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About this blog:
I usually write about the manga that I'm currently reading. At times, I write about the anime I watched. Since it is hard to share and talk my thoughts about a certain manga series when people don't know about it, I tend to summarize them from Chinese scanlations so beware, this blog is filled with spoilers and they are not 100% perfect. I'm partly doing this to improve my Chinese. ^^ Feel free to point out my mistakes. ^^ Occasionally, I would blog about myself and other misc. things.

Layout Credits:
Shinigami Hime no Saikon pic is scanned by hysteriabobo in Billwang. Quote is Author Unknown. Edited in Photoshop CS2. The background is from GRSites. Fujoshi Kanojo's Yuiko is from Tuku.cc Pleinair by Takehito Harada is from JumpC. Gin and Pleinair edited and animated in Photoshop. Moyashimon germ and Rabi gif are taken from ikunlun forum. Onion is from BW forum. VBR's Ageha is scanned by Amyangel19910323. SB! gif from lynncomic in baidu and Yoru Cafe chibis are from Petit official page. Emoticons from Emotasia.

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2011

01/20/03 - 02/20/03

Blog by pitas

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Manga pics from Sky-fire, 17kkmh, 89890 and BW Forum.

Most of the Quotes are from
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To God Be the Glory! \(^^)/

Mei-chan no Shitsuji [Chapter 118]
Saturday, January 28, 2012

Flashback: Xiang stood amidst of fire and smoke. He thinks, “..that, fundamentally is punishment. Within my heart, the desire to ‘monopolize’. Making the goddess, mother planet, to get angry.. So.. *scene of Rishu dead* but, this time, it isn’t.. *looks seriously at Mei who is shielding herself from the explosion. He took off his coat and put it over Mei.* This time, definitely.. I’ll absolutely protect her well..” While Xiang pulled Mei to him to protect her, Mei is surprised when he muttered, ‘Rishu..’ Mei wondered who that is. The ship exploded and the two fell into the water. While sinking in the water, Mei remembered a lecture before. Flashback 2: A nun told Mei and others that the butler’s clothes aren’t ordinary ones, rather, it is a high precision defensive cloth. It can withstand any attacks. Whether the scorching hot fire, or extremely cold water, it can still protect the body very well. So, by just wearing it, one will be completely safe. Miruku exclaimed then they should all wear it. Rika doesn’t want to wear that bad/crude kind of clothes. Fujiko wanted people to see more of her skin. Izumi told Miruku that it would be a bit heavy for her. Miruku sighed that it is quite cunning that only butlers have that kind of clothes. Mei told her that is enough, for butlers have a lot of problems to deal with. Later on, Rihito told Mei that the clothes’ real use isn’t to protect the butler. For at the crucial moment, it is to protect the very important ojousama. Or, one should say that it is their very important doppelganger/replacement. Rihito put his coat on Mei and said that it is like this, and one won’t do this kind of thing to anyone. “It is not limited that, one can even sacrifice oneself, to protect that person.” End flashback 2.

Mei woke up and saw that Xiang has lost consciousness. Just when he let her go, Mei quickly grabbed his hand. She pulled open the float within Xiang’s butler coat. Tightly holding on to Xiang, Mei rose to the surface. Then, something hits her head. She looks to the side to see that it is Shiori’s wheelchair. She quickly put unconscious Xiang on the wheelchair and starts kicking the water to swim ashore. End flashback. Scene: Sleeping Mei is lying on Xiang’s lap. Xiang thinks that finally, he[/they] did their best in attain the goal of [getting the] world’s number one ojousama, Mei-ojousama. To Xiang’s surprise, Mei opens her eyes and asks, “Mei? Who is that?” Then, Mei becomes Rishu. End scene. Xiang wakes up after hearing Mei shouting that finally, it caught a bit of fire. It turned out to be just a dream. Naked down to his underwear and covered with his coat, Xiang sits up and sees Mei trying to make fire by rubbing a stick on a piece of wood. Mei is wearing only her undergarments. Mei happily says that he is awake. Mei urges him to hurry for there is a bit of fire there, and it can help him warm up. Xiang tries to decline but Mei just tells him that their clothes are all wet. She apologizes for helping him strip off his clothes. “The weather is quite good so I think they ought to quickly dry up. Ah, it would be much better, if you keep wearing that coat!” Soon, the two quietly sit by the bonfire that Mei made to warm themselves. She tells him that this place has a small island, and she can still see dry land so she thinks that it shouldn’t be far away. She wonders out loud if Kento and Rihito are okay.

Xiang asks her why she saved him. Mei tells him that about that..there is someone who is drowning in front of her, of course, she ought to save him, and does she need to explain that. Xiang tells her that for making him live, he will still go and get rid of the Shibata brothers. “They are only a burden to you, as long as those two are at your side.. You’ll [only] pass through this life confused. Mei-ojousama, I wish that you’ll possess a bigger dream.” After thinking for a while, Mei calls out to him and asks who Rishu is. Xiang looks surprised and asks how come she knew of that name. Mei says that while he was unconscious, he would keep on calling that name. Looking away, Xiang tells her that it has been such a long time ago..a childhood friend. Mei asks, “Could it be that I’m the substitute of that person?” Looking slightly flustered, Xiang denies that it is so..and it is absolutely not that. To his surprise, Mei smiles and tells him that it is alright, even if it is so. She asks him what’s up about what he said about true happiness. “I don’t quite understand, but.. to be living like this, it ought to be considered as ‘very happy[/lucky]’, right? *smiles* Thank you for protecting me.” Xiang blushes a bit. Then, Mei hears some sounds of a helicopter flying overhead. Mei exclaims that it is a helicopter and it might be Rihito and the others. Mei excitedly calls out ‘here, here’. Then, to her surprise, Xiang covers her mouth. Mei noticed that the fire had been put out. He tells her, “Mei-ojousama, have you forgotten? There are still five days before your birthday, and on that day, whoever [man] you brought in front of Kintarou-sama, will become your husband.. I have already decided, Mei-ojousama, that I will absolutely not give you away to any other man.” Flustered Mei is surprised by this.

When I first read it, I find it really funny. It is truly, truly rare to see the lead girl saving a guy, much less an antagonist this way. So, that ‘dream’ turns out to be the opposite, the one who was stripped of his clothes is Xiang, not Mei. =P It does seem that even if Xiang denies it, he is projecting Mei as Rishu. I think his insistence that she only think of bigger things rather than be pulled down by the two guys..seems a bit similar with Rishu’s situation before. It does seem that Xiang thinks that if he can make Mei accomplish things of a grander scale like Rishu, he can atone for his ‘sin’ on wanting to have Rishu for himself. That is really quite sad in a way. Interestingly, he doesn’t seem interested in having Mei for himself. He just seems to not want her to be married/tied down to any guy. He obviously still loves and misses Rishu. So, I wonder how things will turn out from here on. This is really a series that I can’t guess what will happen..the author is really good in ‘thinking out of the box’. I was really surprised by the turn of events. Mei is really admirable to know what she ought to do in crucial times. Rather than just saving herself, she chose to save Xiang who has giving her problems lately. Actually, I guess they can say that they are even, since he also protected her. I can now understand why Rihito was really angry and frustrated..at that time, the only one who is near Mei and has that protective butler coat is Xiang. At that time, both brothers aren’t wearing it. Scans by 17kkmh.com

Word of the day:
To overlook an offense. To forgive 70 times 7. To bear with human frailty and failure. To show mercy and kindness to those who exasperate us. To gain such control over our souls — this is the work of God. ~ Our Daily Bread

Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun [Chapter 34]
Friday, January 27, 2012

Lying on the living room’s floor, Shizuku thinks that it can’t be helped if she can’t become friends with Yamaken. She looks at the side at laughing Haru who is watering the plants. She asks him why he is in her house everyday. Title: On the Next Summer Vacation, part 3, the last summer Blurb: “Everyone, life’s experience hurts a bit, and it makes one become mature a bit.. Although you still don’t know, but one day, you’ll definitely pass through, a beautiful [period of] time-” The cicadas are chirping. Asako is standing in front of the game center. She looks nervous. She thinks that she will do it as she practiced, just give Micchan the souvenir. She also thinks that she even wore the mature heeled sandals that she brought during the trip. She starts climbing up the stairs, and then she quickly goes down the stairs. She berates herself that it is meaningless if she just goes out. Then, Haru sees her and asks what she is doing there. Haru asks her if she wants to eat some takoyaki. He tells her that auntie [/woman owner] sold those to him even if she is researching on using ice cream during summer but it all melted. Turning to leave, Asako says that she will go home first. Haru notices the bag that she is carrying. Then, Haru asks Asako if she has finished her school work for summer. Later on, at Shizuku’s house, she asks why Haru and Asako are there. Then, she let it pass since they are studying. Reading from his notes, Haru says that they will start with mathematics, the first page’s first problem is θ = 30°+360° x n, and the answer is 150° + 360° x n. Copying what he said, Asako exclaims that she doesn’t know how to write θ. Shizuku sweatdrops and tells them that it is meaningless for them to do the schoolwork like this. Shizuku asks Haru if he has finished his homework. Haru tells her that he finished it at the start of summer vacation because it is no big deal for him. Shizuku says that his class progress is slow. He tells her that right now, he is doing the free homework of Oga-sensei’s decoration[/putting things in order]. Asako comments that Haru is more serious in that field [of beautifying the class]. It is already August, midway of a busy summer which has become a summer as it used to be [in the past]. Shizuku calls out to Takaya to help out since she is tidying up the garden. Takaya asks if it is okay, not to do it today. Fixing her hat, Shizuku tells him that it is a necessity to tidy up for Obon festival, and isn’t he going to grandma’s house. She also tells him that he should wear his hat since it is hot. After going downstairs, Takaya greets Natsume and Yoshida..then, changes it to Haru. Haru happily greets back and asks if the jam that he [Haru] got, was delicious. Asako happily tells Takaya that this will be the future, Haru will be a ‘brother’.

Putting on his cap, Takaya sits at the porch and thinks that this is super complicated. While watering the plants in her school PE uniform, Shizuku tells Takaya to take out the props from the water jar, and then tidy things up in the warehouse. Shizuku thinks that it is quite rare but she wants to plan some vegetables like cucumber and eggplants. Takaya asks her if she is ‘intensely passionate’ with Haru. This surprises Shizuku. Looking at the plants that she is watering, Shizuku says that theory-wise, it is indeed ‘intensely passionate’. Thinking that his sister is shy, Takaya says is that so, then that’s really good. Blushing Shizuku wonders where did Takaya learn about those words, and in the end, she still has no way of properly talking with Haru during the camping trip. “Until now, I still don’t quite understand the meaning of going steady.” Back in the living room, Asako apologizes to Haru. She admits that today, she planned on giving a souvenir to Micchan but just like before, she couldn’t naturally face him. She tells him that she still doesn’t what kind of face she should have in facing him. Haru assures her that she has nothing to worry about for Micchan is a very good guy. At the game center, Yuuzan is carrying to huge paper bags of food. He tells Micchan that these are souvenirs. While Yuuzan put all sorts of jams on the counter, Micchan asks if he really went. Opening the jam, Yuuzan says yes, and he bumped into Haru and Shizuku. Gloomily breaking the baguette, Yuuzan tells Micchan that those two’s relationship is harmonious and Mitsuyoshi couldn’t understand the feeling of an older brother whose younger brother got something first, and now, Haru has a girlfriend. Micchan tells him to quickly find a girlfriend and don’t do any unnecessary things. After putting some jam on half of the baguette, pouting Yuuzan complains over how everyone considers him as some bad guy, and for them to say that, makes him want to hinder them more, and he will definitely hinder them. Then, Micchan tells him to stop being like that and, asks him if he had seen the person whom he truly wants to see. Yuuzan sighs and says yes, forget it. He asks what Haru is doing. Micchan tells him that Haru is at Shizuku’s house everday, and he mentioned about planning vegetables at the courtyard. Yuuzan says that it really makes him feel envious. Back at Shizuku’s place, Haru comes in with a rake and tells Shizuku that he has finished throwing away the grass and stones. Shizuku says is that so, then come and rest for a while. Looking at a book, Shizuku asks him what he thinks. Haru says that they still need more soil, also some lime and fertilizer. He tells her that Oga-sensei makes them, so tomorrow, he’ll go and get some. The next day, they head to school to get some. They pass by Shitayanagi and others who were jogging. And, Haru waves at Sasayan who is playing at the baseball field.

Then, as it rains, Haru and Shizuku eat watermelons together at the porch. Then, Shizuku says that it has been too natural that she forgot about it. “Haru, why are you coming to my house everyday?” Haru asks if she only thought of it now, why, well, it is because they are going steady, and everyday, there is nothing for him to do anyway. Shizuku sighs and says that Haru hasn’t changed because at her side, she has been thinking of the meaning of ‘going steady’ like an idiot. Surprised, Haru asks if she is still thinking of that. Shizuku says that it is because even if they say that they are going steady, there hasn’t been any change and to put it bluntly, she thinks that she isn’t attaining something. Haru says how could she say that when he helped her a lot, although it is totally not about that. Shizuku says that the rain has stopped. She asks Haru to help him hang dry the finished laundry. Shizuku thinks that there is always no ‘two people in one world’, and does Haru think that way, too. While hanging the laundry to dry, Shizuku says that after studying, she’ll go out shopping so what Haru wants to eat for dinner. Haru declines for today is when he and Micchan eat out for ramen. Then, Haru stares at some panties. Embarrassed Shizuku quickly grabs them and exclaims that he doesn’t have to help her with it. Haru is shock over those kind of luxurious panties of hers. Shizuku asks him if he can’t accept it. They were interrupted by Sasayan who asks them what they are doing. He tells them that he heard from Micchan that Haru is there, and the pictures from camping had already been developed so he brought them. While they were looking at the pictures, Sasayan asks if they are going to the En-nichi [/temple fair] tomorrow. Since Haru doesn’t know about it, Sasayan tells him that a nearby temple is going to have a fair, and a lot of people from their school are going. Sasayan laughs and says that they plan to take pictures of section A. Haru comments that he’s jealous. Shizuku quietly looks at him. After a pause, she slightly blushes and asks him about going together to the En-nichi. Then, they were surprised when Takaya mentions loudly that is nice to have cotton candy and caramel apple. Shizuku says that he returned and how grandma is. Takaya says that her face is filled with wrinkles, and there is no other place he got to go during summer vacation, except for grandma’s house, whereas his sister gets to have lots of fun. Shizuku looks shock-guilty.

The next night at the temple, Sasayan, together with his friends, call out to Haru and others that they are there. Haru, Shizuku and Takaya are all wearing yukata. Takaya is already eating cotton candy. Shizuku greets Sasayan a good evening, and Haru says that he is envious of Sasayan who is surrounded by people, even today. Haru is surprised when Shitayanagi and his mouse, exclaims that he is wearing a yukata. Haru’s two classmates call out that they take pictures. While Haru with his section A classmates take pictures, Shizuku is introducing Takaya to the others, and Sasayan is greeting someone he knows. Then, Asako, who is wearing her new shoes, arrives. She happily goes to Shizuku and Takaya to tell them that they are cute. Shizuku tells her that she asked her mother about borrowing it. Asako notices that Sasayan is looking at her. He asks her if she went to see Micchan. Blushing, Asako looks away and timidly says that she is busy with her new blog so she wasn’t able to. Sasayan reprimands Asako as to what she is doing, because it has been a week since the camping trip. He tells her not to do other stuff, which is obviously her way of running away. Flustered Asako shouts what he is saying all of a sudden, shut up for she came here today to have fun. Trembling in awe, Haru is teary-eyed that after 17 years, it is the first time in his life that he was able to blend in with his classmates. After Shizuku says that they should go, Takaya asks if he can eat three kinds of food that he likes to eat. Shizuku tells him that he already ate a cotton candy, so it is now two kinds of food. Asako exclaims that tonight, she is going to defeat the En-nichi [/win games]. Haru wants to play some shooting games, and boasts that he is an expert in it. He asks Takaya what he wants to have. Takaya tells him the plasma television. Later on, Asako plans to buy a mask. Shizuku is angry that Haru gave Takaya another cotton candy. Soon, they are playing in a shooting gallery booth. Takaya watches his sister who doesn’t seem too happy over the human-squid-like doll Haru won for her because she wants the bunny one. Later on, Shizuku is sitting by herself. Haru approaches her and asks what the matter is. She comments that it is unexpected that he has a yukata. He tells her that it is the lady owner of the takoyaki store made him wear it. The owner said that Haru looked quite the same as her deceased grandfather, but they didn’t look alike after making her let him see the picture. Taking something from his pocket, Haru says that he almost forgot something. Then, there are a couple of flowers on Shizuku’s ear. Haru happily tells her that it is so cute. Haru says that he got the flowers from the niche of the statue, and it really suits her. Blushing Shizuku thanks him. Takaya is watching them.

While eating something, Takaya calls out to his sister and says that he had bumped into Sasayan and others. They had told him about lighting up fireworks so can he go. Shizuku says that social interaction is a necessity so she’ll walk him to that place. Haru wants to go, too, but Shizuku tells him to stay and wait for Asako. While walking, Shizuku asks Takaya if he doesn’t like Haru. Takaya says not really, for he doesn’t really specially like nor hate him. “Sis.. you’re not the same when you are with Haru..” This surprises Shizuku and she wonders in what way. While Takaya runs off to join the others, crying Asako calls out to Shizuku and says that her feet hurt that she can’t walk anymore. While clinging on to Shizuku to help her walk, Asako exclaims that she was able to walk for a short while and she is already worn out. Shizuku angrily says why she wore those shoes. Asako says that it is because she just bought them. They arrive to where Haru is. Haru asks them what they are doing. Then, Chizuru and Yuu meet up with them. They exchange greetings and apology for not able to go to the camping trip even if they were invited. Haru tells Chizuru that the others are taking pictures. Chizuru says that they had also met up with Shitayanagi. Asako says that they went to see Yuu’s boyfriend, Tokita, so how is Okinawa. Yuu says that it is so much fun, and she got to see Tokita for real [/live] after a year of separation. Chizuru tells them that they went to the beach, and at times, eat Okinawa ramen but after passing through such happy days, it became difficult to go back. Flashback: While lighting up fireworks, Yuu said that they would be leaving tomorrow, and time passed by really fast. Tokita said that he had lots of fun, and he anticipates that next year, she can come and hang out with him again. Then, Yuu started to cry. She apologized for she had thought that they won’t be able to meet until next year’s summer. She told him that she had wanted to say goodbye while smiling. Tokita grabbed her shoulder and exclaimed that he will properly study so that he can be in the same university where Yuu will go. He told her that he will definitely get in so that they will be together forever after graduation. While the two hugged each other, Chizuru smiled and is happy for them. End flashback. Yuu says that is how it is but right now, every night, they had been passionately studying together through video chatting[/chatrooms] because Tokita is stupid so he has to work hard. Blushing Asako exclaims in praise over that kind of romance. Shizuku asks if it is okay if one’s college aspiration is decided like that. Haru asks if Tokita is Yuu’s uncle. ^^;

Chizuru tells him that it is Yuu’s boyfriend. Yuu tells Shizuku to forget that, and there is always a way. She mentions to Shizuku about praying at the shrine regarding their studies. Shizuku seems to like the idea, and Haru is laughing that Tokita is stupid. Then, Chizuru asks him what made him think that Tokita is an uncle. Slightly blushing, Asako quietly looks at them. While Yuu congratulates Shizuku and Haru for going steady, Chizuru goes to Asako to give her some adhesive bandage [band aid] for her feet. Asako thanks her and says that it seems Chizuru and Haru’s relationship is quite good. Chizuru says that it is not only her, for right now, Haru can also chat a bit with his other classmates. Asako tells her that isn’t what she meant. Asako becomes embarrassed when Chizuru tells her that she was rejected after Valentine’s day, and he said that he likes someone else, but actually, it is quite good that he told her that because if he didn’t definitely refuse her, for sure, it is impossible for them to be like this right now. After Chizuru and Yuu wave goodbye to the others, Chizuru notices that Yuu is looking at her. Yuu says that it is nothing, and Chizuru has really been striving hard. Slightly pushing Yuu’s head, blushing Chizuru says that Yuu’s nature is very bad. Yuu laughs and tells her to quickly find a boyfriend, and she will help introduce her to some since she knows a lot of guys. Just then, Takaya bumps on to Chizuru and fell. While Yuu says that it is Shizuku’s younger brother, Chizuru holds the caramel apple that Takaya dropped, to him. Giving him back the apple, Chizuru apologizes and asks if he is alright. Takaya looks awed by her and he thanks her. While walking away, Yuu asks Chizuru when she is free, but Chizuru tells her that she told her before that she doesn’t have to do that. Back to the trio, Haru asks what’s next. Shizuku says that according to Yuu’s information, this is a rare opportunity to go visit [shrine/pray]. Haru says that he doesn’t have objections even if he isn’t interested in that. Shizuku asks if Asako can now walk. Asako tells them that she’ll just wait there for them, and it is also meaningless for her to do that [/pray at the shrine]. Just as the two are leaving, Asako happily looks at the two, then she calls out to Shizuku. She tells Shizuku that by liking someone, one ought to want to stay with the other person for a long time, as much as one possibly can. Shizuku looks surprised by this, and Asako smiles back at her.

While walking together with Haru, Shizuku eats a roasted cuttlefish. Blushing, and heart beating loudly, she thinks that it is because Asako said those strange things that she always has been thinking of that aspect. Haru says that he had fun today, and he even met a lot of people. Shizuku looks at him, and blushes really red. She freaks out when Haru suddenly turns around to her and asks if the roasted cuttlefish is delicious, and speaking of that, she always eat cuttlefish. Haru laughs and says that it seems he had to guarantee that there will be cuttlefish. Shizuku tells him that she thinks that as long as they don’t go to an uninhabited island, then there shouldn’t be a problem. Haru says that an uninhabited island isn’t bad, and it seems interesting. “With you around, if I can see you everyday, whatever the place is, it is very nice.” Shizuku looks at him as he happily whistles. Shizuku asks could it be that it is because he likes her, that is why he goes to her house everyday. Puzzled Haru says yes. Shizuku blushes and wonders why Haru’s answers are always very clear. Haru is surprised when blushing Shizuku holds out her hand to him and exclaims, “Give me your hand! Just like before, let’s hold hands. I also like you, Haru.” As they held hands while walking, blushing Haru giggles and says that he felt very shy. Shizuku says ya, even if before they also held hands. Haru tells her that he felt very happy. Shizuku thinks that the premise of ‘mutually liking each other’ is being able to be together. “..it’s very good. This so-called going steady felt really good.” Then, they pass by a goldfish scoop booth. Shizuku says, “..Haru, I want a goldfish.” Elsewhere, Sasayan is calling on the phone as he seems to remember asking Asako if she still likes Micchan. After a pause, Asako seemed to have answered, what about it. Then, Sasayan notices something. He sweatdrops and asks Asako what she is doing. Asako is sitting with the mask on her face. Removing the mask, Asako says that it is to prevent guys from hitting on her. Sasayan asks where Shizuku and the others are. Asako says that it is quite rare so she let those two to be in ‘two people’s world’ and Shizuku still seem to quite understand things but then, she is the same. Feeling guilty, Sasayan admits to her that he talked with Micchan and he told her that he rejected her. Pulling his cap to cover his face, Sasayan says that at that time, he didn’t think that she will be this dejected up to this degree. “..I’ve obviously said that I will support you. I’m sorry.”

Asako says that it is alright, and it has nothing to do with him, for anyway, no matter what she does, the outcome is the same. She tells him that has always been wondering why Micchan bluntly rejected her. Maybe she caused him to say that, or perhaps, because she is still a kid. She says that even if that is so, then, in the end, Micchan is such a kind person for he didn’t vaguely treat what she was feeling [/didn’t beat around the bush]. Later on, Asako writes a message to Shizuku to apologize that she went home to change her shoes because her feet hurt. She wrote that Shizuku just spend time with Haru and while it is convenient, she’ll pass by at Micchan’s place. Wearing flat shoes on her feet that are covered with adhesive bandages, Asako peeks in from the corner. She calls out to Micchan. After he called out her name, Asako goes out to tell him that even if it is late, but she brought him a souvenir from the camping trip. Micchan smiles and thanks her. He asks if she had cheered up a bit. Asako smiles a bit and says yes. Preparing to bid him goodbye, Asako tells him that she is midway on her way back to the En-nichi and she apologizes that the food is going to expire tomorrow. Micchan tells her to come back again next time. Asako looks at him and smiles. While walking downstairs, Asako thinks that she ought to have done well, and she was able to smile. She tells herself that it is alright, and this is really good. Then, she notices that Sasayan has been waiting for her downstairs. She asks why he specially came there. Sasayan says that it is because he is very concerned[/worried]. Asako says, geez, it is already totally fixed, and Micchan also told her to come back again, and she can already act natural. She starts crying and says that for her, she felt that what she did is already quite good. After looking a bit uneasy, Sasayan takes of his cap and puts it on Asako’s head. He tells her that they should go. While pulling Asako’s hand as they walk, Sasayan tells crying Asako that it is alright, for he, and also Haru and Shizuku are by her side, and it is quite good that they can be together during second term. The next day, Shizuku’s water jar is now filled with goldfishes. Takaya asks what that is about. Looking at the fishes, Shizuku tells him that it is goldfishes that Haru helped her win. Shizuku happily thinks that when Haru comes today, they will buy water plants together. While there are some how to take care of goldfish books scattered around, Shizuku asks Takaya if he is finished with his homework for next week, it is back to school. Takaya says that he is going to do it now. Shizuku thinks that yes, days like this are very good and it would be better if it would always continue on like this. Blurb: “So summer vacation of all sorts of interweaved emotions has ended. ..And soon, it will be the incoming new school term!!”

This is nice. ^^ It makes me think that the water jar is some sort of metaphor for Shizuku’s heart. It has been empty/not used like how it was meant to be, for a long time..and it is already being filled but she doesn’t realize it until some people pointed it out to her. Finally, she got the goldfishes that she wanted when she was a child. For her to ask Haru to get those to her, seems like a major thing for she had always been sacrificing things for the sake of everyone/family but now, she let herself be a bit spoiled. Her world is no longer limited to ‘studying and become rich’. About thinking the going steady thing as ‘the same as before’, I guess it is because Shizuku is thinking too logically/practical about things. Just like her comment on the decision of Yuu’s boyfriend to study in the university where she goes, Shizuku thinks that isn’t the right way to do it and she didn’t think that they just want to be together. Takaya and Asako change her way of thinking about it. She thought that there is no change in any way but Takaya mentioned to her that there is a change. She had been blushing more, letting herself be spoiled and it seems that she had softened up a bit. Maybe through what Yuu mentioned about her boyfriend, Asako realizes something and mentions to Shizuku that ‘going steady’ is more on ‘being together always’. This had made Shizuku stop thinking ‘what do I get from this going steady thing, nothing seemed to have change’ to ‘I feel very happy being with him, so this going steady thing is good’. It is like more of heart than the mind. So, this pretty much resolves her question on what this going steady is all about. If Shizuku is more of ‘mind’, Asako is obviously more on ‘heart’ that is why she can still be very emotional regarding Micchan after such a long time. I’ve remembered what Haru mentioned about Shizuku that she easily let go, and well, Asako is the opposite, she has a hard time letting go. I guess Sasayan felt guilty because aside from not helping her much, he probably secretly wanted her to be dumped so that he can have a chance with her. It can really be heartbreaking to see someone, one likes, to keep crying over a broken heart and is having a hard time getting over it. I wonder if it crossed Sasayan’s mind that maybe it would be better if Micchan went steady with Asako so that she will be smiling rather than crying all the time. For Sasayan to sternly urge her to meet with Micchan, it makes me think that he is somewhat like Shizuku who can be a bit strict. Of course, it is already mentioned that Asako and Haru are very the same and they can be quite childish. Hm..it does seem that Sasayan is indeed their official photographer. =P Aside from Sasayan’s urging, it could be because of what Chizuru said, and seeing how Chizuru and Haru’s current relationship is, it is the final push for Asako to finally go and meet with Micchan again. She seems to doubt her decision but things will be alright, just like how Sasayan and Haru assured her. So, since two rejected girls decided to become friends with the guys whom they liked but rejected them, I wonder if Yamaken will go with that path later on. I wonder if Chizuru will agree to Yuu’s suggestion on matching her up with other guys. I’m not sure if there is some thing between that Takaya and Chizuru encounter, but I’m more open to the idea of Chizuru with any of the Kaimei guys.

Yuu’s love story is really nice. A long distance relationship really takes a lot of effort to work. It is indeed a bit doable and convenient, thanks to modern technology. I’m amused with Haru’s reaction to Yuu’s love story. If Asako is emotional and Shizuku is practical, Haru is clueless. =P His brain is really wired differently. Just like what Shizuku observed, he is very frank. I think he is like an innocent child who is very straightforward, honest, and can sometimes say/do the most unexpected things. =P He might not be able to say much romantic stuff like how he answered when Shizuku asked him why he is always at her house but he makes it up with nice touching gestures. I think Haru isn’t that proactive lately after Shizuku hit him on the head..when he thought it is okay to do that on their first date. =P I’m also amused that Haru is the type who doesn’t buy flowers and why buy them when he can just pick them up for free, around the place. =P He is already doing a good job in pampering the future brother-in-law. =P Actually, the way he helped Shizuku around the house and always staying at her place during the rest of summer vacation while Shizuku is at home, it seems like they are a married couple. =P Shizuku didn’t realize that what they are doing is already like being ‘two people in the world’. Also, it does seem that in the long run, it is a good thing for Haru to be in a different classroom as the others. Chizuru is also a big help in helping him blend in by explaining things to him. From Haru’s interests, I think he would be more on biology than mathematics in the future so he’ll probably walk the steps of his aunt. Micchan is really a good guardian for Haru. He does seem to pick up the baton that his mother passed on to him. It is nice that he sets some ‘family time’ with Haru because there are even days when he make sure to go out and eat with Haru. I think Kyouko must be smiling over these two boys whom she had brought up really well. As for Yuuzan, it seems to confirm my hunch that he is doing things to irritate Haru because he is jealous that Haru is free to do the things he wants without any burden of responsibility, and Haru is better than him..well, in this case, he got a girlfriend first. =P I guess Yuuzan is a victim of ‘labeling’ wherein everyone thinks he is a ‘bad guy’ so he can’t help but do what everyone expected him to do. ^^; He is also kind of childish in a way..and it really makes me wonder if it is because of how the parents brought him and partly Haru up..unless it was just some other servants who did that, or maybe it is because they are naturally ‘eccentric’. It is amusing that Yuuzan really eats a lot. Did he brought those stuff as souvenirs for Micchan, or are they for him to eat? =P I wonder if he does any exercise to burn all those calories off..and if not, it won’t be long when his metabolism slows down and he becomes fat. On the other hand, Haru would probably still be trim since he is moving and climbing around like a monkey. Would that be another reason for him to be jealous over Haru? Lastly, I find the title worrisome. Why is it last summer? Is this their last summer together? Does it mean something else other than what I’m thinking? Maybe like ‘last summer chapter’ of the arc? I guess we’ll know later on. While searching for info on plumeria, I came across this ‘in Polynesian culture the blossom is worn behind the right ear if a lady is seeking company, and behind the left, if she is already attached.’ I wonder if Haru read about that or it is a coincidence he put the flowers on her left ear. =P Scans by 離境漢化組.

Word of the day:
God has a purpose in our heartaches, the Savior always knows what’s best;We learn so many precious lessons in each sorrow, trial, and test. God allows adversity into our lives not to break us but to better us. ~ from Our Daily Bread

Free Talk: Kaichou wa Maid-sama! 67
Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Kaichou wa Maid-sama! 67 is already out in English when the Chinese came out so I won’t be summarizing it anymore because I think that no one will read it so why bother. ^^; Aside from my earlier comment about Misaki’s gift is nice, I’ll say that I find Tora oddly intriguing. Seeing them riding on horses, I thought that it would be more outlandish if they come in with elephants just like in OHHC. It seems that yuukuzuri’s scans are missing a page..the one I find interesting..after I re-checked it since I could have just missed it ^^;;

Anyway, in that page, after Usui said that his special day starts and he left, Tora says that it seems that after evening is forbidden [/out of bounds] but anyway, since the party is a success, he’ll let Usui do as he pleases. Maki asks if this has something to do with the Walker family. Tora just says that somewhat deepening the favorable relationship has come to an end. Maki tells Tora not to be busy [run this way and that] again. Tora says that it seems that Maki hates seeing him to ‘bend and scrap to curry favor’/fawning at someone else. Maki quietly scowls. Tora tells him that this is a special situation so just bare with it, for no matter what, the other party is the Walker family. Then, the scene changes to Misaki returning the bicycle. I’m kind of hoping that Tora has his own agenda while doing all of Gerard’s whims. Fufu..maybe make the Walker family lose all of their money or something, just like in Ojousama wa Oyomesama. =P Then, won’t it be interesting to know if Usui will help them or not, if they are in trouble? It makes me wonder if it is partly because of Maki’s displeasure over what Tora is doing, that he sneaked Misaki in the party. At least, it is established that Tora doesn’t seem to like doing this ..at least, I hope he doesn’t want to have that kind of impression on Maki, and given his status and pride, I don’t think he wants to be pitied like that by Usui. From what he said, it seems to hint that he has to do it because it is the Walker family. Could it be because of a special favor or is it because Walker family is much more influential than Igarashi family? I think it is like how Kaon and others force themselves to befriend Usui because Tora said so, and they need him. Anyway, I hope that Tora can somewhat turn the tables on Gerard. It would be nice if it is Usui..but it seems that he is too passive/easy-going to do that.

