Negima! Manga Volume 17

Negima!: Magister Negi Magi, Volume 17

SPOILER Summary: As the battle against Chao's robot army continues, Mana uses her special magic bullets to start sending some of the strongest mage teacher 3-hours into the future. Chao defeats both Asuna and Setsuna, but before she can have them sent 3-hours into the future, Misora rescues them and escapes. Chisame uses her new artifact to literally enter cyberspace, which is represented as being within an ocean, where Makie and Ayaka also enter and help, the later two being convinced this is some new VR game. There, Chisame's presence is known to Chachamaru, who has no choice but to dispatch things like tuna, sharks, and jelly fish (representing various cyber attacks) at Chisame.

Meanwhile, Negi, Kaede, Ku Fei, Paru, Nodoka, and Yue try to make their way to where Chao will be. Paru and Ku Fei drop off to buy Negi time by fighting off some of Chao's robot armies. Nodoka saves Negi from one of Mana's bullets and gets sent 3-hours into the future for it. Kaede goes after Mana, managing to elude all of Mana's incoming fire to get in close for hand-to-hand combat, something that Mana has been looking forward to.

Elsewhere, Chao's giant robots are taking the key areas on the campus around the World Tree and only one remains free. Yuuna is leading the forces defending this final area and when all seems lost, Negi arrives and blasts the robot in half before taking off to Chao's blimp, leaving Yue behind to watch with Chamo. Negi is blocked by Chao's robots and some of Chachamaru's sisters, but Kotaro, Setsuna, Asuna, Misora, and others are there to clear a path for him. Negi faces off against Chao, who understand her secret as she also has a Cassiopeia time device. During the pitched battle, he recalls his conversation with Yue before arriving to help Yuuna where he had doubts as to what to do, feeling that maybe Chao's goal may be good even if her methods weren't. Negi is ultimately able to disable Chao's device, so she pulls out her trump card, using her battle suit as a means of casting spells despite the pain it causes her to do so. As the battle rages, both combatants cast powerful magic with Negi ultimately scoring a hit that nails Chao in the head, seemingly knocking her out.

Thoughts: I wish Del Rey would not "translate" the word "master" to "mistress." Chachazero only refers to Eva with the English word "Master" so I don't see why it needs to be changed.

As to the chapter itself, there is a lot of good stuff here. I liked how the headmaster and Eva "sat" in the air to watch the fight. Negi had his crisis of what to do but came through. The fight between Mana and Kaede -- good stuff! Chao defeating Setsuna and Asuna together was cool but then they had no chance against someone who can move through time.

Oh, did anyone notice how Misora's broom went nuts when Asuna landed on it? Goes back to volume 1 when Negi's staff wouldn't fly with Asuna on it. ^_^

Well, volume 18 will finally wrap up the long school festival arc. ^_^

Honey and Clover Manga Volume 1

Honey and Clover, Vol. 1

Summary: 4th-year art college student Mayama and 2nd-year student Takemoto as well as other guys live in an old converted apartment building that they use as a dorm. Also with them is Morita, who's a 6th-year student who disappears for days and weeks at a time, only to return dead tired and with a massive mound of cash. Into their world enters Hagu-chan, a tiny first-year student who does not look her 18-years. Rounding out this group of friends is Yamada (Ayumi), who's also a 4th-year student at the same art college.

Ayumi is in love with Mayama, who only considers her a friend. Mayama is in love with his boss Rika-san, who's husband had passed away some years earlier. Takemoto falls in love with Hagu-chan, as does Morita when he meets her. While Takemoto is more conservative in his approach to Hagu-chan (thus, the two become friends), Morita is manic with her, doing all sorts of crazy things that has her on edge.

The first volume covers some of the crazy antics of this group of friends as well as their own dealings with their unrequited love interests.

Thoughts: I'd long wished to read this manga because (1) I really enjoyed both anime TV series and the OVA series, (2) I really enjoyed the live-action movie, and (3) I am enjoying the live-action TV series. Since the manga is original source material for all of the above adaptations, its only natural to want to read it. However, with Viz being the licensor of the manga, I figured I'd have to wait until I was fluent enough in Japanese to import the original manga as I have been boycotting Viz due to the craptacular job they do on their manga and anime titles. However, when a reviewer mentioned that the honorifics had been retained for this manga, I had to take a risk and check it out.

For starters, it is true that Japanese honorifics are used heavily in the English adaptation. That is a good thing for me. As those who know me know, I am a strong proponent of retaining Japanese honorifics in English adaptations of manga, Japanese novels, and subtitled anime. However, English translator/adapter Akemi Wegmuller did a very, very naughty thing. He began substituting some honorifics for other honorifics.

For example, Mayama and Takemoto often refer to Morita as "Morita-senpai," and indeed this is shown throughout the manga. However, there are occasions where they shift to "Morita-san." This may not seem like much, but the shifting from a more submissive "senpai" to the general "san" is used for impact. For example, there's a moment on page 19 where Mayama is not happy with what Morita is doing and yells out "Morita-san" in the original Japanese. Unfortunately, the official English adaptation has Mayama yell out "Morita-senpai." I guess Akemi must have felt that since they'd been calling him "Morita-senpai" before, they should keep doing so but that's NOT what Umino-sensei had her characters say.

There are lots of incidents like this. In cases where "Morita-san" is used (whether by his kohai or others), the "san" somehow gets lost and that's not right. Yet, Rika is addressed as "Rika-san," which is right. Further, Morita will shift between addressing Takemoto as "Takemoto-kun" and "Takemoto," but the official adaptation seems to drop all "Takemoto-kun" references from Morita. Rika-san does address Mayama as "Mayama-kun" though, so its not as if "kun" were completely lost. Hanamoto-sensei is sometimes addressed as such (or "sensei"), but sometimes he's "Mr. Hanamoto," or even "Professor."

So ultimately, what I'm hoping is that this was just a rough first volume and that subsequent volumes will use the CORRECT honorifics and not change or drop them at times.

Viz follows Del Rey's lead and has some translator notes, which they've called a "Study Guide." they have two columns of notes for the two pages, which is fine, but after you've read an entire manga volume doing the right side first, then the left, Viz's decision to print the notes in traditional English fashion is a bit jarring, because by now, you instinctively look to the right column to start reading, not the left. The translation notes are good, but the delivery is distracting based on how manga is published

As to the story, I remembered a lot of this from the anime, though the Lohmeyer-senpai story was in the OVA whereas it was an early chapter in this initial volume. I found that interesting. It looks like the anime was pretty faithful to the manga, which considering how many total episodes there were between the 2 TV series and the 2 OVA episodes, that's not too surprising. It is interesting to see how much had to be removed from the live-action TV series though, which again isn't surprising seeing how they only have 11-episodes to work with.

The artwork is a bit rough. Not that it is bad, but after being used to the cleaner style of the anime, this first volume shows how the artwork originated. I hear Umino-sensei gets better over time, which is not surprising since most artist improve with time.

Assuming Viz fixes those honorific problems, I'll be back for volume 2.

Shakugan no Shana Second 23

灼眼のシャナ II Episode 23

SPOILER Summary: With Hecate now holding the Reiji Maigo, Dantalion and his robot servant Domino are revealed to be within the clock tower, where the silver armor now resides. Hecate sends the Reiji Maigo into the clock tower where it goes into the silver armor. Hecate commands it to awaken, which it does. Dantalion watches the power rise as Yuuji is helpless to do anything. Meanwhile, Shana races to the scene and discovers that the field created is not a Fuzetsu, though humans can't see it. Margery Daw and Wilhelmina arrive with Margery casting a Fuzetsu over the entire area.

Meanwhile, Yoshida races through the Fuzetsu to the clock tower when the Hougu begins to glow, causing her to stop. At the tower, all three Flame Haze attempt to break through the field wall only to discover they cannot. Shana gets frustrated and has to be restrained by Alastor. The Flame Haze sense something odd as the silver armer powers up and multiple beams of energy, Power of Existence, shoot up and out, something Alastor recognizes as being the work of Bel Peol. In Seireiden, Fecor reports to Bel Peol that phase one has completed.

Hecate continues her part in this and the clock tower twists into a massive mound of steel. Yuuji knows that he won't survive without the Reiji Maigo and so begins to search for it. Outside the barrier, the Flame Haze determine that this isn't some normal Tomogara. Shana is eager to blast away, but is restrained by the words of Alastor and Wilhelmina, the later reminding her that Bal Masqué will be prepared for them to penetrate the barrier. As such, they need to find a way in. Yoshida arrives with the news that the Reiji Maigo has been taken from Yuuji though he's still alive. She learned this from Johan via Pheles's Hougu that Yoshida has -- Giralda.

Margery contacts Sato, who'd made his way to the Haridan in anticipation of her needing him there. She's pleased with this and has him look at the barrier for a possible entrance since it has characteristics of a whirlpool. Yoshida asks if Shana is going to rescue Yuuji. Shana says this is wrong as she's going in to fight with Yuuji, as she's sure Yuuji is fighting in his own way. Sure enough, Yuuji is trying to source out where the Reiji Maigo is, realizing that the Flame Haze will likely have a hard time getting to him. He works his way through the twisted metal where he's detected by Domino. Dantalion has Domino dispatch some droids, which Yuuji begins defeating using the fireball technique he'd been taught, much to the annoyance of Dantalion.

Sato has located an entrance into the barrier and Shana thanks Yoshida for her help, promising to pick up their personal battle for Yuuji when this crisis is over. Yoshida agrees and the Flame Haze are off. At the entrance, the opening is very small and as such, Margery says she'll go first to open a path for Wilhelmina and Shana, and they all agree that there will be a welcome waiting for them inside. Margery and Marchosias cast their spell and all three Flame Haze enter. Margery is through first and Sydonay is waiting for her. She manages to get off an attack, though he counters it and inflicts massive damage upon her, defeating her. He's impressed that she was able to do that much but the arrival of Shana and Wilhelmina reveal to him that she was a mere decoy, not that he feels it will change things.

Dantalion is excited over the progress of this latest project of his, where he reveals that Konoe's purpose in collecting emotions was to gain the information needed to control so much Power of Existence. These emotions will form the brain of a new Tomogara being born with the Power of Existence as its food and the Reiji Maigo will be the heart -- the Taimei Shihen. Wilhelmina and Shana have heard enough and move in to attack Sydonay, who's in a bit of trouble until Hecate provides him some cover fire. Shana avoids the attack and flies around the twisted steel, hunting for Yuuji before his own Power of Existence runs out.

Yuuji knows his own situation is not good and so summons Blutsauger to fight off Domino's droids. However, one of his swings ends up getting caught in a beam and he falls as Dantalion announces the birth of a new Tomogara, which he refers to as the Statue of Pride (in Japanese).

Thoughts: So, Hecate didn't cast a Fuzetsu. Interesting.

Yoshida still hasn't used the Hougu, which we now know is named Giralda. Maybe next episode (which is the finale).

I was a bit surprised at how quickly Margery Daw was defeated, even if she was on point. Then again, she might be playing possum, with Sydonay and Hecate trying to contain Wilhelmina and Shana, who's watching Margery, who can then hit that nutter, Dantalion.

I've really enjoyed this sequel series, even more than the original I think. I hope we get a third series.

Clannad 22 (finale)

クラナド Episode 22 (finale)

SPOILER Summary: Nagisa is still depressed at learning her father had been an actor and had given it up for her. As Nagisa and Tomoya walk to school, she frets about how her parents gave up their dream for her and then she's got everyone else doing things for her dream. Tomoya reminds her that everyone in Theater Club are there because they want to be and if she quits, it would mean that all their work is for naught. The Theater Club meets and Nagisa sits off by herself. Her demeanor is picked up by the others, so Tomoya tries to cover for her by saying it is a case of nerves.

To try and help Nagisa out, Tomoya takes her around the school festival, where they visit many booths. Nagisa is still depressed and somehow the two of them get separated. Tomoya is looking for her when he runs into her mother, Sanae-san. After talking a bit, he takes off to continue his search for Nagisa, who in turn has entered the resource center. Yukine is there, so Nagisa inquires about old videos of previous school events since her father had been in the Theater Club at this high school. She's watching video of her father's performance for which he won an award when Tomoya finds her (having been told of her location by Yukine). At the end of the video, the young Akio-san loudly proclaims his dream of being a professional actor.

After Tomoya gets her to leave and come to the auditorium for her performance, when the curtain goes up, Nagisa says nothing but instead starts to cry. The other members wonder what they should do with Tomoya reluctant to lower the curtain again. However, it is Akio-san screaming from the back of the theater that brings her round. He tells her that her dream is now his dream and that if she fails to perform, he'll be very disappointed. Sanae-san backs him up and Tomoya races down from the control booth to further encourage her. With that, Nagisa collects herself and begins her play.

Nagisa tells the story and we see that in the Mystery World, Mystery Girl and Junk-bot bury the other junk doll-robot as it never came to life. Because Junk-bot remembers a world that he came from (I guess its soul) that had people and was a warm place, he convinces Mystery Girl to come with him so return to that place. After the play, Nagisa and Tomoya are sitting outside where he compliments her. Since he never flatters people, that means that he truly believes the play was good. She reveals to Tomoya that she remembers more of the story. Apparently, Mystery Girl and Junk-bot go on the journey, after which they sing. As such, Nagisa feels it was right to sing a song at the end of the play, even if it was about dango. Tomoya's father comes by, having been invited by Nagisa, and after he talks with Nagisa, Tomoya offers an olive branch to his father.

Once his father leaves, Tomoya asks Nagisa out on a date before Kyou interrupts and gets them to come to the Theater Club room for the celebration party. They attend the party and then the next day, Nagisa and Tomoya go on a date, doing different things including the arcade. At the end of the date, Tomoya goes to the school with Nagisa, where they visit the Theater Club room. It is now that Nagisa finally notices where Tomoya wrote her name on the chalkboard for being the person on duty. So, she adds his name to the board, after which Tomoya confesses his love for Nagisa and his desire to continue to date her. She's surprised by this and then tears up, happy to hear this from him, knowing he truly means it.

Thoughts: Hmmm. This final story didn't have the emotional impact I was expecting. After the super-sadness of Fuko-chan's story and the sadness of Kotomi-chan's story, with Nagisa getting ill as she had done, I really expected that she'd come close to dying, but the story didn't go that route. So while I felt badly for Nagisa, I didn't feel choked up. I am glad that she and Tomoya are now a couple and that Tomoya and his father made a tiny step to reconcile, but with the producers ending things at 22 episodes (not counting the special and OVA for the DVD release), the date the two had got a brush over and so Tomoya's finally confessing didn't have the impact it should have. That's a shame, really.

Next is the summer special, which appears to take place during the summer break. The rumor mill is that there could be a sequel series in the works since the game continues with Nagisa and Tomoya in the future. I hope this happens because there are still unanswered questions. It seemed like the place that Mystery Girl and Junk-bot came from was real. Indeed, I had thought that maybe Nagisa was the Mystery Girl (as she was in the play) and Tomoya was somehow the Junk-bot. That might explain how they both knew the story and yet no such story could be found. I figured that maybe Kotomi's parent's research would tie into this somehow. That's still possible with a sequel.

Also, there's Fuko-chan, whom I expected to "come to life" as it were by series end.

Overall, I really enjoyed the series, though it didn't end quite the way I expected.

Clannad After Story

With the recent Clannad anime ending at a shortened 22 epiosodes (not counting the summer special episode and the OVA/extra episode on the DVD), there had been rumors floating that a sequel might be in the works, especially since the game that the anime is based on continues 10-years after the events of the main Clannad story, featuring Nagisa and Tomoya. Turns out those rumors were correct. ANN reports that the rumored sequel to Clannad has been announced in the May issue of Dengeki G's Magazine entitled Clannad After Story.

I find this to be pretty good news. Clannad is a pretty good anime title, but it left some plot threads dangling, such as Fuko-chan's ultimate resolution (it was hinted that there would be more to this), the "world" (for lack of a better term) that Kotomi-chan's parent's had been researching, and frankly, I wouldn't mind seeing Nagisa, Tomoya, and the rest of the gang in the future.

Clannad 21

クラナド Episode 21

SPOILER Summary: The Theater Club goes through the riggers of preparing for the play, which will be done at the school festival. Various tasks are assigned out but there's no one to make the costume. So it is decided to as Sanae-san if she can make the costumes, which she's happy to do. Nagisa feels bad for asking her mom such a thing, but Tomoya assures her that Sanae-san is the right person. The two of them head up to the living quarters where Akio-san has a video tape for them to watch of a play, so they can get an idea of how to properly perform. Nagisa is very touched by this play. That night, Akio-san summons Tomoya where they head to the shed to look for the story that Nagisa remembers for her play. However, they have no luck finding it and Akio-san hastily returns the boxes to the shed.

The following day, Nagisa has an idea for music to use for the play based on the video her father lent her. After going over what Nagisa has written story-wise, the Music Club then comes up with a CD that Nagisa thinks is perfect. Tomoyo comes by the Theater Club room to see how they are doing and is wearing glasses, which Tomoya finds interesting since she's never worn them before. Tomoyo and Nagisa promise to continue on the paths they are on and Tomoyo mentions that she's glad it was Nagisa, a reference to the fact that Tomoya obviously chose Nagisa over all the other girls even if he hadn't said so in actuality.

Time passes and the school festival draws nigh. Its time for the final rehearsal, done on the actual stage, before the play the following day. Nagisa is very nervous since she's playing the part of the Mystery Girl in the play. So the others try to calm her down, though Sunohara ends up making her nervous again. However, they all huddle together, put their hands together and give a "lets go." With that, Nagisa heads on stage and the rehearsal is on.

That evening, Nagisa and Tomoya return to her home where they are greeted by Nagisa's parents. The rehearsal went well and Akio-san is sure that the idol agencies will soon be at their door. Tomoya finds this an exaggeration, leading an annoyed Akio-san to tell him to just agree with the idea. Nagisa states that Tomoya never flatters. The conversation turns to the possibility of Tomoya having a daughter and doting on her. Tomoya doesn't see that happening, though Nagisa does, especially since Tomoya and her father are so much alike, something Akio-san finds distressing.

Later than night, Nagisa comes by Tomoya's room to visit and talk. She's very nervous about the upcoming performance. She again mentions how she feels she did something bad to them in the past. Tomoya remembers his conversation with Akio-san and tries to assure her that she's not to blame. After their talk, Nagisa feels better and so takes her leave. She returns to her room to pack her costume and other things she might need. She decides to get a flashlight, but the batteries are out. So she goes to the shed to get another flashlight. As she does, she accidentally knocks over some boxes, spilling their content, which she then begins to gather up.

