Name:
=3Kat

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, I got Ouran chibi of Haruhi and Tamaki either from BW or JumpC ^^; Quote is by Marilyn French. Edited in Photoshop CS2. The background is from GRSites. 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.

Valkyrie Profile 2: Silmeria

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Past Dreams:
2007

01/20/03 - 02/20/03

Blog by pitas

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Manga pics from
JumpC, Gocomic, Sky-fire & Billwang.

Most of the Quotes are from
Quote Garden & Our Daily Bread

Monthly Random Blahs
Tuesday, February 20, 2007 @ 09:56 a.m.

Manga: Since I have finished or rather caught up with V.B. Rose, I was actually planning to do the others that I mentioned before or well, just do the current ones and not add any new ones. Changed of plans ^^; Just last weekend, I’m just surfing around BW forum or Chinese sites for any new manga that I could read or find any good ones. I have browsed over Gokuraku Seishun Hockey Club by Ai Morinaga. I have finished volume 1 and it is quite funny. It is a bit Ouran actually wherein a girl who is a glutton and likes to sleep is blackmailed by this rich guy to join the hockey club since she has good reflexes when she is in a daze. ^^; It reminds me of Ouran because all the other members are guys and they even have a set of twins plus glasses guy and of course, a bit weird rich good-looking guy. The difference is that this is more on comedy like glasses guy is gay. ^^; They bribe her with food, etc. I would summarize this but then, this is already US licensed and is an old manga. Edit: also about hockey and I don't want to do sports-related manga. Main reason being I have to know sports terms in Chinese. =P

Next, I saw this Chinese title literally called ‘Heading list of successful candidates’ and after some research, it is called The One in English by Nicky Lee. I realized that this is a Taiwanese manga and I haven’t read any of her other books. I thought might as well check it out since the covers looked nice. It is around chapter 20 that I decided to summarize this one. It is about modeling though I’m more interested in the love story part [hehe] than the modeling so I might just ‘breeze’ through the modeling parts. I kept on thinking of America’s Top Model when I read those parts. So far, there are 30 chapters out and I think I can catch up since I don’t plan to do this detailed-ly as before but will see. This story is a bit for older teens as there are some sex and homosexuality in it. Actually, it somewhat gives me the feeling of Nana or maybe Paradise Kiss as the latter one is more on modeling though the comedy parts are more like Goong especially those ‘imaginations’ and chibis. ^^;; Lol, it is like a halfbreed jap and kor style of manga. I have a feeling the author loves drawing naked bodies. ^^;; The lead girl is a normal energetic high schooler who got into modeling by her aunt but around 20+ chapters, her character changed when something happened and the lead is elder one of the famous twins [younger one is a model and older one is a director, I think, (hehe, haven't intently read it yet) who has a past]. He reminds me of Takumi of Nana..actually good looking guys with long black hair reminds me of Takumi lol. It is really funny when these two are together. There are three chapters of English scanlation of this title which I have downloaded to check on the names and backgrounder – hehe, I’m just lazy to decipher the ones already translated. =P So, before I do that, I will finish Parfait Tic and Skip Beat!.

Anime: My harddisk is already filled of anime that I somehow can’t find the time to watch. ^^; I finally finished watching NHK ni Youkoso! and overall, it is okay though the story repeats itself that I wonder is it because the manga isn’t finished yet. They repeat on how to get a hikomori out of the house or do something productive is get those whom he is depending on to ‘disappear’ and he will be forced to go out and work rather than die and about the suicide issue. It is an interesting view on society though but sometimes, it can be a tad boring and I finished it just for the sake of finishing it and not really because I enjoyed it. Another series that I finished for the sake of finishing is Kyou Kara Maou that I pretty much skipped scenes and just learn the ending. It has potential but then, ended up being pretty shallow and predictable. The major problem is that I find some of the side characters more interesting than the lead character. ^^; Bleach is back to following the manga arc and it is really good that I enjoyed watching it especially the part when Ulquiorra and Yammy has made their arrival. The revelation of Ishin being a shinigami doesn’t seem right though but hopefully, things will be good from there on. The villain in Bakumatsu Kikansetsu Irohanihoheto just won’t die that it is really unbelievable for he is already shot died and bleeding. It can’t be helped there are supernatural things about this series. I don’t quite like how they tell the story for it still reminds me of a Japanese history lesson. I do have a feeling that the story is going to end soon. Le Chevalier D'Eon Russia arc is finally finished as they are going to England. The animators are the same as Blood+, why do I have a feeling that they are going all over Europe while Blood+ is more like around the world. ^^; It feels weird that D’Eon is a bit out of himself that I wonder if he is starting to fear about the idea of being possessed by his sister. If Bakumatsu is Japanese history lesson, Le Chevalier is like Europe history lesson. Lol Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion is still way fun and addictive. Mao arc has ended and I hoped he is really dead for he annoys me a bit with that clapping of his. The latest revelation is really fun as Lelouch learns who is the pilot of that white frame that has been giving him problems. I do wonder how everyone will react/do after they all know who’s who. I don’t like the new opening as I don’t like the music style and she also sang for Blood+ opening. I tend to fast-forward or even mute it whenever it is on. ^^;

I still can’t get into D. Gray-man as I finished watching the Rhode-Miranda intro arc. I got updated on Kanon and the art is really stunning as the story is a bit heart-wrenching. Only two girls left. I also updated with Gintama and it is getting to be funny. I really laughed at that panty-stealing episode as they included Hijitaka and Okita in the story. Lastly, I came to like Ghost Hunt as the episodes after the doll arc isn’t scary at all for me. I guess it helps if it is like ghosts and not an object, say doll =P The ghost in the park is really hilarious. I love it. I’m still curious about Naru as to who he really is. Mai is also developing powers which is good as she is getting ‘closer’? to Naru. ^_^ The labyrinth arc is way scary - haunted house of what used to be a hospital where people are killed/use for experiments. I think I saw this kind of house in one of those reality shows on a family going to a haunted place. And that is just the first episode of that arc ^^;; I'm also quite happy that the glasses student from the forbidden play arc is in the next arc..hope he will be a regular ^_^ And, Naru isn't an omnyouji, it is his assistant Li. Red Garden is still good as things are progressing and I can’t wait to see when they learn more of their so-called enemies. It is indeed different when killing off some kind of monster-person to someone you knew who turned out that way. The new one that I watched is Tokyo Majin Gakuen Kenpuchou. As diwj mentioned, the story is a bit messy especially the way the story is being told and I’m not entirely fond of zombies ^^; The delinquent is indeed cool though I’m also interested in the new transfer student. I finished episode 3 and ya, it does seem to be getting interesting. The fight scenes are nice. The class president seems to be typical shounen girl – weak but want to help. I hope they finish that soon as it seems pretty cliché. I actually can’t help laughing that it is a mini love polygon. Class pres seems to like delinquent though delinquent also seems to like her but is being mean to her. Archer likes class press while wrestler likes Archer. I do wonder if new transfer will be a couple with ‘scoop’ stalker girl. Hehehe They can’t keep on ‘erasing’ her memories, can they? The way they move seems to remind me of Samurai Champloo. Oops, almost forgot Nodame Cantabile which is about a wannabe conductor who can’t ride planes and this a bit eccentric piantist who plays by just listening. I do wonder if I will enjoy it better if I haven’t watched the drama. I though only watching the drama for 2 episodes even though I don’t seem to quite get into it, the anime seems much ‘lower’ in degree as in I actually liked the drama better ^^;; Maybe it is the art but I will still continue watching nevertheless since it is too early to judge it from just watching one episode ^^;

Drama: I finally finished Snow Queen. I can sum up the story in one sentence. Genius lost his way because of thinking he caused his friend [the brother]’s death and is on his way back with the help of the sister. Since this is obviously a tragedy, the sister dies when things are going better for them. So typical of this series’ writer and I guess they changed it by preventing the guy from following her. I do wonder if the ending has something to do with the current suicides of Korean personalities. Episode one of this series shows that the guy has fallen to his death but they revised it to a dream of the girl that she has to leave a note for him to live on. So, he did went to that place but didn’t fall and became famous for his math solving genius. The last scene of seeing the girl smiling at him is a nice touch though it is a bit corny. ^^; I only watched the first episode of Hana Yori Dango 2 and the first scene is pretty much reminiscence of the first part wherein she look around to see famous people. For a while there, I actually wanted to go to New York. ^^; So, the girl, forgot her name, went to NY to ask Domyouji why haven’t he wrote to her only to be rejected/snubbed. They all went back to Japan and get invited to a party only for her to learn that he is getting engaged. The difference here is that the bully who tricked her into getting pushed around by the others so that Domyouji will save her is revised into his sister helping the girl out. As usual, it is just okay. I have also watched the first episode of Goong S/Prince Hours. The first part is like what-the. He is a ramen delivery guy who fights with other delivery guys regarding turfs. It is so corny and what’s that dancing naked with only the delivery box..fanservice? ^^; Things get better as he got into the palace and is told to learn at royal school so that he can be crown prince because the current queen doesn’t have a heir so they wanted him as her nephew, iirc. Of course, the rival family doesn’t want that as they have their own prince and even a princess who both act like the most popular duo in high school. The lead girl is the maid who the delivery boy knows. I’m more interested in the popular duo. The highlight of this episode for me is when the princess did the two knives dance. She is awesome and cool. Delivery boy is love-struck by her and I suppose that will then form the love foursome. I have watched one-half episode of Himitsu no Hanazono and so far, it is okay as a girl got laid off from a fashion magazine just when she wanted to call it quits and got transferred to editing to a mangaka. I find the lead girl cute. Regarding Hongo, diwj, he reminds me of Ryuu of VBRose from his appearance ^^; The other two guys seems awfully familiar though. The boss of the fashion magazine seems to be the lady boss in Sapuri.

Games: I had finished two games. The first one is Xenosaga 3. I’m a bit sad that it ended as I like the gameplay. My fave character is still Jr. and I’m really happy with how they resolve his problem by being with Albedo. I am so happy when I saw that that I’m satisfied and don’t quite care what happens to the rest. Lol. Too bad that Nigredo didn’t get to be with them and I can’t upgrade his weapon for I have no intention of finishing that mini puzzle game. I thought that Shion deserves what happened to her at the end at the way she is ranting about Jin and stuff that before she knew it, she lost him. The one whom she had avoided all this time turned out to be the one whom she will be searching for later on. It is kind of tragic. I kind of think that Jin got reincarnated as Citan in Xenogears – still being a mentor type as Asher ‘mecha’ – forgot what they call their machines, was it anima, also got teleported with chaos, Abel and Nephilim. Nephilim is obvious the lead girl in Xenogears as they are wearing the same cross. I kind of think that Jr is a cross of Brad [young master] and Billy [uses guns]. Maybe Kos-mos became Eve from the hair color. The one I can’t seem to think of is chaos, could he be Cain? Anyway, I’m satisfied how things turned out.

The other one is Suikoden V. A prince in a female-dominated royalty as he got ‘booted’ out by the enemy who took his sister hostage. Later on, everyone seems to be out to get him as they betray him left and right except for his loyal bodyguard as he becomes more famous as a head of the rebel force. Unfortunately, I didn’t get all the 108 cast and got the George ending instead of the happy one. =( I have no plans of repeating it so I just watched on youtube as to see the happy ending. The George ending is the Lyon, the prince bodyguard dies and he travels alone while the good ending is she lives. It somewhat expected that from Suikoden IV. I’m currently playing Valkyrie Profile 2: Silmeria which is about a valkyrie, Silmeria inside a princess, Alicia who is out to change her fate with the help of some people. I do think that she will get paired off with Rufus whose character design somewhat reminds me of the pirate in Pirate of the Caribbean, Jack Sparrow. Since I have played the first part, I can already guess that Lezard is up to no good. It is only a while when I realized that the other two, Angrim and Leone seems familiar..I kind of remember that they are in the first part. Also the places, it is now cg instead of anime-drawings – I kind of remember those places, now. I’m still powering up as the place with statues is really difficult and I do remember before that I had a hard time with the ‘rules’ in that place.

Thought of the day:
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

V. B. Rose [Chapter 55]
Monday, February 19, 2007 @ 03:22 p.m.

At VBR, Ririko finds Yukari just sitting there, lifeless and gloomy. She asks where is Lan. Yukari says that Lan, together with Ageha, went out. Ririko says what did Yukari talked too much about. Yukari says that he isn’t careful that he told her that Ageha is his girlfriend. Ririko then sits and says, ah, now it/she has become a ‘toy’. Yukari says he thinks so, too. At the fourth floor of a department store in the Ladies’ Wear. Ageha comes out of the dressing room, wearing a cute dress as she says that she has put it on. Lan exclaims that it looks good on her. The saleslady says that it is because of Ageha’s white complexion that any color suits her. Lan agrees as the two talked about the other outfits that will suit Ageha, Ageha is a bit stunned and tries to say something but the two are just busy talking. Later on, carrying lots of shopping bags, Ageha tries to tell Lan that she can accept all of those things for they are quite a lot. Lan says that they have to go to some more stores. Ageha says that these are a lot already. Lan asks what is she talking about for they haven’t bought shoes and bags yet. Lan happily says for her not to worry for girls love to shop and that as a young girl, she should have lots of dates. Ageha is shaking as she thought for Yukari to save her.

Just then, Ageha noticed that it is a text message from Yukari. It writes, ‘Dona Dona Good Luck’ Ageha is stunned then realized that she is being sold out. [Dona Dona is a English song about a calf being sold/slaughtered] Lan is still busy buying clothes and while picking a sweater, the ladies asks if she is Ran the actress. Ageha got nervous for they are found out. Lan looks surprised and smiles as she denies it saying, do we look alike for many people have said that. Ageha is shock about it as the saleslady believed Lan. Lan bids the saleslady goodbye as they thank her for her patronage. Lan has the things she bought be delivered to Ageha’s house. After they left, Ageha freaks out as to why haven’t they realized it. Lan reminds her that as an actress she has to act like that but she is currently ‘herself’ and not ‘Ran’ the actress. Ageha sweatdrops and thought that it is true for the Lan as actress Ran on tv isn’t like the one she is currently with, who is all energetic. Just then, Ageha notices that Yukari has sent another sms/text to her, asking her to make Lan’s visit happy/memorable up to the end. Ageha is surprised and then looks at Lan who is happily picking up a bag which she thought is cute. To Lan’s surprise, Ageha is now standing beside her. Ageha says that she might be a bit disrespectful saying it that if an ‘actress’ is forced to do that [act/behave like an actress] then for her, she thinks that Lan’s true nature/behavior is much cuter and that it suits Lan better. Ageha then thought that she came on too strong as Lan seems surprised and extends her hand to Ageha as she calls Ageha’s name. Ageha is tense that she said something wrong but to her surprise, Lan hugs her and says she likes Ageha. She then asks Ageha if she would like to accompany her in window shopping. Ageha agrees. And so they shopped around.

While sitting on a lounge and drinking coffee, Lan exclaims that shopping makes her feel good and the coffee is delicious. Ageha though wonders if buying too much things really makes one feel good as she fears she is in a surprise when she sees all the things delivered to her house tomorrow. She is carrying only one shopping bag which she bought for herself. Lan then looking sad asks Ageha her what would make Yukari happy for he doesn’t like the car. Ageha thought that she doesn’t think that is the problem. Lan asks if he wants a branch of VBR, leave it to her. Ageha shouts that Lan thinks too much for just having one store keeps one busy already. Lan sighs for she can’t think of any other things. Ageha then says that she thinks it is something that money cannot buy for giving one-sidedly seems a bit..Lan then looks a bit sad as there is a flashback of her giving Aoi gifts for Valentine’s day. Lan says that someone has said the same thing to her, you always use money to solve things but she still doesn’t know why is that strange for that is the kind of family she is brought up in. Ageha looks a bit surprised as Lan continues that maybe it is because how she is brought up and how she thinks is the reason why she is like that. Her brother and sister are always commended by her parents for being studious while for the girl who isn’t [Lan], they would give her money so that she will listen to them. That is her family. Lan says that if she isn’t good at something, she isn’t, she isn’t a robot. Lan looks a bit nostalgic as she repeats that she isn’t a robot. Ageha feels sorry for her that Ageha holds her hands to comfort her.

Lan smiles at Ageha’s gesture and says that if Ageha wants, she will tell her the rest of what happened in the past. Flashback: Lan thought that in her family, she doesn’t have her own free will so she would always go to her friends’ house until in the end, she decided to leave her home and live at her grandmother [mother side]. She loves her grandma that even if she doesn’t have anything, she doesn’t want anything from her, that her grandma is happy already just because she is there beside her as that is what her grandma told her. Her grandma has already passed away but her house used to be nearby Rosa. It is when she is 16 years old when she first met Aoi. Aoi is carrying young Ririko then he greets her a good afternoon. She blushes as she greets back. She says that from the moment she saw him, it made her heart beat and it could be because of his gentle smiling face. Aoi is 19 years old at that time. He is helping his mother at Rosa, while studying college. He gives off a nice feeling/atmosphere that most of the time when she leaves the house, she goes to see him..drinking tea together, going out for a stroll together, and time passes by fast.

One time, Lan exclaims in surprise “Why” to Aoi, why ask this strange question, aren’t I a blue chip. [I’m guessing she is saying something like she is high maintenance-kind of person] Aoi is puzzled. Lan asks if a person like her is really possible. Aoi says yes and smiles as he tells Lan that she is she [who she is] and he likes her character/behavior. Lan is in tears as she blushes as Aoi hugs her. Lan says that at that time, she doesn’t ask for anything more for no one has ever made her happy as that. Lan kisses Aoi and exclaims that she really likes him. She then is in a white gown as she is in front of a sink, covering her mouth. She thought that she has received a gift which she can’t imagine. [End flashback] Lan then smiles and blushes as she thought of it and says that it is something that money cannot buy, an utmost happiness. Lan then makes a face as she asks Ageha can she guess what is it. Ageha asks what is it as she thought that Lan looks cute. With all glitters, Lan confess that Aoi actually proposed to her that she became an 18 years old mother. Ageha is shocked when she heard this.

Yehey!! ^_^ I’m updated on VB Rose before it ends. Hehehe, I actually fear that the series might end before I catch up to it. ^^; This explains why Lan has a tendency to give gifts to people or rather Yukari as her way of making up to him for not being there for him and well, it is her way of showing affection. It is what she is currently doing for Ageha. It is ironic that she is actually doing what her parents did to her. Ageha manages to get on Lan’s good side and it helps that Ageha is an empathic type of person. As for Aoi, if Yukari is the wishy-washy, overly conscious in confessing, Aoi is his opposite, he is way fast. He does seem more like a playboy. ^^; It amuses me that Yukari just got the beauty genes of his father as the way he acts isn’t like his father though Sakura is more like Aoi at the way how affectionate he is with Ageha. Hehehe The scene of Lan standing in front of the sink made me think that she just vomit = she is pregnant. Next chapter would probably more on Lan’s past and why she left Yukari.

Quote of the day:
I feel the capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance. ~ Pablo Casals

Weekly Jump Updates: Bleach, One Piece, Gintama, Naruto and D. Gray-man
Saturday, February 17, 2007 @ 10:39 p.m.

In Bleach [c. 263], Noitre is greeted by his underling, Tesla who asked if Noitre will give the final blow to Sado. Noitre says he isn’t interested for Sado is just a weakling. Noitre then noted that the nearest person is taken by Aroniro. Noitre then says that they are leaving for he just noticed a strong person and he wants to fight him. Sado then stands up and wants to stop Noitre but Tesla blocks his attack. Sado then faints as Noitre threatens Tesla with his double-moon weapon as to why he blocked it. Tesla says that Noitre might be hurt because Sado put all his strength into it. Noitre reprimands him that it can’t happen for he is the strongest of the espada. Back to Rukia who is shock to see Kaien who introduced himself as Aroniro. Aroniro then goes to Kaien-mode as he cheerfully greets Rukia and the usual blah about why are you having that face, how about be happy for a chance. Rukia then believes that this is the same person. Aroniro then gives Rukia a cushion to sit on as he tries to explain that after being killed before, his soul got back to Huenco Mundo and got re-constructed but with his appearance. He then explains that there is a sky inside the place because Aizen made it so that he can see everything that happens there. He then says that he wants to get back at Aizen for what he did to him and calls out to Rukia to come to him so that he can tell his plan. Rukia did as told only to see a blade coming to her face that she managed to evade it but then, her face is wounded. Rukia is stunned as Aronico looks at Rukia noting that Rukia has gotten stronger but then, there are two people from within Aronico talking.

If Noitre has sensed Ichigo, I don’t think Grimmjow will let him fight him. If it is Ishida, it will be a battle between the thin people. =P So, it seems that Kaien/Aroniro is a bad guy and as mentioned before, his soul and the hollow’s are forever merged. I’m somewhat thinking that it is more on the hollow controlling the body and it is Kaien’s appearance unless the hollow let him control the body hence the greeting earlier. I don’t think Aizen will be stupid to let someone like Kaien into espada if he knew he will be betrayed. I’m not sure about fearing the sun though is true for he could have lured Rukia in just so Aizen won’t see what he will do to Rukia when they got orders not to do anything with the intruders...though Noitre just violated that. ^^; For Rukia, Aronico is the worse enemy she could face...does that mean she has to kill him again? She does have a choice to just freeze him or go out if what he said about fearing the sun is true. It would be hard though since he is, after all, an espada. She would have to be at least the level of Urahara or Yoruichi who were able to ‘defeat’ number 10, Yami. Oh ya, I wonder if all Noitre group members have eye patches. Hehehe

Chopper is excited to meet Dr. Hogback as Hidon brings them there in One Piece [c. 445]. Chopper exclaims that Dr. Hogback is a renowned doctor whom he wanted to meet who had vanished one day. Nami looks out the carriage and was horrified to see a lion with a man’s face. The other two asked what it was so they also looked out to see creatures/monsters and ghosts dancing and like the lion and Hidon, has a number tattoo on their bodies. They freak out and asks Hidon to return them from where they were picked up. Chopper is a bit relunctant for he wanted to meet the doctor but in the end, he agreed for they scared him about choosing death or seeing the doctor. Then, they noticed that Hidon and the ‘horses’ have left. Off all places, they are in the graveyard. Hidon and others left, laughing as Nami and others are freaking out. Zombies then started to come out of the ground and shook the carriage so they all fell out. They fear if they were bitten, they will become zombies. With Usopp’s weapon of fire, the zombies stayed away from them. They took this chance to quickly run away. They were surprised that the zombies can run fast but then, they get tired easily, too. Finally, they are outside the mansion as they asked if the doctor is there. From the door, a shadow of some sort of person appears. The author must have lots of fun with this arc that it would be really fun to animate this one. It is really like a comedy horror show. Lol Hogback really makes me think of Dr. Frankenstein with all the patch-up monsters they have seen. I do wonder if Luffy will get to go to this island though since I’m somewhat thinking that the author is planning on a irony like the people who wanted to get on it like Luffy, didn’t while the ones who don’t want to get on it like Usopp, are on it. =P

Gintama [c. 152] is about Kame/Turtle, the assassin. It started out with rants of Kame about living in a small apartment for three months already and about being a coward kind of fighter. He wakes up then feeds his pet turtle. He then puts on a stawhat and mask [reminds me of Raiden’s hat and Scorpion’s mouth mask of Mortal Kombat] as he looks out from his rifle or whatever gun it is with a scope and that he is doing this because he fears revenge and that he needs money for the future when he is old. His target is Matsudaira from the shinsengumi- somewhat like head boss of Kondou. He is currently at the park but Kame can’t shoot for he sees a certain guy on the bench – not his target – what kind of person is it. It is Gin, picking his nose then is looking at him. Kame thought how could this person be looking at him when he is 100 meters away and that he will be like a needlehole to that person [Gin]. Kame becomes paranoid as to why Gin is looking intently at him but it turned out that Gin is intently looking on a different floor of a girl on her underwear, undressing. Gin then smiles as Kame is thinking that Gin is preparing to attack him or something since he sees Gin’s wooden sword. The girl then is about to take off her bra as Gin stands up to see clearly. Kame is shocked that he unconsciously, pressed the trigger. Kame looks out again to see what happened only to see Gin standing on the bench with a bleeding nose. What he hit is actually the ground.

