Name:
=3Kat

About this blog:
I write about the manga I read , the anime/tv shows I watched and somtimes, the PS2 games I played. I tend to summarize them so beware, this blog is filled with spoilers and they are not 100% perfect. Feel free to point out my mistakes. Occasionally, I would blog about myself and other misc. things. ^_^

Layout:
In the blog pic, Misuzu of Air is from Atelier Tiv c/o Nirvelli. Quote is by Helen Keller. Edited in Photoshop CS2. The background is from GRSites. The GB animated gif used to be from this site, Gin-san of Gintama is a screecap from piyopiyo2006 in Youtube and Pleinair by Takehito Harada is from JumpC. Gin and Pleinair edited and animated in Photoshop.

Metal Gear Acid

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Past Dreams:
2007

01/20/03 - 02/20/03

Blog by pitas

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Manga pics from
Sky-fire & Billwang.

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

Monthly Random Blahs: Manga, Anime and Drama
Thursday, July 19, 2007 @ 06:30 p.m.

Manga: Thanks to Chinese scans, I have updated on Kekkaishi. I wonder if it is because of the anime that they suddenly caught up with the present chapter. The current arc from chp 167-174 is about these butterflies that invaded the school in daylight. They are causing the students to feel sick and faint or even get wounded. All four kekkaishi have to work together to seal in the school and get the butterflies off the school while leaving the students inside. It is working well but at the last part, the kekkai started to waver. Shu [bat boy] and Sen [cat girl] has enrolled in the school to observe things though Sen seems to have other motives. I don’t tend to read this thoroughly since it diminishes the fun of watching the anime. =P I have read up to volume 8 of Rosario + Vampire and it has become a bit boring. The theme kept on repeating of either Tsukune or Moka kept on getting kidnapped, injured, power up and beat the enemy. The current enemy is these two older students who seem to want to go through the human world and kill humans. Tsukune is beaten up by glasses sempai even if he is in ghoul form. His friends are sealed in a barrier. Moka is being held up by the other sempai. Wanting to protect Tsukune, Moka pulls the cross by herself. Her other self did warn that if she pulled it, her personality will vanish. Well, Moka doesn’t care about that as long as she can protect Tsukune. I wonder if this series will end yet. It is getting quite repetitive already.

I have also updated on Air Gear up to chapter 169. It got interesting by then when the enemy shifted from Sleeping Forest lead by Ringo and Kilik to Sora and his twin. It turned out that Sora is just using Ikki to get the wind regalia fixed by Kururu. Ikki was devastated upon learning that since he thought of Sora as his brother. I still wonder if Sora really did kill Spitfire and Aeon Clock though but it does seem they have. I have a nagging feeling that it might be like good guys turn enemies then they are really good guys. At the end of chapter 169, thanks to Spitfire’s last video, Ikki and others are now fired up to fight again to the tower. Ikki is given a new title, Arashi/storm king. It is nice to see Ikki back to his energetic self as he has been depressed lately. He realized again his true goal to ‘fly’ and not to choose between Sora or Kilik. He will just beat them all. Hehe I actually like Ikki to be with Kururu rather than Ringo especially over what had happened before in the previous chapters. Well, hopefully those battles won’t last too long. I’m reading this for the nice art scenes and as of late, there haven’t been much ‘porn-ish’ images which is good. Hehe Lastly, I’m still reading through Liar Game. Thanks to the drama, I’m curious how it differs. I’m amused that they exchange the roles of some of the characters. The ones handling the Liar Game in the manga are guys with masks while in the drama, they are women without masks. The only guy with mask is the guy on the television. Also, accused X person is a guy with mushroom hair while real Mr. X is a woman or rather a transvestite. In the drama, it is vice-versa. I guess they have problems with a transvestite that they made the accused X person as real woman. The people they got in their group in second round are mostly women while in the drama, it is men. Also, the dubious policeman is a lawyer in the manga. I’m still at volume 3. Also, it seems to be currently running so I would want to know what happened next – that is after I watch the finale of the drama that is still currently being subbed.

Anime: I had finished watching Sola. This series turn out to be okay but then, it could have been better. It is one of those series that I watch while doing something. Hehe The story is a love triangle of sort. In the end, the two lovers got ‘killed’ and the other girl moves on by living with friends. The goatee guy and little girl does seem to be out of place and their purpose is just to give the lead girl something to make the other girl human again. I do find the other girl’s weapons of origami really cool. Bleach is currently in fillers so I don’t watch it lately while Naruto is taking its sweet time and haven’t been broadcasting much so nothing much to talk about that. I have updated myself on Darker Than Black and when I get hooked again, there are no new episodes. ^^; The new girl really looks like CC of Code Geass. Hehe I read she is called Amber. I like the action scenes here even if they are quite short. Hayate no Gotoku! is still fun unless they go to those parts like the latter half of episode 16 that I don’t quite appreciate it since I don’t know what they are parodying. ^^; I have watched the first episode of Bokurano. It is about kids made to play a game by being in a mecha and defeating the enemy. It is somewhat intriguing so I’ll watch a bit more of this. As for the rest, I’m still finding time to watch them. Hehe. For the new season, so far, it is only Zombie Loan that I’m interested in. I have yet to check out the others.

Drama: I finally finished Hana Yori Dango 2. Actually, I downloaded it for my mom since she likes Rui. ^^; It is okay though it is predictable for me for I already know the story. They pretty much mix in together all those scenes that are important for I recall the snow scene is before the amnesia part based on Meteor Garden – the Taiwanese version. It is like what happens to the side characters help guide the couple to become together. It is the usual girl likes, guy doesn’t then girl doesn’t like, guy likes..they get together then outside force trouble. It is really weird to have everyone suddenly become nice at the end. The proposal in the prom is nice though it does seem the stadium audience is ‘fake’ like it was taped earlier. Overall, it is an okay series. Liar Game got me hooked as I pretty much watched episodes 3-10 in two sitting. The formula is quite easy. The girl, Nao gets in trouble and guy, Akiyama bails her out. After round two, Akiyama can’t bail out of liar game and well, he wants to know what it is really about while Nao feeling guilty, joined the resurrect game in the hope to free Akiyama. Boy, did that backfire. She almost ended up in debt as she is losing the game. It is a bit too convenient for them to let Akiyama help her out there. Nao is just too nice for her own good. The third round is interesting for the main enemy that Akiyama has to battle wits is the manager of an MLM [multilevel marketing] organization that has tricked his mother that made her to commit suicide in order for Akiyama to graduate using her insurance money. And I thought suicide is not covered by insurance. ^^;; By the end of episode 10, Akiyama manages to trick the guy. I can’t wait to see the finale. I really enjoyed this drama, partly because I haven’t read the manga yet. It is also fun to watch how they outwit each other. Good thing that there are illustrations else, I will get lost as to what is happening. hehe Even if Akiyama somewhat reminds me of Light in Death Note because of their intelligence, at least here, I do know that Akiyama is the good guy. I also like their bgm in this drama. ^_^

My mom has finished watching The Devil/Lucifer Korean drama. I just watched the ending – will the evil lawyer out for revenge die? Well, he did as well as the cop. It pretty much ended how it all started. I’m amused that when the lead girl came, she only finds her two suitors sitting beside each other dead. I wonder what would she think by then. It actually made me wonder like won’t it be crap if that also happened in Vampire Knight. Since there aren’t any new Korean drama on tv that my mom likes, I decided to surf a bit to check what’s good. I picked Coffee Prince. It is a love comedy and somewhat like reality show on how to make a ruined coffee shop to a famous one. The story is about this cross-dressing girl who works hard in different jobs so that she can help her mother and get her ingrate sister to school. It isn’t explained why she cross-dresses so I assume she is a tomboy or it is easier for her to get jobs if they thought she is a boy. Her mother tend to buy new shoes and even lost a ring that was given to her for safe keeping. With that problem and increase rent, tomboy doesn’t how to get the money. Here comes in, coffee guy [son of a family who makes coffee] who is a playboy, irresponsible guy who just always party and doing nothing. They met a couple of times in the typical ‘yeah, he is the lead guy whom the girl will end up with’ way. His grandma tries to fix him for a arranged marriage. He decided to hire tomboy to act as his boyfriend so that the women would be turned off. It worked that in the end, grandma decided to get him to work at this coffee shop which tomboy always frequent. It is his job to help improve it.

What’s a Korean drama without the other guy and girl? Hehe The other guy used to be lovers with other girl. Other girl dumped him for another and now comes crawling back to him. The other guy obviously still loves her but pride and revenge made him want to get back at the girl and he did. He had sex with her then tells her to leave. When she did leave, he whines about it. When the girl didn’t appear before him anymore, he goes to her and whines why is she still working as if nothing while he can’t. For me, the other guy just lost major points that made me think no wonder she dumped you. Did he expect her to just cry and be sad when her painting exhibit is due soon? I do know what he meant but like, he isn’t the only thing in her life. Do you want her back or not? Anyway, that pretty much happened in the first two episodes. From the preview, tomboy will get herself hired in that coffee shop. The drama is funny especially the part where they are pretending to be lovers. The first part somewhat reminds me of My Girl as the lead pays the girl to act someone else. The lead guy here -coffee guy- is like a merge of the two leads in My Girl = the one who paid and is set to inherit the company and the one being a playboy. The boring parts here or rather corny ones is the exaggeration of some parts, the other guy kept on daydreaming about the other girl and some gross things – do you have to show someone coming out of the bathroom, kids want to poop. Also, there is that fanservice of the lead guy. ^^;; Is it just to drag this story up to episode 16? Some are really unnecessary scenes. Nevertheless, it is quite entertaining. Hopefully, I won’t be bored with it halfway through. Hehe

Quote of the day:
We tell lies when we are afraid ... afraid of what we don't know, afraid of what others will think, afraid of what will be found out about us. But every time we tell a lie, the thing that we fear grows stronger. ~ Tad Williams

The One [Chapter 30]
Wednesday, July 18, 2007 @ 02:24 p.m.

Freaking out when Lou Shang says he has a proposal, Fei Hong tells Lou Shang to quit joking around. Lou Shang says he isn’t joking around. Lou Shang tells her to think about it, he doesn’t need money, he is quite ‘useable’ and she doesn’t have to worry about getting any sickness so if she needs to relieve her stress why don’t she just call him and he will go to her. Fei Hong says isn’t that a trick to get her to fall for him. Lou Shang says it doesn’t matter to him if she is moved by him or not. Lou Shang dares her by asking if she is afraid. Fei Hong denies that she is afraid, she just feels it is weird. Fei Hong asks how could he sell himself like that when he is W magazine editor, doesn’t he have any pride. Lou Shang says as long as he can be with Fei Hong, he is already happy so he isn’t selling himself, he is just way too happy. Lou Shang smiles at her and says, just to be with her, pride is no big deal. Fei Hong looks dismayed as she thought, I think I just got myself a ‘wolfdog’.

Lele is sitting at the park. She always goes here after school for during school break, she haven’t came there. She haven’t forgotten about the ‘happy bum’ whom she unexpectedly met there nor the blue sky that they both watched together. From her memories, that blue sky is what she remember as the most beautiful sky in Taipei. Is ‘happy bum’ still happy being alone? If I meet him again, I would like to ask him. Being alone, doesn’t it matter, can you still be happy? In her apartment, Xiao Qui enters the room and calls out to her. She happily asks Lele if she wants to know what she has found. While taking something from her bag, Xiao Qui exclaims that for the past 2 months, she isn’t in the mood to read magazines but today, she went and look around and found this. She opens her magazine to Lele. It is a small article on Eros. Xiao Qui excitedly say that it is about the older twin and it is really super hard to find an article on him since he avoids media. While looking at the article, Lele thought that it turned out that Eros was in Japan to direct a Jorvicious inaugural for a new product. Even if the picture is just small, strangely, looking at his face, I feel warmness in my heart. At the lower right side is a small picture about Fan Tong [the cat] being held by the model. Fan Tong looks so cute and it looks quite satisfied. I know that Fan Tong has find its owner by then. Darling Fan Tong, from today on, you will definitely have happiness.

Lele then goes training under a model coach who teaches model to walk on a ramp. It is in preparation for commercials, magazine shoots, etc. To be famous is her own goal. At home, Lele puts some ointment on the blisters on her feet. Xiao Qui asks if Lele is putting too much effort on it. Lele says this is nothing for everyone is the same [injured] as her. Xiao Qui says that she is already famous so why does she have to go back to basic model training. Lele says that she doesn’t have any basic training and yet lots of jobs are already coming in, there are still many things that she doesn’t know. It is pitiful if she has such few experiences so she has to do her best. Xiao Qui smiles and says that Lele has changed. She tells Lele before, she just do anything and says ‘good work’ and not really putting all out but now, it feels like Lele has become more passionate and strong. Xiao Qui pats her head and says, nice.

Lele goes to her aunt’s office and asks if she called her. Fei Hong notices that Lele is wearing high heels. Note says she is practicing to walk on high heels. Fei Hong asks if she still remembers that there are many famous companies after Lele. She has picked through all of them and the work ranges from television commercials to fashion shows. She tells Lele to look at them. She puts a thick bundled of papers on the table. Lele looks at the papers as Fei Hong tells her that for a certain fashion show, she has to join the audition just like what she did for Jorvicious. Lele says she knows already and is there anything else. Fei Hong says to be famous in Taiwan, she has to appear in W magazine cover but that has been delayed a bit. She explains that Lou Shang doesn’t put someone on the cover of W just because that person is famous. Lele asks, so. Fei Hong says that Lou Shang will be in that fashion show and he might think otherwise when he sees Lele in action. Fei Hong tells her that she must pass in that audition to get in the fashion show so that she might get to be on W magazine. Fei Hong asks if she can do that. Lele sarcastically says compared to the military-like training, how hard could that be, relax, I won’t disappoint you. Lele quickly turns around as Fei Hong looks hurt. On her way out, Lele suddenly lose balance as she wobbles. This made Fei Hong worried but Lele just walk out. Fei Hong looks away from the door, looking sad.

At a bar, Fei Hong is crying as she calls on the mobile phone to Lou Shang. She asks where is he and for him, come there quick. Lou Shang says he is on his way, please don’t be so loud. Fei Hong shouts if he isn’t there by one minute, she won’t care about him anymore. Lou Shang tells her to keep still and he will be there soon. Seeing him, Fei Hong happily shouts you really obediently came, my small wolfdog. Fei Hong is already drunk as Lou Shang is surprised by this greeting. Fei Hong embraces him and asks what is it, small wolfdog. Lou Shang tells her that they are of the same age, why does she has to become like that when she is alone. To Lou Shang’s surprise, Fei Hong asks if he won’t regret being her ‘sacrifice’. Fei Hong starts to cry and says is she really despicable, in the end, she did brought it upon herself. Fei Hong says when Lele looks at her with those cold eyes, she really feels sad. Fei Hong tries to show to Lou Shang using her fingers as to how small she is to Lele. Lou Shang misunderstands and says there is no one that small, is she talking about some cockroach or an ant. Fei Hong punches him in the face and shouts that she is talking about Lele. Lou Shang apologizes and says he knows. Lou Shang wipes his forehead and thought that Fei Hong is really drunk. Fei Hong goes on to cry that she used to carry Lele and being called ‘small auntie’ but now, Lele doesn’t call her that anymore. Lele looks at her as if she is just some stranger. When Lele lost her balance, she really wants to asks what is the matter but she lost her guts for she fears Lele might answer, it doesn’t concern you. Fei Hong cries that just thinking of it makes her heart ache.

Lou Shang is quite tricky and I’m sure he expect that with his proposal, Fei Hong will wall in love with him. It is interesting how professional he is. I mean, even if he knows Lele, he doesn’t put her on W magazine cover just because he knows her and she is famous. No favoritism what so ever. So, Fei Hong thought that Lele has to get into this fashion show to prove to Lou Shang that Lele has what it takes to be on the cover. Lele has become more professional as she would even get basic training for modeling even if she is already famous. She is really perfecting her modeling skills. It is amusing that she still clueless why she feels that way upon seeing a picture of Eros. Of course, Fei Hong is still in anguish over Lele’s cold treatment of her.

Quote of the day:
No great achievement is possible without persistent work. ~ Bertrand Russell

Skip Beat! [Chapter 108]
Tuesday, July 17, 2007 @ 01:04 p.m.

Ren and Yashiro looks stunned at boyish Kyouko. Ren wonders what this is about, knowing that it is obviously Kyouko. Kyouko drops her homemade weapon and bows to them, greeting them, how are you. The two become more puzzled. Kyouko acts as if she can’t remember Ren’s name then calls out to him as Mr. Ren. Pointing to Ren, she asks if he is Ren Tsuruga. Yashiro is confused as to why is Kyouko asking if he is Ren and what’s with the mister. Kyouko asks if he is the one playing Katsuki in Dark Moon. She tells him that she has seen the video that the Boss has brought over. This remark perks up Ren as he realizes something. Yashiro is confused who is the Boss she is referring to. He only knows of Boss Coffee [is the brand name of canned and plastic bottled coffee and coffee-flavored beverages sold by Suntory in Japan]. Kyouko says to Ren that his acting is a bit good in the drama. Yashiro can’t take it anymore as he asks if she is Kyouko, what is this about, this is all so weird that it makes him feel weird. He asks that it isn’t the same as Kyouko’s style or how she speaks, did someone cast some magic on her, did he do something to make her angry. Yashiro asks, what is this about, Kyouko. Kyouko looks at him and asks, Kyoto-chan/Little Kyoto. Yashiro says that is different. Note says that Kyoko-Kyoto sounds a bit the same. Yashiro freaks out that Kyouko is acting strange, even if they look the same, it seems as if she is a different person, could it be Kyouko’s twin. Ren stays silent as if thinking of something.

Just then, someone calls out, hey, what are you guys doing there. Yashiro quickly turns around to see who it was. Ren didn’t even turn as he already knew who it was. It is Kura. Yashiro starts to freak out while whispering to Ren that they have met with Kura, wasn’t it ‘the end’ if they met with Kura, what should they do, Kura is approaching. Ren tries to calm Yashiro down. Kura is already walking downstairs to where they are. Yashiro whispers to Ren saying that Ren is too calm about this, how about wavering a bit, Ren is also Katsuki. Yashiro thought does this guy even care about Kura. Ren then looks up to Kura. Kura looks back and then smiles. Kura says, Kuon, it’s almost time to go home. Ren again seems to realize something but he didn’t react. Yashiro gets confused as he wonders whom Kura is talking to. Kyouko calls out, papa. Yashiro confused as Ren looks somewhat surprised. Kyouko goes to Kura and pulls him. Pointing to Ren, Kyouko says it is Ren of Dark Moon. Kura flicks Kyouko’s forehead and says it is rude to point at others. Kyouko apologizes. Kura pats her head saying that it is good if she realizes this. Kyouko just stands there blushing. [as if it is the first time she is being patted on the head]. Yashiro freaks out all over this. Yashiro keep on looking back and forth at Ren and Kura who has approached Ren. Kura offers a handshake as he greets Ren, good to meet you, I’m Kura [+ surname that I can’t find kanji-romanji]. Ren looks a bit surprised by this, then he smiles back. Ren offers his hand and also greets him a good to meet you, I’m Ren Tsuruga. Kyouko then listens in their conversation.

Kura says he has seen Dark Moon. Ren thanks him. Kura says it seems to be going smoothly..according to Boss..ah no, the president, from what he heard. Yashiro realizes that the Boss that Kyouko was referring to is the president, Lory. Kura says that it is different from the Katsuki he has acted before, yet it doesn’t deviate from Katsuki’s personality. Kura praises Ren for handling the role of Katsuki quite well and honestly, acting in the same role, it has made him a bit jealous. Kyouko is really happy to hear it but she calms herself saying that right now, she is Kuon so she shouldn’t be too happy. Ren smiles a bit. Ren says he is deeply honored but he is still far away from beating Kura’s record. Kura says that Ren will really pass over him quickly. Kura smiles and wink at him saying it will happen soon. Ren just looks at him while Yashiro is astounded that Kura acts like a foreigner. Kura calls out Kuon again as Ren perks up again. Kura tells Kyouko that they will go home now. Kyouko happily goes to Kura then remembers her homemade weapons. She returns to pick it up and looks up at Ren. She calls out to Ren and apologizes. She explains that Ren’s acting is really good compared to her father’s and that she is a bit frustrated about that so she bullies him into saying that Ren’s acting is a bit good but honestly, it is great. Kyouko stands up and says there is no choice, she will also recognize Ren because her father recognizes his true capability. Kyouko slightly smiles at him and Ren seems to again realize something. Looking at them from above the stairs, Kura also seems to realize something. A short flashback of Kura and young Kuon/Ren, sitting on the sofa. While sitting on Kura’s lap, Kuon/Ren looks up to him and says, dad really likes his acting job, I also want to do that kind of work. Because – I want to try it.

In the car, Kyouko looks surprised as Kura says the task/issue is finished. Kura says he also has to meet with Katou and others tonight so Kyouko is free to do whatever she wants. Kyouko is confused and asks what about the role training, is it really over. Kura asks didn’t she pretty much finished the role already that she improve on the role while playing/doing it. Kura thought that Kyouko’s way of acting is the type that she has to do the role and then improve on it rather than just kept on thinking how to do it. Kyouko asks if she really did the role well. Kyouko thought that midway, her image of Corn on how he would act didn’t matter anymore. Kura asks didn’t she notice it. Kura thought that Kyouko’s way of acting among acting, is the most difficult to deal with and is also the most terrifying type. [she becomes the character more while playing it] Kura asks her why did she introduce him to Ren for didn’t he try to get her to bring those leftovers to Ren and he might say things that would hurt Ren. Kyouko is shock as Kura asks did she actually forgot about that.

Embarrassed, Kyouko explains that it is because Kura/sensei is really a kind person, she knows this now, and that she can’t possibly imagine him saying mean things to Ren. And since sensei knew that she is the one who played Mio, she thought that sensei has seen Dark Moon. So, if Kuon is currently 10 years old and is really with sensei now, she is sure that Kuon would have watched Dark Moon with sensei. He/Kuon would have said that acting is pretty good. So meeting with Ren who did the same role, he would impulsively introduce him to his father. Embarrassed, Kyouko says this is what she thought as Kuon. Kura laughs and sadly smiles a bit. He says, he also think that way [Kuon will do that]. Meanwhile, Ren is calling to someone on his mobile phone. A flashback of Yashiro asking Ren what is happening with Kyouko – calling Kura her father, calling herself ‘I’ like a boy, and she is called Kuon by Kura. While walking, Ren looks really serious as if thinking of something. End flashback. The one Ren is calling answered and apologizes for the wait. He asked why Ren is calling that he even called on his mobile phone. In a serious mood, Ren says, president, I would like to go and talk to you tonight.

And, so the father-son actually met. I wonder what Ren is realizing all throughout that scene as from the obvious that Kyouko is acting ‘him’. I mean why he became serious and wants to talk with the president. I somewhat doubt that he would want to talk with Kura alone for what would that benefit him. He already knew what is up with Kyouko-Kura. I’m thinking maybe it has something to do with Kura knowing that he is doing Dark Moon. Maybe he would asks Lory if Lory took him in because he is Kura’s son and Lory informs Kura what he is doing. Anyway, Ren did some good work in acting as if they aren’t related at all. I’m curious though why Ren’s face when he is young is still isn’t shown when we already know he is blond/light colored hair. The only thing that is hidden most of the time is his eyes so I think Ren’s eye color is also different. I do wonder if he is currently wearing colored contact lens. I guess that is another reason why Kyouko won’t equate Ren to Corn. From the flashback, it seems Ren started to act because his father is an actor. This made me think that my theory is correct, that what made Ren runaway is because of that director who fired him. Lory trying to dissuade Ren from acting in Dark Moon before could also because he is afraid that Ren might get fired since he doesn’t know how to do show love in love scenes and what happened before might happen again. Well, this is the last will see of Kyouko as Kuon. I wonder how the two will react later on when they see each other or what Kyouko will explain to Yashiro. Hehe There is an omake in BW about this – that in the end scene, Ren is calling the police to report that Kura is out with a young [minor] girl. Hehe I imagine it as Ren asking Lory if his father has gone crazy – missing his son that he asks Kyouko to pretend as his son. I'm amused that Ren is taller than his father.

Quote of the day:
The recognition and support of those around you is nurturing. ~ Rosemarie Rossetti

Weekly Jump Updates: Bleach, One Piece, Naruto, D. Gray-man and Gintama
Monday, July 16, 2007 @ 02:08 p.m.

