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

Goong [Volume 14] and the Usual Monthly Blahs
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 @ 11:11 a.m.

I had finished reading Goong [volume 14]. It started with Shin and Chae-kyung has just run away and slept at a motel of some sort. They ended up quarrelling who will buy food that night since they are hungry. Then, they went to the seaside as Chae-kyung says she will buy food and asks Shin to just stay there. After some time has past, Shin begins to fear that Chae-kyung has left him and went back to the Palace. He searches for her and found her with some kids, crying out loud that she is lost and she didn’t brought her mobile phone. Chae-kyung sees him and hugs him. Shin gets a bit embarrassed and started to walk away. Then, it finally happened. Shin tells her of his fear that she might have run away, leaving him. Chae-kyung says that there is no way she is going to leave by herself. Shin hugs her and says, do not leave me, do not run away, do not disappear that I will be uneasy, stay by my side. Chae-kyung says she knows but there are many people as many people are looking at them. Shin says, Sorry, I know it is very late, while you were away, I have thought of it. Chae-kyung becomes embarrassed and says that they are going to be late [they are going to ride a ship to an island] so don’t be like that. To her surprise, Shin confessed that he loves her, madly in love with her, forgive him for making her wait that long. After a bit skirmishes, they finally board a boat to a certain island. I think they rode the wrong one or something. Anyway, Chae-kyung got Shin to kept on saying he loves her while carrying her near the coast until some ladies interrupted them when they are going to kiss. They spend a night at an old man’s house. That night, they are about to have sex until Chae-kyung asks if it is really okay for if she gets pregnant, she would get Shin to take care of the baby and they are just third year high schoolers. Also, why do it in such rugged place. In the end, nothing happened.

Meanwhile, in the palace, Shin’s mother is preparing for the events that would get Chae-kyung and Shin to divorce. Chae-kyung’s mother also agrees to it for she wants her daughter back. Yul scored some points with his fiancée when he protected her from some angry protester who hates her father. It seems that his fiancée is quite pampered and told not to cry for if she did, she has lost, this time she can’t stop herself from crying. Later at the public bath in the palace, I think, Yul’s fiancée asks him if he really wants to get married with Chae-kyung for if it is her, she will also try her best to get something she likes but if it seems beyond her power already, she would just let it go then she will change her goal. She tells Shin that if he gives up the throne, she will also give up her position, she wants to marry him and accompany him and this is her wish. Also, there is some scenes of Chae-kyung’s brother offering some lunchbox to Hyo-rin who is being avoided by everyone ever since Chae-kyung’s outfit is ruined. I think these are the couples that will end up each other in the end. Back to the two, some women thought that they are thieves so they plan their escape but then, they were found out by the bodyguards. They were then brought back to the palace. On the way, Shin reminiscence the times he spend with her during their short break, about how happy she was, who changed him and made him love her. Yul meets them as they go to their separate ways. Yul tries to tell Chae-kyung about Shin knowing about her grandpa’s illness and still didn’t let Chae-kyung go but in the end, he decided not to since it will make her sad. That night, Chae-kyung is about to grab Shin lustily but was caught by Shin. Shin has prepared everything so that they can have sex that night and even told Chae-kyung that he is willing to bear all the consequences if she gets pregnant – taking care of the child, etc. Chae-kyung is a bit afraid that Shin is serious but then, while on bed, she begin to piece together Shin’s strange behavior before and what Yul told her.

If you have read Goong since back then, it is already obviously they will be interrupted, it is the author’s ploy. ^^; Chae-kung mentions about what Yul tried to say and about the others knowing about her grandpa’s imminent death. Seeing Shin’s shocked guilty face, Chae-kyung learns that he also knew. After some explanations, Chae-kyung is angry even after Shin tries to apologize to it. Chae-kyung left him in the room. The next day, Chae-kyung is still sad over what she learned as she is pretty happy then awaiting the birth of the new prince and yet, her grandpa is dying. Yul observes her and thought that she will be free soon. Chae-kyung is then called by Shin’s mother. Shin’s mother wanted her to transfer to the royal school but Chae-kyung protests saying that she doesn’t want to change schools especially since she is graduating. She promised to Shin’s mother that she will try to do her best not to cause any problems. Shin’s mother is in a conflict as Chae-kyung seems sincere. She holds Chae-kyung’s hand and tells her that she actually think of Chae-kyung as her own daughter even if she seems quite cold but she would want Chae-kyung to be able to smile. Chae-kyung says it is only because of her grandpa that she is like that. Shin’s mother asks her to listen up to the end, she asks her if she loves Shin. Chae-kyung tells her that she does and she has even started to forgive Shin’s unforgivable sin. She asks her if she wants a smooth transition of making Shin king. Chae-kyung says of course for that is Shin’s dream and destiny. To Chae-kyung’s shock, Shin’s mother says if she loves Shin, please divorce him. Hehe, Goong is becoming like a Korean drama. It is typical for couples to have a one night out separated from the rest to have some bonding in dramas and well, usually towards the end when the couples realized their love for each other, everyone else objects/against the relationship. ^^; Then, the female lead does something to ‘drive away’ the guy in the name of love. Hehe

Manga: And, I read a bit of Beauty Pop, pretty much half of volume 1. It is okay as it is about this group of guys who gives haircuts to chosen girls and they learned that they have competition when someone is helping out the girls whom their main hairstylist has turned down. It is already obvious that it is a certain girl in their school. It is not that interesting enough for me to want to read the rest..maybe when I don’t have anything else to read. I have also read the a bit of Liar Game just to compare it with the drama. I stopped where I stopped in the drama so that I will not be spoiled. It is okay though there are some changes in compare with the drama but nothing really drastic. I have read the last chapter of Getbackers. Hehe, I pretty much skipped the chapters in the last arc as it bored me. In the end, it is pretty much how the anime ended. They have gone their ways and continue on as if nothing happened. Before it ended, their mission is to get something back from the transporters, Ban’s mother. I guess to reunite them. I’m amused though that by the end, Hevn is somewhat like Masaki’s gf that Ban can’t grope her anymore. Hehe I’ll read the parts I skipped when I’m in the mood.

Anime: Still watching Bleach but I’m skipping the recent fillers. I’m actually comparing it with the other Jump anime on the tactics of delaying the anime so that it won’t catch up with the manga. Bleach uses fillers. Naruto Shippuden is more on developing things slowly that like for an episode, they spend on resting and another episode on just getting to where Gaara is. Unfortunately, it makes things boring. One Piece uses repeated flashbacks and it can be quite annoying. Well, each has their own pros and cons. Then, I finally just watched Gintama episodes done by another fansub group. It is still fun to watch and being episodic does have its advantages. Hayate no Gotoku! is still okay but it isn’t as funny as before and there is an episode that has lots of spoof mentions from other anime that it seems if I don’t know what they are referring to, it isn’t funny. ^^; Darker than Black is okay but then, I’m a bit behind as well as Claymore. Kekkaishi is still fun to watch and I can’t quite exactly pinpoint why I like this series. Kaze no Stigma is okay to watch and it does seem that the lead guy, Kazuma is the only reason to watch this as the lead girl is a bit annoying though it is amusing to see him tease her. I had finished Jikogu Shoujo Futakomori. It is okay as Enma is finally released of her work, her servants go their way and it is a happy ending for that kid. Overall, it is okay as some of the episodes are quite interesting while the others, not that so good. I had also finished Tokyo Majin Gakuen Kenpuchou. I had pretty much guessed that they won’t be able to tackle Hiyuu’s purpose and they are just finishing off with saving Aoi. By the time it finish, it is already quite predictable except for the intro of the new villain and I learned that there is a season 2. Ya, by the time it ended, I’m disappointed with it and at times, it becomes too cheesy especially the part about Aoi and Hisui also how Hiyuu snapped Aoi out of it.

Drama: I finished watching Nodame Cantabile. It is pretty good, especially the last few episodes and before I knew it, it is ending. It is fun and I do like the orchestra performances. Overall, it is a pretty good comedy drama based on a manga. I haven’t watch the other pending dramas I have on my hard disk..the same goes with the other anime – still downloading but not in the mood to watch. ^^;;

Quote of the day:
Confession of errors is like a broom which sweeps away the dirt and leaves the surface brighter and clearer. ~ Mohandas Gandhi

Parfait Tic [Chapter 144]
Tuesday, June 19, 2007 @ 04:31 p.m.

Everyone is talking about Daiya going to China as Issochi and Akiou overheard the others. Issochi confronts Daiya about it and Daiya admits that it is true. Issochi wonders why everyone is going to a far away place. Daiya asks what is he talking about as he playfully pats Issochi’s head saying, that even if couples separate [because of work], the husband still keeps in contact with letters so it is okay. Issochi sadly says they divorced. Daiya is surprised as Issochi looks as if he is stopping himself from crying. The scene changes to Fuuko who is equally shock as she screams, break-break-break-up! Akiou says that about her affairs isn’t important but Daiya going to China is. Fuuko protests about that and asks why. The two then argues which is more important, China or the reason [for the break up]. The two then sigh as Akiou tells Fuuko that the two are equally troublesome. Fuuko agrees. Fuuko says that she is really okay for she already knew about the China thing and since they have already broken up, she doesn’t have the right to say anything. Fuuko is crying as Akiou says that her facial expressions and words doesn’t match. Fuuko denies it as she is still crying. Then, Akiou says if only that guy [Issochi] is a bit more firm [strong determination] then she..if only he is more firm. Fuuko thought that Akiou is crying. The two girls comfort each other. Why, even when they like each other, progress doesn’t turn out smoothly, is it because of love that it doesn’t turn out smoothly?

Fuuko looks a bit surprised at Daiya as she goes under his arm while Daiya is standing at the door. Fuuko asks where is he going. Daiya says to the office. Fuuko thought maybe to discuss about going to China. Fuuko smiles and says that he will be leaving soon. Daiya smiles and says ya, time flies fast. Fuuko tells him to go ahead else he might not reach the office by the time the school break ends. Students on the hallway started going to Daiya asking him if it is really true he is going to China as Daiya tries to keep on walking saying he is going to the office. In class, Fuuko suggests that they have a farewell party. Everyone likes the idea and wonders where they will do it. One suggests a karaoke bar but another says they might just end up singing and it isn’t a farewell party anymore. Ichi asks how about the place where he works. Everyone agrees to do it in the okonomiyaki restaurant where Daiya used to work. The others say that Fuuko and Ichi will be responsible for taking in charge over this. Fuuko becomes uneasy as Ichi becomes gloomy.

Fuuko’s curly haired teacher gives Fuuko some brochures of beauty schools for hairdressing and that she can try to apply next year. Much to the teacher’s dismay, Fuuko doesn’t seem to be listening as she is raving over the haircut shown on the brochures. Holding on to them, Fuuko thought that since learning about Daiya leaving to China, she has forgotten about this faraway dream of hers, but seeing the brochures, she has become excited all over again. She then sees Daiya bidding some person goodbye as that person tells him to go to the farewell party. Daiya notices her and greets her. He asks her what are those she carrying. She says they are about beauty schools. Daiya agrees that it is good for her to become a hairstylist. Fuuko laughs and says that the only thing hindering her from attaining that goal is her stupidity. Daiya says it will be no problem, Fuuko will succeed in becoming a hairstylist. Fuuko says that if he returns to the country, she is going to give him a haircut. Daiya jokes she better not cut off his ears.

Fuuko thought that Daiya will be leaving soon as everyone now knows about it, Daiya joking around, she will certainly miss it. Fuuko sits down as she looks at her organizer with some information on how to do the farewell party. Ichi arrives and apologizes for the school meeting took a long time. Kagechika gloomily comes out from Ichi’s back saying, so that is why Ichi rushed the meeting, it is because of Fuuko. Ichi angrily shouts for her to stop following him, being nosy. Kagechika apologizes as Ichi tries to explain. Fuuko ends up being the one telling Kagechika they are just going to talk about Daiya’s farewell party on the way home. Kagechika mentions that she has heard it from Daiya fans who were making a fuss about it that Daiya will be going to Alaska. Ichi corrects her saying it is China, rumors are really scary. Kagechika tries to help by offering to help out with flowers as she knows of a good flower shop. Ichi bluntly tells her that it is really not needed. Kagechika is stunned and flustered by Ichi’s refusal. Ichi quickly takes Fuuko’s hand and says they are leaving. Kagechika shouts that Ichi is a fool, just because the rival leaves, how disappointing. After they were farther away, Ichi lets go of Fuuko’s hand as they are catching their breath. Ichi angrily says, really, that person. Fuuko says that Kagechika will be uneasy. Ichi looks back at her and asks, uneasy about what? Fuuko becomes nervous as Ichi is looking at her. Ichi quickly turns away and says Kagechika being uneasy what is it to me, I know but it isn’t my business, I think of you. Ichi pauses as Fuuko is puzzled. Ichi says that girl says that he is disappointing. Fuuko remembers what Kagechika shouts and asks, really. Ichi turns around and says that it means, that guy haven’t left yet, he is already moving, is it quite disappointing. Fuuko is surprised and asks what did he just say. Ichi says, I’ll say it again one last time, listen up.

I’m sure you pretty much know what Ichi will say. Hehe Since Daiya gave up on Fuuko, Ichi isn’t going to waste this opportunity to get close to Fuuko. Well, Ichi maybe be mean to Kagechika but then, I guess it is a way to get her to stop ‘stalking’/’false hopes’ on him. I mean it can be quite annoying if one kept on ‘chasing’ when one doesn’t like the other party though ya, it does work at times. I’m surprised that Isocchi-Akiou relationship also went down the drain. It will be really crappy if this ends with no couple ending up together and like everything continues on, as if nothing happened – all that is left is their memories. Oh well, if that is how it ends, will just have to accept that.

Quote of the day:
Don't wait for extraordinary opportunities. Seize common occasions and make them great. ~ Orison Swett Marden

Weekly Jump Updates: Bleach, Naruto, D. Gray-man and Gintama
Monday, June 18, 2007 @ 05:32 p.m.

Inoue fixed up Ichigo and Grimmjow’s wounds in Bleach [c. 279]. Ichigo tells Inoue and Neru not to have that worried expression on their faces for he will surely win. He then tells Grimmjow that they go elsewhere to fight. Ichigo goes bankai as he arrive at a farther place from Inoue and Neru. While the two fights, Neru is worried about Ichigo as Inoue tries to calm her down saying that Ichigo will be okay for Ichigo will win. Neru is doubtful about that for no one knows if he can really win but Inoue tells her that it is because Ichigo says so and saying so is telling himself he will do it so Ichigo will win. Inoue tells her to believe Ichigo as she continues watching the fight. Neru notices that Inoue is shaking. Back to the fight, Grimmjow is about to use cero on Ichigo so Ichigo uses his attack to block it. Grimmjow tosses his zanpaku and uses another cero with his other hand. Grimmjow is excited that Ichigo has become serious in fighting him. Nothing to comment here. Naruto [c. 358] is also mainly fighting as Sasuke fights Deidara. He kept on focusing on Deidara on the flying bomb as he didn’t notice the mines planted by Tobi. Sasuke goes to ugly curse mode. Deidara bombs him trying to keep Sasuke on the ground and successfully wounded one of Sasuke’s wings. In the end, Sasuke is too much for Deidara to handle as Sasuke uses his sword to prevent himself from stepping on the mines to vault himself upward. Sasuke manages to cut the wing of the dragon, pin Deidara with two giant shurikens and pulled the dragon with Deidara into the mines. So, Deidara is ‘finished off’ by his own attacks.

Allen shouts for Rabi as Rabi flame himself in D. Gray-man [c.122]. At the dream, the other Rabi asks why even if Rabi is also him, the 49th of him, different from the 48th others of him. The other Rabi becomes a kid, crying asks doesn’t Rabi want to be a bookman anymore, choosing friends over being a bookman, when humans always fight, etc. The two asks each other why humans want to fight and wanting to know the reason – a reason for being a bookman? Outside, Rinali screams as she punches her useless legs. Allen transforms to crown clown and tries to save Rabi, saying he won’t let Rabi die. In the dream, young Rabi hears Allen screaming for Rabi and he says, he is also Rabi as he also leaves the dream. Stabbed, headless Allen who was Rhode says that Rabi has left and so this match, Rabi has won. Lero is surprised that the rampaging fire snake has stopped. A part of the snake cracked and revealed a burned up Rhode with a knife stabbing her. The barrier holding Rinali and Chaoji opens. Rinali wonders about the two when the two boys emerged, coughing. Allen is holding Rabi. They lie down on the ground and whines that it hurts and berates each other for being too rushed/irresponsible. Rabi comments that he doesn’t know what had happened that when he realized it, he is already on fire, his Gramps [Bookman] will scold him but it will feel good. Rinali then punches him – punch of love as Rinali calls him stupid. They were interrupted by a loud laughter as they saw a burned up Rhode standing and laughing. She calls out to Allen then turns into dust much to Lero’s surprise. So, Rabi seems to be a ‘special’ existence or a different being and I’m pleased to know that since he is somewhat ‘important’ to the series aka not be killed off anytime soon. I wonder if Rhode is really dead though. Anyway, that finishes off all the villains in that ark, so I guess it is time for them to get out of there. For someone who didn’t do anything, Rinali has to punch Rabi ^^; Oh well, maybe it is for making her really worried about him.

After a serious arc, it is now a nonsense chapter in Gintama [c. 169]. Riding on the train, Gin is bashing ‘Gintaman’ [Gintama] saying it is nonsense and has too many words - why don’t it just stop publishing. Jump already has ‘One Pass’ [One Piece] and ‘Beruto’ [Naruto] to keep people ancipating and buying Jump. A boy with glasses asks what is wrong with Gintaman, he thinks it is quite good. Gin asks if he is a fan, he shouldn’t keep on reading it else he wont’ grow tall. The boy introduces himself as Konishi and repeats what does he not like about Gintaman Gin says something about it doesn’t have ‘energy’ and it is pretty much doesn’t understand the young people’s hearts. Gin left saying that it is best if it isn’t in Jump. Konishi is depressed as he is the editor [the ones who pick up the comics from the mangaka] responsible for Gintaman, how can he be happy with his work. He goes back to Jump only to be berated by the chief editor and compared with another editor who is on C-Clayman [D. Gray-man and a bit of Claymore, I guess since I read Claymore will be temporarily serialized in Jump] and BeathNote [Death Note]. He tells Konishi if he doesn’t shape up, he and Gintaman can disappear from Jump. On the train, Konishi is depressed as to how it ended up like that when he wanted to be on a men’s magazine Mens Non No [One of many fashion magazines aimed at fashion-conscious Japanese men] that women will be all over him and he will be regarded as a cityboy [A very hot and lovable guy who has a lot of famous connections and loves to drink] but he ended up on Jump. Hearing Gin berating Gintaman again, Konishi vents his anger at Gin by shouting and whining that Gin decided to help him out.

They arrive at the mangaka’s house and Gin comments that it is quite messy. There they met the gorilla author. Gin lectures them that the character in their manga, Gin-something [can’t dicpher the romanji] tends to run around the place but if their character is in silhouette, it is hard to determine who it is. Gin shows them some silhouettes of Luffy [One Piece], Ichigo [Bleach] and Goku [Dragonball]. The last one, Gin claims they are wrong as he shows, it is Gin-something sporting Goku’s trademark hair, outfit and weapon. Gin then shows more characters of Dragonbooze [Dragonball] – they named them Picolo, Tenshinhan, and I think Goku in saiyan mode. Gin claims it is wrong again as it is Gin-something in saiyan mode. Konishi is angry saying what is Gin trying to pull. Gin says that Gin-something has powered up. Gin explains the Jump system wherein the former enemies become friends of the protagonist and a new enemy is introduce as the protagonist powers up. Then, Gin teaches something about ‘vomit’ and ‘funny’. I don’t quite get that part then Shinpachi enters and they are in an argument as I think Konishi kept on exclaiming, How can this be! And that is the top slogan/quote for Jump, How can this be! The second is when your parents divorced, you are with. News crew are then interviewing him as to how he came up with that slogan. The other editor felt lost as the chief editor says try to overtake him. Konishi says it is taught by a friend. Lying down on the coach, while the tv is on, Gin is reading Jump magazine and comments that it is still the same, it has no meaning, why don’t Gintama end already. Hehe, I think it jokes around about the series and other titles in Jump. I’m amusing how true the Jump system is as what happened in Naruto and Bleach as their former foes become friends and new enemy appears. I think this is a spoof of the jdrama Himitsu no Hanazono as she is an editor in a female fashion magazine but somehow ended up as a shoujo editor and ended up doing a good job in it.

Quote of the day:
Never continue in a job you don't enjoy. If you're happy in what you're doing, you'll like yourself, you'll have inner peace. And if you have that, along with physical health, you will have had more success than you could possibly have imagined. ~ Johnny Carson

V. B. Rose [Chapter 59]
Saturday, June 16, 2007 @ 02:05 p.m.

The next day, Lan went to Aoi’s tomb to pay her respects and after that she went back to Tokyo, smiling, says see you next time, this really suits Lan’s nature. And the next time they see each other again, it will definitely be the same kind of smiling face, still really happy. At a store, Ageha tells Mamoru that it has been only a few days since Lan stayed but those times left quite a deep impression that it is hard for her to forget the days she spent with her but everyone is happy so things turned out okay. Ageha pauses then looks at Mamoru who is looking at her mobile phone. Ageha asks if Mamoru is listening. No response so Ageha looks at what Mamoru is looking at on her phone. It is a wallpaper of Lan hugging Mamoru. Ageha asks if taking a picture with Lan really makes Mamoru happy. Mamoru says it does as it is the real person herself. Mamoru says that they manage to buy a gift for White day without a problem. [Reminder: Yukari gave his gift to Ageha for White day so it is now Ageha’s turn to give Yukari for Valentine’s Day.] Ageha thanks her for accompanying her as if she is alone, she will not know what to get. Ryuu asks if they will have a White Day date. Ryuu introduces himself to the audience, been a long time, I’m Ryuu, the one who has a bit dark nature but won’t let Ageha know about it. Ageha flustered and tells Ryuu not to be like that [teasing her], there is no date, this is just a belated Valentine’s gift, and she will give it while at work. Mamoru thought that Ryuu is emitting resentment.

The siblings say but it is still the same being lovey dovey. Ageha blushed and is embarrassed at it as she thought that is no way to refute it though. The siblings smile and mentally talk with each other. Ryuu says Ageha is so cute. Mamoru says she is cute. Ryuu says it is caused by Yukari, right. Mamoru says as it is ‘caused’ [by Yukari], should they pay homage to him. Ryuu asks, pay homage. Ryuu then zaps Yukari with evil chi. At VBR, Yukari is zapped as Yukari freezes while Mitsuya is photocopying something. To Mitsuya’s surprise, Yukari suddenly shouts, ah, that evil chi, it has been a long time that cannot be understood thing has appeared. Yukari keeps on shouting as Mitsuya tries to calm him down. Back at the store, Ryuu smiles as Mamoru says, Ryuu, really. Mamoru asks when will Ageha go to work at the store. Ageha says that there is something strange about it. Mamoru asks, strange. Ageha says that Mitsuya called her yesterday and told her to wear something lightweight/easy to wear outfit and she should come around 9am. Mamoru asks what are they going to do. Ageha says that she doesn’t know and since it is something lightweight, could it be they are going to do some general cleaning. Mamoru darkly thought if Ageha is going to be bullied, she is going to curse him [Mitsuya]. Ageha happily thought that no matter what it is, she is going to obediently listen since from Mitsuya’s tone, it seems to be something interesting.

At VBR on 9am, Ageha is surprised to see Maki and Manyou who greet her. Ageha greets them and says it has been a long time. Holding an outfit in suit bag, the couple says the princess is now going to change an outfit. Ageha is surprised. Maki says that it is the new outfit from ‘Q’ so he wants to see Ageha wearing it and he was the one who picked it. Manyou says that she will be the one responsible for hair and make-up. The couple smiling tells her to dress up. The two then drag Ageha to the store as they are happy in helping dress up a girl. While dressing up, Ageha looks a bit scared over the couple’s insistence when she heard Yukari and Mitsuya just realize that Ageha has arrived. Mitsuya happily asks if Ageha is surprised. Manyou toss the two away telling them to go away and just crawl up in that corner. Ageha peeks out saying that she is already dressed up when Manyou pulls her out and put her on a chair. She then puts a cover to protect Ageha’s clothes. Ageha asks what is this about. Manyou apologizes for surprising her. Manyou explains that she is currently on maternal leave and she really wants to have someone as her model so she hopes that Ageha could help her since usually, it is only her siblings whom she can use as her models. Ageha is embarrassed as she says it is okay and thought that she is really happy.

Suddenly, Ageha felt someone touching her legs. She looks down and is surprised to see a little girl with black hair and blue eyes. Ageha thought the girl is really cute as the girl is still wobbly while she is standing. Suddenly, the girl loses her balance that Ageha quickly catches her. Manyou praises Ageha for saving the girl. She carries the girl and tells her to go to her father. The girl hugs Manyou and then she is passes on to Maki. Ageha asks if this is the girl Nichina he mentioned before. [I totally forgot when this is mentioned before ^^; ] Maki says she is his beloved daughter, aren’t they alike. Ageha says super alike but the eyes are blue. Manyou says that the blue eyes are from Maki’s mother side who is a half-French, half-Japanese while the black hair is from her. Manyou whispers that she wishes that Nichina doesn’t have that much similarities with Maki, and it will be okay. Maki shouts, what does she mean by that, how irritating of her. Manyou shouts for him to keep quiet, stupid. Ageha is amused over their silly fight. Ageha says is Nichina already at the age of grabbing things and trying to stand. Manyou says yes, because she is only four months away from becoming one year old – 8 months old. Ageha muses that it is the same year when Madoka was born and there is really quite a big difference [of development] per month. Manyou agrees. A scene shows that Madoka is already trying to grab things as she is already 5 months old. Maki says if her daughter grows up, he will protect her from any evil pests coming close to her. Maki hugs Nichina tight. Ageha is shock as Manyou holds up a lamp, shouting, he is the biggest pest. Ouch! Manyou continues doing Ageha’s hair, saying for Ageha to wait as she will finished dividing Ageha’s hair and now she is going to do the hairdo. Ageha looks at unconscious Maki lying down on the sofa as Nichina is calling out to him. Ageha asks what about Maki. Manyou says to leave him be, he will go home later on by himself.