Kame wonders as to why Gin could have survived only with a bleeding nose as he thought that he should quickly escape from such a guy. Then, someone puts his hand on Gin. A couple of men and a girl surrounds Gin as Kame thought, caught and when did he called the soldiers. Actually, the girl is telling the guys that Gin is peeping tom on her as Gin tries to deny it and points to the window, saying shouldn’t they be more worried about that. Kame thought that Gin is telling them about him. Just then, someone doorbells. It is Taizou selling newspaper but Kame believes it is a fake/trap and the soldiers had him surrounded. He wonders how can he escape and thought of going out the balcony and when he did, he is surprised that there are many people looking up. Kame is shock as to why there are many people looking, is he caught. He doesn’t know that the floor above, a girl is trying to commit suicide by jumping down. Gin shouts what are you doing, don’t do that foolish thing. Kame is a bit puzzled by what foolish thing is he saying – is it about wanting to die rather than be caught. Then, he sees his pet turtle lying eggs and then he is inspired not to kill himself so he plans to escape by jumping to the other building. He leaps but he comes short and is about to fall when the girl from above who is commiting suicide has fallen on him. Splat, Kame saved the girl by using himself as cushion for the impact. Everyone is happy that she is saved by this guy and they haven’t seen such a courageous guy. They then called the ambulance. In the end, he is even rewarded for his bravery by the very person whom he tried to kill, Matsudaira. Lol. I guess that is how Gin unwittingly saved an important person. Kame is just way too paranoid. ^^; It is really amusing that at the start, he laments about being a coward and now he is being honored by his bravery though it is really just a coincidence. =P I like this cover pic – James Bond inspired.

In Naruto [c. 342], the theme is leaving the world to the next generation which was mentioned before. They finished off the two akatsuki with a little blah from Kakashi that Kakuzu has no chance against the new generation. They went home and talk aftermath about Kazuma’s kid – who would imagine Kurenai is pregnant and married ^^; -and the ‘king’ he mentioned to Shikamaru is the future generation whom he should help protect. The last scene is of Sasuke defeating some people as Orochimaru chides him for being soft but Sasuke says that he is only determined to kill that person. And I still hate his new outfit. Nothing much to say about this chapter. While in D. Gray-man [c. 108], Jasdebit is about to leave and chase after Allen and others when Crowley is visited by Elizade or her ghost or his imagination and reminded about the protecting his newly found comrades that he chose to leave her. Crowley thanked her and he is revived as blood as he stopped Jasdebit from going into the door. Jasdebit tries to hit him but it is useless and notices that Crowley’s body is still inside the iron maiden. Jasdebit thought that it is because of the innocence. Crowley then stabs into Jasdebit’s body/stomach and tries to drain her/his blood but Jasdebit manages to shove him away with her hair. Last scene is another face-off. So, it seems that Crowley is still alive though I do wonder if he can go back to his body after defeating Jasdebit or will he become like that later on.

Word of the day:
When you’re weary in life’s struggles, find your rest in the Lord ~ Our Daily Bread.

V. B. Rose [Chapter 54]
Friday, February 16, 2007 @ 11:10 a.m.

As Ageha is surprised to see Yukari’s mom, Lan then notices Sakura. Lan quickly goes to Sakura shouting, what happened, Yukari, why are you still small after all this time. Ageha feels like fainting as Ririko is like ‘huh?’ Someone says that it cannot happen. Sakura perks up and Lan looks behind him to see Yukari who thought that Lan’s reaction is like Ageha’s and Mitsuya is surprise to see Lan. Lan then exclaims calling Yukari as Aoi asking what happened, how did you manage to stop time, a youth medicine, teach me. Yukari angrily says, stupid. Ririko calls out to Lan for being like that and that is Yukari. She looks back and looks at Ririko. Lan looks shocked as she is shaking as she says that Ririko has really haven’t changed. Ririko angrily says, don’t mind me as she says is Lan treating her as a elementary kid. Then, Lan pauses and freaks out that Yukari is all grown up. Yukari says that her reaction is slow and if she only think, she can easily guess it. Lan then looks a bit tearful eyes as she says that Yukari has grown up to become like Ririko, mouth only says bad/mean things. Yukari and Ririko both angrily shouted sarcastically, really sorry as what Lan says made them angry.

Yukari then looks at the car and says that he heard a car break/stopping very loudly that he came out to see what it was and it just turned out to be Lan. It seems that Lan can’t park for the car is sideways slanting from the sidewalk. Ririko then freaks out if Lan is the one who drove for they have asked the police and others to not let Lan drive for she drives like a tornado and it is a good thing no one got hurt. Lan says but she is driving herself while at work. Ririko and Yukari shouted not to be naïve as Lan says not for them to be ‘too much’/looking down on her. Ririko looks at the car and says that it seems flashy as Lan says that it is a BM. Yukari and Ririko wonders if she meant BMW. Lan says that’s it and even if it is a bit late, this is a gift [the car] for Yukari. Yukari freaks out/pukes blood as he shouted that Lan is wasting money. Lan says, it is no problem for she has already paid for the license, insurance, etc of the car. Yukari says that it isn’t the problem. Lan says so it seems Yukari doesn’t like the color red and then talks about why she chose that color. Yukari is weakening as he says for Lan to listen to what he is saying then firmly says that he is really grateful for all the things that she has been giving him but this one [he points to the car] take it back. Lan asks, are you sure. Yukari insists he is for he is satisfied with his father’s car. Lan asks if he is still driving that ‘going to be wreck’ car. Yukari says not to mind that. Lan says that if that is Yukari’s wish, she can’t do anything about it. Yukari then sighs relieve for he finally got his point across.

Lan then sweetly asks if she can see inside of VBR. Yukari and Ririko thought will it ever end as Ageha looked surprised. Inside VBR, Lan exclaims that nothing has changed and it is like Ririko who haven’t changed much. Ririko angrily shouts that Lan is exaggerating. Lan asks Yukari if there is anything he needs, she can help. Yukari sternly says nothing and don’t randomly buy things but then, Lan isn’t listening. Lan then looks at the sofa, commenting the cover has been changed and it makes her feel nostalgic. Then she saw her picture on the table. Holding it up, she asks Ririko if she is still beautiful. Ririko teases that she is now old. Lan pats Ririko’s head saying that Ririko really haven’t changed. Ririko says that she hopes that Lan grow up a bit. Lan then goes tearfully as she asks Ririko not to discuss about age. Ririko and Yukari says that no one is talking about it. Ageha is a bit stunned as she thought is this really Lan, the actress, it is amazing that she met such a person. Lan then notices her and asks if she is works there. Ageha is surprised and quickly says she does. Lan thought she is cute and asks if she is a high schooler. Ageha says yes.

Then, Lan quickly covers Ageha’s mouth then looks at the mirror and says that it seems her skin isn’t as it was before. Ririko says not to compare it with a 17 year old. Lan is already 41 while Ririko is 29 years old. Lan says but her heart is always a 17 year old. Ririko says that would be problematic for she cannot discern her from a high schooler [Lan acts like a high schooler] Lan asks if that is a problem and Ririko says it is sad. Ageha wonders what the two’s relationship is good. Lan is then surprised as she looks at her watch saying that she has to register for a room at a hotel so she has to go. Yukari and Ririko are surprised. Lan says that no to worry for she will be back tomorrow. Yukari and Ririko are double surprised. Ririko asks Lan what about her work, what is that hotel about, how could an actress be acting like that, isn’t she suppose to be doing a movie for Ririko is up to date with showbiz/entertainment news. Lan then smiles and points to her cheeks as she cutely says that she is on vacation. Yukari, Ririko and Ageha are surprised as VBR shook as they exclaim in surprise.

Later on, at the car, Ageha and Yukari still looked a bit stunned/speechless as to what happened earlier. Yukari apologizes regarding his mother. Ageha says that she is the one who should apologize for coming at the store when she suppose to go there tomorrow but his mother is quite energetic. Yukari says that she noticed and that she is still the same as he remembered. Ageha nervously says is that so then asks for how long have they haven’t meet each other. Yukari says 23-5. Ageha darkly thought, 18 [years], happened even before she is born. Yukari sighs and seems to be thinking. Ageha thought that Yukari haven’t seen his mother for 18 years what could he be thinking. Yukari is surprised as Ageha holds his arm. Ageha worriedly asks if Yukari is okay. Yukari is surprised and then smiles as he kisses Ageha and thanks her [for her concern].

Ageha comes in her house, steaming as she is blushing thinking she got thanked and even a good night kiss. Ageha is then surprised to see her sister, Makoto calling out to her. Ageha happily asks why is she there. Makoto says she is going to get her land title? Ageha then looks for Madoka if Makoto brought her. Makoto says she did and calls out to Madoka. Madoka then looks a them and said, ‘hi’ She is currently four months old. Makoto and Ageha goes all blushing as their mother thought foolish sisters. The two then happily asks each other that Madoka has ‘appeal’. Makoto then hugs Madoka, crying that when she thinks of Madoka going to kindergarten, she is worried that that there would be stared by stalkers. Ageha says that she wants to go, too. Note says stupid mom, stupid aunt. Their mother then says while drinking coffee, what to do then that she has to let go, live easy, then start looking for work. Makoto cries and says that no, no, I don’t want to let go as she and Ageha hugs Madoka. Their mother asks, what do they think of kindergarten then. Makoto then is shock for she is the one who lets go of Ageha [to go to kindergarten] Ageha cries for her sister as their mom says that is why she became more relaxed. Ageha comments that having one’s child, it is really hard to let go. Makoto plays with and says that until then, she can’t wait to watch Madoka grows up. Ageha smiles at her sister then suddenly thought that Lan left Yukari when he is just 5 years old so 18 years ago, what could have Lan felt then when she left.

The next day at VBR, Mamoru is peeking through the door at Lan as Ageha says not to look secretly from outside for why don’t she go inside and meet Lan. Mamoru who is a fan of Lan for 12 years tells Ageha that it is more great to look/appreciate what one likes. Ageha says is that so. Ryuu tells her sister not to be too overpowering. Inside, Yukari felt a presence as if there is something behind him. He turns around and freaks out to see the trio looking inside. [I’m guessing he is more afraid of Ryuu looking with that glint in his eye ^^;] Ageha says that they were noticed. Lan asks if they are his friends. Yukari opens the door and tells them it is okay so go inside for what they are doing is bad for his heart. Mamoru thanks him for his offer but it is okay as she tells Ryuu that they are leaving. The two siblings then happily tells Yukari that they will be back the next day as Yukari freaks out that they will be back. Ageha apologizes for her friends as Yukari says it is okay for he has more or less got used to it. Lan then greets Ageha as a worker and tells her to do her best. Ageha says she will and tells Lan her name. Yukari then musters his courage as he blushes and tells his mother that Ageha is his girlfriend. Lan is surprised and just looks at Ageha as Ageha grows tense at the silence. Lan then grabbed Ageha’s hand and got her coat as she pulls Ageha saying that they are going shopping, surprising both Ageha and Yukari.

This chapter is really funny for I didn’t quite expected that Lan will be like that over-the-top reactions that is so funny. Interestingly, she is somewhat like Ageha, the way they freak out. ^^; It is really hard to imagine that Lan would be the type of person to leave one’s kid but then, it shouldn’t be since she doesn’t seem to be the responsible type. I do wonder what happened to have ‘scarred’ Yukari. It is also amusing that Yukari and Ririko’s reactions to Lan is pretty much the same. I guess it is because Ririko is practically the one who brought up Yukari so it isn’t surprising. It goes to show that kids tend to pick up the behavior of the ones taking care of them. Regarding Lan, buying gifts for Yukari, I’m thinking that it is her way of making it up to Yukari for leaving him before and since Yukari doesn’t want anything, she seems to be planning to do it in the indirectly through Ageha, the girlfriend. Finally, after long chapters, Ryuu made his appearance since he got turned down. Here, it is already implied that Ryuu and Ageha has become friends again or else, why would Ryuu be there...unless to terrorize Yukari ^^;; I really doubt the couple will have any fights with the siblings around.

Thought of the day:
A mother's heart is always with her children ~ Proverb.

Ouran High Host Club [Chapter 47]
Wednesday, February 14, 2007 @ 10:56 p.m.

[Yehey! *v-sign* Finally finished this one and that took quite a while ^^; longer than I expected but it can’t be helped because of circumstances on my part – like my insufficient knowledge of lots of Chinese words and for the last few days, there is some digging downstairs that it is driving me nuts until today. Ah, excuses..^^;; Anyway, I’m going to sleep now..Happy Valentine’s Day to you all! ]

So, after Kyouya made that promise [of winning the competition/betting the kotatsu] these are the situations of the two teams. White team are discussing their plans in discussion hall one. Kyouya is looking at the lists of papers according to the data they have gathered about the members of White and Red team regarding their character, relationships, social activities, etc except athletic abilities. Matsudaira [the school student president], who have no idea how did he become vice-captain of the group, asks Kyouya what does the data they have, got to do with the competition. Then Ayame [she is the one who is envious of Tamaki before for always beating her for second place; Haruhi’s tutor – chp 17] explains to the president that her rough guess is that it seems that Red team has the upper hand in terms of athletic abilities so Kyouya is thinking of researching other basis for them to fight back. Kaoru says that is right for they are looking for the enemies’ weakness. Kanan, Kuze’s gf, laughs and say, that isn’t ‘honest/fair’ but typical of Kyouya. Reiko [the girl from Black Magic Club who likes Honey] sitting beside Honey while reading a small book on Girl’s magic book, tells Honey that she has found a curse that can halved the opponent’s fighting spirit. Honey who is eating cakes says that Reiko’s ability is permitted and can be useful = do it.

3-C Ki, the vice captain of basketball club and 2-D Ren, the vice captain of soccer club are both a bit speechless as they look at Kyouya and others at the other side to the table busy with computers and paperwork as if they are in a business meeting. Ren asks why is the leadership of White team focuses more on brains for isn’t it suppose to be more on athletic ability. Ki says that it is true for it is not suited/incompatible [for sports competition]. Honey then appears before them asking if they are not in a fighting mood and if they want to eat cake. Surprised, they say that they are in a meeting so how can they eat cake. Honey then asks if they want to play with his rabbit [stuffed toy]. They declined. Honey then goes dark mode as he asks then how about temporarily going on training as he orders able-bodied boys to go out the field and run 50 laps. They were scared as they ran out with Honey chasing after them.

Meanwhile in discussion hall 2, it is the meeting of Red team. Tamaki is doing a pep talk as he calls for everyone to listen for in order to score a victory, they need enthusiasm and teamwork and the most important thing is be full of energy and sports cooperation so that they will be a strong cohesive force. The students cheers as Haruhi thought that Tamaki is saying this and that but everything is just the same. A student asks his seatmate wasn’t it suppose to be Kuze who is the leader so why has it become Tamaki. His seatmate explains that Kuze kept on saying something about ‘seeing a demon’ then later on, won’t get out of bed so the replacement is Tamaki. The student asks what is up with that. A scene of Kuze under the blanket kept on saying, “demon, demon, he came” as he eats oranges and his other sidekicks are bringing lots of oranges. Nekozawa then says for them to win, they should all have this cursed doll as he/his puppet is holding on a cat-shaped wooden figure. They freak out as Nekozawa further explains that for now, don’t mind the design and that they only need to put on the doll something red just like their team’s color – something like Ritsu’s hair. Nekozawa is holding a small bundle of Ritsu’s hair. Ritsu freaks out as he shouts when did Nekozawa got it.

Some athletic upperclassmen approaches Tamaki to tell him that White team is being organized by Kyouya and they are using ‘brains’ approach that they could be thinking of a scheme to fight back, so won’t it be a problem. Tamaki tells them that is why they are adopting the strategy of letting those who would participate to volunteer for that is for the best. He says that he realize that at times like this one has to ‘wack one’s brains’ and not to waste the time for training so that is why adopting this kind of strategy of depending upon them [sempai] who are sports heroes for they are the hope of Red team. Tamaki says this with sparkles as the upperclassmen is awed by what Tamaki said. They then joined hands as Tamaki shouts that he should wait for their victory report. The upperclassmen in tears, touched by what Tamaki said, tells him to depend on them. They then are all pepped up as they tell those who aren’t helping in the meeting to change clothes and head to the field. One of them then asked Mori what kind of training agenda they will have that day. Mori tells them to run 50 laps around the field. They then rush off outside as Haruhi thought what now, she doesn’t even have an ounce of their enthusiasm.

Back to White team, Kyouya is saying so it is certain at the starting first contest and the last relay run while following closely at the middle is cheerleading sports event which can slightly be edge out/win especially at the near end of cheerleading contest as long as they didn’t choose the wrong person, then they can relax since the difference can widen so it is a good opportunity. Kyouya then puts down the paper he is holding. Matsudaira then asks Kyouya what would be the program/contents for the cheerleading contest. Kyoya says to look at the data they have as to who will be suitable for the cheerleading contest and this event doesn’t need to have those who have achievements nor be expert at this sport, just a simple arrangement. Kaoru says okay [taking notes] as a student asks if it is okay not to exert effort since Red team has Tamaki at the helm that it would definitely be grand. Kyouya then says, that is why that is what he decided on. Meanwhile, Renge asks Tamaki if the cheerleading group will have a character ‘Li-shi-pi-ya’ [Okay the closest I can think of this is Ophelia since Tamaki likes Hamlet from the past chapter] and she wants to play the role. Tamaki agrees to it. Then some girls volunteer to do the music and uniforms as Tamaki agrees to it and smiles saying that it will be all really interestingly fun. At the same time, Kyouya explains to the upperclassman student as they said Red team will tend to use their energy senselessly on the cheerleading group that they don’t allocate everyone’s abilities that in the end, one can think that there is a possibility of them being tired near the end of the competition. The two upperclassmen are a bit surprised. Kyouya smiles and says would that idiot win if he just depends on just doing what he wants to do. The two upperclassmen nervously smiles and says is that so, how typical of Kyouya as they thought why has it become chilly all of a sudden.

At discussion hall 2, Ritsu asks Haruhi if it is okay for her to participate at the sports event. The right side of Ritsu’s hair is standing up because that is where Nekozawa cut the hair for the cursed doll. Ritsu asks won’t her secret [being a girl] be exposed as he is happy that he is in the same team as Haruhi. Haruhi says it is okay since everyone has made her a sports outfit/uniform and she is happy that she gets to choose the sports event that she will join. She then looks at the paper list and says that as long as she walks slowly, it will be okay so she can do either tug-of-war or dodge ball [literally it is throw ball but dodge ball seems to be the game for competitions such as this] She wonders which one should she pick then she ask Hikaru, sitting beside her, which event is he joining. Hikaru gloomily says three-legged race and it would be fun if Kaoru participated with him. Haruhi sweatdrops then tries to cheers up Hikaru saying that even if they are separated, it will be only for 1-2 hours after class and on the sports event itself. Hikaru says that is what Kaoru said. [Note Hikaru replies and his speech balloon is grayish reflecting his mood] Haruhi says that even if they are not in the same group but later on, they can tell each other the secrets of the other group and won’t that be interesting. Hikaru angrily says that is also what Kaoru said. Hikaru laments that he already knows that and talking about those things in the past/already happened now won’t help at all but when Kaoru decided to leave for the other team, he seems a bit delighted. Hikaru remembers Kaoru smiling as he says that he being in White team is okay. Hikaru sadly says that lately, Kaoru has been acting strange that at times, he doesn’t know what is Kaoru thinking. Haruhi calls his name about to comfort him when out of the blue, Tamaki comes between them and shouts loudly asking if Haruhi has decided on what event she will join in.

Hyped up Tamaki then asks will it be the bread eating contest that as a father, he will secretly put in a piece of tuna [I’m thinking the sushi-type that Haruhi likes] inside the bread and it will be called tuna sandwich, doesn’t that sound yummy. Haruhi weird out asks if that will actually taste good. Hikaru then tells Tamaki that Haruhi will be her partner for the three-legged race. Haruhi says that she can’t for their leg’s length isn’t the same so they would stumble. Tamaki is all sparkles and happy as he messes up Hikaru’s hair. He tells Hikaru, that is right so it seems Hikaru wants to play three legged race so why not be a pair with him. Ritsu just sweatdrops as he watches them. Tamaki then starts hugging Hikaru who is a bit uncomfortable about it. Tamaki says that currently, daddy is bursting of energy that no matter how many sports event, he can join them all. Hikaru asks why has he become more hyper/affectionate than before that it is nauseating, too bothersome. Haruhi smiles and thought of something as she asks could it be that he has already made up with Kyouya. Tamaki then goes to the corner, crying with his hands on his face, lying down on a pool of his own tears. Haruhi and Hikaru thought, eh—obvious not. They then tries to comfort Tamaki up with his teddy bear and rattle ^^; as Tamaki is still crying. Hikaru asks what, what, even at the classroom, Kyouya is snubbing you. Hikaru pats his head saying, it is okay, it is okay. [like trying to stop a kid from crying] Haruhi sweatdrops and asks could it be he is trying to cover up his pain by making himself to become hyper. Flashback: Tamaki calling out to Kyouya to greet him good morning but Kyouya snubs him as he just kept on talking with Ayame about a list. End flashback.

Hikaru then wonders out loud that Tamaki isn’t wrong/did anything bad that Kyouya will be get very angry and isn’t that a bit over the top for isn’t Tamaki’s brain like tend to do whatever he wants even if it isn’t ordinary. Hikaru continues to say that even if the way Tamaki dragged Kyouya into it is a bit disappointing but still, one can immediately realize that Tamaki didn’t do it intentionally. Everything Hikaru says hits the bull’s eye for Tamaki as he feels hurt and somehow realize why Kyouya is angry. Hugging his teddy, Tamaki looks sad as he says that generally it isn’t like that and that Kyouya must have already thought that he minds other people’s business too much. Then, newspapers came out with the headlines Tamaki vs Kyouya – Host Club Internal Split/Division – Two head members of Ouran against each other/in opposition. Everyone are now gossiping about it. A girl says have you heard that Tamaki and Kyouya are not meeting/snubbing each each other. A girl cries saying that can’t be, she can’t believe it. One of the boys is saying that the reason could be because Tamaki organize the competition between Kyouya and Kuze and that Tamaki even became an assistant to Kuze’s red team. Another boy says that he heard from rumors that they had a misunderstanding. A girl says that not being able to see the two is like torture. Surrounded by other girls, a girl says that host club’s homepage has a new portraits of the two guys. One says that she haven’t seen it yet. Another says could it be that before it is sold out and now they are re-printed. The girls then quickly runs off as they hurriedly goes to buy those pictures.

Kaoru goes in the discussion hall where Kyouya is alone, typing on his laptop computer. He knocks as he is holding the school newspaper to tell Kyouya that it is making waves as everyone is talking about the shift from Kuze vs Kyouya to Tamaki vs Kyouya. Kyouya calls his name to acknowledge his presence as he went back on typing. Kaoru takes his seat as he tells Kyouya that there is a surge of people going on their club’s homepage during this time that they even have to reprint the pictures. Kyouya then asks if they buy well/sold out. Kaoru goes ‘eh’ then started shaking in anger while sweatdropping as he asks could it be..let me ask, could it be because of this that he goes to oppose/fight Tamaki. Kyouya says how rude, he is really angry though from the outside, it would seem bullying but the result is that at such a time, they can earn some profit which is like heaven sent manna. Kaoru protests how could he do that for Tamaki is really pitiful and that he doesn’t understand why is Kyouya being angry about, is it as the other students gossiping that is Kyouya hates Tamaki because Tamaki is assistant to Red team. Kaoru says that even if Tamaki is wrong, his brain is basically like doing what he wants no matter how stupid it seems and it isn’t ordinary. [He is basically saying what Kaoru said earlier ^^;] Kyouya agrees. [Note when he agrees, his speech balloon is dark color] Even if it seems like he dragged Kyouya into it which is disappointing but Tamaki didn’t do it intentionally. Kyouya agrees. It is just that Tamaki doesn’t want Kyouya to misunderstand Kuze. Kyouya agrees. Kaoru finally adds so Tamaki is thinking that maybe through the sports competition, the problem with Kuze can be solved, so that Kyouya will..Then, Kaoru realizes something. Kaoru then asks Kyouya is that it, he is just randomly saying thinks out loud.