In Bleach [c. 283], Grimmjow taunts Ichigo of getting beaten up when he blocks the attacks at Inoue and Neru. The two fights again as Inoue tries to keep herself from getting scared of Ichigo. She can’t see herself in those eyes that looked at her. She then remembers her brother who had become a hollow. The two are still fighting but Ichigo started getting himself beaten up as his mask starts to crack. Neru starts to worry for Ichigo and shouts for Ichigo to do his best. She then asks Inoue to cheer for Ichigo, too, and Inoue shouldn’t be afraid of Ichigo. Neru starts to tell Inoue that Ichigo is a kind person and he attacked Ulquiorra when Ulquiorra mentioned her. Neru asks why isn’t Inoue cheering for Ichigo when Ichigo uses this power and gets beaten up just for Inoue. Inoue starts to reflect on herself that she went there to protect everyone. Even though she didn’t expect to be saved, she was happy when they came. But after seeing Ichigo with a hollow mask, it has made her think that he didn’t came there to save her though the she knows that it is true [he did came to save her]. Ichigo then gets thrown to the pillar where Inoue and Neru stands. His mask is already half-destroyed. Grimmjow says it seems that it is over. From above, Inoue shouts for Ichigo not to die. Ichigo looks surprised as he turns to look at her. Inoue says it is okay if he doesn’t win, it is okay if he didn’t do his best. Inoue is already in tears as she tells him that’s enough, don’t get hurt/injured anymore. Grimmjow tries to attack Ichigo but Ichigo caught his zanpaku. Ichigo apologizes to Grimmjow and says it seems I can’t take another beating. Ichigo then cuts him. Wow, the power of Inoue’s words. If she didn’t say that with Neru urging, I guess it will be another defeat for Ichigo. It is amazing how self-less Ichigo and Inoue are. They don’t care if they get hurt as long as the others don’t get hurt. So, they need people to tell them to quit hurting themselves too much for it makes others become ‘worry/sad’ about them.

Luffy asks Moria what’s up with the tremors in One Piece [c. 463]. Moria tells him that it is ‘Luffy’s fault so what does Luffy want. Luffy tells him to return everybody’s shadow. Moria asks what if he doesn’t want to. Luffy says he is going to send him flying. Moria says even if he sent him flying or killed him, it won’t return the shadows back to their master. Luffy has to gather all the zombies and Moria has to give the order for their shadows to return to their masters. Luffy says then that is easy. Moria gloats that Luffy may think it is easy but with Luffy’s strength, he can’t even hit him much less touch him. Luffy tries to hit him but ends up being blocked by Moria’s shadow. Moria tells Luffy that he used to want to do things by himself but then, later on, he decided to get other people to do it and make him Pirate King. The shadow attacks Luffy as Luffy shouts that he will become pirate king. Moria says that his zombie also said the same thing. Moria explains that it is because of the owner’s consciousness but later on, with time, the zombie memories will dissipate and it will be truly be under his control. Luffy says he is going to get his shadow back. Luffy tries to simultaneously punch the shadow. Moria orders it to become bats. The shadow separates into small balls and turned into bats that bites Luffy. Moria laughs that it won’t suck blood but then, how could Luffy even thought of sending him flying. Luffy hits the bats to the wall and it forms into a shadow again. Luffy gets angry and jumps down the railing. Moria looks down and wonders if Luffy has retreated. To his surprise, Luffy is beneath him. Luffy send Moria flying by punching Moria from below the railing. Moria gets angry as he complains it hurts. Luffy smiles and says, see, who says I can’t touch you.

Meanwhile, Sanji ‘genki-ly’ goes to the zombie who is holding Nami. He kicks the zombie away and catches Nami. He then goes gaga on how beautiful Nami is. Absalom is in front of him asking what is he doing there. Then, he also goes gaga over Nami. They kept on raving how pretty Nami is as the zombies wonder what’s up with the two. Absalom snaps out of it and attacks Sanji with his palm attack. Carrying Nami, Sanji appears from behind. He is really angry that Absalom attacks even when he is with Nami. Absalom realizes that it is his shadow that is in the new zombie dog-penguin. Sanji puts Nami on one of the benches as Absalom underestimates Sanji as an underling [since he doesn’t have a bounty]. He is angry since he is busy trying to stop Odz and kiss his bride so Sanji should go away. Sanji kicks him in the face and sends him flying. Absalom and the zombies were shock. Absalom tries to fire more attacks from his palms but Sanji jumps on to his arms and gives him another kick in the face. Sanji kept on kicking as he is fired up asking -- if he is the one licked Robin in Sunny, the one who peeked at Nami, why isn’t Nami waking up, what did he do to her. Fired up, he shouts don’t try to say wedding in front of me, else I make you into a meat patty. Absalom tries to become invincible. Sanji tosses the salt around. Absalom complains what is that taste. Sanji gives him another kicking spree. He sends Absalom flying to the altar. Absalom curses that Sanji doesn’t even have a bounty. Sanji says Absalom says he is angry but he is no where angry than Absalom, he is so angry that his body is explode. The zombies shout that Sanji’s body is indeed exploding. Sanji says unfortunately, the two of them has an event to attend to. Not to sure about that last line since it doesn’t seem to make sense, maybe Sanji is saying that he isn’t finished with Absalom yet. Well, it is amusing to have a big boss so lazy that he gets his shadow to fight him. It is now explained why Odz is acting like Luffy. I’m amused that he has ‘vampire-like’ powers – shadow into bats. So, Hogback is like Dr. Frankenstein. I’m also amused at how Luffy manage to hit Moria. Hehe Sanji is really a wild card in the group. It helps that his picture in the bounty is really crappy that they didn’t know how powerful he really is. They also mistakenly stuck his shadow into a weak zombie. Will Absalom gets to fight back or it is over for him? It does seem to easy.

Sasuke tells Deidara that he has another option if his theory on Deidara’s bombs were wrong in Naruto [c. 362]. Deidara tries to stand up but ends up falling back to the ground. Sasuke asks where Itachi is. Deidara tries to attack Sasuke with snake bombs but Sasuke just defused them with his electricity. Sasuke drops on the ground, too. Deidara gloats that he will win since Sasuke has also used up his strength. Sasuke looks unfazed even with all of Deidara’s threats. Deidara gets angry that Sasuke and his brother looks down on him and his art. Sasuke says he doesn’t care about that, just tell him where Itachi is. Sasuke’s eyes then return to normal. Then, Deidara removes his shirt and reveals a sewed scar with tattoo around it on his chest. Deidara gets his hand mouth to remove the stitches and puts in a large amount of clay in that scar which turned out to be a mouth. Deidara shouts that he is going to self-destruct. He blahs that it is art at its finest – beauty then vanish in an instant. Deidara apologize to Tobi in his thoughts. Sasuke tries to run away as Deidara shouts that it is no use for this bomb reaches up to 10 kilometers. Black veins covers Deidara and forms into a small ball with a face then it disintegrates. It create a huge explosion in the shape of a human. Actually, it look like a form I saw in the ending credits of Fantastic Children. ^^;; Well, it reminds me of it. I’m betting that Sasuke is going to use that second option he mentioned to Deidara. Probably Orochimaru’s powers. Ya, Deidara doesn’t seem to be the type to talk and tell Sasuke where Itachi is. I kind of betting that it will be Tobi, if he survives. I think he will else what is his use in the series. ^^; I think Sasuke has still a long way to go before defeating Itachi. He looks really beaten up already against Deidara, what more if it is against Itachi? ^^;; If Naruto and others didn’t see that, they must be blind.

Rabi barely blocks Tiki’s attack that he quickly escapes above in D. Gray-man [c. 125]. He tries to tell the others to grab on him but Tiki has already arrived there. Rabi is no match for Tiki as Tiki injures Rabi. While Tiki takes time to lick Rabi’s blood on his hand, Allen tries to attack but ends up being thrashed. It is already obvious that Tiki is too powerful for them. After that, Rabi and Allen falls down with the rubble. Tiki is trying to strangle Rinali as Chaoji looks on helplessly. The tentacles tighten on Rinali’s neck. Rinali gasps as a lady statue gets destroyed. The whole place then crumbles. Mm..I don’t think Rinali will die yet. The arc is pretty much over and Noah wins. ^^; Rinali did end up being useless unless something happens after that strangle part. Interestingly, Tiki isn’t interested in Chaoji, I guess he is only after exorcists with innocence though technically, Rinali’s isn’t functioning. They would need another power-up to defeat this kind of powered-up Noah.

Two guys were talking about Takasugi’s attack on Shinsengumi in Gintama [c. 173]. They discussed that a spy must have been placed in Shinsengumi and caused confusion within the group though in the end, both group suffered some losses. They tell each other to be careful for a spy might also be placed within their group. Someone comes from behind them and asks if they can join their group. It is Yamazaki. Yamazaki narrates that he is currently doing his dangerous job by trying to infiltrate into enemy headquarters. It is only he among the Shinsengumi who can do this job. As he is lead by the two men, he never thought that the enemy base is within Akiba [Akihabara] Neo. He is then introduced to Katsura. Katsura interviews Yamazaki at a café as he asks for an id/’personal history book’ Yamazaki says he forgot to bring it. He was lectured by Katsura about always bringing it as this is a company and other etiquette lessons aside from telling him it is to determine if he is a spy or not. Then, girls in maid costumes greets Katsura and asks if he wants to play. Yamazaki thought he doesn’t want to be taught by Katsura who is being interviewed/tested while in a maid café. Katsura plays jakenpon [scissors-rock-paper game] with the maid and loses. Katsura says it is more important to have the heart in becoming a rebel so he orders a man to lead Yamazaki elsewhere. Yamazaki is happy that he somehow manages to infiltrate the group.

To his shock, he is lead to a room wherein they have a written exam to become a rebel. Yamazaki can’t believe that this even needed in such a rebel organization. He never thought that they have to even study to become a rebel as others are busy cramming. His seatmate is an irritating guy who claims that he didn’t study for the test. Katsura enters and tells everyone that the test is starting so they should close their books. They are to write their answer on the tablet [it is like the ones in Jeopardy game show] they are given three minutes to answer each question. Behind them is the moderator [Elizabeth] who will make sure no one is cheating. The first question is blank Shinsengumi. I didn’t get what Yamazaki answered since it isn’t translated but the answer is ‘dirt’, ‘stupid’, etc, such answers were accepted. Yamazaki can’t believe such a stupid answer. His seatmate says he almost got it. Yamazaki thought his answer is way far from the answer. Next is blank general. The answer is Matsudaira Ken [an actor known for his feudal samurai roles] Yamazaki can’t believe that the answer is in kanji form and how can others know that answer, is something wrong with their brains. [It seems that the answer tend to be not in kanji in typical Japanese tests when the question is already in kanji] Next is Jacky Chan blank - answer is in kanji. Yamazaki thought it is hard. [Jackie Chan is a famous HK action-comedy actor] The answer is nose. Yamazaki can’t believe that Katsura now is focusing on Jacky Chan’s nose. Katsura then says it is time for an essay question. There are 10 Shinsengumi and 6 rebels facing each other for a fight. Shinsengumi has killed 3 rebels while the rebels has killed 2 Shinsengumi. Two Shinsengumi were hurt that 6 more reinforcements came to help. Two more rebels were killed. Question: How many nose does Jacky have? Yamazaki thought what the- that doesn’t even have anything to do with the essay. Katsura gives them a longer time to think since it is a hard question. Yamazaki thought that Jacky is always fighting and maybe he could have his nose chopped off. Yamazaki bangs his head on the table as the answer is 1 and he wrote 0. Yamazaki thought that he had think too much over that question. Know-it-all says that he almost got it when he answered 134. Yamazaki thought what do you mean almost got it.

Next question is a garbled-hieroglyphics text and they should translate it. The picture below is a dying older soldier showing the message to a young soldier helping him. Yamazaki thought that the paper is actually an photograph and imagines it is a scene of the two scolding each other ‘useless’. The answer is Jacky’s nose is really big. Yamazaki thought what – the dying man is actually showing him a picture of Jacky. His seatmate pats him saying even if it is wrong, it is still touching. Yamazaki thought don’t look at other people’s answers. Katsura says and now the last question. Yamazaki thought it will be just another Jacky question. The last question, write in Kamchatka [a place in Russia] language about the rebel movement. Everyone begins to whine that it is hard. Yamazaki is already depressed as he failed to infiltrate into the enemy and he will be scolded by Hijitaka. Yamazaki just starts to doodle – poop, a bird, a love umbrella, etc. Katsura says number 11 [Yamazaki] has answered. Yamazaki can’t believe it that he manages to get an answer and he has succeeded in the infiltration. Katsura says that now, they are going to read 11’s answer. Katsura translates it, ‘I am a spy who came here to investigate so that all you rebels would be beaten and send straight to hell’. Yamazaki’s elation is short-lived as he thought, eh and starts to nervously sweat. Haha, this just goes to show how weird Katsura’s brain works. It will be really hard for Yamazaki to get into his group and his mission ends up being exposed. I wonder if this ends here or there will be a continuation.

Quote of the day: Words that arise spontaneously out of the state of presence are charged with spiritual power: the power to awaken. All that is required of you is to be in a state of attentive listening. Don't just listen with the head. Listen with your entire body, so to speak. Feel the aliveness, the animating presence, throughout the body as you listen. ~ Eckhart Tolle

Parfait Tic [Chapter 148-149] -Fin-
Saturday, July 14, 2007 @ 06:04 p.m.

To put away these memories of Daiya..these treasures..can I do it? At school, Daiya coughs as he stands in front of his classmates. He says it is his last day of school. With his arms up, he shouts, Love Everybody. Everyone laughs at him. The others say it would be more romantic to say, I love everybody. Someone asks when Daiya will be leaving. Still smiling, Daiya says it is a secret for if they knew, they will come and that it will make him cry. Fuuko seems to be staring elsewhere while Ichi glances at her. Smile..and say bye-bye to him. At tennis practice, Daiya says goodbye to others. Akiou looks at him. Fuuko looks away while holding her racket. Akiou says is it okay like this. Frustrated, Fuuko asks but what should she do. Akiou says she is childish. Fuuko is embarrassed-shock by that. Akiou says but no matter what happen from now, to ‘like’ is to ‘like’, isn’t it okay. Fuuko looks surprised. Akiou says that person told her to just decide on what you want to do now and then see what is the outcome. Akiou looks away embarrassed. Fuuko realizes what she is saying [that the two has reconciled]. But I have already seen it. I even measured the distance in the map. It is just too far.

Soon, the moving van has come to pick up the boys’ stuff. The boys ring the bell and gives Fuuko’s parents a thank you gift. Daiya says he is really happy while there, uncle [Fuuko’s father – uncle is just for respect not really blood related], aunt’s [Fuuko’s mother] food is delicious, sister [Fuuko’s sister] has become like a family. They were touched. Ichi says, same here, too. Daiya is shock as they laugh. Daiya then says, Fuu-chan, goodbye. Daiya smiles at her while Fuuko is expressionless. Ichi looks away. Flustered, Fuuko smiles and finally says, Bye-bye. Fuuko goes to her room and says that she is going to arrange her things to change the mood since it is still early in the morning. Her mother looks at her worriedly. In the car, Ichi asks Daiya just saying goodbye, isn’t that too stupid. Ichi says I can continue on watching that person even though that person finds it troublesome. Daiya looks at Ichi in surprise. I have said it before, I feel that I’m troublesome for Daiya. A flashback of Daiya saying that he has started to hate himself. Daiya’s brightness might fade away. I have decided to stay silent and just wait for the next day. Fuuko is cleaning her room and has become a bit dirty. Then, she sees something sparkling at the book shelf. She picks it up and it is the missing heart charm.

She starts crying and quickly open her organizer to find Koto’s mobile number. Fuuko asks where is Daiya. Koto says didn’t she know, Daiya is going to China today. Fuuko quickly runs while holding the heart charm. Daiya’s name would become just another four letter character. Birthday will be something that will be forgotten. Face and image, will just some faraway form tomorrow. I don’t want that. Fuuko tries to call a cab but ends up soaking wet when the water puddle gets splashed on her as a car passes by. Holding the heart, Fuuko thought, I won’t want it to be like this. At the train station, Daiya and others [Koto and Grandparents included] are waiting. Someone tells Daiya to come back during ghost/lantern festival. [I wonder if it is Ichi joking] Daiya says, Ichi..I had just used you as an alibi, but no matter if it is you or it is me, as well as Fuuko, no matter who gets hurt by whom, don’t ever give up the thing you like. Daiya smiles at Ichi and Ichi looks surprised. Fuuko is rushing through the crowd. Sorry, Daiya. I’m not gentle, giving problems to Daiya, and even made Daiya’s smile fade. Just then, the train arrives. The announcement apologizes for the delay. Fuuko sees Daiya and shouts, hey, Daiya! Daiya and Ichi turns around to find Fuuko standing there. But... Ichi is about to say that she is really dirty. Fuuko tells Ichi, I like Daiya. This surprises Ichi. Grandparents and Koto look at the scene. Daiya looks at her as Fuuko opens her palm. On her palm, is the heart charm. She shouts, I like Daiya!

They all just stand there. Another announcement says that the train is leaving. Fuuko is surprised and is about to say, Daiya.. Ichi looks away and pushes Fuuko to Daiya. This surprises the two. Fuuko thought, what. Ichi boards the train and tosses his coat to Fuuko. Ichi says why don’t you two stay in this small country, and be lovey-dovey [literally say sweet nothings to each other]. Fuuko tries to call him but the train has already started moving. Fuuko chases the train and shouts, hey, wait. Daiya runs after her saying that is dangerous. The train has left and the two were shock. No way. Grandpa is amused, Grandma is surprised and Koto is freaking out. Daiya tells Fuuko that they will chase by riding another train. Sitting in his seat, Ichi looks around and realizes that he doesn’t have a luggage. He puts out both his hands [meaning he has nothing] but to his surprise, someone puts gives him a small meal. The conductor must have thought he wanted to order food. Ichi then just looks out the window.

Ichi, what is he thinking when he board the train? Fuuko and Daiya is already riding on another train. Fuuko asks if they can chase him. Daiya says that person doesn’t have anything, generally saying, he doesn’t have any money nor passport. Fuuko asks what is he thinking. The two become silent as if they already knew. Daiya smiles and plays Fuuko’s hair bangs. He asks her if she is worried. Daiya lets go of her hair and says, he [Ichi] isn’t an outsider, do not ignore that person’s existence, this is something I clearly know. Daiya then touches her cheek with the back of his hand. Daiya says, but if that person cannot even look at her, he will feel like a fool. Fuuko starts crying. Daiya says, sorry for making you cry but this way, the feelings are true. Daiya smiles and says, I like you, Fuuko. Fuuko is flustered as she kept on crying. Daiya laughs and says if he [Ichi] is an outsider then they don’t have to be far apart. Fuuko says, it isn’t far apart/away. Daiya then says, yes. He then kisses her. The road has now come to the present. After the kiss, the two starts to laugh. Now..

They have arrived at a stop as Fuuko wonders for how long has they been standing. The door has closed when Fuuko sees Ichi walking at the stop. She slams her face on the glass door and shouts, hey. Daiya is surprised. They finally meet with Ichi. Ichi says what is it, really, he can’t go abroad without anything. The two suppress their laugh. A bit irk/embarrassed, Ichi turns around and says he is going ahead as he has to get his stuff first. The two calls out to Ichi. Ichi looks back to see them smiling at him. Daiya says he will go. Ichi tries to punch him as Daiya blocks it. Ichi shouts for him to quit joking around, acting as if nothing, I’m going to steal her. Daiya smiles and says, go ahead and try. Fuuko puts on Ichi’s coat on him and smiles. She also says, go ahead and try. [The mangaka made a mistake there – a scene had Ichi’s coat on before Fuuko gives it back to him =P ] When we meet, I don’t know how I’m going to return the coat to you but unconsciously, I can smile like this. Ichi then starts to argue as the two were laughing. Yesterday has build up to become today. Yesterday and Today will build up as Tomorrow.

Misora comes in Fuuko’s room crying that the serialization has ended and does her school has any new material that she can use for her stories. Fuuko looks at her and says, what. It has been two years since Daiya left. She is now in first year of a beauty styling school. Fuuko gets an email on her mobile phone. It is Akiou who send her a picture of a baby through ultrasound. Fuuko is surprised as Akiou says it is already three months old. Fuuko emails back, hope your baby will become healthy, so happy, today is also my happiest day. Many things happen everyday, so when Daiya returns, I will tell him lots of things. I have thought of this many times. Waiting..to meet him again. At the parlor, Kagechika explains that she came in a good time, long time no see, president. Gloomily, Ichi asks Fuuko what is Kagechika doing there. Fuuko says that Kagechika is her chatmate. Kagechika shouts that she has heard that Daiya will be coming back that day so she thought that Ichi will also be there. Ichi shouts for her to quit calling him president. Kagechika explains that it is because Ichi isn’t in her college so for her, time has stopped when Ichi is still president. Ichi grabs Kagechika’s hair bun and toss it away, shouting, hey you, until when do you plan on wearing that. Kagechika chases after it and puts it back on, saying in her heart, Fuuko is still a ‘rival’. Ichi says that’s enough, using his time, she did have a bit of contribution. Kagechika is really happy until Ichi says, but for today, go away. Kagechika shouts that she will come back. Ichi shouts don’t come back. There are days that are clear. There are days that are cloudy. There are days when it keeps on raining non-stop. Everyday is not the same. Fuuko turns around and sees, Daiya smiling at her, waving with his bag. Fuuko smiles back. The last scene is of Fuuko cutting Daiya’s hair while Ichi is being playful with the water spray. But, I can see the dazzling sky, from now on, I will also live a richly colorful life. The End.

And so, that ends the series. It made me wonder for a while, ah, why did you two break up again. I have an impression that it is that they are making each other change and it doesn’t seem to be for the better. Daiya lost his smile and become easily jealous that he would fight with Ichi. Fuuko ends up into a crying mess. I guess Fuuko thought it is a premonition to go back to Daiya when she found the heart charm. She decided to be true to her feelings and stop worrying about the future and how they affect each other. While Daiya, ah, was he just waiting for Fuuko to affirm that she likes him? Maybe since it is obvious that Ichi has finally gave up that he thinks it is now okay for them to be together. It is a bit cliché to get the couple to realize how they love each other when the other one is leaving. Hehe Well, Ichi did what he did before with Iori. He stopped this from dragging on. Hopefully, the girl Ichi comes to like, the third one, he won’t be the one ‘giving up’ again and ya, hope it isn’t Kagechika. So, overall, the series is okay as it is the story of a girl confused with two cousins – going back and forth with them. ^^; There is good humor and romance. It became a bit of a drag when Fuuko got dumped by Daiya the second time because of the confused feelings. It seems the two are more emotional while Ichi is more intellectual. I think a few people has stopped reading this when it came to that. Actually, I feel as if it is just to drag the story longer. ^^; I feel the reason for the break-up is quite shallow that Ichi pushing Fuuko to Daiya has more impact than their kiss/reconciliation. ^^;;

Quote of the day:
We can endure trials in this life because of the joys in the life to come. ~ Our Daily Bread.

Parfait Tic [Chapter 147]
Friday, July 13, 2007 @ 12:55 p.m.

Everyone is holding a glass of drink. Fuuko says, And, today, Mr. Sun is also... Daiya thought, Mr. Sun. Ichi interrupts and says a toast for Daiya’s future. Fuuko is surprised. Everyone then shouts cheers. The others are lining up in front of the owner, waiting for their food to be served. The owner is still cooking. Ichi asks Fuuko what does she plan to say about Mr. Sun is also. Fuuko looks a bit embarrassed and says it is, ‘Mr. Sun is also shining brightly on us, so let us toast for a dazzling tomorrow, cheers’. Daiya laughs at it and says it is quite good, really Fuu-chan’s style. Fuuko blushes and smiles. She asks Daiya, really? This smiling face, calling me ‘Fuu-chan’ also this warmness, it used to be a treasure within my grasp. Ichi says, let me say, you fools, won’t it be pitiful if it won’t be understood, that is why I said it clearly, basically what you want to say is, Today is a good day, isn’t it. Fuuko then says, that’s right, that is it, I forgot. Daiya kept on laughing. Embarrassed, Fuuko tells Daiya not to laugh too loud. Now, it has become a treasure hidden in my heart.