Kyou no Kira-kun [Chapter 3]
Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Page 3 – Magic Time Cover page: “I really like sleeping time. I’m very, very envious of Sleeping Beauty, whom my mother told me about when I was a child. Because, that way, I won’t be able to feel anything. Fundamentally, it should be like that.” Nino, together with Sensei, goes downstairs and she is surprised to see Kira eating breakfast with her parents. Her parents greet Nino a good morning. Kira tells Nino that she is too slow, and her hair is still messy. Sensei exclaims to Nino’s mother as to why she let that guy in. Happily donning her sailor uniform as cosplay, Nino’s mother tells him that she just went out to the gate and saw him by chance. “He said that he was waiting for you ♡ You guys have become good friends?! That really makes me happy, and I should inform Yuuji-kun’s father about it.” Nino just looks nervous. Narration: “Kira-kun, he had walked into my ‘daily life’.” During lunch break at the back of the building, Kira tells Nino that regarding the list of wanting to do, he is currently slowly thinking about it. Nino says is that so, then if he is finished, he can show it to her. Sensei exclaims that right now, the place where he really wants to go is the zoo. He says that he longs to go there, where many of his comrades are, and he wants to see the penguins. Then, Kira’s cellphone rings a message. He is surprised to read it. It is from someone named Shitara Mio [guesswork name from 設樂美櫻]. Kira stands up and tells Nino that he will be going to the clinic. Nino exclaims if he is feeling unwell. Kira looks surprised. He flicks her fringes and tells her no, he is only going to lazy around a bit since he is sleepy. Walking away, he tells her to quickly go [back to class/not wait for him]. Holding her fringes, Nino wonders what that is. Sensei says that Kira doesn’t look sleepy at all. Then, Nino wonders what Kira’s ailment is. Then, to her surprise, Yabe, who is standing at the side, calls out to her as Bird Girl. Nino freaks out for it is the ‘shit guy’. She asks what it is. With crossed arms, Yabe asks if she likes Kira. Surprised Nino asks, how can that be.

Yabe tells her, “Then, let me give you an advice first. You shouldn’t be only doing this plaything as a way of passing time, and I’ll tell you something first. That guy already has someone, whom he has always been chasing, to have.” Nino didn’t react and Yabe smiles over this. Yabe proudly asks if she is embarrassed, and it is her fault for being so cocky. Nino just says, ya, is that so. This surprises Yabe that he shouts, “Why don’t you look a bit shock! *embarrassed* Darn it!” Nino lamely says, ya, sorry. Sensei thinks that this guy is a B class. Narration: “Kira-kun, has someone he likes?” At the train, somewhat glum Nino is sitting with sleeping Kira. Then, she overhears a couple of girls saying that it is a handsome guy, and what’s up with the girl beside him, she has a bird on her shoulder. Nino glances at Kira and thinks, “So that’s how it is. I had never considered some of these things. I and Kira-kun are totally different. He is a ‘boy’.” Then, Kira wakes up from his nap. While he is still a bit drowsy, Nino asks him if it is really okay for him to be with her. Kira asks her why she is asking this question all of a sudden. To his surprise, she tells him that he ought to have a girl he likes. Kira looks at Nino who is looking down. He tells her that he admires Tetsuko Kuroyanagi [internationally famous Japanese actress, a talk show host, a best-selling author of children book, a World Wide Fund for Nature advisor, and a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Source: wiki] and it seemed like there is candy sticking on the hair. Nino tells him that isn’t what she meant. Kira asks back, “How about you? Could it be that you don’t have one?” Kira looks at her, and Sensei seems thoughtful. Looking down again, Nino tells him that she totally has no chance in that kind of thing and not one bit, did she even have that kind of thinking. Kira looks at her and suddenly says that there is no school tomorrow, so she ought to be free. “How about accompanying me a bit?” Nino looks surprised and wonders where they will go.

The next day, they stand in front entrance of a zoo. Nino looks aghast. Sensei looks happy. Massaging his shoulder, Kira says that it has been a long time since he went there. Holding on to a boulder display, trembling Nino asks, what this is about, and what does he plan on doing there. Grabbing her arm, Kira tells her, “What am I going to do here? This is to have fun. You ought to like animals, right? Since you own a parrot. Okay, we are going.” Nino exclaims that she likes them but they hate her so she won’t go in. “Once I encounter a dog, and it chased after me and cats would always snarl at me..” She is surprised when Sensei excitedly calls out, “Curly, are you coming or not--!!” Kira tells Nino to quickly come. Nino wonders why things turn out like that. At a lamb pen where people can feed lambs, Kira is holding out a grass to a lamb. Standing on Kira’s head, Sensei exclaims to be gentle and, it is eating it. Kira tells Sensei to be quiet for there might cause a bad[/opposite] reaction from the lamb. Sensei relents and tells him that he’ll listen to him only for today. Standing at the side, Nino still looks aghast for in the end, she’s afraid. Then, she notices a lamb staring at her. While Sensei is playing with the lamb, Kira tells her to feed the lamb. Nino hesitates by saying no, she will be bitten. She is surprised when Kira grabs her hand and says that it is alright. He put the grass on her hand and made her hold it out to the lamb. To her delight, the lamb starts to eat the grass. Blushing, Nino looks up to him and exclaims, “Kira-kun, Kira-kun, it ate it. It’s so cute.” Kira smiles down to her and says, “Compared to it, you’re cuter.” Surprised Nino blushes over this. Then, they are at the penguin display, Sensei happily flies towards the penguins. While Kira is holding his cellphone to take pictures, Nino asks him, “Why did you go here with me?” Kira looks at her as she looks sideways. Continuing to take pictures, Kira says, “Ah yes, I should say that it is like ‘Magic Time’. That is looking at a beautiful scene, and saying some things as if casting magic. I think dating has this kind of feeling. *takes a picture of Sensei and the penguins, just like what Sensei wanted* It would be such a pity if you don’t know[/experience] that.” Nino looks surprised at him and quietly blushes. Sensei flies over and calls out, “Curly, did you take the picture.” Kira says yes. Then, at the elephant display, Nino and Sensei are puzzled at Kira who is crying because he feels sorry for the elephants. Then, at the souvenir shop, to Nino’s surprise, Kira wants to buy a couple of animal ears hairband. Narration: “Then, you intentionally take time out, just for me?”

Soon, it is night. They were walking at the street. Kira asks if the parrot is sleeping. Nino says that it seems for Sensei played too much that he is tired from always had been flying around. Then, Kira asks her how come it can talk. Nino notices a couple giggling and telling each other that it is cute. She wonders why they are looking at her, and then she realizes that she is still wearing the bunny ears. She quickly removes it and tries to quickly tell Kira about it. Kira keeps on walking and mutters about buying something. Then, Nino decides not to tell Kira about it [probably because it is so cute/she wants to tease him]. Kira mentions about people staring at him, and could it be because that he’s quite handsome. He turns around to look at Nino who had let out a laugh. Kira realizes that he is still wearing the cat ears. Really embarrassed, Kira takes it off and shouts that Nino is a scoundrel for not quickly telling him about it when she realized it. Nino has happily run off ahead. Narration: “Why is it that everything I see felt so gentle.” In front of a photo sticker booth, Sensei, who is already awake, asks if that is the so-called purikura. Nino asks if they are really going to take pictures. Paying the booth, Kira says yes, and this will be a remembrance. Somewhat smiling, Kira says “Didn’t you have lots of fun today?” Nino looks surprised by that question. Sensei exclaims for Kira to quickly push the button. And, there is a count down before the picture is taken. Later on, Sensei is holding the photo and looks really grumpy. Kira tells him to quickly let him see it, the photo sticker. Sensei exclaims no way, for he isn’t happy with it. Nino says that Sensei always look handsome. Sensei exclaims that if he says no, then it is no, and he totally couldn’t accept it. Then, Nino notices a window display of hearts and gifts. The poster says, “‘Come, fall in love’ Competition[/Fighting]”. Sensei asks Nino what’s up. Nino recalls that Yabe told her that there is a girl whom Kira wants to have, and has been chasing after. She calls out to Kira and says, “Kira-kun, in the end, you still have someone you like, right? You still shouldn’t have gone out together with me, right?” Kira looks surprised and says that there is no such person. Nino says that if it is okay, she can help him, and if it is him, it will definitely be no problem. Kira just looks at her when a lover girl exclaims, “Ah, is that true--?” They look at the side to see a couple. The lover boy tells the lover girl that on her next birthday, he will give it to her. The lover girl points out that she wants that color, and it is very beautiful. Kira watches the couple who were lovey-dovey. Then, Kira says, “—by the way, it seems that I have not told you about my ailment. *clenching his t-shirt* It’s a problem with the chest[/heart?]. It is very painful every time it acts up that it makes me wonder if I will quickly die. You have to understand, Okamura, I cannot do that. *lover guy happily told lover girl that as a condition, she will be with him forever, and the girl happily says yes* Even if [I] fallen in love, it will only increase the sadness.” Nino immediately apologizes to him. Kira tells her that it is alright, for she didn’t have any malice in it. “—but, can you let me [alone to] calm down for a while?”

In her room, Nino is lying in bed. Sensei tells her not to be depressed. After a pause, Nino says that she isn’t [depressed], she is reflecting on her impulsive action. “But, I don’t know if this kind of end [of going out together] is really good.” Looking serious, Sensei says that in the end, it is still that guy’s fault for making Nino have that kind of praying expression and she wouldn’t have said those kind of words. To her surprise, Sensei exclaims that he is going to poop on the photo sticker. Quickly grabbing the photo, Nino exclaims that he cannot do that kind of thing. Sensei exclaims that it is because he is quite frustrated for he had never seen Nino have that kind of expression before. Nino looks at the photo sticker, and she looks surprised. While walking home, Kira looks at the sent message from Shitara Mio on his cellphone. He is surprised to see Nino running towards him. Then, Nino trips. ^^; Bending down to help her out, Kira asks what happened that she has to run. She tells him that she wants to see him because she still hasn’t told him. “Today, I really had fun. You had made me quite hyper and excited. I also kind of understand what you were telling me, meeting with a stranger like me. Look. *Kira looks surprised over the photo sticker and they are all happily posing in it* I think that it isn’t definite that it will only increase sadness. Because if you have fallen in love with someone, your heart will definitely be filled up, right?” Kira looks surprised and he sits down. He asks her if she came to look for him just to say these things. Nino exclaims yes. Then, Kira’s tears starts to fall down. Covering his face, he says that she is too pure, and it is troublesome. Nino apologizes to him. Leaning his head on her, Kira says, “Ya, but you can really talk.” He cries and happily hugs her. Nino hugs him back. Sensei angrily breaks up the two and says that is enough, and what’s with that ‘lean’ stuff. Kira says that he is annoying, and he better be careful else he’ll roast him. Sensei angrily shouts what he just said. Kira’s cellphone is peeking out of his pocket. Shitara Mio’s message to Kira was ‘Quickly come and see me’. Narration: “September 23rd. From that day on, I no longer look forward to [becoming] Sleeping Beauty. My heart [/innermost being] has already awakened. Generally, it is like I had been reborn because compared to the Little Mermaid, I felt that [romantic] love is more beautiful.”

Ah..it seems that the author just have to bring us back to reality by mentioning the Little Mermaid. We all know what happened in that tragic fairy tale. I guess it is somewhat ominous as if Nino will be doing what the mermaid did. I kind of understand why Sensei always tries to interrupt the two. He knows that Nino is falling in love with Kira. Being very protective of her, he knows that if Nino really did, she will be heartbroken in the end. Unfortunately for him, Nino seems unaware of this, and she would prefer to go and fall in love wherein being filled and satisfied from it, can probably lessen the sadness. But, I think it is a different case if she has to help him with that other girl..and it will really be painful once she realizes that she loves him. From this chapter, it really does seem like dying Kira is teaching Nino how to really ‘live’ her life rather than just ‘passing through the days’. It also partly feels like he is doing all this as some sort of ‘charity work’ or leaving a legacy/part of himself through Nino. Since she is pure and everything, she will definitely cherish all their memories, and the things that he told her..in a way, it seems that he will live on through that. Well, one thing is certain, Nino is someone special to him that he is really going out of his way to spend his limited time with her, that Nino couldn’t help but keep on asking him if this is okay. Scans by 離境漢化組.

Kyou no Kira-kun [Chapter 2]
Monday, January 23, 2012

Page 2 – Rainbow Blurb: “365 days, from morning to night, we’ll be together?!” Written in the diary: “September 16th - Although, I still don’t understand what this feeling is but, I want to be with him in passing through these 365 days. I want to keep on living together with him.” Narration: “-ah ah, right now, there is only one thought in my head. *it is raining outside and Nino who is lying on her bed, looks really gloomy* Regret. *looking at her diary* I don’t want to go to school, not one bit.. I’ve obviously do not want to have a relationship with anyone, then why would I write this stuff..? And at that time, I’ve impulsively cut my fringes and even said those words. *There is a scene of Nino holding out her hand to Kira and told him that she will be at his side, always until he dies* Speaking of that, *sighs* up to what degree would I be staying at his side..” Sensei flies over her and tells her that it is bad, go and look out the window. Carrying her school bag, Nino asks him what it is. Sensei tells her to look at that. Nino looks down the window. Nino and Sensei are dumbstruck to see Kira, who is holding an umbrella, sitting by the gate, outside the rain. Nino exclaims if he was waiting for her. Sensei exclaims that is the only possibility that he can think off. This made Nino hurry outside even if Sensei is a bit reluctant. In maid outfit, Nino’s mother, who is serving some coffee to her husband, says that it is rare for Nino to be so noisy. Nino hurriedly meets up with Kira. Blushing, she apologizes for making him wait for so long. To her and Sensei’s surprise, Kira angrily tells her that she’s too slow, and she could have made him catch a cold. Soon, Nino just quietly walks with Kira to school. Sensei exclaims for Curly, not to be too pleased with himself. Kira asks how come Sensei can talk and what’s up with that disgusting Kansai accent. Sensei exclaims what he is talking about, it is the influence of Komatsu [<- probably another comedian?]. Narration: “September 20th. In the end, it is messed up start.” In the classroom, everyone is shock that Kira is sitting in front of Nino’s seat. They wonder why those two are together. They also mention about being able to see Bird Girl’s eyes because her fringes are now short. Someone exclaims that she is unexpectedly cute. Another one says that it isn’t true for she still has that bird, and that is quite creepy. At the side, Kira’s friends are looking at them. One of them asks what airplane is Kira riding on, that it is really hard to believe. “Isn’t it so, Yabe?” Yabe just quietly looks at them. While they are all talking about her, Nino is too nervous that she wasn’t able to hear anything that they are saying.

While the rain has almost stop, the trio are sitting at the stairs behind the building. Sensei exclaims that he is very angry and it is all Kira’s fault that Nino’s complexion look pale [from being uneasy?] and why are they eating lunch together. Nino is wearing huge eyeglasses. Ignoring Sensei, Kira asks Nino why she is wearing those glasses, is it decorative, and is she Alicia[?]. Sensei shouts at him that Nino doesn’t like being stared at, and that is why she is wearing those. “Can’t you be at least aware of that?” Nino didn’t answer. Then, she asks Kira if it is okay for him to be always with her, and what about his friends at that side. Kira looks at her. After a pause, he says, “‘Friend’ huh? Ah, compared to that, can you tell me your email address. *Nino surprised* This way, it would be more relaxing. Nino tells him that she only exchange emails with her parents. Just when Kira is taking his cellphone out from his pocket, a paper falls down. Nino picks it up and is surprised that on that sheet of notebook paper, it is written, “Things I want to do before I die” There is an empty ‘bullet list’ below it. Nino says that nothing is written on it. Kira says that he forgot about that, he planned to write something during a boring class. Looking serious, Nino says that together, she will help him think about it, so that it would be meaningful[/sensible] for them to be together. Kira looks surprised by that, and then, he looks a bit thoughtful. Just as Kira turns away to look somewhere else, puzzled Nino asks if he doesn’t have anything that he wants to do. With his face turned away from her, Kira says that of course, he has. Then, Kira notices something and says that it is a rainbow. While Kira happily takes a picture of it on his cellphone, Nino stands up to see it but she couldn’t see it. To her surprise, Kira carries her up for her to see it. This made Nino blush really red. When she is asking him what he is doing, she stops upon seeing Kira’s smile. Kira says, “...everyday that is like a rainbow, gorgeous and colorful life, will or will I not be able to have it.. ..it’s a joke.” Nino seems moved by what he said. The two are interrupted when Sensei goes between them and exclaims, “N—o! You’re so arrogant. What is that ‘it’s a joke’, don’t always stick on to Nino!!” Kira exclaims that he is quite rude, and shut up, parrot. Narration: “—looking at Kira-kun’s eyes made my heart jump endlessly. My feelings are also in a mess.”

Later on, Nino returns to section 1-5. She wonders if it is alright since Kira said that he is going to the clinic. Then, as she passes through the door, someone exclaims, “She’s back, Yabe!” Suddenly, some juice is at thrown at Nino’s sweater. Holding a bottled drink, Yabe slyly apologizes to her for he thought that she is a trash can. Yabe’s other friends are smiling at her over this. Then, Kira returns to the callroom. He is puzzled why Nino is timidly sitting on her seat. He goes to her and asks why she isn’t moving. Then, he notices that there is a juice stain on her sweater. Kira overhears the other students saying that Yabe is a bit mean to do that, and fundamentally, the reason ought to be Kira, and why are they [K&N] together. Kira says, “Okamura, wear this.” To Nino and everyone else’s surprise, Kira takes off his own sweater. Kira calls out, “Hey, Yabe. You truly still like me very much. If you want me to pay attention to you, won’t it be good to just straightforwardly tell me. *casting a meaningful glance.* Brat.” Yabe is furious but before he can go towards Kira, the teacher has already arrived. The teacher tells everyone to sit down and asks what this bad mood is, in the class. Nino just quietly holds Kira’s sweater. Later on, by the sink, Nino is washing her sweater. She is wearing his sweater and Kira is standing beside her. Kira apologizes that it is his fault. Nino says, not at all, and just by washing it, it is clean, and he even lent his sweater to her. Nino is surprised when Kira asks if it made her remember that bad memory. Poking her eyeglasses, Kira says, “Let me say, you should remove these glasses. *Nino exclaims in surprise* ..no, the way I said it is wrong. I won’t want you to miss.. *looks at the other students having fun with their friends* --generally, in this world, ‘happy things’ will follow soon after, and that will far surpass what you can imagine. *removes her eyeglasses* Or, perhaps, I’m the only one who think that. *sad smile* And, this is what you, Okamura, had made me think of.” Blushing Nino looks at him, and thinks of ‘happy things’. Sensei quietly listens. Later that night, while reading in bed, Kira gets a message from someone on his cellphone. He looks surprised after reading it. Then, he looks serious.

Then, it is morning again, Nino hurriedly prepares to go out of the house. She exclaims how could she had overslept and Kira would definitely be angry. Sensei tells him that it is alright, he’ll help her attack him. To her surprise, Kira is not waiting for her. In class, she is sad to see Kira happily laughing together with Yabe and friends. Then, Kira notices her looking at him. After she tries to call his name, Kira says, “Ah- Okamura, even if it hasn’t been long, but I still would want to thank you. There’s no need for you to be with me anymore. In the end, it is quite fun to be with these guys.” Nino is shock and she remembers the hug he gave her at Tokyo Tower. During lunch break, Nino is in a daze. She tells Sensei that how could she say it, she felt disappointed but then, it is also good that they have reconciled. “And, I also kind of regret it.” Sensei looks thoughtful. Flying up, Sensei tells her that her next class is art class, then he’ll go sleep in her classroom. Nino says okay, and this is quite rare for him to say that. In the empty classroom, Sensei flexes his wings and exclaims that guy is quite suspicious, and he will help Nino in searching the truth. So, after some warm-up exercise, Sensei starts to quickly investigate by looking inside a school bag. He thinks that there is nothing out of the ordinary in Kira’s bag. Then, he notices a paper sticking out among the books. Sensei pulls it out, and he looks surprised upon reading it. He is surprised again when some students enter the classroom. It is Yabe and two guys. One of the guys exclaims who would happily go to art class, it is so boring. Another guy asks where Kira is. Yabe says that he is in the toilet. Yabe chuckles and says that he only have to threaten Kira about ‘harming the Bird Girl’ and he’d come back to them. He wonders out loud as to what Bird Girl got on Kira [to make him go with her]. Standing on the chair, Sensei has overheard everything. Later on, in art class, Nino is busying painting on the canvas. She looks out the window to see Sensei holding a piece of paper on its beak. After looking shock about this, Nino goes out of the art class while still holding her palette with some paint on it. At the stairs, Nino exclaims to Sensei as to what had happened. She tells him to hurry for she just told the teacher that she is going to the toilet. Sensei tells her that Kira is protecting her that is why he is doing that. “It is to protect you, Nino, that is why he went back.” Nino looks surprised.

Nino nervously tells him what he is saying, she doesn’t quite understand. Sensei gives her the piece of paper and tells her that guy did say that there are things that he wanted to do. “Then, why do you think that he didn’t simply write it on paper?” Nino opens the folded paper and looks surprised. The first one in Kira’s list of things that want to do before he dies is: ‘I want to become friends with Okamura Nino.’ Sensei says, “It is because being all alone, no matter how much he strived hard, there is no way for him to create happy memories.” Nino quietly looks at this, and then she tightly holds the paper. Sensei calls out to her and she says that she had found it. “I had found a happy thing.” In section 1-5, the other two friends leave Kira and Yabe, because they are going to buy something at the vending machine. Yabe happily tells Kira to look at something that is very popular in the internet, on his cellphone. Kira lamely just says, ya. Then, they were surprised that Nino comes in the classroom, and goes in front of them. Yabe asks Bird Girl, what’s up. Nino sternly tells him, “Give Kira-kun, please give back my friend.” Kira looks surprised. Yabe stands in front of Nino and asks, friend? “What foolish things are you talking about?” Yabe is surprised when Nino makes a pose with her brush and palette with paint. Then, in one quick stroke, Nino paints Yabe’s jacket with her brush. Grabbing Nino’s head, Yabe angrily shouts what she is doing, and to stop. Unfazed Nino keeps on painting. Kira is surprised by what she painted. Standing in front of Kira, Nino exclaims, “Do not be with those guys again!! Quickly come back [to me]! *crying* I..I can create rainbows, together with you.. Kira-kun.” Yabe is surprised over the rainbow painted on his jacket. Grabbing her, Yabe calls her stinky girl, and exclaims for her not to get carried away, and does she really want him to kill her. They were interrupted when they see Kira sobbing. While Yabe is in disbelief that Kira is sobbing, Nino wipes her tears and says that from today on, she’ll be under his care [/yoroshiku]. Narration: “September 22nd: Today, I got my first friend. He is a bit arrogant and he is a bit scary. Occasionally, he would say things that completely lack consideration and he would puts on airs. And actually, he is a crybaby. This person’s name is Kira Yuuji.” After a long pause, Kira sits up and tells Nino, “Hey, let me tell you clearly that just now, it isn’t tears, it’s perspiration.” Nino goes, ‘!?’ Narration: “He is an unfathomable person who can emotionally move me.”

Ah, I am also emotionally moved by this. They can really say the most touching words. So, they are now officially friends. I do wonder why Kira would prefer to be with Nino rather than his other friends. Maybe it is because he can freely cry like that in front of her, and be himself. Maybe it is because she knows that he is dying. Or, his friendship with Yabe and others is a just a shallow thing since they even threatened him like that. For him to give her advice and stuff, I wonder if it is some sort of ‘compensation’ for the people whom he and his friends had bullied before. It is like he is telling her that there will be more to life, more happy things in the future than this..she should go find, wait for it, etc..because she has the time to do it, unlike him. In short, do not shortchange herself. Anyway, it is nice how they are influencing each other. Sensei seems to be the third wheel and helper of the two. ^^ Hehe, the way Yabe is acting, it really does seem that he likes Kira very much. ^^; Yabe might have seen him crying too but then, the other two can deny it. =P Scans by 離境漢化組.

Quote of the day:
Life is like a rainbow. You need both the sun and the rain to make its colors appear. ~ Author Unknown

What's Below~~
Sunday, January 22, 2012

Black Bird 61 Bokutachi wa Shitte Shimatta 55 Chitose Etc 35-37 Hadashi de Bara wo Fume 54 Kanojo wa Uso wo Aishisugiteru 26 Kimi ni Todoke 64 Kyou, Koi wo Hajimemasu Side Story 1 of 2 Kyou no Kira-kun 1	Mei-chan no Shitsuji 117 Ojousama wa Oyomesama 92-93 Ookami-heika no Hanayome 28 and 29 Reimei no Arcana 36 Skip Beat! 184 Stardust★Wink 37 Stardust★Wink Beni & Mashiro’s Side Stories The One 85 Vampire Knight 79

Kaichou wa Maid-sama! 67 raws + short summary is already out at yuukuzuri’s blog. ^-^ The chapter is nice. Misaki scores a big one for what are those other expensive gifts for Usui when she has given him something very personal. ^-^ From the raws, it seems that Misaki is getting a bit insecure upon seeing Usui with those rich people, but it seems those doubts are all gone because of Usui’s words and probably assurance. Actually, just based on his expression, she ought to know what is really important for him ^-^

Anyway, pending series are: Bokutachi wa Shitte Shimatta 56, Kyou no Kira-kun 2-3, Mei-chan no Shitsuji 118, Ojousama wa Oyomesama 94 and Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun 33.

Vampire Knight [Chapter 79]
Saturday, January 21, 2012

Title: Crack/Crevice. Yuuki’s eyes met with Kaname and she thinks, “Kaname.., my Kaname is there-- *starts walking towards him* If I didn’t quickly go with him..” To her surprise, Zero grabs her arm to stop her. She looks back at Kaname and realizes that it is just Kaname’s double with the use of bats. While Zero tightly grabs her arm, Yuuki says that it isn’t like before when he takes her away with him. She asks him what’s up this time. Kaname then says, “..My pitiful and cute Yuuki..you have become my hindrance.” This surprises Yuuki. Kaname says that he already did things up to this point and she is still unaware that his way of thinking has already changed. He tells her that it doesn’t matter if Zero tells her, for he [Zero] is the one who understands his existence the most. Zero says that somewhere in his heart, he always believed that he [Kaname] will go away together with Yuuki. Yuuki thinks that Zero had prayed for her happiness because unlike Kaname, she knows/understands Zero. Yuuki asks Zero to tell her. Then, she shouts for him to tell her, before, backtracking to say that if he doesn’t want to tell her it is okay. Zero asks Kaname why he let Shizuka out of prison to wreck havoc on the couple vampire hunter. To Yuuki’s surprise, Kaname says that in order for the twins of the family to have a grudge towards purebloods that they can’t break free from. Zero asks why. Kaname says it is to make the twins into living weapons who cannot rest until they thoroughly kill the purebloods. Pointing his gun at Kaname, Zero exclaims why is it them or at least, do not involve Ichijou in it. Just when Bloody Rose seems to get out of control, Yuuki touches Zero’s head to calm him. Kaname’s double already left. Seeing Yuuki teary-eyed, Zero hugs her tight.

In the dorm, Kain and Ruka had appeared in front of Maria who is carrying Hanadagi’s servant. Maria asks what’s up and she heard that they went away with Kaname. As some birds are flying around, Kain says that they are just passing through so please drive those birds of hers away. Ruka asks if that person is Hanadagi’s servant. Maria thinks that if those two are enemies, then it is necessary for her to protect Hanadagi’s servant. Maria exclaims that she’ll do whatever Zero asks her to so she won’t let them harm this person. Suddenly, Hanabusa appears and asks what’s up. Kain says that they are just passing through, together with Kaname. Hanabusa tells them that without their dorm head’s permission, they cannot do as they please even if it is Kaname-sama, or even if it is him. Hanabusa prepares to attack using his ice which made Kain bring out his fire. After the ice surrounds Kain, Kain apologizes to Hanabusa that he didn’t come there to fight him. Kain pulls Ruka to him and uses his fire to retreat. Hanabusa can only shout for Kain to wait/stop. Meanwhile at the Day dorm, Yori is walking outside and wonders about those birds flying around. She is startled when the dorm head also mentions about the birds. The dorm head says that it is too quiet and wonders what had happened. The girls were surprised when class president Kageyama [glasses guy] says that those birds are flying towards the Night dorm. He tells them his observations that the students from the night class are acting strange when they talked with them. Dorm head asks what happened and are those birds that had gathered are allies. Yori says yes.

Then, Yori and Kageyama heard some sort of voice/sound coming from the Night dorm but, the dorm head wasn’t able to hear it. Yori is worried because at this time, actually, they and vampires had barely able to maintain this co-existence thing. In Sara’s room, she exclaims over the disgusting smell, and he ‘ate’ a pureblood on his way there. While Kaname stands behind her, Sara says that even if it is so, it is also not such a big deal for him who had committed a ‘big sin’ which is ‘one cannot turn a human into a vampire when that person doesn’t want to’ and that is greatest crime that the first ancestor had ordered them to never to commit. Even if it wasn’t for them [/thinking of them vampires] but they still respected that rule so right now, they were able to co-exist with humans in this same ground above, even if it is only temporarily. “But, not repeating the war’s disastrous policy before is also a good thing, right..?” Kaname closes his eyes and says that even if it is a bit late than he predicted, it is her turn..even if he hope that she could swallow a bit more purebloods. Then, Takuma appears and tells Kaname that he is really foolish, for it would be okay to just leave the rest to Sara. Takuma also tells him that Yuuki said that she believes in him and because it is him, there is a reason. “If that is so, it is also okay if from today on, you can take her with you and just disappear in some far away place..” Kaname looks at Takuma and mutters his name. Outside, Yuuki is surprised that Zero has hugged her tightly. Then, Zero pulls her away from him. Yuuki[?] thinks that it seems that she understands. “--no, if it is to get to the heart of the matter, it is definitely because of me. For this reason, I will definitely stop Kaname" Zero is thinking, "It isn’t your fault. so do not cry for me--”

I confess that I felt like cringing over the ‘my Kaname’ and ‘my Yuuki’ at the start of the chapter. I think I had become apathetic to any ‘romance’ in this series. ^^; So, Kaname starts to confess things even if it is already hinted before that Kaname is the one behind making Zero into a vampire = weapon. Didn’t he already mention that when Rido is causing a rampage in the school before? Of course, what Zero is currently doing is indeed according to Kaname’s plan, whether he like it or not. Actually, over this ‘sin’ and freeing Shizuka to go on a rampage to make the twins into weapons, even if Kaname plotted it, it seems like a huge gamble for me. How did he know that Shizuka won’t kill Zero? Actually, Kaname goofed up because Ichiru even fell in love with Shizuka, a pureblood. Zero cannot really complain about involving Ichiru because he went with Shizuka on his own free will. Wasn’t Ichiru harboring some sort of love/hate thing towards Zero and his parents, and he did love Shizuka? And, is that ‘sin’ applicable to Yuuki who was turned into a vampire again? Anyway, from the looks of things, Kaname really does seem to intently want everyone to hate him. Is he just a bit..hm..suicidal for some reason he only knows? Actually, maybe he is like that because the author wants a Yuuki x Zero ending. Hehe, even Kaname isn’t making a fuss upon seeing Yuuki touching Zero in front of him. I guess for Kain and Ruka to ‘pass through’ in plain view of everyone, is just a diversion. It does seem a bit out of character for Hanabusa to suddenly be on the offensive towards someone who isn’t even doing anything to him and a childhood friend. It would be interesting to know who’ll win though, given their directly opposing powers. I find it somewhat amusing that both Zero and Sara/Takuma would want for Kaname and Yuuki to just leave and be happy..and leave all of them alone. ^^; I don’t quite understand what Sara meant about the disastrous policy of the war..is it about not making humans into vampires or co-existing with humans? It’s probably the latter because Sara wants everyone to be her underling. I’m curious though as to why Yori and Kageyama have sharp ears to hear that sound when the dorm head didn’t. Are they secretly vampires/hunters that they are unaware of, or because of their close encounter with vampire before? Scans by玖玖爱枢♀汉化. Thank you, Crystal for informing me that this is out.

Quote of the day:
Actions are visible, though motives are secret. ~ Samuel Johnson

Ookami-heika no Hanayome [Chapter 29]
Saturday, January 21, 2012

Still at the Spring Banquet, Reishou, together with the two Chancellors, listens to a minster who exclaims that the flowers this year is more beautiful than last year, the flowers in the garden seems to reflect the glory and splendor of His honorable Majesty and the flowers are praising his rule.. At the side, Houen is talking with his staff member. Looking at where Reishou is, Suigetsu asks if it isn’t cold there, when it obviously should be a joyful ‘bidding goodbye to winter and welcoming spring’ Spring Banquet. Shuttering, he says Reishou is like a Winter King who can freeze people which made the surrounding ministers unable to disperse away the dark mood that is enveloping them. Irked Houen tells him to quit talking nonsense, and is the wine offering scene already put in order. Suigetsu says yes, there is no problem. He sighs and comments that he hopes the ‘Queen delivering spring’ would go smoothly, and it is only when the ‘spring’ [/flower] has been put in the hands of the king, they could say that their ‘virtuous achievements had come to a successful conclusion’. Houen angrily shouts for him to quit talking. Elsewhere, Yuulin is all dressed up, and she is very nervous. With a twinkle in his eye, Jun tells her that the banquet is progressing smoothly, and right now, finally, it is time for the Queen Consort to make her appearance. Yuulin seriously exclaims, “Yes!” Jun says, “First of all, before the banquet ends, you’ll ride [the carriage] that represents the ‘Spring’s ‘Flower Palanquin’. From the En Pavillion, you’ll encircle the courtyard once before heading to the place where the banquet is held. Then, surrounded by the officials, you will get out of the flower palanquin, and walk several steps towards the king who is in front. After giving the flower, that you are holding, to His Majesty, you are to quickly depart. *rabbit dash* That’s all there is to it! It is so simple, that anyone can do it! The ‘Spring’s Visit’ ceremony symbolizes the end of this Spring Banquet. You should engrave that in your heart.” Yuulin exclaims, “Yes! I will walk properly as if my life depended on it!” Jun says that she answered very well, and it seems a bit different from the usual. Flustered Yuulin exclaims, “Yes! Even if I’m not a professional temporary bride, but I will still properly accomplish the task at hand! Regardless of how much luck I carry, I will still accomplish it!” Puzzle Jun is speechless, and wonders why he felt very uneasy even if Yuulin said that.

