Perverted Fan Creature

Seven Days

2011-04-16T03:18:00.003+08:00

This manga caught my attention with its simple art and title, and upon reading the first page of the story I was amused how the girls were drawn very decently (and attractively)!

Seven Days is a light shounen ai manga. From the title, one could assume that the chapters would revolve around seven days of romance. And yes, the story was simply just like that.

What I liked about this manga was how the romance between two supposed-to-be straight guys started smoothly. One day, while waiting for pizza delivery, Yuzuru came across Seryou. Knowing about the rumor that the latter dates whoever confesses to him on the first day of the week and breaks up with them after seven days, Yuzuru jestingly suggested they go out. Both started coolly - treating the situation as an amusing joke, but intent on spending the seven days as fun as possible.

When I think about it, the plot contains a good general lesson. A week sounds too short for a timeline, but the shorter the moment you spend on something/someone temporarily, it becomes easier to decide whether you want the moment to last longer or not.

It is a really nice read. :) The characters may have their pains and weaknesses, but they were optimistic and sincere. Strong characters like them are inspiring and makes such a simple story heartwarming. If you want to read Seven Days online, you can try this link from spectrum nexus.

WTF?! Yaoi?

2011-02-16T15:17:00.003+08:00

(Yeah, I admit having want to kill this blog because I'm growing up, I need to face more sensible issues etc etc. But give me a break. So what if I'm 25, very much single, and nosebleeding over yaoi?)

LAST NIGHT, I asked myself the ever popular question: Why do I like yaoi? (And I am a girl so it is basically why girls like yaoi.)

It was a question I asked myself several times before, but I ended up fantasizing over my gays if not simply dismissing the question. Like love (pukes), it just happens~~

I commented to one blog today:

...I think it's more because of the romance and the story. Or maybe the fact that we get a tiny revenge seeing one of them screwed from behind[...] Something valid would probably be the relief that these perfect studs (varying preference of course) are gays! BWAHAHA. In real life, shoujo romance just don't work that way (at least most of the times) and leading men from shoujo manga just don't really exist. But if they're gay, that explains it!

But last night, I had a better idea. In order to answer that question (finally), all I had to do was imagine my favorite yaoi stories to be between heterosexual pairs. I am so smart!

I am gonna use the manga I featured in this blog.

Imagine Imagase from The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese to be a straight girl who is obsessed with Kyouichi, a straight man. Then we won't have a story at all!! Hahaha! Honestly (I just realized it right now). The main issue in TCMDC is that Imagase is gay. If he were a girl, I don't think Kyouichi would mind having her.

Of course, Imagase would be a possessive but cheerful girl. But who likes a possessive girl? (Some men, maybe?) Would Kyouichi love a female Imagase more than the gay Imagase? Would Kyouichi mature as much? I honestly don't think so. What made a major change in Kyouichi was the plain difficulty of accepting he got a gay for a lover. Kyouichi was straight so it was a major issue for him. The fact that in the end he still chose Imagase over a good woman meant that, more than gender, there are more important and compelling reasons why a man would choose to be with someone.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if women are assured that way? That their men choose them not because they're just another compatible socket? A man gets his woman from already 1/2 of the population (assuming 50% are males and 50% are females). Now, if gender is not an issue, a man has the whole 100% to choose from! Wouldn't the pickup line, "Out of ALL THE PEOPLE in the world, I loved you" sounds mind-blowing than, "Out of all the girls in the world, I loved you"? Of course, reality dictates.

How about Ewon Jung of Totally Captivated? Mookyul Eun is also gay so he can play the part of a female, but let us consider the fact the Ewon Jung does the house-chores, is a better cook and the takes the bottom.^_~

If they were a heterosexual pair, they would belong to the abusive-submissive relationship. I don't see anything that would greatly change except the fact the Mookyul's constant harassment would look like some serious harassment because, hey, in this world women are physically more fragile (call me sexist or anything, it's the truth we can't deny). Ewon Jung could keep up with Mookyul because he was also a man. But if he were a woman, would she be able to survive Mookyul's brusque advances?

I am not saying that sadomasochism is sexy and cool. But the point is, it won't be a major social/moral issue because both men can take the beating. One does not have to control himself (physically) and be gentle. Of course, it is nice to know that the man tries hard to be gentle with his girl (emotionally, physically), but that almost sounds one-sided. Society dictates that women need to be treated gently. It is a man's pride to abide by that law (and they are probably happy to do so, too). But seeing gay relationships that ignore this fragility is a refreshing change!

Now, Seyun of You Don't Know Me would be a more difficult comparison. Indeed, Seyun would be a cute, sexy and bubbly girl. His physique is almost as fragile as a girl. Girls can fight, too, I bet. They can belong with a group of thugs, too. Surely, they can invite guys (and girls) over their apartments and let them goof around almost naked. And they would be called sluts.

Because Seyun was a guy, his almost wild lifestyle was not much of an issue. From the reader's point of view, he actually looked cool. If Seyun were a woman, of course she would still look cool (being tough and sexy like that, who wouldn't?) But the friendly relationship would change. Her guy friends and Yoojin would be more protective of her (I kept repeating this not as a negative fact, btw). And Yoojin's father would do more serious measures if he saw bruises on Seyun (rough making out session *coughs*).

What I'm saying is: girls can be tough, but men will perpetually want to protect them. It goes beyond gender equality. So it is thrilling to read stories where individuals have the freedom to fight, to be hurt, and to be carefree, and that either of the couple could take charge of the relationship because there is no boundary set by gender.

In reality, girls also take the rein. But the idea is almost amazing it almost feels like an abnormal situation.

Example:

Girl1: I top my man.

Girl2: OMG! Totally S&M!!

G1: Bwahahahhahaha *more evil laughter*

In an ideal relationship, wouldn't it be better if things like the top and bottom (figuratively and literally) is not an issue that is worth the news flash?

Of course, there are more reasons why I (and some girls) like yaoi. But it usually includes being saved from seeing damsels in distress and girls who could only moan and cry when taken very forcefully (Seyun could easily hurl Yoojin). That is why I believe that girls who fancy yaoi are one of a kind. *coughs coughs*

*Abrupt ending... because I suck writing conclusions.*

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 12 (END)

2010-09-22T01:29:00.001+08:00

...is available to download now via torrent. You can also watch it HERE.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 11

2010-09-11T16:30:00.004+08:00

... is now available to download via torrent! CLICK HERE. It is subbed by Commie.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 10

2010-09-04T22:57:00.004+08:00

... is now available to download via torrent! CLICK HERE. They are fansubbed by Commie and TastyMelon.

And I actually thought of sleeping early today!

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episoe 10 Zero Butler *some spoiler*

The good points of this episode are:

1. There was a lot of nasty Claude actions. Seriously. That guy is a demon. And he definitely wants to rape Sebastian's bo♥chan.

2. We get one name of the triplets. Thomson. And I assumed he was the one who watched Ciel and Hannah's interaction... the scene that sort of enraged dear Sebastian.

3. Ciel was lovely.

4. Sebastian was devastated. He was seriously pissed the whole episode. However, he was seriously scared, too.

I could somehow predict what is to happen. I am betting Hannah will appreciate Ciel more the way I think Thomson appreciated Ciel's kindness.

Yes, I think it is weird to relate the word kindness with demons, but I cannot stop myself from assuming that:

1. Hannah somehow appreciated Ciel's kindness.

2. Thomson witnessed it AND sort of appreciated Ciel's kindness to Hannah.

THESE, or they were seriously pissed of Ciel's noble actions because they were demons. But hey, a smile and a gentle rendition in memory could only be brought about by kindness.

And I cannot stop myself from assuming that Sebastian has completely fallen in love with his life as a butler to his beloved and endearing Young Master. He could speak about wanting Ciel's soul over and over again, but his actions and reactions reveal that he wants to take care of Ciel more than anything.

Demons could retire, too. Give them some break.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 9

2010-08-27T20:11:00.001+08:00

...is now available to download via torrent! CLICK HERE for the link. It is fansubbed by Commie.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 8

2010-08-20T19:42:00.001+08:00

...is now available for torrent download HERE. It is subbed by Commie.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 8

I have to admit that I favor this episode amongst all other 7 episodes of Kuroshitsuji 2 so far. Strangely, there is no fan service. There is no sexy Sebastian Michaelis and adorable Ciel Phatomhive. The episode only featured the Trancy household, most especially Alois Trancy OR Jim Machen - the character I used to feel indifferent to.

Now, I could see he WAS an interesting and pitiful story. He had a very unfortunate life, and even though Claude's presence gave him temporary comfort, I believed that meeting this demon was the greatest mistake of Jim's existence.

I would wish that this event in Kuroshitsuji 2 be revised and allow Jim/Alois to live a better story, but a part of me knew that the whole scenario was most fitting. It was sad, unfortunate, and pitiful. And we all know that Kuroshitsuji, behind the fan service and occasional acts of kindness, is not a happy show.

Its reality is dark and brooding.

However, because Ciel Phantomhive's butler is Sebastian Michaelis, we can't help but hope a little...

*Screencaps to be added soon.*

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 7

2010-08-14T02:27:00.003+08:00

...is now available for download. Click HERE for the torrent link. (Subbed by Kachu-sama and Tasty Melon.) You can find torrent download links for Shinsen-sub HERE (no Episode 7 as of yet, though).

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 7

There is SOOO many frames to capture and so many things to say but I'll just limit myself to these two:

I've been getting the same impression since Episode 1, but - of course - Claude had to say it.

HURRY! Watch this episode. There's a lot of good things to see: from dancing butlers, duels, cooking battle, bitch slapping and much more!! So many fan service. I still believe Kuroshitsuji 2 = pure fan service. Hannah, the maid, gave off so much sexual innuendo. Sebastian was screaming SEXY in every freakin' frames. Claude was totally horny. Poor Ciel and Alois to have to put up with these people (excluding hot and sexy Sebastian, of course).

