for I don’t think he would go there just for some random chit-chat about their sons. I hope the author would write about their past. ^_^ And so, it is also interesting that Aizen expects a rescue group. Knowing him, he must have already assumed that soul society won’t do the rescuing and that Urahara would know how to get to Huenco Mundo so I’m guessing that he is actually expecting Ichigo and company or just Ichigo alone. It would be really amusing if there is also a past between Aizen and Isshin or even Ryuuken.
In D. Gray-man [c. 88], Tiki comments that the Count has really done it for flattening everything in sight then, it seems that he can still see an exorcist, making a ‘pose’. It was Kanda with hair down using his katana to stand up/not fall down. Kanda says that he won’t be fall by that. Mari then noticed that Bookman and Crowley’s heartbeat are faint. Miranda managed to save some of their escorts using her powers. Rabi calls out to Rinali only to find her incased in a crystal. Rinali is calling out to Rabi, Kanda and the others. The Count thought that Rinali’s innocence is interesting. Theodore then told Mari that the Count has gotten interested in Rinali. Mari calls out to Kanda who quickly stopped Tiki’s attack. Tiki said that he will get Rinali and so they fought. Then, Skin attacks Rabi. Theodore, using a cross, to form a being using trees to attack the akuma.
Rabi noticed that the Count has gone near Rinali who is still in the crystal. He calls out to her as the Count is preparing to attack. Inside the crystal, Rinali in lingerie, [She reminds me of Saya from Blood+ ^^;] were being attacked by akumas as she shout. In front is the Count when someone stopped the Count. Allen then says, Good evening, Count. Rinali turns around to see Allen’s clown innocence. Then, everyone noticed a light and the ark has arrived. The shadow on the floor showed a clown’s and the Count’s. With a tease butterfly flying, Allen is holding the Count’s hand. The Count then smiles and says good evening, it has been a long time, Allen Walker.
Allen does know how to make a grand entrance. I wonder if that will be the pairing for the fights. Allen vs Count, Kanda vs Tiki, Skin vs Rabi. I’m assuming that the other two Noahs after Cross would be for Bookman and Crowley for they doesn’t seem to be that strong. Rinali might be against Rhode for both seems to be important to their respective groups. Rinali’s innocence could indeed be the heart that they were looking for so would the Count then quit attacking the generals, minus Cross. Hopefully, next chapter would be good as this one.
Thought of the day:
Do what you can, with what you have, where you are. ~ Theodore Roosevelt.
Continuing on when Shou comes asking for Kyouko in Ren’s hotel room, Kyouko and Yashiro were shocked as Ren is surprised. Ren’s first thought was what is Shou doing there then remembered that Yashiro mentioned the possibility of meeting at Karuizawa. Then, Itsumi interrupts Ren’s thoughts as she calls out to Ren that she is also there. Kyouko wonders why Itsumi would be together with Shou. Itsumi explains that she is looking for Kyouko for she was worried as to where Kyouko could have gone. She thought that Kyouko would be with Shou so she called him but he doesn’t know where she is either. Then, she called up Ogata who told them that Kyouko could be at Ren’s room and so they are there. Itsumi was happy that Kyouko is alright. Kyouko then goes to Itsumi, thinking that she has wandered from their group when she saw Yashiro at the lounge and forgot to tell the others. She then profusely apologizes to Itsumi, telling her to hit her for being worrying her. Itsumi says that it is okay. Then, Yashiro insists that he was at fault for so she should hit him. Itsumi says that it is okay.
Shou then interrupts them that both Kyouko and Yashiro are not at fault for knowing already what had just happened earlier, this person [Ren] actually called Kyouko here would have ruined all the things they have done to keep all these, hush-hush. Shou then points to Ren as Kyouko and Yashiro were shocked for Shou is trying to irritate Ren. Ren then admits that it was his fault for he wasn’t thinking of his actions and to even make Itsumi worry about Kyouko. By this time, Kyouko and Yashiro are making terrified faces for Ren is smiling so shiny [he is angry]. Not knowing what’s behind it, Itsumi was embarrassed and said that it was okay for Kyouko is safe. Kyouko’s spirit antenna is going to Ren for it senses anger. Both Kyouko and Yashiro couldn’t face Ren as Shou was angry that trying to irritate Ren has failed.
Kyouko started freaking out when Ren calls her name and asks why does Shou, an outsider to the drama, would know what had happened that day. Shou was surprised as Kyouko was scared as she thought she plans to explain later on, not now. Ren calls out Kyouko’s name again, icy cold that Kyouko thought that if she delays it any longer, it would be worse and that she should already tell him while Ren is on ‘fake gentleman smile’. Then, Shou answers by asking why is he asking this now, didn’t he hear it from his manager. Kyouko and Yashiro were surprised that Shou is trying to agitate Ren again. Shou asked could it be that everyone in the set knows except him but it couldn’t be since he is the star of the drama and it would be embarrassing that his manager and even Itsumi knows about it, and he doesn’t...things like who actually saved Kyouko from the stalker. Ren had a reaction on that and Shou noticed.
Yashiro was confused about Shou saving Kyouko for wasn’t she suppose to have fallen down after being chased. Shou said that ‘being found unconscious’ is their alibi for everyone on the set. [Ah, Shou was implying that the details of what happened aren’t told to not-important people, so Ren isn’t important to Kyouko that she didn’t tell it to him.] Ren looked surprised as Yashiro freaks out that he was treated like ‘everyone’ else but then, it is okay for him..though..what about..Ren then looks at Kyouko who is now scared/flustered. She tries to say it wasn’t like that and she plans to tell him later on at the room but she couldn’t continue for Ren is already on his ‘angry look’. Everyone noticed it. Ren then apologizes and tells everyone that he wants to be alone. Ren couldn’t even face Kyouko as he went in and Kyouko looks as if she is going to cry. In a different room, Reino’s long haired band member came to see him. Reino is actually sleeping in a coffin placed on the bed, complete with sleeping bag and roses. Lol, he really likes ‘dark’ things. He asked what happened for they only got a sms about he is going to return to the hotel, only to find him collapsed in the forest. He said that it couldn’t be just being anemic for being out in the sun too long. [Ah, out in the sun too long, causes anemia?! ] Reino just looks at him and his friend asked if there is something that happened when he went to ‘Red Riding Hood’ – Kyouko.
On a bench, outside, Kyouko haven’t recovered yet as Yashiro tries to comfort her, saying that he was also at fault for not telling Ren earlier about Shou. He says that Ren would be angry for such a small thing, he doesn’t hold a grudge too long, and he might be back to normal the next day. But then, Yashiro is actually doubtful about everything he said for he knows the real reason why Ren is angry. Inside, Shou is getting some coffee from the vending machine as he was thinking about what had just happened. He thought that the first time he met Ren, Ren managed to control himself but when he mentioned about saving Kyouko, Ren’s reaction changed. He just wanted to imply that he is more important to Kyouko than Ren who was really being nice to his kouhai [opposite of sempai/experience-higher status]. But then, what was that reaction, Shou thought then, he finally realized that Ren could have feelings for Kyouko and that would be really bad. Then, thre is a scene of Ren, trying to cool off at the balcony.
And so, that ends the second confrontation of Shou and Ren. Ren does still manage to say cool until he got jealous. As expected, Ren couldn’t control himself when he is jealous. Hehehe Poor Kyouko, from happy meeting Ren to feeling she has disappointed him and well, she saw his ‘angry look’ again after all that happened since the last one which was before Dark Moon filming. Kyouko can’t be faulted about it though since she doesn’t want to spoil the mood when she is with Ren. Shou is well, still trying to irritate Ren and this round, he won since Ren backed away but then, Shou realized that Ren has feelings for Kyouko. Anyway, next chapter is nice – Kyouko meeting ‘Corn’ all over again. ^_^
Word of the day:
Bitter feelings can be sweetened when we take them to the Lord in prayer. ~ Our Daily Bread.
Ouran High Host Club [chapter 43]
Friday, September 1, 2006 @ 08:06 p.m.
In Tamaki second [I think Tamaki lives separte from the grandmother] residence at 5:00am on the forth day of summer vacation, an alarm clock is ringing. Tamaki woke up and dress up. As he goes down the stairs, the maids are still sleepy and the butler? is even in his sleeping clothes, carrying a pillow. ^^; The headmistress asked if he is going out again so early in the morning. Tamaki apologized for making them wake up so early and told them not to bother with him, they should just go back to sleep. She then asked about breakbast but Tamaki said no for he would eat some place else, and for them to take care of his dog. The dog looked at him sadly, am I going to guard the house again. Tamaki, complete with tears, hugs his dog and apologizes to it as he told it that he/she can come with him. And they left as the servants wonder where does Tamaki go so early in the morning.
In Haruhi’s residence at 6am, Haruhi and Ranka wakes up from a noise and they found Meiko sewing some clothes on the sewing machine. They asked why she is doing it so early in the morning. Meiko replied that she is sewing what she will wear that day and asked them to go back to sleep. They thought that they can’t sleep with the noise. Haruhi told her that the date is suppose to be in the afternoon so she should have lots of time to do that. Meiko said that during summer, she tends to make clothes and since she has a date with Tamaki and others, she doesn’t have time to make the clothes. Haruhi then asked if it is her homework. Meiko is irritated and calls Haruhi stupid and showed her her list of clothes that she wears everyday which she plans to make. Meiko then says that she is hungry and if there is anything to eat. Haruhi then offered to make her some. Meiko said even bread would be okay. Ranka then told her there are some buns that Misuzu made and called it ‘Meiko bread’ – it looked like Meiko. ^^; Meiko then took the buns and drowned it in water as Ranka and Haruhi thought that she is too much. Meiko told them not to mention that person’s name.
Flashback: Misuzu ended up going back to Karuizawa as she apologized to Haruhi and Ranka for the trouble. He told them that he wanted to bring Meiko with him and he even made an apron [frills and ribbons] for her. He told them that before their relations are really good for they would play making dresses for dolls and baking together but then, it can’t be helped for he has become this ‘different’ person that Meiko’s mother took Meiko to a different place. It is as Meiko said, he is a father who left his daughter. Misuzu then told Haruhi that he will leave everything to her and Haruhi said yes. End of Flashback. Haruhi thought while cooking some lunch [fried rice, soup and salad], that even if she promised to, she really doesn’t really know how to make the two be in good terms again because she doesn’t how Meiko feels/thinks. Then, she remembered Tamaki and his grandmother’s bad relationship and thought that if it is Tamaki, he would be able to understand Meiko’s feelings. Just then, Meiko asked about Tamaki and Haruhi was surprised.
Meiko is putting make-up. She asked Haruhi what type of girl Tamaki likes. Haruhi thought that Tamaki is being flirty with any girls. She replied that she doesn’t know. What does he like? Haruhi replied she isn’t sure. Then, Meiko asks other things about Tamaki but Haruhi can’t quite answer that Meiko is angry as she asked Haruhi, isn’t she going to help her. Haruhi apologizes and told her that she just doesn’t want to get too involved/not interested with Tamaki/his life. Meiko said it is alright, she will just figure it out when they go out. She then noticed the time and prepares to leave. Haruhi then says that she haven’t dress up yet. Meiko said that she doesn’t have to go. Haruhi asked if it is alright if she would go alone. Meiko said that she will be alright for being alone, the attention? would be her alone and if she plans on doing it because she was asked to, don’t bother. Haruhi calls out her name as Meiko insist that she doesn’t have to go too for she won’t plan on escaping for her things are all there and if she stays there, she have an excuse to get close to Tamaki. Haruhi said it isn’t that and told her to bring this – it looked like an energy drink as Meiko was puzzled. She will learn later on. ^_^
That night, Meiko arrived and she looked drained. She asked if dinner is ready and Haruhi said that she is almost finished. Meiko then drops on the floor. Meiko said that she was planning to bring the Ouran boys to this place, hoping to go to a posh place but then, there is a huge line? so Tamaki then said that he wanted to ride on a train. Haruhi already knows what happened next from her expression. Meiko says that the Ouran boys were all exclaiming so loud for it is their first time as Meiko tries to tell them to be quiet. She is also irritated with Kyoya who was snubbing them – pretending that he isn’t with the group. Then, Tamaki goes on a monologue. Meiko told Haruhi that she was so embarrassed that she could die. Haruhi said that she could easily imagine it and told Meiko not to think about it much and just eat dinner. Meiko then told Haruhi it was delicious. Haruhi thanked her. Then, Meiko says that speaking of delicious food, she wanted the Ouran boys to treat her dinner at some expensive restaurant but Tamaki says, while holding a guide to Tokyo, he said he wanted to go to this place where there are a lot of old people – old people heaven/park. There, they ate lots of different things as Meiko calls out to Honey to stop wandering about eating different food. Then, there is some incense as everyone looked at it curiously. Meiko is busy asking what Honey was doing who is sitting on Mori’s shoulders, feeing birds with his fishballs. Then, she said that Tamaki has been talking with the old ladies/grandmas.