In the room, nervously smiling Dai tells Yuulin that it is only work, and just playing along with what’s required to do. Dark Yuulin says that is right, and the men’s work is that kind of job. Dai becomes tense over that. Nervous Dai tells her that it is very normal for a harem to have 200 consorts, and what His Majesty has are only two women surrounding him. There is a scene of two women laughing while clinging on to Reishou. Yuulin replies that in that situation, for the Wolf King, that is something inevitable and normal. “There’s no problem at all! I understand everything!” Dai still looks nervous. Trembling Yuulin angrily thinks that Reishou had made her stay at the harem. “And, he, himself, would go lovey-dovey with beautiful women. *Chibi Yuulin all alone appreciating the flowers* And then, after that, he would have a calm ‘nothing had happened’ expression and act by saying some sweet as honey words. *Reishou telling her that she is most important to him* Flirting with women is that man’s job! His Majesty is a big lewd wolf! *flustered and teary-eyed* Pervert! Lecher-- Too scary- His acting is already brought to the point of perfection- Thus, as a result, I’m moved by it! Darn iiittt..no matter what happens, I will definitely do my utmost best to satisfactory complete this!” Dai still looks nervous. At the banquet, Reishou looks at the two Chancellors and thinks that the cunning foxes are happily gathered under one roof, and this is nothing else but as always, a power struggle and being locked in constant strife. “Saying something like it is a Spring Banquet to praise the king’s flourishing rule.. *smiles* That really makes me want to laugh to death.. This is clearly those men’s playground. –I still, do not want to let her see this-- *remembers flustered Yuulin shouting that he is a big lewd wolf* --I wonder what happened, that she made her say that..? *troubled* ..later on, she shouldn’t be saying something like wanting to quit, and want to go home-type of stuff, right..” Somewhere else in the banquet, Keitaku mutters that the Spring’s Visit is very important and no one is looking forward to that unlucky Queen Consort comes on spring day.

Back at the pavilion, Jun is giving Yuulin last minute instructions about her face being covered that it might affect her eyesight. Yuulin assures him that she’ll be careful. Suddenly they heard a loud sound. Jun, together with Yuulin, goes out and asks what that sound is. One of the men exclaims that it is bad, for the Flower Palanquin that the Queen Consort is going to ride on has toppled over. “Even if no one is hurt, but the palanquin’s poles had been broken!” Jun exclaims what’s going on. The men say that they don’t know for they only left for a while, and suddenly, there is a loud thud. They think that it is either the wind or someone had.. Two shadowed men are watching them. Someone exclaims that they have to hurry and go, or they might not be able to reach the ceremony in time. Yuulin looks surprised as she remembers the mysterious document spreading around about her being unlucky, that she’ll incur disaster thus making the banquet fail. Back at the banquet, Keitaku talks [to himself/subordinates?] that this is the first ‘Spring Banquet’ since the king has ascended the throne, and now the symbolic Flower Planquin has been damaged. “Serving as the ending ceremony, the Queen Consort also didn’t appear. This way, that woman will be thoroughly disgraced. I fundamentally do not want to do this, but it is all the fault of that stupid woman who has no insight at all. If at that time, she made me the one who is in-charge of all this, that mysterious document would merely just a nonsense slander and nothing more. That is until now..” Then, Houen is quite frantic because they don’t know when it will be repaired. Houen shouts that he will adjust the program so that they can buy some time. Then, Keitaku and subordinates approach him. He tells Houen that it seems he is very busy and did something happen at the side of the Queen Consort. Houen snubs him that Keitaku shouts for him not to ignore him. =P While Houen glares at his brother, Keitaku tells him to listen up, if he wants the banquet to end satisfactorily, he has a good proposal. “..It isn’t necessary for you to wait for the Queen Consort. Among the waiting singing ladies, there is a girl whose family is closely related to the Ryu family. So, just use your authority as the person in charge to make that girl as the substitute for the Queen Consort. Then, the closing ceremony can be done. *Houen looks surprised* She’s a very beautiful young lady! If it went smoothly, His Majesty might perhaps had also taken a fancy on her. And during the banquet, she is also standing near His Majesty.”

Realizing that it was his brother who made those girls stay beside Reishou, Houen angrily shouts that Keitaku is doing senseless things again. Keitaku asks what does he mean senseless, rather than waiting for the Flower Palaquin of the lowly Queen Consort, this is a very good way to end the banquet. He thinks that he’ll get rid of that eyesore Queen Consort, and turn this bad situation in a favorable one for the Ryu family’s power[/influence] to go up a notch higher. “This is a perfect stragegy! Even if the ones who thought of it are my subordinates!” Keitaku tells Houen that for their family, the Queen Consort is not that useful. “For things to reach up to this point, you should know yourself as to what you should do.” Houen grinds his teeth and scowls. Suddenly one of Houen’s staff calls out to him that right now, he has a report. “Her Highness, the Queen Consort has already departed from En Pavillion and right now, she is making her round, around the courtyard. She is moving in accordance to the route that you have arranged.” Houen is surprised. Keitaku exclaimed if the Flower Palanquin has been fixed. The staff says no, but rather, she is walking the route which the palanquin should have gone through. Keitaku is shock that the consort is going to walk to that place. Houen tells the others that if Yuulin and others arrive, they are to guide them where to go. Then, Houen glares at his brother and says, “I’m currently working, so those who have nothing to do here, please leave.” Aghast Keitaku is shock for being told to go away. Soon, cloaked Yuulin has arrived. Suigetsu asks her if she is alright, for the courtyard is big, and for a woman, that route isn’t short. Holding a small branch of flower, Yuulin tells him that she is okay for obviously, this is a very important ceremony and it would be very bad if it wasn’t successfully done now. “Even if in accordance to the ceremony that I should be riding on the Flower Palanquin, but what’s really important is for me to pass on to the king’s hand this spring [symbol]..” Houen and Suigetsu are surprised by what she said.

Looking away, Houen says that since it is like that, then there is no problem. “We’ll set up the lanterns used during the day on the pathway, straight towards the king. Please wait a moment.” Suigetsu smiles and says for her walk to be relaxing and pleasant, he’ll make the musicians play some lively music. Yuulin is somewhat moved by their gesture and also by the concern of the other government affairs staff when they ask her if she is alright, and does she want to rest. Looking at the venue from the tree, Dai thinks that is one determined Queen Consort. There is a flashback of Jun shouting that it is unrealistic for her to walk, but Yuulin exclaimed that it is no problem [for her]. Dai thinks that since she is here, what’s left is to give that flower to the king. “But, the moment for His Majesty to take the flower is very crucial. From start to finish, I’m always worried in suspense! Hahaha--” With all the officials gathered at both sides, Yuulin walks in the small pathway lit with lanterns. The musicians are playing some music. Reishou waits for her to arrive in front of him. Reishou thinks that he got the simple report about the Flower Palanquin has been damaged and Yuulin walked all the way there. “But, what could have happened? Are you alright? Yuulin--” Holding a small flower branch, Yuulin smiles and says, “Your Majesty, I’m very sorry that I’m tremendously late. Right now, I’ll present Spring to you. (No matter how many enemies there are, no matter if there are many troubles in the journey [/future outlook], and no matter how many hindrances, I’ve finally arrived!)” Reishou says, “Yes, ..it is truly a long wait! My cute flower, the time when I wasn’t able to see you had been truly long!” After looking surprised, Yuulin smiles and answers, “If I’m a beautiful flower, then wouldn’t I have already blossomed early on in that place? *snapped* Even without me, this banquet is quite enjoyable, right? You big lewd wolf!” Reishou looks surprised. Watching the two, Suigetsu thinks that it is a bit strange, for Yuulin has just arrived and there is some sort of chillness between them even if he couldn’t hear what they are talking about. Sweetly smiling, Yuulin thinks that even if she is quite angry, she can still distinguish between [proper] situations, and she will also maintain her smile. “Ah! As a professional Queen Consort, I only have to think of doing it, and I’m be able to do it! *bows and offers the flower* After giving him the flower, I’ll quickly depart!”

Reishou says, “How beautiful! Compared to the reason why you are angry, I very much prefer to stare at this fresh flower! *Yuulin goes !!?* I think that if I were to just take it, it is quite boring.” Flustered Yuulin thinks, “!? Just quickly take it already! Or else, the banquet cannot end! It is already up to this point, why do side issues keep on popping out!? And, unexpectedly, the hindrance that came towards me is this man! No, I cannot recklessly stumble..” Still with a smile plastered on her face, Yuulin says, “Hahaha, Your Majesty is joking. ..everyone is looking here! Quickly take it already!” Reishou smiles and says yes, for this branch of flower wants the two of them to be alone in properly appreciating it. “Even if it is so, I’ll accept it. *takes the flower branch* Afterwards, you can let out your anger as much as you want.” Yuulin is doing her best to control herself. While Reishou looks at her, she continues to smile quietly. She thinks, “Don’t use such a happy expression *blushing really red* in saying those lines!!” Then, Yuulin leaves. Reishou tells the people there, including Jun, that right now, the flower is already at his hand, and the Queen Consort has already gone her way at the side. “Towards my subjects, this is how the flowers brought spring’s happiness[/luck]. This has been a beautiful day, and the new spring has arrived. Let us all celebrate it together--” The officials including Houen and Suigetsu bow to him. Yuulin takes one last glance at them and thinks that for a second there, it seems that spring has really arrived. Then, she notices the thin mysterious official. She is surprised that the prophecy guy is also there. Narration: “And like that, the crisis has passed, and the Spring Banquet has finally smoothly ended.” Back in the pavilion, Yuulin sighs and says that she is really tired today. She asks her two waiting ladies if they aren’t going to go back to the harem to rest. One of her waiting ladies tells her no, because what happens next is the Flower Banquet with His Majesty and the Queen Consort, only the two of you. “We wish you’ll have a beautiful night.” Looking surprised, Yuulin thinks, “Beautiful night?” Narration: “But, nevertheless, it seems that this emerging Flower Banquet situation still continues.”

It is interesting that for a young king, Reishou isn’t the type who would easily be moved by flattery. I guess it is because he knows the true motives of those officials who wanted to take advantage of him so that they can have more power and favor from him. It is quite ironic that Reishou tries to shield Yuulin from this power struggle scene when at her level, there is already a power struggle happening between Keitaku and Houen & Suigetsu, which is giving her problems. Keitaku is really the typical arrogant guy who is in his current position because of birth and wise subordinates. The plot is really good and it is indeed a win-win situation for him to make it appear that he is really good. Unfortunately for him, he belittled Yuulin too much. If it has been some other girls, he would have succeeded but Yuulin isn’t going to let some ruined carriage hinder her goal. After being told of being unlucky and this happens, it can easily waver any weak-willed girl but with Yuulin, she fights against it. ^^ I guess it is to her advantage that she is a commoner who has no qualms in doing this, and she knew that waiting for it to be fixed is not an option. It is interesting how because of the things she does inspire Houen and Suigetsu, in contrast with Reishou who tends to use fear to make others act. Actually, Reishou’s way of dealing with people is more proper for scheming officials like Keitaku. He has to show who is boss or else, he will be ‘eaten alive by the foxes’. I wonder if Keitaku will be punished for this or having a battered ego is enough for him. Anyway, it is time for the two to spend time together and probably to fix that misunderstanding. But, I highly doubt if some serious lovey-dovey is going to happen. It seems that this series is more on lovey-dovey with the use of words which shouldn’t be surprising because this is indeed how they do it in ancient times. Scans by 17kkmh.com and ベーリ猫. There is a side story for this series that was out in Lala DX before. It is about Kouju writing make-up romantic stories about Reishou and Yuulin. Yuulin couldn’t stop her and Reishou thought Yuulin is into that stuff upon seeing the books in the harem. =P You can read it in English at baidu. I read somewhere before that Kouju and Houen would make a cute pair, and I agree. That will also make the two feuding families to become one. =P

Word of the day:
If there is a great trial in your life today, do not acknowledge it as a defeat. Instead, continue by faith to claim the victory through Him, who is able to make you “more than conquerors” (Rom 8:37), and a glorious victory will soon be apparent. May we learn that in all the difficult places God takes us, He is giving us opportunities to exercise our faith in Him that will bring about blessed results and greatly glorify His name. ~ from Life of Praise

Free Talk: Ninth Anniversary Greetings ^^
Friday, January 20, 2012

Ah..time really passes by so fast and it is that time again. It has been nine years since I had started this personal blog that turned into a manga summary blog. =P So, once again, I would want to thank God for everything that He has given me to make all of this possible. Last year has been a bit busy with some problems and a new hobby (drawing & painting) but generally, God is great and has provided me with my needs and wants, as always. Thanks to my parents for providing for me, that enabled me to continue on doing this. Thanks to the Chinese scanlators and scanners for without them, there will be no summaries. Of course, my readers, YOU, thank you very much for reading my summaries. ^-^ Special thanks to those who tag in their thanks, encouraging words and exchange of ideas on the summaries ^_^ Thanks to those who had been tagging the links and information about the new chapters that are out. They are very helpful ^-^ Thank you very, very much for the support that makes writing the summaries quite fulfilling ^-^ Last year, I had finally put up a ‘mirror’ blog at blogspot in order for the summaries to have tags for easier searching of past summaries. Hits for both blogs had been very good. Thanks to everyone that I’ve reached 4 million+ hits and to those who’ve mentioned my blog/s in their sites, and to other sites. ^-^ There are also some series that I had finally updated this year ＼（＾-＾）／

For this year, art workshop has resumed again so I’ll be a bit busy again. On April 3-7, I’ll be going with my brother’s family to Singapore again. Hehe, I actually planned to just be home alone but my mother doesn’t feel easy about that. ^^; My mother will be away from March to April so that means I have to help more at the store. Then, by April to May, my father’s relatives will be coming here for a vacation so there might be a need to entertain them. Edit:Then, my mother and I will go to Hong Kong on July 1-5. Hehe, and that doesn’t include the anime that I want to watch and games to finish. =P I don’t think those things will majorly affect the regular series summaries except for Skip Beat! and the One summaries for April and July since obviously, I’m not at home to do them, and there might be a bit of delay. For a short briefing, my regular series are as follows: Barajou no Kiss*, Black Bird, Bokutachi wa Shitte Shimatta*, Chitose Etc, Hadashi de Bara wo Fume*, Kaichou wa Maid-sama!, Kimi ni Todoke, Kurobara Alice, Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu*, Kyou no Kira-kun, Mei-chan no Shitsuji, Ojousama wa Oyomesama, Ookami-heika no Hanayome, Reimemi no Arcana, Skip Beat!, Stardust★Wink, The One, Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun, Vampire Knight, and Yoshiwara Hana Oboro. The ones with a * are said to be ending soon, and Kurobara Alice had been updated for a long time. ^^; I still haven’t found my right number of series to summarize because before, I had always been finishing the pending series. Maybe 20 series with a combination of easy (short summaries) and hard (long summaries) series is the right one. The ones that aren’t regular, I would probably summarize or briefly mention them when I have extra time. As I’ve mention before, I will continue on writing the summaries as long as I’m able to. So until then, let’s enjoy each other’s ‘company’ as we read all sorts of series, be happy, sad and get frustrated with the characters, be entertained, somewhat learn from their ‘experiences’ and even be inspired in life. ^-^ And, one more time, thank you very much ^-^

PS. Current pending series are: Kyou no Kira-kun 2, Ojousama wa Oyomesama 94, Ookami-heika no Hanayome 29, and Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun 33. I’ll be doing OnH first because I’ve already mentioned about getting it up this week. The rest would probably be done by next week.

Word of the day:
We’re loaded with benefits daily, sent down from the Father above; His mercies and blessings abounding are gifts of His marvelous love. ~ Anon. from Our Daily Bread

Stardust★Wink [Chapter 37]
Thursday, January 19, 2012

Cover page: “From today on, these three people, Hinata∙Sou∙Anna’s progress is..!? Thank you everyone for the support for these past three years!!” Soon, it is July 29th, and it is already the rewarding ceremony of the Photo Koshien. Hinata and his group won second place. Anna happily looks on as Hinata and others accept the prize. Narration: “After so many things that had happened, the Photo Koshien competition has smoothly ended after three days. At the end, Hinata and others got the runner-up’s prize, while we got the ‘dare to fight’ reward.” At the building, where the contestants are taking a break, Chiaki sighs and says that ‘dare to fight reward’ is basically the same with ‘participation’ reward’. Anna tries to say something about that but Chiaki continues to say that she wished everyone would concentrate in the competition, and even if she has a lot of complaints, but she felt that everyone did their best. Nanoka comments that just as anticipated, Chiaki tends to have a grudge. Hinata lightly knocks Anna’s head and tells her, ‘Good job’. Anna congratulates him for getting the runner-up prize. She exclaims that the pictures of Hinata and others are amazing as if they were taken by professionals. At the side, Chiaki acts like a man when she says that it is amazing to be able to fight in this [competition], and Mari happily says that she is right. Aya and Nanoka look shock by this. [Ah, the two sensei acts like a couple? ^^;] Hinata tells Anna that he isn’t amazing but rather his senpai-s.. Short haired senpai interrupts by saying that he has good insight with photos, and it seems Tokura-kun clearly knows about it [that they are good]. Then, she tells her friend that she doesn’t have enough drinks so they should go get some. The long haired senpai sheepishly look at her friend. Anna and Hinata look speechless at the two as they leave. Aghast, Anna points to his senpai-s, and asks Hinata if those senpai are like that in normal days. After a pause, Hinata tells her that last year, his senpai-s also joined the competition last year, and they also won the runner-up prize. Anna says that it is amazing. Hinata says that they planned on bringing back to Tokyo the first prize this year so, right now, they are extremely unhappy about it. While muttering that it is already amazing to get runner-up prize, Anna says is that so. Hinata says yes.

After a pause, Anna asks him if he is going back to Tokyo. Hinata says yes. Looking disappointed, Anna says is that so. Hinata is somewhat surprised that he asks her what’s with that reaction. Anna says that she thought that since it is summer break, he is going to fly back home with her. Hinata tells her that is impossible because unfortunately, this is a club excursion. Anna says that since it is like that, she realized something.. “Hinata and I are in a long distance relationship!! It is only now that I’ve realized it!” After a pause, Hinata says that is right, he also just realized it now. Anna laments that she thought that they’ll spend the summer vacation together. Sweatdropping, Hinata tells her no, he’ll be back around Obon festival, and upon return, he plans to stay at that side until the end of summer vacation. Anna happily asks if that is true. Hinata tells her that as a homework, she would think of the things they’ll do [for fun]. Anna happily smiles and thinks that is great. Back in her hometown, Anna, Nanoka and Aya are hanging out together. Aya exclaims that it’s finally summer vacation, and it must have been lonely for Anna to not be able to see Hinata when they’ve started to go steady. Nanoka asks Anna if she has already thought of what to do. Anna exclaims that she had thought of a lot of things. “In the end, we have to go see the fireworks. Aside from the fireworks display, I would want to play with some handheld fireworks. And then, we’ll go to the pool or to the beach!! But, I want to slide down to the pool- And if we go to the pool, I won’t get tired of it even after sliding down ten times!! But, it is very hard to give up the beach’s piled up sand- Let me say that I really like being buried in the sand ♪ *Surprised Aya and Nanoka look at her speechlessly* But, we can also play with the inflatable pool at home, that is also so much fun..” Nanoka interrupts by saying that it feels that Anna is a little kid who is excited over some family vacation trip. Anna asks, huh. Nanoka emotes, “‘During vacation trip at some place, papa will accompany you guys!!’ ‘Wee- that’s great!’ *normal deadpan* It’s like that- Let me tell you that your ideas totally doesn’t have any romantic feeling. Right now, you are going on a date with your boyfriend, right? You’re not thinking of wanting to go to some place together with Nagase-kun, are you?”

Looking shock, Anna denies that she is thinking of that. Nanoka asks why she is getting tongue twisted over it. Anna insists that it is true, and swears by it. Nanoka looks at her in suspicion that Anna finally admits that she did thought that it would be nice if the three of them can be together during the fireworks display, just like before. “Hinata said, ‘The two of us will go this year’, but I still think that isn’t what he truly thinks.. Ah, but I know that it is impossible. First of all, I still have not made up with Sou..” Nanoka says that of course, this isn’t about her making up with Sou. Aya says that even if it is Sou who helped them in going steady, she feels that Anna should clearly differentiate that if her feelings with Sou is too good, Hinata would also get jealous. Anna asks about Hinata being jealous..she couldn’t imagine it. Aya happily says that of course, since Hinata is the boyfriend, and the times for the two of them to be alone is comparatively more important than anything else, so she ought to properly cherish it. “First, we have to set the mood. I think that you should write a message to the other party that you eagerly anticipate the time when you’ll go out together. This will lift up the spirits.” Anna looks surprised and says, is that so. Nanoka suggests that Anna tries it out. Showing them what she has written, Anna asks if it is like this. Anna’s message: “I’ve already thought of the places where I want to go. (panda bear; light bulb) Thinking of the dates, in the end, we should go to the fireworks display first (sparkles) I eagerly anticipate it. (star; heart avatar)” Nanoka exclaims, “That won’t do!! Give your cellphone to Nanoka!! *takes Anna’s cellphone* Haven’t you been listening to Aya-chan!?” Nanoka’s message: “On the first date, I hope to be alone with you, Hinata, in watching the fireworks together. At one side, looking up the sky filled with fireworks. *insert imagination scene of Hinata and Anna looking at the fireworks* And, at the other side, deepening my love for you, more than before.. That is what I’m thinking, our love’s flower bud is blooming.” Looking aghast at her cellphone, Anna exclaims, “No no no, this won’t do at all!! I’ll definitely be laughed at. What’s with this love’s flower bud!! Even more than being laughed at, this is very scary[/shocking]!!” To Anna’s horror, Nanoka tells her that she had already sent that message to Hinata-kun. “I’m sorry ☆ =P but couples that started to go steady would send this kind of message, right!?”

Nanoka shows it to Aya who just mutters ya, and she really sent the message. Aya sweatdrops as crying Anna hits Nanoka’s head and shouts, “Stupid stupid stupid, Nanoka you’re stupid- (cries)!!! If you, Nanoka go steady with Kazami-kun, I’ll also make you send a message like that!!” Flustered Nanoka exclaims in surprise and asks what kind of analogy is that, for it is impossible for her and Hinata [to become a couple]. Anna cries and asks what she should do now. Nanoka tells her to relax, for Hinata will immediately reply back. Meanwhile, in Hinata’s school, Hinata is in his art class. He is talking on the phone. The other party on the line says, “Even if it is very good that you are having fun at school but how come you are coming back, only when it’s Obon Festival. I want to see you earlier~~~~” Hinata says that he told her before that he has to finish his school work, and there are a lot of [art] instruments in school so it is more convenient. The other party says, “Poo--” Hinata says that it is useless even if she [says] ‘poo--’. “I’ll go home if I finish earlier than the Obon Festival, and that’s how it is.” After hanging up, Hinata’s classmate asks if it is his girlfriend. Hinata says no, it is his mother. Then, the classmate looks aghast-surprised. Then, the PA [public announcement] system calls out for first year, art section Tokura Hinata, to quickly please go to the faculty room.” His classmate says that it is calling for him, what did Hinata do. Puzzled, Hinata wonders what’s going on. Later on, Anna is sitting in the living room. She is watching the television on today’s horoscopes, and the last one to be mentioned is Pisces. “Be careful of a small [text] message for it will develop into a crisis! The other party’s heart might go far away from you. You can still remedy it by resolving the misunderstanding beforehand. Your lucky item is chewing gum ☆” The news program shows that it is 7:59am. The male reporter says that Pisces people should definitely go buy a chewing gum. The female reporter agrees with him. “Then, hope everyone have a beautiful day.”

Anna looks really aghast and speechless. <- [she is] Pisces. It has been three days since she sent that message to Hinata and there has been no answer. “And, until now, there is still no reply.. Wah—(cries)!!! He has definitely been scared off by that message. *Imagines aghast Hinata saying that message is too much* In the end, I should have immediately sent a message to correct it!! It is now already too late. *takes cellphone* There’s no way for me to keep on waiting for his reply. Even if I’m very afraid, but I should straightforwardly call and talk with Hinata. *the other line rings for a long time* No answer. *hangs up phone* What am I to do, should I send another message? But if this time around, he still doesn’t reply.. *aghast and teary-eyed* I have no way of surviving [it]..” Anna suddenly rushes out of the house. Her mother asks her where she is going. Anna exclaims that she is going to buy chewing gum. Anna thinks that today’s lucky item is chewing gum. “After buying the chewing gum, I’ll hold on to it as a good sign and then, send that text message to Hinata!!” At the hallway, Sou is startled when Anna suddenly came out of her apartment. Sou says that she frightened him to death and what’s going on that she’s so energetic in the morning. To Sou’s surprise, Anna says, “Sou.. *crying* Wah..what am I to do, I had scared off Hinata-!!!” Sou sweatdrops and asks her what happened. Anna tells him that she has sent a joke-type of message to Hinata three days ago, but there has been no answer. “He also doesn’t answer my calls (cries)” Sou asks her what message she sent, and let him see it. Flustered Anna exclaims, “No way! I absolutely cannot show it to you!! If I were to let you see it, I’ll be too embarrassed to death!!” Sou takes out his cellphone and tells Anna that it takes a very serious[/grave] thing to scare off[/shock] Hinata, and it ought to be pretty tremendous. While Sou calls Hinata, Anna is surprised that she can talk with Sou normally, and is this okay. Anna blushes a bit. Sou tells Anna that Hinata isn’t answering the phone. He sighs and says that since it is early in the morning, maybe Hinata is still sleeping, so sending a message is out of the question. Sou takes out a pack of chewing gum from his pocket, and chews a stick. Anna looks surprised over this that Sou asks what is it. Anna says that it is nothing,[but] about that..

Sou asks her if she wants some chewing gum. Anna says yes. When Sou holds out a stick, Anna thanks him. To her surprise, Sou suddenly holds it up, away from her. While Anna is gloomily irritated by that, mischievous Sou tells her that they have already agreed on it, so don’t get angry anymore, he’ll give it to her. While Sou is smiling over that, Anna holds the chewing gum and thinks, “What is this. Why is it that Sou is acting quite normal. *smiles* And it is a bit way too normal.” Then, Sou says, “By the way.. Yesterday, when I called Hinata, he also wasn’t answering it. *Anna looks surprised* Usually, if he didn’t answer it, he will call me back later in the day..” Then, it seems that Sou has realized something that he starts calling someone on the phone again. Anna asks him if he is calling Hinata again. Sou says no, he is calling Mashiro. Mashiro answers the phone and asks what’s up for the sudden call. Sou asks him if Hinata went to his house. Sou darkly smacks his lips [tsk] when Mashiro says that Hinata didn’t come. Sou looks surprised when Mashiro continues to say, “I should say, right now is a very disastrous [serious] time, so how could Hinata come and hang out in my house.” Sou asks him what he meant by disastrous time. “What had happened to Hinata?” Anna starts to look worried. Mashiro says, “Could it be that you haven’t heard about it?” Anna asks Sou what happened and what did Mashiro say. Mashiro says, “Ah, I’m also not quite clear on the details of the situation.. [but] it seems that Hinata has quit [expel/drop out of] school.” Anna looks nervous when tense Sou repeats, “Quit school..!?” At Hinata’s school, some students ask if they had seen that picture. Another student says that they did. A girl says that she really likes Hinata but this is truly too much. A boy says that before, he thought that Hinata’s relationship with that teacher [Mari] is abnormally good, and he didn’t think that they had a relationship. Someone says, ‘gross-’. At the faculty room, the teachers are looking at the computer of what seems to be 4 pictures of Mari going to Hinata. One picture is that night when she went to see Hinata (and Anna), and the other picture is when Mari cried on Hinata when he (and Anna) looked for her during the Photo Koshien. One teacher says that the pictures seem to be uploaded in the school’s computer, and right now, it is quite chaotic. “And it seems that the other party is Kobayashi-sensei, right?” [<- This page notes that it is 2pm so this timeline is off, but it is page 30 of the chapter, before Sou learns about Hinata quitting school.]

Poor Hinata..he finally freed himself of Mari who is now attached with Chiaki, and now, he gets drag in a major mess because of her. So, Mari would probably learn an important lesson here on how to treat students, and she would have to make it up to Hinata, big time. That scene on how the students and faculty are talking about Hinata and Mari shows how grave and disastrous this situation is for Hinata. It seems those senpai-s uploaded it for all the school to see. It isn’t surprising for Hinata to quit school. Given his personality, he won’t even have the face to go to school..and ya, if he even experienced everyone muttering and everything, he might once again hate school and might even become a NEET. ^^; I am curious as to what those senpai-s problem with Mari that they are willing to do this kind of thing and involve someone who didn’t do anything to them. Surely, it isn’t a case of Hinata not helping them win the first prize, so this is his ‘punishment’. ^^; Or maybe, like what I’ve mentioned before, Hinata just got caught up with whatever is between Mari and those senpai-s. It is already quite obvious that they don’t quite like Hinata, and maybe, part of it is jealousy..like how good he is in art when he’s still a freshman? There is really no use to explain the truth/deny it, because people will think otherwise, and those pictures already speak volumes of what their possible relationship is. I did entertain the possibility of Anna speaking as witness but I highly doubt Hinata would still want to go to that school, even if he did seem to find his place in doing what he loves to do which is art. Given how overprotective Hinata’s mother is, she would promptly make him come back home. I also think that the author has already served the purpose of making Hinata leave –> it is to make Hinata and Anna a couple and Sou be okay with it. As for the phone not being answered, I wonder what the reason is. Maybe Hinata is too busy in dealing with the formalities for quitting school. Given how vicious people can be, from what I’ve read in other stories, I’m thinking of the possibility that they are harassing Hinata on the phone that Hinata won’t answer it anymore. Or, maybe it was confiscated..that seems unlikely. ^^; Also, given his personality, he would probably want to deal with this on his own rather than mention it to Sou or Anna. Just like what Sou hinted, I guess this is something very serious for Hinata that he can’t confide it to them, and he does tend to clam up when it is something very serious and very personal, like being in love with Anna. So, it is very, very serious that he didn’t even tell Sou about it. Sou is now experiencing what Anna has been experiencing before of not being told of something important, that is happening. Since these three families are close, Hinata’s mother also didn’t mention it to the others..maybe she already went to Tokyo. I’m a bit puzzled when Mashiro said that Hinata didn’t go to his house..for I thought, all along, Hinata is living with him. ^^; And, Mashiro isn’t clear about the situation even if he is Hinata’s guardian so, maybe his mother is already there. Anyway, I’m glad that the author is open to the idea for the three to watch the fireworks display together. It is indeed a tradition for the three to celebrate it together, along with Sou’s birthday.

I think that this is really an amazing love triangle and childhood friend relationship wherein no one is really left out. Anna is really lucky that I’m kind of envious of her. =P Whenever there is a problem with one of the guys, the other guy is there for her. Actually, if any of the two has a problem with each other or one is being left out/wavers about their frienship, there is always that one person who holds the friendship between them together. This is probably the secret to their long close friendship unlike the ones Anna had with her female group of friends in junior high. Also just like what Hinata said, even if they have a long ‘quiet/snub’ period, things will become normal later on. It happened with Hinata, and it now happened with Sou. It is really quite easy for them to pick up where they left off. Aside from the agreement with Anna, I think Sou has already come into terms that Hinata and Anna love each other. I guess for Sou, it seems like a burden is finally lift off so he can act normal again. =P He just needed time and he is such a great friend to even help them out. And being that kind of friend to Hinata, I wonder if Sou would make good his threat to Mari about ‘seducing’ Hinata. I don’t think it was mentioned yet but I wonder if Hinata is also a Pisces because that horoscope reading could also somewhat apply to him. I guess Hinata’s fault here is being too close with Mari..and probably being too nice. Unlike Sou who can be quite cold-hearted towards to whoever he doesn’t like, Hinata will let others do whatever they want with him until he draws the line. Aside from Mari, Hinata seems to manifest this trait in that side story before, when he turned down that girl who had a crush on him. Since it is summer break, I’m imagining that they will all go to Tokyo to ‘support’ Hinata in this difficult time. This three’s relationship will be stronger than before after this. After all, they had surpassed the possible major ‘crisis’ in a relationship if the two falls in love with Anna. I think it would be easier for them to help out someone who is in trouble rather than a problem between themselves. This time around, maybe Hinata will be more open and communicative to the others, like how the the other two are, rather than dealing with difficult things by himself. Anyway, the good thing that will come out of this is, as I’ve mentioned, Hinata going back to their hometown. I can’t wait for those three to interact together again. It is quite fun ^^ I think it will be amusing when the two HINATA-s meet..given their same ‘sleepy’ type of expression. Hinata can still do his art thing, I guess..either by joining the photography club with Anna and if those senpai-s didn’t graduate yet, beat them in the next Photo Koshien, or maybe he can be Hinata’s assistant. ^^ The author did like/read Bakuman =P As for Hinata and Anna, it seems that Anna still thinks of time together with him is ‘fun’ things rather than ‘romantic’ things. I find it very interesting because he is after all a childhood friend so, it is natural for her to think of those things. =P It is also natural to be embarrassed upon suddenly mentioning some mushy lovey-dovey stuff to someone whom she knew ever since she was a toddler. That will be an interesting thing to tackle to prolong the series. You like a childhood friend and enjoy his company..how does it suddenly become romantic rather than the usual things they do together..it won’t happen overnight. I think the author created a second set of childhood friends so that all three will be paired up. If they do, I would love to see a group picture of the three possible pairs. =P Scans by all★wink汉化组.