On Manga and "White" by Sofia Falkenhem

2010-08-08T00:33:00.005+08:00

I rarely buy manga/comics. I think I have about five- one volume of Ragnarok by Myung-Jin Lee, one volume of Megatokyo by Fred Gallagher and Rodney Caston, Barefoot Waltz by Romuco Miike, The Mammoth Book of Best New Manga. and a complete collection of CCCom (a local comics now discontinued).

Obviously, it is because the online community gives access to these English-translated, or scanlated, manga for free. Given more financial resources, I'd probably buy my favorite ones. Unfortunately, I'm poor.

Megatokyo was given to me by my Aunt when she knew I liked reading manga. Barefoot Waltz is a yaoi manga that I forced my sister to buy for me - her Christmas gift, actually. I bought one volume of Ragnarok on a whim - it was cheap and I played the online game. And I collecte CCCom because it was the first of its kind in the Philippines.

The Mammoth Book of Best New Manga was a thoughtful purchase (fortunately funded by my father hehe). It was a collection of original comic strip stories from various artists of different nationalities. The difference in arts and styles perfectly suited my mood swings.

It was on that book where I found one of my favorite one-shots: White by Sofia Falkenhem.

Page 3, White

The story intrigued me because:

1.) I could not figure out the gender of the other character. With a possibility of gay romance (which I love), I get more excited. And,

2.) The story was simple but realistic and the narration and dialogues were well-paced (at least in my opinion) and effectively written.

I still believe the main characters were both guys. But regardless of their gender, and even if I find out I'm mistaken, it will still be among my favorite reads.

HERE is the official site of the artist/author where you can read White and some of her other works.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 6

2010-08-07T16:19:00.004+08:00

... is now available for download. Click HERE for link. (Fansubbed by TastyMelon).

EPISODE 6 (Just little spoilers.)

This episode answers most of the questions. It is better to watch the episode, but the gist of Kuroshitsuji 2 is this: Everybody wants Ciel Phantomhive. Plain Truth.

Here are some interesting screencaps of this episode. And, oh, that was a nasty hand Claude has. ._.

Seriously, Sebastian takes souls by kissing his prey?

And if you know what Meilin is seeing, you'd question what kind of girl she really is.

Meilin rocks.

But she's definitely a pervert (another plus!)

Sub explains it.

Nasty hands, indeed.

And finally, the screencap that deceives us all!!

You Don't Know Me by NaYeri

2010-08-05T10:55:00.000+08:00

+++++++++++++++++

YOU DON'T KNOW ME

+++++++++++++++++

by Ya Neri (RAKUN)

I did not blog about this manga because I honestly thought there was nothing much to blog. The plot was very simple: two childhood friends fell in love. They (especially Seyun) encountered few conflicts but because of Seyun's personality they were smoothly resolved. There was not even a third party involvement (a usual problem in yaoi/shounen ai stories).

But it was a good manga. I even rate it higher than Totally Captivated. It was good because the main characters, most especially Seyun, were good. They were refreshing, interesting, and independent. It was like witnessing Seyun's everyday life... only he had a much interesting one than probably, say, me. It being just one-volume manga - you could read it repeatedly (I read it thrice now) - and having characters that actually DO get haircuts was an added bonus.

I definitely recommend it. You can download it HERE (MegaUpload) or HERE (MediaFire). I unfortunately have no idea who the scanlated it but when I will be more attentive when I read the manga again.

My Favorite Uke No. 1

2010-08-03T15:51:00.009+08:00

Yes, I have previously mentioned that I am avoiding using the term but I think My Favorite Uke No. 1 is definitely an uke.

Favorite Uke 1: SEYUN of You Don't Know Me by Na Yeri

And it seems I still have not blogged about this manhwa so I will be posting a short review and download links after this post.

I wonder if Seyun has to be my most favorite uke. Last night, I tried to come up with a list but I only ended up with his name. I met a bunch of adorable uke but it seemed Seyun fits my standard to a T.

1.) SEXY

This is not very important but Seyun is definitely sexy. Standing 170 cm, he had a lithe frame that I enjoy seeing. In this manhwa (which I shall be referring manga from now), he was described to have a pretty face. But his looks was not exaggerated. He was pretty for a guy but he did not look like a girl in boy's cut.

2.) CUTE & ADORABLE

Seyun got a bunch of cute panels but I liked this one because it revealed how naughty he was, too. He was often teased (but loved) by the people surrounding him because he was "tinier" than them. He also got a lot of cute expressions. His smiling face was really adorable.

3.) STRONG

Physically and emotionally. Yoojin (and his family) was eternally worried of Seyun's health and activities because Seyun had a weak body. Yoojin was also worried that he was being bullied in school. But the truth was: Seyun got a bunch of strong friends working in a sort-of-mafia environment and Seyun could fight for himself and fight well.

Emotionally, I found him admirable. Unlike Yoojin, he had doubts and insecurity but he managed to pull through without acting wretched, desperate and needy. He faced his emotional turmoil calmly and almost logically.

4.) GOOD FRIEND

Unlike most of the uke I saw in manga, Seyun had other friends he spent his time with (in other words: he was not with Yoojin the whole time). He had his thugs (mainly Joonsuk and Sangchul, both interesting and amusing characters as well) and Sunchol.

Sunchol saying his goodbye speech to Seyun

5.) LOYAL

He was very proud of Yoojin (his boyfriend, by the way). When often boasted about Yoojin. He never had a single intimate interaction towards the other male characters but Yoojin.

6.) BUT HE COULD STILL KICK YOOJIN'S ASS

He would usually punch and kick Yoojin if the latter misjudged him. I liked it when my uke knew he was still a man despite being screwed from behind and, likewise, treat his boyfriend like a real man who could take in a few hits.

This page summarized Yoojin's overall personality.

He was nice, adorable, cute and fragile. Yoojin's parents cared for him deeply and thought of him a fragile young boy whom they needed to defend (most especially from their son).

But Seyun was strong. The title of the manga was just very fitting. They did not know him very much at all.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 5

2010-08-01T00:24:00.002+08:00

... is now available for download. LINK 1 (Kachu-sama). LINK 2 (Other fansubs, my first time to see them).

I am pretty pissed right now but thank goodness for Kuroshitsuji downloads I've cheered up a little.

(SPACE SAVED FOR SCREENCAPS AND SUMMARY).

Read Naruto AGAIN

2010-07-28T20:17:00.003+08:00

Well, at least chapters 500 - 503 (most recent) of the manga.

These chapters are a flashback of the past - from the birth of Naruto to the re-sealing of the nine-tailed beast inside his body.

If you read Naruto and stopped after deciding the story is going on hopeless advances, you can find something good in these chapters that basically revealed a part of the past that haunts the major characters.

However, there is one thing that has been bugging me: "UCHIHA MADARA".

In this past, he actually did not reveal himself to be Uchiha Madara. Rather, it was Minato who decided it was him. Could it be that the person we have been calling Uchiha Madara is NOT the Uchiha Madara at all? Kabuto's appearance and resurrection summoning also did not help and further heightened the doubt.

I think I will continue reading Naruto's manga. I think we can achieve some sort of closure from now on.

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 4

2010-07-25T19:19:00.011+08:00

... is available for download on torrent. Subbed in English by Kachu-sama.

EPISODE 4: The Terrorist Butler (a lot of spoiler AND pictures ahead)

... is CRACK!! ♪ It is a very amusing episode.

In this episode, we are presented with another "revelation". This dude:

The one I thought must be Fred Aberline - only with moustache, could actually be his twin. But I like this dude better... his sense of humor and stupidity is unmatched by his twin.

Ciel still does not seem to remember Fred Aberline...

But judging Sebastian's silence and expression, it is suspicious.

Claude Faustus also made another appearance but his purpose was seemingly just to observe. For a butler to leave his master to observe? Tsk tsk.

THIS episode is about a kidnapping case.

And at the start of the train travel, we are presented with many suspicious people.

But as it turned out, the culprit was this guy who disguised as a train employee.

Sebastian quickly and effortlessly disposed of him anyway. However, they are yet to solve the problem(s). A bomb is set on the train and programmed to explode once the train stops. Here comes Kuroshitsuji version of Speed featuring Sebastian Michaelis as Keanu Reeves.

Ciel was able to find the kidnapped child. Unfortunately, Mr. Murderer appeared.

His objective was not revealed. But I bet he only wanted to escape. Upon seeing Ciel, I bet he included raping the pretty boy as well.

Fortunately, Konoha receives the news and sent their greatest shinobi:

Sebastian Michaelis. (I was too lazy to go back and screencap him running.)

Who immediately came looking for his beloved young master. (Honestly, Sebastian is looking sexier each and every episode.)

Who was calmly being held hostage by Mr. Murderer.

Sebastian thought it was getting tiresome already.

Mr. Murderer demanded the train to stop. So Sebastian revealed their current predicament.

There were more problems aside from the bomb and Mr. Murderer was quick enough to get the gist and summarize them in one brief statement.

And off Mr. Murderer went together with beloved Ciel. But Mr. Twin would not let Sebastian go.

And Mr. Twin thought of a plan.

To which the other suspicious people excitedly offered to lend a hand.

Mr. Priest offering to fight Mr. Murderer.

Grandpa lending his Japanese sword.

Mr. Fake Archeologist bragging his ability to detonate bombs.

And Mr. Loose Screw estimating the time all things needed to be accomplished so the train can pull the brakes.

But Sebastian, reliable as always, did not need their help.

Off he went to confront (and scare) Mr. Murderer.

Disposing of him was easily done, too.

The other problems were solved.

And he was back to being all gentlemanly and loving to his young master. (Oh how I love this scene... simply because of the animation.)

Claude Faustus re-appeared and went on about a butler's aesthetics which I did not buy. But he gave Sebastian an invitation for the Trancy household dance.

Next episode 5: The Monster Butler

I can't wait to watch it. ♥ I want to see something amusing again... oh I wanna see a smexy Ciel ~♪

The Sleeping Man & Lingering on the Way

2010-07-24T16:34:00.006+08:00

The Sleeping Man by Kunieda Saika

You can find other details including the scanlation at PresenceDear.