The two guys are looking at them as Yukari seems a bit bored – his existence isn’t needed. Manyou asks him to take care of Nichina. Yukari is then playing with Nichina by putting her on his shoulder. Mitsuya comments that is cute. A note says that Yukari knows how to take care of kids because of Sakura. Ageha muses that Yukari is carrying Nichina like a luggage. Manyou notices that Ageha’s hair is curly and asks if she did that. Ageha says it is naturally curly/wavy. Manyou comments that is really admirable. Ageha says it isn’t for while she is in elementary and jr. high, older students will say, what curly hair, trying-to-be-older brat, why don’t you cut it. Manyou says she understands as she has a friend who had a problem with that kind of bullying because of her hair color so she helped the friend fix her hair – something like that. Ageha comments that a handkerchief can also help. Ageha tells her that because she has a friend, Mamoru that she doesn’t mind such things anymore. It seems as if she just goes with the flow, following with Mamoru and doesn’t interfere with anything and when she meets with those bullying students, for some mysterious reason, they ignore her in those circumstances. [In short, it is thanks to Mamoru who indirectly threaten them not to do anything to Ageha else they want to be ‘cursed’] Yukari and Mitsuya looks speechless. Yukari thought Ageha, your past as a student is really gloomy, for he thought before that she is just oblivious to everything. Ageha smiles and says that it is a good thing that there are many good people in high school, so she is happy but if there are any problems, she would still go to Mamoru out of habit. The adults become hot-blooded. Manyou tightly holds on to Ageha’s shoulder and shouts, Ageha, today I’m going to help you become ordinary and yet cute. Ageha thanks her as she is confused why Manyou is like that. Manyou asks Yukari if he has a 5cm wide lace for about one meter. Yukari shouts he will quickly get one for her. Mitsuya volunteers to pick which one will suit Ageha.

Manyou uses the lace as Ageha’s hairband, while the rest of her hair is braided. Manyou is satisfied with her work as Ageha goes to show herself to the two guys. Ageha is thrilled over how she looks as it is really cute and that the Q outfit really looks cute. Mitsuya comments that the long socks matches perfectly. Yukari goes back to his habit of just staring at Ageha that Ageha becomes embarrassed as she wonders what is the matter. Mitsuya smiles and then tosses Yukari and Ageha out of the store, shouting for Yukari to take Ageha out. Yukari shouts what is that about, there is still work. Mitsuya tells him to just double-work/work overtime when he gets back. Yukari is about to protest when Manyou jumps out and hits Yukari’s head with her knee. Yukari is knocked out as Ageha calls out for Yukari. Carrying Nichina, Manyou says that she is going ahead, she will bother Ageha next time – something like ask a favor to fix Ageha’s hair again. Nichina waves to them, goodbye. Mitsuya peeks out the door and says, at Sanagawa coastal area, the rapeseed/canola flowers are prettily in full bloom now. He closes the door, leaving a stunned Ageha and Yukari still laying on the floor. Feeling defeated by the others, Yukari asks if she wants to go.

At the flower fields, Ageha is really thrilled to see all the pretty flowers as the costal area is filled with yellow rapeseed flowers. Yukari says that it is already flower blooming season as next month [April] is sakura/cherry blossoms. Ageha says that spring is nice and is about to run when Yukari tells her that running is dangerous. Ageha smiles and says if only she has a camera. Yukari smiles at her. Ageha asks what is the matter. Yukari says that it is because Ageha is smiling and is happy. Ageha looks at him and says, it is because she is with Yukari. Ageha blushes a bit as Yukari looks a bit surprised. He thought she is really cute and really innocent. He hugs her. Ageha tells him that after the thing about Lan, it seems that Yukari seems to breath lighter as if his burden is lifted, it is because of this happy incident that makes Ageha really happy. Yukari blushes a bit and kisses Ageha’s forehead. Ageha is a bit surprised as she starts blushing. Yukari tells her should they walk leisurely. Ageha agrees as they hold hands. Ageha then realizes that she forgot to bring the Valentine’s gift and left it at the store. Yukari says that he can wait for it. Ageha giggles. So, Ageha and Yukari walks around the yellow flower fields as Ageha happily thought that another happy peaceful day has passed.

It is a not-so eventful chapter yet it is really sweet. It seems that from the start, the siblings aren’t just being overprotective of Ageha as they want her for themselves but it turned out that they are just protecting her from bullies and somehow, it became a habit. Mamoru still does it once in a while and even threaten to curse Mitsuya if he bullies Ageha while Ryuu just does that ‘evil chi’ on Yukari because he is jealous and maybe that is how he expresses his thanks to Yukari as well as a way of threatening, don’t make Ageha cry or else, you’ll get it. Hehe Well, hearing of Ageha’s school days, made them pity Ageha that they made her really cute and pretty and got Yukari to bring her out. If you look in google images, rapeseed flower field – those are really pretty as the whole place is really yellow. A nice place to date if you don’t have allergies. ^_^

Word of the day:
Even when you don't sense God's presence, His loving care is all around us. ~ Our Daily Bread

Skip Beat! [Chapter 107]
Friday, June 15, 2007 @ 10:43 a.m.

[There might be some mistakes as the Chinese scans are speedily made and blurry. There are some things that I don’t quite understand though I think I get the thought ^^;]

While in the car, Kyouko tries to read some Japanese words on the signboards that they pass by but she always makes a mistake as Kura corrects her. Kyouko comments that she hates Japanese because the words are the same but they are read differently and those that sound the same don’t have the same meaning. Kyouko narrates that they are now conversing in Japanese because..flashback: After breakfast as they are going to bring the dishes to the kitchen, Kura tells her to use Japanese when talking with him so that she would get used to it. End flashback. Kyouko asks why is it in Japan their living room, dining room and bedroom is at the same place/room, are they by nature stringy. Kura tries to suppress his laughter as he seriously explains to Kyouko as Kuon, that they are just being logical as they don’t want to waste any space. Kyouko is a bit frustrated that she is acting like a 10 year old when she is suppose to be acting as a 15-16 years old as Kura told her, her version of Kuon is when he was around 10 years old. Kura mentioned that around 10, Kuon is really good in Japanese that doesn’t even have a foreigner’s accent. Kyouko thought that Kura should have told this to her earlier as she doesn’t have to think too hard on how she should talk in English as Kuon. Kura tells her not to say that it is boring, how about she try some Kanji [Chinese characters used in Japanese language] for they are quite interesting. Kyouko says she doesn’t want to. Kyouko thought that Kura has told her that he had made Kuon learn Hiragana and Katakana [two other scripts aside from kanji used in the Japanese language] but Kuon didn’t put any effort in knowing Kanji. Kyouko wonders about the reason and that it could be, she tells Kura that when she grows up, even learning it, it won’t be of much use and since Japan is a small country, even when she is older, she won’t be remembering Kanji. Kyouko thought that this is how Kuon who lived in the US, would view Japan.

Kura tries to suppress his laughter when Kyouko asks what is the matter with him. Kura changes it into tears as he acts upset over how his son views his own home country where he grew up in. Kyouko tries to apologize and is about to touch his arm when she remembers her mother who seems to be crying suddenly slaps her hand away when she tries to comfort her and her mother coldly looks at her. Kyouko looks as if she is about to cry when Kura stops his fake crying and noticed her expression. Kura remembers during breakfast Kyouko is crying a bit as she apologizes to Kura for being like that. She explained that she used to have a family and she didn’t have a good relationship with her mother. So when even if she has failed but still being treated nice for it, it is the first time that has happened to her so she doesn’t know what she should do. Even if they are suppose to be play acting, so she apologizes. Back to present, Kura looks a bit sad at Kyouko who still looks as if she is going to cry. To Kyouko’s surprise, Kura flicks her forehead hard. Kyouko is confused and shock about it as Kura tells her that he is only kidding [about her not liking his home country]. Kyouko wonders where have she seen Kuon’s expression before. Kura challenges her to fight back at him as he just lied and flick Kyouko and as a guy, it would be his nature to do so. Kura waves his hand to come and try as Kyouko smiles. She tries to hit him but Kura manages to hold her hand and hits her on the head.

Kyouko is confused and asks why does Kura hit back when it is suppose to be her turn to hit him. Kura says just because someone is going to hit him, he would let that person hit him, only a useless person would do that and because he as the father is stronger, so unless they aren’t as strong as him, they can’t hit him. This eyes show that he is the type of man who doesn’t want to lose in a fight. Kyouko says that he is being tricky for he means that she can’t counterattack. Kura asks what is she saying, she can counterattack anytime, it is okay for her to use a sudden attack or homemade weapons she made. Kura says that he allows this because you are my child. Kyouko asks if he is sure about that. Kura assures her it is okay. Kyouko asks if she can really do anything. Kura says of course as a man doesn’t go against what he says so relax and just come and attack him. Kyouko thought is this a father-child relationship, what should she do for Kuon and Corn’s feeling is the same and since she is using Corn as reference for the acting, Corn won’t be accepting his father’s challenge for Corn’s father might ruin the fairy kingdom since he is a huge king. Kyouko thought that right now, not doing it would be also okay but.. Kura looks at her and says that it seems she has quite an interesting expression, naughty young master. Kyouko is smiling as she is challenged to accept Kura’s challenge.

At Dark Moon set, a kid hits Hideto on the stomach. Hideto holds his stomach in pain. The kid apologizes to him, asking if it hurts. Hideto says it hurts then he lifts the boy on his shoulder, shouting fly away. The boy shouts in glee. Yashiro looks surprised saying it is quite unexpected that Hideto likes kids. Ren says it seems that Hideto indeed likes kids for if he isn’t patient, he won’t be playing [with the kid]. Yashiro smiles and says that is true. Ren adds that Hideto does that for his own amusement. As they are walking to the parking lot, Ren says that he has experience of beating up/play fighting with other kids. Yashiro says that will hurt because kids usually doesn’t show mercy. Yashiro muses that he feels sorry for his father because in their ‘hero games’, his father is always the villain so he really/seriously hit his father that he makes it hard for his father. Ren says is that how it is. Yashiro’s smile froze and he goes, huh face. Yashiro says that is so. He asks Ren didn’t he played his father those ‘hero games’ Ren is a bit surprised and says about this, he could have played it though he isn’t sure. Ren thought that it is when he is about ten years old. Yashiro says, is that so, Ren didn’t play ‘hero games’. Ren says that he haven’t watch those kind of ‘children shows’ when he was young. Yashiro asks so what did he play. Ren says ‘Fetch Dragon’ and such. [I think that is a word game] Ren thought using Japanese. Yashiro says eh as he thought, is that fun to play.

Then, they ride in the car as they continue their conversation. Yashiro comments that this is quite surprising and it seems Ren is like an ‘experienced’ kid [kid who is acting older than his age/more mature]. Ren asks is that so for he doesn’t feel like it is something peculiar that Yashiro would react that way. Ren thought that he just wants to quickly be educated about the adult society to understand the ways of life. [I think basically want to be a grown up quickly] His house is in the outdoors that he plays in the mountain, in the sea, and in the sky, etc, he has already played at. Yashiro thought, what, played in the sky. Yashiro is a bit weird out as he says, is that so. Yashiro thought why is Ren’s outdoor seems to be quite different from his that it seems he somewhat understands yet he doesn’t. What could it be? Looking at Ren, Yashiro thought even if he is Ren’s manager, he is easily ‘hit away’ [I think something like Ren always has an answer for him?] This person is really quite mysterious. Ren notices Yashiro looking at him that he asks what is the matter. Yashiro snaps out of it and says it is nothing. He says it can be said that compared to the rumors, it is quite mediocre to the real news. Ren asks what is it. Yashiro repeats what he said. Ren says generally, it is the truth.

In the show, the host is saying that their program is about the ‘burial’ of Kura’s Japanese former screen name, Shuuhei. The host explains that it is because the younger audience doesn’t know about this. Kura says that burying a name is quite easy for he just doesn’t have to use it and it is finished. The host tells him to be at least be considerate for the show. Kura says maybe they should also say condolences for it and console the spirit/name. The host gets angry and says that is irritating, as he is appealing for him to be nice, this guy. The audience is smiling over this. The host says that no matter how he looks like Kura, he seems to be a nice guy so it is time for the burial of the name, they need 50,000 people to express about the recollection of the name, Shuuhei. [Basically, Kura’s achievements in his career while in Japan]. Kyouko looks at the show and smiles, thinking she knows [Kura is nice]. Kyouko then thought this and that is different though. She is making some homemade weapons for her surprise attack against Kura. She is putting holes on the bottom of two plastic soda bottles and attaches a string between the two. [She seems to be making some nunchucks] Kyouko says that Kura doing that, doesn’t he even have a degree of adult dignity. Scenes of Kyouko trying to attack Kura while he is eating some ramen and she fails – even being made a fool of as Kura just holds her while she goes round and round trying to hit him. [Advantage of being tall]

Kyouko proudly looks at her handmade weapons and exclaims that she wants father to shout ‘I lose’. Kyouko says it is finished and she only needs some water to fill the bottles. She then sees a sink nearby, downstairs. Just then, Ren and Yashiro enters the building. Yashiro is looking a bit gloomy as he tells Ren that it seems he did something unnecessary thing. Ren asks why does he say that. Yashiro says it is nothing because he unintentionally blurt it out. Yashiro smiles and says that it is okay, relax because during this time, Kura has already gone inside so they won’t meet. Ren smiles and says, is that so, but don’t worry for he doesn’t mind. Just then, from the nearby stairs, they were surprised when someone suddenly jumps down. Kyouko turns around and Ren is shock to see her. Even Kyouko is surprised to see her as well as Yashiro. Then, Kyouko smiles at him.

The author is using her great cliffhanger skills again and she goes on a break. ^^; Here, we learn why Ren sucks at kanji, because he doesn’t think it is necessary or a need to learn it. I’m really amused at how similar Ren and his father is – how they laugh and good at acting. I guess that like Ogata, that would make it hard for Ren to break free from his father’s shadow. Kyouko is indeed gets to experience some parent-child experience through Kura and ‘play around’. As Ren mentioned, since he doesn’t watch children shows and want to grow up quickly, he doesn’t play much with his father – physically. I guess it is different for Ren when playing ‘fight’ with people near his age than with an adult like his father. I wonder if Kura is trying to re-live or experience what is it like to have a son who would play ‘fight’ with him. Ren does seem to quite the outdoor, energetic kid but then, it does jives with Kura’s ‘praises’ of his son. So, Ren has met Kyouko while acting as Kuon. I wonder of all sorts of things that might happen, how would Ren react – would he laugh after being surprised if Kyouko introduces himself as Kuon? Actually, would he think that his father has flipped that he is asking Kyouko to be his son. Hehe Yashiro will be pretty much puzzled over all of this but then, on how Ren reacts – either normally [he is a good actor] or ‘being real’ – Kyouko might wonder why Ren would act like that – if it is not normal. I did thought that maybe Ren would help Kyouko ‘beat up’ Kura in that game but then, that is quite doubtful. Kura might also appear but unless Kyouko delays Ren, Kura might not be able to see him. I wonder how Kura would react if Kyouko as Kuon mentions meeting Ren, there at the studio. Also, if Ren now knows what Kyouko is up to, he isn’t force to meet with his father anymore to ask what did he asked Kyouko to do that she is acting strangely. Hopefully, the next chapter won’t end with Kura-Ren meeting cliffhanger. Ah, that would be evil but then, if I’m an author, I might actually do that. ^^;

Quote of the day:
People seem to get nostalgic about a lot of things they weren't so crazy about the first time around. ~ Author Unknown

The One [Chapter 23-24]
Thursday, June 14, 2007 @ 06:23 p.m.

Lele looks at Angus whom she thought is Eros in surprise, seduce Angus? At her background are pictures of venus fly trap plants. Angus thought that it seems she is a quite pure youngster. To his shock, Lele squirts out blood at him from her nose. While bleeding, Lele tells Ti Fu and the assistant that she is okay when they asked if she is alright. While her make-up is being retouch, Lele is frustrated that ‘Eros’/Angus has made her remember of the kiss that she wants to forget as she can still vividly remember it. Lele wonders that it seems that he didn’t came to seduce her but rather make her seduce him. Lele tries to focus on the picture taking when the two models asks if she knows Angus for they seem quite close. Lele denies it and is about to tell them that it isn’t Angus. One of the two asks what is that about seducing him. Lele slips that it is true when suddenly the two’s aura became dark. Lele wonders what brought it about. Ti Fu prepares his camera as he told Lele to stop covering her chest. Lele thought this is quite pressuring. Pressure 1: two models holding her shoulder tightly as they are jealous of her, saying you seem to be good, huh. Pressure 2: ‘Eros’/Angus – come on and seduce me, baby. Lele froze as Ti Fu asks what is the matter. Angus then asks could it be that because of him being there has affected their work. Lele is about to shout yes when the two models push her away and shout he isn’t.

Lele is angry that she looks at Angus when Angus is looking at her as if mentally telling her to seduce him. Lele freaks out a bit for pressure 2 has already acted up. She imagines herself in a leather outfit like some sadist woman, holding a small whip/stick. She thought so how should I seduce you, you little hard to deal with thing. She imagines Angus being chained up, looking at her. While licking her whip, Lele thought you better not regret this so where should I start. She bends down to him and touches his chest. She says that is a good chest, do you want me to caress it. Angus is aroused as he tells her to hurry it up and stop talking. She touches his belly and Angus groans. In reality, Lele squirts out more blood from her nose until she is actually lying down on a pool of her own blood. This freaks out the two models as everyone is shock. Ti Fu screams out for her, the two models cling to Angus saying they are scared and the assistant calls out for someone to call the ambulance while asking if Lele is okay. While her nose is still bleeding, she sits up and tells them that she is okay. Everyone is scared for obviously she doesn’t look okay. Ti Fu shouts does she have some incurable disease, this is how it is in Korean dramas. [Lol] The assistant says that she just did that twice for one day.

Lele manages to stand up while still nose bleeding and tells him that she doesn’t have any brain tumor or stomach cancer as it could be because she ate too much sashimi and what is a few blood loss, she would like to ask the make-up artist to help her a bit. Lele angrily looks at ‘Eros’/Angus that it is all his fault – seduce him, what is that to ruin her, doesn’t even care that she has bleed a lot and she now has to enemies. Lele is looking at Angus as the two other models are drooling and chatting with him. Lele is frustrated that a while ago, they are like sisters to her and now, because of one good looking guy, it is ruined. She then hits herself with a brick and remembers the ‘seduction’ that she is bleeding on her forehead and nose again, freaking out the make-up artist. With some tissue to plug her bleeding nose, she looks at the three – Angus and two models – and thought, it is as if there is an electric power between him and the two girls, what should she do. She thought no wonder this is Angus’ twin brother as his image and appearance is attracting and his aura is sparkling. It made her angry for they are suppose to be the models in that set. Lele finally thinks of something as she plans to use this ‘anger’ to win this. She pulls the two models to her side.

Holding the two surprised models, Lele thought that the center of attraction should be them. Everyone looks surprised over this. Lele looks as if she is seducing the two models as she tells them that they should concentrate and get back to work. She tells this closely to Yen Er that Yen Er blushes and she kisses Sakura on her cheek. Finally, Ti Fu gets some nice pictures of Lele trying to seduce the two girls and they playfully try to get away from her. Ti Fu says it is finished. Lele is relieved she finally succeeded as the two other models are still looking flustered. Ti Fu praises Lele for being so manly. Lele proudly laughs saying that shouldn’t it be so for isn’t she suppose to be ‘androgynous – neither man or woman’ Ti Fu says that is right, it really suits her. Ti Fu is about to praise the other two models for doing their best but to his surprise, they are gone. Lele wonders if she overdid it that they ran away from her. Angus then removes his sunglasses and says that he didn’t know she is also has that kind of ability.

I think this author is really generous with fan service. Hehe She really gives the fans what they want. With that comment on Korean dramas to poke fun at them, I’m somewhat rest assured that she doesn’t like sad endings or maybe the sudden illness, heroine dies endings. Hehe Lele has ended made such a bloody mess. Angus seems to know why it happened to her except for the others as he looks quite calm. So, Lele has finally overcome another day in modeling in Japan. Obviously, Lele will be utterly shock when she realizes that it is really Angus.

Quotes of the day:
Seduction is always more singular and sublime than sex and it commands the higher price ~ Jean Baudrillard

Skip Beat! [Chapter 106]
Wednesday, June 13, 2007 @ 10:12 a.m.

At 550am, Kyouko goes to the hotel dressed up in a boy’s clothes. As she is about to go up on the elevator, some ladies holding up a weak/dizzy woman ask her to wait for them. To their surprise, Kyouko asks them in English what floor are they going to. They thought she is Japanese as they were talking to her in Japanese. After the ladies went out to their floor, they wondered if Kyouko is a girl or a boy. Kyouko thought that from that morning, she woke up not as Kyouko but as Kuon. [She has already started to act as Kuon] Holding a door card, she looks at it and remembers what Kura told her that it is the key to the hotel room so that she can enter on her own. Kyouko looks at the door and thought that this is Japan, she went there together with her father who is currently there to work and behind this door is Kura, who is my father. She then opens the door.

Scene changes to Lory with a really shock face. He is shock that his character in the game failed to get the guy in the galge/dating sim game. Lory is furious that whether his character kiss/didn’t kiss the guy, she still ends up dumped. Lory wonders could it be that the game is designed with the girl not ending up with the guy no matter what. He plans to harass the company who made the game to force them to create a ending with the two leads in the game to end up with each other. Just then, his secretary [I think] called on the phone to tell him that he has a phone call, would he like to answer it. Lory realizes that it is already 610am as he grew more frustrated that he is up all night and didn’t get a happy ending in the game. Lory asks who is calling him so early in the morning. It is Ren. Ren asks him what are they getting Kyouko to do. Lory is a bit surprised as he denies it as he says isn’t it to cook for Kura. Ren tells him not to act dumb for obviously, there is something else for Kyouko is acting a bit strange yesterday. Lory thought of something and wonders could it be that. Ren asks if Lory has heard anything from that guy, and even if Kyouko didn’t say anything, it seems that Kyouko is troubled regarding something about that guy. Lory muses that it seems that things had become as what he and Kura has planned. Lory thought that he still doesn’t understand what Kyouko is thinking. Flashback of Kyouko asking Lory if she can borrow some clothes for it is already late and she won’t have time to buy some. Lory asks why would Kyouko need those kind of clothes since obviously it isn’t for her own use so is it for work. Kyouko hesitates then finally answers that it has something to do with work. End flashback.

Lory tells Ren that last night, Kyouko did come to him and she does act a bit strange and since he is worried, he asks her about it but it seems that Kyouko doesn’t want to tell him about it so he didn’t press on and it could have something to do with Kura since Kyouko said it is something about work. Ren tells him that saying he didn’t know about it is quite irresponsible. Lory tells Ren not to be angry, he will asks Kura about it. Lory thought but if he will tell Ren, that is another thing. Ren says okay, he will leave things to Lory. Lory says to leave it to him. Ren hangs up his mobile phone and sighs. Lory thought even if it is cruel to Ren, but if the situation changes into Ren force to ask Kura himself, last night’s ‘strangeness’ can become useful. Flashback: Among some wardrobe, Kyouko asked Lory if there is any outfit for a 15-16 American boy that isn’t too peculiar. Kyouko finally picked the ones she can use and thanks Lory. End flashback. Lory hangs up the phone and thought if he is thinking too much about it but it made him somewhat nostalgic for how she is acting is similar to a certain person or rather on the person whom she modeled it on, could he be mistaken. Lory says to himself that if he remembers it right, he gives that kind of feeling when he is about 10 years old and he is quite innocently cute before. Really, what is Kura planning that aside from Ren, he is also curious to know about it.

With curtains closed, Kura is sleeping when he is awaken by Kyouko calling him father and for him to wake up. Kura is still sleepy as that someone says that he has to wake up for he has work at 8am. Kura wants to sleep a few more minutes but Kyouko tells him that he will be late in getting ready if he did that. Kyouko opens the curtains and says that there are some birds that flew by, she asks what is the Japanese word for a bird. She makes a mistake and Kura is about to correct her, he is surprised to see Kyouko. Kyouko asks him what is the matter. Kura says it is nothing. Kura says that he is going to wake up since for he is hungry. Kyouko says that she is going to get breakfast ready. Kura washes himself and thought that before he opened his eyes, he actually thought he is talking with Kuon because Kuon likes birds, grass and nature and since he was awaken in English, he totally forgot that he is in Japan. So, it gave him a startle when he realize that he is in Japan and that Kuon is a different person. Kyouko sees him and greets him, asking if he wants some coffee. While sitting for breakfast, Kura thought that even if it is a different person, why doesn’t it feel different. He wonders that everything seems as if Kyouko had actually seen the real Kuon and is modeling her actions after him though it is the Kuon before, could it be that she heard it from Lory but is she really bad at creating characters.

Kyouko asks why is he staring at her. Kura denies it and just asks why is this. Kura is holding a large loaf of bread with each side spread with peanut butter, strawberry and chocolate jam. Kyouko says it is a loaf of bread as she is only having a slice of bread. Kura says she should have at least slice or toast it. Kyouko answers but he is going to eat it all anyway, isn’t he. Kura thought yes he is but still. Kyouko says that she doesn’t have time to slice and toast each slice since she focused on making fried eggs. On the table is a mountain of fried eggs, slightly burned. Kura realized that Kyouko is acting as if she doesn’t know how to cook though it isn’t exactly wrong since he has never asked Kuon to do so. Kyouko worriedly thought that she appear not to know how to cook in order to combine the imagine of Corn – fairy prince = young lord/master] and Kuon who is quite adored by Kura. She gets embarrassed as she did that to see what Kura’s reaction would be and she might have overdone it a bit. Kyouko snapped out of her thinking when she heard some crunching noise. She trace it to the eggs that Kura is eating. Kyouko tries to explain that those are eggshells that got in when she tries to crack the eggs. A scene of Kyouko trying to act as if she doesn’t know how to cook and she didn’t notice that eggshells got in. She is breaking eggs and cooking them on multiple pans at once – no wonder they got burned. ^^; Kuon praises her saying that eggshells have calcium, she is quite intelligent, no wonder ‘he’ is his son.