Meiko then gave Haruhi a panda keychain saying that it is a gift from everybody. Meiko then said that while Tamaki is really warm with the old ladies that she can feel it. Haruhi was surprised and then smiles that she can also imagine this. Meiko was surprised by her reaction then, a phone rings. Haruhi answers it and when Meiko asked who it was, Haruhi says that it is the landlord and she would have to go out to meet him. Haruhi runs out and it was Tamaki. Tamaki apologized for calling her out and asked if Meiko doesn’t know. Haruhi said of course. Tamaki then gave her something. Haruhi opens the bag and it is homemade strawberry jam. Tamaki told her it is a secret and to keep that secret from Meiko. Tamaki then starts crying as he says he is happy that he can talk like that with Haruhi again. [She has been snubbing him for some time.] Haruhi then apologizes for it. Tamaki says that there is another date with Meiko and he asks if Haruhi would go, too. He says that the next day, they are going to take pictures at photo sticker booths and play in arcades. Haruhi said that she doesn’t want to for it is bothersome. Tamaki then cries why she says that as Haruhi told him that his voice is too loud. Tamaki then asks if she is busy tomorrow. Haruhi apologizes and says yes though she said that because Meiko said that she shouldn’t go with them. Tamaki then smiles and said that it is okay for he has seen Haruhi today. He then says that he goes out every morning until in the afternoon and that he is free during that time. Tamaki asked her to go out/play together and it would be nice to spend summer together –ah, something like that, I think. Tamaki pats her head as he said that and bids her good night and goodbye.
The next morning, Haruhi made some pancakes with the jam Tamaki gave her as topping. After eating it, Meiko asks about the jam and Haruhi said it was given by the landlord. Meiko says, is that so and looks a bit nostalgic. Haruhi noticed it. Haruhi asks if she is going out again and Meiko said that she is and definitely, this time would be fun. That night, Meiko came back, drained of energy, from all the posing and that they had been playing. Meiko then gives her a bag of small stuffed toys – from UFO catcher, perhaps. While Meiko was watching tv, Haruhi found a letter inside the bag of toys. It is a recipe. Then, days goes by, with Meiko going on dates with the Ouran boys – to the zoo..karaoke. And each time, a gift for Haruhi with some bottled homemade food and recipes. To be noted, they saw a penguin and said that it looked like Haruhi. ^^; Then, Haruhi made omrice [fried rice inside an omelette] and Meiko is again nostalgic and said that it is delicious. Meiko then says that the omelette is too thin that it easily tears – the one Haruhi made has a hole. Haruhi apologizes for not making it right and asks if it still can be eaten. Meiko says that for omrice, the shape is important. Haruhi said then, she would cover it with yesterday’s leftovers as she put some food on Meiko’s omrice. Meiko asks what is she doing and don’t do such things. I think Haruhi said that when one is entertaining, one doesn’t need to use one’s brain – don’t quite get that. Meiko then said, is that so, and she laughs that it is so. The two girls then laughs as Ranka smiles, thinking that it is nice to hear the girls laugh early in the morning. After breakfast, Haruhi says that since Meiko has work now [parttime job] so starting tomorrow, she has to go out early in the morning but she will prepare Meiko’s breakfast. Meiko said it is okay. Haruhi then though, Tamaki is really a strange person – she doesn’t know what he likes to eat or likes to do but she does know that Tamaki is very good at understanding people.
At Tamaki’s second residence, Tamaki with dog were greeted by the servants who apparently got used to Tamaki going out early and as he goes out the door, the butler told her that someone is waiting for him at the gate. Tamaki looked and it was Haruhi. Tamaki greeted her as Haruhi asked if he is going to Karuizawa. Tamaki was shocked as to how did Haruhi knew about it. Haruhi said that she has a feeling about it for she has eaten Misuzu’s jam and the recipes he gave her were written by Misuzu. Haruhi then asks if every morning until noon everyday, he goes with the to work parttime at Misuzu’s place. Tamaki blushes as he thought Haruhi figured it out. Tamaki said that it is parttime work, yes, it is, he just wants to help Misuzu so that Misuzu’s cooking can be tasted by Meiko and that is all to it. Tamaki laughs nervously. Haruhi then says that it is really a good idea, can she help, too? Haruhi then thought that what Tamaki did, she really approve of and she is happy how he does it.
At the twins’ room, Hikaru calls up Kyoya asking where Tamaki goes until the afternoon since he can’t contact Tamaki. Hikaru exclaims outloud that Tamaki is in Karuizawa, working at Misuzu’s place, he wonders what the heck is Tamaki doing. Kaoru who was reading a book, looked surprised when Hikaru voices out loud that Haruhi has been going with him for the whole week. Hikaru then says is that so, Haruhi herself who wanted to go, too. That is quite unexpected. By then, Hikaru has a evil, not happy look on his face as Kaoru notices it.
And, after reading that, I was like, what, that’s it, where’s the rest, argh. Hikaru could be or is already jealous. Could this be what Kaoru feared? I wonder what Hikaru plans to do. As usual, Kyoya is the source of all information about them. He must have everyone under surveillance. ^^;; This chapter just made Haruhi ‘respect’/like? Tamaki more and Tamaki did it without really much thought to it. It is interesting that Tamaki went first to the old people’s place. Maybe he plans to get some tips on dealing with grandma-types or well, I think he just want to be in good relationship with his grandmother who hates him. I do wonder what will happen if Meiko finds out. She would most likely lash out on Haruhi, rather than Tamaki. I wonder if they would all go to Karuizawa. Anyway, next chapter would be interesting. Oh ya, it is amusing that I only figured out how to distinguish the twins. ^^;; Hikaru’s hair points to the left while Kaoru’s point to the right. It is when I saw the picture for this chapter of Kyoya and the twins. Haha, baka me. ^^;;
Thought of the day:
Some people think only intellect counts: knowing how to solve problems, knowing how to get by, knowing how to identify an advantage and seize it. But the functions of intellect are insufficient without courage, love, friendship, compassion and empathy. ~ Dean Koont.
In chapter 126, Fuuko prepares for the date by going to the bookstore to look at date magazines as to what places and things to do as she schedule for their date. The clerks are already noticed that she has been spending a lot of time, looking at the magazines. At work, Daiya’s boss is asking if he is going out on a date with his girlfriend and where would they go. Daiya told him that she would let her decide. Then the boss mentioned about ‘waiting’ and he remembered waiting for his wife for 40 minutes when they were dating. Then, he asked Daiya what was his limit. Daiya didn’t answer. On the way home, Fuuko is reading the magazine while walking and bumped into Kagechika. Then she noticed the magazine and observes Fuuko’s outfit to copy. She asked about the magazine and Fuuko told her that she is going on a date. Kagechika turned out to be going to Ichi’s house to return an eraser. So, she went with Fuuko to their house as Kagechika says that she is trying hard and Fuuko muses that Kagechika must have like really like Ichi and if they would become a couple, things would be a lot easier then, she told herself not to think that way. Meanwhile, Ichi doesn’t look happy seeing Kagechika who suddenly blurted out, asking him on a date.
On the day of the date, Fuuko nervously greets Daiya who is still snubbing her a bit and walked on ahead. Fuuko looks at her hand as she seems to want to hold hands with him but then, she follows Daiya. Fuuko then brought him to a Korean barbecue restaurant – ah, where you cook the beef on your table. She thought that since they are young, they should eat meat and that place is suppose to be romantic as she notices that there are a lot of couples there. Fuuko then told Daiya to let her decide everything that they will do. Daiya smiles and said yes. Fuuko then goes off to get some salad? and offered to get Daiya’s, too. When she return, she is carrying mountainful bowl of food as Daiya sweatdrops for it was a bit too many. Meanwhile, Ichi is asking Kagechika if ‘that person’ is really here. Kagechika then says that she saw Fuuko holding magazines on that place. Ichi then told her that there are many people there so how could they even find them. Kagechika then says that she believes in fate/coincidence for if it haven’t for it, they wouldn’t be there. After lunch, Fuuko exclaims that she is full as Daiya says that he is also full. She thought to herself that Daiya finally talks for throughout lunch, she is the only one talking and that he haven’t even hold her hands. Fuuko then becomes determined and she made the move by holding Daiya’s hand. It surprised Daiya. Fuuko then says that they go to another place as she thought that the date has just started and she wanted to end it with both of them smiling. As they walk near a corner, Ichi and Kagechika are also going to their direction.
In chapter 127, Fuuko exclaims in surprise as she looks at a bag and Kagechika also exclaims that they haven’t eaten yet so they should go eat lunch in a place she knows. As they walk away, Ichi and Daiya had already seen each other but they pretend they didn’t know/see each other. Fuuko was talking to Daiya about the bag when she noticed that it was a different person. She was embarrassed as Daiya was looking around near the window. She then taps Daiya telling him not to go someplace for she had mistaken someone else for him. Daiya apologized. Then, Fuuko thought that it was she who went away and then she hold Daiya’s hand again as she told him it is alright and they should go already. This surprised Daiya. While walking, Fuuko thought that if she let go of his hand, it would seem they would separate already. Then, they went to a movie theater. Fuuko was happy that there is still time before the showing as she pointed out to Daiya the movie they are going to watch and it is something that Daiya will like. Daiya then said that she is quite incredible to plan out all these things even the schedule of the movie. Fuuko blushes as she said it was nothing though she thought that she did researched everything. She then said that she just wants to do her best to do all that she has planned. Fuuko thought that she wanted Daiya to notice what she is doing.
As they go up the escalator, she told Daiya that the theater there is nice and when she turned around, she was surprised that she is at the same height as Daiya. Daiya is standing a step lower in the escalator. Fuuko blushes as Daiya stares at her that she immediately turned around and kept on saying a bit about the movie they are going to watch. She glances at him and thought that only she can fix things and she is doing this so that she won’t regret it later on. As she turned around, Daiya seems to be blushing a bit. As they go up, Ichi and Kagechika is going down. The two then saw a couple being lovey-dovey [massaging shoulder] that Kagechika asks if he wanted to. Ichi stopped her, ah, hit her [the scans are pretty small] as Kagechika is estatic while Ichi is looking a bit sad. In the theater, Fuuko was surprised that there are many couples [girls leaning on the guy’s shoulder] watching this movie. So, Fuuko quickly imitates by putting her head on Daiya’s shoulder but then, Daiya was drinking so Daiya got slashed by the drink. Daiya looks at her and noticed that she is blushing. Daiya then hit his head on Fuuko, too, telling her that she surprised him. And they watched the movie with that couple pose [leaning on guy’s shoulder].