It is very rare that I find a satisfying oneshot. They usually just include a hurried love confession and s*x. So when it comes to oneshot, I think it is better to look under the shounen ai genre.

Lingering on the Way by Kunieda Saika

You can find other details including the scanlation at PresenceDear.

They are good oneshots written and drawn by the same author. The stories have bittersweet plot. The Sleeping Man made me shed a few tears (but they went just as quickly... the advantage of oneshots, I presume).

PresenceDear includes a brief summary and also download links. Search the scanlator's site for other good titles as well (and inform me!)

Meet Singapore and Malaysia

2010-07-19T17:47:00.001+08:00

(Another old entry I am re-posting.)

My sister bought me dolls when she went to Singapore. I don't know what they are actually called but one was labeled Pinky St., and the other RMP. It seems, however, that the maker was the same. Anyway, they look like action figures but you can mix and match different parts including the torso, legs, hair and accessories. I named them Singapore and Malaysia although they both came from Singapore. My sister went to Malaysia on her trip, anyway.

This is Malaysia (RMP) using Singapore's bangs. She's supposed to be some sort of a waiter and her package includes some plates and steamed buns. She's really charming.

And this is Singapore (Pinky St). She looks timid and shy but maybe also apathetic? She wears this school uniform and another shirt-pants/short tandem. In this picture, I made her wear Malaysia's bangs. I honestly liked her better after I switched their bangs.

And this is a picture of them together. Ate (or sister) said she's no good in choosing dolls and that she would've probably chosen differently if she knew that parts were detachable. However, looking at this picture, in some way, these two dolls matched. :) They were so different in personalities that they click!

Kuroshitsuji 2: Episode 3

2010-07-18T16:45:00.000+08:00

... is available to download via torrent. CLICK HERE.

I am still undecided which fansub version to keep. I have SubDesu and ShinSen-Sub. I am more familiar with ShinSen-Sub, though. This one, episode 3, is by Kachu-sama.

KUROSHITSUJI 2: Episode 3 (Spoilers and screenshots ahead.)

This episode might have featured one simple case but this is where Kuroshitsuji, I think, truly starts. We meet people of the past and we get a glimpse of what to happen. And above all, we are showered with lots of fanservice!

Before I proceed with the episode sort-of-summary and screenshots...

I can not help but notice the meaning behind one of the opening sequence:

This is where Alois is shown with sadness written all over his face. Then Claude appears and covers his young master's face with his hand showing the contract seal.

Alois accepts it and the two fade in a background of spider web.

And then it shifts to Ciel with an equally sad expression and Sebastian does the same - covers his young master's face with his hand showing their contract (he seems more protective of Ciel, though, at least in my eyes).

But the difference is that Ciel refuses that "comfort" and brushes off Sebastian's hand and walks away from him.

But Ciel stops, looks back and signals Sebastian to follow him. Sebastian wears a sheepy grin right after.

This is perhaps the reason why the partnership of Alois and Claude do not amuse me much. Until they show more than a slave-master treatment, they cannot match Ciel and Sebastian who have shown a tested and amusing albeit sometimes confusing relationship.

NOW, EPISODE 3 featured one case: women burning in a seemingly instantaneous way.

The Phantomhive household, the Queen's dog, was tasked to solve the crime. However, it was also revealed that another noble family was serving the Queen as her "spider". That was one hint that meeting the Trancy household (the first time for Ciel) was inevitable.

It was also in this episode where Ciel mentioned a character that would start to confuse the viewers: Madam Red. But although the name was spoken naturally by Ciel, it was revealed later on that he had no recollection of who she actually was.

But before I proceed, I took some screenshots of some showcased fanservice. Yay!

A blushing Sebastian!! I bet fans already know why.

Cats (in this case, the kittens), of course. Not even a naked Ciel could elicit that same reaction from our adorable "devil" butler.

Eventually, Sebastian managed to get back to his senses after a person looking exactly like Fred Aberline appeared. Sebastian immediately shifted Ciel's attention to him and the two walked away.

Of course, I am uncertain whether that person is Aberline or not. His face, hair and uniform looked exactly liked Aberline. However, he had a mustache. Now, I could not remember if Aberline had worn a mustache sometime in the past, but Sebastian's expression somehow hinted it and in the anime, Aberline was one person who almost confused Ciel and drove Sebastian away from him.

Our beloved shinigami, Grelle Sutcliffe, also made his first appearance in this season.

And seeing him, Ciel had a blurry flashback of a certain person.

Madam Red.

Ciel did not remember Grelle at all. On the other hand, Grelle recognized Sebastian right away. Whether the shinigami remembered Ciel or not was uncertain but his reaction was notable.

Grelle seemed confused while he listened to their short exchange (of introduction). That, or he was simply wondering who Ciel was, which I believed was not the case.

Of course, this confusion was temporarily set aside because of Grelle's futile attempt to flirt with Sebastian.

Grelle blocking Sebastian's way.

But as what Ciel remarked, Sebastian was a real devil and he would use even a shinigami for his own advantage. Anyway, it was all happy. Grelle had a fantastic time doing his photoshoot for Sebastian. And although I am not so much of a Grelle fan, his poses were too amusing to miss.

And from now on viewers will remember Grelle as the Shinigami Mangosteen.

All these things he did just to receive this expression from the gorgeous butler.

Yummy Grelle? Nope! I think Sebastian was yummier.

We share the same reaction, Grelle. Kiss kiss kiss Sebastian~

And we get a souvenir shot!

EPISODE 4 might feature the meeting of the two royalties for Ciel was determined to learn more about the Queen's spider. I hope we get an idea of what is happening already. :)

Tokyo Magnitude 8.0

2010-07-18T00:56:00.000+08:00

(Old entry written in my unused blog. I will delete it so I am posting it here - however short it is - because it is still anime related.)

TOKYO MAGNITUDE 8.0

At first I was wondering how would an 11-episode series go by this title. It MUST mean, somehow, that all eleven episode would revolve around the earthquake. But for an earthquake scenario to last that good amount of airtime, wouldn't it be boring?

What gave the series more excitement would be the "aftershocks" an the fact that the main characters were just but two kids - a girl with an attitude problem and a boy who simply did not know how dangerous (and "slowing") it would be to run and roam around chasing after robots.

But I found the series was good. And despite the simple plot, it still worked and did not seem boring to me at all. In fact, I finished all episodes in one sitting and I slept around four in the morning and woke up with badly swollen eyes due to crying (it IS drama).

So if you found Grave of the Fireflies enjoyable despite the drama, you might appreciate this one.

KUROSHITSUJI: Season II

2010-07-16T18:09:00.000+08:00

(Spoiler ahead, most probably.)

I honestly thought of not watching the second season because it was rumored not to feature my beloved Sebastian Michaelis and Ciel Phantomhive. However, I still decided to watch it. I need to have an opinion about it, at least. Like Twilight (although Kuroshitsuji is far far better than Twilight). I read the first book just to gain right to dislike it.

Thankfully, however, I no longer think I will dislike Kuroshitsuji 2. :)

Kuroshitsuji 2 features two new main characters.

(A new young master named Alois Trancy.)

(And a new butler named Claude Faustus.)

And it also featured a new maid, Hanna, whose importance in the story I am yet to find out.

(The maid, Hanna.)

More screenshots of Alois and Claude (although I am mighty sure Kuroshitsuji fans know their faces very well by now... the issue, oh my god, the issue!)

(Alois after disgustingly poking Hanna's left eyes. I cringed watching that scene.)

(Another screenshot of Alois being bored.)

So what changed my mind and inspired me to follow Kuroshitsuji 2?

(Sebastian, of course!!)

The moment this cloaked guy carrying a big and roomy trunk appeared before the Trancy household in the middle of a stormy night I immediately recognized him as Sebastian. WHO WOULD NOT?!

(And who would not discern the content of that trunk that Sebastian protects with his life?)

(Of course, it is Ciel! Dead as of the first episode, though.)

(We can expect our dear Ciel to be alive again in the next episode. Afterall, that was what the preview showed.)

(Extra screenshot because I love the ending image of Ciel. He looked so weary. Who would not after all he had gone through?)

If Sebastian and Ciel did not appear in this new season of Kuroshitsuji, would I still watch it? Honestly, I am not sure. My curiosity might bring me to watch the first episode, which I did, but Alois and Claude did not attract me that much.

Alois is a weird character, sure. But it is my disinterest in his life that drives me away from wanting to witness his story. It may be because I have already witnessed Ciel's story and one young master is enough for me. I would rather not entertain a new main character while Kuroshitsuji, the manga, is still running.

I did not find Claude appealing at all, too. Perhaps the first episode is not enough to justify the two new characters. But if it did not, and Sebastian and Ciel did not appear, would Kuroshitsuji 2 make a strong impact on the viewers? I am thinking that this was so because Sebastian and Ciel WOULD be here.

Now, happy fans, watch it!

You can download the first two episodes in these links:

Episode 1

Episode 2

Bleachasylum.com also has uploads and links and you might as well visit it.

Baby Steps Towards YAOI

2010-07-12T23:49:00.000+08:00

In other words: How to Corrupt Your Mind

The love for yaoi... I guess I acquired it naturally. I do not know if it is normal but I have been exposed to gay relationship as early as twelve years old (or even younger) without being friends with gays or yaoi enthusiasts neither having watched anything gay. It just happened one day while I was happily watching Yuyu Hakusho and found Kurama and Karasu a possible pair. The instant I saw them fight and heard Karasu's lines I immediately thought "haha gay" and fell in love with the idea.

Now, during these times I also shipped Kurama and Botan together and some other straight anime and sentai pairings. How my mind became exclusively for yaoi I can no longer remember. And because of this, I think this blog entry is entirely unnecessary.

However, if you are still new and seriously wants to dedicate your existence appreciating yaoi, the following are my thoughts, opinions and suggestions. (Probably directed for female readers).

SECTION 1:

You start with a slash-able anime/manga/etc pairing.

