About this blog:
I write about the manga that I read ,
the anime/tv shows that I watched and somtimes, the PS2 games that I played. I tend to summarize them so beware, this blog is filled with spoilers and they are not 100% perfect. Feel free to point out my mistakes. Occasionally, I would blog about myself and other misc. things. ^_^
Layout:
In the blog pic, the flower girl was taken from JumpC
Edited in Photoshop CS2 and Painter 8.
The quote is by Antonio Porchia, Voces, 1943, translated from Spanish by W.S. Merwin.
The green background is from
All Free Backgrounds.
The GB animated gif used to be
from this site while Pleinair by
Takehito Harada is from JumpC
Naruto [chapter 319], Bleach [chapter 239] and One Piece [chapter 423]
Saturday, August 19, 2006 @ 03:23 p.m.
Naruto [c. 319] is just basically more Naruto doing training and finally doing the task at hand as Kakashi observes that Sasuke is the one who is driving Naruto to quickly improve himself. In Bleach [c. 239], there is a colored spread of Ichigo, Renji, Urahara and Hitsugaya as vampires. Shinji got a small bundle which Mashiro found. Shinji knew that it was from Ichigo for it contains bandages and a note, Thank you. Shinji called him a fool. At school, Ichigo’s sensei is reprimanding Ichigo for being absent for too long. Keigo and Mizuiro tries to cheer him up and asked where he had been. Ichigo ambiguously replied he was busy. Mizuiro then offers to watch a movie and Ichigo said he will be back by then. Tatsuki then came to ask about Inoue but Ichigo denies he knows where she is. Irked by Ichigo’s denial, she told him that she had seen him in the black outfit [shinigami] and that he was fighting but Ichigo said that it doesn’t concern her. Angry, Tatsuki punched Ichigo into the window that got Mizuiro and Keigo trying to hold Tatsuki back. Tatsuki shouted that before she was there for him before so he better tell her what’s happening. Ichigo just calmly told them to take care of Tatsuki and for them not to meddle in his business as he left.
That night, Ichigo went to Urahara’s place and Urahara was actually expecting him. Urahara said that Ichigo was right when he thought that he [Urahara] knows a way to Hueco Mundo. As they go down to Urahara’s underground training basement, he told Ichigo that he already knew that Aizen might be interested with Inoue so that is why he tries to convince her not to join in the fight but then, it was too late already so he would want to make it up to Ichigo by helping him in getting Inoue back. Ichigo asked if it is okay to go against Soul Society but Urahara said it was okay for disobeying had already gotten him to where he is now. Ishida sitting on a huge rock greeted Ichigo. Ichigo was surprised as to what he was doing there. Then, Chad came saying that they are also going to Hueco Mundo. Ichigo was hesitant about it until Chad demonstrates that he has powered up. Chad then told Ichigo to depend on others, too, not just himself for they are ‘partners’. As Ishida goes down to join them, Urahara tells them to get ready. And, this is pretty much just like when they are off to save Rukia but now minus Inoue. I think Ichigo really needs some cheering up, he is really gloomy lately. I’m happy to see Ishida is back in action but then, wouldn’t this mean he lied about not getting involved with shinigamis but then, well, he can just tell his father saving Inoue is a different thing.
In One Piece [c. 423], Robin finally gets back in helping Franky to get the evacuation ship from the marines after Franky saves her from Spandam’s elephant sword attack and a little speech on how he was helpless before but now, he can really smash in Spandam’s face, which he did. Robin has realized that this buster call is now different from before for now, she is no longer alone. Luffy managed to escape from the sinking ship but now, he is in chibi form. He plans to hide as he wait for his body to return to normal or he will be dead. Lucci already found him and starts to attack Luffy who was powerless. Luffy kept on hoping that his body would return to normal as Lucci is about to give him the death blow when Lucci noticed that Luffy’s earlier attack actually affected his legs. Luffy was happy about it as his body returned to normal. Meanwhile, Nami and others are drowning as they try to figure out how to save themselves then they heard someone saying that she won’t allow them to die. Then, they saw a mermaid swimming by and Sanji was elated about it until they all realize that it was actually Kororo in mermaid form, pulling them along. They called her a dugong and from their looks, the shock made them drown. Lol. The ending was really funny though the page before the last, I pretty much guessed it would be Kororo for it would be pretty funny to have Sanji’s illusion of a mermaid destroyed. Hehehe It isn’t that surprising since Tom is a merman.
Word of the day:
In every desert of trial, God has an oasis of comfort. ~ Our Daily Bread.
Random Manga & Anime Blahs
Friday, August 18, 2006 @ 04:52 p.m.
I browsed through two online manga a couple of weeks back and I thought of mentioning them briefly here. Both are already US licensed. The first one is Kamui. I planned to read this way back because the cover looks nice but then, no English scanlations. Then I saw some Chinese scans so why not check it out and I got the names and terms from the English publisher. ^^; It turned out to be the type that I would just read once and won’t plan on reading it again. The story is about this ‘newcomer’ to this desolated type of place, Atsuma who was possessed by a spirit known as a kamui, Kojimaru and tasked to find a certain Okikurumi that was stolen from his homeland. He then found Sumire who uses ‘fake’ powers and she was fascinated with him so invited him to join NOA to find that thing he is looking for. From around volume 1-3 or 4, there was an introduction of characters to the climax of the one who stole that Okikurumi thing was actually Atsuma’s brother, Ustuho, who has gone to the ‘dark side’ because of things that happened before – caused by the head villagers craziness and well, partly Atsuma’s fault. Ustuho then showed his powers and pretty much defeated everyone and wrecked the place. Then from volumes 4-8&1/2, Atsuma and everyone pick themselves up after some angst and went to fight against Ustuho again. The scanner of the girl in BW got broke so it is 1/2 but I saw some of the scans to complete volume 9. The art is not so good at first but it gets better later on. It does have a feel of Angel Sanctuary because of the details and well, sometimes, over details. I do like how some scenes are drawn and the drafts of the group pics. The plot did pick up on around the first meeting of Ustuho that it got me reading, wanting to know what happened next.
Unfortunately, I failed to like any of the characters here because they have a tendency to be obsessive towards someone that if it isn’t a supernatural + fighting environment, I would say that it is a love polygon. Atsuma is after his brother, Ustuho who left and breaking his promise to be with him. It seems that Ustuho plans for world cleansing of sort and uses people for his purpose. I don’t know how they would defeat Ustuho for he knows lots of things and can easily outbeat anyone. ^^; Kojomaru is a bit obsess with Atsuma. Sumire is obsessed with Ustuho as well as Yanagi, this young scientist who likes to torment people. The head of NOA, Shiki is obsessed with Sumire as well as her righthand woman, Aika. Kamui’s new found friend Syui/Shui is also somewhat a bit obsessive though can pass as protective with Aika who got brainwashed and rape/almost rape but saved by Sumire. Then, there was Hyde who was also brainwashed and after that obsess with Yanagi. The extra of this all is Anzu who likes Atsuma but has ‘death/something bad will happen to you’ written all over her that she reminds me of Kotori from X. Mm..maybe I should have made a chart to make this easier to understand. But then, by volume 8-9, those obsessions has waned a bit that I think the theme of this manga is ‘Do not keep on chasing after that other person, for the one who would really cherish/love you is right by your side.’ I’m beginning to think if the ending of the manga is near though they still don’t know how to defeat Ustuho and they are still pretty much, doing things on their own.
The other manga I browsed through is Blood Alone. Judging from the title, it is another vampire series. There are only two volumes to date and both are available in English. The covers are nice and I actually thought it is some sort of Victorian era of sort but it was set on the modern world. The story is about this young vampire girl, Misaki who can be said acts like a bit spoiled ‘princess’ living with this author, Kuroe, a human. Misaki obviously like Kuroe but doesn’t want to turn him into a vampire nor anyone else. I don’t think it was mentioned yet why the two lives together though and Misaki fears a certain person. Kuroe has a bit of part time job hunting vampires because his sister was kidnapped by a vampire while she was in the hospital before and when Kuroe tried to stop him, the vampire hurt his eyes. Ever since then, he somewhat gained some ‘vampire’ powers and cannot be hypnotized by vampires. He is trying to find his sister and the one who took her. Half of the story is about Kuroe doing some detective work [to also find his sister and her kidnapper] while being an author and Misaki rarely goes with him during those times though there is one case in volume 2 where she got involved. There is also that other young boy looking vampire who is obviously older than he looks and he is also keeping ‘wild’ vampires in check and in some sort of collaboration with Kuroe and friends with Misaki. The other half of the series are cute romantic stories of Misaki who tries to win? Kuroe’s heart. I said win? because I’m not sure Kuroe thought of Misaki romantically as a lover. Those are nice like the Valentine chapter and when Kuroe was sick with cold. The art is nice and the layout is a bit different for the author at times, doesn’t put the drawings into frames. I like the characters and find Misaki really cute especially her outfits. I actually like the romantic and cute chapters. ^_^ The story has a tendency to be episodic and sometimes there are small arcs for the cases Kuroe does. I would read this one more detailed later on since I like it.
Animewise, well, Zegapain turned out to be quite good especially when Kaminagi became a celebrum/pilot. It really got me hooked and I really love the opening and closing songs. Blood+ got a bit slow as everyone is still picking up things after their defeat but then, it is picking up when Solomon became traitor. I like the anime Solomon and would watch some episodes later on from where I stopped before. School Rumble 2nd Term arc on Harima and Tenma’s birthday to Eri’s almost engagement was really good. I really feel sorry for Harima, hopefully, he would get the girl he deserves. The comedy episodes in Utawarerumonowas quite good though episode 19 is a bit boring. I had watched the last episode of Ergo Proxy in wowow last night. It was okay but then, there are lots of dialogue. There was a clone Ergo Proxy and well, there is already a clone Real and it does seem that Real was actually a clone of Monad. Just as I thought, those three would make it through the series and they are back in their little ship/sailboat plus Raul’s autoreiv. I was a bit disappointed that there is no ‘epic-like’ ending the type where the opening/closing aren’t shown, only credits. The replacement is Le Chevalier D’Eon and it watched a fansub of the first episode. It was good. It is about D’Eon trying to find his sister’s killer wherein some kind of cult is involved + French history. The flow of the story is a bit eratic and by the end, the twist of D’Eon actually becoming his sister was really interesting. I think this Saturday, wowow will repeat episode one.
I’m currently watching four new anime. There is Innocent Venus which is about two guys, a girl who seems to be special and a boy traveling as they avoid the military who are after them for they want the girl back. Then, by the end of episode 2, there are pirates involved and the pirate leader reminded me of Katsura. ^^; So far, it is okay. Then, there is Night Head Genesis which suppose to mean for the part of the brain not normally used but when used can cause a person to have powers. The older brother has psychokinesis while the younger one can see through one’s mind when touched. They were then brought against their wishes to a lab and when the kekkai was brought down when a certain old man died, they went to the outside world. The older brother has anger management problems while the younger seems timid and well, they are in trouble for the younger got touched by a serial killer and he has been having nightmares. Then, there was also this other mysterious high school girl who sees into the future and seems to know about them. The way the story was shown is sometimes confusing and well, the repeating of flashbacks can be annoying. It is interesting that this is based on a tv drama and I try not to spoil myself by reading the online manga. I think episode 4 will be on trying to catch the serial killer so that the ‘ghosts’ of the dead would stop haunting the younger brother.
There is Zero no Tsukaima which I’m watching for the sole reason that it suppose to be like Shakugan no Shana which I was a bit interested on but then, I was too far behind to check it out. Since the leads in ZnT are quite cute and it isn’t entirely bad so why not. The story is like a different world where there are wizards/witches like Harry Potter and they get to summon their..ah, I forgot what it was called, something like a pet and Louise summoned a high school student. The rest is pretty much life in school and their adventures + fanservice for guys. ^^; I find the opening and ending songs, cute. Lastly, NHK ni Youkoso! which is about a hiko-something, those who detached from society and doesn’t come out of the house after being traumatized by something. Then, things changed when he learned that his neighbor was a student from school before whom he tried to save from bullying. The neighbor turned out to be into eroge/ero games and well, hard core otaku that the lead has discovered a new world of anime and has become a bit perverted. ^^; There was also this girl who supposedly have the promise of rescuing him from his current state which he at first try to deny until he met his sempai again and agreed to her contract. This is a bit fun and funny though there are things that are quite perverted. The art is inconsistent but then, this is done by Gonzo. So far, it is interesting and every title begins with ‘welcome to __’. I somewhat like the opening song but don’t like the ending song.