Some girls called out to Daiya. Three girls are in cosplay wearing – nurse, catgirl and military/uniform. Daiya is star struck as he kept on staring at them. The girls say that this is a ‘super special service’. Fuuko is freaking out as she thought don’t wear those clothes and go near Daiya, even B section are here. The girls asks Daiya if they knew who they are. Daiya started reciting who’s who in what outfit. To Fuuko’s surprise, a girl [catgirl] says that Daiya said that among many of them, there is only one. The other two girls lament about this and asks Daiya if this is true. Fuuko leaves the room and goes inside the kitchen. She starts pulling up her shirt and make her skirt shorter. Ichi hits her on the head and asks, stupid, what kind of service are you planning to do. Fuuko shouts, but..but..I also..I also don’t know..I feel that I should do my best. Ichi says you are really stupid. Fuuko shouts quit saying stupid, stupid. She stops when she sees Ichi looking serious. Ichi shouts, you are wrong about your way of ‘doing your best’, why don’t you wake up, saying these words, don’t make me say it. Ichi quickly leaves. Fuuko thinks about what he just said and wonders what that is about.

Ichi then holds out a bag and says it is now for auction to start and the proceeds will go to buying another farewell gift for Daiya. Daiya perks up and thought, gift. The others whisper that it is what was thought about the other day. To Daiya’s surprise, Ichi pulls out his [Daiya] shirt. Daiya shouts hey that’s mine. The others laugh. Ichi says starting bid is 10 yen. Daiya shouts that it is too cheap. A guy says that it seems to be still wearable, he will bid 30 yen. Military girl shouts one thousand yen. Catgirl shouts, wait, two thousand yen. Fuuko and others look stunned. Nurse girl shouts five thousand yen. Fuuko hits the cup with the tin spatula [that the auction end]. Ichi says the winning bid is five thousand yen. Daiya is bewildered for it actually just cost 289 yen. The nurse girl is clasping her hands and cries as she won the bid. Fuuko thought that ‘Daiya’s fans’ seems to have relaxed already and they are already graduating. The girls are taking turns in touching Daiya’s t-shirt. Fuuko thought it seems as if ‘the girls who like Daiya’ has accepted this fact [that he is leaving]. Ichi then pulls out a knitted cap as the next bidding item. Fuuko realizes that it is the one she gave Daiya. Flustered, Fuuko shouts that it cannot be bid out. Ichi asks why, is it because it is really filthy. Fuuko protests that it isn’t because it is dirty, but it still can’t be bid out. Daiya takes the cap from Ichi and says that’s enough, this is my important thing. Ichi just looks at him. Daiya says it is true. The others wonder what it is about. Ichi says so next will be..Daiya’s PE uniform. The three fangirls shout 30,000 yen.

Then, more people came in who used to be Daiya’s former classmates. Chiso is even there, greeting Fuuko. They gave Daiya a bouquet. Soon, everyone is enjoying themselves. Chiso and Mako with their respective boyfriends. Daiya’s fangirls having fun. Daiya smiling. At the back of the crowd, Fuuko looks sad. Elsewhere, in a room, Isocchi shouts to Akiou that they should get married. Akiou is shock. Isocchi says that after Akiou graduates, they will get married so for now, she should be his girlfriend. Akiou laughs that he is like a kid. Isocchi gets embarrassed by it. Isocchi says even if he is childish, even if he becomes a grandpa, he still loves Akiou grandma. Akiou asks, grandma, me? Isocchi says yes. Akiou says, me, too, I have prepared my heart, grandpa. The two then kiss each other. Back at the party, they bring out the autograph board and a gift. They give it to Daiya. Standing beside Fuuko, Ichi says everyone wrote in it. Everyone waits as Daiya reads. Slight blushing, Daiya says, I love everyone, thanks. Everyone starts to look sad and teary-eyed. The guys approach him saying stupid Daiya, do your best in China. The others approach him saying they don’t want him to leave. It has been fun being with him. From behind the crowd, Fuuko is crying.

And the farewell party has ended. It is capped with another Fuuko crying scene. ^^;; I do wonder if Ichi deliberately got the cap as a bid to see how the two would react. I think that Daiya took time in reading the board just to find what Fuuko wrote and what he said to everyone could be just for her. I guess the others underestimate the power of fangirls that they are willing to bid that much for a piece of cloth of a crush. But then, I have read stories of girls buying a tissue used by a Chinese celebrity so this isn’t really that shocking. Anyway, Isocchi-Akiou love problem is finally ‘solved’. ^_^ Time to solve the ‘love triangle’ ^_^

Quote of the day:
We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. ~ Thornton Wilder.

Parfait Tic [Chapter 146]
Thursday, July 12, 2007 @ 08:16 a.m.

It turned out the ‘thanks’ that Fuuko wrote on the autograph board is actually ‘like’. The first character can be thanks or like in Japanese but Fuuko eventually wrote it as thanks. She changed it so that Daiya won’t notice her feelings but, saying ‘thanks’ is also true to her feelings. Students are paying to Fuuko for their share for the farewell gift. Fuuko thought that everything is going smoothly. Much to Ichi’s dismay, the other students also wanted to come with them while they shop for Daiya’s gift. Someone then calls out that Daiya is coming. They quickly act as if they are doing nothing. Daiya is puzzled as to what’s up. While smiling as if talking to someone, Fuuko thought that Daiya will go soon and won’t be here anymore. Daiya also puts on a smile. Ichi is watching the two.

While walking around, Fuuko points out that they buy an electronic dictionary. Ichi says it is way over budget. Fuuko insists that it is the thought that counts like do your best there, we are here supporting you – this kind of thought. Ichi looks at her and says, if that is how it is, how about something more useful. Fuuko is about to protest when their other classmates are amused at a dictionary saying, ‘Ni hao’ [How are you in Chinese] Then, it says ‘Wo Ai Ni’. They wonder what it means. Ichi tells them it means I love you. The girls blushed over it and pesters Ichi to say it again. While walking home, Fuuko suggests to the others how about having an auction of Daiya’s things. Everyone thinks it is a marvelous idea. Ichi asks how does she plan to get Daiya’s stuff. Fuuko winks at Ichi and says Ichi can do it. Ichi angrily says it is too troublesome. Fuuko shouts that he is part of the executive committee. She asks him to just get three things of Daiya’s stuff that isn’t too noticeable. Ichi still complains it is too troublesome. Still walking, Ichi notices Iori pregnant, walking with her boyfriend/husband at the other side of the street. Iori is smiling. Fuuko smiles and asks Ichi if he wants pizza, pizza, I have said it. Fuuko is puzzled why Ichi is smiling at her. Ichi walks past her and says, it is you. Confused, Fuuko shouts what does he meant by that.

Time, days gradually passes by, gradually passes by. Scene of school life – tennis practice, in the classroom, seeing a girl trying to confess to Daiya. ‘Goodbye’ is now in sight. At school, it is dismissal time and Akiou spots Isocchi waiting for him. Isocchi says that he has something to tell her. Akiou tries to walk away saying while she doesn’t. Isocchi calls out her name and grabs her hand. This surprises Akiou. Isocchi repeats Akiou’s name as Isocchi is pulling Akiou. Akiou is in tears [of joy?]. Elsewhere, Daiya is shouting at Ichi as to where are they going. Ichi tells him not to ask and just follow. Daiya shouts that he will be staying there for only a few more days so why does he have to be alone with Ichi. Ichi turns around and asks, so with whom does he want to be alone with. Daiya didn’t answer. Ichi turns around again and says he also doesn’t want to be alone with him so let’s go. Daiya gets angry and shouts, you, hey. Ichi asks does he know what that person’s feelings were while planning this thing. Daiya looks surprised.

At the restaurant, the students are wondering what’s Daiya reaction will be. The owner comments that it is fun to have many youngsters there but at the same time it is a bit sad [since Daiya is leaving]. Then, they hear someone come in. Daiya is surprised to see everyone there, smiling at him. There is a huge poster saying, Farewell Daiya. Daiya asks what is this about. They say that the guest of honor has arrive. They lead him to his seat. A girl says Daiya looks surprised. Another girl congratulates the executive committee for a job well done. Daiya turns around and sees that they are Fuuko and Ichi. Fuuko smiles and flashes a V-sign. Daiya remembers what Ichi said earlier. Daiya thanks Fuuko. Fuuko smiles as she blushes. It is only when one is parting, that the word ‘thank you’ is such a lonely word.

So, the farewell party is starting. I think it is pretty obvious to Ichi that the two like each other but then, I guess he is in a bit of denial for he likes Fuuko. Seeing Aori, he also hoped that the one beside him will be Fuuko. Well, Akiou-Isocchi relationship is also heading for a happy ending.

Quote of the day:
Saying thank you is more than good manners. It is good spirituality. ~ Alfred Painter.

The One [Chapter 29]
Wednesday, July 11, 2007 @ 03:29 p.m.

Lele angrily looks at her aunt who has just reminded her of the contract that she has signed before. Still driving, her aunt tells her not to stare at her and she knew what Lele is thinking. Her aunt admits that it is her fault for not telling Lele the truth about what had happened to Grandma. It was because she doesn’t want Lele to worry. Even when they went to the hospital, the doctor still could not determine how serious Grandma’s condition. Then, Grandma woke up and asked for a phone to talk with Lele. Grandma also want Lele not to worry and to continue finishing her work. Later on, her condition turned for the worse, that everyone didn’t know what will happen next. Lele asks why didn’t she call her up for if she knew this, she would have come back earlier to at least see Grandma one last time. Her aunt asks, what, to let you just leave your last day of work unfinished. Her aunt coldly says Grandma can’t be saved in time so what use is it for her to see Grandma one last time, would it make a difference. Her aunt says that she will not let Lele squander this opportunity for her to become successful. Her aunt tells her that she is right to think that she is being practical, Lele is her tool to achieve her own dream. Since the death of her sister, she has waiting for that opportunity when Lele grew up. Sister is such a waste for she has a potential of going international but she died. It is lucky for her that it turned out that Lele also has this potential. Lele angrily looks at her aunt and insists that she is quitting. Her aunt says I also told you that I won’t let you. Lele asks how about if she breaks the contract. Her aunt says that is easy, she just have to pay her compensation for the other works that she have not finished. She will not count the offers coming right now but the deals she has already made, Lele has to pay for compensation and since Lele is just a student, how does she plan to pay for it.

Xiao Qui is shock when she learned this. She cannot believe that Fei Hong actually said that. Lele gloomily says she also cannot believe it. Xiao Qui asks what should she do. Lele says she only has this house left by her grandma but she has no plans on selling the house where she grew up. The money left by her parents aren’t enough and currently, she is still a student. With that huge amount of compensation, she has no hope of paying it while working in just one job. Xiao Qui asks does she plan on becoming a bar girl. Lele falls down her seat and shouts of course not, you fool. Later on, Lele goes to her aunt’s office. She slams their contract on her aunt’s table. She tells her aunt that she has read the contract carefully and their contract is for 5 years. Lele asks if she sell herself to her aunt for 5 years, and even if she didn’t become an international model, will she get her independence after that time. Her aunt says of course. Lele says that is okay, during this time, she will help her aunt pay for the compensation and she will use her own hard earned money to sever the contract. Her aunt says of course that is how it is, within 5 years, even if Lele didn’t become famous internationally, she is satisfied if she becomes famous locally. If Lele can’t bear five years, then she should work hard and use the money she earned to compensate for if she isn’t even able to do this, she might be even force to let Lele go. Lele tells her to relax, in order for that day to come, that she won’t be dependent on her aunt and to sever ties with her, she will climb up [become famous] even if it kills her. Lele calls her ‘little aunt’ and angrily left.

Alone in her office, Fei Hong drinks a glass of wine. She remembers Lele’s last words before leaving the office. Lou Shang calls out to her saying that she has pressured Lele to take that important step but hearing Lele say those words, doesn’t she feel hurt. Fei Hong denies being hurt and didn’t he notice Lele’s life has become ‘lively’, Lele is her sister’s daughter, so Lele has inherited their spunkiness so she knows how to best handle with Lele. Lou Shang asks isn’t she afraid that Lele might not ever forgive her. Fei Hong looks away as she faces the window. She says that it is her fault regarding what happened with Grandma so she isn’t expecting forgiveness. It doesn’t matter to her as long as Lele agrees to continue on with modeling. Lou Shang says but nevertheless she really loves Lele and everyone knows that so when her sister passed away, she took it upon her self to guide Lele and to be fondly called, Little Aunt. Lou Shang asks does Fei Hong want to cry, come and I’ll embrace you. Fei Hong looks at him and says I have enough of you, Lou-ta ma [ta ma = big mommy]. Lou Shang is shock as it is the name he used to use during his nth years of being gay. Fei Hong berates Lou Shang for always causing her pain and grief, when does he start calling her ‘darling’ it makes her sick, he is always like a brat, always coming out and giving her grief. Fei Hong notices that she is crying.

Lou Shang says he never thought that she is quite timid. Fei Hong wipes her tears and asks what does he know about her. Lou Shang smiles and says they were ‘sisters’ during high school so who else will know her that well. Fei Hong wonders when did Lou Shang stopped being ‘girly’. She shouts for him not to bring up the past for the present situation. Lou Shang touches Fei Hong’s face and says who would ever compare to her, she coldly treats people and says venomous words but never honestly shred tears. To Fei Hong’s shock, Lou Shang says that he likes her like that. Fei Hong warns him that she is really angry today and she wants to vent on some guy so if he doesn’t want to be used, then he should go away. Lou Shang smiles and says he doesn’t want her to go to other men, if she wants to vent on someone, why not let him become her ‘sacrifice’. Later on, Fei Hong finds herself on bed with Lou Shang as she wonders how did this happen. Lou Shang asks if she now believes that he has become a real man. Embarrassed, Fei Hong says so what, he shouldn’t think too much for he is just her ‘sacrifice’. Lou Shang says of course he knows this, they are already adults, he knows the ‘rules of the game’. Fei Hong shouts it is good that he knows this. Lou Shang asks but why is she so nervous. Fei Hong denies she is. Lou Shang asks so why is she moving away. Fei Hong explains that it is because it feels weird for they used to be like ‘sisters’. Lou Shang smiles and thought that he doesn’t feel weird at all. Smiling, Lou Shang says he has a proposal, would she like to hear it. Fei Hong nervously repeats, proposal?

So, Lele’s aunt decided to play villain but then, she is just concerned about Lele’s future. It is indeed a waste for Lele to throw away this chance when she has talent for modeling and she actually enjoyed it until her Grandma’s death. Her aunt is just pretending that it is all for her dream to create an international model. So, Lele now has to work hard to earn lots of money to pay off the compensation of severing her contract so that she doesn’t have to work for her aunt for 5 years. It is actually a bit of a trap for by then, she might actually become a professional model and she won’t be that interested to let go of it anymore especially if it help her earn lots of money which will secure her future. Then, part of this is focusing on Lou Shang taking the opportunity to woo and comfort Fei Hong who is obviously in pain over the ‘role’ she has to play in Lele’s life.

Quote of the day:
Sometimes it's the smallest decisions that can change your life forever. ~ Keri Russell

Weekly Jump Updates: One Piece, Gintama, D. Gray-man, Bleach and Naruto
Monday, July 9, 2007 @ 07:27 p.m.

Four ghosts pass through Usopp as Perona is sure that will have an affect on Usopp in One Piece [c. 462]. To their shock, it has made the ghosts depressed and even affected Perona herself that she starts to apologize to Kumancy. Usopp proudly says there is no one who can defeat him in ‘pessimism’. Still running, Sanji separates from Zoro and Franky as he goes to find Nami. At the basement, Brook is defeated again by Ryuma. Ryuma decides to use a special attack on him. It is the attack which Brook holds with pride since he learned it from his kingdom while he was part of a certain surprise attack group. Ryuma warns him this is his last chance. Brook stands up and prepares for another fight. They walk pass each other and Brook is defeated by his own attack. Brook apologizes to Laboon and thought he has no reason to live, 50 years in the sea, it has been quite lonely. Ryuma is about to cut Brook’s afro hair when tremors made Ryuma fall and lose his grip. Ryuma wonders what it is about. Zoro and Franky also wonder about the tremors as they finally arrive in the basement. Franky quickly goes to Brook asking if he is alright. Brook asks why are they there. Ryuma tries to attack them but Zoro blocks Ryuma’s attack. Zoro smiles and asks if he is the samurai who has cut down a dragon. Brook is surprised that Zoro manages to push Ryuma back.

Franky asks if Brook will allow his pride to be wounded, let Zoro handle Ryuma to get his shadow back. Brook is so pleased and kept on asking Zoro to get it back. Zoro angrily snaps at him to shut up. Brook is shock by that rebuke that he ‘falls dead’ as Franky shouts for him not to die. Zoro says that Ryuma’s katana looks good. Ryuma proudly says it is one of the famous 21 swords. Zoro is very pleased to hear that for he thought that being a famous samurai, he would have a equally famous katana. With a evil smile, Zoro says he would want to have that katana for himself. Ryuma is shock by what Zoro just said. At the chapel, Absalom fails to kiss the sleeping Nami because of the tremors. He learns that it is because Thriller Bark is caught in a strange current because Odz has been messing around the ship. Odz is pulling some chains. Absalom orders his zombies to stop Odz but they were no match for Odz. Odz just beats everyone to a pulp as he angrily shouts who is trying to hinder his adventure. Absalom is shock to learn what has just happened to his zombies. As he wonders what to do with Odz, Sanji has just arrived there and finds Nami. Absalom is surprised to see that it is one of the Strawhats. This chapter is fun. Usopp affecting the ghosts and Zoro wants Ryuma’s katana are really funny. I was wrong about Nami waking up. I wonder if Absalom puts some love potion on her and who ever kisses her to wake her up, she would fall for him ala Sleeping Beauty. Since Sanji never gets his way, I really doubt he will be the one kissing her. Hehe Well, at least he gets to play ‘knight to save the princess’ ^_^ There is nothing on Luffy and others here.

Gin whines that it is still raining that day in Gintama [c. 172]. If this continues, it will become a dripping wet day and they will become gloomy. Lying down on the sofa, Kagura says if it kept on dripping wet, her brain will soon grow mushrooms and they are already quite big. Gin also mentions about mushrooms growing between his legs if it kept on raining. He also says that there is no work and they are in no mood to go outdoors. There is no money and Sadaharu stinks, my feet stinks and also Shinpachi. Just then, Shinpachi enters with some laundry and asks, what does he meant by that and please don’t compare me with your stinky feet. Shinpachi asks why are they being so gloomy, just bear with it for some time and soon, Tsuyu [East Asian rainy season]. Gin goes to complain why it is called Tsuyu that just reading it makes one feel dripping wet. While hanging some clothes, Shinpachi asks what name would he want to call it then. Gin says how about Happy Birthday, Tsuyu. Shinpachi says it is too long. Kagura suggests, Girl’s day. Shinpachi says it might be mistaken for the other holiday. Gin says how about Independence Day, Tsuyu will be called that. This prompt Shinpachi to say that Independence Day will soon be over so why don’t they become more energetic. The two goes to complain about Tsuyu and what is that Indepen that Shinpachi is saying. Soon, they end up arguing. The next scene is the three are walking around town. Gin complains why are they walking out in the rain. Shinpachi says it has become really gloomy at the house so they should walk around a bit. While walking, Kagura notices some girls with flowery design umbrellas. She looks at them then looks at her own. Then, Gin and Shinpachi notice that Kagura folded her umbrella and starts to walk away.

The two asks what is wrong, she might catch a cold. Kagura says her umbrella is broken and she will just walk like that for girls like to walk in the rain. Gin comments maybe it is her head that is broken. Gin says not to mind her for brats like rains, storms and typhoons. Looking at the girls at the side, Shinpachi says he just remembered that they need some detergent. In front of a store, Kagura is sitting down while looking at the girls passing by with flowery design umbrellas. Kagura looks jealous and starts picking her nose. The store door opens. Gin comes out, picking his nose. Kagura wipes her hand on Gin’s kimono while Gin wipes his hand on Kagura’s head. Kagura asks him to buy her sukonbu [sour Japanese snack made of kelp]. Gin says get it yourself, scoundrel brat. Gin tells her to look at what he is holding. Kagura blushes that it is a flowery design umbrella. Kagura acts shy about accepting it and offers hers to him. Gin says who told you I’m going to give it to you. Gin opens the umbrella and says, he is going to use it and she can keep hers. Shinpachi meets with Gin saying that it’s not bad that Gin is using it, it gives a feeling of ‘coolness’. Gin says isn’t it great, I bought it only for 100 yen. Kagura gets angry as they were teasing her. She shouts that it looks weird on a guy, so how about they exchange umbrellas. Gin says there is no need, [didn’t she said] girls like walking in the rain.

Kagura walks around town with Sadaharu with her new umbrella. She smiles looking in the window of a flower shop with the umbrella. She happily chats with Otae with the umbrella. She does a balancing pose on top of a bridge with her umbrella. Shinpachi notes that it is raining again, and Kagura always goes out when it is raining, she is really a girl. Drinking tea, Gin says brats like rains, storms and typhoons. Shinpachi wonders if it is okay for the weather seems bad. The next day, Shinpachi notes that Kagura went out again, she really is a girl. Gin repeats that brats like rain, storms and typhoons. Shinpachi asks if it is okay since he heard that there is a signal number 7 typhoon coming. Kagura still smiles as her umbrella is wrecked by the typhoon – talking a walk with Sadaharu, looking at the flower shop window, and visiting Otae whose door has just flown away. Kagura has arrived home and she is nervous when Shinpachi calls out her. Kagura quickly hides her umbrella behind her and asks what is it. Shinpachi asks if she is okay for the weather wasn’t good that day and they were worried. Shinpachi says that she is dripping wet so she should towel herself dry. Still hiding the umbrella behind her, Kagura quickly goes to her room and says she will. She sadly looks at her torn up umbrella. Then, she looks for rags from her cabinet and starts sewing to patch up the umbrella. With her patch up umbrella, she happily skips around town when she sees two children with patched up clothes, standing at the side, waiting for the rain to stop.

She looks at them, then tries to pretend she didn’t see them. She just walks past them. After a few moments, she returns and drops the umbrella in front of them and runs off. She sees Gin and Shinpachi smiling at her. Gin calls out saying that the umbrella she has is nice. Shinpachi says how about letting them in, too since they can’t open their umbrella. Kagura looks at them and smiles. She opens the broken umbrella as Gin and Shinpachi, holding their own umbrella, goes under it. Gin says they should not let Independence Day gets them depress, that is why he doesn’t like it. Kagura says, no, Independence Day is something that cannot be thrown away. This chapter shows the ‘family-ness’ off the trio. Teasing each other and yet, there for each other. What Kagura did is really something for it is quite hard to let go of something one really likes and give it to someone who really needs it. Hehe, and rainy season is starting in our country.

Allen draws out his ‘Noah killer’ sword again in D. Gray-man [c. 124] as he faces Tiki. There are some tentacle-like things coming out of Tiki’s body when Allen notices that Tiki’s blood has become black. Tiki starts to scream as a cross sign appears on the back of his right hand. The tentacles surround Tiki and his appearance transforms into like a dark/black knight. Allen tries to attack him but Tiki is much faster than he is. Allen ends up being trashed around by Tiki. Allen is no match for him as Allen wonders if this is still the strength of a human. Tiki throws Allen to the wall as Allen wonders what had just happened to Tiki that changed him like that. When Tiki is about to hit Allen again, Rabi rescues him. Rabi is surprised to see what has happened to Tiki. He tells Allen to hold on and what has just happened. Allen asks about the door. Rabi looks surprised and said that they can’t get out anymore – the door is destroyed. Tiki starts laughing then goes to attack Allen and Rabi. I guess Noahs can evolve, too. Tiki’s form really looks cool. I wonder how they will fight against this Tiki. Maybe we get to see the other ‘seals’ of Rabi.

Together with her female arrancar, the woman espada that has half of her face covered by her half-blouse watches over Ichigo and Grimmjow’s battle in Bleach [c. 282]. She observes that it doesn’t seem like to be a human vs espada but more of a espada vs espada fight. Grimmjow notes that Ichigo can keep his mask on much longer than before and if it breaks, it is the end. Ichigo counters that Grimmjow should also keep his release form else, it is over. The two fight on and it seems to be an equal fight. No one seems to be winning nor losing. Inoue looks at them and wonders if that person is really Ichigo. Just then, Grimmjow attacks. Ichigo evades then realizes that it will hit Inoue. Ichigo quickly uses his back to block the attacks before they hit Inoue. She looks a bit scared when she saw Ichigo’s face. Ichigo’s eyes then soften as he goes back to fight Grimmjow. Inoue just watches him go back as she looks a bit nervous. Nothing much to say here but I guess seeing Inoue’s frighten reaction, brought back Ichigo to his human side. Also, I’m sure Inoue is somewhat convinced that it is still Ichigo since he did block Grimmjow’s attack even if she already has her shield on.