In my case, I started with Karasu/Kurama. And there are thousands of gay pairings in the world wide web.

Most probably, you have started reading fan fictions. In case you haven't known it, fanfiction.net is the best fan fiction source I know. You can choose the rating your sanity can take but let me make it clear to you: YAOI is hardcore. There is no such thing as office-friendly yaoi - that is SHOUNEN AI (or boy's love). So you can practice filtering your search to Rate-M. Now, honestly there are a lot better writers writing within K - T rating but, hey, you want your yaoi, right?

If you are not satisfied with ff.net, you can try adultfanfiction.net. You have to sign and confirm you are 18 years old and older.

Now, those are all WORDS. They need your imaginations to work for you. After reading tons of them, you will probably find yourself wanting to SEE. This is where doujinshis come in.

Doujinshis are like fan fictions. They are made by (very talented and hardworking) fans. But they are usually in manga/comic format.

Doujinshis are more difficult to find than fan fictions but if you know how to use google, you will be amazed at their number. The best place to download them is aarinfantasy.com. In their forum, there is a download section. However, you have to register. But registration in forums are free anyway and you do not have to collect points in order to download.

SECTION 2:

You have probably prepared your mind. Now here is the REAL deal.

Yaoi is a genre. And although slash yaoi pairings may satisfy you, it is still best to meet original yaoi works.

The advantage in taking this path is that "it makes you a little more sane".

Slash pairing is difficult for the heart. It is so wonderful but frustrating. Why? Because these pairings RARELY happen unless the authors/makers suddenly humor us fans.

Reading true yaoi works give you real satisfaction. Plus, there are several good titles out there who will make you proud for choosing the path of yaoi.

But first I suggest starting with shounen ai.

CLAMP's works are shoujo but they usually involve subtle hints of shounen ai. For example, Touya and Yukito is an official couple. You may start with them if you haven't read/watched CLAMP works at all. X/1999 and xxxHolic are the best for this (Card Captor Sakura, although showcasing the canon TxY, is still very much shoujo, not to mention very long). They also created Legal Drug but as far as I know it is in hiatus.

(X/1999 Kamui and Fuuma)

Now we jump to a very different author: Kazuya Minekura, who is probably popular because of Saiyuki.

I did not read/watched Saiyuki that much but I am pretty sure the series will not satisfy yaoi-craving and will only lead to doujinshi/fan fiction frustration. But her other works that I've read/watched like Wild Adapter and Araiso Private High School Executive Committee are good enough but are still not yaoi or even shounen ai. (I love her Stigma the most, but I do not think it belongs to this genre).

(Araiso Private High School Committee, the main characters are also from Wild Adapter)

I just mentioned these authors because (in my opinion), most yaoi-enthusiasts know them and appreciates their works.

Now, for the real deal: LOVELESS by Yun Kouga. It is a fantasy manga that has also been animated. It is still shounen ai and probably best for teens but I recommend it simply for its creativity.

(Main characters Ritsuka and Soubi from Loveless. I adore Soubi very much.)

However, you can skip that and go for GRAVITATION by Maki Murakami. Some fans may argue and say Loveless is better but I disagree. If it is for the shounen ai (not for the sake of plot, art and creativity) Gravitation, the anime, beats Loveless hands-down. Gravitation is certainly shounen ai. And it has good music, too.

(The Gravitation Gang. Because I cannot just simply disregard the other chracters, most especially my adorable fluffy bunny Ryuuichi).

You may also try the classic yaoi titles (in anime and manga): Ai no Kusabi, Haru wo Daiteita, Zetsu Ai and Bronze, and Fake. And although I have watched other old yaoi titles such as Boku no Sexual Harassment, Papa to Kiss in the Dark, Enzai and Earthian, I do not recommend them at all. They are lame.

For the newer yaoi titles, I think Junjou Romantica is becoming popular. I have watched and read it but unfortunately it did not make a huge impact on me. But I am in no position to exempt it from the list because, well, it IS popular. Gakuen Heaven (not to confuse with Gakuen Heaven, the hentai manga, which I enjoyed more btw) and Sukisyo (Suki na Mono wa Suki Dakara Shouganai) were also popular titles. I have watched them but, likewise, they did not make a significant impact on me.

(Junjou Romantica... LOL. That's all.)

After reading and watching (or skipping) the aforementioned titles, you can try works of Yamato Nase. I blogged about some of her mangas that I read and I highly recommend Saa Koi ni Ochitamae. Yamato Nase's works are "friendly" at first and then she adds some graphic scenes from time to time which makes it a good literature to prepare your hoho-innocent mind. And then maybe read Only the Ring Finger Knows by Kanagi Satoru (I can no longer remember if it was that good but I am pretty certain it had been popular). Cut by Kawai Touko is also one of my favorite yaoi manga. It is not mind-blowing and all but I liked it.

(Saa Koi Ni Ochitame, with my favorite chibi twins. Image by scanlators, of course.)

(Only the Ring Finger Knows. The images I saw today made me want to re-read the manga to remember the characters hehe.)

The latest I read that were equally amusing were Totally Captivated by Yoo Ha Jin and U Don't Know Me by Na Yeri. These are manhwa (Korean manga).

(U Don't Know Me main characters Seyun and Yoojin. I was supposed to write about this manga today.)

Now for a real mind-blowing author! And I list it last BECAUSE her works that I have read were so amazing it completely changed the way I view yaoi. This author is Setona Mizushiro. I may sound a little bias and it is all up to you to check on her works anyway. I did not read everything she wrote but her 1999 Shanghai and, above all, her The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese were most especially outstanding.

(1999 Shanghai. I'm sorry for the tiny picture. I was too lazy to get one myself. Mizushiro's art here is not as beautiful as The Cornered Mouse but the story is amazing.)

I DO NOT suggest reading The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese as your first yaoi manga. Read it after having done a dozen or more yaoi titles because it will make all other yaoi bland and superficial.

I do not know where to insert his but you are not a full-fledged yaoi enthusiast if you haven't watched and read Sensitive Pornograph. The anime is yaoi at its purest form. There is little plot and it focuses mainly on gay sex. It is not my cup of tea BUT from time to time I get a wanton desire to watch it. ^_~ It is very raw and simple it gets you back on track.

(Sensitive Pornograph. If you search for images on the web, you are immediately thrown to face tons of graphic shots. Teehee~)

Of course these are just my opinions and, although I've been reading yaoi for more than ten years, I still have much to learn and to discover.

You can also try Live Actions (uh...) and there are plenty out there to be honest. But I rarely watch them. The only one I remember vividly is the Korean Live Adaptation of shounen ai title Antique Bakery. I will try to re-watch the BL series I have and make a review of them. To be honest, I do not remember them because they all suck.

TILL NEXT TIME! The world of yaoi manga and anime is especially dangerous but it is also interesting, warm and lovely it is hard to remove once it enters your system. Oh? Should I have written this paragraph first and foremost? :D :D :D

PS: Spectrum Nexus is the best place to read yaoi titles online! I suggest you read online the first chapters of manga series unknown to you before you download or buy them. And yes, please buy the once you like the most!

TOTALLY CAPTIVATED

2010-07-08T10:12:00.001+08:00

by Yoo Ha Jin

I actually woke up early to write this. T_T Oh my... the effort I spend just for my beloved homos.

TOTALLY CAPTIVATED. (Some spoilers ahead)

The manhwa itself had an ordinary plot. To summarize it: A gangster fell in love with poor guy.

Although almost everybody was a gangster, as expected of yaoi, it did not contain much gangster action or schemes. The story was really all about the romance between the main characters. The violence involved were mainly bloody punches that would cover just a few panels.

It was similar with 1999 Shanghai's (by Setona Mizushiro) utilization of the gangster theme although 1999 Shanghai had more conflicts.

But what definitely saved this manga (or manhwa, but let me call it a manga starting at this point) were the characters.

The character designs were typical pretty-boys (and I was thankful the villains looked so plain I did not have a trouble liking them). The main characters faces were really well drawn and beautiful but I swear they were faces one could see in many yaoi mangas.

But the characterization was great! Their personalities were refreshing and consistent.

This is Ewon Jung (it was a bonus his name sounded similar to my very own Ewen~~ so much love).

He was a typical nice guy - the common type used in many yaoi mangas. He was nice and he would not hesitate to speak up to defend his opinion and his friend (only to regret it later because, well, he had to face gangsters). He was good in cleaning and cooking, was hardworking and was a top-notch student in scholarship.

But what set him apart from his counterparts, for me, was his characterization.

It is rare for me to see characters who are openly gay. Most characters I've read in the past were usually portrayed like it is natural for them to attract and be attracted to people of same gender. Like they simply replace the female characters. Like they are meant to be seen as "that guy who is in love with that guy but he cannot possibly bring himself to like any other". It is not that bad but I do not see anything wrong having them blatantly labeled homosexuals.

So I like it when characters are open to their sexual orientation.

And Ewon knew he was gay. That he had a past relationship with the very cute Jiho.

That he found Mookyul very handsome. And that he looked at cute guys (and sometimes flirted with them). He also knew and strongly believed he was good-looking.

His friends knew he was the top (the seme, or the "pitcher" as what they called in this manga) and sex did not faze him (unless he was the bottom because he was never taken from the back and did not like being hurt).

He cared for Jiho and he looked really manly when they were together.

Now comes Mookyul Eun, the Gangnam mafia boss.

His looks was also the typical bad-boy. His strength was also exaggerated. He got the usual snotty attitude and bad temper of some seme.

But his meanness AND devotion to Ewon and his underlings was consistent.

I especially liked his blunt way of speaking.

He got no pretensions, in his words and actions. He made use a lot of profanities which amused me. He had real bad temper that choose nobody and no time. He was not even gentle (but he was kind) to Ewon. The only person he seemed was a bit gentler towards to was the chairman/the mafia big boss/his father/sort-of-lover.

He was an honestly spoiled boss. He did and believed anything he wanted. But he was not narrow-minded. There were some issues like misunderstanding but these petty problems did not last long. The characters were not honest all the times but they rarely lie (and that's my sort-of-mantra in life).