Thought of the day:
You learn something every day if you pay attention. ~ Ray LeBlond.
There are some new names in Penguin Revolution [c. 20] and I just found used an online kanji-romanji to know the names so they might not be accurate. The scanlator also changed the name of the famous actress from Peacock but I will use the old one for Youshi doesn’t sound nice as Youko. ^^; On to the story, the beautiful villain looking woman thought about the relationship between Ryou and Ayaori and that it is pretty interesting. The baldie bodyguard then said, he didn’t notice it. The black haired girl carrying a teddy bear then approached them asking if what she did was okay and that ‘person’ [Ayaori] didn’t even notice her. The lady then told her it was good and that now, they are going. Meanwhile, Yukari and Ryou managed to get to the elevator before it closes. Ryou was about to shout at Ayaori, I guess for not waiting for them but then, Ayaori’s bodyguard stopped him. Yukari then apologized for the trouble of waiting for them/stopping the elevator before it closes. Yukari then notices that something is wrong with Ayaori for he is a bit weird.
In a private room, the president then told everyone to have a toast for their success at the rewards. Yukari was amused that Ryou and Ayaori got to sit next to the president. The president then asked the two to make a speech. Just then, there was a commotion at the door and the lady with her group crashes in to the little gathering. Her bodyguard tossed away those who try to stop them. The lady introduced herself as the Yasu-gang [I can’t find the romanji for the ‘gang’ word so I will use the pinyin for it.] acting company and she is somewhat like a recruiter of sorts, her name is Ebisu [funny for it meant leech.] ^^; She wanted to congratulate the Peacock company for winning in the latest awards ceremony. The president then says that Yasu-gang has a tendency to crash into parties like that. Ebisu then introduced to the others, the black haired girl as Mashiba Rena, their new recruit and is Ayaori’s cousin.
Everyone then started to gossip about it as how how did Yasu-gang company found her, if they did it because they hate their president, etc. Yukari became a bit worried about Ayaori who kept silent. The president then cheerful apologizes to Rena for he thinks that she isn’t ‘interesting’. Rena was embarrassed and started to protest but Ebisu told her to shut up and told the president something about not knowing the value of an actress for before Peacock has ‘used’ an actress. By then, Ayaori fainted. Ryou tries to catch him but the president managed to do it before Ayaori’s head falls on the floor. The president then glares at Ebisu, asking if she is challenging them. Ebisu said that he can think what he wants. By then, someone is carrying Ayaori away. The president then said something like if Yasu-gang wanted to experience pain or challenge them, then he would agree to do so. Ebisu then thanked him and told everyone that they will meet again and left.
At home, Yukari said that she was full from the food and Ryou agreed. It seemed that everything went smoothly afterwards the unwanted guests had left. Yukari then asked if Ayaori would be okay. Ryou said that it was because Ayaori was just tired so he would just spend the night at the hotel so she doesn’t need to worry. Yukari noticed something then, started to do ah..’massages’ or patting on Ryou’s head as she thought that Ryou doesn’t want to show his weaknesses. Ryou then said that Yukari’s hands are very warm and comfortable. Yukari thought that at least she has something she can do. At the hotel, the president visited Ayaori who was lying on the bed. For some reason, the president is covering Ayaori’s eyes. Ayaori apologized for what happened as the president said that everything is okay so he should just rest. Ayaori, thinking of the teddy bear, said that it was because it has been a long time since ‘they/it’ [not sure who is he referring to] met so he couldn’t control himself. The president was quiet then said, ‘really?’.
The next day, Yukari was meditating then she heard the key opening the door that she and Ryou rushed to the door to greet Ayaori, that he is back. Ayaori greeted back. They then pulled him to the sofa and then, do those hand massage on Ayaori’s head, asking if he is hurt anywhere and if he rested well. Ayaori replied he did. Later that day, Yukari decided to do research on the Yasu-gang company and learned that it is quite a big company as she thought that the two earlier gave her a ‘dangerous feeling’ and that a new enemy has appeared. As Yukari looks at the list of talents, she noticed the name Youko. She was surprised for wasn’t she suppose to be a talent of Peacock. She then remembered the words of Ebisu regarding a certain actress. Yukari was a bit angry, I think, for Ebisu was blaming Peacock when their company was established 17-19 years ago. Yukari then thought about looking where Youko is now. To her surprise, Youko had a car accident and had become comatose then later on died and with her is a certain Mashiba Keishi who supposedly had drugs in his system. Then, Youko remembered what the president said before about Ayaori’s parents being deceased and so he is now Ayaori’s guardian and Ayaori telling her to be careful in the street. Yukari doesn’t want to believe that this Mashiba was related to Ayaori. She then tries to see what does Youko look like and to her surprise, it was the actress she first saw as a child that made he captivated with the wings of actors/actresses, the lady with 7 color silver wings.
It really does seem that Ayaori’s parent was involved with the accident and from the raws of chapter 21, Ryou has a connection with Youko, could be his mother. I wonder if they [Ayaori and Ryou] really knows the connection between them. I’m still confused if Ryou is really the president’s son. I was also thinking that Ebisu knew of Ayaori’s background and if Youko used to be their talent, she wanted to destroy him for what his parent did. I do wonder why the president is Ayaori’s guardian and not Rena’s parents. I’m bit weird out with the ‘hand massages’ on the head. The only think I can think of it is that it is like Ayaori’s pats on their heads. ^^; Anyway, this chapter developed the plot a bit than the usual, how Ryou gets roles, which honestly, is a bit boring. Hopefully, things would pick up later on though I’m not that optimistic.
Quote of the day:
Each has his past shut in him like the leaves of a book known to him by heart and his friends can only read the title. ~Virginia Woolf.
Blood+ [chapter 13]
Tuesday, August 15, 2006 @ 01:38 p.m.
Blood+ [c. 13] is a bit funny and well, there was a discrepancy in the story, too. This version is in simplified Chinese so I have a bit of difficulty with the names. ^^; Diva and her chevaliers have arrived at Red Shield’s ship headquarters. They muses about being together for a long time and that it is all because Diva wished it. Ansem told Nathan and James to preoccupy Saya and Haji while Solomon will get Riku. Diva then asked what she should do. Ansem told her that there is only one thing she can do and it was to sing for Saya. Diva was thrilled to do it. Ansem said that they didn’t have to do a thing for Saya will be destroying everything by herself.
At another part of the ship, Saya shouted for Haji not to come as she goes to where Diva was. Kai then asked Haji where Saya is going and why isn’t he going with her. Haji said that he can’t go so Kai decided to go there by himself but he was stopped by Haji, saying that if Kai goes, he will die. Kai then told him that he won’t be killed of easily, something like that when Haji said that isn’t what he meant. He then told Kai what happened in Vietnam. He told Kai that Saya and Diva are chiroptera who wakes up for 10 years and slept for 10 years. Upon waking up, they will drink their chevalier’s blood to be fully awakened. Then, in Vietnam 1972, Diva appeared but Saya is still sleeping so they decided to force her awakening by injecting Haji’s blood into her. At that time, Diva was already singing and Saya went berserk. Karl tries to stop Diva but Diva insist that Ansem told her to sing and singing a bit won’t do harm for she wanted to lure Saya out. Karl told her that her song can actually awaken/make chiropteras go berserk. Then, Saya appeared in front of them. Diva was thrilled to see her as Karl prepares to defend Diva or else, Ansem will be angry at him if Diva is hurt. Karl thought that in Vietnam, he is the only one to protect Diva and wonders what was Ansem thinking as Ansem was looking down from the helicopter at the scene.
By the time Haji arrived, Saya has already cut off Karl’s right hand and Karl is forced to pull it out to prevent himself from crystallizing and quickly retreat. Haji was relieved to found Saya but then, she killed off the other Red Shield people and attacked Haji. While defending himself, Haji’s hand became like a chiroptera as Haji tries to call out to her, why she is doing this then she cut off his right hand. Haji then noticed that Saya is crying so from then on, he always kept a distance from Saya and wonders if she hates him for doing what he did before [to awaken her, I think]. Then, Haji got a bit worried when he heard Diva’s singing. To where Saya was, Saya was clutching her head in pain as Nathan and James look at her. Nathan muses that it must been painful for Saya for Diva’s song can make chiroptera’s power disappear. James is irritated as to why Ansem let Saya live and decided to take matters on his own hand by trying to kill Saya to protect Diva. Nathan tries to stop him but then, it was too late, Saya has gone berserk and split him in half.
Haji told Kai it isn’t good for it is quickly becoming like what happened before as different parts of the ship is getting destroyed as there were many explosions. Haji calmly says that Saya will be destroying everything and Saya still won’t stop. Kai asks why is he so calm about it as he asked Haji if there is a way to stop it. Haji said that there is nothing he can do. Kai got angry as he grabbed Haji’s collar and told him not to give up that easily and isn’t Saya important to him. Haji said that Saya is more important than his life. Kai then gave him a headbutt as he shouted that for a guy who is trying to escape, shouldn’t talk big. Kai then said if that is so, then why shouldn’t he do something, isn’t he immortal, too. Haji then quietly say that blood..his blood’s strength isn’t that strong and that he won’t be of any help and would only get killed and if one day, he is stronger, maybe he can help Saya – something like that. While he is saying this, Kai is getting angry over Haji’s dramatics as the background is filled with explosions. Kai then grabbed Haji’s head and turned it around to see all those destructions and shouted for him to stop with all those talk and just look.
Then, Kai also saw Saya going berserk, killing and destroying everything in her path. I don’t know who said, aren’t you afraid but it does seem to be Kai for he looked shocked then he bit his hand as he shouted to Haji that they will snap Saya out of it and do what they can. Meanwhile, Diva continues to sing when Nathan, wounded on left shoulder came to her. Diva asked about Saya when Nathan told Diva that James is dead. Nathan then asked Diva to do something about it for isn’t James her chevalier. Diva yawns and said that she doesn’t care. She is only doing this for Saya and that she doesn’t know where Ansem went so they should just go home. Nathan calls for her to wait when Diva looks at him that made Nathan shiver. Diva told him that her only chevaliers are Ansem and Karl while the others are made into chevaliers just because Ansem wanted them to be and that’s that. Diva then happily smiles that said that she only want Saya.
Walking around, Haji noticed that the singing stopped. Then Saya found him. Haji tries to call out to her but she just stabbed him into the chest. As Saya tries to pull it, Haji stopped her saying that she can’t leave. He tries to call out to her again but then realized that his voice won’t reach her. Kai then jumps down from above and shouts for Saya to wake up and gives her one mean headbutt. Saya then remembers that various headbutting incident of Kai who told her that no matter who she was, Saya is Saya. Saya then screams at Kai, saying what the heck is he doing, for it hurts. Kai and Haji were surprised that Saya did snapped out of it. Saya then noticed what she has done with her sword into Haji and asks why are they there. She screams for them to leave for do they want to die then she smiles and told them who was responsible for all the deaths in the ship as she points out to the destruction. Kai gave her another headbutt. ^^; Kai told her to stop talking such things. Saya then cries saying that if they are like prince going around her and that they could have been killed by her. Kai said then if that happens, he and this guy [Haji] will just snap her out of it. Kai pats her head and says that in the end, she will cry again. Saya cries and Haji told that it wasn’t them but it was ...[Kai –who snap her out of it].