Deidara is sure that he has finished of Sasuke in Naruto [c. 361] To his surprise, Sasuke is behind him and punched him down. The two then had a long talk about how Sasuke realizes the weak point of Deidara’s attack. I’m not really interested in the technical details of that so this chapter ends with Sasuke ‘defeating’ Deidara’s special attack. Again, large explosions and no one has arrived there yet. Didn’t the doggies smell the gun powder? Sasuke looks tired, maybe he will finish off Deidara or rather force him to tell where Itachi is before Deidara does something else, Tobi arrives or the others arrive. Thinking of their power as ‘illusion’, it made me thought that maybe Itachi will be one of the last bosses in Naruto because in Bleach, the most powerful villain’s, Aizen, power is also illusion.

Quote of the day:
If there is any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not deter or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again. ~ William Penn

Papillon -Hana to Chou- [Chapter 11]
Friday, July 6, 2007 @ 05:10 p.m.

Title is Going Steady?! Chou remembers the hug in the ferris wheel as she asks if she really can’t be with Kyuu. Kyuu saying I lost to you, but I’m a guidance counselor, it’s alright, being like this is okay. Chou is blushing as she is in front of the door of their house. Did he mean is it is okay, he said yes, we are already going steady!? Sensei [teacher] is my boyfriend!? Chou squeals in glee when Kana appears from behind asking what’s up. Chou is shock to see Kana behind her. Chou opens the door and says that it is nothing, so where have Kana been. Trying to gloat, Kana says that she is with Ryuusei. Chou looks surprised and says, is that so, then proceeds into the house. Chou shouts that she is back as her mother welcomes her back and if Kana has also came home. Kana is surprised by Chou’s reaction. Their mother asks Chou how were the kids. Chou gives a gift to her mother as thanks for helping with the kids and says that everything went smoothly. The mother asks what is it. Kana looks at them, very displeased over what happened. That night, Chou is still ecstatic over what happened as she can still remember Kyuu’s warmth when he hugged her. Chou thought that this is great, in all her life, this great thing has happened. Should I meet with him tomorrow, I’m so nervous --

The next day, Chou nervously stands outside the guidance counselor office. She deep breathes, checks her smile on the mirror and opens the door. She is shock to see that someone else [a light haired guy with glasses] is there. The guy greets him as Chou also greets him. Chou wonders who he is as the guy invites her in and asks what would she like to talk about or what is troubling her. Chou thought, no way, he is also a guidance counselor so the guidance counselor isn’t only one person, so maybe it isn’t Ryuu’s schedule of work today. She asks where is Kyuu. The guy’s face looked dark and whines, Kyuu, that’s enough, you also came here because of him, so troublesome, that guy and students are always flirting, no wonder girls kept on chasing him, if it is like this, those who really need counseling won’t dare come. Chou is surprised by this outburst as she apologizes. The guy shouted for her to let it go, for a guidance counselor cannot have a love relationship with a student, even if you ‘entangle/entrap’ him, it is useless. Chou asks, huh. Outside the window, it started to become cloudy that it will rain soon.

Chou nervously asks but, what if the feelings are mutual, and so started going steady. The guy looks at her sideways and says, it isn’t possible, as a guidance counselor, falling for a guidance counselor, it is doomed to become failed case. Chou puzzled, asks, fail? The guy smirks and says that the guidance counselor cannot counsel well, and in counseling, there are many cases of falling for the guidance counselor so if they had gone steady, does she know what would happen. In counseling a problem, one should use specialized counseling ways/method in counseling but if one uses love as a method, as a method for counseling, then, he won’t be able to save you anymore. Chou is shock to hear this as the thunder cracks. This made Chou very depressed that she walked home in the rain. If I carefully think about it, being like this, is right. Because at that time [wanting to jump off the building], doing that kind of thing. I can’t really be with sensei? Remembering when she confessed, sensei does look a bit troubled, if he rejected her, is he worried that she might want to commit suicide. Chou ends up in bed as her mother looks at the thermometer and her temperature is 38.5C. Her mother says she has a fever, it is because she came home soaking wet. She will call the school to inform that Chou would be absent, and will accompany Chou to the doctor. Chou remembers what the other guidance counselor said about when using love as a method in counseling, he won’t be able to save her. Chou looks depressed as she thought, Kyuu-sensei, is this true?

Walking to school, some girls greet Kyuu a good morning as he greets back. He sees ‘Chou’ but she just passed him by. Kyuu turns around and calls, hey, Sanagi [pupa/chrysalis] –chan. [Ah, this has been Kyuu’s nickname for Chou since chapter 5. ^^;] He kept calling and finally hits her on the head with a rolled up book. Kyuu asks what is that attitude, when she was the one who made the first move to confess. ‘Chou’ exclaims, what. Kyuu asks why is her skirt so short, that her panties can be seen, so Sanagi-chan should properly become a butterfly so that she can flutter around flowers. He hits ‘Chou’ again on the head with the rolled up book. ‘Chou’ shouts that it hurts. ‘Chou’ shouts, what Sanagi-chan, do no call me some strange nickname as you want. Kyuu looks surprise and thought for a while. He then whispers to ‘Chou’, sorry about that, Chou. ‘Chou’ looks surprised as Kyuu smiles and left. ‘Chou’ turns out to be Kana as her friends call out to her. One of her friends asks what did Kana do to her hair. Kana says that she slept late that she didn’t have time to set her hair. The other says that she actually looks like Chou and just by looking, it will be really hard to distinguish who’s who unless they are in casual clothes. Kana is surprised by this as she looks at Kyuu’s direction. She asks them who is that guy. They were surprised that she didn’t know Kyuu-chan. [I guess –chan is their fond nickname for him ^^;] Kana says that he does look somewhat familiar and is always with a group of girls. They tell her that Kyuu is very popular that a group of their sempai [upper classmates] were chasing after him. Kana asks what does he do. They say he is a guidance counselor and since Kana doesn’t have any problems, there will be no need for her to go see/know him. Kana become serious as if thinking of something.

At home, Chou is still sick in bed, worrying about causing any problems to Kyuu. She falls asleep, not knowing what her ‘evil’ twin is going to do. In the woman’s room, Kana fixes her hair like Chou’s and smiles in front of the mirror. She goes to the guidance counselor office and calls out Kyuu-chan. [Note, Chou tends to call him, sensei] Kyuu is surprised and says, why call him so sweetly. Kana pretending to be Chou asks if he is leaving. Kyuu says he is. Kana then holds on to him and says, that great, why don’t they go out. Kyuu says he can’t for his report is overdue. Kana whines that she wants a drink so treat her out. Kyuu wearily looks at Kana and treats her to a can of juice drink. Kana exclaims why only a juice drink. Kyuu says if she doesn’t want it, throw it away. Kyuu drinks his, as Kana looks at him. Kana asks if they are really going steady. Kyuu says you doubt. Kana looks surprised and asks what does Kyuu feel when she confessed. Kyuu says of course he is shock for she used to like Ryuusei and he never thought that she would like him. Kana says but still, he agreed to go steady, why. Kyuu slightly smiles and says even if he is shock, he is actually happy, as a guidance counselor, it is a very joyous thing, for while looking at students, he also change, for seeing her really optimistic, it has strengthen him a bit, that it has actually made him, really delighted/happy. Kana looks surprised by this and goes to think of something. [From how her eyes look, she seems to think of a different tactic.]

Kyuu tells her that if she finished drinking, she should go home. Kana whines that she doesn’t want to go home, she is hungry and she wants Kyuu to treat her out. Kyuu shouts why is he the one always treating out. Kyuu wearily says that he is really busy. Kana goes puppy eyes and asks, doesn’t he like her anymore, it is true that at home there is food, but maybe he just doesn’t want to use his free time to accompany her. Kyuu finally relents as Kana looks happy. She tells him that she is going to be the one who treat him, how about it, let’s go. Kyuu points to a restaurant and asks how about there. Kana says she doesn’t want to since it isn’t romantic there. Kyuu asks how about that place. Kana says they should go there some other time. Kyuu asks how about this place. Kana says that she doesn’t want to eat Japanese cuisine. After going through a lot of restaurants for an hour, Kyuu is exasperated tells her to choose one already. Kana says which one is good, how about the first place that they went to. Kyuu is getting angry. Finally, in that restaurant, Kana orders a lot of Western-type dishes. Kana exclaims, they all look so good. She tests each one and says, so this is what it taste like. Kyuu tells her ordering a lot, can she finish all of them. But Kana doesn’t listen to him as she kept on testing what the dishes taste like. Kana opens the menu and wonders what dessert should she eat. Kyuu exclaims that she haven’t even finished the food on the table, only tasting a bite of each dish. Kana says but she is full already. Kyuu tells her not to waste food, doesn’t she know of the hard work of the chef. Angrily, Kyuu proceeds to eat everything. Kana laughs while looking away from Kyuu and thought he is like an ‘old man’.

As they are going to pay, Kana looks at her bag as if looking for something. Kyuu asks what is the matter. Kana says she forgot her wallet at home. Kyuu is shock as the cashier says their bill is 23,000 yen [roughly at today’s rate that will be US$ 187] Kyuu gloomily pays for it via credit card. Kana happily says thanks for your treat. Outside, Kana happily skips around and asks what should they do next, what place will be nice to have a date, how about going on a cliff/mountain to watch the night scenery. Kana turns around and says how about get some wind, where is his car parked. Kyuu angrily shouts that he doesn’t have a car. Kana whines, what, you don’t have a driver’s license, a car is a must have in dating. Kyuu grabs her head and says at Kana’s ear, didn’t I tell you that I’m not free today. He then flicks her forehead. He starts to walk away and says he is going. Kana shouts what, he is going to just leave her there, isn’t he going to walk her home. Kyuu tells her to just call herself a cab. Kana runs after him and says, didn’t I told you I have left my purse. Kyuu tells her to pay for it when she arrives home. Kana is a bit angry that she can’t have her way that she shouts, what the, this is quite disappointing. Acting like herself, she says that she shout that Kyuu-chan will be considerate, I never thought that you can be quite cold, maybe being with Ryuusei is much better. Kyuu looks back at her as Kana just looks at him. Kyuu turns around and kept on walking. Kana is now smiling.

The next day, Chou looks up the sky and thought that the weather is nice today. Chou slaps her face to stop herself from thinking of gloomy thoughts, sensei has already agreed to go steady with me, this is already a fact. So having him as a boyfriend/lover, I should feel happy then later on, should help sensei slowly like me, too. Outside the guidance office, she finds Kyuu opening the door. She happily greets him, sensei, good morning. Kyuu just looks at her and says good morning. He enters the room as Chou is puzzled as she feels that Kyuu is a bit weird. She asks, sensei, are you free after school today. Putting his bag on the sofa, Kyuu says that he has something to tell her. Kyuu briefly looks at her then looks away. He then says, I’m sorry. Chou is surprised by this, as she only utters, huh. Without looking at her, Kyuu then says, I still..don’t have a ‘way/method’ to be with you.

Evil twin has struck again. So, it is confirmed, Kana is out to ruin Chou’s happiness. She must have want Chou to stay unhappy and insecure of herself that she will be always be at the center of attraction. She gloats to Chou over being on a date with Ryuusei, since that has no effect and then she meets Kyuu, she realizes that he is the cause of Chou’s ‘don’t care about her date with Ryuusei’. First, she goes for trying to flirt him but since it seems to her that Kyuu genuinely ‘likes’ Chou, she changed tactic and created a date from hell. She practically did everything to turn a guy off. She is really pretty much like Sae of Peach girl. So, did she succeed? I’m still thinking about that. I’m hoping that Kyuu realize that ‘Chou’ is really Kana base on her actions starting from how she got angry when he called her by the nickname he gave Chou. Would guidance counselor be informed when a student is absent? I somewhat doubt that. I’m really hoping that Kyuu is just playing around with Kana to know more about her as Chou did mentioned her twin to him and he have seen Kana before. But still, it is one expensive date that he finally can’t keep on letting her take advantage of him. I’m hoping that he stopped playing nice as he knows that this isn’t really Chou, especially threatening to go back to Ryuusei, it is so unlike Chou. So, what could have made Kyuu want to call it quits. I’m hoping that it has something to do with work like that other guy saying that Kyuu isn’t concentrating on counseling as many girls kept on ‘stalking’ him. Obviously, I don’t want Kana to have convinced Kyuu that ‘Chou’ is really that kind of girl who is so high maintenance that it isn’t worth his time. Anyway, whatever reason, Kyuu is indeed calling the ‘going steady’ off unless that actually meant he can’t be the one counseling her, ^^; Chou is the one ending as loser here. She still needs to be more confident as she quickly took to heart what the other counselor said and she easily gets depressed. She also needs to be more alert as Kana is out to ‘take away/get rid off’ any guys that Chou likes. Mm, knowing that Chou isn’t interested in Ryuusei anymore, would Kana ‘discard’ him now?

Quote of the day:
The more bitter the desert experience, the sweeter the water of the oasis ~ Our Daily Bread.

The One [Chapter 28]
Thursday, July 5, 2007 @ 06:33 p.m.

Lele, this name is given by my grandma. The meaning is she hope that I will forever, have a happy heart and have this wondrous feeing. [In Chinese, ‘le’ means happy/glad] As I grew up, Grandma taught me to use this kind of heart to look out in the world. So, even if I don’t have parents, I don’t feel any lacking [I’m satisfied]. A small scene of grandma with young Lele in a park and pointing to the rainbow. My grandma is my ‘sky’ but now that sky is gone. Lele is looking out in the sky in the condo’s balcony and thought, can I be.. Just then, carrying groceries, Xiao Qui calls out to her, Lele, what are you looking at, it is cold outside, come in quickly. Xiao Qui tries to get her inside by pulling her arm saying about Lele’s cold if it gets worse. Lele just says, the sky is ugly, Taipei’s sky has become overcast, it is really ugly. Lele thought, like the sky that no longer has Grandma. Xiao Qui become worried. She calls Fei Hong, crying. Xiao Qui says she is really worried about Lele, she doesn’t cry nor smile, and starts to say things that she doesn’t understand, she doesn’t know what she should do. Fei Hong looks a bit concerned and asks if Lele is eating and sleeping normally. Xiao Qui says she is, for she has been accompanying Lele, there is no problem with her physical body but it seems as if she changed to a different person. Xiao Qui expresses her fear of what would become of Lele as Fei Hong just listens.

Looking at the picture of her grandma on a small table with flowers and a cross on the wall, along with the pictures of her parents, Lele wonders if Grandma is happy now, did Grandma sees her parents in heaven. Don’t worry, while I alone, I will try to live on.. Xiao Qui happily tells Lele that the opening of school is fast approaching, they will be third year students, isn’t it exciting but they have grown up a year older, no matter, what does Lele think. Lele just keeps on looking out in the sky at the balcony. Xiao Qui realizes that Lele has grown taller than her. Xiao Qui exclaim, what, you have grown tall again, she can’t compete with her anymore. Xiao Qui stops as she notices that Lele doesn’t react to anything she has been saying. She slaps Lele’s cheeks with her hands to snap Lele out and shouts that Lele is a liar, saying that she shouldn’t worried about her but looking at her, Lele looks like some ghost, her eyes look as if she is a corpse, she isn’t a bit the same as before, likes to cry, likes to smile, easily angered, as if she has forgotten all her emotions.

Xiao Qui cries that she is with her everyday while eating and sleeping, but when Lele talks with her, she is always talking to herself like a fool, what does she have to say about herself, all her will is gone, there should be a limit to this. Xiao Qui starts to cry uncontrollably as Lele apologizes and says that she just feels so useless and lonely. Lele pats Xiao Qui’s head and thought, my heart, as if there is a big hole. Xiao Qui exclaims that she will always be there to accompany Lele. Lele says, silly Qui, in this world, nobody can accompany another that long, she has her own path to go, didn’t she want to go to Japan to study make-up course. Xiao Qui wipes her tears and said, yes. Lele says that she should do her best to achieve her dream. Xiao Qui asks what about Lele, will she continue on her modeling career. Xiao Qui thought Lele didn’t answer my question, nor did she even smile at me, this kind of Lele, I feel is really unfamiliar to me.

Soon, school has started again then a day came when all the Jorvicious advertisements of Lele and others came out. Soon, she has become the talk among school as students whiper when she passes by the hallway. Is it her? Is it really her? I heard that she is from our school but I didn’t think that it is for real. Both boys and girls are awed by her as they thought that the real person is really tall and cool. Lele is oblivious of her own fame as she wonders what is that all about, the other students looking at her. To Lele’s surprise, she is pulled by some female lower classmen and they ask for her autograph. Lele is shock, autograph. The school’s crush of the girls even gives her a huge bouquet of flowers and proposes to her. Soon, everyone wants to become her friend, girlfriend, how to become a model, and they all like her. Lele sweatdrops as she runs and wonders what the heck is this as a mob of admirers are chasing her. Suddenly, in front of her, a car stops and from the window, it is Fei Hong. Her aunt tells her to get in. Inside the car, her aunt puts on Lele’s lap a copy of a magazine with Lele’s photo as the cover. Her aunt tells her that the advertisement has already came out, look at them, they are quite good. From now on, there are many famous companies who are contacting her to find Lele so Lele’s worth has gone up and this is the time for her to be famous so put aside her pain and grief and earn lots of money. Lele is surprise to hear this and says that she doesn’t want to become a model anymore. Her aunt tells her that she can’t do this, did she forget that she has signed a modeling contract with her. Lele is shock.

With Xiao Qui’s ‘scolding’, Lele has finally snapped out of it but then, as Xiao Qui observed, something has changed in Lele that she seems different from before. Her Jorvicious advertisements has finally paid off as she becomes famous but then, she isn’t really in the mood for modeling that because of it, she didn’t get to be with Grandma. Heck, she might even partly blame herself for it since she wasn’t there and the fall would have been prevented. Anyway, her aunt seems to have decided to play ‘villain’ as she forces Lele to model, reminding her of her contract.

Quote of the day:
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. ~ From a headstone in Ireland

The One [Chapter 27]
Wednesday, July 4, 2007 @ 03:54 p.m.

The sky is overcast that it gave Lele an uneasy feeling. She is running to the hospital to see her aunt sitting on one of the benches with her face away from Lele. Lele shouts that she is back, is Grandma still okay, why didn’t she answer her calls. Her aunt didn’t answer her back as Lele is breathing hard from running and calls out her aunt again. Someone then touches her shoulder. She looks back and is surprised to see Lou Shang and Yang Jing there. Lele becomes nervous and asks why are they there. They look quite serious. Yang Jing looks away and says, Lele...your grandma..she has passed away. Lele is shock. Yang Jing explains that for old people, being hit on the head can be quite critical and the doctor said that there is some hemorrhage. She was operated on and was put on the intensive care unit. She was fine for a while but.. Lele says they are lying, Grandma has called her and told her that she is fine. Yang Jing says that Grandma doesn’t want to make Lele worry that she tried her best to wait until Lele comes back but last night, her condition worsen and she has fallen in a coma again and this morning, she... Lele is stunned as she knew what happened by then. She asks her aunt why was the truth hidden from me, why did you lie and say it is just a small wound, why did you stopped me from wanting to go back home. Lele cries, is this it, is this it, answer me. My world has cracked.

Then, Lele has fallen ill with high fever as she kept on calling for her grandma in her sleep. I want to keep on sleeping and never wake up. Xiao Qui is the one beside her as she is in tears, worried about Lele. Xiao Qui cries to Fei Hong asking what should they do, Lele’s fever is so high. Fei Hong says that she has already called the doctor and he will be coming there soon. Fei Hong asks Xiao Qui a favor to be the one to take care of Lele until she wakes up for it seems that Lele doesn’t want to see her so will Xiao Qui be the one beside Lele’s side. Xiao Qui is a bit surprised by this. Lele thought that she doesn’t know for how long she has been sleeping, but she remembered all those wonderful happy memories – times when she was young and is with her Grandma. One time, Lele went to her Grandma crying. Grandma asked why is she crying. Lele said if she goes to heaven, she still wants to be Grandma’s granddaughter. Grandma said but of course, no matter what, Lele will always be Grandma’s treasured granddaughter, why is she crying.

Lele said it is because Xiao Qui told her when people die and went to heaven, they will be in a different form, so family and friends won’t recognize each other anymore so if it is like that, she won’t be able to find Grandma anymore, and Grandma won’t be able to find her, she doesn’t want that to happen. Grandma smiled and said, silly child, that is only in the movie. Lele insisted that Xiao Qui told her it is true. Grandma said is that so, listen to me, when people die, they become what they always wanted to become. Lele asks, really. Grandma asked what would Lele want to become. Lele said, she wants to become the crown butterfly princess. Grandma said that is great, so when she is in heaven, she will look for the beautiful butterfly princess and she will know it is Lele. Lele exclaimed, really. She asked for a pinky promise that Grandma will look for her and Grandma won’t forget. Grandma agreed and that she will find Lele no matter what. Lele hugged Grandma and said that she will be with Grandma forever. Lele cries in her sleep. Grandma, but you forgot to tell me.. what does she want to become. This way..I will have to keep on waiting for you to find me. In this world, even in dreams, wanting to become a butterfly princess isn’t only me. At that time.. what should I do so that you will know it is me? Lele then wakes up.

She sits up and goes to the dining room and around the house. She finds it empty. She looks sad as she sits on the sofa while the television is on static. Lele grew depressed. Xiao Qui arrives with some groceries and is surprised to see Lele. She quickly goes to Lele and hugs her, crying out, Lele, you have woke up. It seems that I have been sleeping for a week. Xiao Qui prepares some congee for her to eat saying that since she has slept for so long and haven’t eaten, she should try to regain her strength. Lele takes a spoon and she is shaking as Xiao Qui looks at her, worriedly. After eating a spoonful, Lele thanks Xiao Qui and tells her that Xiao Qui doesn’t need to be worried about her, I’m okay, I’m okay, I’m really okay. Xiao Qui burst into tears and hugs Lele.

This is somewhat unexpected and yet expected. From experience, I do know that when old people has a fall, it is usually critical and can be fatal. What happened to Lele’s grandma actually happened to my grandma around ten years ago, she has fallen down the stairs, gone comatose and died. With that in mind and how my mother still feeling sad that she wasn’t there to be with her mother at that time – until now at times, I can pretty much imagine what Lele is going through. Lele’s situation is much harsher for her aunt lied to her and kept her from coming back. Her aunt still kept on thinking of professionalism, work first before personal life but really, work can always be there and I’m sure they will understand the need to be there for one’s critically injured close relative. Even if Lele did left, I’m sure she can still pick up where she left in modeling as long as she be there in the final moments of her grandma. I think this is a critical change for Lele and it made me wonder if the silly cute Lele will ever come back after this. And obviously, Lele won’t be knowing that the bum is Eros from her grandma.

Quote of the day:
Maybe some people just aren’t meant to be in our lives forever. Maybe some people are just passing through. It’s like some people just come through our lives to bring us something: a gift, a blessing, a lesson we need to learn, and that’s why they’re here... you’ll have that gift forever. ~ The Gift

Penguin Revolution [Chapter 30]
Tuesday, July 3, 2007 @ 03:04 p.m.

Everyone is surprised as Youko walk down the stairs and the president tells everyone that Youko will be acting together with the two boys. Youko sits in front as Ryou kept on staring at her. Ayaori whispers to Ryou that they are still working so he should look calm down and smile facing the others. Ryou manages to force himself to smile. Yukari is relieved as Ryou looks quite stunned a while ago but now, he is smiling and she is happy that Ryou’s mother is fine now. The president says that it has been seven years since Youko acted and now she would like to act again, together with these two boys. Youko apologizes for making others worry but now she is okay, that she is able to be there right now. And the play they are going to do was the one she made before, Dream Ladder.

The next day, the three goes sight seeing around the place. They are then in some garden. Ayaori is poking a cactus while both Ryou and Yukari are hyped up as the wind is nice. Yukari smiles at Ryou and says, it is good that Youko is okay. Ryou blushes and smiles as he says, yes, she has woke up and seems to be healthy. Yukari says that they would be able to be together and Ryou says they will be, for when Youko is about to leave, during the press conference, Youko turns around and smiles at him. Ryou says that is enough for him. Youko happily smiles for him. From behind, Ayaori just looks at them and then he leaves. Yukari turns around and asks where is Ayaori. While walking, there is a series of flashbacks shown. When he is young, he peeks in the door to see Ryou reading a book to sleeping Youko and Ryou starts to cry. This surprises Ayaori that he sits outside. His stomach is rumbling when Ryou comes out asking if he is hungry. Ryou took his hand as they went home. Ryou prepares some instant noodles and tells Ayaori to keep this a secret for they will be scolded if they ate before meals. Ayaori nodded. Ayaori eats the noodles and Ryou asks if it is good. Ayaori nodded. Ryou is happy as Ayaori just looks at him.