He was also very possessive and obsessive but he never bothered to pretend he was not.

I could say he was my most favorite character in this story. He was not perfect but he did not need to. His character was just fine being obscene and all.

Oh, and people knew he disliked women. He had relationship with Jiho and the chairman, too. But he was certainly obsessed with Ewon.

Mookyul is such an amusing character I wouldn't mind re-read the manga just to read his profanity-filled lines and evil expressions.

THERE were a lot of good side characters, too.

Jiho Shin is the type of spoiled uke I would not mind seeing. He was too cute and "fragile". Ewon did not love him deeply but Ewon still cared for him (who wouldn't?) Ewon was employed (with no salary) in the mafia because of Jiho. And even though Jiho knew Ewon and Mookyul, he still managed to be cheer himself up and move on. No grudge whatsoever.

Then Dohoon, the typical type of bestfriend (I say typical A HELL LOT but it's the truth). He was open to Ewon about his feelings for him (and he was also admittedly gay) and he was not afraid to be blunt to and about Mookyul. He was a good guy with no ulterior motives, not manipulating, and only wanted to support Ewon. He deserved love. T_T

I also found the mafia guys adorable. If all thugs were like them, I wouldn't mind becoming one of them. They were loyal to Mookyul and they loved Ewon to bits. Sometimes, they did not hesitate to speak up to Mookyul, their boss, especially if it was for Ewon's sake. Ewon cared for them, too.

But among the mafia guys, I liked Sangchul the most.

He was almost like a father to Mookyul and he protected and took care of the two without any trace of malice, envy, or bitterness (same goes for the other guys, too, anyway). He reminded me of Leorio (Hunter X Hunter).

I COULD NOT SAY this is a good manga BUT just by coming up with these wonderful set of characters, it may BE afterall. I am keeping it in my HD and recommending it to yaoi readers. The best part is that the rating (supposedly) is for 16+. That means there were no graphic scenes although Mookyul was a pervert whose lust cannot be satisfied. Honestly, the best yaoi mangas are the ones with less explicitness.

They were totally captivating - the characters. I hope I'll be able to read more good stories and amazing characters like them.

Denka Sekka Boys

2010-07-06T23:45:00.000+08:00

by TOHJO ASAMI. (I think I recognize this mangaka. I think I've read some works authored by Tohjo Asami before).

This is what I read tonight. It was ranked nicely in Manga Traders and I already saw the cover and some pages at Spectrum Nexus before I read it. I'm already almost at the end but I don't think I'm reading it anymore (way to go for introduction).

It's not bad. But it's not amazing either. The main characters, the "seme" and the "uke" are already too typical for me. I've read a lot of works with characters like them. Even better. Like Yamato Nase's Saa Koi ni Ochitamae (which is one of my favorite romantic-comedy yaoi). Kodaka Natsui did not impress me with his neverending naivety (there must be a limit). Ritsu Yasaka was bearable but MEH~ The manga praised him highly but he's just a typical seme for me.

The only character I liked in this manga, and thank kami-sama for having him, was Itsuki Shigure.

He reminds me of Hideaki Asaba from Kare Kano. And his personality was almost the same. But above all, he reminds me of my favorite Ryogo Kusama from PS2 game Front Mission III. He was also a typical "important" side character but I like his type anyway.

I immediately liked him when he first appeared. (Itsuki on the left, Ritsu on the right). I like his type of hairstyle.

There were quite a lot of entertaining character sidestories. And there were some funny scenes from time to time (thank you, Itsuki). However, I personally think there were a lot of unimportant scenes.

My problem now is whether to delete the manga from my HD or keep it. Afterall, I spent some good minutes downloading the volumes and I like Itsuki. (You say it's just a few megabytes but I rather keep files that are "necessary"). I'll think about it tomorrow.

(I made it seem like a lowly yaio manga in my review XD. So here's the good catch...)

I don't recommend it BUT it's okay. At least it had a plot. Ritsu might look like an awesome character to people who haven't read 20 or more yaoi manga titles. It's sort-of-good for yaoi beginners (there are a lot of explicit scenes to prepare your mind). Itsuki had his fair share of panels and chapters,too and he's an adorable character.

And at least it did not amaze me so much I think I could sleep peacefully tonight.

Pet Oshigotochuu AND Choosing yaoi manga from vast archives

2010-06-27T23:56:00.000+08:00

Bored, I searched Spectrum Nexus for yaoi manga again~ And here's what I found:

Pet Oshitogochuu~ (Pet on Duty) by Yamato Nase

I found it entertaining after browsing a few page so I kept on reading. The artwork was very familiar to me. In fact, it reminded me of Saa Koi no Ochitamae. And indeed I was right. Yamato Nase is the second mangaka I am slowly becoming more familiar with. (The first was Setona Mizushiro).

I wanted to read something "different". It is The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese's fault (again). I've got no time to browse all titles I see and decide whether I like it or not. What I usually do nowadays, in Spectrum Nexus, accordingly:

1. Arrange volume. Least number of volumes first (because I've got not much time ohohohohoho lies).

2. The site's thumbnail cover image as you hover the title was very useful. I may be missing out a lot of titles by just depending on the cover but, hey! I found out about TCMDC and a lot of other very good series just by depending on the cover and the title. And maybe my instinct.

My criteria of a cover image and title?

I prefer "normal" art - where the males look males. I do not fancy seeing males with sparkly eyes. I'd rather take the risk opening a manga cover of burly men than fluffy, overly effeminate and sparkly bishounens.

And I tend to find it interesting if the cover image does not showcase two (or more) guys being super lovey-dovey. I skip them most of the times. Simple but vague is okay.

I rarely get interested in angsty cover, too. I want, at least my "uke" (the term which I'm strangely trying to avoid nowadays... and yes, because of TCMDC) or any of the main characters grinning (happily, mischievously, whichever ways).

As for the title, it's a bit complicated but I go with my instinct. Anyway, most of them are in Japanese so like hell would I recognize them.

3. I open the "promising" title and do a quick scan of the pages. When you click on the title at Spectrum Nexus, they link you to one page filled with thumbnails of ALL pages. Now, I wouldn't be able to read them like that but there are certain things I follow:

I do not like crampy layouts. Sure, the story may be nice but, honestly, in whichever reading material, the layout is important. I want to relax while I read and a cramped layout won't help me do that.

I make a quick check on the main characters "expressions". If any of them looks like a "damsel in distress" in every freaking page, then "no thanks". I also check if it involves graphic scenes. If it does, which they all do because they are YAOI, I take notice of the amount. If the number of pages doesn't justify the length of the story, then no. It probably means it's PWP or something. I may sound untrue, but honestly, I read YAOI for the story. More that the heavy make-out session, very good characterization, realism and plot make my heart pound like HELL. (And I seriously mean HELL because I'm very bad dealing with overwhelming emotions - happy or sad).

Overall, it's probably my years of experience with yaoi manga that helps me make my choices.

Anyway, those were what I have to do before coming up with this manga. Haha!

It's very light and entertaining. There's not so much emotions at play. It's not even sad. It's good for a light read - something to cheer me up. It's just like the title: Pet of Duty. And what does pets do, anyway, aside from littering shit all over the place? The "pet" here was actually useful (and when I say useful it means he cooks, cleans, and makes bored guys happy by just being cute).

*Originally from my Tumblr*

All for Ichiro Miyata

2010-06-22T12:59:00.001+08:00

This is Ichiro Miyata of Hajime no Ippo. And yes, you might not recognize him because he was being manly in this panel.

This is one of Ichiro's scene during his fight with ex-OPBF champion, Arnie Gregory. I like it when Ichiro looks surprised and reveals his sort-of-boyish personality. He's a spoiled brat so that's to be expected.

And this is perhaps one of my more decent reason of liking him. This is also probably why Ippo Makunochi's head-over-heels him (aside from his good looks, of course). When he's inside the ring, he's too strong-willed and he won't stop unless he's accomplish what he can. As long as he thinks he can still hit one powerful punch, he won't be taken down.

I also like his legs and thighs. They trigger a wanton desire in me of writing a story for him.

And another decent reason why Ippo and I like Ichiro very much: he box and gambles his life. It's not really a good thing but he's a counter-hitter and counters rely on enemies strength, intensified by being defenseless. It's almost hit or die. And although there are much more stronger characters in this manga, I believe Ichiro is the most aggressive. He puts everything on the line even before the bell rings for the first round. (Not good really, but it makes him somewhat a masochist... which is very enticing ^_~).

SOME RANDOM NOTE:

If they were not rivals, I swear Arnie would hit on him.

If Ichiro did not do his trademark wink during the weigh in, Arnie would have probably be in better state. But no. Ichiro just had to be alluring before leaving the room. Thus, Arnie fell really badly.

He was speechless all the while!

GASP! No you won't.

And so this is what you get for hitting on him.

Of course, in reality, Arnie did not really mean any harm. ^_~ He's a good guy. He even left Ichiro his cowboy hat as remembrance (damn him, like hell Ichiro would wear that cheap stuff).

ICHIRO'S RELATIONSHIP

So many fangirls (and fanboys)! But his bond to three people is what I love the most.

1.) IPPO MAKUNOCHI

(I'm actually scared for Ichiro, but Ippo's still a nice guy).

I failed to take a screen shot but there was a scene when Ippo was ready to fight Takashi Sendo just because the latter hit Ichiro's head. And so straight people would say Ippo felt the same when Sawamura hit Kumi. The truth is, NO.

He was more concerned for his ideals as a boxer and a man.

They say he treats Miyata as a friendly rival and I'm pretty sure a lot of people would disagree. HELL, NO. It's very obvious Ippo wants more than to fight Ichiro inside the ring.

You see, even though he claimed to put Ichiro's capability in pedestal, Ippo was not able to hide it: he knew he was stronger. He just did not want Ichiro to be severely injured thus he tried to believe in Ichiro's strength.

He's just one hell of a fanboy, really.