In the middle of the night, Tomoya wakes to use the bathroom. After finishing his business, he stops to peek in Nagisa's room and is surprised to find her up, with all the mementos (diaries and pictures) all around her. Her father was an actor and had given it up for Nagisa, which has left her in a state of shock. Tomoya sends Nagisa to bed and Akio-san comes down to learn of Nagisa's discovery.

Thoughts: I suppose it was predictable that Nagisa would learn of her father's past just before her big moment in the spotlight. I like how Tomoya and Nagisa have gotten even closer and how he's able to calm her and even got her to go to bed after her shocking discovery. Too bad there's only one more regular episode left. I hear there's talk of a sequel to pick up the "after story," which if that happens, that would be cool.

Minami-ke Okawari 08

みなみけ～おかわり～ Ep. 08

SPOILER Summary: Haruka is doing some shopping at a local shop in the shopping district when the lady of the shop gives her a bunch of tickets to a new pool and onsen resort that's opened in the next town over. Kana is excited by this and immediately starts inviting "the gang" over while Chiaki frets, as she doesn't know how to swim. She gets online to research swimming when Kana comes in. Not wanting Kana to know her secret, Chiaki "flips" screens on the computer, leading Kana to tease her about cruising porn sites. When Kana tries to find out what Chiaki was looking at, Chiaki slugs her.

At school the next day, Uchida and Yoshino are excited by the Saturday pool trip, but Chiaki's attitude makes them wonder why she seems so opposed to going. Makoto grabs Touma in the hall because he doesn't know whether to accept the invitation or not. The problem is that he was invited as "Mako-chan." Touma has an idea to help him out. Meanwhile at the junior high, Fujioka also has tickets to the same pool for Saturday and invited Kana to come. She accepts and tells him to be at her house Saturday morning, which naturally makes him very happy.

Saturday morning comes and Fujioka is depressed to see that this will be another Minami group outing and not just himself and Kana. The girls are all wearing swimsuits under their clothing (it still being winter) and "show off the goods." Even "Mako-chan" has a swimsuit that Touma picked out which hides the fact that in fact he's Makoto. The Minami's cousin Takeru is again the driver and as with the onsen trip, he grills Fujioka about his relationship with the girls (who play cards in the back of the van). When Takeru mentions Kana seems taken with Fujioka, this is the best news Fujioka could get, seeing as how he wasn't sure how Kana thought of him. However, Takeru can't grill Fujioka further because it is clear that he's somehow gotten them lost.

Finally arriving at the hotel at lunch time, Chiaki is determined to swim and makes a big commotion of leaving the restaurant for the pool area. However, when Kana insults her after Chiaki is gone, Chiaki is suddenly back to defend herself. Kana realizes that Chiaki can't swim and hearing Touma's mentioning that people in school refer to Chiaki as "hime" (princess), Kana uses this to her advantage to tease Chiaki poolside. Chiaki decides to turn tables on Kana by embracing the princess label and ordering that idiots leave her kingdom.

In the end, Kana is helping Chiaki to swim (Chiaki being determined to swim 25-meters) and whenever Chiaki gives her grief, she lets go so that Chiaki flounders. At one point she ends up even being rescued by Fujioka. Meanwhile, Hayami-senpai has made a Volleyball Club meeting at the same pool-resort, so Haruka's friends Maki and Atsuko are there. Hearing Haruka is sleeping, Hayami is up to no good. Kana's friends Riko and Keiko are also at the pool, Riko a flutter seeing Fujioka. In the end, Kana tells everyone (including Haruka's friends) they can come by the apartment (condo?) when they get back to the city. Maki and Hayami then toss the still sleeping Haruka into the pool.

Thoughts: Mildly amusing at times, but not funny and mostly dull to me. *sigh* But hey, those who get off on lots of fanservice had their springs wound. After all, if we can only muster a pathetic imitation of the original Minami-ke, throw in a lot of fanservice for the otaku and everything will be Oh-kay. Not.

You're Under Arrest! Full Throttle 13

Taiho Shichauzo! Full Throttle Episode 13
逮捕しちゃうぞ フルスロットル Episode 13

SPOILER Summary: Natsumi and Miyuki discover the cause for a traffic jam is a truck dropping off recycle goods to a recycle store. Natsumi is impressed with such a facility and even wants to buy a tiger pelt. Upon returning to the station, Kachou tells gathers all the officers and tells them to be on the lookout for illegal dumping. Natsumi and Miyuki find a small illegal dump when they are called by Yoriko and Aoi-chan to an abandoned warehouse full of illegal dumping. However, Yoriko has heard a story of a haunted video tape in an abandoned VCR, so is afraid there are ghosts in the warehouse. Natsumi and Miyuki scoff at this and enter the building with Aoi-chan and Yoriko close behind.

The investigation quickly has Aoi-chan and Yoriko thinking they've found a body but it is a mannequin. However, when a washing machine goes active for a short term, causing Natsumi to attack it. In turn, they hear a voice come from a nearby radio. They then hear mysterious footsteps. Finally they see a giant, ghostly face on the wall. So when Yoriko and Aoi-chan return to the station, they spread the rumor about the ghost Natsumi and Miyuki battled. Hearing that Miyuki's life may be in danger from a curse, Nakajima goes a little nuts, which gets him in trouble with Kachou. When Miyuki hears this, she's not happy with Yoriko or Aoi-chan.

Miyuki and Natsumi return to the warehouse in civilian gear with night vision goggles. Miyuki solves the mystery of the ghost by revealing that the washing machine still had electricity in it. The radio still had weak battery power. The footsteps came from water pipes carrying sounds from elsewhere. And finally, the giant ghostly face is just an illusion, created by some light bulbs, cabling, and holes in the wall. Satisfied, they are going to leave when Natsumi sees the tiger pelt from the store they had previously visited. Realizing they have a suspect, they don't have to wait long as a truck arrives to dump off more junk. One of the two on the truck is the man from the recycle shop. Natsumi and Miyuki decide to "become ghosts" and end up frightening both men unconscious, allowing them to be easily arrested. Kachou questions this the following day, but Natsumi and Miyuki play ignorant. It is then that Nakajima is missed and it turns out he'd gone to the warehouse to overcome Miyuki's "curse," only to be frightened unconscious himself by a mirror.

Thoughts: A might too preachy and a lot forgettable. What was I talking about?

I'm glad I don't own a Japanese washing machine. So nice to know that they can store so much electricity that they can actually run without being plugged in for a few seconds at a time.

Negima! Vol 22 (Ch 199) *SPOILERS*

魔法先生 ネギま！Volume 22 Chapter 199

Summary: Negi (as Nagi) is rushed to the medical ward, his right arm having been cut off below the elbow. The arm is reattached magically and as Chisame is irritated with Negi's recklessness, Tosaka (one of the people in charge of the slaves) actually praises Negi.

Negi awakens to find Ako sitting by his bedside in the medical ward. Because his only clothing are bandage wrappings, he tries to cover up, but the pain of his arm causes him to fall out of the bed and onto Ako, where he soon passes out. Natsumi comes in and seeing "Nagi" on top of Ako, she assumes the wrong thing and leaves with Ako protesting.

Back in bed, Negi apologizes to Ako, were we learn that he's been asleep for two days. Negi reflects on his fight with Kagetarou when Ako tells him that "Nagi" is certainly Negi-kun's cousin and that the look on "Nagi's" face was the same as the one she's seen on Negi's face. She's happy that "Nagi" is alive and begins to cry as she had been so worries about him, wondering what she would have done if he died. She feels terrible because he's having to face all this danger because of her, Akira, and Natsumi.

Sometime later, Negi is walking outside (still as Nagi) as his arm has healed. He thinks of his comrades and on how Chachamaru is about to lead a search expedition out to try to find more of their comrades. He thinks back to the battle with Kagetarou and how Negi's final attack had been thwarted, resulting in his arm being cut off. Negi announces he still has another arm and counters, injuring Kagetarou in the eye. The fight is ended when the stranger, looking like "Big Sword Dude" from Ala Rubra, stops it.

Thoughts: Poor Ako. I feel so badly for her since she still doesn't know that "Nagi" is in fact Negi in teenaged form. She's clearly head-over-heels for "Nagi" and I really wonder how she'll take the news when she learns the truth. Considering that Ako was someone for whom Akamatsu-sensei created a pactio card long ago, maybe he'll use this as a means to officially make Ako part of the battle harem.

While I'm thinking of it, how come the magic keeping Negi in older form didn't wear off? I know he got these pills from Eva and in theory, they might be more powerful than the ones Negi had during the school festival, but one would think the mages who reattached Negi's arm would have realized this wasn't his real body, but a magical one. Weird.

Finally, there's BSD. I think he was the one that Negi and company were to meet at the gate port, but the attack stopped that. I wonder if he was the one who warned Asuna about the incoming attack telepathically. Well, its about time for him to be seen since we'd seen nothing of him other than the one group shot of Ala Rubra.

Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS 02

Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS Episode 02
魔法少女リリカルなのはStrikerS（ストライカーズ）Ep. 02

SPOILER Summary: After Subaru tearfully gets to meet her hero (Nanoha), Fate remarks on how they seem to know each other. Hayate reminds Fate of an event four years ago in which Fate and Nanoha had been visiting Hayate when a massive fire had broken out at the very facility they are currently out. Nanoha had rescued Subaru while Fate had rescued Ginga, Subaru's older sister and mage in training. Their father, Major Nakajima, works with Hayate and Reinforce Zwei to direct the rescue of his daughters as well as fire fighting. Once mage reinforcements arrive, Hayate gets permission to perform high-level magic, where she turns the entire area into ice, putting out the fires, though there are still smoldering embers.

The next morning, Fate, Nanoha, Hayate, and Rein are all in a giant bed together when Hayate wakes up. The girls receive no credit for their work, however neither Fate nor Nanoha are concerned with this seeing as how everyone was safe and the girls are currently on vacation. Hayate decides she wants her own unit to provide disaster relief, criminal investigation, and Lost Logia investigation. She feels trapped in her current position and feels that running an elite unit would not only help her, but cause people above in the chain of command to change. She wants Fate and Nanoha to help her, but she's concerned about imposing upon them. Considering the two girls have known Hayate since the third grade, not only is it not a problem for them to help Hayate, but as Nanoha put it, they would have been angry to not have been invited to such a fun unit.

Back in the present, Hayate and Fate are meeting with Subaru and Tia after their B-rank test. Subaru and Tia are told they are being considered for inclusion in the special forces and are given a brief rundown of what their duties might consist of should they join the Time-Space Administration Bureau's Special Management 6th Mobile Division. Nanoha comes in and she has bad news for the two girls. Despite their abilities, the dangerous actions they took combined with an inability to anticipate accidents and to cause injury to a partner means they failed. However, after Rein (as examiner) and Nanoha discussed things, it is decided that because of the girls' abilities, it would be too dangerous to keep them at the C-rank until the next testing cycle in half a year. As such, the pair will be assigned to the Administration Bureau Armed Corps for an intensive 3-day training session, after which they will be allowed to test for their B-rank again.

After Hayate tells them that they would be allowed to join the 6th Mobile Division should they wish after they achieve their B-rank, Subaru and Tia discuss their situation out in the courtyard. For Subaru, accepting a position is an easy choice since her hero Nanoha is a captain and the Combat Instructor. Tia expresses some doubt, which Subaru knows it means that Tia will also accept the job. While Tia seems to express frustration with Subaru, it is clear that she does care for her partner and friend. This is observed by Nanoha and Hayate, who agree both will enlist. Nanoha believes she can take the time to train them properly once they achieve their B-rank.

Fate arrives with Rein as Nanoha asks about the other two candidates. Because they were from off world, 2nd Lt. Signum has gone to pick them up from the airport. Meanwhile, because Fate drove in, she offers to give Nanoha a ride home, which Nanoha accepts. Fate asks about Nanoha's health status, which Nanoha assures her is fine. Nanoha tells Fate she worries too much as Fate should know how tough Nanoha is based on their years working together (and initially as foes). Still, Fate can't help but worry since Nanoha is her friend.

At the airport, a 10-year old boy (Elio) waits as Signum approaches. Signum inquires about the other candidate, who's just starting to come down the escalator. This 10-year old pink-haired female candidate, Caro Ru Lushe, stumbles and is rescued by the quick thinking Elio, though he ends up having her fall on him. In her bag is her small pet dragon Friedrich (Fried), which she introduces to her new comrade in arms.

Elsewhere, Vita-chan and Zafira are being directed by Shamal (all of whom belonged to the Wolkenritter and who served Hayate in A's) to combat some Type-1 gadgets. They defeat the units and remark how said units are getting smarter. From there we learn that the trio also are part of the 6th Mobile Division as Subaru and Tia are on a train (presumably heading for their training).

Thoughts: I noticed that for this series, Japanese names are given in western order, which is unusual but interesting.

There were two manga titles written to cover the 10-year period between A's and StrikerS. I gather that Nanoha was nearly killed in the time before StrikerS and was severely injured. That would account for Fate's asking about Nanoha's condition. I might have to see if I can find an easy copy of these manga.

Anyway, there was a lot dished out here and we basically got to see most of the carry overs from A's and the two new recruits as well. Plus, add to the mix that Subaru and her sister have a higher-ranking officer as their father. So while a lot to dish out, it was interesting enough to make me want to see more.

Keroro Gunsou 35

ケロロ軍曹 Episode 35

SPOILER Summary: After a flashback to Fuyuki's birthday where we learn Natsumi isn't big on her own birthday, Keroro finds Fuyuki sweating over what to do about Natsumi's birthday. Upon learning of Natsumi's birthday, Keroro is off to an invasion meeting. Giroro is not amused by Keroro's late arrival, but his attitude changes when he learns the latest plan is called "Operation Give Natsumi-dono a Big Shock, a Secret Birthday Party" (in Japanese of course). He details his plan, and Kururu understands this will make invasion easier by appealing to the Pekopons. Giroro is completely on board and salutes Keroro for this plan.

Natsumi comes home, and Tamama tries making indiscreet inquiries as to what Natsumi might like for her birthday. However, before he can get the word "birthday" out, Keroro has a trap door open underneath Tamama. Keroro then attempts to be casual about the whole thing and Natsumi's arrival home before leaving the scene. After dinner, Kururu does much the same thing, which surprises Natsumi since Kururu doesn't often engage her in conversation. Again, Keroro has a trap door open underneath Kururu before the word "birthday" can come out of his lips. As before, Keroro is casual about the whole thing, leading Natsumi to be somewhat suspicious. Keroro then goes to chastise his two comrades, leaving them in a pit with a lot of reminders on the walls as punishment for their indiscretion.

Fuyuki tells Momoka about Natsumi's birthday, and she volunteers to have a cake done, realizing that this will get her in better with the Hinata family. When Fuyuki comes home, Keroro has turned the "Japanese living room" of the Hinata residence (which is mostly western in style, save for this one room) into a festive birthday party room. Fuyuki isn't sure about this, thinking that maybe it is too childish. However, Natsumi has just arrived home forcing a loud reaction from the room. Natsumi hears this and enters the room to find out what the stupid frogs are up to, but finds the room as it should be. When she leaves, the room returns to party form with everyone coming up from beneath the floor. "Barely safe."

That evening, Fuyuki is still concerned about this party, but as he's on his balcony, he finds Giroro there. Giroro basically tells Fuyuki to believe in Keroro before taking off. The following morning, Natsumi has made breakfast but everyone is gone and Natsumi finds a note from Fuyuki saying he's already gone for a morning practice. In reality, he, the platoon, Koyuki-chan, Mutsumi, and Momoka are in the secret underground base making final plans. As everyone does their thing to make ready for the party, Koyuki sticks close to Natsumi.

After school, two of Natsumi's classmates invite her over to do homework and she agrees. This is seen by Dororo and Koyuki-chan. They report it to the others, who wait for the party to start when Natsumi comes home. However, she's very late, leading Fuyuki to say they should call it off and just go ahead and eat. Keroro won't hear of this and loudly protests, and he's backed by Mutsumi and Koyuki. When she finally gets home, she finds the place dark. However, the wall opens to reveal the party room with everyone wishing her a happy birthday. She's very touched and happy about this. It is then that Fuyuki learns to his surprise that Natsumi actually loves parties.

The party goes well and after stuffing themselves silly, a wounded Giroro comes with gifts for Natsumi including a space Penglai tree branch, the space Buddha's bowl, a space fire rat fur, the seashell treasure of the space swallow, and the jaw of the space five-colored dragon. Apparently, these treasures can only be obtained by a great warrior. Hinata-san comes home to see the party for her daughter has already begun. Fuyuki thanks Keroro for everything he's done. Keroro is pleased and as he leaves, he presses a button which turns one wall of the party room into a giant sign, proclaiming that next week is Keroro's birthday. As such, everything he did for Natsumi was to set up his own birthday party that he hopes the others will arrange for him.

Thoughts: This episode was a lot of fun, and managed to effectively work in all of the aliens and their human partners. I recently read the manga chapter that this was adapted from. Interestingly enough, it was before Dororo and Koyuki had been introduced to the storyline and wasn't as grand as the anime story, which I think comes off better.

Ichigeki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san Manga

Ichigeki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san <--BUY FROM AMAZON, Y'ALL!
一撃殺虫!!ホイホイさん
Interceptor-Doll HoiHoi-san

SPOILERS!

I first became aware of Ichigeki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san via the 10-minute OVA released late September, 2004. I was immediately taken in by the cute bug-killing doll HoiHoi-san, her "rival" bug-killing doll from another company, Combat-san, the girl at the pharmacy (Kimiko), and customer Aburatsubo. Seeing it was from a manga, I longed hoped to read said manga. Except for a few 1-page shots that were fan-translated, I could read nothing. That changed when I discovered that Infinity Studios had licensed and translated the manga into English.

Story-wise, its sometime in the near future where bugs have become immune to pesticides. As such, clever companies created these small, cute robot dolls who are programmed to kill bugs. The first such doll was HoiHoi-san, who came with a machine gun and a hand gun to take out bugs. However, like all great dolls in Japan, you can buy different outfits for it, different weaponry, and even different programs to make your HoiHoi-san doll best suit your needs or better yet, your wants.

Another company creates a doll called Combat-san, who in addition to hunting bugs, does not take kindly to HoiHoi-san, seeing it as an enemy as well. Like HoiHoi-san, it can be customized but unlike HoiHoi-san, Combat-san can take some voice commands

The final doll in the manga is Pest-X-san, who's an even better doll for fighting not only Combat-san, but those pesky bugs.

One of the two main human characters is Aburatsubo, who buys a HoiHoi-san combat doll, then later acquires the Combat-san doll as well. It is through him that the manga parodies the doll-collecting otaku as Aburatsubo often buys some new attachment, program, clothing, etc. for HoiHoi-san. The fact that they kill bugs is just an added bonus.