Kyouya sighs and tells Kaoru that no matter how he looked at it, it does seem to be that person’s [Tamaki] thinking. Then, Kaoru asks what then is Kyouya angry about. Kyouya in serious mood, tells Kaoru that he dislikes Tamaki minding other people’s business for it doesn’t matter to him how Kuze looks at him but he [Tamaki] has to do this unprofitable sports competition that it just adds to the problem. The harmless misunderstanding is better just letting it be for in reality that is how it is and the most important thing is just to make those who matters to you understand you. Kyouya asks isn’t that enough. [Okay, Kyouya is basically saying there that isn’t it enough just to let yourself be known/understood by those whom you are close with so it doesn’t matter if others don’t understand you as long as those whom you are close to you/important to you does. ] Kaoru looks surprised as Kyouya asks what is with that reaction. Kaoru says it is nothing and what Kyouya said is true. Kaoru then says that it seems that a moment ago, he just had a feeling of Kyouya being cute that in the current society he is popular but as if this character/disposition that can’t be talked about/say frankly about. Kyouya says really, and does Kaoru seems to want to participate at a race so he will keep that in mind. Kaoru sweatdrops and says that he didn’t say anything about that. Outside, at the field, both red and white team are jogging around with Honey and Mori joining them. Honey asks if it is spring for people are acting beyond what is normal. Kyouya is being stubborn/difficult while Tamaki is still restraining from saying the important things he want to say inside him. Occasionally, moving/changing a little bit can be hard. Mori agrees. Honey says nevertheless, at the end, White team will win. Mori says that it is the Red team. The mood became dark as Honey is now talking without flowers in his speech bubble saying wanna bet – bet on three month worth of cakes. Mori says bet on three month worth of chicken/bird feed. [for his pet chick]

Inside the building, Hikaru and Haruhi are running side by side while in sportswear. Hikaru asks Haruhi what happened that she is dashing enthusiastically. Haruhi says isn’t Hikaru the same. Hikaru says that in the tug-of-war, one doesn’t have to practice hard on running. Haruhi says it is to increase her stamina so she is training. Hikaru says so she is standing by Tamaki’s side. Haruhi denies asking who and says isn’t Hikaru also suddenly started running enthusiastically, too. Hikaru embarrassed says that anyone who hears Tamaki’s speech would.. Narration: So that’s it, Tamaki is really...Flashback: Together with Tamaki who is holding his teddy bear and Hikaru and Haruhi sitting on the floor near him, Haruhi whispers so it is to help Kyouya and Kuze misunderstanding to be solved and hopes that they have a frontal confrontation [than backstabbing/indirect attacks at each other]. Hikaru then tells Ritsu standing far away from them to move back a little further. Ritsu sweatdrops as he wonders what are they doing in that corner. Tamaki who looks out of it/in a daze asks them how would they define Kyouya’s character in one word. Haruhi says cold-hearted/uncaring nature. Hikaru says evil-hearted nature. Tamaki laughs and says that those are indeed a bit true. While smiling, Tamaki tells them that for him, Kyouya is a ‘warm-hearted/fiery’ person. End flashback.

Kaoru is then holding some notes and papers, saying about doing something with the data when he finds Hikaru and Haruhi dashing together the hallway that he asks where are they going. The two notice him and Hikaru quickly hugged Kaoru as they say that they have been separated for an hour already. Haruhi says okay, okay, I’m will going first. Hikaru asks her to wait as he apologizes to Kaoru and that he will first do some training for Red team so he will be back. Kaoru says okay and asks why does all of a sudden he become enthusiastic about it. Hikaru then smiles and winks at him saying that it is a secret. Kaoru is a bit surprised. Hikaru and Haruhi smiles at Kaoru as Hikaru flashes the v-sign, saying that Red team will be victorious. They started to run/walk away as Hikaru tells Haruhi to hurry up to go to the field. Haruhi says she is hurrying. Kaoru just looks at them speechlessly though he looked a bit sad. He then goes his way as he shouts, White team fight. Finally, it has started on a beautiful autumn day at the field, Ouran High’s first sports competition starts. Respective groups face each other. Meanwhile, Kuze is being pushed by his two ‘sidekicks’ telling him to hurry up and head for the field too as Kuze snaps out of it, asking what was he up to since then.

I find it really amusing the contrast on how Tamaki and Kyouya handles their respective teams. Tamaki is more on pep talk that makes the members want to volunteer to help out. I guess it is because of his charisma. Whereas, Kyouya is doing it more technically as in assigning things based on what they are good at. Since Kyouya doesn’t have Tamaki’s charisma, Honey is there for threatening those who are a bit uncooperative. I do believe that Honey went to the two athletes table to stop them from badmouthing Kyouya’s way of doing things. Thinking about this, the two are really different from each other though both is a ‘correct’ way of motivating/doing things to win the competition so I do wonder who will win. I’m also thinking of this more on a business setting. Actually, I can already imagine what kind of boss they will be later on in life. Hehehe I do wonder if it is the same as to how their fathers do business. It is also really amazing how Tamaki knows about Kyouya that he already somewhat knew why Kyouya is angry. Actually, thinking of it, Tamaki knows how Kyouya feels while Kyouya knows how Tamaki thinks. Lastly, the twins. It is shown that somehow the two are growing a bit apart as they kept secrets from each other and not know what the other is thinking. Even if it is good that they are developing their individuality, I do feel a bit sad because they were really close to each other before. The two has seen the ‘sides’ of their respective team leaders and I’m guessing that when this ends, they will still keep it all a secret from each other unlike what was said before about sharing secrets of each other’s groups. Oh ya, before I forget, I have thought of something. I think that a kotatsu is like Kyouya’s heart – seemingly coldhearted exterior but nice and warm inside. Maybe that is why Tamaki associates a kotatsu with Kyouya. =P

Thought of the day:
Friendship is love with understanding. ~ Proverb

V. B. Rose [Chapter 53]
Tuesday, February 13, 2007 @ 10:57 a.m.

And so the wedding exhibit has ended, while working at VBR, something new has happened. Ageha is busy sewing something when the phone started ringing. Ageha calls out to Yukari about the phone. Yukari says that he is busy doing something else so could she answer it and ask the person’s name and number that he can return call. Ageha hurries and answer it as she says, hello, this is VBR. To her surprise, the other caller shouted, ‘Eh?!’ Ageha is puzzled by the answer and before she knew it, she got hanged up. Ageha panicks that she got hanged up on and thought the caller seems surprised and it is a woman/girl’s voice. Yukari came in and asks who called. Ageha can’t say it but just says that she got hanged up on. Surprised, Yukari quickly asks if it is the phone call which doesn’t answers/no voice. Ageha thought no voice when she heard a surprised female voice. Ageha pauses for a bit, thinking then says, could it be a wrong number. Yukari says it that so and wonders what it is about. Ageha is then thinking that it surely is a wrong number but if not. Ageha then looks in shock as she shouted could it be Yukari’s admirer who just wants to hear Yukari’s voice. Yukari says that it couldn’t be and what’s that about admirer.

Ageha explains that it could be one of Yukari’s classmate who follows him while he is walking the streets then Ageha pauses. Ageha then holds Yukari’s hand and shouted, what now, Yukari, escape. [Ageha must be thinking that Yukari has a stalker] Yukari asks if her brain is still there as he hits her forehead to stop saying those nonsense things. Ageha thought that it is because having a good looking boyfriend makes her a bit worried as she holds her head, thinking it doesn’t hurt. Yukari then notices the ring on her finger and asks if she wears it in school. Ageha blushes and tells Yukari that she removes it at school but puts it on when she is at the store. Yukari smiles and touches her face saying that is good. Ageha then smiles. Mitsuya then comes in, asking if they are finished being lovey-dovey. Ageha is embarrassed by what he said. Mitsuya then tells them that the pictures they have taken before are already in the webpage. They didn’t react and only with ‘ah/okay’. Yukari isn’t interested while Ageha doesn’t understand what it means. Mitsuya thought what a cold response. Mitsuya then tells Ageha isn’t her second year exams will start tomorrow. Yukari says that’s right so she should do her best and don’t go to VBR in the meantime [to concentrate on her studies]. Ageha salutes and says that she will. They then went back to their work as Ageha thought, ‘web site?’

The next day at school, in 2-A section, class rep and Mika happily tells Ageha that they saw the website and seeing a person they know on it is really surprising. Ageha asks, huh, what is it. Class rep says that she makes a [Q] model and if the one with her also a model. Ageha wonders, ‘cue’ [misheard Q] Mika explains that it means ‘really cute’ and that she seems to have many jobs. After a pause, Ageha freaks out and asks if they are talking about the pictures as they are [Q]. The class rep says that her reaction is delayed, didn’t she saw them on the website at home. Ageha says that she doesn’t use a computer though her father has one. Mika says is that so. The class rep tells her to wait. She then takes out her laptop and cellphone and started typing as Ageha is shocked that she has her own computer. Class rep says it is up as she clicks the ‘what’s new’ link and Ageha sees her photos. Ageha thought that it doesn’t seem to be her in the picture. Ageha exclaims that class rep is really great as class rep says that she is the one is great. She then looks at Yukari’s pictures and thought, he looks handsome and started blushing. She then thought that Yukari is like a demon and since she is still has exams, she can’t go to the store. Just then, the bell rings as Ageha thought even so, there is something to look forward to later on.

At Natsuna’s place, the three girls are gathered together. As usual, Tsuyu and Ageha are smiling while Natsuna doesn’t have much reaction. They are going to have a ‘exchange’ gift of the things they want as Tsuyu and Ageha exclaims let the exchange gift start!’ Tsuyu then gives Ageha a jewelry – pink butterfly with a small strawberry. Ageha thinks it is cute as she tells Tsuyu that she will use it properly. Ageha then gives Tsuyu a bag [circle handles with the ‘body’ made of butterfly pattern cloth] which Tsuyu likes. To Natsuna’s surprise, Ageha is also giving her something. She opens it and it is also a bag [rectangle shaped with cottony handles and designs] Ageha explains how she made it and that it has been a long time she made a bag that she thought she would want to make one for Natsuna. [Probably also as an exchange for the valentine conversation and gift = perfume] Natsuna carefully inspects it and finally hugs it and thanks Ageha. Ageha is happy as Ageha and Tsuyu thought that Natsuna looks cute. Natsuna is still hugging the bag, now with rabbit ears sprouting. Natsuna then mentions about seeing the pictures in the website. Ageha thanks her. Ageha confess that she only see them today with the help of her friend because she doesn’t have internet. Natsuna then says that she will show her a certain website wherein Yukari is really funny. Ageha also sprouts bunny ears as she is excited to see it, too. Tsuyu then says that everyone also saw her pictures that it would be funny that she is embarrassed. Natsuna holds up Tsuyu’s hands, saying Tsuyu’s is great and pretty. Tsuyu is at first confused and starts laughing. Ageha thought that she can’t quite understand the two as she thought a website can be seen by someone when they know it.

Exams has gone smoothly and finally on the last day, Ageha gleefully says that exams are finally over and she can go to work at the store again. She happily walks to the store, thinking even if she wasn’t told to go to work that day, she is just going there to ‘play/hang around’. Then, she sees Ririko putting on a scarf on Sakura in front of VBR. Ageha calls out to the two as Sakura quickly runs to Ageha and glomps her. Ageha hugs back as she is kneeling on the floor to reach Sakura’s height. Sakura asks if Ageha has finished her exams. Ageha says that Sakura really knows a lot. Ririko then smiles and put on a cat face saying hehe, I also know a lot of things. Ageha tells her not to say things randomly. A car then passes by and breaks near them that Ageha thought she will be hit that she holds on to Sakura while Ririko is on a pose of covering the two. Someone comes out of the car and to Ageha’s surprise, it is Lan, Yukari’s mother.

It is a bit obvious that the mystery caller who doesn’t answers the phone is Lan that she makes an appearance when a few days ago, Ageha answered the phone. It is amusing that Ageha panicks about Yukari having a stalker and well, it is a bit hard having a gorgeous boyfriend but obvious, she haven’t thought that it also works the other way around for she is not exactly ordinary looking. It is also revealed in this chapter that Ageha isn’t into computers or maybe doesn’t know much about the internet though I was also thinking, don’t they teach that at their school. I guess Ageha is really into bags ^^; I do wonder if she later on plans to put up her own site to sell the bags she make. That will be a good business. ^_^ The little exchange gift is really nice as the gifts are really cute. Ageha really know what kind of things Natsuna likes and she earned points with her. Hehehe

Quote of the day:
If we would have new knowledge, we must get a whole world of new questions. ~ Susanne K. Langer

Weekly Jump Updates: Naruto, D. Gray-man, Bleach, One Piece and Gintama
Monday, February 12, 2007 @ 11:05 a.m.

In Naruto [c. 341], Naruto wins as Kakuzu is rip and that’s it. ^^; Preview says they are going home by next chapter while in D. Gray-man [c. 107], Jasdebit got the flask and drank it even if it tasted bad while pinning down Crowley to the floor. For the final blow, Jasdebit created a case with spikes in it to put Crowley inside. I think it is called Iron maiden. Crowley got pinned inside and he tries to escape but in the end, he is trapped inside with his hand hanging lifeless so Jasdebit takes it that he is finished and decides to leave. Mm..total defeat or Crowley is still somehow still alive to fight back?

Sado got a nasty slash as Noitre comments that he is weak in Bleach [c. 262]. The other four has sensed Sado’s defeat as their hollow companions asked what is wrong when they stopped running. Ichigo continues to run as he refuses to believe that Sado is killed off as he tries to convince himself that Sado is somehow still alive and he has to have faith in Sado. In a room, Inoue is looking at the moon when Ulquiorra comes in, asking if she has also sensed it. He tells her that Noitre doesn’t listen to Aizen who told everyone to stay put in their rooms. Inoue says that Sado isn’t dead yet and she repeats this twice. Ulquiorra just looks at her and then calls in someone to bring the food. A hollow-human servant came in with a cart containing some food. Ulquiorra urges to eat but Inoue doesn’t want to. Ulquiorra insist that she eats so that when Aizen calls her, she is in good health. He then asks if he wants her to force her to eat or just have an IV. He asks her what does he want him to say, don’t worry he is still alive but he won’t because that isn’t the reason why he is there. With no reaction from Inoue, Ulquiorra then asks doesn’t she still understand, it is useless to think of life and death since either way, her comrades will die and it is just a matter of time when they die earlier or later for doesn’t she know that that from the start. Inoue tells him to shut up. Ulquiorra doesn’t stop as he continues to call the others stupid for even daring to go there when they don’t know of the powers of the opponents. Inoue then quickly goes to him and slaps him hard.

Inoue then looks tense as Ulquiorra just looks at her. He then goes out saying that he will come back later on and if she haven’t eaten yet, he will force her to eat so she better be prepared. After he left, Inoue started shaking and crying. Rukia is running up a flight of stairs as she thought that Sado’s reitsu/feeling has disappeared and that she should hurry for she is near where he is. Then, she found herself on a bridge leading to a building. Like Sado, she is surprised why there is a sky above when they went in the structure. Suddenly, someone from behind asked if she wants to know why. It is an arrancar/espada, the one with a long mask. Rukia quickly looks back but he is gone instead he is in front of her entering the building. She prepares to draw her sword as he tells her to follow him. Rukia chases after him and found herself in a dark room. He then says that now he is at ease. The door then closes as the arrancar apologizes for he can’t stay long in the sun and in that place, the sun won’t reach him. He then removes his mask to greet her as he introduces himself as Espada 9 Aroniro. To Rukia’s shock, he looks exactly like Kaien.

That is quite an interesting twist for who would thought he looks like Kaien. There are many possibilities here like is it really Kaien for wasn’t the hollow experiment of Aizen got him and Aizen revived him somehow for his experiments. If not revival then at least, use his genes if shingami’s has genes to clone but it boils down that before Kaien’s death – he is a shinigami-hollow merged being as in vizard. Would he attack Rukia or he is the ‘friendly’ type espada? But then, if Rukia has to fight him, she might find it difficult for I’m assuming she is a bit traumatized killing him before. Also, if it assuming how could they see each other if that place is really dark unless their eyes can see in the dark. =P As to Inoue, she is indeed quite brave to slap Ulquiorra though she looks really scared after she did it. I’m guessing that Ulquiorra finally decided give her space and if it haven’t been Aizen’s need for her, she would have probably be killed right there for didn’t he call her ‘garbage’ when they first met. I do wonder if Aizen will punish Noitre for going against what he ordered him to do. As for Sado, I’m guessing he is still alive for the author isn’t the type to kill of characters as what happened in the previous arc.

In One Piece [c. 444], Usopp is freaking out that it is a ghost ship. Chopper wonders where the ghost is as Zoro tells him it could have flown back to the island. Robin then explains that they are enclosed in the island when they passed through the mouth gate. Nami wonders if this is the reason why the ships were missing in that place but wonders why it happens. Franky suggest about dropping anchor but Usopp insists that they quickly run away. Nami and Chopper then claims to have ‘I can’t go on that island’ disease but Luffy is ready to go as Usopp shouted that he has ‘want to go in an adventure’ disease. Usopp tries to disway Luffy but Luffy wants to catch a ghost, holding his net and small cage for insects and that they are going to get their nakama back. Usopp objects having Brook as their nakama for he won’t be able to sleep at night. Luffy asks Sanji to prepare his pirate bento. Robin and Sanji comes out. Carrying the bento boxes, Robin says that she has it. Sanji tells Luffy and Franky to take care of Robin as Nami is surprised that the two are going. Robin says that she having thrills.

Franky then tells them about the docking/small gate which contains something. From gate 2, is a small Going Merry boat. Usopp, Nami and Chopper rode on it since they aren’t going to the island. They thanked Franky for being considerate as Franky tells them that the 0 is the paddle/wheel, one is the waiver for one person, two is Going Merry boat for four people, three is the shark submarine for three people and four is still unknown weapon for he will build it whatever they need when it comes. So it is like they have mini-ships from Sunny Go. Then, they heard a scream as Sanji asks where is Nami. Zoro says that there is a sudden appearance of fog that they can’t see the other. Luffy started to scream for them to come back for he wants to ride on the boat. Sanji reprimands him for not worrying about Nami. Franky reprimands him for not worrying about the other two. Just then, the anchor goes down and a latch opens from where they are. They wondered who it is when all of a sudden, Luffy’s face is being pulled. Sanji tells him to quit it as Luffy tries to tell Sanji he isn’t doing it. Luffy is then pushed into the hole/latch when something pulls Zoro’s sword out. The sword almost stabs Luffy if it weren’t for Franky who kicked Luffy away. Franky asks what is Zoro doing as Zoro says that his sword suddenly got pulled out. Zoro then gets his sword back as everyone thought something is wrong. Robin says that she hears a beast sound.

Sanji got worried and is about to jump ship to go to Nami when something holds his feet and he slams into the side of the ship. Sanji then got pulled up as if he is floating then tossed back into the ship. Franky wonders if something doesn’t want them off the ship as Zoro says that they don’t know the opponent’s goals but it is hard to guess when they can’t see it. Suddenly, something has grabbed Robin as Robin tries to push it away. Luffy then says that he also hears a beast sound. Just then, some waves tossed their ship away from the island. Sanji then asks about the enemy as Robin says that it have already left. Zoro tells Sanji to pull up the anchor but he won’t since Nami and other will be left behind. They try to call out to Nami and others. They asks Franky if he has other secret weapons. Franky says that he has a secret surprise pool as the three guys shouted angrily what is that. Meanwhile, at the ghost island, Nami and others started freaking out as they realized that they are on the island. Nami apologizes that it is her fault for getting carried away riding on Mini Going Merry that she got too close to the island and got tossed overboard to a moat. They then decided to go near the shore so that Luffy and others can see them. To their surprise, a dog with three heads, Cerberus started running after them. As they run, they commented why one of the heads looked like a fox. It got angry as it chased the trio up the stairs and found themselves on the surface.

The trio are then are up on a tree as Usopp is glad that it doesn’t have a strong sense of smell as it leaves. They wondered what should they do since they are already in the forest and if they stand in some place to be spotted, it might come back. Just then, a shadow appears at the back of Chopper. They freaked out as the person introduces himself as Hidon. He looks like a scary clown with stiches and black rings on his eyes with number 21 on upper right eye. He tells them that he saw them being chased by the dogs so he thought it would be less troublesome if he appears from behind. He tells them that at night, the forest will be pretty dangerous so it would be better if they go with him on his carriage [spooky looking carriage with a top hat centaur, creepy looking horse which looks crazed and a hunchback with lantern] so that they can go to Dr. Hogback’s mansion. Chopper is surprised for he seems to know that person. It seems the author is really having fun with this arc. The ones who are really scared of going to ghost island are the ones who got themselves on the island. Lol I’m really impressed with the things that Franky made for the ship, aside from mini Going Merry, they even have a submarine. Cool! I’m thinking it is the ghost that got aboard earlier is the one causing problems for Luffy and others. Regarding Hogback, he must be like Dr. Frankenstein and Hidon is one of his creations and must be related to the doctors/mentors Chopper knows, I forgot their names. ^^;

Gintama [c. 151] is somewhat of a parody to Valentine’s day, Ultraman and workaholic women who prioritize work over love. Kagura is watching the news as Ana is reporting that the girls are causing havoc at a chocolate store as they are fighting to buy chocolates. Kagura asks Gin what is Valentine’s day. Gin pretends to forget that it is Valentine’s day as he explains that it is the day when girls give chocolates to boys. Shinpachi says that it has nothing to do with them as he somewhat badmouths Valentine’s day for it is only a good day for those who gets chocolates. It is then showed that Gin is wearing a white suit like a gigolo while Shinpachi is dressed up as a rocker. Gin then says why does their country have Valentine’s Day and Christmas and treat this as if they are really important occasions. Shinpachi agrees with him for they don’t need Christmas and Valentines Day and having New Year and ‘Day to worship ancestors’/All saint’s day is enough. [The joke is that Christmas and Valentine’s day is usually for lovers since they don’t have any girlfriends, they are ‘sour-graping’] Kagura asks why are they acting weird. Gin denies it saying that he isn’t for it isn’t like he is waiting for chocolates and don’t think about it, he isn’t that desperate kind of person. Shinpachi says that anyone can eat chocolates at any time. Gin agrees saying that if one wants to eat chocolates, he can just buy one from a store. The two guys then asks each other’s appearance while still denying that anything is different about them.

Then, the doorbell rings as they quickly rush to the door as they thought it is someone who is delivering chocolates but to their dismay, it is just gas delivery. Kagura then notices that even Sadaharu has fixed himself for the day. Kagura says, you, too. Kagura then looks up and asks God to give those two guys chocolates. Suddenly, something came crashing into the roof. The two guys ask what it is as Kagura says it is a box of chocolate as a heart-shaped box of chocolate is on what used to be a table. As the two guys argue whose it is for, they heard someone apologizing and telling them not to take other person’s things. They looked up to see a huge female-Ultraman telling them that it is hers, so return it. Then, the police came to check if female-Ultraman is above the alcohol level for one can’t fly while drunk. After she is let go, she apologizes to Gin and others for they could have been hurt when the chocolate fell. They then asked her about her job of protecting the world from monsters and her schedule of work. She then asks about the chocolate only to find Kagura eating a part of it while carrying it and Gin seems to be eating some of it, too. Shinpachi asks if she plans to give it to someone. Just then, there is a call for female-Ultraman, it is her mother asking about work and have the usual mother-daughter quarrels. Then, a monster is causing havoc at the chocolate store as the girls are running in panic.

Female-Ultraman went to the place while carrying Gin and others as she thought that she is already 37 years old. She has been working hard in fighting monsters to keep the world in peace but before she knew it, she is already an auntie and then she wants to fall in love with someone but before she knew it, the guy has a family already. Gin exclaims that she isn’t a hero, she is just an OL [An office lady, from wiki, often abbreviated OL is a female office worker in Japan who performs generally white collar (or, some would say, pink collar) tasks such as serving tea and secretarial or clerical work. Like many unmarried Japanese, OLs often live with their parents into the adulthood years. ] She then complains that she is lonely and wants to have someone who would love her. Then, at the bar, she met someone and somewhat got interested in him. That person turned out to be the monster [two headed bald guy with crab hands] Gin and others were shock that it is the monster whom she wants to give chocolates to. The girls told her to defeat the monster but she hesitates and before long, they are now in high school setting as Gin and others helped female-ultraman confess/give chocolates to the monster. The girls then gave her their chocolates to give to the monster. The monster then soften, saying that this is quite difficult and it all depends on her. To Gin and others’ shock, female-Ultraman killed off the monster as she then calls her mother that once again, she has managed to keep things in the world peaceful with a note, she is someone who can’t let go of work. ^^;

Quote of the day:
He has achieved success who has worked well, laughed often, and loved much. ~ Elbert Hubbard

Papillon -Hana to Chou- [Chapter 6]
Saturday, February 10, 2007 @ 01:33 p.m.