At the intensive care, David goes out and leaves Riku in the care of Julia. Riku then wakes up but still lying on the bed, thinking that it is very noisy and wonders if it is Kai and Saya fighting again or is it Karl and the glasses guy. He then snapped awake as he remembered Karl. He was surprised to see himself in a clinic/hospital and saw the moth box filled with tape by Saya. Riku wonders how long has he been sleeping and wonders about Karl if he is alright. The door then got destroyed as Solomon happily told him that Karl is already dead, killed by his sister, Saya.
When I first read the part where Haji was being dramatic and explosions are happening, I felt really amused and laughs. It is pretty funny and with all those headbutts for headbutts saved the day is the theme of this chapter. Lol. And I thought they were just for comedy. There is no clear explanation yet as to why Haji changed while fighting with Saya in Vietnam and well, the discrepancy is that Saya going berserk here is the same as in the anime [with long hair] while in the first chapter of this series, she has short hair, maybe she cut it along the way? It is a wonder why Diva’s song only have an effect lately when while they were in the zoo, Saya doesn’t react violently to it. Maybe the song gets developed as time goes by. The author must have disliked James for he made an appearance and quickly disposed of in just one chapter. ^^; No time to develop his character? So, it was Solomon who got to Riku first..mm..where is Ansem? I was thinking maybe Ansem went to find/kill Joel or plans to do something else. He is pretty much the brains of the group. Diva is really childish and only goal seems to be is to be with Saya.
Thought of the day:
Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only saps today of its joy. ~ Leo Buscaglia.
Gintama [chapter 127] and Nana [chapter 61]
Tuesday, August 8, 2006 @ 05:10 p.m.
I had finally updated on Gintama ^_^ I would start writing summaries of it from time to time if it isn’t too gross or if there are arcs. I guess making an anime helped boost its popularity that they got to be updated on it unlike before. Unfortunately, the subber had ‘stopped’ doing it and I’m stuck on episode 4. So far, my favorite manga parts/arcs if it involves the shisengumi, Katsura and about Gin’s past. In Gintama [c. 127], the local club’s girls are all sick with cold except Otae. The manager is worried for they have a special guest that night so they hired the services of Gin and his group. Then, Kyuubei [nine] came with some things for Otae for causing problems before. Kyu tried to kidnap Otae and marry her to protect her even if Kyuubei is a girl but then, they made her realize that doing that won’t exactly make Otae happy. They got Kyuubei to dress up like a bar girl. Then, there are some protests from her escort who ended up becoming a soap girl. [From X, I learned that these women ‘bath’ or soap guys while in bath.]
The manager told Gin that they still need three more girls. Kagura tries to volunteer as she put in heavy make-up but Gin and the manager snubs her. Then, the cat-girl, Catherine came to volunteer even if she is exposing her chest [censored] as a soap girl. Then, Gin hit the ceiling and fell, his ninja/shinobi stalker, Ayame. She protests but then, gladly do it. Then, Gin said it’s complete for he really plan to include Kagura as Kagura crying, wrecking her eye make-up that Gin is a demon. The guests are coming so Otae with Kyuubei, Ayame and Kagura rush to meet them. The manager wonders if everything is okay and noticed that Kyuubei’s escort and Catherine fussing about that they slipped. The manager told Gin to clean them up but then, he also slipped. His last words were for them to take care of everything. As they [Gin and Shinpachi]were cleaning up when the guests are entering in. Since they lack two more people, the two decided to become soap ladies. Otae glared at them as they in thoughts said that there was no time to change clothes. Matsudaira, [head of the shinsengumi, I think], came in thinking that Gin and Shinpachi are new girls but to their shock [Gin is freaking out], everyone else in shinsengumi [Hijitaka, Okita and Kondou] came in. From Okita and Kondou’s reaction, they know. Hijitaka is looking sideways though. Hehe, next chapter would be fun.
In Nana [c. 61], Hachi looked suspiciously at the reporter as they talked about Nana’s mother. The reporter said that he investigated it for a month and she has two children, living a simple life. The reporter then gave Hachi a calling card of where Nana’s mother work and told her not to tell anyone about it. I think Hachi wanted to verify it. Meanwhile, Mai with this other guy, producer?, is talking with some people who wanted Nana to be in a tv show or drama. Mai wanted to protest but the producer said that it is good exposure for Nana. Back at the mini concert, they are playing a bingo to get a bag from Nana. Unfortunately, Misato and friends didn’t win it. Misato was disappointed for she wanted to shake Nana’s hand, not really for the bag.
Later on, Misato whines about not getting to shake hands with Nana as the ‘group leader’ told them about how Gin gets to earn money or something when Misato realized that she has to get an autograph of Yasu for her brother or else, she will be dead. Then, Gin in santa outfit came out again as Nana went to the stage and thanked her fans for coming and hope that there would be more ‘live’ for them. Everyone was touched by Nana’s words. Then, they told everyone put line up for some gifts. The fans were in for a surprise for they get to actually shake hands the band members before leaving. Misato and her friend were really happy and thought it is like a dream. After the meeting, something seems to be worrying Mai about the deal that the producer said that nothing to worry just convince Nana about it. At the train station, Hachi is holding the calling card as she thought about what the reporter said. I think the reporter is trying to blackmail her about the information and that something like, it can’t be exchange for something like her and Takumi’s family life. Hachi then decided to go to Osaka where Nana’s mother is. Then, it is Misato and her group’s turn to meet Nana. Upon seeing her, Nana and Nobu called to her as number 2.
Misato was thrilled over how Nana calls her as her group leader and friend [Chi-something] introduced themselves. Misato starts to cry since she was too happy and she cries even more when Nana remembered her as the one who wrote to her before as the Misato from Osaka. Nana hugs her as Shin said, if that is okay so he gave Chi a kiss on the cheek that made her faint. The group leader then remembered the autograph as Yasu hands out the gifts. Shin then gave Chi his calling card. Nana then asked why Misato is asking for Yasu’s autograph and not hers. Misato told her that it was for her brother. Nana was surprised that she has a brother and said, that is good but Yasu then told Nana that she already has him. It surprised both Nana and Misato as Nana said that she doesn’t like bald guys. Everyone then said their goodbyes as Nana said that if they ever have a concert in Osaka, they will take up Misato’s offer to eat at their ramen store. Yasu looked a bit thoughtful.
When the producer left, Mai noticed that she has a message on her mobile phone. It was Miu who told her not to worry for she told about it to Yasu. Then, there was one from Yasu, telling her that the concert ended with no problems then that the fan looked and sounds pretty much like Nana and asks if he thinks too much – as in there is a connection between them. Then, there was a monologue something about if the truth is learned, not only will Nana be the one hurt but also, others. Hachi is walking down the street and found the ramen store but then, she didn’t went in. Behind her, the reporter was following. I think later on, Mai is talking to Nana about the meeting. Then, Yasu’s friend and this other organizer was talking about certain people not going in the concert and I think they are hoping the best for the group. In Osaka, Hachi couldn’t find a place to stay at the hotel for it was overbook. She then looked at her watched and seems to be determined as she left while the reporter is still following her. The last monologue was of Nana’s, saying that at age 4, her mother left her. At age, 15, her last known family member died. Then, she sings for herself, not for fame nor for money but the one thing she yearns for is her to be brave.
Nana really does seem interested in Misato as Misato is easily touched by Nana. Could it be like ‘call of the blood’? Just when Nana was surprised by Misato having a brother, I think Yasu commented about her having him so that Nana wouldn’t inquire further. Ya, it really does seem Yasu already have a hint or knows what’s Nana and Misato’s connection. I don’t quite get the other stuff much like the band’s future, etc but then, I think the reporter’s ploy could be is to make a headline about Hachi meeting with Nana’s mother. If so, that would be really insensitive/ruthless of them. Anyway, not much eventful, maybe next chapter.
Thought of the day:
To speak ill of others is a dishonest way of praising ourselves. ~ Will Durant.
One Piece [chapter 422] and D. Gray-man [chapter 85 ]
Monday, August 7, 2006 @ 03:31 p.m.
It seemed that Luffy’s punch haven’t finished off Lucci in One Piece [c. 422]. Lucci managed to land on one of the admiral ships with Luffy in close pursuit. The marines was about to attack Lucci for they don’t know who he was until a higher official told them that it is Lucci. They got scared for the admiral just told them that they shouldn’t worry about capturing Robin for 15 years ago, Lucci had wiped out 500 pirates to free some hostages when he was sent by the headquarters and his scarred back shows the bullet wounds he got from the mission. He is the marine’s killing machine. Lucci managed to recover and both he and Luffy thrash around the ship and pretty much wrecking it. Lucci then discovered Luffy’s weakness by saying that as Luffy’s power increased, his speed slow so he managed to get some hits in Luffy and then, split the ship into two. I guess he plans to sink the ship with Luffy as he ‘floats’ into the sky.
An admiral from a different ship learned of what’s happening and told them to blast the other ship. One marine doesn’t want to for there are other men there but the admiral shot him saying that if they hesitate, a pirate could have escaped and that Lucci would surely manage to survive it. So, they blasted the admiral ship where Luffy was. Meanwhile, Zoro and others saw that Nami and others were being chased by water. They tried to escape but were swept away by the strong water current. So, just when I thought things are about to wrap up, it seems things aren’t. Luffy and others aren’t free yet. I think Luffy should be able to escape that burning admiral ship or else, the series would have ended. The marines sure put a lot of trust on Lucci and I do wonder why the author mentioned Lucci’s past. Is it to show how powerful he was or would he also be a contender to be their nakama? The author is pretty unpredictable since Robin got into their group. I do wonder if there is a different story about Lucci’s past just like Robin’s. Lucci is also a shipwright along with Kaku. I do still wonder if Franky will really join them. Also, the marines motto seems to be ‘the end justifies the means’ for they can easily sacrifice their men for their goal which is a contrast with Luffy’s who is willing to sacrifice his goal/life for his nakama. There is a nice colored spread in this chapter. ^_^
In D. Gray-man [c. 85], Allen asked the akuma whose head and body is the only thing intact, who ordered him to get him. It said that if Allen spares him, he would tell. Allen agreed but the akuma laughs that Allen is bluffing but told Allen anyway that it was Tiki who sent him then gloats that Allen’s friends are in Edo with the other Noahs and the Count. Allen thanked it and drew a line vertically on it. It told Allen that he can ride the ‘ark’ he used to travel there. Allen asked why it told him. It said that he was ordered to do so then changed it to not then saying that it feels good and disappears. Allen then told it, good night. At the lab, they call Allen’s innocence, Crown Clown aka God’s clown. Allen came and got a clean bill of health. His left arm is missing and appeared when Allen summoned his innocence. Baku thought that Allen’s innocence has became more stable now since Allen’s goal and emotions become stable. Allen then asked if this innocence is strong and Baku said it was so. Baku then got a phone call from Komui. Allen told him that no matter what Komui would say, he will ride the ark to Edo. The scientists are still studying the ark. Allen went to visit Fou to ask how she was doing and then bids her goodbye. Next chapter would be back to Edo. When calling Allen’s innocence, a clown, I suddenly remembered this clown wizard drawing I made before. ^^; Anyway, I guess his innocence isn’t the heart then.
D. Gray-man extra: On summer break, Kanda came to eat at the canteen only to be served a yucky looking soba. It was Allen and everyone else working there for various reasons. Allen has to pay of his master’s debts, Rabi wrecked the room of the cook, Crowley called the cook gay, Theodore needed money for paints while Komui wanted to escape work. Kanda thrashed the soba and told Allen to make it again. Allen refused and they decided to ‘kill’ each other. The two ended up being dishwashers for wrecking the kitchen and Komui was dragged back to the office to work by his assistant. So, exorcists have no summer vacation. I can’t believe this made me realize how I missed seeing Kanda and his ‘arguments’ with Allen. Hehehe There are drafts for the anime of Allen, Rinali and Kanda but no Rabi, yet. It looks good though I wonder how it would looked cel-colored.
Quote of the day:
As a child my family's menu consisted of two choices: take it or leave it. ~ Buddy Hackett.
