Kimi No Koto Ga Daidaidaidaidaisuki Na 100-nin No Kanojo

They say that some are late bloomers. Good things come to those who patiently wait. And only after one has tasted a lot of failures, only then one can taste the fruits of success. Well, apply that to a romcom harem anime. Kimi No Koto Ga Daidaidaidaidaisuki Na 100-nin No Kanojo AKA Hyakkano (because it’s a freaking ridiculous long name to remember and say each time) has our main male protagonist as a serial loser in love. Every girl he has confessed to in his life has utterly rejected him. Yeah, that should have been a sign to say to give the f*ck up! But nope. He did not. So as ‘reward’ (or curse as I see it), some god of love whatever appeared before him to tell him the good news that he will soon have 100 soul mates! I don’t know why or how f*cked up that is but it’s your cue to have a harem theme and get all the girlfriend problems and hijinks started. Can he handle having 100 girlfriends? Or is he doomed to fail and always be the same miserable loser? Well, my guts know better…

Episode 1
At the end of the graduation of his middle school, Rentarou Aijou confesses to the girl he likes but gets rejected. Well, that was his 100th rejection! So how can a guy confessed to 100 girls in his middle school years? Well actually, his first confession (and rejection!) was when he was 8 months old! F*cking lecher! Thus he gets desperate to pray at the shrine. And what do you know, this shrine’s God pops up! With a turd hairstyle, it’s hard to take him seriously… Anyway, he claims Rentarou’s romance will begin in high school and he will find his soul mate there. However he will find 100 of them there! So after the opening ceremony of his high school, he bumps into Hakari Hanazono and Karane Inda. You bet they are going to be soul mates because all felt that tingly sensation (as mentioned by God). The girls have taken a liking for him as it descends into a ‘competition’ as they feign their sprained ankle so as to get them to the infirmary. WTF Rentarou punching himself for making a misery to others?! In the end, all walk finely there. But then the girls hear some superstitions in romance about finding a 4 leaf clover. Guess it’s not hard to see what they do next. And so they spend 4 hours looking for that elusive clover! Rentarou tries to be nice and give them a drink. Karane being the tsundere runs away after accepting. Hakari is slyer as she thinks of getting an indirect kiss. She claims she can’t finish it and for him to help her drink half. Oh no worries, he bought one that is smaller size. Uhm, actually she still can’t finish it so please drink the first one. After doing so, Hakari panics and spills the whole thing. There goes her first (indirect) kiss. When he offers to help clean up, that is when Hakari confesses she loves him. Too bad this is cut short with Karane’s return. So she bought lots of drinks in return? Anyway, she won’t lose out and sums up her courage to also confess to him. And now the dreaded moment: Choose which one he wants to date!

Obviously Rentarou can’t decide so he seeks God’s advice. What is the precedent for this? Well, none. You see, his case was an exception. Usually there is 1 soul mate to everybody. During Rentarou’s birth, God was watching some anime. He was so touched and wrote 100 in his soul mate section instead of 1! WTF WHY IS THERE A BOX TO FILL IN A NUMBER FOR SOUL MATES???!!! But that’s not the worst part. If the soul mate is unable to find and lead a happy life, they will die. Oh sh*t. Now Rentarou can’t choose because choosing the other means the other would die! Gee, thanks God. Hence he thinks of rejecting them both and then secretly date them in secret. Next day as he confronts them, he wants them both to be his girlfriend! Last night’s solution wasn’t going to fly. Because the girls put all their heart into their confession, as one who did the same for 100 times, he should know better. That is why he will not choose as he loves them both a lot. Proof as he has found 2 of those clovers! No wonder his clothes are dirty. With him saying the right romantic words, Hakari agrees to this. With their love so great, two-timing isn’t going to be an issue, right? As always, Karane won’t lose out and agree to the same. Rentarou is so happy with his life. Just a reminder, he has 98 more soul mates to deal with… Welcome to hell…

Episode 2
Rentarou so happy he has got 2 girlfriends, he is talking to a pole?! As usual, Hakari and Karane fight to be with him. Don’t worry, he has a hand each. Upon arriving at school, they see this horrifying act of the vice principal, Baba An chasing a boy for flouting some rules. You see, whoever gets caught by her receives her punishment via French kiss! OMFG! Is she some tongue monster?! Yup, that definitely scarred him for the rest of his life. This leads to the girls talking about kissing. Because Rentarou has not gotten his first kiss, you bet this is going to be a fight to get it. During the break, we see them trying their tricks to kiss him. From sharing Pokky sticks and testing his temperature, the girls trying their best to outdo the other. Rentarou then realizes what they are fighting over. But don’t worry, he already has come up with a plan. So yesterday’s sleepless night was for this? So basically, this freaking confusing scenario in which they have to blindfold and based on some random dice just so they won’t know who kissed who first. But it’s going to be hard because Rentarou will definitely know it is Hakari because of her boobs while it would be Karane because the tsundere starts beating him up, thinking he caressed her elsewhere. So they have to restart each time. Because Rentarou gets into sexy situations with Hakari or gets beaten up by Karane. Wow. Didn’t know kissing is such a hard thing to do! As the girls continue to fight over it, Rentarou feels bad. Blaming himself for the cause of it, he is going to let Baba kiss him?! OMFG! ARE YOU SURE?! Luckily the girls stop her before the irreversible and that monster runs away thinking some inspector is coming. Can’t lose her income so she can smooch hot guys at the host club! Oh my. Rentarou reasons he’d rather throw his first kiss away if his girlfriends are going agonize over it since he wants them to get along. The girls in sync, say they would rather have their rival kiss him instead of that monster! Rentarou is happy with this and he has a simpler solution for all this: All of them kiss together. It was his first idea but since the girls would also be kissing each other, well it’s a good thing to know they aren’t yuri! And so the trio kiss together. Yeah, looks like some weird UFO summoning cult! Next day at the library as Rentarou is looking for a book, he stumbles into petite Shizuka Yoshimoto. Number 3…

Episode 3
It seems librarian Shizuka is so shy that she points out to sentences in a book for Rentarou to read that reflects her thoughts. Also, it seems she is in the same class as him. Did he not notice? She helps him picks out tons of romance books that he likes but since the library card system is down, she lends him her favourite book that she always reads. That night, he reads the romance story of a knight and a princess separated by fate. Rentarou the knight and Shizuka the princess? Is this a foreboding of something? To be continued in the next volume. Next day, he seeks Shizuka for the next volume so she lends him to him. As thanks, he buys her a drink and talks about the book. He is also amazed that she knows the book so well as she could always flip to the right page and line for the words she want to say. Shizuka is surprised that he doesn’t shun her. This gives her hope as she waits to give him the next volume but a few days passed and he has not come to see her. Then she sees this heart breaking scene. Rentarou spending time with Hakari and Karane. It then occurred to her that he already has a boyfriend. Sad. I guess he needs to spend some time with his girlfriend than reading books. Flashback shows she was always bullied because of this quirk of hers of not speaking. Even her mom was enraged at this freak who can’t speak normally. It made her realize nobody has time to talk to a freak like her. One evening, Rentarou surprisingly visits Shizuka to give her an e-book version of this. Strange. It was never released electronically. Well, Rentarou typed it word for word for her! A special software helps turn it into an audiobook. Rentarou is particular about this because she is so busy pointing the lines and the reader has to read it, their eyes never met. With this, they can talk and look at each other in the eye. Shizuka is so moved that her first respond is to say I love you. However she can’t impose on him as she hints she knows he already has girlfriends. Rentarou realizes the meaning of this so he too genuinely confesses he loves her. If fate stands in their way, just break through it! Yeah, just quote it from the book. And so, Rentarou introduces Shizuka as his new girlfriend to Hakari and Karane! Oh dear. How will this go? Karane is obviously pissed. Like she needs more competition. But Hakari is so impressed he has not dumped them despite finding a new love! Rentarou assures his love for them has not diminished and will love them all equally. Because if he doesn’t, he will commit seppuku! So we’re okay with this addition to the harem? Okay. Because 97 more to go…

Episode 4
Rentarou introduces the girls to each other. Well, he knows the girls’ quirky habits so much that the girls themselves don’t even know! I don’t know if I should be impressed or feeling creepy. Since Hakari and Karane are at usual quarrelling to talk to Rentarou, Shizuka stays quiet and keeping her distance. Rentarou observes this and he needs to break the ice. And so a game of old maid whereby the loser gets tickled by the winner? Yeah, the girls ganging up on him… First round, Rentarou wins. Karane loses. See her happy tsundere face to get tickled. Yeah, that lewd face. Next round, he also wins but this time Hakari loses. Another happy girl with a lewd face. Third round, this guy is on a streak. Now it’s Shizuka’s turn. He tickles her but she can still type out her quotes? Must be really good in this. Finally, Rentarou loses. Too bad for Karane and Hakari, it is Shizuka who wins. But she just pokes him? After that, Rentarou excuses himself to the toilet. This has Karane confront Shizuka. She’s not happy. Basically, she can tell Shizuka is holding back just because they are around. Shizuka admits to it and believes as a newcomer, she must know her place. After all that scary yelling, maybe Shizuka needs to speak from the heart. She claims she is scared. Especially if Rentarou starts comparing them. Essentially, Shizuka believes she is not as gorgeous or cute as the duo. Of course they claim Rentarou isn’t that shallow and his love runs deeper than that. Because now they are his girlfriends, they are on equal footing. It seems this is all part of Rentarou’s plan as he watches the girls mingle naturally. He knew that at this rate, the girls will never get closer to each other and had to do something. When he returns, the girls want Shizuka to redo his tickle on him. Don’t hold back this time. Also, Shizuka wants to be kissed. After a lot of shy moments, Rentarou gives her a great one. This also has Hakari wanting another kiss. Ask and you shall be given! What about you Karane? After lots of tsundere moments, she too gets one. None left out. Everybody is happy. What a great day. Rentarou is so lucky to be alive.

Episode 5
The test results are out. But Rentarou forgot his phone in the classroom and returns to get it. He sees Nano Eiai studying alone. The moment their eyes met, it’s that loving feeling. Telling her about the results, she finds it meaningless to go look at it because she knows she is top. And so Rentarou returns to the rest and notices Nano being actually top of the grade and with perfect scores in all subjects to boot. His girls tell him there is a rumour she is actually a robot who strives for perfection. Yeah well, not like they even talk to their own classmate, right? During science class, Rentarou is paired up with Nano. He observes her strange observations and deductions of things. Basically, she doesn’t do things that she deems meaningless or inefficient. Those are her buzzwords. When Rentarou accidentally gets a small cut on his finger, she sucks on it! She’s good in her tongue! At least this is the most efficient way to treat his small cut. Good thing Rentarou’s girls are busy with their own lab to see this. Later Rentarou tries to thank and treat her but of course, those buzzwords again and she sees no merit in having fun. Back home, she cannot get her mind out of Rentarou. She is feeling strange and can’t fathom why she sucked his finger. So recite pi to calm down? How much time has she wasted! Therefore next day, she confronts Rentarou and says she loves him and wants to enter in a relationship. He will be glad to but she rejects! Is this a joke? Actually she wanted him to reject but since he failed, she’ll do it. She further adds about the meaningless of teen romance as it leads to marriage and childbirth, both of which she doesn’t need. Obviously Rentarou has been rejected 100 times before so this is not going to put him down. Thus he wants to go out with her for 1 day to prove all that. Otherwise he will give up on her.