So, Chou sees Kana and Ryuusei kissing. Kyuu asks who it was as Kana and Ryuusei are smiling at each other. Flustered, Chou quickly runs away as Kyuu calls for her and looks back at the couple who started to leave the place. Outside some building, Chou is frustrated as Kyuu says so that is Ryuusei. Chou whines why is Kana there. Just then, her mobile phone rings and it is Ryuusei who tells her that he can’t make it because something came up so he will make it up to her so sorry. Kyuu asks what is it. Chou is in tears but manages to smile as she tells Kyuu that she got stood up. Chou says that obviously Ryuusei is lying about not being able to go since he and Kana were passionately kissing. Chou is depressed so Kyuu offers why don’t she go with him to college since he will be free later at night. She can wait at school and he could accompany her later that night. Chou shook her head and says that she wants to go see her grandmother.

At the hospital, Chou sees her grandmother walking around, dragging her IV. Chou asks if she can walk around as her grandmother says that she went to physical therapy/exercise that day. In the room, Chou exclaims that she is relieved that her grandmother is now more energetic. Her grandmother says that within a week, she can be released from the hospital. Chou happily asks, is that true. Her grandmother replies that after being released, she has to continue with her exercise. Her grandmother then changed the subject says that she thought she was the other beautiful girl of the family [I think she means Kana] and what happened for Chou became beautiful. Chou blushed a bit until her grandmother asks about Ryuusei who said that he will be coming. Chou looks downcast and manages to say that Ryuusei has another thing to do. The grandmother is a bit sad about that but comments that Ryuusei is still the same athletic and nice kid before and he is nice to have visited her before. Chou manages to force herself to smile about it. Chou is thinking she doesn’t understand why he did that when he agreed to go out with her so that means, she doesn’t matter to him and is Kana really more important.

It is already around 6pm when her grandmother asked if Chou shouldn’t be going home by then since she is already there for such a long time. Chou, holding a book, tells her grandmother that she wants to stay there for a longer time. Just then, Chou’s mother came in as she and Chou are surprised to see each other there. Her mother exclaims that she thought Chou is going some place else for she is all dressed up prettily but it turned out to be just to visit grandmother. She then tells her mother/grandma that the bag contains washed clothes. The grandmother thanks her and asks if they want to drink something, she can make some tea. The mother says that she has bought grandma’s fave tea and then exclaims that there isn’t enough hot water. Chou says that she doesn’t have to get her share since she is going home and bids her grandma goodbye. Her mother looks surprised as the grandma is smiling. Chou wonders if Kana is already home but then, told herself Kana couldn’t be since she usually comes home late when she goes out. As she goes out the hospital door, she wonders what to do for she doesn’t want to go home when to her surprise, Kyuu greets her. Chou asks what is he doing there as Kyuu happily says that she haven’t eaten yet so he will accompany her for dinner. Chou is in tears and blushed as she looks at Kyuu who is still smiling. Chou then cries. From the window of grandma’s room, while fixing the plants, Chou’s mother sees Chou walking together with Kyuu. She looks a bit surprised as she leans on the window looking at them – more on Kyuu whose face is seen than Chou’s.

While walking, Chou confessed that she actually thought that Kana is the one who chased Ryuusei and Ryuusei is forced to ‘answer’ her/to be her boyfriend so Ryuusei doesn’t really love Kana but she is mistaken for seeing him kissing Kana even if there are many people at the park, that she even got stood up so that he would go out with Kana. Chou tearfully says that she was mistaken about her perception about Ryuusei for he really likes Kana. Kyuu lightly knocks on her head saying that if she is that easily defeated, how can she even steal away another person’s boyfriend. Kyuu says that it is obvious that Ryuusei and Kana will do that and even if it hurts, Chou still restrains herself that the only thing that Chou can do is just stare and wait for the opportunity when she can get Ryuusei back. Chou looks a bit tearfully at that when Kyuu started laughing. Kyuu laughs as he says that Chou is really great for even when she already saw the two are kissing, she still didn’t do anything and it seems she will be continue to be the martyr/long suffering girl. Chou asks what. Kyuu asks isn’t that so for seeing her like that, she could only be thinking that there is no longer hope, even if it hurts so much, she still can’t let go. Kyuu asks if he is wrong as Chou is surprised that Kyuu got it right.

Kyuu tells her that even if she says that she wants to be Ryuusei’s girlfriend but deep inside her, she doesn’t believe she can be. Kyuu continues that seeing them being close, makes her a bit irritated that is good because the current her, is just a ‘half a tune’ for if she really decided to be Ryuusei’s girlfriend, she will definitely confront the two and not run away and make sure Ryuusei will keep the date so that Ryuusei won’t stood her up. Then, she will not lose to Kana and to her own weakness. As Chou thought about what he said, Kyuu then takes off her glasses, asking why is she wearing them when she is on a date, doesn’t she have contact lens. This surprises Chou who asks if back as Kyuu puts it on and is surprised that the glasses doesn’t have a degree. Chou manages to get the glasses and puts it back on. Kyuu asks why does Chou has to definitely wear the glasses. Chou says that if she doesn’t wear them, she won’t feel ‘secure’. Kyuu asks why. Chou says it is because she is afraid of other people’s sight/looks for she doesn’t want people to look intently/be attracted. Kyuu asks what doesn’t she want people to do that. Chou says that if she show off/excel, someone might not be happy. Kyuu asks not happy, who would not be happy. Chou looks a bit depressed and says, her mother. Meanwhile, her mother just arrived home and realized that Chou haven’t came home yet.

At a restaurant, while eating, Kyuu asks Chou if her mother said that she will be angry. Chou says that she haven’t even so, no matter if it is studies or appearance, if it is comparison between her and Kana, her mother isn’t happy about it. Kyuu asks how can that be, why is she not happy. Chou says that it is because Kana is her only daughter. Chou tells him that before she is grade two in elementary, she lives in the province with her grandma for she was given to her. Kyuu asks why is it only Chou is brought to the province while Kana stayed with their parents. Chou says that when she is still a baby, for some unknown reason, she tends to cry around midnight that her mother’s health isn’t that good so she cannot possibly take care of two children at once. A scene of her mother frustrated as baby Kana is sleeping but baby Chou is crying. So the grandma suggest that she take Chou so that her mother can rest. It seems that when her grandma carries her, she doesn’t cry so from then on, she lived with her grandma. At the province, already older, Chou thought that no matter how she missed/thought of her mother, she never came to get her. It is only when her grandma got sick that they got her back. Since she grew up with her grandma, she isn’t close with her parents so in order for them to accept her quickly, she studied hard and even helped at household work but... Flaskback: Her mother is congratulating Kana for getting 90 in the test that Kana is really good as Kana is really happy about that. Chou then shows her test to her mother for she got 100. Her mother just says that’s great for it seems her school before is advanced than the current one. Chou then starts crying. End flashback: As Chou says, even if her mother praised her, compared to Kana, her mother’s face won’t brighten up and she already noticed this at such a young age so she thought that her mother doesn’t like her so she didn’t get her back before from the province before. Kyuu says so that is why she doesn’t want to be the ‘center of attraction’ since she wants her mother to be happy. Chou then can’t restrain herself and started to cry.

Kana and Ryuusei are still dating as Kana says that she had fun and thanks Ryuusei for bringing her there. Ryuusei smiles at her when suddenly, Kana’s mobile phone started ringing. Kana says it is her mother and she answers it. Her mother asks where is Kana. Kana lied saying that she is in the library but she is already going home so not to worry. Her mother holding what seems to be a phonebook, asks her if she knows where Chou went for Chou haven’t come home yet. This surprises Kana. Back at the restaurant, Chou tells Kyuu that her friends went to the house to help her dress up/put on make up that when her mother saw it, she is nervous that she will scold her, ‘examine yourself’ but she said, you look good, if you are like this, you don’t look poor. Chou then smiles that it even seems strange that she didn’t scold her for she already got used to her considering Kana more important than her. But in the end, her mother said, she looks like Kana, so she realized that it is because she looks like Kana so her mother thought that she is cute. Kyuu smiles and then says that they should be leaving as he pays for the meal. As they go out, Chou apologizes for Kyuu paying for it as he says it is okay, let’s go. Chou asks go where. Kyuu asks her to accompany him for while, even if you go home late, no one will be worried, right.

Before long, Chou realizes that they are in the red light district. Kyuu is holding her shoulder and asks which one will be nice as Chou is freaking out as she thought that could it be that Kyuu treats her out so that he can bring her there. Chou tries to tell herself that it couldn’t be since he is a guidance counselor so he won’t bring a student in there. To her shock, Kyuu says how about this one as they are in front of a motel. Chou quickly says that she has something else to do so she is leaving. She tries to leave but Kyuu holds her hand and tells her there is nothing to be afraid of. He then smiles and says let’s go as Chou is really freaking out and thought of someone saving her. Just then, someone grabbed Kyuu’s shoulder and he got slapped hard. It is Chou’s mother who is hugging on to Chou, angrily shouting what are you planning to do with my daughter. Kyuu looks surprised as Chou is also surprised as to what is her mother doing there.

I am very much conflicted about that last part. One part of me thinks that Kyuu is really asking for that slap for just bringing a girl there can make others or even Chou have the wrong impression. It isn’t good to be slapped twice in the span of just six chapters. I can see the headlines now, guidance counselor brought a student to the hotel. I don’t know what he is thinking but that is sure a fast way of ruining one’s future and career. The other part of me is thinking that this could be Kyuu’s way of proving to Chou that her mother cares for her and is worried if she doesn’t come home but still, red light district? ^^; It is such a dangerous gamble. The mother must have thought that he is those type of guys who lure teens to have sex with them. I don’t think the mother will buy any of Kyuu’s reasons and this could end the chance of meeting each other again as the mother will put a stop to it. He would be really lucky if he isn’t fired and his reputation isn’t tarnished because of that. I don’t know though if that will be good for Chou who lately has been able to tell her frustrations in life to someone rather than keeping it all to herself and gained a bit confidence because of Kyuu. It is interesting that Chou manages to bring up all those things from the past and that would mean she is comfortable with Kyuu. Anyway, Kyuu has to redeem himself to Chou’s mother. Would Chou defend him? About the glasses, I’m amused at the way Chou wants to get it back, as if her secret identity will be exposed like a certain superhero. =P I guess this is a reason why the cover pictures of Chou doesn’t have glasses..when she lets go of it, then it means she has become a ‘new confident’ Chou.

Regarding the mother, in her defense, I’m guessing that she tends to pamper Kana more so that she would be more confident, etc for didn’t Kana mentioned before that she is teased at school that she has to work hard to become beautiful/center of attraction. Her mother must be thinking that Chou is really good and nice that she doesn’t need to encourage her anymore and Kana needs it more. The problem with that is Chou feels left out and lonely. Unfortunately, Chou’s fear of being scolded might actually happen when her mother reprimands her for going with Kyuu there. Also, I’m guessing that Kana isn’t really that ‘bad’ since she does seem or look a bit concerned [looking surprised] when she learns that Chou is missing and when Kanda tries to make Kana angry at Chou, Kana didn’t go along with her. I’m thinking that Kana is somewhat the type to care for her sister that she doesn’t want others bullying her but it is okay if she does that. ^^; Maybe she feels the need to put down Chou for Chou seems to be better than her hence, getting Ryuusei. In short, a part of me thinks that it is just all Chou’s imagination that they all don’t care about her though maybe it is just partly that and partly it is true that they are detach with her since she didn’t grew up with them and they didn’t seemed to have missed her at all before. Anyway, I still feel that Kana seems to be just ‘using’ Ryuusei and well, I’m still hoping Chou would give up on Ryuusei for he already has a girlfriend as I wrote before, I’m not really into getting other people’s lovers unless that person is unattached even if they will say, it isn’t over yet until they get married. Heck, there are those who are after guys/women who are already married. ^^;; I don’t care much for Ryuusei for his character isn’t a bit interesting. I’m a bit glad with that ending since it isn’t like Peach Girl anymore. Oh yeah, the title of this chapter is Hurt – Chou’s hurt feeling for being stood up, pent up emotions about how her mother doesn’t seem to like her and finally, how that slap hurts. =P

Word of the day:
When trials seem impossible and we can’t face the day, the Lord extends His helping hand and makes for us a way. ~ Sper

V. B. Rose [Chapter 52]
Friday, February 9, 2007 @ 01:25 p.m.

Midway down the stairs, Ageha pauses as she wonders why is Yukari there. Then, she remembers where she is as she tries to calm herself and tells her that the performance isn’t over yet. She then is beside Yukari who holds out her hand, telling her to give him her hand. Ageha blushes as she did as she is told. She looks at Yukari as her heart is going crazy as she thought wow, he really looks like a groom, prince on white horse. Yukari tightens his hold on her hand as his head signals sideways. It reminded Ageha that she is there to show off everyone’s efforts on the gown and that she is to do her best as she looks at the audience. She remembers Yukari telling her not to worry as she thought everything is going smoothly for everything is looking at her and she is a bit nervous. She looks at Yukari and thought that she is able to relax with Yukari there beside her. The guests are awed by her. Ageha then thought but the main thing is the gown, not only her as she lets go off Yukari’s arm. She pulls down the strings on her hair as two curly strands of hair fell down [think Sailormoon] then, she removes her shirt to reveal a different version of the shirt with her legs shown. The guests are surprised by it.

Yukari holds her hand again as they walk by then the spotlight is on them as they are near the door. They bowed and stayed bowing even when the door is closed. They then goes on their knees as they exclaims that it is finally over. Ageha then asks Yukari where he got the clothes. Yukari says that he borrowed it from Kyouichi for he thought he wanted to surprise her. Ageha shouts that she is really surprised as Yukari laughs. Ageha then says but.. Yukari asks but what.. Ageha steams as she thought that he looks great. Yukari stands up and pats her head. He says really, you too for she managed to do the skirt thing without a problem. Ageha says that she felt her heart is going to jump out when Yukari cut away the damaged portion before but it is a good thing that the guests has well-received the gown and they used a new cloth to cover it. A pause and Ageha says thank goodness as Yukari nods his head. Ageha asks if it is really nice as to how it ended. Yukari says it is. Ageha is happy for she did well. Yukari comments on her cute hairstyle. Ageha says it is thanks to Maki’s expertise as well as Natsuna’s [for the flowers]. She then blushes as she looks at Yukari and says that the ring he gave her also gave her courage. Yukari smiles.

Kyouichi then calls out to the two as he thanks them as he complimented Ageha’s modeling. Then, he hugs Yukari saying that Yukari-chan is now grown up that he looks great – like a guy, daddy is very happy. This freaks out Ageha as Yukari tries to break off him. Yukari screams for Kyouichi to stop hugging him for it makes him want to vomit and who says he is [his] father. Kyouichi says that he is just showing his appreciation/love as Yukari screams No. Ageha stupidly smiles as she thought for Yukari to calm down for Kyouichi is just being affectionate. Kyouichi finally lets go as he is smiling while Yukari angrily reprimands him for always being like that being ‘doing whatever he wants’ Ageha then remembers Kyouichi telling her earlier about Aoi asking a favor from him. Ageha calls out to Kyouichi as Kyouichi is hugging Yukari again, much to Yukari’s dismay as he is trying to wrestle out. Ageha then tells Kyouichi, good work, you have done well. Yukari is now strangling Kyouichi ^^; Kyouichi smiles and tells Ageha to keep that a secret. Ageha says that she understood as she even salutes. Yukari wonders what it is about – regarding Ririko. Yukari asks if Kyouichi needs the gown for exhibit. Ageha remembers as she says that she will quickly change her clothes. Kyouichi says sorry for the trouble, Ageha and he does his goodbye saying that he has to go off to do other work. Yukari angrily tells him to work seriously.

They pause then Yukari holds Ageha’s shoulder as he tells her that she did great as they walk over. Then, they changed back to their clothes and greets Mitsuya by the car. Ageha says ‘good work’ as Mitsuya smiles and says that it is a success. In the car, Ageha happily thought about the rest of the activities in the exhibit and it should be fun as she looks at a bag full of pictures/records?. She then yawns that for now it is finished but it is really fun. Mitsuya then turns around telling Yukari for them to go to the exhibit again tomorrow but to his surprise, his two passengers are fast asleep that Mitsuya just sings some song. The next morning, Ageha wakes up because of the alarm clock [apple with two bunnies = kawaii] She then drops down to bed as she thought that yesterday is like a dream but now, it is Monday and she is back to reality. She then sits up again as she thought but yesterday isn’t a dream. She looks at the ring and puts it on as she smiles. She thought for on her hand is a fragment of that dream. She happily exclaims that she will also do her best that day.

The last scene is a nice touch to what happened in the exhibit as Ageha has a reminder of what happened on that day. I’m actually surprised by the way Yukari did the dress. It is really different as he managed to do something else or rather more nice than the original one. For a while there, I thought they are really a wedding couple and the series has ended. ^^; If that is how the exhibit goes, I do wonder what kind of wedding they will have by the time they get married. ^_^

Thought of the day:
The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand. ~ Vince Lombardi

V. B. Rose [Chapter 51]
Thursday, February 8, 2007 @ 05:58 p.m.

The opening scene is a girl wearing a glass shoes as the narration says, Cinderella’s glass shoes means finding a person’s happiness/dream person. As Ageha is still holding on to Yukari’s hand, Yukari looks at his watch and tells her to go back since the show will start soon. Ageha is surprised as she tells him that she will be heading back but if she returns, she won’t be able to go there again [so he won’t wait for her until the show ends] Ageha is still holding Yukari’s hand looking a bit flustered as Yukari puzzled, calls out to her name [if something is the matter] Ageha then manages to say that she is really sorry that she haven’t been able to give him chocolates on Valentine’s Day. Yukari looks a bit surprised as Ageha is waiting for his reaction. After a pause and much worried by Ageha, Yukari says that he doesn’t mind. This answer surprises Ageha as she shout why doesn’t he mind. Yukari asks if Ageha is suppose to be regretful or is she correcting him. Ageha says that she is confessing/reflecting. Ageha then sobs saying that it is a big day for a girl and it is her first big event/holiday. Yukari looks at her and says that she should then give him something for White day [day when it is boy’s turn to give gifts]. Ageha is surprised as Yukari tells her to open her hands. She did as told and Yukari puts a small gift box on her hand. Ageha comments that it is such a cute box. Yukari tells her to open the box. Ageha is surprised as Yukari to hurry open the box and not ‘ah ah’

Ageha did and to her surprise, it is a ring with three small stones on it [the middle one is bigger than the other two]. Ageha exclaims that it is a ring as she is blushing. She then asks Yukari made the ring. Yukari says she is quite observant. Ageha says that it is because she has asked Natsuna before. Yukari looks at Ageha thinking, wow, you are really brave. Ageha is really happy about it as she exclaims that it is very cute and even has cute gems on it. Yukari says that the gem is ‘pink electric gem’ [I think it is an artificially made gem] that it has her favorite color. Ageha’s heart is beating fast as she asks to which finger should she wear it on. Yukari says it is on her pinky. Ageha asks which hand, left or right. Yukari says whichever she wants. Ageha blushes as she thinks and decides on her left hand. She puts on the ring but it turned out to be quite big for her pinky finger. This surprises Yukari and asks if it is too big. Ageha says just a bit. Yukari is panicking how could he made a mistake as Ageha tries to calm him down. Yukari then asks Ageha to give her hand to him. She did and then he removes the ring and puts it on her ring finger. Yukari says that now it fits as Ageha kept on blushing and embarrassed that she looks down. Yukari then kisses her forehead and tells her that he will wait for her to come out. He touches her waist as he tells her to keep her back straight for the time has finally arrived after many things had happened for her to show everyone’s effort today. Ageha says she will. They are now putting their heads together and holding hands. Yukari tells her not to worry and do her best as Ageha says yes.

Then, an announcement for models to go inside as Ageha shouts she is coming. Mitsuya shouts to Yukari that there isn’t much time so hurry up. Yukari says he is coming. Ageha waves back saying that she will do her best and will return there later on. Yukari smiles and says he will wait. The two guys then dreamily looks at her as Mitsuya teases Yukari about being in love. Yukari tells him to stop it and asks where is Tsuyu. Mitsuya says that she is already awake, cleaning the store for that is what she wanted. Mitsuya then says that Tsuyu waking up is really something. Flashback: Tsuyu is sleeping with her glasses put beside the pillow while Mitsuya is watching over her. Tsuyu wakes up and sees him. Then there is a long pause. She quickly puts on her glasses and Mitsuya smiles, complete with glitters, greets Tsuyu good morning. Tsuyu got tense and screams out in terror. End of Flashback. Mitsuya smiles and says that it a really different kind of waking up. Yukari then apologizes to Tsuyu as he thought he can actually imagine that. Mitsuya says that he wonders about Ageha’s reaction. Yukari says yes and that they should continue their work as they leave.

Ageha is really nervous as she fears that she might actually fall down and that she will be really embarrassed to see Yukari. She looks at the other models as she drools for she likes them but they are too shiny and professional. Then, there is an announcement that the fashion show will now begin. This made Ageha more tense as she looks at her hand and sees Yukari’s ring. She remembers Yukari telling her that Ageha will now show others the fruits of their labor so don’t worry, do her best. She thought that Yukari is with her during the summer wedding exhibit that he gave her courage and that she will just have to imagine that Yukari is there for her as represented by the ring. She then looks determined as she thought that the ring gives her confidence. The audience, sitting on dinning tables, then are wow-ed by all the gowns that are modeled as the models go down the staircase and walks a path to a door. Ageha then is trying to visualize [she has closed her eyes] that it would soon be her turn to the walk, the wedding music is playing, the audience are waiting in anticipation, 1-2-3, 1-2-3, it is the magical time for a bride-to-be. She then opens her eyes as it is her turn and smiles as she thought, now, the heart’s dream guy is – [ahead] then she looks down the stair and to her surprise, Yukari is dressed up as groom, waiting for her to ascent the stairs.

Aww..not only did Yukari takes this chance to finally give Ageha the ring, he also prepares a surprise for her by acting as her groom in the fashion show. Ageha must be feeling that she is in heaven. I’m amused for it seems that Yukari always carries the ring, ready to it to Ageha when the situation calls for it. Talk about always prepared. ^_^ It does seem as if they are going to get married. Hehehe

Quote of the day:
The moments of happiness we enjoy take us by surprise. It is not that we seize them, but that they seize us. ~ Ashley Montagu

Weekly Jump Updates: Bleach, Naruto, D. Gray-man, One Piece and Gintama
Wednesday, February 7, 2007 @ 06:40 p.m.

In Bleach [c. 261], Sado manages to stop the afro arrancar attack and defeat him with a single punch. Sado then thanked the opponent for being serious that now he is able to continue on fighting as he will leave the opponent there. Sado then noticed that the new room doesn’t have a ceiling when he is sure that they went in the building and why is it day there when it is night outside. Suddenly, the afro arrancar saw something as he tries to tell Sado to escape quickly. It is an espada – the thin one with double moon weapon, Noitre who asked if Sado is strong. Afro tries to tell Sado to escape as Sado want to finish it quickly that he punches Noitre. It was ineffective as Noitre asked, is that all and hits back, I think since it is just a sound effect. Poor Sado, got to meet an espada early on just like in saving rukia arc, meeting a captain early on. I am thinking thought that somehow Afro arrancar will help Sado escape as like what Dorduni did for Ichigo. I do find it weird why did the afro arrancar suddenly wanted to help Sado. Is it because Sado thanked him and is humbled after fall from grace like Dorduni?

While in Naruto [c. 340], Naruto gets ready and attacks Kakuzu but fails to hit that Kakashi and Yamato has to save him before Kakuzu gets his heart. Ino teases that Naruto is all form but fails to deliver. Chouji suggests that they do it all together but Naruto insists that he try again and they agreed so Naruto is going to give it another try. ^^; Is the author dragging the story? Crowley and Jasdebit are still fighting at D. Gray-man [c. 106] as it is pretty much a tie until the near end, Jasdebit got the upper hand as realize that his body can’t handle another drink of the akuma blood again though he definitely need it. Jasdebit managed to get the last flask of blood but Crowley managed to smack it away. They hurriedly dash to get it and someone got it. From the position of the hands, it seems to be Jasdebit. I do find it weird as to why Crowley is reacting to akuma blood virus now when before he isn’t. Maybe because he drinks it in a short period of time. Anyway, this chapter has a group colored pic that made me think that Kanda could have survived.