The other main human character is the girl at the pharmacy, Kimiko, who's Aburatsubo's age (college aged?). She had initially purchased a HoiHoi-san doll because it was cute, but then when she saw it the following morning after a night of bug slaughtering, she freaked and now hates the doll. She tried Combat-san as well, making it a dress and ordering it not to kill bugs. It did not understand an order to not kill bugs, so it continued to kill bugs (and even gives a verbal report to its owner). As such, Kimiko, who'd prevented Aburatsubo from buying it, returns it and sells it to Aburatsubo. He's happy to receive it with what he thinks is a rare clothing item not previously advertised.

Aburatsubo becomes attracted to Kimiko, who's not thrilled about someone so into HoiHoi-san (and Combat-san) dolls. However, mangaka Tanaka-san allows for a cute, if mostly one-sided, romance to happen.

The manga is mostly done as one-page entries with an excerpt supposedly taken from the owners manual as well. However, Tanaka-san does perform a few normal manga chapters to tell a story, mainly about Aburatsubo, Kimiko, and her best friend Mu-chan. The manga is very cute at times and humorous, though I never had any real belly laughs. The main humor comes from Combat-san's attempts to take out HoiHoi-san or how Pest-X-san and Combat-san battle while HoiHoi-san is oblivious to the whole thing. I really did enjoy reading this one-volume manga.

As for Infinity Studios, my hat is off to them. The manga has a larger size than traditional American manga (8.2 x 6 x 0.7 inches vs 7.5 x 5 x 0.7 inches). There are several pages of full-color artwork, including a color picture of a HoiHoi-san figure that was made. The manga follows the Japanese tradition of having a color book cover. The actual cover has the same art, only in black-and-white. Translation-wise, the Japanese honorifics appear to be mostly kept intact. When we see the boss at the company that produces HoiHoi-san, he's addressed with the "Mr" honorific. I don't know if that was from the original Japanese (sometimes the Japanese will use "Mister"), if it replaced "sama," or if some obscure title was used, which was turned into "Mister."

I was surprised that Infinity Studios kept the name Ichigeki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san rather than the English subtitled Interceptor-Doll HoiHoi-san. It is an unusual move but one that told me, "I bet the Japanese honorifics are kept in this if they aren't even translating the title." I was right and you guys know how much I feel that retaining honorifics in the English adaptations of manga is the proper way to do things.

Bottom line: Cute, humorous, and well worth the $11 I spent, especially since there is only one volume to the manga. Infinity Studios went that little extra mile by including the color pages and giving the manga a slip cover. While it appears that they tend to do a lot of Korean stuff (which really doesn't interest me), I will be eying them for other manga stuff based on how they did with HoiHoi-san.

Update: I just learned there is a sequel manga to this, entitled Ichiheki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san Legacy. I don't believe it is licensed yet but providing Infinity Studios does as good a job, I hope they will license it.

Dirty Pair 05

ダーティペア Episode 05

SPOILER Summary: Kei and Yuri are on a rented space ship traveling to Planet Antares. Yuri is trying to read while Kei, floating around, is playing music by Bobby Huey, and clearly excited. Apparently, he finally has a song that makes it to #1 on the charts. Yuri has had enough and shuts off the music. She and Kei go back and forth on turning on and off the music until Yuri wins by turning the ship's gravity back on. Kei isn't amused, saying that Bobby would have been happy she was playing his music. Kei met Bobby and started dating him. Yuri looks at a picture of the two on the beach and doesn't see what Kei sees in him. Kei has a date that evening and is to meet Bobby at the Cafe Flamingo at table 7. Yuri's heard Kei say this so often, she mutters the same thing under her breath. Because of Kei's date, Kei opted to not use Lovely Angel but rent a ship instead.

The ship gets a strange message saying "Execution Countdown" and a timer. The ship is then heavily buffeted as a large, glowing object suddenly appears in their flight path. They hear a loud voice say "die" and they expect to crash into the ship, but it apparently warped away at the last second. They do a scan for the object, but find nothing. It is a mystery, but they proceed to Antares and land. Kei is frustrated that the airport staff won't allow her and Yuri out of the designated area because they arrived in a rented ship. Yuri, who'd been patiently waiting and reading, steps in and produces the 3WA ID. The staffer recognizes them as "Dirty Pair," which annoys both of them, but he lets them through.

Kei goes to the hotel to change while Yuri wanders through the city. Yuri gets a mental blast, hearing the word "die" again and sees the countdown briefly. She then finds herself under attack from some automated craft. At the same time, Kei is under attack and using her weapon, she tries to blast away at the giant claw that's trying to get her through the walls of the hotel. The floor gives way and Kei and a maid find themselves falling as Kei flees. Kei, still in her underwear, comes out to a main street where law enforcement are now responding to this attack. She manages to steal a police vehicle to elude one of the automated craft, where she eventually manages to destroy it, but loses the police craft in the process.

Meanwhile, Yuri is also fleeing and notices that her attackers only come close but never hit her, which is unnatural. She races back to the spaceport on foot, and gets back to her ship where the droid Namo is waiting. She takes off, but is dismayed to remember that the ship has no weaponry. Again, the attackers press their attacks, but make sure not to do anything that would kill Yuri. As such, Yuri finds Kei and rescues her before fleeing the planet. The attacking force follows them from the planet and gives chase. Yuri tells Kei that whomever is behind the attacks clearly wants them alive. As such, she stops their ship and allows the pursuing craft to catch them.

They are taken back to the white, glowing object, which stops glowing. Kei and Yuri have a bad feeling as they recognize the craft, which is an old hazardous materials space station named Creados. As their ship is taken inside the station, Yuri starts to rethink her idea of letting themselves be captured. Kei remembers the facility was shut down due to major problems, leading Yuri to quip that someone reopened it just for them. Yuri has Namo run a search on who might be behind this as Kei is frustrated over being being late for her date. Namo comes up with the name "J.S. Creados," but he's supposed to be dead.

The discussion comes to an end as the automated craft begin to dismantle their ship. They get into space suits and escape before the ship is destroyed. Outside the ship, Kei and Yuri find themselves separated with Namo ending up with Yuri. Kei doesn't respond to Yuri's calls until she mentions a hot guy, which bring Kei around. Namo has additional information for the separated pair. Apparently Creados was addicted to a drug known as Probaetana. Kei and Yuri had taken down a major drug network three years prior and apparently Creados blamed them for his troubles. So before committing suicide a year and a half ago, he set up the station to be his final revenge against Dirty Pair.

Kei realizes they need to destroy the main computer but both she and Yuri find themselves trapped on top of separate automated attack craft. They are taken to the center of the station where Namo's attempts to access the attack craft is rebuffed, knocking him offline briefly. When he comes back online, he ejects his core memory disc and gives it to Yuri. She's puzzled by this, but before they can figure it out, the machinery says "die" to them a few times and causes them discomfort. Kei's not keen on dying since she has a date. Since Namo is a new creation, Kei figures that Creados can't have accounted for the droid in his automated death trap. Since Namo's core memory is preserved, they can use Namo's self-destruct device to destroy the station's main computer. That's what Namo had in mind when he gave Yuri the core.

Kei directs Yuri on how to detatch Namo from his small legs. Yuri then manually fires Namo to the central computer where the self destruct goes off, destroying the computer. With the computer's control mechanism gone, the automated attack craft stop and Kei and Yuri are free. However, Kei's determined to make it to her date, so she hops into one of the craft and leaves Yuri behind, to Yuri's irritation.

Thoughts: I was actually interested in this episode, despite the fact that in the end, it was much ado about nothing. The writers spent the time with fanservice, both with Kei in her underwear and with the various action stuff, but also managed to work the mystery part pretty well. However, when the episode was done, I thought, "OK. So what was that about?" Then I remembered that Dirty Pair isn't about deep stories, but just some adventures. They don't have to have a point but just provide action and a little bit of humor, along with Kei and Yuri's friendship/partnership. In that, the episode succeeds.

Shakugan no Shana Second 22

灼眼のシャナ II Episode 22

SPOILER Summary: Sabrac is alive and reporting to Bel Peol in Seireiden. He has accomplished the mission he was hired to perform, but regrets he was unable to take out the three Flame Haze. Bel Peol is not concerned with that and orders the next thing to begin as Hecate and Sydonay observe Dantalion start with the silver armor still the focus of their work. Sabrac leaves Seireiden while on Earth, Sato is determined to join Outlaw and to that end, has decided to call his estranged (?) father. At school, Ike sees the differences in Sato, Tanaka, Oga, Yoshida, Shana, but especially Yuuji. As such, he decides he needs to change and grow as well

Walking home, Yuuji and Shana are met by Yuuji's father Kantaro-san. Shana goes to Yuuji's home to visit Chigusa while Yuuji and his father walk. Kantaro reveals that Chigusa is pregnant and so wants Yuuji's permission to use the Kanji for the character "san" (three). Apparently Yuuji had a twin brother who died, thus why Kantaro and Chigusa picked the name "Yuuji" -- "Second (child) who shall live long." Yuuji is happy to hear this story and gives permission to his father to use the Kanji for "three."

Shana and Yoshida meet and Shana wants Yoshida to teach her how to make a baby. She'd made the request of Yuuji's family, but they told her it wasn't appropriate to ask them. Yoshida tells Shana that she'll tell her, but that being asked like this in public is more embarrassing than Shana being naked in front of Yoshida. Hearing this shocks Shana. The topic changes and Shana reveals her plan to force Yuuji to choose between herself and Yoshida. Shana suggests a letter but the paper and envelope she's chosen is not appropriate for a love letter. So, Yoshida takes Shana into town and they buy appropriate stationary, then head to a restaurant to work on their letter together. The difference in what they write is that Shana states that on Christmas Eve, she'll be be at the north entrance of the Misaki Station and Yoshida will be on the south entrance. They then deliver the letters to Yuuji's balcony.

Ike is walking and having consulted with Sato about moving forward, he runs into Yoshida on the street. He tells her he wants to meet with her on Christmas Eve (the following day). She says that's OK providing its early enough. She then reveals her and Shana's Christmas Eve plans for Yuuji. He finds his timing perfect since what he wants to tell her is his feelings for her. That night, Yoshida wonders why now of all times is Ike suddenly wanting to discuss his feelings. She finally understands that he must have been interested in her all this time.

Meanwhile Shana tells Wilhelmina her plans to force Yuuji to chose. This does not meet with Wilhelmina's approval. She has grave concerns that even if Yuuji choses Shana, he'll still be concerned with Yoshida. Their argument gets heated until Tiamat shuts them up. Shana retreats to her room and and Wilhelmina and Tiamat talk a bit, where Wilhelmina realizes that Alastor's silence basically means that he approves of what Shana's planning. So, Wilhelmina comes to Shana's room and makes amends with Shana, even helping Shana prepare for her big evening.

Yoshida meets with Ike, who confesses his love for Yoshida. He tells her not to say anything, but to make her choice by either following him or going into town and waiting to see whom Yuuji picks. He turns and walks away, so Yoshida deeply bows, then turns and walks to town. She reaches her destination and Shana does the same. Yuuji arrives and sees the "North/South" sign. However, before he can make a decision, he's in a blue Fuzetsu with a determined-looking Hecate before him. She extracts the Reiji Maigo, causing Yuuji to scream. This scream is not only heard by Shana and Yoshida, but also Margery, Sato, and Wilhelmina.

Thoughts: So, Sabrac lived. I should have known. So, he was simply part of a bigger plan which Hecate is going to the next phase by apparently taking the Reiji Maigo from Yuuji. Two more episodes to see where they take that.

Poor Ike, being rejected by Yoshida. I wonder how he'll take it. I also wonder whom Yuuji will chose. I guess it would be Shana and then maybe Yoshida would use the Hougu. I think in the end, she would choose that path to support Shana and Yuuji.

I had thought that maybe the Tomogara were responsible for Chigusa's illness, but I guess it was her pregnancy. Interesting that Yuuji was a twin and his twin is dead. Yuuji being dead as well makes that story more tragic to me.

I do have a comment on some of the character designs. There were some distant shots where Shana, Wilhelmina, and Yuuji looked awful. I'm not sure what happened there, but it was distracting.

Slayers Revolution

QP has some new news on Slayers. The new TV series is entitled Slayers Revolution (スレイヤーズREVOLUTION). QP promises to translate the forthcoming May issue of Dragon Magazine. You can check out QP's report here and see a scan from Dragon Magazine below.

Honey and Clover (Live Action) 07

ハチミツとクローバー (Live Action Dorama) Ep. 07

SPOILER Summary: Takemoto has decided that he'll worry about a job after graduation, which Mayama doesn't think is such a good idea. After Morita tries on one of Takemoto's suits, Morita and Mayama put a bunch of slips with jobs into a box for him to draw one out. He draws out "F1 Racer," which he doesn't think he can do. Lohmeyer-senpai arrives and talks about how great artists had great confidence with clear goals. After wowing the guys, Morita begins work on his newest project, where he has decided to enter a competition for painting rather than sculpture. Takemoto wonders about this, to which Morita states that it is his confidence in doing the thing that's important. He asks what Takemoto is planning on doing since Takemoto never seems to really reach out and grab anything, be it a job or the girl (Hagu-chan).

Takemoto blocks off a section in the gym to start his graduation piece. Shouda-sensei comes by, demanding to know what he's doing. Upon learning what Takemoto is about to do, he tells Takemoto that he looks forward to seeing his finished work. As Ayumi and Hagu-chan help the shopping district do some cleaning by the river (to include grass removal, where the two girls talk about clovers), Takemoto struggles to do something and ends up seeing Morita again. Morita tells Takemoto that Takemoto is thinking too hard about trying to come up with the answer before doing things. To illustrate his point, Morita begins painting, all of which has been heard and seen by Teramobori-san, who comes in to tell Morita that after graduation, Morita should look for other work.

Elsewhere on campus, Nomiya pays Ayumi a visit to compliment her on her work and mentions buying her dinner again when Mayama comes by, having just heard this. Mayama is startled by this and Ayumi tries to downplay the significance of the dinner, which doesn't sit well with Nomiya. When they leave, Mayama warns Nomiya to stay away from Ayumi. Nomiya questions Mayama's motives, telling him that while he has feelings for Rika-san, he wants to keep Ayumi in reserve. Nomiya continues by telling Mayama of how its bad to be so indecisive. Meanwhile at Rika-san's place, Miwako discusses the difficulties of Rika-san working alone. Rika-san and Miwako discuss Mayama and Rika-san's thoughts concerning Mayama.

Ayumi pays Morita a visit where she remarks on Morita suddenly painting. He's determined to win the Paris competition and says there are only two types of people -- those who work hard and those who quit. The conversation turns to her dealings with Mayama and how Ayumi is just waiting, meaning she doesn't fit into his two categories. She concedes she has been waiting at the door for Mayama. Morita states that it would be easier if Mayama either opened the door or put out a sign telling Ayumi the door would never open.

Mayama and Takemoto are relaxing in Mayama's room where Mayama asks if Takemoto has given up on Hagu-chan. Takemoto changes the subject when he sees some dog pictures and Mayama reveals they were taken by Rika-san. One of his pictures of the group (Morita, Lohmeyer-senpai, and Takemoto) is seen by Rika-san, who finds it amusing. That was apparently when Mayama began to fall for Rika-san. Takemoto goes to bed and finds he can't sleep, so he gets up and wanders around campus to find Morita hard at work. As such, he decides to start work on his graduation project.

At Fujiwara Design, Nomiya and Miwako discuss the Tottori Station Building Renewal Project. Nomiya likes the proposal for the project but the fact that whomever was in charge of it would have to stay in Tottori for a year is a negative for him. Miwako wants to make this Mayama's project. Nomiya doesn't have any objections to Miwako's plan.

Elsewhere, the female sensei again brings big pressure on Hagu-chan to decide about whether to enter the Paris competition. She also uses guilt on Hagu-chan, stating that Hanamoto-sensei gave up things for Hagu-chan. Hagu-chan thinks back to things "Shuu-chan" told her in the past, including how he talked her into coming to Tokyo out of high school for her art. Meanwhile, Hanamoto-sensei visits Rika-san, where he confesses trying to see some of his own dreams done through Hagu-chan. However, he does understand his own selfishness in this regard.

Hagu-chan pays Takemoto a visit in the gym to see his work. They talk about things and in the end, Hagu-chan decides to enter the competition and informs the female sensei of this. The female sensei is relieved and Hagu-chan is off to work on her painting while Takemoto's "tower" creation" continues. Hagu-chan struggles with her painting and takes a break to bring Takemoto some food, finding him wrapped in a sleeping blanket fast asleep. She returns to her work but struggles, going through many canvases. When Takemoto wakes up, he's happy for the food and little notes Hagu-chan wrote. However, when he goes to see her and witnesses her crying as she struggled to create a piece, he said nothing as he contemplates things.

Mayama is walking through the city and talking on the phone (to a co-worker or other such person) where he learns he's being transfered to Tottori and is shocked by this news. On the campus, Nomiya is watching Ayumi create a vase, where she messes up because he's watching her so closely. Nomiya lets Ayumi know that Mayama is being transfered to Tottori for a year, which shocks her. Back to Mayama, still reeling from the news, he thinks of Rika-san and then runs to her home office. He tells her he'll work for nothing and that he won't leave her side. She tells him that she'll end up hurting him, but he tells her it is OK since she can't hurt him.

Ayumi is dropping off some things at Fujiwara Design and turns down an offer from Nomiya to take her home. Mayama comes in and before Miwako can officially tell him about his transfer, he gives her his letter of resignation, saying he can't leave Tokyo. Miwako tells him this transfer is a good opportunity. Miwako wonders what Mayama will do and he tells her he'll be working for Rika-san as he cannot be parted from her. Nomiya leaves and it is then that Mayama notices Ayumi in the room. She runs out and he chases her. Ayumi runs after Nomiya, telling him to take her anyplace away from there. So he complies and Mayama stops as they get into the car. Nomiya asks if Ayumi expected Mayama to chase them still, stating he doesn't really like to be used this way, but he's going to take her someplace just the same.

As Morita excitedly works on his painting, Hagu-chan is crying still, not pleased with her painting. Takemoto works on his tower and contemplates things. In the end, he doesn't like what he's done as it reflects his own lost condition. Realizing his own lack of purpose, he destroys his creation and gets on his bicycle with a few things, riding into the night.

Thoughts: One of the nice things about watching the live-action series is remembering certain scenes (or very similar ones) from the anime. Once I start reading the manga, I suspect things will show up there, which will be nice as well. Anyway, it was weird seeing Takemoto's creation in the real, if you will. In the anime, seeing this "tower" just seemed like something silly an unreal. Too bad that they didn't have Shouda-sensei see the tower before Takemoto destroyed it in the dorama. To me, having the sensei's go on about Takemoto's creation before he destroyed it in the anime had impact. In the live action, the destruction of the tower didn't carry as much weight. Will Takemoto's bike ride have any impact? We'll see.