So at the amusement park, they go to various attractions and of course Nano can’t understand all these meaningless stuffs. During the Ferris Wheel ride, she seems scared of heights so Rentarou sits next to her while holding her hand. At the end of the day, Nano admits she had fun but ultimately it was a day of no value. In that case, Rentarou will burn all these instant photos taken of them. Suddenly she stops him. Rentarou explains now she knows she has something she doesn’t have and can’t lose it. Something that can’t be defined in words or numerical value. Because of it, she doesn’t want to lose it. Nano in tears. No, it’s not Rentarou breaking her heart! He further adds such fun moments is what makes their lives meaningful. Now Nano is set that she is in love with him and wants to go out with him. Gladly. It is then she suddenly kisses him. Is there a meaning to that?! Well, she has learnt that not giving a damn of what has value or not is more efficient for her in fulfilling her desires. She’s trying to say she doesn’t understand love so screw it I wanna have fun, HAHA! Sighs… Now the big problem looms as Rentarou introduces Nano to his girlfriends and wants to induct her formally into his hall of girlfriends. Surprisingly, they don’t object. No meaning to do that, RIGHT?! Since they’re all interested in their amusement park date, because Nano now wants to go as his girlfriend and not as a try-out, Hakari has this perfect place they can go to this weekend. It’s the pool. Oh yeah! Pool episode time!

Episode 6
Karane pondering which swimsuit to get. Pool date is here. Full blown swimsuit episode we’ve been waiting for! Yeah! How these lovely chicks in swimsuits? Gorgeous. But wait. Karane is all covered up. She claims she is feeling cold and wants to sit out. Uhm, okay. The rest head into the pool as Nano and Hakari fight over Rentarou. They’re bolder now as they both let him touch their boobs. Too bad they killed him. They need to revive him but they can’t seem to pass the kissing part on the CPR. Meanwhile Shizuka gets lost on her float and ends up on an island inside the pool. She sends out SOS but nobody gives a f*ck. Hakari and Nano rush to find a lifeguard but are stopped by sleazy guys who want to hit on them. When one goes for Hakari, Nano pokes his eyes. Now his buddies want payback. Nano will stay with them so Hakari could find a lifeguard. She claims if anything happens to Hakari, Rentarou will be sad. Her reason is that Rentarou has dated her longer and via pecking order, he will care more for her. Obviously Hakari dismisses that theory. It is because she hasn’t been dating him for long, she doesn’t understand him. Hakari steps in to claim they will not go out with those guys. Just when they’re about to get rough, Rentarou returns to protect his girls. They don’t believe both are his girlfriends and dare him to kiss. Both girls kiss him. That enough proof? The guys don’t want to have anything to do with these crazy whores so they leave. They ask how he knows about this. Apparently Karane saw the duo in trouble, went to find Rentarou. He is in the midst of being dead but instantly revived and head to them when she said they’re in trouble. Now they need to find Shizuka. Better hurry. Her handphone battery just depleted. Panic. Although she could hear him looking for her, Shizuka knows she must use her own voice. Despite eking out a soft one, he manages to pick it up and saves her. As reward, she kisses him. Back to Karane, Rentarou knows Karane’s issue of comparing herself to Nano and Hakari. That’s why she covers up. She continues to have inferior complex to all so he forces her covers off. Hope all that slap is worth it. Obviously he finds her cute and the moment is right for them to kiss. That completes today’s kissing combo with all his girlfriends! They return to the rest and their real pool date begins.

Episode 7
While in a rush, passing by the chemistry lab, Rentarou locks eyes with a busty chemistry babe. He knows she is his next soul mate and when returns to the lab the next day, only this drug crazy loli, Kusuri Yakuzen. She has him drink her experimental drugs like turning him into a human magnet. A ploy to hug him too. Now they’re stuck like this for 10 minutes and she needs to go to the toilet… Don’t worry, she wears diapers… She is not ashamed to reveal she loves him and then says the tea he drank earlier was laced with love potion to make him fall for her. But he starts to vomit it out? She is sad thinking he doesn’t like her. On the contrary, he wants to tell her his emotions without the drugs. But the effect starts making him go into seizures. The only way to administer to antidote is via kissing? When he is cured, she now begs for him to date her. That is when she reverts to her true busty form. Apparently this is her real form. Her failed drug testing on immortality caused her to be in this loli state. She is also his senior and president of the chemistry club. Now Rentarou introduces his latest girlfriend to the rest. Hardly surprising at this point, right? She has different drugs for the girls to try out. Karane gets offended about this bust up drug. Hakari takes this sexy drug thinking it would make her sexier but it turns out it melts her clothes because nothing is sexier in your birthday suit, right?! A drug to have Shizuka have bunny ears and one that has Nano’s hair as extended limbs. Though, she doesn’t mind going bald but since Rentarou loves her hair, no more drugs! As they have tea, Kusuri realizes they have taken the wrong tea. It was meant for Rentarou but the girls drank it. Now they turn into kissing zombie monsters! They’ll stop at nothing until they kiss Rentarou! And they also achieve superhuman strength! Don’t let them catch you because you’ll be stuck kissing forever! Apparently Kusuri wanted to have a real kiss with him but looks like it has backfired. Some flashback shows because she always messed up, eventually everyone left her. Of course they must be given an antidote before the drug circulates throughout their body and they’ll permanently be in this state. That’s about an hour. WTF Resident Hazard: Kissage???!!! Is this a game or what?!

Episode 8
The Biohazard game begins. Kusuri needs to get to her lab to make the antidote. But now what? Baba going to punish them for running? Well, Kusuri’s face melting drug accidentally gets poured on her face! What kind of foundation did she use since the acid has no effect! At least it puts a stop to her schemes. Can’t let others see her true form! With the zombie girls splitting up to pincer Rentarou, he too splits up with Kusuri. Shizuka chases him but trips. Rentarou feels bad and takes her to the infirmary to patch up. Then she pins him down and starts kissing him. Feels like eternity but he manages to break out and hangs her up on a hanger to escape. Next, he is caught by the teamwork of Hakari and Karane. As they take turns kissing him, soon they start arguing about it. Then he realizes something… He makes them kiss each other! Oh damn, this gonna be a lesbian show?! But this gives him the time needed to escape. As he enters the lab, Nano is already waiting! So he hides in the closet outside. Well, Kusuri is also hiding here! Are we doomed? You think Nano won’t target Kusuri but seeing she is their comrade, she might. Kusuri thought Rentarou should be the bait to lure Nano away so she could get in the lab. But knowing Nano is smart, that won’t work. With Kusuri starting to cry that she has caused trouble like always, she is willing to stop making drugs forever. Until Rentarou gives her some encouragement, she remembers she has an antidote with her. You thought she would administer it to Nano but she drinks it herself! This is to turn her back into her usual form as Nano doesn’t recognize her. She will then approach and tie her up. Well, too bad she blunders and gets tied up instead. Rentarou rushes out as Nano gives chase. You think locking behind the door will keep you safe? She breaks through! Here’s Johnny Nano! Then the kissing hell begins. Bad end? Luckily Kusuri has finished her antidote and gives Nano drink it. Thanks to Rentarou running around to buy time till Kusuri’s drug wears off. The others are given the antidote as they return to normal. Hakari and Karane would definitely want to forget about their hot lesbo moment. Kusuri cries and feels bad about causing everyone trouble. Rentarou vows to fix whatever mess she creates since her passion is what he loves about her. A happy Kusuri kisses him. Kissing game complete and over.

Episode 9
Rentarou and his girls at the flower park. There is this bouquet toss event in which the one who gets it will get to dress up in a wedding getup and have a picture taken. See where this is going? However Hakari suggests the girls working together and then draw lots to see who gets to be the lucky bride since they are facing stiff competition from this gorilla girl. Yes, she and her gorilla men are going to dominate this! The one who throws the bouquet is Baba?! So she’s an ex-shot putter?! As she throws far, gorilla woman starts playing dirty. Although physical harm is not allowed, she claims she is training with her men and thus tossing them around. Hakari goes to challenge her to keep her busy. As her goons start fanning the bouquet their way, Shizuka is so light that she floats too?! The girls catch her but dang those boobs form as cushion and rebounded her! Right into Rentarou’s arms. In the end, Rentarou’s side wins. Now to draw lots. All part of Hakari’s plan to rig the whole thing. In order to make it believable that it isn’t so, she needs to pick someone to go first. That person is Nano and being the efficient girl, she’ll take the stick that is closest to her. However miscalculation, Nano claims it is more efficient to draw lots together! Well, well. The devil’s luck because Hakari still wins! Kusuri starts crying and throwing a tantrum and Hakari is willing to give it to her. Kusuri changes her mind and lets her be the bride. And they all have a great group photo.

When it’s over, Hakari personally talks to Rentarou to request a single wish of hers: Please break up with me. Rentarou is baffled and now something is wrong. But after he changes, Hakari is already gone. Some car has instantly picked her up. Noting something is really wrong, he goes to her place. Didn’t know it is a huge mansion! He sees her at the window and tries to get her attention. She then calls him to tell the truth: Mother has found out about her relationship. She disapproves of it and is going to send her away to another school. He wants to talk things out but Hakari notes how scary her mom is. Because she is so filthy rich, she uses money to bend things to her will. Speak of the devil, there she is. She warns Rentarou to never come here again and threatens she can get rid of him any time. Then a guard takes him away and tells him he is powerless as a kid to change things. As Hakari begs to mom about this, she is once again warned that she could do something to Rentarou so Hakari is forced to obey her 100% so as nothing would happen to him. As Rentarou curses his powerlessness, he realizes he still can’t give up. So he talks to the rest about this. His plan is to break Hakari out tonight and elope to another town despite everything seems impossible. He doesn’t know when they will return but he hopes they will wait for them and promises to come back. Of course the girls call BS on this. They’re all in this together, right? That’s right. All of them are going to help him save Hakari. Let’s go!