After the movie ended, Fuuko says that it is a good movie as she holds her neck for it was stiff from leaning. She then calls out to Daiya and holds out her hand. Daiya then also reached out his hand to her until he holds her hand. Then, to ruin the mood, Kagechika exclaims and says finally, then, changed it to what a coincidence. Fuuko thought, why now!! As Ichi noticed that they are holding hands, Fuuko blushing and I can’t quite describe Daiya’s expression.
I don’t know what Kagechika is thinking. Did she deliberately brought Ichi there so that he could be convinced to give up on Fuuko? Anyway, she just ruined Fuuko’s planned out date especially when they are going to make up. Fuuko ought to be praised for her patience and doing all she can to fix their relationship when it is just a misunderstanding. Anyway, until the next chapter to know if the two will make up finally or this will drag on.
Thought of the day:
Don't be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one it makes you that much stronger. If you do the little jobs well, the big ones will tend to take care of themselves. ~ Dale Carnegie.
This chapter is up quite early this time but the Chinese scans doesn’t have the polls. The title is Game over. I managed to read the Chinese translation first which was used for the scanlation before seeing the scans. ^^; Anyway, it started with a flashback again as Zero falls down on the floor after being bitten by Shizuka. Shizuka wipes her mouth as Ichiru looks on. Shizuka then kneels near Zero and told him that for a young boy, his gaze/stare is quite strong and he is the second person who gave her such feeling. Ichiru then told Shizuka to quickly leave for the others might come. Zero was shock as Ichiru asks if she is regretting it now after she had finished her revenge. Shizuka said that she is now satisfied after getting back at Kiriyuu family but then, she found an interesting thing [Zero]. Back to present, Ichiru asked if Zero haven’t noticed/know it but at that time, he doesn’t really care about their parents and the Zero he likes, he came to hate. Ichiru added that Zero should thank him for he asked Shizuka to let him live. After a moment, Zero then asked if it is because he/she? wanted to be relieved of the pain, so with one’s own hands killed him/them. Ichiru smiles and answers yes for Shizuka’s destiny is filled with grief/pain, the same pain that he feels. He then whispers to Zero that he wants Shizuka to change his destiny for those pure blood vampires have power and are ‘gods’.
And well, Ichiru’s god just got her chest stab through by Kaname. ^^; Kaname said that she doesn’t seem to be surprised. Shizuka said that she also wanted to kill him but in a different way for she had asked Yuuki to kill him. Kaname replies is that so, that is quite an accurate choice then Kaname grips Shizuka’s heart, apparently Kaname isn’t happy to hear that. Kaname told her that now, he is holding her heart and does she know what will happen if he pulled it out. Shizuka then lost her confidence as Kaname continues that she couldn’t do much now even if she is a pureblood since Zero’s attacks has weakened her. Shizuka called him for being evil for Kaname took advantage of the situation. Kaname said that she is correct for if a pure blood isn’t hurt, the fight wouldn’t end because he has already analyzed that her partner would be there to protect her body, the fight won’t finish...and he needs her pure blood. Shizuka smiles and asks is it that he needs her pure blood that he even used Yuuki who is just a ‘chess piece’ for him who isn’t valuable anymore. Shizuka then said that she can’t fight anymore and in this game, the loser will ‘die’ for if she lives, who knows when that girl [Yuuki] will die. Apparently, Shizuka has a death wish that Kaname told her that her life is now his as he bends near her neck. He told her that he needs strength to protect Yuuki.
Back to Zero, he asked Ichiru if that woman [Shizuka] is god. Ichiru then asked Zero what does he know about Shizuka. Ichiru told him that Shizuka gave him a body which doesn’t get sick nor feel pain. Because she couldn’t kill Zero, he had came but then, he just pretend to be her servant. Yuuki interrupts that it was Ichiru himself who let himself be Shizuka’s servant. Zero then says that if their parents knew that Ichiru has become healthy, they would be happy. It irked Ichiru that he pulls out a sword from his sleeve and attacks Zero who immediately defend himself using the sword Ichiru tossed earlier at him. Ichiru then said that shouldn’t he say has become better. Zero asked if he is serious. Ichiru said that he is serious. Poor Zero, blood from his previous wound is sprouting all over the place. Just realized that Zero is ambidextrous. ^_^ Yuuki then got in between them, telling them to stop. Zero told Yuuki to move back. Yuuki said that it is best for them to stop fighting for they are blood related. Then, Ichiru pointed his sword at Yuuki and said that since Shizuka isn’t here, he can just..[kill her]. Then, Zero pointed his gun at Ichiru’s head telling him to stop it. Ichiru then told Zero that a hunter’s gun is useless against a ‘human’. Zero looked really surprised. Ichiru told Zero that he is both a hunter and a vampire. Ichiru pushes Zero’s gun away as he calls Zero stupid for he could just only give Yuuki to Shizuka and just drink Shizuka’s blood, everything would be okay. Zero tells Yuuki to move back as he pulls her behind him. Ichiru then told him that becoming a vampire would have become nil and he didn’t even ask Shizuka for he had drank Shizuka’s blood and that pure blood can make one strong.
As he said that, cue in Kaname biting into Shizuka. Shizuka then says that she haven’t thougt that Kaname would become like this since when she first saw him when he was young, he doesn’t seem to be a vampire and that is, until now. Kaname then grips her heart and pulls it out. Kaname then said that her life won’t be in vain for the thing that she hates so much, he would make it disappear for he would make things chaotic the thing that holds pureblood’s destiny. I’m thinking something that controls the pureblood’s destiny. Shizuka then says that a pureblood drinking a pureblood, he would become more powerful and he won’t have the same destiny/future for the path he has taken will be really dark, Kaname. Kaname says that he knows. Outside the room, Aidou has seen everything. Then, Zero says that he smells blood and this surprised Ichiru and quickly realized that it could be Shizuka that he runs off. Zero tries to follow but he was stopped by Yuuki. Zero told her that he is going to kill Shizuka so she should let go. Yuuki asked him what he is going to do after he killed Shizuka for he didn’t answer her properly. She asked if everything is finished, does he plan to end his life, too. Zero then answers, yes as he pushes Yuuki away. He says that she has already realize it and it will be that so she shouldn’t try to do things for him and for her to become a vampire. She shouldn’t joke around. Yuuki told him that she just doesn’t want Zero to die but then, Zero seems to be already in anguish. Zero then hugs her and told her, so Yuuki..why..do not think too much about things related to him and it is a good thing that Yuuki is safe. There is a tear on Yuuki’s eye as Zero lets her go and starts to go out. Zero told her to stay there and he will return. After he left, Kain came in asking what is she doing there.
Ichiru has found Shizuka on the floor, bleeding to death. Ichiru calls out to her and Shizuka opens her eyes as she said that it seems she is still alive. Ichiru holds her up and told her to drink his blood so that she won’t die. Shizuka told him that she won’t for he is the only person whom she doesn’t want to turn into a vampire. Then, her face cracked just like the vampires in Blood+. [Hehe, the author must be watching Blood+ ^^;] Shizuka says that it is too late. Ichiru starts to cry as Shizuka wipes his tear saying why is he like a child crying, does he really like her, scared of living alone so he went with her. He is the first person to get close to her, did he lost the meaning to life, too? Then, Zero came and asked what is Ichiru eating. Ichiru turned around and his mouth is all bloodied. [He was drinking Shizuka’s blood] Shizuka’s body turned into crystal and shattered away. Ichiru then told Zero that it was him and night class head [Kaname] who killed Shizuka. Zero looked really surprised-that he actually killed Shizuka? Ichiru goes by the window to escape and then, Zero looks at the commotion to find Yuuki trying to stop Kain from going in. By the time Zero looked at the window again, Ichiru is gone. Zero is still staring at the floor with pieces of crystal. Kain saw Zero is holding his bloody rose gun and asked if it was him [who killed Shizuka] but Zero just stood there, no response, as Yuuki worriedly calls out his name. At the night dorm, Kaname has just finished washing up and looks at the chess board with the white queen piece stabbed into by a knife. Kaname said that playing with her is over. He holds the queen piece with the knife and says Shizuka. Then a flashback of them meeting, Shizuka calling Kaname pitiful. Are you the Kaname family’s ‘out of season’ prince and it is really pitiful that he was born into that family. Kaname then says, that she is the same. The queen piece head is now broken as Kaname probably stabbed it again.
Then, there is a special chapter, I’m guessing last month’s. I don’t quite get the author’s sense of humor for I don’t find most of her omake’s funny or I just don’t understand it. Hehehe Anyway, it is about night class something about voting for dorm head. Ichijou says something about being nominated since Shiki is close to him but Aidou wanted Kaname. Ruka also is in for Kaname. Kain is undecided for he respects both of them. Then, Ichijou puts up his posters while at the other side of the wall, Aidou puts up Kaname’s. To Aidou’s shock, Kaname is tearing his posters down, saying that he doesn’t like his face posted all over the place. Ichijou then says that he wants to be dorm head. Kaname thought it was interesting and decided to be run too?- he want to be in, too. Aidou was shock. Kaname told Aidou to do his best as Kaname tears up the rest of the posters. Then, at the end, that is how the head was chosen and the elections had became void. Ah, because no one would go against Kaname? Then there are omakes in the volumes, the author seems to like to write about the night class. There is a silly one about Kaname being angry at Aidou that he punishes Aidou by putting a pail of water on his head and have him carry two on both hands. Kaname seems to ‘hate’ Aidou that when he asked Yagari whom he wanted to hunt, Kaname was actually looking at Aidou. Hehehe And the one that I did understand, young Yuuki always stay up late to wait for Kaname’s visits and Kaname told her that if she keeps it up, she will become stupid. At present, Yuuki looks at her failing marks and thought it is true. =P
And that is the end of Shizuka. I’m not really that pleased though with the outcome after all the build up on her then, in just two chapters, she is gone. Well, maybe later on, the author would show some flashbacks and stuff on her. I had been thinking if Shizuka has become suicidal or she is stupid for she even threatens of harming Yuuki when she already knows that Kaname will do everything for Yuuki. Also, when Ichiru offered his blood, she could have taken it and who cares if he becomes a vampire, he would be more than happy to be one and at least, she could still be alive. Regarding the cracks on the skin ala crystal ala Blood+, I do wonder if that happened because of massive loss of blood or is it because of the bullets that Zero used on her. I’m actually surprised that she is still alive when Kaname pulled out her heart. ^^; Did she tell Ichiru that Kaname did her in or Ichiru just assumed it since she wanted to kill Kaname? And so, Ichiru would probably be the next villain unless the author introduce new ones. I don’t feel sorry for him when he lost Shizuka. I felt like saying, it serves you right for gloating at Zero and ‘traitor’ to one’s own family. It is an interesting development that humans can become stronger when one drinks pureblood vampire blood and not become a vampire. Is that why it is taboo to drink their blood? Ichiru will then repeat the cycle of revenge.