Naruto [chapter 318] and Bleach [chapter 238] + My Day Yesterday
Saturday, August 5, 2006 @ 02:41 p.m.
I went to Nii yesterday and base on the blood results, everything is the same in regards the medicine that I take except increase of injections for my hemoglobin. Hehehe, I know how vampires feel and I thought of it again when I saw Skip beat! Chapter 91 raws of Reino the same day. Lol It was the usual 2 hour wait but then, I managed to easily pass the time as a play ‘bouncer’ on my bro’s cellphone since I’m determined to beat my nephew’s record and I did. I was suppose to have a haircut but then, since it was late, I decide to have it next time. My bro had to drive my sis-in-law around so I was stayed in their house while I wait for him and it turns out that my nephew who was supposedly feverish was there. His eyes lit up when he saw me for I must have this invisible sign on my head ‘Playmate’. ^^; He has new PS2 games, one DBZ while the other is Battle something D.O.N. [DBZ, One Piece and Naruto]. I was pretty much beaten up in DBZ until I discovered the trick to it and let nephew win a bit since he is a bit of a sore loser. The D.O.N. game is in Japanese and it was okay – beat them ups. Its fun because of the different attacks. My nephew likes Naruto for his Rasengan. For some reason, I can easily win using Sanji but before leaving, switched to Luffy when I saw his attack is pretty powerful. It would be more fun if DBZ is replaced by Bleach ^_^ My sis-in-law claims that I have brainwashed my nephew into anime. ^^;;
Today’s issue of Jump has special cover of either male lead chars or female lead chars in swim wear. I think I read that this is a double issue so that would mean no Jump for next week. Anyway, only Bleach and Naruto is up for now. In Naruto [c. 318], more trainings for Naruto as he finally managed to cut the leaf using his power and now, he has to train to split the waterfall. Clay guy [Deidara] and swirl face [Tobi] akatsuki have caught three tails and a few of their scenes about clay guy being too serious that he easily got irked by swirl face. While, the other two akatsuki [Hidan + Kakuzu] who got a monk are also getting into each other’s nerves. Tsunade finished her briefing as Asuma learned that the monk was caught and now dead. He goes with Shikamaru with two other guys to defeat the two akatsuki in fire country. Mm..from all the foreboding, Asuma might not make it in this current arc but then, from past chapters, the author tend to do surprise deaths.
In Bleach [c. 238], Ichigo fell down on the bed from a bad dream then noticed that his wounded hand was healed, most probably by Inoue. Just then Hitsugaya came to inform him about something and told him to go to Inoue’s house. In Inoue’s house, everyone has already gathered there. They managed to restore contact with Soul Society and it was Ukitake of Inoue never making it to the human world and that from his subordinates, they were met by an arrancar and that Inoue could be kidnapped or killed. This made Ichigo angry for they are jumping into conclusions and that Inoue healed his hand. Yamato then interrupt saying that if that is so then, Inoue could have betrayed them for if she was kidnapped, she couldn’t have healed him. Before Ichigo could protest more, Renji stopped him and told Yamato that they would then go try to get Inoue back. Yamato turned them down by saying that since the arrancar have almost finished preparations, their group are now called back to protect Soul Society.
They don’t want to obey but were forced to when Zaraki and Byakuya were brought in to take them by force. As they were about to leave, Ichigo asked for the location of Huenco Mundo so that he would save Inoue himself but that was also turned down as Yamato said that Ichigo is an important ally and that they don’t want to sacrifice him just to save one person for the world is more important. He was to stand by while he waits for further orders. Rukia apologizes to Ichigo and they all left Ichigo by his lonesome as he thought that he already know about the rules in Soul Society and yet, his heart doesn’t want to obey them. This pretty much shows a glimpse of why Urahara, Isshin and Shinji + others aren’t in Soul Society anymore. The rules are pretty restrictive. I wonder if this would make Ichigo join other groups and also, I’m pretty sure Urahara already knows about this, what will he do. He and Isshin are supposedly already making preparations to counter Aizen apart from what the Soul Society is doing. But then, there is still Ishida and Chad who might be the ones to get Inoue.
There is a special Bleach summer chapter. They are going to have a sand sculpting contest but others are lazy to until Ukitake mentioned a prize money reward. Rangiku and Inoue have no buckets so Rangiku is teaching Inoue on how to get sand using their breasts. Ichigo told Rangiku to stop teaching Inoue nonsense things. Ichigo doesn’t want to join Ikkaku and Renji’s dojo until Ikkaku goaded him about being a wimp. It was trashed when Ikkaku’s vice put a crab on him. Byakuya and Rukia are making some weird mascot creature as Rukia thought she still has a long way to go compared to Byakuya. ^^;
Ukitake found it hot and decided to nap but then, one of his subordinates used the sand to surround Ukitake to protect him from the sea wind while the other, put flowers to protect him from UV rays. Then, they also put some incense to help Ukitake relax and it turned out to be like a open coffin and they won. ^^;; While Hitsugaya didn’t join because he’s scared of the heat.
Word of the day:
Pray as if everything depends on God; work as if everything depends on you. ~ Our Daily Bread.
It turned out that BW scans of Parfait Tic is way behind as someone posted up simplified Chinese ones up to chapter 128 though 126-127 is still missing for the uploader must have taken a vacation. I just checked and it seems that BW is inaccessible at the moment so for now, it is chapters 122-125 and it would be less detailed since I’m not good with simplified Chinese.
Edit: It turned out that the uploader only have chapters 122-125. What was suppose to be chapter 128 turned out to be only chapter 127 so I'm still waiting for someone to upload chapter 126.
So, in chapter 122, we are in the scene when Fuuko held Daiya’s hand to stop him from punching Ichi. Fuuko was thinking that she doesn’t want this hand to hurt people but it seems that Daiya misunderstood her as he told her that it is okay and asks her to leave. Fuuko was surprised as she wanted to explain but Daiya just insisted that he won’t hit Ichi anymore. Fuuko doesn’t argue anymore and decided to leave as she was told. When the door closed, Daiya hit the sliding door near Ichi’s face [it slid out of the frame and there was a hole], saying that he made Fuuko cry. He left Ichi still sitting there. At her room, kneeling near her bed, Fuuko felt her heart is uneasy and wonders to whom Daiya is directing his anger. Getting stressed out, she called out to her mom if dinner is ready.
At Akiou’s house, her mother called her down for dinner and were asking about her plans for college but Akiou isn’t that worried about it and will think about it when she is in third year. The next day, Fuuko waits for Daiya to come down so that they can go to school together. Daiya is unresponsive so Fuuko tries to make things normal by saying that she isn’t that bothered anymore about the incident. Daiya turned around and looked at her that stunned Fuuko then he told her that he has work later on. Fuuko nervously laughs saying that if that is so, then she will not wait for him after school. At school, a woman teacher? is asking about Akiou getting into some school and saying that since Akiou is intelligent, it would be no hassle at all. After school, Fuuko’s friends decided to shop and when Fuuko passed by Ichi at the hallway, she acted as if she didn’t know him. While shopping, Fuuko saw a glimpse of Daiya. She left her friends and rushed to him. She grabbed him, saying why? Her heart is getting more unease but she is afraid as she laughs and asked if his work if finish. Daiya then told her that there was no work at all in the first place. Fuuko was stunned for she heard what she doesn’t want to hear as Daiya said that at this time, being with Fuuko, makes him hate himself. Fuuko looks flustered and the last scene was Akiou and Isocchi going out though Akiou seems distracted.
In chapter 123, Fuuko was so stunned that someone bumped into Fuuko, calling her stupid for staring in the middle of the street. Daiya then glares at the guy who quickly left, afraid. Daiya then looks at Fuuko but quickly left when Komori [black haired friend] calls out to her. Then, Komori and Oobayashi [light haired friend] asked if it isn’t Daiya and wasn’t he suppose to be at work. Fuuko lied for him as she said that he was suppose to be but he didn’t for he is going to see his friend. Fuuko is about to cry as she asks why does Daiya have to lie about work. At school, Ichi isn’t paying attention in the school council meeting. After the meeting, Kagechika asks him what happened and if he was dumped. Ichi said something about it is okay if it was, for that person was also. Kagechika said that if she imitates ‘that person. Ichi interrupts saying that her hairstyle isn’t the same as that person. Kagechika answers that it was because Ichi won’t tell her what Fuuko’s hairstyle the other day.
That night, Fuuko is waiting for Daiya to come back as she wonders what Daiya meant about not wanting to be with her for it makes him hate himself. She was actually scared if the ‘himself’ was actually her. She heard someone on the stair and cried out to Daiya but it turned out to be someone else. Then, looking at her bracelet, she realized that the heart dangle was missing. She then asked her sister about it but her sister doesn’t seen it. Fuuko started getting worried for the heart dangle symbolizes Daiya’s heart. She then heads out looking for it for she didn’t notice when it was lost. She found something shiny but it turned out to be 500 yen coin. Fuuko is already in tears when Daiya came asking her what is she doing. Fuuko couldn’t say that she lost the heart in the bracelet so she said that it was nothing. Daiya then told her that it is already late so she better go back home. Fuuko then asked him why he is angry. Daiya turns back and told her that it was because she protected that guy [Ichi]. Fuuko tries to explain but Daiya shouted what she wanted him to do for wasn’t the one who went to him was Fuuko. Then, Daiya said that it made him distrust Fuuko. Daiya left as Fuuko told herself to quickly find the heart charm for she doesn’t want to lose it – Daiya’s heart symbol but then, she is already crying.
The next day at school, in chapter 124, Fuuko is still distracted at as her friends call her during PE and she hit her face on the branches. Fuuko thought that she couldn’t sleep that night and kept on re-tracing her steps that day as she try to find the silver heart. She waited for Daiya for school but it seems that he already left. Fuuko then told them about the heart is missing though she haven’t told Daiya about it. Fuuko is getting depressed for she still couldn’t find it. Oobayashi tries to cheer her up by putting a replacement but Fuuko thought that money can’t replace it and on the verge of tears, told them that she will continue on searching for it. Then, she screams to hurry on. During school lunch, I think, Fuuko went to Daiya’s classroom and called him. At the balcony, Daiya apologized saying that he left earlier for he had something to do. Fuuko laughs saying that she already left anyway and asked if he went to ask for her. Daiya deadpan told her that he didn’t. Fuuko thought to herself that she doesn’t want them to break up and told Daiya, is that so, then tries to smile, asking about later on, going home together but Daiya interrupts her saying that as of now, I’m sorry, but I ...said already. Fuuko flustered but still painfully smiling thought that they must be in ‘cool off’ period then replies that she understand. Daiya seemed surprised and looks at her saying don’t smile. Daiya then left. Fuuko was still thinking if it is really ‘cool off’ and might end up with break up, she tries to smile but tears are already falling and she is smiling to stop crying.
As she return to her classroom, Ichi noticed her as her face is red and eyes wet with tears. She quickly try to escape but Ichi managed to catch up to her. Fuuko shouted for him to leave her alone, she is okay then, she quickly left as Ichi was surprised by her reaction. Fuuko was thinking that there are still many things that she can still do. School has ended and I think it is already school break as the teacher said that it was good that Fuuko passed for he was worried about her. So, it seems that Fuuko will be on second year like the others. Fuuko thought that a lot of things had happened when she was in first year as she happily laughs with her friends. At another place in school, Isocchi is glomping Daiya as he asked if he wants to go karaoke to celebrate. Daiya said that it can’t be for he can’t sing. Isocchi is happily thinking about singing for a long time as he happily thinks about being with Akiou then he noticed that Daiya wasn’t listening. Then, while going out, Fuuko saw Daiya. Fuuko timidly smiles and walks away with her friends but Daiya was surprised by it and ran towards her to grab her hand. Fuuko was surprised and turned around to see him. Fuuko’s friends and Isocchi decided to leave them alone. Fuuko nervously laughs and told him long time no see. Fuuko was surprised to see Daiya looking a bit sad when Fuuko was grabbed by the other hand by Ichi. Daiya pulls back saying what the heck was he thinking but Ichi doesn’t pay attention as he kept on walking forward and pulling Fuuko. Fuuko screams that it is painful that Daiya quickly let go. Fuuko was surprised and with tears, Ichi drags her away. I’m guessing that a part is because Daiya let go.