Episode 10
Our gang sneaks into the compound. Since Hakari’s handphone is not returned, Rentarou plans to throw a ball at her window to get her attention. Only, he missed and now the pet cat gets it. Trying to catch it, huh? Better hide before the security finds you. Knowing they have a pet cat, Nano realizes there is a pet door. Not even Kusuri can enter so how? Nano uses pebbles from the garden to flick it up at the right angle and pressure to turn the knob till it opens! OMFG! She’s way advanced than a robot! Of course this sores her nails to they help her bandage it. After all, she is doing this not because she owes Hakari but she wants to save her. But right upon entering, there is a pet dog! Strange, why does it not bark? It’s just growling? The rest evacuate outside until they realize too late Shizuka has been paralyzed with fear. Her doom? Shizuka decides to sacrifice herself! Shockingly, the dog starts licking her. Nano explains dogs’ instinct to protect the weak like infants that supersedes protecting their invaded territory. Kusuri throws a potion to her for the dog to drink and sleep. Well, Shizuka drinks it! Guess what? Dog sleeps beside her too! Don’t worry, a potion to wake her up… Then in the corridor, if not for the pet cat triggering the alarm, the rest would’ve been caught by the infrared sensors. Yeah, the guards are dumbfounded it’s this damn cat again. Hakari gives Rentarou special eye drops to see the sensors. The downside is that he can’t see anything else! Then they learn she was supposed to send this invention to some overseas country in some contest to be part of some research team. Kusuri chooses not to because Hakari is more precious a friend than any dream research team. Rentarou sees the infrared sensors… They’re everywhere! Tom Cruise can’t even make it! But noticing the ceiling felt lower, it’s because there are chandeliers there and obviously no sensors there. They need 2 people pressing against each other to get through. Yes, Rentarou and Karane. Semi-69 position? Well, long story short, they did it despite Karane at times want to bail since his face is rubbing against her stomach all the time.

The duo finally arrive outside Hakari’s room. The moment they open the door, the alarm sounds. What kind of a monster would put an alarm on her daughter’s room to prevent her to escape?! End game because security surrounds them and brings them to mom Hahari’s room. She remains them as they are seeing that they are Hakari’s friends. Disposing them would make her sad but if they do anything stupid, she will not hesitate to do so. Rentarou asks for her blessings so Hahari scoffs at his empty promises. She explains she had Hakari when she was 13 during middle school. You see, there was this person she was so in love with but he fell ill and was doomed to die. Hence Hahari had a baby as prove that he was real. After he died, Hahari raised Hakari on her own and no doubt she truly loves her, she was still no replacement for her dead lover. Every day she asked herself if this was the joy of life that she truly wanted. Thus out from this experience, she doesn’t want Hakari to end up regretting like her. Not especially with a man who has multiple girlfriends! Damn, Rentarou crying over her tragic story? Now that the tears wash off those eye drops, their eyes meet for the first time. Oh my, it’s that lovely effect. Suddenly Hahari blinded by love again wants to go out with him! Oh sh*t! Lolis, teens and now a MILF! RENTAROU YOU LUCKY BASTARD!!!

Episode 11
Karane calls out to Hakari being the girlfriend of her daughter’s boyfriend. So, uhm, it was all just a mom’s joke?! To prove Rentarou is telling the truth, she will have him sit on this ‘sophisticated’ lie machine. To test its trustworthiness, Karane becomes the guinea pig. Don’t lie about your boob size… And when asked about her love for Rentarou, it’s a lie?! Rentarou dying and losing blood like nobody’s business. Turns out she must explain in detail and how wide her love for Rentarou is in order for it to be true. Rentarou revives! He also does the same confession for her. So as the machine picks up the truth in Rentarou’s love for Hakari, Hahari scoffs it off. It is a machine after all. You’re breaking the machine’s heart! When a maid reports Hakari going to jump off and kill herself, Karane takes Hahari hostage. Chance for Rentarou to go save Hakari. What about Karane? She believes he’ll come back for her. Rentarou arrives in time to talk to Hakari. He wants them to run away but she remains sceptical that doing so, they will never be free as long mom lives. For Rentarou, a life without her would be worse. When both realize they love each other, Hakari now paralyzes with fear since she is this close to falling down. Then she slips. Rentarou fast enough to grab her. WTF the other guards doing?! WHY THEY NO GRAB HIM?! He won’t let go and they both fall. Rentarou uses his kick on the wall so they could fall into the fountain nearby. Damn, must be a deep fountain. Thankfully Nano dives in to bring them out. Once safe, Karane slaps Hakari. That’s for all the troubles. Hahari realizes Rentarou has been true to his word and now hopes he will take care of her daughter. But Rentarou realizes all this was an act all just for Hakari’s sake. She played the villain to be hated by her own daughter. Knowing this will bring her misery, Rentarou also wishes to make Hahari happy. Uhm, so he is going to date her?! Oh my. This is going to get complicated. Dating your girlfriend’s mom too! Since it’s late, mom invites them all for a bath. Yeah, fanservice time as we see the busty ones strutting their assets. Before Hakari ‘dies’, she retreats to Rentarou’s room. Not so bad as she gets some time with him. Uhm, putting her head on his tummy? Embarrassing but lovely. Could’ve gotten steamier had not Kusuri enter so they cover it via some push-ups. Then a pyjamas party as Rentarou can’t contain himself with all the girls looking cute and sexy. Then as he helps Hahari to get water, it seems mom can’t hold on any longer. She wants him to come to her room… Oh…

Episode 12
OMFG! Trolling us with ambiguous scenes of Rentarou and Hahari in sex positions!!! Is he going the MILF route???!!! When the rest realize he is taking too long, they go to check it out. Can’t miss it from Hahari’s room. That loud sexy scream! And it turns out Hahari cross-dressed Rentarou as a girl and he looks so cute! Now the girls are loving him even more! Since he ‘died’, Hahari has Nano dressed as a man for a wakeup kiss! I don’t know, it worked. Having a field day? It doesn’t stop there because as Rentarou goes to bath, the girls want to peep on him! OMG. Only Shizuka opposes so they tie her up in a futon and continue with their holy activity. Mission Impossible? Dangling from the window sure scares the hell out of him because it looks like a ghost! Trying to use the secret stairs in the attic to peek? Well, they start screaming thinking there is a mouse but it’s just the cat. And Rentarou thinks the attic is haunted! Shizuka can’t untie herself but she can still roll. Rolling too fast, she ends up crashing inside the bathroom. Rentarou spooked at first to see a ghost before realizing this is Shizuka. Yeah, the irony she is the only one who saw his dong! As he carries her out for help, the other girls are acting suspicious. Karane being a tsundere accidentally reveals their goal. And so they all get lectured… As they play cards, Hahari remembers something and goes off. Rentarou senses something amiss and tails her. Oh, she’s praying at her late husband’s altar. He goes to pray with her. He asks if she was lonely after his death and many men had approached her, why did she not marry them? It seems Hahari has lingering regrets. She still loved her late husband and couldn’t forget about him. She reels that she is now cheating on him by loving Rentarou. He hugs her and says she can love 2 people at the same time. Who cares what others says as long as your love for someone is real. Just let it all out and make it known. Because if his love for her stops for real, just tell him. He will do the same for her. She hugs him and wonders if he will kiss her. But she remembers her late husband never did it because he wanted her to do so with someone she truly loves. As she tries to change the subject, Rentarou gives her a great kiss.

At night as they sleep, Hakari goes to sleep next to him. She feels it’s like the last time she’ll be with him. However he kisses her and assures her will always be there for her. She wants him to hold her as they sleep. But deep in the next as he wakes up, WTF Hakari and Karane holding and kissing each other???!!! OMFG!!! Do we need some lesbian time???!!! Rentarou makes his way to the corridor and before him is Hakari’s dad???!!! A GHOST!!! However he is not spooked. Yeah, after what he has seen, this guy is nothing. He looks like a nice person. But dad is mad and wants to lecture him about taking away his wife and daughter! Of course he has seen his actions and of all the men that approached his women, he was the only one who is serious. Therefore he trusts him and hopes they can watch over their girls for a long time. Rentarou further goes on to thank him for making Hahari happy before he was born and bringing Hakari into the world. OMG. Rentarou so much a saint this is making dad crossing over! No more regrets! Sorry Rentarou, look after his girls by yourself. Next morning, Rentarou wakes up to wonder if that was all a dream. But he is glad everyone made it together. So you think this is where Rentarou’s date with Hahari ends? Not yet. Because Hahari has bought the entire school and becomes the new chairperson! F*cking rich people!

Kanojo Mo Kanojo Mo Kanojo Mo Kanojo Mo Kanojo Mo Kanojo
Well, if you think all those girls Rentarou passed by in the final scenes are his potential girlfriends in the future, I guess this means we’re getting another season, right? Oh wait. WE ARE GETTING ANOTHER SEASON!!! Holy f*ck!!! I didn’t expect this series to have one. At least not this soon but oh well, we need to see and prove that Rentarou’s love is endless and that he will show us all that he can provide both quality and quantity when it comes to the matters of the heart. No number of girls or the limits of everything physical can stop Rentarou from loving them all equally! This guy is a saint! No, he is God! God of love!!! OMFG!!! Don’t worry all you lonely girls out there or those finding love. Rentarou will definitely save you from your loveless doom! Sorry I’m not a girl so…

So what else to expect from this kind of series? With Rentarou’s expanding harem, obviously each episode is going to showcase how he deepens his bonds with his girls. This is how such genres operate. Not really a solid plot to begin with and no storyline to feverishly follow. Just the everyday shenanigans from the gang. Of course in order not for it to be a total bore, some kind of drama is needed. If I should say, the threat of Hakari being taken away forever serves as this season’s mini arc. You don’t appreciate the things you have once you lose them, right? Not saying Rentarou doesn’t love Hakari as much but the thought of her never coming back again only serves to prove how much he loves her and would rather risk his life dying to get her back than live a void and empty life without her. Wow. If only real life was like that! Tsk, tsk, tsk. Have to remind myself I got no girlfriend so that is DEFINITELY not possible! Sighs… :’(… Uhm, oh, anyway… I’m guessing the other girls need to have their own drama of never being with Rentarou again so as to have some sort of plot? Maybe in the next season. If other newer girls don’t overshadow them…

The one little thing that I have beef with about the setting of this series is how God screwed up and made Rentarou to have 100 soul mates. Obviously a dumb ploy for this series’ setting but it makes me wonder how this 100 girlfriends will be achieved. At first I was confused why the first 100 girls he confessed to prior to his high school life rejected him. So I thought maybe this clause will only activate in high school or after getting rejected 100 times. Well, we didn’t see any other fine prints on the soul mate clause, right? So okay, his romance will begin at high school. However as we have seen throughout this season, he only has accumulated like 5 girlfriends from his school. I believe there are a few hundreds more girls in his school so I’m wondering why they don’t fall for him instantly like Hakari and Karane first did. Unless they have to look directly and straight into the eyes. So, Rentarou doesn’t look at his other girls, even his female classmates directly at their eyes when they talk? Does he even talk to them?! This is very strange. Because if that was the case, he would’ve gotten 100 girls on the first day of high school easily. Are there some other conditions that would trigger this soul mate thingy? I don’t know but my best guess is that by accumulating his harem slowly, this better fleshes out the characters so that we can see the bonds they make as each episode passes. Imagine if all 100 becomes his girlfriend at one go during the opening ceremony or school assembly, it will be chaos! The series would be some tasteless slapstick humour that won’t be even funny anymore. And it is also impossible to animate 100 girlfriends in a screen. Yeah. That.