It is amazing that Zero kept his composure even with all that ranting blahs of Ichiru who is quite talkative. He must really be trained well to quickly defend himself when Ichiru tries to hit him. Actually, it does seem that even with all that ‘power’ he got from Shizuka, Zero is still superior than him for Zero is just wounded now. Well, maybe Ichiru could have gotten a bit stronger after his recent meal. This chapter shows that Zero really cares for Yuuki though not yet at the point of wanting to live for her. He is still suicidal and learning Shizuka is alive gave him a reason to live but then, she is gone, what now. At the end of the chapter, I wonder why Zero was so shock about. Is it because Ichiru ‘eating’ Shizuka, Shizuka is dead before he could give the final blow, his revenge has been done by another person or that now, he will be the focus of one’s [Ichiru] revenge? Could he actually fight Ichiru aside from the fact that they are twins and currently, Zero is suicidal? I do wonder if Ichiru/Kaname could save Zero since after all, Shizuka’s blood now runs in them, if not, Zero’s hope of not going to level E is gone. Also, will Zero still drink Yuuki’s blood? He just a huge amount of it but then, his goal in life is finished. Kaname does seem to have a hidden objective and I think he like Shizuka is trying to do something regarding the way purebloods are destined to live. I’m thinking more in the lines that Kaname wants to marry a human. ^^;; Well, hopefully there is more to it like wanting to be the ‘boss’ of all vampires since he is already powerful and feared, and now, he just became more powerful that he can make vampires stay away from Yuuki’s yummy blood. I do wonder Aidou witnessing it could spell trouble for Kaname. It is forbidden to drink human blood in school, but what about a vampire and Kaname actually violating it. Ah, Yuuki, it is one thing to be useless but another thing to complicate things. Trying to stop two people with swords fighting, barehand isn’t really a wise thing to do. She could have at least use her staff or something to defend herself for she just made herself wide open to become a hostage or even worse, if Ichiru is ruthless, she would have a hole in her neck now and, Kaname’s hard work would also for nothing. I do wonder if Kain would put the blame on Zero for killing a vampire/Shizuka and that would make the other vampires hate him even more. Zero will be forced out of the school. Actually, this chapter actually made Zero’s future uncertain. From volume 3, here is something for YuukiXZero fans. ^_^
Thought of the day:
Revenge, at first though sweet, Bitter ere long back on itself recoils. ~ John Milton.
Gintama [chapter 128-130]
Tuesday, August 29, 2006 @ 03:38 p.m.
Chapter 128 didn’t turned out to be that good and well, maybe because I don’t quite get the jokes and stuff. Anyway, continuing from before, Gin and Shinpachi were really scared that the shinsengumi were the guests but it turned out that they are just bodyguards for the big boss who is pretty much a deadpan stiff guy. Gin wanted to escape but joined when he got called them names. Then, they play this chopstick thing but ended up fighting. It must be some kind of truth or consequence and the big boss seems to be really obedient that they teased him and in some way ended up being naked. ^^;; In the end, he got tossed into the river by Kyuubei when hands touched as Kyuubei gave him the shorts she bought. Anyway, chapters 129-130 is much better as it focuses more on shinsengumi. Chapter 129 started with Hijitaka walking and then, he got stabbed by Okita from behind. Okita proceeds to call him Hijitaka corpse 4616 then, kills another 4617 then 4618 and from behind, there are a lot of Hijitaka corpses as Okita continues to slash. It turned out to be a dream and Okita calls the present Hijitaka 4619. Hehehe Hijitaka then told him to wash up for he has a visitor. Kondou was already entertaining the visitor who turned out to be Okita’s sister, Sanyou. She was talking about getting married and something that she has almost given up on it because nobody would want her. Kondou disagree as he told her that she is beautiful and smart. From behind the room, the other shinsegumi were eavesdropping and told each other that it is Okita’s sister, the one who sends some kind of food every month that is too hot/spicy that no one would eat it. Then, Okita with a bazooka on hand, blasted them away. Okita was strangling Yamazaki when Sanyou told Okita to don’t do such things with his friends. Okita quickly dropped Yamazaki and asked forgiveness from his sister. Yamazaki was shocked by Okita’s behavior who became really respectful to his sister. Kondou then told Okita that he can have the day off to be with his sister. Okita thanked him and pulls his sister away. Yamazaki was still amazed by all of it as Kondou told him that since they were young and their parents have passed away, Okita only has Sanyou who is more like a mother to him.
In some restaurant, Sanyou told Okita about her imminent marriage and that she is happy. Yamazaki and another person were laughing at Okita’s obedience as they spy on him from a table across the restaurant. Okita has to tell Sanyou to look out the window as he blasted them away. Then, Okita asked about Sanyou and she said that there is no need to worry about her illness. Sanyou then asks about him if he eats well, sleeps well and gets along with others. Sanyou then asks if he has a friend for he is always with adults, maybe he has one near his age. Then, Okita got Gin to pose as his friend. Hehehe Gin wanted to get away until Okita ordered three chocolate sundaes to keep Gin there. Then, Sanyou poured Tabasco/hot sauce on her sundae and told Gin to eat it as thanks for being friends with Okita. Gin tries to turn her down but Sanyou coughs saying she thought he is Okita’s friend and Okita is already pointing his sword at Gin, Gin has no choice but to eat it as he screams for water. Sanyou also vomits, saying that she will be find as long as she vomits out the spicy things she ate.
At around this time, Hijitaka is also vomiting from eating hot food which seems to be the gift by Sanyou. Yamazaki said that if he is angry then go to Sanyou for it was from her. They are going on a stake-out on a certain ship at the port. Yamazaki told him that he can handle it so why don’t he go greet Sanyou. Yamazaki kept on talking about that and what is the history between them as Hijitaka kept on changing the subject. Gin and Okita brought Sanyou to her fiancé’s house as Sanyou thanked Gin for coming. Okita then bids her goodbye but then, Sanyou asks about ‘that person’ when Okita told her not to see that person anymore for earlier in the morning, he just left without a word, such a person with no manners. As Okita left, Sanyou thought is it really just work. Sanyou told Gin that it is her fault for she had secluded Okita too much that he became a loner and if Kondou haven’t befriended him, who knows what would have happened to him but now, it seems everything is okay. Sanyou then said that Gin isn’t really a friend and yet he pretends to be one. Gin said that in making friends, it is better to choose carefully and being with him, nothing good will happen. Sanyou smiles and said that Gin is a weird person but someone whom Okita could go to and that he is seemingly the same with ‘that person’. Then, a police car stops in front and they got asked as to what they are doing there. Hijitaka and Yamazaki came out. Hijitaka looked surprise as Sanyou only says ‘like Hijitaka’ [Gin being the same with Hijitaka] and then she fainted.
In chapter 130, Sanyou was brought in and tended by the servants. Outside the room, Yamazaki, Gin and Hijitaka were waiting. Gin tease Hijitaka that when Sanyou saw Hijitaka, she fainted. Hijitaka told him that it is none of his business. Gin continues on as to what Hijitaka did as Yamazaki told him, Hijitaka wouldn’t have for Hijitaka is an ‘innocent’ person. Hijitaka tries to slash him as Yamazaki tries to calm him down and Gin continues on teasing him. Sanyou’s fiancé then came out and thanked them for helping Sanyou into the house and since they are wearing shinsegumi uniforms, they could be Okita’s friends. Okita came and denies that they are friends. Okita then approaches Hijitaka saying, if it isn’t Hijitaka, you even have the guts to show your face to Sanyou. Gin was surprised as Yamazaki starts to protest. Hijitaka kicks Yamazaki and drags him off, without a word. On bed, Sanyou looks at him and Hijitaka saw her.
Flashback: Sanyou is telling Okita who is lying on the room to go to practice at Kondou’s dojo and asks him what is the matter. Okita said that there is an irritating person there, a latecomer and that Kondou haven’t been paying much attention to him anymore so he doesn’t want to go to practice anymore. Hijitaka came and told Okita it is practice time. Okita shouts as to what is he doing at his house. Hijitaka told him that Kondou told him to get him [Okita]. Hijitaka drags Okita by the collar, calling him sempai as Okita told him to have more respect. As Hijitaka passes by, Sanyou giggles and Okita also noticed this. It made him angry. At a restaurant, Kondou is shouting at Sanyou to not put too much pepper [the Japanese kind which is colored red-orange] for it won’t be good for her body. She just used up three bottles on a her rice topping/ramen. ^^; Sanyou said that it is delicious. Kondou shouted who cares if it is delicious if it is bad for the body and the other one who has eating problems is Hijitaka. Hijitaka is now putting mayonnaise [the Japanese kind which is in a squeezable bottle]. Kondou then shouts at him as to where he learned to eat like that. Sanyou smiles and then proceeds to eat. Kondou then were busy with the two as Okita angrily eats his ramen, thinking, irritating person. End of Flashback. Okita then finds Hijitaka practicing and asked him to spar with him.
Sanyou was then confined at the hospital as she apologizes to her fiancé. He told her it is no bother for they are already engaged. He then prepares to leave for work and told Sanyou not to eat spicy food for it is bad for her health. Gin then came to visit her with some spicy junk food. Bad Gin. Gin told her not to eat too much and he even has banana. [I’m not quite sure if a banana tones down the spicy or makes it spicier] I think Sanyou mentioned that her sickness isn’t related with her eating habit of spicy foods. Then, they found Yamazaki below Sanyou’s bed as Gin kicks him out. At the training room, while sparring, Okita told Hijitaka not to ruin his sister’s happiness. Hijitaka then told him that Sanyou’s fiancé has dealings with the mafia? and they are trying to ship in a weapon so he is their enemy. On the roof of the hospital, Yamazaki told Gin about it. Gin asked if Sanyou knew. Yamazaki told him that she does not for Hijitaka told him to keep it a secret. Gin then hits him for telling him. Back at the training room, Okita tries to dissuade Hijitaka from arresting Sanyou’s fiancé for he could give her happiness. Hijitaka then asks if he is trying to let the guy alone and if Okita doesn’t understand. Hijitaka told him that he will think that this didn’t happen and he is going to leave so Okita should practice alone.
Okita attacks as he told Hijitaka that their conversation isn’t over. Hijitaka says that he [Okita] haven’t snap out of it for such a man cannot make Sanyou happy. Okita then told him that there isn’t much time left and that since Sanyou has been trying to make him happy ever since their parents died, he just wanted to make Sanyou happy even if it for a short time. Okita then tells Hijitaka that he isn’t asking for the fiancé to go scott free but more on giving him more time and that his sister didn’t get married is because of him [Hijitaka]. Hijitaka lights a cigarette and told Okita that they are going to attack tomorrow night and he better sharpen his sword. Hijitaka then walks away. This somewhat snapped Okita as he thought that this person makes him angry, it has been like that before, ever since he appeared, he took away [his] important things – Kondou and Sanyou. He then runs to Hijitaka to attack him. Then, a flashback of Hijitaka and Sanyou talking. Sanyou then asks Hijitaka if it is true that they are going some place [I think their present headquaters]. He asked where did she heard it from. She said that Okita told her. Hijitaka calls Okita stupid. Sanyou asks him to bring her, she is like a parent to Okita, it isn’t because of Okita that she is with them, but because she wanted to be with him [Hijitaka]. Okita was eavesdropping and was shock to hear it. End of flashback. Then, in present, with the past, Hijitaka tells Okita/Sanyou that it isn’t his business and I don’t understand your situation. Hijitaka wounded walks away as Okita is on the ground, angrily looking at Hijitaka.
And so, it turns out that all those Okita trying to kill Hijitaka really has a deeper meaning to it than just a comedy situation and Okita wanting to be the second head in shinsengumi. Okita is jealous of Hijitaka and from the last scene, it seemed that part of it is his pride for he was suppose to be sempai and yet Hijitaka is more superior to him. Hijitaka seems to be into work first before others and keep things to himself. It is interesting that he even lets Okita misunderstood as to why he was at Sanyou’s fiancé’s house [investigating]. Anyway, I think Gin would be involved with what happened later on.
Thought of the day:
It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes us fathers and sons. ~ Johann Schiller.
Weekly Jump Updates: Naruto, Bleach and One Piece
Monday, August 28, 2006 @ 05:10 p.m.