And an unashamed pervert.

Still, it's nice to see them together when Ippo's not being gay you could almost deduce he'd be fapping.

2.) MAMORU TAKAMURA

I believe this is a bit harmless. Takamura seemed to care for Ichiro like a little brother; afterall, they've been together longer than the other guys. It's rarely they get to spend time together, though, but when they do, I think it gets really peaceful.

Takamura talks almost decently around Ichiro. It is surely not respect but I bet Takamura knows Ichiro's personality very well that he simply adapt to them.

On their training camp, they'd usually annoy each other but it was still really peaceful.

I see a different Takamura when he's together with Ichiro. Maybe he gets more reserved but I doubt it. It simply felt like he was being a bit gentler towards Ichiro than towards any other guys.

I would really ship them just because of this "bond". But it's more brotherly than platonic so I'd rather not disgrace it.

3.) TAKESHI SENDO

I bet only few people think this two got amusing relationship. But I believe the manga was actually consistent!

Sendo was the first person I fancied pairing up with Ichiro and that was even before the manga revealed moments of them together.

I thought Sendo's personality would very much compliment Ichiro's. But my problem was that they never met before. Ichiro only got to see Sendo's fight against Alexander Volg Zangief and he was even on Volg's side. It was a pairing I fancied yet I did not want to write anything about two people who had not met "officially".

So when Morikawa finally put them in the same panel, I was overjoyed.

Because it was how exactly I envisioned their first meeting would be. Sendo being usually friendly, open and uncaring while Ichiro being cold and easily irritated.

But what was more amusing was Ichiro's very open reaction. He was usually quiet and reserved and kept his reactions subtle and just to himself, but when he was with Sendo, he did not care at all.

It was like they immediately felt "at ease" with each other.

Well, Sendo is warm that way towards anybody. But I can't help sensing something is special between them two (because I ship them).

There was never really a peaceful time of them together... but I thought they were being comfortable and open.

They were really sweet.

And I bet if they get together, they'd be the (brutally) sweetest couple in HnI.

Ichiro would be an adorable but spoiled boyfriend.

But Sendo will protect his spot as the TOP.

They're zodiac signs even compatible! ^_~

The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese

2010-06-17T01:59:00.001+08:00

What can I say? I'M IN LOVE WITH THIS MANGA! (Spoilers ahead).

The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese by Setona Mizushiro.

You see, I've sort of given up finding a wonderful yaoi manga. Most of the one-shots and chaptered stories I've read would usually make use of typical plots just to make two good looking guys sleep together. Some were cute and makes you feel warm (all meanings intended) all over. But some are just plain boring and only but the lovely uke and hot seme make the manga attractive.

So I got bored.

Fortunately, I have a lot of spare time and I found this gem! Usually I do not take notice of the author but I learned after falling in love with "The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese" (which I shall abbreviate now as TCMDC) that it was written by Setona Mizushiro, the author of 1999 Shanghai!! And 1999 Shanghai is one of my favorite yaoi manga!

I'm not good with detailed reviews but HERE I link you to a good blog about cornered mouse. And HERE I link you to a site where you can read it online.

It's WONDERFUL. I would actually recommend it to friends who do not read yaoi but are open to graphic sexual act between two males. Take note of it: graphic sex.

I usually equate graphic sex to superficial plots. But there were times I was proven wrong. In TCMDC, the sex scenes were needed to define the characters. They were not for eye candy, not just to satisfy horniness (of characters and readers). They were IMPORTANT.

Another thing I commend the manga was the fact that there was no such thing as uke and seme. Imagase, the blatant gay character, would usually imagine himself being the "housewife" and, being masochist, loves it when sometimes he's bottom and the sex was rough. But he was usually the top because Kyouichi, the used-to-be-straight guy, divorced, older and prefers women, has no experience in gay sex and "needs to be taught".

I'm making it sound superficial but the story is far beyond that. It is for mature readers.

The manga evokes feelings of realism, angst, pain and love. I would at one moment hate Imagase for being obsessive and feel pity towards the kind (but easily swayed into adultery) Kyouichi but I'd still be hoping for the relationship to work out.

By love, it's not the usually fluffy and warm like teenage love full of giddiness. The characters were brutally honest with their situation and thought of their "relationship" like adults... who were nearing their 30's and still no security for the future.

I LOVE IT.

Even when I was watching a horror movie today, I was excitedly reminiscing the story and the characters and making promise to read it again (which I shall do so after I write this entry).

The mangaka involved women. YES.

Usually, yaoi mangas are almost devoid of women unless they're side characters that a.) cheers on the homo and b.) criticizes the homo on the background but remains just that: in the background.

There were a lot of women in this manga being Kyouichi was initially as straight as rod. He was kind but because of his kindness he ended up being forced into affairs. It even came to a point he would wish for Imagase to be a "normal woman" to make the situation easier. At the later chapters, Kyouichi even got another girlfriend (who was undeniably a good woman) and was about to marry her.

It was like the reader would be forced to contemplate whether Kyouichi, a supposed to be straight guy, is better off with a good woman or spend an uncertain future together with the unstable and obsessive-to-the-point-of-being-a-stalker Imagase.

If I were to become the reasonable me who was not a yaoi lover, I would recommend Kyouichi to just lead a simple man's life. But I'm pretty sure that even a straight woman who never reads yaoi but just this one, and experience the difficult relationship of the two, would silently root for Imagase. Even though he's pretty annoying sometimes (and he admits it), I could understand why Kyouichi came to love him. AND THE MANGA ACHIEVED TO CONVEY THAT FEELING.

Honestly, READ THIS MANGA. Yaoi fan or not, if you are open minded and mature enough to see through explicit scenes, and are looking for a relationship out of the ordinary, read this. You'd appreciate you were a woman (and if you're like me, you'd wish you were gay just to experience it).

I found another work of Setona Mizushiro and I'm planning to read it, too. Maybe, just maybe, I'll find it as good as 1999 Shanghai and TCMDC and I'll post another entry if I do so.

Goodbye for now~

Evangelion 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance

2010-06-14T19:04:00.000+08:00

EVANGELION 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance

Finally! They released the DVD and I was able to download a decent English subbed. (I got a good quality 1.4GB avi from a torrent).

From this point onward, I will try to compare it to the events in the original Neon Genesis Evangelion according to how I remember them. But I have poor memory.

There were many differences. (And SPOILER alert).

1. We were all informed that Asuka's name was changed to Shinikami. I liked her German name: Asuka Langley Soryuu. Asuka Shinikami just doesn't sound right.

2. Asuka's entrance was different. It was shorter and uncomplicated but it still showcased how good of a pilot she was. The angel she defeated was not fish-type, but I thought it looked cooler (freezing the water, leaving snowflakes-print as it traversed the sea).

3. There was a new pilot whose name I failed to learn. I liked her. She seemed the most positive and "normal" (if you consider her great zeal in fighting using the eva). She was the pilot of the annihilated Unit 05. As I remember, the original only mentioned about Unit 05 but this time it was shown in action and how it was destroyed. The pilot was still alive and even fought alongside Unit 00 and smacked some sense to Shinji.

4. Kaworu's entrance was also different. But we are yet to see what is to happen for 2.0 ended with him descending from the sky, with a halo like an angel that he was, and piercing now-transformed Unit 01's head.

5. Touji did not become a pilot. Asuka was the one who operated Unit 04 and got contaminated by an angel. That was a relief to me because I'm certain Asuka will be okay (and Touji won't be).

6. Asuka and Rei actually got along somehow before the "contamination".

7. Ayanamie Rei showed more "emotions".

8. The interaction between Rei and Shinji was more highlighted. And THIS is what I liked the most in this movie.

In Neon Genesis Evangelion, Shinji was kind to Rei and, after the "entry-plug-saving" incident, Rei became kinder to Shinji. However, they did not share a lot of moments together to solidify their "bond" and, in the end, it (seemed) hinted that Shinji's attraction towards Rei was only because Rei was modeled after Yui.

In 2.0, however, although Shinji is yet to know the truth behind Rei and the Dummy Plug System, they already shared a strong bond. He once cooked lunch for Rei and Rei REALLY learned the words "Thank you" (not just contemplated about them) and started using them a lot. Rei started learning how to cook and planned a meal for Shinji and his father, Gendou.

Asuka's interaction towards the two children was also not so bad. Even though she called Rei "commander's pet", before the Unit 04 incident, they were already in good terms. And she even tried learning how to cook for Shinji as well. When she learned that the testing for Unit 04 would happen on the date of Rei's Meal Invitation, she volunteered to pilot Unit 04 so the meal could still take place. However, although things were looking bright, the incident just had to happen.

I am not sure if they replaced Rei's "self-destruction" but the movie included a wonderful (but painful) battle that confirmed Rei's importance towards Shinji. The movie ended with this scene, but hopefully, it will result to a positive change.

Although I know that it seems impossible, I hope Evangelion be kinder in this Rebuild and kill not so much. I am already thankful Touji is alive. And it seems the second Rei (the viewer-favorite Rei) has been saved by Shinji. But there are still two movies and, although the sequel seemed a cheerful one (preview said about it containing lots of fanservice), this is Evangelion we are talking about!

Rei's fans will certainly appreciate this installation. Shinji wasn't too bad, too. He was not as depressing as before. And Asuka, although still snotty, was adorable. I could not even bring myself to hate Gendou because I could somehow understand his reasons.

So bring on the third!!! I can't wait to watch it!

Moment

2010-06-14T03:55:00.000+08:00

Moment, Ending Song of Araiso Private High School Executive Committee (OVA)

(sung by T. Morikawa and I. Hideo)

Click here to download the TV-version. (Sorry, that's all I have.)

"For the day that I will die.
...Yes! The end will come.
without hurrying, so......"

Taikutsu sou da ne to waratta kimi no te wo hanare
Ano hi notto no kirehashi wa hikouki ni natta

Monokuro no keshiki wo yukkuri to hikisaite

"For the day that I will die."