Another flashback, Ayaori asks the president if joining Peacock will make his acting ability better. The president says yes, but not only in that way, he will train him, and Ayaori will keep on practicing, so that everyone will turn around and look at him to see how bright of a actor he is and that will be a way, for that person’s consciousness to wake up. Ayaori blushes as he remembers Ryou crying in front of sleeping Youko. Then, a flashback of Ayaori seeing Yukari embracing Ryou at the park the other night. Ayaori is surprised as his younger self says he can’t, even if he wants to. Ayaori says, he knows. Another scene of Yukari and Ryou welcoming him and gives him some onigiri [rice balls] Ayaori eats it and says, it is delicious. Someone calls him and Ayaori wakes up as he is sleeping on a bench. It is Yukari. Yukari is breathing hard [from looking for him] as she says great, you are here, I thought you were lost, I’m very worried. Yukari holds out his hand to him and says that they should go. Ayaori blushes and takes Yukari’s hand. While pulling him away, Shouji [the one who played Satake in the movie, I’m a bit confused, before his name is Moto ^^; Maybe it isn’t the same person but it looks like him] says he is there with orders from the president. He is surprised to see Yukari in girl outfit as Yukari says it is just a ‘cosplay’. Shouji gives Yukari a small piece of paper, telling her that the president asks her to go to that place. After she left, Shouji asks Ayaori if Yukari is really a boy. Ayaori says ‘he’ is. Shouji asks if he has seen ‘him’ change clothes. Ayaori nods. Shouji then says, that they should find Ryou. Ayaori is already blushing as Shouji walks ahead.

At a hotel room, the president welcomes Yukari inside. Youko welcomes Yukari as Yukari drools over her brilliance. Youko asks to be alone with Yukari. The president pats Yukari’s head and says he is leaving it to her. The president leaves as Yukari thought that he seems not his usual calm self. Youko holds Yukari hands and says, she has heard that she was the one taking care of Ryou, thank you. Yukari blushes and exclaims it is nothing, she is tasked to do it. While drinking tea, Yukari says she has heard of Youko’s comatose situation, so is her body okay. Youko says yes, the feeling for now is okay. Yukari thought, now? Youko says that the doctor said that her waking up situation now is strange, but doesn’t she feel that it seems she can’t keep on sleeping when she saw the acting of the two boys. Yukari remembers Ryou mentioning that it seems that Youko ‘wakes up’ from the brilliance of another’s acting. Yukari asks so Youko haven’t really become conscious and she is now awake only because of the two boy’s movie. Youko says that is right, does she know it, the power of bewitchment that keeps on awake. Youko remembers when she first saw Youko, when she is still a child. Yukari thought she knows of it, seeing those wings, the brilliance that it can surprise people, and she feels that Ryou and Ayaori will also have this at the stage drama. Youko smiles with her wings spread out for Yukari to see and says that is why she can’t wait to act in this stage drama.

Ya, this series is getting cornier for me. ^^; Oh well, at least, Ayaori’s ‘little other’ is a boy and not a girl in contrast with Ryou. I guess they revealed to Yukari of Youko’s temporary consciousness so that the two boys won’t be pressured that if they failed, she will be sleeping again. But still, isn’t it a mother instinct to see one’s son and talk to him while she is awaken, and it is second priority to thank Yukari for taking care of her son? Maybe she wants to make sure she really ‘wakes up’ now and stay that way and not cause undue pain for her son if she becomes unconscious again. I’m a bit confused about Ayaori’s flashbacks/dreams. It is either he has also fallen for Yukari or he tends to find food delicious if he is sharing it with someone. At least, his wanting to become an actor is because he wants Youko to wake up for Ryou. Seeing that the two has become close, I kind of think it is more of loneliness rather than jealousy especially since the characters here tends to blush over the smallest things.

Quote of the day:
If someone is too tired to give you a smile, leave one of your own, because no one needs a smile as much as those who have none to give. ~ Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch

Weekly Jump Updates: One Piece, Bleach, Gintama and Naruto
Monday, July 2, 2007 @ 06:18 p.m.

Luffy and others decided to just go on ahead to Moria in One Piece [c. 461] and to let Sanji and Usopp think of a way to get to Nami. They find themselves in a room and sees Hogback and Cindry. Luffy wants to hit Hogback but Chopper asks he wants to be the one who deal with Hogback and Luffy should go on ahead. Luffy is about to go when Cindry tosses plates at Luffy. Robin stops her and tells Luffy, she will deal with Cindry. Luffy runs ahead. Hogback then calls on some zombies – penguin zombie [has Sanji’s shadow] and weirdo zombie [has Zoro’s shadow] to fight them. In the freezer room, Luffy finds Moria sitting at the side. Back downstairs, Zoro and others were shock at how big Odz was. They thought they are going to be swatted but to their surprise, Odz takes a triangular shape rubble and puts it on his head as a captain hat. Odz left saying he now feels a bit like pirate king. He left the others a bit stunned as they noted he does seem a bit like Luffy and what would it be like to fight someone like that. Usopp says who cares about their shadows that Zoro and Sanji protest as Sanji reminds him that they still have to rescue Nami. They wonder how they would cross now that the bridge is destroyed. To their surprise, Franky just made a bridge with all the rubble as materials.

They enter the room to find Perona and her ghosts. Zoro says that it seems she is the one who is controlling those ghosts. Perona introduces herself as one who ate ghost devil fruit whose ghosts can make people become pessimistic. They tried to run but was caught and started to want to die pathetically. Perona tells the zombies to grab them when all of a suddenly someone puts salt into them and ‘exorcise’ them. This surprises Perona and learns that it was Usopp who did it. Perona couldn’t believe it when she tried to pass a ghost into Usopp yet nothing happens. Usopp tells her that it won’t work on him because he is naturally pessimistic. This shocks Perona as she can’t believe that such a man exists. Usopp shouts for the others that this isn’t time to lie on the floor but to rescue Nami so leave Perona to him. The three can’t believe that this is Usopp saying that to them. Usopp shout for them to take care of the zombies first but they told him, he should take care of those, too. In the hall, the wedding ceremony has started. A zombie ‘mouths’ what Nami would say and the last scene is of Absalom about to kiss Nami who is still ‘sleeping’. This chapter is fun. I didn’t expect it will be Usopp who will fight against Perona. Also, that Luffy would find Moria so fast. It makes me wonder if he is really the final boss for usually, the ones that Luffy has to fight is for the finale. Since penguin zombie doesn’t attack girls, he would be fighting against Chopper while weirdo zombie against Robin. Fighting-wise, I think Hogback and Cindry aren’t much of a challenge. I do wonder if Nami is really still unconscious, I’ thinking that she is going to smack Absalom before he gets to even kiss her. Hehe

Inoue feels a bit tense and calls out to Ichigo and she is shocked to see him with a hollow mask in Bleach [c. 281]. Ichigo apologizes for frightening her and says that it will soon be over. Grimmjow is overjoyed seeing Ichigo with a mask that he releases his zanpaku. Ichigo tells Inoue to set up a barrier on herself and Neru and do not release it even for a second. Grimmjow’s form looks a wild cat-[leopard] form. Grimmjow beats up Ichigo and asks, is that all he got. Ichigo appears from behind and uses his ‘black wave’ attack on Grimmjow. Grimmjow laughs happily saying that he likes those eyes that Ichigo has, those eyes which he hates. Ichigo is intently looking at him as a part of his mask is broken and his face is bleeding. Finally gets to see Grimmjow’s release form. At first, I thought it is some lizard but it does looks kinda cool. Grimmjow is going to be like one of those people who kept on urging Ichigo to love fighting. ^^; Ichigo has to do better than that to win this battle.

Iwanov tells Umibozu that the planet is being destroyed by the people since they don’t take care of it so the planet thought they are enemies and began to destroy them in Gintama [c. 171]. He says that Kai doesn’t want to give up hope and still fights even if she is the only one left. Kai is seen watering something. Then, the siren rang and the enemies came to invade. Kai is fighting while the others just look by. Umibozu says if they are like that, it seems it isn’t the end for the planet but the end of them. When there are too many enemies, Kai pulls a bomb. Umibozu and Iwanov finds her unconscious. When they asked if she is alright, she asks if Miao [means sprout] is okay. Umibozu sees that it seems Kai has planted something. Then some evacuation ships came to rescue them but Kai doesn’t want to go for she wants to fight until the end. Kai makes a speech about doesn’t want to leave, etc and that she wants the planet to have lots of sprouts. Umibozu hits Kai at the back and gets her to be carried to safety by Iwanov. Umibozu stands on top of a tower saying that he isn’t the same before since he went to Earth, as he will destroy the planet for a girl. The giant sphere disappears as Umibozu defeated it. After three months, Kai and Iwanov returns as Iwanov asks, could he have done it, destroy a planet for a girl. Kai says it isn’t so, for that person has his own battle to fight with, look. There is a ‘plant’ with no leaves sprouting from where Kai planted something. Kai says it haven’t died but will now live. The two looks at the ‘plant’ and it turned out to be the single hair of Umibozu. The whole thing turned out to be a commercial for hair growth to help bald people like Umibozu to have hair. Umibozu even demonstrates it by putting the ointment on his head and rubbing his head hard. Gin and others can’t believe it is a commercial as one shouts, what, two chapters worth and it is just for a commercial. Why does that bald guy have a commercial, what about us. Hehe, and nothing much to say about this chapter. ^^;;

With his left eye closed, Deidara spits out his C4 to make a giant bomb of himself in Naruto [c. 360]. Sasuke tries to run away, knowing of how large an explosion it can become. To his surprise, it detonates. Noticing that Deidara is faraway, Sasuke uses his sharingan. All the creatures nearby started to explode and even Sasuke. It turned out that the giant Deidara bomb becomes small enough to be inhaled and then, it explodes within the body. Deidara opens his left eye and says he would like to thank Itachi for this, that he has won. In his ugly form, using snakes as his other wing, Sasuke attacks from Deidara’s behind and stabs him. Sasuke says that what Deidara saw is just his sharingan so tell him where Itachi is. Deidara says he really wants to thank Itachi for this. To Sasuke’s surprise, the real Deidara with his left eye closed caught Sasuke’s foot from below the clay bird. Sasuke realized the one he stabbed is actually just a clay clone of Deidara. Deidara says that he has seen that technique once from Itachi and he won’t fall for it twice. He had taught his left eye to counter that technique. Deidara shouts that this is really the finale, prepare to receive C4. Deidara’s defeat through Itachi must have really hurt his pride that he really trained to counter and not fall for illusions anymore. Since Sasuke is just using the same technique, Deidara is able to counter it. Lots of bombs exploding and no one is there yet. Maybe next chapter. I’m not too worried about Sasuke because he won’t die this early or even in this series.

Quote of the day:
It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change. ~ Charles Darwin

Papillon -Hana no Chou- [Chapter 10]
Saturday, June 30, 2007 @ 02:50 p.m.

The woman angrily shouts at Kyuu, you foul man, bringing a woman to your home and in front of the children, doing that thing. She punches Kyuu in the face. Chou is shock for she must have been jealous = Kyuu’s wife. Chou tries to explain that she got it all wrong but they have just pure teacher-student relationship. The woman angrily grabs unconscious Kyuu by the collar as Chou holds the woman’s waist shouting, teacher’s wife, please stop. The woman stops and looks back at Chou, saying teacher’s wife, who is she talking about. Chou is embarrassed and says, huh. The woman holding the children who have woke up, apologizes for she thought that along with the children, Kyuu is kissing/being lovey dovey with her but it turned out that she is just his student. She tells Kyuu to introduce them. Kyuu apologizes and point to Chou, this is first year high, Chou with B cup, his student in guidance counseling. Chou is embarrassed by that. Pointing to the woman, this is 24 years old Kyuuran, F cup, my brother’s wife. Kyuuran hits Kyuu’s head for that introduction. Chou is surprised that she is Kyuu’s sister-in-law. She says that she actually thought that Kyuuran is Kyuu’s wife. Kyuuran laughs and says of course not, don’t say wife, this guy doesn’t even have a girlfriend. Kyuu gets embarrassed and says she is being noisy. Chou cheers up upon learning that Kyuu doesn’t have a girlfriend. She then caught herself and wonders why is she so happy about that. Kyuuran takes out a bag and says this is a thank you gift for Chou for taking care of the kids. Kyuu angrily shouts that she just went shopping, leaving those brats to him and swiftly left, she is too much. Kyuuran says it is because she is thinking of him, it is practice, practice.

As the two argue, the kids start to crawl to Chou. Kyuu then starts to smile as he is still talking to Kyuuran. Chou observing him blushes a bit and thought, so that is how it is. Kyuuran puts the kids on the stroller and says they are going to leave, Kyuuran tells the kids, Mari and Shourui to say goodbye to Chou. The kids start to cry and Kyuuran asks why are they crying, this is quite problematic. Chou takes out her leaves and the kids notice. She starts to make faces with the leaves as the kids starts to laugh. Kyuuran is surprised that they are laughing as Kyuu asks what did Chou did. Chou smiles and looks away. She then gives the kids the leaves as a gift. The kids happily takes it. Kyuuran says she is saved again, thanks to Chou. Kyuuran and kids happily bids them goodbye. Kyuu and Chou also waves goodbye with Kyuu saying for them to take care. After they left, Chou looks a bit sad. Stretching and yawning, Kyuu says that he is finally saved, he can now rest. Kyuu then asks what is wrong with Chou as Chou says it is nothing. Chou is a bit teary eyed. Kyuu laughs and says he knows, Chou can’t part with the kids. Chou confess that he is right for a while there, she doesn’t want to separate with the kids. Kyuu says he is really defenseless with her. Pulling her collar, he says if he likes kids, they can make one. Chou is extremely embarrassed and shock by that. Outside, Kyuuran is surprised to see pots and other things flying from Kyuu’s window.

At a restaurant, Kyuu with double lumps on his head, apologizes to Chou saying that he is just joking so don’t be so angry. Giving her a copy of the menu, he tells her that he is going to treat her so choose whatever she wants to eat. Chou asks whenever the twin kids came, does he always recklessly call a girl to his house. From shock, Kyuu spills water on his face while drinking. Wiping his face, Kyuu says he doesn’t, he doesn’t do such a immoral thing. Chou is unconvinced and asks, really, he lead some girls into the office before as if he is meeting with them outside the guidance counselor’s door. Kyuu says he will be in big trouble if they knew of his home address for he would have lost his privacy. Chou says but he did still call her. Kyuu says but she is different. Chou blushed and asks why is that so. Kyuu smiles at her and says because she is a nice girl, for even if it is just a short while since she has ‘awaken’, it seems she is more grown up than him, as a guidance counselor, he is really happy to see a student grow up. Kyuu says if she falls in love then she will really be like a lady, and he will be waiting for that change. Chou blushes and her heart starts to beat loud. Hiding in the menu, she thought, oh no, I’m so happy, what should I do. Kyuu smiles while looking at the menu, wondering what food is good to eat.

While walking, Kyuu asks what happened between her and Ryuusei, was there any progress. Chou says that he also has seen it, after seeing him kiss Kana, it is quite a passionate that she quickly turns around and left. Chou thought, it can be said that I came to learn more and more that I don’t really like him. Kyuu says so, does this mean, she is going to wait for them to break up, even if they break up, it doesn’t guarantee that Ryuusei will go out with her. Kyuu shouts who cares if they are passionate or not, it is her goal is to take away Ryuusei and be alone. Chou protests saying things that easily, how can she take him away. Kyuu says that there are many ways, when they are alone, she should just create a romantic mood. Chou freaks out, ro-ro-man-tic mood, how does she do that. Kyuu says from now on, think of him as Ryuusei and they will do a pretend date, so do her best in seducing him. Chou freaks out again, what, he looks like he wants to mess with her. [I’m not to sure about that, something about tofu so I’m assuming he is being a pervert but context-wise, I think she meant, she can’t just get into the mood there all of a sudden.] Kyuu is puzzled and asks, so when does she feel romantic. Chou says, going out on a date and riding on a ferris wheel. Kyuu laughs, ferris wheel, huh, that is like fighting a wall, how does she plan to date him. Chou thought for a while and says, it is compensation for standing her up before. Kyuu says that should be okay. Chou says that they should go. Kyuu asks go where. Chou says, does she need to say it.

At an amusement park, Chou happily points to the roller coaster and they should ride that one. She calls him ‘sensei’ not ‘Ryuusei’. Kyuu looks sick and says how many times does she have to ride that to be satisfied. [I think it is partly sick because they just ate] Chou happily shouts that it has been a long time since she has went to an amusement park. Chou happily shouts for him to hurry up as Kyuu smiles and follows her. Then, there is the pit-fall ride [Ah, I think that is what they call it, going up a tall tower then, drops you do the ground]. Later on, Chou shouts that it is such a ‘rush’ as Kyuu still feels sick, saying, finally, it’s over. Kyuu asks they have rode a lot of rides, what else does she want to ride in. Chou realizes she almost forgot the goal of this date, she then embarrassingly says that she wants to ride the ferris wheel. While riding in the ferris wheel, the two just sit quietly. Kyuu calls out to Chou that it made Chou’s heart beat loudly. Kyuu tells her that she shouldn’t keep quiet, she should quickly move, at night in a ferris wheel, he [as Ryuusei] can’t escape, this is already such a good opportunity. Chou says he says that so easily as she pretty much froze on her seat. Kyuu says he is at loss with her, really, she should follow his example. He then goes glittery, with hands together, acting like a girl. He goes to the window, and says, Ryuusei, look the night sky is pretty, hahaha, oh look that is nice, hahaha. He pretends to trip and falls on Chou. He winks his eye and say, really, how could ‘she’ trip down, ‘she’ is really clumsy. Chou is shock at how he is acting. Then, Kyuu shouts, ouch, it hurts. Chou asks where does it hurt. Kyuu says it seems ‘she’ has twisted ‘her’ wrist, see, it is reddish. Chou asks where and touches Kyuu’s hand. To Chou’s surprise, Kyuu grabs her hand. Sitting beside her, Kyuu laughs like a girl and says, can we be like this, holding hands. Feeling her hair rising, Chou exclaims that it is disgusting.

Embarrassed and angry, Kyuu stands up and shouts, what did she just say. Chou says that Ryuusei won’t fall for such a thing. Kyuu shouts, what, he actually did his best in thinking of it. Chou says but his laugh is so fake. Kyuu shouts how dare she say that, really noisy. Twisting his knuckles on Chou’s forehead, Kyuu shouts, it is all to just to get her close to Ryuusei, this is a good strategy. Chou shouts save me. Kyuu gets her in a head grip. Chou shouts to release her, it hurts. Kyuu says he is going to punish her. Just then, they lose their footing and falls down to the other seat. Chou hits her head and says it hurts. To the two’s surprise, Kyuu is already on top of her. The two are blushing. Kyuu looks serious and bends in to kiss Chou who then closes her eyes. While waiting to be kissed, Kyuu already stands up and says that she did well, it is like this, the feeling will be really great, understand. Chou looks surprised as she becomes embarrassed. Kyuu laughs and says she should first drop a hint, it will then be quickly noticed. Chou is looking down that Kyuu calls out to her. Chou says she can’t, she can’t do this thing with Ryuusei. Sitting down on the seat, Kyuu asks why. Chou thought why..because. Chou looks at Kyuu and says, because she likes him/sensei.

Kyuu is shocked as he blush a bit even Chou is surprised with herself that she actually said it, for the feeling of ‘like/love’ just rush out, so that’s how it is, honestly, she likes Kyuu. Chou says, I..because of him, she has changed. A confession like this, before she won’t even dare say it. Wanting to say what is in my heart, I now understand this, doing something can actually reverse the situation, this is what he had taught her. All throughout, Kyuu just looks shock. Chou asks, can’t she be with him. Kyuu looks a bit embarrassed as Chou looks at him. He closes his eyes then hugs her while she is still sitting on the floor. Kyuu says he has lost to her but he is a guidance counselor. Chou looks surprised. Still hugging her, Kyuu then looks a bit sad and says it is alright, being like this is also okay. The blurb says, Chou has realized her own feelings, second confession.. success?! The title of this chapter is Imitation/Simulation Date.

Hehe Chou got the ‘reward’ she wanted. I’m actually surprised that there is a confession already. There has a bit of confessions lately in the series I’m translating and amusement park setting. ^^; I think Kyuu likes her else why the special attention she has been giving her. He does still seem immature and it is amusing that he is the one getting sick with roller coasters and other thrill rides when it is usually the girls. I wonder if Chou will grow up to become like Kyuu’s sis-in-law. That will be amusing. I guess the date made Chou realize that she likes Kyuu and not Ryuusei since she enjoy his company. She pretty much gets embarrassed being praised, get jealous, and that almost kiss. It is pretty obvious, well, since the earlier chapter. Well, the problem now is that they can’t have a relationship because of being a teacher-student. If Kana knows this, I think she might expose it or try to get Kyuu. That is if she is that evil twin type. I’m a bit sure though that Ryuusei will be regretting not giving Chou the attention she needs before. Oh ya, there are also those fangirls of Kyuu.

Word of the day:
If you sow the seeds of wickedness, its lies will cloud your mind; If you scatter seeds of righteousness, God's blessing you will find. ~ Sper

Nana [Chapter 69]
Friday, June 29, 2007 @ 06:12 p.m.

From the start, I have worked hard just go get to Tokyo by myself and now, I’m going to go solo. It feels a bit uneasy and disorienting. In the room, Hachi shouts, why are you hesitating, of course say yes. Nana looks surprised at Hachi’s outburst as Miu just looks at them. Hachi calmly says when it is decided for Blast to stop, everyone should think each self/oneself of what happens afterwards, doesn’t need to have misgivings. Nana thought, oneself. Hachi says at this situation, the chance of becoming solo is ten times hard, Nana’s remarkable talent, can easily be recognized by the others. Nana says no..this isn’t the circumstances for if they can’t people to earn money, it will be quite problematic. [I think, Nana didn’t think she can get people their money’s worth of investing on her] Miu says that they see that she can make a profit that is why they recognize her. Nana is surprised by this. Miu says if they make a mistake with this opportunity, it might be hard to come by again, thinking of this kind of [music] world’s existence, what path should be taken. This has an impact on Nana as Nana thought, that is right, Hachi even came here to encouraging me, the feeling is quite energetic want to work hard yet, I feel uneasy. Nana drinks her beer as Hachi worriedly/concern looks at Nana. Hachi then asks where is Yasu, haven’t he arrived yet. Nana says Yasu mentioned about going and ‘showing/preparing’ [I don’t get this, the other says, beaming with joy ^^; ] his face, what is that about. Nana is about to stand up and says I will go and call him. Miu stops her and says, but. Nana looks at Miu. Miu says saying that he is going to prepare his face, he will be here soon, it is best to just give him a bit more time. Nana seems surprised as she is speechless. Hachi says that is right. Nana then realized something. A scene of Yasu smoking while watching tv. Could it be.., no, surely, because of this, the most hard hit is Yasu. Blast is the band that Yasu made. I just kept on thinking about myself, and never even thought about him. How disappointing. This isn’t the time to whine about to Yasu.

Meanwhile, Reira looks out the window and says that the rain has stopped. She turns around when she hears Ren opening a can of beer. She takes it from him and says, aren’t you going to drive, if he drank, how could he go back. Ren looks surprised and lies down the sofa. He whines, but leaving her alone, he can’t bring himself to leave. Holding the beer and sitting down on the floor, Reira says compared to worrying about me, I think you should be more worried about Nana, saying that, surely has hurt her. Ren says she should be fiery mad, don’t think that because I used to be BLAST member who has just left the band would have the gall to lecture, since the start, [she] really hates him already. Reira drinks the beer and stands up saying, if Nana knew that he is there, that will surely add her hatred for him, so quickly go back to Nana and talk things out. Ren doesn’t move an inch as he remembers Nana shouting, don’t write songs about other girls aside from me. Covering his face, Ren says he has made Nana happy the other day, he is already very tired. Reira seems to have given up on him [to go to Nana] as she puts the beer on the table and looks out the window. Then, Ren sits up. Just then, the door bell rang. Ren looks out the peekhole as Reira is clinging to him asking who it is. Ren opens the door. It is Takumi.