Again, nothing much happened in Naruto [c. 320]. Asuma and others arrived at the temple and learned that the head monk’s body is missing. They learned that there is a bounty for him and that could be why the Akatsuki murdered him. They decided to search for all the bounty offices nearby. In one of those bounty offices, which is a comfort room, the two Akatsuki got their reward but the other one, whose name I’m lazy to look again, counts his money while the other waits for him outside for it smells inside. I guess they don’t embalm the dead as they are placed in drawers – don’t know what they are called but they are like those steel drawers where the dead is being put while not yet being buried or well, waiting for autopsy. Anyway, Naruto finished the task of cutting the waterfall and they are all off for some lunch. Then, there is that silly scene of three stooges of a cook who kept on messing up that they can’t even serve a bowl of ramen. Then, it ended with Kakashi planning to show Naruto something. I thought that scene about serving ramen was really unnecessary. Maybe the author just wanted to fill up the 19 page. ^^; The cliffhanger actually made me thought that maybe Kakashi plans to show Naruto what his mouth looks like. Lol. Hehehe
In Bleach [c. 240], Urahara opens the gate to Huenco Mundo and told them to how to get there. Ichigo then asks Urahara to take care of his family and tell them not to worry. Urahara asks what about his friends. Ichigo said that when he returns, he would apologize to them. Then, Ichigo, Ishida and Sado set off. When the gate closed, Urahara asks out loud that it is what he [Ichigo] said and they can come out now. From a boulder, Tatsuki, Keigo and Mizuiro comes out asking how long did he knew. Urahara told them that he sensed they were following Ichigo and told his helpers not to bother them. Urahara said that Ichigo is really being nice, pretending to be cold so as not to get them involved. Urahara then said that he also has things to do. At Aizen’s place, Aizen asked for a demonstration of Inoue’s powers especially to Luppi who was not too pleased for being just a distraction to get Inoue. To everyone’s surprise, the demonstration would be to return Grimmjow’s left arm. Luppi was extremely doubtful until he was also surprised to see Inoue actually returning Grimmjow’s arm back. Aizen told them that it isn’t just normal healing nor bringing the former state of an object but Inoue’s powers is actually to ‘reject’ the events that happened to something. It is like Inoue ‘reject’ the events that made Grimmjow’s arm be burned to a crisp into nothing. Grimmjow then asked Inoue to ‘heal’ his mark at the back and the erased tattoo of 6 came back and it surprised Luppi for he is the current number 6. Luppi asked what Grimmjow is planning but Grimmjow attacked him and blasted off half of Luppi’s body. Grimmjow laughs like a lunatic as he screams that his power is back and he is number 6 again. Aizen doesn’t look pleased as Inoue seemed a bit scared. Mm..wonder if Aizen would get Inoue to bring back Luppi. Anyway, I wasn’t too surprised that Ichigo’s friends were following him but then, I wonder if he knew or the others knew that they were there for if not, there sensing of others being nearby is really bad. Anyway, I wonder if next chapter would be on Ichigo and others arrival. I wonder how Huenco Mundo looks like, will it be like Soul Society.
In One Piece [c. 424], Franky and Robin successful removed all the marines from the marine ship which they will use to escape. Then, to Franky’s surprise, Kororo in mermaid form came out of the water. As everyone were on the ship deck, Kororo wondered why they are in a state of shock when they haven’t really drowned or anything. Franky said that it was because they saw Kororo’s mermaid form. Kororo then gave her greetings to Robin as the one that Strawhats did everything just to save her and that maybe Luffy’s dream of becoming pirate king would come true. Then, the others have recovered as they were again in a shock that indeed Kororo was a mermaid as Sanji’s dream of mermaids being beautiful is shattered. Hehehe Then, they noticed Robin. Sanji was about to hug her when he was tossed off as Nami and Chopper are the ones who got to hug her. Robin thanked them for rescuing her.
Zoro then went upstairs to see all the bombardment of Eneas Lobby. Usopp wanted to help Luffy but Zoro is against it for if they go, they might get separated again so it is best to just wait for Luffy at the ship. Sanji then asked Franky if his friends would be okay. Franky said they would be since their luck is pretty high. Unfortunately, as he said this, Franky family and the shipwrights were not allowed to escape by the Admirals and were blasted away. The last scene was of Luffy preparing for gear 2 as he announced that this would be the last one that would defeat Lucci. Lucci asked what happens if he died because of that. Luffy answered that then he won’t think of things that haven’t arrived yet. So, next week would be the finale of their fight. I do wonder how Luffy will arrive at the ship, maybe he can inflate-deflate himself to get there and well, be chibi, too. ^_^ Luffy is really an optimist. I’m quite surprised that Franky family and others didn’t survive or maybe they did in some other way.
While in D. Gray-man [c. 87], Kanda and Marie heads out to help as Theodore stayed behind. It seems that they were led their by a reformed akuma by Cross though Theodore stated that they were there for a different matter then, it exploded, maybe as Cross’ deals with reformed akumas to self-destructed if they are going to kill humans. Bookman, Crowley and Rabi got tossed into a house. Rabi then gets up as he realized that Tiki is after Rinali. Rinali was being strangled by Tiki but Kanda came and saved her. Tiki had a bit of hard time fending him off since he was fast that Tiki pushed Rinali to Kanda who caught her. Tiki was going to blast them but Rabi came to shield them from the blast. Then, the large akuma got tied up by Marie. Kanda went off to slice the trapped akuma into two. Everyone was surprised as Kanda had become stronger. Kanda told Rabi not to call him by his first name again or else, he would slice him up. Rabi thought that Kanda haven’t changed. Then, there is a huge black ball from the Count and then, he hit them with it. It reminds me of a gravity ball. Anyway, it is the usual, will they survive bit. I wonder if the author likes Noein. First, it was Allen’s innocence now, that huge akuma reminds me of those shangrila creatures. ^^;
Word of the day:
In a changing world, you can trust God’s unchanging Word. ~ Our Daily Bread.
Ouran High Host Club [chapter 39]
Friday, August 25, 2006 @ 07:06 p.m.
And finally, to cap this Ouran-centric week, here is chapter 39 just uploaded today. ^_^ And, I made a boo-boo in chapter 40 regarding what Haruhi and Hikaru discussed. ^^; I will explain later on as I summarize. The chapter starts with Haruhi facing her mother’s photo to show her the plants that Ritsu and Tamaki gave her, saying that now, she can make more delicious dishes. She tells her mother that there is a princess in their school. Then, Haruhi remembers Kyoya saying that Michelle looks like Tamaki’s mother. She then looks at her mother’s picture then suddenly wondered about the preparations that the twins plans to do. And it turned out to be a parade with elephants and Indian costumes. Surprising Haruhi as she thought it looks stupid. The twins then asks her if she wants to ride on the elephant. Haruhi asked what’s with the Thai-Indian parade. They told her isn’t it interesting. Haruhi got more surprised when she learned that the elephant belongs to Honey. Kyoya said that it is quite a hassle for they even picked up Michelle from her hotel and walk up to their school. Haruhi sweatdrops for the parade has started from the hotel and it would be very embarrassing. They then apologized for not letting Haruhi into the fun as Haruhi said it was okay and that was good that they didn’t call her. [for it would be embarrassing] I don’t know how but all of a sudden, Tamaki is in uniform and helped Michelle down as they walk down the red carpet with all the girls including Ritsu throwing petals on the floor.
At class 1-A, Michelle then tells the students about knowing this French count and that they are close. During her birthdays, that person would also come. Tamaki looks thoughtful. Michelle continues that she told this person that she is going to Japan and that person will come to visit. She tells them that it would be a few days when he would come and she would want to introduce him to everyone. One of the girls wanted to say something regarding what she said but she didn’t get a chance when the twins offered her some tea and if she would want to use the spa room. Haruhi thought what a change of attitude from yesterday. For some reason, Honey is there says that they are doing it when they learned why Tamaki is doing it. Michelle then complains about the tea and something regarding the spa as the twins agrees to do as she wish. Michelle then apologizes to them for the trouble and that she would ask her brother to thank them properly. They say it is okay but they are already on the verge of exploding with lots of popping veins. Lol. Haruhi and Honey said that the twins are really trying hard. Tamaki then asks if she wants to go to the relax room and Michelle agrees as they left. The twins are really angry for all their hard work are for nothing and they wanted to hit her as Haruhi and Honey tries to stop them from doing anything rash. The girl earlier who wanted to say something before she got interrupted by the twins, calls out to Haruhi, saying that she has something to say.
As Tamaki walks Michelle, he asked if she has already gotten accustomed to school life and he said that the students here are good. Michelle thanked him and said that it couldn’t be compared to her kingdom but then, she will tell her brother to look at Ouran and if she requested it, her brother would definitely...[Okay, I’m not sure but I’m thinking maybe it is to sponsor for the school or help them with something ^^;] Tamaki then said that everyone honestly welcomes her so please do not do those things for if she continues to put up that pretence, you would not be able to get the thing that you really want. Michelle looks at Tamaki in surprise. Everyone was shock as they learned from the girl that Michelle was lying about the count visiting for her family is in some way know the person and she heard that the count is sick so he can’t travel. Haruhi wondered why Michelle lied as Kyoya comes and tells them more about Michelle’s background – something about their country isn’t really that rich and something about the brother visiting around to see the problems of the poor citizens. The twins were angry for Michelle turned out to be a liar and asked Kyoya why did he only mentioned this now. Honey feel sorry for Tamaki [ah, since Michelle is making all sorts of requests when she isn’t what she pretends to be]. Kyoya then says that even if she is a liar, the fact remains that she is of royal blood and it seems that Tamaki already knows about this.
Michelle looks at the cherry blossom as she thought of what Tamaki said as she crumbled to the ground, wondering how did Tamaki knew. She then remembers her brother being always busy that he doesn’t have time for her [eating lunch/dinner with her]. Her brother says that if it is Michelle, she would understand and apologizes for always living her alone. Michelle says that it is okay and mentions about the trip to Japan. Her brother then asks her if she wants to go earlier. This surprises Michelle as her brother continues that she can see cherry blossoms that time of year and that she would be more happier there. Michelle asks why doesn’t he understand and always leave her behind. She then wipes a petal off her nose. Then, more sakura petals fell on her face. She got angry and broke off a tree branch, shouting what’s so nice to look with this sakura tree. Then, the twins shouted, aha, found the liar princess. Michelle looks at them in surprise and caught in the act.
She nervously laughs saying that how could she break off a big tree then, she trips on a root and fell face down. They quickly went to her to help her up but then, she is crying, asking why they are so nice to her. She sobs that all her whims were granted and she has been trying hard to make them hate at her so that her brother could call her back. Then, she looks at Haruhi, saying that she even said harsh words – asking Haruhi to be a poison food tester. She said that the food they gave her was really delicious contrast to what she said and that she has lied a lot. The twins then wondered how poor she is. Michelle then says that she was so embarrassed being on the elephant in front of everyone that she wished she is dead. The twins then said that it turned out she doesn’t like it and that if her brother knew that she is trying to make them hate her, wouldn’t he scold her. Michelle then realizes that she haven’t thought of that. She cries even more for her brother will hate her. She says that since their parents died, she only has her brother and even if it is for her, he has been going from place to place but she just wants to help her brother, she wants to accompany her brother in those trips. Michelle then realized that Tamaki knew of her pretense, and that he might tell her brother. Michelle became agitated and worried about it as Haruhi tells her that Tamaki won’t do such thing. This surprised the twins.
Haruhi continues that Tamaki knows how it feels [painful] to be separated from a loved one so he would try to make them close to each other again. Tamaki is just waiting for her to know about it herself. Having both parents die is really painful but then, just waiting won’t change a thing. Tamaki wants her to go to her brother, to be more truthful with others and wants to see her real smile. Everyone looks approvingly as Hikaru looks really surprise. [This is where I made a mistake in chapter 40 for I thought Hikaru had said something in this chapter. It turns out that Hikaru was asking Haruhi why she was sure that Tamaki won’t tell-tale Michelle to her brother. Haruhi then apologizes for she thought that he wanted to say it and that she thought that anyone would have said it. If she didn’t say it, Hikaru would. Hikaru then said that he won’t but laughs, and said that Kaoru might so it is something what anyone could have said. Kaoru who overheard it thought are they stupid, for he won’t say that.] Then, Renge and school president came, saying that they have a guest. It was Michelle’s brother. The two siblings reconciled as everyone looks on.