In chapter 125, Fuuko thought, no..I don’t want, why would you [Daiya] leave me. Then, walking, Kagechika saw Ichi and was about to call him when she noticed that he was pulling Fuuko behind him. Kagechika screams anyway from shock but quickly hides but the scream made Ichi let go of Fuuko. Fuuko then angrily told him that didn’t she told him not to mind her for this is her and Daiya’s problem and so, since it is their problem, he shouldn’t mind them. Fuuko, in tears, left. Ichi felt a bit sad about it as Kagechika saw all of it. She tried to ask what it was about as Ichi smiles that it is those two people’s problem then told her that M-style looks so ‘tight’ as she freaks out if he was referring to her. I think he is saying about her hairstyle.
The graduation ceremonies has started as Ichi announces some things and hope everyone enjoy the spring break. Later on, Fuuko thought that saying that thing to Ichi was too much and that she just vent her anger on him and that things got messy because of Ichi. Everyone then celebrates at a karaoke bar and had a toast with everyone. Komori then told Fuuko that on second year, they ought to go home together. Fuuko was happy and in tears as the three of them thought of something to sing together. Fuuko thought that having friends is pretty good. Later on, Fuuko noticed that Ichi sat beside her. He was saying something but she couldn’t hear from the music so he leans to her to tell her. Then, as Daiya passes by Fuuko’s class karaoke room, some girls got Daiya and brought him in. Everyone then said that they ought to have a duet with the two of them. Fuuko hesitates for they haven’t made up yet but the others were already pushing her to the microphone where Daiya was.
Fuuko was extremely nervous as she wonders if Daiya would sing with her and if things would be alright then thought that she can’t sing and was about to say that when all of a sudden, the music stops. Everyone was surprised and looks back to see Ichi with the remote who apologized, saying that he pressed the wrong button. Ichi has done it because he realized that Fuuko is getting nervous. Fuuko then remembered what Ichi whispered to her about even if she told him not to mind, that cannot be. Daiya quickly uses this interruption as an excuse to escape as he said that he is going to the comfort room but Fuuko quickly gave chase, as Ichi looks on. Outside, Fuuko calls out to Daiya, thinking that even if this is just the two of them’s problem, her strength is still not enough to handle it. She asked Daiya to date with her during spring break. Daiya was surprised then casually said, okay. Fuuko then cried in happiness? as she thought that she just have to work harder so that she won’t lose Daiya as she did the heart charm. Daiya seemed to blush a bit.
Wow, what an emotional roller coaster for Fuuko. I can empathize with her regarding her lost heart dangle especially when Daiya specifically mentioned about it symbolizing his heart then they had a fight, if that can be called a fight. It is indeed frustrating to find things. Fuuko has become a bit proactive in trying to fix their relationship and if it haven’t been for that, Daiya doesn’t know how close he is in losing her. Daiya is still a bit hung up about the ‘betrayal’ though he just misunderstood things. Ichi well, the pulling incident could be because he doesn’t want Fuuko to get hurt again then, later on, create an incident for them to patch things up. If ever, his punishment would be to have Kagechika hang around him all the time. Hehehe There might be some happenings with Akiou later on with some scenes about her future. It is already 120+ chapters and the characters are going to second year high school. I wonder if the author plans to finish this series by the time they graduate or if the relationships are already more stable if the pairs are going to be that until the end.
Thought of the day:
The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live. ~ Flora Whittemore.
Update on some Jump titles
Saturday, July 29, 2006 @ 08:27 p.m.
The admirals in ships are still continuing their bombardment of Eneas Lobby in One Piece [c. 421]. The marines are fleeing as Spandam laughs that he won’t be touched. The giants and others are still running. Franky then noticed that Robin is shaking – because of trauma of what happened before. There are scenes of all the defeated CP9 except Lucci and mm..octupos hair is not shown. In the tunnel, Sanji and Zoro is carrying Sogeking who supposedly broke his bones when he jumped down the building. At the other side of the tunnel, Nami and others are heading back since the tunnel is flooded with water.
At the tunnel end, Lucci gloats over what he did and jumped upwards as Luffy follows him. Lucci said that the place where they are is above sea level so there won’t be water there which is the weakness of devil fruit users. Luffy is a bit worried about Robin as Lucci said that he should just go and help the others. Luffy doesn’t want to for he thinks that the others could survive on their own whereas if he let Lucci free, Lucci could just go and kill his friends. They fought as Lucci told him that he can’t win and Luffy answers back that he has to in order to protect his friends. Luffy’s gear two must have ran out of steam as Lucci managed to injure Luffy. Luffy then took it to another level by blowing air into his left hand and enlarging it – well, he is rubber after all. He proceeds to punch Lucci who uses his ‘guard’ stance but ended up being punched through the wall into the sea. Would that be the last of Lucci? If he falls into the water, he is finished. Anyway, from four separate groups, it would become three as Nami’s group would then meet up with Zoro’s group in the tunnel. The priority after Lucci would be how to escape the buster call.
Naruto [c. 317] is still on training as Naruto asked some pointers from Asuma, Shikamaru’s sensei who is also a wind user and in exchange, Naruto would treat the group out which was suppose to be Asuma’s punishment for losing to Shikamaru in chess. Meanwhile, a different group of Akatsuki are trying to capture the three tails. Tsunade was informed of Akatsuki’s movements towards fire country and decided to attack them. Mm..I wonder which group would be send there and it would does seem sending Naruto there would be good since Akatsuki are after him, too. Gaara was an exception before since Naruto knew him but the other tails. I’m pretty sure Asuma would be going though.
It is the aftermath of arrancars’ brief attack in Bleach [c. 237]. Inoue writes down on the notebook the things that Rangiku and Hitsugaya has to do regarding chores. Then, she looked at the bracelet that Ulquiorra gave her. A flashback on what transpired during their meeting, Ulquiorra gave her 12 hours to do what she needs to do and to say goodbye to only one person but she shouldn’t let anyone know what happened or else, their agreement would be void. The bracelet will let her become like a ‘spirit’ that she can pass through things and that only they, arrancar, know where she is. At midnight, they are to meet again at a certain place. Then, on the notebook, her last written words are goodbye halcyon/peaceful days. Then, she left. At Urahara’s place, Ikkaku and others are making a ruckus about being healed. Hitsugaya thought that they are noisy and glances at Urahara who seemed to be thinking. Hitsugaya realizes that their preparations need to be hasten for the arrancars are more powerful than thought that they were lucky to escape with minor injuries. Rangiku then informed Hitsugaya that she can’t seem to contact soul society.
At Ichigo’s room, Rukia also realized this as she try to contact Inoue in soul society. She glances at Ichigo who is sleeping on his bed. She remembered that Hachi told her that is the best that she can do for Ichigo for his ‘spirit’ is already mixed with hollow so it is somewhat hard to bring Ichigo’s body to its original state and suggest that he return home for the meantime. Rukia wonders who they are, the strength that Ichigo tries to get, and why would the arrancars attack then suddenly left. Then, she heard Ichigo’s sisters fussing about wanting to eat in his room. Rukia allowed it for Ichigo would be happy about it. Later at night, Ichigo’s sisters were sleeping on the floor with their finished dinner plates at the side. Inoue passes through the wall and curtain to visit Ichigo. Inoue says that she also wanted to say goodbye to others but since it is only one, she chose Ichigo. She then noticed Ichigo’s sisters and thought that they must have been lonely when Ichigo isn’t home. Inoue then realized that it is her first time in his room. She bends over and tries to kiss him but then hesitate saying she still couldn’t do it. She then mentioned all the things she wanted to do in life and her dreams, and then, hopes that she can live five lifetimes and doing all sorts of different things but still love that same person. She thanked him and bid him goodbye.
I like Inoue’s little confession and it could have been right out from a shoujo manga. Rukia wasn’t there and if the bracelet would make her presence unfelt, then, I do wonder if no one would see her off. But then, this would pretty much like back to ‘save-Rukia’ arc though well, no one knows that Inoue would be leaving, as of this chapter. Mm..why of all outfits, she chose a school uniform? For the things she still wanted to do? Maybe there is a Japanese thing to it for aren’t most student going to other worlds then to wear their uniforms to ‘stand out’ or something. I’m still thinking on how much does Urahara knows of what had transpired for he is in deep thought. Also where are Chad and Renji, weren’t they in Urahara’s store? Well, until next chapter.
It is a short chapter in D. Gray-man [c. 84] with few words that I guess that is why this chapter came out earlier. Hehehe The masked spirit [ala Noein] easily crush and breaks the ‘string’ that is making Fou and Baku disappear. Fou looks at the water and sees Allen’s cracked hand outstretched in the water. The akuma tries to attack Fou and Baku again but the masked spirit protects them. Fou then told Baku that it is Allen’s innocence. It then slices the akuma apart and a beam from its eye went to Allen. It creates a cage like thing on Fou and Baku as it went to Allen and merges with Allen’s outstretched hand. Allen is revived and seemed to have made the innocence like his cloak. The akuma attacks again as Allen told it to rest in peace and slashes it. That’s it. So, as I thought, Allen would power up here but I didn’t expect that masked figure is his innocence for it changed form. Would it be the ‘heart’ innocence that everyone is looking for? And some blurb on this series becoming an anime by autumn with char designs next week.
Word of the day:
When you are deeply troubled by fear and inward doubt, strive to do what pleases God, and He will lead you out. ~ Lloyd from Our Daily Bread.
Jap Dramas That I'm Currently Watching
Friday, July 28, 2006 @ 06:17 p.m.
I’m currently watching three Japanese drama. I would normally not download them but this time, there are people who are making soft subs for them so why not and people who are downloading in torrent are quite a number so it doesn’t take that long. The ones I’m watching are Sapuri, Kekkon Dekinai Otoko and My Boss My Hero. Of the three, I found My Boss My Hero the most entertaining especially since my mom is also watching it with me. The other two, she didn’t get past episode 1 and just went on ahead to watched her rented Korean dramas and that she tends not to watch comedy dramas which is what My Boss My Hero was and like romantic ones which are what Sapuri and Kekkon Dekinai Otoko were. So, yup, My Boss My Hero is pretty good.
My Boss My Hero is about this young yakuza head who is going to be heir of the group but then, because of his ‘stupidity’ or rather he is uneducated that he blundered an important deal with a triad just because he can’t do addition. His father, the boss of the group, was frustrated and decided that Makio, the lead, can’t become the head for the men will not respect him if he is stupid so he has to go back to school and graduate high school or else, the position will be given to his younger brother, who is sickly and currently in the US but will return soon to pursue graduate studies in Japan.
Makio didn’t like the idea at first but with a bit of urging by this mentor and his devoted underling who is pretty good in embroidery, he decided that he will go back to school just to be the head. He got in an exclusive academy with the help of his father’s friend. They even changed his hairstyle from pulled back and gel/pomade shiny to downward look that reminds me of F4 in TW Meteor Garden. He still stands out since he is indeed older and well, the actor is pretty tall. He also has to keep his identity a secret or else, he will be expelled. He managed to survive first day. Then, he get to be friends with his seatmate, Sakura-something [don’t recall the exact name and I’m using what Makio calls him] whom he rescued from some bullies just because their wallets were switched and he needs to hide his identity. Sakura-something is actually intelligent and since Makio is the one who helped him, decided to make Makio his friend. A few days past, Makio is on the verge of giving up since he can’t answer the teacher’s questions for he doesn’t know basic kanji nor trig and the other students kept on murmuring about him. Makio thought that the only good thing about the school is the school pudding, a custard with caramel, which is his favorite. Unfortunately, the baker is quite a sadist for he makes exactly 12 of them and so the students have to literally out chase each other to get one and it is delicious. Sakura-something gave him an idea of jumping to the other building since their class is the farthest from the canteen and doing so will give Makio a head start. It is indeed quite corny that he managed to ‘glide’ to the other building using the school flag as cape. Well, Makio and Sakura-something bonded a bit but were punished for using the school flag in their escapade so they have to write journals. That’s the first episode.