Kyouko couldn’t believe it for obviously she goofed up, is this really the extent of Kuon’s being intelligent or is it that Kura is just a too much adoring parent [the child can’t do any wrong]. Kyouko tells him not to force himself to eat it, he can leave it, it is okay. Kyouko thought that even she will think that it isn’t good enough to eat. Kura asks is this not good enough to eat, it couldn’t be because it is something that she has made for him as her father so how could it be not good to eat. Kyouko looks at Kura still eating the eggs and thought, because she didn’t even put any seasonings on the eggs. Kura smiles and tells her that it really taste good. Kyouko smiles and blushes. She thought, it couldn’t be..at a time like this, what should a child do. She remembers the pain of being rejected by her mother. Kura is surprised to see her blushing yet on the verge of tears. She thought that in fact she is really happy, yet she doesn’t know what kind of ‘right/proper’ reaction should she do.

Obviously for Kura and Lory, they had a hint that somewhat Kyouko is actually copying the real Kuon. I wonder how they would react when they learn that Kyouko has indeed met him. Hehe From this, I can actually chart what had actually happened to Ren as in the sequence of events. Ren used to be adorable and nice. Looking gloomy at when he is young when Reino sees his past, I’m guessing that Ren’s mother died and the only thing left from her is that blue sapphire. He goes to Japan for a while, probably with his dad. Then, he met Kyouko and heads back to the US. Then, the director fired him at around age 12 – the one which haunts Ren until now. It must have been a blow to him since his father has a tendency to ‘over-praise’ him and well, not living up/being better than his father. It is then he became a rebel as it is the last time his father saw of him. He must have run away as he didn’t have the face to see his father after that failure. Ren must have joined gangs and as he told Lory, he first had a girlfriend around that age so it is his rebellious age. Something happened at around age 16 that he came back to Japan to re-create himself. Well, one thing that Ren and Kyouko have in common will be love of nature and that is the reason why they have met in the forest, twice. I hope thought that interaction with Kura will help ‘heal’ Kyouko as to what her mother has done to her as she can finally experience some parental love. The author is going for two birds with one stone as she is trying to resolve somewhat Kyouko and Ren’s parent relationship problem. Mm..I do wonder if Lory playing that game has any significance to the story except probably Lory can’t quite handle ‘cannot be understood people’ aka Kyouko and ‘someone who is clueless about love’ aka Ren as the male lead in the game has both characterstics.

Quote of the day:
Never fear spoiling children by making them too happy. Happiness is the atmosphere in which all good affections grow. ~ Thomas Bray

The One [Chapter 22]
Tuesday, June 12, 2007 @ 01:34 p.m.

At the photo shoot, Lele wears nothing but a coat and shorts as her make-up is that smokey eyes look. Lele looks at the mirror and says this is the today’s her and who would have thought that her being ‘neither-boy-or-girl’ would actually help. The assistant thought that it suits her as Lele becomes embarrassed for only wearing just a coat. Sakura helps her out by saying that she should just be normal and can even use her hand to pull the coat while Yen Er praises her for being able to get that kind of look. Unlike Lele, they are wearing ‘dress shirt’ with neckties. Lele thought that while working, they became familiar with each other that there isn’t any rivalry. Ti Fu calls them to get ready as they prepare to pose. Lele thought that this kind of work makes her a bit relaxed. While the assistant happily looks on, someone taps her on the shoulder. She looks back and is surprised that it is Angus. She knew because Angus pulled down his sunglasses for her to see his eye color. Before she could exclaim his name, Angus points to his lips – to keep it a secret. Ti Fu looks back. Sakura and Yen Er are surprised and wonders, is that. Lele is shock and embarrassed as she quickly covers herself by pulling the front panels of the coat, thinking what is that guy doing here. Lele thought that the silver eyed monster has appeared in the photo shoot, is he there to annoy her though Feidna isn’t with him, could it be that they will go on a date later on. Angus talks with Ti Fu as the two other models wonders if it is really Angus. Lele thought that they were mistaken for it is just the irritating brother, not the younger brother.

Ti Fu asks him what is he doing there, does his brother know about this. Angus praises Ti Fu for recognizing him even if he is wearing sunglasses. Ti Fu asks could it be that he is looking for his brother that is why he is there. Angus says it is because he can’t find his brother for that crazy brother of his has said not to call him, he really doesn’t answer the phone when he calls him, isn’t that crazy or what. Ti Fu says that even if his lead would bring him to Jorvicious, it doesn’t mean that Eros will be there for even Feidna doesn’t know where Eros is or the place where Eros is working. Angus says it is okay for he came to that place because he heard that someone there knows where Eros is working. The other two models are blushing as they thought that Angus is so gorgeous and if Angus is going to watch them while they are being photographed, their heart is beating fast. On the other hand, Lele doesn’t want him to be there, what is he doing there. Ti Fu calls out for them to get ready for their picture taking. Lele calls out to wait for a minute. Ti Fu asks if she has a stomachache again. Lele says that is not so, there is something she wants to say to Eros. Ti Fu is about to tell her that it is Angus but Angus points his finger on his mouth [to keep it a secret]. Ti Fu’s assistant asks what kind of game is Angus playing as Ti Fu says he doesn’t know. Lele approaches Angus who is sitting at a reclining chair, reading a magazine.

The other two models wonder what is Lele doing. Lele pokes her finger on Angus’ arm as Angus asks what is the matter. Lele asks if he can leave the place. Lele looks embarrassed as she still tightly holds her coat so that her chest won’t be exposed. Angus wondered if she is the one that Feidna told him about for she looks familiar and he heard that she is his fan. Angus asks why. Lele is talking in Chinese so that the other models won’t know what she is saying. Lele says that she isn’t at ease. Angus asks why isn’t she at ease. Lele angry and embarrassed says that it is because her clothes that day is quite revealing and it is really awkward if there are guys around. Angus says how about Ti Fu and the model instructor. Lele protests that it isn’t the same for they are staff people. Angus says that staff people are also men so what is the difference. Lele is angry as Angus says it seems that it is only towards him that there is a different ‘influence/effect’ on her and is it because of his face. Everyone is confused about what is happening as Lele says that is right, who told you to look like your younger brother, it is because of that face that I can’t work. Lele pushes Angus out as she asks him to please leave. Angus is laughing as he thought she is really his fan.

While pushing him away, Angus looks back and says, I seen it. Lele quickly covers herself as Angus laughs out loud, thinking that this girl is really funny. Lele cries as she wonders if it is a wrong feeling that he has become frivolous/silly. Angus tells her that he is going to give her a lesson and that is a model’s body is up to the fashion designer to dress up and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Lele cries as she turns away from him and says, she knows he is telling her that she isn’t being professional. Angus thought that this is what his brother would say. Angus tells her that all newcomers are like that so it isn’t something to be dejected about so she doesn’t have to get him leave the set, for he will help her. Lele is a bit surprised. Angus bends down to her and says you like Angus, right, so how about imagining me as Angus and pose on Ti Fu’s lens as if she is ‘seducing’ him. Lele is surprised by his suggestion.

Obviously, Feidna has told Angus about Lele that is why Angus is there at the set for Lele could lead him to his brother. This made me wonder if next time, Lele would be able to distinguish between the two brothers like Ti Fu does, later on. She did felt that he is acting a bit silly/non-serious but she just dismissed it, not thinking that it might be Angus. It seems that she didn’t realize that she is embarrassed because she thought it is Eros and not necessarily because Eros looks like Angus. Hehe What will happen next.. well, a bit of bloody mess, literally. ^_^; The next chapter is short so I might combine it with another chapter.

Quote of the day:
Each of us has that right, that possibility, to invent ourselves daily. If a person does not invent herself, she will be invented. So, to be bodacious enough to invent ourselves is wise. ~ Maya Angelou

Weekly Jump Update: Bleach, One Piece, Naruto, D. Gray-man and Gintama
Monday, June 11, 2007 @ 10:58 a.m.

Ulquiorra confronts Grimmjow as to what he is doing in Bleach [c. 278]. Grimmjow won’t answer him so Ulquiorra looks at Inoue who then looks away. Ulquiorra tells Grimmjow that Inoue was entrusted to him by Aizen so give her back. Grimmjow says he doesn’t want to and comments that Ulquiorra talks to much today. Grimmjow goes and attacks Ulquiorra as Ulquiorra is obviously holding back as he didn’t want to fight Grimmjow. Knowing this, Grimmjow uses it to his advantage and manages to seal Ulquiorra in a dimension using a device Aizen gave them. If it is an ordinary hollow/arrancar, one will be sealed forever but for an espada like Ulquiorra, it would be about 2-3 hours. Grimmjow tells Inoue to hurry up and heal Ichigo but Inoue refuses for Ichigo will just be beaten up again. Ichigo stops Grimmjow from strangling Inoue and tells her to heal him and Grimmjow who was injured by Ulquiorra. Grimmjow doesn’t want to be sympathize as Ichigo says he doesn’t want to be either. Ichigo provokes him by saying does Grimmjow want to fight on equal terms or is he planning to use his wounds as an excuse if he lost. They crossed zanpaku as Grimmjow says that they will fight that way. With Ulquiorra out of the way, it is now time for third round of Grimmjow vs Ichigo with two losses for Ichigo. Will he win this time? Actually, would their fight be finish before Ulquiorra comes back? I think Ulquiorra would careless if the two killed each other as long as Inoue is okay, else, Aizen won’t be happy. ^^;

Luffy, Zoro and Sanji wakes up and are surprised to realized that they are back in Sunny in One Piece [c. 459]. Zoro can’t believe his shadow is taken, Luffy looks for food and Sanji looks for Nami. Sanji gets angry at Usopp for getting Nami kidnapped but Usopp says that circumstances had made that happen and tells them to listen about their two goals. Luffy says it is food and Nami, so isn’t that three goals, with their shadows as third. Usopp says he got his priorities wrong. After they were informed what happened, Sanji is furious that someone wants to marry Nami. Zoro commends them for knowing the zombies’ weakness. Franky tells them that they learned it from Brook and he even asked an inappropriate question because he doesn’t want to accept Brook as their nakama. Franky says that Brook proved to him that he is a ‘man’ as Franky had asked him why is he persistent on getting his shadow back and go out of that place when everyone else would avoid him since Brook looks that way, what is this promise he had with his nakama. Brook says that it is a promise to come back to a nakama who might be waiting for them for 50 years and it will be really sad if that nakama is still waiting. It turned out that Brook’s nakama is Laboon, the whale they met when going to Grandline. Brook says that since they made that promise, they must absolutely fulfill it and death is no excuse. Luffy and others tells the others that they knew of this whale and told them the story that Laboon is still waiting.

Brook is still fighting with Ryuma who tells Brook that he has also grown stronger the last five years. Even if Brook is losing, he still kept on fighting and protecting his afro hair. It turned out that it is only the afro hair that could help Laboon remember him as he is now basically a skeleton. The last part is Ryuma manages to stab Brook again. Back at Sunny, Franky is crying over the story and says he likes Brook and Laboon. Zoro, Usopp and Sanji shout for him to keep it down. Luffy is really enthusiastic for he really wants Brook to be part of their crew as a musician and asks if anyone has objections. Robin says even if they do, Luffy won’t change his decision. Usopp agrees letting him in as Franky and Chopper crying, agreed. Sanji is all fired up to rescue Nami while Zoro is already going ahead to defeat some zombies. Luffy shouted for them to all go down and blow away Thriller Bark. Usopp shouts for them to go ahead as Sanji shouts that he is coming with them. Like Bleach, the fighting is about to start though the author of One Piece is going on a break so no chapter next week. =( I think it is pretty much Sanji vs Absalom. I’m not quite sure about the others yet. I wonder how Luffy would react if he learns that the food is now gone – eaten by his shadow within Odz. Hehe I’m amazed how Brook is tied up to the story of Laboon. I’m sure Brook will be part of their crew especially if Brook learns that Laboon is indeed still waiting for them.

Kabuto is still talking about becoming more powerful when he takes over the Orochimaru within him that is trying to take over him in Naruto [c. 357]. Hinata confirms that Orochimaru has overtaken his body by 1/3. Naruto and Yamato tries to capture him but he manages to escape. Before leaving, he tells them that he would go back to Naruto next time, after he finish of Sasuke. Meanwhile, Deidara makes a remark that Sasuke is able to defeat Orochimaru because of his inherent powers and not his own. This irritates Sasuke that he goes to attack Deidara. Deidara manages to escape but Tobi is hit. To Sasuke’s surprise, Tobi doesn’t look hurt. Deidara uses some C1 [plastic explosive term, the higher the stronger the blast] bug bombs but Sasuke manages to throw them away and attack Deidara from behind. Deidara manages to escape and starts to counterattack using a C2 dragon bomb. Mm, when did Sasuke gets easily provoked. Naruto’s rashness must have rubbed on him. This can be a long fight for plastic explosives, C4 is the highest. Thanks to Metal Gear for knowing that. ^^; Well, Sasuke just got himself someone who is after him – Kabuto-orochimaru. I think it will be a long, long time before we get to see him again. I do wonder if the others would notice the fighting of Sasuke vs Deidara-Tobi. If that dragon explodes, I’m sure it will caught everyone’s attention and they don’t need to find Itachi to know where Sasuke is.

Allen tries to block Rabi’s fire attack in D. Gray-man [c. 121] but it is useless. Allen wants to revert to his innocence’s other form but he doesn’t have the heart to hurt Rabi. Rabi then zaps him. Rinali just kept on calling for Rabi to wake up and stop it as Rhode tells her it is useless. Allen decides to use his sword on Rhode to bring back Rabi but it is useless against Rhode who tells him that she isn’t really there, as one who doesn’t know of her true form can’t kill her. She then made Rabi burn up Allen. To Allen’s surprise, he isn’t being burned. Rinali noticed that the candles are melting. They realized that Rabi has regained control. In the dream, other Rabi is shock that Rabi has woken up and realized that Rabi has stabbed himself to wake himself up. In real world, Rabi prepares to burn himself up along with Rhode as Allen and Rinali can only cry out helplessly. Rhode is about to say that it would be useless when to her surprise, a knife protrudes through her chest. Rhode couldn’t believe that Rabi has discovered who she is in the dream world as she has underestimated Rabi. It is the Allen in the dream world as Rabi stabs through it, saying that it is because Rhode likes Allen. Rhode asks doesn’t he want to live, he won’t become a bookman anymore. Rabi asks so who made end up that way and this is the best decision he has come up with. He starts to ‘burn up’ as he apologizes and says his goodbye. Since they don’t have any healers there, I guess Rabi will meet the fate of Kanda and Crowley. It turned out that Rinali is still useless throughout this arc. ^^; There is a character poll in this chapter and I’m amused that Kanda has won first place when he didn’t appear much for such a long time. Second is Allen, third is Rabi, fourth is Rinali and fifth is Tiki.

Gintama [c. 168] starts with a flashback of Ito and Hijitaka going on a duel as Gin comments that Shinsengumi doesn’t want Ito to die as a traitor, for at the end, they give him a warrior comrades’ death. Hijitaka hits Ito. Ito looks back and a illuminating string connects him to Hijitaka. Then other strings from the others connects to him. Ito cries and thanks them as he collapses on the ground. Everyone looks solemn. That night, in a small house boat, Shinsuke is playing a shamisen [three string musical instrument] as he says so Ito is dead and Shinsengumi managed to survive, that is quite unexpected, is it because Ito is weak or he [Bansai] is weak. Bansai is also playing a shamisen says something about that this time the work is to know of the motive of the general/shogunate? staying within Shinsengumi, it is to stowaway ‘Spring Rain’ [ship] and know about the secret so that more fightings will no longer be beneficial as it will be over. Shinsuke says he remembered that he let Bansai go to defeat Shinsengumi. Bansai stands up and bows to Shinsuke. He tells Shinsuke in all things, it is crucial to have the right beat and tempo, it cannot be lacking any so if the beat is not the same, it is better to withdraw for that is how he does things. As Bansai is about to leave, Shinsuke asks him if the beat isn’t the same as his own song. Bansai says that Shiroyasha [Gin] said that what he is protecting then and now is the same, does Shinsuke knows what Gin is pointing at. Shinsuke doesn’t answer. Bansai says that he now has something he wants to listen to result of an idea. Remembering the times with Yamazaki, Ito [protecting others] and Gin, Bansai says listening to his [Gin] music made me quite fascinated that sure enough, he lost. Bansai left as Shinsuke doesn’t look pleased and continues playing with his shamisen.

At the Shinsengumi headquarters, they are all gathered with a monk saying prayers. Yamazaki’s picture [with him holding a badminton] is on an altar with flowers at the side. From behind the room, Yamazaki is peeking inside. Yamazaki is tense as everyone thought he is dead and that he made a mistake for only coming out too late that there is already a funeral. Flashback: Bansai didn’t stab Yamazaki as he only struck the ground. Bansai says that he has a change of heart, he wants to listen to his [Yamazaki’s] song, live on, I will wait for the finale music. End flashback. Yamazaki thought that he didn’t thought that it will end like that and if it was a different enemy, he would really be in the hospital, not saying a word [dead?] Yamazaki ponders on how to go there and tell him he is alive for just going to here, scratching his head saying that he is alive would really be awkward. Matsudaira cries out loud why does he have to die before old men [him] and he even treated him as his own son. Yamazaki cries as Matsudaira cares for him until he sees a large picture of a dog and his own picture is at the side on the altar. Yamazaki is furious for it isn’t a funeral service for him but more on for that dog and they even put a milo drink [milk beverage with chocolate and malt, produced by Nestlé] when he doesn’t even drink that. Yamazaki is even more furious when the monk takes the milo drink and drank it as he curses that even if doesn’t like it, he should be drinking it. He then sees the others chatting with each other, talking at the mobile phone, and someone is even reading a Jump. Yamazaki then wonders where vice-captain is to reprimand them. The other Shinsengumi were wondering that their vice-captain has taken a leave of absence so why haven’t he returned yet and if it weren’t for him, their group would be finished. Could it be that he felt somewhat responsible for it and that before taking a leave of absence, he has been acting differently – what is that about, won’t he return back and with this thing has happened, they might not become the Shinsengumi like before.

At some kushidango [rice paste balls (mochi) on a skewer] store, Hijitaka with Gin and others are talking while eating. Hijitaka says that he went to different shrines that has exorcism but they all have no way of getting the cursed katana off him and it seems that the curse is heavily ingrained into him already and he doesn’t know when the cursed katana will do him in. Someone asks if he is going to return to Shinsengumi. Hijitaka puts lots of mayonnaise on the kushidango and eats it as he says maybe he should think of changing jobs. Someone replies how about becoming an animator. Gin asks if this is really okay. Gin reminds Hijitaka that when he can’t separated with the cursed katana, he become one with it and he made his own body do what he want. A scene of Hijitaka saying that Kondou is Shinsengumi’s soul and they are the swords that protect that soul. Hijitaka pauses and stands up saying that Gin says that too easily. While still eating, Hijitaka starts to leave as he says thanks for looking after him. Shinpachi asks where is he going. Hijitaka says does he have to say it. He tells them that his body is already overflowing with spirits and ghosts, it can be said that walking up today, there are many resentments from enemies and comrades that they can’t go to heaven so adding one or two curses, nothing has changed. He doesn’t mean to not remember but the only thing he can do is to carry those that are left on his back and just move on forward and wait for the day he goes to hell that he will tell them jokes about it. Shinpachi smiles as Kagura looks at leaving Hijitaka. The trio stands up as Kagura says that Hijitaka forgot the reward. Gin says it is okay for compared to a deep breath, [I’m not sure of the rest] that Hijitaka has a lot of lives to take account to when they come out. Shinpachi laughs and asks is it really okay, will he work hard. Gin says it is okay, nothing to worry about.

Back at Shinsengumi, Yamazaki is dressed up a ghost with a badminton as he gets ready to teach the others a lesson for acting that way in a funeral. He didn’t notice someone is behind him. Suddenly there is a huge explosion and Yamazaki gets thrown inside the room. They freak out that it is Yamazaki’s ghost. Someone then shouts, number 12 rule: do not read magazine especially comics within the headquaters, number 17 rule: during meetings or important functions, shut off their mobile phones and number 45 rule: after dying and has not become a ghost, a warrior should cleanse himself to become a buddha/saint. It is Hijitaka, carrying a bazooka. He shouts that since they don’t seem to comprehend this, they should all commit seppuku [ritual suicide by disbowelment]. Everyone is surprised to see him that they rush to him, shouting that he is back. [Ah, did they just stepped on Yamazaki ^;] Kondou and Okita look at each other smiling. Hijitaka shouts what are they saying, did he just tell them to commit seppuku. The others shouts yes, yes, they will, no matter how many times. While Hijitaka is busy hitting other people’s heads as everyone is laughing, Kondou thought Toushi, you said that I’m the soul of Shinsengumi but for the Shinsengumi, you are also a cannot be replaced soul. It is good that you are back, Toushi. Hijitaka is then smiling. Suddenly there is a loud ringtone – Purikyua Purikyua Purikyua Purikyua Puriti de Kyua Kyua futari wa PURIKYUA! [It is the opening song of Pretty Cure which is a magical shoujo anime something like Sailormoon] Hijitaka answers his mobile phone, moshi, moshi, This is Hijitaka. And that is how Hijitaka came back.

I do wonder what that string thing binding to Ito. I guess it means they have connection though I wonder if it is a parody of some anime. At first, it does seem a bit corny. I’m also a bit confused if Bansai is going to leave Shinsuke or it is just a start of Bansai’s interest of Gin and the other’s way/principle in life. The part about Yamazaki is really funny. I guess the author is trying to lighten the mood. About Hijitaka, I wonder if that otaku soul coming out from time to time will be a joke later on. I guess it is something to make him a bit more funny as a character. About Gin not asking for compensation, I somewhat think that maybe he realized a bit how similar he is with Hijitaka especially with what Hijitaka said before leaving them. Isn’t that how Gin is currently living? Actually, it has already been hinted many times that Gin and Hijitaka are so alike to each other. Hehe I guess next chapter would be back to the one-shot comedies as this arc’s mood is quite serious and a bit sad. I think the author likes Pretty Cure as while looking for that song in Youtube, I found a clip of Pretty Cure with Otose and Catherine as the two leads in the anime. ^^; Scary. Sigh, the eng dub is way behind.

Quote of the day:
The clock of life is wound but once and no man has the power to tell just when the hands will stop at late or early hour. Now is the only time you own. Live, love, toil with a will. Place no faith in time for the clock may soon be still. ~ Robert H. Smith

V. B. Rose [Chapter 58]
Thursday, June 7, 2007 @ 06:32 p.m.

[I might not be able to type up any summaries for the rest of the week since I will be resting a bit. I just caught a flu bug yesterday and still recovering. ^^; At least, there is no fever anymore ^_^ ]

If only that time, I would just wait inside the house. If only I have said those words, things won’t turn out that way. The last scene is when Yukari tells Ririko that there is something he wants to tell to Lan. Ririko asks Yukari if he blames Lan [for what happened]. Yukari glances at her and remembers the past when his father is holding him, telling him that it isn’t Yukari’s fault but then, it isn’t his mother’s fault either so don’t blame her. Young Yukari then notices that his father is crying. He looks up and his father tells him that it is just because they are still young and that there will be a time when this will ultimately happen for his mother isn’t the type to keep still/stay there. His father apologizes to him. Yukari smiles as he tells this to Ririko that this is what his father had told him. Yukari says but as a child, he would feel that it is his fault, if only he didn’t get sick at that time, those two wouldn’t have separated. Yukari looks troubled as he says, if only he had said ‘don’t go’ things won’t turn out that way and he can’t stop himself from thinking that way. Ririko looks sad for Yukari. Yukari stops and looks at Ririko and smiles as he tells her that it is really good that Ririko is there because of Ririko, and being with Ririko, his father has found happiness and he is very happy about that. Yukari adds that it is because of Ririko that he has found his own path [goal in life]. Ririko blushes as Yukari thanks her.

Ririko goes into ‘sister mode’ as she says that he is actually a troublesome kid. Yukari says isn’t that because of her influence. Ririko sighs and says that Yukari is always cold with people and no matter who, he would go away from them, does he know how much worried she is about him. Yukari laughs at this and says that even if he is like that, he still found friends – good friends and comrades, so he is really lucky. A scene of him with Mitsuya, Natsuna and Tsuyu. Yukari says and also... He remembers Ageha calling out his name and smiling. Yukari thought, someone whom he wants to cherish. Ririko says that Yukari has changed. Ririko teases Yukari asking who is he thinking when he said, and also. Yukari angrily shouts for her to stop being noisy, she already knows so she don’t have to ask. Ririko teases that he is being embarrassed. Then, Yukari asks how did Ageha traveled – by bus or train. Ririko says didn’t Lan drive her own car. Yukari is shock as he remembers his mother’s driving – he is scared as a young boy when Lan says, see how I overtake that car. Ririko teases did he realize this just now. Yukari panicks and asks Ririko what to do, should they call the police. Ririko looks uninterested as she comments that Yukari is like an overprotective mother. Yukari shouts what is she talking about, this is about a person’s life, father in heaven, save her. Just then, Ageha comes in to say that she is back. Yukari quickly hugs Ageha as Ageha is wondering what has happened. Yukari says it is a good thing that nothing has happened to her. Ageha blushes and hugs him back, saying I made you worry. Ririko snickers as she says that Yukari is really becoming like Aoi. Yukari angrily shouts for her to stop being noisy.

Ririko then asks where is Lan. Ageha says that she is there. They all look at the door and notice Lan nervously peeking from the door. She goes to Yukari and apologizes for taking Ageha. Yukari looks a bit speechless and says that it doesn’t matter for Ageha has come back safely. Ageha and Lan are surprised about this. Yukari asks why did she come back. Lan becomes nervous as Ageha is worriedly thinking that Yukari asked the same question as she did, Lan looks stiff, do your best, Lan. Lan asks Yukari not to get angry and just listen to what she has to say. Looking at a bit surprised Yukari, Lan asks if she can go clean [pay respects] to Aoi’s tomb. She then thanks Ririko for sending her a postcard. Yukari looks at Ririko in surprise as Ririko says that she felt that it is something important. A flashback of Lan getting a postcard to inform her about the third death anniversary of Aoi. Lan says that she really doesn’t want to go because she still believes that Aoi is still alive. She also knows that she cannot go back for she doesn’t have the face to do so. But when she saw him on the webpage, she really wants to see him and in the end, it does seem to be just acted on impulse. The three were surprised. Yukari asks isn’t it so for the way she came does seem like her typical impulsive attitude – giving him a car and wanting to see VBR. Lan says that it is because if she didn’t do that in a comedic way, she might lose her nerve and she is afraid. Yukari asks what is she afraid of. Lan with tears on her eyes and holding her hands together says that if Yukari rejects her, she will be really hurt that she would want to die.