So it all boils down to the characters. Depending on your tastes in this kind of genre, you either love them as they tick the boxes on the different types of personalities the characters would have for variety purposes (can’t have overlapping characters like 2 tsundere girls, can’t we?), or you are going to hate this show because in such woke era, snowflakes are going to complain and b*tch about how such series degrades women as they become ‘objects’ for a single man. Even more so when Rentarou’s girls have happily accepted each other as his girlfriends and this sends signals that they are subservient to a man. That’s not empowering, right? Imagine 5 girls have to share his attention and in some cases, fight over his affection. Then they have to bottle up their feelings when they didn’t get their turn and can only watch the other girl gets her rightful attention from him. How does this anime not make women look like losers in love???!!! Well sorry for you idiotic folks, this fantasy was written for us harem lovers and we love it! WOOHOO!!! Bring on more girls to the fold, please!!!

So yes, Rentarou is just another plain guy like in most animes that have such male protagonists. Good things come to those who wait and definitely Rentarou struck lottery as Fate rewarded him for his persistence. Never give up, rejection after rejection. At first we might think Rentarou is having a swell time with his new girlfriends. After all, someone who always wanted to have one, finally when he does, he shows all the signs of eagerness, excitement and enthusiasm. Will he get bored of them eventually? Knowing the kind of guy Rentarou is, he is going to love everybody till kingdom come. Or the day death do them part. So that is why everything that the girls do together with him, Rentarou easily gets impressed. The kind of innocence when one has when one is struck by love but of course this is all exaggerated and played out for comical purposes. I’m just wondering how he will manage as he piles up his harem. For now, 5 seems to be manageable. Imagine that number blows up to 100. Or even 50. Is he going to keep a schedule on who to spend time with? Knowing Rentarou, I believe he can. Somehow. Tell me, because I also want to know! Since I have lost count how many times he kissed his girls, imagine more turning up and he has to share the smooch. Yes, this series has a lot of kisses!

And so we see Rentarou’s love for them is genuine and not putting up an act. I’m saying this because I’m sure at this point all of us would have forgotten about the dumb plot if he neglects them that they’ll die. Remember that one?! Oh sh*t. Can he make all 100 happy?! This is stressful. But you know what I’m going to say. This is Rentarou so somehow he can! Yes he can! Maybe this neglect reason was just an excuse to scare Rentarou into taking this dating thingy seriously. If so, it turned out to be unnecessary because we have already seen how true Rentarou’s love is for his girls. This make me add to my conspiracy theory that God isn’t really God and is just a senile old fool cosplaying as one. He was just babbling about love, romance, etc and Rentarou being desperate at that time fell for it hook, line and sinker. His meeting with his eventual girlfriends would’ve come naturally with or without God’s revelation. This is also why Rentarou doesn’t amass 100 girlfriends at one go. Seems pretty logic, right? But who cares about all that stuffs, we just want to see what kind of lovey-dovey stuffs they are doing so we can feel envious to be in Rentarou’s shoes! RENTAROU YOU LUCKY BASTARD!!! SWITCH PLACES WITH ME!!!

As for Rentarou’s current girlfriends, as mentioned, they pretty check off the list for the different kinds of personalities because like they say, variety is the spice of life. Need some busty and flirty girl? Hakari fits that. Your excuse for blatant fanservice. Washboard lovers and tsundere fans aren’t left out. Karane is your girl and 2 in 1 bargain. More special 2 in 1 offers because if you like a shy and quiet girl who is also loli, here comes Shizuka. Can’t decide to like loli or mature girls, why, have 1 that can transcends both! Kusuri is your answer! Mad scientist too! Finally, we have a serious and mature cool beauty for you picky ones out there. Welcome Nano to the fold. So that is pretty much about this harem for now. Of course now that Rentarou has more girls to fill in as his soul mate, there is a high chance that many of them would overlap in characters. For instance, another tsundere but this time make her busty. Oh yeah. You know that sort of ‘cosmetics’ just for the sake of more variety. I think by that time it will all be so watered down, it won’t be exciting anymore. But that is another story for another time. For the record, the last I check on the ongoing manga, Rentarou has already almost amassed 30 girlfriends! OMFG. There’s got to be a chuunibyou character somewhere, no?! RENTAROU YOU LUCKY BASTARD!!! And now that Hahari is somewhat part of the harem, oh damn, this is getting complicated! Imagine Rentarou and Hahari getting married, what would be Hakari’s relationship?! My step father is also my classmate. F*CK! Oh my, I’m getting confused thinking about this!

On a trivial note, I believe the girls’ names are derived from their personalities. For example, Nano. It makes me wonder if she is a robot in disguise because she is always talking about efficiency. Yeah, dating Rentarou has made her less efficient, eh? Not that she cares about it because it’s love that counts! Oh, where was I? Anyway, what I want to point out is her blatant name. Nano Eiai. Geddit? As in A.I. nanotechnology. So she must be a robot, no?! Then there is Shizuka that means silence and Kusuri because she is a drug maniac. So I’m having trouble for Hakari and Karane’s naming. Thus I just went with this silly reason. Hakari’s huge melons and bosoms are just so voluptuous that it’s destructive. Thus they are hakai! Karane? Her tsundere personality makes her spicy and hence karai! Oh… So it’s not that… What do you mean it stems from a common sentence used by tsundere characters?! Betsu ni anata no tame ni yattenain dakarane! Oh… And obviously Rentarou’s name is filled with love! They should’ve added suki somewhere but oh well…

Art and animation are quite okay with everything looking vividly bright and colourful. The female characters obviously look cute and beautiful although I would say they lean more towards the kawaii side because of their cutely roundish features. Sometimes looking a bit cartoonish. Just look at Kusuri in loli form… Of course there are some exceptions because Baba definitely looks ugly as f*ck and I believe she is an alien disguised as a human! This creature wants to take the seeds of young hot men so you young guys out there better beware this sex maniac!!! Also, I thought I see shades of other anime characters in them like I thought Nano looked like the titular character in Komi-san Wa Komyushou Desu. I also thought Rikka from Chuunibyou Demon Koi Ga Shitai made a comeback and ditched her chuunibyou and eye-patch as she returns as Shizuka. Pink haired girl + busty boobs. Uhm, Hakari is Super Sonico in disguise?! Kusuri = Mitama from Kaminaki Sekai No Kamisama Katsudou? Did Taiga from Toradora grow up to become Karane? Come to think of it, the girls here seem to have uncanny resemblance to the ones in Tenpuru! Or maybe it’s just me. This anime is done by Bibury Animation Studios who did Go-toubun No Hanayome S2, Azur Lane, Maohu Shoujo Magical Destroyers and Black Rock Shooter: Dawn Fall.

For the voice acting, I’m delighted to hear Shigeru Chiba as God and he hasn’t lost his funny voice ever since time immemorial. Yeah, this bugger still around so God bless his good ol’ soul. And the only other seiyuu I recognized is Akira Ishida making his cameo as Hakari’s dad/Hahari’s late husband. The rest of the other characters are Wataru Katou as Rentarou (Touka in Yuusha Ga Shinda), Kaede Hondo as Hakari (Echidna in Yuusha Yamemasu), Miyu Tomita as Karane (titular character in Gabriel Dropout), Maria Naganawa as Shizuka (Kanna in Kobayashi-san Chi No Maid Dragon), Asami Seto as Nano (Chihaya in Chihayafuru), Ayaka Asai as Asai (Hazuki in Hibike! Euphonium), Sumire Uesaka as Hahari (Sanae in Chuunibyou Demo Koi Ga Shitai) and Kujira as Baba (Otose in Gintama).

The opening theme, Dai Dai Dai Dai Daisuki Ni Kimi E by the quintet of Rentarou’s harem is your typical lively anime pop to get you into the romantic overdrive mood. Oh who am I kidding? It is as frenzy as Rentarou’s love live. The ending song, Sweet Sign by Nako Misaki flows at a slower and calmer pace although it is filled with some special effects that makes it sound a bit weird. Otherwise just sounds ordinary to me. The more amusing one is the special ending for episode 11. Yeah, it’s like a joke. With a long ass name of Kyou No Ending Wa Watashi Ga Kai Tottara Suki Ni Shite Ii Wa Yo Ne, obviously love struck Hahari sings about her love for Rentarou. The song and even the animation is a mix of fantasy, folklore and rock. WTF everybody running with their hands up in the air. Are they carrying Rentarou’s invisible love?! RENTAROU-CHAN… RENTAROU-CHAAAAAAN!

Overall, this series is funny and enjoyable if you are a harem lover. Obviously a guy’s fantasy to have as many girlfriends and for him to love them all equally and they all love him back too. Yeah, a nice escape from reality from us single dudes… With another season already announced, not sure how many ‘lucky ones’ will be featured because as I have said, the manga already has him accumulated almost 30 chicks so how they will animate and fit in more girls and the possibility of diluting screen time of his older girlfriends for newer ones could be a problem that we can foresee and fear. Sure, they can just bring in 4 or 5 more and make this series keep going till season 6… Yeah… So what is this anime, a girlfriend version of Pokemon? Gotta love ‘em all! Hell yeah. I also wonder if his dick can handle all of them in bed. Sorry if I should start thinking so because having so many girlfriends and sex doesn’t cross your mind, something is wrong! Hey don’t blame me. After all, this series is also for fanservice purpose, right? I’ll leave that for the dark side of the internet to figure it out… Now I’m wondering if God actually made a mistake and left the soul mate section blank on my paper. Oh well, gotta look at it positively that blank could mean infinite possibilities! Not bad! But infinity multiplied by zero is still always zero. Oh… :’(.