Takumi is surprised as Reira is in shock and embarrassed. Ren removes Takumi’s sunglasses and says that he is going to the comfort room to drink one glass and he will come back so talk it over slowly. Wearing Takumi’s sunglasses, Ren walks away. Takumi closes the door as Reira quickly runs away to hide. [Ah, embarrassed to seen in her nightgown? ^^;] Takumi asks if Ren knew about her and Shin. Reira peeks out from the side of the door and nods. Takumi says it would have been better at Ren’s house. Reira looks puzzled and asks, what. Takumi says the place where she and Ren meet. Reira looks surprised. Takumi says he thought that place is the safest, Nana and Ren’s house, if she and Shin went there, it won’t seem strange, when you go there, let the two of them leave then, it will be okay. Reira still looks surprised. Takumi says if it is like that, this won’t be happening. Reira says why is he saying these things. Takumi says it is because they are quite unhibited and not even vigilant over what they are doing, that it gives problems to everyone, when Shin comes out, did she decide on seeing him. Reira looks a bit tearful as she remembers Shin calling her a uninhibited [doing things not thinking] woman. Reira says she didn’t thought of it, what happened with Shin is surely her fault because she.. Takumi interrups and says it isn’t her fault, for he is the one who pressured her and Shin to separate. This surprised Reira. Takumi says, he doesn’t intent to take away her happiness, it isn’t because of this goal that he established Trapnest. A tear drop stars to fall from Reira’s eye.

On the news, the reporter is about to say about Black Stones that Yasu closed the television. He goes out of the room and press the eleveator button. When the door opens, he is surprised to see Takumi on it. Takumi looks a bit sad for Yasu and bows as he says to let this just pass by and.. Takumi holds his right shin in pain. Yasu says sorry, did I just kicked you. Takumi angrily looks at him and says, it seems that Yasu is still the same as before, don’t understand what his words is expressing. Yasu asks why is he there. Takumi smiles and says, he is going to fetch his wife. Yasu says that he is going to see Hachi, don’t quickly take her away. Takumi says you are really quite a playboy, your mistress has been found out by your girl, just you wait. Yasu says huh. Takumi says that Miu has asked about Shion, do you know of a girl named Shion. They have reached their floor as Yasu grabs Takumi’s scarf. Takumi says it seems that he and Shion are still ‘intertwined with each other, still can’t be servered’ Yasu asks what did Takumi say. Takumi says nervously say that he doesn’t know that it made Hachi suspicious, why should he be nervous for Yasu’s sake. Yasu is speechless.

In the room, Hachi and Miu are preparing what seems to be tea while Nana is reading a book. The the doorbell rings and Hachi answers it saying it could be Yasu. It is Yasu with Takumi smiling, good evening. The girls were shock. Takumi is holding Hachi’s arm as Hachi asks what is he doing. Takumi angrily says isn’t it to pick her up. Hachi slaps his hand away and shouts, no, I won’t want to go home yet. Takumi says then why don’t she just stay there for her lifetime. Hachi looks she is about to cry as Yasu sweatdrops. Yasu says that Takumi came there from a far place just to pick her up so for today, why don’t she go home first and if things have become more stable, they will all go to her house to play. Hachi smiles. Hachi gets her coat and asks Nana if she wants to go with them, they can drive her to her place. Nana says that she still has something to say to Yasu. Yasu looks surprised as the two girls looked at her. Hachi smiles and says then, talk about it thoroughly, good luck. Nana smiles back at her. Yasu asks what is it about. Miu goes out saying that she will walk the others down. Yasu is surprised and before he knew it, the door closed.

Drinking a beer, Nana says that Miu is quite clever, she is a really good girl [ah, like she is really something], being with him, it will be such a waste. Yasu slightly smiles and sits down as he says he thought she didn’t like Miu. Nana sweatdrop and thought, no, it isn’t about not liking Miu, is it jealousy. Yasu lights a cigarette and says that seeing them getting along with each other makes him happy. Nana looks surprised and though, that’s right though it isn’t exactly getting along with each other. Yasu asks what is it that she wants to talk about. Taking a cigarette, Nana says that she has decided to go solo. Yasu lights Nana’s cigarette and says, so it is about that, so let it be that way, that way will be good. Nana says that while going solo, she will become more famous to show off to them, she will get more audience compared to the ones they have now. Yasu looks surprised as Nana looks at him. Nana firmly says, you can relax, I will not let Blast just fade away. Yasu is surprised and smiles. To Nana’s surprise, Yasu thanks her. Nana starts to cry. Honestly, what have I work hard to do for Yasu. Being told this ‘thank you’ makes me feel really happy. Yasu was at first surprised then smiles as he tells Nana who is crying on the table, didn’t you say it before, you won’t cry in front of me. Yasu holds Nana’s head. While in Yasu’s kindness, she acts like a spoiled brat, demanding and feeling anxious. Yasu then removes his hand from her head. Then, starting now, no longer for myself, but for Yasu, for Hachi who encourages her, for her comrades, I will sing. A scene of Nana and others playing with fireworks. Even if I am alone, I no longer feel uneasy, it will be okay, I will continue working hard.

In the room, Miu hears the elevator ring and footsteps. Miu goes out to Yasu. She asks where is Nana. Yasu says she has already left. Miu asks if she talked about going solo. Yasu says yes, it seems she can be independent for a bit now. Miu asks if the one who asked the boss to let Nana go solo is Yasu’s idea. Yasu says of course, if he didn’t ask, this thing won’t happen. Going in the elevator, Yasu says it seems Miu can see through anything and even about Shion but why would she ask Takumi and not him. As the elevator opens, Yasu says is it because she is doubtful that it is hard for her to ask about it. Miu goes out the elevator and says, it is an experiment, she thought that Takumi will definitely tell Yasu, and then, what would Yasu do about it, so it is an experiment. Yasu looks surprised. Miu smiles and says but being honest about it, now, her heart has no more qualms. Yasu slightly smiles. Yasu says that he and Shion aren’t suitable for each other, she is his sempai [upper classmate]. Miu looks dismayed, so it is a really deep relationship. Yasu looks dismayed as if he just talked too much. Miu tries to close the door on him as Yasu is holding it open. Yasu says the time from before and now isn’t the same, it is his policy not to lose track. Miu says but they are still keeping in contact up to now, and even saying it is your policy, Yasu, you really are. Yasu says not to worry, the fanclub has also stopped, so they won’t meet again. Miu finally lets go off the door as Yasu goes in. Sitting on the table, Miu apologizes saying she didn’t mean to be critical. Yasu says it is okay, nothing to apologize, don’t keep what you want to say in your heart, but, honestly, I’m tired and want to sleep, tomorrow there are still details to be talked about. Miu says okay, good night. To her surprise, Yasu tosses his sunglasses on the table and sleeps on the bed. Miu shouts why is he sleeping there. Yasu says there is nothing about it, this is the most quiet place. Miu blushes a bit then drags Yasu out of bed, saying, then, change your clothes first, brush your teeth, wash your face, really, so sloppy. Yasu sweatdrops and apologizes.

In bed, Yuri asks what should she do now. Nobu says continue on staying there and working. Yuri looks a bit worried and says, it will be alright, Nobu can still compose songs, there will surely be a way. She closes her eyes but Nobu opens his eyes as if he is doubtful about that. That night, I don’t have the mood/heart to talk with Ren so I went to 7007 room. A strawberry glass in on the table – from night and soon, it is morning. Nana wakes up from a call on her mobile phone. It is Mai. Mai greets her a good morning, she has heard from some guy that Nana stayed at 7007 room, she is now going there, does she need anything. Nana sits up and looks around. She sees her cigarette, guitar and some clothes on the hanger. This room is the same as when I first came to Tokyo. Only brought my guitar, cigarette and the few clothes that are necessary. Nana says it is alright, this is fine. Nana starts to walk down the stairs, didn’t get in contact with Ren nor did I received a message from Ren but I’m no longer lonely, because I am embraced by a dream while I went to sleep. Then, Hachi goes to 7007 and is surprised to see the strawberry glass on the table. Hachi, the dawn is soon to come, and those memories will gradually go away. Tonight, I will snuggle up until I go to sleep, so that the night’s waves will roll away. The last scene is the snowy night at the beach.

And, the new theory aside from knowing what happened with Nana’s mother is that she flopped being a solo artist, that is why she left the group – can’t face them. I think this is an important chapter as Nana stopped thinking of herself as she decides to sing for others and not just for herself. Though that can’t be quite a pressure, still, I think it what keeps the present Nana from killing herself as she mentioned that she owe it to Hachi. Also, it seems that after all the closeness earlier of Ren and Nana, with problems, they just break apart. I think it is pride that keeps them from being the first to apologize or contact each other. While with Yasu, Miu is uneasy that he quickly tells her about his relationship about Shion and even told her to just tell things what she feels. Isn’t that important in a relationship? I think so. I’m a bit surprised that Takumi actually feels guilty somehow over what had happened though lecturing Reira on how to keep a relationship secret seems a bit too late, isn’t it. ^^;; Of course, he is an expert on that. Though a part of me wonders if Takumi is remorseful or he just doesn’t want Reira to bear all the guilt. Anyway, maybe things doesn’t seem all gloomy anymore as I’m guessing it will be morning soon in the present Nana parts. Usually with breaks from the author, the next chapter starts with the present Nana scenes. Will they find her in time? As leak mentioned, Nana is moving to a different publication so next chapter will be out on August.

Quote of the day:
Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: you don't give up. ~ Anne Lamott

Ouran High Host Club [Chapter 52]
Thursday, June 28, 2007 @ 09:16 p.m.

In Cannes, France, it is the first day of free day in the school trip. Kyouya comes out of the hotel as three of his bodyguards [baldie, blond, black hair for naming sake] greet him a good morning. While opening the door of the car for Kyouya, Blond asks Kyouya where does he plan to go for that day. Kyouya says didn’t he gave them a map yesterday, of course, to go those places. Blond tries to protest that does he know in French Riviera/Côte d'Azur, there are a lot of nursing homes and villas, even if they had asked through mail to check on the directory of the registry, there are no records of that person, yet he still wants to go there. Kyouya tells him that they still need to go there to know for sure, does he think that the manager [of those places] will easily see the name of a missing person in the registry and give it out, it is possible that a fake name/alias is used. [The name of blondie is Orange, I’m amused ^_^] Orangie says if that is so, why don’t they get the help of the police or a detective to help them. Kyouya says doing that would make Suou head [I think he means Tamaki’s grandma] learn about it through her connections, so don’t make a big deal of small things. He just wants to kill time while in the school trip and while en route, will try to see that guy’s mother, if he can’t find her, then it is okay, too. Orangie thought even if you say this, you are actually replacing Tamaki in looking for his mother to know her present condition, there is no other reason for doing this. Blackie thought even if you say it is just for killing time. Baldie thought the truth is, it is because Tamaki didn’t went to the school trip that you suddenly have free time. Orangie and Baldie thought because their family’s young master doesn’t have any friends whom he can open his heart to. Baldie is crying. Kyouya says, the air has suddenly become stuffy and hot, in short, Baldie [gomen, can’t find his name], do you want to go down the car. Baldie freaks out saying he doesn’t want to. Orangie and Blackie thought it seems that their young master can read their thoughts.

In Mori’s house, Mori standing at the door calls out to Hikaru. Hikaru looking gloomy asks if he can borrow again that room before. Mori says, he can though for how long does he prepare to stay there. It turned out that Hikaru has brought 4 luggages and a small hand carry. Hikaru cries and says he also doesn’t know. Remembering Kaoru shouting at him for not being serious and not allowing Hikaru to have Haruhi, Hikaru says that he never thought that Kaoru would be that angry, is it his fault to have made Kaoru that problematic. I’m really a stupid, idiot, slow witted person, and is the same level as Tamaki. Hikaru starts to cry as Mori apologizes [for asking]. Worriedly, Hikaru says he doesn’t know what to do anymore, he even make Kaoru angry at him. At the Hitachiin residence, Honey comes in with a lot of stuffed toys to find Kaoru reading a book. Looking mortified, Honey asks if Kaoru is okay. Then, Honey takes out the stuff he is carrying. Honey says, I have brought bunny-chan to accompany you, also pig-chan, elephant-chan, cake, pudding, chocolate. Kaoru is surprised and tells Honey to relax and wonders if Honey’s backpack has a forth dimension. With tears, Honey says that things had turned for the worse, for he has heard that they quarreled and Hikaru went to live with Mori. Kaoru says so you are worried that is why you came, it is okay, I’m fine, Honey-sempai, he just said some quite severe words to Hikaru but if he didn’t say what he truly feels and think, then, Hikaru won’t progress, right? Honey asks in surprise, it is for Hikaru. Kaoru says it isn’t so, it is for him, he has really thought about what Honey told him before – if you don’t think of yourself more importantly, how can you protect someone else. Even Hikaru won’t be happy, do you understand? It is okay if it is Hikaru, it is okay if it is Tamaki, don’t think about them..Kaoru, what do you want to do. Kaoru says he has thought about it really hard and he has decided, he is going to confess to Haruhi. Honey looks surprised.

At school, Kaoru greets Haruhi who is holding a small lunch box. Haruhi greets him that he has came. Kaoru greets her a good morning. Haruhi says, really, he didn’t came to eat sweet potatoes, they were waiting for him at the clubroom. Kaoru apologizes and says he will eat today, those steamed sweet potatoes. Haruhi says that those potatoes were all eaten up by Honey and Mori, there aren’t any left. Kaoru is surprised that they ate all that sweet potatoes when there were lots. Showing him the lunch box, Haruhi says how about this as replacement, she has made honey candied sweet potatoes, lets eat them together during lunch. Just then, Haruhi notices Hikaru coming in, she asks didn’t they come together. Hikaru lamely greets her a good morning then looks away. Kaoru just looks at Hikaru while Haruhi looks a bit surprised. Haruhi tells Hikaru to eat those honey candied sweet potatoes together in lunch. Kaoru goes lovey dovey as he calls Haruhi and holds the lunch box. He tells Haruhi that Hikaru doesn’t have appetite today so why not let him have all of it. Hikaru is irked by that as he quickly runs away. Haruhi tries to call out to Hikaru but Kaoru stops her saying not to chase him. Hikaru hears this and is stunned as he quickly runs out of the room. Haruhi angrily shouts at Kaoru what is that about. Kaoru laughs as he tries to calm Haruhi down saying that they had a quarrel and had caused a bit of contradiction but it is okay, it will be okay soon. Kaoru looks a bit sad as he asks a favor from Haruhi to give her time to him around 2-3 days.

The girls are gossiping about the twins quarrel. One asks, do you know that the twins had a quarrel. Another says, they don’t ‘play’ together anymore’. Someone says, they are not the same anymore, it seems so quite, Kaoru is always with Haruhi while during breaks, Honey and Mori goes to Hikaru as if looking for him. A girl says but it seems that Hikaru is alone most of the time. Another girl says they even greeted him but he didn’t give any response. Holding a moe notebook and pen, Renge appears and says she can’t stop herself, she just have to come out. This surprises the girls. A girl tries to stop Renge from calling out to Hikaru who is passing by. Renge calls out to Hikaru and asks regarding Haruhi’s, it has put him in a difficult situation, can he tell her what he feels, could he let her gather data about this. Hikaru gloomily says it is nothing much, she can write whatever would make her happy. Renge is surprised by the answer and sadly says, that is totally quite unexpected, not much emotion but. Hikaru then notices Kaoru and Haruhi together. Kaoru is showing Haruhi of a book he would like to recommend to her. Haruhi says it seems nice. Dejected, Hikaru quickly walks away. Renge continues, just looking from that situation, the heart seems to be really in pain.

At a theme park, Kaoru is with Haruhi. They are in casual clothes provided by Kaoru. Kaoru says so this is a commoner’s theme park, even in the afternoon, there are lots of people, it is quite packed but the feeling of squeezing in the crowd is quite good. Haruhi worriedly says it has already been three days, why doesn’t he tell her what is going on, she has asked Hikaru about it but he is avoiding her, why is he being cold to Hikaru, why did it become like this. Doing his usual sad smile, Kaoru apologizes and says but today, this thing will be finished. Kaoru smiles and holds out his hand saying, this is the last day, so let’s hold hands. Haruhi looks surprised. They hold hands. Kaoru asks what does she want to ride first, does she like a roller coaster. Haruhi says is that the one that makes her stomach to wozzy, she isn’t an expert...

Elsewhere in the theme park, Honey shouts, isn’t this great, it is a commoner’s theme park, Hikaru, what do you want to play. Hikaru is leaning behind a post and gloomily says even if the three of them went to the theme park, he doesn’t want to play with any, he just wants to go home. Honey shouts how about a merry-go-round, don’t look at Mori that way, compare to some ride [three food ride?] he really likes merry-go-round. Hikaru says that is enough, even if he brought him there to relax him, but he really just isn’t in the mood to play. Honey touches his chest as he felt the pain and starts to look really guilty. Mori becomes doubtful and calls to Honey. While they are huddling, Mori is holding Honey up on his coat as Honey is really tearful. Mori asks what is Honey planning, does he want for Hikaru and Kaoru to bump into each other there. Honey says but it is a request from Kaoru, he even told Kaoru that it is not right doing this, for it makes him feel as if it is self-sacrifice and self-satisfy but this is something that Kaoru is ‘willing to put his life on’ thought about decision to do. To Honey and Mori’s dismay, Honey asks where is Hikaru. Hikaru is no longer there at the post.

Walking around, Hikaru goes in monologue mode. This is surely my punishment, for now thinking of Kaoru’s feelings, did a lot of stupid things. Remembering the honey candied sweet potato and lending a book scenes, Hikaru thought but, but, so what did I do wrong, to do such ‘over the top’ things to me. Hikaru is bending down on the floor as he shakes his hair angrily. Is it wrong to think, could it be that? Or should I say this is entirely my responsibility, what is it. Arrow points, he is really, really angry. Even if it is my fault for being slow [witted], and it would be best just to say that I like Haruhi. Saying to another person one’s feelings, can’t easily be said, and it would seem strange. So what being apathetic, I am also worried. But isn’t this ironic, being the same as Tamaki’s in expression, isn’t this too much. My image!! Wah – Tamaki, save me ~~ but then, I can’t get in contact with him. If this continue, I will more and more not understand Kaoru anymore. He is holding his head in anguish as people walking around looks at him.

Just then, he stops and sees Kaoru and Haruhi in front of him. Sitting on a table, Kaoru offers a drink to Haruhi. Kaoru laughs it is really something with Haruhi on the roller coaster, it is really hard to watch Haruhi’s stiff expression. Embarrassed, Haruhi asks if it is really that funny. A scene of Kaoru laughing at Haruhi’s frozen expression while riding on the roller coaster. Kaoru laughs and says, she is wrong, that expression is really something, he would really want Hikaru to see it. Just then, Kaoru caught himself mentioning Hikaru as Haruhi noticed it. Hikaru is looking at them wondering what are they talking about, the place is really noisy, he can’t hear anything. Haruhi asks Kaoru why don’t they go home. Kaoru complains, why is it really being lonely with him and she isn’t happy. Haruhi says it is quite the opposite, for the one who isn’t happy is Kaoru. Kaoru looks surprised and his face becomes tender. He says, Haruhi is really great. He holds her face and gives her a kiss on the lips [it looks like the lips or the cheek but near the lips]. Haruhi is shocked. Kaoru then says, I like you, Haruhi. Hikaru is stunned. He quickly turns around and runs away as Kaoru looks at Hikaru’s direction. Kaoru says, but, what should be done for it to be okay, since for him, Hikaru is still the most important. Kaoru smiles while saying that while Haruhi looks a bit surprised.

Remembering Honey’s word, it is okay with Tamaki, it is okay with Hikaru, don’t think about them, Kaoru thought, Honey-sempai, no matter how hard I try, that I should disregard Hikaru, this is something I cannot even think about doing. I like Haruhi, but compare to this, Hikaru liking another person, Hikaru’s world has already changed, I will also feel happy for him. With this answer, it has already become clear but becoming just one part, it will surely be lonely. So, if I let things as it is [the twins relationship] to continue to be like this, it will be good but I know Hikaru won’t be satisfied anymore with this situation, even if pretending to be like an adult and having more understanding, honestly, I am still the same as before, contradiction oneself, like a spoiled brat, still depending on Hikaru. So, please, let Hikaru be ‘cut’ off from me. Honey asks, being as ‘Kaoru’ of you, what do you decide. I want to see Hikaru smile, not that satisfied, heavy heart kind of smile. A scene of Hikaru smiling saying how about they adopt Haruhi. Even if you don’t like, it doesn’t matter. Even if you hate, it doesn’t matter. I want Hikaru to be able to extend his wings and fly. The last scene is of Hikaru angry and frustrated, running.

At Suou company, Tamaki’s father is in deep thought. The male secretary says there is a meeting, is there worrying him since he looks quite intense. Tamaki’s father snapped out of it and says it isn’t, it is about his son. Outside, the female secretary says, sorry to disturb you, president, someone came to see you. It is Tamaki looking quite gloomy. Tamaki’s father looked concerned and asks what is it, why did Tamaki even went to his office to see him. He wondered what could his mother had told Tamaki. Tamaki says, father, sorry for coming but I’m really troubled..what should I do? Father, I’m bored. Tamaki is all sad and weepy. Tamaki’s father is stunned and starts to laugh. He says, so that’s it, come here, wait for me to finish the meeting and we will eat together outside. What do you want to eat? Beaming, Tamaki exclaims hot pot. Tamaki’s father says, okay, okay.

And, Kyouya is indeed looking for Tamaki’s mother. How nice of him even though he denies it, action speaks louder than words. At first, I thought that the 2-3 days limit that Kaoru gave to be with Haruhi is for Hikaru to more or less, reach his peak of jealousy and anger but then, it could also be Kaoru’s limit of acting that way. It is only at the third day that Kaoru’s ‘acting’ started cracking that Haruhi noticed he is hurting himself with what he is doing to Hikaru. It is quite sad and yet admirable of Kaoru ‘giving up’ on Haruhi for Hikaru. I kind of think that will be their first and last date. About the kiss and confession, Haruhi does looks surprised but the last scene of her as if she thinks that Kaoru isn’t serious or something. Hard to describe. Will have to see in the next chapter if she will be reacting the same way when Tamaki kissed her on the forehead to know more precisely what she thought of it. It seems that Kaoru tend to hurt and sacrifice himself just for his brother as implied in previous chapters. With the way, Hikaru compared himself with Tamaki, I’m thinking in the cast, there are three people who are ‘slow’ in terms of love. Hehe Even if they aren’t good there, except for Hikaru, they are quite good in analyzing and understanding complicated people. I wonder if they will somehow meet Tamaki outside and find that he didn’t went to Paris. Actually, I can’t wait Tamaki and Kyouya’s reaction when they learned that there is a rift between the twins – what scenario would they do for the club – aren’t they the ‘brotherly love’ type? Hehe Also, it is quite amusing how bored Tamaki and Kyouya without the others. =P

Quote of the day:
Sacrificing your happiness for the happiness of the one you love, is by far, the truest type of love. ~ Author Unknown.

Vampire Knight [Chapter 30]
Wednesday, June 27, 2007 @ 02:44 p.m.

[Oh ya, the comp tech won't be coming anymore since my computer is currently working fine again. He said I should get it fix when it won't start no matter how long I wait so just want to inform if ever I'm not online for a long period of time without notice, that means, the computer is conked out on me]

Vacation has ended as the perfects are outside the gate as the students start to come in along with their luggages. Yuuki smiles and says, welcome back everyone. Then, Kaname who is holding something wrapped comes in and says, I’ve come back. Yuuki says, welcome back. Kaname gives Yuuki a gift – it is a rose in a bottle. Kaname says that it is a rose that blooms every ten years in a secret resin inside and since it is a rare sight, he has decided to give it to her. Yuuki blushes as she accepts the gift. Kaname asks if it is better if he should have given her food. Embarrassed, Yuuki says it isn’t that, she feels that it is really beautiful. Yuuki then looks as if she is staring at something. Kaname says even if it is a gift, in that place, there are many other blooming roses places that he would like to go with Yuuki. Kaname notices that Yuuki keeps on staring at the other huge package that looks like a huge statue/doll that Kaname is carrying. Kaname smiles and says that it isn’t food. Yuuki gets embarrassed and says just one look and she knows. Kaname then gives it to Zero saying that it is his gift. Zero says he doesn’t want it.