Word of the day:
When life knocks us off our feet, we don’t have to be frustrated. With God’s strength lifting us up and God’s armor protecting us, we can still stand strong. ~ Our Daily Bread

Stardust★Wink [Beni and Mashiro's Side Stories]
Wednesday, January 18, 2012

[These are the side stories in volume 5 about the Ichihara siblings. The first one is Beni’s, and the other one is Mashiro’s. Scans by ifilove1314 for baidu. Chapter 37 will be out tomorrow.]

Mashiro’s Side Story: This one is from what happened in chapter 14, when Mashiro accompanies Sou and Anna to go see Hinata in Tokyo. At the highway, Anna asks about Mashiro not meeting up with Rin, Sou’s sister. Mashiro looks nervous. Sou says that is right, compared to them, Rin ought to be his childhood friend, and they are born in the same year. There is a chart showing that Rin and Mashiro are born in the same year. Then, it is Sou, Anna and Hinata. Then, last, is Beni. Mashiro nervously says, “Rin..she..” Flashback: Mashiro is hanging out in his room with his friends. One of his friends held a letter and exclaimed that it is amazing, that someone still writes a love letter at this age. He liked it because it is more feminine rather than just sending a text message. Mashiro took the letter and told him not to read it for it will betray the girl’s striving hard to get courage [to give this]. Another friend said that he is pretending. The other friend said that Mashiro would once again pretend to understand the feelings of the other party, and make that girl be filled with anticipation, even if he doesn’t want to go steady with anyone. Folding the letter, Mashiro said, ‘even so ♪’ Mashiro is 15 years old then. He likes girls especially girls who like him but he hates being hold down that he doesn’t want to have a girlfriend. Lying down on his bed, Mashiro said that another way of saying it is, he admires girls that he couldn’t refuse them, and all girls are valuable and cute darlings. One of his friends said that it isn’t so. They talked about two beautiful girls who can be their girlfriends but they like Mashiro. One of the guys exclaims that there is still Nagase Rin, who is very beautiful. This surprises Mashiro. They asked him if Rin has not confessed to him. Thinking that even if they are childhood friends [she has not], Mashiro said ya. One of his friends said that Rin isn’t the type of girl who likes Mashiro. Rin gives an aura of ‘guys are all stupid and boring’, and she must have equated ‘Mashiro’ as an arrogant guy. In short, she isn’t like those other girls. Mashiro admitted that he doesn’t like that kind of girl who is not cute at all. His three friends exclaimed that they aren’t forcing him, Rin is just different. Then, they joked around about making a bet of making Rin confess to Mashiro. If Mashiro is able to do it, one of his friends will run around the school in his underwear. The other one will wear a bra, and the other one will run naked.

Soon, he bade goodbye to his friends. Mashiro thought that he doesn’t want to gamble using girls, but the other party is Rin, his childhood friend, and he just wants to pass time so there is no harm in going steady with her a bit. That is right, he always felt empty. He likes girls or logically saying, girls’ love and admiration for him makes him feel satisfied. Young Beni called out to him and told him to chase after Rin, only if he seriously likes her or else, their mother would scold him. Mashiro is irritated that Beni eavesdropped on their conversation. Mashiro told Beni to shut up, and a long tongued brat should just go to sleep. So, Beni whined to their mother that Mashiro is bullying her. The next day, Mashiro waited for Rin to come out of the apartment building, and said that they go to school together. Mashiro wondered why Rin looked surprised when they used to go to school together..when they were kids. Pointing at Rin, Mashiro asked if it has been a long time since they talked to each other. Mashiro laughed it off that it is true, they haven’t been talking to each other. “How long has it been?” Rin replied that ever since girls had been praising him to high heavens that he lost his senses. Mashiro froze as Rin walked away. Mashiro wonders if this is how it is, when they used to be close before, so she has changed. Mashiro told her that he is just being praised, and she is also quite popular with guys. Rin said that she isn’t interested in guys, and it is meaningless if it isn’t someone whom she likes. Mashiro asked her if she likes someone. Rin blushed and exclaimed that it doesn’t concern him, and that thing fundamentally doesn’t matter. As Rin turned around and walked ahead again, Mashiro thought that it is surprising that Rin actually likes someone. Later on, Mashiro would always walk to school together with Rin, and this is noticed by everyone. They also noticed that he would always talk with her that they wonder if their relationship has always been this good. Mashiro would ask Rin to lend her notes, and he would wave at her when she has PE class. The girls wondered if Rin is his true love because Mashiro won’t go steady with other girls who like him. While working in the library, Rin looked a bit irritated at Mashiro who happily asked if he can’t talk with her. He then told her about a ‘tuna belly’ he found, and they look out the window which made Rin laugh. Mashiro thought that he has always been with Rin these past few days, and she hasn’t changed at all, acting cold but suddenly she laughed. He didn’t imagine that Rin had changed and become.. To Mashiro’s surprise, he is reaching out his hand to her. Mashiro laughed it off and pats her head to say that there is dust on her head. After looking a bit serious, Rin thanked him and walked away by saying that she still has things to finish. Mashiro wondered what he was doing when there is no dust on her head. Rin is blushing as she hold her hair where Mashiro touched it.

One day, Mashiro happily greeted her a good morning but Rin didn’t react and just lamely greeted him back. Mashiro wonder why she looked dispirited and she looked pale. While climbing upstairs in school, he is about to call her when Rin lost her footing and fell. At the clinic, Mashiro helped Rin treat her bump on the forehead. She had fell on top of Mashiro but her head somewhat still hit the floor. After apologizing, Mashiro lightly lifted her hair and mentioned that she is acting strange today, and it seems that she is listless. Rin said that it isn’t so, but rather, lately, she is quite spirited because he finally talked with her. This surprises Mashiro. Rin told him that when they were in the elementary, he suddenly stopped talking to her and going to school with her. So that day when he waited for her downstairs, she was quite shock and happy about it. “Because, I like you..” Then, upon seeing his reflection in Rin’s eyes, Mashiro had a sudden urge to touch her. He touches her face and kisses her. He is surprised when Rin asked, “Are you satisfied now? Beni had specially come to tell me that you and your friends had a bet, whether I will confess to you. What did you bet? Is it money? You think that you’re really something, who can kiss any girl who likes you, right?” Mashiro exclaimed that it isn’t so. “No, it’s true that I made a bet with my friends. *Rin took her bag to leave* But, my feelings for you..” He grabbed Rin’s arm to stop her from leaving. Rin coldly tell him not to touch her, and do not talk with her ever again. “I really hate you!” After Rin left, Mashiro fell face down on the bed in the clinic. He gloomily thought that it was bad, for Rin knew. “When did she know about it? Does she ‘like me’ or ‘hate me’? At that time [kiss], why didn’t she avoid it?” Standing outside the clinic, Rin is crying. End flashback. Mashiro gloomily thinks that it is very painful upon remembering his dark past. Anna happily asks him what it is but Mashiro says that it is a secret but what he can reveal is ‘it is darkest beneath the lighthouse’. [<- Out in the open, under the proverbial lighthouse, there is always the risk of missing the obvious in close and plain view. Source: Freelibrary.com] Sou sweatdrops when Anna asks him what that meant. Mashiro smiles at them and says, “It means for you three, Sou, Anna and Hinata, to get along with each other.” Anna looks surprised. Mashiro says, “And one other thing, Beni, that girl, is really annoying. And really, there’s no need to be that nice to her.” Speechless Sou and Anna sweatdropped over that.

Yay, someone finally put up the scans for this and I’ve waited so long for it. It is indeed such a sad story for Mashiro on how his first love ended so fast. It is a painful lesson to him. So, this chapter shows why Mashiro is really going out of his way to help in the relationship of the three, and play cupid before their relationship gets broken up because of the love triangle. Also, this explains why Mashiro seems to be fonder of Anna than his own younger sister. Hehe, he is holding a grudge against her for having a big mouth. ^^;

Quote of the day:
Mistakes are the portals of discovery. ~ James Joyce.

Black Bird [Chapter 61]
Monday, January 16, 2012

Cover page: “The me who simply SMILES At YOUR side, it would be nice if I could only RETURN to that TIME when [I] don’t know anything at all.” In the living room, Misao is snuggling to Kyo. Then, Kensuke enters the room. Misao thinks that they are at the White Snake’s residence, a clan known for using poisons. Kensuke tells them that he was surprised by the visit, and it would be good if they called first..but then, if they did, they wouldn’t have come at this time [late at night]. Kensuke asks Kyo what happened that is so urgent, and surely, it has something to do with Misao. Kyo says that he thinks that Kensuke can sense that Misao is pregnant. Kensuke says is that what this different feeling emitting from Misao is. He congratulates Misao. To Kensuke’s surprise, Kyo says that congratulation is worthless because if Misao gives birth, she’ll die. Kyo tells him that they’ve read the ending of the ‘Immortal Fruit Record’, and to fear of the Kuzunoha ancestor, it is quite unexpected for the Immortal Fruit to suddenly die upon giving birth, so at that time, they weren’t able to adopt any countermeasures. Kyo corrects himself that no, until now, they do not know if there is a way of stopping that from happened. “Misao, can’t give birth to this child.” Kensuke nervously asks if he is asking him about aborticide. Irked, Kyo says that he knows that this is irrational and cowardly but for him, there is nothing that can replace Misao’s life. “You also don’t want her to die, without a concern, right..!” Kensuke looks flustered that Kyo apologizes. Then, Kensuke asks Misao what she thinks of this, does she think that this is okay. Misao looks flustered then she bends over to hug her belly and apologize. Kyo exclaims that he persuaded Misao, and she doesn’t agree to this. Kensuke exclaims what persuade, and is he unaware of the situation. Kyo shouts at Kensuke and slaps on the table. “..It doesn’t matter!” Kensuke keeps quiet and looks aside. He tells them that he’ll answer them honestly, he is afraid that it cannot be aborted using drugs. Kyo is surprised by this. Kensuke says that even if there is an aborticide, they don’t know if it has an effect on the Immortal Fruit, and the Immortal Fruit’s child. He also tells Kyo that if he makes new medicine, who would test it, and if it is tested on Misao, he won’t be able to predict what change it will cause on her. “I am not beating around the bush. *trembles while gripping his kimono* I really do not know because as anyone else would say, the Immortal Fruit is an unknown living creature!”

Kyo curses in frustration. Kensuke asks if there is any other method that he has thought of. Kyo says that what’s left is to surrender the child. With blank eyes, Misao wonders if they are now going to look for Raikoh. Kyo apologizes for intruding in the middle of the night. He prepares to leave with Misao. While following Kyo, Misao wonders if it is okay for her to continue following Kyo like this, and if she doesn’t do something, she’ll lose her life and Kyo. “But then, if we were to abandon this child, can we really go back to the life we used to live? The price to be paid, is it really only this child--..?” Kensuke suddenly blows a poison needle at the back of Kyo’s neck that he kneels down on the floor. While Misao asks Kyo if he is alright, Kensuke tells Kyo not to recklessly move. To Kyo’s frustration, Kensuke grabs Misao to him. While pinning her to the wall, he hugs her tight. Flustered Misao exclaims what he is doing, and to stop. Kensuke asks her if she doesn’t want to, and if it is someone other than Kyo, she doesn’t want to be treated that way. Misao is surprised by this. Blushing Kensuke lets her go and apologizes. He asks her once again, if this is okay with her. He advises her to think about it again as to what will happen if the child in her belly is no longer there, because what path to take afterwards is something only Misao can determine. “Can you do that!?” Misao looks surprised and flustered. Then, Kensuke gives Kyo that antidote and apologizes for what he did but, Kyo makes a lot of mistakes[/not careful]. Kyo just angrily grabs the antidote. Misao starts to think what will happen if the child is gone. Watching the couple leave, Kensuke says that he didn’t thought that he can still see Misao again..not wanting to see, and cannot see her again.. He seemed to cry as he mutters Misao’s name. In midair, Misao tries to tell Kyo to wait but Kyo tells her not to move around. Then, Kyo’s hand slip that Misao starts to fall down. Kyo immediately catches her and they land safely on the ground. He scolds her as to what she is doing. Suddenly, Sagami and others surround them. Sagami tells Kyo that they knew this is something that Kyo will do that all of them were watching them, though they weren’t able to follow him in the White Snake’s residence. Kyo shouts for them to go back but Sagami refuses. Kyo immediately takes Misao with him and tries to make a run for it. Sagami and others try to chase after them but to their surprise, Kyo attacks them. Even the kids are thrown back that Misao shouts for Kyo to stop, and does he know what he is doing. Kyo attacks Sagami who stands in front of him but Sagami didn’t dodge so his forehead is bleeding. Kyo feels guilty for doing that. Kyo is taken aback when Sagami tells him that even if he sacrifices his own life, he will still stop Kyo.

Kyo falls on his knees and asks Ryo/Sagami to treat it as if they haven’t seen them and surely Ryo knows that the only thing that he longed for, until now, is only one and the same. Misao hugs Kyo’s back. Sagami asks if he thinks that he will treat it as something he hasn’t seen, but rather, he will go together with them. Sagami says that he has no way of refusing if Kyo called him by that name [Ryo], and he had served him for more than 10 years. He tells Kyo that he is well-aware of his deep feelings for Misao, during all those years that he has accompanied him. “My-- My master is only Kyo-sama, I will go together with you.” Then, Houki says that he is the same with his brother, he’ll go with Kyo. The kids exclaim that it is the same with them, for they cannot serve any other person than Kyo. Kyo and Misao are touched by what they’ve said. Sagami says that they are still young, and their parents.. Tarou exclaims that their parents ignore them after their younger sister was born, and don’t treat them like burdens. Buzen says that he is going back to the village for he only works for the ‘main family’, and if Kyo isn’t up to task for this, then fire him as ‘Buzen’. Zenki says that it is the same with him, and in this situation, obeying a bit or more, he will treat it as something he hasn’t seen but, he won’t go together with them, he’ll go back to the village by foot. Then, Kyo slightly bows to his loyal followers. Misao looks at everyone’s expression and wonders why it is all the same expression, the ones who is leaving [home], and the ones going [home]. “They are pretty much looking at the same direction--” Misao remembers Kensuke asking her what will happen if the baby is gone, does she agree to this and being treated like that, other than Kyo. She also remembers Tarou and others shout about their parents ignoring their existence. She remembers Sagami saying before that he won’t let Kyo fall down from the seat as the head[of the clan], and Kyo shouting that it doesn’t matter. She remembers again Kensuke asking if that is okay with her. Misao thinks, “No[/Cannot be]”. After his head wound is bandaged, Sagami asks what Kensuke said. Kyo tells them that they cannot depend on the medicine and he’ll go see Raikoh. Just before they all prepare to depart, Misao tells them to wait. They all turn to Misao who is hugging her belly. Misao says, “I won’t go. I’ll give.. I’ll give birth to this child..!!” Everyone looks surprised. Blurb: “Misao has resolved to sacrifice herself and give birth to the child. After hearing this decision, Kyo and the eight daitengu will..!?”

So, Kensuke made Misao think of what will happen if they did abort the child. Yes, there is a probability that it will strain their relationship with regret, and they might end up ‘hating’ each other for that decision. From the stuff she remembered, she agrees with what they’ve said – she doesn’t want to ignore the child’s existence, and she doesn’t want Kyo to fall from being the head of the clan. So, the conclusion she ended up with is to just sacrifice herself. But still, she would seem to be belittling Kyo’s love for her. He seems to be a guy who can’t live without her..and if she did die, he would most probably follow after her, rather than take care of a child who caused her death. It still feels like a lose-lose situation no matter how I look at it, and the only good thing will happen is for Misao to live on, after giving birth..or somehow, Kyo can life without her. Hopefully, they’ll find some other way..even from the looks of things, it seems likely because they don’t have that much information to go on..aside from the fact that there is no way of confirming if what’s written on the records is true. Scans by 水银工作室.

Quote of the day:
Decide what you want, decide what you are willing to exchange for it. Establish your priorities and go to work. ~ H. L. Hunt

Black Bird 61 Teaser
Saturday, January 14, 2012

Black Bird 61 is out but unfortunately, I have to sleep early today. My cousin is going to get married tomorrow so I need a lot of rest and it will be a long day. What happened in BB 61 was: During the visit, it seems that they are worried about the effect of the poison on Misao. Kensuke shakes Misao’s decision when he asks if she really want to do this. After they flew out, the others met up with them. Kyo tries to attack them but stops after everyone swears their loyalty to Kyo. Then, before they are all going to do the next step, Misao tells them that she wants to give birth to the baby. That of course, surprises everyone. Anyway, the full summary will most probably be done by Monday. Ookami-heika no Hanayome 29 is also out, so expect it this coming week. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Kimi ni Todoke [Chapter 64]
Saturday, January 14, 2012

Cover page: “Ah, look here. I’m always thinking. Always thinking [/concern] of you.” [<- I’m just curious who do you think is that in the cover? It looks like Ayane and Kent to me. ^^;] And, it is already December, and it is snowing. There is a bit awkwardness between Shouta and Chizuru. Chizuru thanks Shouta even if she isn’t quite normal yet. Chizuru says that in gratitude, she will listen to him if he has any problems. Shouta sweatdrops and says that he wouldn’t for she can’t keep it a secret. He tells her that he plans to find the suitable opportunity by himself. When Chizuru wonders if Shouta does have a problem, she meets up with Ryu. They just greet each other with a ‘hi’. Sawako looks at Chizuru and thinks that Chizuru seems a bit better now, from being gloomy before. She had told her friends what happened between her and Ryu before, wherein Ryu said to let it end. Then, Ryu ate the onigiri and they left. Chizuru was in tears before because they seemed like strangers. In class, they were talking to Chizuru about Ryu and that girl who confessed to Ryu. Since Chizuru is spacing out, they feed her food which she ate. Just when Ayane is going to doodle on her face with a marker, Chizuru quickly hits the marker away and it hits someone on the face. ^^; Then, Chizuru and Ayane talk about Christmas is coming soon. Ayane tells Chizuru to shut up when she mentioned about Ayane having no boyfriend this year again. Sawako is happy that Chizuru is cheerful again. Then, Shouta mentions to Sawako about studying after school for the exams. Ayane asks if it is a library date but Sawako exclaims that it is just studying. After Shouta left, Sawako’s friends ask her if she is going to spend Christmas with Shouta. Sawako exclaims that they haven’t talk about it yet. While Chizuru is spacing out again, Ayane tells Sawako that they should, and Sawako should do her best in persuading her father that rather than with her family, she will spend it with her boyfriend this year.

In the library, Sawako is thinking about this, and that the two of them haven’t talked about it. She thinks that they don’t have that mood of spending Christmas together. Then, she remembers Kent telling her to have self-confidence, and other stuff. She is looking at Shouta. When he looks at her, Sawako blushes. This made Shouta blush, too, then he looks flustered. At home, Sawako looks at her cellphone strap, when her father comes in to tell her about plans for Christmas. Just when Sawako is about to tell him, her father says it first that she can go to the Christmas party with the everyone/others, for he is now mature. Sawako’s mother comes in and says that even if he says ‘everyone’, but Shouta is there so, the two of them... Sawako’s father insists that with everyone, she can go. Sawako happily hugs her father and thanks him. Then, her father says that if she is 23 or 25 years old, she’s should spend it with family again. Sawako thinks of being together with Shouta, and would invite him out after exams. Soon, exams are finished. Sawako tells her friends that she’ll go complete her mission. They wish her good luck as Sawako rushes to find Shouta. Sawako calls out to Shouta and says that they go home together. This made Shouta smile. Then, he starts to mention about Christmas. He asks if she is free. Sawako exclaims that she is and she already told her parents that she can go out. “So--” To her surprise, Shouta says, that they spend this year’s Christmas together. “Together with everyone!” Sawako smiles over this and exclaims, “Yes!” Then, she thinks, “Spending Christmas-- together with Kazehaya-kun..!! *her smile freezes* --together with everyone?” Huh?

Hehe..it seems that Shouta is playing it safe, way too much when Sawako pretty much wants things to progress with them. I guess he thinks that she isn’t ready yet or would want more ‘friends together time’ than ‘couple time’. Thanks to her friends and Kent, Sawako is getting more proactive. It makes me wonder if in this situation, it would be better for friends to somewhat step in and help them are just stand by and let them handle things on their own. Maybe a balance..not ‘too much’ and not ‘nothing at all’. Since it is winter, I think Chizuru is ‘heartbroken’ these past two Christmas. ^^; Before, it was when Tooru got married, and now, it is because of Ryu. Will the third time be the charm wherein she will be smiling in the next winter? Scans by 君届同好会.

Word of the day:
Just as the winter turns to spring, our lives have changing seasons too; So when a gloomy forecast comes, remember—God has plans for you. ~ Sper from Our Daily Bread

Kyou no Kira-kun [Chapter 1]
Friday, January 13, 2012

[Free Talk: The title means ‘Today’s Kira-kun’ in Chinese. This series is by Mikimoto Rin serialized in Betsufure. The story is about an outcast girl and a popular playboy, delinquent type of guy who is dying. I have not read any of this author’s works so I don’t know what to expect but I think this one will be quite a tearjerker. The characters are okay..though a bit weird since the lead character has a talking parrot friend, and I’m not too fond of the author’s chibi drawings. ^^;]

There is a male high school student looking out from Tokyo Tower. Narration: “Absolutely not wasting a single minute or a single second, I guarantee you that I will always watch over you [attentively].” Page 1 – 365 Days Narration: “September 13 (Tuesday). I’ve decided to start writing a diary today. My name is Okamura Nino (16) first year high school student. *In section 1-5, a girl happily chats. Another quiet girl behind her is busy knitting.* I’m a cute and cheerful girl. Yeah right. *focus on quiet girl with long fringes that covers her eyes* I’m only someone who doesn’t seem to exist in the classroom. But..” Then, chatty girl tells the others that she felt uncomfortable with Bird Girl because of that thing, which is said to be a decoration, perched on her shoulder. “It looks too real, that is scary.” Narration: “It seems that I’m also being called as ‘Bird Girl’. And that is definitely, because there is a model bird on my shoulder. *suddenly stands up and takes her bento box* --I almost forgot. I also should go eat lunch. *walking out the classroom to the corridor* In school, there are all sorts of people. There are people who study the whole day. *students studying in the classroom* People who has someone they like that they talk about love and improve themselves. *girls fixing their hair in the toilet* There are people who would do some club activity in between classes. *students playing basketball* And also..” Nino hears someone falling down so she looks out the window. A student exclaims what he is doing [to his friend who is on the floor]. Another guy tells him to shut up for he only tripped him a bit, and who told him to say that they looked down on people. “Right, Kira” A curly haired handsome guy just says, ya. While some girls exclaim that it is Kira, Nino turns to walk away. Narration: “And also, people who doesn’t have any strong feelings for anything.” Behind the school building, Nino puts the model parrot on the stairs. She looks around and thinks that it is okay, no one is around. She smiles and says, “Sensei, it’s okay now.” The parrot spreads its wing and poses. It happily tells Nino that he is still quite good in pretending to be a model bird. Narration: “I won’t have to have a speaking relationship with anyone else. It is okay to only have the parrot (Sensei)” Nino poses and exclaims that Sensei is quite cool. Nino eats her lunch while chatting with Sensei about knitting a scarf for it, and Sensei anticipates it. Narration: “I’ve picked up Sensei, when I was still young. He is a genius for he can understand human language. He is a good guy who usually pretends to stop breathing, to always accompany me at my side. I only need this child and my family, and that is already enough.”

In her bedroom, Nino has just finished writing her diary. While Sensei is sleeping, Nino says, “‘Already enough.’ ... Ever since the time my mother gave me a diary, I’ve started writing it. But, it seems that there is nothing much to write about.. *sweatdrop* If I think about it carefully, there are very few things that I can write about anyone who has a relation with me..” She hears a sound outside so she pulls open the curtains. She looks out to see a woman kissing Kira at the house opposite to hers. Kira turns around to look that Nino quickly closes the curtains. Waking up, Sensei asks Nino what it is. Sweatdropping, Nino says that it is nothing. Narration: “That’s right. My classmate ‘Kira Yuuji’ is also my next door neighbor!! And our rooms are opposite to each other. *Sensei goes back to sleep* But..but, I have never talked with him. Generally, we are like ‘strangers’.” Later on, Nino is called out by her mother and says that she has something important to tell her. In the dining table, Nino looks at her mother in maid uniform, and her glasses father sitting. Nino’s mother is a 35 year old mixed blood who really loves Japan’s cosplay. Nino’s father is a 40 year old ordinary guy. A bit puzzled why they look serious, Nino tells Sensei that the cosplay is really cute. Sensei exclaims that it is beautiful. After Nino’s mother is happy over their compliment, she suddenly exclaims that isn’t what she is going to talk about. Suddenly, her mother starts to cry. While Nino is preparing to eat, Sensei exclaims what happened. Her mother says, “Next door’s Yuuji-kun is going to the grave next year.” After looking surprised, Nino and Sensei think that she is just joking. Nino’s father says that they are not joking. “Didn’t mama have a good relationship with his father? So, not long ago, she learned from his father, about his illness. Even if it is something hard to believe, Kira Yuuji-kun still has one year to live, before he’ll die.” Nino looks surprised and thinks, “Die?” Her crying mother says that she has always been hesitating whether to tell Nino about it or not. Nino’s father apologizes for saying it so sudden. Nino’s mother continues to say, “But, I want you to properly take care of him at school. I think other people also didn’t know about it.” While just muttering is that so, Nino wonders if that guy who regards people lightly, and has that kind of relationship with girls, is going to die.

In class, Nino is knitting again. She thinks that she still couldn’t believe what her parents told her and if she thinks of it carefully, her mother is the type who isn’t normal, and it could be a misunderstanding. Her mother would always go on a wild goose chase. Example 1: Her mother is going to have a duel against some bald guys, she studied kendo and told Nino that there is some monster in the northeast, and she is going to be strong to protect everyone. Looking at Kira laughing with his friend, Nino thinks, “And, what’s really obvious is.. he totally doesn’t look like someone who is going to die soon.” Behind the school building, Nino asks Sensei what he thinks about it. While eating some bird feed, Sensei says that if it about Kira, he doesn’t like him even if his hair is like Torisaki [鳥崎; Japanese comedian]. Since Nino doesn’t know who it was, Sensei puts on some leaf skirt and acts out a skit for her. Since Nino didn’t react to the joke, Sensei scolds her that he has been doing this enthusiastically and it is just weird[/not funny] because he is a bird. To their shock, Kira has seen them. Pointing at the parrot, Kira says that thing is actually alive. Nino quickly grabs Sensei and puts him on her shoulder. After a pause, another girl calls out to Kira and says that she doesn’t want to break up with him, and why is it so sudden. Kira says that it isn’t sudden, and they are basically just fooling/playing around. Then, Kira notices that Nino and Sensei trying to quietly leave. To Nino’s surprise, Kira grabs her shoulder and tells the girl that he is currently going steady with this girl. Then, Kira kisses Nino on the lips. While Nino is stunned, the girl exclaims why it is Bird Girl, and this is such a cruel way of wanting to part from her. Turning to leave, the girl exclaims that she has enough, stupid. After the girl left, Sensei suddenly flies and angrily pecks Kira for doing such a thing to Nino. To Sensei’s shock, Kira says that it turns out that he is really alive. Patting Nino’s shoulder, Kira says, “You don’t want others to know, right? As compensation for a while ago, I won’t tell anyone.” As Kira walks away, Nino’s knees weaken as she sits on the floor, wondering what had happened. Sensei asks if she is alright.

In her bedroom, Nino is still stunned over what happened. She thinks that her mother must have misunderstood about it, because that isn’t the behavior of someone who is going to die soon. Holding a toothpick, Sensei exclaims that he is going to avenge her, and use it to stab Kira by attacking him from the balcony. To Nino’s surprise, Sensei flies away to the next house. Going out her balcony, Nino exclaims for Sensei to wait, don’t, and quickly come back. There is silence so she wonders if Sensei is inside and what is he doing. She imagines devil Kira is happily strangling Sensei, and she must save Sensei. She climbs up the balcony but slightly loses her balance so she falls down on the balcony of Kira’s house. After complaining that hurts, Nino sees Sensei looking out the window door of the balcony. Nino exclaims that it is good, he hasn’t gone in. Sensei says that he couldn’t go in. To her surprise, Kira opens the window door and says that she can’t intrude in, and how she could just go in at will. Nino wonders what to do, and it is very scary. While Kira urges her to say something, Nino looks away and thinks that she is scared of talking with someone. She suddenly stands up and thinks of slipping away. Kira asks her what she is afraid of. Then, Nino looks inside the room to see on the table, some medicine pills in blister pack and a glass of water, slightly spilled on the rim. To Kira’s surprise, Nino blurts out, “Are you going to die?” Nino couldn’t believe what she just said. Kira denies it by saying who is going to die, what is she saying, those pills are just vitamins. While Nino thinks that her mother has really misunderstand it, Kira says that he thought that she came because she has an issue about what happened in the day, and by the way, she is a good girl who would normally wear lipstick, that her lips are cracked. Surprised Nino looks at him and asks if it is okay, someone like her, or, thanks to him, something like that was done to someone like her. Kira looks surprised and asks, “What? Are you thinking ‘it doesn’t matter if someone like me were to disappear’?” Nino says yes, there was a time when she thought that way.

After a pause, Kira partly closes the window door and says, “I actually really detest.. someone like you who pretends to be a pitiful person.” Then, Kira closes the curtains. Nino looks surprised. Sensei flies to Nino and nudges her nose. He tells her that he really likes her. Nino says that she also really likes him. Nino tells herself not to mind what Kira just told her. In school, while erasing the blackboard, Nino notices a small sheet of stickers on the floor. She picks it up and wonders whose it is. Then, she heard her female classmate exclaiming over a missing sheet of stickers. Her friend says that maybe she dropped it. Just when Nino is about to go over and return it, she freezes when her classmate says that maybe it was stolen. The other girl says that sticker isn’t that cute but the girl says that she won’t know about that. Nino holds down the sticker as she remembers the time when a boy is holding a baseball bat, and younger Nino is down on the floor, telling everyone to please listen to her explanation. Then, the girl points at Nino and exclaims that is her sticker. Kira notices the girls shouting at Nino, why she is there, and give that sticker to her. Then, they mutter what’s wrong with Bird Girl who just stares at them while holding the sticker. Kira quietly watches as Nino quickly turns around and goes back to her seat. Then, the girl offers a sheet of stickers to Kira. Kira declines but the girl says that it can be used since if he puts it on his notebook, it will be quite meaningful. Holding some sheets of paper, Nino is bothered that Kira called her ‘someone who pretends to be pitiful’, and even if it is so, she still doesn’t want to have anything to do with anyone. Later on, a male classmate asks where Kira is. They wonder if he went to the toilet and lately, when they turn around, Kira is gone. Then, behind the school building, Nino freaks out for Kira is sitting on the stairs where she usually eats her lunch, he has seized her territory. Kira is quietly smoking when he notices something. Then, Nino wonders what Kira is taking a picture of, using his cellphone. She is surprised when she sees him smile.

Then, Kira is surprised when his friend suddenly shouts that he has found him. Just when his friend is asking what he is doing, Kira immediately exclaims nothing and tosses his cellphone away. The cellphone lands on Nino’s head. When his friend asks what he just threw, Kira insists that it is nothing. His friend drops the topic and says that they are going to eat lunch, and it is his favorite food. Kira tells his friend to go ahead for he has to call someone first. While Nino holding the cellphone, Sensei says that maybe it has something that Kira doesn’t want others to see. Nino wonders if it is some indecent pictures. To her surprise, it is the picture of ants carrying off crumbs of a biscuit. The other pictures are: bicycle by the sea, cat and kitten, butterflies and flowers, some buildings, Tokyo Tower, starry sky, sunflowers, sunset, etc. Nino exclaims that they are beautiful. Sensei exclaims what these are, and the one that he just took are the ants. Kira goes to their side and is shock to see them there. Kira quickly turns around and says that it isn’t his. Nino chases after him and holds his cellphone up. She asks him why he is embarrassed about it, and she thinks that the glittering shine is very beautiful. Kira looks surprised. Nino asks him why there is a picture of Tokyo Tower when most of it is nature sceneries. Taking his cellphone back, Kira says that it is nothing, he just felt at ease when he stays there so he likes it. Turning away, Nino realizes that she spoke too much again. Holding up her face to him, Kira tells her that it would be okay if she just holds up her head and talk like this during normal times. Holding up her fringes, Kira exclaims what with those fringes because upon seeing it, it can infuriate him. Then, Kira is surprised to see a nasty scar on Nino’s forehead, near her right eyebrow. Remembering what happened before, Nino quickly covers her forehead and pulls away from Kira. She remembers some kids, looking down on her = a boy is holding up a baseball bat to hit her, another boy is holding a basketball, and some girls are carrying some rocks to throw at her. Kira asks her what’s up with that scar. In the verge of tears, Nino says that she thought that she was right, but everyone else didn’t think so, and left a mark[/proof that they didn’t believe her]. Kira says, “That also represents that you had fought with that kind of thing before, right? Then, you are truly quite amazing. *Nino is surprised* Ah, right. *takes something from his pocket* I have something good to give you. *sticks something on Nino’s forehead* And, I take back what I’ve told you before. *smiles* Sorry for saying that I detest you.” Nino is surprised.