Kanojo Mo Kanojo S2

Well, well, well. I shouldn’t be surprised but I guess I was. I didn’t expect shows like this to have a sequel but I guess it did. Kanojo Mo Kanojo S2 I suppose is to help lonely virgin otaku guys to continue dreaming that a guy could have his own harem of beautiful babes and live with them altogether. Screw the morality of being faithful because cheating and two-timing are not an issue if you have permission and approval of the girls, AM I RIGHT?! Who is society to determine that only 1 man and 1 woman should live the rest of his/her life happily ever after? The more the merrier! Screw your strong and independent women mind set and whatever women’s rights! This is what guys want! This is the dream we want to live out! And so we continue dreaming while watching this fantasy continues to make us even more miserable and feeling lonesome… Oh yeah, (*with dead fish eyes*) we’re so happy right now…

Episode 1
Wow. Shino has a chart of Naoya’s complicated relationships. She’s staring at it intensely. And she vows to stop this farce. Wow. Who made her moral police? Then she gets a call from Saki. Obviously she is in no mood to talk to her but suddenly Saki claims naked Naoya is sniffing Nagisa’s panties?! This works like a charm as Shino makes her way there. You see, the happy couple (should I say triple?!) wanted to enjoy summer break soon. However there is remedial classes if one fails 3 subjects. As Saki is confident she isn’t that dumb, however Nagisa is in panic mode. Summer break together might be ruined. So you bet the panic button was pressed as Naoya trained her to just memorize. Obviously not working. In fact, Saki is more than happy if she fails because it means she’ll get more time with Naoya alone. Yeah, trying to feed false facts to Nagisa’s studies! And thus with no avenues left, Saki is forced to call Shino over to help tutor Nagisa. However Shino soon realizes that they are living together and she blows her top. She doesn’t look convinced that they claim their relationship is wholesome. Naoya is so desperate he will do anything. Including deleting this sexy pic of her at the hotspring. Eventually she relents (obviously we know why) and Nagisa barely passed her exams. Phew. Summer break saved! And so the request Shino wants is to stay with them during the break. This is to keep an eye on them. Call it optimism or plain dumb because Naoya thinks she is doing so to help analyse and improve their relationship! However this makes Rika sore! Who this b*tch and why does she get to live with him?! Does Naoya love her?! (Obvious denial from Shino).

Since Rika is still left out, she takes action into her own hands and barricades herself in front of Naoya’s door! Nobody enters! She continues to throw childish tantrums. Geez, this is getting annoying. Who is Naoya going to call to solve this? No, not the police. Her little sister, Risa. Let’s go home onee-chan. Next day at school, Rika drugs Naoya’s drink and kidnaps him back to her room. YOU MEAN EVERYONE JUST FREAKING LET HER???!!! When he wakes up, Rika explains the reason to date her: By doing so, he’ll get to have a cute little sister-in-law (because Naoya is an only child). Dumb excuse but whatever. Risa is no impressed but does all the cute things with Naoya. OMFG. Is she going to convert us all to lolicons?! Even more so, Risa has her own MeTube followers! In fact, more than Rika! And she doesn’t even have to flash her boobs. Definitely lolicons! In the end, Naoya is more rational because what would others think if he dates her only for her sister! Yeah, it doesn’t quite cut it. He claims both of them are cute and only wished Risa was his sister. Oh well, at least he called Rika cute. Simpleton. So each time Rika does that barricade shenanigan, call our mini Sailormoon to get her back. This is getting embarrassing. Worse, Risa even has Naoya contacts. Not even Rika has any. Please share! NO! One day, our dumb blonde is back and shows them a legal rental agreement. Why? Because she has rented the house next door! She’ll do what it takes to stay with him! HAHAHA!!! But now she is close to broke so keep making those MeTube videos…

Episode 2
Shino arrives for her stay. And she is already not impressed with everyone being sloppy. So now she’s going to play their mother? Noting her very different personality than Saki, time for a flashback when they first met. Saki was impressed with Shino because she’s a pretty girl with boobs smaller than her! OMFG! WHAT?! Shino being smart, athletic and beautiful, won’t let such boobs size get to her, right? Yeah, if Saki doesn’t keep on nailing the point that girls with small boobs like them should stick together! Even when Shino told her how different their lives were and will probably not see each other again after graduation, Saki didn’t care for all that and still wanted to become her friend. And so that’s how they became friends. About 1 month into their friendship, Naoya popped up to confess his love for Saki. Saki rejected this creep at first but it seemed Shino loved the honesty in his eyes. He kept being persistent as Shino even noted he should try others. Hint, hint? She even advised him to try a different approach but because he still wanted to let Saki know his feelings, this drew Shino even more to him. She even went shopping with him to pick a right present for Saki’s birthday. Who knows how he’d screw up if she wasn’t there. Then at a clothing shop, he has her try on as reference. Saki then came in browsing so he had to hide with Shino in the changing room. Already half naked. Naoya thought Shino was a nice person since she was trying to help others. Shino felt conflicted and told him not to say such to others except Saki. At the end of the day, he bought a ribbon for her as thanks for her troubles. Then she teased him not to get too close to her or she’ll fall for him. He actually thought hard about it! After a few persisting, Saki eventually accepted Naoya’s love.

Now Shino sees Naoya sleeping. Unguarded. Perhaps she’ll kiss him to get over him and move on. Well… Saki sees this! Oh sh*t! How to worm he way out? Uhm… She was trying to pick out his nose hair! Thank goodness Saki is dumb to believe that! Shino regrets her actions in the bath as she vows to end this two timing. As you would’ve guessed, Naoya comes in as she comes out. Another naked moment. Damn, he tries to call the police to turn himself in for voyeurism! Shino tries to stop that and she falls on him. Too bad if Saki sees this… OH SH*T SHE DOES!!! Thankfully Saki continues to be dumb and thinks Shino is having some clumsy streak. First day on her stay and already this much has happened. At night, a big welcome party for Shino but she’s not impressed. She came here to end their flirting and she doesn’t see the point of this. Don’t argue with idiots. Because Nagisa feels sad she worked hard on her cooking for 3 days. Oh my, don’t want to be a dick and refuse her. She finds the cooking great but soon realizes the lack of nutritional balance. Shino cooks some vegetables and this impresses Nagisa. But upon learning Nagisa improved her cooking for Naoya, Shino blows her top again. Especially when she already knew Saki was dating him. Do you not think the hell that she has put Saki through? Yes, she does think about it, but she really wants to be with Naoya. Shino tells her to quit this if she feels guilty about it. Nagisa continues to assert she loves Naoya and all. She has no intentions of breaking up. This makes Shino hate her even more and so she promises to break them up. Nagisa vows she won’t. Yes she will. No she won’t. This is going to be a long night…

Episode 3
Shino tells Saki to use the upcoming fireworks to set the mood and get closer to Naoya. To her shock, she learns Saki has not even kissed Naoya. What have you been doing, girl?! So she brings Saki to Naoya and wants them to kiss NOW! Hey, Naoya is willing to do it and even Nagisa is supportive of it. So what’s stopping her? Even with all the nice words from Naoya he has never stopped loving her, blah, blah, blah, what excuses Saki is going to give? Today’s just an ordinary day? Well, it seems like the mood is now right for them to kiss and as expected, Saki pushes him away. Claiming this practice is all she needs for the real deal when it comes. And so that day arrives. All our girls in lovely yukata get praised by Naoya. Except for Rika. Just weird. Is he discriminating against her?! So as they have their fun at the festival, once more Shino comes bugging Naoya to tell him to look only at Saki. Are we tired of hearing that? And then they realize that they have been separated from Saki and Nagisa. Handphone has no signal. It couldn’t get any worse seeing Naoya is bent on helping a lost kid find her friends and Shino herself has her sandal strap broke and fell. Now he is carrying both of them! After he is done with the little girl, Shino talks to him about rejecting Nagisa for Saki’s sake. Naoya had thought of that too. Even if that was the normal thing to do, he would’ve regretted it since it wasn’t an answer he came up himself. Even if he rejected Nagisa, it still doesn’t change the fact he had fallen for her. If she had found out he had feelings for another girl, this would hurt her way more than if he had told her the truth. It would be wrong of him to hide something important from her. What about you Shino? She has him leave her at the first aid station so he could continue looking for Saki. Now Naoya bumps into Rika. Oh dear. She’s trying to seduce him and get him look her way but clearly he is not interested! Even if she tries to tell him how much she loves him, sorry he isn’t into you. In fact, he is treating her coldly so as to make her give up on him. Stubborn girl won’t allow that and wants him to look at her sometimes. But the heart breaking truth as he reveals he has stopped watching her videos. Rika in tears as he explains it is not that he hates her. He still admires her but doing so is to stop him from falling for her. This gives Rika some hope that he still looks at her. The fireworks has started. Don’t worry, it’ll last for 30 minutes. Saki and Nagisa get desperate to look for Naoya but Nagisa has a plan.

Episode 4
Naoya finds Nagisa but as they are about to happily reunite, one of Saki’s friends sees them. To avoid busting their secret, they do some lame acting to get away. They managed to settle at a shelter by themselves. However Nagisa tells him that she made a promise with Saki that whoever finds him first gets to spend some time with him. And so they get close to each other by holding hands and even holding each other before realizing how embarrassing it is. And they’re not watching the fireworks. Soon, Naoya apologizes that they have to keep their relationship a secret and it is putting a burden on her. But Nagisa is okay with that. They’ll make more memories together. At this point, Saki arrives so it is time for Nagisa to switch out. Just don’t tell her what they did. It’s embarrassing. Obviously Saki is super suspicious since the honest guy says he can’t tell! She gets mad since he remains stubborn but she learns to let go. But that is short-lived since she can smell other women’s scent on him! WTF?! This makes her even more suspicious the things he did to them when she’s not around. Then as they watch the fireworks, the mood seems right to kiss. However Nagisa’s scent overwhelms it and she can’t focus, throwing a tantrum this time. Well, looks like the fireworks is over. Saki in shock. Naoya tries to salvage it by buying some sparklers but she is not impressed. Naoya soon apologizes for the two-timing trouble and that’s why he wants to know her feelings. She is not amused about it all but he continues that he needs to know her feelings right now as he wants to know more about her. She calms down as she notes how he only looked at her before until Nagisa came into the picture. She realizes him having his heart totally on her is impossible. Even so, he always said he loves her and despite all that, she still loves him for the simpleton he is. He just have to convince her about this two-timing. Naoya in tears, glad she is the one he fell in love with?! He hugs her but she gets embarrassed and calls the rest to join them playing sparklers. And so, Shino asking Saki if they have kissed. Nope. Can’t believe they forgot all about it. Wow. She really has a problem. Look how freaking disappointed she is! But she has a valid point and wonders if Saki is really serious about Naoya. Meanwhile Rika is happy with her progress with Naoya. That’s why come 31st July, she’ll kidnap him! Another psycho in the making…

Episode 5
Look who is still having problems. Yup, Shino still believes Saki must get it on with Naoya otherwise she can’t move on. Because she really wants to give up. SO JUST GIVE UP! She almost gets a heart attack when she thinks Naoya heard all she said. Luckily nothing. Then she interrogates him what happened and why he didn’t kiss Saki. Because he can’t say what happened with Nagisa, this makes her even more suspicious as she now interrogates Nagisa. To a point she forces them to redo all the things they did. Yup, all that. But no kissing. Wow. Look how lovely they are. Apparently this makes Shino mad. She wonders if they ever feel bad for Saki for doing this. Shino now believes all this would not have happened had Nagisa not come into the picture. If not for her, Saki would’ve been happy and she would have moved on. Yeah, apparently now she still can’t. Whatever. Soon, Saki receives camping gear after winning some prize. Did she enter some contest? Obviously, it’s a plot all setup by Rika. And so everybody goes camping without even knowing how to camp. WTF. With Shino still mad at everything, WTF Saki comes to grope her boobs?! Is this some kind of distraction?! So they talk about this and if Saki is really interested in Naoya. But a distress call from the guy. Seems he can’t set the tent and Nagisa can’t get the fire burning. Oh dear, are they going to die in the woods? Don’t worry, it’s Rika here to save the day as she shows these noobs how to do all that. So easy for a camping expert. It is then Naoya realizes all this is a setup as Rika further admits to this plot herself. Can’t she just go camping with the guy she loves? If they’re not convinced, Rika further cooks great food for them. To prove it is not drugged, she and Risa eat Saki’s favourite pizza. Nagisa can do nothing but burn her food. I guess it’s time to give in.