Kaname says that it is an antique that is brought down from the original person – a cursed mannequin/statue and it would make a nice pair with Zero. Zero takes it and throws it to the ground. He stomps on it and gives it back to Kaname saying, thanks it seems that be quite effective soon, not bad. The two boys looks all gloomy that Yuuki breaks in with her hand up, shouts Kaname, there is something she wants to talk about, but she would want to talk about it later in school. Kaname whispers to her what is it, a confession. Yuuki gets embarrassed and quickly runs away, telling the other vampires to register first. After she left, Kaname comments that it seems Yuuki is quite lively even if he isn’t around. Zero just looks at him. Kaname says it is nothing, it isn’t something to be talked about there. Zero still looks at Kaname, doesn’t look happy. Yuuki is writing the names of the other vampires when Rima says that Ichijou and Senri will be late in coming back since they have family business. Yuuki says she knows for she was contacted about it. Rima asks if it is Senri himself who contacted her. Yuuki says, what. Rima says it is nothing. Aidou tells Rima that it seems that Senri has went off to work. Rima says that she can’t contact Senri.

At Ichijou’s residence, Ichijou is escorted to Ichiou’s office/room as the maid informs Ichiou that Ichijou has come back. Ichiou looks back from his chair and says, you actually really came back. Ichijou says if he went to school like before, just to look for him, it will be quite troublesome. Ichiou says that as a guardian of Kaname, this is what he should do. Ichijou tells him that Kaname doesn’t need a guardian, has he forgotten that the Council of Ancients doesn’t have a jurisdiction over the school. Ichiou says that he is only worried over Kaname for it seems he is getting too close with the Aidou family. Ichijou smiles and says that is because they get along more than his grandfather [Ichiou]. It can be said that the Aidou family is the opposite faction of the Council of Ancients and it could be said that it is the ‘king authority loyal faction’ and in the school, for the Council of Ancient faction, there is Ichijou and Senri family as representatives. Ichijou says that Kaname doesn’t care about the king’s authority and isn’t related to the Council of Ancients either, it is really just based on having friendships. Standing up, Ichiou tells him it is best for him to quickly do away with such childish way of thinking. Ichijou should know that of his own responsibilities for he is the one whom everyone is waiting to grow up and brought up/groomed for the position. Ichijou tries to protest/explain but Ichiou cuts him off by saying that there is a master who wants to see him, this is the reason that he is called back home. Ichijou wonders who this person is. While following Ichiou, Ichijou asks his grandfather if he is talking about the pureblood faction, a member of Sara’s [the pureblood in the party before] family. Ichiou says if he will know if he sees [him]. Two maids open the doors. Ichiou says sorry for making you wait, how do you feel. Someone is sitting on a chair while holding an unconscious woman. He wipes his mouth and says not bad. Ichiou says that is really great. He bows down to his knees to the person sitting and says, my master. Ichijou is shock.

In a room, Yuuki is looking out to the moon from the window when she looks at her hand on the table. She is surprised to see that it made a bloodied hand print then she lifts her hand up and it is all bloodied. She gets nervous and closed her hand. The blood is gone. Yuuki thought illusion of blood, this is all just an illusion so there is nothing to be afraid of. She then noticed someone standing behind her. She grew tense and quickly turns around. Meanwhile, the president broke his tea cup. Picking it up, the president laments that it is a waste for it is the rose tea that Kaname gave him and it is newly brewed. He looks up at Zero who is standing in front of the table and asks if he wants a cup, too, it is something that Kaname gave him. Zero angrily refused. Zero says that he only came to report that aside from those people, everyone has arrived so, goodbye. Just as Zero is about to leave, the president screams that his finger is cut and asks Zero that rather than for it to go to waste, why don’t Zero lick it. Downcast, Zero says you two, parent-daughter, don’t do the same thing. Then, Zero realized that he just slipped that he quickly turns around and says, goodbye, I’m going. The president angrily shouts what, what is this about, does it mean if it is Yuuki, he will lick it.

After a pause, Zero tells the president that the president seems to know that he still sucks Yuuki’s blood. The president looks at him and says, but of course, for he is the one looking after them for all these years. The president puts a band-aid/bandage on his finger and says, even if it hurts, but it is a path that they themselves have chosen, he can only protect them though for ‘human’s it is a taboo behavior, isn’t it quite irresponsible but if Zero is in ‘sober’ [not lusting for blood] situation, he will say this is not a proper thing to do. Zero repeats, sober, huh. He then looks as if he is affected/lusting for blood as he looks at the president’s bandaged finger. The president informs Zero that the hunter association has reported to him and if only there is a way to delay being caught up with the madness. The president falls on his knees to the floor and says and, what is this all about. Zero asks doesn’t he know..something related to Yuuki’s past. The president is shock and shouts how could Zero doubt him. Zero says that it seems that Yuuki starts to doubt that person. The president just looks at him. Zero starts to leave and tells the president to take care and not slash his hand again. The president tells Zero to wait, there is something important he wants to say, someone wants to enroll at day class and he thought that it isn’t good if he didn’t inform Zero about it first as to whether he would be admitted in or not. The president holds out the application form and Zero is shock to learn who it is.

Back to Yuuki, Yuuki uses her staff on the person outside the room who manages to block it with his hand. It is Kaname who calls out her name. Yuuki is shock that it is Kaname. Holding away her staff, Kaname hugs her. Kaname asks what is she so afraid, calm down a bit, Yuuki. Yuuki drops her staff as she lets Kaname hug her. Yuuki apologizes. Kaname says it is okay, has she calmed down a bit. Yuuki still apologizes. Yuuki thought what is she doing, even if it is for a moment, she still tried to attack him. Kaname then says, Yuuki..what is it she wants to say, not in front of others. Yuuki looks surprised. Kaname pulls her away from him or it is vice-versa. Yuuki looking at Kaname says there is something she wants to say. Yuuki thought of asking Kaname why are you in that snowy mountain, was it you who erased her memories. But Yuuki just kept on saying Kaname-sempai as if she can’t bring herself to ask him. Kaname touches her face and says it is alright...no matter what Yuuki asks...my feelings for you haven’t changed. Even if I haven’t said so, but you know about it, Yuuki. Kaname hugs Yuuki. Kaname says, I love you, [more than] compared to anyone in this world who loves you. Yuuki looks at him in surprise. Kaname continues, if he can, he wants to make all those that make her uneasy disappear.

In the hallway, Zero finds Yuuki is sitting on the floor, stunned. He kneels down to Yuuki and asks what is the matter, did she asked him. Blushing, Yuuki looks at him and turns away. She shakes her head and says, how can she say it, she..no matter what.. Yuuki though, still believe in Kaname. Looking at Zero, Yuuki asks what is the matter, his eye looked bloodshot [inside his eye, has a bloody color] Zero is speechless as he covers his face with his hand. Yuuki worriedly calls out to him. Zero says that it is nothing, this is no big deal. He tells Yuuki not to hurry, there will be another chance to ask, okay.

In the night dorm, Zero comes in as Kaname from above the stairs says, I was thinking what is this feeling of animosity, it turned out to be you. Zero asks does Kaname know what Yuuki wants to ask..why didn’t he answer her. Kaname doesn’t say anything and just tells Kain and Seiren that they can go back to their rooms. Talking back to Zero, Kaname says that Zero’s face is filled with hostility, he thought he is going to do something, if it is more convenient for Zero, why don’t he go to his [Kaname] room that is unless he is bothered about going to the room of a most hated vampire’s room. Kaname then says, come in, don’t be shy. Inside the room, Kaname tells him to sit down wherever he wants. While Kaname is looking at some letters, Zero asks if Kaname was the one who erased Yuuki’s memories, does he have anything to do with Yuuki’s past, what is the reason that he doesn’t answer, doesn’t he want to make Yuuki’s uneasiness disappear. Kaname holds his face and looks at Zero, apparently irritated by that last comment. Kaname says, how about, I make one of Yuuki’s uneasiness disappear now. Kaname then grabs Zero by the neck with his right hand and smashes Zero into the wall. Zero has quickly pulled out his gun and points it to Kaname’s face. The two didn’t flinch. Zero dares Kaname to do/attack for at this distance, he [Kaname] can still hurt him [Zero]. Kaname tightens his grip and says, speaking of you, vampires really think of pureblood with veneration and you can coldly fight with me [dare fight with me], really irritating. The scenes are blurred as in I can’t quite understand what happened so I’m assuming that Kaname really tightened his grip/pushes him further into the wall that Zero instinctively fires his gun but Kaname manages to evade it a bit but his forehead got wounded. Kaname then pushes Zero down to a sofa.

Kaname is still holding Zero by the neck and Zero now points his gun on Kaname’s head. Kaname says, there are countless times that I wanted to kill you but simply killing you off, doesn’t make me get over it [this emotion]. Kaname’s bloodied forehead starts to drip on Zero’s face. Zero asks are all pureblood like you kept on pestering/annoying. Kaname says he doesn’t want to be criticized by a person who doesn’t act seriously and if he isn’t careful and killed Zero, Yuuki will be really sad/hurt. Another drop of blood fell on Zero’s face as Zero looks a bit tense. Kaname smiles and says Zero’s body is quite honest, just seeing blood and his eyes becomes blood thirty/hunger. Kaname tells Zero that Yuuki’s neck seems to have a not yet healed bite mark, and it has a ‘hunger/thirst’ feeling to it. Zero looks angry. Kaname hits Zero’s neck with his ‘claws’ that Zero’s neck starts to bleed all over the place. Kaname says does he think alone like this, he can protect Yuuki. Pointing his gun to Kaname, holding his bleeding neck with the other hand and breathing hard, Zero says if only he let him fire his gun, it will be okay. Kaname says if he wants to do it, do it now, if he can’t bear it, for soon that ‘thirst/hunger’ will come. Kaname bends down and holds Zero’s wrist that is holding the gun. Kaname says listen up, Zero, how about drink my blood like this.

Zero says don’t joke around. Kaname says can I even joke about this, in my body flows the blood of Kuran pureblood, it can prolong your lifespan and it can prevent him from going mad. If you die here, it will also quite troublesome for me, letting you live is because of Yuuki, because I know that you won’t betray her. Zero slightly smiles and says, it is still the same, [Kaname] doesn’t want to explain things. Kaname says, I can understand, because of you, my feelings for Yuuki, should be the same. Zero says, I just want to see Yuuki to smile without care. Kaname says same for me. Zero says no matter what, I will sacrifice [anything/everything] for her. Kaname says that is so. Finally, Zero bites Kaname’s neck. Kaname says, this blood, don’t forget who gave it to you, Zero, when you, compared to others, really hate vampires, but then, compared to others, you really need blood, I feel that you are now not just a vampire by name but also in reality. Then, Aidou, Ruka, Kain and others has sensed Kaname’s blood. Outside the school, Ichiru is dropped off by a car. From the car, sits Senri’s mom’s uncle. He tells Ichiru to do this best to work for him, if he wants use the master’s power for Ichiru’s revenge. Ichiru says yes.

Hehe, the two is finally forced to work together for Yuuki’s sake. I’m amused that they will really actually kill each other if it isn’t for Yuuki. At least, Kaname admitted it. I think Zero is in a bit of a disadvantage for he owes Kaname. On the other hand, Kaname has a lot to gain. With Zero owing him, Kaname can asks Zero of anything as long as it isn’t to harm Yuuki but I think Kaname will be content in getting Zero to be Yuuki’s bodyguard and he just provide Zero a way out of his weakness for blood. Obviously, as things are turning out, Kaname can’t trust anyone as even Ichijou is at the side of his enemy. He can’t trust his vampire friends to protect a human so he has to rely on Zero. With Ichiru coming in as a new student to do the enemy’s bidding, Kaname needs all the allies he can get. Kaname is really good at keeping secrets – he doesn’t tell Aidou who killed his parents and doesn’t mention anything about Yuuki’s past. I do wonder about the confession though Kaname is sincere or part of it is just to make Yuuki to just trust him and don’t ask that question. I’m assuming it is true else, why would he bother sharing his blood to someone who hates him with a passion. Also, it isn’t it a bit quite good timing for Kaname to offer himself at that time? I think Kaname used that opportunity as his enemy has started to move. From Ichiru’s reaction, I guess Senri’s father has possessed him by then. It is interesting that there are factions within the vampires. No wonder Ichiou is suspicious of Kaname’s actions, he seems to be allying with the Aidou though it does seem that Kaname doesn’t really care about it as Ichijou said. Now, what will happen next. I wonder what Ichiru is going to do in school. Spy or wreck havoc? His revenge of course will be on Zero and Kaname and doing something to Yuuki can be quite effective. I have this silly scenario of what would others say when Zero and Kaname comes out of that room. Zero’s neck would be bandaged from the slash he got. Kaname’s forehead and neck will be bandaged. The neck is to hide the bite marks. What would Yuuki say if she sees them like that? A M no N Shouzou scene comes into mind – the heroine will think that the two guys are into each other. Lol

Quote of the day:
We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now. ~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Ouran High Host Club [Special Chapter: Mori-sempai’s Chick-chan and Yasuchika]
Tuesday, June 26, 2007 @ 03:10 p.m.

An Ouran special chapter in Lala DX. This happened around the time when vacation has just ended. While eating cake, Honey tells Yasuchika that Mori just got himself a pet chick. Yasuchika angrily says, ha. Note says, Yasuchika philosophy is to be strict with himself and other people, who rejects his cake-loving, bunny hugging, cute creature alien brother and wants to be the number one strict/discipled person in Japan so everyday he is working at it. Yasuchika enters his room and thought, what small chick, really irritating cute alien, and even saying that Mori has a pet chick, chick, what is that. Yasuchika pulls out a book and it is about chicks. From a box, he has chick dolls, chick dvd, chick toys, chick spoon, etc. Yasuchika cries and says that he really likes it, so cute. He says that he really wants to see it but he is trying to keep his reputation so he gave up on his side of wanting to have cute pets/animals but no matter what, he really wants to see that chick. He then thought that tomorrow he will have training with Satoshi so if they are going to Mori’s house and when Satoshi leaves for a while, he will take that opportunity to look at the chick. While still reading his chick book, Honey opens the door and tells him that their mother bought some cake. Yasuchika quickly kicks Honey unconscious as he holds the box of chick stuff. He thought absolutely cannot let this person know.

The next day, Satoshi greets him and says there is no club meeting so why don’t they go out and play, where does he want to go, good thing he met Yasuchika. Yasuchika gloomily says no, this guy. He thought he is really mad, this stupid guy. Yasuchika says so early in the morning, how could he have a meeting/date, he isn’t like Satoshi who can’t stay idle. Yasuchika is crying inside though, wah, chick. Satoshi hits Yasuchika with his shinai [a practice weapon used primarily in kendo and is used as if it were a sword] when Yasuchika calls him stupid. Satoshi then says what does he want to play. While looking at his mobile phone, Satoshi says oh right, his brother bought a chick at the festival, would he like to see a picture of it. Blushing, Yasuchika tries to deny that he doesn’t want to see it but inside, he really wants to see it – let me see, let me see it. Satoshi says don’t be in a hurry, it is really super duper cute. Honey appears and shouts, Satoshi, what are you looking at looking at so early in the morning. Frightened to be discovered, Yasuchika quickly kicks Satoshi’s phone away. This freaks out Satoshi as he chases after Yasuchika shouting, you fool, you seem to have a death wish, wait for me. Honey laughs and says, they are really good friends. That night, while hugging a chick doll, Yasuchika cries for missing a chance to see the chick.

The next day, Yasuchika gives Satoshi a new phone and he did it just because of the chick. Satoshi thanks him and says it is the latest model. Satoshi wonders what kind of picture will he use as his wallpaper. Yasuchika holds Satoshi’s shoulder and says how about a small bird. Satoshi asks, huh. Yasuchika gloomily says that the television says that a small bird is quite lucky and that it must be something that he himself has taken a picture of so don’t complain and take a picture of a small bird. Satoshi says is that so, and that Yasuchika seems to be a can’t be satisfied monkey. Satoshi sees a flying sparrow and takes a picture of it. Yasuchika freaks out. He starts to curse and hit Satoshi, calling him stupid. Satoshi tries to shield himself and asks what is the matter. Honey appears and says what is it, obviously Satoshi wants to see Mori’s pet chick, isn’t that so. Yasuchika angrily kicks Honey and shouts, who wants to see a chick.

Mori looks speechless as Honey is hanging on a tree. Satoshi and Yasuchika notices him. Satoshi asks what is Mori doing there, is he going out with Honey. Mori says he isn’t, he just wants Yasuchika to see the chick so he came. Yasuchika immediately blushes. Mori turns around and says it seems he isn’t interested so he is going home. In the basket he is holding, the chick chirps. Yasuchika cries out to Mori to wait. He starts crying and says wait, chick, sniff. Satoshi asks what is the matter, does his stomach hurt. Mori puts the chick on Yasuchika’s hand and says, while he is going to bring down Honey from the tree, would he hold it for a while. Yasuchika starts to cry as he looks at the chick. Honey tells Mori sorry for the trouble and to be careful in getting him down. And that is how Yasuchika is able to meet with the chick but he doesn’t know of the new trials that are awaiting him. During practice, Honey tells Yasuchika that the Mori family just got a purebred small dog. Yasuchika blushes and says, he wants to see it.

Hehe, Yasuchika turns out to have a soft spot for small animals. Lol, even if he denies it and tries to be tough, he might end up just like Honey when he grows up. How nice of Honey to get Mori to show the chick to him and spare Yasuchika the anguish of pretending not to want see it. Hehe

Quote of the day:
Be what you are. This is the first step towards becoming better than you are. ~ J. C. Hare & A. W. Hare (Guesses at Truth: Second Series)

Weekly Jump Updates: Bleach, One Piece, D. Gray-man, Naruto and Gintama
Monday, June 25, 2007 @ 12:05 p.m.

Grimmjow gets his zanpaku back from the building and asks Ichigo why he has that expression as if he isn’t sincere in fighting him in Bleach [c. 280]. Ichigo doesn’t know what he is talking about so Grimmjow starts to attack Ichigo. When their zanpaku crossed, Grimmjow tells Ichigo that he didn’t came there to save Inoue else, he would have quickly grabbed her and ran away, but since Inoue looks safe, Ichigo is relieved but he didn’t know what had happened to her. Ichigo angrily asks what did they do to Inoue. Grimmjow likes it when Ichigo gets serious and angry and says that Ichigo didn’t come there to safe her but rather to fight for it is their instinct. After a few more fighting, Ichigo got wounded on his left shoulder. Grimmjow likes Ichigo’s expression but it isn’t enough. As Ichigo is falling, Grimmjow uses cero in order to hit Inoue and Neru. Ichigo quickly changed to his hollow self. Grimmjow is happy that ‘it’ came out. Ichigo’s hollow mask is already half black. Fighting will be nice when animated. I guess Grimmjow is using what most villains do, try to hurt the protagonist loved ones to make the protagonist become serious. Usually, villains came to regret doing that, would Grimmjow regret it? Grimmjow does have a point, there doesn’t seem to be a need to fight him as he can just grab Inoue and retreat..though, it does seem the coward’s way. ^^; I mean, even if he did that, Grimmjow would be after him. I have a feeling by the time their fight is over, Ulquiorra will come back.

Zoro says that finding the zombies that has their shadows is quite troublesome in One Piece [c. 460]. Chopper is awed by the zombie that they put Luffy’s shadow in. Luffy says they don’t have to find each zombie that has their shadows, they only have to defeat Moria as the old man said before. Sanji comments that Luffy is trusting random people again. Luffy wants to beat up Moria and he tells Sanji to handle the guy who kidnapped Nami. Sanji is fired up about the wedding and he became even more fiery when Usopp told him that Absalom peeked in while Nami is taking a bath. Usopp is guilty for letting Nami taken so he is going with Sanji. Franky says he is worried about Brook. Zoro will accompany Franky as he wants to fight the legendary samurai [Ryuma]. Robin says that defeating Moria is the key to victory. Chopper tries to protest that he is one of the seven seas. Luffy says it is okay for they defeated Crocodile. Chopper shouts he better be careful since Luffy was almost killed by Crocodile. Usopp gives them bags of salt balls that he made and warns that they have a time limit for they are safe now since it is night but if it is morning, they will be in trouble [the ones with no shadow will turn to dust if the sun shines on them]. Luffy misinterprets this that it is a crisis for he won’t have eaten till morning. ^^; Meanwhile, Odz is on top of the mast wanting to use Moria’s ship to become pirate king. The other zombies are worried that he is uncontrollable but Moria says it is okay since with Odz, they can get more powerful shadows to put in more powerful zombies.

Then, Hildon comes to report about Luffy and others. Hogback asks where Absalom is. Hildon says that he got all the general zombies to attend his wedding. Perona says she will take care of them using her ghosts and the soldier zombies can just grab them. She goes off to her room. Hildon says then everything is fine. Moria is leaning on the wall says he doesn’t have anything to do and wants to play with Odz. Hogback requests to be the second in command of the zombies while Absalom is busy elsewhere. Upstairs, Luffy is beating up zombies as he shouts to Moria to give his food back while Sanji is shouting where is the one who peeked Nami. Usopp, Robin and Chopper follow them as they note that it seems they don’t need salt as their fury is enough to beat the zombies. Below, Zoro and Franky are creating havoc. Just then, some perona ghosts got Luffy and Sanji. They were about to be grabbed by some zombies but good thing that Usopp and others saved them. As Usopp carrying Sanji and Chopper carrying Luffy, Robin leads them away else they be caught by the ghosts and zombies, when Odz jumps down on them. The stairs breaks and Usopp with Sanji fall down to where Zoro and Franky were. Zoro and Franky try to break the wall that hinders their path. Usopp shouts to them that it is the zombie that has Luffy’s shadow. They were shock at how big Odz was. It seems they have to figure out what is the weakness of the ghosts. Hehe, the trio doesn’t seem to quite care about their shadows. ^^; Luffy is concerned about food, Sanji is concerned about Nami and Zoro is concerned about his pride of being caught by weaklings. I wonder if this will be like the battle in Eneas Lobby, the members interchange from one group to the other. Also, about Odz, would they befriend him?

Burned up Rhode continues to laugh and calls out to Allen before she turns into dust in D. Gray-man [c. 123]. They wonder what Rhode is still laughing as Rabi asks Allen what did he do to Rhode that she has fallen for him and she is just a kid. Allen gets angry and gives him a jab, and later on, they try to beat up each other with Chaoji tries to stop them. Rinali asks if Rhode is gone, what about the door out. Rabi uses his hammer to get to the top and if he sees the door, he will pull them up. While waiting, both Rinali and Allen are worried about Kanda and Crowley then, Allen says they might still be somewhere so he is going back to find them and that Rinali and others to go ahead first since of all of them, he is the one who still has energy. Rinali says that even if she doesn’t like what Allen said, she agrees with him for that is what she would do, too. Rabi finds the door and gets the others up. After they all got above, Allen wants to go back and help Tiki and Lero. Allen says without the noah, Tiki is an ordinary person and others with him will be waiting for him. Rabi doesn’t object but says that the order will be angry if he saved a noah. Chaoji became angry that Allen wants to save a noah who has killed many and he even called Allen an akuma like the noahs. Just then, some kind of centipede-like tentacles destroys the door [I think] and grabs Allen, pulling him down. Chaoji says that it is for the best for that kind of person for no matter what reason, they are killers, akuma. Allen is shock that those tentacles are coming from Tiki as he is sure he has destroyed it. Allen wonders if it is still Tiki. The author goes on break for research. It seems the author isn’t finished with torturing Allen. ^^; I wonder why Tiki’s noah is released like that which is a bit the same as that lightning noah who fought with Kanda, when Rhode’s didn’t. I wonder what got into Chaoji, I guess he is the type who can’t forgive while Allen is just too nice.