She looks at the glass door to see what he put on her forehead. It is a sticker saying ‘what you did is very amazing’. Then, she asks Sensei what that guy just said. Sensei says ‘you are truly quite amazing’. She looks at Kira who is walking away. She blushes and thinks that is the first time someone told her that. Back in section 1-5, Kira is resting his head on the table. A girl nudges him and asks didn’t he say that he is going with her to the club. Kira’s friend says that is impossible for Kira is not feeling well today, so how about he goes with her. Continue to knit, Nino looks at Kira, but dismisses ‘not feeling well’ as no big deal. Then, she notices an ant on the floor. She goes to pick it up and move it out of the way, when Kira’s friend is about to step on it. Nino quickly pushes him away to save the ant. The friend angrily asks Nino what she is doing for that hurts. Nino is in a pinch as the friend shouts at her if she has some hatred towards him and quickly speak up. The girl beside Kira says that Yabe and Bird Girl are in a quarrel. Nino tries to apologize but Yabe angrily shouts, “Ha?! I can’t hear you. You are really disgusting. I really hope that you quickly just die!” Nino is somewhat surprised by this. They were all surprised when Kira tells Yabe not to casually tell others to go die. Yabe is taken aback upon seeing Kira sitting up and looks very serious. Yabe says that Kira used to always say that, too. Kira tells him to shut up, and don’t say ‘go die’, who does he think he is. Yabe asks if he is saying that Bird Girl is much better. Kira says better, and does Yabe know what other people call him, ‘Kira’s shit’. While Yabe looks surprised, the others ask Kira if that is a joke, and how could he say that. Kira says, “Anyway, this kind of thing.. you guys are also.. *looking thoughtful* I’m also..” Yabe suddenly punches Kira and continues to hit him as the girl tries to stop Yabe. Nino clenches her skirt and thinks that it is her fault.

Later on, the students say that they [Kira & Yabe] weren’t suspended but it seems that they were made to go home first. Another student says that lately, Kira is quite cruel, and never before had he thought of Kira being a drag, and always treating them like a fool. Remembering Kira’s expression, Nino thinks that it totally isn’t like that, and why did he have that kind of expression. Sensei quietly watches her. Soon, the teacher arrives and tells everyone to sit down for class to start. Just when everyone is sitting properly, someone says, ‘I won’t want to die’. A student asks if the teacher heard something. The teacher asks if she heard him fart. Nino looks at Sensei who says, “Darn it~~~ ‘I don’t want to die.’” Nino is shock that she quickly hides Sensei using her notebook and asks how he could say that. Sensei tells her that when he flew to that guy’s balcony, he heard him say that, so he didn’t go in. “At that time, that guy is crying *in bed*” Nino felt teary-eyed as she remembers all those times she has seen, and with Kira. To Sensei’s surprise, Nino says that she is filled with enthusiasm. When the teacher calls out to Nino’s name for attendance, Nino suddenly stands up and exclaims, ‘Pah!’. While everyone is surprised as to what’s going on, Nino quickly runs out of the classroom and wonders what’s up with her. At the observation deck of Tokyo Tower, Kira is sitting on the floor. He is surprised to see Nino standing in front of him. Nino exclaims that is great that she found him. “It seems that you weren’t at home, so I thought of the pictures..” Kira asks her why she came. To his surprise, Nino says, “It is because you have only one year, before you’ll die.” Kira looks at her then, looks out the window. He tells her that he is at ease when he is there looking at the moving city, compared to staying all by himself at home. “But, people who look out from here, and my [imminent] death, totally have no relation to each other. –Upon learning from the doctor that I’m going to die soon, it seems that everything that I had done [/established] is all insignificant. At the same time, I also became aware of ‘loneliness’. *covers eyes* ..I don’t want to leave everyone and become all alone. But, being together with everyone, I became lonelier. *hands trembling, and starts to cry* What is the best thing for me to do? ..I don’t want to die. I don’t want to die. I don’t want to become all alone..” Nino becomes teary-eyed. She thinks, “I know.. Being all alone by oneself is very lonely. Terrifying. *remembers past self* Something hopeless..” Sensei is puzzled when Nino suddenly turns around and walks towards a couple with a small child. The mother holds out a pair of scissors and says that she is now going to cut open the child’s favorite snack. Nino asks if she can disturb her a bit. Nino goes back to Kira and tells him to lift up his head.

As Kira looks at her, Nino says, “Ever since before, I’m afraid of looking straight at someone so I’ve obstruct my vision. But..” Kira is surprised when she cuts her fringes a bit so that her eyes can be seen. While Sensei freaks out, Nino holds out her hand to Kira and continues to say, “I will always be by your side. Always until you die. *teary-eyed* No matter what you say, I absolutely won’t let you be all alone. *Kira still looks surprised at her* Isn’t that so, Sensei, you also accompany and play with him, right?” Sensei exclaims why, he doesn’t like that guy. Standing up, Kira says that it seems like a marriage proposal. Nino blush over this. Furious Sensei calls him a brat, and not to move an inch. Nino is surprised when Kira holds her outreached hand then hugs her tight. He says, “Thank you.” While Sensei is screaming what he is doing, Nino somewhat hugs Kira back. Narration: “Although, right now, I still don’t understand what this feeling is. But, I want to be with him in passing through these 365 days. I want to keep on living together with him.” Blurb: “Upon learning Kira’s loneliness and pain, Nino, who doesn’t want to get involved with people, had broken out and committed herself. With fate guiding the way, these two will now start their 365 days!!” Well, I think this series is on a pretty good start. It does seem weird to have a parrot/mascot having an important role in the series..and it makes me wonder if Kira will really die in the end. It makes me wonder if he started to become nice and reflect on the things he has/had done upon learning that he is dying. It does seem weird to talk about dying alone, for where are his parents? There is no mention of the mother, but I guess the father is probably a working parent. It does seem that he is trying his best not to look pitiful that he doesn’t want anyone to know about his true condition. It is kind of sad in a way for being because like this, others won’t understand and help him bear with it. They will misunderstand him for the things he is doing. I wonder if the school knows of his condition that is why they also punished him lightly for the fighting incident. As for Nino, she also had a painful trauma over the bullying that happened, and she even had a scar to remind her of it. Pity or love, but it is because of him that she has decided to move on with her life, and comfort someone who had undergone what she had undergone before, even if it isn’t exactly the same thing. In a strange way, it is like a victim of some bullies, helping a bully/delinquent. Falling in love with someone who is dying is quite a sad thing. Yes, it is nice to be with that person while s/he lives but, it will be painful when it is time to part. Scans by 離境漢化組.

Word of the day:
Sometimes God gives us the opportunity to use the lessons we’ve learned and the comfort He’s given us during difficult times to help others in special ways. ~ from Our Daily Bread

Chitose, Etc. [Chapters 35-37]
Thursday, January 12, 2012

In the clubroom, Amika gives Chitose the data that she has already gathered, and asks what else she is going to do. Chitose tells her that nothing much is done except for data gathering for the activity. Chitose tells her about the other stuff in the clubroom. She can’t help but admire Amika’s beauty, and how cute she is. She also can’t help but wonder how come she has a good relationship with that weird Subaru. Midoriko asks Amika if Subaru is coming. Amika didn’t know for he left the classroom, earlier than her. Chitose is very happy with herself because she has already told everything to Yuki so there’s no need for her to be afraid of Subaru. Then, she notices that Yuki is also late. Yuki arrives late and tells the others that he met Subaru who won’t be coming because he has work to do. Yuki looks at Saaya who is working on something with Shun. He calls out Saaya and the two went out for a while. This somewhat puzzle Chitose and Shun. Outside, Yuki tells Saaaya that Subaru is Natsume Takeru, Misaki’s younger brother. Flashback: An hour ago, at the roof, Yuki wanted Takeru to explain things clearly to him. Takeru said that he has nothing to tell him. Yuki commented that Takeru gives a different vibe that he totally didn’t recognize him. Takeru said that on contrary, Yuki and Saaya are still the same that he quickly recognized them, and he lost his Kansai accent because of work, but he uses it when at home. Yuki told him that his sister Yuka is going out with his brother. Takeru says that he knows and it is from his brother that he knew that they are studying in this school. Flashback 2: At home, Yutaka is talking with Takeru as to which high school he would want to go. When Takeru mentioned his interest with Haisawa High, Yutaka told him that Yuki and Saaya are studying there. Takeru asked him how he knew this and that is when Yutaka admitted that he is going steady with Yuka. Takeru remembers that Saaya is also an actress. To Takeru’s surprise, he learns that Saaya and Yuki are no longer going steady. They broke up and found their own respective new lovers. Takeru couldn’t believe that they hurt his brother Misaki and now, they found other lovers.

He asked Yutaka not to tell Yuka about him for it will be troublesome because as actors, they wouldn’t want the people they are familiar with before, to know about it. Yutaka believed Takeru and assured him that he won’t tell. End flashback 2. Takeru told Yuki that he wants to know their current situation, so he stealthily came in the school using a senpai’s uniform. Takeru said that upon seeing him lovey-dovey with his new girlfriend really puts him in a bad mood. Looking calm, Yuki asks if he has been doing those things to Chitose because she is his girlfriend. Takeru admitted that is true. Yuki asked if he hates them that much. Takeru said that it can’t be hate because Misaki didn’t die because of them, but still, he is very angry especially at Yuki, who is Misaki’s best friend, since he secretly went lovey-dovey with the girl that Misaki likes, behind his back. Looking guilty, Yuki apologized for that. Takeru exclaimed over his frustration that his brother died at age 10, and they are living a carefree happy life. Takeru shouted doesn’t he pitied him [Takeru] who lost his brother. Yuki tried to say that he did think of that but Takeru continue to shout that he wanted them to taste unhappiness. “Give Chitose to me! This way, I can forgive you for what you did to my brother.” End flashback. Walking home, Yuki tells Chitose that Subaru is Takeru, Misaki’s younger brother. He used to be cute then that Yuki wanted him to be his own younger brother. Chitose also find him cute from Yuki’s story, and she wondered how come that kid turned out like that. Yuki informs her that he already told Saaya but she doesn’t have much impression of Takeru since Takeru tends to leave whenever Saaya is near them before. Yuki tells Chitose that it seems that Takeru couldn’t forgive them[/him] for betraying Misaki and living a happy life, especially since he is having a good relationship with Chitose.

To her shock, Yuki tells her about Takeru’s proposal that he’ll forgive him if he gives Chitose to him. Yuki assures her that is something that he cannot do so he refused Takeru. Chitose tells him that Misaki himself has already forgiven him so even if Takeru couldn’t.. Yuki says that is right but he understands why Takeru is thinking that way. He apologizes to Chitose that she became Takeru’s target because of him. Chitose happily tells him that it is alright, she’s fine. Chitose asks about asking Yutaka’s advice on how to deal with this. Yuki says that Yutaka would definitely not understand Takeru’s feelings towards them, and he doesn’t want them [Yutaka and his sister] to be worried so, he decides to keep this a secret from the others. Chitose asks if Takeru hasn’t gotten over Misaki’s death. Yuki doesn’t think so but rather, the anger revived upon seeing them. He says that this is painful, and he doesn’t know how to ease it up for Takeru, but still, he couldn’t give Chitose to Takeru. Chitose looks flustered for Yuki. At school, in the library, Yuki is called by Amika. Yuki asks if she is going to borrow a book but she says that she came in because she saw him inside. After a pause, Yuki says that she has a good relationship with Takeru. Amika tells him that she has few friends because she is always absent because of work so she is quite close with Takeru. She says that even if Takeru is a guy, she thinks that he is her intimate friend. Yuki asks her if Takeru mentioned to her about knowing him [Yuki] early on. Amika says he did, that Yuki and Saaya are his hospitalized brother’s friends, and it seems Takeru is angry at them. Yuki comments that they are like brothers before, and right now, he is loathed by Takeru. Amika apologizes for the age between Takeru and Misaki is quite close so their feelings are very deep. Yuki tells her that there is no need to apologize for that. To his surprise, Amika holds his hand and says that she really likes him.

At the clubroom, Midoriko suggests that they have a welcome party for the newcomers. She asks where they would want to go. Kanata happily approves of it. Takeru is a bit hesitant about it because he has work on school days off. Midoriko suggests that they do it during a club activity day. Takeru agrees on that. They discuss on what to do on that day like karaoke or bowling. Amika says that she wants to see a panda. Chitose, Midoriko and Kanata squeal about wanting to see a panda, too. Shun seems okay with it, and comments that they look very excited. Saaya is a bit okay with it. Midoriko asks him to go ask his manager when they are free. Takeru and Amika tell her that they are free today. So, the three happily squeals that they are going now, and Shun thinks that they are noisy. At the zoo, the three and Amika are really happy to see the panda. As they go out, Shun asks where Saaya is. Midoriko says that Subaru is also missing so maybe they took a walk. Somewhere in the zoo, Saaya tells Takeru that it is the first time for them to be alone. She says that before, he doesn’t want to go near her, and he must be shy that he always sticks with Misaki. Takeru calls her stupid for it isn’t like that. He says that he isn’t good at dealing with girls like her, and he doesn’t like her as some ojousama[/milady] who is cute, and sick that everyone ought to dote on her. Irritated, Saaya smiles and thanks him for still admitting that she is cute. Takeru thanks her because after seeing her on the television and learning that she is acting, and he has been discovered by Amika’s manager, he thought that if Saaya can do this kind of work, so can he, and he can be a better actor than her. Before, he only thinks of it as work, but now, he enjoys it. Saaya got irritated since Takeru is implying that her acting isn’t that good since she only treats it as work. Saaya changes the topic to ask him to stop tormenting Yuki. She tells him that she was the one who confessed and break the balance between them so why isn’t he after her instead. Takeru says that it doesn’t matter if she confessed or liked Yuki, the thing is Yuki consented to it thus he can’t forgive him for that. Saaya exclaims that even so, don’t do such a foolish thing of taking Chitose away from Yuki. Takeru shouts back that this has nothing to do with her, and it is something between him and Yuki.

Just when Saaya is about to protest, Midoriko and others had found them. Midoriko scolds them for walking on their own since they have to find them. Saaya apologizes and says that it is because there are many people inside the panda center. While Midoriko and Takeru are talking about the panda, Saaya tells Yuki that Takeru is stubborn for he won’t listen to what she’s saying. She was hoping that he’ll cool off by hating her. She advices Yuki not to always stay away from [/not mind] Takeru since that guy has chased after him to that school and Takeru is involving Chitose in it so he isn’t the cute Takeru from before. Yuki says that Takeru is still Takeru. Yuki becomes nervous when the others notice that Chitose and Subaru are no longer with them. Yuki tries to call Chitose on the phone but she isn’t answering. He decides to go and look for her. Kanata says that there is no need to be that nervous. Midoriko just says that Yuki is being overprotective since Chitose seems like a child compared to others. Shun asks Saaya what she and Yuki are talking about because it seems serious. To Shun’s displeasure, Saaya dismisses it as something about the hospital, and it is not important. Elsewhere in the zoo, Takeru has held Chitose’s hand and ran off with her. As Chitose catches her breath and frees herself from him, Chitose gets her cellphone to call Yuki. Takeru says that it is boring to walk as a group. When Chitose protests that it is his and Amika’s welcome party, Takeru says that he only wants to be alone with her. Chitose exclaims for him to quit doing that for she knows everything and he is doing this as revenge. Chitose is puzzled when Takeru says that it isn’t like that, maybe midway his revenge or something, but in the end, he came to like her. Takeru says that he was waiting for Yuki then, during V-day but he met Chitose instead. He felt good when she gave him that choco and thanks him for his help. He got furious at Yuki upon learning that Chitose is Yuki’s new girlfriend, and seeing them lovey-dovey outside the gymnasium. From his senpai who is in the student affairs, Takeru learns that Chitose transferred school from Okinawa and she is Mikami Yui’s younger sister. So, he auditioned for ‘level eleven’, and he thinks that it is fate for him to pass it. Thus, he decided to go to Haisawa High to take her away from Yuki. Chitose looks surprised over his lengthy confession.

Takeru also tells her that what he said before isn’t a lie, he got in the club because of her. He still doesn’t know if he truly likes her but he can’t get her out of his mind. Chitose asks if he is still acting. Takeru exclaims that he isn’t, and forget it if she doesn’t believe him. Suddenly, Yuki comes between them. He asks Takeru to please don’t involve Chitose in this for it has nothing to do with her that Takeru hates him. Takeru says why he has to listen to him. Then, Takeru just leaves. Yuki asks if Chitose is alright. Chitose says that they only talked. Chitose wonders if what Takeru said a while ago is true, and if it is, it might be because of her that Takeru would hate Yuki more. Then, at the clubroom again, Chitose and Yuki had finished eating the bento that Chitose made. Chitose wonders if she should tell Yuki what Takeru told her but then, she doesn’t want to increase the trouble between them. Then, Amika comes in and says that she is looking for Yuki, and she didn’t know that Chitose is also there. Since Amika has something to consult Yuki about, Chitose decides to leave. Just when she is already walking away, Chitose wonders if that consulting Yuki is actually a confession. Chitose quickly goes back and decides to eavesdrop. She mentally apologizes to Amika and if it isn’t a confession, she will quickly leave..but then, what if it is a confession. Chitose overhears Amika telling Yuki that she doesn’t want to go home because she couldn’t get along well with her stepmother. Her father married again, and she is mixed blood. Her mother is from Switzerland. They met each other when her father is still studying, and he went on a Scandinavian tour. Their age gap is huge but they fell in love and got married. They live in Japan but couldn’t overcome the culture gap so they divorced and her mother went back to Switzerland. This happened when she is still three years old, and she lived with her father and grandparents. Two years ago, her father married again and since they aren’t related, her stepmother couldn’t get along with her and she has no way of loving her. Their feelings for each other are mutual but lately, when her father isn’t around, the stepmother starts to hit her. Amika starts to cry over this. Yuki and eavesdropping Chitose are surprised. Amika starts to tell him about the physical abuse that has been inflicted on her and since her father left today, she would be alone with her stepmother again. After showing her injuries, She says that she is afraid and asks Yuki to save her.

To their surprise, Chitose dashes in the room. While Amika looks aghast, Chitose apologizes for eavesdropping and says that they should quickly do something. Chitose asks her if she has told her father or grandparents about it. Amika sweatdrops and says no, because it isn’t important. Chitose shouts what she is talking about, this is abuse and it is necessary to discuss it with an adult but then, who is the best person to talk this with, home room teacher, guidance counselor or police. To Amika’s shock, Chitose says that she is calling a youth consultation center hotline for help. Finally, embarrassed Amika confesses that she has been lying. She apologizes and quickly leaves, leaving stunned Chitose and surprised Yuki. To Chitose’s surprise, Yuki tells her that he felt that Amika has been lying. After thinking for a while, Chitose decides to chase after Amika. Chitose asks her if it was really a lie and there is really no problem with her stepmother. Amika apologizes for she doesn’t have a stepmother. It is true that her parents divorced but her father didn’t remarry, and the burnt marks are from an accident. Chitose is relieved over this and asks her why she lied. Amika didn’t answer so Chitose suggests that they go have a talk at her house which is nearby. She would also want to know more about Takeru. Touched by Chitose’s actions and words, Amika agrees. In her room, Chitose says that it seems that her brother went out. Amika apologizes for that strange lie and she thinks her acting isn’t that good since Yuki has seen through it, and people say that she is just a pretty face. Chitose nervously smiles and asks again why she lied. To Chitose’s shock, Yuki says that she plans to seduce Yuki, and after saying that she won’t go home, she’ll ask him to go to the hotel with her. Chitose asks if she really likes Yuki. Amika says no, she just wants Chitose to leave Yuki because Subaru likes Chitose. She apologizes for this, and says that she has always been striving hard in doing this.

To Chitose’s shock again, Amika tells her that she would go near Yuki, occasionally touch him and even confess at the library but Yuki just thanks her for the confession..and that felt like an idol touching a fan’s hand. Chitose asks her if Subaru asked her to do this. Amika says that she is doing this on her own free will, and whatever Subaru wishes, she will make it come true. Chitose asks her if she really likes Subaru. Amika says that he is her beloved friend. She doesn’t want a romantic love that will end someday just like what happened to her parents. She wants them to be together forever, not as lovers, but as friends. Blushing, Chitose comments that for Amika, Subaru is someone very important to her. Amika smiles and tells her that she was being bullied during junior high. Because of her showbiz work, she wasn’t able to blend in with the others and, there are students who don’t like her. But, Subaru who just transferred helped her out. Subaru scolded the girls that bullying is something a retard would do. It has nothing to do with him but seeing it puts him in a bad mood. If they got a problem with that, then they can go at him and fight. End flashback. Amika tells Chitose that Subaru used his Kansai accent to angrily rebuke those girls. It was very daring that it shocked those girls. And since then, Subaru is someone very important to her. Chitose asks her if it isn’t hard to watch with open eyes for Subaru be in love with someone else. Amika smiles and admits that it is true, even now. She would be lying if she says that it isn’t true but it doesn’t matter, she will strive hard and bear with it. Chitose tells her that even if they become lovers, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they will break up. Amika says that of course, it is impossible for it to be 100% chance of breaking up, but she doesn’t want to gamble on it. “No matter what, I want to stay at his side.” Chitose looks awed by Amika’s resolution.

It is somewhat hard to believe if the things that Takeru or Amika are saying is true since they are actor/actress but, what they’ve told Chitose seems to be true..and believable. Actually, rather than that, it is because they have lied before. Hehe, Chitose’s sincerity and innocence can easily win difficult people. It is amusing how Chitose unwittingly expose Amika’s lie. =P I really like her. Hehe, for me, it seems that Takeru is better than Yuki or Shun because he didn’t fall for Saaya. =P Still, he would probably end up with Amika. Sooner or later, I think Amika might not be able to maintain her ‘just be friends’ stance. Even if she has a trauma with her parents’ divorce, emotions are something that cannot be controlled. Actually, even as a friend, I don’t think she can always stay at his side..because the girlfriend might get jealous. ^^; Too bad Shun easily gave up, else Chitose would now have a harem. =P Also, it is quite ironic that Takeru reprimanded those girls about bullying, when he, himself had been doing that to Chitose, just to get her attention. Maybe those other girls also just want to get Amika’s attention. Scans by defer for jmydm.

Quote of the day:
When you stretch the truth, watch out for the snapback. ~ Bill Copeland

Kanojo wa Uso wo Aishisugiteru [Chapter 26]
Wednesday, January 11, 2012

[Free Talk: Hadashi de Bara wo Fume 55 teaser by jennyjule, courtesy of Anónimo. Soichiroh’s boss wants to send Soichiroh to work in England. Soichiroh is hesitant to go. Nozomu is finally going to marry Sumi, and he has already prepared the wedding gown. And, unfortunately, the limitations of progress in a shoujo story appear again. At the near end of this chapter, Nozomu’s father and Eisuke came to tell them that Sumi is Nozomu’s blood related sister, Aiko. Insert the couple’s shock expression. Haha..well, that’s what we are all waiting for.. and, too bad for Nozomu. Anyway, from the Chitose Etc teaser there, it seems that there is indeed some sort of hope for Chitose x Shun..even if something ‘mature’ seemed to have happened between Chitose x Yuki. ^^; I’m going to summarize this again..actually, I’ve already finished it. =P]

Yuu’s narration in chapter 25: “Let me clarify something first, fundamentally, I am not an excitable person! Everyday, I would reflect on things. There’s no one in this world, who can be as open-minded as I am, okay? Riko is totally stupid. She eats someone else’s lunch[/bento] box. Copy other people’s homework. Recklessly doodle at someone else’s notes. And, it is because she is so stupid, I felt that it is necessary for me to always be at her side. But, I never thought that she is stupid up to this extent! Suddenly going steady with Ogasawara, that strange guy.. Stupid! Stupid! Stupid!” [Hehe, I find this kind of amusing because he pretty much is what he says he isn’t. ^^;]

Looking at her posters, Riko ponders on saying something as ‘life-changing’ but what exactly has changed since after all, there is no life that doesn’t change. And, even if that is so, why does it feels that there’s no way out, as if something has changed. Meanwhile, Aki is playing with his toy helicopter by the esplanade. He thinks that he started dating Riko because he wants something that isn’t related to music, and he lied to her because he wants to have bonds with her that isn’t related to music. “..It’s truly strange for right now, what I had wished for had come true.. You will perform the music that Shinya composed.. But, I couldn’t put myself at ease..” At night, Shun and Shinya are doing some radio disc jockey job. Shun introduces himself as the host of ‘All Night Japan’. He notices that Shinya is looking uneasy that Shun laughs and introduces himself again. Shinya asks why he is laughing. Shun tells him that before they talk, he must introduce himself first since they are doing a radio broadcast, and the audience couldn’t see him, hence, they don’t know who he is. Then, Shinya introduces himself. Shun starts laughing again by saying that Shinya has been strangely nervous since he was in the lounge. Shinya denies it. Shun says that their honored guest today is Shinya whose first work garnered a lot of publicity. Shinya says that is right, this is a publicity tactic or else, he wouldn’t have been in a radio program with Shun. Shun asks if he is more enthusiastic about this than CPlay’s new song. Shinya says of course. Shun exclaims hat he [Shinya] better not suddenly leave CPlay. Shinya tells him not to say that or else, people would suddenly rush into that place, and it won’t be easy for him to become Shun’s rival. Shun asks him about how that bass part is performed. Shinya says that compared to that, he wants to know about the thing between Shun and Mari. Shun tells him that is quite a boring thing, and they just have a working senpai-kouhai relationship. Shinya says that if it is true, then it will be quite interesting but regretfully, it isn’t like that. CPlay’s manager nervously mutters that they shouldn’t recklessly say things.

Shinya asks Shun what type of girl does he like. Shun says that during high school, he likes a girl who wears glasses. Shinya asks if it is someone in the same year. Shun says that she is his class president, and he thinks that his classmates know about it. Then, Shun laments that he thinks that high school classmate could be listening to this program. Shinya says that from what he is saying, was it an unrequited love. Shun says yes, and at that time, he had a girlfriend. Shinya says that he is that kind of guy. Shun says no, it is because that girl really, really likes a guy who doesn’t have any future prospects. Realizing something, Shinya says is that so. Shun laments that he is now in a sad mood. Shinya comments that he didn’t expect Shun to be pure-hearted. Shun asks if this is what being pure-hearted is. The staff laughs over this. Then, Shun promotes Mush & Co.’s music since they are talking about pure-hearted. Shun asks if it is too sudden for he had prepared this ahead. Shinya says that he only forces the change of topic, and he [Shinya] intensely want to change the topic. Looking outside the booth, Shun says that actually, the lead singer of Mush & Co. also came here in the broadcasting room. Riko timidly waves at them. While Riko is bowing to them as an apology, the they say that Riko can’t participate in the program because she is still a minor, 16 years old. Minors cannot work from 10pm – 5am. Shun says so, Riko only came there to have fun [with them]. Shinya exclaims that no way, she is still 16, and what kind of fun will they do there at the middle of the night. Looking at blushing Riko, Shun asks won’t her boyfriend be angry. At a yakitori [barbecue] restaurant, Aki grumpily says will be angry, very angry. The radio program is being tuned in at the restaurant. Aki is eating with the other CPlay members. Kaoru asks Aki if that glasses class president Shun is referring to is Nagahama Miwako. Aki says it ought to be. Teppei asks Aki if it is Miwako who asked him [Aki] out during the school field trip. Aki says ya. Aki is surprised when Kaoru asks if Shun knew that Miwako of Hearst records, the one in charge of Mush & Co, so she ought to be currently at that radio station.

Back at the station, Shun says that they’ll continue to receive mails from the audience about Shinya. Watching outside the booth, Soichiro asks quiet Miwako if she used to be a class president. With crossed arms, Miwako says that Shun is like before, always saying something as if it is true but he’s only teasing people. Takagi laughs and says that Shun was at a loss at the discussion room. Flashback[?]: Miwako gave Shun her business card, and asked if Shun still remembered her as his classmate during second year high school. Shun asked her why she is speaking to him in a polite manner. Miwako told him that it is because he is her senpai. Shun said that he is now her senpai, and during high school, he used to be ordered around and driven around in circles by her. Miwako said that 7 years had passed, things changed so she isn’t some fool who is all giggly and happy because they are classmates. Shun replied is that so. Later on, while sitting on the chair, Shun held out a 100 yen bill and said, “Hey, Nagahama, go buy me a pack cigarettes.” Irritated Miwako stared back at him and didn’t react. Shun looked at her then burst into laughter that it is so funny. End flashback. Reading from a script which will introduce the reading of mails, Shun says that they’ll now listen and enjoy the music together. Shinya introduces ‘Tomorrow Still’, Mush & Co.’s debut single, that will be sold next month. Riko blushes as their single is being played. The staff enters the room and says that the number of mails coming in is quite astonishing. Shinya leans on his chair and looks at Riko. He tells Mushroom to come in. Riko is surprised and exclaimed that they are currently broadcasting. Shinya stands up and pulls Riko inside. Reading a paper, Shinya says that while broadcasting a song, they won’t be heard even if they talk. To Riko’s surprise, Shinya bends to the microphone and shouts, “Shit! *leans back in chair* See, whatever is being said, the audience won’t hear it.” Riko becomes nervous for it is CPlay’s Shun. Sweatdrops, Shinya says ya. After letting out a laugh, Shun asks Riko if the lyrics she wrote is about her boyfriend. Riko looks surprised.

Back at the yakitori restaurant, after Shun mentioned about listening to the music, Aki quickly stands up. He tells the others that he is going to buy a pack of cigarettes. After he left, Teppei asks if Aki has started smoking. Kaoru says that Aki is running away, for he doesn’t want to listen to this song. Standing outside, Aki looks flustered. Narration: “Seven years ago.. I’ve decided not to ride on this train, but you rode on it. Where that train goes, where it would reach, where it will stop, all of this, I clearly know. I clearly know that in case one sits on to ride that train, one won’t be able to get off it again. And, when one decided to get off, you’ll discover your original aspiration, course of events, right now[/present].. you have been confined here in this train. Hey! Mush, right now, you only still have not noticed it yet.” So, even if Aki doesn’t think that Riko is aware of it, Riko is a bit aware of it, that something has changed..but she doesn’t know what it is yet. Shun is really quite charismatic. Just like Aki, Shinya isn’t quite comfortable with the promotional aspect of releasing an album but through that conversation, I feel that Shun is making Shinya feel at ease..whether it is intentionally or not. I wonder if Shun is joking around about Miwako, or it is true. Because of how he is ordering her to somewhat get back at her for ordering him around before, he does seem to be just joking. Anyway, it seems that Aki is at a loss over how to feel over everything that has happened. He doesn’t want a girlfriend that has anything to do with music, and he got what he wished for since Riko doesn’t want to use his music. Right now, he wants to make music for her..but is hesitant since he knows how the music industry works, courtesy of Takagi. Scans by defer for jmydm

Quote of the day:
Life is the acceptance of responsibilities or their evasion; it is a business of meeting obligations or avoiding them. To every man the choice is continually being offered, and by the manner of his choosing you may fairly measure him. ~ Ben Ames Williams

Bokutachi wa Shitte Shimatta [Chapter 55]
Monday, January 9, 2012

Narration: “Girlfriend’s house.. or my house.. This is a problem.” During PE class, Yukito is sitting at the side with Abe and Friend [I don’t know his name ^^;]. While the others are playing various sports, Abe says, “Hey-- Kaji Yukito-kun, your expression looks so serious. This is a rare PE class that has become a free activity— Don’t you want to play basketball?” Looking at Kotori playing volleyball, Yukito just says, “Ah- if there is no place [to do it], what should I do?” His friend asks him what he is talking about, and what place. Blushing, Yukito says, “Ah.. That.. H..” Scribbling on his small notebook, Abe mutters, “Yukito’s brain is filled with H stuff, that he won’t even play basketball.. record..record..” Embarrassed Yukito exclaims for him to please don’t record that. Laughing, Friend says, what, he [Yukito] still hasn’t done it, and what he is worrying about. Yukito tells his friends that his brother has been staying in their house a lot lately, and it is problematic since his brother might come home at any time. Abe says that won’t it be a problem if he just locks the door. Yukito tells them that they don’t know how scary his brother is. Friend says that Yukito’s brother would definitely bother them, since he has a wicked interest [of teasing Yukito]. Yukito comments that he [Friend] also thought that. Abe asks him about doing it at his girlfriend’s house. Yukito says that Kotori also has an older brother. Writing in his notebook, Abe mutters that the two Kaji-s’ older brothers are troublesome, record, record. Abe asks him about going to a love hotel. Embarrassed Yukito exclaims that he doesn’t have money for that, and Kotori would definitely run away. Abe and Friend happily offer to lend Yukito their rooms. Leaning back, Yukito asks if there is no other way. Abe protests if he will do it. Friend exclaims that he hasn’t even said that he is going to peep on them. Then, Yukito notices that Kotori is looking at him. She happily waves at him. Yukito blushes. He quickly exclaims for his friends to quickly look something up there. As they look and asks what it is, Yukito happily waves back at Kotori. =P Using his arm to hit Yukito’s neck, Abe exclaims what Yukito is plotting, and with whom is he waving at. Friend exclaims that Yukito is a cunning guy. Puzzled Kotori wonders what that is about.

Friend says that no matter what is said, their [Kaji-s] progress is quite good. Blushing Yukito says that he can say that. Putting his arm around Yukito, Abe says that looking at his [Yukito] face, he has that vulgar smile. Friend comments that Kotori looks quite cute lately and it turns out that it has something to do with Yukito. Embarrassed Yukito tells him not to say it in a perverted way. Abe agrees that Kotori has indeed become more and more cuter. Embarassed Yukito exclaims that is not true, not one bit cuter, and it’s just ordinary. After a pause, Abe attacks Yukito again and exclaims for him to quit pretending and being shy about it. Friend then says that is quite praise-worthy. Yukito asks what it is. Friend says that Harada is wearing black underwear. Harada is cheering after a good hit of the ball. Someone exclaims that Harada is actually that kind of person and her bra is seen through [her shirt]. Another says that it is quite unexpected. Yukito says that it’s quite flirty since it is black. Friend says that since it is Harada, it might be deliberate..to make it see-through. Abe agrees with that. Abe says that even if it suppose to turn them on, but it still depends on the person. Yukito and friend agree. Yukito starts to wonder what color of underwear Kotori wears. He thinks that it would be pink, which pretty much suits her. Then, he imagines Kotori naked but her hair and arms covering her chest. Blushing, Yukito thinks that he never once seen it so there is no way of concretely imagining it. “But, perhaps it is colored white? It ought to be similar with her feelings.. generally.” Friend calls Yukito’s attention and tells him that other girl is also quite impressive. Yukito asks what it is this time. Friend says that girl, her chest is quite big. Abe agrees with him. Friend asks if it is Nakabayashi [中林]. Abe says that it is. He asks which girl in their class has the biggest chest. Yukito says, who knows. While Friend is exclaiming that other girl is also quite big, Abe says that Yukito isn’t going along with them. Yukito glumly thinks that whether near or far, he can also see them but he isn’t interested about big or small, he is only interested in Kotori.