Haruhi then notices Tamaki from behind. Haruhi then asks Tamaki if he was the one who brought Michelle’s brother. Tamaki then asks her how it was. Haruhi asks when did Tamaki realize that she was lying. Tamaki told her that he already knows about their country’s situation and he noticed that Michelle isn’t smiling from her heart. Haruhi smiles and agrees. Tamaki blushes and asks if Haruhi is angry or is laughing at him. He says that he is mistaken for the princess is like someone important to him. The things he has been doing for Michelle was really just for himself. He knows that person [Michelle] won’t smile the same way that looks like the sun is smiling so he wanted to see Michelle’s true smile and it is all for himself. Haruhi then confessed to him that she wanted to be a lawyer. Tamaki was surprised as Haruhi told him that the reason she chose Ouran High is because going there would increase her chance of getting good credits for a law school. She, too, has been chasing her mother’s shadow. A flashback of young Haruhi calling out to a person as her mother but the woman apologizes to her saying that she isn’t her mother. Haruhi apologizes. End of flashback. Haruhi then tells Tamaki that is the reason why she isn’t angry nor she wouldn’t laugh at him. Haruhi smiles and tells him he isn’t being weird.
Tamaki was about to call her when Haruhi noticed that Michelle is calling to them and that they should go. Haruhi rushes to them as Tamaki looks on. The twins then found him, huddling himself in one corner, asking what’s up. One of them says that Michelle is calling so hurry up and go to her already. The other one, I’m guessing Hikaru, laughs and says if it is that – did Haruhi did something to make you feel bad again, calling Tamaki stupid. Tamaki turns out to be blushing a lot. The narration says something about a flower pollen falling and would it produce or not – something like that. Obviously, from the next chapter, it meant love – will it grow or just be nothing. Hehehe, and that is the scene as to why Tamaki has a sudden urge to kiss Haruhi. Now, I know why Haruhi went to Ouran High. ^_^ Wow, she wants to be a lawyer. I can’t recall but I’m assuming her mother is a lawyer. Haha, I got it, so Tamaki’s cold sickness could be actually love sickness!
Quote of the day:
People never lie so much as after a hunt, during a war or before an election. ~ Otto von Bismarck.
Ouran High Host Club [chapter 38]
Thursday, August 24, 2006 @ 05:47 p.m.
Haha..this turned out to be a Ouran-centric week. ^^; Chapter 38 has been uploaded. Chapter 39 is still missing and that would be the conclusion of this mini-arc of what happened before Tamaki got sick. Well, in this chapter, spring is in the air. Tamaki was greeted by a girl and as he was about to greet back, he noticed a girl with long golden hair passes by. Tamaki was surprised and quickly tries to follow. He was about to shout ‘Mom’ when other girls blocked his path, greeting him a good morning. Tamaki then gave up the chase and greeted them back. It is pirate cosplay time in host club. Of course there is the usual flirting and blah by Tamaki, sibling love by the twins, Kyoya happy that it was a success, Mori + Honey going on an adventure and Haruhi wowing the girls by her cuteness. Then, Ritsu/Bossa Nova came in, carrying a plant. As the girls are exclaiming about Haruhi saying ‘like’ – she likes to drink tea with everyone. Ritsu was about to confess again when the twins stopped him, asking if he is planning to say he likes Haruhi.
Kyoya then told Ritsu that he is welcome to the club but at least, wear clean clothes. Ritsu’s clothes are a bit dirty. Ritsu apologizes for he didn’t notice for he has something to give to Haruhi. Haruhi then asked if he went to some garden/greenery for there are animals there. Ritsu was embarrassed for he loves animals but they tend to be afraid of him. He then said that it is because he wanted to give ‘this’ [a small cherry tomato plant] for it can be eaten and it is a sign of friendship.
Tamaki then quickly snapped his fingers and called to Honey. Honey then took a stem cherry from a drink and ate it. He spit out the stone as Tamaki and twins plant it in a pot as Honey watches and Mori provides the soil. They then put a ribbon on the pot and wanted to give it to Haruhi as a gift. Haruhi said that it won’t grow. They cried as Haruhi as Ritsu how to take care of the tomato plant.
Then, they noticed that they have a visitor. Tamaki quickly perked up and looked mesmerize as he quickly stood up, surprising one of the twins. Kyoya also took notice. A student then introduced her as princess Michelle [I tried using kanji-romanji but it doesn’t sound right so I tried reading it in Chinese, it is mi-sh-er so I’m guessing, it is Michelle] of some country who is in first year A section [the same as the twins and Haruhi] who is a temporary transfer student. The student then told Michelle that this club is quite famous. Haruhi then noticed that Tamaki kept on staring at Michelle and asked if he knew her. Tamaki then smiles, saying that he does not. Michelle then proposed something about them serving her for the two weeks that she will be staying at the school. They were surprised and the twins wanted to protest but Tamaki stopped them as Tamaki even bend down to her saying that whatever she wish would be followed. Everyone was surprised as Haruhi wonders what country does Michelle came from. After dressing back to uniforms, Kyoya informed them that her country is a small one and engages in mining but then, three years ago, the King and Queen passed away so Michelle’s brother is King. Then, Kyoya says that Michelle is suppose to arrive next month.
In class, Michelle told others that her trip to the school was made earlier because she wanted to see the sakura blossoms so she asked her brother to move the schedule. Then, as the other students listen, Michelle kept on talking about her brother then hinted that she isn’t used to the present place she is staying. The other students then offer their house for her to stay. The twins then rant that she seems to be into ‘brother-sister’ love the way she kept on talking about her brother which they detest. Haruhi thought aren’t they the same in doing the ‘brotherly love’ act. The twins continue that what’s the big deal with Michelle and it shouldn’t be so surprising. Kyoya then appears and even put his arm on Haruhi’s head. ^^; He told them even if it is a small country, it is a rich one and told them to look for the school president’s son is already paying homage to her. Tamaki with a large bouquet of roses offers it to Michelle as he praise her looks.
Tamaki then asks if there is anything that she still needs. Michelle then complains that her throat hurts a bit. Tamaki then said that there should be someone to fan her in a spacious area [ah, maybe to fan away the flower pollens so that she won’t be allergic?] and to find a nicer chair for her so that she would be comfortable. Tamaki then tells a student to find a spacious room and orders the twins to fan Michelle. The twins doesn’t want to and tries to get Kyoya to back them up. Kyoya is already on the phone calling his security team who were doing the fanning and serving Michelle. Tamaki thanks Kyoya as Kyoya said it was nothing as long as he can be of service to her Majesty. The twins then comments that it seems that Kyoya seems to be more into it. [I’m just thinking that maybe Kyoya was thinking of business and stuff with Michelle’s country so he is doing that and well, maybe a bit of wanting to help Tamaki].
Later on, Tamaki is still giving Michelle bouquet of roses and escorts around the place. Michelle then asked to be excused from English classes for she is already good at it. Tamaki then said that he will speak to the teacher about it and told her how about using that time for resting. The twins were aghast with what Tamaki is doing as the others minus Kyoya were surprised about it. In the cafeteria, Tamaki introduced Michelle to the chef who would prepare her meal for it seems that she has a lot of things that she doesn’t like to eat. The twins then says that Tamaki is spoiling Michelle too much and the other students are already noticing the special treatment. Renge then appears saying that this is really interesting and greets Haruhi as being cool cute. Haruhi asked what she meant. Renge said that Haruhi gives a ‘cool cute’ feeling, Honey gives a ‘bouncy cute’ feeling, and Kyoya gives a ‘scary cool’ feeling. The twins then added that Tamaki gives an ‘annoying interesting’ feeling. The twins and Renge laugh then they huddle together as to what they thought of what Tamaki is so into Michelle, etc as Haruhi got hungry and goes away to eat her lunch.
Renge then says that Tamaki looked surprised when he first saw her and that they could actually be siblings then she goes on about ‘brother-sister’ love. The twins said that isn’t possible. The chef then apologized for making Michelle wait and served her lunch. Michelle said that it is okay then calls out to Haruhi saying that she heard that she is poor so how about testing the food for her if there is poison. The twins got angry as they stood up and were about to protest when Tamaki told them to stop it. They were about to protest but Tamaki then offered to be Michelle’s food tester. The twins are really angry that during their club meeting, they are venting their anger on Honey’s bunny doll. They kept pulling it as they called Tamaki stupid, what are you thinking, etc, etc. Honey cries for his bunny as Haruhi tries to calm them down.
The twins then shouted that Haruhi should be angry too for even if Haruhi is poor, she doesn’t have to be like that. Haruhi said it is so but then side comments that they didn’t have to put emphasis on poor – something like that. Kyoya then told the twins not to make such a fuss. The twins try to defend themselves when Kyoya told them that he has seen the picture, and that he felt Michelle and Tamaki’s mother really looked alike. Everyone was surprised then the asked if Renge was right about the two being siblings. Kyoya told them not to jump into conclusions. Kyoya said that in the picture, a golden haired lady with a nice smile and when Tamaki was separated from his mother who doesn’t want him to be taken, Tamaki’s last memory of his mother is a crying face...maybe he just wants to see a smile. Haruhi looked thoughtful and I’m not sure if it is Kyoya or Haruhi said that Tamaki wants to see Michelle smile. The twins then said that Tamaki should have told them earlier or else they wouldn’t [act that way].
Then, Tamaki enters the music room, apologizing for being late for Michelle was late in leaving. He then asks what is the agenda for the day. The twins slightly embarrassed looks at him then started pushing him around saying something about being a mother and being a stupid king. Tamaki asked what’s it about being disrespectful. Haruhi and Honey said something about the twins wanting to help out. The twins then said that they are going to leave. Tamaki asked why they are leaving already. The twins said that tomorrow, they are going to receive/serve the princess so they are going to prepare for it. Tamaki was puzzled. Honey, Kyoya and Mori also prepares to leave as Tamaki tries to call them back. Haruhi was about to say something to Tamaki when Tamaki apologizes about what happened during lunch. Haruhi said that it is okay for she doesn’t put it into heart but there is something more important...Then, Tamaki shouted that there is something that he had brought. He quickly went to a box and toss out some things including his teddy bear and brought out a small pot of ‘carrot sprouts’, I think. Tamaki said that Haruhi’s house isn’t big but she can put it near her kitchen and it can become carrots. [There is note that it won’t become carrots so maybe it is like bean sprouts made from carrots/radish]. Haruhi stares at it as Tamaki then asks if she hates carrots. Haruhi said no and she smiles at him, taking the pot, thanks him for it. Some place else, Michelle was looking out a window as a woman came with a roses bouquet from Tamaki. Michelle asked if her brother calls but the woman said he didn’t. Michelle then said, is that so and crushes one of the roses from the bouquet as she looks a bit distanced and angry.
The guys of host club minus Kyoya is really protective of Haruhi that they quickly got defensive and tries to also give her a plant gift just because Ritsu has one for her. This is another showcase of Tamaki’s patience for being able to be really patient even if Michelle is quite overbearing. It is quite cute that Tamaki at the end also wanted to give Haruhi a plant. As usual, it is becaue of Kyoya’s ‘knowledge’ of things that made the others especially the twins understand why Tamaki is doing all that. He really does miss his mother. It is amusing when the twins tried to ‘kill’ Honey’s bunny though I’m curious why didn’t they do it with Tamaki’s teddy bear. ^^; Anyway, it is nice to see that everyone is willing to help out Tamaki on this one for they especially the twins, doesn’t like Michelle.
Thought of the day:
One moment of patience may ward off great disaster. One moment of impatience may ruin a whole life. ~ Chinese Proverb.
Anime Review: Good Witch of the West
Wednesday, August 23, 2006 @ 05:35 p.m.