In the next episode, Makio decided to be class president since the former one is going abroad. The sole reason he wanted to is because ‘kumi’ was mentioned and I’m guessing that means class but he misinterpreted as ‘kumi’ of the yakuza. His first duty is to get everyone to join the ball skill tournament by competing with other class on different ball sports. Everyone doesn’t want to and Makio can’t even get enough people for his basketball group. In the end, things worked out fine as their group won even if the rest failed, and now, he has three more new friends [girls] including his other seatmate. They all now call him Makky as a nickname by Sakura-something. Also in this episode, Makio is trying to bond with his father who wanted to eat together with his son. At first, it was all quiet for both doesn’t know how to address each other or talk about different things aside from yakuza stuff. Everything has been formal and is more like boss and underling. The last scene shows that Makio has started to open up by just saying that there was a ball skill tournament and his father was pretty happy. Oh ya, almost forgot to mention the part where he is late and has to do the exercise dance of the school. That was pretty funny.
What makes his work is the actor’s acting, I read that he is the lead of Tokio, group. It is amusing how he changes his voice to deep and rough when his group sings the ending, his voice is pretty different and a bit high. The comedy is pretty good though a bit slapstick and with the monologue style of Makio’s point of view, helps in making me like him more. I think this is based on a Korean movie. I do recall seeing before in cable a story of a yakuza going back to high school and his underling is also his classmate. I didn’t get to finish that one since I got irritated with the lead who has a bad habit of hitting people on the head. It was hard sympathizing with that guy. Anyway, from the preview of episode 3, Makio would have to pass some exams and his brother seemed to have returned home. This series is pretty good and entertaining though a bit cliché of making everyone in class like him but still, how it was made is really good that I would gladly watch the next episode.
Sapuri/Supplement is supposedly base on a manga. I have not heard of the manga and well, that was the prime motive for me to watch it but I’m not exactly happy about it. The story is about a workaholic woman in a cm company who priorities work than love that her boyfriend decided to call it quits for things won’t work. Then, enters a young man who is a part time worker in the company who is a bit irresponsible and forced to be responsible when his father, the bread winner died, so he has to help support his sister. He got the job from his father’s friend, boss, and crashes into that friend’s house for he can’t pay his rent. The first two episodes are basically introduction of the series and how making a cm works. Even if it is uneventful, at least, it is educational. The first episode is making a cm for an insurance company. Even with all the hard work, if the other proposal is better, all that work would be junked. The second one is about making a lipstick cm and making the singer to agree to do it for the theme is love and she just broke up with her lover which they got thanks to this guy who convinced her that everyone has bittersweet love. The third one is on making some condo building cm and they got it when the boss inspired by his ‘bonding’ with his daughter. Around episode three, the love polygons are already forming.
The title means that for a career woman, having a nice guy would be a ‘supplement’ to that success in work. The first scenes in the first episode hinted on fate between the workaholic woman and the part timer but then, the show doesn’t show romance at once. The workaholic woman has somewhat fallen for the other guy who is quite good at bluffing unfortunately, that guy still have some feeling over his [former school] sempai who works in the same company and that sempai is married but still kept on seeking him. Of course, the part timer likes the career woman and it is indeed quite selfless of him to make her go to the other guy by the end of episode 3. There is also another office mate who seems to like the part timer. Sorry, no names for they haven’t stuck to my head like Makio’s. ^^;; The show is a bit below average to me though it isn’t that bad to make me want to stop watching. The subber for this series is also fast so I’ll still watch this for now.
Kekkon Dekinai Otoko aka The Man who Can’t/Won’t Marry is obviously about a single guy, an architect, in his 40s who still haven’t settled down. He is quite rude and cold that people around him think that he is quite arrogant. Things started to change when he had a polyp near his anus that has to be removed for it is causing things to be block. He got his ‘enemy’ neighbor to bring him to the hospital where he met the lady doctor. By the end of episode one, it reveals that it turned out that the architect is quite lonely for the doctor and the neighbor are the only ones who greeted him a happy birthday whereas his co-workers didn’t for they fear his rude answers. On episode 2, I pretty much got what the story is about, it is about single people trying not to be lonely even if they are surrounded by couples/families. The architect haven’t gotten married, probably because of his character and rude remarks. The doctor because she chose career over love. The young neighbor who just broke up with her boyfriend and has been in and out of love. The architect’s assistant who is a bit of a playboy. The architect’s lady worker who seems to like the architect but for some reason, tend to hesitate to confess or something. But then, some scenes in the first episode made me think that it will be the doctor and the architect as they try to get along with each other later on.
This series is also just okay and that scene about the polyp isn’t that appealing or could easily turn people off, like me. I guess this is like how to transform this scrooge-type of person to a more nicer person. Would they realize that deep inside he is just lonely even if he seems to be happy and confident? Anyway, I would like to see how it happens and like Sapuri, I hope it gets better or else, I might just get the last episode.
Thought of the day:
If you want to be rich, count all the things you have that money can’t buy. ~ Our Daily Bread.
Since things got interesting from chapter 20 raws involving my fave character in the series, so time to summarize again and well, I found another site that hosts it. Unfortunately, BW is taking their sweet time in scanlating chapter 20 so the sums of Penguin Revolution would be up from chapter 18-19 only. Mm..it seemed as if it has been a long time since I have summarized this one and I’m only behind two chapters. Has it been only three months ago? First of all, I made a huge mistake in the last chapter. They weren’t mentioning who are the top 3 new actors in the company, they were announcing those who are nominated in the 43th ‘lion’ awards for best new actors. ^^; Looking back before the announcement in chapter 17, Yukari is looking at the past winners of the lion awards. Ayaori was best actor before and she learned that there were a lot from peacock company then took notice of a name, ‘Youko’ who was best actress eight years ago. She didn’t get to see how it was since she has to go to the company though the name seemed familiar. I’m mentioning this again since this will be important on chapter 20. Too bad, I can’t change the archived entries.
Anyway, on to the story, Yukari [male outfit] and Ryou walks in the red carpet with cameras flashing as actor and actresses walk by. Yukari drools over them as Ryou somewhat proud of himself but then, they were nervous as they walk stiffly. Yukari looks around and said that no one seems to have large wings around them that is until Ayaori came. Ryou and Yukari looks at Ayaori as he passes by and thought that he is their goal. The awarding ceremony starts and of all people that Yukari has to sit beside, it is Kaneda [Kaname (the one who tried to destroy/bully Ryou)’s manager]. Then the nominees for best new actor are announced. Kaname is also a nominee and he is sitting beside Ryou. Kaname tried to demean Ryou but Ryou managed to talk back to him. The one who would present the award is Ayaori. As Ayaori is going to announce the winner, everyone was tense but it turned out to be a different person. Yukari was disappointed for this is their last chance to prove to the boss [I forgot what I called him before. ^^] they can make it. Kaneda tries to make snide remarks about their lost of hope as Yukari is on the verge of crying. Then, hope came as Ayaori announced that there is another best new actor and it is Ryou. Ryou was happy as he looks back to Yukari as the two are pretty flustered.
Kaname being really jealous, tried to trip Ryou down and even grabbed off his inner shirt. ^^; Geez, only in manga, I guess. Then, somehow, Ryou was in a different world where a girl is sitting who gave him a hint on how to pull this off. Back to real world, Kaname tries to apologize though he was smiling, Ryou managed to make it appear as nothing as he just toss the ripped shirt to Kaname and just used his coat to cover himself and went on stage. He did it coolly that everyone was wowed by it and his wings became large again. Ayaori doesn’t look happy and I’m guessing over what Kaname did or could it be because Ryou won? I’m guessing the former for earlier he doesn’t look angry but then, he is an actor so can’t really say. Everyone was clapping as Yukari was really happy.
Then, Kaneda asked Yukari to come out. Near the comfort room, Kaneda hit the wall as Yukari puzzled look up to him. Kaneda asked what did Yukari did to make Ryou win as Yukari insist that she didn’t do anything and it is Ryou’s own hard work that he got the reward. I didn’t quite get what Kaneda is complaining about but I think he is comparing Kaname to Yuzuru [katana cat-eye actor] and that Kaname shouldn’t have changed his hair color. Yukari bluntly told him that Kaname isn’t Yuzuru. Kaneda was about to hit Yukari as Yukari stood by what she said for she had seen Kaname’s wings and doesn’t like Kaname being bad-mouthed. The boss then stopped Kaneda, telling him not to do that.
They were surprised. Kaneda then apologizes [to the boss] as the boss told him about talent being important and etc, then I think he said the ceremonies is ending so Kaneda hurriedly left. The boss the congratulated Yukari and hope that she can learn more. Yukari thanked him. He then told Yukari to forgive Kaneda for there was a lot of things that happened between him and Yuzuru [I’m guessing Kaneda used to handle Yuzuru’s career and well, maybe a reason why he hates Yukari was Yuzuru dropped him as a manager for he wanted Yukari to be his manager. ] The boss then told him to return to the ceremony already and when Yukari opened the doors, she found that Ayaori just won the best actor award. Yukari then thought that they have just started.
In chapter 19, Yukari [girl outfit] is cutting out news clipping about the ceremonies and most are filled about Ayaori and some are of Ryou. She is putting them on a scrapbook and since Ayaori is usually in where Ryou’s article was, she decided to make a scrapbook for Ayaori, too. Of course, Ayaori’s is thicker than Ryou’s. Later on, Ayaori saw it and browses through it. He then asked Yukari why she made one for him when she is Ryou’s manager. Yukari blushes and said that she just likes to do it and if it is troublesome to him. Ayaori said that it wasn’t and thanked her as he pats her head. Yukari blushes as she thought that Ayaori treat her as a pet while Ayaori, leaving the room, like to do, huh.
Ryou [in girl uniform] is heading home from school and then passes by the tent that Yuzuru made in front of the building to stake out Yukari. Ryou thought that the tent is still here and thought that Yuzuru had already quit it. Then, he remembered Yuzuru kissing Yukari which made him all flustered. Elsewhere, Yuzuru is shooting a romance scene from the looks of it, somewhat like forbidden lovers and he is a samurai of sorts. The girl came wanting to go with him but he doesn’t want her to but in the end, left her. The director call out a cut as praise Yuzuru for his acting. The director then quietly told himself that Yuzuru used to be stiff/doesn’t know romance but now, he changed a lot and wonders what did the ‘peacock’ boss did. Back at the apartment, Ryou hastily opened the door as Ayaori greets him. Ryou didn’t let Ayaori finish as Ryou went inside the bathroom. Ayaori is home earlier since he is quite useless as class officer/president.
Ryou washes his face in the sink as he thought that Yukari is his manager so why is he angry when Yuzuru kissed her. He thought that he shouldn’t think of such things and only to try to higher than Yuzuru in terms of acting. Then, he thought of his accidental kiss with Yuzuru and he freaks out why the heck he is thinking of such things. Then, Yukari, fully naked, came out of the shower. Both were surprised as Yukari kicked him out of the bathroom and he hit the wall. Ayaori apologizes and told him that he tries to tell him that the manager is taking a bath. [I wonder if Ayaori already knows Yukari is a girl for wouldn’t he find it weird as to why Yukari is embarrassed and tends to toss out Ryou when taking a bath if Yukari is a guy.] Yukari berates herself for forgetting to lock the door, calling herself stupid. [I’m guessing that since she used to live alone so she isn’t used to locking the door.]