Of course, that has been the one problem with the live action title. Many things just haven't had the impact they should have. If I weren't so versed in the anime, would I enjoy the dorama as much? I don't think so.

xxxHOLiC Manga Volume 11

xxxHOLiC Volume 11

SPOILER Summary: The now recovered Watanuki is paid a visit by the annoyed Ame-Warashi and the very much in love Zashiki-Warashi to see how he's doing. Zashiki, wearing western clothing and Watanuki's White Day gift, it a little too bashful to say much and ends up trying to hide while Ame irritatedly remarks on how Watanuki is the cause of the changes to Zashiki.

After they leave, Watanuki meets up with Himawari-chan and Doumeki-kun. It is here that Watanuki gives the little, yellow bird to Himawari-chan as a present. Ultimately, Himawari-chan has Watanuki name the bird, so he choses "Tanpopo," which is the Japanese word for dandelion. He choses this because the bird is yellow, like the tanpopo, and Himawari-chan likes the name because she too is named after a flower (sunflower in her case). At school, Himawari-chan and Watanuki have the desert he made and as promised, Doumeki does not show up for that, but waits until the bento is being served.

Sometime later, Yuuko-san wants Doumeki to come by her shop. The Kudakitsune is apparently upset that Watanuki gave a name to the bird while it does not yet have a name. Watanuki tells Yuuko-san he doesn't own the pipe fox spirit and so could not name it, but she counters, saying that it very much wants to be named by him. So, it becomes "Mugetsu," the Japanese term for "moonless," which the animal likes very much. Yuuko-san uses this as a reason to celebrate and has Watanuki get some find adult beverage which is also known as Mugetsu. After he leaves, Yuuko-san hands Doumeki a gold egg, the twin to the one she gave Watanuki, as payment for the water he delivered to her. While it is not a magical egg like the one Watanuki hatched into Tanpopo, Yuuko-san does state it is special and that he should keep it with him at all times.

During the celebration, Yuuko-san is paid a visit by a girl wearing the uniform of Watanuki's school. This customer is afraid of her home and the presences she feels inside, so Yuuko-san gives the girl a small bell to grant her wish of her home no longer being frightening. The next day, Watanuki and Doumeki discuss this with Himawari-chan and when he goes to Yuuko-san's place, the girl is there, upset that the bell didn't work. So Yuuki-san gives her two. This continues with the girl getting more and more upset.

One night, Watanuki sees Haruka-san, Doumeki's grandfather, in his dream again. The two talk about this girl and so pay a visit to her dreams. It is there that Watanuki witnesses what she's experiencing. However, there are two girls in the home. The girl Yuuko-san is helping hears footsteps while the other girl keeps hearing bells. Both are afraid and can even feel each other when they bump into each other, but can't see each other. The other girl screams to her mother about getting an exorcist and it is then that Watanuki realizes that Yuuko-san's client is a ghost. After talking to Yuuko-san, he understands that the girl will not return because of the exorcist and in the end, got her wish because in leaving the house, her fear went away.

Watanuki is walking to Yuuko-san's shop one afternoon when the Odenya-san's young kitsune son's paw appears with a bento for Watanuki as thanks for the dream balloon. The young kitsune cannot make his whole body appear, but wants Watanuki to have the oden he made. He shares the bounty with Yuuko-san. He's not sure about the thank you gift for a thank you gift, but he makes a wish of Yuuko-san, who grants it, the price being the oden she has consumed. Doumeki and Watanuki head into the night street and just at a certain time, the Odenya-san appears with his cart and son. Watanuki gives the young kitsune a pair of mittens, which the fox spirit loves. All of this is seen by Doumeki.

Another day, a 2-headed black bird tries to fly into Yuuko-san's yard, but is dispelled by Yuuko-san as it hits the gateway. Mokona remarks on how the barrier that protects the shop is getting weaker, despite the efforts of Maru and Moro. Apparently, the Tsubasa crew have something to do with this.

Meanwhile, Watanuki, with Doumeki tagging along, sees Kohane-chan and they talk. Watanuki sends Doumeki to get some warm, canned coffee from a vending machine and Watanuki learns that it was Kohane-chan who sent Yuuko-san's ghost customer to the other side. Kohane-chan had sensed Watanuki's presence in the home when she did her thing. Watanuki gives Kohane a pair of gloves as a present, which she really loves. When Doumeki returns with the coffee, Kohane-chan remarks on how Watanuki and Doumeki are now "mixed together."

At her shop, Yuuko-san provides commentary on that very topic, noting that Watanuki has changed, but so has Doumeki, who can now see the spirits and youkai that Watanuki can see.

Back with Kohane-chan, she hastily gives whats left of her coffee to Watanuki as her mother approaches, angry that Kohane-chan went out on her own. She never calls her daughter by name and in her rant, she is only concerned for Kohane's TV appearances and the money those bring. She's terrified of Kohane losing her gift by eating or drinking something "impure." Watanuki decides that he's going to see Kohane-chan again and make her a dish she really likes.

The following day (or so), Watanuki is walking home with Himawari-chan and Doumeki when suddenly he can't move and finds that as Doumeki and Himawari move away from him, they seem to take the light with them. He wakes up in Yuuko-san's shop, in bed, where she informs him that Himawari-chan and Doumeki brought him to her. Yuuko-san razes Watanuki a bit, but as she turns away, she has a moment of seriousness where she tells him to spend the next few nights in the shop. Her official reason is so he can prepare meals for parties she's planning but in reality, it is because the final moment is approaching.


Thoughts: The return of the Ame-Warashi and the Zashiki-Warashi was good stuff, even if brief. Ame is a delight because of her "why must I deal with fools" nature and Zashiki is just such a sweetheart. I remember when this came out originally in Japan that I noticed she was wearing western clothing instead of the kimono that she normally wore. Plus, she wore Watanuki's White Day present, the twin barrettes. It was then that I really felt that I wanted Watanuki to somehow end up with Zashiki romantically. I doubt it happens, but you never know.

This was also the chapter that made me get caught up to the then current story of Tsubasa in Japan with Mokona's remark about crying and some terrible thing happening in that storyline. Sure, I didn't have to know that story to enjoy this volume of xxxHOLiC, but it did help a lot.

When I initially read about the "final moment," I figured that maybe CLAMP would end the manga sooner rather than later. To be sure, the stuff out of Japan feels like it is moving to a conclusion (howbeit slowly) but its still ongoing so I guess this is the "beginning of the end" as the story moves into some sort of final phase.

Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS 01

Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS Episode 01
魔法少女リリカルなのはStrikerS（ストライカーズ）Ep. 01

SPOILER Summary: Its April 28, 0071 at the Northern Midchilda 8th Coastal Airport, a large fire has broken out and firefighters are unable to break through to rescue a girl trapped inside. The girl is crying and just before a large statue falls on her, she is saved by the mage Nanoha, who takes her to safety. From this, the girl, Subaru, works to become a mage herself and four years later, finds herself at the ruins of that same airport with her friend and partner, Tiana. Both girls are mages who are looking to advance from C-rank to B-rank and so are about to take a test, which will be administered by Sergeant Major Reinforce Zwei. Above the testing zone are Hayate, who's now a lieutenant colonel, and Fate, classified as an "enforcer." Nearby, Nanoha, now a captain, ensures the training zone is ready.

Reinforce Zwei informs Tia and Subaru that they have a set amount of time to reach the goal, in which they first must clear the zone of all enemy targets and drones, ensuring not to harm non-enemy ones. The two start and work to clear the first stage of simple defense drones. Having split the area between them, they clear their respective areas and meet to advance to the next stage. Here, the drones are tougher and there are "friendly" targets as well, which must be avoided. Both do well in clearing this as a team. However, the third stage is much tougher, as the defense drone there is pretty large, has good defenses and a good range. Subaru gets a little careless and when Tia gets her out of harms way, Tia injures her leg (breaks a bone I believe) trying to avoid the fire from the large drone.

Tia tells Subaru to go on without her since they don't have a lot of time left to reach the goal. However, Subaru is unwilling to do this since she and Tia are a team and she doesn't want to not help others. As such, they quickly devise a plan where Tia will use her magic as a diversion, creating duplicates of herself to keep the final drone busy. Meanwhile, Subaru will attempt a surprise attack at close range since she's not good with distance attacks. The plan goes off and Subaru races on her skates across a magic bridge she created to burst through to where the final drone is and take it out.

Subaru returns to Tia to learn they only have one minute left. She has Tia on her back and using her magic, she "rocket skates" them to the goal, with Tia using her magical device, a gun, to take out the final targets in their path. When Reinforce Zwei annouces the final target is destroyed, Subaru channels all the magic she can into ensuring the two get across the finished line to the goal. However, she hasn't thought about how she's going to stop, so it looks like the two will hit the wall beyond the finish line when Nanoha uses her magic to catch and stop Tia and Subaru. Reinforce Zwei deducts a couple of points from the girls' score for doing something so reckless.

Nanoha arrives and praises Reinforce for her work in the examination. She acknowledges Subaru, saying she's happy to see her again. Subaru is touched that her former rescuer is there and more so when Nanoha remembers her. Reinforce goes to heal Tia as Hayate and Fate ponder the score Nanoha has given the girls.

Thoughts: I'm way, way overdue on watching the 3rd series of Nanoha titles, so better now than never. I'm going to try to avoid my normal highly detailed summaries because they take too long (got to work through this backlog, y'all).

First Raging Heart, which I know some official magazine or something decided should be "Raising Heart," but the Japanese NEVER pronounced it as such when they could have. Second, Donna Burke, who has a lovely speaking voice and can speak clear English, is again made to say Engrish lines. For example, "There is no life response within the range" when they mean "There are no life responses within the range." "There is no dangerous object either" when they mean "There are no dangerous objects either." This is a case where IMO, they should have let Donna "clean up" the English to make it proper. But what do I know. Engrish it is, y'all.

Story wise, I liked seeing the older Nanoha (who's 19 now) rather than the loli 9. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed both Nanoha and Nanoha A's but the story continuing 10-years later intrigues be very much, though Nanoha doesn't appear to be the focal figure she used to be. I didn't realize at first that Reinforce Zwei was in fact the same Reinforce from Nanoha A's but I think that's cool that she's back, even if a tiny thing (I cheated and looked that up when getting the character names).

I can understand why people didn't care much for this latest installment after the first episode. For starters, the focal characters were newbies Tia and Subaru. Second, the dialog was rather lacking in that it was simplistic and does not convey that same element that drew fans to the first series and kept them in the 2nd. Hopefully this will improve with time.

Regardless, I do plan to blog the entire series, for good or bad.

Keroro Gunsou 34

ケロロ軍曹 Episode 34

SPOILER Summary: Momoka has her fortune done which points to love with Fuyuki and an onsen trip. As such, she arranges to take a trip with Fuyuki to the local shopping district where a lottery is going on. The grand prize is for an onsen trip for three plus one and Fuyuki is given a free ticket. He's reluctant to play, but Momoka says otherwise and he wins the grand prize. She's expecting that he'll invite her. Instead, when Natsumi and Koyuki-chan arrive, Natsumi suggest inviting Koyuki and Fuyuki agrees.

Momoka vows not to give up and makes a call to the Hinata home with a voice disguiser, pretending to be Koyuki canceling joining them and suggesting Momoka. Momoka arrives in her helicopter but Koyuki does as well and she denies making a cancellation call. Kururu decides that the only fair wait to resolve the dispute of who will go is to award the ticket to the one who can get it. Koyuki uses her ninja skills while Momoka uses technology. However, the battle ends up destroying the spare ticket. However, Hinata-san arrives and as Natsumi and Fuyuki's mother, she pays for extra tickets for everyone to come and enjoy the onsen.

Its a Sunday and Fuyuki remembers he has supplemental lessons. As such he takes off to head to school. He finds an old, blocked-off road and decides to take it. Meanwhile, Keroro accidentally breaks Natsumi's favorite mug and so flees the home. When his hover scooter crashes, he ends up at the same place as Fuyuki. Together, the walk down this old road, where Fuyuki remembers things like an old restaurant they used to go to as kids, the old barber shop, where he had a crush on the barbers daughter (and whom he briefly sees again before they flee the area) and more. As such, Fuyuki and Keroro have a nice walk.

Thoughts: The first story I remember from the manga. While in essence the same story, there were several elements that had been modified. When I recently re-read the manga chapter, I'd forgotten that Koyuki was battling because she wanted some Natsumi yuri loving. ^_^;

The second was what I thought to be an anime original and wasn't bad, but nothing to write home about. While recently re-reading the manga, I discovered that the anime writers took some pieces of a chapter and modified them for the anime.

Sasami English Dub Cast List

FUNiRepBlue just sent me a list of the English dub voice actors in Sasami from the Tenchi Brand Manager at FUNimation. The list will be the character and then the voice actor.

• AMITAV -- J. Michael Tatum
• ANRI -- Brittney Karbowski
• CHIAKI -- Kate Oxley
• DAIMON -- Mike McFarland
• ENDOU -- Jessica Foster
• GINGI IWAKURA -- Sonny Strait
• HASHIMOTO -- Cynthia Cranz
• HONOKA IWAKURA -- Stacey Oristano
• ITOKI -- Carrie Savage
• KASAI -- Chad Ford
• KOMIYA -- Mary Morgan
• KOZUE -- Majken Bullard
• MACHIYOKO -- Amanda Doskocil
• MAKABE -- Maeghan Albach
• MAKOTO -- Cherami Leigh
• MIHOSHI -- Colleen Clinkenbeard
• MISAO SHINOHARA -- Monica Rial
• MONTA -- Todd Haberkorn
• ONODERA -- Jessica Foster
• OOGI -- D’Lytha Myers
• PRINCIPAL -- Barry Yandell
• RYO-OHKI -- Z Charles Bolton
• SAEKI -- Mary Morgan
• SASAMI IWAKURA -- Alison Viktorin
• SATSUKI -- Cynthia Cranz
• TONOBE -- Eric Vale
• TSUKASA -- Brina Palencia
• TSUKASA’S FATHER -- John Swasey
• TSUKASA’S MOTHER -- Leah Clark
• WASHU -- Luci Christian
• YOUNG TSUKASA -- Brina Palencia

Note: Image used is Japanese promotional art for Sasami 2 and is not necessarily what FUNimation will use for their packaging. ^_^;

Update: I interviewed English dub director Leah Clark, which you can read here.

Hayate no Gotoku! 48

Hayate the Combat Butler Ep. 48
ハヤテのごとく！Episode 48

SPOILER Summary: Its nearly Hina's birthday and her mother wonders if she'll be inviting a boy over since she's at the age to have a boyfriend. This naturally gets Hina a bit worked up and she finds herself thinking of Hayate. At school the next day, seeing Hayate causes Hina to get flustered and flee. Hayate thinks he's done something to anger her and is depressed, leading Nagi to wonder why he's already depressed when he hasn't even taken an exam yet. In the classroom, it is exam time and Hina finds what appears to be a love letter in her desk. She suddenly begins to think it might by Hayate. Meanwhile Hayate has a similar letter in his desk and he thinks it might be from Hina, asking to meet him at the school's dojo.

After Nagi takes off with Wataru to study at Isumi's house, Hayate finds he has free time and decides to go to the dojo, figuring that it couldn't be Hina. However, when he finds Hina there waiting under a blossoming sakura tree, he's excited. Hina sees him and feels the same, but then they realize that they both received letters but never sent one. From the top of the sakura is Azumamiya, who summoned them both. Hayate refers to him as a background character which causes Azumamiya to fall out of the tree, clearly annoyed. He's decided to challenge Hayate and according to his butler, has been training for 2.5 seasons just for this. Taiga and his butler are in a nearby tree and Taiga's butler feels this is a good thing.

Because Hayate refuses to acknowledge that he thought his pink, heart-filled letter was from Hina (and for which he's very irritated with Azumamiya for) combined with him insulting her feminine side, she abandons him to face the challenge alone. Hayate wonders what technique Azumamiya has developed, especially since Azumamiya tosses away his shinai weapon (wooden sword). His secret technique is to challenge Hayate to a game of ayatori (cat's cradle). That's because if he can't beat Hayate with kendo, beat him with something else. So, Hayate defeats him in one take. At the urging of his butler, Azumamiya is told to rise up and challenge again, so he does, this time challenging the younger, smaller Taiga.

Hina is angry for thinking that the letter had been from Hayate and throws it out. At home, she can't concentrate on her homework so she heads out for a bit. She runs into Hayate, who apologizes to her for apparently making her angry before. The two decide to have coffee together before doing some window shopping and going to a game center, where Hina attempts to play the "UFO Catcher" game to win a stuffed animal (dog). She doesn't succeed and Hayate again accidentally insults her feminine side and refuses to acknowledge he thought the pink challenge letter was from her. She confesses she thought her letter was from him before she rushes off and ends up at a park bench where she stops to contemplate things.

She sees a kitten stuck in a tree and so goes to rescue it. She recalls being stuck in a tree herself and having to be rescued by Hayate. She manages to rescue the kitten, but a snapped branch ultimately causes her to fall out of the tree. Remembering Hayate's promise to come when she called, she calls for him and he catches her, as he promised. He reveals the dog stuffed animal she'd wanted and gives it to her. He walks her part way home and upon parting company, she's all excited and happy with her present while Hayate is depressed. His depression shows at Nagi's mansion where she notes it and asks if his test results were bad. He says that's not the problem , but that he had some unexpected expenses. Maria asks what Nagi wants to give Hina for her forthcoming birthday, which Nagi leaves to Maria. Hayate hears about the birthday and weakly states that maybe he should get Hina something too, which does not set will with Nagi. For her part, Hina is at home, loving her new stuffed animal very much.

Thoughts: A good episode if you are a Hina fan. It was nice I guess, though I didn't miss the two idiot butlers and their supposed masters. *_*

References! (Note: the site doesn't get 100% of the references, but most of the time they do get a very high percentage.)

Negima! Vol 22 (Ch 198) *SPOILERS*

魔法先生 ネギま！Volume 22 Chapter 198

Summary: Negi (still in older teen form) is pondering things including a recent conversation with Kotaro. They discuss the "idiocy" issue and how Asuna has it, much as Negi's father, the Thousand Master, did. He wanders and speaks aloud of coming up with a finishing strike when a man at a nearby table speaks up about it, saying its natural that a man would have a "killing" (finishing) strike or two. The stranger offers to train Negi, but for 200,000 drachma plus. He then tells Negi that the "celebrity" should be concerned about what's above him. Negi is attacked from above and the stranger says Negi owes him 1000 DP for the warning.