Rika then cooks for Naoya who finds the cooking delicious. Though, he asks Rika about her indifference since he tried so hard to push her away. She claims he is starting to like her. This brings a huge shock to everyone. The girls ask Naoya if he likes Rika. A long silence… Oh my… Then he admits he is drawn to her! OMFG! That’s not different than he likes her! Saki beats the crap out of him. You sure you wanna do that? Does he like violent girls? Risa is confused with everything so she asks if Naoya has a girlfriend. Once pointed out that Saki and Nagisa are his girlfriends and how they allow Naoya to two-time them, Risa slaps her dumb sister! She deserves a better man than this! With Shino trying to tell Rika not mess with other people’s boyfriend, Rika doesn’t feel a bit guilty in doing this. She isn’t giving up despite knowing he has girlfriends or is two-timing. The fact is that she loves him and her only hope is to go on the offensive till the day she takes Naoya from them. Saki and Nagisa now forming a solid alliance never to let Rika and Naoya being alone ever again. It’s about time Naoya wakes up from his sleep and explains. He admits Rika is attractive and all. Suddenly he falls back asleep again. Then the other girls follow suit. Looks like sneaky Rika has drugged the food. Just as planned…

Episode 6
When Naoya wakes up, he finds himself handcuffed to a tree. Rika is still bent in seducing him to make him fall for her while the resistance is strong for him to reject her. Basically, that’s how most of this episode plays out. She wants continue to hang out and talk with him more but he believes his love for Saki and Nagisa is more. So much so his brute strength to break the tree branch?! He is adamant that for the sake of his loves, he will go as far as to hurt her feelings. So please give up. Stubborn girl won’t and now handcuffs her to him. She teases him by putting the key in her cleavage. He actually goes for it! More Rika ranting about why she couldn’t give up on him. Look at the beautiful starry sky as distraction. And oh, it’s her birthday too. Because she is still persistent in wanting to do many things with him and in the end if things don’t turn out the way she wants to, at least she can take heart she has lived a life trying to make as much memories with him. She is prepared for it. Meanwhile the other girls have woke up and realize Naoya and Rika aren’t around. Better go look for them. Because of Rika not going to give up easily, Naoya asks her what if she has done all she can and he still hasn’t fallen for her. Obviously she’ll have to give up then. If that’s the case, he agrees to go out with her. This reverse psychology leaves Rika in shock. Sure that isn’t a trap? Naoya gives her the permission to do anything he wants. However she only has 5 months, until the end of the year to do all those stuffs. Because she is giving all she’s got, he realizes the only way he can make her to give up is to face her seriously. He must face her properly before rejecting her. Otherwise this will never end. She agrees to this and warns him she won’t give up so easily. First order, to celebrate her birthday and gaze the stars. Meanwhile the girls are lost as they worry Rika has done some sexy seducing on Naoya. Luckily he finds them. He is going tell them about Rika but Saki beats him up, knowing he is going to three-time them! Please hear him out first before you use your fist! So he tells them the plan with Rika in order to give up on her. Hence the next 5 months with Rika, he’ll go through it without falling for her to prove his love for them is greater! Oh well, can’t be help, right? It’s Naoya we’re talking about so better allow it. On the train trip back, everybody is tired out and asleep. Except for Shino. Obviously now she is doing some serious thinking. Because with Rika being this bold, she wonders if she should also be serious about Naoya so she can move on. Maybe she is more serious about Naoya than Saki. Ah, there’s your reason. You go girl. It’s your call.

Episode 7
Rika is confident of seducing Naoya as she stays over. Why, she even steals a kiss from him! You girls better up your game! Because Naoya is allowing anything as long as it’s not sex! Saki would love to kill her right now but don’t taint your hands over this b*tch. As Rika continues to dangerously flirt with him, she points out that they getting mad is because they don’t trust him. She is going to sleep in his room since you all trust him he won’t assault her, right? This gives Naoya an idea that all the girls will take turns sleeping with him. To prove he will not mess with another woman! Twisted logic but whatever. And so as they do rock-scissors-paper, the first night goes to… Lucky Shino! That night as she comes in, woah, what’s with this sexy negligee?! Is this to help train him and prove he won’t be seduced? Well, Shino wants to know if she has a chance with him so as she tries to seduce him, he rejects her. Disappointing, right? So as this ‘training’ continues, to a point where he realizes he isn’t good enough. Because he is barely keeping it since she is so attractive. So while that is it for tonight, at least Shino can take heart that she still has a chance. Rika is up next. She boasts she is going to do lots of sexy stuffs until she hears Naoya mentioning he almost gave in to Shino. Should’ve worded that better but now Rika panics. The seduction was just to make him notice her but if he really attacks her, oh my. Your plan backfired? She is going to make it tough for him. That night, she comes in wearing the most boring pyjamas. She is also filming as they sleep because if he attacks her, she’ll let the other girls know. Naoya assures he will take responsibility and look after her for life if that happens. This makes Rika want to do that so she tries to get sexy but he resists. She keeps lowering the bar but the resistance is still strong. When he mentions he prefers to like her than hate her, now at least she can sleep peacefully.

Nagisa has noticed Naoya has been spending an awful lot of time between the girls. This means he is neglecting his own health and not sleeping well. So with Nagisa’s turn tonight, she enters cosplaying as a nurse. Cute. Sexy. Uhm, is she mad? Because she makes Naoya stop all his work and forces him to rest and all. Well, Naoya likes her when she is scolding him. Because she looks cute! The angrier she gets, the cuter she gets! Doesn’t that make you sick, Nagisa? In a good way? Finally, it is Saki’s turn. She thinks of getting sexual with him to release all his pent up frustration and get ahead of the rest of the pack. But soon she learns Nagisa was taking care of him the night before. She was more concerned of Naoya’s health than advancing their relationship. Such a goddess! She must do better. That night, Saki returns with porn mags of girls with small boobs?! It’s no easy feat. She had to go search and find those that are thrown away! So this is her way to express her love for him? To allow him to release all that frustration? Too bad she didn’t think it would make him lust for more women! Then he wants to take a picture of her. Oh, is he going to use her as his fapping material?! Okay. Go ahead. Turns out he superimposes her face on the porn mag. Safe to say, he gets beaten up. Poor Naoya, after sleeping with 4 women, he can’t understand a single one of them!!!

Episode 8
With Rika hanging her huge bra outside, our flat chesters aren’t too happy about it. What if Naoya is seduced by this? What better way than to go ask him themselves. Wow, he is getting excited! With Rika bragging and the rest not amused, Naoya claims if they show theirs, he will be more excited. So with this watch that measures heartbeat, Rika’s one rises his rate up to 180. Nagisa than shows hers and this makes his rises up to 220. Saki is mad and all as she doesn’t want to lose out to Nagisa even if she beats Rika. Naoya claims it will be the same. So when she takes off her bra, true enough it reaches 220. Oh Shino, wondering what yours will be? She accidentally slips and has her boobs on his face! I’m sure that would break all records but luckily Naoya beats himself up and it stops at 219. Phew? Now Shino really thinks she has a chance with him. Soon, Saki wants to go to a beach. Sorry, Hawaii is far too expensive. With Naoya’s budget, they can settle for Okinawa for 1 night. But soon, Saki realizes this isn’t enough. She needs 2 nights. So how? Before Naoya goes to ask Rika for money, Shino stops him and makes the call to her dad. Well, she has a villa there and daddy says okay for them. There. Saved some money. As Saki hopes to get some BBQ, she is reminded about kissing Naoya. Wasn’t that her goal? Now that they mention it, she’ll do it. But what’s this? Shino isn’t even bothered and thinks they’ll fail! Soon all the girls take up the challenge to see who can kiss Naoya first.

So as they shop for swimsuits, everyone seems to be pleased with the swimsuit he has chosen for them. Of course Shino is in a dilemma to choose her own or Naoya’s choice. She doesn’t want others to know about her crush but is okay drawing a little attention from him. Just then, Rika pulls her aside and asks if Shino has a crush on Naoya. This shocking move makes Shino panic as she desperately tries to change the topic. But Rika sees right through her. Rika has been observing her and knows something was up when Shino slept with him. Since Shino continues to deny, Rika threatens to tell Saki. I mean, it’s not like she likes Naoya, right? Cornered, Shino is forced to admit she has a crush on him. Oh dear, she just fell into the trap. Because now Rika wants her to help her get more time with Naoya on the trip in exchange of not telling the rest. It’s all worth the slave driving, right? If she does her part well, Rika will be considerate to let Shino spend some time with him. She tempts her that she can get some time with him and this has Shino agree to cooperate. However Rika mocks her as stealing her friend’s boyfriend. But if that’s not the case, is she aiming for three-timing? Oh Shino, what’s your true goal here? Can’t let Rika rat on her? Since Shino sounds really desperate if she has a chance, this gives Rika more chance to mock her that she doesn’t even consider her as her rival since she can’t even tell the guy she likes her feelings. After all, Rika went all out to seduce him and he doesn’t react. So a loser like her, what can she possibly do by relying on luck? Wow. This b*tch running her mouth but she’s not wrong! This makes Shino mad and vowing she’ll claim Naoya. Or at least not letting this b*tch have it. We’ll see. For now, the cooperation is on.