Yukari sighs and says that he doesn’t plan on saying that but there is indeed something he wants to say and that is, even if there is no other reason, she is most welcome to come back anytime. Lan is surprised by this. Yukari muses that the house doesn’t have that much rooms though. He tells her that when he is young he regrets that saying it ‘don’t go’ for he doesn’t understand her that he became quite rebellious during his high school years but then the current him still doesn’t understand much but it doesn’t matter anymore. Looking at Lan, he tells her there is only one thing he wants to say now and that is be careful on your way back, mother, and if you are free, why don’t she come back but it has to be on holidays. Lan cries as Yukari calls her mother. She then hugs him and smiles, saying, yes, I’m going now. Yukari is a bit teary eyed too and hugs her back. Ageha and Ririko looks at them smiling. Ageha thought, this scenario is like the time when on waits for along time for winter to finally become spring.

And so, Yukari’s problem with his mother is finally solved and he won’t be hating winters anymore. I guess it is typical for Yukari to blame himself especially since he got sick before his parents separted. I’m really amused when Yukari is scared of what might happen to Ageha with Lan’s way of driving. Anyway, everything ends well.

Quote of the day:
The most basic of all human needs is the need to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them. ~ Ralph Nichols

Weekly Jump Update: Bleach, D. Gray-man, One Piece, Gintama and Naruto
Tuesday, June 5, 2007 @ 04:57 p.m.

Neru is surprised to see Grimmjow as Grimmjow overturns Ichigo with his foot in Bleach [c. 277]. Grimmjow sees a hole-like wound on Ichigo’s chest and Grimmjow says so that is how it is. Grimmjow releases Inoue and tells her to heal Ichigo. Inoue is surprised. At Inoue’s room, Ulquiorra has arrived and asked what happened to two really frightened arrancar girls. They told him it is Grimmjow and then, Ulquiorra leaves the room. Back to Grimmjow, Neru keeps on crying about Ichigo being gravely hurt because he has been shielding her. Grimmjow tells her to keep quiet for Ichigo will be okay. Inoue is already trying to get Ichigo well and finds it a bit difficult, wondering who had caused that wound. Grimmjow tells her that it is Ulquiorra for Ulquiorra usually does that same wound on his prey. Grimmjow is irritated that Ulquiorra tries to take his prey from him. Just then, Ichigo wakes up and is surprised to see Neru, Inoue and Grimmjow. Neru and Inoue are happy to see Ichigo when Grimmjow tells her to cure him already so that he can fight with him uninjured. Inoue is shock over the reason why she is healing Ichigo – for Grimmjow to defeat Ichigo. Grimmjow tells her to stop complaining over it and hurry and heal Ichigo before Ulquiorra notices what happened. To their shock, Ulquiorra is already behind them. Oh, exciting, I wonder what will happen next. Would the two espada fight and they will escape? Will Ulquiorra let Grimmjow fight Ichigo and he is just interested in getting Inoue back? I think Inoue and Neru would make a good team as healers ^_^ Well, I guess I’m right, Grimmjow just wants to heal Ichigo so that he will be the one who would finish off Ichigo ^^; Poor Ichigo, they all want a piece of him.

Rabi is defeated within Rhode’s dimension as the other Rabi who wanted to be a ‘pure’ Bookman is going to take his place in D. Gray-man [c. 120]. A black graphic tattoo appeared on Rabi’s left cheek below his eye. He goes out of his cell and drops his hammer. He goes to Allen to attack him. Rhode tells Allen if he wants to save Rinali and Chaoji, he has to kill Rabi. After getting hit and knowing that Rabi is serious, Allen tries to use his sword on Rabi but it didn’t work. Rhode tells him that it only works if one is possessed but Rabi has lost his ‘heart’ so it is useless against Rabi. Rhode is shouting for Allen to use his other hand to kill Rabi. Rinali is crying over the scene. Allen is trying to talk Rabi out of it, saying they are comrades that Rinali is crying. Rabi says they aren’t comrades. Rabi punches Allen into the wall. Rhode tells Allen that the real Rabi doesn’t consider them as comrades for he is a Bookman – only to observe them. Rabi gets his hammer and says he is only a Bookman and starts to use a fire snake on Allen. Allen is now standing as the fire snake is about to engulf him. So, I’m still betting on Rinali becoming the heart innocence to bring back Rabi’s heart. Allen is really put in a tough choice and in both choices, he ends up the loser. Rhode must also know of how self-sacrificing Allen is that he would probably let himself be beaten up and even killed by Rabi rather than killing Rabi so she used Rinali and Chaoji as insurance. Pretty clever and heartless of her. Mm..when did Rabi become this strong without his hammer? ^^;

The zombies are lamenting the fact that their weakness has been discovered other than Brook in One Piece [c. 458]. Usopp and others are running down the stairs to Sunny as Usopp say that Nami would probably be alright since life is in no danger so they’ll rescue her later and the loud sound earlier is of Luffy’s. Usopp then explains what happened. At the cold storage, zombies are feeding Odz a large amount of food as the zombies are complaining that they might run out of food. Odz thanks Moria for the food even though it isn’t tasty enough. The zombies are angry about Odz ungratefulness saying that he must know who made him alive again and their master will become pirate king. They shut up and apologizes when Odz stares at them. Moria tells him that he is now his follower for he resurrected him. Odz doesn’t want to for he tells Moria he has his own dreams. Feeling cramped at that place, he wrecked the place to go out and shouted that he wants to be Pirate King. Meanwhile, Brook faces off with Ryuma. Ryuma asks if he will be like before begging for Ryuma not to touch his afro. Then, a brief flashback of Brook knowing the zombies’ weakness when a newbie ate salted fish. When he confronted Hogback about putting fishes, Hogback is confused so Brook guessed it is salt. He gathered his courage and tried to find the zombie who has his shadow. He found Ryuma but he is defeated and hastily retreat when his afro is threatened. End flashback. Brook fights Ryuma saying that he has become stronger now after 5 years as Ryuma is surprised when he has to block Brook’s attack.

Elsewhere, Absalom brought Nami to this small zombie, asking him to make a bridal dress for his new bride. Then, Usopp and others managed to get back to Sunny as they looked for the three. Usopp has found them at the dinning room. It turned out that the zombies made fun of them by putting things on their faces. They hit them and shout out loud to wake them up but they are still sleeping. Franky wants to try using his firepower but Usopp says he has another way. Usopp shouts, a beautiful woman swordsman brought some meat. The three promptly wakes up. Hehe My guesses about what Odz would do is right though I wonder if Odz dream is also becoming a pirate king since Moria did say for Luffy’s shadow to forget the past. I’m sure Moria will be regretting he used Luffy’s shadow. I think the food is yucky because they can’t use salt on it. Well, the trio has finally woke up. I guess they will really mess up the place after being humiliated – captured and their shadows taken. Hehe

As Gin hits Bansai in the stomach with his bokuto, Bansai hits Gin on his shoulder in Gintama [c. 167]. Bansai lectures Gin that this country is going down as well as the samurai way so it is best for it to kill itself since it is not worth protecting. Gin tells him if he wants to die, why don’t he just fire himself up and commit suicide. Bansai then calls Gin a ghost of the past who has lost his purpose of protecting the nation and so he must die. He tosses Gin down from the helicopter and tries to use his strings to bait Gin. Gin uses his bokuto to caught the string and tries to pull down the helicopter like a fisherman. Gin shouts that he doesn’t care if the country goes down or the samurai way, for he never fought for those, the reasons why he fought before is the same as before – flashbacks of times they had with the Shinsengumi. Gin manages to get the helicopter to crash to the ground. Ito then reminds Hijitaka of his duty. Hijitaka shouts for the others to finish off the rebels since their boss [Bansai] is gone. The rebels were overwhelmed that they hastily retreats. In that train, Shinpachi and Kagura look at Ito. Shinpachi asks why did Ito save them. Ito says that they aren’t Shinsengumi and he has a connection with Shinsengumi that can’t be called as friends nor enemies. Ito came to regret to realize too late what Shinsengumi meant to him and now he is dying and he doesn’t want to die for he will be alone again.

The other Shinsengumi tells them to give Ito to them. Shinpachi tries to ask them to free him but his request can’t be granted since many people have perished because of Ito. Shinpachi tries to protest that Ito saved them but Kondou holds him back and tells the others to get Ito. Shinpachi tries to protest but then he realizes that Kondou is crying. Gin tells Shinpachi that even if they let Ito be, he will also die so it is best to do it that way. Surrounded by Shinsengumi men, Ito is on the ground. Hijitaka tosses a katana to him and tells him to stand up to finish their duel. Gin says that they don’t want Ito to die as a traitor so they want Ito to die like a warrior and as a comrade. Ito grabs the katana and manages to get up as he smiles at Hijitaka. The two calls out each others names as their katana’s crossed. Hijitaka manages to wound Ito. Before falling down, tears fall down Ito’s eyes as he says thank you. Hijitaka stands at the side with heavy shoulders. Ah, this is so sad. Ito did realize what Shinsengumi meant to him and knew that it is too late for death is already at the door. At least, he didn’t have to die alone but rather with the others, and in a duel. It seems that Gin is stronger that he seems to be. Okay, that is already expected. I somewhat doubt that Bansai is dead. I guess the next chapter would be the epilogue of this arc.

Sakura is walking around with the dogs to find Sasuke but when Karin passes her by, the dogs lost Sasuke’s scent in Naruto [c. 356]. Sasuke’s stalker turned out to be Tobi who comments that he looks like Itachi. Sasuke angrily stared at him that Tobi withdrew. Then, from above, Deidara used to huge bomb birds at Sasuke. Sasuke is protected by his snake. Sasuke looks at them as Deidara is not convinced that Sasuke defeated Orochimaru while Tobi says they ought to apologize to Itachi for this. Meanwhile, Naruto’s stalker turned out to be Kabuto. Kabuto gives them a book about the Akatsuki has thanks for inspiring him to find his place/purpose like Naruto – having a being inside him, so Kabuto infused Orochimaru’s to become stronger. Naruto and others are shocked as Kabuto’s left eye is of Orochimaru’s. My theories are wrong except Deidara’s entrance ^^; Kabuto tends to be the wild card that the author uses for the story because I pretty much thought he won’t be in the story anymore or won’t appear after a long time. Since they are helping Naruto and not attacking him, they could be after Sasuke. I wonder what is Karin’s power that has erased Sasuke’s scent when she passed by Sakura. I wonder if Sasuke will finish off the two Akatsuki but then, didn’t he have this don’t kill anyone except Itachi policy, maybe he will just get them to tell where Itachi is.

Quote of the day:
Nobody ever did, or ever will, escape the consequences of his choices. ~ Alfred A. Montapert

The One [Chapter 21]
Monday, June 4, 2007 @ 08:57 p.m.

Lele stops crying for a while as Eros tries to glare at her to stop. In the end, it made Lele cry even louder much to Eros’ dismay. Lele tells him that she also doesn’t want to but she can’t stop herself from crying. Eros is a bit angry about this as Lele continues to cry. He tells the others to go out for a while. The three staff members tell Eros not to be too mean. After they left, Eros asks since she came from the photo shoot, did she just get fired by Ti Fu. Lele says she wasn’t. Eros asks so is this about Fan Tong that she isn’t able to stay with it any longer. Lele says that isn’t it either. Eros exasperatedly asks so why are you crying. Lele tells him that she is worried about Grandma and she doesn’t even know which hospital she is staying, she also can’t get in contact with her aunt, so she is very afraid, but she doesn’t know why, seeing his face made her want to cry out loud. Eros is irritated by this and angrily asks is his face a bitter melon that it made her cry out loud. Lele says it isn’t that, it is ‘peace of mind’ isn’t it weird, they aren’t that close but then ever since coming into that city, she has been dependent on him, something she can’t even imagine, because he is a really irritating guy, who thick-facedly even stole her first kiss just to enlighten her. Lele adds that she honestly wants to ruthless kick his feet and hands. Eros gets angry with that as he says, hey, hey. Lele says but she can’t get angry at him [since she helped her a lot] so at her most saddest, just because of looking at him, she feels at peace. Crying, Lele asks tell me am I sick. Eros sweatdrops.

Eros tells her that right, she is sick, it is what you call love sickness, for him, he thinks she doesn’t only like him but she has also fallen in love with him, what now, little darling. Lele is shock by this but she doesn’t believe it as she says, no way, how could she fall in love with a guy who just ate a piece of sashimi that he faints like a useless sissy. Eros gets angry again when Lele realizes something as she sees Eros as Angus in her ‘freedom’ poster. [The title of that photo/poster is freedom that made her want to try out being a model. I belatedly realize it. ^^; ]. Lele exclaims she knows already, it is because. Just then, her mobile phone rings. She looks at it and it is her aunt. She answers it and it is Grandma, it is the voice of her kind Grandma. Grandma says is this Lele, why don’t you answer. Lele starts to cry again. Grandma asks if she is crying, I know, Grandma knows, so she asked your aunt to help her in calling Lele, stupid child, I’m okay. Grandma tells her that no matter where she should eat and sleep well, she should do her best at work and to finish it, she can’t wait for her advertisements to come out, their Lele is surely the most cutest and most beautiful of all, isn’t that right. Lele answers yes to all of these. Lele thought that hearing Grandma’s voice has made her relieved but she can’t talk for only tears kept falling down. In this short three days, she come to realize that she is a super crybaby. Eros looks at her as she is on the phone, crying.

While walking at the streets, Eros shouts for Lele to let go of him. Lele says no. Eros asks, didn’t she talked with her grandma on the phone, so why is she still involving him. Lele shouts that she promised to bring some a famous delicacy to Grandma. Eros shouts so why don’t she go buy it. Lele shouts back that she has really bad sense of direction. Eros angrily says it isn’t his concern. Lele blackmails him by saying if he didn’t accompany her, she is going to publicize the ‘eating sashimi’ incident. Eros lost as Lele happily wonders what kind should she buy. Eros grumpily follows her. Lele suddenly screams ah, Eros wonders what is it. Lele exclaims that it is Angus’ latest magazine cover and she wants to buy it. She happily holds the magazine and says Xiao Qui will be happy when she brings this home. Eros smiles and asks so she is an Angus’ fan. Lele looks at him and says, that’s right, so does he now understand. Eros asks understand what. Lele says I – am – not – interested – in – you, it is just a ‘displaced affection/feeling’ and it seems that she doesn’t really understand herself why she is so dependent on him but now, she knows the reason. Eros says so he is just a substitute. Lele happily says that she even has a portable picture as she shows him of Angus from the Freedom poster in her wallet. Eros looks a bit surprised over it. Lele pats him on the head apologizing for he is mistaken, for thinking that she is a fan of his, be nice, don’t be jealous.

Eros gets angry at this as he gives back Lele’s wallet to her. This surprises Lele. Eros warns her that she is lucky that he isn’t his brother hearing those things [confession] from her because, generally, she would have been ‘trap in the web’ and will be lying down in his [Angus] bed. Lele is shock by this and thought is this how a person should talk about his younger brother, so the rumors about Angus could be true. Lele teases Eros by saying that Eros is jealous, because Angus is he world’s most sought after men by women so he is jealous. Lele keeps repeating that Eros is jealous. Popped vein, Eros says it doesn’t matter what Lele thinks so has she decided what to buy [for Grandma]. In Lele’s room, there are two boxes of food and a magazine of Angus on the cover. Feidna puts on some eye mask as she wonders why Lele’s eyes are like that but no worries for with that mask, it will be okay by tomorrow. Lele thanks Feidna, saying she is really nice. Feidna smiles and tells her to rest so that she will have a good photo shoot tomorrow. Feidna left and went back to Eros’ room. Feidna says that he and Lele are really ‘fated’ that she even got a bit jealous when she saw him together with Lele coming back [to the hotel]. Eros says it is just a coincidence, she should relax, that girl [Lele] is Angus’ fan so she doesn’t have to be jealous. Feidna is surprised by this and starts to laugh. She says something about Angus is pretty much a moving peach tree. [I don’t understand that, maybe an expression for being a playboy]. Eros angrily says that is right, Angus is always ‘working’ [to get girls?], that he as a brother can’t compete with his arrogance. Still laughing, Feidna says what is it, is he afraid that he [Angus] will cause troubled for him, that guy [Angus] said that he will be coming to Japan tomorrow.

I find it amusing at how Lele is able to badmouth Eros about his behavior in his face. Obviously, Lele is in denial that she has fallen for Eros and I guess falling ill because of one sashimi is quite ‘pathetic’ in Lele’s eyes. She rationalizes it that she is just thinking that he is Angus that is why she feels acts/feels that way for Eros. Hehe, the sashimi is quite a good blackmail. =P I guess Eros cares about his reputation. About the joking about being substitute for Angus, I think Eros only became irritated/angry when Lele showed him the picture – Freedom poster. Eros has seen the same picture on Lele’s room. I have my own theory on who [in the poster] that really is. More on that in the succeeding chapter – chapter 25. Feidna is helping out Lele with her eyes, I wonder if that is just because Lele is a model for Ti Fu or she is just nice even though she is jealous of Lele. Anyway, Angus is coming to town – the more the merrier ^_^

Quote of the day:
To love is to admire with the heart; to admire is to love with the mind ~ Theophile Gautier

Nana [Chapter 68]
Saturday, June 2, 2007 @ 09:48 p.m.

Compared to the fate that Shin has gotten, I can say that the impact of what happened at the concert is really great. At the train station, Chikage is looking at her cellphone to see Shin’s sms/text to her yesterday at 1:07pm. Shin apologizes to Chikage for replying so late since he is hurrying to the Yokohama Arena for the dress rehearsal for he has overslept and the manager is panicking so this message will be short. You must be considerate about your friend, Misato, you should tell this to Nana. Just then Kurara [girl with hat], calls out to Chikage and they rode the train. Not telling Nana about this is for the best, that is what the others around Nana is thinking. Keeping something important like that isn’t good. I feel that the only one who could save her is Nana for Nana has the extra strength to save someone else. In the train, Kurara fixes Chikage’s mascara and tells her that going there is for the best, she understands how she feels when thinking of Misato but since Shin invited her and she didn’t go, Chikage will regret it. Kurara smiles and says that Chikage looks really cute and like this, she can Shin will definitely go home with her so good luck. I will arrange for you and Nana to meet alone. Whatever she wants to tell Nana, it depends on you. See you tomorrow, I have my other way of going my best. [That narration is Shin’s message to Chikage] Just then, Kurara gets a call from Shion. She goes out to the side to answer it. There is a news on top of the alley – that moving word signboard. Chikage notices it and reads..Latest news..Black Stones’ [Shin]..because of using marijuana is now under custody.. Just then, Kurara worriedly calls out to Chikage.

At Hachi/Takumi’s house, Miu tells them what happened. Hachi is surprised that it is marijuana. Miu says that it is together with a certain Ryouko woman and when they were in her house, the police suddenly came in and it seems to be a force entry that they weren’t able to escape. Hachi is a bit stunned over this. Takumi asks how could the police just barge in. Miu says it is unknown, maybe someone report it/leak out the secret. Takumi asks what about the concert as Hachi asks what about Shin. Takumi tells her that since Shin is a minor, his charges won’t be grave so Shin is okay. Miu says but right now, Shin can’t get out and if he did, he can’t go back to the band. Takumi sweatdrops as he tells her not to say it so frankly, no wonder she is baldy [Yasu]’s girlfriend. Miu says that they are still discussing about the concert and it is hard for Blast to continue because this is quite a big impact. Takumi says that it is finished, he feels bad about it. Hachi stands up and says that she is going to the police station. Takumi asks what is she going to do there. Hachi answers of course to see Shin for he must be really uneasy right now. Takumi holds her back while Miu says that it is useless for aside from the lawyer, no one else can see him. Hachi asks why. Takumi says that it is according to the procedures. Miu says that parents can see him but right now, his father is out of town [overseas] who said that a lawyer will be provided for Shin. Hachi is teary-eyed as she cries what can she do, she wants to see him, she is Shin’s mother. As she cries, Takumi comforts her as Miu looks sadly at her. Takumi says that if the concert is cancelled, the financial loss is quite big and the audience will not be able to accept it, it is really hard. Miu says that is right, and in order to continue, they must find someone who would compensate for the loss but first, their boss is trying to see what to do with the concert. [I’m not quite sure about that last part ^^;] Takumi says no wonder it is Shikai but what about the bassist. Miu says that they are told to find someone else who could play. Hachi protests about this idea that this absolutely, cannot be.

At the waiting room, Nana impatiently asks when is the concert going to start, why don’t they find a bassist player already. Nobu says but it isn’t sure if the concert is going to start. Nana shouts of course, it is going to start, why isn’t she allowed to perform. While painting her nails, Yuri asks does her chattering make the concert start. Nana angrily looks at Yuri. Yuri tells her not to worry that their boss will do something. Nobu says but he has lost his enthusiasm since the four of them has worked hard to get there, it seems there is no meaning if one is missing. Nana says what is he saying, it is like some spring drama, quit joking around. Yuri laughs. Nobu protests that will it be okay just finding a new bassist. [They are wearing school uniforms, probably to allude to the spring drama they are talking about.] Nana angrily says that finding one is okay, as long as he can play, she doesn’t care who it is. Nobu just looks at her and says but the fans will be disappointed, well, he himself will be disappointed. Yuri hugs Nobu from the back and asks how about asking Ren to help out. She kisses Nobu as both Nana and Nobu are stunned. Nobu shouts what is she saying, that cannot be. Yuri asks why not, Ren can easily perform. Nobu says that it can’t be for Ren has left their band, asking this of Ren is something that shouldn’t even be asked. Yuri says but with Ren playing as a friend, won’t that make be a super high, and even the Gaia people would agree to it. Nana’s eyes widen as Nobu exclaims what is the use of leading to that. To Nobu’s surprise, Nana is calling up Ren. Nana says, Ren, there is something I want to ask a favor of. Nobu tries to stop Nana and shouts, Nana, your pride. Nana angrily shouts that she has threw that away earlier. Ren is puzzled what that is about. Ren asks what is it about, does she heard about Shin, Naoki tells him about the latest news. Reira is crying on the bed. Anything that I can use, I will use in order to succeed in this world, no matter what it is, I will do it.

In the meeting, the older ‘jolly’ guy says it is such a waste that it will be cancelled. Yasu says, yes, I’m really sorry as he bows down to some people. Even Mai bows down, sad over what happened. Nana says only for today. Ren listens and says, I’m sorry I cannot help. Nana is surprised and asks why. Ren says that at the way that Shin is going to be fired, even he will go into seclusion. Reira hears this and stands up. Nana asks what is he doing. When Ren sees Reira standing in front of him, Ren says, he is just joking. Reira angrily hits Ren’s head. Ren says but the way Nana is asking for a favor, he might consider it. Nana angrily shouts that for him to stop fooling around and to honestly answer her. Ren says that he really isn’t interested, why don’t she be strong a bit. Nana answers why does she have to be strong when something bad happened to someone else. Ren tells her why is she saying ‘someone else’, Shin is their band member. Nana angrily shouts that person is absolutely not their band member. Ren’s mood changed as he tells Nana, when things are going okay/feeling good, [Shin is] a comrade, but meeting this kind of situation, there is now a boundary/separation. Nana is a bit surprised [maybe from his tone]. Ren says that he doesn’t want to replace that kind of bassist. Clinging on to Ren’s arm, Reira is surprised that Ren hung up the phone on Nana. Nana is stunned. Yuri says it seems that it isn’t possible. Nobu answers but of course. Just then, Nobu’s mobile phone is ringing, it is Yasu. Nobu answers and asks about the meeting, so it has been decided to be cancelled, really, no, this is expected, can he think of a way to see Shin. Nana listlessly goes out of the room.

At the car, Gin, Mai and jolly guy are disappointed over what happened as Yasu lights up a cigarette. Jolly guy says that Shin should be having a lot of reflection/soul-searching as he is still a minor. Gin says that is true and maybe because they had let Shin do what he want. Mai says that getting the concert cancelled must be quite a heavy blow, that he will feel that he is responsible and so he will be really hurt. To the other’s shock, Yasu says that Shin should feel that way, because this is all his fault. Gin says that their boss will want Shin to pay compensation for the loss [of investment]. Mai says that she won’t allow this to happen. Yasu says that if that is done, all the better, so that Shin will really work hard. This made the others more gloomy. Mai says that Shin’s responsibility won’t be that great if they found a bassist so that the concert can go on ahead. Yasu says it won’t make a difference. Mai asks why. Yasu says that looking at how is responsible, no matter how, it will be his [Yasu]. Mai and jolly guy is surprised. Gin says that Shin might think that it might be because of him that this is how it ended. Yasu says even so, it will let him feel that there are others who can replace him, that is much better. Mai and Gin looks surprised. Jolly guy says so until Shin returns to the band, all activities will be stopped. Yasu says that is right and he is really sorry. Jolly guy says that is really how this occupation is, different from reality, re-starting over again isn’t bad, just take things step by step to succeed. Mai cries in happiness.

At search, beard guy wonders out loud what is that kid doing. Glasses guy says that Shin is caught with that Reira-look alike and didn’t expect that something interesting will happen there. Beard guy says why is he doing such a thing when the concert is going to start, he wants them to gorgeous come out, he should now write the continuation. Glasses guy says there isn’t much to write a follow-up on this. He says that he is going to write about Shin’s sad past. Glasses guy says that will be good and asks about Nana’s mother. Beard guy says there is no news, she might not be in this world anymore, he thought she is a strong woman, his waiting is wasted. Glasses guy says that maybe in reporting, they should be a bit more careful. Going up in that apartment’s narrow elevator, breathing has become difficult. Arriving at the 5th floor, I feel as if I don’t live there. Nana is standing in front of her room, 502 and remembers Ren saying, I don’t want to replace that kind of bassist. Where can I go? I cannot go back to where Ren is. Nana looks out the window at the corridor as a drop of rain falls down. What is going to happen next, in front of me is only a dead end. As Hachi goes out with Miu to the elevator, Miu laments that it is raining when she came there it is still sunny. Hachi asks if she would want her to lend her an umbrella or call a cab for her. Miu sighs. Hachi smiles and asks how about calling Yasu – the superman. Miu sweatdrops and says if Hachi can energetically make jokes like that, it seems that she is okay. Hachi smiles and says even if she cried, it is useless, during this time, she must be strong as a mother. Miu says that Hachi seems quite strong. Hachi is surprised and denies it saying that most of the time, she is weak. Hachi happily says that she wants to become strong like Nana and it seems she has, a little bit. Miu says but Nana. Hachi says that Nana still makes her worry, just for the concert, she has tried her best and this is quite a big blow to her. Miu slightly smiles and asks if Hachi wants to go to the apartment with her for Yasu might come back soon and they can encourage them. Hachi didn’t answer that Miu says that she will get Nobu and Yuri out of the way. Hachi is shock and asks out loud, why does she know, Yasu is a loud mouth. Miu asks, are you going or not. Hachi determinedly says, she will go.