Chisame, still in kid form, is doing shopping and considering Negi's telling everyone his name is Nagi. It is then that she notices the fight going on within the city as Negi and his opponent are fighting. The opponent is named Kagetarou and the stranger who'd warned Negi stops Negi from complaining about causing the town damage since they are used to it. Further, Negi will die if he doesn't give Kagetarou his full attention. The battle continues with Kagetarou using the same kind of abilities as Takane, only Kagetarou is much more powerful and is trying to kill Negi. This excites Negi, who intensifies his attacks on Kagetarou, which the stranger observes, noting Negi's abilities but seeing a weakness.

Elsewhere, Ako is plucking petals off a flower with a "he loves me, he loves me not" routine when Akira comes in. Akira is about to tell Ako Negi's secret (him actually being the Nagi that Ako has fallen in love with) when Natsumi burst in, saying that "Nagi-san" was seriously wounded and might die.
Thoughts: As is typical of Akamatsu-sensei, he's twisting things so that people expecting battles in the arena for a while aren't getting that. With Negi attacked outside the arena and apparently wounded pretty badly, one wonders if Negi will be back to continue the tournament stuff anytime soon. With magic, I suppose Negi could be healed quickly, but then one would think that a healer could tell that Negi's form was magical and not his true form. We'll see what happens.

Honey and Clover (Live Action) 06

ハチミツとクローバー (Live Action Dorama) Ep. 06

SPOILER Summary: Morita has locked himself in a room and threatened suicide as Ayumi and Takemoto try to get him to open the door. Shouda-sensei arrives and learning of this, aids in the attempt. Hagu-chan arrives and has a plan. Inside the room, Morita opens a bottle of pills and pours some out, pondering them. However, he begins to smell something and hear the sound of meat frying. Thinking someone is cooking yakiniku, he opens the door, only to discover it was a trap with Shouda-sensei providing the sizzling noises and Hagu-chan spraying a can of yakiniku scent. Turns out Morita is upset over his friends still not having thrown him a party after two weeks of his return to Japan. Since the pills were vitamin C pills, the group finds excuses to leave immediately.

Takemoto goes to a job interview where he thinks about his conversation with Hagu-chan regarding Morita before Morita left for New York. At the job interview, he does poorly in the group interview. Meanwhile, Morita pays Hagu-chan a visit, having been told by Takemoto to consider her feelings. She tells him she's glad he's back from New York.

That night, Takemoto is back in his room with Mayama and Morita looking over the scores of job rejection letters Takemoto has received. Mayama marvels, saying that with so many interviews, one would think that at least one company would have accepted him. Lohmeyer-senpai pays a visit and talks about how in losing, one can win, which is what he feels Takemoto should do. He cites how one plays dead when faced with a bear so that one might win life. He cites the race horse Haru Urara, who'd lost so many races in a row, only now to be considered a national treasure. However, when Takemoto asks if he should keep getting job rejections to be a winner, Lohmeyer-senpai pretends to be dead.

Miwako is in the hospital, having thrown her back, but she's embarrassed at how this will sound. So she has Mayama come up with a better sounding condition that still accurately states her condition, but without the stigma. She makes Mayama promise not to tell the others that she threw her back, but he does and Nomiya laughs, and takes over her projects to make sure they get done. Mayama leaves the hospital and Rika-san sees him from a distance as she goes to pay Miwako a visit. They talk about work and while Miwako is confident that Nomiya can cover her absence, she wonders if Rika-san can truly continue alone. As Rika-san leaves, she sees the attending physician who treated her injuries after the accident and inquires about her welfare.

Takemoto goes by Hanamoto-sensei's place where Hagu-chan is looking at an article written about her. Takemoto finds it neat that people are writing about her and that she's becoming known in the art world. For her part, Hagu-chan would prefer to be in the country and left alone just to paint. Morita and Hanamoto-sensei come by and Morita teases Takemoto about not having a job. Hanamoto-sensei still has a job lead (making custom furniture) and tells Takemoto that just going to the interview doesn't mean he has to take the job.

Hagu-chan is at a press conference about her art with Morita in attendance. Teramobori-san pulls him out to talk to him. He's not happy with Morita's poor showing in a recent art event that Hagu-chan won. Morita notes that Teramobori-san is now calling him "Morita-san" instead of "Dai-sensei." Teramobori-san responds by telling Morita that he's now known as the loser who ran away from New York and that an artist who wins no prizes is no one.

Takemoto goes to interview with the furniture maker and it is a somewhat strange interview. To make things odder, the young owner, Usui, wants Takemoto to help him make a delivery. Takemoto agrees and when he returns to the campus to see Hanamoto-sensei, Takemoto is informed that Usui was impressed with Takemoto. As a result, Usui has offered Takemoto a job. Takemoto isn't sure and asks Hanamoto-sensei if being a teacher was something he really wanted to do. Hanamoto-sensei informs Takemoto that the number of people who love what they do is pretty small and the number of people who do what they really want to do is even smaller. Hanamoto-sensei had wanted to be a painter, but in the end he became a college professor and he's glad for the job.

Mayama finishes his day at Fujiwara Design and upon returning home, he and Takemoto discuss Takemoto's dilemma over some drinks. Mayama thinks it is incredible to be needed by someone. Morita comes home and fills the common are with a ton of junk and summons Mayama to assist him. Morita asks how he's doing with the widow, which Mayama isn't interested in discussing. Morita finds this amusing and compares Mayama's dealings with Rika-san with Takemoto's dealings with Hagu-chan.

Meanwhile, Takemoto took the job and is thrown a party by the group, complete with sushi. Morita sulks because they threw Takemoto a party and not him. When they start to eat, Takemoto goes for the omlet slice, only to discover it is made of clay, a trap from Morita. Apparently, Takemoto is a nice guy and doesn't immediately go for what he wants, so this was a lesson from Morita. Later, Takemoto calls home to tell his mother, but gets Kazuo-san instead. Takemoto's step-father is very moved by Takemoto's call and cries.

Elsewhere, Ayumi takes a call from Nomiya, where he orders 8 ceramic mugs, but due to the way he pronounces it (in Japanese), Ayumi thinks he orders 100.

Still elsewhere, Hagu-chan pays Morita a visit where he's working on a new sculpture. Despite the fact that he lost, she says that this sculpture of his is the one she likes best. Inspired to paint, Morita tells her to do so with him rather than her room, which she agrees to. Back at Hanamoto-sensei's room, Rika-san pays him a visit and they discuss the passage of time and memories as well as her desire not to forget her dead husband. She leaves and Mayama sees her, having delivered some food to the absent Ayumi, so he gives chase to the taxi she's in, but she's gone. He ponders calling her, but doesn't. He pays Miwako a visit and asks her what he must do to be an adult and to support another person.

Ayumi is working to finish the project Nomiya gave her and sees the food gift Mayama left her. She's happy about it but when she sees his jacket, she has to put it on. She thinks back on her feelings for Mayama and starts tearing up when Nomiya comes by. He's impressed by her work, though he only wanted eight (hakko) and not 100 (hyakko). As a reward, he says he'll treat her to soba. She agrees, and falls asleep in his car. When she wakes up, they aren't in Tokyo any more but on their way to Nagano, where the soba restaurant is. She's not happy about it initially, but once there, she finds the food good enough to eat a lot of. When they return to Tokyo, Nomiya asks her to teach him on how to make ceramics. He also asks if she wants him to give Mayama's jacket back to him and follows by asking if it has to be Mayama (the man she wants).

The following day, Hanamoto-sensei gives Takemoto a new bicycle and he's off to give his new boss a gift. When he arrives at Usui-san's shop, his new boss is bowing on the ground, saying he can't hire Takemoto since Usui's biggest customer just went bankrupt.

Meanwhile, in Shouda-sensei's class, he's eating Cup Noodle when Morita pays him a visit and eats half of the ramen, to Shouda-sensei's annoyance. Morita asks Shouda-sensei if one can fall in love with a person based on something they've made or done. Shouda-sensei believes this is possible since a part of that person went into their creation. Even the instant ramen has a part of the person who created it.

Somewhere on campus, the female sensei is giving Hagu-chan a difficult time because of Hagu-chan's reluctance press forward with her art on a grand scale. The sensei believes it is Hagu-chan's duty to enter these competitions or even go overseas if needed because so many people try and fail. So those with talent like Hagu-chan have no control over their lives, living obligated to the failures in the Japanese art world. Hagu ponders the path she must take as Takemoto slowly walks his bike home wondering the same thing. Morita finds him and tells him that he likes Hagu-chan.

Thoughts: One thing I noticed last week is that the live-action series doesn't tell us a thing about what Takemoto does in his studies. In the anime, we knew right off that he was into building things when he did the doll furniture for Hagu-chan, but that didn't happen in the live-action. So while we were shown Mayama's interest in interior design, Ayumi's interest in pottery/ceramics, Hagu-chan's interest in painting, and Morita's interest in sculpture, Takemoto is left out in the cold. That's unfortunate because it makes his job search have no real impact (at least to me).

It was nice to see Shouda-sensei get a non-comic relief part with his talk with Morita.

I also think the live-action version better brings out the Japanese societal obligation elements, both with how Hagu-chan was treated by the female sensei (unnamed thus far in the live-action title and I've been too lazy to look up her name elsewhere) and how Teramobori-san stopped referring to Morita as "Dai-sensei" when Morita left New York and then didn't win an art competition.

The only place the live-action fails is in the rapid pace it blows through the source materials. So Nomiya's making a move on Ayumi is more of a surprise in the live-action series whereas in the anime, it was telegraphed long before he took her to Nagano.

Shakugan no Shana Second 21

灼眼のシャナ II Episode 21

SPOILER Summary: The injured and exhausted Wilhelmina is again attacked by Sabrac as he tries to finish her off. Meanwhile, Yoshida has just finished bandaging up Shana when Yuuji pops out of a nearby manhole. He gives Yoshida some bandages from Wilhelmina, instructing her to use them on Shana's wounds. At the continued sounds of the fierce battle between Sabrac and Wilhelmina, Shana asks Yoshida to hurry so she can help Wilhelmina, but Yuuji says otherwise, stating that they need to go to Margery's location.

At the battle site, Sabrac goes for the finishing blow, only to have Alastor's flames provide a barrier to his attack. Sabrac is amazed that Shana isn't half-dead, since his Stigma spell is very deadly. However, he then notices the bandages on Shana have spell insignias on them. Wilhelmina then reveals that this spell had been developed by the Mystes Johan as a counter to the Stigma and that Wilhelmina had used their battle to complete the counter-spell as well as test it as she wraps her own wounds with these spell-laden wraps. This news stuns Sabrac, since a mere Mystes had found a way to overcome a powerful Tomogara spell. Wilhelmina and Shana release their bandages and are now fully healed. Wilhelmina announces that the real battle is about to begin, but is halted when Yuuji communes with her via one of Margery's bookmarks, to announce a plan.

Flashback to just after Yoshida had bandaged Shana up, the group makes their way to Margery Daw and Sato, where she too is bandaged up in the spell-infused wrappings. Yuuji explains the strange feelings he'd been having ever since Zarovee had shown up. However, even with the defeat of both Zarovee and Bifrons, the odd feeling he had didn't go away. Even while in the sewage tunnel, he felt this and realized that Sabrac's presence was all through Misaki City and not just the blast site of Bifrons, meaning the entire city is Sabrac. Margery is impressed with his reasoning and gives him two bookmarks. This is what Yuuji tells the amazed Wilhelmina through his new bookmark. Wilhelmina and Tiamat now understand that the Sabrac they are fighting is only a piece of the whole, which when that piece is defeated, it simply draws power and forms again, like a new sword.

Shana continues to battle Sabrac as Wilhelmina listens to Yuuji, who has apparently told Wilhelmina the plan and reveals that Margery Daw is currently working on her part of the plan. Wilhelmina's job is to keep Sabrac occupied as Yoshida, also equipped with a bookmark, will use the Haridan to guide Wilhelmina's actions, to keep him away from Margery and thus unaware of what Margery is doing. Wilhelmina and Tiamat agree to this course of action with Tiamat going into battle mask form. Meanwhile, Margery and Marchosias fly around to different points in the town, as directed by Sato, following Yuuji's instructions, and place powerful spell insignia at those points. Margery and Marchosias briefly discuss how they are never bored in Misaki City and that Alastor's naming the city "Maelstrom of Warfare" is very appropriate.

Shana and Wilhelmina both battle Sabrac, who's able to keep both at bay. Shana unloads a powerful attack on Sabrac but before he can retaliate, Wilhelmina has him in her ribbons. He cuts himself from her, but the ribbons on him explode, sending him down to the ground where he reforms and returns to fight. Shana leaves the battle site and goes to Yuuji's location to catch a breather. She tells him of her great confidence in the success of his plan.

It is then that we flashback a 2nd time to the meeting between Yuuji, Shana/Alastor, Margery/Marchosias, Yoshida, and Sato. Marchosias wonders how they will defeat such a massive Tomogara. Marchosias figures it will take many massive explosions like the one that took out Bifrons to defeat Sabrac. That would completely destroy the city, which Margery says is easily fixed. Yuuji rejects this idea as it would cause Sabrac to start consuming humans. Since Yuuji is only interested in protecting the city, he has a plan to defeat Sabrac without razing the city. Margery is interested in hearing such a plan. Yuuji explains that such with Sabrac being so large, he should be able to attack them even now. Yet he doesn't attack and Yuuji cites Wilhelmina's explanation on Sabrac, where he can only perform one mass-attack, after which he can only focus on the things right in front of him. As such, Sabrac's "brain" is with the humanoid form that is currently fighting Wilhelmina and so he would be unaware of everything the rest of them do as long as Wilhelmina keeps Sabrac away from them.

Back in the present, Margery and Marchosias lay the last insignia down. Sato tells Margery that he has an answer to her question about what he'd do if she died. He rejects the question, stating that his job is to do everything he can to keep her alive. His remarks meet with Yoshida's approval, and Margery's too though she calls him an idiot.

Meanwhile, Sabrac has noticed that Shana has left the battle and wonders if they are planning a trap for him, which he feels would do no good. He presses his attack hard on Wilhelmina as Margery activates her massive spell, which causes the majority of the city (in a perfect circle) to be "dug" out of the earth and to rise up into the sky, snapping energy bands Sabrac used. This is the signal for Shana, who rises. She starts to tell Yuuji something, but decides against it and takes off to join the fray. Alastor tells Shana that she could have told Yuuji and he wouldn't have objected. After all, Yuuji has done what none of the others could and arranged for the defeat of Sabrac, to say nothing of killing Zarovee and aiding in the death of Bifrons. Now that Sabrac is completely detached from being able to resupply himself with energy, Shana takes attacks and ultimately takes him out, the flames of Alastor consuming the surface of the city and removing Sabrac from it.

The battle over and everything returned back to normal, Shana and Yoshida pay Chigusa a visit, who's recovered from her illness. Chigusa thanks the two girls, but doesn't thank Yuuji, which he questions and the girls find amusing. When Yoshida leaves, Yuuji wants to properly apologize to her. However, Yoshida understand Yuuji's motivations, having seen and heard him in the Fuzetsu. As such, she no longer has a problem with what Yuuji said and takes off. Shana too starts to leave and Yuuji wants to know what she was about to say in the fight. Shana refuses, using her trademark "Urusai" time three remark.

Thoughts: What another truly enjoyable episode. Someone mentioned that this felt like a series/season finale and that's true. Sabrac was defeated, Yuuji's mother got well, and Yuuji patched things up with both Shana and Yoshida-san. Heck, we even got Shana to yell, "Urusai! Urusai! Urusai!" when Yuuji wanted her to say what she was going to say just before Sabrac was defeated.

The playing of the rock song "JOINT" by KAWADA Mami during the final battle sequence worked well. I liked that song as the OP for the series, but as happens (likely a season change), we were given a 2nd OP/ED theme song.

Yuuji's growth has been quite impressive. Likely, having Johan and the Silver as part of his matrix (via the Reiji Maigo) plays a role in this. Still, it ultimately took three Flame Haze to take out Sabrac, to say nothing of Yuuji's plan as well as Sato's and Yoshida's important roles as support people, making great use of the Haridan. I had thought that Yoshida might use the Hougu from Pheles, but that didn't even come up. However, her directing Wilhelmina to keep Sabrac distracted while Sato directed Margery was good stuff.

Clannad 20

クラナド Episode 20

SPOILER Summary: Tomoya (Okazaki) finds Nagisa practicing out in front of the bakery one evening and gives her a bit of a hard time about being out there alone. She comes off as depressed by what he says, leading Tomoya to backtrack, which in turn leads Nagisa to reveal she's teasing him since she's used to the way he speaks to her. He's a bit embarrassed by this, but she wants him to be who he is. He asks her about the play and she recites a bit of the story she remembers as light appears to shine up to her.

In Mystery Land, Mystery Girl and Junk-bot have just completed a second Junk-bot. However, it will not move nor respond in any way. Mystery girl sheds a tear for Junk-bot and apologizes to it.

Back in the real world, Tomoya observes Sanae-san fleeing the bakery in tears about her bread being rejected as Akio-san chases after her. When he returns, Akio-san tells the inquiring Tomoya about the rainbow bread that Sanae-san made, which a customer refused. Tomoya asks about Nagisa's childhood story, but Akio-san doesn't remember having a book about that story, or having ever heard of said story. Akio-san cautions Tomoya, who's determined to find the story, not to tell Nagisa or Sanae-san anything if Tomoya should find something without clearing it with him first. Tomoya goes and finds Sanae-san, who also doesn't recall any books or stories like Tomoya describes, especially since it appears to be a sad story. She does suggest he check the house completely in case its something they've forgotten.

At school, Sunohara and Tomoya pay Yukine-chan a visit in the library. She doesn't have a book like the one Tomoya describes, though she does have plays, which aren't going to help Tomoya. Sunohara decides he needs a charm for girls, so Yukine-chan gives him one, saying that after he completes it, the first girl that talks to him will be interested in him romantically. He completes the ritual, but no girl talks with him. As Sunohara does this. Tomoya and Yukine discuss the initial stages of a boy and girl liking each other and the steps to take. She immediately knows that Tomoya is referring to Nagisa, though he never says her name. She offers her advice and upon seeing Nagisa outside the window approaching their building, she convinces Tomoya to perform the same charm ritual as Sunohara. He reluctantly does, and immediately upon exiting the library, he runs into Fuko-chan. Tomoya immediately takes humorous steps to keep her from saying anything to him, for reasons unknown to him, not wanting to be romantically linked with this strange girl he can't remember. Having sent Fuko-chan away, he turns to move again, to find Nagisa there. Nagisa speaks to Tomoya, causing him to immediately remember Yukine-chan's words, stating that the first girl to speak with him is the girl who cares about him.