Just as the C2 dragon is about to fall down, Sasuke quickly uses his snakes to get out to safety in Naruto [c. 359]. After reverting to his normal form, it seems that Deidara is still alive after all those explosions. Sasuke looks at Deidara’s right arm which seems to be sewed together. Deidara seeing Sasuke’s eyes remembers when Itachi and others tried to recruit him. He refused but Itachi challenged him to a fight and if he wins, Deidara joins. Itachi uses his eyes and Deidara is quickly defeated in the illusion. This revived Deidara’s anger over losing in that technique as he deemed his own technique is more powerful. He ate some clay and spits it out to Sasuke’s direction. Tobi quickly escapes saying it is C4. Gross. ^^; Well, it seems Deidara isn’t dead yet and interestingly, Akatsuki had forced Deidara to join them. I thought it is more of a group wherein people joins voluntarily. Mm, with all those explosions yet no one from both teams of Sasuke and Naruto arrive at the scene. ^^;;

Gintama [c. 170] is about Umibozu, Kagura’s dad who is recruited to help fight a giant black sphere that has invaded a planet. A man and a woman who looks like revolutionists/guerrilla soldiers fight against small black spheres as they hope for a savior. They were saved by Umibozu but were a bit dismayed seeing him with a wig. They told him that three years ago, this sphere came and killed a lot of people so now, it is a fight for their lives. Umibozu kept on mishearing words as bald that the two tries to calm him down else, they will leave him. Umibozu is sensitive about being bald. The woman, Kai starts her speech about fighting again to the people underground but nobody pays attention to her. A person even asks who is that bald person that made Umibozu angry. The other guy with Kai, Iwanov tries to calm Umibozu that he hits Umibozu’s head and revealed he is bald when the wig falls down. Everyone started laughing and leaves. Later on, Iwanov apologizes Umibozu for embarrassing him and asks if Umibozu is leaving. Umibozu says that Iwanov did everything deliberately about the wig so that Kai will no longer have the will to fight for it is better not to fight that thing for the planet is finished whether they fight or not. He tells Umibozu that even if Kai hates that super big bowling ball enemy, if they destroyed it, the planet is finished for that thing is part of the planet’s body. I really have a feeling I know this plot. It does seem to be those end-of-the-world type movies – like meteors, global warming, etc.

Quote of the day:
He who knows when he can fight and when he cannot, will be victorious. ~ Sun Tzu

The One [Chapter 26]
Saturday, June 23, 2007 @ 03:50 p.m.

At the building, that is near the love hotel, [it seems that Lele is right that she has found Eros’ working place], Eros made Lele and Angus kneel on a foot exercise machine that is like an abacus and had them carry tons of books as punishment. Angus whines that his feet are hurting so much and his million worth legs are going to be ruined. Lele whines, silver-eyed monster, I am the ‘victim’ so why am I being punished, the younger brother is a ‘pervert’, the older brother is a ‘sadist’, getting involved with them are really my bad luck. Eros angrily shouts why is she being stupid, didn’t he told her that if she confess to Angus, he will quickly try to get you into bed. Lele cries that she didn’t even confess to Angus. Angus tells Lele that Lele has already nosebleed a two buckets worth, for him, that is a really ‘passionate’ confession. Eros grabs Angus collar and angrily shout at Angus, Stupid, is your life really impure, she is still a minor/teen, wake that brain of yours up. Angus smiles as he lazily tells his brother that he doesn’t mind if he is forever labeled as a ‘wild character’. Eros shouts, his X is just trying to be innocent, well then, he also doesn’t mind putting lots of ‘black eyes’ on his face.

After Eros punched Angus black and blue, Angus tells Lele, see, isn’t my brother really scary, can she imagine famous model Angus become domestically abused. Lele cries that he deserved it. Eros is angry and aghast over the two. He then shouts at the two that he is going to buy dinner so they better stay kneeling there until he comes back. As Eros is about to go out, Lele grabs his left foot. Lele is begging him to let her go with him. Crying, she points at Angus and whines at Eros that she doesn’t want to be left alone in the same place with that pervert. Eros asks, didn’t she also called him a sadist. Clinging on Eros’ leg, Lele cries that she would rather be beaten to death than be raped to death. To Eros and Lele’s surprise, Angus clings on to Eros back like a koala saying if Lele is going, he is going, too. Eros gets Angus off him and angrily says that he be nice, they will quickly come back.

While walking in the streets, Eros and Lele each carry a plastic bag with Eros walking first. Eros asks if she was frightened. Eros explains that Angus doesn’t really hurt women, she only say out loud, rejecting Angus so she doesn’t have to be afraid of Angus. A note says that Lele is actually too scared that she can’t say anything. While Eros is still walking ahead, Lele thought that with those words, Eros is trying to protect his brother and at the same time, he knows that she was really scared, it seems that it isn’t ‘displaced feelings’ [that she likes Eros because he looks like Angus] and she really does trust/confide in with this ‘stranger’. Lele then grabs Eros’ sleeve. Eros turns around to find Lele grabbing his left arm and sleeping while standing. Today, I’m really tired. Eros shouts, hey, wake up, do not sleep on the street!! Lele is already sound asleep. At the office, Angus is already reading a book when he finds Eros arriving back, carrying all the plastic bags and sleeping Lele on his back. Eros curses, he just looks back and he finds a person sound asleep while walking. Angus says why didn’t he just left her on the road, why does Eros has to carry her back. Eros says does Angus think of Lele as garbage, wanting to throw away, just throw it away. Eros puts her on the sofa and covered her with a blanket. Angus whines to wake Lele up so that she can leave for he wants to be alone with Eros. While looking at sleeping Lele, Eros says that is if Lele can be awaken. Angus asks if that means Lele will have to stay there for the night. Eros tells Angus that it seems that way and he will also stay there for the night because of work, so would Angus stay there with him or go to a more comfortable hotel, what does he want. Angus shouts of course he will sleep where Eros is. Angus thought, don’t joke around, how can I let you two be alone in one place.

Later on, Eros is typing something on his laptop computer while Angus is eating potato chips. Angus started talking in Chinese [since they are alone] and asks Eros [calling him Yin/Silver], for how long is Eros going to work there. Eros says approximately 5 days as tomorrow they are going to build the set/stage. Angus asks if he is going to supervise it. Eros says of course so he will be busy to death and he won’t have any time to play around with him. Angus says if Eros doesn’t have time to accompany him, then he will accompany Eros. Eros says that he will just create trouble. With puppy eyes and flowers, Angus promises Eros that he will keep a low profile and if Eros want, he would let himself be ‘used’ free of charge. Eros angrily says, he doesn’t want. Just then, there is a loud thud. They look what it was and it was Lele who fell down the sofa but still sound asleep. They were amused by this. To Angus’ surprise, Eros goes to carry Lele back to the sofa and covers her with a blanket. Angus asks why does Eros treat Lele differently, Eros usually doesn’t expose his feelings but why is he nice to Lele. Angus thought no wonder Feidna is uneasy. Eros says, really, you think too much. Sitting on the coffee table while looking at Lele, Eros says he just feels that she is a nice kid, there is nothing else to it. Angus doesn’t seem convinced by Eros’ answer. While looking at Lele who is smiling and drooling in her sleep, Eros thought, treating her differently, I also don’t know, but I remember her gentle hug [when he was playing bum and Lele hugs him, saying you are really alone, aren’t you lonely?] and what she had said has moved him [Lele saying Grandma gave me this whole world’s most satisfying love]. He remembers his mother, a beautiful woman with long dark wavy hair saying Yin, come here to mother. Because I used to have that, but in the end, lost it, my most precious thing.

It is morning and the sunlight shines on Lele that she wakes up. Sitting up, she finds a piece of bread, tetra pack juice/milk, a 1000 [I think] yen bill, and a note. A note points that this is breakfast for Lele. Lele rubs her eyes and reads the note. It reads the money is for her ride on a taxi back to the hotel, else she will just get lost again, remember to lock the door and give the key to the care taker, signed by Silver eyed monster, complete with a chibi drawing of himself with a V-sign. Lele can’t believe that she actually slept there, that’s right, yesterday, it seems that she went out to buy dinner then she fell asleep. How could I do such a thing? He surely have carried her back there. Today is my last day in Japan. The last photo shoot has ended early, I can now leave this place and return home. The assistant says great work, it has finally finished as Ti Fu happily says he will treat them for a toast in celebration. The two other models excuses themselves saying that drinking wine can make them fat and they are trying to reduce two kilograms. One of the staff says he wants to go to Tokyo Disneyland. The other two women staff says they want to go to the shrine and pray for a boyfriend. Ti Fu is sad as he have to drink all by himself. The assistant says that she is going to buy some famous product [whatever thing Japan is famous for] as gifts for her family. Ti Fu grabs Lele asking if she will accompany him. Lele apologizes for she also has to buy gifts for her aunt and Xiao Qui for she only has bought for Grandma. The assistant tells Ti Fu why don’t he just go with them.

Being in Japan for 5 days seems so long because a lot of things had happened. I am not quite satisfied with my work yet I had exerted a lot of effort and was able to have a good ending. I hope when this is shown, Grandma and her aunt will admire her for it. Then, she looks in a store with lots of earrings. The assistant carrying lots of shopping bags while Ti Fu holding a champagne bottle go to Lele. The assistant asks if she is finished. I have bought all the things I need and I was about to leave when in the street, she sees a small stall specializing in selling silver accessories that has captured her attention. There are many kinds of accessories, and she notices in the earrings section, here is one solitary ‘Yin’ [Chinese character for silver] earring stud. It momentarily locked into my sight. Lele holds it up as the assistant wonders what is Lele looking at and remembers Eros’ eye [color]. The seller says that it is what their master/specialist put his blood and sweat into making but because it is in kanji [Chinese character] and only one [without a pair], it is hard to sell it so if she likes it, he can give her discount on it.

I think I know who is the most suited person to wear this. I cannot help but buy this and ask the hotel receptionist to give it to him. Then, I packed by luggage and go back home. I really wanted to see him wearing it but then, will I have a chance to meet him again? Grandma, I will be going to your side soon. Lele is fast asleep on her plane trip back to Taiwan. Meanwhile, Eros comes back to the hotel and the receptionist gives him Lele’s gift, saying that it is from the guest in 507 asking them to give it to him. In his room, he opens the bag and finds a note from Lele. It reads, in this whole world, it is the most suitable ‘luck charm’ for silver eyed monster. It has a doodle of herself with two hands V-sign. Eros is puzzled that he opens the small box and finds a ‘Yin’ earring. Eros slightly smiles and looks at it from his window. He says, Really ~~ giving a gift but doesn’t even think about it first, I don’t have an ear piercing, stupid.

And this ends the Tokyo arc. It is revealed that Angus is really possessive of his brother. I’m sure Feidna called him and said, hey your brother has been unnaturally nice to this girl, why don’t you check her out. Zoom, he quickly fly to Japan. From the scenes there, he really looks jealous. So, if Lele and Eros become a couple, Angus and Feidna will be the ones hindering the relationship. It is also shown here that Eros attraction for Lele is more on her niceness to him even as he act like a bum and the love he experience before from his mom, he felt it from Lele. Feidna wasn’t able to give it to him as she has other boyfriends. I think it is only Lele who is able to stand up to him and didn’t act differently – like being nice because he is a famous person. I think that there is a bit of symbolism on how Lele bought the earring and how she met Eros. Since I think that the one in the poster is Eros, of all the models that could have gotten her to modeling, it is this one. He even helped her get herself started in it. She kind of ‘found’ him in the park and she did mention that Eros seems quite ‘alone’. Unknowingly, she just gave him an earring of his name. ^_^

Word of the day:
Although sometimes we may receive from others, gifts that have a hidden guilt attached, the blessings we receive from God our Father come to us by grace—and they’re unmatched! ~ Hess from Our Daily Bread.

The One [Chapter 25]
Friday, June 22, 2007 @ 06:05 p.m.

Lele is really shock to see that the one whom she thought is Eros is actually Angus. Lele can only point out to him and shout, you, [10x] and thought green eyes. Angus looks at her and corners her to the wall. Lele is still freaking out as Angus asks Ti Fu, can I take away your model? After they left, Ti Fu is talking with Eros on the phone. It seems that Eros is asking Ti Fu if he has seen Angus. Ti Fu tells him that Angus was there and he seems to be looking for him. Eros asks where is Angus now. Smiling, Ti Fu says that Angus has already left and even took Lele with him, saying something about Lele knowing where his [Eros] secret place is located. Eros is surprised.

While walking with Angus on the streets, Lele asks so it seems he is trying to look for his brother, so why didn’t he say so at the start and would have to pretend to be his brother. Angus says that he is just playing a practical joke on her. Lele thought, not even a bit apologetic, no wonder they are twin brothers, they are both arrogant. Lele asks why do they not speak in Chinese when obviously they know how to. Angus tells her that it is a ‘habit’ and they use it only when they are ‘on their own’/’with people inside our circle’. Lele says is that so as an arrow points to her – outsider. Lele asks him why didn’t he call his brother to come and get him that he would even ask an outsider like her to show him the way. A gloomy wind blows Angus hair as he tells Lele that it is because his mobile phone no longer has any batteries. Lele happily offers to lend him her mobile phone. Angus gloomily says it is useless for while working, he won’t answer anyone’s phone calls. Angus goes into drama mode as he tells Lele that even when Eros’ body isn’t okay, his temper is still quite stubborn, leaving home for so many days, he didn’t even give him one single call so he is worried sick that he flew to Japan. Lele is shock that Eros’s isn’t well and she asks, what is Eros’ sickness? Angus starts to cry as he apologizes that he can’t say for if he did, his brother will kill him. Lele is aghast and thought he really has a sickness so that is why.. She remembers Eros being sick after eating sashimi.

Angus looks back and is a bit surprised to see Lele crying. He asks her what is the matter. Lele says she would want to apologize to his brother if only she knew he isn’t well, she wouldn’t have force him to eat sashimi. Angus is shock that she forced Eros to eat sashimi. Lele continues saying that even if she had scolded him as a silver eyed monster, she truly feels that he is a good person, even if his mouth is quite foul, yet he still helped her a lot. Angus goes in shock again, what he helped you a lot. Lele says that when she is troubled with her photo shoot, he gave her pointers, when her grandma is hurt, he calmed her down, he even helped take care of Fan Tong, the cat even though she got scolded about it. Angus is aghast, sweatdropping and angered as he wonders, is the guy she talking about my coldhearted apathetic brother. Lele holds on to Angus’ hand and says that he must be really worried. Lele cheering up, tells Angus not to worry for she will accompany him in finding Eros even if she really is bad with roads, but she will do her best in remembering where Eros work. Angus looks a bit surprised. Later on, Eros looks at his mobile phone and notices he had 97 missed calls. He starts to call but only gets a message that the number he is calling can’t be reached/doesn’t answer the phone. Eros wonders why would Angues look for Lele, has his mobile phone run out of batteries.

Outside, Angus shouted where is it, they have been wandering around for around two hours, doesn’t she remember the place. Lele nervously says that she is sure that she isn’t making a mistake, it is just that all the streets look the same, she will carefully try to recognize which one is it. Angus is already pretty tired as his legs are about to give way. Lele then shouts, I find it and points up to a building which is near a love hotel. Meanwhile, Eros is also running around trying to look for them. He thought that it has been three hours and he still haven’t seen them. He wonders where could that girl who doesn’t know roads have brought Angus. Just as he is about to give up, he looks up and sees them. Angus is pulling Lele to a different place from what Lele is pointing. Lele shouts that it is that building there, where are you going. Eros is surprised to see them. At the love hotel, Lele is shock and embarrassed as Angus takes off his shirt. Lele shouts what is he doing. Angus tells her, going to take a bath, darling. Lele says that his brother’s office is already nearby, why doesn’t he take a bath there. Angus angrily says that for the last three hours, she has said, ‘I found it’ five times, does she think that he will still believe her, he has just came from an almost whole day flight and she lead him all over the place, he is already dead tired. Lele goes to the door and tells him to rest over there and she will continue looking and if she found it, she will come back. Angus stops her and whispers, does she think that he will let her go. Angus then pins Lele on the wall as Lele screams what is he doing, doesn’t he want to see his sick brother Eros. Angus says that it seems Lele really wants it, she can’t lie to him, she really seems to be his fan, so she isn’t protesting. Lele shouts, what?!

Angus kisses her on the lips as Lele looks aghast. Angus says, don’t tell me you didn’t imagine this, during the photo shoot, it is already quite obvious from her expressions, she really wants to seduce him but she can’t contain her own desires, so she changed her motive into ‘fighting’, isn’t that right? Lele is speechless as she thought, I want to say stop this behavior but I couldn’t. This is the second time I have met Angus. The first time, there is ‘no feeling’ and she thought that it could be because that he isn’t really looking at her. It isn’t the same as this strong stare now, even with only an eye, it seems quite hypnotizing. This kind of him, is really different from to the pair of eyes from the Freedom poster, the charisma/charm isn’t the same at all but they have the same ‘absorbing’ power. His stare is like she is his ‘prey’ and that she can’t escape. Lele is already kneeling on the floor as Angus is still cornering her. Lele starts to shake and become nervous. She quickly closes her eyes and thought, she is really afraid. Angus misinterprets this and says, she is really honest from her reactions, darling, I like it. Angus starts to blow her ear. Lele tries to push him away, thinking, this person is a monster, a monster!! Save me ~ I am caught by a monster! Who will save me?! A note says that she can’t shout nor move as if she is caught in a monster’s cage. Angus then says that he is going to satisfy her desires. Lele shouts from her head, No!!! Just then, Eros kicks the door open and kicks Angus’ head, making Lele surprised. He angrily shouts, satisfy your head. Eros then shouts, you two, get out of here this instant!!!

Hehe, prince charming to the rescue. Again like always, destiny is at work here. I do wonder if Eros did that because he is unconsciously concern about Lele or he just want to reprimand the ‘kids’ for going in that place. Eros really seems older than his age...or rather, Angus isn’t acting his age. It does make one think they aren’t twins based on their behavior. ^^;; This chapter seems to hint as what has been hinted in other chapters before that the one in the freedom poster isn’t Angus. I’m betting that it is Eros though I wonder what made Eros pose for that especially since he has a bullet scar there. I do wonder what Angus is referring to as Eros’ sickness – the most I can think of is his ‘wannabe bum’ disease. ^^;; I’m thinking that Angus might be just lying to Lele. Being misunderstood and too shock to protest – aren’t those the things that can result in rape? Actually, if Eros didn’t come in, Lele could cry rape and it is pretty much the end of Angus’ career.

Parfait Tic [Chapter 145]
Thursday, June 21, 2007 @ 02:09 p.m.

Fuuko is stunned with what Ichi said, ‘From now on, it is only you. Forever.’ as it repeats in her head. Fuuko protests about forever, who knows about that..afterwards. Ichi interrupts and says, I know. After a pause as Fuuko is a bit shock, realizing that Ichi is serious. Ichi then firmly shouts, I know. Fuuko is a bit tense. I want to tell him, ‘sorry.. I’m currently a bit confused..’ How can I say it, I haven’t said it clearly with Ichi. With full determination, Fuuko is about to say, ‘I..’ Ichi quickly turns around and starts walking, saying, convenient store, convenient store, I’m already hungry. Fuuko thought, wait, listen to me. Without looking back at Fuuko, Ichi tells her not to say it, whatever it is she is going to say, he can pretty much guess what it is. Ichi turns around and says, afterwards, who knows what will happen. Fuuko is a bit angry as Ichi just said what she said earlier. She shouts, what does he mean, you cunning. Ichi starts to walk again saying, changing the subject, has she decided on the other things. Fuuko shouts, hey. Ichi says today’s job is that he will talk to the restaurant about the party, what are the events, do you want a dance? Fuuko shouts, when did she say she want that but then, if you want me to dance, I will dance. Ichi asks, you can dance?

Fuuko returns home. What happen afterwards, I don’t know. Ichi is very popular that even Kagechika has fallen for him. Ichi will forever love me, this thing I can’t even quite imagine what it is like. Such a handsome guy, what does he like about me. Fuuko looks at the mirror and notices herself blushing. Fuuko goes in a shock. [It says ‘change the habit’ and I don’t quite get what it means – maybe to stop looking like that]. Fuuko looks at the mirror and curses herself. Fuuko is interrupted by her crying sister. She tells her sister to knock first before entering. Misora tells her that it has been decided that she will have three serializations as the outcome [of the other manga] has been pretty good. Fuuko is happy for her sister and starts to congratulate her. Then, Misora says, so, I will be depending on you for the money/fund, little sis. Fuuko froze and angrily shouts at her sister, really, so this is what this is about. What happens afterwards, I don’t know. I know. More or less, is my feelings. A scene of Daiya, smiling.

In class, Fuuko shows them a board with the name of Daiya in the middle with his section below, and the words, sayonara/goodbye above. The girls says it is an autograph. Fuuko tells them to write their greetings and name but be careful not to let Daiya know about it so they can do it when Daiya goes to the office/not around. Mako says that it really feels as if Daiya is going. Fuuko says that is true. Mako asks if that will be okay, that Fuuko is in charge of this, won’t it be too painful for her. Fuuko smiles and says that the one who is in most pain is Daiya, he is really different from others but me, I’m only different to one person. Yes, even if it is one person, feeling lonely, how many will it be. [I think basically, Fuuko wonders if she is the one leaving, how many will be lonely about it. In contrast, many will be missing Daiya] Just then, another student calls out to Mako saying that someone is looking for her. It is a boy standing outside the classroom. Fuuko is pleasantly surprised. Outside the balcony, Fuuko is thrilled that there is a confession already, so. Mako says she already agreed/answered. Fuuko is shocked and tries to protest that she doesn’t know that guy yet. Mako says if she doesn’t try going out, she won’t know. Fuuko is a bit surprised. Mako apologizes and says that she is contradicting herself, to know or not to know, maybe she will like him for that guy isn’t too bad and he seems to be her type. Fuuko sweatdrops [as it seems Mako does like the guy]. Afterwards, ‘intuition’, ‘premonition’ even if it feels really vague, but we, can only depend on this. They look down and smiles when sees Chiso meeting with her boyfriend. Even if it is childish, makes one very uneasy, one can only depend on one’s self-confidence.

At her house, Fuuko opens the door to find Daiya who invites her to go upstairs. Fuuko is then greeted by Daiya and Ichi’s grandparents plus Koto. Fuuko greets them back, so you have returned, it has been a long time. Fuuko greets Koto and says that she has grown a bit taller. Koto asks, really, so why isn’t she moving and kneeling [to match her height]. Fuuko then notices some boxes, rope and tape behind Koto. Grandma says they are moving. Fuuko smiles and says she will help. While packing, Fuuko accidentally breaks a cd case when she bends down on the floor. Ichi gets angry and slaps her head as Fuuko apologizes. Daiya then slaps Ichi hard at the back that Ichi falls down. Smiling, Daiya says that he hit her hard. Ichi shouts isn’t he the same. Ichi then pushes Daiya into his room to pack up his things. Daiya is saying something about Grandpa being engrossed in putting up pictures. Grandpa shouts that it is a different thing. [I don’t get that. ^^;] After they went into the room, Grandma apologizes to Fuuko that things turned out that way for they are really in good terms with each other. Fuuko says that it is okay [something like no need to be sorry] Grandma sadly looks at Fuuko and asks, is it okay if you don’t stop him [from going]? Fuuko looks freezes. Grandma pauses then apologizes, what was she saying when it isn’t her position to say such things. Fuuko is about to say, about that..

Koto interrupts and says if there is anything she can help, don’t hesitate to ask. Fuuko smiles and says that Koto has really grown up. Koto says that she also likes someone. Fuuko is surprised and asks, isn’t it Ichi anymore. Koto opens her bag as she says he is a child prince, he is in the same class as her, wait a minute, she is going to show them his picture. Grandma and Fuuko look stunned as they look at the picture. Koto tells them that he is the same as her brother. Ichi is standing near her, asks, which one? It is some nerdy looking kid – large face, small eyebrows with toupee-looking hair, waving in the picture. Ichi angrily asks where is it the same [with him and that kid]. Koto and Ichi angrily has a word fight as Daiya, Fuuko and Grandma laughs and it seems Grandpa is aghast over Koto’s choice. And after the ‘uneasiness’ has gone, what remains is self-confidence. In her room, Fuuko holds a pen and says, so I’m the last one who is going to write. She is looking at the autograph board as everyone else has put their greetings – encircling Daiya’s name. She looks at what the others say – If you meet a nice girl, introduce me, Take care, Going to China, I won’t forget you, I will be lonely, I’m happy to have met Daiya, etc. Daiya’s friends, Daiya’s noodles [Okay, it really says, noodles or rather cellophane/mung bean noodles so I don’t know if it is a typo or it has some secret meaning in Chinese ^^;] Fuuko blushes a bit. Now, the me who had loved Daiya. Fuuko starts to write and she looks a bit flustered/about to cry. Just then, someone calls out to her saying it is time to eat. Fuuko shouts she is coming. She goes out of her room. What she wrote: Thank you - Fuuko Kanayama.

Wow, that is quite a confession. It really as if Ichi really regrets letting Fuuko go before that he is making sure that he won’t make the same mistake twice – as in not letting her go again. He even determinedly says she will be the only one for him, forever. I retract what I wrote before, there are indeed some couples by the end of this series, namely Fuuko’s friends. I’m amused at Koto’s choice for puppy love. Hehe Mm..writing ‘thanks’ to an ex-boyfriend does seem like saying ‘goodbye’ isn’t it?

Quote of the day:
If you love something let it go free. If it doesn't come back, you never had it. If it comes back, love it forever. ~ Doug Horton