As expected, everyone is shock minus Robin when Brook announces that Sunny Go will be his new house in One Piece [c. 443] as Luffy is smiling while Sanji and Nami just bows down [in embarrassment/helplessness]. Usopp and Chopper are freaking out as to why a skeleton is talking. Brook also tries to ask Robin about seeing panties that Nami hits him with her boot. Zoro screams to Luffy as to what is that about. Luffy tells him that he is their new nakama. Zoro shouts is he joking and asks Nami and Sanji why did they went with Luffy, isn’t it to stop Luffy from doing such things. Nami and Sanji can only hang their heads down as they apologize for they failed. Brook says not for them to quarrel and to start eating. Zoro shouts for him not to decide on such things. In the dining room, Brook exclaims about their ship being great as Franky thanks him. At the side, Sanji is cooking something. Brook then cracks some skeleton jokes as Luffy is really enjoying it. Both then shout that dinner, dinner as Sanji shout for them to wait. Brook then asks Luffy’s name as Luffy answers and asks what is he. Zoro shouts that it is already half a day and Luffy still doesn’t know. Sanji says for them to eat first before knowing about the skeleton. Brook tries to swap plates with Robin since her portion is larger that Sanji tells him to eat his first for there are more where that came from.

After dinner, Brook tells them that he ate a devil fruit and ten years ago, he had already passed away. It is a fruit that can give one a second life and that he used to be a pirate that he and his comrades got into the ‘devil sea’. They fought with another pirate and lost that he is killed. At first, he thought that the devil fruit is useless for only made him can’t swim but it showed its power when he died that he return as a soul. Unfortunately, it is misty and dark there that it took him a year to find his body and when he did, it is already a skeleton. Usopp then says that he isn’t a ghost but he isn’t a human either. Brook says he is scared of ghosts. Nami tries to show him how he look on a mirror but it turned out that he doesn’t have a reflection on it that freaked some of them as they think he is a vampire. Usopp then notice that Brook doesn’t have a shadow either. Brook tells them that being a skeleton and not having a shadow are two different things for his shadow is actually stolen by somebody. Having no shadow prevents one from being seen in ‘light’ or have sunlight shone on them for he had seen someone with the same condition to have perish when sun shines on them [like a vampire] so he doesn’t have a reflection.

He then laughs out loud that Usopp asks if he is alright. To their surprise, Brook shouts that it is such a wonderful day for he has met them. He bows to them that it has been a long time since he is in the dark sea all alone for ten years that he has become really lonely so alone and afraid that he really wanted to die but it has been a long time already and now, he has find happiness and that is them that if he has eyes, he would have cried for joy. Brook then says that Luffy even asks him to be their nakama so he is really happy and grateful but he declines. Luffy is shocked and asks why. Brook explains that he have already said that he can’t see the sun so if he went out with them, he will die for the mist and darkness of that place has protected him. He hopes that one day when he gets his shadow back, he will join when they meet again outside. Luffy shouts if that is the problem, he will just help Brook get his shadow back. Brook is surprised as Luffy asks where is the guy who took his shadow. Brook says that Luffy is really nice that he is really surprised but he can’t say the name for now he knows them, how can he let them die for his sake. Franky asks if that person is strong for why can’t he even say the name. Brook says he can’t say and there is no other reason for it but he hopes that in his second life, he can find that person again and fight him.

Brook then says why not have a song to celebrate their meeting as he takes out a violin. Brook says that he used to be the musician in his ship. Luffy is all bright as he shouts, really, please be my nakama. Brook asks what song would they want when Brook suddenly shout outloud for a ghost appears behind them – passing through the wall. Everyone is shock when the ship shakes. Brook goes out to see a hugh mouth with teeth near their ship. Brook tells them that they are followed and asked if they found a barrel in the sea. Luffy says they did. Brook tells them that it is a trap that they are being followed. Someone shouted how could that be for they are anchored. To their surprise, there is a ghost island in front of them complete with gothic scary type buildings. Brook says it is Thriller Bark. Nami wonders why it isn’t registering with on the compass. Brook explains that it is a small island so it won’t register. Brook says that it is a lucky day for he not only meet people but his wish has come true. He jumps in front of the ship as Sanji is surprise that he gets their fast. Brook says that it is because bones are light and warns them to quickly escape before the door behind them closes –locks them in. He thanks them for getting to meet them and eat delicious food that he is really happy and he won’t forget them that he hopes they will meet again. Luffy shouts for him to wait but he jumps down the sea. They thought he will drown because he ate the devil fruit but it seems he can run on water. Luffy thought it is cool. The others shouted for Luffy to hurry and do as Brook said to escape immediately for they don’t know what’s happening. Luffy just looks back at them with a huge smile, asking what are they saying. Nami, Usopp and Chopper freaks out for Luffy wanted to go. [Just like in Little Garden hehehe]

This is such a good chapter as more on Brook is revealed and he has a high chance of joining Luffy for didn’t Luffy want a musician ever since the start. I think Brook will fit in as ‘loneliness’ and ‘being different’ is always welcome in Strawhats. Going on a haunted house-ghost island adventure seems fun. Lol, just imagine the ‘afraid’ faces of the others hehehe I do wonder how are they going to fight off ghosts and maybe the enemy who steal ghosts is a vampire for the after effects of the victim is like being a vampire.

I do wonder if the author had a mental block that Gintama [c.150] seems quite uninspired and void of backgrounds. ^^;; The trio wakes up and it is all dark. They thought there is a blackout but they can see each other. Gin and Kagura orders Shinpachi around but Shinpachi can’t do anything since there is nothing there but blackness so they all went back to sleep. They hear someone calling out to them to wake up but they snub it off, calling for it to shut up. Then, there is this old man with beard with the word kanji on his forehead the same as the first kanji on Gin’s wooden sword calling them to wake up for didn’t they even notice that they are in a different place. The old man says that Gin has been using him and is quite powerful but Gin haven’t use him to show off his real power and doesn’t he want to be more powerful. Gin says he isn’t interested for he is already satisfied. The old man is saying about the other powerful moves but Gin is not interested so is the others that they went back to sleep. He then threaten to do something at the count of three but at three, Gin and Kagura kicks his knees. The old man then wants to train them and they will stay there forever if they don’t want to. They are all inattentive saying it is okay as they started looking around the old man’s room? to see what to eat in the refrigerator then Shinpachi sees some rated X magazines. Then, Gin and Kagura look at some yearbooks and got a laugh at it.

The old man shouts for them to stop messing up his room and that they shout go back to their world. Gin says didn’t he say they will stay there forever. The old man says it is okay for if they don’t want to train, who cares for if they die or something, he doesn’t care anymore. As he goes out, a afro hair woman with a beard kicks him, asking what is he saying. It is old man’s mother who shouts why is he doing that to his friends – making them go home like that. After some nagging, the mother then apologize to Gin and others for the old man’s behavior. The mother tries to call him to apologize but the old man doesn’t want to for it is embarrassing. As the mother fuss about, the old man gets irritated and punches her away. The old man then realizes his mistake and goes to his mother to see a balding guy with a beard, carrying something saying he is home. The father attacks him for what did he do to the mother. The mother says to fight the father so the father-son is about to fight that Gin and Kagura hits them both as the two screams in pain. The old man says that they have learned it and now they can learn a new technique. The trio says they don’t want as they prepare to attack him. It turned out to be a dream? as Kagura is sleeping but Gin’s sword handle is cracking. I guess it is just some parody about training in shounen manga but instead of being eager to be stronger, Gin and others are already satisfied. ^^; Wait a minute, it could be a parody of Bleach as the old man is wearing an outfit and shades the same as the Zangetsu. Lol

Thought of the day:
When we truly realize that we are all alone is when we need others the most. ~ Ronald Anthony

V. B. Rose [Chapter 50]
Tuesday, February 6, 2007 @ 11:31 a.m.

Everyone is busy doing their work until the day of the deadline of delivering the gown and accessories to Villa Ange though it is the first day of the exhibit, the place of the exhibit. Kyouichi comes in VBR as he greets them, hi, stupid people, is everything going smoothly. Yukari tossed on his head, a small pin cushion, shocking Ageha while Mitsuya looks as if he is laughing. Kyouichi’s head bleeds as he shouts at Yukari that is dangerous. Yukari holding a needle, tells him to shut up. Kyouichi says not to be like that for he is just worried that they might not make it to the exhibit that night that he is like an ‘angel’ being concerned about them. Yukari says that he is just having fun as Kyouichi just laughs. Yukari tells him not to deny it. Ageha then notices that Mitsuya has left already. Yukari angrily tells him that everything is okay so he shouldn’t worry and leave already. Kyouchi comments for Yukari not to say such bad words [the literal is don’t let your mouth sprout bad/negative words] Ageha just looks at them and wonders shouldn’t Kyouichi be more worried about what happens tomorrow at the show/at the exhibit than be concerned about the dress arriving at the site. Kyouichi then asks Ageha how is everything. Ageha says that they are nervous – sense of urgency, busy doing this and that, etc. Kyouichi says that’s good as he laughs while Ageha thought why is that good. Ageha then says even so, everyone is doing their best. Kyouichi says is that so.

Ageha notices that Kyouichi is looking at Yukari who is busy with the gown and then Kyouichi smiles that Ageha wonders what is that about. Kyouichi then goes out as he shouts, try to finish it, stupid people, as I go jab darling Ririko with scissors and needles [huh ^^; maybe like to make her fall with him ala curse]. Yukari angrily shouts for him to go back to the exhibit then wonders why Kyouichi is there. Ageha thinks for a while and says isn’t it for encouragement. Yukari just shouts back, don’t come back. Tsuyu then comes down the stairs and tells Yukari that she is finished with her work and tells Yukari to do the final check. Yukari happily smiles and says no wonder she is great that she did it fast. Yukari then shouts for Ageha to try on the gown and he will call Ririko. Ageha says okay as she is prepare to go when she hears a loud thump. She looks back to see Tsuyu on the floor. Ageha worriedly calls out out Tsuyu as Yukari says it is alright. Ageha is puzzled then she hears Tsuyu is already sleeping soundly. Yukari says that it is because they haven’t slept for four days and Tsuyu’s body can’t take it any more. As Ageha protests about Tsuyu falling down, to her surprise, she sees that Mitsuya carries Tsuyu. Mitsuya tells Yukari that he will bring Tsuyu upstairs to sleep. Yukari says okay. Ageha is happy for Tsuyu for they seems to be close but she can’t tell Tsuyu about it for Tsuyu will freak out if she knows. Yukari is then busy calling Ririko to come over.

Just then, he was about to call someone when Natsuna came in to tell Yukari she is there. Yukari smiles and says Natsuna is on time, you helped us a lot. He happily opens his arms to apologize for making her do things in rush but Natsuna grabs his collar. She threatens him that if he wants things rush again next time, she will request for a thousand folded paper cranes. Yukari a bit scared says that he will put it in his heart [remember it]. Natsuna says that she isn’t kidding for she will really do it. Yukari just apologizes. Natsuna angrily left as Yukari just waves goodbye. Ageha then wonders who is the most powerful person in the group: Natsuna > Tsuyu > Mitsuya > Yukari > Natsuna. After the fitting, Yukari asks Mitsuya and Ageha if everything is ready as the fitting is okay, they have the gown and accessories. Mitsuya quickly drives to Villa Ange as it is about 10pm and they made it in time. Kyouichi then greets them good work, do your best tomorrow. The trio then groans in relief as they made it. While driving back, Yukari says that they finally made it to that day. Mitsuya says that they will have to wait until tomorrow to be relieved. Yukari says that is true for they can’t be relieved yet. They dropped off Ageha as Yukari tells her to sleep early and that he will pick her up tomorrow morning. Ageha says okay and she thanks them for driving her home and good work for that day. As Ageha waves goodbye, then she become gloomy as she thought that now everything will depend on her that lately, she haven’t been thinking of it for they have been extremely busy that she doesn’t have any time to buy chocolates for Valentine’s day. She goes on her knees in disappointment for that day is Valentine’s day and it is over. She is a failure as Japanese girl and she should have bought the chocolates when she is out with Mamoru. She lost her chance to say ‘this is for you’ while at work but now, she should concentrate for tomorrow in doing what she can do.

On the day, Maki is busy fixing the hair of different bride models as Ageha peeks and thought Maki is really good that it really makes her happy. A note says that Ageha is finished already. Just then, her mobile phone rings and it is a sms/text from Yukari asking if she is finished. Ageha came out as Yukari and Mitsuya looked surprised upon seeing her, all made up. Mitsuya praises her saying that she really looks cute. Ageha asks really. Mitsuya says, isn’t that so, Yukari. Ageha says that the gown doesn’t look like the torn one before as they used the cloth with lace on the ends of the gown. [Sorry, if my terms are wrong ^^;] Then, Ageha noticed that Yukari is just staring at her that she begins to feel a bit nervous. Mitsuya smiles and is about to smack Yukari at the back for he went back to his bad habit when Kyouichi beat him to it for Kyouichi happily shoves Yukari, shouting, Ah Yukari-chan, why are you staring like that, is it too beautiful that you have become speechless. This surprises Mitsuya and Ageha. Kyouichi then twirls around saying that he also wants to get married to Ririko. Yukari then smiles and calls out Kyouichi’s name then he beats him up. Yukari told Kyouichi that he is already 29 years old so he should act his age. Kyouichi says that guys, no matter what age, is a kid for he will be forever be like that. Ageha then notices that Mitsuya is gone again.

Just then, Yukari’s phone started ringing and it is Ririko. Kyouichi is going to say, darling Ririko but Yukari just elbows him as he tells Ririko to wait for he is going some place to talk [far from Kyouichi]. Ageha then asks Kyouichi if he is alright as Kyouichi just asks Ageha to tell him the situation. Ageha says that she haven’t been able to help before but now, it is her turn so she will do her best. Kyouichi then says that Ageha has already helped a lot for she is the one who gave Yukari strength and she helped him a lot so thank you. Ageha is puzzled as she asks if it is about the exhibit. Kyouichi says it is from himself. With finger on his mouth, Kyouichi thought for a while then smiles as he looks at Ageha. He tells her that it is Aoi’s [Yukari’s dad] request. [Flashback: Three years ago, Aoi [42 years old] is at the hospital while a young Kyouichi at 26 years old is angrily protesting why is Aoi telling him to take care of Yukari for he hates people saying such things [last words]. Aoi says that is not so and asks Kyouichi not to tell anyone. Kyouichi asks what does he meant. Aoi says that Yukari thinks of other people but can’t ‘wait’ for people to return their feelings back. Kyouichi agrees and that is what is un-cute about Yukari. Aoi says that while at work, Yukari doesn’t treasure himself and if he continues being like that, he will lose his happiness. He doesn’t want Yukari to go on like that, but this isn’t something that someone else can make him understand but he himself should realize it that in his hands reach, there are many people [Mitsuya, Tsuyu and Natsuna] who are willing to help him and that Yukari isn’t alone so he wants Kyouichi to be the one there for him to see to it that Yukari becomes a successful designer. End flashback]

Ageha is a bit surprised as Kyouichi looks nostalgic. Just then, Yukari came to tell Kyouichi that a worker is looking for him. Kyouichi then calls him princess as Ageha laughs while Yukari wonders what is he smiling about. Kyouichi then looks up as he says, this is Yukari’s debut [first fashion show] and that is the only thing that he can do for Yukari and now Aoi can rest easy for beside him [Yukari] are dependable comrades and friends and most important of all, a cute lively girlfriend near him. Ageha blushes. Yukari asks what is he talking about. Kyouichi says he will go and says Yukari deceives people so she better be careful as Yukari says he will sue him. Yukari wonders what is up with Kyouichi as Ageha looks at Yukari and remembers what Aoi said about Yukari not being alone for there are people beside him. Ageha smiles as she thought I know, Yukari’s dad, for your wishes, will be conveyed. Ageha, blushing, holds Yukari’s hand and says gambatte. Yukari blushed as he asks if she is okay, what happened.

I guess everyone knows about the problem with Yukari that they are all worried about it and it is all thanks to Ageha who is helping him with that problem. From this, it seems that Yukari’s father died of an ailment and at such a young age. He really does look like Yukari and Sakura or is that the other way around. =P It is amusing that Kyouichi looks a bit of a rebel/punk before as compared now, he became all genki/childish. It seems that Kyouichi depends on Ageha to report things to him accurately on what is happening as the other have an ‘allergy’ to Kyouichi.

Thought of the day:
Too often we under estimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. ~ Leo Buscaglia

Vampire Knight [Chapter 25]
Monday, February 5, 2007 @ 01:53 p.m.

As Zero is still holding on to Yuuki, saying that he is alright, Yuuki suddenly thought that Zero tried to kiss her that she blushes. Zero alibis that it is because he had a strange dream that is why he is like that when he woke up. Yuuki is still a bit stunned and blushing as she says, is that so, she understands so please don’t stare/act like that anymore. Yuuki says if that is how it is, then it is alright. But then, Yuuki blushes as she thought, well, it should be. Yori, her friend calls out to her to thank her for accompanying her to town to buy something at the stationary store. [At first, I thought Yori is buying a knife ^^; It turned out to be a envelop opener at the background] Yuuki says that it is okay. Yori says that she has been acting weird in front of Zero that day as when Yuuki sees Zero, she covers her face with her notebook/book. Yori comments that if Yuuki is thinking something, it could only be about Kaname or Zero but it is better if she doesn’t have anything to do with Kaname. Yuuki sweatdrops and says that it seems Yori isn’t ‘into’ Kaname [like the others, I guess] as long as Yori is at the safe distance with night class, everything will be okay. Yori pauses and says that it is because she fears Kaname a bit. Just then, a little boy is crying for his mother, tugs at Yuuki’s sleeve. Yori asks if the boy got lost as Yuuki asks if the boy has separated from his mother. The boy nods and asks to be accompanied to where his mother is. Yuuki tells Yori to go on ahead to buy the rest of the things as she will accompany the boy. While walking, Yuuki asks if it is near as the boy just nods. [Note: the boy has been covering his eyes, crying the whole time]

Meanwhile at school, the president tells Zero that he is invite to a certain place for a night meeting of vampires organized by Mr. Aidou [Aidou’s dad]and since it is a construction building?, he thinks that nothing would happen. Zero says he will go as the president thinks that Zero isn’t feeling good [since he isn’t protesting]. Back to Yuuki, Yuuki tells the boy that they are far from the shopping district, is he sure it is near by. The boy still crying/rubbing his eyes says it is, just a little bit. Then, they are in front of a construction building. Yuuki says that no one is there so is the boy sure his mother is there. The boy says it is. He wipes his eyes and smiles at Yuuki to thank her and that alone, he is afraid. Yuuki thought that the boy is cute as she says that she is worried about him so she will leave him when he meets with his mother. The boy smiles and says that she is really nice. As Yuuki notices about the eyes of the boy [being different color], the boy kisses her on the cheek and whispers, thank you. Suddenly, Yuuki feels sleepy and collapses on the floor as the boy just stands there. That night, Kain calls out to Aidou as they are entering the building. When Aidou asked what is it, Kain asks why is this about, why is Yuuki there. Aidou is surprised as Kaname came and says, really a troublesome child.

Yuuki wakes up to find herself in a room as she felt her eyes are heavy and her strength had left her. Then, she wonder where is she when she sees Kaname sitting on a chair beside her. Kaname then says, thank goodness for she woke up earlier than expected. Yuuki quickly sits up, surprised and blushed to find Kaname there. Since she haven’t regained her strength, she bends down as Kaname catches her with his arm. Yuuki blushes and thanks him. Kaname asks, didn’t you say you won’t talk to me. Yuuki remembers as she quickly lets go of him [she is holding on him so as not to fall down]. Yuuki says that if Kaname doesn’t say bad things about Zero then.. Kaname looks at her and says it is his fault for suspecting Zero and the real culprit is caught but then, does Yuuki think that if she said those things, he won’t be angry. Kaname holds her chin then neck ^^; as Yuuki flustered says but..it is Kaname’s fault. Kaname asks does she knows who made him do that. Kaname’s face is close to Yuuki as he says her heart is beating so fast, so she must have understand a bit. Kaname pauses and says that he can come in, is he there to call him. Ichijou comes in the door and says that he doesn’t have to be shy for that night is Aidou’s family invitation and everyone is waiting for him and even Yuuki is already awake. [Lol, Kaname is now keeping his hands to himself]

Ichijou says that Yuuki being there in the room herself will be okay for no one will notice she is there. Yuuki then wonders where she is as she looks at the ceiling is beautifully decorated. Ichijou then asks why is Yuuki there. Yuuki isn’t paying attention that Ichijou called out her name that Yuuki answers ‘here’ [as if she is in class for attendance] Ichijou tells her that they brought her there so the other guests won’t notice her for the exits are guarded/occupied. He asks her what is she doing there when school is already over, did something happen. Yuuki tells them that a boy got lost so she brought him to a construction building and when he kissed her to thank her, she is like that – she doesn’t remember. Ichijou guess that it could be a child vampire, one of the evening guests and child vampires don’t have ‘teeth’ yet. Ichijou tells her that they are now in Aidou estate where currently there is a meeting of vampires so if anyone knows a human is there, it will be very dangerous.

At the ballroom, Ruka tells Aidou to stop staring at Zero for no one there is paying attention to him. Ruka says that Zero is somewhat of a representative for the vampire hunter’s group as a sign of ‘cooperation’ so don’t mind him. Aidou is a bit bothered as to why would it be Zero. Aidou’s father then came to ask Aidou why isn’t Kaname there yet when all of the guests have arrived. Aidou says that he knows and he already asked Ichijou to get Kaname. Zero is leaning on a wall by his lonesome when someone is messing up with his hair. Zero points his gun at Yagari asking his sensei up to when will does he plan to do that [grabbing his hair]. Yugari greets him back, ah stupid student as he lets go of Zero’s hair. Zero asks why is he there. Yugari says that he is chasing someone and thought that person might be there/appear there. Yugari asks about Zero being let go regarding Shizuka’s death with the help of the night class. Zero says that they say it is to ‘protect a comrade’ so there is no problem anymore. Yagara comments that they pretend that they are indifferent to it but actually are really concerned for killing a pureblood is a grave crime. Zero tells him that he wasn’t the one who gave the final blow. They kept quiet for a while then Zero tells Yagari that he saw Ichiru. Yagari just says, really. And they didn’t talk anymore as people walk back and forth the place.

In the room, Yuuki is sitting by the sofa as she noticed that there are no windows in the room. She then thought that it seems as if she went to that room herself. Just then, she notices the boy who was lost earlier at the door. The boy says, human-sis, I’m really sorry. Yuuki asks if he is a vampire. The boy leaves and says that he wants to see his mother. Yuuki then tries to tell the boy not to tell anyone she is there but as she goes out of the room, the boy is nowhere to be found. She went out and finds herself on the second floor. She peeks down and saw the ballroom filled with people all dressed up. She says that they are all vampires even if she can’t see very clearly but there are many famous celebrities there – singers, actors/actress, a company president, etc, so they are all vampires. It seems that they have secret identities and in that ball, they can be themselves but what would people think if they knew they are vampires. Yuuki then sees Zero that she quickly hides as she wonders what is he doing there. She wonders if he is a guest or is he working. She remembers the almost kiss and blushes. She reprimands herself for remembering it as she tells herself that Zero is like that is just because he had a strange dream. She thought that Zero acting like that is really strange and wonders what kind of dream that Zero had. She wondered what is Zero thinking regarding her reaction but their relationship should be of siblings like a childhood friend that four years ago, seeing Zero wounded, she made him an important person to her. She then looks again as she thought that unlike her Zero is calm, he is back to himself again as if nothing happened.

At the ballroom below, Zero felt that everyone is looking at him. Then, Kaname came as everyone there started bowing to him except Zero and Yagari. Kaname then apologizes for he isn’t there to disrupt everyone and for them to continue with what they are doing. A vampire asks if it is true that Kaname went against the upper house for the sake of this human – Zero. Kaname says that it is true. Everyone is then awed that Kaname did that for he is really thinking of the future of humans and vampires together. Zero stands there with no reaction as Kaname smiles at him. Mr. Aidou goes to Kaname with Aidou behind him. Mr. Aidou thanks Kaname for coming as Kaname thanks for the invitation. Kaname says that he isn’t fond of such gatherings so he rarely comes. Mr. Aidou says that it is okay and not to mind too much but he has a request as he shows off a girl from behind. Aidou protest to his father but Mr. Aidou introduces Ms. Gesshi/Moon and if Kaname is interested, they will be very happy. [In short, they want Kaname to marry into the family] Aidou tells his father not to be like that as he apologizes to Kaname for he didn’t thought of that [bringing Kaname there for that]. Kaname says he isn’t bothered and smiles as he tells Gesshi that he remembers her. Gesshi smiles as Ruka doesn’t look too happy. Other people then started to call Kaname’s attention as they want Kaname to meet their daughters, too. [No wonder Kaname is avoiding such gatherings ^^;] Someone saying that before Kaname doesn’t mind about marriage but now that he is grown up and pureblood is scarce that they want Kaname to marry.