The Theater Club meet and Nagisa tells the story she remembers from childhood (not remembering from where she heard it). There was a girl who was all alone in the world. Because it was sad and lonely for her, she decided to make a friend -- a doll made of junk. The doll began to move and respond to the girl upon being completed. As such, the girl was no longer lonely. Having ended the story, Tomoya realizes that he knows this story somehow.

Back at Nagisa's place, she and Tomoya are in the shed looking for a book or something with the story that Nagisa remembers. Akio-san is not pleased with their search efforts and shoos them out, telling them to go flirt like normal teenagers before realizing what he's said. Later in the shop, Akio-san informs Tomoya that he'll tell him something that Tomoya can't reveal to either Nagisa nor Sanae-san. After some comedic missteps where Akio-san nearly lets the cat out of the bag, he and Tomoya are on the roof to have their discussion. Akio-san reveals that when Nagisa was young, she nearly died. At that time, Sanae-san was a middle school teacher pursuing her dream and Akio-san was pursuing his dream as well. So when Nagisa got very ill with a high fever one day, both parents felt it would be OK to leave Nagisa home alone for a few hours as they did their normal daily routine of work. When Akio-san came home that winter's afternoon, he found Nagisa collapsed face-down in the snow. Feeling that God was punishing them for leaving their daughter alone and that he might take her, when Nagisa got better, both Akio-san and Sanae-san promised never to abandon her again. As such, they decided to open a bread shop (bakery) because Sanae-san felt confident she could make good bread. Since her creations are pretty bad, Akio-san learned bread making from scratch and though it was a rough few years at first, eventually things worked out well. Tomoya realizes that this is what Nagisa was referring to when she told him she felt like she was somehow responsible for something bad happening to her parents. Akio-san isn't ready to tell Nagisa this story just yet, despite Tomoya's assurances that she's a stronger person than she used to be. However, Akio-san does plan to tell her someday, but since their mementos of that time are stored in the shed, he'd rather Nagisa not see them now.

Later at the dinner table, Akio-san announces he has a plan for Sunday and reveals his three choices -- picnic, piku piku (which means "to twitch"), and picric acid. Nagisa has no idea what the third choice means, so Sanae-san explains it to her. She chooses option one, but her father says that's wrong, stating that his plan was to have everyone twitch on Sunday. Sanae-san ignores his bad joke and tells Nagisa they'll go on a picnic. She says she'll make a bento for the picnic, requesting that Tomoya make a suggestion to her for what he'd like to eat. After witnessing more family antics resulting from the planned picnic, Tomoya find himself reflecting on this after he goes to bed. As such, he decides to flee to Sunohara's room to avoid going on the picnic. Sunohara tells him that Nagisa will be sad and worried, but Tomoya thinks he has that covered with the note he left. Sunohara tells him that won't do. Tomoyo cites how Nagisa has become a stronger person, but Sunohara counters, saying the strength comes from Tomoya, and that his leaving as he did will cause that strength to go away. Sunohara further reflects on how Tomoya initially ran away from his home to stay at Nagisa's home and is running away from Nagisa's home.

Hearing this, Tomoya rethinks his plan and returns to Nagisa's house. She and her parents had been looking for him. Nagisa never saw his letter and Akio-san dryly remarks on how he'd eaten the letter as a side-dish at breakfast. Because Tomoya has made them late, Akio-san tells him that he has no choice but to spend the rest of the day with the family. They go to a park with a baseball diamond where a lot of kids are playing. Akio-san is batting and gets a hit. While on first base, he calls back to Sanae-san, asking if she saw his hit. She confirms she did and he asks if she's fallen in love with him again. She confirms that as well.

After Tomoya has some of the bento that Nagisa made, he's up to bat, unsure if he can get a hit with his bad arm. However, he too is able to get a hit. Like Akio-san, Tomoya calls back to Nagisa to proudly ask if she saw his hit, which she confirms. Akio-san asks if Nagisa has fallen in love with Tomoya again, which she starts to confirm. She flushes and stammers at making such a revelation as does Tomoya while Akio-san cries out is frustration over his daughter being in love with the brat. However, he recovers and has Nagisa come up to bat next. Somehow, she too gets a hit and as Akio-san and Tomoya start running to the next base, Tomoya tells Nagisa to run as well, which she happily does, heading for first base.

Thoughts: KYAAAA! Man, I love this series. I really, really like the love story between Tomoya and Nagisa. Its sweet and wholesome and just so enjoyable to watch. Nagisa is helping Tomoya grow as a person and he's helping her do the same. I just feel good watching them together, so much that I am worried about the rug being pulled out from under the story. Hopefully, this will have a "good end," as the Japanese say.

Fuko-chan had a good cameo this time. I had a nice chuckle when Tomoya kept her from saying anything to prevent her from being the one who would be interested in him romantically.

As to Mystery Girl and Junk-bot, they are finally starting to make sense, being the story that Nagisa remembered from her childhood. Interesting that neither Sanae-san nor Akio-san remembered said story. When Nagisa told the Theater Club about it and the camera view focused on Kotomi first, I remembered how her parents were looking into that Illusionary World. Considering that Okazaki seems to somehow know the story, maybe both of them have somehow visited this Illusionary World in some fashion. Maybe they were both able to witness events. Or maybe, and I admit this is a stretch, Nagisa became "Mystery Girl" and Tomoya became "Junk-bot." We'll see how it all plays out.

Finally, the bad news. Only two more episodes. Yep, that's right. Apparently, this is only a 22-episode TV series with an OVA episode on the DVD release and a summer special episode to be released later. That's kind of a bummer, but it explains why Kyou, Ryou, and Tomoyo got cut off at the knees so to speak.

Del Rey and Pumpkin Scissors

You know, I really had hoped that the flushing of Japanese honorifics for Pumpkin Scissors Vol. 1 was just a fluke. As such, I went ahead and ordered volume 2 of the manga. Were there any changes? Nope. Ikoi Hiroe still insists upon flushing the Japanese honorifics, despite the fact that Del Rey proudly proclaims in this volume their policy of retaining the Japanese honorifics.

"Nope! I will not use Japanese honorifics. We aren't in Japan, so why would I use them? Besides, the other places I did freelance translations for did not want Japanese honorifics, so why is Del Rey using them? Nope, I will not use them, period."

OK, Ikoi Hiroe didn't actually say that, but I imagine something similar going through this person's head (don't know if its a guy or a girl). Even though they are a freelance translator, one would have thought that Del Rey would have given Ikoi Hiroe the sheet that says, "retain the Japanese honorifics." After all, Ikoi Hiroe somehow knew to include a few translator notes. Baring that, maybe Ikoi Hiroe would have looked at a Del Rey manga, but maybe not.

Either way, I'm very annoyed. Del Rey charges ~$11 per manga, and each volume has the same proclamation which states they will use honorifics in the translation. For an adapter to then seemingly thumb their nose at that policy makes me as a consumer say, "OK. I'll keep my $11. Thanks for nothing, Del Rey."

I know Del Rey has been made aware of this. There's no need for me to visit their forum multiple times a day to rant about it, nor pester their people about it, or even to insult Ikoi Hiroe, which I don't believe I've done. Del Rey will either fix the honorific problem, in which case they'll get my money, or they won't, in which case I'm saving money. For now, I've vented and those to whom this kind of thing is important, now you know.

See related article Del Rey is Slipping.

Minami-ke Okawari 07

みなみけ～おかわり～ Ep. 07

SPOILER Summary: Its nearly Valentine's Day and so its time to learn how to make chocolate with Haruka teaching and Kana deciding to turn it into a festival, thusly inviting over Touma, Makoto (as Mako-chan), Uchida, and Yoshino. Kana forces Makoto to dress in a maid costume, which he does in order to stay over, much to Uchida's amusement. Kana doesn't do much but eat chocolate, so when she goes to raid the fridge for more chocolate that's currently cooling, she takes the one with Chiaki's name on the slip, only to find it had been spiked.

When Haruka asks whom the girls will give the chocolate too, Mako-chan says Haruka, but Chiaki objects strongly, not once but twice. Haruka suggests a boy and as they all eagerly await Mako-chan's answer, he reluctantly suggest "Makoto-kun," which Uchida finds very funny. When Chiaki is prompted, Kana suggests Fuyuki-kun, which Chiaki does not agree with. For her part, Kana plans to give out no chocolate, but does plan to consume them where she can.

At school, Fuyuki-kun delivers some papers and finds himself the recipient of chocolates for his efforts. Touma also finds herself the recipient of chocolates from other girls because as they put it, she's cooler than most guys. Chiaki remarks to her that this officially makes Touma a boy. At this high school, Hosaka-senpai has jumped the gun and made a White Day chocolate for Haruka, even though (1) he never received a chocolate from Haruka and (2) its Valentine's Day, not White Day.

At the middle school, Fujioka is anticipating a chocolate from Kana. However, he finds a lot of other girls have given him chocolates already and he doesn't want Kana to know for fear she'd be hurt. However, when Kana comes by, she's looking to score chocolates off him, not give any. So when he denies having any, she hangs around, which irritates other girls wanting to give him chocolates as they perceive Kana as a blocking force. Eventually, Kana is tired of waiting and so consults with Keiko on which guy is likely to get the most chocolate. When Keiko states the name, Kana is off and eventually returns with an arm full of chocolate. Since Fujioka ditched all the chocolate he had previously received, Kana perceives his look to be one of someone who'd gotten no chocolate. So she gives him one she'd collected, for which he's grateful.

Back at home, Haruka gives chocolates to both Kana and Chiaki. Chiaki gives one back to Haruka, who tells her she really should have given it to a boy. However, no boy will apparently come close to "Haruka-neesama." Kana wants a chocolate from Chiaki but there is none. Kana eventually steals the chocolate Haruka gave Chiaki, which leads to the two getting into a fight.

Thoughts: This was mostly a tedious episode to me with a couple of OK parts. The Black-san characters are REALLY annoying, though the animators are now allowing some extremely shadowed faces to sometimes come through (with black hands though). Regardless, its still highly annoying.

So what was good? Mako-chan being forced to chose a boy to give "her" chocolate to (naturally Makoto-kun) was amusing. We finally got a taste of the old Chiaki when she spiked a chocolate with her name on it, knowing Kana would steal it, complete with the "bakayarou" written on a slip behind Chiaki's name as a message for Kana. I miss the good old Chiaki. Heck, I miss everything about the original Minami-ke.

Slayers Again!

QP has some stuff that HAYASHIBARA Megumi has said on her radio show and other places regarding the new Slayers anime TV series (which was announced in the April issue of Dragon Magazine and revealed to be entitled Slayers REVOLUTION). The big news is that Megumi-san is going to be Lina again. YES! What Megumi-san says pretty interesting stuff and nice to see Megumi-san is apparently pretty happy to be back in the role of Lina Inverse. The rest of the core gang (Gourry, Zelgadis, Amelia) are going to be back as well. The newest information is on top, but do read through (and forgive QP's not so great English) because there's some other neat stuff Megumi-san reveals about her previous times in the role of Lina.

After that tease of a Slayers movie (which ended up being a recap of all the TV series followed by a music video sung by Megumi-san with all new animation), I'm rather glad to see a new TV series being created. While it appears that this new TV series will be unique to the anime (which is somewhat of a bummer considering I'd like to get the next story-arc from the novels, though that doesn't have Amelia or Zelgadis in it), I hope they avoid some of the pitfalls present in Slayers Try. For example, the Dragon Slave spell, which can have a comedic element, shouldn't be used to just knock enemies into orbit or the next county as it did in Slayers Try. The comedy of Lina wanting to blow someone away or relieve some stress by casting it is fine, but it should have the devastating effect that it did in Slayers, where people and creatures (a dragon for example) died, to say nothing of the destruction caused.

Also, not trying to target a younger audience, as Try did, would be helpful.

I think of all the anime titles that have been announced, I'm most excited about this one. Lord willing, I'll still be blogging when it comes out and will share my opinions of the series then.

Keroro Gunsou 33

ケロロ軍曹 Episode 33

SPOILER Summary: It is almost time for Keroro's favorite manga, Admiral Geroro, to have the first episode of the anime adaptation aired. After watching it with the platoon, the group spends their entire invasion budget plus a whole lot more on Admiral Geroro products. However, Keroro has a plan. Since Pekopon people love anime so much, he'll make an anime with him as the star. Thus beloved by the people, the money will start pouring in and he'll soon be in charge of Pekopon (Earth). However, they need advice and so consult "Mama-dono," since she's a manga editor. She gives them five books (deducting the cost of the books from their allowance) on the anime production.

Keroro starts to work on writing a 60-page story, but after three hours has nothing but a single page. He delivers that to Tamama, who's in charge of storyboarding the series. However, after three hours, Tamama is unable to do anything. Tamama then hands his bit of nothing over to Giroro, who's in charge of animation. After three hours, he has finally produced a single, badly drawn image. He then learns that he'll need to make 3000 images and that's more than he can take. Dororo looks to get the drawings from Giroro for coloring, but there are none. Only Kururu has the backgrounds completed, but only because he "borrowed" them from other anime titles and simply removed the characters in the scene. Keroro decides that with so many anime produced a year, there has to be a secret, easy way to do an anime. Meanwhile, Sumomo records the "Kero to March" song as Moa-chan works the board and wonders if its OK to complete the theme song before the anime.

The platoon then sets out to the anime production company (a parody of Sunrise) to learn the secrets of anime production. Since they have their anti-barrier on (which keeps them from being seen or heard), they head to a writers meeting for Admiral Geroro. As they observe the writing process, a large plate of dangos has Keroro's eye. He eats one, only to discover it was one that the director has spiked with a fiery-hot pepper. Giroro learns the shocking truth on how to draw, which involved getting people to pose. He tries it with Tamama and Keroro, but after five hours, still doesn't have it down. He then learns that using a wooden puppet can accomplish the same thing as a model.

After the platoon finishes going through the entire anime creation process, the return home to create their own anime. After much work, they get their episode done and preview it in the private theater. The drawings, animation, and everything else about it is crude, but they are proud nevertheless. Keroro decides that they can do much better and so it is decided to keep working to get it perfect.

Thoughts: Having recently watched a parody of the anime creation process in Hayate no Gotoku, I did find this episode of Keroro Gunsou amusing as well.

Hayate no Gotoku! 47

Hayate the Combat Butler Ep. 47
ハヤテのごとく！Episode 47

SPOILER Summary: A meteor is about to crash into the Earth. Meanwhile Nagi gives Hayate some time off so that he can study, since she can't have him fail school. He doesn't want the time off, but takes it when she tells him that she'll fire him if he doesn't pass his tests. Maria is worried about what might happen to Nagi, since she tends to get into trouble without a butler. Nagi poo-poo's the notion, but Klaus has already arranged for a solution. Enter the latest robot, called Thirteen, which resembles Hayate and is designed to be a butler.

Meanwhile, Sakuya has arrived and has taken it upon herself to help Hayate study. Upon learning that another butler will be replacing him, Hayate becomes concerned. Sakuya tries to allay his fears, but in the end, he can't resist checking out the new butler. He finds Nagi strongly protesting the new butler, which when Hayate finds it to be a robot, he's much relieved. However, Thirteen soon wins over Nagi with how he treats her manga and the advice he gives. He wins over Maria with a shoulder rub. And he wins over Sakuya with his apparent understanding of her brand of comedy, complete with taking a whack with the harisen on purpose.

When Hayate discovers how well Thirteen gets along with everyone, he becomes concerned. Sakuya learns this and reports it to Nagi that Hayate is jealous of Thirteen. Nagi is excited about this though Thirteen doesn't understand the emotion. Nagi, Maria, Thirteen, and Sakuya spy on Hayate, who does appear down from the back. Sakuya suggest Nagi comfort him, which Nagi agrees to but Thirteen has a different plan. Maria is sent in with tea, dressed in cat ears, tail, and a bell (I believe this is a mascot character, but can't confirm it). She's not sure about this and neither is Nagi. Thirteen presses a remote control button and Maria's maid outfit falls off, revealing a Lum-chan bikini (Urusei Yatsura). Hayate gawks and Maria runs out in horror.

Next on the list is making Hayate a snack, but Sakuya refuses to let Nagi do it based on her horrible cooking. So Sakuya does it and brings it in, which Hayate finds good but this just angers Nagi, who lets Hayate have it. Sakuya soon departs at Thirteen's encouragement and begins to tell Nagi that he is the best butler for her. However, she is not going to leave Hayate's side and proclaims him to be the only butler for her. Mission accomplished, Thirteen leaves Nagi and Hayate together. He goes to the lake where we discover that the meteor is about to hit Earth. Despite Nagi not wanting him to go, Thirteen takes off and destroys the meteor, saying that giving his life for his master is also the job of a butler.

Thoughts: It was a fun episode, though I can't say I had any real laughs. But it was fun, so that's OK.

References! (Note: the site doesn't get 100% of the references, but they do get a very high percentage. As of this writing, whomever normally puts all the references in has not done so.)

Honey and Clover (Live Action) 05

ハチミツとクローバー (Live Action Dorama) Ep. 05

SPOILER Summary: Its been one year since Takemoto met Hagu-chan at the pond on the campus grounds. As he ponders this, he discovers that instead of Hagu-chan being at the pond, his step-father Kazuo-san is there with a small freight truck filled with the remainder of Takemoto's things and some Daruma dolls. He's to go through them and get rid of what he doesn't need because Kazuo-san and his mother Mitsu are moving to a new but smaller place. Hagu-chan and Ayumi arrive and assist in the unloading of the truck, where the goods are placed in the gym and arranged as if in a room. It is here that Ayumi makes the shocking discovery of Takemoto's porn stash and Shouda-sensei decides to use the bed to take a nap.

Takemoto gets summoned to Hanamoto-sensei's office as Hanamoto-sensei has a potential job for Takemoto to take. However, Takemoto has learned that while he had come to the art school with one idea, his time around Hagu-chan and Morita has made him feel like a fraud and as such, he's going to pass on the job offer. That night, Takemoto is invited to the birthday party for Yamada-san, where the other members of the Hadayama Shopping District have presents, but not for Yamada-san, but for his daughter Ayumi. Also at the party is Kazuo-san, who gets along well with Yamada-san.

Back at the dorm, Kazuo-san is asleep in Takemoto's room as Takemoto begins sorting his stuff in the common area, with a box for stuff to keep and a box to trash. Mayama comes home and the two talk briefly, even mentioning how Takemoto won't take advantage of Morita's absence to make gains with Hagu-chan. When Lohmeyer-senpai arrives, he poetically goes through the stuff Takemoto wants to throw out and thus Takemoto ends up keeping most of it.