I had finished watching this anime the other day. It would be more like watching up to episodes 9 and skipping around up to the 13th episode, which is the last one. I had a misconception about this series because the prologue was something the good witch of the west and the eastern king. I was thinking in the lines of unrequited love of sorts even though from the first episode, it does seem to lean that way but then around episode 2-3, it became like a all girl school intrigue. ^^; Then, dragon hunting then some invisible wall + teleporting and lastly, end of the world because the queen is bored and before long, everything is back to where it was with no resolution to who among the queen candidates became queen, except for the lead who gave it all up. What a waste of time, well for the 9 episodes. I do wonder if the ending was like that because it is based on a manga and I’m not quite sure if the manga has ended already hence, crappy ending.
This could be saved if I like the characters and well, I didn’t like the characters for they are not developed or I’m irritated with them. The lead Firiel is the typical nice girl who is just that from provincial girl to friend of a queen candidate to wanderer from one place to another looking for Roux, her childhood friend and then back to provincial girl with Roux. Her character didn’t even developed throughout the journey. ^^; Roux is the typical angst young genius and I still don’t quite know why those villains are after him. He was bent on revenge and then, in the end, just become lovey-dovey with Firiel with a lot of those ‘chasing’ scenes. I even want to hit him in the head when he told Firiel that he doesn’t want her to disappear like that, I can’t live without you blah when he just did just that to Firiel. I would have want her to say, ha, now you know how I felt when you left me. The villains weren’t really punished for what they did and even Euris’ friend who betrayed them just got a punch on the face and everything is okay. It is so unrealistic! There are also some mild shoujo/shounen ai here, too. The only good points I can see here is the really pretty landscapes and castles. They are nicely designed and really well, pretty eye candy. The monster designs are quite awful though and I mean those dragons. Overall, it has potential but then, too bad.
Quote of the day:
Don't be fooled by the calendar. There are only as many days in the year as you make use of. ~ Charles Richards.
Ouran High Host Club [chapter 42]
Tuesday, August 22, 2006 @ 06:40 p.m.
I’m quite surprised that chapter 42 is already out last night when I just got chapter 41 yesterday morning. I guess the Chinese scanlators got excited over what happened there and I think this is the latest one for underneath the last page, the continuation is on 8/24. For those who doesn’t know, Ouran is serialized in the same magazine, Lala, as Vampire Knight. It is summer time again in Ouran High. Haruhi was talking with her father, Ranka regarding summer job at Misuzu [Ranka’s gay friend] again. Ranka said that Misuzu is unusually happy at the club and wonders if she has found a boyfriend. Then, all of a sudden, Misuzu barges in their house, shouting for Ranka as she is holding a bag. Misuzu hugs Ranka as he pleas for help regarding her daughter. Then, in came, his daughter, Meiko, who shouted for him to stop trying to escape. Haruhi and Ranka were shocked for Meiko is a ganguro [these are those girls who tends to be dark skinned and bleached hair, like the ones in Super Gal Ran or someone like Momo in Peach Girl]. Misuzu said that she won’t give her bag back because if she let Meiko leave, she doesn’t know where he would find her. Meiko screamed who would want to leave with him. Misuzu said that it was agreed that she would stay with him this summer. Meiko doesn’t want to and that Misuzu doesn’t look like a father ‘anyway’ for he is just a trying to be cute gay [ah, that should be insulting]. It made Misuzu cry as Haruhi said that even if she doesn’t know what’s happening, she shouldn’t say such things to him. [Well, since her dad is also one.] Misuzu then glomps Ranka and Haruhi asking for their help. That was two days ago.
At school, the twins are happy for school is over and tomorrow would be the first day of summer break. Then, they saw Haruhi hurrying to leave and they asked her where she is going for they still have the last day of club meeting. Haruhi apologizes and says she has to do something as she ask them to tell her apologizes to the others for she can’t attend. The twins doesn’t want to as they grab her and said that she didn’t attend the other day and yesterday already and that if she does it again, who knows what would Tamaki do. They don’t know what’s up between her and Tamaki but then, it could be his fault. The twins then said that lately, Tamaki is like a lost puppy, a sun-dried kappa or a monkey without his banana. They laugh and noticed that Haruhi is missing. A student then told them that Haruhi had already escaped.
In the club, Tamaki all smiling says that he understands even though tomorrow is already summer break, Haruhi still didn’t attend the club. He then faints, freaking out Honey. Tamaki then goes in drama mode with tears about Haruhi being avoiding him lately. Tamaki then cries loud as to what did he do that was really bad and that a girl’s heart being stabbed into by a knife. I don’t get that last part. ^^; The twins said that it could be because it is summer and Haruhi has already been avoiding him, it isn’t just now. Tamaki then gets angry at them for saying it as the twins shouted that they are also angry that Haruhi got away. All of them are fussing about as Kyoya on his laptop casually asked didn’t they know that Haruhi from now on, has been going to a certain school to fetch Misuzu’s daughter. Everyone was stunned as Tamaki grabs Kyoya – pretty much like before as to how did Kyoya knew.
Kyoya then said that it turned out that Misuzu and his ex-wife had a teenage daughter and she grew up with her mother but this summer, the stepfather wanted to go overseas so the daughter would be left alone in Japan so they left her with Misuzu. The twins exclaimed that they didn’t know that Misuzu was divorced. Honey then asked what does this got to do with Haruhi. It seems that the daughter doesn’t want to see Misuzu and even tries to run away from her. Tamaki perked up here. Then, Misuzu went to Haruhi and Ranka, asking for their help for Misuzu doesn’t want his daughter to go around the place alone and if Haruhi who is of the same age is with her, it would better. Ranka then agreed to it. They then knew why Haruhi has been leaving immediately after class then they noticed that Tamaki is crying. Tamaki said that he can relate with Misuzu for his ‘daughter’ [Haruhi] also wanted to leave him. He said that they couldn’t just stand there and do nothing, they are going to make Misuzu and his daughter reconcile. Everyone was happy – yey, field trip. Hehehe
At Meiko’s school [seems to be an all-girl’s school], the boys are stalking it near the gate on their flashy car as the girls are quite surprised to see such a car. Then, to their shock or more like they were smitten ^^;, they saw Haruhi wearing that school’s uniform. Tamaki and twins exclaimed that she looks cute. Haruhi then greets Meiko who just came out. Meiko said that it is her again, and that she doesn’t have to come and pick her up everyday for she isn’t going to escape. Everyone was shock for Meiko is a ganguro. Haruhi said that it is because this is a favor to Misuzu. Meiko then shouted who’s Misuzu, that trying to be cute gay. The boys then are distraught as Meiko is quite loud whereas other girls tend to speak softly. Meiko then asks what’s inside the paper bag. Haruhi said that it is her Ouran uniform because Meiko said that she doesn’t want her [Haruhi] to stand near their school’s gate in that uniform. Meiko then shouts that it is because it would be troublesome – something about even if she wanted a rich guy, the world of Ouran, she doesn’t want. and that isn’t Haruhi a girl so she should wear something of a girl’s. Cue in, Tamaki who said that he can understand what she is saying [I think he is saying he also wants Haruhi to wear girl clothes] and that they would be quite agreeable with each other. He then introduced himself and his ‘partners’. Meiko blushes upon seeing them as Haruhi is using her usual facial reaction, why are you people here.
Meiko then goes to Haruhi asking if they are her friends, they are all good looking. Haruhi asked, didn’t she said she doesn’t want that kind of people. Tamaki then calls out to her and Meiko quickly goes to him and introduced herself. Tamaki then said that her skin is nicely tanned, where did she came from to get it, some summer place. Meiko said that it is just a tanning salon. Tamaki then said that her make up is quite heavy, is she going to a bar. She was shocked as the others were looking/observing her like a test specimen – her skirt is way short, her fake eyebrows are quite long and the crushing blow by the twins, you look like Misuzu. Meiko then goes to Haruhi what’s with these disrespectful guys and Haruhi was at a loss for words. Honey then asked if she is living with Haruhi. Then, the twins said that for three people to live in that house, it is really incredible. Didn’t she not want to live with Misuzu, so why not live in her own house. Meiko shouted that they are really irritating, for if she returns to her mom’s house, she would be scolded at and if it is just for a month, she would just stay at a friend’s house. All of them then said if it is just a month, why not stay at a hotel. [Since they are rich guys, they can afford it.] Haruhi tells them to stop making things worse by not talking as Meiko is really to burst out in anger. She then grabs Haruhi and says that she needs to blow some steam so Haruhi could accompany her at a karaoke bar. Then, the boys followed them in their car, saying that they never been to a karaoke bar, everyone was perked up for they are going to a karaoke bar. Meiko then said, okay, so go down from the car [since it is embarrassing to be followed by on car].
At the karaoke bar, Tamaki was singing some old song as Meiko wonders why he is singing such an old song and it seems that he is looking at Haruhi. Tamaki is singing about waiting for her answer. Kyoya then asked if Haruhi will sing. Tamaki then asks her to sing with him. Haruhi bluntly said no and then said that she is going to the ladies room as Tamaki cowers and sits in some corner. Meiko wonders what’s it all about so she went to Tamaki and asks if he still wants to sing, she will accompany him. Tamaki smiles while wiping his tears, thanked her for she is being considerate. Meiko blushes as she says that it is nothing though it is the first time someone said that to her. Tamaki then glances through the songs list book. Honey then asked what else does Meiko like to do beside singing, for he likes cakes. She says that she likes to make clothes. The twins that she is like Misuzu. Meiko got irked for being compared to Misuzu again. The twins then asked what was it that she hate about Misuzu. Meiko then said that it is because they don’t understand for that person’s room is cute doll-like things.
The twins then said that they can actually imagine it. Meiko shouted that on her birthday, Misuzu gave her a lacey outfit as if that person wanted to be a mother that when she comes home, Misuzu would ask if she wants to take a bath or eat or would like to play with daddy dressing dolls. The boys then can relate why she is very angry with the expression – Eh + sweatdrop. Meiko continues that before he became a gay, he likes cute things but then, she doesn’t know what made him into what he is now. I think one of the twins said that it is like Haruhi then. Meiko angrily answered that it isn’t the same for that person [Ranka] didn’t leave his child. Tamaki then said, is that so, so you feeling lonely. Meiko then blushes as she looked at him.
At the ladies room, Haruhi just came out and thought that it is already 5pm. She then sits on one of the seats outside and wondered if she was too cold when she turned Tamaki down regarding singing for she doesn’t really know how to sing. She doesn’t know why she is avoiding him, maybe because of what happened before [the kiss], even if he smiled foolishly and said he doesn’t remember, she felt he was being deceptive. She thought that it is strange that she is bothered too much about it when the twins had already kissed her too before. Haruhi then prepares to leave, thinking, she would just thought that nothing happened. Then, Kaoru calls her near a vending machine. Kaoru said that coming from the men’s room, he saw this drink that he haven’t tasted yet. He wanted to try it but doesn’t know where to put his credit card. Haruhi then told him that she would treat her. Kaoru got embarrassed saying that she shouldn’t [implying she has few money] but Haruhi said it isn’t just few money [felt insulted] and that Tamaki and Kyoya already paid for the karaoke fees. Kaoru then bought two of the drink as he said that the other one is for Hikaru. Haruhi asked if it is okay if it is the same. Kaoru said that it is because they like the same things but if there is just one drink that they both like then. Haruhi answered that they would split it into two. Kaoru laughs and yes, they would indeed share it in halves. Kaoru then pats Haruhi’s head saying that it’s alright, if only it can be done then it is alright. Haruhi was quite puzzled, asking what it was. Kaoru, painfully smiles, says it’s nothing for he thinks that if summer doesn’t end, then everything would be okay. Haruhi innocently says that summer has just begun starting tomorrow. Kaoru laughs that she is right.