Everyone then looks surprised as another girl with long hair comes in as she tells others not to be like that for Kaname is quite pitiful/helpless [as everyone want to introduce their daughters]. Kaname goes to her as everyone murmurs that it is Sara from the family of Shirofuki for they didn’t expect that she will go there, too. Kaname greets her and kisses her hand [though it looks like he just puts her hand near his lips] as Sara says that they don’t see each other much since he went to school. Sara comments that it is natural for purebloods to help each other for they are scarce. Yuuki saw this that she quickly goes back to the room. She closes the door and sits down. She thought that the beautiful girl is like Kaname is a pureblood, a person who is far away yet close to Kaname and that she knows that she and Kaname is far away [different] but still. She puts her head on her knees as she thought that it would have been best if she haven’t seen that scene. The door opens and she gets hit a bit as someone tells her to stand up from there. Yuuki did and it is Kaname who came in and closed the door. Kaname tells her that didn’t he told her not to leave the room. Yuuki apologizes. Kaname hugs her and tells her that he won’t accept her apology this time. He then carries her and drops her down the sofa. As he bends to her, he asks why did she left the room. Yuuki says that the child, she wonders if that child has found his mother. Then, Yuuki thought that she remembers now that the kid’s left-right eye color is different.

The boy is leaning by himself on a wall as a rich looking woman came and tells him that they are going home. The boy then hugs his mother’s hand and says yes, mother. At the corner, Zero is standing as Yagari says that it seems that the person he is chasing didn’t appear. Zero asks if he is leaving. Yugari says he is as he pats Zero’s head and to greet him to the other perfect. Zero says that her existence isn’t insignificant/she is important to him. Back to Yuuki, she calls out to Kaname as Kaname is lying on top of her, his head on her chest. Yuuki is blushing. Kaname says that he will forgive her if she lets him be like that for some time since he is tired. Kaname then closes his eyes. Yuuki says it is okay, be like that is okay if it is Kaname. She then hugs him. Narration: looking for something, leaving her and went to a faraway place, the person on my shoulder I don’t understand..afraid that it will happen in a flash. Then, there is a picture of various people – the vampire boy, Sara, Kaname, mysterious shoulder-length hair blond guy and Zero. [Perhaps the characters for the new arc?]

I have a feeling that Yuuki is brought there not by coincidence that the boy came back to get/lure Yuuki out of the room – perhaps to witness that many girls/family want Kaname. Maybe someone ordered the boy or something and if that is true, that would mean that someone else knows how much Kaname treasures Yuuki. It will actually be an uproar if they knew that Kaname loves a human girl and they would be more than willing to get rid of Yuuki. That can be a reason why Kaname wants to be powerful. I hope there is no hidden camera or something there that could be used to blackmail Kaname later on and I hope Kaname locked the door. I do find everyone pushing their daughters to Kaname amusing so Kaname is number 1 bachelor in vampire world. =P Would they have a beauty contest later on or some sort of like that reality show? Hehe, if this is a comedy series. I do wonder who invited Zero, could it be Kaname to get others think how nice he is to want to ‘harmonize’ vampire-human relations/keep the peace. About the love triangle, I do wonder if Yuuki really feels something else with Zero from the way she is reacting or is it really just sibling/friend relationship. It is already obvious why Kaname got away with his advances with Yuuki and she didn’t even resist him. Now, would she start being embarrassed later on if she meets Kaname like what happened with Zero? That could prove to be problematic like if Ruka sees that. Hehe, the funny but cute way of tying a ribbon/necktie is also being sported by Kaname. It must be an in-thing in Japan. ^^; I do wonder if Kaname will reprimand Aidou later on, not only Yuuki got there but he is being made ‘fixed up’[to marry] by the people there. Yori’s sixth sense is quite good that she sensed something is different/scary about Kaname since she doesn’t react with other vampires, could it be she detects purebloods. Now, the story is focusing a bit on Kaname. Anyway, there is a colored spread in this chapter. The cover is of Zero and Yuuki while the colored spread is the trio – does the picture mean anything later on?

Thought of the day:
They invented hugs to let people know you love them without saying anything. ~ Bil Keane

V. B. Rose [Chapter 49]
Saturday, February 3, 2007 @ 04:02 p.m.

On the fourth night before the exhibit [after they came home from the ‘practice’ at the venue since the two guys are wearing the same outfit], Yukari and Mitsuya looks shock as they saw the gown on the mannequin all torn up or rather there are a lot of scratches/tears below. Then, they see Sakura a bit flustered and sees Kiyume licking its paws. Then, they both scream. Sakura carrying Kiyume explains that he thought that Yukari would want to play with Kiyume so he brought it to the store but Yukari isn’t there. Then, suddenly, Kiyume jumped down and went to the wedding dress. He is in shock as Kiyume shows off its claws and started scratching [like on a scratch post?] Sakura looks as if he is about to cry as the two guys are also shaking like ‘no, this isn’t true’. Sakura cries as he apologizes as the two guys thought that they also want to cry. Yukari just tells Sakura that Ririko will be angry as Sakura cries that mom is scary. [Yukari says that because he loves his brother that he can’t reprimand him] Yukari then puts his hand on Mitsuya’s shoulder and apologize as he says that he needs to leave for a while as his soul seems to be flying above his head. ^^; Yukari says that they don’t have much time and he should think of a way to remedy it.

Three days before the exhibit, it is Ageha’s turn to be shock as she saw the gown. Ageha then cries as she apologizes that it is her fault for putting perfume while wearing it since Kiyume likes perfume. Yukari and Mitsuya sweatdrops at Ageha’s reaction as Yukari tells her that it is their fault for not being careful. Yukari says that he already have thought of a way to fix it though he haven’t done it yet and needs someone to help. Yukari orders Mitsuya to call Tsuyu and try to nice as he goes to fetch her. Ririko then came as Yukari tells her to help Ageha dress up. Ageha is confused why would she wear the torn gown as Ririko drags her away. At Tsuyu’s place, Tsuyu looks at her ringing mobile phone and that it is from VBR. She wonders what’s up as she answers it. Mitsuya says it is him. Tsuyu pauses as the thought sinks in then she freaks out. Mitsuya says that it is indeed him and it is a bit bothersome but can she come to VBR. Mitsuya is trying to control himself [not go into devil mode] Tsuyu asks what kind of help can she do. Mitsuya says that right now, they need her help and wonders why Tsuyu voice is quite low. [It is because Tsuyu put it on speakerphone and she is standing away from the mobile phone, still scared of Mitsuya ^^] Mitsuya says can she get ready as Tsuyu is now holding the phone and says, ah. Mitsuya continues that he is going to fetch her. This surprises Tsuyu even more. Mitsuya finally goes to devil mode as he threatens Tsuyu not to run away or else, he will chase her even to the horizon, scaring Tsuyu as she starts to fade away.

Mitsuya then hangs up the phone and tells Yukari that he is going. At the dressing room, Ageha wonders didn’t he just scared her on the phone. [I think she meant Mitsuya] Yukari then goes off to call Maki telling him that he needs to talk to him and since Maki is free that night, Maki will go there as Yukari thought he called everyone. Ageha then comes out. Yukari looks at the gown and feels angry as he tries to remember who are others, Maki and Natsuna. Ageha asks if there is anything she can do to help. Yukari then bends down, puzzling Ageha. Yukari looks up as he holds a scissor and started cutting the torn part that freaked Ageha out. Later on, Mitsuya came back with Tsuyu following him behind. Mitsuya is surprised to see Ageha sitting on the sofa, severely shocked that she is wasting away. Mitsuya asks what is the matter as Ageha says something about cutting. Yukari comes in with a cloth that has laced ends as Mitsuya asks about the cutting. Yukari tells Tsuyu to sew the lace into the cloth. Ageha is surprised and says will they use it as the new skirt so why do they have to re-do everything. Yukari says that if it’s them, they can do it. Ageha is confused. Tsuyu looks at the cloth then went to work as she speedily sews the lace in. Ageha freaks out at how fast Tsuyu is doing it that Yukari explains that is why he called for Tsuyu’s help because no ordinary person can do that.

Ageha then asks what can she do when to her surprise, Maki has just arrived as he looks at the sketch, saying doing it again. Yukari says it is because they were careless. Ageha is sitting down as Yukari asks to think of a hairstyle to match their new plan as Maki agrees to do it. Yukari then went downstairs as Mitsuya calls for him. Maki looks at Ageha, thinking as Ageha looks flustered. She then asks Maki is it alright if she doesn’t do anything when the others have all different expertise that she feels she is useless. Maki pats her head and says that it is okay as long as she is there, isn’t that important enough so while others are busy, she should be patient and wait for her turn. Ageha cheers up a bit. Maki then says isn’t being the model important, too. Ageha blushes and says that it is true. Maki says it is nice that Ageha is lively again that she is smiling. Ageha thanks him. Yukari comes up and says that Ageha has school the next day so he should drive her home already. Ageha says okay then asks why – since Yukari is staring at her. Yukari pinches her face, asking if she is being worried about something again. Ageha denies it and wonders if something happened to her face [while Yukari is pinching it]. Maki just smiles as the two are having a word argument/teasing. At Ageha’s house, Ageha thanks Yukari for driving her home. She then says that she will go to the store after school the next day. While smiling, Yukari calls out Ageha’s name and then hugs her. Yukari says ‘charger’ [I guess he means Ageha recharges him] as Ageha blushes. They then kiss. Yukari tells her that the exhibit will be okay for she and the others are there so it is alright. Ageha smiles and thought, will do my best.

I somehow know the feeling of being on a deadline then something bad happens that most of it has to be re-done again. It really makes one want to cry though it is useless to whine about it and well, just have to think of something to remedy it. Obviously, Yukari has an idea on how to do it. Here, Ageha’s feeling of being useless is ‘solved’ by Maki. Somehow if this is a shounen/adventure manga, Ageha would be the healer-type character. =P I do wonder if it is because of Ageha’s influence that Yukari doesn’t freak out that much as he would normally be like he is controlling his anger better than before. The ‘recharge’ scene is cute though. ^_^

Thought of the day:
Though I know not what awaits me—what the future has in store, yet I know that God is faithful, for I've proved Him oft before. ~ Anon

V. B. Rose [Chapter 48]
Friday, February 2, 2007 @ 03:54 p.m.

The phone is ringing as Yukari rushes off to answer it but when he answers it [This is Yukari of VBR], the other person just hangs up as Yukari looks a bit irritated. Later on, Yukari is fitting the gown/the basic pattern on Ageha as Ageha asks about the phone calls. Yukari, while making adjustments on the gown, says that it has become a bit frequent lately. Ageha asks if it is a wrong number. Yukari says he doesn’t know and it is a bit irritating for he has to purposely stop working just to answer it. Ageha agrees that it is troublesome. Mitsuya then freaks out shouting for them not to say bad things about Shizuya for he is a nice boy. Yukari shouts back that they aren’t talking about Shizuya. Ageha then happily looks at the gown –minus accessories and trimmings - as Yukari that is what he is able to do until then. Ageha says she can’t wait to see it finished. Yukari tells her that her job is to take her of her body [not get sick] as Ageha says she will do her best. Just then, Sakura came in, carrying a cat with mismatch color eyes, looking for his brother, Yukari. To Ageha’s surprise, Yukari looks at the cat and then goes to hug Sakura saying it is cute. Ririko then came in to reprimand Sakura for going in the store [since he might destroy something by mistake] Yukari then asks Sakura to let him carry the cat since he likes cats. Sakura agrees. Ririko thought that the two brothers are like fools as Ageha is also a fool for she thought the scene is cute.

Yukari then asks Ririko where did the cat came from. Ririko says that her mother’s friend is out of town for a month so it will be staying with them for a while. It’s name is ‘Weird Dream’ – Kiyume-chan and three years old. Yukari happily thought that it such a cute name as he carries the cat and tells Ririko that the cat is like Yuki. Ririko agrees for she thought so, too. Ageha thought that Yukari is being cute and wonders who is Yuki. Someone said that it is no longer here, it used to be Ririko’s cat, a very cute one. Yukari then says that he used to have cat that is similar to her. Ageha blushes over this comment as Mitsuya says that Ageha can’t help it when ‘bsho’ [good looking] and ‘cute’ is combined. Kiyume then goes down from Yukari and starts to go near Ageha as it wags its tail. Ririko then says that Kiyume likes girls especially if there is perfume and make-up for it likes that smell. Mitsuya happily says that he also likes that as the others say, they know. Ririko then tells Ageha that she will help her take off the gown since Ageha can’t move that much with all the pins on the gown. Ageha then asks Yukari if she can take a leave of absence on Saturday. Yukari then says yes as Ageha is very happy about it. Yukari asks what is it/what is the occasion as Ageha can’t seem to tell him. He then holds her at the shoulder and asks if it has something to do with that ‘black thing’ = Ryuu as Ageha is clueless to what he meant and just says that she is going out with Mamoru. Yukari is relieved that it is the sister as the two nervously laughs. Ririko then tells Yukari that she will help Ageha change so he should bring Kiyume to their house. Ageha then thought that she has deceived Yukari.

At a chocolate store with a big sign, St. Valentine’s Day, Ageha whines to Mamoru that she can’t chose which one should she give to Yukari as she is holding a couple of chocolate boxes. Mamoru is also looking at box and says that everything looks delicious to eat. Ageha freaks out saying that it isn’t the answer she wants. Mamoru sugges to give handmade ones and use lace to make it look cute. Ageha thought that it is a good answer as she tells Mamoru this is the first time for her to give something to someone she likes/boyfriend on Valentine’s day for giving chocolates to her dad and kyo-chan [I have no idea who this is maybe nickname for her brother-in-law. Can’t be helped since simplified Chinese tend to be a bit inaccurate] is also different. Mamoru thought that those two are actually a bit similar but she doesn’t react for she finds Ageha cute thinking about it. Mamoru asks what does she plan to give. Ageha replies that something that will make Yukari happy and that maybe she should give it more thought until the date [Feb 14] comes. Mamoru says if that will be okay. Ageha then had an idea as she says why not ask Natsuna about it for her place is nearby, she can drop by there after school. Mamoru is speechless as she thought that Ageha had already answered her question since she is an old friend she knows how Ageha thinks as she drags Ageha out of the store. Ageha then worries that she doesn’t quite understand Natsuna as Mamoru says really but Mamoru thought you will go anyway.

In front of Natsuna’s place, Ageha looks a bit tense as Natsuna peeks out from the door and after a while, Natsuna finally asks her to come in. In Natsuna’s room, Ageha happily looks around at the flower creations as Natsuna offers tea and asks what’s up. Ageha bluntly asks what did Natsuna give to Yukari on Valentine’s day. Natsuna is shock by her question that she spills her tea. Natsuna wipes the spill and then answers that usually, she is the one who receives gifts. Natsuna then tells her that last year Yukari gave her the ring on her pinky finger and it is for Valentine’s day which Yukari handmade himself. While looking at the ring, Natsuna tells her not to be mistaken for even if it is ring that Yukari gave her, she still wears it because she likes the ring. Natsuna tells Ageha that seeing Yukari being stupid, that it won’t be long before Yukari will give her one, too and this time, he would really mean it. [I think she is saying that what he will give Ageha is something he truly means from his heart –thought of it- and not just randomly giving things] Ageha then repeats, a ring then becomes excited that it is a ring.

To Natsuna’s surprise, Ageha is happy for she doesn’t have a ring. Natsuna observes her as Ageha wonders if she will get a ring, too or it would be something else but she can’t wait that if she got it, she would be tremendously be happy. Natsuna then pulls Ageha’s face as Ageha asks what is she doing. Natsuna says she is too noisy, wishy-washy? Ageha thought that Natsuna got angry and did she made Natsuna hate her. But, Natsuna is actually smiling at her. Ageha looks back and Natsuna also looks away. As Ageha thought if Natsuna is looking at her, Natsuna looks at her, smiling. Ageha turns back and Natsuna turns away. Ageha is wondering about it as Natsuna is smiling at her, even sprouting bunny ears. Natsuna then stands up and gets something. She then asks Ageha to hold out her hand. Ageha asks if right hand is okay. Natsuna says either one and hurry. Ageha then does as she is told. Natsuna then sprays perfume on Ageha’s hand. Ageha is surprise and comments that it smells nice. Natsuna says that she is giving it to Ageha. Ageha is surprised as Natsuna says that it is from the ones that Tsuyu has given her. Ageha smiles and thanks Natsuna who says it is nothing. Ageha happily says that the dress is almost finished and they will be waiting for Natsuna’s work. Natsuna says that she is still waiting for Tsuyu’s work. Ageha then narrates that with Yukari and others working, soon it is almost time for the wedding exhibit fashion show.

Four days before the exhibit, they went to the venue as Ageha is wearing the gown. They then are quite happy with the dress as Ageha says she will do her best in modeling it. Yukari then notices something and goes near Ageha as he asks what did she put. Ageha asks if there is something wrong for it is the perfume that Natsuna gave her. Yukari asks back, Natsuna gave it to you, then he says that the scent is nice. Ageha blushes. Mitsuya then hugs Ageha, telling Yukari that it is ‘Eclat D’ Arpege’ [I googled it and such a perfume exists. Here is the description: Eclat D'arpege Perfume by Lanvin, A soft floral fragrance, eclat d'arpege by the design house of lanvin was created in 2003. A sophisticated fruity scent is a blend of sicilian lemon leaves, lilac green, wisteria flowers, green tea flowers, peach flowers, red peony,white cedar of lebanon, musk, and amber.] Yukari pushes him away as he hold on to Ageha asking Mitsuya, are you a dog. Mitsuya says don’t be too selfish as Yukari says don’t be a bother. Yukari then asks Kyouichi if it is okay and can they go home already. Kyouichi says it is and just to bring the gown and accessories the day before the show. Ageha blushes as she thought that what would happen next is something she didn’t quite expected.

It is a amusing that Yukari likes cats. I do find that rare in manga for it is usually girls who are into cats when it comes to manga/anime. I’m guesing that the cat is a guy for it likes girls with perfume and make-up ^^; It is funny that Yukari is still scared of Ryuu but then, Ryuu has those evil vibes to make Yukari remember him by. Hehehe Ageha is really quite brave to ask that question to Natsuna and it seems that Ageha won points again with Natsuna who gave her a small bottle of perfume. I do wonder if Natsuna and Mamoru would meet what kind of reaction they would have. ^_^

Thought of the day:
Good actions give strength to ourselves and inspire good actions in others. ~ Plato

Skip Beat! [Chapter 100]
Thursday, February 1, 2007 @ 10:33 p.m.

There is a chart of ratings of Dark Moon. 1st episode which started on the second week of October: 35.2%, 3rd episode: 35%, 5th episode 36.8% and 7th episode [last week of November] 39.6%. A note says they want to surpass the original drama at 46.4%. Kyouko, together with Ogata and this other guy/assistant?, exclaims that they are near 40% from last episode and these days, passing the 30% mark is already a feat. Ogata says that she is right since nowadays, there are other forms of entertainment and many women are working that unless the program is really good, they won’t continue watching it. Kyouko happily says that even if with such conditions, if this continues then Dark Moon would have really surpass the original drama especially since the love story would become more sweeter and heartbreaking. Ogata agrees then he asks if it is okay for Kyouko to hang around there since she has a meeting for a new drama at 3 o’clock. Kyouko then realized the time and bid them goodbye. The assistant tells Ogata that it seems Kyouko is busy lately since her character in the drama has made such an impact but then, he is worried for this is Kyouko’s first major drama that she might be hated because of the character. Ogata says that it doesn’t seem Kyouko is worried though for she is happy that audience hated her because of her acting and that she has become a real actress. At the dressing room, Kyouko removes her wig as she fixes her hair [back to dyed hair]. Kyouko peps talk to herself in front of the mirror as she exclaims about making a new ‘her’ [character]. [Regarding the wig, I’m guessing that since they have pretty much finished filming Dark Moon that Kyouko dyed her hair back and keeps the wig when her character needs to be show up/at Dark Moon set]

Scene changes to someone removing empty bullet cartridges from a gun and reloading it. It is Ren, smoking and looking all dark as he points the gun to some scared stiff guy. He then shoots the gun and hits the guy on the forehead with a suction flower bullet. [Don’t know what it is called and does such a toy gun exists? ^^;] Two guys, sitting on a sofa, watching Ren act and are really impressed. The director says that he saw Ren’s character in Dark Moon and he thought Ren would be perfect for the character BJ. Ren thanks them. The other guy, still has the suction flower on his forehead, agrees for even if he knew it is a toy gun, he is still very scared. The director says that Ren brought out the sense of being a coldblooded killer complete with evil aura. The director says that they are going to use this movie to shake Japan and that the character BJ is more important than the lead role. Ren says that he understands. The director says that they have a plan to get more interest for the project and that is not to tell the production crew nor the co-stars who will be playing BJ. Yashiro freaks out. Ren agrees with the plan. Yashiro freaks out some more. The director warned that they won’t even put his names on the credits in order to generation questions as to who played BJ. Ren also happily agrees to it as he tells the director that he will play the part that no one would ever guess it is “Tsuruga Ren”. He thought he can’t wait for that. The director is very happy that Ren agrees to it. The director says that the filming will start either this year or by next year as they still need to perfect their plan. Ren says it is okay. They then shaked hands [it’s a deal].

In Ren’s car, Yashiro looks dissatisfied as Ren asks why is he having that expression since a while ago. Yashiro says hard to accept. Ren asks could it be because he won’t be credited in the movie. Yashiro says of course that’s it. Ren laughs it off and says that it will be fun. Yashiro disagrees for Ren should have used accept other work from the acclaim he got from Dark Moon instead of such project [where he won’t be credited]. Ren explains that there will be greater buzz over that movie depending on his acting. Yashiro is still protesting but Ren says that director didn’t say he won’t reveal it and that compared to his character in Dark Moon who shows some darkness, the character BJ is full of darkness so if there is a fuss over it early on, he might not be able concentrate. Ren then thought, looking a bit sad, that he fears that the darkness in him might be completely released. Yashiro gives up as he remembers that it took Ren three days to think if he will accept the job or not. Yashiro says that if that is Ren’s reason, he can’t argue with that. Ren then thanks him for being concern about it as Yashiro shakes it off saying Ren doesn’t have to be so formal. Yashiro then brings up the subject about smoking if Ren smokes. Ren says he doesn’t. Yashiro, looking devilish and in teasing mode, says that maybe now but before he could have smoked since Ren didn’t cough when he first smoke during the audition/performance. Yashiro then says that he is guessing that Ren smoked when he was just 18. Ren says he will leave that to Yashiro’s imagination as he thought it is actually 17. Yashiro then says that it seems it isn’t the first time Ren handled a gun either. Ren says that he is correct for when he was a kid, he played with them in the house. Yashiro says that his parents must have model guns as Ren just kept silent as if Yashiro guessed wrong. [Iirc, civilians in Japan can’t own guns]

The meeting has just finished as everyone is about to leave, the director calls Kyouko and tells her not to think too hard about doing the role of ‘Natsu’/Summer for she can just do it a bit similar with her character in Dark Moon. Kyouko looks a bit stunned. The director continues that she just have to do it as a high schooler minus the ladylike behavior. As the director left, Kyouko looks a bit sad. Just then, here mobile phone is ringing. She blushed a bit when she saw ‘caller withheld’ then she answers it. [Ren usually has that his caller id withheld and Kyouko thought that it is Ren] It turned out to be Sawara, her manager who happily greets her. Kyouko stutters as she asks what’s up. Sawara asks why she talks that way as if she isn’t happy. Kyouko snaps out of it saying it is nothing. Sawara then tells her to drop by at the office the next day for there are new projects that are being offered that she should look into. This perked up Kyouko, asking is it true. Sawara tells her that there are actually three offers. As she hangs up, Kyouko is really happy about it for she already got three offers at once. She thought that since her Natsu role doesn’t appear always at the drama so she can still accept one more job.