To Yukito’s surprise, Friend says what about his girlfriend. Friend looks at the court to look for Kotori. Blushing Yukito quickly covers the eyes of his friend and exclaims that he can’t look, don’t look at her with such vulgar eyes. Friend says that they are just going to look, and Yukito doesn’t have to be too extreme like this. Yukito insists that he can’t. Abe asks him how it is. Yukito is puzzled so Abe says whether it is big or small, what it was like touching it. Friend asks if Yukito has touched it, so tell them about it. Blushing and speechless, Yukito thinks that he hasn’t touched it yet. “When that girl had a fever, the time when I took care of her, during the birthday [celebration], wearing comparatively loose clothes, I.. only.. caught a glance! But, I never thought, about whether her chest is small or big. I’m also not sure what it is like! Is.. is it truly very big? But, still, it could be comparatively small. Even if it is only a glance..” To Yukito’s embarrassment, Abe exclaims for people to look at Yukito showing a ‘changed face’. Friend says what that is, he thought Yukito is acting cool, but fundamentally, his desires are unsatisfied. “Since it is like this, for you, Yukito, I’m going to lend to you my secret book. Look--♪” Yukito and Abe are surprised for friend is holding a porn magazine called Style♥. Yukito exclaims how he could bring such a book in PE class. Friend says isn’t this good. Holding the magazine, Abe blushes and exclaims that it is the rumored big boobs album collection. Just then, Kotori misses the volleyball and it falls at the side. Looking at the magazine, Abe says that this is quite lewd. Friend says that even if it isn’t the real thing, but this is quite awesome, and he can lend it to them. Abe says to lend it to him first. Friend says okay, Abe will be first. “Yukito, do you also want to see it?” Yukito is a bit hesitant that Friend says okay, if he doesn’t want to, it’s okay. Yukito suddenly exclaims that he wants to see it. Friend happily says that the correct reaction ♪ Abe is calling Yukito’s attention and tells him to wait and stop. Yukito turns around and asks what it is. He sees Kotori holding the volleyball. Looking dark, she mutters, ‘huge..breasts..’ Yukito looks aghast.

Back in the classroom, everyone is busy preparing for their horror cafe. Yukito glances at Kotori. Then, he goes to her to tell her that he isn’t really that into that stuff a while ago. With a frozen expression, Kotori turns to face him and denies that she minds it, and it is really alright. Yukito becomes nervous. He sheepishly tries to explain that it is simply a curiosity and there is no other meaning to it. Aghast, Kotori says that even so, he really likes those stuff. Yukito laughs and admits that he does..a bit. His smile freezes when Kotori smiles at him. Yukito immediately exclaims for her to wait, it isn’t.. Running away, Kotori exclaims for him to go die [buried] within big boobs throughout his life (you, honest fool~~). Yukito wonders out loud what’s up with this. Later on, at Natsume’s house, Kotori looks at her cellphone. Yukito is calling her but she doesn’t want to answer it. Removing her coat, Natsume asks if she isn’t going to answer it. Kotori just happily says, yes, it is alright, it is just some lewd guy, and compared to that, she is really sorry for suddenly coming to her house. “I want to see your cosplay outfit for the school festival.” Natsume tells her that it is totally okay. “Are you guys quarrelling? *dark* Do you want me to teach him a lesson?” Feeling Natsume’s murderous intent, Kotori quickly assures her that they didn’t quarrel but rather, she is making a fuss over nothing. “Upon seeing Yukito looking at that kind of book, I was really shock.. (I don’t have that kind of chest.. and I feel that I’ve lost..) Of course, my [older] brother also has a girlfriend, and his room also has those kind of books hidden inside, and I clearly know that it isn’t a big deal, but.. (Even if I clearly know, but..) within my heart, there are all sorts of mixed feelings.. thinking that Yukito should be like that.. *Natsume quietly listens* It would be nice if my chest is a bit bigger.” Natsume asks if it is really that small. To Kotori’s surprise, Natsume gropes her chest. Quickly turning aside and covering her chest, Kotori exclaims Natsume’s name and says what she is doing all of a sudden. Natsume tells her that it would do. Wiggling her fingers, Natsume smiles and says that Kotori’s chest felt good and it feels okay, so don’t worry. Embarrassed Kotori says that her [Natsume] hands pose is quite vicious.

Changing the topic, Natsume asks about Kotori’s outfit for the school festival, and what is she going to wear. Kotori exclaims that she wants to hear her opinion about it so she brought it with her. Natsume says that since it is like that, then go change her clothes so that she can see it. Kotori tells her to wait as she go and change. Meanwhile, back in school, at the shoe lockers, Yukito pouts since Kotori won’t answer his phone call. Looking at the shoe locker, Kotori’s shoes are gone so she must have left. Looking at his cellphone, Yukito wonders if Kotori didn’t answer his phone and just went home. “—could it be.. that something has happened? Before, on the way home after work, she was also being stalked by some guy.. Even if that is Matsushima’s mischief.. but, that girl lately is quite cute.. Ah! No way that will happen! That girl? No way, no way, no way, but..” He pauses and remembers Abe & Friend saying that Kotori looks cuter lately. Yukito looks dark. Then he quickly gets ready to leave when he gets a message on his cellphone. He exclaims, “Kotori!?” Back at Natsume’s house, Kotori says that she has finished changing, so what does she think. Natsume’s expression is speechlessly surprised. Kotori exclaims, “Ka-ching♪ I temporarily call it, ‘Hell’s Angel’.” Holding a large whip, Kotori is wearing a short yukata, black wings, alien antenna hairband, and a skull necklace around her neck. Kotori happily tells Natsume that it will be quite scary if she put on some scary make-up. “I want to put in some cute feeling into it so I cut the yukata and doesn’t this seem like a cute little devil style? What do you think?” Natsume keeps smiling but she is aghast. She says, “Ah.. this-- What can I say? It.. Sorry. *holds Kotori’s shoulder* I feel that so many things are wrong! *Kotori is surprised* Right.. For you..isn’t it more important to emphasize the sense of beauty? Ah! Let me see! How about maid outfit? Didn’t you say that you wanted a maid outfit?” Kotori looks aghast for Natsume is saying these things as if her life depended on it. Kotori sadly says that she can no longer lend a maid outfit.. “It is also quite hard to manage, so I altered the borrowed yukata.. It seems that I still have to add a cloak, and how about drawing some skull symbols on the yukata?”

Natsume exclaims no. “Don’t--! That won’t also do! I’ll help you prepare! The outfit for the school festival, I’ll design it, okay? Leave it to me! Okay!?” Nervous Kotori says okay. Looking aghast + frozen smile, Natsume thinks that she doesn’t know what’s going on but she couldn’t tell Kotori that her sense of aesthetics is very, very different. Aghast Kotori calls out to Natsume. She wonders if it is really bad because it is her first time to see Natsume like that. Natsume smiles and says, “Relax! I’m make you super cute, that it will shock that Kaji guy! I think that compared to sexy, it is better for you to look cute, Kotori. And that way, it will make people feel that you are more sexy.” Kotori blushes over being sexy. Then, the door bell rings. Natsume exclaims that she’s coming. She tells Kotori that she is going to answer the door so go change her clothes first. Kotori says okay. As Kotori starts to change her clothes, she wonders if compared to being sexy, it is more suitable for her to be cute. “Does Yukito also think that way? It seems that he doesn’t hate big boobs, so I thought it is quite better to be a bit sexy.. *removes antenna hairband* Ah, right now, he is angry, right.. I had been snubbing his phone calls and emails. *removing the yukata* But, talking with him right now, my speaking tone would still be quite pungent[/strong]..” Suddenly, someone calls out, “Kotori?!” Kotori turns around to see Yukito. They look at each other and scream since Kotori is midway removing her yukata, and her underwear is seen. Hiding at the side, Kotori exclaims why he is there. Looking away, blushing Yukito says why..didn’t she fell down the stairs and became unconscious. Kotori exclaims in disbelief about this. Just when Yukito is telling her that Natsume told him that Kotori’s head is bleeding, he stops midway and realizes that he has been tricked. There is scene of Natsume smiling and flashing a v-sign. Scratching his head, Yukito exclaims that girl frightened him to death. “But, *smiles* it’s great that you are okay. I didn’t know when you went home, and no one is answering the phone, that I thought that something must have happened to you.”

Kotori timidly asks if he isn’t angry. Yukito asks why he would be angry. Kotori says that it is because she recklessly had a tantrum, and deliberately didn’t answer his phone call. “Are you really not angry..” Yukito says, “Ah, is that so-- that's right! But, compared to that, the first thing that I thought about is whether something happened to you.. *smiles* Haha, I totally didn’t think about that! *Kotori blushes* What’s going on? I might be a person who loves to worry? Ah! It shouldn’t be that.. *thinking* Possibly, it is that.. I.. *blush* like you more.. compared to what I’ve imagined” Kotori quickly runs out and hugs Yukito tight. Yukito blushes and exclaims in surprise. Kotori says, “I also really like you.. extremely like.. *Yukito blushes* Even if you like big boobs, I also like you!” Yukito says that it seems that she still minds that very much. Then, he looks surprised. He looks away and exclaims for her to quickly wear clothes. After being puzzled, Kotori quickly lets out a scream and covers her chest. She exclaims if Yukito has seen it, he has seen it, right. Yukito denies that he has seen it. While putting on her blouse, Kotori says that compared to that, where did Natsume go, just now, she hasn’t seen her around.. Yukito looks surprised and points to a note on the door and says, that.. Kotori turns to look at the note. The note on the door says: “I have something to do so I went out. You guys take your time ♡ Natsume.” Blushing Kotori thinks, “What..!?” Hehe..I guess that solves the location problem. =P Natsume is such a great friend ^^ And, Yukito is such a nice and cute boyfriend ^-^ The first half of the chapter is quite amusing. Guys will be guys, and I think the author captured that well because it is quite believable. I also like how this is all ‘not too innocent, and not too lewd’. Honestly, it is a lose-lose situation for Yukito whether he admits or denies it about liking or curious about huge breasts. ^^; I wonder if I was wrong about the H being at the end, because they might be doing it in the next chapter. ^^; The mood is good, and they are in the right time and place to do it, too. Scans by 依蓮扫漫組.

Quote of the day:
The affections are like lightning: you cannot tell where they will strike till they have fallen. ~ Lee Iacocca

What's Below~~ + Free Talk
Saturday, January 7, 2012

Hadashi de Bara wo Fume 54 Kyou, Koi wo Hajimemasu Side Story 1 of 2 Mei-chan no Shitsuji 117 Ojousama wa Oyomesama 92-93	Ookami-heika no Hanayome 28 Reimei no Arcana 36 Skip Beat! 184 The One 85

This week, I learned two series are ending soon. According to Emma, based on the author’s blog, Bokutachi wa Shitte Shimatta is ending on Cheese!’s March 24th issue, and that will be on volume 14. Based on my calculations, we are now 5 chapters from the end. So, it will probably end when the two Kaji-s finally had H. From babelfish of that entry, it seems that the author needs to rest after all the health issues that had been plaguing her last year. I’m thankful that she can at least put it in a somewhat proper end in a way, rather than just leave it unfinished. Anyway, there isn’t much any plot in this series..but I still love the cast’ antics and interactions ^^ The other series that is ending is Hadashi de Bara wo Fume according to awest999 and Lint. From ANN, it will end on the 6th issue of Margaret that will be out on Feb 20th. Base on my estimate, we are now two chapters away from the end. From the official webpage, the preview for issue 3∙4 [double issue] is ‘It finally becomes clear, Sumi’s biggest secret!?’ with the help of babelfish. Then, there is no chapter on 5th issue, so, the finale is on the 6th issue. Hehe, so it is really a rush ending with the secret at the very end. ^^; My guess is Nozomu realizes Sumi is his sister. He would either give it up or go on some sort of tragic end. Since Sumi is probably wearing a wedding gown for some sort of finale..she’ll probably get married with Sochiroh again at the end..and this time around, it is for real. =P

As of this writing, my only pending series is Bokutachi wa Shitte Shimatta 55. After reading the preview of issue 3∙4 of Margaret, my hope of the possibility of Chitose X Shun is shot down again. ^^; Anyway, I’m planning to continue the ones that were on hold before but, I would probably write it in a less detailed manner..if I can, but I should =P There are also some interesting series that I would want to start. And yet, I’m hesitating because I might end up with too many series to summarize. So..I won’t mention what series I’ll be doing in order not to raise anyone’s hope and as that slogan says, ‘Just do it’..rather than too much planning. ^-^ Have a great weekend, everyone!

Reimei no Arcana -Dawn of the Arcana- [Chapter 36]
Saturday, January 7, 2012

Cover page: “Which side of the future should I choose?” After Irasifu has been beheaded, the people in the square shout in jubilation for finally, the leader of the thieves is dead. Someone shouts that their children were killed by their snakes, and with this, the country can be at peace once again. At first, they shout, “Prince Baatar..” then changes it into “HIS MAJESTY Baatar--!!” Baatar proudly grabs Irasifu’s head and shows it off to the people. Still standing together with Loki among the people, Nakaba thinks, “Named as a goddess. A girl’s head is hoisted up high. A smiling man. *teary eyed* I’m going to kill him.” Nakaba has already grabbed her sword and ready to charge towards Baatar but Loki immediately holds her back. He covers her eyes and quickly drags her away towards an alley between some buildings. Nakaba is furious for Irasifu felt happy when Baatar called her, that she even had romantic feelings for that kind of man. Nakaba shouts for Loki to let her go, for that man cannot become king. “That person treated [that] Ajin like a chess piece, and he took advantage of her feelings of admiration [for him]! *Loki looks at her* That’s right.. He obviously knew of her feelings for him and still, he treated her as a chess piece!” Loki calmly tells her, “But that is the reality of this world.” Teary-eyed Nakaba trembles and loosens her grip on Loki. She bends down and grieves for Irasifu. She thinks that if that is so, then it is okay for this whole world to disappear.

Then, darkness envelops Nakaba. She looks up to see two long columns of door in both sides. Dressed up in her usual outfit, Nakaba stands up and realizes that she is within the Arcana of Time. She thinks that the doors there are this world’s memories. “Leading to the future, leading to the past.. in endless succession. Which one is best for me to look into..” She notices a light. She turns around to see a wolf looking at her. The light around the wolf vanishes and it quickly runs off. Running after it, Nakaba calls for it to wait. She wonders why it is there. The wolf goes in an open door. Nakaba looks in to see that there are two other doors inside. She goes in the door on the right first. Nakaba sees herself and others, together with the Lithvanel princes. They are at some place where there are ruined buildings. Ahkil tells his brother that it is Baatar’s private soldiers and those soldiers will soon chase after them. “Quickly, leave this place.” Some soldiers point at them and shouts, “There, chase after them!” Future Nakaba shouts for Ahkil to go hide behind those rocks. To their surprise, Azhar says that he is the one whom they are after so they should go first, as he lures them away as bait. To Future Nakaba’s surprise, Ahkil runs after his brother. The soldiers had caught Azhar. Just when the soldiers are about to kill Azhar, Ahkil goes in front of them and he was cut down by the soldier. Future Nakaba shouts his name. The soldier laughs and says that this really saves them a lot of effort because Baatar-sama also told them to definitely kill the fifth prince. Nakaba is stunned that Ahkil is going to be killed. “Lie.. It’s a lie.. I hate this kind of future..!”

Nakaba quickly runs out of the door and goes to the other door. It is the same scene wherein Ahkil tells his brother Azhar to quickly leave the place for the soldiers will soon chase after them. The soldiers see them and shout that they are there, chase after them. Future Nakaba shouted for Ahkil to hide. Azhar would use himself as bait since he is their goal. Ahkil wants to go after his brother but Future Nakaba grabs his arm tightly and shouts for him to stop[, don’t go]. And, Azhar has been cut down by the soldier. As Azhar lie down on the ground, the soldier exclaims that it is amazing that they got rid of Azhar, and they should quickly inform Baatar-sama. Teary-eyed Nakaba stands there in shock. “What is this? Is this like telling me to choose? Choosing between Prince Azhar or Ahkil, which one should live on. Is this to make me choose? It’s too mean. It’s too cruel. I can’t do it.” Nakaba returns to reality with Loki calling out to her. She snaps out of it and looks at Loki. He asks her if she is alright, and did she start up the Arcana of Time again. He worriedly tells her that if she uses it too many times, it is harmful to her body. He touches her eyes and says, “Tears..” Teary-eyed Nakaba looks at him and thinks, “Loki.. if someone can live, no matter how many times, I will use this power.. But, it isn’t that kind of power. It is making me choose which person I would want to be killed.”

No.. Irasifu did die in such a tragic way. Totally used, manipulated and discarded when no longer needed. It is really sad that only Nakaba and Loki know the truth but still, they are helpless to undo or fix things. And, it seems that just like what Ahkil thought, Baatar is going to get rid of them. It now makes sense as to why Ahkil is so desperate to stop Baatar at all costs from becoming king. I guess he let his guard down and this sense of urgency because of Nakaba’s earlier outburst. She just left to see Caesar off and now what happens. ^^; Even if I wonder where Leo is during this times, I guess he must be also helpless that the author didn’t bother mentioning it. I can understand Nakaba’s situation and frustration. Aside from not being able to do something for Irasifu, now, she has to deal with the other dastardly thing that Baatar is going to do. The choice is a hard one. If it is either of the two, I would probably go with saving Ahkil. Because if it is to save Azhar, they might both end up dead because Azhar is already captured. If, maybe, Azhar can still escape if Ahkil sacrificed himself, then, if Azhar is dead, the possibility of diplomatic ties with Senan is really gone..and everything might go into chaos. Because aside from the possibility of Lina getting killed if they didn’t deliver, it will be a one sided war against Belquat. Many will be killed, but, there is another hope for Caesar to become king. Hm..Guran still looks healthy so Caesar might not become king soon, and Guran would probably engage into war pretty soon since they have been amassing a lot of arms already. It depends if given his current position, Caesar can do something or end up just as a helpless bystander/chess piece as the adults go on with their own selfish goals. The curious thing here is the wolf within the Arcana of Time. It immediately made me think of Loki. Is he the trump card? Does this mean that Loki has a relation to the Arcana of Time? It is strange that Loki or even Leo wasn’t in those two dreams. They would be helpful during that crucial time. I wonder if Nakaba can really change the future based on what she has seen, just like what happened with Emilia’s death. It seems changeable but is it because the one who changed it is Loki? Is that just a coincidence? The Arcana is really evolving..aside from door, it now has an entity shaped like a wolf within it. Now, it seems that Nakaba can see possibilities of the future that is making her choose – each future with their own consequences based on her choice. Anyway, things are getting very tragic, serious and unpredictable. I think by the time this series ends, the cast, if they survive, will be very different from what they are from the start of the series. These kinds of events are very life-changing and it can make or break them. Scans by Rei'S工作室

Word of the day:
Our strength and hope is in the Lord— We rest secure in His sure Word; And though we’re tempted to despair, we know we’re kept within His care. ~ D. De Haan from Our Daily Bread

The One [Chapter 85]
Friday, January 6, 2012

Cover page: “Happiness, conveniently here[/at hand]..” In the kitchen, Eros is cooking while Lele watches him. Lele exclaims that it turns out that he knows how to cook and it looks better than her own cooking. While spooning the congee into a bowl, Eros says that he had not cooked congee yet, and this is according to the instructions that she left Taylor. He asks her to taste it and if it pass. As Eros spoon feeds, Lele tastes it and smiles. He asks again if it pass. Then, a bag drops. Taylor and Leo had just come in and they were surprised to see the two in the middle of their lovey-dovey. Sweatdropping Leo exclaims that he was very worried about Lele because of his big mouth but it turns out that he has been thinking too much. Sweatdropping Taylor exclaims that it seems that Eros is feeling okay now. Leo tells Eros that it seems that Lele has taken good care of him so he can now go back home at ease. Taylor says that if he needs his help, just mention it. Leo says that they won’t disturb them so bye. After they quickly left, Lele and Eros look at each other and laugh. While kissing with Eros, Lele thinks that things are turning out wonderfully and happiness came without a warning. Is it a dream? If it is a dream, please don’t wake me up too fast. The scene changes to sleeping Angus. Ulysses kisses him at the back and wakes him up. Ulysses reminds him of their lunch together with his stupid son and new lover. Angus says that it is his son, so why not go there by himself. Ulysses exclaims no for it is necessary for him to confirm that his son already given up on him [Angus], for him [Ulysses] to be at ease. Angus asks what he meant by that. Ulysses asks if he didn’t know that actually, at that time, when Will and Feidna partnered up to compete against him [Angus] in that advertisement.

It is actually a gamble between him and his son. He and his son had fallen for Angus. To prevent Ulysses from chasing after Angus, Will asked him to have a gamble with him. That is if the performance of Will’s advertisement surpasses Angus’, Ulysses would give up on Angus. Angus speechless. And, in the end, Will lost and Ulysses smoothly got Angus, and it was a major blow for Will. Fortunately, Will has made a new friend lately but it is the first time for Will to tell him [Ulysses] to meeting someone. So, he cannot help but become suspicious if Will has really given up or he would just want an opportunity to see Angus. Angus speechless. So for Will to totally give up, they are going to show their ‘lovey-dovey/conjugal love’ in front of Will. Then, at a restaurant, Will came with Yang. Will calls out to Ulysses and says that it has been a long time, old man. Ulysses hit Will for calling him ‘old man’, and scolds him for having no manners. Ulysses says that even if he is his father but based on external appearance, they would look like brothers. “Right, Angus? darling~” Speechless Angus sweatdrops. Hitting him again, Ulysses tells his son to call him father. Will says okay, father, this is my good friend, Yang. Yang politely greets him. Ulysses greets him back and apologizes for the ‘funny thing with his son’ earlier. He thinks that he isn’t bad since Yang is a bishounen [beautiful young man]. He says that Angus doesn’t need any introductions. Holding up his wine glass, Angus greets Will and Yang, saying that it is the first time he met them. Soon Will and Ulysses are drunk, Angus and Yang are standing at the ship, looking towards the sea. Angus says that it is unexpectedly to see him there and it has been a long time. After a pause, Yang asks if Angus isn’t going to ask why he is with Will. Angus asks if this is something he ought to know. Yang thinks that Angus is still the same, he hasn’t change..no warmth in his eyes, the same Angus who doesn’t love anyone. Blushing Yang says that he has been thinking of him. Angus asks wasn’t he going steady with Will. Yang says that is the only way for him to see him [Angus], and he left New York for such a long time. Angus says that now that he has seen him, what now? This surprises Yang that he wonders why Angus has become colder than before.

Yang asks him what happened to him during all this time, even if he doesn’t have the right to ask[/get involved in], but he has thoroughly disappeared for such a long time and this hasn’t happened before. Angus asks isn’t he well and currently standing here. Yang cries that Angus asks why he is crying then says, oh, I see.. He kisses Yang. He says that is what Yang wants. Still crying, Yang asks him if he remembered that he said that he can die for him and that isn’t a lie. Surprised Angus pushes him away. Turning to leave, Angus tells him to leave for his world isn’t something that he [Yang] can mix up and go in. “I can give you only this much. Leave and be content with that! Otherwise, you’ll only become more unfortunate[/miserable].” Yang is surprised by this. Back to New York, Lele has been rummaging around the place that Eros asks what she is looking for. Lele holds out her hand and says that it is good that he came, give it to her. He asks what. She says the ‘Silver/Yin’ earring that she gave him. Later on, Lele happily looks at the earring. She jumps around the bed for he didn’t throw it away. Eros thinks that she is quite concerned about that. Eros tells her that he didn’t think of throwing it away but he put it away in order to exchange places with Angus. Then, Lele pulls his hair aside and puts the earring on his ear. Lele tells him that next time, he isn’t allowed to remove it without her consent because from now on, it symbolizes for ‘you belong to me’. “Wearing it and you’ll become my ‘thing’! And my ‘thing’ has to listen to me! Understand?” They kiss.

And the following days, they become like ordinary lovers. Shopping in the supermarket together, and bickering over small things together. And while walking in the streets, they will hold hands naturally. “Grandma~ It turns out..what you’ve told me in the dream is true! *It’s raining so Eros uses his coat as their cover and they happily run through the rain* Beside me.. there is really a silver-eyed angel protecting me! And I.. also want to protect this person, always until forever--” After taking a shower, Lele goes in the bedroom to say she is finished, and it is his turn. She finds Eros in bed that she wonders if he is sleeping. Sitting on the other bed, Lele wonders how could Eros sleep for shouldn’t the story be at its climax around this time. She hears Eros groaning that she quickly goes to him and asks him what’s wrong, is he feeling ill. Aghast Lele thinks that even if she has seen those flare-ups numerous times, she is helpless during those times. She asks if it hurts. Eros says that if she is scared, she can leave since he knows that she is scared every time this happens. He tells her to go out and he’ll be fine by himself. Lele shakes her head and says that she was never afraid of him. Starting to cry, Lele tells him that didn’t she tell him to only let her see his ugly appearance/side. “But..for me to be unable to help you, I hate this me who is powerless.” She is surprised when Eros touches her hand. He tells her to let him hug her. He somewhat forces himself to smile and tells her that before he won’t dare ask her to stay so he never dare say it but right now.. Narration: “Let me hug you! *Lele hugs Eros tight and he hugs her back* .As long as I hug you.. I’ll have the sufficient courage to withstand everything--!” Next chapter will be out on Feb 5th in Taiwan

The Eros x Lele scenes are really wonderfully sweet and romantic. Fufu..they are indeed a couple now. I can’t wait to see Feidna eat her heart out. =P Leo took it pretty well. I guess he had already accepted it. He and Taylor acted like ‘uncles’ who just walk in and interrupted a lovey-dovey scene. As for Angus, from the looks of things, it seems that Yang will be his ‘Lele’. For Yang to mention about willing to die for Angus, it seems ominous..like it will happen. And, I think he can do it for he is willing to pretend as Will’s lover just to see Angus again. From Angus’ last words, Yang won’t likely back off easily. I think Angus is scared of the possibility when Yang actually does what he says, and tries to push him away. Scans by Icy_Chrisy for baidu

Quote of the day:
Love is like a puzzle, hard to piece together, but beautiful when all the right pieces are put together. ~ Author Unknown

Hadashi de Bara wo Fume [Chapter 54]
Friday, January 6, 2012

Cover page: “Second time wearing a white wedding gown, and the wedding partner will be..” Soichiroh is shock that Nozomu is pointing the shotgun at him. He quickly covers his face and tells Nozomu to stop. A gunshot rings in the air. Soichiroh looks at Nozomu to see him pointing the smoking gun upwards. As a tear falls down his cheek, Nozomu asks why it is Soichiroh. Beard guy arrives and asks if they shot one. Looking normal Nozomu says that he missed. While Nozomu and the beard guy walk away talking about not being able to shot a deer, Soichiroh just looks glum. Soon, it is time to leave. Beard guy is happy about this delightful business discussion. Shaking Nozomu’s hand, he invites Nozomu and Sumi to England. As they talk, Soichiroh and Sumi exchange meaningful glances. Nozomu sees this, that he looks totally furious after Soichiroh and Beard guy had left. Upon returning home, Sumi mentions about wanting to go to shogi club tomorrow but Nozomu says that he is dissolving the club because a lot of people have to work overtime, and it isn’t a good influence on them to keep on indulging their time in the club. He says that there is an intense influenza going around so it is best for her to stay home. Nozomu hires two new butlers and fires Komai. Sumi tries to insist that Komai stays but Nozomu shouts that Komai should quickly pack his things and leave. Komai leaves. Two butlers stop Sumi from going after Komai, and Nozomu says that he is going to work. At the office, a man tells Nozomu that things had already been properly arranged. He says good job.

In the house, guarded by the two butlers, Sumi thinks that she has been staying in the room for three days. She wonders if Nozomu has found out about what happened between her and Soichiroh. She dismisses that thought as something impossible. She looks at the ring that Nozomu gave her and she sadly thinks that the ring Soichiroh gave her was thrown away by Nozomu. Then, a butler comes in and tells her to dress up for she is going to visit Nozumu’s father. At Ijuin main residence, Nozomu happily greets his father and asks if he is okay, he brought Sumi to see him. His father is lying on the bed. His wife is sitting on a chair beside the bed. Bringing kimono clad Sumi in, Nozomu comments that his father likes kimono. Sumi greets Nozomu’s father and says that is has been a long time. His father sits up and exclaims, “Masako [真紗子]..!!” Sumi is surprised and Nozomu nervously asks what he is saying, she is Sumi. Sumi asks who Masako is. Nozomu says that Masako is his mother. Nozomu’s father stands up and holds Sumi’s shoulder. He shouts that he isn’t mistaken, it is Masako. While his wife tries to stop him, Nozomu’s father keeps on insisting that it is Masako while Nozomu insists that she is Sumi, his fiancee. To Sumi and his father’s surprise, Nozomu tells his father to congratulate him for next week, he and Sumi are getting married.

Woohoo..finally, Sumi’s true identity is hinted again. It really does seem that everything is happening fast. Is this going to end soon? Wow..Nozomu turns out to be not that totally insane yet to kill Soichiroh. I guess Soichiroh being his friend still surpasses the want to kill him as a love rival. I think Nozomu’s father is going to stop the wedding..or him with Soichiroh and Komai, also Miu. It does seem strange that Nozomu managed to suddenly arrange things in three days for him to freely marry Sumi. I guess with lots of money, he can pull some strings. The coming chapters will be fun..and the revelation is going to happen soon given the pace of the story lately. Scans by 红莲汉化组

Word of the day:
God is behind the scenes and controls the scenes He stands behind. ~ Our Daily Bread

Kyou, Koi wo Hajimemasu [Side Story Part 1 of 2]
Thursday, January 5, 2012

Cover page: “Even if we’re separated, these feelings will definitely also still--” The result of the hairstyle competition during the school festival is out. Tsubaki wins first place. A short haired girl exclaims that it is truly amazing and more kouhai-s had overwhelming took first place. The long haired girl asks what about the grades. In the bulletin board, it is shown that Tsubaki is in first place in both academics and skills[/hairstyling] at the school’s early term ranking. They ask, “Tsubaki, what kind of person are you?” Holding a mannequin, light colored haired Tsubaki hesitantly smiles and says, “Ah.. asking me what kind of person I am.. I’m only an ordinary student in a specialty school..” Her long haired friend exclaims that fundamentally, she isn’t ordinary. “You also even get to study under that graduate student Hananoi! It’s really nice. I also want to work at parfait.” Short haired friend tells the long haired girl that a person who made a mistake in the amount of dye, and dyed the customer’s hair into gold/blond, cannot be used. An arrow points that ‘customer’ is Tsubaki. Long haired girl holds Tsubaki’s shoulder and tearfully cries to apologize to Tsubaki. Then, someone calls out to Tsubaki. It is Hiro. While still holding her mannequin head, Tsubaki and friends approach him. Long haired friend is gushing that it is the person himself. She asks him why he is there. Hiro tells her that he is there to discuss the details of a special beauty symposium that he is in charge with. Long haired friend squeals if that is true, then it’s amazing, she eagerly anticipates it. Hiro clarifies that even if he said it is beauty, but it isn’t for the school in Tokyo but rather, the sister school in Kyoto. While long haired friend is disappointed to hear that, Hiro looks at Tsubaki and says that there is something that he would want to trouble her with. In her bedroom, Tsubaki happily calls up Kyouta about her working trip to Kyoto. Hiro will be going to their school’s branch in Kyoto, and she get to go there as his assistant. Kyouta says, Hananoi..huh.. Tsubaki exclaims yes, because it is a working trip the school will shoulder all of the expenses and it will be a two days and one night trip starting on Oct 31st so this way, she can go there directly to celebrate his birthday. Kyouta lets out a laugh that Tsubaki asks him what it is. Kyouta says no..it is just that for the first time since they were talking on the phone, she is this happy. “Are you very happy because you can see me?” This made Tsubaki blush but she exclaims her denial by saying that she is only happy because she doesn’t have to pay the transportation fees. Kyouta just smiles over it and says that he is very happy that they’ll get to see each other *Tsubaki blushes more* because this year, they have reached the ‘three year plan’ and it is a very special day. Tsubaki says, yes.