Episode 9
Taking a plane there, well it looks like Naoya has fear of flying. Rika tries to use this to her advantage to calm him down. With Saki trying to stop her, Rika hints to Shino to do something. So she hugs him and suggests all should calm him down. Ah yes, what a lucky bastard he is having all the girls hold him. When the plane starts to enter some minor turbulence, he starts to panic and now it is his turn to hold everyone in his arms to protect them. I doubt this would cushion anything but I guess the girls love how close they are to him. Thankfully no plane crash as Naoya would think! They arrive safely and at Shino’s villa. Then it’s time to showcase their swimsuit. Naoya is excited to see all of them. Except Rika of course. School mizugi seems pretty plain. Sorry Rika, he isn’t the pervert you envision him. Time to change and talk about strategy with Shino. Naoya spends some time with Saki as she hints she wants to kiss him. Too bad we get trolled again as she goes to swim. Now it’s Nagisa’s turn to spend time with him. However she hints she wants to help him get closer with Nagisa and get that kiss. She has been having fun since becoming his girlfriend and would like to let Saki have a slice of this happiness. Sure, Naoya so impressed but is this the sleazy reason for him to go hug Nagisa for her consideration? I guess so. Nagisa getting some skinship points there. Obviously Rika and Shino are watching this and no way in hell Rika is going to allow this. Shino better do her bidding or she’ll expose her love. When all gather, Naoya openly tells Saki to somewhere, just the 2 of them. The rest obviously know it is to kiss. Since he is making his move, Rika hints to Shino to do something to stop them or else she’ll blab to Nagisa. Shino is forced to head into the water and purposely lose her top. She screams to Naoya for help to retrieve it or some party bros will do unholy stuffs to her. Obviously he obliges. To keep him here, she tries to pull down his pants and feign a cramped leg. She gets more than she bargained for as he hugs her. But the cramp is now for real so she punches and knocks him out. Rika collects him and locks herself with unconscious Naoya in his room. Nothing is going to stop this b*tch’s plan now.

Episode 10
Shino tells Saki and Nagisa what’s going on so they race to go find the spare key. With Naoya awakened, he is shocked to hear Rika’s reason for kidnapping is because she doesn’t want him to kiss Saki. Who says being a pretty girl makes it legal?! Since he wants to kiss so badly, she’ll do it. On his cheek. While it doesn’t break the promise of sex, this isn’t going to cut it for Naoya. So she goes kissing on his neck and then his chest! Naoya could’ve been taken in by all this but seeing how embarrassed she is, this brings him back to his senses. By the time Saki opens the door, Rika already heard them coming in and escapes via window. Thankfully, Naoya’s chastity still protected. Later, Rika roping in Shino for their next plan. She suggests having him eat garlic. Genius. So as Rika tries to force the whole pan of fried garlic rice down his throat, Shino is alone at the cliff, lamenting if only she had the courage. Well, speak of the devil, here Naoya is! He notices she still takes care of the ribbon he bought her and even being a good friend to Saki. She could’ve chosen another better school but chose to be with her. Of course the actual reason was so that Shino could be with him. The thought of she would have more chances if she’d stay with him. She hates herself for being pathetic. As she gathers up her courage to confess, fate says no-no and blows her ribbon into the sea. She dives in to get it but when she does, the wave swallows her. Naoya dives in to save her.

They resurface but on an uninhabited island. So, Shino’s first thoughts is to live here forever and bear lots of children?! Well, the main island is just opposite so there goes your castaway life. Since it is too dark to swim back, they’ll stay here. So they try to do some survival but Shino gets into sexy fanservice bits like her butt falling on his face when she tries to get the coconut or the plant stripping her top off. Yeah. But it was all fun as she wishes time with him would stand still. With night fall, it is getting colder so Naoya tells her to strip from her wet swimsuit while he makes fire. She does so and starts thinking despite all that happened, nothing will change if she continues to hide her feelings. Then she sits next to him, back to back. He gets concerned of this action even if he is safe bet. Noting Naoya won’t fall for her even if she is naked, she needs to have confidence in other ways. So she starts telling him she has a crush on someone. However he doesn’t know and so does Saki. She is afraid to confess for fear of causing trouble to others. She tried to give up but she couldn’t. She shouldn’t have fallen in love in the first place but it backfired. She keeps falling in love even more. Naoya notes she is a very considerate person. Because she cares a lot more than just wanting to date the person she loves. Shino then realizes his hands are sore from trying to start the fire. She starts to get emotional he did this all for her. Then she falls on top of him. His kindness has pushed her to the brink and so she kisses him. On the lips. Stark naked.

Episode 11
How will Shino worm her way out of this one? Well, she says it’s her first kiss. Yeah, she screwed up. Then she sums up her courage to confess. It’s now or never. But he has to stop her since she is naked. Oh. After a little breather, Naoya wonders everything that has happened has been an accident like always. She hints they weren’t. However now she collapses from fever. I hope it wasn’t the kiss that was too hot to handle! Meanwhile the other girls are still searching but Rika tells them some witnesses saw them get washed away. So I guess this means they can stop their meaningless search now. Next morning, Naoya notes Shino’s fever getting worse. Desperate, he carries her and swims all the way back! It seems possible but knowing Naoya, it isn’t. So, Shino going to fall for him even more? Looks like she’s burning up and not from the fever. This has her realize she wants to be with him and will try harder. Once they reach land, Naoya is out of energy. Not sure but Shino looks fine now. Then she sees a frantic Saki coming to get him. That look that Shino herself has never seen. And the real heartbreaker as Saki kisses Naoya. I guess that’s the reality check for her. Back at the villa, Rika is obviously pissed knowing that Saki and Naoya already kissed (mission accomplished!). Rika then confides with Shino. Spill the beans on what happened or she’ll expose her. Well, nothing much happened. Except for the accident of showing Naoya her boobs, holding hands, sitting back to back naked by the fire and yeah, a kiss. Wow. That’s something! But unfortunately, Shino didn’t get to confess because she fell ill and even more so she can’t after seeing Saki’s serious love for him. When everyone gathers, Shino has a big announcement: She is going to transfer to another school. She won’t be around them anymore so she hopes Saki and Naoya could take care of each other. Shino’s excuse is that she doesn’t want to catch more of Saki’s stupidity but a mad Saki will not accept that. Uhm, Saki doesn’t even deny she is stupid?! Hence Saki starts name calling her and badmouthing her puny boobs just to get her to reveal the truth. Even molesting her boobs?! With Naoya holding his girl back, Shino escapes. Later Rika catches Shino hanging out alone. She too calls her out for making that dumb move. Oh dear, Shino crying for real? She believes she has hurt her friend a lot since her original plan was to move on from her crush. In the end, she believes it is for the best that she leaves. Especially letting go of Naoya :’(.

Episode 12
Well, Rika mocks her she can never let go of this and will be back to square one. Perhaps if she asks, Naoya would accept three-timing. And if that’s not the case, does this mean Shino was never serious about him? Rika even goes so far as to call her a loser! Shino tries to prove it by deleting his photo on her phone and throw away her ribbon. Only the latter she hesitates. With Rika texting Naoya, here comes to gang. Shino tries to run but Naoya grabs her. He hints he knows about her feelings and holding it back for Saki’s sake. As long as she doesn’t say it, this thing will never end! Uhm, is he pressuring her into saying?! As Shino thinks Saki will be upset, Naoya admits he is not a very good person. Otherwise, do you think he would have allowed this two-timing?! And so now the dramatic reveal… Shino starts off about how she has hid her feelings all this years and have come to accept fate. She says it clear that she has a crush on Naoya. Instantly he rejects her! OMFG, Saki in shock? Did she not see this coming? Actually, Saki always thought Shino has a crush on her because she’s so nice to her! WTF?! Both friends break down and hug each other, apologizing for not realizing or telling what was supposed to be said. Next morning, everyone is looking awkward. Except for Rika. She’s laughing her ass off at the lame rejection. Oh well, good news for her if there’s one less rival, right? As Saki forces Naoya to make it up to her, they talk and Naoya immediately apologizes for the harsh rejection. He promises to make things normal between her and Saki again. While she continues to like him, he further apologizes he can’t reciprocate his feelings because he is trying to make Saki and Nagisa happy. That is when she suggests if that is the case, can he make her happy too? Oh, is she asking for three-timing?! Naoya thinking hard about this?! Shino even screams towards the sea that she wants to be Naoya’s girlfriend! Blame who she got this stupidity from?

On the way home, Saki is in so much shock. I guess she asked the wrong person (Nagisa) about her thoughts on two-timing. Yeah, so confused. And what’s this? Cutie pie Shino waiting for Naoya and has baked him some cookies? It seems Shino is willing to support Naoya, Saki and Nagisa to become happy. Unlike Rika, she will not steal him to make him hers. Only when he is done making them happy, then perhaps he can focus on making Shino happy. So, uhm, she’s like a concubine now? Even if she can’t be by his side, she still wants to. Shino also apologizes to Nagisa for lashing out at her when it was all just her jealousy. With Shino assuring she will support them, Saki asks about that moment on the deserted island. Oh my. Saki gets mad and suspicious seeing Shino cannot say it. With Rika threatening to tell, Shino sums up her courage to say it through her own mouth. She kissed him. Naked. And that earns Naoya some triple punch combo from Saki! And the combo continues! Shino blames herself for the ambush so Saki now gropes her boobs?! But all this has left Nagisa depressed. She is the only one who didn’t kiss Naoya. Saki and Shino try to give her some hope that she will have that chance. In fact, why not kiss him now. But angelic Nagisa thinks it is pointless. As usual, Rika stokes some fire that at this rate she isn’t going to kiss him despite being his girlfriend. Nagisa tries to hold in her anger (and she looks cute at it) and vows to get one with him. Naoya just wakes up and thinks of giving it one to her now! I don’t know, did this solve anything?

Sharing Is Caring?
Oh man, what a sappy final episode drama. It’s only right since we’ve come a long way (just 2 seasons only) for this. And finally the harem is complete? Well, it actually didn’t go anywhere but with Shino coming full circle with her feelings, it makes things less complicated seeing now it is out in the air that all the girls love him and no sneaky business of hidden feelings. I wonder how society and the rest of their schoolmates will perceive them. But that is a problem-cum-story for another day or another season. I mean, it’s not really just going to end like that, right? We want to see how Naoya makes his women happy! I wonder if he can take some tips from another similar anime that ran in the same season, Hyakkano…

I kinda expected more or less what is going to happen in this season. After all, it is that kind of anime. Naoya trying to continue his two-timing (four-timing to be more technically accurate) ways and make his girlfriends (and other girls) happy in cheesy ways. Yeah, not that I dislike that kind of plot because otherwise, why would a loser virgin guy like me keep watching animes and genres like this seasons in and seasons out? So yeah, didn’t really place much hope on the storyline and everything was within expectations. Well, there was a remote chance I thought they would add a new character into the mix but looking at the promotional poster, it is status quo. Don’t want to add to the complication there is already.