She then happily imagines about becoming a fairy and then, thought of first meeting Corn. She pauses and thought that her imagination of a fairy is based on Corn. She then shakes her head thinking that she cannot be like Corn. She then looks up the ceiling [part of the ceiling is glass that she can see the sky] and asks how are you, Corn. Then, she remembers Ren hugging her telling her that Corn is alright, has grown wings that he can fly high up in the sky. Kyouko thought why does she feel relieved about it even if what Ren said bears no proof/basis. She wonders if it is Ren’s power or some fragrance. Then, she remembers Ren’s fragrance while he is hugging her and that it is nice and makes her feel comfortable. She blushes a bit when all of a sudden, she snapped herself out of it as she told herself that is a bad feeling and it just made her brain stopped working. She looks around if anyone saw her stupid expression a while ago. She then thought that Ren is dangerous for he relaxes yet later on the brain stop working. She slaps her head as she says for it to start working again and she should concentrate on working as she wonders what kind of new job she will have. As she walks out, there is smoke all over and something is either coming in/out of the wastebasket. [One of Kyouko’s demons transformed?]

At some eating place, maybe canteen of the building, Sawara is smiling while Kyouko looks all gloomy. Sawara asks how it it as Kyouko says how can he say that for all of the roles are of tormentors and is pretty much the same as the character in Dark Moon. Sawara says that she is correct and that isn’t it good for they all recognize her work in Dark Moon that even if she just started and a Love Me member, she has created a big impact. Kyouko sadly says is that so. Sawara then says that Kyouko is like before, making an unexpected reaction and if she is like that, she won’t graduate from Love Me section. Kyouko managed to say that she is really happy that her work is being acknowledge. Sawara says if that is true, she should look more happy about it and that she can have the scripts to look over. Sawara then leaves as Kyouko thanks him. Kyouko then looks sad for she wanted to play a role different from her character in Dark Moon and is it too much to ask.

Well, it seems that Kyouko got typecast for her new job offers and it isn’t surprising for most actor/actresses who did great work or is famous for a certain role has a problem getting cast into other roles that the audience remembered them for. Weird, why can’t I help thinking that Kyouko might get casted in the movie Ren is in especially since the cast members and crew won’t know it is Ren doing that role. It is a bit odd for people not to recognize Ren since there are few actors who would have Ren’s height so he would have to change his appearance – would dyeing his hair part of the role? I’m also excited to see how he does it. I do wonder if Ren would be ‘acting’ the role or just playing his past self since it seems that he is a ‘bad boy’ before smoking and playing with guns. Since he lived abroad like US, I’m guessing he played with a real gun rather than a toy one especially his reaction when Yashiro mentioned it. Also, Kyouko is obviously falling for Ren even if she tries to deny it by saying it is Ren’s power. Hehehe It does made me think that she doesn’t feel that way with Shou before for she is attributing it to Ren’s power rather than how she feels. There is also a poll for this chapter and Kyouko has succeed in her revenge that she beat Shou =P Kyouko has 2699 votes, Ren has 2614 while Shou has a distant 699 votes.

Thought of the day:
There are no shortcuts to any place worth going. ~ Beverly Sills

V. B. Rose [Chapter 47]
Wednesday, January 31, 2007 @ 02:17 p.m.

At VBR, Yukari looks at his watch as he asks why haven’t they returned yet. Mitsuya says he is right and gleefully says they could be happily gossiping. Yukari shouts that is impossible. Mitsuya asks if he is worried. Yukari says that he is for Ageha and Natsuna are opposites of each other. Mitsuya sighs and asks Yukari if he still remembers what he said before. Yukari then says something about being with Ageha, not to go into that pattern. Mitsuya says that Yukari is nice with dealing with people but then, he just thinks too much/considers too many things that at times, it would be better to just let it be. Yukari pauses and says that being too mindful of other’s problem is not good but when one succeed, it feels good. Mitsuya says that he is right. Yukari says that maybe he just too mindful of Natsuna. Mitsuya says it is okay to be like that at times since it is normal but Natsuna’s wound/hurt isn’t the same as what Yukari is thinking. Yukari just looks at him as Mitsuya pats his head and tells him not to think too much of the past and that they have a bridge [Tsuyu] between the two [Ageha and Natsuna]. Yukari says that is true then says that he and Tsuyu meeting Natsuna must be fate.

Flashback: Five years ago, Natsuna saw a glasses girl [Tsuyu] freaking out as her beads fell down on the ground. This is Natsuna’s first year of high school in spring. Tsuyu freaked out as she apologizes. Natsuna thought that it seems even in high school there are dumb clumsy people. Some students are saying how bothersome as Tsuyu shouts that sorry for the trouble but she is going to pick them up so please don’t step on the beads. The students didn’t bother with her as they just stepped on them as Tsuyu is helpless about it. This made Natsuna angry that she shouted at the people around to stop walking. Natsuna thought that she can’t let this girl be and no one is helping that it infuriates her. Natsuna shouted at others to look where they are walking and not to go there so those who understand her better back off. Natsuna then shouted at Tsuyu that she should also look where she is going if she doesn’t want people to step on her beads. Tsuyu timidly said yes. Natsuna then thought this is bad for she actually shouted out what she feels inside. Tsuyu then smiled at her as she thanks Natsuna and said that Natsuna is a good person. Natsuna blushed as she volunteers to help Tsuyu. Tsuyu thanks her when someone called out to Tsuyu. It is Yukari. [Note Yukari calls Tsuyu ‘crafts expert’] Yukari noted that Tsuyu did it again and does Tsuyu have a broom and dustpan. Tsuyu thanked him for the help. Natsuna is surprised that a guy came. Yukari bends down and asks if Natusna is a freshman. Yukari thought for a while and then says that Natsuna is fun and she looks smart. Yukari asks what is her name.

Natsuna then thought could it be that what her aunt says is coming to reality for entering into that world seems to make her feel alive. Yukari and Tsuyu are walking with Natsuna as Yukari is patting Natsuna’s head. [Natsuna is shorter] In another scene, Yukari exclaimed that Natsuna is great to have made such beautiful corsages as he is holding some of the flowers. Yukari then called Tsuyu to show them to her. Tsuyu commented that they are cute. Natsuna blushed as she thought that even if Yukari is a guy, he can appreciate such things since his family is at a wedding store. Natsuna thought that she is really happy as she thanks them. They looked shock as Yukari huddled with Tsuyu saying did you hear that, it has been a half a year before that happened as Tsuyu said yes for it is like trying to befriend a cat and then finally getting it to like them – it is so cute. Yukari agreed with her. Natsuna gets angry for making fun of her that she asks them to return the flowers. Yukari smiles and says that maybe one day if they can work together, that would be really fun. Natsuna blushes as she thought is this how falling in love feels like.

Natsuna thought that being close with Yukari, it is okay even if she doesn’t talk that later on they become lovers. Being with Yukari is really fun/happy that she can’t quite say what that feeling is like. She also likes the Yukari’s world of people from VBR for it is such a nice surrounding that makes her feel really lucky but there is a darkness in Yukari’s heart just like hers. When Yukari says, “maybe one day if we can work together, it would be fun”, why didn’t he say, “let’s work together”. It seems as if he isn’t honest and fears of being betrayed that he hides the true meaning of those words. It is like what Ririko said that Yukari is afraid of appointments/commitments after being traumatized about something regarding his mother. Then, their relationship has become like a waiting game but then, wouldn’t this result to more loneliness – not wanting to say the real things from the heart as if the heart fears to move on. While alone, Natsuna then asked Yukari why are they together. Natsuna thought that usual for her to keep silent but this time, she can’t keep in inside anymore. But Yukari who looked a bit depress didn’t answer her. Natsuna is flustered as she thought that they can’t continue this anymore for later on, they might be more hurt.

Then on that snowy day, Natsuna told Yukari that being with him, she is really happy but being with him, is also tiresome so let’s break up. Yukari looked stunned. After a pause, Yukari asked if he can know the reason. Natsuna said that a person like her doesn’t have the qualifications to return Yukari’s kindness. Yukari asked if he is too burdensome. Natsuna replied that she said that wrong/he misunderstood her as she thought no, no that’s not it, I don’t know for I don’t know what is ‘love’. Tears fell down as Natsuna said that she wants them to still be partners, and she said, sorry. Yukari pulls Natsuna to him as Natsuna thought that this is the first time she cried fo a person and Yukari just stood there and said, I understand. Before long, Yukari’s father passed away. At the funeral service, Yukari asked what thing doesn’t change, it isn’t here. Yukari then broke into tears as Natsuna looked at him. Natsuna thought that she did something bad for she doesn’t believe that Yukari’s feelings has changed and she said, let’s break up so there is one thing she can do. She then held Yukari’s head and said that there is something that doesn’t change and that is a corsage/artifical flower that remains as it is and Yukari can mend its ripped seam so let’s work together. Yukari then smiled and says that Natsuna is right. End of flashback.

At Natsuna’s room, Natsuna is looking away as Ageha looks tense as Tsuyu is smiling. Ageha then asks Tsuyu what is wrong with Natsuna for she is just sitting there and not moving – is it some sort of game. Tsuyu smiles and says that she isn’t for that is Natsuna’s way and she is finding the answer in her heart. Natsuna then turns around to Ageha and says, that is how it is. Ageha is surprised as she thought, huh, finished talking, is that all. Then, they talked about the gown that they will be doing for the exhibit as they are depending on each other for it. Ageha says that she will do her best for it. Natsuna looks at Ageha and smiles as she thought that after three years, [flashback] she went to VBR and Mitsuya asking Natsuna are you going home already. Natsuna says, she just went to see and then meets Ageha, are you Ageha? [end of flashback] she has finally found a flower that always blooms.

So, it turned out that when Natsuna went to VBR, she went to see Ageha and not Yukari as Ageha thought. Natsuna is forced to break up with Yukari because she realized that she isn’t the one who can open/heal his heart. I guess it is because Natsuna also has some family problems that she cannot help someone who is having the same kind of problem unlike Ageha who comes from a happy loving family. I’m also thinking that Ageha is quite brave to even confront and want to be friends with her boyfriend’s ex. I guess that goes to show what kind of person Ageha is – she wants to befriend everybody. Her cheerfulness is quite infectious that obviously Ageha had made Natsuna like her already.

Quote of the day:
We plant seeds that will flower as results in our lives, so best to remove the weeds of anger, avarice, envy and doubt... ~ Dorothy Day

Vampire Knight [Chapter 24]
Tuesday, January 30, 2007 @ 01:07 p.m.

At the classroom, Zero is thinking though he looks like he is napping as he remembers that four years ago, Yuuki will be patting his head while he sleeps. Then, he woke up to see a commotion and sees a girl has fallen from her seat with a bite mark on her neck. Zero then went to the girl as he tells the others that he will bring the girl to the clinic. Some place else, I think that is Ichijou who wakes Kaname up as he informs him that something happened for a ordinary/non-vampire girl seems to have been bitten by a vampire but then, the other students just think that it is just a case of anemia. At the president’s office, there is a small meeting of Kaname, perfects [Zero and Yuuki] and the president. Kaname apologizes for the incident since he is responsible for the vampires. The president says that they are not sure if the culprit is a student and not to mind too much for there isn’t such a big mess after it and that is why there are perfects. The president says that the victim’s memory has been erased by the vampire that she can’t remember seeing the culprit/vampire. Kaname says that the culprit could be in the night class for the only vampires have power to erase memories and that night class has responsibilities even if the president doesn’t want to incriminate his own students, yet the president shouldn’t do that.

Zero pats Yuuki’s head and tells Kaname not to mind too much for Kaname can’t control to the extent of that place/day class? as Yuuki tells Zero to be more responsible for he is a perfect. Kaname then says Zero could also be a culprit. This surprised both Zero and Yuuki. Kaname continues that since Zero has vampire hunter blood and a vampire, he can have a special power/ability which can be really shocking. Zero says he doesn’t know of such a power. The president tries to stop Kaname but Kaname ignores him as he asks Zero really, for he might not be conscious and still randomly attacks and drink blood of people. Yuuki quickly goes to defend Zero telling Kaname that Zero isn’t the type of person to random attack girls. The atmosphere/aura grew dark as Zero thought why is Yuuki saying it that way [as if he is a rapist] but Yuuki told him to be quiet. Yuuki then tells him that they will find the culprit to clear Zero’s name. She then grabs Zero’s hand and goes out the room. She then says back to Kaname that until Zero’s name is clear, she won’t be talking to Kaname. She blushes and looks about to cry and then left. The president exclaims that this is the first time that Yuuki did that to Kaname – rejecting him and isn’t it too cruel ‘not to talk to him’. The president looks at Kaname as he is going to tease him but Kaname is already looking really dark that the president so he shut up and says that there could be a traitor within them. He adds that this is troublesome and that he will try to solve it immediately. Kaname still keeps quiet as if thinking. Meanwhile, a male student asks Aidou why is it so quiet there when classes are suspended. Aidou says it is because that the night dorm head went out. The student asks if it is because of what happened. Aidou says it could be and he doesn’t know who is responsible but doing such a thing is really stupid. The student just looks at him.

Yuuki is still pulling Zero along as they are walking. Zero sighs and says that if Yuuki is going to react that way, she shouldn’t have told those things to Kaname. Yuuki says that she can’t help it for Zero isn’t the culprit and that she believes in him. Zero sighs and says that it seems that Yuuki is regretting she did that as Yuuki is already crying. She looks at Zero and asks will Kaname hate her for what she did. Zero asks should she go back and apologize but Yuuki is being stubborn and says that she won’t for it is Kaname’s fault. Yuuki then decided to find the vampire then make Kaname apologize to Zero and she will use some blood as bait. Zero looks dark and says that he disagree with that plan and he doesn’t want Kaname to apologize to him either. Zero suggests that they go to the victim at the clinic and to Yuuki’s surpise, the night class group of Kaname is there visiting the victim and has given her flowers. Zero tells her that night class is suspended. Ichijou then apologizes to the girl victim for asking too much but the girl says it is okay and sorry for not be of help. The girl then bids them goodbye as she thanks them for the flowers. She then thanks Zero for bringing her to the clinic and that she is just anemic so there is no problem. She then apologizes for her attitude towards him before and it seems that he is a nice guy. After she left, Yuuki is happy that Zero is called a nice guy. Ichijou says that if only Zero can change the way he stares, it would be alright. Rima asks, nice guy, pointing at Zero. Shika says who knows. Zero then asks what are they doing there as Yuuki repeats the question. Ichijou then says that they were requested by Kaname about this and they are a detective group. He then wonders what would be a good name for them as he asks Kain who says he doesn’t know either. Ichijou says who cares and tells them that it is Kaname who requested it. Zero asks if everyone is there as Ichijou says that he has called on to Aidou but he didn’t come. Kain then says that Aidou has been acting weird lately. Shiki asks could it be that Aidou is the culprit. Kain then thought that he feels Aidou isn’t the culprit but more like can’t be dependent on. Yuuki and Ichijou then noticed that Zero has left.

Later that night, the president calls out to Zero who is guarding around. The president comments that he must be working hard to find the culprit but he has something to tell him. The president tells him that he has a meeting with the upper house to say that the culprit who killed Shizuka is someone outside the school. Zero then says that the president already knew who the real culprit that night and that this is all because of the school so because of this, he doesn’t like him [president]. The president says not to be mistaken for he is just protecting his cute students and even if for this case, the culprit is one of the students, he will still look at that person’s good points for he wants to keep things peaceful. Zero says something about being the one to break it first – for his hate for Shizuka. Meanwhile, short hair girl vampire then tells Kaname that Yuuki is with the Ichijou and others so they can start their detective game. Kaname smiles. Meanwhile, Zero is still looking at the window and thinking about what said and then to his surprise, Shizuka is in front of him asking him if he wanted her dead and that wish can only lead to one thing. Zero then notices that his hands are bloody. Shizuka changed into Yuuki who says that being a vampire the urge is strong that he can’t stop it. Yuuki’s neck is bleeding as she cries and calls his name before fainting. Zero wakes up calling Yuuki’s name to find himself at the clinic. He is still shaken by the dream that he noticed he is shaking. Yuuki then comes into the clinic saying that she has been looking for him and why would he be secretly going to that place. Then, she noticed that Zero looks pale that she asks what is the matter.

Outside, Kaname has caught the culprit – the male student who is talking with Aidou earlier as Kaname tells him that he is quite daring to go to the day class female dorm. The student says that he has done a foolish thing. Kaname says that he won’t hate such a guy like him. Kaname says who says that it is such a waste to go on chasing a person who could be a danger to night class. The student replies that he shouldn’t be just chasing like that for while chasing, the girl whom he treasure might be killed. Then, Kaname says, do not worry about that, because of this stupid happening at school and giving him trouble, so for him [culprit] not to think of such foolish things again. The culprit looks worried as Kaname looks a bit dark. Back at the clinic, Zero then just grabbed Yuuki and hugged her tightly, surprising Yuuki. Zero says that she is still alive for he thought that she was killed. Yuuki asks if Zero isn’t feeling good. Then, Zero looks stunned as he remembers Yuuki fainting in his dream. Yuuki then holds his face shouting his name and asks if he is alright. It snapped Zero out of it and says, yes. Yuuki smiles and says that’s good. Zero then holds Yuuki’s face about to kiss her as he thought he wanted to have this kind hands and smiling face though he knows he doesn’t deserve it but..Zero then stops and bows down apologizing as he says that he is alright. Yuuki just blushes.

And it is becoming a love triangle. It turned out that Zero has been suppressing his feelings for Yuuki perhaps since he knows that she will have no future with him. I do wonder what Kaname plans to do with the culprit – brainwash him? Kaname has a future in detective work. Hehehe While browsing this chapter before, I thought what are the perfects doing for Kaname was the one who nabbed the culprit. I guess Kaname wanted to keep the peace in the school and just said those things to Zero to irritate him and well, maybe Kaname is just jealous of Zero. =P Since obviously, he already has been doing something to find the culprit while they are having a meeting. Anyway, I’m thinking the story is now shifting to protecting Yuuki against others.

Thought of the day:
To fear is one thing. To let fear grab you by the tail and swing you around is another. ~ Katherine Paterson, Jacob Have I Loved

Weekly Jump Update: Bleach, Naruto, D. Gray-man, One Piece and Gintama
Monday, January 29, 2007 @ 07:45 p.m.

In Bleach [c. 259-260], Ishida finished off Cirucci but left her alive yet powerless. After Ishida and ant-hollow left, some death squad came to Cirucci and well, I guess she share the same fate as Dorduni – used as sample experiment to fight against the others later on. Then, it is Sado’s turn as he is being beaten up by afro hair-arrancar. Then, the usual arrancar taunt and then hero powers up. Sado then explains that at first he was a bit confused since it turned out that his powers are hollow-based rather than shinigami or quincey. Afro got beaten up then powers up but then Sado also powers up as his left hand now has powers, too. Quite predictable for shounen, I guess. I guess afro might become a sample, too at the end if the author follows the pattern. I’m a bit surprised but not that surprised to learn that Sado’s powers are of a hollow’s since obviously, Inoue’s is different, too from the usual ones. The next chapter will probably finish off this fight.

While in Naruto [c. 338-339], Naruto’s group split into two as Sai and Sakura went to help Shikamaru but then, Shikamaru doesn’t need any help for he has already planned everything to finish off Hidan as retaliation for killing off his sensei. If he can’t kill off Hidan, the most he can do to an immortal is to bury him alive – trapped forever – like living hell. Hidan can’t do anything but just curse Shikamaru. Meanwhile, Naruto learns about Kakuzu’s powers and weakness as he prepares to show off what he had learned. Shikamaru is pretty brilliant to have thought of that and here I was worrying if he will make it against an akatsuki alone. Somehow I’m thinking that the akatsuki could easily find replacements for these two if they are really out of the picture. Shikamaru really has a future as he is showed his talent in strategies many times already and is quite consistent that I’m thinking if ever Naruto becomes hokage, he should get Shikamaru as his strategist. Too bad Ino and forgot his name [chouji?] didn’t contribute much to the fight.

Crowley insists that Jasdebit to quit calling him vampire in D. Gray-man [c. 104-105]. Rabi and Allen asked if he is alright as Crowley insist that he is okay as Jasdebit calls him now a monster. Allen got a bit worried since Crowley is bleeding badly. Crowley then asks how many flasks of blood from that hollow who helped them before, they have left. Rabi tells him three. As Rabi looks at the door so that they can escape, Jasdebit attacks them. The three guys went on attacking Jasdebit but he/she is more powerful than them. [That and well, the three guys haven’t showed their full potential] Jasdebit seems to be really picking on Crowley comparing the damage they do to Crowley than on the others. Crowley then managed to hold back Jasdebit as he told the others to escape. They all hesitate as the room started to crumble. Allen tries to insist about Crowley but Crowley told him he can’t fight much longer so they should just escape for they can protect Rinali and that other guy. Then, they got separated as Allen remembered Kanda telling them to go ahead as Crowley now did, he then becomes determined. After the smoke vanishes, Jasdebit is angry that they had escaped and decided to go after the others after killing off Crowley. To his/her surprise, someone hit his/her behind with an empty flask. It was Crowley says he won’t let him/her go after the others. Through the door, Rinali is protesting about leaving Crowley behind as Allen and others has to calm her down as he reassures that Crowley and even Kanda would be fine and he will protect everyone. Allen then says Rinali isn’t the usual strong Rinali before and she is suppose to be older than him. Rabi and the other guy pushes Allen over and tells Rinali not to forget them. Rabi also reassures her that Crowley still has three flasks of blood so they should just believe in Crowley.

Back to the fight, Jasdebit realizes that Crowley has been drinking akuma blood and calls him a monster/not human. Crowley then asks back could it that Jasdebit was also called one. Jasdebit got angry as Crowley asked if he said right. Jasdebit denies it and attacks Crowley by pinning him between two stars while calling Crowley a monster. He/she then made the stars to sandwich Crowley then begins to wonder if to kill a vampire, he/she should drive a stake in the heart. As Jasdebit turns around, Crowley says not a stake but drinking the blood of the woman he loved. He then says that the only one who can call him vampire no longer exist in this world so Jasdebit call him vampire makes him angry. Crowley then frees himself from the star, surprising Jasdebit. Crowley attacks and managed to hit Jasdebit who whines in pain. Jasdebit then notices that Crowley’s hands become hard/crystallized like rubies and it could be because of the innocence. Jasdebit tries to think why he becomes strong when he looks as if he is about to die earlier on, he/she then saw a flask from the star Crowley freed himself and realized that Crowley drank akuma blood again. Crowley hopes he can finish off Jasdebit since he is now down to one flask. I guess it is the usual ‘life-death’ situation for an exorcist and it is Crowley’s turn. Somehow of all the characters, I’m thinking that Crowley is the one whom the author would most likely kill off since there is nothing much to develop his character more and seems like he is just tagging along. It is amusing that this time around, it is Allen who is trying to calm down Rinali when it is the other way around before. I guess Rinali will be damsel-in-distress for some chapters more.

In One Piece [c. 441-442], Ace and Blackbeard continues to fight as Blackbeard’s power is like ‘gravity’/blackhole which sucks everything in and makes them into nothing. Blackbeard tries to recruit Ace but Ace sticks to his loyalty to Whitebeard and kept on fighting. Just like Shanks and Whitebeard, the last scene is just a large smoke but only Ace’s hat remaining. I don’t hink the author killed Ace off though since he isn’t known to kill of characters but then, what happened will trigger something later on. Maybe Whitebeard or even Luffy will get back at Blackbeard. Back to the Strawhats adventure, Luffy and Usopp caught a shark and toss it into their aquarium. As they went down to brag about it, they were angry that the shark ate all the other fishes as revenge, Luffy wanted it cooked. Nami has enjoyed having a bath and Chopper happy to have his own room – clinic. Just then, Zoro at the watch something at the top [don’t know what’s it called] spotted something. They all now gathered to a small barrel that they found and wondered if there is a treasure in it or even wine since there is a note – sacrifice for the sea god. As Luffy opened it, there is something that flew up in the sky like a flare – a red light. They wondered what it is. Zoro teases that it could be a curse from the sea god as Robin says that she is more worried if it is a call to say that they were there. Just then, Nami noticed a storm coming as they quickly get ready to get away from there when Zoro noticed that the sky is all cloudy all of a sudden when it is still morning. Usopp asks if they are near seaman island when Luffy says they could be near ghost sea. This frightens Usopp as he haven’t heard of it. They all told him that Cororo told them about it and it is a place where few ships can escape – the ghost triangle. Usopp is freaking out about haven’t been told for he could have made some anti-ghost equipment as Chopper clings to him, also scared. Then, they heard some singing as Usopp turns to look back, he saw a huge ghost ship as everyone minus Robin freaks out.