At the car, Hachi and Miu sit satisfied in the car as Takumi asks out loud why does he have to drive them. Hachi says but renting a car is such a waste, would he drive her back home. Miu calls out to Takumi, Mr. driver. Takumi angrily asks, what is it, mistress. Miu asks, does he know a woman named Shion. Takumi is stunned. Hachi asks who is Shion. Miu says, I understand, yes. Takumi freaking out asks what does she understand, he doesn’t know that woman. Hachi strangles Takumi asking who is she, you two-timing radish. Takumi shouts that is dangerous. Miu looks a bit sad as she looks sideways. Meanwhile, Yasu has just arrived at the 5th floor when he sees Nana, sitting on the floor near the corridor window with her head covered by her arms. Yasu calls out to her and asks what is she doing there. Nana hugs her and Yasu notices that she is crying. After a while, Yasu pushes her away and says let’s go. Nana asks go where. Yasu says the boss is calling for you. Nana looks surprised. At Shikai’s office, Mai gives a cup of tea to Shikai. Shikai tells Nana to go solo. Nana is stunned. He tells her that all activities of Blast will be stopped, maintaining this, there is still hope, but the present situation cannot be accepted. Nana is speechless as she looks at Yasu. Yasu slightly smiles and tells her not to worry about him and Nobu, right now, she should think about herself. Nana is surprised as she thought, this isn’t really worrying, I want to sing but alone... Mai tells her that she doesn’t have to answer right away. Mai leaves as Shikai looks speechless. He tells her but of course, after all that has happened today, think about it tonight. This surprises both Nana and Yasu. One night, that isn’t enough time to think about it. Nana sweatdrops and looks sideways. Meanwhile, Hachi is in a room with Miu. Hachi is looking at an aquarium with guppies while Miu offers her a drink. It is raining in Tokyo. Hachi, when I’m alone, I’m really like an uneasy, crying child so I want to rejoice/feel I’m lucky that I have met you. I really regret I wasn’t able to tell you this.

And, that’s the end of Blast. I think reputation is quite a big thing in Japan so they would need time before the audience could accept Shin so they can’t continue with the concert. It seems that Yasu doesn’t like the idea of having Shin replaced so the next course of action is to get Nana have a solo singing career. I think Ren got irritated when Nana is all ready to drop Shin in order to get the concert going and even says that Shin isn’t a member of the band. I think he somewhat meant that he want to be a replacement of that kind of bassist – who will be dropped when things aren’t going fine. Maybe Ren didn’t know that this is really important for Nana and well, Nana just pushed some of Ren’s buttons. It is a bit sad that before the police raid, Shin actually wants to let Nana know what’s happening with her sister and Nana pretty much doesn’t want to do anything with him for ruining her dream. Yasu really seems like a ‘father’ that he would want Shin to know of the consequences of his actions. I don’t think he is really pushing her away in a bad way, I kind of feel as if he doesn’t want to see her like that and gets her to see the boss to know that there is still hope. The last time this happened is when Nana saw the picture of Ren-Reira from Search. About Miu asking Takumi about Shion, I guess Miu wants to know for how long Shion knew Yasu. It seems that Takumi has a bit of hard time handling women like Miu. Anyway, maybe Hachi and others will help Nana decide. I feel a bit uneasy about that last narration. It seems as if she is never going to see Hachi or like, those are like the last words of someone dying but maybe Nana is just talking to herself since right now, musing over the past.

Word of the day:
God chooses what we go through; we choose how we go through it. ~ Our Daily Bread.

Vampire Knight [Chapter 29]
Thursday, May 31, 2007 @ 07:29 p.m.

Ruka and Rima are picking some roses at the greenhouse. Holding a rose, Rima wonders out loud going back home, will Senri be okay. At Senri’s house, Senri is pulling along his luggage. Upon entering the house, he calls out that he is back. A woman with messy hair that covers her right eye is sitting on the stairs, waiting for him. She calls out Senri’s name. Senri goes to her and says, I’m home, mother. His mother hugs him and repeatedly calls his name. Senri tells her to comb her hair for they will cry if an actress like her has ‘noodles hair’. She smiles. Senri then brushes her hair as she looks at herself at a hand mirror. She says didn’t he notice that he is becoming more and more like that stupid guy. Senri asks really, he has not seen father but he grew up to be like mother. She says, that is right, I really like his and your -that one can’t guess through depressed/sullen – eyes. After a pause, she gives Senri a sealed letter and says that it is from the council of ancients. [I will be using that name instead of upper house. ^^;] She tells him that it is given to her by her uncle who is in the council of ancients and that she should surely give it to Senri. Senri holds the letter as her mother continues to say that uncle doesn’t have any child so generally speaking, he must want Senri to inherit his position. She holds his neck and says it isn’t good to oppose/object since the other party is the ‘council of ancients’ but he should come back early. She goes for his neck and tells him to bend down to give her blood for she is famished. Senri says, really stubborn..I know already. She then sucks his blood.

At Aidou’s vacation estate, Aidou nervously asks Kaname who has killed Kaname’s parents for a pureblood’s life cannot be easily be taken away so it can be said..that the one who caused it is..that mad.. Kaname tells Aidou that in the end, it is better for him not to know. Aidou protests why does it have to be like that, he should tell him even a fraction of the truth, if he didn’t tell him anything, Kaname is willing to not let the truth to come out. Kaname says but still in the end, he can’t [tell him] especially now, for he doesn’t want him to die in vain. This stunned Aidou but he continue on insisting on wanting to lend his strength to Kaname. Ichijou tells Aidou that is enough. Aidou turns around to look at Aidou who tells him sorry, but right now. Aidou looks back at Kaname and apologizes to Kaname. Kaname says it is okay. Aidou tells Kaname that he is going to take his leave. Before Aidou leaves, Kaname calls out to him and says that did Aidou came to believe that the one who killed his parents is him [Kaname]. Aidou seems to affirm it. Kaname looks away, looking a bit melancholic and says if that is true, I will be a little bit happy. Aidou looks at Kaname. In his room, Aidou is reading some books when Kain came in with a bouquet of roses. Kain asks what is with all those things on his bed. Aidou says he is looking into the records of night party held by his family and into the master library for he surely wants to know who hates the Kuran family and then to find out Kaname’s secret. Kain warns Aidou that this will be quite dangerous. Aidou says he knows but he has a bad premonition. Kain just looks at Aidou.

At some mansion, a servant welcomes Senri in as his grandfather greets him for coming. Senri says it has been a long time. [Ah, is that servant/butler Ichiru? About grandfather, I don’t know if it is a respectful way of calling him since he is old that he is called grandfather since he is Senri’s mom’s uncle] He asks how is his mother. Senri says yes, more or less well-behaved but she had all the servants resign. He tells Senri that he has heard that this arrangement appropriate but it isn’t something Senri should be worried about for today, there is something he wants to show to Senri. While walking down a basement, Senri pauses and says there is a bad feeling about this. His mom’s uncle asks him what is it, for isn’t he going to let him inherit his position..Senri isn’t a child anymore..so he should know everything about the Senri family..the tightly kept big secret he has hidden until now. He calls for Senri to come in the room. Senri enters and finds an open coffin. In it, there is a corpse with a huge funnel on top, dripping blood into it. The uncle tells Senri that there is an important reason why this is being protected, it is Senri’s father. Senri is shock to hear that.

Senri holds the side of the coffin and says, so he isn’t dead yet, how disgusting. To Senri’s surprise, the young boy with mismatched colored eyes is looking at him from the other side of the coffin with his elbows on the coffin. The boy says Senri is too much to talk like that to his father, don’t look that way, for in fact, he is nearly revived. The boy smiles at Senri but for now, it is at it’s utmost limit so, I had been waiting for a long time for for him [Senri] to become an adult. Senri looks surprised to see the boy has mismatched colored eyes. The uncle bows down and says, sorry for having you wait, your majesty. The boy falls asleep as he leans on the coffin. Like in some horror flick [though this reminds me of Ghost Hunt – Bloodstained Labyrinth arc], the hand of what used to be corpse holds on to the side of the coffin. The blood it is immersed in has slashed a bit on Senri’s face. The head comes out and his eyes are like the boy’s mismatched colored. Meanwhile at Aidou’s estate, Kaname looks troubled as Ruka is inside the room, fixing a bouquet of roses on a vase. Just then, Seiren comes in, telling Kaname that she has arrived. Kaname asks her what is it. Seiren bows down to him as she says there is some activity...his majesty...[I’m not sure if Seiren is addressing Kaname as majesty but I’m assuming that it is about Senri’s father so I put his majesty] Kaname says is that so. The flowers that Ruka has just put in has burst into flames. Kaname looks gloomily as he slightly smiles and asks he just doesn’t want to continue his deep sleep, huh.

In the school’s ladies dorm, Yuuki is looking out the window, thinking. Zero knocks and asks what is she doing in that place alone. Yuuki tells him that she just want to be in quiet place to think of things, also Zero, knowing that there is no one in the ladies dorm, he went in, this isn’t good that it has made her surprised [when he came]. Yuuki says that it seems she doesn’t have the right to say such things. She tells Zero not to just stand there and sit down. Zero does sits on the bed that Yuuki is sitting. Zero asks if Yuuki is thinking about the page of the record book in the association that has burned up. Yuuki says yes, for just when she wanted to investigate about her past, it got burned up and the memory that she thought of, it seems likes an illusion, strange, it fees like there is someone is desperately hindering them from digging up what happened 10 years ago and what happened earlier, also there is a possibility that someone has deliberately erased her memories. Yuuki begins to suspect that it could be Kaname, even though she doesn’t want to believe it but. Yuuki says she isn’t sure but there is something that is better for her to ask clearly, ask Kaname. Yuuki notices that Zero is looking at her that she holds his cheek and cheerfully says why is Zero looking worriedly at her. Zero asks does Yuuki really hate it when he is worried. This surprises Yuuki as she says it isn’t like that but she just doesn’t want Zero to waste his precious time being worried about her. Yuuki smiles at him and says she is okay so he should think about his own.

Yuuki is surprised when Zero holds her wrist, looks at her and calls her name. Yuuki asks what is it then she remembers with a startle when Zero tries to kiss her. Yuuki wonders why she remembered that for Zero then isn’t looking good. Zero goes for her neck as he apologizes and bites in. As Zero drinks her blood, Yuuki thought it is strange for he is drinking more than usual. Yuuki tells Zero to let her go, that it is enough, Zero, stop. Yuuki pushes him away and looks a bit surprised at Zero who wipes his mouth. Zero says that if he doesn’t suck her blood, he won’t be able to survive, does she understand, she is the reason, so for her, she should be more merciless towards him, no matter how she makes him worried, no matter how she involved him into something dangerous, do whatever she pleases her, this isn’t to say that this is ‘compensation’ for even if she used his life for herself, he won’t even utter any complaint. Yuuki holds on to Zero and starts to cry as she tells him that she is afraid, what is the result of her past. Zero hold her head as she calls out Zero’s name. Meanwhile, Senri still looks stunned as strands of blood [like his own power] starts to go around him and the corpse, which is his father whose hand shows some skeleton and muscles – from decay, reaches out to him and says, My beloved son, Senri, come here, lend me some strength.

If Kaname’s power or one of his powers is fire/black fire and it is his alone, then one who put a trap in that record book is Kaname. It is already shown that Kaname can also erase memories. I think the reason is the same as what Kaname gave to Aidou, it is best for Yuuki not to know her past. Of course, it doesn’t help that it makes Yuuki uneasy. From Zero’s little speech, I somewhat assume that the title Vampire Knight is his. Knight as the one who is always there to protect the princess and the somewhat ‘servant’ way he is to be treated as somewhat repayment for helping him live that long. Since Kaname likes chess, I tend to think that he isn’t in the position to be a knight, he is more like king who is going to take/defeat the other king piece – Senri’s father. Since Senri’s father is called majesty, my guess is that during the struggle before to be king and Kuran family won, the loser is the Senri’s family. They now want to take revenge by getting back at the Kuran after the monarchy – I won’t be surprised if the head of the council of ancient is actually Senri’s father since they are keeping him alive. I think to make it more gruesome, part of that blood [or the blood used before] that Senri’s father is swimming in is Kuran’s parents blood. I wonder what is the reason for his revival is it to finish off Kaname, since he is the last from the family of Kuran or is it something else? I also wonder if Senri’s father meant about lending Senri some strength meant letting him drink some blood or letting him possess Senri. I’m sure Senri will be regretting coming home.

Anyway, I think I understand why Kuran haven’t been the one guarding Yuuki. It is because too many people are out to get him. The association/vampire hunter seems to want him dead, the council of ancient if Senri’s father is the head might also want to kill him before Kaname gets his revenge and there is Ichiru. Unfortunately for Kaname, Senri’s father knew of Kaname’s weakness – Yuuki for while possessing that child, he brought Yuuki to that party. If Kaname’s information network is good, he would know who that kid is. Having many enemies, Kaname might have a higher chance of getting killed off earlier than Zero. ^^; Good thing that he has some people helping him. I think those who knew is Seiren who acts as his bodyguard and spy. Since Ruka is there while she is reporting to Kaname, I guess Ruka might also know as well as Ichijou. If Senri’s father got to Senri, Rima might go to the other side since she seems to like Senri – they are always together – Kaname might lose two comrades. I’m not yet sure where Kain loyalties lie. I think Kaname doesn’t trust Aidou that much or maybe he just doesn’t want to involve Aidou that he didn’t tell Aidou about it, still Aidou is on his side. I don’t think Kaname told Senri though but from last chapter’s cover, Senri and Rima doesn’t seem to belong to Kaname’s inner circle. So, while Kaname is busy dealing with those ‘enemies’, he lets Zero ‘babysit’ Yuuki for him. Hehe, sounds like the story of King Arthur. ^^; Maybe by the time Kaname comes to get Yuuki, she has already fallen for Zero. Hehehe

Quote of the day:
Secrets are made to be found out with time. ~ Charles Sanford

Parfait Tic [Chapter 143]
Wednesday, May 30, 2007 @ 10:39 a.m.

[Hehe, computer is okay now after waiting a bit before opening. I’m thinking maybe the ups got discharged or something. Anyway, hope it is okay from now on ^_^]

Fuuko is surprised when Daiya asked if he can hug her. Daiya then says, one last time. Fuuko looks at Daiya then looks away. She thought that she is stupid, up to this time, can I hug you, malicious heart, afraid of expecting for a second – basically Fuuko berates herself from expecting something else. Fuuko says yes. She smiles at Daiya and says, one last time. Daiya then hugs her. So sad. So painful. But I won’t cry. I cannot cry. As this time has come, didn’t I tell myself this many times already. Ah..it has ended. [I think she meant the embrace] Daiya lets her go and says let’s go. As they walk down the stairs, Fuuko tries to stop from crying as Daiya looks a bit sad. A teacher screams what are they doing there. They apologized, saying that they went out the wrong door and they were just drinking some juice. The teacher tells them to go back to sleep. They left as they say they will. They bid each other goodnight and went back to their own rooms. After closing the door behind them, they started to cry.

Even when I have decided not to cry, but when I am alone, my heart is more likely to be moved and my tears would just kept on falling. The next day as the school trip continues, Fuuko looks at Daiya who seems to be back to himself. At the bus, Daiya started to rap on the microphone of the bus. After Daiya raps about their school trip hoping it will continue forever though today is the last day and they are all tired. Everyone enjoys his rap. Then, Daiya thanks them and tells them that he is going to China. The others wondered if it is a field trip. Daiya says it is true. Everyone is shock except Ichi. They asked when is he leaving. Daiya says by the beginning [first week?] of next month. They can’t believe it for only a short time left before Daiya leaves. Mako looks at her seatmate Fuuko who is hiding behind the curtains. Fuuko is crying. Daiya, by next month, will be going to a faraway place, will he think of her smile.

Isocchi presents a gift to Akiou, saying he is back. Akiou says, this is my home, thanks. Isocchi is shock as he apologizes and says that isn’t what he meant. The gift is a keychain of Tokyo tower. Akiou is speechless as Isocchi says that not seeing her, he is lonely, will it be like this, when she leaves for that place, they can’t see each other, he isn’t sure if he can endure it. Akiou blushed and looks away as she says ‘you go’, if he really is confident in saying this to her, she won’t leave. Isocchi looks surprised. She then says if he cannot say those words, he must however say ‘don’t go’ and I will also not go. Isocchi is confused and asks what does that mean. Looking at him while blushing, Akiou says that she wants him with feelings of commitment to love her for right now, she doesn’t know when their relationship is going to deteriorate, she is afraid, she is really worried and really tired or is it okay to be by herself.

At Fuuko’s house, the boys gave a gift to Fuuko’s mother as thanks for the bento box. Fuuko’s sister says no need to thank. Fuuko’s mother reprimands her for saying that and thanks the boys, she is really happy. Daiya thanks her again and says that there is something he has to say. Fuuko looks surprise. Daiya says that he is going to leave already but what about this guy [Ichi] for he can’t cook his own meal. Ichi uses his knee to hit Daiya’s back. Ichi says that even if it is far, but he has decided to go to his grandparents’ place and will go to school from there. Fuuko doesn’t react as her mother and sister are surprised as they exclaimed you are saying leaving this place. Fuuko’s mother and sister are disappointed as her sister says that in shoujo manga, their existence is important. Her mother agrees. This is..is that so, not right, I can still meet with Ichi at school only Daiya is going to leave for a far place but, I think that upon returning back to the country, more or less, we will meet again. At this apartment is the place where we met. Fuuko says that she will ‘greet’ them next time and if they need help in moving, just say so. Fuuko tries to smile but she is looking flustered/about to cry as the boys just look at her. If they haven’t met, their existence will be far away. A bit of flashback on the day when the boys moved into the upper floor. Then, she won’t be saying what she is saying today, she won’t also have fallen in love. Lying on her bed, she says that thinking like this is great, a strange place, ha ha. Tears started to come out of her eyes. And everything has become the past.

I think Fuuko’s sister is the author’s persona in the series. She mentioned about ending the manga with the two boys with Fuuko – happily ever after. That is the cover of the last issue of Parfait tic magazine. Here, she mentioned that a shoujo manga should have the boys so one leaving means that the series will also end. What happened at the end, I’m actually not surprised. I have actually thought of it before that the series might end just as how the story began. It started with the boys moving in so it might end with the boys moving out. I have actually seen a Jap drama before – boy resting in the summer while his parents are away then a girl and boy come in – love polygon - and in the end, the two people left him so back to boy resting in the summer as his parents come back home. Even if nothing seemed to have happened, the lead did experience something that somewhat changed his life but then, maybe not kind of thing. So, somehow I’m thinking that this is what will happen here. Though since this is a shoujo manga, it still might be possible for Fuuko to end up with somebody. I’m actually thinking that Akiou and Isocchi are the ones that might have a happy ending. ^^; Nothing much to say for Fuuko is as usual, crying. At least it is shown that Daiya is also sad about it. I guess Ichi is giving Fuuko space as he is leaving that apartment, too.

Quotes of the day:
Tears are the safety valve of the heart when too much pressure is laid on it. ~ Albert Smith

Weekly Jump Update: Bleach, One Piece, Gintama, D. Gray-man and Naruto
Tuesday, May 29, 2007 @ 07:21 p.m.

[Okay, that ‘computer won’t turn on’ yesterday has happened again. I waited for 15 minutes and still won’t start. I’m about to give up when I try to plug and unplug to see if there is a spark for it might be a faulty wire. There is a spark and I turned it on again one last time and it turned on. So, if ever I won’t be online for some time, that would mean that the computer got repaired.]

After explaining how he did the technique to blow away Szayelaporro, Ishida thanks Renji for his help that has enabled him to do that in Bleach [c. 276]. To their surprise, Szayelaporro is just badly burned and says that since he knows Ishida’s reitsu, he can’t be killed by it. He ate one of his hollow henchmen to heal himself. Szayelaporro tells him that Then he prepares to leave saying that he doesn’t want to fight in ruined clothes so he is off to change to new ones. Szayelaporro tells Ishida to just stay there and use his brain to think of a way to defeat for while he is dressing up, he is going to think of a thousand ways to kill them off. Meanwhile, Ichigo looks dead as Neru goes to him, crying, telling him not to die. Just then Grimmjow appears and tells her to go away. If Grimmjow is nearby, then maybe Inoue is, too. I do wonder if it is really just a case of healing Ichigo so that he can personally finish Ichigo off. Anyway, Szayelaporro seems to be harder to finish and if things isn’t dire, I’m sure Ishida is thinking what kind of fate he has to always fight the ‘bad scientist’-types of enemies that can revive themselves after being hit almost fatally. And well, Renji will be why is he always beaten up badly like that. I will be really amused if it follows that later on, Renji will get his hair down. Lol

In One Piece [c. 547], Moria commands Luffy’s shadow to forget its memories of its friends and from then on, Moria is its master. Moria puts Luffy’s shadow in 900 zombie, Odz. Odz starts to move and looks at them. This surprises Nami and others that they fell out of Kumacy. And what is the first thing out of Odz’s mouth – Meat, I’m so hungry, Sanji, food, wait, who is Sanji. Lol Nami and others takes this chance to escape as Absalom chases them. The trio wonders that is about and deduce that it is other people’s shadows that makes zombies move. Chopper is angry that he got tricked for he thought that Hogback is doing it to revive people but he turned out to be a bad guy. As they run down the staircase, they plan to go back to Sunny where Luffy and others might be put in. Just then, Usopp and Chopper were blasted by Absalom. Absalom grabs Nami and tells them that today, she will be his bride. Usopp prepares to fight as he can’t let himself not be able to protect even a girl but Absalom goes invincible along with Nami. Even Chopper can’t find her scent. Absalom tells for the other zombies to catch them and bring them to Moria. Zombies grab both Usopp and Chopper as they tell them to give them their shadows. Just then, some zombies were ‘purified’ as their shadows leave the body. Robin and Franky came to save them. Franky wonders where Nami is while Robin asks if they are okay. So, Odz is alive and his first words are really funny. I have a thought, didn’t Luffy want to become a pirate king so won’t that be a problem to Moria who also want to be a pirate king. I have a feeling that Odz might be too tough for Moria to handle actually, he might even be the last boss. And well, won’t Moria have a big problem in trying to feed Odz. ^^; Well, Nami is caught but at least, Usopp and Chopper are saved. I’m sure they won’t be that useless when they know how to ‘purify’ the zombies.

Gintama [c. 166] starts with young Ito thinking that he always thought that he wanted fame, to be talented and good at martial arts, and no one recognizes/understand his ability but it turned out that he just want someone to be beside him, even if he wants someone to watch over him – scene of his mother and a servant taking care of his brother, even if I hate the feeling of being alone, but even if..someone reaches out to him as he turns, it is Kondou with his hand outstretched, together with all of Shinsengumi. Older Ito cries as he thought he wants to have comrades – they are truly stopping him [I think from doing stupid things]. Ito breaks out of his trance as Kondou cries out his name while trying to pull him up. Hijitaka slashes the helicopter’s propeller as the helicopter goes down with Hijitaka on it. Kondou though, really looking at him. He remembers both he and Hijitaka exchanges ‘one day, I’ll kill you’ – comrades who stand up to him. Hijitaka jumps to the train and he is grabbed by Ito who is being held by Kondou. Ito tells him that there is something he wants to tell Hijitaka. Hijitaka comments that is quite strange coming from him. Ito says that even if he hates Hijitaka, one day he is going to kill him, so Hijitaka shouldn’t die at that place. Ito thought that he has been trying to find something to tie the loop but it turned out that it has been connected ever since before.

Meanwhile, Gin and Bansai cross swords as Gin angrily shouted for him to move away for he doesn’t have time to play with him. Gin slashes Bansai as Bansai evades it. Gin uses this to get away but he is caught by Bansai’s strings from his guitar. Bansai warns him not to move too much else, it might be cut off. Bansai tells him not to think that his comrades will be alive for aside from bombing that train, those who escaped will be finished off by the other goons. Just then, several swordsmen came to attack the others as Kagura and others prepare to fight. Gin continues to struggle as he says something that he can’t just let things be as around him, people are still fighting. Bansai strums the guitar as the vibration on the string hurts Gin. Gin manages to free himself. Back at the train, another helicopter came as someone shouts duck. The guy starts to fire at them as Gin approaches the helicopter. Just then, Bansai jumps from behind Gin as Gin looks back. In the train, everyone is on the floor and they were surprised that Ito used his body to shield them. Hijitaka shouts Ito’s name who then falls on his knees on the floor. The man is about to fire at them again when Gin uses his bokuto to slam Bansai into the helicopter’s windshield. So, it seems that Ito will not survive this arc unless he is wearing a bullet proof vest. And ya, as I thought, Ito will redeem himself that he actually shield them from the gunfire. Sorry, I didn’t quite get Gin’s speech while fighting Bansai - basically, his body can't stand to stay still even if the strings are holding him back. It has been a while since Gin has been this serious. It does seem that Gin is indeed stronger than Bansai. I would like to see what kind of move that Gin did to Bansai. Since Bansai is coming from the top and behind, Gin has to turn around and probably do that Hajime Saito [of Rurouni Kenshin] trademark attack.