Toki no suna wa nagareru mama
Koko ni iru koto, kimi to iru koto, ima wa sore dake

Tatoeba hoka no dare yori mo uso ga umakute mo
Jibun wo damasareba sore wa "Shinjiru" tte koto sa
Koboreta kotoba wa ikiteruyo boku no naka

"For the day that I will die."

Toki no suna wa nagareochite mo
Koko ni ita koto, boku ga ita koto, tada sore dake

Sore wa tabun kyou no yo ni yoku hareta sora no shita

"For the day that I will die.
...Yes! The end will come.
without hurrying, so......"

Koko ni iru koto, kimi to iru koto, ima wa sore dake

La lalalalala la.................

Koko ni ita koto, boku ga ita koto, tada sore dake

English Translation

"For the day that I will die.
...Yes! The end will come.
without hurrying, so......"

"It seems tedious, doesn't it" I laughed, and let go of your hand

That day, scraps of notes became an airplane

Slowly tearing up the monochrome landscape

"For the day that I will die."

The sands of time flow in this way

Being here, being with you, The now is only that.

For example, my lies are smoother than other people's.

Deceiving myself, saying this is "truth"

Overflowing words living inside me

"For the day that I will die."

The sands of time flowing down

Having been here, having been with me, merely only that

That, probably like today, under a well clear sky

"For the day that I will die.
...Yes! The end will come.
without hurrying, so......"

Being here, being with you, The now is only that.

La lalalalala la.................

Having been here, having been with with me, merely only that

(LYRICS & TRANSLATION FROM: holdthelight.net)

Slam Dunk: First Proof of HanaRu

2009-07-18T22:36:00.001+08:00

I was reading Slam Dunk manga for the umpteenth time and decided to crop these panels (and maybe more panels if I'm not feeling lazy and/or excited).

I am a SenRu fan. But I do not deny the fact that HanaRu is the most plausible slash pair in Slam Dunk (and I enjoy it, too).

And it is HANAru. Rukawa Kaede will NEVER be seme (as much as he might hate to admit it).

Details:

Slam Dunk Volume 1

Chapter 3: Blood

My Most Favorite Page in Deep Purple

2009-07-15T02:50:00.000+08:00

Actually, this is probably my most favorite page amongst ALL doujinshis I've read.

If you are a SenRu fan and haven't read Deep Purple yet (which I doubt), READ IT! NOW! You can find a link in my blog~

Evangelion. (Sorry for my lack of creativity.)

2009-07-11T00:30:00.000+08:00

Pardon this sudden "sort-of-unrelated post" but I have to blog about this - about Neon Genesis Evangelion.

Of course, this is triggered by the fact that I am currently desperate to watch the latest remake: Evangelion 2.0: You Can (Not) Advance. That is why, despite having sworn to myself that I'd avoid re-watching NGE (and other great series), I did.

Neon Genesis Evangelion was introduced to me by a high school friend more or less 10 years ago. Maybe the idea of watching an anime not being shown in local channel made it more attractive for me, but I liked it (NGE). At least, as far as I remember, my friend told me that she continued watching it because I claimed I liked it.

I did not understand the series fully well, to be honest. But I enjoyed the various psychological and religious references. I also enjoyed how I related to the characters, the thoughts and ideas, and the psychological warfare Gainax so love to use. I cannot say NGE's effect on me was good, but it was positive in the sense that the show made me "think more" (more than how I used to, which was already more than your typical person) and "feel more" (which is not the case now, I admit).

When I decided to watch it again 4 hours ago, I thought "it's dangerous" (which I'd rather not elaborate). Still, lack of something more interesting to do (which does not necessarily mean I have none that needs to be done), I took the risk. And boy am I glad I took the risk.

It seems that this is one of the things that changes as we age - how certain shows affect us. Maybe because my mind has already experienced "effect A" and now I am immune to it. Thus, my mind searches for other "possible effects", which in my case was lighter and more positive. We search for something "new" that we can relate to given our present circumstances.

What I'm trying to say is revisiting the past after growing up a little and experiencing more eventually makes us "look from a different angle", thus offering us new ideas and realizations.

It's a nice feeling. Maybe if myself permits and I last another decade, I can watch NGE again and come up with new realizations which I fail to see now.

Kuroshitsuji Chapter 34

2009-06-18T21:50:00.000+08:00

BleachAsylum has finally released the scanlated version of Chapter 34! YAY!

-----

The orgasmic faces of Ciel really forced me to read the raws. I was mega-excited for several minutes until I realized what happened...

Kuroshitsuji is cruel...

I wonder... If Ciel manages to reach adulthood, what would he be like? How would his mind work? I bet, even if it is Kuroshitsuji, "time can still change a person".

I think it's cunning of Sebastian to choose young Ciel. He is a kid who experienced cruelty and has sworn revenge out of childishness (at least, in my opinion). I hate to admit it but Sebastian has been a very bad influence. Of course, he is, afterall, a demon. A child is easily influenced by the people around him and, unfortunately, the only one he turns to is a demon.

Kuroshitsuji is indeed weird. The fanservice excites the reader, but at the end of the day its ideas haunt you.

Kuroshitsuji Season 2!

2009-06-14T23:10:00.000+08:00

Hurray! Now get the hell away from that creepy island and fix the mansion, Sebastian. You and your dearest young master has been called for another season!!

Check out Suwabe Junichi's (Undertaker) blog for his revelation! CLICK HERE FOR LINK. It is a Japanese blog, though. You can use the web for translation (hopefully they give the proper words). Based from my understanding (with the help of my trusty JWPce, of course), he mentioned about "looking forward for a second season of Kuroshitsuji".

Details please!!

Deep Purple

2009-06-14T01:49:00.000+08:00

I love SenRu. It is my ultimate slash couple! I can go on and on about how I love SenRu but I'll save it for some other time.

If you like SenRu, it's impossible for you to miss "Deep Purple", a doujinshi by P-Rythm. The first time I heard about it and learned its summary I already wanted it. But scanlation was hard to find. I had the (incomplete) Chinese chapters (if only I found the Japanese ones) for more than a year now and, solely looking at the panel drawings, I liked it even more.

The truth is: I already gave up looking for scanlation. For a doujinshi that is several years old, and popular, to have little scanlated chapters to satisfy my craving, it almost seemed like a lost case. But today, while browsing the internet for Naruto doujinshi, I felt like giving it one more try.

I can't remember if I tried aarinfantasy.com again, but I know it's not the place where I discovered THIS LIVEJOURNAL ACCOUNT that - guess what! - scanlates Deep Purple!!

Are you happy now, too?

Not so Loveless, are you?

2009-06-12T03:11:00.001+08:00

I have watched Loveless, the anime, a few years ago. Loveless is a shounen ai (boy/boy) series (mixed with other genre that includes shoujo ai (girl/girl) and almost shota). There are no explicit scenes, though. Only kisses.

The anime was okay. It was rare to find shounen ai series with decent plot. The plot was not too complicated, but it was not clearly explained. Most especially in the anime. The manga was better.

I just read the manga today. The latest chapter I read was chapter 11 of the 11th volume. Maybe tomorrow I will search if there are newer chapters. [EDIT]: Loveless' latest chapters are Volume 9 Chapter 12 and 13 from Shoku-dan scanlation group.

Ritsuka, the main character who was named Loveless, had different characterization in the manga and in the anime. Ritsuka of the manga, I deemed, was better and his sort-of-cheerfulness and optimism suited his dialogues and actions more than the gloomy Ritsuka of the anime.

I advise first-timers to watch the anime first. WHUT?!

I think the anime is enough to capture the interest of first-time viewers. Besides, it's moving 2D. And the unique battle system employed in the Loveless can only be fully appeciated in anime. However, after watching the anime, one should definitely read the manga, which is still ongoing. The manga has more explanations (like how Soubi can still exist even though Seimei is claimed to be dead). It also helped me realize the idea behind Ritsuka's name Loveless. He who is without love? I don't think that's it...

Kuroshitsuji Chapter 33

2009-05-02T05:04:00.000+08:00

BleachAsylum already released scanlation for Kuroshitsuji Chapter 33. =D If you want to continue reading my comment, please make sure you've read the latest chapter by visiting their forum: CLICK HERE.

So, my short comment: (SPOILER ALERT)

I like this chapter. Although I admit that the events are shocking and sad, I still like the chapter mainly because it only strengthens the concept behind Kuroshitsuji (or, at least, in my opinion).

What is that concept? That no matter how adorable newly introduced characters are, they are still pawns in achieving the goal of the story. And that's what I like about Kuroshitsuji. No other characters last as long as Ciel and Sebastian. There may even be a possibility that the servants will die in the end.

Well, that is part of reality. Nothing lasts forever. Even the most beautiful things fade. Happy memories are not basis of longer existence.

Some may say that the chapter seemed rushed - like the events were rushed. But I would like to believe that it is also proves that even in just ONE chapter, everything and everybody dear to you CAN disappear. Cruel? Yes. Impossible? No.

For now, this is the link for Yana Toboso's blog.

Kuroshitsuji Chapter 32

2009-04-15T03:25:00.000+08:00

... is out!! =D Get the scan from: bleachasylum forum

My comment: Mmm... none. I'm more excited to read the next chapter. =) Readers might get to see the servants in action! Chapter 33, please come.

Kuroshitsuji Anime END?

2009-03-28T17:21:00.001+08:00

Does Kuroshitsuji anime ends at episode 24? Anime News Network posted it having 26 (!) episodes, although the (!) sign must have meant uncertain information.

The way episode 24 ended, it seemed like the end - a fitting end, in my opinion.

However, I want a second season! The manga takes a month to release a single chapter and such long waiting time can kill Kuroshitsuji follower!! Altough the anime is a total deviation from the manga, it is still better than having NONE to accompany our monthly waiting.

How can there be a second season when Ciel is dead? Or at least that's how it seemed.