The following day, Kazuo-san gets Hagu-chan and Takemoto in his truck to make a comedy video for Mitsu to make her smile since she hasn't done so recently. Takemoto isn't thrilled by this but Hagu-chan is enthused to do it. The go to various locations in the city to do this, recording things that Kazuo-san thinks will make his wife smile. The night ends with him doing a comedy routine with the Tokyo Tower as the prop. After talking with Hagu-chan, he understands his step-father a bit more but realizes the gap between himself and Hagu-chan.

Back in the afternoon, Ayumi delivers a salted salmon to the staff of Fujiwara Design. Miwako and Ayumi take some of Ayumi's ceramics to Rika-san for Rika-san's project. Ayumi is naturally a bit uncomfortable in the presence of her "love rival." When Miwako leaves the room to take a phone call, Ayumi notices a countdown timer on Rika-san's laptop. Rika-san explains about how when she hadn't been motivated to work, she'd been told to give it three years. So the counter was for that. When Miwako and Ayumi return to Fujiwara Designs' office, Ayumi notices the same counter on Mayama's PC, set to end at the same time as Rika-san's. When asked, Mayama blows it off as a counter for the end of the world. She leaves, but then decides to return as the counter hits 0. It is then that she realizes that any chance she may have had with Mayama is over.

Kazuo-san drops Hagu-chan off and then Kazuo-san takes the reluctant Takemoto to a final place. Its a batting cage where they take swings at the ball. It is here that Kazuo-san asks if Takemoto hates him. They return home where Takemoto returns to sorting his things while Kazuo-san goes to Takemoto's room. Mayama comes home and has a drink with Kazuo-san. Takemoto overhears there conversation and understands finally how much Kazuo-san loves his mother and even if Kazuo-san is not number one in Mitsu's or Takemoto's life, he's happy just being a part of it. Takemoto reflects on this and comes to a greater understanding of himself.

Meanwhile in New York, Morita, who'd been featured in an art magazine that has been circulating around the campus in Japan, is bored. At the art gallery, he sees a painting that moves him. He nearly gets arrested when he rips the plastic covering off of the painting and then discovers that it is a painting from Hagu-chan, who'd won the art competition in Japan. Indeed, on the giant screen in the show area, the interview Hagu-chan had done in Japan is being aired and Morita smiles.

The next day, Kazuo-san has left and is eating an onigiri while re-watching the video recorded for Mitsu the day before. He's laughing at witnessing his antics when Takemoto appears on the screen with a message for his mother. In it, he apologizes for not coming home for so long and at the end, he promises to practice so that he would be able to address Kazuo-san as "dad." Kazuo-san sees this and is touched, re-watching the sequence again.

Back at Hanamoto-sensei's campus residence, Ayumi, Mayama, Hagu-chan, and Takemoto have gathered and are going to have sukiyaki. There's not enough for everyone, so a Japanese version of "rock-paper-scissors" has Takemoto lose. They then play the Japanese version of "Red light, green light" (Daruma-san) where every time Takemoto finishes the phrase and turns around, the others have to be completely stopped. After a few rounds of this, Takemoto sees Morita and calls out his name. Morita protests that he wasn't moving. Reunited, everyone is pleased to see Morita, with Hagu-chan appearing to be most happy with this and Morita seemingly very happy to see Hagu-chan.

Thoughts: The amazing speed at which the live-action series flies by is a bit of a weakness for this series. After all, in the anime, the time was spent on getting the audience hooked on the characters and story, so when there was a change like Morita going to the U.S., there was more of an impact. That doesn't mean the live-action series is bad, because I do enjoy it a lot. Its just that the rapid passage of time causes a loss of impact.

The other thing that kinda bums me is how Takemoto is basically out as a love interest for Hagu-chan. In the anime, there was always an element that maybe Hagu-chan would pick him over Morita, but in the live-action, episode 4 ended any remote chance Takemoto had and episode 5, despite mentioning it, was the same.

I know the sukiyaki thing at the end was for comedy, but seriously, how can there not be enough food for everyone. What, when the shopping was done to make sukiyaki, the thought was, "I'm only going to get enough for three people even though four will come?" Makes no sense logically, though it was clearly done to make Takemoto suffer and have a comedy moment.

Ah! My Goddess Ch. 229 *SPOILERS*

ああっ女神さまっVolume 36 Chapter 229

Summary: Despite Welsper's insistence on being addressed as "beloved," Belldandy refuses, even if it means not having her memories returned. Megumi pops in and asks the cat about herself, which Welsper hadn't anticipated. After going through the comedy gag of attacking the talking cat again, Welsper roles with it and says that she's the one married to Keiichi. Megumi apologizes to Keiichi for not realizing, which annoys Urd. However, Megumi is just playing and accuses Welsper of lying. As proof, she produces her driver's license, which while having the same family name as Keiichi (Morisato), her address is different and so she must be just related.

Welsper is annoyed by this, but again roles with it, saying the Keiichi and Megumi are related to the Belldandy, Urd, and Skuld, who are also Morisato. Megumi was prepared for this and had investigated the room marked "Morisato" and discovered Keiichi's porn. As such, she realized that Keiichi lived in this home, thus the home didn't belong to just the three ladies. As such, she figures that she and Keiichi are brother and sister. This revelation makes Urd and Skuld mad, and they are off to punish Welsper, who flees.

Keiichi enters his room to see if there's anything special there, but sees nothing to trigger his memories. Belldandy comes in to check on him and they are interrupted by the phone. Chihiro is on the line demanding to know where her employee is when Welsper flying into the room knocks the phone out and breaks the connection. Chihiro is determined to find out what's going on.

Meanwhile, Urd and Skuld are on the hunt, so Keiichi hides him. Welsper wants to know why he did this.

Thoughts: OK, I have to say that I actually enjoyed this chapter thanks to Welsper's weasel lies and then the wrath of Skuld and Urd.

Minami-ke Okawari 06

みなみけ～おかわり～ Ep. 06

SPOILER Summary: Kana borrows an entire series of manga from Fuyuki and the two have a discussion about it. Back in their room, Kana remarks on how polite Fuyuki is by his use of keigo speech (the formal, polite way of speaking in Japan). Kana compares that to the way Chiaki speaks to her. Chiaki says she uses keigo, but not to idiots and ultimately, puts on her headphones to drown out Kana.

Its snowing and Haruka comes home. However, there's not much to eat and Haruka doesn't want to go back out into the snow. So, it is decided to just throw something together with what they have left. After eating and talking about the things they must get done the following day, they go out and play in the snow for a while. After that, they come in and take a bath together, with Kana opening the window since it is so warm in the bath. Following their bath, they are under the kotatsu when the power goes out. So, the light a candle and huddle under blankets. After they talk a bit, Kana decides to take a second bath since the water should still be warm. Unfortunately, because the bathroom window had been left open, the water is now cold.

Back at the kotatsu, Kana is hungry and their little gas stove is out due to a lack of fuel. Kana complains about how long its taking the electric company to restore power, then asks Chiaki if she wants to be a teruterubouzu again. Chiaki does not. Haruka wonders how Fuyuki-kun is doing since she passed his father on her way home as he was on his way to work. So they go next door and knock, but it takes Fuyuki a long time to answer. He claimed he was about to go to bed, but Chiaki doesn't buy it. They end up borrowing a portable gas stove and invite Fuyuki over, but he declines, citing his father.

Chiaki suspects he does want to come over, so when Haruka and Kana leave, she opens the door and finds him standing in the hallway. She chastises him for not being truthful in tellings others how he really feels and what he really wants. The argument between the two turns into a snowball fight, which Kana soon joins. So, its back to the outside area where Chiaki and Fuyuki are against Kana and Haruka in a snowball fight. Afterward, they all return to the Minami residence and convince Fuyuki to spend the night. They all cuddle up and Fuyuki actually looks comfortable for the first time. The following morning, the power is on again but Fuyuki is gone. Looking outside, they discover that he's out shovling the complex's sidewalk. This annoys Chiaki.

Thoughts: Another unfunny episode. I got a chuckle or two but that was it. Does that mean the episode stunk? No. It was a nice episode for dealing with one snowy evening and the power goes out. Unfortunately, that's not what I want to see from this series. The business with Fuyuki just gives the series too much of a serious edge due to whatever darkness he's having to deal with. *sigh* Oh well. I still see people talking about the greatness of this series (though even they admit it isn't as good as the first), but I guess I'm going to be in the minority here. Well, I can always go back and relive the greatness of the first series.

Shakugan no Shana Second 20

灼眼のシャナ II Episode 20

SPOILER Summary: The battle with Zarovee and Bifrons over, Shana is over the site where Bifrons exploded while Wilhelmina, with Yuuji in her ribbons, is further back and above. Yuuji has a bad feeling about the explosion site, but decides he needs to say something to Shana (an apology I believe) when rose colored flames emerge and a massive explosion rocks the battle site. Shana and Wilhelmina both erect defensive barriers while Margery Daw and Sato, while consulting the Haridan (the 3-D "magical" map of Misaki City), are caught in the blast.

Yuuji comes to and soon finds himself face to face with Sabrac, the powerful Tomogara who'd long pursued Wilhelmina. Sabrac doesn't kill Yuuji, but does destroy the bookmark from Margery Daw that they use for communication. Wilhelmina arrives and attacks Sabrac, forcing him back as she gets Yuuji to safety. Sabrac remarks on how she continues to improve as their fight continues. Her ribbons grasp Sabrac's sword and ultimately it is destroyed with a massive explosion that sends shrapnel everywhere. Sabrac wonders how many he'll have to use as he summons another to replace it.

Again, Sabrac comes for Yuuji but Wilhelmina again thwarts it. Sabrac and Wilhelmina have an intense battle and during one of the breaks in the action, Yuuji notices that blood is spreading through her ribbons that have rapped tightly around her body. Wilhelmina explains that this is due to Sabracs unrestricted spell known as Stigma, where the wounds caused continue to grow worse with time. The Stigma was cast during the massive explosion and managed to penetrate her defensive barrier. Yuuji feels bad that she's been so wounded on his account and she tells him not to worry about it as this is a normal tactic for Sabrac. Yuuji uses his skills to sense for Shana's presence, which he detects as well as that of Margery and Sato.

Sato comes to to find Margery still unconscious. Marchosias grimly states how Sabrac got them all good. Margery finally comes to and doesn't like what she sees regarding the rose-colored flames. Marchosias confirms it is the work of Sabrac and that the Jaeger (Zarovee) and the Wanderer (Bifrons) were part of Sabrac's trap to nail all of the Flame Haze. Sato asks about the others, so Margery checks and finds their presence. However, she too has been wounded by the Stigma spell and blood is seeping through her jacket. Marchosias grimly remarks on how it doesn't look good.

Meanwhile, Yoshida has entered the Fuzetsu, primarily looking for Yuuji. She remembers what Pheles told her when she was given Pheles' Hougu. She walks around a corner and is astonished at the level of destruction. She finds the unconscious Shana there in the rubble. She treats Shana's wounds and worries about Yuuji. Alastor tells Yoshida not to worry since the Fuzetsu Yuuji cast is still in place, meaning he's alive and well. Yoshida is concerned over Yuuji's recent behavior, to say nothing of her remarks to him. Shana, now conscious, tells Yoshida that she understands what Yoshida felt but that Yuuji had returned to normal. Shana feels confident that both Yuuji and Wilhelmina are doing OK, but her own injury isn't good as blood seeps through the bandages Yoshida used, indicated Shana too has been hit by the Stigma.

Elsewhere, Wilhelmina has taken Yuuji to hide and catch a breather in the ruins of one of the buildings, where she reveals that Sabrac's lack of being detected is another of his abilities. She recounts one of Sabrac's attacks on Pheles, Johan, and herself and no matter how cautious she was, Wilhelmina was unable to predict an attack by Sabrac. In the end, Engage Link (Johan and Pheles) were caught by Sabrac, the results of which were Johan being put into the Reiji Maigo and Sabrac doing something to that Hougu. Yuuji wonders how they can fight something so powerful when Wilhelmina whisks him away just as a massive attack from Sabrac levels the building they'd taken refuge in. As they fly near the spot of the initial explosion, Yuuji again has a bad feeling about it and wonders what that place is.

As Sabrac rides a tsunami of rose-colored flame, Wilhelmina flees with Yuuji, explaining that despite all his power, Sabrac has a few weaknesses. Apparently, he will only fight the opponents in front of him. Yuuji realizes that this means that Margery and Shana won't be attacked as they are in front of Sabrac. Sabrac is getting closer, so Wilhelmina turns and launches a ranged attack with her ribbons. Sabrac avoids and returns the favor with a massive ranged attack on his own before closing the gap again, which Tiamat, unusually anxious sounding, warns her about. She throws up a ribbon barrier, which Sabrac quickly slices through, only to discover Wilhelmina getting behind him and forming a giant cone-shaped ribbon weapon, she launches it at Sabrac, scoring a hit and driving him violently into a building. However, he's unharmed. Wilhelmina explains that Sabrac has an Insane Defense (whatever that means) and Yuuji ponders if he can do anything by summoning Blutsauger, since he did use that sword to kill Zarovee. Wilhelmina, seemingly sensing what he intends, warns Yuuji not to do anything foolish as she has another task for him.

Elsewhere, Sato bandages up Margery and asks if there isn't some Flame Haze technique or spell that can heal the wound she has. Marchosias says that Margery is already using counter spells but without much success due to this being a Stigma injury. Margery takes the opportunity to talk further with Sato about his desire to join Outlaw, which he says he still wants to do. She asks him what he will do if she were to die. Sato doesn't have a ready answer.

Meanwhile, Wilhelmina and Yuuji are again fleeing Sabrac, who's again riding his flame tsunami. She manages a quick turn down an ally using her ribbon, which Sabrac remarks to himself as not being a threat. However, when he enters the ally, he discovers he's fallen into Wilhelmina's trap and cannot escape as she has spiked the ally with ribbons. Wilhelmina, now with her battle mask in place, casts the spell to activate the ribbons, which immediately causes both buildings to slam together with Sabrac in the middle. She then launches a massive energy attack, causing an explosion that can be seen all over the Fuzetsu area.

As she and Yuuji observe from a nearby rooftop, Sabrac comes out of the rubble, apparently unharmed. Tiamat finds this incomprehensible, leading Wilhelmina to inquire about the possibility of an illusion being used against them, which Tiamat rejects. For his part, Sabrac remarks about how this is the longest battle he and Wilhelmina have ever fought. Due to his style of combat (get them all at once, if possible), he's never been able to kill her and had he only done so years before, he wouldn't have this trouble now. Despite being canon fodder, Sabrac had hoped that somehow Zarovee and Bifrons would have been able to finish things. For Wilhelmina, this confirms that Sabrac is working for Bal Masqué and Tiamat reminds that they want the Reiji Maigo.

Again Sabrac range attacks and again, Wilhelmina is off with Yuuji in tow, firing her ribbons at him. He slices them with his sword but the sliced ribbons are all around him and he discovers himself in another Wilhelmina trap as the ribbon slices all explode. As before, Sabrac emerges unharmed and launches his biggest attack yet since the initial explosion. He manages to slice Yuuji away from Wilhelmina and now has him prisoner. Since he is still in combat, he doesn't know what to do with Yuuji. He doesn't have to wait long for an answer as again he's fallen into a trap by Wilhelmina as the body of Yuuji was made from her ribbons. He starts looking for the real Yuuji, but is caught in some massive explosions again.

Yuuji is running in a sewage pipe, the entrance of which appears to have been the spot of the initial explosion. He ponders the things Wilhelmina told him about Sabrac. He thinks back to when they were surprised attacked, followed by his initial encounter with Sabrac in which he wasn't killed. He then has an idea.

Back to the battle, Sabrac again has survived Wilhelmina's attack. However, she is exhausted and it shows, the blood having completely soaked her back now. Sabrac launches what he believes is his final attack as Wilhelmina remarks on how endless this battle has become. She's urged by Tiamat not to think negatively as Sabrac approaches and Wilhelmina readies herself.

Thoughts: Man! That was a great episode for those hungry for a really good battle between a powerful Flame Haze and a powerful Tomogara. Wilhelmina proved exceptionally gifted, but too bad Sabrac seems more so. When Tiamat sounds concerned when she says her short statements, you know things are bad. However, I don't think she's really fighting Sabrac but rather a piece of him perhaps. That would explain how such a powerful Tomogara could be so undetectable. To me, it seems like whatever Yuuji felt from the initial site of the explosion is the real Sabrac.

Still, the arrival of Sabrac just makes me wonder all the more about what the Silver really is.

While I'm thinking of it, I wonder if this is where Yoshida finally uses the Hougu that Pheles gave her.

Hayate no Gotoku! 46

Hayate the Combat Butler Ep. 46
ハヤテのごとく！Episode 46

SPOILER Summary: Wataru is walking down the street, oblivious to thinks like a man walking his dog, while the dog "walks" on a beach ball and gets the shock of his life when he sees Isumi in a school uniform at a bus stop. He "borrows" a telephone pole to spy on her and is shocked when he sees her get onto a bus without hesitation. He attempts to get on the bus but the narrator reminds him to put the pole back, so he misses the bus and is very frustrated. He races over to Nagi's house to tell her. She has several theories about it, including it being an illusion, but he's not buying it and leaves. Hayate and Maria pop through the fake window at Nagi's desk because they think she went a bit too far, but she enjoyed messing with Wataru.

At the video store, Wataru is in a state of shock and Saki continues to find misplaced videos and DVD's. Saki decides to try to get to the bottom of this, and after tripping, she falls in front of Hayate. They go to a coffee shop (like Starbucks) and talk, where Saki gets depressed, thinking that maybe because she's now 20, she's too old. They see Wataru walk by in a daze to a bus stop. Using a couple of phone poles, Saki and Hayate spy on Wataru as he remembers the school that Isumi's uniform belonged to. He gets on a bus, with Hayate and Saki getting on in secret, where they travel to Hayate's former high school, Wataru's destination. Wataru gets off while Saki and Hayate eject out.

Saki is torn about Wataru's desperation to get to Isumi. In the end, she confronts him as he attacks the front gate. She has a map from Hayate, which shows a tear in the fence, which they don't find. However, Nishizawa appears and recognizing Wataru, she reveals the tear to allow him and Saki through. She gives them a tour of her ordinary school, where they soon come upon two, large, thug students ("A" and "B") who are part of a vicious gang, but love animals. They also see a female gang leader. All the things they see, Nishizawa says is just a normal thing for their school. She then leaves them to get some more food.

Meanwhile, Isumi is first in gym class doing gymnastics as Wataru and Saki begin their search. Isumi is then in the synchronized swimming class, obviously looking for something. At the baseball diamond, Wataru sees Isumi, dressed in traditional Japanese school P.E. class gear, working as the manager to the baseball club (complete with yellow teapot). He observes that her gaze is locked on one guy with a picture over his face as a mask and the word "senpai" on his back. He demands to know what that's all about, so Saki has to explain to him about the clichéd concept of the girl in love having a towel for the one she loves (who's in a grade above her) so she can say, "Senpai, please use this to wipe off your sweat." This is the nightmare scenario for Wataru.