Rhode uses Rinali and Chaoji as hostages to keep Allen from getting closer to her as she tries to kill off Rabi’s ‘heart’ in D. Gray-man [c. 119] The zombies try to attack Rabi as they say they are nothing to them but ‘history’ to be written to Rabi, not comrades. They try to attack him that decided to fight them. Rabi tries to close his eyes from seeing them but Rhode creates an illusion in his head. Rabi remembers when he first came to Black Order with Bookman. He saw lots of coffins and a young Rinali is crying beside a coffin. Then, he made friends with Rinali and others. Then with Kanda and Allen. He is reminded that he should distance himself from them as he is just a recorder of history. While mingling with them, he doesn’t know if his smile is fake or not anymore. Just then, as Rabi is struggling from all those thoughts, an ace spade falls down. Illusion Allen picks it up and says that Rabi kept it for him and kept it a secret from Bookman. Other Rabi blasts away Allen and comments what is with Rabi’s reaction, shouldn’t he be detached from the ‘history’ that he is recording. Just then, Rinali, Kanda and Crowley stab him as he starts to bleed. Someone says that Rabi isn’t a bookman anymore. So, Rhode manages to ‘destroy’ Rabi mentally. She had used his failure from ‘being detached’ to what he is observing to destroy him. I guess it is really a ‘no-no’ for a bookman. Mm, that means being a bookman should be first priority rather than being an exorcist. I wonder if Rinali is the ‘heart’ innocence, maybe she can ‘cure’ Rabi. That is my guess as to what will happen next.

Kakashi decides to split up the group to search for their targets in Naruto [c. 355]. Each member will have two of Kakashi’s dogs to help in the search except for Kakashi who has one and Naruto who also has one as he will also be accompanied by Hinata since he is a target of Akatsuki and none for Kiba since he already have a dog. If they found their targets, they are to return to that spot and if not, they will meet again and search elsewhere. They depart to their assigned areas. Elsewhere, Sasuke gets the others to separate, too for their search. Karin doesn’t want to leave at first as she wants to cling on to Sasuke but in the end, she leaves. Deidara and Tobi also went to search for either groups. Suigetsu tries to get some info from men who helped Kakuzu before. Juugo uses birds. The others are just running around the place with their doggies. While walking at some woods, the dog accompanying Sakura tells her that he just caught the scent of Sasuke. Sakura is surprised to hear this. Meanwhile, Deidara has found his target – which ever group that is. The last scene is someone is behind Naruto’s group and another is behind Sasuke. Even though it is a nice cliffhanger, I’m cautiously not hyping about it as I don’t want to have false expectations. If this is comedy, I’m guessing the one behind Sasuke is Karin. Karin isn’t shown looking for the others. And if Sakura gets there, since I doubt she will be returning to the meeting point because it is Sasuke, it might be a Karin vs Sakura. The one behind Naruto, might be Itachi though unlikely since I don’t think he is the stalker-type but then, I don’t think Deidara and Tobi are the stalkers-types either since it seemed to be out of character. I think if they would be attacking, it will be while they are riding those birds. So, if the one stalking Naruto has something to do with that black thing on the antenna and I don’t recall such a guy with that kind of ability, it might be a new character.

Quote of the day:
We need to be open to the possibility that colleagues and even strangers have information and perspectives that may be of value to us. ~ Margaret Wheatley

Ouran High Host Club [Chapter 51]
Monday, May 28, 2007 @ 07:09 p.m.

[Haha, just had a fright. I turned on the computer and it won’t turn on after seeing a flash of light from the mouse. I tried a couple of times. Panicking a bit, I called up the technician, thank God, he is still there and told me either to try again after 15 minutes - it happens at times, he said or had it fixed – something about the power supply and it will be repaired for about 3 days. 3 days because there is a queue on computers to be fixed. And well, the Lord is nice, it is okay now. ^_^ Hehe, and earlier I thought I just lost a cheque in the store. It turned out to be flown away by the electric fan. Haha I felt like I was in twilight zone. ^^; Jump is the next summary that will be uploaded.]

At Narita airport, the dedicated plane for Ouran has landed. In a separate lounge, some girls asks Kyouya if it is true that Tamaki is absent. Kyouya says yes, it is quite regretful for it is because it is a case of severe diarrhea, so his intestines are always rumbling that it would come out so Tamaki has to stay home and rest. The girls feel sorry for Tamaki. A girl says she is worried for Tamaki but also it is just a loss for she would want Tamaki to accompany her walking around the streets in Paris. Another girl asks if Kyouya has plans, if he is free, can they accompany them. Kyouya apologizes for even if he would want to accompany them, but he has something personal that he has to do during the free time. Kyouya looks a bit melancholic. Around this time, at the Tamaki second residence. Tamaki is glomped and licked by Antoinette [his dog] as Tamaki tells it not to be so hurried, for they have lots of time, actually it is 10 days of vacation. Tamaki asks it what does it want to play first. Tamaki didn’t went to the field trip, we don’t know this. I’m Kaoru. But honestly, that isn’t what is worrying me. In that time, as the rain fell. Flashback: Kaoru tells Hikaru that he looks at Haruhi as a girl so he is jealous of Tamaki. Hikaru didn’t have a reaction when I said those words, roughly, I think he is confused. When we arrived back to the club, we were dripping wet and acted casually. Flashback: They came in drenched in the rain as Tamaki exclaims what happened to them, where did they went. And when they went home. Kaoru tries to call Hikaru..ah, Hikaru..about that.. Hikaru just says that he wants to go to sleep for looking for the tanuki and being drenched wet by the rain, he is tired. Kaoru didn’t press on says ah..ah. [Kinda like okay] Because of this, I feel as if I did something that I will regret.

At Honey’s house, Honey asks, is that how it is, he [Kaoru] is uneasy that he escaped to his [Honey] house. Kaoru is crying as he calls Honey’s name and shouts, Wah-ah-ah, am I stupid? Super duper stupid!? A stupidity that even medicine can’t cure it? Honey panics and offers Kaoru his bunny doll. Kaoru says how could he say those words. Hugging the bunny doll, Kaoru is asking questions that he himself answers. Kaoru laments that he doesn’t want to see Hikaru sad but seeing him being stupid and not aware of himself, he [Kaoru] has many times tried to stop himself from telling Hikaru because he doesn’t want to ruin the present host club relationship. Treating Tamaki as a love rival will just upset/agonize Hikaru and if he knew that he [Kaoru] also likes Haruhi, it will really be upsetting. Kaoru cries that he is the one who ruined it all, he is really stupid. He tries to tear off the bunny’s ear as Honey cries for his bunny. Honey tells Kaoru that Kaoru always saying Hikaru..Hikaru..but what about Kaoru being sad. Kaoru looks at Honey and says, if it is about him, it doesn’t matter. Honey says that even if he knows that for Kaoru, Hikaru is the most important but he feels if Kaoru doesn’t look for himself, he won’t be able to protect anyone. Kaoru looks a bit surprised by this. Honey tells him that Kaoru should be honest to himself, else even Hikaru will not be happy, does he [Kaoru] know this. Honey asks Kaoru what does he want to do, disregarding about Hikaru and Tamaki, what does Kaoru want to do. Kaoru just looks at Honey.

At Mori’s house, Mori is surprised that Hikaru came to his house. Gloomily, Hikaru apologizes for coming so late but he will stay there for the night, because he can’t sleep so while walking around and thinking, he came to that place. Hikaru enters the house as Mori’s younger brother is surprised to see him and greets Hikaru a good evening. Mori asks what about Kaoru. Hikaru says that Honey said that Kaoru will be staying at his [Honey] place that night. Hikaru stops walking and asks Mori, is he stupid, compared to Tamaki, is he a super ‘slow’ [slow to catch/know things] fool. Mori says that it is more or less – half. This shocks Hikaru. Mori opens a room and Hikaru asks if this is his room. Mori says that this is the meditation room. Mori pats his head and says even if he doesn’t know what happened, if Hikaru wants to calm down, he can use this room. Mori then says if Hikaru is lonely, he can have either one [of his pets] to accompany him. Mori is holding Mr. Tanuki while Chick-chan is on his shoulder. Hikaru chooses Chick-chan. After Mori left, Hikaru sits on the floor and wonders if he is really pretty much at Tamaki’s level [of clueless-ness]. He remembers Kaoru telling him that Hikaru likes Haruhi as a girl. Feeling down, Hikaru thought, is that how it is, even though it feels like it.

Hikaru also goes to the ask question – he answers himself mode as he thought, let me think about it, why didn’t I notice it earlier when he didn’t even mention about being in love, aside from that tanuki incident, what else. Hikaru remembers his date with Haruhi and Haruhi falling on him [I think this is at the ghost hunting arc] Hikaru blushed as he remembers then he thought, wait..but. He remembers Meiko telling him that Haruhi still haven’t noticed it. Hikaru panics as he thought already defeated in love, no, no, I just noticed it, how can my love be already smashed/rejected. Hikaru tries to calm himself for it haven’t happened yet, he has to think and write it on a chart. On a paper, he writes Haruhi’s name. He writes ‘Me’ and an arrow towards Haruhi’s name. Tamaki’s name has an arrow pointing to Haruhi’s name. Haruhi’s name pointing to Tamaki has a question mark. Karou’s name is beside ‘Me’ name. Hikaru thought I like Haruhi and since Tamaki is stupid, he haven’t noticed it yet but Tamaki already likes Haruhi so that would make me and Tamaki love rivals. Hikaru then thought that Kaoru has been acting weird lately, could it be because he can’t tell this to him. Then, Hikaru wonders what does Kaoru think of Haruhi.

At school, Haruhi greets the twins. Kaoru happily greets Haruhi while Hikaru, a bit embarrass, greets her back. Haruhi asks how are they, didn’t they catch a cold after being drenched in the rain. Kaoru happily says of course not, because they drank vegetable juice this morning. Haruhi says he is lying. Kaoru laughs and yes, he is lying. Hikaru is speechless that Haruhi asks him if he is not feeling well. This surprises Hikaru that he became beet red from blushing. Hikaru quickly says that nothing is wrong. Even Kaoru looks flustered. Haruhi asks why is Hikaru’s face so red. Hikaru alibis that it is hot and so, he is going to the comfort room. Hikaru quickly leaves the room. Haruhi says that Hikaru is being weird – why does he have to go to the comfort room if he is hot. Kaoru laughs and says that is right. Kaoru looks surprised when Haruhi also mentions that Kaoru also is a bit weird, did something happen. Kaoru acts panic and says that is it because he is sleepy/fond of sleeping. Haruhi says it isn’t that. Kaoru says that it is because he woke up early in the morning. Haruhi asks what time did he woke up. Kaoru says 7am. Haruhi says that it is really quite early. Kaoru laughs and says it is so. Some girls are standing outside wondering what is with Hikaru who is looking in the room. Hikaru is troubled for he feels as if he can’t go close to them – Haruhi. Hikaru looks depressed as he thought that he didn’t get a chance to ask Kaoru about Haruhi and since coming from Honey’s house, he acts a bit strange that makes one uneasy but they usually tend to like the same things so if Kaoru also likes Haruhi, generally Kaoru would have realize it earlier than him and until now. Hikaru remembers Kaoru telling him that he is going with White team and encouraging him to go wild and angry [beat up Tamaki for taking Haruhi to Misuzu’s pension] Hikaru is now lying down on the floor, making the class president worried as Hikaru thought he is now really worried, what now, aside from Tamaki, if Kaoru also likes Haruhi, I...

After class, Honey and Mori goes to Hikaru’s classroom. Honey says that since all club activities has stopped while Tamaki is away and since it is quite boring, he decide to have a cake convention/gathering at the clubroom. Honey realizes that Hikaru is all alone so he asks where is Haruhi and Kaoru. Hikaru says that Haruhi went out to meet with Ritsu to the gardening club while Kaoru says he is going to the library so he will go on ahead first. Honey says is that so. He grabs Hikaru and says why don’t Hikaru alone come and eat cake. Hikaru tries to turn him down by saying that he also has to go to the library. Honey tells him to go get Kaoru, too while they go on ahead to prepare. Honey quickly leaves as he says that he will wait for them. Hikaru tries to call out to Honey to wait for he haven’t said he would go. After they left, Hikaru thought since there is no choice, he has to find Kaoru. While walking down the staircase, Kaoru is carrying some books. He thought that even if the day/weather is good, he would like to spend time reading some books though it seems he has borrowed quite a lot of books. He wonders if Hikaru is angry that he left ahead of him and if left for a long time with Hikaru, he fears that something bad might happen. About what Honey has told him about what he would want to do, he still doesn’t have an answer to that. Kaoru looks out the window and sees Ritsu carrying a sack of something to Haruhi. Kaoru wonders why are they meeting then realizes that Ritsu is giving part of the harvest of the garden club to Haruhi, Ritsu is really trying hard. Noticing that Haruhi looks happy about it, Kaoru wonders what is inside the sack. Kaoru laughs as he bends down because it is sweet potatoes. He thought didn’t the tanuki just gave her lots already that she is happy about it, does she really like sweet potatoes that much. He can’t keep it [his laughter] in any longer.

Just then, while climbing up the stairs, Hikaru finds Kaoru looking outside the window with a gentle smile. Hikaru is about to ask what is Kaoru looking at when Kaoru opens the window and calls out to Haruhi. This surprises Hikaru. Haruhi comments that Kaoru has seen it. Kaoru teases Haruhi that if she eats all of those [sweet potatoes] she is going to become fat. Haruhi says she isn’t going to eat all of them, they will steam it and eat it together at the clubroom, eating something good will make one a bit energetic. Kaoru looks a bit surprised and laughs as he says didn’t he already said that he is already quite energetic. Hikaru looks on as if he realized something. Haruhi tells Kaoru to go to the clubroom later. Kaoru says okay, byebye. Kaoru is surprised to see Hikaru behind him when Hikaru called out his name. Kaoru asks for how long was he there. Hikaru asks what does Kaoru think of Haruhi. Kaoru smiles and says what I think, she is like a cute tanuki. Hikaru tells Kaoru not to lie to him. Hikaru apologizes to Kaoru for not noticing sooner, it seems he has made Kaoru worry a lot, so Kaoru doesn’t have to lie anymore, Kaoru likes Haruhi, too, doesn’t he. Kaoru laughs it off and says what is Hikaru saying, he really isn’t.

Hikaru perks up and suggests an idea to Kaoru, didn’t he say before that they should adopt Haruhi, and he feels that this idea is really good for the three of them will be together forever. Kaoru’s smile disappear as he becomes angry. With a serious face, Kaoru asks, are you stupid, Hikaru? This isn’t like kids playing house/family kind of game. This simply cannot happen. I had enough of Hikaru’s childishness. Hikaru is shock by Kaoru’s answer and calls out Kaoru’s name. Kaoru continues, saying that the three of them will be together, will Hikaru be satisfied, is he planning to share Haruhi with me but I don’t want this, it is okay if it is Hikaru, it is okay if it is Tamaki. Kaoru grips the books he is holding as Hikaru is getting nervous/surprised by Kaoru’s outburst. Kaoru angrily shouts the thing is if Hikaru continues to have this kind of casual/doing what one pleases attitude, only to you, I won’t give in to. Hikaru looks shocked about this. Elsewhere, at the Tamaki residence, Tamaki’s grandmother is arranging some flowers. She tells Tamaki’s father that she has heard that child [Tamaki] didn’t go to the school trip. His father says that is true. She says that is a wise decision, it seems that he [Tamaki] comes to understand the position where he is standing. She hopes that coming into this kind of state, it will spout a bud that he becomes self-aware that he is a successor of the Suoh family for most of the time, he is just playing around and giving people headaches. Tamaki’s father looks a bit sad. She says that if this didn’t happen, she also has her own plans.

Evil Kyouya, of all the alibis he can give, it has to be diarrhea. ^^; I wonder if what Kyouya is planning to do during the free time is what I’m thinking he is going to do – like looking for Tamaki’s mother. While the two leaders of host club are away, it seems that something or rather trouble is brewing among the members, specifically the twins. I think they will be pretty surprise when they return to the club as to what had happened. I think Kaoru is such a great actor that he manages to conceal his feelings and act ‘genki’ all throughout. Compared to Hikaru, Kaoru can still act friendly with Haruhi whereas Hikaru is easily embarrassed/blushing when Hikaru comes near. Hikaru only knew of Kaoru’s feelings when Hikaru caught him unguarded. Hikaru tries to keep the peace by suggesting they adopt Haruhi. Obviously, Kaoru is serious and more mature than Hikaru that it irked Kaoru that Hikaru is suggesting that – not taking things seriously. I’m sure Hikaru is really surprised and I think it is the first time that Kaoru talks to him in that way. I wonder if Kaoru will regret this big time and I also wonder if they will still go to the club room and act as if nothing happened. If they started going their separate ways, it will also attract attention. Lastly, it seems that if Tamaki didn’t stayed behind, his grandmother has other plans. I’m not sure if it meant for him not to go, or more strict with him – to know his place - so as to ensure Tamaki will be more capable of being a successor. I somewhat doubt if it will stripping Tamaki of becoming a successor since she seemed to be forced to take Tamaki in just for that reason. Geez, seeing his mom is already a big deal, what if his grandmother knew about Tamaki liking Haruhi.

Quote of the day:
A lie may cover your tracks, but it cannot hide the truth. ~ Our Daily Bread.

The One [Chapters 19-20]
Saturday, May 26, 2007 @ 01:08 p.m.

Lele is running as she remembers Eros telling her if he managed to ‘influence’ her and she should go back with that to the photo shoot. Lele thought what ‘influence’ is he talking about, looking at that face of his, does he think that I would fall for him because of a kiss. She remembers him asking her if she likes him that is why he is following him – after dinner last night. Irritated, Lele thought that Eros is a narcissist, a really super narcissist. She arrives back at the set and this surprises everyone. Feidna asks why is Lele so red like a monkey’s ass. The assistant asks why is she back so quickly, wasn’t the break suppose to be two hours, is her stomach okay. She removes her jacket and apologizes to them for the trouble, she is just going to change clothes. At the dressing room, Lele wonders if her face is really red like a monkey’s ass. She realizes it is true as she looks in the mirror. Lele rationalizes it as being shock over the kiss that her heart is even beating so fast. Lele then realizes that it is her ‘first kiss’. Lele angrily thought that Eros guy has stolen her first kiss, it isn’t because of being surprised but more on being angry that her blood shoot up causing her face to become red, that silver-eyed monster. At the photo shoot, Ti Fu asks if she is ready for he isn’t giving her pointers anymore and she is on her own. Lele is now determined to do her best for Ti Fu isn’t going to give her another chance if she blew it again. Lele starts to pose as she listens to the music. Suddenly, she thought as if Eros is caressing her neck that she quickly stopped and looks around. Lele thought it is weird for even if Eros isn’t there why does it seem as if she can still feel his presence and ‘flavor’ as she remembers the kiss. Lele shakes her head trying to remove it from her mind, as she tries to forget Eros. As she does that, everyone including Ti Fu is amazed at the poses/expressions that Lele is making. The assistant wonders out loud as to how could Lele be making those expressions as if she is a girl who is confused as she has fallen in love that it makes the audience be seduced by her, she is really amazing.

The photo shoot ends as Ti Fu embraces Lele saying that she did great as he is also mesmerized by Lele’s poses. Lele has already ‘woke up’ from her trance and is confused by Ti Fu’s praises to her. Ti Fu asks Lele if she would want to accompany him. Lele is shock by this. His assistant tosses her eyeglasses to Ti Fu shouting for him to stop that, you perverted man. Feidna is laughing about it and tells Lele that she is pretty good that she has made Ti Fu on a ‘high’ and honestly, being a woman like her, it seems that Lele’s heart is beating fast. Lele is confused, sweatdrops and blushes. She becomes nervous as she remembers the kiss and quickly denies it, saying she didn’t do anything, she is just randomly walking around the streets and that’s it. She nervously laughs as Feidna teasingly asks, really. The assistant tells Feidna to stop teasing Lele and it is because Lele is just nervous that she wasn’t able to say what had happened. The assistant tells Lele that her expressions are really good that it surprised everybody so she should also go her best for the next two days. Lele says she will and thought, two more days. Feidna clings to Ti Fu saying that she is hungry so why don’t they go out to eat. Ti Fu says why don’t she go with her darling Eros and be intimate with him, weren’t they going to meet that night. The mention of Eros name made Lele blush again. Feidna holds on to Ti Fu saying her darling is busy at work and it will be quite late before they can become ‘intimate’ and since his ‘darling’ [Lele] snubs him, why don’t she fill that void. This made Lele and the assistant feel ‘sick’ – ugh kind of face. Crying, Ti Fu asks won’t Lele accompany him to eat dinner. Lele nervously turns him down saying that her stomach is still not feeling well so she wants to rest at the hotel. Ti Fu cries as Feidna comforts him saying, see, Lele doesn’t even give you a chance, you are turned down. Lele sweatdrop and thought..these two people.

Lele mentally talks to Grandma saying that today she passed the test, only two days more and she can go home, are you okay now, I’m very worried about you. Upon arriving at the hotel, the strict looking attendant is holding the carton box with Fan Tong inside. She tells Lele that pet animals aren’t allowed inside their hotel. Lele is embarrassed by it as she apologizes and asks if she can keep it for a few more days until she can find a place for it. The woman tells her that she cannot give in to her request for it is hotel policy and they can’t allow it just for her so she should quickly find a place for the cat. Lele thought that even if she is staying in Japan for a short while, it seems as if there is not one peaceful/uneventful day, for everyday seems to be like a turbulent airplane ride. Outside, Lele holds on to Fan Tong as she asks it what should she do now, she plans on letting it stay with her for a few days but it seems that her strength isn’t enough, if she knew this would happen, she should have let silver-eyed monster’s suggestion to let it be taken home by that ‘uncle’ – Eros’ staff. Embarrassed, Lele thought that she doesn’t know where they are for she doesn’t remember that workplace that they went before and if they are there. An arrow points that Lele is bad in directions. Lele says she also doesn’t want to see that person [Eros] who will just sprout mean words at her. She imagines Eros angrily saying see, I told you so. Then, Lele sits at the side of a store window. She decides to call her aunt while thinking of a place where Fan Tong can stay. But no matter how many times she called, home phone, office phone, mobile phone, and even Lou Shang’s phone, she can’t get through to her aunt. Lele nervously wonders why is it like that, was her aunt so busy that she can’t even be found, what happened with Grandma. Suddenly, fear seized Lele as she realized that she is all ‘alone’. She tries to talk to herself to not to think wildly of things, nothing is wrong, nothing happened, her aunt could be in the hospital taking care of Grandma so she can’t be on the phone, that is how it is. Lele bends her head to her arms as she tries to calm herself when Eros’ staff [make-up artist] passes by. He asks is that Fan Tong. Lele is surprised to see him.

Eros perks up while reading a huge blueprint [I think that is what it is ^^; layout of the production?] and asks what is this about as he sees the make-up artist bring in downcast Lele and Fan Tong. The make-up artist says that while buying some food, he saw them and seeing her looking like that, sitting with Fan Tong, he doesn’t have the heart to just leave them so he brought them back there. Eros asks if the hotel staff has discovered Fan Tong, didn’t he told her so. This surprises Lele and she looks at him as she is a bit teary-eyed. Without looking at her, Eros tells her to leave the cat to the make-up artist, he will take care of it, really, if she listened to him earlier, everything would be okay. He asks if she has already eaten and why is she sitting in the streets with Fan Tong. Eros then noticed that Lele is looking at her with a bit of tears on her eyes. Lele thought this guy is really irritating, but why is it when she feels as if no one will help her, he will appear – Fan Tong urinating on the bed and the kiss. Lele started trembling as Eros’ staff gets nervous and the image consultant says is she going to cry. Lele thought that she only met Eros for only a while, why is it that seeing his face made all the worries in her heart disappear. To everyone’s shock, Lele cries out loud. Lele thought that all this time, she tries to bottle up what is bothering her that she has become tired and seeing him in front of her, she wants to release it all by crying out loud, everything just burst out. Eros is a bit of a loss for words then shouts, Cane Lele, stop crying!

Chapter 19 is short that it is pretty much just that first paragraph and so I added chapter 20. Eros’ kiss did affected Lele and helped her finish the photo shoot which even impresses everybody. Feidna knew something happened but then, she wouldn’t have guess who had helped Lele. It does seem that Feidna has this ‘flirting’ relationship with Ti Fu. With work over for that day and problems where to keep Fan Tong, Lele’s fears of her Grandma’s well being has started to surface. Of course, it is also fueled by her inability to communicate with her aunt. For a sixteen year old who has left the ‘nest’ for the first time and then learns about something happening to her beloved Grandma, her closest relative and can’t go home, it is really a bit scary. As fate would have it, she is found by Eros’ staff and brought to him. Since he is the only ‘familiar’ thing there in Japan, she cried out loud to release her pent up emotions. It would seem that because of what Eros said has made her cry. That must be what his staff is thinking. Hehe

Word of the day:
Where God guides, He provides. ~ Our Daily Bread.

The One [ Chapter 18]
Friday, May 25, 2007 @ 11:14 a.m.

Lele’s aunt informs Lele through the mobile phone that Grandma has fallen down and now is in a coma. She tells Lele not to panic nor worry for she will take care of Grandma. Lele tells her that she wants to go home. Her aunt tells her that she can’t for right now, she is on a photo shoot, so she must no cry, uneasy or let others know of what is troubling her for she should finish her job. Lele tries to stop her tears from falling down and thought to herself that she wants to go home. Eros notices Lele is shaking while talking on the phone. With music playing, Ti Fu tells Lele to feel the music and he even shows how to pose much to his assistant dismay. Ti Fu encourages Lele that she can do it. Lele lifts up her head and looks dead as she stiffly dance. Everyone sweatdrops at her. Lele falls down to her knees and apologizes to Ti Fu, mentally to her aunt for she can’t do this – that she isn’t affected about what happened with Grandma. She asks if she can take a break for two hours for her stomach doesn’t feel good. The staff are angry over this as Lele is going to delay the photo shoot again. Ti Fu agrees to give her the break but if she isn’t able to do what she has to do that day, she will be replaced for he doesn’t want this kind of model. Lele is shock about this. Ti Fu tells his assistant to call Sakura’s agency and to call the other model who has also joined the audition before. The assistant says she will go do it. Lele is feeling miserable. Ti Fu tells Lele and that is how it is, so go do something about her stomachache. Feidna and Eros just looks on as Feidna feels sorry for her.