They enter the room as Kaoru greets Hikaru that he is back and that he found a strange juice. The two laughs as they wanted to test it. Tamaki then noticed Haruhi is back, he quickly hid his face back into the songs list book, looking hurt. Haruhi then calls out to him as he happily perks up but then, Meiko also noticed that she is back. She is sitting next to Tamaki. Meiko quickly grabbed Haruhi saying that they are going to the ladies room, leaving Tamaki crying. Outside, Haruhi protests that she just went to the ladies’ room. Meiko told her to listen to what she has to say. Meiko who was blushing told Haruhi that person Tamaki, he is quite nice, even though he is quite a fool at times, there never was a guy who was that nice to her. Meiko holding Haruhi’s hand told Haruhi to help her [become Tamaki’s girlfriend] as Haruhi looks surprised.
This chapter started with the usual going to help out new character and this time, a ganguro. I thought it would be just another typical Ouran story until the near end. Wow, Kaoru is actually implying about Hikaru and him liking the same things and it would be problematic if they can’t share a certain thing [like Haruhi]. Unfortunately, Haruhi was clueless about it. The ending was a surprise for will Haruhi help Meiko. Haruhi also noticed that she feels more bothered when Tamaki kissed her whereas if it were the twins, it doesn’t bother her at all. Is the author planning to pair them up? Will this develop the characters? Would the twins help if they knew for they would then get Haruhi all for themselves? I’m not quite sure if Tamaki would like Meiko for she is pretty much the opposite of Haruhi. Tamaki is really good at ‘reading’ people for he quickly figured out why Meiko is angry at Misuzu. It was because her parents got a divorce and felt that Misuzu left her. It does seem that Misuzu still thought of Meiko as a kid since Misuzu invites her to play dolls. Anyway, whatever will happen, I’m sure next chapter would be pretty interesting and fun. ^_^
Thought of the day:
Your children need your presence more than your presents. ~ Jesse Jackson.
D. Gray-man [chapter 86] and Ouran High Host Club [chapter 41]
Monday, August 21, 2006 @ 06:21 p.m.
Back in Edo, the akumas merged together to form into one giant akuma and is going to start wrecking havoc in D. Gray-man [c. 86]. It got Rabi’s attention as Tiki attacks but good thing that Rabi managed to defend himself in time. Rabi then said that from the records, Allen managed to hit Tiki using his innocence so it might affect him so Rabi quickly uses his hammer to summon a thunder based monster as Tiki is pleased about the fight. Miranda is using her power to minimize the damage to the surroundings. Sachiko/Chomsuke offered herself as a way for them to go to the akuma’s head to attack it since she couldn’t hold of her instinct to kill and would self-destruct anyway if she went berserk as her deal with Cross. Rinali wanted to help them but Bookman said that she isn’t well yet and there is a chance that her innocence is the heart so she should stay. So, Sachiko took Cromley and Bookman to the giant akuma. David and Jasdero wanted to join in the fight but the Count told them to just find and kill Cross. They learned that the ‘controller’ of their old ark gave away his/her power to someone else so the Count has to make a new ark with the help of Rhode. The Count said that those on Tiki’s hit list are the ones who have a high possibility of being given the information by the traitor Noah. The two then realized that there is a high chance of it being Cross.
Back at China, Allen has finished preparations to go into the ark. Baku gave Allen a transmission device to be in contact with Komui. Before leaving, Rou Fa and other scientists gave Allen back his deck of cards and replaced the missing ace of spades. Baku and others then bid him goodbye and to come back. Inside, Allen noticed a small town as Komui told him not to get lost. While walking inside, Allen was a bit worried about everyone as Komui told him to calm himself by thinking what would they all do when they return back. While Komui was saying this, there are scenes of more fights in Edo as Sachiko got Bookman and Cromley near the akuma and she got blasted away. There is a scene I’m not so sure if Rabi got distracted again and got injured by Tiki since the pose of one of the figures is like the akuma. Anyway, the last scene is nice, Kanda and others have arrived. ^_^ And, I thought that foot would be Allen but it is Kanda's. I'm surprised. Hehehe, it has been a long time since I saw him again. Well, I don’t quite get what’s will all with the ark and stuff but it is interesting that there is a traitor within Noah’s family and this event makes Cross a more important character in the story. Hopefully, Rabi won’t be too injured fighting with Tiki. I wonder if Kanda would help him. I always wanted to see Kanda and Rabi interaction and maybe the ones with Kanda can help Bookman and Crowley against the akuma. It would be funny when Allen arrives and all of this is over that Kanda would say, you’re late. Hehehe
It is Honey’s turn to have a love interest in Ouran High Host Club [c. 41]. The first scene was of a girl falling down and Honey asking if she is alright. She thought that those words are like a curse. The next scene was the black magic club dressed in gothic Victorian? outfits welcoming students who freaked out for they went into the wrong room. Nekozawa sighs for it is just those kind of guests and they put back on their black robes for they are more comfortable in them. Hehehe. Then, they asked Reiko as to what she is doing and she said she is preparing a curse. The others were happy and asked who the poor victim is. Nekozawa then sees a picture of Honey on the table and he asked what did Honey did to her. Ritsu said that it isn’t like that for she wanted to ‘have his soul’. It freaked out everyone there.
At the host club, Honey sneezes and the girls asks if he is going to have a cold and one of the girl said that she could have given hers to him. Cue in Tamaki who went on his usual charming flirt about a tea to make her better for it made him better and then, asked if they want to have their fortunes told as he blabs on about it. The twins thought that it is pretty hot already in summer and it seems that after the cold, Tamaki got more hyper than usual. Tamaki then calls out to Haruhi about fortunetelling and asked her to sit beside him but Haruhi sits on a hair about a meter away. Tamaki asks why she is sitting there as Haruhi and he asked what did he do. Haruhi remembers the stolen kiss while Tamaki was sick and told him that it is alright if Tamaki doesn’t remember. Tamaki starts to freak out as he tries fortunetelling to know what it was when Nekozawa appears from behind saying that he didn’t know Tamaki likes fortunetelling. That freaked Tamaki more as Nekozawa says that they would be more than happy to accommodate Tamaki and it is thanks for helping out with his sister, he would even give Tamaki a black robe. Tamaki continues to freak out. Nekozawa then says that there is something he wanted to say to Honey. He congratulated Honey for being chosen as their dark princess’s ‘meal’. Everyone, except the usual like Kyoya who doesn’t, freaks out and they thought of Honey being tied up and cook on a cauldron.
Reiko is in first year D section and is a long black haired beauty. She turns out to be a classmate of Ritsu [Bossa Nova]. Reiko asks Ritsu that since he is close with the people in host club, how about telling her something about Honey. Ritsu says he doesn’t know. Reiko then apologizes for his time and gave him a small doll Neko curse doll as a gift which freaked out Ritsu and others. The host club members looked at her saying that even if she looks like a princess, ‘curses’ seems to her favorite thing. Everyone was giving their comments as Honey cries why he is being cursed and if he is going to die. Mori then looses his tie as he says he is going to talk with her. The others told him not to use force as Nekozawa hanging on Tamaki’s shoulder again affirms what they said and that if they do, there would be a disaster. Tamaki freaks out again as Honey cries to Mori, saying he doesn’t want to die. Haruhi just wants to go home.
Nekozawa then told Honey that Reiko said that she will steal his soul then he showed them this small block with Honey’s name on it. The twins are intrigued about it as Nekozawa also showed them Reiko’s hand mirror with some written words on it in lipstick. [The words weren’t translated.] Nekozawa says that it is also another way of stealing a person’s soul. The twins, Tamaki and Honey said something about girls tend to do this – I’m guessing like love curse. Nekozawa then shows them a book about it as everyone freaks out, saying that it isn’t a curse but an elementary-type curses [word]. Okay, I don’t quite understand it anymore but I think they are saying that those are childish pranks than real curses. ^^; Anyway, Reiko appears from behind saying it is a curse. Reiko then calls out to Honey then asks for a strand of his hair as she pulls it anyway. Reiko then ties it with a strand of her hair, saying that it would make their soul’s the same or tied together. Tamaki then asks if Reiko likes Honey. I don’t quite get Reiko’s reply but it is something about the things she likes about Honey though in a not so good sounding way from the others reactions and that she could like him for she wants to steal his soul away. She laughs and left, scaring Honey.
And so the ‘cursing’ starts, during lunch, Reiko asks if she can sit beside Honey. Honey agreed though a bit scared and tries to be nice, asking about her lunch being zaru udon – noodles to be dipped in soy sauce and other seasonings. Reiko said that it is because she can use chopsticks. She then writes her name on one of the chopstick [at the tip where one eats] and Honey’s name on the other. Then, proceeds to eat the udon with it, slurping loud. It freaks out Honey and I would be freaking out, too if that happened to me. ^^;; Reiko then goes to Honey’s classroom and asks him to write his name on the paper, the 100th one for she already wrote the 99 ones. And there were others, the umbrella drawing, about a ribbon and others. Reiko’s club members watches on happily as they cheer her on.
In the club, Honey seems exhausted as he was in a trance, eating cake as Tamaki and Haruhi wonder of a way to help him. Haruhi then noticed that she is near Tamaki that she quickly walks away from him, as Tamaki ‘freaks’ out. The twins then said to look for they got an ace of hearts, saying something about if they were a pair [Honey and Reiko] about attracting together like opposites attract as Tamaki replied to think of Honey’s feelings. Kyoya then asks what Honey plans to do for it is ‘disrupting?’ the host club and if Honey wants, he can drive? her away. Honey then replies that while Reiko was going to him, he noticed that she doesn’t have that much friends outside of the black magic club. Reiko isn’t the same as others and it is okay if she kept on cursing and stuff..something about if someone to hold her hand. Honey didn’t finish as Reiko came, saying she found him.
Reiko then asks to borrow Honey’s stuffed bunny saying that she needs it for her cursing and she will return it tomorrow. Honey protests as Mori took the bunny forcefully from Reiko. Mori said that is she wants his [Honey] heart, there are other ways to do it. Reiko told him to return the bunny or else, she would curse him with ‘no happiness’. Mori said that he? won’t lose to the curse of someone who can’t understand other’s feelings and that no matter how much you use curses, you cannot get that person’s heart so why not examine one’s heart again. Reiko then replied that no one understands her nor could love her and since normal conversation won’t do, she resorts to cursing. Mori returns the bunny to Honey who then told Reiko that it isn’t so, for doesn’t one who want to know a person start with just plain conversation and if she wants people to like her, she should talk more. He doesn’t like her trying to change his heart using curses/witchcraft but he would like to know what she likes and what things make her unhappy for he would gladly listen to her. He likes a girl who works for something rather than wanting instant gain and if she wants to be his girlfriend, she would do the way he wants it – something like that. Reiko blushes as Tamaki and others were shock at Honey’s great response. Reiko replies that she likes curses and what she doesn’t like is being with...then, Reiko said that that day when she fell down and he asked how she was while smiling, she was really happy. Honey then said, is that so, it was because she tripped on his bunny. Hehehe. Honey then notices that Reiko is blushing and told her that they should eat cake together. Reiko agrees.
From then on, Reiko is now a frequent guest in the host club but – [while eating cakes] Reiko told Honey that she will try her best but she still does those curses stuff. Honey said something about suppose not to eat sweets anymore but he can’t stop so it is okay. Reiko then says, is that so, well, if that is so and laughs. I think Honey meant was there are just things that the two of them just can’t stop doing. Then a narration about the electric/magnetic waves between the two from then on, isn’t too far away, in short, the two are getting closer. The last scene was poor Tamaki in black magic club, crying about his ‘daughter’ as Nekozawa greets him, asking him if he wants his fortunes told.
This is a pretty nice chapter. As usual, poor Tamaki, he has lots of freak out scenes here and he really doesn’t remember the kiss. ^^; The author must have felt sorry for Honey and decided to pair him with someone. Of all the curses that Reiko did, I’m really scared of the chopsticks thing. It is a nice surprise to see Ritsu again. Nekozawa seems to be actively recruiting Tamaki into their group. ^^;; Does he like him or is it just a case of loving to tease/freak out Tamaki.
Thought of the day:
Remember, men need laughter sometimes more than food. ~ Anna Fellows Johnston.