There is a short narration of Tsubaki that in her house there is a meteorological apparatus kit which consists of a projector and three films. Because she wants to continue on having a relation/connection with Kyouta, through a stange method, starting from October of their first year high school, she starts giving him one piece of the whole kit each year. At the end of third year high school, she has already given him all three films, and this year, it will be the projector. And thus, the ‘three year plan’ has finally ended. While Tsubaki looks at the projector on her dressing table, Kyouta says that he can’t wait to get the planetarium projector, and see bad [delinquent] girl hairstyle Tsubaki. He admits that after seeing her picture, he is really shock. Laughing, Kyouta teases her that he didn’t know that she fundamentally wants to become a bad girl. Tsubaki exclaims that it is a dyeing practice accident and tomorrow, she is going to dye it back. Kyouta asks why, how boring, just come that way. Kyouta is surprised when Tsubaki says that even if he said that, and she agrees, but Hiro said.. Flashback: Holding Tsubaki’s blond hair, Hiro angrily says that he wants to kill the person who made his beloved black hair into this color. “Relax, with my skill, there won’t even be any slight damage, as I turn your hair back into black!” Kyouta asks her if she has already decided where she will be staying upon arriving in Kyoto. Tsubaki says that she isn’t sure because she wasn’t told of the details yet. He tells her to refuse the arranged place where she’ll be staying, and when she arrives at his house, he won’t let her go until it is morning. Tsubaki blushes over that and says, “Okay, I understand.” Then, she hears a girl’s voice, “Kyouta~ the on-the-spot study 2 here..” Tsubaki freezes then tries to act normal by asking Kyouta if he is currently writing a school report with his college classmates. Kyouta says ya, and they are in his house but totally don’t mind them. The classmate angrily says what he just said. Then, another classmate calls out to Kyouta to tell them [the answer?] Tsubaki just says okay, and it is almost time for her to sleep. Kyouta says is that so, then bye-bye. Tsubaki bids him good night and hangs up the phone. Leaning on the dressing table, Tsubaki sadly looks at the cellphone of a picture of Kyouta’s classmates [two guys and a girl] happily holding out beer cans and a sake/wine bottle. She thinks, “This girl came to Kyouta’s house again, huh.. How irritating.. Tsubaki-kun has already went to Kyoto for half a year, and finally, we can see each other for a second time.. Each day is accompanied with a bit of uneasiness.”

Soon, Tsubaki, together with Hiro, arrives in Kyoto. Tsubaki happily takes a picture of Kyoto station. Hiro asks her if she has been continuing that exchange picture thing with her boyfriend. While happy over her picture which isn’t blurry from shaking, Tsubaki says yes. Hiro comments that her boyfriend doesn’t seem the type who would continue this kind of thing for such a long time. While texting Kyouta that she has arrived, Tsubaki tells him that unexpectedly, Kyouta is more serious about it than her. Blushing, Tsubaki says that after sending this message, it truly feels that he is thinking of her right now. Hiro comments that just like before, they mutually love each other [bound by deep emotions]. Tsubaki says that is right, and compared to that, didn’t he [Hiro] had enough, and don’t keep on touching her hair. Hiro says that it is because it looks quite shiny, no strand of hair is damaged, and not only did it return back to its original color, it is totally protected. “It turns out that my skill is quite outstanding!!” Tsubaki tells him that he isn’t listening to her. Then, Tsubaki gets a message from Kyouta. Hiro notices that Tsubaki looks surprised. He asks her what was said. Tsubaki tells him that Kyouta and his classmates stayed overnight to work on their school report, and they had just finished so right now, he is going to sleep. Looking at a a picture of his classmates tired and sleeping on her cellphone, Tsubaki says that it seems that everyday, Kyouta and the others have to write a pile of troublesome reports and they will always stay overnight at Kyouta’s house. Hiro says that it is a bit worrisome for there is a girl among those classmates. To his surprise, Tsubaki says that she totally isn’t worried. Talking nonstop, Tsubaki explains, “It is only by coincidence that he is grouped together with a girl. I’m not a petty kind of girl who would worry over little things like this small thing. And, even if he did something that would make him feel guilty, he would also not specially take a picture and show it to me. *smiles* Don’t you think that way?” Hiro’s eyes somewhat slits [<- thinking of something bad =P]. He says, who knows, for based on different circumstances, there’s a need to exchange with that person, and that kind of person does exist. Tsubaki says that he is saying some ill intention stuff again. Hiro laughs and says that he isn’t. “Before, I really love and really trusted my girlfriend. Then during the time when we are apart, she fell in love with a male friend who is beside her. *Tsubaki looks surprised and says, oh..* Ah, this isn’t the time to be talking about this, let’s quickly go to the school.”

At the school’s auditorium, Hiro is doing his demonstration in front of the students. Tsubaki is too awed by Hiro’s skill that he has to angrily call her attention to give him the hair curler. Soon, it is a job well done. At a conference room, Tsubaki happily tells Hiro that it is really amazing, unexpectedly that kind of hairstyle can be done. “Thank you for letting me come along with you!!” After packing his luggage, Hiro says is that so, for fundamentally, she doesn’t seem to be an assistant since she just stand there and ogle at his hand, thus she isn’t much help. This shocks Tsubaki. She apologizes and says that she is in a trance because it is too amazing. Hiro says, but, her gloomy expression during the day is now gone, and it is quite good to make oneself learn something, that one is quite passionate about. This surprises Tsubaki then she smiles and says, yes! Just when Tsubaki is about to take her leave, Hiro gives her a paper. Puzzled Tsubaki takes it. He tells her that he will be staying in that place, and if something happens, she can go and look for him. Tsubaki is puzzled that she asks him what would happen. Hiro says maybe like having a quarrel with her boyfriend-type of stuff. Tsubaki smiles and says that didn’t she tell him already. “There’s no need for you worry about something happening between us. I don’t need this thing.” Hiro replies, “I’m not worried about your relationship [with him]. Fundamentally, it isn’t allowed for you to stay at your boyfriend’s house on a working trip. If something happens between the two of you, then I would have to be responsible for allowing you to stay elsewhere. So, you need to know my address.” Holding the paper, Tsubaki apologizes to him. Waving goodbye, he tells her not to be late, and good work. She says yes, and leaves. After she left, Hiro smiles and says to himself that the opportunity to get between them [Tsubaki-s] ought to almost arrive. He looks out the window and sees that it is raining. Hiro says that it feels like a weather wherein something is going to happen.

Soon, Tsubaki reaches Kyouta’s apartment and she is drenched wet from the rain. She exclaims that weather report didn’t mention about raining. She looks at her cellphone and realizes that she read the Tokyo weather. Taking out her bag from her coat, Tsubaki wonders what she is to do for even if she arrived at Kyouta’s place, but she is early by an hour of the time they agreed to meet, and won’t she be troubling him. She thinks that she couldn’t let the projector stay wet and this is an emergency. She presses the door bell. Ding dong. She waits and the door opens. Tsubaki happily apologizes for coming early but because it rained.. A girl wearing only a hoodie, opens the door and says, “Who are you-?” Tsubaki is surprised. She asks if this isn’t Kyouta’s house. The girl says that if she is looking for Kyouta, he is currently taking a bath but he’ll be finished soon. Tsubaki is surprised that Kyouta is taking a bath. She recognizes the girl as the one she always sees in the pictures that Kyouta sent her. While the girl turns and tells Tsubaki that she’ll call Kyouta, Tsubaki thinks that this girl’s outfit is too much. “Huh..? That outfit.. Isn’t that Tsubaki-kun’s..?” Tsubaki bites her lip and trembles. The girl calls out to Kyouta to quickly come out, and it’s alright if he is naked. Kyouta opens the door and shouts at Komatsu [guesswork name from 小松] that she is too noisy. Wiping himself with a towel, Kyouta asks why she didn’t go home yet when he told her[/them] that they should quickly go because he has things to attend to. Grabbing Komatsu’s hoodie, Kyouta angrily says that she still wears other people’s clothes as she pleases. “Take it off!!” Pointing to the door, Komatsu tells him to wait, compared to this, he has a guest. He angrily asks where. Komatsu says, there..where is she? By the door, a bag is left on the floor. Kyouta looks surprised for he recognizes the bag.

While walking in the rain, Tsubaki answers her cellphone, and it is a call from Kyouta. Kyouta asks her what’s up with her that she quickly left. After a pause, she says, no.. Kyouta says that it seems that she has misunderstood something at his house. Tsubaki says that it is Komatsu, the one in his experiment group... “Earlier, I had seen the morning picture of the three in your house. Komatsu, she would occasionally be the last one to stay behind..right?” Breathing hard, standing behind her, Kyouta holds an umbrella to her. Closing his phone, Kyouta says, “If you know.. then how come you still?” Tsubaki replies, “I think.. that there is also.. times when you have to finish school work with a girl.. but what can I say when it is something inevitable that [she] stays in your house..? The me who thinks that way.. *trembling* would be quite petty, right..” Kyouta puts his arm around her and says that she’ll catch a cold so they should go back first.. Tsubaki suddenly grabs his hoodie and says, “Enough.. Don’t wear the clothes that some other girl just wore..! How vexing.. It isn’t easy for us to once again meet.. *crying and flustered* but the things that I’m saying can be quite detestable.. I’m really sorry.. Today, I don’t want to be with you, Tsubaki-kun. I’m sorry..” Tsubaki runs off, leaving surprised Kyouta. Soon, at room 308 of a hotel, Hiro says, “Is that so? Thankfully, you know where I live, right?” Tsubaki apologizes and asks if right now, he can book another room. To her shock, Hiro smiles and says that it is impossible for right now is the peak season for traveling to Kyoto and it is a weekend. He tells her that he managed to get this room because someone else had cancelled. Aghast, Tsubaki says is that so, then she’ll go to the first floor’s lounge.. After sneezing and turning to leave, Hiro grabs the straps of her bag and says, “But, I have good news! *pulling her inside* This is a two bedroom place[/room], and one of the rooms is empty! Hibino, today you∙can∙use it☆” Tsubaki exclaims that there’s no need to. Hiro asks, “Ha? You want to refuse?” Tsubaki says how she could give him trouble like this. Removing her coat, Hiro says, “..if you don’t want to give me trouble, strip.. *Tsubaki tensely calls his name* Let me tell you, Hibino.. *holding Tsubaki’s hair* Drenched thoroughly wet like this and running to a hotel to pass the night, if you catch a cold tomorrow and you are unable to do your assistant work, how are you going to take responsibility for that? *trembling while angrily holding Tsubaki’s hair* If you understand that, then quickly strip off those wet clothes. *takes her bag, pushes her in the bathroom and tosses a towel & bathrobe to her* Take a shower! Immediately take a shower!”

Inside the bathroom, Tsubaki nervously wonders what to do for she’ll be staying in the same room with Hiro. She suddenly sneezes. She decides to first use the bathroom to warm herself up or else, she will really catch a cold. While taking a hot shower, she starts to feel like crying for according to what she imagined, she will use her own hands to give Kyouta the projector. “And, together with Tsubaki-kun, we’ll celebrate together his birthday and the miracle of going steady for three years. And, spend the night together in mutual embrace. *‘Today, I don’t want to be with Tsubaki-kun’* But, I suddenly said that kind of thing.. *cries* I’ve ruined.. it all..” In Kyouta’s room, the hoodie is now in the trash can. Holding Tsubaki’s bag, Kyouta wonders where Tsubaki is going to spend the night. “Thoroughly drenched wet in an unfamiliar place. *puts bag on the table* Aside from me, the only one whom she can depend on is.. *remembers smiling Hiro -> angry pop vein* If I knew early, I should have gotten her to stay here..! *takes out cellphone and Tsubaki’s phone starts ringing* Quickly, pick it up..!” Hiro takes out Tsubaki’s cellphone from her coat. Seeing that it is Kyouta calling, Hiro smiles and answers it. Kyouta is surprised that it is a guy’s voice. Then, he asks if this is Hananoi. Hiro replies, “Isn’t it quite rude of you to directly call someone’s name, In-trouble boyfriend-kun?” Kyouta tells him to please get Tsubaki to answer the phone. Hiro says that unfortunately, right now, Hibino is taking a shower. Kyouta apologizes for giving him trouble because of their personal problem. “I’m going right now to get Tsubaki. Can you tell me the address?” Hiro answers, “How can I tell you? Right now, it is my greatest chance to make a move on Hibino. Until this morning, I will properly pacify her!” Kyouta says that fundamentally, it is impossible for him to make a move on Tsubaki. Hiro retorts that he is naive. “There has been a substantial change of situation. Next year, I will be going to Italy. Even if I make a move, Hibino will be far away from me. And it already doesn’t matter. Ah, Hibino is almost finished taking a shower. Thank you very much for giving me this chance. *Kyouta stands up and tells Hiro to wait* For me to show my gratitude towards you, I’ll give you a hint. Room 308, a room among numerous hotels in the tourist city of Kyoto. If you can find it, then how about try finding it?” Hiro hears the door opening so he quickly puts Tsubaki’s cellphone behind his back. Blushing, Tsubaki says, about that.. Hiro asks if she has warmed herself up. She says yes, and thank you. While turning Tsubaki’s cellphone off, Hiro tells her to slowly tell him what happened between her and her boyfriend. Blurb: “Kyoto’s night, will--!? Next chapter, finally..[the] ending!!”

Hehe..for a side story, this isn’t bad at all and it is different than the usual ‘nothing really happened’ type of side story. Here, it seems that something bad is going to happen but not really because I think this is just a small lover’s quarrel..a burst of jealous/tantrum..feeling guilty..love rival gets a major opportunity, etc. I think it would be better for Tsubaki to admit that she is jealous and tell him what she wants or doesn’t want so that they can somewhat compromise on something or at least, Kyouta could console/reassure her of something. It doesn’t seem good for her to suppress everything and act like a model girlfriend when she obviously doesn’t like some things. Logically, there is nothing to be worried about but emotionally, it isn’t feel that way. Taking pictures or not, Kyouta seems to be in a lose-lose situation on that. If he shows her, she is jealous..if he didn’t and she shows up there, things would be more disastrous. I’m not sure of their set-up but then, maybe if Tsubaki tells him about it, Kyouta could make his group go stay and work at some other’s place instead of his house. Well, it can be unnerving to see this classmate wearing only the hoodie of one’s boyfriend and in that other picture, they seem to be drinking. I think one’s imagination can go wild on that especially since Komatsu is really making herself at home, and seems to be flirty with Kyouta. Even if Tsubaki claims that she understands, she is venting her anger/jealousy at Kyouta so it is quite logical for her to not want be with him right now because he would see her ugly side. Since I believe she is a perfectionist, she wants to be seen as ‘perfect’ in front of Kyouta. I can’t really fault Kyouta for not running after her because I think guys tend to be intimidated when girls are emotional/in hysteria so maybe he wants to give her space. Unfortunately, it is their special day, and he totally forgot that she came with Hiro and she’ll probably stay with him. There are so many things that Hiro can do here to take advantage of the situation but I don’t think the author will do it because this is only a two part side story. If he will, the author could have prolonged the series to a full blown arc but no, she just condensed everything to two chapters. I still have that nagging feeling that the author likes Hiro. Reading half-way through this chapter, I’m thinking, how come there seems to be more scenes of Hiro, or Hiro and Tsubaki, than Kyouta and Tsubaki. ^^; Hiro is an amusing character with his infatuation with Tsubaki’s hair, and the things he says which are very logical that is quite convincing. As a love rival/antagonist, I feel that the author didn’t fully utilize Hiro well or rather, he could have gone all out in breaking the couple up but he didn’t. In this situation, he didn’t have to answer the phone to gloat to Kyouta or even give him a hint where they are..even if it is futile, like a gamble there is still that possibility. Also, he could have not allowed her to stay at Kyouta’s place. Because of the degree of his ‘pranks/mean things he does’, I’m beginning to think of him as some sort of older brother who is making things a bit hard for the younger sister’s boyfriend. ^^; It’s like prove to me that you are worthy of her by fulfilling this task. I’m guessing that Kyouta won’t have a hard time because I’m thinking that Tsubaki could have shove that paper about where Hiro stays in that other bag she left with Kyouta. Hehe, I’m thinking that she had already memorized earlier where he is staying. I also think that the next part will obviously about the two getting together again, lovey-dovey = what Tsubaki imagined, Hiro leaves and jump to graduation/wedding scene-whatever to make her dream of becoming Tsubaki Tsubaki come true. =P Oh ya, it’s nice that Tsubaki has friends in her school now, and I think it really boosts her self-confidence to be at the top of her class/school with people praising her skills. Scans by 水银工作室.

Quote of the day:
If you don't manage your emotions, then your emotions will manage you. ~Doc Childre and Deborah Rozman, Transforming Anxiety

Mei-chan no Shitsuji [Chapter 117]
Wednesday, January 4, 2012

[Free Talk: The Side Story part 1 of Kyou, Koi wo Hajimemasu is out in 17kkmh but it came out late so I can’t finish the 40p chapter tonight. I’ll put up MnS chapter instead since I have already finished. For a short synopsis of the kkwh side story, it is still the usual stuff that these characters do, and I think everyone is at fault here. ^^; Hiro will be doing a hairstyle demo in Kyoto so Tsubaki decides to take this chance to go with him as his helper since it will be free and it coincides Kyouta’s birthday. Tsubaki is uneasy over the girls going to Kyouta’s house to study, and from the picture he[?] sent her, the girls seem to be also drinking. At the station, it seems that Kyouta couldn’t fetch her because they finished studying late. Hiro uses this chance to waver Tsubaki’s heart because of those girls staying at Kyouta’s house. After the hair demo, Tsubaki goes to see Kyouta. It suddenly rained and Tsubaki is drenched wet. She arrives an hour early and after ringing the door bell, a girl, wearing Kyouta’s clothes, answers the door. The girl tells her that Kyouta is taking a bath. Tsubaki recognizes the girl as Kyouta’s friend from the picture that he sent her. As the girl goes in to call Kyouta, Tsubaki is already trembling. After coming out of the bathroom, Kyouta reprimands the girl for still staying there, and wearing his clothes. Then, he only finds a bag left on the floor. While walking in the rain, Tsubaki gets a call from Kyouta who tries to explain the misunderstanding. Tsubaki says that she knows who that girl is, etc, Then, standing beside her, Kyouta says that she knows so why did she still leave. Kyouta tries to go back with her but Tsubaki is shaken badly especially since he is wearing the clothes that girl just wore. Tsubaki doesn’t like how she is acting so she apologizes that she can’t be with him today, and she runs away. She goes to Hiro but it seems there is no room available in the hotel. Hiro insists that she join him in his room since there is a free room inside. He claims that she has to be well since she has to help him for the demo tomorrow. Then, while taking a shower, Tsubaki breaks down to cry over how she acted, contrary to her imagination of them being happy. In his apartment, after throwing that worn clothes in the trash can, Kyouta belatedly realize that Tsubaki might stay at Hiro’s place so he calls her cellphone. Hiro answers and thanks Kyouta for the chance that he has given him. It seems that next year, Hiro will be leaving for Italy. Then, he gives Kyouta a hint on where to find them. While shutting off Tsubaki’s cellphone, Hiro tells Tsubaki, who has finished showering to tell him, what happened between her and her boyfriend. That’s it. I’ll summarize it next..wait for it ^^]

Narration: “In this huge living mother planet, the world’s happiness has been entrusted to a chosen maiden. And as the star’s embodiment, the maiden becomes a goddess--” Four years ago: In an open valley where there is a lone tree, Xiang asks Fei if he feels that it is quite idiotic that at this time and age, to still believe in that superstition of their parents. Fei says that it doesn’t suit him to say that since he is the son of the village head. Narration: “Xiang and the other kids aren’t the same because he is very intelligent. The things that he always say would give the adults a headache.” Xiang answers that it is very strange [to believe] that in this information age, and this is why the village is poor because they treat people as fools. “Speaking of that, the current goddess is now some 80 year old grandma..” Then, water is splashed on him. Above the tree, there is a young girl holing a water gun. She says that is heaven’s punishment for even if it is Xiang, he cannot say bad things about the goddess. Fei apologizes to Xiang for his younger sister’s rudeness. Fei shouts at Rishu* to quickly apologize. [*invented name from リシュ; in Chinese it is 由 which is different.] Xiang says that it is alright for anyway, it is hot. Fei asks him why he is spoiling Rishu. Xiang asks if he is spoiling her. Fei exclaims that he is. Using a towel on Xiang, Rishu happily says that she’ll wipe him dry. Xiang thanks her. Rishu tells him that goddess is dreaming of ‘everyone living in happiness’ everyday so they were able to become healthy as they pass their days. “That is what grandma told me.” Looking a bit sad, Xiang asks if this world is really happy. “In this world, there is war, disasters, crimes, sickness.. there are a lot of people suffering.. Would just becoming this kind of dream goddess, will the world really become happy..”

Rishu exclaims, “There’s no problem! When I become the next goddess, no matter how, I will make the world happy! So, Xiang.. Don’t show that kind of expression.. You have to smile forever.” She is surprised when Xiang suddenly shouts no, he won’t allow that. Rishu asks him why. Turning away, Xiang says that is because.. He just tells her that anyway, she shouldn’t say such foolish things again. Somewhat scowling, Rishu mutters, “Then.. what should be done..? To make this world.. To make you, Xiang become happy.. *This somewhat surprises Xiang* I don’t care anymore- *running off* I want to become the goddess!” Fei shouts that she is stupid, for how can someone like her become a goddess, and she should have self-knowledge. Rishu shouts that she says she will, she will. Fei sweatdrops and wonders, where her self-confidence is coming from. A bit flustered, Xiang mutters that Rishu doesn’t know the meaning of ‘becoming a goddess’. Fei asks what it is. Xiang says that it is nothing. Later on, an old man tells some people that the goddess has passed away. Someone protest that according to the doctor, she ought to live on for half a year. The old man tells them not to be apprehensive for the next generation goddess has awakened. “The menarche has already arrived, and she has a healthy body. She also has the ‘stars dreaming of happiness’ healthy soul. Lodging there.. lodging within the body of the chosen maiden.” Dressed up in a glamorous outfit, Rishu sits on a throne. She calls out to her mother as to where her brother Fei, and Xiang are, since she hasn’t seen them. Her mother didn’t reply. While the firecrackers are exploding in the night sky, everyone in the village is celebrating. At the open valley, Fei says that it turns out that he is there. Xiang is sitting down beside the tree. Looking at the moon, Xiang says that, in this place, he won’t see nor hear the noisy festival. Fei asks isn’t it quite inappropriate for the son of the village head, to not join the festival.

Xiang just asks him how Rishu is doing. Fei tells him that his mother said that Rishu is the same energetic[/lively] like before, and even if he is Rishu’s brother, he cannot meet up with the goddess. Xiang says that is right, fundamentally, it is like that. Fei answers, “But, you are not the same. The village head’s son is the future goddess’ husband. ..please definitely take good care of her.” Xiang says, “I’m the seventh. *Fei didn’t reply.* I still have brothers, and I’m the youngest, the seventh husband. The goddess cannot belong to only one person. All of the village head’s sons are her husband, in order to give birth, and exists.. kill all my [older] brothers! *Fei exclaims Xiang’s name* Haha, I’m kidding! *slight smile* If I were to do that, then the goddess will be sad.. No matter what is said, her wish is, for the whole world to be sufficiently happy..” After some silence, Xiang asks if Fei also smells something burning. They quickly run back to the village to see it burning. Fei exclaims if there has been fire due to the festival. Looking around, Xiang says no, it isn’t. From the fires, he sees some slain people on the ground. Worried about Rishu, Xiang shouts to Fei that they should hurry and go to the shine. While Xiang hopes that Rishu would be fine, the two boys run through the burning buildings and dead people in the village. In the shrine, they see Rishu slumping on the throne with gunshot wounds on the forehead and the chest. Xiang tries to go to her but Fei stops him for his sister is already.. , and they have to quickly go out because the place is going to collapse. Soon, they are back at the lone tree in the open valley. Fei grieves over his parents and Rishu. Xiang just stands there without an emotion. Then, some men in military gear exclaim that there is still living people there. A man shouts that they had been ordered to kill everyone in the village including women and children, and let no one remain. “Kill them!” The boys have a cold look in their eyes as they fight back and starts slaughtering their attackers.

Narration: “At that time, there is something within my heart that fell apart. After killing one person, I possibly felt a bit guilty. After killing the fifth person, I had already forgotten about myself. After killing the eighth person, I already had the knack of doing it. Ah yes-- it's really good that I learned some fighting technique from the neighboring grandpa. At that time, I cast a glance at Xiang.. he is dancing. *Xiang is killing with a knife* Yes, Xiang is really good in dancing that no one in the village, whether man or woman, can win against him. He is so aesthetically agile and gorgeous-- And even, a trace of a smile..?” After some gun shots, one of the attackers tell them that is enough, playful youngsters, go die. Then, someone tells the man not to be impatient. While the man tries to protest, the other man says, “Give them a chance. If you kids, refuse to come under me.. you can just die right here.” Holding his bleeding arm, Fei asks who would do that. Fei is surprised when Xiang smiles and says, “If we can, then we will truly be honored.” Narration: “Later on, we learned that beneath the village, there is a huge amount of precious rare earth[/metal] buried within. The government had asked the village to hand it over multiple times, and there is also a lot of pressure to do so, but in order to protect the sacred land, the village won’t comply. So, the government hired some other organization to come and destroy the village, and decided to do it on the day when everyone will be celebrating the festival of the [arrival of a] new goddess.. It is only for that thing, they had.. their hometown, family..” In some storage place, the boys are now wearing suits. While in anguish, Fei asks Xiang why they are going to serve those guys when those guys had made their village.. He is surprised when Xiang says, “..Goddess.. It is necessary for us to find a new goddess.. She will definitely awaken in some other place..” Fei looks surprised and thinks, “..but that is only.. that is only a superstition, right? Xiang..” With cold blank eyes, Xiang smiles and says, “You will go with me, right, Fei..” Fei closes his eyes and stands up. He says, “Since you’ve said it that way, Xiang..” Fei follows Xiang. Narration: “Regardless if it is a superstition or not, anything is okay. What’s left for us is to believe the goddess, this kind of thing..”

Like the past few flashback stories, I find this one to be quite moving. Xiang and Rishu obviously love each other, and Rishu is becoming a goddess for him..to smile but then, he doesn’t want to share her with his brothers. Ironically, Xiang only smiles after her death. I wonder if he is doing it to remind himself of her wish..for him to smile. But then, if they live, it might also end up in some tragedy because Xiang did entertain the thought of killing his brothers just to, solely have her. I guess there are some similarities with her and Mei so Xiang is probably thinking of Mei as Reishu’s replacement especially when Mei said that she wants everyone to be happy. And, because of the ‘tradition’, he would want to be her groom and he will probably use Kintarou’s condition of Mei marrying any guy she shows up with on her birthday. Xiang is indeed strong to choose to live and not die after what has happened. Aside from finding a new goddess, I think he also thought of getting back at that group..which they did by blowing up the train. Fei probably lost his own self/will after the tragedy so he only follows what Xiang wants to do. Hm..I think the author is doing an awesome job in making me empathize with the antagonists of this series. Most of them have sad pasts and it is like a ‘lost of innocence’ that they ended up how they are now. Scans by 17kkmh.com

Quote of the day:
We cannot change our past. We can not change the fact that people act in a certain way. We can not change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. ~ Charles R. Swindoll

Ojousama wa Oyomesama [Chapters 92-93]
Tuesday, January 3, 2012

After being locked out of their residence, Towako and others are surprised that their house has been mortgaged. Towako asks her mother how this happened. Her mother also didn’t know how things ended up that way. Tsubaki tells them that the one who sequestered their property is some unknown small company and it could be ordered by Yachiougi Kyousuke. Towako remembers Kyousuke telling her that he would let them be if she hands over [their family name to him]. Yuuga notices that Towako looks tense. Then, Setsuna, together with Utsugi, arrive. Towako says that they came. Setsuna says of course, because this is the place where he grew up. This made Towako feel more frustrated since she cannot accept that they are being forced to leave it. Tokiko asks couldn’t they buy it back. Tsubaki says that it will be a bit difficult. Yuuga suggests that they live elsewhere first. Towako says that is right, and fortunately, they still have money. To their surprise, Setsuna suggests that they live at Kanmitsuki residence, including the servants. Towako tries to protest because his parents look scary. Setsuna tells them that he already told them so it is alright. Because of the things that have been happening, he is also more vigilant. He says but right now, it is only within his powers to prepare a place for them to stay. “It’s alright, just leave it to me.” Yuuga sweatdrops over Setsuna’s radiance like a Buddha that Towako thinks is too bright. Yuuga gloomily thinks that he felt a bit frustrated over that. Tokiko happily says that Setsuna is quite reliable. Towako thanks him and says that if they were to stay there, won’t they involve the Kanmitsuki family. Setsuna just smiles and says that it is alright. Towako asks him why. Yuuga remembers Setsuna telling him that he is the one who’ll protect his sister. Yuuga quickly pulls Towako to him and asks him if that is the car that is going to take them to the Kanmitsuki residence. While Towako tries to protest, Yuuga says that isn’t this very good, they should go see them [Kanmitsuki] first. Setsuna is surprised when Yuuga tells Towako, “Since that guy says that it is alright, then it is alright.” Towako blushes and asks what’s with that confidence. Yuuga tells her to shut up. This made Setsuna blush a bit then, he teases that Yuuga will be staying in the basement or the purple room. Yuuga angrily shouts if a person can live there. And so, they went to Kanmitsuki residence.

In the Kanmitsuki residence, Tokiko and Nobu bow and say that they will be under their care. The Kanmitsuki couple says that they were also under their care before. Inside, Towako says that it is beautiful, the place where Setsuna is born. Setsuna says that if she wants, she can always stay there. Towako thanks him but says that they still should get the main residence (from that man’s hands). Setsuna tells her that actually, she can give up on that family. “Compared to the family, I would want you to live a carefree life.” As Setsuna leaves after being called by his father, Towako wonders about what Setuna told her. She thinks that Setsuna said that they will take the residence back so she’ll depend on him. Later on, Mitsuya goes to see Towako and asks if she will be staying at his house. Towako comments that he is so cute, and yes, she is, so she’ll be under his care. Mitsuya asks until when she will be staying, and will they always be staying there. Towako says that she doesn’t know for sure yet but how about they play together. Mitsuya tells her that it would be better if she doesn’t trust his brother too much because he [Setsuna] had been in touch with Nigami Ritsuki. This surprises Towako that she exclaims what is going on. Mitsuya says that that he had seen them together, talking about some funds. “Brother has given the properties of Kanmitsuki family to that guy--” Utsugi enters and calls out Mitsuya’s name. This made Mitsuya quickly leave the room. Towako confronts Utsugi if it is a lie about Setsuna giving money to Ritsuki. Utsugi admits that it is true, and in exchange, for supplying funds to them, they are not going to lay a hand on the Kanmitsuki family. Towako says is that so, then it can’t be helped if it is to protect the Kanmitsuki family. Utsugi protests that it isn’t so, this is for her and the Gokurakuin family. “It is to provide everyone a shelter, a safe place.” Towako is shock that Setsuna did it for them. She asks out loud if Setsuna has been planning for them to be taken in by the Kanmitsuki family. Then, she stops upon remembering Setsuna telling her that he would want her to live a carefree life. Towako starts to tremble because more and more people around her are getting involved in this, and from today on, what other things can happen because she is a Gokurakuin. She remembers Kyousuke asking her about handing it over and giving up. Then, Towako has decided on something.

Later on, at night, Yuuga comments that he still can’t be at ease, staying at someone else’s house. Towako calls out his name and says that the thing about Rina, is something Kyousuke threaten her to do. Yuuga tells her to forget about that. Towako says that from then on, until now, they have now lost their house..and it must have been quite troublesome for him ever since they got married. “But, I.. I still want to be with you, Yuuga.. So..” Yuuga exclaims for her not to talk too much about that since they are already at this stage. “We will be together! *blushes* From now on, until forver!” Teary-eyed Towako is touched by what he said. She says, “Takatou.. Takatou Towako, what do you think of that? I’ll become Takatou Towako!” Yuuga looks surprised. [<- This means instead of Yuuga marrying into her family, she’ll marry into his family.] Narration: “Hey, Yuuga.. what I want to say is for us to be together forever. But, we are already at a point wherein that doesn’t need to be said.” The next day, Utsugi calls out to Setsuna and the others that Towako and Yuuga are nowhere to be found. He only found letters left behind. Setsuna sweatdrops upon seeing the table is filled with letters. He wonders out loud for how many people are those for. In the letter for Setsuna, she wrote, “I chose to do this thing. Sorry, Setsuna, and please take care of papa and mama. We are going to start a new life.” Somewhere else, Towako exclaims that this is a suitable rented apartment. Yuuga sweatdrops and asks really, they don’t have any furniture. Then, looking at a run down apartment, Towako exclaims that this will be their new home. Outside, the door is the name plate, ‘Takatou ♡’. Back at Kanmitsuki residence, Setsuna calmly reads the letter. Tokiko is freaking out that Towako left home even if she had been kidnapped, but then, strictly speaking this isn’t their house, so it isn’t like she is running away from home so what is she to do. Also holding a letter, Nobu couldn’t do anything about his wife’s hysterics. It seems that the parents have their own letters from Towako.

Utsugi apologizes to Setsuna and says that it is his fault for saying too much. Tokiko exclaims for Utsugi to quickly look for them since Tsubaki is also missing. Also holding a letter, Utsugi says yes, he’ll quickly look for them now. They were surprised when Setsuna says that there is no need to look for them. Tokiko asks Setsuna why. Setsuna explains that in his letter, Towako thinks that she is the reason for things had became like that, so she thought that it is better for her to leave them. Tokiko becomes tense and asks, how that can be. Setsuna says that of course, it isn’t Towako’s fault *smiles* but then, this is also good, as long as she can find happiness. Inside the run down apartment, Towako asks if they are really going to stay there. “Is this place where a person can stay!?” Aghast Yuuga quickly covers her mouth and tells her that other people staying there might hear her. “It can’t be helped! We are minors, without a guardian, we can only rent this run down place. That rental company is also very strange.” Towako says then, they go stay at a hotel. Yuuga calls her an idiot, they don’t have money to stay at a hotel so use her brain. Towako timidly relents and says that she’ll go take out her things from the luggage. Yuuga freaks out when he sees her taking out some dolls. He exclaims what the things she brought are. Towako says that they are Towako dolls, and doesn’t he need it with his bento box. [The dolls are put on top of the cloth wrapped bento box]. Yuuga exclaims who needs those. While Towako pouts if he doesn’t love her, Yuuga starts opening the other luggage and exclaims that she brought a lot but they are useless things. Yuuga sweatdrops at the side and wonders if it would really be okay for him to live together with this girl, he has to ‘hold on’. Towako happily says that she’ll go decorate the room. Narration: “We have left the Gokurakuin main residence. Of course, we won’t give it up but this is only for things not to get worse because Ritsu and Kyousuke-san are rushing towards ‘Gokurakuin Towako’. This way, mama and others won’t be put in any danger.. That’s right, so I shouldn’t be pessimistic. I will bravely face this current life[style].”