After dressing back to casual clothes, Lele goes out as she tells herself that she just take deep breathes and she will be alright. Eros asks Feidna if she plans to stay there or go elsewhere. Feidna says that things there aren’t going smoothly and Ti Fu is broken hearted so she thinks she should stay and accompany him. She hugs Ti Fu who cries. Eros tells her to stay there for he has to go to work, so they’ll meet again tonight. Walking in the streets, Lele worries about Grandma..is she alright, because of her [Lele]... Lele calls on the mobile phone to her aunt as she wonders if Grandma is okay but no one is answering the phone. Lele tries to convince herself that it is just a minor fall, for aunt did say, ‘do not worry’. Eros is following her from behind. Lele bumps into a man and falls on her knees near the pedestrian walk. Lele wonders if that is the case, why is she feeling uneasy. Lele starts to cry when Eros covers her eyes. He tells her not to let her tears fall for she might not able to go back [to work], does she want her eyes to be like yesterday. Lele is surprised.

Near a baywalk, Eros gives Lele something to drink. He asks if she is hurt. Lele shakes her head sideways. Eros tells her that she can’t become a model like that, he doesn’t find what is bugging her interesting but he can say that a model and a director should work together and even when there is something bugging her, she just force herself to separate herself from the outside world, so if there is a big thing that happened to her, she should adjust herself and if she can’t do it, she isn’t a professional. Eros adds that seeing her lacking willpower, she should just straightforward give up already. Lele angrily looks at Eros and shouts, it is true, he is professional, he is great, because he is a famous director, he can knows everything, that’s right, she lacks will power because her grandma is currently lying in the hospital, even if he doesn’t want to hear it, she will say that she is really sad and no matter what willpower or strength she do, she can’t do it, will he teach her how, oh great director. Eros says sure, that isn’t a problem. He toss away his can of juice and gives Lele a kiss on the lips.

Lele mentally talks to her aunt that she is useless, for she can’t do things on her own strength. Lele blushes and tries to push him away but Eros holds on to her. Lele thought that it is a lustful kiss that it made her not able to think. Eros breaks off the kiss and asks how is it, did it made her forget about the unhappy thing she is thinking. Lele slaps Eros’ hard and shouts, you rotten man, who told you to kiss me. Eros says didn’t she realized that his kiss ‘influenced’ her and so she should use that ‘influence’ to go back to the photo shoot and don’t let him feel as if he did it for nothing. Lele is shock by this.

So, indeed it is about Grandma which is the bad news to Lele. It is quite understandable that Lele wants to be at Grandma’s side for it is already established that Lele doesn’t mind being an orphan as long as she has Grandma and something happened to Grandma, of course, she isn’t able to ‘model’ properly. But model world is harsh, as both Eros and her aunt told her, no matter what problems she has, she has to put it aside and do her job. Well, she is just sixteen after all. So, Eros gives her a helping hand. =P I guess it is good for Lele that Eros noticed her while she is on the phone. And, Lele’s ‘nightmare’ did came true though it is the other way around, it is Eros giving her a kiss. Did Eros work on making Lele get back to work..until the next chapter. ^_^

Quote of the day:
The decision to kiss for the first time is the most crucial in any love story. It changes the relationship of two people much more strongly than even the final surrender; because this kiss already has within it that surrender. ~ Emil Ludwig

The One [Volume 3 Part 3 of 3]
Thursday, May 24, 2007 @ 04:22 p.m.

In her room, Lele can’t believe that Eros and Feidna are a couple for she haven’t heard it from the news, only some scandal about Feidna and some actor. Since she is the only one who knew it, she thought that she should relate this news to Xiao Qui. She starts to text a message/email on her mobile phone when Lele stops midway. She then drops of the floor and thought that it is weird but it seems that she doesn’t want to spread this news. Then, she hears the two entering Eros’ room. Lele quickly looks at Fan Tong and says from today on, it will be living with her. Holding Fan Tong, she tells it that she is going to take a bath first so it should stay there and watch tv, after that, they are going to sleep together for the next day, she has work. She opens the television and is shock to see Eros and Feidna making out. It turned out to be just some foreign porn flick – Lele’s imagination is working overtime. While taking a bath, Lele tries to keep her mind blank but in the end, she nosebleed as she imagines the two making out again. With a tissue on her nose, Lele jumps on bed, surprising Fan Tong. Lele thought what does she have to do with the two of them, why does her brain kept on imaging those kind of things. She tries to sleep and her actions are like Fan Tong’s. At the other room, Feidna helps light Eros’ cigarette while they are on the bed. Feidna asks didn’t Eros quit already. Eros says that during work times, he smoke but if it is free time, he doesn’t – this time, he is working. Feidna asks really, even if when he is doing that being a bum habit of his. She tells him that during work, Eros would go back home but during his free time, they can’t find him at all, she has known him all this time and she still can’t get over his character/nature. Eros asks if it is about him being mysterious or being weird. Eros says it isn’t true that she can’t get over him for even if she says that she really loves him, she still goes after other guys. Feidna smiles and says but she really loves him – in this world, the one I love the most is you.

While Eros and Feidna are having sex, they were surprised to see Lele inside the room, holding a whip. Lele kicks away Feidna shouting hey, you, redhead, how dare you covet my ‘pet’, are you really impatient with your life. Lele cracks the whip near Feidna. With dog/cat ears, Eros points to himself, a pet. Lele shouts, hey, pet, shut up. She goes to Eros telling him that a pet should only know to please its master, does he understand. Pouting her lips in kiss stance, Lele tells Eros to be nice and be ‘used’ by the master, you tempting little thing. Eros looks scared for his life. Then, Lele wakes up with a fright. Lele is glad that it is just a dream. Lele feels that the bed is wet and wonders if she has urinated on bed. Lele pulls the blanket and finds that it is Fan Tong. Someone is ringing the doorbell. Eros wonders who it is. He opens the door and finds Lele in tears saying that Fan Tong has created trouble. In Lele’s room, Lele is standing near the window with Fan Tong as Eros and Feidna see the wet spot on the bed. Eros looks at Lele with a ‘I told you so’ look as Lele is embarrassed about it and lamely says that she only has heard that cats like to be nice and neat, but she didn’t expect that it will urinate. Eros looks at her saying that she haven’t any experience taking care of a cat and yet, she wants to give it shelter. Lele says didn’t she told him earlier that she doesn’t have any pets at home. Eros tells Feidna to look after those two as he is going out for a while. Feidna is a bit surprise, ‘two’? [The word Eros used is an article for ‘animals’ so Eros is like saying that Lele is at the level of Fan Tong who should be watched over].

After Eros left, Feidna says that Eros could have went out to buy some cat litter. She asks Lele why does she have the cat inside the hotel. Lele explains that it is Eros who found Fan Tong, and because it is so cute, she asked him to let her take care of it. Feidna says is that so. Fan Tong starts to playful bite on Lele’s finger. Feidna says that it seems that the cat really likes her. Lele asks really as she is happy to hear that. Feidna explains that cats usually urinate in the places that they like and if they can’t find that, they will urinate on their owner’s side so it seems to think that she is her owner. Lele is thrilled to hear that. Feidna says that Lele’s English is quite good and she finds her and Eros’ conversation really amusing for one is talking in English while the other in Chinese that she thought that she isn’t good at English. There is a note saying that Lele studied well her English in school. Lele asks isn’t it weird and she is doing it because she is angry, for Eros can speak in Chinese yet he doesn’t, so she doesn’t want to speak in English to talk to him. Feidna laughs that Lele would dare stand up to Eros’ charm. Lele smugly says that she isn’t working under Eros so it isn’t something to be afraid of. Feidna says that she admires Lele, this is what is important with models, they are not afraid, and be afraid only of things that cannot be changed and unable to communicate. Feidna stops then realizes that Lele isn’t working for Eros so she asks who is she. Lele says that she is Jorvicious advertise model. Feidna exclaims, Shi Ti Fu. Lele says that’s right. Feidna wonders where she felt as if she has seen Lele. A bit embarrassed Lele says that she is Little Bee, they met in Taiwan. Lele thought is her visual impact so weak – that she can’t be easily be remembered.

Eros has came back with a carton box and a paper bag. Sitting on a chair, Feidna says to Eros that this is really ‘fate’ it is really strange for Little Bee has told her that he saved her. Eros puts in a cat cloth [looks like a paper] inside the carton box. Lele is a bit embarrassed about this as she is standing near Eros – as if looking what he is doing. Feidna laments that they didn’t tell her that he and Angus went to Taiwan, she likes it there. Feidna suggests that next time, they should all go together and then look for Little Bee to join them. Lele seems happy about this while Eros doesn’t answer at all. Eros says that this is only temporary so he didn’t buy cat litter. Eros thought that by tomorrow, the hotel staff would discover it. Feidna makes a face with tongue out at Lele to say see, Eros is like that. Lele looks back and says she knows and she doesn’t know what he is being proud about. Lele makes a face back at Feidna. Eros asks what she is doing that she quickly turns around and says it is nothing. Eros says that with that, the cat will go inside it by itself to urinate, she should just change the paper after, this easy, can she do it. Eros looks at her and says that all is left is the bed sheet, should they call the hotel’s cleaning staff and if they find it this late at night, she has no choice but to let the cat go/leave. Lele is angry about this, as she thought this person is really bad. Feidna perks up about this. Lele shouts that she isn’t going to have the bed sheets changed, so what, she have it done by tomorrow. Eros smiles and tells her whatever she wants but remember that after waking up, she better take a bath or else, she will smell of urine during the photo shoot. Lele angrily looks at Eros as Feidna seems to have noticed something. Inside their room, Feidna asks Eros if he has liking for her. Eros asks who. Feidna says Lele. Eros says that as a model, he thinks Lele is just ‘passing’ but he doesn’t look at the other areas about Lele. Feidna is pleased with this answer, as she hugs Eros and asks if he is free tomorrow. She asks if around 3pm, he isn’t doing anything, would he accompany her for it has been a long time since they had a date. Eros seems to look a way at a distant. Back at Grandma’s apartment, Grandma is getting a drink of water when the lights went out. She wonders why there is no electricity, could it be that the light bulb is defective. Grandma realizes that it is the light bulb. Using a candlelight as a light, she opens the drawers and tries to find a replacement. Grandma thought why does it have to be broken now, where is a light bulb for the living room, it would be okay if Lele is here. Then, She gets the ladder and starts to climb up.

The next day, Lele has joined with the other two models in the photo shoot. Looking at the pictures, the assistant says that the pictures taken are really good that even if their faces are different, yet combined, they seem to coordinate. Lele looks at her face on the hand mirror and comments about something that it is already half-day and – [the scan is blurred so I can’t read it]. The assistant says that they still have to do Lele’s part which she wasn’t able to do yesterday. Ti Fu says it is such a waste that Lele models like that for among the three, she has the most potential and yet she is the weakest in the projecting it. Just then, Feidna and Eros drop by the set. Ti Fu is surprised as Feidna asks if he is happy to see her. Ti Fu asks if she is already been dumped by that ‘Hollywood Ruffian’. Feidna hits him saying that if he knew, he doesn’t have to blurt it out. Lele realizes that the news article about Feidna’s love life is true. Lele begins to theorize as she wonders what is it then about Eros and Feidna. Ordinary friends. No way! They slept in the same room and no matter how I look at it, they seem to be lovers. So this is the most possible, Eros is Feidna’s former boyfriend, Feidna dumps Eros for ‘Hollywood Ruffian’ and when ‘Hollywood Ruffian’ dumps Feidna, Feidna goes back to Eros. Lele thought that is how it is – Eros is someone who is taken back after being dumped, a person who kept on waiting like some stupid fool. Lele laughs to herself, not noticing that Eros is standing behind her. Eros asks why is she laughing so happily by herself. Lele screams in fright upon seeing him, shouting what did he sudden appear there. Eros wonder what is she afraid of. Lele is suddenly surprised when Eros comes closer to her. He sniffs her as he bends his head down to her ear. This surprises both Feidna and Ti Fu. Lele is a bit nervous as she blushes. Eros whispers to her, that’s good, you don’t smell of urine. This shocks Lele as she shouts is he a sicko. Eros just walks away as if he didn’t hear anything. Ti Fu is puzzled about it as Feidna looks jealous.

Later on, the assistant shows Lele some of the solo pictures of the other two models. She tells Lele that she knows that Lele doesn’t have much experience yet but looking at their pictures, Lele can have an idea on what to do. Lele is amazed at their pictures and wonders if she can also do it. The assistant says that there will be some music played so with it and Ti Fu’s instructions, Lele should move her body and pose so there is nothing for Lele to worry about. Lele says yes. Just then, her mobile phone rings. She apologizes to the assistant as she goes to answer it. It is her aunt. Lele happily says to her aunt that she is going to take a photo shoot now so why don’t she call later. The assistant has gone to talk with Feidna and Eros. Lele is then surprised and asks, what as she looks really pale.

There is a side story in the volume about how Fei Yi [Lele’s mother] managed to get Teng Ye [Lele’s father] from Lou Shang. Basically, Fei Yi has a photo shoot with Teng Ye in India. Lou Shang seems to be Teng Ye’s sugar daddy as Lou Shang is the one taking care of him – wakes him up, feeds him, what he wears and drives him to work. When he and Fei Yi first worked together at a show, they didn’t talk much as Teng Ye has a tendency to be alone and doesn’t mingle with other people. Fei Hong tries to dissuade her sister from falling for Teng Ye because he is gay and she knew them since high school also Lou Shang is just wasting money on Teng Ye for it isn’t true love for Teng Ye is aloof person so Fei Yi should stop dreaming. This made Fei Yi more determined to seduce him with her beauty for he didn’t know what is true love yet. At the airport in India, Fei Yi is amused that Teng Ye came with Lou Shang. Lou Shang is about to greet her as he is there as an assistant but Fei Yi went straight for Teng Ye, saying that she has been waiting to work with him again. After a photo shoot, Fei Yi gets a light conversation with Teng Ye starting from his friends to if he is really gay. Lou Shang is angry that Fei Yi is trying to steal his boyfriend. The next day, Teng Ye somewhat avoids Fei Yi [doesn’t want to talke with her] as Lou Shang is happy about that. Then, they were at the Taj Mahal for their photo shoot. Fei Yi tells them about the origin of the Taj Mahal and that she is moved by that story. To both Fei Yi and Lou Shang’s surprise, Teng Ye said something about love being troublesome and that it is really a scary thing. The next few days, it has been raining hard. Lou Shang isn’t pleased about this as Teng Ye laments about not seeing the starry sky. Fei Yi hears this and comments so he likes to see stars. To Lou Shang’s surprise, Fei Yi asks if she can sit with them. Teng Ye had no choice but say she can. Fei Yi asks if the starry night sky in India is beautiful. Teng Ye says that he has heard it is but lately, he has been sleeping and waking up early that he wasn’t able to see it so he hopes the rain would stop. Fei Yi thought that since Teng Ye is a bit accommodating now, she must do her best for she doesn’t want to give up on him. That night, it is still raining. Fei Yi looks out from her window and thought, wants to see the stars, huh.

Fei Yi knocks on Teng Ye’s door. Fei Yi asks him to come with her to a certain place. At a certain building, Fei Yi talks with an Indian man and motions to Teng Ye to follow. Holding Teng Ye’s hand, Fei Yi drags him as Teng Ye asks what are they doing at 3 in the morning in that place. Fei Yi tells him to just follow her and it will be okay. Teng Ye becomes surprised as it is pitch dark. Fei Yi tells him that this is a secret room so he should just close his eyes. Fei Yi says that this is a place that they usually can’t go but she paid that man to get in. She lights up a candle and tells Teng Ye to open his eyes. Holding the candle up, Fei Yi asks if it is like the starry sky. The wall with precious stones are glittering like stars. Fei Yi says that she has seen it on television. Fei Yi is happy if this way, Teng Ye would fall for her then she notices him looking at the ‘stars’, it is as if he is remembering something. When they came out, Fei Yi is a bit unhappy that the rain stopped. Teng Ye thanks her for since he run away from home, he never seen such a beautiful starry sky and it was his most happy memory. Fei Yi thought but it wasn’t a real sky. Teng Ye realizes that they are holding hands that he quickly pulls his hand away. Fei Yi is unhappy about that. She then falls on the ground and claims that she has been walking around the whole afternoon to help him see that place and she is now dead tired that she can’t walk an inch, a model’s feet is important, what should she do, she can’t go back to the hotel. She then gestures for Teng Ye to carry her. Teng Ye has no choice but carry her on his back. Fei Yi ‘proposes’ to him that if he becomes his boyfriend, she will make him really happy. At bed, Fei Yi can’t believe that she is quite courageous to say that and wonders how should she meet him the next day. The next day, Fei Yi tries to be friendly with him but she is snubbed, avoided and rebuff. Teng Ye tells her not to conserve with him when it isn’t about work for he already has a boyfriend. He asks Lou Shang to go up to the hotel with him for he can’t eat the food there – seeing Fei Yi. As they left, Fei Yi is stunned as Lou Shang worriedly looks back at Fei Yi.

At the hotel, Lou Shang asks Teng Ye what is that about for he has never seen Fei Yi act like that with anybody especially to a woman. Teng Ye says that he is hungry and wants to eat some soup dumplings [xiao long pao] and chicken soup for he can’t eat the food there. Lou Shang grabs his shirt and shouts where could he find that food there and he shouldn’t avoid his question. Lou Shang asks if Teng Ye finds Fei Yi interesting. Teng Ye tells him not to worry for didn’t he say he doesn’t want to be inconvenienced/troubled over such things and having Lou Shang is enough. Lou Shang asks is that because he isn’t ‘troublesome’, because he doesn’t feel anything for him nor be uneasy with him. Lou Shang says that Teng Ye has been quite cruel to him for he doesn’t mind that Teng Ye has no feelings for him and that he loving Teng Ye is enough as he is patient but he feels that it is because Teng Ye haven’t fallen for anyone. Lou Shang is really angry for he has been taking care of Teng Ye these many years and for him to be taken away by some woman in the time of 2-3 days, that he feels like he is some stupid fool. Lou Shang kicks open Fei Yi’s door to find her crying. Fei Yi shouts why did he kicked open the door, does he want to destroy it. Lou Shang shouts why is she crying, he should be the one crying. Fei Yi cries about being rebuffed by Teng Ye who haven’t fallen for her charms and she worked really hard that she even showed him a starry sky. Lou Shang is surprised by this and tells her about Teng Ye who seems to have no cares in life and easy-going but if there is a happy thing going to happen, he tends to avoid it since he fears that it won’t last long. He thinks that it is from Teng Ye’s past when he and his mother is waiting for his father to come home who is earning money and will fetch them later to go to Taipei. That night while waiting for his father, he and his mother look up the starry sky and can’t wait for them to go to Taipei but it turned out that his father has no money and doesn’t even have a job so his mother is forced to become a maid and that is why he ended up like that. Fei Yi asks so that means that Teng Ye is happy with her so he is avoiding her. Lou Shang is angry about this he knows Teng Ye really weel but he cannot change Teng Ye’s heart so he tells Fei Yi that she is right. On the last shoot, Teng Ye still tries to avoid Fei Yi but Fei Yi says not to worry, she isn’t going to bother him anymore. Teng Ye feels embarrassed. Fei Yi is already confident that Teng Ye has fallen for her. So, in that photo shoot, Fei Yi used her charms to ‘poison’ Teng Ye with love and at the end, Teng Ye succumbs to her as her ‘poison’ will lead to happiness.

Hehe, Lele’s imagination is really quite overactive. She must have unconscious desires for Eros. Lol Feidna has begin to realize that Eros treats Lele differently even as Eros denies liking Lele. I guess Eros doesn’t go out of his way to tease her as Eros seems to be a bit cold/distant with Feidna. I guess it has something to do with Feidna saying she really likes him and yet she goes out with other guys. Of course, Feidna would be suspicious for Lele isn’t working at all for Eros, why would he even bother to go out and find something for the cat and even helping her out that night just because Lele asks him. I think it is quite easy to guess what the phone call is about. It is the first thing I thought of after seeing that scene. Regarding the side story, it is a bit amusing and well, Lele did get something from both sides of her parents. What she got from her mother – doesn’t give up easily and from her father – slow to realize one is in love. I guess Lele’s clumsiness and embarrassing moments comes from Grandma. ^^; I do feel sorry for Lou Shang though and it is quite admirable of him to let go when he has to. Well, he can’t do anything as Fei Yi is quite a seducer and I doubt it is easy to do that in real life – getting a homosexual as a husband. I guess that is why Lou Shang is going after Fei Hong, he now wants a strong, violent person in contrast with Teng Ye who is aloof. And I guess, he is traumatized that he became straight. ^^;

Quote of the day:
Letting go doesn’t mean giving up, but rather accepting that there are things that cannot be. ~ Author Unknown

The One [Volume 3 Part 2 of 3]
Wednesday, May 23, 2007 @ 07:03 p.m.

Ti Fu’s assistant is shock to see Lele when Lele reports to work for her eyes are all puffy and dark – from lack of sleep and crying last night. Lele is a bit embarrassed about it. When she has woke up this morning, Eros has already left that seemed as if yesterday is just a dream. The make-up artist puts some ice on her eyes and says she can do something about the eye bags but the puffiness is a bit problematic. The assistant says that will be bad as the photos they are going to take that day are quite important. Lele worries that it seems as if she isn’t prepared for that day, they are going to take classical city pictures that are fairy-like. [I think the type of pictures that will be shown on billboards] In gowns, the three models poses but Ti Fu tells Lele to open her eyes. Lele says her eyes already open. Ti Fu looks closely at her and tells her to rest first. Lele sits at the side as she thought that Ti Fu didn’t ask her the reason about her eyes and she is forced to wait at the side as the other two’s pictures were taken. While watching the other two, she admires Sakura and Yen Er that even if they aren’t the same, they have that attraction that makes people ‘cannot get their eyes off them’. Lele realizes that it is the eyes have ‘attraction’ and this is what Xiao Qui told her before about ‘giving out electricity’ as everyone in the staff are all looking at the two. Lele wonders if she can also do them when now she has ‘frog eyes’. The assistant asks what to do with Lele for her eyes are still puffy. Ti Fu suggests that she go back to the hotel first. Lele is shock that she is told that way by Ti Fu coldly even if it is her fault. As everyone is looking at her [since she is irresponsible], Lele quickly left the place. She remembers her aunt telling her that a model’s body is important so she must be take care of it so that the pictures taken will be beautiful.

Sitting outside her hotel door, Lele berates herself for being stupid since this is a very important job. Eros passes by and sees her. He goes into his room and looks thoughtful as he smokes a cigarette. Lele looks up and wonders if she heard wrong, hearing Eros coming in his room, for he should be working around this time. Lele blames Eros that it is his fault that she ended up like that. She stands up and goes to Eros’ door. Lele thought if she lost this job, she is going to pull all of Eros’ hair and will see if he still looks good if he is bald. Lele curses him and kicks the door. Eros hears this and something like ow—ow—ow. Eros wonders what that is about. Lele is holding her right shin which she hurt while kicking the door. She tries to stop herself from crying for she will be in big trouble if her eyes become puffy again the next day. Bearing the pain, Lele leans on the door and keeps on hitting her head on it. Eros opens the door and Lele falls on the floor. Eros asks what is he doing. Lele is shock that Eros is in the room. Lele makes up an excuse that since it is dinner time, would he want to accompany her for dinner. Lele thought omg, what am I saying. At McDonalds restaurant, while eating a hamburger, Lele asks if it is really okay for Eros to just eat that, for she thought that he is a guy who would only eat at expensive restaurants type of guy for famous people would always want to eat at a super famous place, just like her aunt. Lele asks how could he be so ‘ordinary’. This remark made Eros angry as he squeezes the empty plastic cup and stands up. Eros tells her that is because originally, he is an ordinary person. This surprises Lele. Eros is walking away as Lele tries to catch up with him as she thought she is a bit shock about this being ‘ordinary’. Lele shouts just because she said he is ordinary, does that make him unhappy. Eros denies it. Lele shouts if it didn’t why is he walking too fast, is he showing of that his legs are longer than hers. Lele then bumps into Eros back. Eros asks why is she following him. Lele is puzzled. Eros says didn’t she just say that he accompany her for dinner, since they finished eating, they should go to each other’s way. Eros asks could it be because she likes him. Lele is shock by this and quickly shouts that she doesn’t.

Lele stands there as Eros turns around and starts to walk away. Lele thought that doing that, it made her just stand there, with the Tokyo lights as backdrop, it is as if the figure of Eros’ back is quite lonely that it makes one feel sour for how could a 20 year old guy’s back figure be like a 80 year old lonely man. Lele hides behind the bushes and thought that this kind of back figure makes one worry. Lele feels as if Eros is going to walk around from place to place and just sleep in the streets. Lele is surprised that Eros bends on the ground and could he really be planning on sleeping outside, no way. To her surprise, Eros is trying to befriend a little kitten. He pats it and carries it. Lele is shock that silver eyed monster can smile kindly at a kitten for he tends to coldly smile at her. Lele thought he seems to be going to take the kitten with him and even going to buy food for it at the supermarket. Lele thought that Eros really knows a person’s weakness, appearing to like animals, would make one soften to him but she won’t bite that bait. Eros appears behind her and asks for how long is she going to kneel down there. Lele is shock that Eros has discovered her. Eros asks so it seems you really like me. Lele angrily denies it. Eros asks why is she following him. Lele says because it is the same road she is going. Eros says that alibi won’t work for he can hear what she has been murmuring to herself and if she wants to follow someone, it would be best not to be too noisy so that she won’t be noticed. Lele is embarrassed about this. Eros says if she is really curious, why don’t she follow him. Lele is surprised by this.