Usopp tells them not to listen to the song else they be cursed as Chopper also covers his ears. They all looked at the ship if there is someone there and there is a skeleton with huge hair and top hat, holding a cup of tea singing. Later on, Luffy, Sanji and Nami are climbing up the ghost ship as Nami rants about having to come along. Luffy told them that he going alone is okay. Nami says if she lets him, he might do something to get them all cursed. Sanji says that Nami should stay for he is going with Luffy to prevent that. Luffy then says that Nami is coming along just for the treasure as Nami denies it for there won’t be a treasure in such a ship. Luffy says that there could be one and the skeleton could be the guardian. To their surprise, the skeleton is looking down to them that they freak out. As they climb aboard, the skeleton then greets them apologizing for being rude since he didn’t get to see them properly and it has been 10 years since he had seen a live person for everyone is afraid of going on a ghost ship. Luffy exclaims that it talks. The skeleton is named Brook. He then notices Nami and praises her beauty. He then asks if he can look at her panties that made Nami hit him on the skull. His antics Luffy laugh as Luffy asks if he defecate/poop. Sanji screams at Luffy for there are many other questions beside that. Brook answers that he does. Sanji screams at Brook as to why he has to answer that. Sanji then asks why can Brook talk when he is just a skeleton, what kind of person is he, why is he there, why is this ship here, and what is with this sea. Luffy tells Brook not to care about those questions and asks Brook if he wants to be in his nakama. Brook quickly accepts and freaks out both Nami and Sanji. Hehe, Luffy is really unpredictable as the author. I’m thinking that if Brook really become a nakama, this will be the first time he asked someone to join and that person quickly accepts. Wow, a ghost/skeleton nakama, totally unexpected. Would he be their musician? Can’t wait to see the others reaction to it. =P

It is now time for the last game battle for Owee console in Gintama [c. 149]. Ana reports that the first one, Mario-Katsura won in the galge against Kondou, the second one, Yamazaki won in the tetris against Shinpahi. The third game will be the two person game of the two groups. The two groups then taunt each other as Ana announces that the last game will be Dragon Hunter 3 [RPG]. They are going to defeat the demon king so they must level up and find comrades to defeat the demon. With this game, they will demo a new gadget with virtual reality glasses to feel as if they are in the game. They put on the glasses and to their surprise, it is as if they are in the game. Katsura tells Gin to look as Gin complains that they typed his name wrong instead of ‘Silver Soul’ it is ‘Gold Time’ – because it rhymes. They are in level 1. While Hijitaka’s name and surname are just too long for the two character name so they just called him ‘old 2’. Ana announces that they have to level up quickly before going to fight the devil king at the cave and time is short and the game begins. Katsura wanted to go already but Gin stops her saying that they have to prepare first.

Katsura and Okita’s hp [health points/life] are 16. Gin’s hp is 17 while Hijitaka’s is only 3. Okita asks outloud what kind of weapon they should get. Hijitaka then wonders why is his hp only that much and why is there blood being drawn below. I don’t quite get the explanation for this one but the computer randomly subtracts the hp of those who join so the shinsengumi group is at a disadvantage. Gin laughs at him and as he is about to leave Hijitaka, he is surprised to see that he is bleeding from the mouth and learns that he is poisoned when a bug bit him. He quickly asks Kagura to find a antidote for the poison. Hijitaka taunts him back and then hits his knee on a wooden poster on the floor. To Hijitaka’s shock, it just made him rip as he is displayed in a coffin. Hijitaka Hp 0. Ana comments that it seems hitting the poster used up all his remaining hp as the audience comments that he is really weak. Okita tells him that he has no plans in carrying a heavy coffin around. Hijitaka tells him to take him to training hall? but Okita says that he doesn’t have the money for it so he will just have to gamble to get enough and he left Hijitaka there. Kagura then talks with an old man who says about a special plant that she needs to cure all ailments including poison. Gin screams that she doesn’t need that only an ordinary antidote. The old man then says that he will give her some of this herb to cure poison. Gin screams that is what he needs but Kagura ate it saying she will find the plant that the old man needs. Gin screams about Kagura not listening to him. Kagura then left Gin to search for that plant.

Ana then announces that Gin and Hijitaka are in big trouble as they are just left behind by their companions. Gin then suggests to Hijitaka that they cooperate. Hijitaka at first refuses since Gin is the enemy but since Gin says either he helps him and leave there or just stay there with no one to help him. Hijitaka thinks for a while and asks what can a corpse like him do. Gin says that they can go to the priest at the training hall to help them though it is 15 steps away but every 3 steps he takes, 3-4 of his hp disappears. Hijitaka asks what is his plan. Ana then says that Gin used Hijitaka/coffin as a skateboard as Gin uses a rope to catch something. It turned out to be the old man whom Gin randomly catches so that they can be lead to the traning hall. The old man then started to randomly walk at different directions. Gin screams for the old man to follow directions. Ana says but of course, the old man only listens to the one whom he gave the antidote herb. Oh no, the old man has pulled them outside of the town. Hijitaka shouts at Gin as to what the heck is he doing for this isn’t as he agreed for they would get Gin cured and he will be back to life. Gin shouts what is he complaining, he is still poisoned. Ana says that they are now in big trouble for there are many monsters outside of the town. Gin screams for the old man to come back then surprised as the old man seems to have gotten angry. The old man still pulling them has brought them to the forest as the two just kept on shouting for the old man to stop randomly walking all over the place. Then, two monsters – caveman demons appear.

Gin chose escape/retreat in the menu as they scream for the old man to escape but the old man just sits there, looking at them, smiling. [As if he deliberately brought them there] The note says, it doesn’t seem to be an ordinary old man. They scream that the old man is secretly smiling at them as the demons approaches them. Hijitaka tells Gin to think of something for they will be in trouble if Gin dies, too. Gin says he can’t do anything for he doesn’t have any weapons or items. Up in the sky, he then saw Kagura holding up demon king whom she defeated. Kagura screams that Owee is hers so they should prepare to die. At the real world, the foursome are busy kicking and fighting. Okita shouts that it isn’t fair for using demon king as a club and it shouldn’t be use as a weapon. Someone shouts that the thing he is using isn’t a weapon either. [I’m guessing he is using Hijitaka coffin] Gin also fights saying that they won’t lose to them. Kagura screams who took the guide/old man?. Gin then says that he has to go to the comfort room to urinate and asks Kagura to cover for him. As he removes the virtual glasses and tells Kagura again that he is going to the comfort room, he notices a beat up Shinpachi on his hands. He looks around to see everyone being beaten up as Okita flying kicks Yamazaki, Kagura is beating someone to a pulp, and Hijitaka is beating up Kondou whom Hijitaka noted that the person he has looks like a gorilla, asking if he is the guide. Gin has this ‘eh’ look and just puts back the glasses on as he played dumb – as if he didn’t see anything. Later on in the news, there is a report that the Owee console has stopped distribution for it seems there is a need to limit the usage.

Talk about a game being hazardous to bystanders =P They had the glasses on that they didn’t notice they are already punching real people who maybe trying to stop them but then, the foursome are known for their fighting skills. I guess no one of them gets to have the console after all the trouble they had to get it. The game I can think of that seems like the RPG they are playing is Dragon Quest, if I recall correct, it is like DBZ art since the artist is the same but I haven’t had a chance to play that game so I can’t be sure. Hijitaka has the worst luck here next to Gin. So, that ends this arc.

Thought of the day:
You can’t clap with one hand ~ Chinese proverb

V. B. Rose [Chapter 46]
Saturday, January 27, 2007 @ 11:30 p.m.

Ageha and Tsuyu is now standing in front of a gate of a house as Tsuyu says that this is where Natsuna lives. Ageha gloomily thought that she is now here but the thought of seeing Natsuna makes her tense that her heart is beating so fast though wanting to see her is what she wanted. Ageha also noted that Natsuna's house is really just nearby. Tsuyu happily says to herself Natsuna, we came to play, are you happy as she presses the buzzer in the intercom. Ageha is surprised that Tsuyu is all happy for Natsuna's attitude towards her is a bit gloomy though she would want to be with good terms with Natsuna. Ageha then notices that the surname in front is different from Natsuna's that she asked Tsuyu about it. Tsuyu tells Ageha that the house belongs to Natsuna's auntie who is really young [in age] compared to Natsuna's mother and she is a dressmaker. Since Natsuna is living there, she help out her aunt by being the assitant. There is a note saying that real Natsuna's house is roughly 20 minutes away and she doesn't like going outdoors so she lives there. Ageha then thought that means that Natsuna's parents lives elsewhere as she thought that the name plate is cute. Natsuna then answers, asking who is it. Tsuyu happily greets her saying is it Natsuna, this is Tsuyu-chan. Ageha freaks out for they are being 'friendly' [Actually, she thought about them using honorifics and is freaking out that they are close and she might be left out] As Tsuyu happily waits for Natsuna to come out, Ageha is hiding behind the wall.

Natsuna comes out and opens the gate. Tsuyu apologizes for coming abruptly [without calling first] as Natsuna says it is okay. Tsuyu then gives her the small bouquet of roses. Natsuna smells them and thank Tsuyu for them. Then she hears a noise from the gate to see that Ageha is peeking at her, only Ageha's head is shown. Ageha nervously greets Natsuna. To Ageha's surprise, Natsuna quickly backs to the door and hides behind it while still peeking. Ageha thought Natsuna is escaping but the Natsuna is still peeking from the door and then asks them to come in. Ageha is all confused for Natsuna is inviting her in as Tsuyu tells her that Natsuna's room is really nice. Ageha blushes and happily looks around at the handmade flowers that Natsuna is making that are all around the room. Natsuna serves them tea as they sit down the small table. Ageha kept on looking around at the beautiful flowers that they are cute and the feeling is quite good. Tsuyu then praises Natsuna for the flower [for the Yukari designed gown before] she made that it is really great, Natsuna did good work. Natsuna thanks her as she blushes. Tsuyu asks her to give her one, too. Ageha then realizes that Tsuyu and Natsuna are good friends for they seem to have a good relationship that even Natsuna's emotion changes. Ageha managed to calm down as she is about to drink some hot tea and thinking that it is fun if it is like that. Just then, Tsuyu happily announce that something very good has happened today and that is Ageha and Yukari are now lovers/on a relationship. Ageha then spits out her tea in shock.

Natsuna looks at her while Ageha looks scared as she tries to wipe off the tea from her mouth. To Ageha's surprise, Natsuna then stands up and goes near to Ageha as Ageha is scared that she quickly backs away to the wall. [Ageha is thinking that Natsuna will be angry/jealous of her] Cornering Ageha to the wall, Natsuna holds the wall and kneels down to her as Ageha prepares to be hit but to her surprise, Natsuna pats Ageha's shoulder and says, Good job. Ageha is all confused what that is about. Natsuna sighs in relief as she says that now she can put down the burden on her shoulders. Tsuyu says Natsuna is exaggerating. Natsuna says that she isn't and it seems that Mitsuya has already made red bean rice. Ageha then asks didn't Natsuna hate her. Natsuna asks why would she. Ageha tries to say about Natsuna's attitude towards her. Natsuna seems to realize something and says, that she dislikes Ageha. It hits Ageha as she thought, so! [That is like saying Ageha's thought of Natsuna being jealous, etc is true] Natsuna then holds out her mobile phone to say that Tsuyu always sends her sms/text and it is always 'Ageha is this', 'Ageha is that' everything is about 'Ageha', 'Ageha', 'Ageha' as Natsuna looks at her mobile phone, everything is just about Ageha. The atmosphere becomes dark. Ageha freaks out that it seems Natsuna is jealous. Natsuna then turns around and tells Ageha that the first person she is irritated with is Mitsuya for stealing Tsuyu's heart.

Tsuyu then apologizes for doing that and next time, she will try to control herself from wanting to send sms to her. Natsuna and Tsuyu then had a conversation with their ‘mind/heart’ since they are not talking out loud. Natsuna: so you won’t send sms to me anymore. Tsuyu: huh, what now. Natsuna: are you implying that I. Tsuyu: Even if I always give you trouble. Natsuna: will be just like this. Tsuyu: I am friends with this cute girl [Ageha?]. [She is becoming gloomy and sprouts bunny ears while Tsuyu is becoming happier with flowers and sparkles] The two then hold each other hands as Tsuyu exclaims about Natsuna giving her work and Natsuna says she will. Ageha just looks on, not understanding what just happened but it seems that their [Natsuna and Tsuyu] relationship are really good. Natsuna then looks at Ageha and tells her to relax for the current her isn’t someone whom Ageha should be worried about. Ageha then stutters but manages to ask Natsuna why did she break up with Yukari. An awkward pose and then Natsuna goes to show Tsuyu some of the flowers she made as to which one is nicer. Ageha reacts by shouting why is Natsuna ignoring her. Natsuna turns around and asks what is it. Ageha asks about her question. Natsuna tells her that she already answered her. Ageha asks when. Natsuna says from her heart. Ageha thought this is an interesting person as she shouts that Natsuna should say it so that she can hear it.

Natsuna then looks gloomy as she looks away and sighs. Ageha freaks out and that Natsuna must be thinking she is irritating. [That or it is Natsuna thinking that ^^;] Ageha then begs Natsuna as she says not to leave her in the air about it. Natsuna then asks her does she belong to a family which answers every question. Ageha is puzzled but answers yes. Natsuna looks away and says that so she won’t answer her, surprising Ageha. Natsuna then thinks as she remembers her past. While crossing the street, young Natsuna calls out to her mom asking what that thing is. Her mother will reply, I’m busy, I will tell you later on. This is what her busy parents always say. And since childhood, she has learned to accept that that is the way it is when appointments weren’t met. Everyday if she didn’t get a response, she will think of it as it is the way it is but the question does stay at her heart. [Like even if she tries to think that is how it is, her heart says it isn’t so] Waiting for people but didn’t appear and other things [disappointments] she will think that is the way it is. If that is so, relationships with people can’t be okay. Then, there is a scene of a boy confessing to her but she tells the boy, sorry, you don’t understand me. She thought that the boy doesn’t even know her so how could he even say ‘I love you’ that it irritates her.

But being that way, it seems that it hurts people. In the classroom, some boys are talking about Natsuna being cute but she tends to dump guys left and right. The girls then replied that it is because they just look at the appearance for Natsuna is being secretive that she doesn’t talk much. They then say that Natsuna is too quiet that is quiet that she is like a furniture. They all laugh as Natsuna just came in. They quickly fell silent and timid as Natsuna looks at them and calmly puts on the table a notebook. Natsuna says that she has finished the diary homework. As she left, she hears them saying that Natsuna is being scary. Natsuna thought that she tries not to think about the hurtful things that these people say about her and she would be happier if she doesn’t take the things they say to heart but somehow it stays in her heart as she kept a side of herself hidden. And that is how she decided to go to her aunt’s house. Her aunt asks her why is she carrying such a large bag, did she ran away from home. Natsuna grumpily says that she isn’t playing, she is serious for her parents doesn’t mind her so it is okay. Her aunt says that if that is how she thinks then it is okay, she is welcome to stay. Natsuna says that she would just need to finish her three years of high school and she would be fine. Her aunt says that she understands Natsuna but living that kind of life isn’t good and that within three years, she might find someone who would fill that need for the road tomorrow is very wide. Natsuna narrates that what her aunt said has come true for she did find someone. A scene of young Yukari and Tsuyu, calling out to her. Natsuna then thought but Yukari..we are the same.

It is amusing how Ageha reacts to Natsuna being different and anti-social as she is also earlier when she thought that Natsuna hates her for liking Yukari. This chapter explains why Natsuna is like that for I guess she just got tired of waiting and asking questions that won’t be answered that she became a loner as her parents are busy with work. Even as she thought that ‘that is how it is’ as her heart says it isn’t, which I guess made her want to move out of her house to be with her aunt who at least is there and communicates with her.

Word of the day:
When we are feeling all alone and no one seems to care, we must remember: Jesus said that He is always there. ~ Sper

V. B. Rose [Chapter 45]
Friday, January 26, 2007 @ 07:45 a.m.

[I’m currently using my old windows since the virus have been removed and it is working fine so I can install the programs for the other one next time. The problem now is that the my internet is ‘down’ and I’m thinking if it is because of the Taiwan earthquake destroying cables. My connection has become bad to worse. So, if I haven’t updated for some time, that would be because I can’t connect online. I woke up early just to get this posted since there is less net traffic in the morning or the net is okay now. ^^;]

Ageha looks at Yukari and wonders what’s up that Yukari is wearing blue contact lens, has long hair – pretty appearance, is he a singer? [I think she meant visual kei – gothic-like singers like V.G. of Skip Beat!] Maki comes from behind Yukari, carrying two more female costumes, welcomes them as he says that he has been waiting for them. Maki says that it suits Yukari as Ageha tries to asks what is it about. Tsuyu then says that the outfit is ‘Atelier-gothic?’ [I’m guessing the second word] brand and it is the same as the outfit she is wearing. Maki then says that the two girls will wear them. Yukari explains that Maki needs the outfits to be modeled and he has to take pictures. Ageha looks at an outfit and comments that it is cute. Maki says that yes, it is cute and gothic as Atelier is owned by two siblings who are his friends. Ageha exclaims that Maki knows many people as Maki says not really. Maki says that the siblings faxed him, asking a favor that they heard about V.B.R [I think it is about Ageha and Yukari modeling at the wedding exhibit before] and they think it would be interesting so they sent some clothes for them to model.

Maki then shows lots of clothes nearby and tells them that the outfits they have here, they can take them home or the clothes will be given to them as payment for modeling. Ageha exclaims if she really can. Maki says of course, but the pictures will be published in their homepage and books/magazines. Maki tells them that it is like playing to be models. Ageha is sold to the idea for she thinks it is fun. Tsuyu tries to protest until Maki says that it is okay as long as she removes her glasses. Tsuyu changes her mood and becomes really calm with dark aura as she agrees to it. Mitsuya then goes near Tsuyu and starts clowning around but Tsuyu doesn’t react as Ageha finds it amusing though she wants to tell Tsuyu about it. Tsuyu then starts to talk to a mannequin whom she thought is Ageha and tells her that her eyes are really bad that she can’t differentiate things. Ageha tries to tell her that she is over here not there. Yukari says to let things be for it is more interesting. Mitsuya is still clowning around near Tsuyu. Maki then says that he will be taking pictures and he will be wearing a red cap but he is actually giving the camera to Mitsuya and putting the cap on Mitsuya. Tsuyu, thinking it was Maki, thanks him for giving her that hint as Mitsuya just plays along. Ageha wanted to tell Tsuyu as Yukari just says see, isn’t it more interesting.

Then, Ririko and Manyou came in with huge bouquets of roses for the photo shoot. The first batch is red roses while the other is pink roses. Maki exclaims that the Altelier siblings are really giving their all since the roses –Julien? – are really expensive. Maki tells Ageha to go with him as he fix her up. While Ageha is being made up, Mitsuya takes pictures of Yukari and Tsuyu in gothic poses [Yukari looks like a vampire and Tsuyu is the victim ^^]. The red roses is their background. Ageha thought that Yukari looks coold and Tsuyu is great, she wants to photo shoot, too. Maki has to turn her head back to him since he isn’t finish putting on her make-up. It is then Ageha’s turn and she is ‘princess’ that Yukari’s outfit reflects it by becoming white prince. As Ageha tries to walk to him, Ageha trips since she isn’t used to walking on 10 cm [around 4 inch] heels. Yukari manages to catch her as he asks if she is the younger sister of someone [cloud peacock? Kumo-something]. Ageha asks is that so, he must have gotten used to it. Yukari says that with the roses and Maki’s help, she shouldn’t be that surprised as Ageha says he is right. Ririko is cheering at Yukari to show off his manly charms as Maki is cheering to do their best in modeling. Yukari then pokes Ageha’s head telling her not to be nervous. Yukari then reflects a little as he reach out his hand to her hand, smiling saying that he is still his boyfriend just like before and she should just play with her clothes [the Chinese here makes no sense so I’m guessing like she should act like they are lovers as they are] so, they pose together using pink roses as background. Ageha thought that it is really fun. Maki then says that they are finished. Everyone then claps as they congrats each other for hard work and it being cute.

Tsuyu puts on her glasses as she also wants to see and was shock that it wasn’t Maki taking the pictures but Mitsuya who took her picture as she put on her glasses. Tsuyu quickly backs away from him. While Yukari and Maki are talking about business – regarding the Feb wedding exhibit on how to make-up/hairstyle Ageha that night as Maki agrees for he is free, Ageha looks at the roses, thinking if being bf/lovers will work out okay. She is holding one when Yukari tells her that she can bring it home if she wants it, surprising Ageha. He says to get about a small bouquet for the roses can be used while taking a bath. [putting rose petals in the water] Ageha is surprised about that [guess because Yukari knows about that ^^;] then she smiles as Yukari is happily getting some more roses.

Ririko then starts to cry as Ageha asks what is the matter. She points to Yukari and says that he looks like his father. [He is wearing a wig so it seems that his hair is long] Yukari then hugs her, saying that it is okay to cry if she wants to. Maki says that Yukari’s hair has gotten long so he might want to trim it before February. Yukari asks why is he asking about that when Ririko is crying. Ririko cries he wants Yukari’s hair to stay that way. Yukari gets angry and says, hey wait a minute. Ageha asks if Yukari is such a nice kid. Then, Ririko says that Yukari having such a cute girlfriend, she can’t help but be happy about it. This shocks Yukari and Ageha for the others knew as Maki and Manyou looks also shock as they asks Mitsuya since when. Mitsuya smiles and says it is just recently. One of them exclaims that they didn’t notice that they had gotten close. Ageha gets embarrassed as Yukari shouts that they are being noisy. They all looks at Yukari and Ageha sheepishly as Ageha is hiding from embarrassment near Yukari. Yukari tells them to quit staring silly like that. Tsuyu then asks for some of the roses to give to Natsuna. Ageha thought that she had forgotten all about Natsuna. She then looks determined and asks Tsuyu if she can go with her to see Natsuna.

I guess the modeling job before at the wedding exhibit has gotten around in their circle of designers and they are being employed to be models. I guess Yukari agreed to it so that Maki can help him at the Feb exhibit for free in exchange. I did wonder if this modeling stint will contribute later on in the story since the author tend to use such events/happening for later on like the wedding exhibit before. I do wonder if Ageha would consider getting a model job as a side job. =P It is really amusing to see Mitsuya clowning around like a monkey as Tsuyu is oblivious to what he is doing.

Thought of the day:
Happiness is a by-product of an effort to make someone else happy. ~ Gretta Brooker Palmer

I'm back but..
Wednesday, January 24, 2007 @ 09:06 p.m.

Hiyo! I’m still alive. ^^; The technician only came today. Friday – have other service and can’t make it on time. Saturday – no service. Sunday – no work. Monday – still didn’t came. Tuesday – can’t make it since many technicians are absent. And so that leaves today when I started really bugging them about it. I’m actually not surprised since with my luck from the start of the year, I kind of expected it. He spent the whole day here trying to update the antivirus and well, my internet is going eratic or rather down. I just bought a new harddisk and had another windows installed for back-up. Finally, when the internet is okay and anti-virus installed. It is already 8pm. He was here the whole afternoon, reformatting-reinstalling and moving the files from the old one. I’m already drained from just sitting there, checking what is he is doing that I don’t think I can’ finish installing the other programs. I did managed to surf a bit and saw that there aren’t any new shoujo manga scans yet. So, regular summaries might be back around weekend or well, next week at most.

Also, last Saturday is the anniversary of this blog so I would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU!! for visiting this blog especially those who tag and voted for the polls. It just makes summarizing worthwhile aside from liking to do it. Of course, I would like to thank google for leading most of the people here. ^_^ I will try my best to write more accurate summaries as my Chinese vocabulary is improving bit by bit even if it is really slow. ^^;

I had been playing PS2 the whole week that I managed to finish Suikoden V as I tried to stop myself from wanting to open the computer since it seems the virus multiplies when I had to open it before since my mom needs something to be typed. Also, my tables finally got cleaned of all the stuff on it. ^^;

That’s it for now!

Thought of the day:
If you continually grind a bar of iron, you can make a needle of it.