The only twist that gave me hope was the fact that the real Queen Victoria was alive and she was the one mainly giving the Phantomhive cases to solve. However, Ciel's revenge seemed to have ended when they killed the angel-gone-mad. HOWEVER Ash/Angela and fake Queen Victoria could have lied when they claimed they killed Ciel's parents. But then again, with the ending scene of Sebastian "about to devour" Ciel, what possibility could arise from that?

Ciel could be dreaming. Afterall, his clothes were different. =P

Also, the arm (or hand) that was holding the contract was gone. =3 The angel cut it. =3 So Sebastian could probably create another "contract" with Ciel that could lead to "ta-da" season two!!

I vote for the second scenario =3. Afterall, it's the scenario I created, LOL.

I might edit this when a subbed episode 24 is released.

Kuroshitsu Anime Episode 21: Servants

2009-03-12T01:46:00.000+08:00

WARNING: Spoilers.

(Quite image-heavy. I've taken snapshots because I can't help it. =D Phantomhive's servants are amazing they deserve so much love.)

This is the first episode of Kuroshitsuji that I found too amusing I just have to blog it. D: Prepare yourself for a lot "NIII~~~" shots!!

Who would've have thought that this girl:

And this girl (you must have a clue now):

Is, well, MEIRIN! (MEI-LIN?)

And BARD was....

Finny was Finny, except for the fact that he was once kept in a prison and his body was used for an experiment, which result we have been witnessing from his very first appearance.

And some more NIIII-shots just because they look adorable!

OF COURSE, THE EPIC LINE!

=================

I honestly do not understand Sebastian. In this episode, he seemed so human... like he was trying his best to protect Ciel, to lessen his worry, and just relax. And in the next episode 22, His Butler: Cancel, he was again a demon and disgusted with Ciel who apparently seemed suddenly hesitant.

Due to extreme differences between the anime and manga, it's become more difficult to understand the characteristic of the characters - most especially Sebastian. But then again, although it would probably seem a neat idea to judge "demons" as, well, demons... isn't it also that demons are the most deceptive creatures?

>_<>_<>_<

The scene where Sebastian picked up the queen and the king chess pieces also held a somewhat vague idea. Did those pieces represent Angela (the "angel") as the white queen, and Ciel as the black king OR Sebastian as the black king? Because in his flashback, the scene was between him and Angela. If it is the latter, would that mean that Ciel is actually just his pawn?

This episode is a mixture of warm and cold moments, of tenderness and confusion.

Next episode 22 is Cancel. Would that mean an "eventual" end of their contract?

Hajime no Ippo Chapter 845...

2009-03-06T14:22:00.001+08:00

Is finally scanlated!! =D

SPOILER-FULL:

As expected, Randy Boy Jr. got up! As expected, yes. Because who the hell would think that the match would end that way? Any thinking individual wouldn't assume that it would end that dull-y.

Ichiro's counter might have been really awesome, timing and all. BUT the timing of that down was not right. If the match ends that way, the viewers will be left hanging.

I'm quite sure though that the next chapter is the end of this match. Ichiro has no strength anymore and "he won't win" if the fight extends any longer. By saying (writing) this, I am assuming that Ichiro will win this fight (unless Mori wants to mess up my mind).

It is not an assumption based from being an Ichiro Miyata fan. >_> I am looking at things as an unbiased reader. Randy is the best opponent for Ichiro to achieve his end and Ichiro, not Randy, is one of HnI's mainstay.

Surely, some fans want Ippo to face Randy BUT I really can't see it coming because RBJ is a character for Ichiro (sans cracked romance =P). It is not the same as Mashiba because Mashiba, clearly from the start, is an opponent made for Ippo.

So please, don't rob my Ichiro this right to move forward (as a person). >_>

But I'm always game for any outcome, anyway. So Morikawa, bring it on!!

IGNITION-ONE LINK for download.

HnI Doujin: Takamura/Miyata

2009-03-06T01:09:00.000+08:00

I want this doujin. T_T

LOOK HERE D:

I badly wanna read this doujin. T_T I'm not sure if it's Miyata, but I believe it is him.

There are few HnI doujin featuring Miyata/Ippo, but I want Ippo/Miyata. It will be much better if it is Sendo/Miyata. But this Takamura/Miyata looked fine. And it's the first!! D:

Look. I know that nobody in HnI is probably gay (although Ippo oftentimes act like a gay fanboy), but I just have to uke-fy Miyata!! D: I have every right to!!

Does anybody has any idea on how I'll be able to get my hands on this doujin? Or any other good HnI doujin (very rare T_T) with Miyata as uke? (And please, f*** those Ippo!girl! doujins.)

Kuroshitsuji Chapter 30

2009-02-20T20:11:00.001+08:00

Title: That Butler, Nurturing

This chapter reveals the "father" and some bits about Joker.

Ciel was feeling better already, thanks to the "peaceful idiot combo" --> (c) Ciel Phantomhive.

A mixture of sad and funny scenes. Download it from: BleachAsylum

(Did I just sound serious? O_O)

I wonder what's going to happen now. What's so "big" about this whole case that even Will is participating?

I like the circus group. At first, I did not like the guy talking with snakes, but I find him amusing now. Strange guy...

Hajime no Ippo Chapter 843

2009-02-20T19:55:00.000+08:00

Title: No Joke

GOOOOOOODNESS!! I'm like on crack right now! Why does it seem like Ichiro Miyata is getting more and more handsome each chapter?! (Honestly, something's changed in Morikawa's art).

This chapter is freakin' awesome!! I mean, nothing much really happened. Ichiro just received another blow (RBJ's left again). But it seems he'll be fighting back AT LEAST ONE MORE TIME before he face his doom.

Honestly, I don't know what's gonna happen. Surely, Ichiro has discovered something that he can use to his advantage BUT he's got no stamina now AT ALL. It's like his fight with Sisfah - once he use his final ace and Randy remains standing... it's the end for him.

Sad but true. Ichiro Miyata is really fragile. BUT A HELL TOO STUBBORN FRAGILE ONE.

And he's really got the best poses. Hee hee hee.

So if you wanna download it, head to Ignition-One forum:
Ignition-One

Hajime no Ippo Chapter 842

2009-02-11T23:28:00.000+08:00

Title: The Light

The fight continues and it is starting to look a little promising for Ichiro (based from Sawamura's opinion, that is).

I'm not going to say much about this fight. Just one thing:

Ain't this scene look dramatic? xD And ain't Ichiro's face in the left panel look moe? xD

Scanlation can be found at: Ignition-One Forum

Kuroshitsuji DOUJIN: Devil Moralism

2009-02-02T04:15:00.000+08:00

Title: Devil Moralism (Kuroshitsuji Doujinshi)
Scanlated by: Hermit Moon

Before anything else, this doujin is VERY graphic and downright SHOTA.

I rarely appreciate doujin centered mostly in graphic sex especially those that include below 15-year old boys (yes, that includes Naruto and other mainstream animes).

I wonder what made me continue reading. >_>

Well, so I did read until the last page and I have to say that I liked the last pages and the Sebastian in this doujin was a lot more like the real Sebastian in a sense.

I do not recommend this to just anyone who is bored and wants a Kuroshitsuji doujin featuring Sebastian x Ciel / Lau x Ciel. But if you are open-minded enough to understand what made me appreciate "the idea" behind "the plot", then here is the link of the scanlator.

CLICK HERE FOR HERMIT MOON LINK.

Spoiler:

Allowing other "guy" (by the name of Lau >_>) to challenge and "molest" (hey, there's drugs all over the room) the young master just to "tame" him? It was *cough* sweet in a sense BUT really demonic of Sebastian.

Hajime no Ippo Chapter 841

2009-01-29T15:00:00.000+08:00

(As usual, please be wary of spoilers).

Finally, a new scanlated Hajime no Ippo chapter: 841 - A Desperate Boxer
Ignition-One
Franky-House

In this chapter, there is little (if none at all) point-of-view coming from Ichiro Miyata. Morikawa did not reveal anything that Ichiro was thinking (if he's thinking at all).

For me, that was a good sign that even though he looked like he was just throwing random punch, he was trying to come up with something especially with the difference in the angle of his punches and the momentum behind his slips.

Randy thought that Ichiro might die if this continued but neither father and son (Miyatas) revealed any of their thoughts. Ippo, on the other hand, was quiet and still. Could he be nervous or could he be thinking that Ichiro was up to something?

Would Ichiro Miyata die in this match?

Kuroshitsuji Chapter 29

2009-01-29T03:09:00.001+08:00

That Butler, Scandalous

This chapter of Kuroshitsuji (Black Butler) seemed to have stirred it's yaoi/shounen-ai fanbase. xD

Before anything else, you may find and download the latest chapter from bleachasylum.

I am warning you of spoilers from this point onwards. And possible explicit words use, too.

One of the arguments of fangirls: Did Sebastian actually have sex (insert various type here) with Beast?

We can only speculate. But in my opinion, yes.

Why not? Sebastian is a demon AND is in the form of an adult. I find it a very weird argument. Sebastian killing a random royalty is normal, while him having sex causes commotion? It is not uncommon for shounen titles to include sex. Even if Kuroshitsuji has a kid for its lead character, it has a dark theme. It is surprising, yes, but the scene is totally necessary AND intentional.

Perhaps the author is trying to remind the readers that Sebastian, despite performing as a very loyal and hardworking butler, is a demon. And that Kuroshitsuji is not for kids.

I admit that even though I do not like shotacon, I fancy a Sebastian and Ciel pairing. But the sex did not shatter my fantasy. =) Maybe it's because for me this human act between two males is not as "fragile" as between a man and a woman. If Sebastian tells Ciel he had sex with Beast to get information, I could only picture ciel saying, "Ewww." Ciel's world will not shatter. After all, they're not a pair. It's just wishful fantasy of fancreatures like me who squeals at every fanservice.

If I were the author, I wouldn't even feel like explaining anything to the readers. Closure? What closure? The truth behind those panels won't affect the story at all (except for Beast's side).

This chapter only made Kuroshitsuji more interesting for me.

But then again, we won't know until the next (or the next next) chapter. =) So some of the more paranoid fans can try calming themselves and wait.