In a certain place, Eros is talking with three guys. Holding on the kitten, Lele thought to herself that she actually thought that Eros is going to some secret party but it turned out that he came to meet with his workmates in that seems-to-be work place and it seems that Eros is the ‘boss/authoritative’ figure there. The image consultant asks Lele what kind of wine does she want. Eros says since she is a kid, just give her a glass of juice or even some hot milk. The make-up artist asks Eros where did he find her. Eros says he found her at the streets, she isn’t being careful that she was got separated from her owner. The guy laughs and asks if Eros is talking about that cat. Lele thought did Eros deliberately brought her there to humiliate her, if she knew earlier, she wouldn’t have come, really curious, are they going to kill the cat. Lele happily looks at the cat who looks inside a bucket [seems to be a popcorn or chicken bucket]. Then, the other guys exclaimed in surprise that Eros wants to use the cat for their product launch. [I’m guessing that but it is like introducing/revealing a commodity] They asks what about the 26 models that they have already hired. Eros says that they will still perform but the main focus will be on the cat for who says a model should only be a ‘human’ for it will be a bit ‘mysterious’ if a cat will be the one promoting the jewelry products and since they are a bit hard to control, it would be best for someone to be with them to model it. They are amused that it is because of that cat that gave him that idea and wondered if they can pull it off since they don’t have experience with animals. Eros suggests that they try it out right there so let’s start. Lele quickly grabs the cat and asks them what are they planning to do to Fan Tong. [She named the cat Fan Tong, food bucket]

They managed to put some jewelry on Fan Tong who doesn’t seem pleased. Lele finds it really cute. The make-up artist says that now they need a model. Eros tells them that they already have a model as he looks at Lele. This surprises Lele as well as the others. Lele points to herself, me? Eros says didn’t she thought of the reason why he would have brought her there. The make-up artist says oh you are a model, sorry, I didn’t thought you are. The model teacher [okay, I have no idea what is his job maybe, manages the models ^^;] looking closely says that she does look like a model if it weren’t for a bit puffy eyes that are like frog eyes but since the main attraction is the cat so it is okay. The make-up artist says that they should start. Lele feels heartbroken when she heard these comments about her. After being made up and dressed up, Lele sits on the chair as Fan Tong is on the table. Lele smiles as Fan Tong seems to be getting bored. The image consultant says that it looks good but it seems Fan Tong is getting angry and the outcome should be okay. He asks Lele to add up her ‘expression’ for Fan Tong easily ‘overpowers’ her. He tells her to use her eyes for model’s eyes are important and that when taking pictures, she must have that she is the ‘most beautiful’ kind of confidence. Lele is a bit surprised about this. Lele tries again as she finally manages to get Fan Tong to also ‘show off’ the jewelry on it to Lele. The make-up artist is sold to the idea but wonders if Fan Tong can do it alone. Eros says that he would need their help to find more cat models. The model teacher says not to worry, he will take care of it. Lele is amused at how fast the decision has been made. Eros calls the make-up artist to take Fan Tong home for his hotel doesn’t allow animals. The make-up artist says it is okay. Lele asks if Fan Tong can stay with her, she will take care of it. Eros says that she is also staying at the hotel, does she want to be driven away. Lele says that she will be careful. Eros firmly says that she can’t and stop being annoying. Lele resorts to blackmailing Eros that if Eros doesn’t agree, she is going to tell them about his eating sashimi incident.

While walking back to the hotel, Lele hugs and caress Fan Tong. Eros asks if she really likes it. Lele says it is because her grandma is allergic to fur/animal hair that when she is young, she doesn’t have pets. Eros says something about not picking up animals – the scan of the dialogue is not complete. Lele says doesn’t he pity Fan Tong that he took it. Eros says something about he helped it be found – something. Lele hugs Fan Tong and says for it to remember he when it finds its owner. At the hotel, Eros says for her not to randomly name the cat since it isn’t the original name, the name Fan Tong sounds sad. Lele shouts who cares, as long as it isn’t return yet to its owner, she is going to call it Fan Tong. Eros stops walking as he sees a woman sitting at the lounge. The woman turns around and calls to Eros. It is Feidna. To Eros and Lele’s surprise, Feidna gives Eros a kiss on the lips. Eros asks why did she come. Lele is blushing over what she just saw while hiding Fan Tong in her jacket. Feidna says she can no longer wait to see him so when she returned to New York and learned that he is there, she quickly flew in, is he moved by her action. Eros didn’t answer. Feidna notices Lele and asks who is she. Lele is surprised that Feidna doesn’t recognize her anymore but then, it can’t be helped for they only met once. Eros tells her not to mind that passer-by, so where is Feidna staying, did she reserve a hotel already. Lele is dismayed [rock fall on her head] with Eros comment. Feidna says that she didn’t prepare and just on a whim, she went there so that night, can she ask him to give her ‘shelter’ Lele nosebleeds at the thought and quickly says that she is going to her room on her own so she won’t disturb them. No one bothers with Lele as Eros and Feidna are kissing/lovey-dovey. Inside her room, Lele can’t believe it – Eros and Feidna, this is a really explosive discovery - gossip.

Well, Lele almost blew it as her eyes were pretty puffy. If this is some contest, she would have lost and if Ti Fu is strict, she might get herself fired. And since she vents her anger on Eros’ door, they are once again together for the night. Eros really doesn’t have that ‘star ego’ though he is quite cold in dealing with others and I think this stems from something about his past. He did developed a soft spot for Lele, thanks to her hospitability when he is playing bum for I doubt he would even accompany her to eat dinner. She even get Eros to allow her to bring the cat in the hotel by blackmailing him. And so, Feidna enters the picture – start of a love triangle?

Quote of the day:
None of us are responsible for all the things that happen to us, but we are responsible for the way we act when they do happen ~ Author Unknown

The One [ Volume 3 - Part 1 of 3 ]
Tuesday, May 22, 2007 @ 02:43 p.m.

Passing in that busy street, my head hurts because of the alcohol and the only thing that keeps me awake is because my feet is cold as I didn’t wear my shoes. Eros walking through the streets with Lele on his shoulder. Lele is crying as she calls him stupid and for him to put her down, just because of eating a piece of sashimi, how childish of him to get angry over a little thing. Eros keeps on walking and not minding her. Lele cries how could he carry her like that walking in the streets, everyone is looking, isn’t he at all embarrassed. Eros says if she is embarrassed then shouldn’t she stop shouting for others to not look at her. Angered, Lele says stupid, you really understand Chinese but still talk in English. Lele shouts let me down, let me down, let me down. Some girls are looking at them saying is it a drunk foreigner, how pitiful. Lele starts to cry as she says that never in her life has she been this embarrassed. [The author notes, really? Hehe because she will be doing a lot of more of those things. =P ] Lele says that she will tell her grandma about him so that Grandma will spank him, you foreigner, pervert, silver-eyed monster. Eros thought if Grandma knew that she has been drinking, she will be the one spanked, you little brat. Still crying, Lele says her head hurts. She starts to cough and says that she feels like puking. Eros angrily says you’ll get it if you puke here. Then, Lele vomits while she is still being carried by Eros who can’t say anything.

At the side, Eros smokes a cigarette while Lele vomits at the side. Lele says that it is all his fault, you silver-eyed monster, how sad for her, how could he treat her this way. Eros thought shouldn’t he be asking why did she have to feed him that sashimi. Eros sweatdrop and thought that her low tolerance for alcohol. He asks her if she is finished puking. Lele sighs and gets herself to stand up. To Eros’ surprise, Lele is calling someone on her mobile phone. Lele shouts, Hello, Grandma, I have arrived safely in Japan. Eros wonders if Lele is really going to report him to Grandma. Lele shouts, not good, not good, not a single bit, there is a evil person here, self-centered silver eyed monster who is bullying me. What? Yes, I’m drunk. Yes, I already vomited. I even vomited on that silver-eyed monster! Hahahaha, aren’t I great, Grandma? Eros angrily looks at her. Lele happily says yes, I will be good and go to sleep, good night, Grandma. Eros appears behind her and angrily says, you forgot to tell Grandma to spank me. Lele pouts and smiles. She shouts that she isn’t like him who gets angry over a little thing and she already got her revenge by puking on him, she doesn’t want to be with him anymore, she can go to the hotel by herself, goodbye. Eros smiles and says, good, be careful on your way. After a few steps, Lele slams her face on the wall/pole. Eros laughs out loud at her as she is embarrassed as she kneels on the ground. Lele is still a bit drunk. Still laughing, Eros says that this is suppose to be Jorvicious important person, he might not be able to face Ti Fu as a planner, this girl is really so funny. To Lele’s surprise, Eros bends down and asks for her hand and says, it is best for her to be with a monster like him.

At the hotel, Lele can’t believe – how could it have ended this way. Eros is carrying her ala wedding couple style. Some ladies are looking at them and wonders if they are a newly wed couple. Some even says that Eros looks gorgeous and Lele is quite beautiful. Lele becomes embarrassed as she bends down her head. Eros says that she shouldn’t be shy, a model’s feet are important, so it shouldn’t be injured/hurt. Lele denies being embarrassed for she just doesn’t want others to think that they have that kind [married] of relationship. Eros smiles and asks, really, am I that kind of person. They get into the elevator. Lele looks at him and thought, weird, while eating at the restaurant, he definitely is a cold exterior type of person that can kill someone with his looks but now, he is smiling, what is that about. I don’t know why but this side of him seems to be familiar. Lele becomes embarrassed that he is so close to her and wonders why he is smiling, am I really funny. Lele tells him to put her down as she can go to her own room by herself. Eros puts her down as the elevator door opens. Embarrassed, Lele holds his arms and says good night. She quickly runs in the hallway and to her surprise, Eros is following her. Lele shouts why is he following her. Eros denies it. Lele shouts do not be with me. Eros says who wants to be with her. Lele shouts are you a pervert, I’ll call the police. Eros shouts sure, call them. Lele reaches her room [507] as she wonders what is Eros thinking of doing. Lele panics as Eros takes something from his pocket. It turned out to be a card key. Eros’ room is 506. Eros smiles and says good night. Sweatdrops and crying, Lele thought no way, what is this fate that I have, why do I have such bad luck. Just then, Lele hears a loud thump. Lele looks behind her and she is shock to find Eros on the floor. Lele asks what happened to him. Eros is in pain. Lele holds him up a bit as Eros says in Chinese, that cursed sashimi. Lele thought, what?!

Eros is on Lele’s bed. He got there by Lele pulling him using his arms to his room, pulls him up on the bed and finally kicks him in bed. Lele sighs in relief as he finally gets him on bed as Eros has a lot of ‘hits’/bruises from Lele trying to put him on her bed. Lele looks closely at him and thought that Eros looks really bad as if he is food poisoned. Lele feels sorry for him for he really can’t eat uncooked food, how can such a person exist. His stomach must really hurt, just watch me. Still a bit drunk, Lele takes out a bottle of medicine saying this is what Grandma prepared for her. The first kit includes medicines for headache, aching feet, whatever hurts, she has something for it, isn’t it lucky for you [Eros]. Lele opens Eros’ mouth and put in a spoonful of medicine. She says, now swallow this. Eros looks knocked out as it is bitter. Lele smiles and says that he is a good boy. Lele remembers Grandma putting an ointment on her stomach when she is a child and the pain quickly goes away. It is tiger balm. [It is a pain reliever for aches and pains including insect bites. I know it because we use that. =P ] Lele thought to put in, she must pull up Eros’ shirt by removing his pants. Gorgeous guy, sorry for being unpolite, I’m doing this to save you. Blushing, she tries to unbuckle his belt but Eros holds her hand asking what is she doing. This surprises Lele. Eros tells her that she is a lecherous woman for taking advantage of the situation to violate him. Lele is shock by this allegation. Lele explains that she is only helping him put on this medicine so that he would be more comfortable, it is a secret her grandma taught her, it is effective. She shows him the tiger balm ointment on her other hand though she laments that a little bit and she should have his abdominal muscles and shorts. Perspiring in pain, Eros says just to let him sleep and he will be okay. Eros promptly falls asleep.

Lele realizes that Eros is still holding her hand. She thought what is it now, does he plan to sleep here. Lele tries hard to pull her hand off him but Eros is holding on to her hand tightly. Lele laments what kind of grip is this, let my hand go, you go sleep in your own room. Ah, what now, does it mean that we will be holding hands throughout the night. Lele starts to nosebleed as she thought throughout the night. Lying her head on the bed, she thought am I being stimulated, my heart will not waver/be moved. This guy just have the same face as Angus, lying on her bed, so what. Blushing, Lele looks away as she tries to calm herself. Lele thought that if this has been revealed, Grandma will so shock to death, Xiao Qui will be jealous to death and her aunt will be happy to death. Lele then thought, why is your eyelashes so long and he seems to be asking to be kissed. Lele drools and thought should she finish what she has set out to do, while holding the tiger balm. She reprimands herself, Lele, you cannot, didn’t he say that he just needs to sleep. So that night, Lele fights over the temptation and in the end, she also has fallen asleep. Without her knowing, she has also climbed up the bed as she slept with Eros on the bed, holding hands.

Hehe, the two are really like cat-dog with their fights but then, having those fights show how they are ‘themselves’ and not pretentious/polite to each other. Though I don’t think Lele would have done that with Eros if she is sober. Lele have thought that he is quite familiar and I guess Eros loosen up after Lele made him laugh. It is really like the teasing they do when Eros pretends to be a bum. Even though Lele doesn’t admit it, she is attracted to Eros. I do wonder what Grandma thought when Lele says that a silver-eyed monster is bullying her. Would Grandma guessed that it is Eros and she is relieved as she will be safe and sound with Eros. Lele didn’t realize that what she felt for Eros is pretty much the kind of attraction/liking a person that Xiao Qui was telling her before. Lele have thought that smiling Eros is something familiar, she just didn’t equate it to her bum friend. I guess this is a bit of Lele’s talent of judging people from their moods and if they are nice – much like how she easily befriend/helped out Ti Fu.

Quote of the day:
A smile is a light in the window of your face that shows that our heart is at home. ~ Anonymous

Weekly Jump Update: Gintama, One Piece, D. Gray-man, Naruto and Bleach
Monday, May 21, 2007 @ 02:02 p.m.

Gintama [c. 165] starts with a flashback of Ito talking with Shinsuke in a boat. Ito is saying that genius people tend to be lonely, no one understands him, he isn’t there to just play around, no one understands, no one knows of his value, so he can only depend on his own talent. He plans to take Shinsengumi to the heights and put his name into everyone’s hearts. Shinsuke asks even if it will give him a bad reputation that this is how he is repaying Kondou. Ito is a bit surprised by this and says that being grateful to Kondou, he does have something to be grateful to that useless man, it is for supporting him though it isn’t something to be thankful about. Shinsuke stands up from the table where they are eating dinner. He looks out the window and laughs. He tells Ito that aside from Ito, he thinks that everyone else is stupid and because of that, he thought that no one will really understand him though Ito wants them to understand him, wants them to look at him, want them to know his own talent, don’t say it proudly, for he should be the only one to stop it for what Ito doing this won’t make people understand him and the thing that Ito wants is. Ito then wakes up from a dream. He finds himself all bloodied and that there is nothing beneath him. He looks around as his coat is hung on some piece of metal [used to be part of the chair] that prevents him from falling down and the chairs of the train is slant so the train is slanting down and cut in half. He wonders where he is. In the rubble at the side, he sees a piece of arm. He quickly thought that it is Hijitaka as he laughs saying he has won, he defeated Hijitaka. Then he notices that his own left arm is missing. Ito screams. Meanwhile, Bansai tells Gin that this suits Ito for Ito thought he is strong and doing things all for himself and not knowing his limits so using Ito is an easy thing to do. Gin says that they planned on making Shinsengumi fight each other to finish it off so they used Ito. Bansai says they just gives Ito the helping hand to betray Shinsengumi and in order to disappear, a person’s heart must be scattered so that Shinsengumi will lose its power. Bansai tells Gin regarding how Ito should die, when one betrays, he should also disappear because of betrayal.

While holding his bloodied left arm – what was left of it, Ito sees a helicopter above him and a man points a machine gun at him. The man starts firing as Ito shouts for it to stop. One of the bullet hits the metal that is holding Ito and Ito starts to fall down. Ito thought that he shouldn’t be dying at this kind of place, there is something he still wants to do, then he remembers his childhood. Flashback: Ito happily tells his mother that he got perfect score on a test. His mother tells him to keep quiet or else he will disturb his brother. His mother is looking after his brother who is sleeping. His mother then shut the door at him. Ito just says sorry. He crumbles the test paper and is determined to do better so that they would look at him. At school, the teacher praises Ito and tells everyone that they should also be like Ito. His classmates were jealous that after school, they beat him up. Ito picks up his glasses and thought that he should work harder so that others would accept him. At kendo class, Ito did great as he wins against his opponent. The teacher praises Ito for being good at this level at his age. But instead of accepting him, the other students resent him. He wonders why. Passing by his parents’ room, Ito hears his parents conversation. His mother laments that Ito’s brother’s illness is really grave just when he is the successor, how could this happen, is it because of his twin Ito, who is quite energetic. His mother theorizes that it is because Ito has taken much from his brother while they are still in the womb that it has robbed Ito’s brother of health/strength. His mother then says that it would have been best if Ito didn’t live. Ito is shock to hear this. His father reprimands her for saying such a thing and something might happen if Ito hears that. His mother insists that she doesn’t really understand why Ito always come in and out, doesn’t he feel sad for his own brother. His father tells her that maybe she is tired after taking care of their sick child, she should go to sleep. Ito has already sadly walked away. He takes off his glasses and wipes his eyes. He thought why, why doesn’t anyone would look at him. I have work hard, I didn’t do anything wrong, notice me, praise me. There are scenes of Ito studying hard and practicing kendo. End flashback.

Ito falls down as he tries to grab on something. He thought don’t let me be alone by myself, stay at my side, take my hand. Then, someone grabbed his hand. Ito looks a bit surprised and he looks up. It is Kondou who took his hand. Ito asks what is Kondou doing, does he even know that he was the one who betrayed and wanted to kill him. Kondou is being held together by a chain of Okita, Shinpachi and Kagura. Kondou tells a stunned Ito that it is his mistake, for almost being killed as a head, it is because he is powerless and let others take his life. He apologizes to Ito for not being the kind of qualification of a head to stay beside him and Ito is more likely a better head. Kondou tells him that he cannot just close his eyes when one of his members is about to be killed, nor he can just sit still while his member is being hurt. Kondou says that they aren’t some sort of military group, he just banded them all together, drink wine like friends, and I hope that you will be there, for there are still many things that he [Ito] can teach him. [Kondou calls Ito sensei obviously Kondou knows that Ito is quite intelligent] Ito is shock by Kondou’s words. Flashback: Kondou sitting on the floor thinking, being alone isn’t my fault, I didn’t do anything wrong, it is because they don’t have any ability/talent. He came to believe that he is different from others, he is the chosen one. I don’t believe I’m lonely, for being lonely is just something on other people’s mind. Afraid of being rejected by others, afraid of the pain after being rejected by others, that he made it appear that he is being happy being alone. That is what he made himself believe and want to make others to notice and accept him – he can do something that they can’t. He remembers Shinsuke saying that what Ito wants isn’t for people to understand him. Knowing that, Ito forgot the thing he really wants. The man in the helicopter starts to fire at Ito and Kondou. Ito thought even if he has reputation, talent at fighting is good, talent is also good, but it won’t be enough for people to understand him. Just then, someone is on top of the train. The man shouted to look there. It is Hijitaka as he jumps on the helicopter to cut its propeller. He shouts what are you doing, you should escape. Ito looks a bit surprised and thought, the one thing that he really needs, he already had it since earlier at that place. A scene of Kondou and others having a drinking party.

This chapter is great. I feel sorry for Ito. I guess being talented/genius has its downside as it alienated him from the other students. It is much worse that his own mother rejects him, blaming him as the cause as to why his brother is sickly. For someone like Ito who is doing his best so that people would accept him, it must be a huge blow when his own mother wishes that he wasn’t born. So, he came to rationalize that he is special and different from others. He didn’t know that it is just because he is lonely that he is doing all those things and he didn’t realize that with Kondou accepting him and partying with him and others, he has finally found his place. I hope he doesn’t die though. It feels crap when a character realizes what is important to him or rather realizes that he has it all along then dies. The author has killed off guest characters so it won’t exactly be a surprise if Ito dies either. About Kondou, I think he is the ‘heart’ of Shinsengumi. As the others tend to be coldhearted, etc, he is the softhearted guy whom they need so that they won’t ‘lose their way’ and become really bad.

Brook tells Franky and Robin that they should go back to the ship as Moria would always put the bodies back to the ship and send them away in One Piece [c. 456]. [I guess I am wrong about thinking that the bodies are throwing them into the sea – it is like sending them away into the sea] He explains to them that the bodies should be alive else the shadows that Moria has taken will just disappear. Since it takes around two days before people whose shadows are taken to wake up, Moria will use that chance to send the people adrift in their own ship, hoping that they can’t get back to Thriller Bark anymore. In Brook’s case, he woke up before he got lost at sea. He gave them sea salt which can drive away the shadows away from the zombies as it is from the sea and devil fruit is weak against the sea. He tells them after waking up, he wreck havoc in that place but he lost and since he feared for his life because of a promise with his nakama, he escaped to the sea. After living for so long, nothing has changed so he decided to not run away anymore and take back his shadow. Brook seems to have a flashback of his skull being broken and he looked a bit surprised. Franky and Robin notice this. Before Brook leaves, Franky asks a question. At the mansion, Usopp and others can’t believe that Luffy’s shadow has been taken. Hogback says with Luffy’s shadow, they can revive zombie 900 and after lots of research and working for Moria for 10 years, he has made a really powerful zombie. Absalom can be king of the graveyard. Perona wants to make all cute things into zombies. Moria says that with it, he won’t lose to a certain guy, Kaidoh in New World. Moria orders his underling to open the freezer where 900 is kept.

Absalom orders mice spiders to take Luffy’s body to the ship. Mice spiders tells Absalom that ‘Hummer’ has come back as Moneky spider is defeated and his shadow has been removed, some other zombies outside also had their shadows removed. Hogback is worried about it since Hummer/Brook knows how to defeat the zombies. Perona haven’t seen him before so they didn’t notice Brook has sneaked in. Moria orders them to do something about it as he is going to the freezer. A mice spider whispers something to Absalom who reprimands it for not telling him about it earlier. Absalom says if that is the case, they can stop them as he orders the mice spider to work and report to him if anything happens. Mice spider takes unconscious Luffy away as Nami is worried. Usopp tells her that Luffy should be okay since Brook is after his shadow is taken and for now, they should see where Luffy’s shadow is taken. Meanwhile, the other zombies are looking for Robin and Franky. They have escaped as Franky is crying as he is touched by Brook – whatever was that he asked him. Franky says that Brook is really something – a nice guy. Robin agrees with him. At Hogback’s lab, Brook has found Ryuma. Ryuma says why doesn’t he give up after being thrown down. Brook says but of course. Ryuma tries to dissuade him because he is Ryuma. Brook tells him to shut up for he is just his shadow. Ryuma says but because of his body, it has become stronger. Brook says he will get it back. At the freezer, zombie 900 is shown – it is a huge giant of giants berserker to be known as a devil. Wow, the thing that they are going to put Luffy’s shadow in is quite huge. I still wonder how it is going to ‘move/work’ with Luffy’s shadow since it doesn’t seem to be a ‘rubber’ body. If it is put in that thing, I’m thinking that they would have a harder time fighting it than Moria. ^^;; In this chapter, the motives of the others working for Moria is revealed. I do wonder if Perona is lying about not knowing Brook since she pauses/speechless when they talked about it. I’m amused it is salt that can free the shadows. Doesn’t salt is said to remove evil spirits so it is like exorcising the zombies. Hehehe But won’t it be easy to get Luffy’s shadow since they can just lure it with some meat and put salt on it.

Allen manages to remove the Noah from Tiki as Tiki apologizes to Rhode before passing out in D. Gray-man [c. 118]. Chaoji celebrates as Rhode gets angry that she hits Chaoji on the shoulder with her spiky candles. Rhode tells Allen not to move else, the others will die. Rinali realizes that they are surrounded by the candles as well as Allen. Rhode says that it might not kill off Allen. She goes to Tiki and holds him as she says that she likes Allen and it is the same as the like she has for her family. Allen tries to move but Rhode warns him not to for she is a bit angry, would he want to see the others die but that won’t be enough, there is still that one person from Allen’s group. Rhode says that she is going to torment Rabi’s heart which is still within her. Allen is surprised by this. Meanwhile, Rabi is trying not to lose himself as everyone he knew starts to come at him ala zombie from the coffins that surround him as he holds on to Rinali’s body. So, Allen won this around and the last fight will be Rhode vs Rabi. In Naruto [c. 354], Kakashi suggests that they capture Itachi with another group, best suited for capture to accompany them. Sasuke and others get some supplies from cat granny. After sealing the old man’s tailed spirit, Deidara is itching to go after Naruto and Kakashi for defeating him before and Sasuke for killing off Orochimaru before he can. Kisame asks speechless Itachi if Itachi is okay with that. It starts to rain as Sasuke and group moves out. Kakashi and others also move out with Hinata’s group and Yamato. Nothing much happened though I guess it will be Deidara and partner Tobi who will be seeing action. I do wonder if Itachi would also interfere. Hehe, Hinta’s group is the only group that haven’t seen action since season 2. I guess Kakashi replaces Kurenai as group leader for Hinata’s group since Yamato is already group leader for Naruto’s group.

Ishida asks Renji for how long can he distract Szayelaporro in Bleach [c. 275]. Renji says roughly 20 seconds. Ishida says that will be fine. Szayelaporro tells his goons not to interfere. Then there is a short scene of Neru’s hollow friends being found out by the other hollows. I’m not sure if they were tossed away when Renji is whirling his zapanku as Szayelaporro says it is useless, Renji can’t win like that against him. Szayelaporro hits Renji’s zanpaku away and before he knew it, Renji has used his zanpaku to tie them together. Szayelaporro hears Renji murmuring something. Renji says that he is really bad at demon arts and he usually creates an explosion using them but doing them in close range would hurt Szayelaporro, too. They exploded as both are wounded. Szayelaporro jumps away and realizes that Ishida is behind him. Ishida says that in all attacks whether successful or not, Szayelaporro has a tendency to jump away from the opponent at a certain distance. Szayelaporro says so what, Ishida also has a habit of appearing from behind and does he think that he can win that way. Ishida smiles and says he does. Holding on to that sword thingie/seele schneider of his, he puts it on the ground. The other four seele schneider activates as it’s ‘beam’ points to Szayelaporro as a point, the shape forms Quincey five point figure pendant. Szayelaporro cannot believe that this has happened for he has already rendered all of Ishida’s power useless. Ishida says that it just seems that Szayelaporro doesn’t know everything so let him say it in words that Szayelaporro could understand, he bids Szayelaporro goodbye in Spanish. Ishida pulls the seele schneider and that finishes off Szayelaporro. I kind of think that Ishida works best with a partner. Also, I wonder if it is also thanks to his father’s training and getting those swords, essentially helped him to have this victory. And it helps that Szayelaporro is a bit of a weakling. Indeed, Ishida is lucky this time around compared to when they invaded Soul Society. Finally, Ichigo’s group has won a fight with no loss. I’m doubtful though if Ishida really killed him since Ishida doesn’t tend to ‘kill off’ his enemies.

Word of the day:
Many people are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges. ~ Our Daily Bread.