Meanwhile, Hayate runs into Nishizawa, who's walking and eating. She's happy and nervous that Hayate is there, wondering if he came to see her. They have some faltering starts at conversation before Nishizawa reveals that the school has strange goings on and that there's apparently a curse regarding a dead manager. Hayate realizes that such a thing would draw out Isumi and so leaves to find her. Nishizawa is depressed because she now knows that Hayate didn't come to see her.

Back on the baseball diamond, Isumi comes up to her senpai with the white towel. However, a well suddenly appears behind Senpai and a ghost emerges, vowing not to let anyone else wipe off Senpai's sweat. The ghost is surprised that Isumi can see her, but more surprised when Isumi offers to allow the ghost to enter her so that the ghost, through Isumi, can wipe the sweat off Senpai's brow. The ghost agrees and enters Isumi, but before the wiping can begin, Wataru rushes onto the field and challenges Senpai to a one-pitch dual (having been encouraged to do so by Saki), the winner gets their brow wiped by Isumi. Senpai agrees as the ghost demands to know what's going on. Isumi doesn't have an answer.

Wataru puts everything he has into the pitch, but Senpai knocks it out of the field. Defeated like Joe (from the boxing anime), Wataru falls, but tells Saki he has no regrets. Isumi, ala the ghost, wipes Senpai's brow and the ghost is now able to pass on. Isumi collapses and is picked up and carried by Hayate as Saki picks up and carries Wataru. Hayate says he'll take Isumi home, but she stops him. Wataru tries to say something but can't, so Isumi thanks him for the workout and the two have a moment, for which Saki is happy. Saki tells Wataru how proud she is of him as they walk home. Hayate reports the situation to Nagi when he gets home.


Thoughts: Just what the smeg does that yellow teapot represent anyway? I've seen it a few times in anime, the first time being Full Metal Panic ~Fumoffu~. Otherwise, there were some nice laughs here with the silly humor (the telephone poles, ejecting from a bus, the gang members, and more).

I feel bad for Nishizawa though. Poor girl. No chance with Hayate.

References! (Note: the site doesn't get 100% of the references, but they do get a very high percentage...most of the time.)

Scha Dara Parr -- Disco System

スチャダラパー - DISCO SYSTEM

I don't know exactly when this song was done (2006 I guess), though it feels very much like 80's electro-funk, which was something I was very much into. Its a quirky song and a quirky video, but I like it. If anyone has any other information, do share.



I'm going to see if I can score this from Japan somehow.

Update: The Japanese appear to be on a kick to prevent anyone outside of Japan from knowing about their music. Makes a lot of sense to me. I mean why expand your fan base and thus your revenues? Anyway, lets hope this new video stays for a while.

Clannad 19

クラナド Episode 19

SPOILER Summary: Tomoyo leads the Student Council in a vote that allows Koumura-sensei to sponsor both the Theater Club and the Choir Club. The Theater Club members fire some "cracker" fireworks to celebrate and Kotomi-chan has the large bento, complete with a large bottle of tea. When Nagisa is a bit hesitant about putting on a performance for the summer, Okazaki encourages her on.

Later, Okazaki's teacher wants a meeting with Okazaki's father, which naturally Okazaki is loathe to do since they don't get along. He tries to run away and is chased by Nagisa, who upon realizing what Okazaki is up to, drags him back to his teacher. The teacher is impressed by how she's able to control Okazaki, but she tells the teacher that Okazaki has helped her a lot. The teacher enlists her help to make sure the meeting with Okazaki's father goes as planned until Okazaki reminds her that she has a meeting with Koumura-sensei regarding club business. As such, Okazaki and the sensei walk to his place but after getting there, Okazaki tells his teacher his father isn't there. So, the teacher decides to wait.

Okazaki flees again and is discovered by Nagisa, who quickly realizes he's running away again. She returns with Okazaki to his house, where they stop just around the corner as the voices of Okazaki's teacher and his father can be heard. Okazaki's father comes off as not being that interested in his son's future, saying that "Tomoya-kun is Tomoya-kun," and that he has no input on the subject. Hearing this, Okazaki is upset and as Nagisa witnesses this, she invites him to come stay at her place for a while to get some distance from his father. He accepts and pacts several things into a large sports bag. He starts to tells his (drunk?) sleeping father he's leaving, but doesn't. However, before Okazaki can get out the door, his father awakens and does see him off.

Okazaki arrives at the bakery entrance to Nagisa's residence to find Akio-san there, wondering why he's come by so late for. Okazaki panics, thinking that Nagisa neglected to mention to her parents that he would be living with them for a while. However, Sanae-san's arrival and greeting to Okazaki means Akio-san's fun time is over, since Nagisa indeed did tell her parents. Nagisa shows him to the spare room, which he finds to be very nice (ie: spacious). She shows him where the futon is kept and tells him he can't just leave the futon out in the morning, but must put it away. With that taken care of, its time for dinner, then Okazaki's bath, followed by some family time at the table. Laying in his futon that night, Okazaki reflects on how alien this family life is to him.

The following morning, Nagisa and Okazaki are off to school. Nagisa and her mother exchange the traditional Japanese departure sayings, but when Okazaki doesn't say anything, Nagisa prompts him to do so. He reluctantly does as he finds this embarrassing. When they run into Nagisa's father outside, the same thing happens. They walk to school where Nagisa says its fun to walk to school with him, though both agree its a bit embarrassing.

At the Theater Club room, Koumura-sensei has costumes, stage lights, and a keyboard for music and sound effects for the Theater Club to use. He gives an example on the keyboard, so Sunohara decides to have some fun with it until Kyou and Tomoyo give him a double punch. Everything is ready except for the play. As Okazaki and Nagisa walk home, they discuss the problem of her having a play she wants to do, but for which she cannot remember the title. They get to Nagisa's home and Okazaki discovers that his room has a bunch of kids in it. Nagisa tells him her mother runs a cram school called Furukawa Cram School. Some of the kids are going through Okazaki's things, so when he tries to rescue his belongings, the girl "Na-chan" is frightened. One of the other kids think he's attacking and so attacks Okazaki to save Na-chan. Sanae-sensei soon brings order to things, reminding the class they have to respect their elders.

Since his room is now a classroom, Okazaki wanders downstairs and is soon put to work by Akio-san. Okazaki asks about the school and Akio-san reveals that Sanae-san had been a teacher before, so running the cram school is a natural thing for her to do. When Okazaki tries to inquire as to why Sanae-san no longer teaches middle school, Akio-san is elusive. That evening, the family has dinner together and Okazaki finds this "normal" family life to be exhausting. Nagisa comes by his room to pay him a visit. They talk about how it is strange to be living in the same house and how Okazaki never had a normal family life. Nagisa also reveals that something happened when she was little regarding her parents. She feels she did something which was horrible and for which she should apologize, however, her parents tell her that isn't the case though they won't talk about the past much.

After their talk, Okazaki decides he's going to see Sunohara and Nagisa requests he not stay out too late. At Sunohara's place, Okazaki feels he can finally relax. As the two of them talk, Okazaki lets it out that he's now living with Nagisa, which shocks Sunohara. He's jealous of the situation Okazaki is in, saying that if Nagisa's parents have allowed him to move in, it means they approve of him, thus implying they accept him as a future son-in-law. Okazaki protests that his and Nagisa's relationship isn't like that, which Sunohara can't believe Okazaki would still say such a thing. As such, he feels a bit sorry for Nagisa.

In "Mystery World," "Mystery Girl" sees "Junk-bot" attempting to construct a new robot from junk. Mystery Girl thinks Junk-bot is making a friend because its lonely to be alone. Junk-bot doesn't entirely agree with what Mystery Girl says, feeling that more junk-bots would make the place more lively. She helps Junk-bot with his work, even if it doesn't work.

Thoughts: I love this series, I really do. Nagisa and Okazaki are just...*sigh* While it is sad that Kyou, Ryou, and Tomoyo didn't get as much time in the sun as Fuko-chan and Kotomi-chan (I suppose we needed a few more episodes to do things right), I am glad that plenty of episodes are apparently being devoted to Nagisa's and Okazaki's story since they are running in parallel. I didn't expect Okazaki to start living with Nagisa's family, but it works well. And Nagisa looks a bit cuter to me for some reason, almost as if she had a hair cut or something.

As for "Mystery Girl" and "Junk-bot," that part is as confusing as ever. I'm sure it will make sense in the end, but at the moment, I just scratch my head at them and what their role in all this is.

On a side note, I think I may start referring to Okazaki by his given name of Tomoya.

Keroro Gunsou 32

ケロロ軍曹 Episode 32

SPOILER Summary: Keroro has his new plan for invasion of Pekopon (Earth) and Kururu has a new weapon which will transform an animal into a humanoid. That night, the platoon heads to the zoo where the first recruit is the panda, which Keroro assumes will be a powerful soldier when transformed. However, it turns out to be a girl who's not happy to be disturbed. The next stop is an Indian Elephant, but while the transformed elephant is a skilled person, he too won't join, though he does tell them a long tale both happy and sad of his time at the zoo. Other animals are tried, all with failures until they reach the Bengal Tiger. He agrees to join if they can best him in combat, which Dororo does. In the end, he too realizes he cannot leave the zoo. Having failed to gain a single recruit, the platoon returns home where Keroro tries his luck on two crows, only to have them turn on him.

The cat, hereafter known as "Neko," that Keroro befriended earlier returns to the Hinata residence. Giroro is cleaning his weapon when he thinks he sees a grenade and dives for cover. The grenade is actually a pinecone. Keroro, still recovering from their previous adventure, summons the platoon. He wants to know where the transforming weapon is, but no one knows and he was the last one to have it. One the meeting is over, Giroro decides to make the pinecone into a charm that he will give to Natsumi. Neko wants the charm and is unhappy when learning she can't have it. When Neko sees Giroro's reaction to Natsumi, she reacts negatively to Natsumi's attempts to befriend her.

Dororo and Mutsumi play shogi on a nearby roof where they've observed what has happened. Mutsumi figures animals have something to say too. Neko enters the Hinata home and is friendly with Fuyuki but is still hostile to Natsumi. Fuyuki feeds her some dried seaweed which she's happy for but rejects Natsumi's. Neko leaves and Natsumi gives chase. Neko hides in Giroro's tent and sees Giroro is hiding something. He imagines she'll be touched by his gift but when she grabs the charm from him, she doesn't see it as anything special and doesn't know it was to be a gift for her. Giroro is crushed, so Neko rescues the charm. Neko decides to get the transformation gun for Giroro, which was in the Hinata home, and accidentally makes herself human. As such, she gets her revenge on Natsumi by startling her enough to make her fall back in her chair. She takes a moment to thank Fuyuki for the seaweed before leaving and returning back to cat form and taking her place next to Giroro.

Thoughts: A couple of fun tales from the manga, though expanded somewhat IIRC. I liked how Neko got some spotlight time.

Minami-ke Okawari 05

みなみけ～おかわり～ Ep. 05

SPOILER Summary: Kana and Chiaki are left alone as Haruka is out with Maki. Kana is looking for something to eat in the kitchen drawers and finds a small, locked treasure chest. She tries to get into it and fails. She tries to enlist Chiaki's help, but Chiaki isn't interested until Kana speculates that maybe the hidden treasure in the box are naked pictures of Chiaki as a baby. With Chiaki's assistance, they are finally able to break into the box, but then Kana accidentally steps on its contents, which is a small glass rabbit on a necklace. The ear is broken, but as Kana tries to fix it, the other ear, tail, and head all break off.

As Chiaki tries to make the repairs, Kana enlists many of their friends to look for a rabbit. Fujioka is doing so when he's seen window shopping by Haruka and Maki. They are puzzled by his looking for a rabbit but go on. Hosaka hears this and decides he needs to catch a rabbit for Haruka. Meanwhile, Haruka remembers she has something to give to Maki to be given as a present. As she returns home, Kana gets reports from the people she dispatched and discovers that none of them are finding what she needs (since she didn't specifically tell them "glass rabbit").

Once Haruka is home, Kana and Chiaki play for time to allow their friends to score a rabbit. They do what they can to keep her out of the kitchen, but eventually she goes in there, sure that she placed the gift in there. Kana decides to beat a fast exit to go look for a glass rabbit while Chiaki continues to run interference. However, the game is up when Keiko calls in with a report. Realizing that Chiaki and Kana must have done something to the gift, Haruka returns to the kitchen to the very afraid Chiaki, where Haruka requests to know what happened to the rabbit.

Kana goes all over looking for a new glass rabbit but fails. She returns home to discover the place is dark and Chiaki is sitting seiza-style in the entry way and sobbing. Haruka is at the end of the hallway and Kana is very afraid as Haruka begins to speak. A knock on the door has Kana answer it and there are their friends with all sorts of rabbit stuff (and an eel) for Kana.

Thoughts: You know, I'm just really not digging this series. I'd heard some people going on about how funny this episode was. I had a couple of chuckles and that was it. That's because this is just a pale, undead imitation of the original Minami-ke. I miss the masterful "Chiaki-sama" for a start.

Honey and Clover (Live Action) 04

ハチミツとクローバー (Live Action Dorama) Ep. 04

SPOILER Summary: Takemoto, Morita, Hagu-chan, and Ayumi are assisting the Shopping District for Christmas business, but Ayumi's father objects to the costumes Morita has made. During the struggle, Takemoto takes a beating and accidentally breaks several expensive bottles of wine. Now, Yamada-san owns him until he can repay the debt. Back home, Mayama comes home and since he has a job, he buys them all take-out Chinese. However, when it arrives, Takemoto doesn't get rice with his meal, but "ice" (ice cream). He's told he should have asked for gohan (Japanese term for rice) rather than use the English word "rice." He's not enthused to eat it until Hagu-chan thinks it might be good to eat spicy with sweet.

Sometime later, Mayama meets with Ayumi to borrow some of her pottery work for a project he's working on at his job. She agrees. Meanwhile, Hagu-chan finds her inspiration to paint is gone. This causes Hanamoto-sensei's superior to be very unhappy about this. Rika-san pops by to borrow some books and the two remember their time in school along with her deceased husband. Meanwhile, Morita is paid a visit by Teramobori-san about his art.

At his part-time job, Takemoto observes Ayumi and Hagu-chan dressed in Santa gear and he's observed by Yamada-san. As they go to make a delivery, they discuss Christmas and the fact that it is currently Christmas Eve. Meanwhile, Mayama is told by Miwako that she's most impressed with the pottery works and wants his friend to come by to help them on the project. He agrees to tell Ayumi. Back at the shopping district, Ayumi apologizes to Hagu-chan for making Hagu-chan work selling Christmas cakes. Shouda-sensei approaches them and has a letter from his child addressed to Santa-san. Unfortunately, the letter asks for a new father. Ayumi gets a call from Mayama asking her to come to Fujiwara Design on the following day because of her work. She agrees to do so.

In Mayama's room, he and Takemoto are relaxing and watching TV when they see Morita making a commotion in the background of a live, remote broadcast. The two talk about Christmas for a bit before Takemoto hangs a wish for what he wants for Christmas on a tree outside, where the others have also hung wishes (looking like bookmarks). That night, Lohmeyer-senpai comes in dressed as Santa. Since Takemoto had earlier confronted Morita about his tokei (watch) that Morita had long ago borrowed (or something like that), Lohmeyer-senpai is delivering a tokei, only it is a cuckoo clock (tokei means "clock" and "watch"). Takemoto pretends to be asleep during this, but when the cuckoo "cuckoo's," Lohmeyer-senpai leaves it, and then makes a retreat out Takemoto's window.

Christmas day at Fujiwara Design, the discussion is on Christmas and gifts, and how women love the thought behind a present. At his part-time job, Takemoto and Yamada-san are making booze deliveries (including to a karaoke place where Takemoto sees Shouda-sensei in one of the booths). Yamada-san tells Takemoto about getting gifts for Ayumi every year and the importance of gift-giving.

Elsewhere, Teramobori-san and a westerner have a contract for Morita to come to New York.

Mayama is sent to take some things to the printers and decides to get a gift for Rika-san. Ayumi takes off and arrives at Fujiwara Design to meet with the staff about her pottery work. Takemoto is released from his job early by Yamada-san and even given a pay-packet for the work he did above and beyond what he owed on the debt. Takemoto decides to buy a gift for Hagu-chan, who's going through a very difficult time dealing with her feelings for Morita, which is still interfering with her artistic work. Takemoto brings to gift to Hagu-chan and Hanamoto-sensei's place, but he finds he's unable to give it to her as she takes off. As such, he ends up wandering the streets and pondering Christmas.

As Ayumi prepares to leave the Fujiwara Design office, she asks where Mayama's desk is. They point it out to her and she leaves him a couple of small presents. The others are amused by this, causing her to get embarrassed and proclaim that they are only friends before she flees the scene. For his part, Mayama has stopped by Rika-san's place to find her not there. However, as he returns to the street level, he sees her walking to her building. They talk for a bit about his job and such and he vows to return to her side someday. When she goes up to her apartment, she finds the gift he'd purchased for her in a gift bag on her doorknob.

Hagu-chan goes to find Morita. She confesses that she is in love with him (really likes him to be precise) and that he's the reason she can't get any artwork done. He has a cavalier response to her confession and tells her that she inspires him, but that he considers her a rival and he wants her to continue her work.

The following morning, Takemoto awakens to find one of his socks, which was hung to dry, has a pocket watch in it and a note from Morita saying he's going to New York. Takemoto rushes out and runs to the bus stop where the shuttle to the airport is. He finds Morita about to get on board and demands to know about what he's going to do about Hagu-chan's feelings for him. Morita reminds Takemoto that he and Hagu-chan aren't married, then gives him a hug and gives a departure greeting to hopefully see each other again. With that, he's on the bus and gone. Takemoto returns to Hagu-chan's place and finds her busy painting. He tells her about Morita and is surprised that she's not only OK with him going to New York, but wants him to do so. With that, she continues painting and Takemoto realizes that Morita has given Hagu-chan what he could not.

Thoughts: For some reason, this episode seemed to drag quite a bit for me. I think it was too much introspection about Christmas and love. Still, it wasn't a bad episode, just not quite as good as previous ones to me.

One thing kind of frustrating about this series is that the writers clearly expect fans of the manga and anime series to be the only ones who watch. For example, Shouda-sensei has been seen every episode thus far, yet has been mentioned by name once. Teramobori-san? The same thing. I think the two main people at Fujiwara Design have been named once. That doesn't make a lot of sense to me to not have their names mentioned so as to help stick in your mind.