At the company, the boss congratulated them for their good work and it is obvious for he chose them. Yukari [boy outfit] and Ryou blushes over what happened earlier. The boss shouted what’s wrong with them as they denied anything is wrong. I think the boss said that there will be a dinner celebration for winning at the lion award so he told them to go on ahead at the hotel where the party will be held. Yukari then apologizes as Ryou apologizes. They kept doing this until someone came, I think the manager that was suppose to be Ryou’s manager when Yukari quit earlier, telling them that they are pretty close, freaking the two out. I will call him friendly manager. He then apologized for interrupting them as Ryou and Yukari said he wasn’t. Friendly manager then congratulated them over winning the best actor award. Ryou shook his hand and thanked him. Friendly manager said that it seems that he and Ryou aren’t fated for each other. He also told him not to let his young manager go to waste. He pats Yukari’s head and told her that she is a good manager. He then gave her a friendly advice of be careful for there are many enemies around. Yukari quickly thought of Kaname and Kaneda. He added that she should stand by Ryou at all times and never let go. Then, he left as Yukari thought that she almost let go as Ryou held his hand out saying, let’s start all over again. Yukari took his hand and smiles for she is glad that she didn’t let go.
They have arrived at the hotel. Yukari said that it is a three star hotel while Ryou said that the vip room is really great. Yukari then noticed that people are looking at Ryou and she was really happy for Ryou had become famous. All of a sudden, Yukari felt some ‘ill will’ in the air and tried to look for it. She thought that it must be from ‘enemies’ and remembered what friendly manager said about standing near Ryou. Then, she noticed people are whispering about again and noticed Ayaori with two other guys [managers?] also came. Yukari drools as she hopes that Ryou would become like that, too. Then, she noticed that Ayaori is looking at her. She wondered why for they are not suppose to let others know that they know each other. Yukari realized that he was looking past her so she looked behind and saw a black haired girl carrying a teddy bear. Ayaori’s manager? asked what’s up as Ayaori said it was nothing and left. Yukari wondered what’s wrong [with Ayaori] for there is something strange about it. Then, she felt the ‘ill will’ again. She found the source as she saw a beautiful women, smoking and smiling, who was sitting beside a bald sunglass man, probably a bodyguard, on a coach. Then, Ryou started running towards Ayaori so Yukari quickly follows as she wonders about the girl carrying a teddy bear.
The beautiful woman then said that there is no change, no that’s not it, but that beautiful aura haven’t changed. A hotel personnel then came telling her that the place has a no smoking policy so could she put it off. The woman then said is that so and then drop her cigarette on the floor and rubbed it out using her shoe, making the personnel speechless. I hope that isn’t a carpet. She then said that the newcomer is the one running [Ryou] aura isn’t bad either and it is quite interesting. I didn’t quite get the text about how deep is these two persons’ relationship and this is the first step.
From chapter 20 raws, I can quite guess that the woman was actually referring to Ayaori about his beautiful aura haven’t changed. If I recall, the girl with the teddy bear is actually his sister. Well, more on that when I read chapter 20. It is amusing that Ryou is clueless in love that he doesn’t know why he kept on thinking about the kiss and well, Yuzuru’s stolen kiss. Ryou then to sprout his wings on critical moments, well, usually when he is harassed. I’m really wondering about the little girl that Ryou sees during this moments, who is she? Hopefully, things will get more interesting from this chapter on, well, since it would be focusing more on more vicious villains that would make Kaname look novice. Hehehe
Thought of the day:
Fall seven times, stand up eight. ~ Japanese Proverb.
Blood+ [chapter 12]
Tuesday, July 25, 2006 @ 09:09 p.m.
I made a mistake, it turned out that when it mentioned that the continuation is Aug, it is actually July. ^^; So there is a chapter of Blood+ this month. Continuing on Saya’s flashback, in Blood+ [c. 12], Saya went back to the party and thought that Diva is late. She had given Diva a dress to wear as Diva told her that she will wear it then she will go meet her. Saya then thought that Diva might not know how to wear it so she rushes back to the tower and Joel noticed her.
At the tower, Saya calls out to Diva as she wonders how Diva looks like. Then, she wonders where Haji is. As she turns to the hallway where Diva’s room was, she found a seriously wounded Haji on the floor. She screams in horror as Joel hears her. He was also climbing up the tower. He found Saya, crying, asking him to save Haji. Joel felt for Haji’s pulse as he noticed the padlock on Diva’s room is opened and on the floor. Joel then told her that if she really wants Haji to live, she should put some of her blood on his mouth. Saya hesitate/confused over what Joel told her. Joel then gives her a sword [it is the same as the one Haji uses now] and told her to hurry for if his pulse stops, it would be too late. Saya hurried did as she was told as Joel wonders where that girl [Diva] went. Joel then hears some commotion back in the house.
Saya and Joel arrived at the house to see dismembered bodies all around as Diva, all bloodied, greets Saya. Saya was surprised to see that Diva actually looked like her. Joel scolds at Ansem for releasing the test subject [Diva]. Saya was surprised to hear, ‘test subject’ as Ansem told him that Saya was the one who opened it. Joel looked at Saya. Saya flustered, apologized and said that it is because Diva wanted to go outside. Joel then orders Ansem to get Diva back into the room. Ansem answered that a mere human couldn’t stop her as Diva continues on killing people. Joel then pulls out a gun as Ansem told him that it is useless against Diva. Joel then said that to do it, one needs Saya’s...But, he didn’t finish as Diva thanks Saya for releasing her and asks if she wants to eat it. Diva is holding up a heart. Saya felt nauseous as Ansem told her that she shouldn’t be for doesn’t she always drink, too. Ansem is holding up a glass of blood and told her that she should stop pretending to be a human for she is a blood sucking monster. Joel shouted for him to stop as he shot Ansem’s hand that holds the glass. To Joel’s shock, Ansem’s hand heals itself. Ansem told him that if a ‘chiropteran’ gave one’s blood to the other, that person would also become a ‘chiropteran’ called ‘chivalier’. He then asked if he [Joel] knew how he [Ansem] learned of this truth.
Saya then realized what he was saying and got worried over Haji. Upon hearing Haji’s name, Diva happily told Saya that she killed him. Saya was shock as Diva even showed her how she did it by stabbing through a man’s chest. Then, Saya snapped as she realized who did that to Haji. Then, after some time, Saya snapped out of it, only to find her dress all torned. Everyone dead and the house is burning. One person was slightly alive called her a monster as Saya screams that isn’t her as she cries. Then, she found Joel pinned down by a piles of concrete. He asked her about the test subject as Saya said that she didn’t see her [Diva]. Joel then holds on to Saya ordering her to kill Diva, they are both sisters and his test subjects, called chiropteran, highest form of living things. As Joel shaking and about to die, he told her not to pretend she doesn’t know, this cursed blood, and that when he discovered them, he should have killed them. Ouch.
Meanwhile, Ansem is carrying Diva away. Diva is telling him to release her for she still wants to play with Saya. Ansem said that fighting with Saya would be dangerous for he doesn’t want to lose her this way. Diva smiles and hugs Ansem, saying that she has a dream. Back at the tower, Haji regains consciousness. He noticed his wound is healed and thought about Saya. He arrives at the burned down house to see Saya standing in front of dead Joel surrounded by roses on top of a rumble. Haji called out and Saya turned around, crying and kept on saying, ‘I’m sorry’. There was a scene of happier times of Saya with Haji and Joel. Saya then thanked Haji for calling her a ‘beautiful girl’. Haji is a bit confused over what happened as Saya grabs the sword that Joel carries a while ago. She then cuts her hair short and breaks the comb that Haji gave her.
Back to the present, Joel then said that is the story of the zoo and from Joel’s child, form the Red Shield whose purpose is to eradicate the chiropterans. Kai then asked it is weird for isn’t Saya a chiropteran, too. Joel then said that it is most probable that after killing Diva, Saya will kill herself, too. On a helicopter somewhere, Solomon asked if it is alright for Saya and Diva to meet. Ansem said that it is okay for Diva is excited to meet Kai. I didn’t get what Ansem said, something about doing what chiropterans do and Solomon said that he is an evil man. Ansem told Solomon not to worry for they won’t let Saya and Diva fight. He then called out to Van. Van told him that their research is about to be finished and he will continue to work. Solomon looked worried as Van changed glasses as he asked Ansem about it. Ansem smiles evilly and said that even if there is a mistake, the end result would be the same.
Kai is outside on the upper deck, thinking if Saya is drinking again and starts to hit his head on the rail for thinking nonsense things. Then, he saw Saya and Haji arguing below deck. He wonders what they are arguing about and muses that they used to be lovers. Saya then shouts, don’t let me go and leave. Saya then leaves as Haji tries to call her. Kai wonders what’s up. Then, something exploded on the ship, surprising Kai, Saya and Haji. Diva and four others have arrived as Diva happily says that the ship is like a toy and this is where Saya and her new cute groom. On cue, Riku wakes up.
Argh, since the anime is ahead, I somewhat dread what would Diva do to Riku. Hope it isn’t the same as the anime. I’m trying to be optimist for the manga didn’t kill off George, their father. Unlike the anime, when Diva arrives, it is around this time when Riku wakes up. The manga totally disregards the Sifs from the anime. In this chapter, it explains where Haji got his weapon though he isn’t quite in action but I think he only has one sword, the one that Joel has. I do wonder where Saya got her sword though, given by Red Shield? Also, why Saya’s hair is short. It is so that she won’t be mistaken for Diva as Haji did. In the manga, her hair is short even during the Vietnam war in contrast with the anime which tries to connect with the movie, I guess where she has long hair. Diva here is like a child and it is not surprising for she isn’t educated like Saya and Solomon here isn’t as nice as the one in the anime. Anyway, it is amusing that the author still inserts comedic scenes in otherwise serious series like drawing Diva somewhat chibi biting into a person and lots of hearts. ^^; I remember, she reminded me of Stitch from Lilo and Stitch. I feel sorry for Saya even after what Joel said on his dying words, Saya still laid him to rest, surrounded by roses. I guess it is in gratitude for raising her and well, everything will still be her fault so I guess this is her burden for releasing Diva.
Thought of the day:
If you have made mistakes, there is always another chance for you. You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call 'failure' is not the falling down, but the staying down. ~ Mary Pickford.
D. Gray-man [chapter 83] and Fullmetal Alchemist [chapter 61]
Monday, July 24, 2006 @ 06:47 p.m.
The akuma realized that the one he fought was a fake Allen as Fou changed back to her real form in D. Gray-man [c. 83]. Allen told Fou that Baku is crying. The akuma asked if he is strong then Allen saw the ‘human’ within the akuma asking for love and to help it for they [exorcist] exists for them. Allen smiles and said yes. They fought as Baku found Fou and went to her. Unfortunately, Allen got careless as he was looking at Baku and Fou and thinking of his purpose that he got zapped by the akuma and has started to make his body crack. Baku tried to help Allen by calling forth an earth hand but it was useless that the akuma attacked him and Fou and started to make them crack into pieces, too. Then, from the water where Allen has sunk, his hand reaches out and thought that he exists to fight not just for humans but also for the akumas to save their souls. Then, a form came out of the water with a mask. It is Noein. Lol I couldn’t help it but think of Noein when I saw Allen in that form. ^^; Anyway, I got a bit scared for Baku for a while there, thinking he might be ripped. I kind of like him and I like the scene where he rushed to her and hugged her. Isn’t the normal/practical response is to grab her and take her to safety? But no, he hugged her tightly. I do wonder if Allen would be permanently be in that form. The others might not recognize him though.
The war continues and almost at its end in Fullmetal Alchemist [c. 61]. Kimbley continues his destruction with the help of the philosopher’s stone to amplify his powers. Scar hurries to his family as everyone discuss on how to escape. His brother then gave him a book, the only one he can bring, saying that it is about his research and he is leaving it to Scar. Scar resisted but his brother insist that Scar has a high possibility of surviving since he is a warrior monk whereas he is already getting weak on the knees. Then, Kimbley attacks and laughs when he hears their screams. Scar’s brother survives and found Scar injured badly, missing an arm and wound on the forehead. Upon realizing that everyone is dead, his brother decided to give his arm to his brother and started to alchemize as he wanted Scar to live. Later on, Scar wakes up from the clinic of Winry’s parents. He remembers his brother trying to shield him and hopes that his brother is okay until he saw his right hand was his brother’s. He went on a rampage and well, killed off Winry’s parents as revenge on the Amestrian people who killed his people. Scar went out of the tent and screams to find the whole place destroyed.