She calls out to Yuuga and happily exclaims for him to quickly look, the window curtains are bigger than the window. “How gorgeous! It’s like a castle!” Yuuga looks surprised then he smiles. He then asks where she got those curtains. Towako exclaims that she still has a lot of things. Yuuga wonders out loud if there is a fourth dimension in her luggage. Narration: “Leaving home is quite hard but I cannot just always sigh. Right now, this place, is my and Yuuga’s home.” After unpacking the things, Yuuga comments that it now looks like a house. Towako happily agrees. To Towako’s surprise, Yuuga prepares to go out by saying that he is going to work, and he thinks that he can still work at his old job. Yuuga explains that they don’t have money so they have to earn it, and they have to make the food themselves. “It can’t be just like before wherein we recklessly waste money.” Towako thinks that is right, money has to be earned. She exclaims, “I..I understand! I! I will also go to work!” Yuuga is speechless as he mutters, “You!? Really!?” Soon, Towako tries to look for work but she is refused either because she is a high school student or because it is strange that she is married. Then, she finds a florist who tells her that they are looking for a worker. As the florist tells her to follow him so that he can explain things to her, Towako notices a small boy looking at the flowers. She asks him what’s up. The boy says that it is his mother’s birthday but he doesn’t have money to buy her a gift. Pitying the boy, Towako takes a potted plant and gives it to the boy. As the boy happily thanks her and bid her goodbye, the angry florist fires Towako. Walking in the street, Towako feels tired. She thinks that it is quite hard to look for work, and the people who have work in this world are great. She wonders how Yuuga is doing. She reads his email that he is working at his former workplace and from today on, he might come home late. Watching inside the restaurant from a window, Towako pukes blood upon seeing how gorgeous Yuuga looks in his apron-waiter uniform as he serves some female customers with ice red tea and beef dish. While the female customers are raving about Yuuga, Towako thinks that it is bad for her heart to see him looking handsome like this, and she also wants to be his customer. She is furious at the female customers who has their eyes on Yuuga and thinks that Yuuga should definitely ‘hold on’. Then, Towako notices that before Yuuga is called again by the customer, he takes out his cellphone to see if there is a message from her.

Towako leaves the window and sits at a bench-type thing near the street. She gloomily wonders what she has been doing. Her husband has been striving hard, and she, who hasn’t found a job yet, is busy getting jealous. After looking flustered, Towako starts to flip through her ‘job opening’ Citywork magazine and tells herself to gambatte, this is for her to be able to be with Yuuga and she definitely must find a job. She thinks that it is no problem even if she is a high school student with no experience. Then, a plump guy approaches her and asks if she is looking for a job. After getting off work, Yuuga’s employer[/co-worker] asks him why he suddenly returned, and he felt that compared before, Yuuga is more enthusiastic with his work. “What had happened?” Yuuga smiles and says that he has to do his best. His employer says that he looks quite happy. Then, Yuuga gets an email from Towako who happily tells her that she got a job at a cafe. Upon arriving at the cafe, Yuuga freaks out to learn that it is a cosplay cat maid cafe. Towako and the other cat waitress exclaim, “Welcome home, master-♡ Please take your time~~ Nyan~~” Towako happily greets Yuuga and tells him to come in, she’ll show him his seat. Yuuga asks what..what is this. Towako happily exclaims that this is work, and everyone is quite intimate, and even the uniform is quite cute. Yuuga blushes over how cute Towako is in her cat uniform with her cleavage and her legs a bit exposed. Then, a nerdy guy calls out to her to come. Towako happily exclaims, “Yes, master!” <- store’s rules on how to answer. Yuuga is totally shock. The nerdy guy tells her that they play a jakenpon game and if he wins, Towako is going to strip her clothes off. Towako says okay, nyan. Yuuga is furious. Just when they are about to begin the game of jakenpon, Yuuga holds Towako’s hand and exclaims like a lion, “You’re going home!” Freaking out Towako timidly says yes. At a pedestrian overpass, Towako asks him why he is angry when she is properly working. Yuuga exclaims that of course he’ll be angry and why is she working in that kind of place. Towako protests that it is just a bit of special hobby cafe. Yuuga exclaims, a bit, only a bit, smiling hihi towards guys, and going nyan here & nyan there. Towako shouts that it isn’t smiling hihi, it is how a maid suppose to serve the customer. Flustered Yuuga answers back, “You cannot do such things with other guys! It is fine for you to just serve only me!”

He then goes into shock since blushing Towako and other passer-bys are looking at him. They wonder if it is some sort of performance. Sweatdropping Yuuga frantically tries to tell them that no, it isn’t like that. Towako happily says, “Yes, nyan~ master~” Yuuga tells her to shut up. Taking off his coat, blushing Yuuga puts it around her. Towako tells him that she doesn’t want him to be angry. “It is because you are very striving hard, so I also thought.. that you left home is also because of me, I won’t want to increase your burden..” Yuuga calls her stupid, for he is fundamentally penniless, and right now, he is just returning to his original state. “I also didn’t feel that you are a burden. *holds Towako’s waist* Let me say it, I can still provide for you. ..you.. only have to say the words, ‘welcome home’ when I return home, and that is enough.” They quietly look at each other. Then, embarrassed Yuuga looks away and tells her to say something. Towako smiles and says, “..thank you, I’m very happy.. *holds Yuuga’s hand* Let us go home! My husband-sama!” He asks her if she is treating her like a fool. She tells him that he is just serving him. He couldn’t answer back. She then asks if he doesn’t like this short skirt. Yuuga replies that no, and it is quite good..and if this is like this today, then tonight is.. Towako asks, huh, and he says that it is nothing. The door to their house is prettily decorated with a heart-shaped decor and the words, ‘Yuuga & Towako’. Narration: “But, Yuuga, please, if I only wait, then I would be very lonely. I would want us to say ‘I’m home’ together.” On the second day, to Yuuga’s shock, Towako happily says that she will be working in that place from today on, and she is Takatou Towako ♡ Someone wonders, Takatou?

I think Towako is a bit naive to think that Kyousuke would go easy on the others because she left the Gokurakuin. Still, I guess it doesn’t hurt to try doing this. This is like a temporary retreat from the vicious attacks and for us readers to feel ‘aw~’ over their lovey-dovey. Yuuga is so cute here and he is now more expressive about his feelings and thoughts for her through words. Towako is still quite strong and proactive as always even if she still has her ojousama eccentricities. It seems that Yuuga and Setsuna had a bit of respect of each other. What Setsuna did is indeed quite selfless and he is really grateful to what the Gokurakuin did for him. I guess he has also somewhat moved on because rather than keeping Towako with him, it is okay with him to be happy with Yuuga. Since Tsubaki is missing, I guess she is doing things on her own, to probably get their house back, or some countermeasures on what else Kyousuke is going to throw at them. After all, she is the head ‘guard/ninja’ of the Gokurakuin, and it is her duty to protect Towako. Scans by 依蓮扫漫組.

Quote of the day:
Marriage is a coming together for better or for worse, hopefully enduring, and intimate to the degree of being sacred. ~ William Orville Douglas.

Free Talk
Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Pending series: Ojousama wa Oyomesama 92-93, Mei-chan no Shitsuji 117, Bokutachi wa Shitte Shimatta 55, and Chitose, Etc 35-36. I’m going to start Chitose Etc again because there is a Chitose and Shun scene on chapter 39 ^^

After reading the English scanlations of Faster Than A Kiss 50-52, I need to get this out of my chest. I still don’t like this arc just like how I didn’t like the arc before when Fumino’s relative appeared and tried to get her and Teppei back. I find it irritating that a relative who doesn’t seem to care for so such a long time, suddenly enters the picture claiming to ‘care’ and tries to break the couple up. I’m always under the impression that Kazuma has been disowned so what does his father care whatever he does with his life after not ‘caring/not knowing how to care’ for him all these years. When his father says that they have to do temporarily break up for the Ojiro reputation, I would want Kazuma to tell his father to shove that surname in his throat and he’ll just change his surname to his mother’s. What does he get from Ojiro family, anyway? I think it is only cute Miru. ^^; ‘Fumino and Teppei’ is after all the family that he has finally found and sought after for such a long time so why are they all accepting this condition so easily. Even the threat of exposing their relationship to make them do this is pretty lame, as I’ve mentioned before. And, if they want Kazuma to have a change of impression with his father, this isn’t the right way to do it but still, everyone just timidly accepts it. I guess the author doesn’t want to rock the boat too much as in make things too complicated for this series which seems to just want to be a ‘light-hearted’ series. As for the not submitted marriage contract, I somewhat recall Kazuma mentioning to someone that he is going to let Fumino ‘free’ if she finds someone else. This somewhat jives with not submitting the marriage contract. What Shoma said at the end about Kazuma doing that is because he is a ‘good homeroom teacher’ seems wrong. It would be more correct if it is more like ‘a manipulative teacher’. It would be like a teacher ‘tricked’ a student that they are married so that they will live together as a family, and be so nice to her that she’ll fall in love with him.

Just like what Fumino thought, all that has happened doesn’t seem to be a big fat lie. After all that has happened, confessions to lovey-dovey, is that what a ‘good homeroom teacher’ would do? I guess it doesn’t help since Kazuma cannot even kiss her on the lips. =P Not submitting it can actually be a good thing because what if someone checks their marital status. And, for Kazuma, he is probably torn between totally wanting to have Fumino and Teppei with him hence ‘lied’ about being married to her, and feeling guilty that he has taken advantage of her situation, as a teacher and an adult. So, for Fumino and Teppei to ‘run away’ again.., I though oh no..not again. I suddenly had a flashback of the first chapter. I’ll wait for the next chapter as to why they left. Is it just in time of the agreed ‘to leave after exams’ or is it because of the not submitted marriage contract or both? Since she left him with only a letter, I guess it is about the marriage contract. She could have written a letter of ‘thanks, and we won’t trouble you anymore’. Knowing Kazuma, he’ll probably won’t get tired and chase after them once again. I’m somewhat hoping that it will be different this time around. Kazuma has done a lot of ‘chasing’ after them with going to his father’s house, and even before, to get them back from Fumino’s relative, he let himself be beaten to a pulp. I don’t think Kazuma still needs to prove anything at this point as to how much he loves Fumino and how important she and Teppei are as his family now. I find returning home with only just a note quite harsh for Kazuma, whatever Fumino’s reasons for her ‘sudden rash action’ would be. This guy has a past of returning home with no one to greet him, as a kid. I think Fumino is well-aware of it. Before, he already knows that Fumino will not be there, but this time around, he didn’t. I guess it won’t be a big deal since Kazuma would probably blame himself for it because Fumino learned that the marriage contract is not submitted. A time off between them AGAIN might be needed to reassess how much they meant to each other. For Fumino, is everything that happened between them ‘nothing’ just because the marriage contract isn’t submitted? For Kazuma, are Fumino and Teppei worth getting hurt all over again since they can easily leave him without much thought/a proper talk? Then, I slap myself to remind myself that this is a light-hearted series, those issues probably won’t be dealt with and this will end up in a happy ending..with probably Kazuma doing some ‘superman’-type stunts + romantic stuff for a climax. And, of course, a kiss in the ending. =P

Ookami-heika no Hanayome [Chapter 28]
Monday, January 2, 2012

Cover page: “For you, the thing I can do now is--” At Hakuyou kingdom, the flowers had started to bloom, and it is almost time for the Spring Banquet. Happily watching the others in the government affairs building, Yuulin thinks that everyone is now on the last stage of preparations. “Or how should I say this, the two people in charge would quarrel at one side, and work together at the other side. *Houen and Suigetsu’s mutual hate each other made them many times efficient at work* Even if that thing still makes me feel uneasy. *suspicious letter circulating and the mysterious official’s prediction* But if only, everyone work together for the common goal, the Spring Banquet will definitely be a success! I really anticipate for that day to come!” Narration: “—but it is quite regretful for the difficulty that is confronting me is not only these things.” At the harem, with a blank look, Yuulin points to herself and says, “I’m to stay behind and take care of things?” Jun tells her that the correct way to say it, is ‘basically, always stay behind at the harem’. “As a low ranking Queen consort, you would show yourself at the end of the banquet. And, it is already night by the time the banquet ends. During daytime, you will always be staying at the building where people congregate [/meeting place]. Our banquet will start in the morning. *Yuulin looks blank* But, from here, you can also appreciate the flowers. So please properly appreciate the beauty of the flowers, all by yourself.” Narration: “..how can this be.” At the harem, Reishou apologizes to Yuulin and says that he also asked them to let her stay longer at the banquet but it can’t be done. Chibi Jun says, ‘No!’. Sitting on the chair, Yuulin gloomily says, “Is that so--” She thinks that she will appreciate the flowers all by herself, all alone. Nervous Reishou quickly says, “But, honestly speaking, I don’t want you to attend this banquet. The people surrounding me are all scary old geezer. And, you’ll have to socialize with them the whole day, that I think it is quite tiring for you, Yuulin. You would have no way of watching the performance properly. You can’t even yawn. So, this time around, just be patient [and bear with this]. If you want to see the performance, you can wait for it to end, then I’ll call them at the outer [/entrance] palace, to perform for you.”

Yuulin tells him that it is okay, for this is the duty of a temporary bride. “It is truly regrettable that I wasn’t able to participate in the banquet, but, if it was able to make Your Majesty happy, then I feel that everyone’s goal has been achieved. *smiles; Reishou looks really flustered-guilty* Please, Your Majesty, you should definitely enjoy it, together with my share. Ah! You cannot bring out the Wolf King, else they would be frightened! Because this is a festival.” Reishou just looks nervous. Narration: “Ah ah.. But, I’m still a bit frustrated.. According to my anticipation, at the end of the banquet, I still want to be with everyone from the government affairs building, in busy excitement... *Yuulin watching everyone at work* That way, there will definitely a blossoming friendship between those two. *Imagination: Houen tells Suigetsu that he’s not bad at all. Suigetsu replies, you too.* I really want to see it with my own eyes...” Suddenly, Houen has a bad chill and he mentions this out loud. Suigetsu asks him if he wants to leave early. Houen angrily tells him that he’s the one who wanted that. Narration: “Even if I’m not around, they are all quite talented, so it is alright. The thing that I can do is only up to this point. What’s left is, showing myself at the end of the banquet, and I have to do my best in practicing the walk.” Yuulin looks gloomy after remembering Jun telling her that her level [of walking] is no good. At some other room, Dai says that Yuulin is really pitiful, when she obviously had been striving hard and in the end, she has been left aside. “How can that be? Is it because of that strange document?” Reishou tells him that is just a nonsense practical joke with no direction relation to this but, according to Jun, the Queen consort possesses ‘political influence’ and it is good to avoid arousing suspicion. Dai laughs and says that Yuulin is really pitiful since that is the reason why she has been kept far away from the official activity, and she wasn’t even reward [for her efforts]. Reishou says that it is really pitiful but this is not some place where everyone had the mood of friendly relations, and that is a fact. “The rough idea of the banquet that she imagined, suits her more.” Dai just goes =3 and thinks ‘ho ho’. Narration: “--and things progressed smoothly, as time passes by.. The Spring Banquet, starts.” At the Hakui Garden’s En Pavilion, Yuulin blushes over Reishou’s gorgeous outfit. Touching her chin, Reishou tells her that he will be going ahead for the banquet. “I’ll wait for you and we’ll admire the flowers together.” Somewhat sad, Yuulin says, “—yes, Your Majesty.” She thinks that it can’t be helped for this is her duty. “—actually, I think that even if it is only a little while, I also want to admire the flowers with you..”

Later on, Yuulin is surprised that she is wearing a servant’s outfit with glasses. Sweatdropping, Yuulin asks what this is about. While Gen is sighing, Dai happily asks what she is saying, what that is, of course, it is to disguise her as a lowly attendant. “It’s so fun-- Like that, you can look and walk around. *Yuulin exclaims, ha* It’s alright, it’s alright, I’ve already got Li Jun’s consent. *Chibi Jun tells Dai that they should quickly come back, and he already prepared the clothes and paperwork[/credentials]* The scale of the banquet is huge, there are so many people, and they will also be drinking, so you won’t be exposed, don’t worry-- *flustered Yuulin tries to protest* Didn’t you also want to attend that banquet? Don’t be too conscientious. By the way, you’ll always be idle until nightfall so it’s alright for you to walk around outside. Didn’t you want to see it? The Spring Banquet.” Outside, the flowers are in full bloom with Chinese lanterns hanging on the trees. There are musicians near the river where the officials sit and drink on a laid out carpet. Yuulin and Dai are carrying drinks in a tray. Looking around, blushing Yuulin says that it is so beautiful, and the courtyard has transformed to a gathering place. The officials are grouped together by status and deployment. Dai tells her that it is more gorgeous at the place where the higher officials are. “If we go here, we can secretly see it. Don’t you want to see His Majesty?” Yuulin thinks that she does want to see it but.. Yuulin asks Dai that didn’t they get Reishou’s permission. Dai tells her that Reishou is simply over protective with her [Queen Consort], and because he specially treasures her, she doesn’t know anything [that is going on]. Yuulin thinks that ‘my work is up to here’, she felt that she is being restricted up to that point. At a cliff overlooking the place, Dai says that Reishou said that he thinks that this kind of place doesn’t have any benefit for her, so he doesn’t want her to see something. “I’ve used a small trick so that you can survey the scene from this elevated position. I really love to meddle in other people’s business.” Yuulin wonders, “What is it that His Majesty doesn’t want me to see?” While looking out to where Reishou is, Dai thinks that anyway, this time around, even if it is a ‘Banquet’ in name, he’s afraid that those old geezers are locked in constant strife at His Majesty’s side. Dai exclaims, that he sees it. Dai thiks that he also understands the reason why Reishou doesn’t want Yuulin to see that kind of thing.. Then,Dai and Yuulin look surprised. At the center, Reishou is being served wine by beautiful ladies. Yuulin freaks out and shouts, “What-!? *trembles* What is that?” Dai looks nervous and mutters, what. Trembling Yuulin says, “Making the Consort stay at the palace and he, himself is doing..?” Dai says, “That’s right! What is going on- How baffling- (Your Majesty, no way!)” Yuulin gloomily mutters, “Is that what His Majesty doesn’t want to let me see? Ah, ha..so that’s it.” Really nervous and aghast Dai thinks, “I.. might be beheaded by His Majesty, because of this.. Bad timing..”

Below, Houen furiously calls out to Suigetsu and exclaims what is going on. “There’s a lot of those disgusting ladies at His Majesty’s side!” Suigetsu tells him that there is nothing strange with dancing ladies pouring wine for His Majesty, and how could he say that is disgusting. Houen angrily shouts that this is a solemn gathering and the heck he is doing. Suigetsu tells him that it is a banquet. “—but honestly, it is a bit strange. I don’t remember having this kind of arrangement. There’s really no taste [/style]. Ah ah, I really hate it.. His Majesty is really scary, quite scary than he usually is, I really want to go home.. I don’t want to go to work tomorrow..” Houen angrily shouts for him to quit talking nonsense and quickly handle this for that area is under his supervision. A couple of guys are quietly looking at them. Somewhere else, Dai apologizes to Yuulin for he didn’t thought that [is what she’ll see]. Yuulin sadly says that it is alright, she can really understand this. Dai replies, “No, even if you understand, I’m also at a pinch.. You stay there for a while, and I’ll go get you something to drink.” Gloomy Yuulin thinks, “So that’s how it is-- The Wolf King in the banquet is like that.. Making the temporary bride stay and take care of things at the palace, hmph- and even saying happily having fun-- Who would have thought! *agitated* What’s the meaning of that! Even appearing like he isn’t interested at all about the banquet! *Chibi Reishou tensely tells her that he doesn’t want her to attend it* Simply, treated me like a fool-- Speaking of that, I don’t have the right to be angry! *looks up and sees the mysterious official* --huh? Just now.. Is that the guy with an ominous prediction..? *starts to follow him* After knowing that prediction, I had been in a complete mess. He is under whom? I also don’t know.. But, if I don’t quickly return, Kou Dai will be worried. *place where there are a lot of carriages and containers* I’m at a place where they left the things. *looks around* This is bad! I’m lost.” Suddenly someone grabs her hand and pulls her to the side. With her mouth being covered, Yuulin looks up to see that it is Reishou who asks, “Do you exist just to give me a fright?” Yuulin blushes and asks him why he is there, what about the banquet. Reishou tells her that there is a program intermission [while Houen and Suigetsu are discussing/fixing things]. “Why are you here? Is this Kou Dai’s idea? *Chibi Dai looks nervous.* --you’ve dressed up quite cute..” Yuulin blushes and thinks what he is saying, when just now, he is surrounded by beautiful ladies. Trying to free herself from Reishou’s grasp, Yuulin thanks him for noticing that. “Please let me go, I’m going back.” To her shock, Reishou pulls her to him and asks why she is angry. Yuulin thinks, what’s up with this guy. Reishou tells her that even if he knows that it isn’t quite good to leave her at the palace but..

Yuulin exclaims, “No! I’m not angry! Please let me go! *teary-eyed* I.. If I’m at your side, you can’t be happy! (let me go~~) Later on, I’ll just be good and stay at the palace, so you can relax!” Puzzled Reishou asks her how can he be happy without her by his side. Yuulin thinks that he is lying, when he is obviously a womanizer. Reishou is puzzled when Yuulin struggles to free herself and exclaims for him not to say such things anymore, and she knows that he also have a lot of difficulties. Reishou holds her face to him and says, “If you don’t tell me why you are this angry, then I’ll always keep on asking. For me, this is more important than attending the banquet.” Yuulin blushes and thinks, this person.. She says, “—Wolf Majesty, you are such a—pervert[/lecher]..! *Reishou asks, what?* You’ve said those lines to many women, right..! *Reishou says, huh* --but, unluckily for you! Even if I’m aiming to become a professional Queen Consort! I won’t be deceived by your words! Let me tell you, I totally don’t take offense by it! Or perhaps, I should say I really thoroughly understand it! ~~Okay! Quickly go back! The beautiful ladies are waiting for you! I’ll just wait at the palace, and Your Majesty can just go and freely enjoy without a care! Wolf Majesty, you scoundrel! *Sweatdropping Reishou says, about that, Yuulin* Ah! *backs away* Anyway, I’m just a ‘sad reminder’ woman--! *runs off* I’m really fed up--” Reishou is midway on calling her back but he says, “—Kou Dai.” Trembling while suppressing his laughter, Dai says here, he’s here half-way ago, and he will chase after Yuulin. Reishou says that it seems that Yuulin is misunderstanding something and he [Dai] should first calm her down for talking with her right now will all just be in vain. “In addition, I’ll keep this matter in mind.” Thinking that Yuulin is strange, Dai says ye..yes. Somewhere else at the banquet, Keitaku comments that it is a boring banquet. Someone asks is that so, when everyone has been praising His Majesty[/it] to high heavens unceasingly. Keitaku says that if he said that it is boring, it is boring. The others bow and say yes, it is as he said. Keitaku scoffs off this Ryu-Han cooperation, and it is all because of that ‘whereabouts unknown’ silly woman which is making him feel gloomy. “Is the banquet progressing in accordance to what we anticipated?” Someone says, yes, and it has already been confirmed with the spy within the government affairs building. “The Queen Consort’s visit ceremony will be at the end of the banquet..” Keitaku smiles and says, “That stupid and shallow person, appearing as one wishes. This way, it’s almost time for you to know your own place. *scene of suspicious document* That..unlucky Queen Consort who incurs disaster. *scene of mysterious official*” Somewhere else, Yuulin exclaims, “What are you saying!? I’m not misunderstanding anything, nor am I shaken [by it]. I understand everything!” Dai says, “Ya, ya-- but first, Your Highness, you should calm down, no matter how I said it, this has something to do with my life. Do you know that meaningful glare in His Majesty’s eyes is fairly serious.”

Hehe..and Dai caused a misunderstanding between them because well, he just loves to meddle =P Well, there is an advantage and disadvantage in meddling..unlike before, this shows the bad side for things end up worse. ^^; Now, he has to fix things or he’ll ended up killed by Reishou. =P It is really pitiful for Yuulin to not be able to attend the banquet after all the things she did just for those two to cooperate, and for this to smoothly happen. She can be very understanding..and maybe, too understanding about why Reishou doesn’t want her to be there..well, she misunderstood the reason. Really bad timing on Dai’s part. ^^; Houen is right about his brother, Keitaku is really such a coward. He is resorting to underhanded things. He is most likely the one who is responsible for the girls serving Reishou and the strange document regarding bad luck Yuulin. No wonder some people are thinking that Houen is a better heir. I think the author is keeping this ‘realistic’ because of the conspiracy and political stuff that she injects in the story. Even if there are people helping Houen-Suigetsu, within those people, there are still traitors who would do other people’s biddings. No wonder Reishou always keep his guard up, and it helps to have people who are loyal to him. Scans by 17kkmh.com and ベーリ猫.

Word of the day:
We must not meddle in affairs to which we're not assigned; instead, let's do our work for God, the way He has designed. ~ Anon from Our Daily Bread.

Skip Beat! [Chapter 184]
Sunday, January 1, 2012

Flashback: The American[?] taunted that God is perplexed by Kuon’s life. Is he an American, a Russian, or a Japanese? A greedy God’s mixture to bring forth something that doesn’t seem like human. –no, he can no longer be called human, since his existence makes them, humans, feel unhappy. “You are an ugly oddity.” Kuon stared back at him. End flashback. Murasame is already at the edge of the building structure as he struggles from BJ’s suffocating strangle. A woman exclaims that they will really fall down. One of the staff shouts for Cain to calm down and let Murasame go. Someone is already shouting to get the safety net. While they are fussing about that, the director is freaking out that Ren is doing things up to this extent, and what is he thinking. The others are scared when another woman exclaims that they should first stop that violent foreigner. Murasame thinks that it is bad for he can’t keep this up, and if he wants to die, then he’ll use Cain as a fallguy[/he'll get him to die with him]. Murasame grabs Cain’s cloak and throws both of them down. Everyone freaks out because the safety net/canvas can’t carry two people. Setsuka shouts something and Cain snaps out of it. He finds himself falling down and there are freaking out onlookers below. Murasame falls down on the safety net. While the others seem to want to catch Cain, Cain has already smoothly landed with both feet on the ground. While Cain still looks stunned, the others are amazed at how Cain was able to do that after falling down from a high place, as if it is in some anime, but then, it is because he used Murasame for the [opposite] force. The others are attending to Murasame who is coughing. They tell him to breathe deeply.

Then, Setsuka calls out to Cain if he is alright. He looks up to Setsuka. He is surprised when Setsuka pats his head. She smiles and tells him that pose is quite good/he's amazingly cool. She starts saying that she actually didn’t anticipate much, over this special make-up since Japanese skill/technology for it isn’t that good. But, she is quite surprised that it looks real. Pointing to his face, Setsuka says that the peeling of the skin there is really amazing. Then, Setsuka takes out her cellphone and starts taking his picture. She says that it is a rare opportunity to see him like that. ^^; Cain asks if she is a policeman taking identity/mug shots, please don’t take these bad taste pictures. Setsuka tells him to be good, and don’t move. While they continue on like that, the others wonder what’s up with those two, since they are at ease, at a situation like this. They wonder out loud if Setsuka is oblivious over how serious the mood was in the set, and she only looks at her brother. It makes the others think that the two aren’t earthlings/people from this world. Soon, Murasame has recovered and tells the others that he is fine. He apologizes for acting in random again. They tell him that he isn’t to blame, for the root of the matter, is to blame the other side so he didn’t do anything wrong. Murasame didn’t reply back. He thinks that before, there are times when he felt that guy’s ‘vicious chi/aura’ but he always didn’t take it seriously and just dismiss it as ‘playing around’ or a kind of ‘enjoying at ease’ [<- when BJ smiled] but right now, he [Murasame] clearly knows--

Murasame tells the others that he thinks that he generally had stepped on... They are puzzled by what he said as Murasame looks at the Heel siblings. Mursame continues to say, ‘that guy’s landmine’. Murasame thinks that Kain’s ‘vicious chi’ today is a ‘violent killing intent’. In the dressing room, Setsuka pours a drink. Cain asks her if she isn’t going to ask him. They look at each other and Setsuka asks, ask what. Cain says about how come he would do that to Murasame. Setsuka says that she isn’t interested to know, and she knows even without guessing. Setsuka says that Murasame definitely did something again that pissed him off. Putting a straw in the drink, Setsuka tells him to drink that way since there is make-up on his lips. He just looks at her that she tells him to just suck it and it would be okay. Cain apologizes and takes the drink. While pouring another drink, Setsuka admits that she had a cold sweat for a second when Murasame pulled him down. She says that even if she knows of his capability and he’ll live by using Murasame as a cushion, but she unconsciously called out to him. After thinking of that moment, Cain says that he heard that voice. She asks, really. He says that it is a voice coming from the nose. ^^; She comments that his hearing is still quite sharp. Cain tells her that because of her voice, a life is saved [/it is a lifesaver?]. He looks at Setsuka and says, “Thank you.” Setsuka looks surprised and smiles. Ren thinks that once again, this girl’s voice has saved him. Before, she exclaimed “Don’t kill someone/him”, when he is about to punch those guys who tried to hit on Setsuka. And this time around, she shouted, “Brother!!!”

I think Kyouko handled the situation wonderfully. By doing that picture taking thing, it somewhat lighten the mood for others to dismiss that Cain is just a ‘weirdo’ so that incident happened. Even if everyone would think he is scary, they can’t deny that Cain is perfect for the role. And, the landmine that Murasame is talking about is most probably Kyouko. I think that Ren created this persona as a way to vent out his frustrations and emotions in. If he is the normal Ren, he would just keep things to himself and behave. Hehe, he is quite ‘touchy’ with Kyouko here than before..and because of their ‘roles’, he is getting away with it. And here, he easily gets on Murasame’s case especially since Murasame is interested in Kyouko. Unfortunately, Ren can sometimes get carried away with a role, and this wild persona had grown out of control for him. So, by tapping it again this time for this role, he probably hopes to ‘defeat’ it. He isn’t quite successful in it if it not for Kyouko’s presence. I think Kyouko will pass this ‘dangerous mission’ with flying colors. ^^ I do wonder if Kyouko did ask, would Ren tell her everything? From what that person said, I’m surprised that Russian is mentioned. So, is his mother Russian? Since he is a mixed blood, I guess it makes Ren a really ‘different’ person...as if he is too perfect. Because of how his father praised him to high heavens, I guess he is too amazing that other people can’t handle him well. From his reaction to how that director turned him down when he was young and he is obviously talented, I guess he had a lot of pent up frustrations. I think the problem is, unlike the forgiving and open-minded directors that he is working with now, the ones he worked with before are probably the opposite so when he wants to do things ‘his way, which he think is better’, they probably took offense by it. Like what that man say, Kuon makes others feel unhappy..probably jealous of him. Anyway, I think Ren should already know that Kyouko is the one who can ‘save’ him from the darkness that had totally engulfed him ever since Rick died. And, Kyouko knows that she is needed. Is the jump to becoming really ‘lovey-dovey’ quite far off? It makes me think that if ever Shou appear again, these two would probably be closer to each other..and make Shou eat his heart out? =P This from baidu’s 无尽空寂 translation and scans by 歌留多_影. Thanks for the info, clau ^^ The next chapter will be out on February 3rd!

Word of the day:
Only God can heal the deep wounds of the heart, but we can lend a hand. ~ from Our Daily Bread

New Year Greetings, SB! 184 teaser and VK omake
Saturday, December 31, 2011

Thanks to tap’s tag, Skip Beat! 184 is already out in baidu by 歌留多_影. So, the 10 year special only has lots of colored pages with a colored spread of Kyouko’s toast. This is guesswork since I can’t read Japanese. There is a flashback of that American taunting Kuon about being Japanese and for being a ‘strange living thing’. Kuon is obviously not happy to hear that. Back at the set, Murasame is struggling to free himself and everyone is freaking out. I think they are telling Murasame to get away by jumping. The director is thinking something regarding Ren. Murasame manages to grab BJ’s cloak and tosses him down by using the edge as leverage. As they fall down, everyone freaks out. The ones below prepare to catch them on a safety net. Kyouko shouts something that snaps Ren out of it. Murasame lands on the safety net and Ren lands perfectly lands on the ground. Cool. Murasame is still coughing after being strangled as they ask him if he is alright. Setsuka asks Cain if he is alright. He looks up to her and to his surprise, it seems that Setsuka is praising him for his performance. She is also patting his head as if he is a puppy. ^^; I think she is saying some cutey-cutey stuff with him. The staff talks about the siblings. Murasame is thinking over things regarding Cain about being violent and emitting ‘killer aura’. Later on, it seems that Setsuka and Cain are having lunch at their dressing room. They talk a bit and it seems Kyouko is satisfied that she helped and he heard her voice. It seems that she shouted don’t kill, brother..something like that. For the bad news, the next chapter will be out on February 3rd!

Omake in Vampire Knight’s volume 15, courtesy of jennyjule. Yay, her blog is back up ^^ What is Kaname’s weakness? According to Takuma who told it to Sara, it is Sister complex. =P Kaname is doodling..it is a crappy drawing of Yuuki, sun, flower, and cat[?]. Hanabusa arrives and seems to ridicule it that Kaname punches him. ^^; Then, it seems that there is a guy who wants to give Yuuki a love letter. Before, he can get near Yuuki, Kaname has already threatened him with bodily harm. He would have been dead meat if not for Takuma who has to forcefully drag Kaname away. =P