Then, Kimbley came upon the little clinic to find Winry’s parents dead and admired them for sticking up to what they do until the end. Roy then finishes off the last Ishvalite. Everyone was glad that they had survived and celebrated a bit. Roy was not too happy about what happened and wanted to change things for he wanted to protect the people. Hughes then gave him the idea of becoming the president to do that and would help Roy on it. Bradley also noticed Roy. Somewhere else, the generals wanted the philosopher stone back from Kimbley but he was so into destruction that he ate it and killed everyone there. Envy watches him. At a grave where Hawkeye buried a Ishvalite kid, Hawkeye felt remorse over what happened and asked Roy to destroy part of the symbols on her back so that there won’t be a flame alchemist, other than Roy. Roy oblige her wish. Soon, Roy formed together a group of individuals [Fury, Fulman, Breda, Havoc and Hawkeye] who would help him pursue his dream. Roy then told Hawkeye that she will be his personal guard and she has permission to kill him if he goes away from the right path. Somewhere else, Scar laments over his loss and felt anger as he swears revenge.
Mm..I think that would be the end of the history lesson but then, there is still on how they managed to subdue Kimbley and put him in prison. I was thinking that since he ate the philosopher stone, wouldn’t he become a homunculus? Maybe it is a different kind. Anyway, it is interesting how Scar got his brother’s arm. I thought it was surgically put there but it turned out that it was transmuted to him. Most of the things that happened in the past has been explained so I hope next chapter would be back to the present like what would Scar do now upon learning all this as well as Ed.
Thought of the day:
The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it.
The present is here, live it. ~ Thomas S. Monson.
Site Up Again ^-^
Sunday, July 23, 2006 @ 01:18 p.m.
While tweaking the layout yesterday, pitas must have a glitch that reset the page and I couldn’t access it the whole afternoon up to the night. I just re-build the site back up. Thank God that I have back-ups. This isn’t the first time this had happened so I’m pretty much used to it. I think everything is back to normal now and as it was in the last update. =P
I put in this site search and I’m not quite sure if it is helpful in searching for past entries or summaries since it just listed the ones on the left frame when I was assuming it would do per chapter but then, it is just recently when I put in the chapters. ^^; Oh well, I’ll just leave it there. I chose this one instead of google since it is a bit specialized and finds more pages as compared to google and since it is free, why not. Hehe
Word of the day:
When you think of all that’s good, give thanks to God. ~ Our Daily Bread.
Naruto [chapter 316], Bleach [chapter 236] and One Piece [chapter 420]
Saturday, July 22, 2006 @ 02:45 p.m.
Nothing much again in Naruto [c. 316] as Naruto is explained some basics on how ‘powers’ are made by combining two elements from each hand to form a new element like water + soil = wood. Then, there is Shikamaru and sensei playing shouji. His sensei seems to be leaving last words to him regarding sacrificial pawns [himself] and Shikamaru as knight to protect. His sensei said that it isn’t just the hokage to protect. Next chapter blurbs seems to hint something is going to happen and it isn’t good.
For a while in Bleach [c. 236], I started thinking who is the lead in this series. ^^;; Ichigo is pinned down and Rukia is about to be blasted away by Grimmjow when Shinji came to help. Shinji and Grimmjow fought each other. Shinji realized that Grimmjow is a bit hard to beat so he used cero [hollow beam attack] on Grimmjow who barely able to cancel it by using his cero, too. Grimmjow was about to unleash his senpaku when Ulquiorra stopped him saying that their mission is finished. The other arrancars were also called up using the beam [negation] to retreat. It turned out that Luppi is still alive as he warns Hitsugaya that next time they meet, he would defeat him. Ulquiorra then looks down on Ichigo and told him that he gained a new power though it has its limit but now, they have an ace in their hands. Then, in that tunnel from dead soul society to real world, Inoue is making a barrier and I’m assuming she is healing the badly wounded shinigami escorts before joining Ulquiorra or something. The blurb says something about crying so I guess Inoue was crying over her decision. So, Inoue has decided to join them though it doesn’t seem that the others are faring badly. Maybe she made the decision when Rukia was about to be killed. Grimmjow turned out to be tougher but then, he used to be no. 6 so it shouldn’t be a surprise. Shinji came to save them so I guess he does care even though he tend to not get involve with their fights. Poor Ichigo, this got to be the third time he got looked down on, first by Aizen and twice by Ulquiorra. I’m surprised that Luppi is still alive and I guess with that taunt, he will be Hitsugaya’s opponent. I do wonder that since they got Inoue, would it be possible for the arrancars to become more stronger than they are or she can just hasten the process of the crystal forgot it’s name. ^^; Well, whichever it is, Ulquiorra is quite confident that they will win in the end.
Robin’s handcuffs are finally removed by Franky using key 5 [Kaku’s] in One Piece [c. 420]. Spandam kept on freaking out that those where the real keys and thought that they have stole the keys and ran away from CP9 for he doesn’t want to believe that his CP9 were defeated. Franky then informed Sogeking that the handcuffs are off. Robin thanks him but Sogeking told her to save the thanks later for all those who got the keys and that she will be forever a Strawhat nakama and she can fight as she desires. Robin wipes her tears and proceeds to sprout hands on Spandam to slap him senseless. Hehehe Franky then told Sogeking to hurry and go there to escape for the justice gate has completely open. Then, the fence got bombed then the building where Sogeking was standing was also bombed. Sanji and Zoro thought that Sogeking was a goner when the tower fell into the hole but it turned out that Sogeking did jump, though he was hesitant at first. Sogeking and others report to Robin and Franky that they are okay and will be heading there. Robin and Franky in the meantime, would defeat the marines there and steal their ship to escape.
Nami and others are still running through the tunnel and are about to reach Luffy. Meanwhile, Luffy and Lucci are still fighting each other. Lucci finally determined who Luffy does the ‘gear’ and it is by making his blood pump faster to make him stronger but then, his body is having a bit of hard time to adjust to it and could kill him. Luffy told him that it is better than lettings precious things taken away in front of his eyes and he will do whatever he can. Lucci told Luffy that Luffy is wishful thinking for the blasts they heard would have finished off his friends at the tower and if not. Lucci then destroys part of the wall and told Luffy that he will flood the tunnel going to where they are. If Luffy wants to rescue everyone then he better escape and he [Lucci] would like to see how Luffy do that. Luffy was angry over what Lucci did. At the gate, Franky and Robin are defeating the marines as Spandam kept on telling them to grab Robin to the evacuation ship. The marines then run away when they saw from the fog the five admiral ships which will initiate the buster call.
Things are really moving in this arc. They have finally saved Robin and finished fighting with their opponents sans Luffy’s and now, they have to escape before they got blasted away. The problem here is that they are all separated into three groups. It is one of those things which seem impossible and can be made possible with luck. I do wonder how Nami and others could have escape that gush of water in the tunnel and how could Sogeking and others reach the gate to the evacuation ship if the tunnel is flooded. I guess Lucci made thinks more complicated for he thought he might not win against Luffy. I like Luffy’s philosophy in life. ^_^ So, it would take a few more chapters before this chapter ends and from past arcs, the author would probably make a good arc ending for this one. ^_^ Can’t wait.
Word of the day:
God is in control, so we have nothing to fear. ~ Our Daily Bread.
The first scene in Skip Beat! [c.90] was Yashiro, freaking out, pointing in the news about a storm that is coming and Kyouko looking surprised. At the set, Ogata says that they will call it a day. The older actress isn’t too happy about a day wasted so Kyouko with a crying scary face apologizing for the delays for she was being chased by a pervert. They then say it’s okay as they asked if she is alright. Since they thought it would cause much fuss as to who was Kyouko’s stalker, Ogata decided to conceal the identity of the stalker and told those who knew what happened to keep it a secret that the stalker was just an ordinary civilian. Itsumi then calls out to Kyouko as they are going to return to their hotel. Then, to Kyouko’s shock, she realized that they are all girls for the guys have went out to bars that night. She then thought that even if Shou told her earlier that Reino wouldn’t bother her anymore, she doesn’t believe it. Then, she becomes gloomy as she worries what will she do if Reino appears. Ogata noticing her distress, whispered something to her and Kyouko brightens up as Ogata says that things will be alright for Ren is back and will surely be there for her.
At the hotel, Kyouko looks around the lounge and found Yashiro waving to her. Then, he brought her to Ren’s room. Kyouko smiles happily as Ren answered the door. Ren invited her to sit and offered some drinks. Kyouko looks at Ren as she thought that it has been a long time since she haven’t seen him. Ren then told Yashiro to also sit while Yashiro looked surprised and tense. Yashiro decided to finish the drink then go back to his room. Ren then told Kyouko that it seemed that she had a dangerous incident earlier. Kyouko was surprised that he knew. Ren apologized and told her that he heard it from Yashiro. Kyouko looks at Yashiro who told her that it is because Ren thought that Kyouko sounds strange on the phone so he thought that something is going on so Ren was worried. This surprised both Kyouko and Ren.
For Ren, he was surprised that Yashiro easily read through him even if he never mentioned whom he asked Yashiro to check up on then Ren thought that since it is Yashiro, he can twist everything to link it with Kyouko. Kyouko was thinking that Ren has read through her though she tried to sound normal on the phone. Then, her inner self freaks out as she was troublesome for Ren had came earlier than as scheduled but she later tries to rationalize that it isn’t for Ren could have just finished earlier. After she finishes her inner thoughts, Kyouko finds Ren looking at her as she felt uneasy. He then said that she lied again about things being fine. Kyouko then starts to apologizing and prostrate as Ren stops her. Ren said that he isn’t angry for he understands why Kyouko didn’t tell him for she doesn’t want him to be worried. Kyouko then timidly says yes. Ren then thought that he felt like he need to vent his anger on something as he tries to suppress it.
Ren then said that it is okay and he hopes that there aren’t any more things she is hiding. From Kyouko’s face and Yashiro being surprised, Ren couldn’t believe that there is more to it. Simultaneously, Kyouko and Yashiro, who haven’t told Ren yet, were thinking on how to tell Ren that Vie Ghoul band member was stalking/harassing her and the one who rescued her was Shou. As Ren pressed on and Kyouko still doesn’t know how to tell him, someone is knocking loudly on the door. Ren gets up to answer it as Kyouko thought that it would be best if she was the one who told Ren for he will know of it sooner or later. Then, both Kyouko and Yashiro’s faces went on a shock as the knocker was Shou, smirking. Ren was also surprised and somewhat dismayed as Shou asked Ren if Kyouko is inside and if he can call her to come out. Kyouko was freaking out as to how can things get worse as Yashiro freaking that the storm has arrived.
As I wrote before, the author is really getting good with her cliffhangers. I had been thinking what are the possible things that could happen. Will Ren blow his top because of jealousy or still put up his gentleman stance? Will he let Kyouko go to Shou or not? Anyway, whatever it is, it will be fun. It is interesting to see Kyouko’s reaction when she saw Ren. She looked really happy and pretty much what she told Ren before about feeling happiness when seeing one’s loved one even amist despair. I guess she is still suppressing the fact that she has started to fall for Ren, too. She doesn’t want to be a bother to him and all that stuff. I like the scene where Ren stops Kyouko from groveling for it shows how much Ren knows Kyouko’s habits. ^_^ I do wonder if Shou will gloat to Ren about being Kyouko’s ‘prince’ for saving her. I also think whether Ren might vent his ‘anger’ during acting with Kyouko’s character. Hehehe The storm has arrived and this is actually the second time for the first one, Ren just passes it as nothing when Shou visit Kyouko at the set. Reino wasn’t shown here, I do wonder if Shou beat him into a pulp.
Quote of the day:
When the plane you are on is late, the plane you want to transfer to is on time. ~ Author Unknown.