Obviously this season focuses a lot more on Rika and Shino. If I should say, it is their turn and season. After all, Saki and Nagisa had theirs last season so it would be meaningless if they continue to flesh out the duo and leave the rest behind. Sure, if that happened, it would have made stronger bonds and relationships between them but I figure it wasn’t going to be that sort of anime. Naoya has to be fair to all the girls! Therefore Rika and Shino fans can rejoice seeing they take a bulk of the spotlight this season although I won’t go so far as to say that Saki and Nagisa have been neglected. They are still there as usual but do not make as significant an impact as they did last season. Well, maybe a little at the start (during the fireworks festival) but that is about all. Just a little focus on them before the season moves on to Rika and Shino.

First off with Rika, it really seems that she is going full steam ahead to get Naoya’s heart. In a way, she is like the series’ antagonist and I wouldn’t really classify her as a dumb blonde (although at times she does show a little of that). With Rika being more aggressive in her actions (can I say she’s like a b*tch?), this keeps the other girls on their toes because who knows what kind of daring moves she will pull considering Naoya have made that strange time limit dating deal. You bet she’s pulling out all the stops to get what she wants and she’s not pretty shy about it. Though, I was confused that during the night when the girls are supposed to take turns sleeping with him, why did she panic and get scared about Naoya being some sex maniac? I thought she was one would not mind it and in fact welcome it. That only made me confused if Rika was actually serious in loving Naoya because all that talk about sex and flirting, then she baulks like that? Maybe it has something to do with the rules. Oh you know, the condition Naoya had her agreed to date her was no sex. So perhaps sex cannot be initiated by her but it is all okay if he does it? Hmm… Maybe.

The one I have mixed feelings for is Shino. Oh boy, she is a very confused girl. At first she was pretty annoying because it was like she was playing the moral police to want Saki and Naoya to be exclusively be an item. Of course as we’ll find out, it was just some lame excuse so she could move on from Naoya. My, what a high wall she has set up. It’s like she’s not interested in moving on from Naoya, am I right? Each time she complains about this so that she can move on, I just wanted to scream to her, “JUST DON’T MOVE ON THEN!!!”. It was pretty evident if this was going to be her character for the entire series, she would be very annoying. Yes, even more annoying than Rika because hey, at least this blondie has got the balls (oops!) and stays true to her feelings. Sure, can’t compare Shino and Rika because they are like day and night, oil and water, cats and dogs. You get the idea.

I didn’t actually see this coming because of Shino and Rika’s vastly different personalities, it never occurred to me that they would form an alliance. Albeit it feels more like Shino being blackmailed into becoming Rika’s lackey or something. This may be a blessing in disguise or a curse because I would say this would be the turning point in Shino’s (pitiful) life. At least in the context that she is able to at least think about her feelings for Naoya and at least try to take some sort of action. And here I was thinking Shino’s character role will be reduced to some sleazy fanservice girl since she is the only one who shows her boobs and naked body to Naoya several times by accident. OMG. It’s like fate trying to tell her something! So with Shino forced to be Rika’s partner in crime, instead of stopping the other girls from getting closer with Naoya, she got some quality time with him. Like I said, blessing or a curse, now that Shino has a taste of what it’s like to be with the guy she loves, this also serves to confuse more of her feelings. In a way, it was good because now she doesn’t have to give a f*ck about her best friend’s feelings as she too wants a slice of happiness. But then oh well, reality has to hit hard and confuse her more that perhaps her fellow hinyuu onna actually seriously loves Naoya more than her. So maybe it’s time to move on…

Therefore it was really heart breaking for Shino who has gone through a lot in this short span of time but hey, you know what they say, right? Better to love and lost than never to have loved at all. When the drama culminates and Shino making that heavy decision to even leave school just to get out Naoya out from her system, I don’t know what to feel anymore. Here I was being annoyed at her uptight attitude at the start. But the more this drama played out and the consequences that I have seen, the more my heart goes out to her. So yeah, thanks to this drama, even a veteran like yours truly is now feeling pretty confused! Even at one point I was thinking to even see b*tch Rika exposing Shino’s secret in front of everybody so that I could see Shino break down and cry! Shino’s crying face and tears would be priceless! HAHAHA!!! I AM SO EVIL!!!

Of course as seen in the finale, that evil wish of mind will not come to be. Shino letting out her true feelings, it brings an end to all the bottled up feelings but at this point I am still confused about her. Because now Shino has descended into some sort of romantic retard? Oh I don’t know. In one way she looks cute but on the other hand, it’s like she downgraded herself to be some sort of slut. Oh you know, she’ll do anything she can to support the rest and she’ll get whatever leftover love from Naoya. After all, Shino had her dignity being a smart girl. But after staying in this house and with Saki has her friend, I have to agree her stupidity has been passed on and even smart girls like Shino is no longer immune. Like they say, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em! So, welcome to the club, Shino! But in the end, I believe the confession was a good thing as it has lifted a lot of burden from her shoulders. She no longer has to give a damn and just stay true to her feelings. Say goodbye to all those rollercoaster ride of emotions. Now she can stay a cute retard. I think that is the best for her character.

And Naoya, you got to hand it to him that he is true to what he says. His earnest and straightforward honest personality is perhaps what makes the girls here want him. So yeah, he may be a retard and loud when he suggests and sets his mind in doing something (no matter how dumb it is or it is prone to complete fail), but hey, at least he has got girls liking him! Saki continues to be the brute woman and doesn’t hesitate to get violent if she gets mad. Naoya still tolerates her but oh well, I guess this is love. To balance them out, Nagisa continues to be the kind hearted angel that melts everyone’s heart. Aww, look how sweet she is. What nice perfect family harem we have here. Are we not jealous yet? Just waiting for the day she gets her kiss with Naoya. Don’t want to be the biggest loser now, does she?

The only new character added to this is Risa. Oh yeah, who wouldn’t love a cute loli like her? But I think it is for the better that she doesn’t make much appearance or else she would have stolen our hearts and many would vouch for Naoya x Risa pair! Oh no! Say it isn’t so. No doubt, Risa is cute in every way and possibly the one with more sense at least compared to her sister. Who could forget the way she snaps at Rika for wanting a guy who already has not 1 but 2 girlfriends! Value yourself better! You deserve better than this! Oh Risa, if you only knew what genre this anime is about. So yeah, Risa’s most prominent ‘appearance’ is during the next episode preview where she helps narrates and shows a few clips via her Risapon TV.

This season’s art and animation remain consistent in the first season although this season had a change in studio, SynergySP taking over from Tezuka Productions. I don’t see any obvious difference and even if there was, it would be negligible too me. Maybe those damn cute 2D girls blinded my but what the heck, they still look pretty as before so that’s all I care. Heh. The only new addition to the voice acting is Aoi Koga as Risa. I was surprised to know it was her. To be fair, I’m still in the midst of trying to familiarize with her voice so unless she is like Kaguya-sama, any deviant would have me easily miss her. This season’s opening theme, Dramatic Ni Koi Shitai by Hikari Kodama, I can’t really say I like it because it sounds like one of those slutty K-pop music. At least that is how the song starts off. And they add in some synthesizer and dubstep effects which just feels weird and generic. The same can be said for the ending theme, Forira by Claris. Already as generic it can sound, some lines the singer tries to sound sultry but it just doesn’t work for me.

Overall, this season is not any better nor any worse than the first. It just sets out what it needs to do and that’s that. So if you’re a girlfriendless virgin otaku and want some dumb harem romcom fun, this show has that potential to satiate your needs. So yes, I still find this entertaining despite what many others still continuing to say how such harem shows degrades women. Yeah, it gives me hope that perhaps I one day could get a (2D) harem of my own and live the dream. Thank you Shino for giving me such hope. Thank you reality once more for waking me up from my dream. Sighs. Time to go watch more trashy harem animes to cover up this emptiness.

Isekai Wa Smartphone To Tomo Ni S2

OH MY GOD!!! OH NO!!! HOW COULD THIS BE?! One of the worst isekai series is back and has a sequel???!!! Did my ears hear wrongly?! Are my eyes playing tricks on me?! Is my brain deceiving me?! Apparently not. It’s true. Because yeah, Isekai Wa Smartphone To Tomo Ni S2 just dropped. That’s right. You know that anime whereby reincarnated main character was allowed to bring his handphone to his new world and create anything, and I mean ANYTHING from that damn Smartphone of his. And don’t forget his harem too. Yes. That. Oh brother. I never thought a series like this would ever get a sequel, especially when its first season was released back in 2017. That’s about 6 years ago! Of all the isekai animes out there, this is one that got another season after a long time? Oh well, Smartphones are getting more and more intrusive in our lives and now we are just so freaking dependant on it. So what a way to remind us all about that indispensable tool that makes us all dependent tools on it with this heinous second season. I made that up but yeah, Smartphones are here to stay…

Episode 1
We see Touya and his girls fighting a pair of mythril golems. Skin too hard to cut? Why, Touya using his Smartphone to send them plunging from the sky! That did the f*cking trick!!! Back home, Leen talks to him about finding the remaining Babylon teleportation gates but Touya doesn’t seem interested in it. After all, it’s not like Leen has any lead on it right now. Touya gets a call from God so a timely visit to assure his second life is so much more fun. Definitely they have so much time on their hands, they really want to see where he goes with his fiancée. Speaking of which, Yumina talks to the other girls about this ‘engagement ring’ Touya gave them all as it also serves as some power ups. You know what they say about less (wo)men more share? They think in the future there will be many other girls who will try to snag Touya and knowing he is the weak guy who can’t say no, he’ll end up with more fiancées. So it’s up to them to get stronger and be enough to support him. So yeah, Yae may be the first as she goes around town with Touya as she manages to get him hold her hand. Normal for fiancées to do that, right? Then Touya and Yumina visit the latter’s parents. The king really wants some grandchildren but Yumina isn’t ready to go that far yet. The queen warns Touya that there might be some nobles especially those who were engaged to Yumina may not accept Touya and may grow hostile towards him. Hence he needs to have some accomplishments to prove himself. Later in town, he learns the inn is not having many customers these days. Touya thinks on how to make the customers stay for the long term. Aha! He creates a hotspring! FROM HIS HANDPHONE!!! OMFG!!! WTF???!!! A few people are called over to test it. Why only old men on his side? Anyway, Yumina wonders if the rest are half-heartedly in love with Touya since they are too shy to admit his love for him. Yeah, it’s bait to get them to reveal why they love him. In short, it’s like this: Elze: He makes me feel like a real woman; Linze: He paid attention to her and solved her anxiety around men; Yae: He has a true heart and stands up for others; Yumina: Love at first sight. Enough said. Meanwhile Francesca tries to be cheeky and climb over to Touya’s side. Thank goodness he laced the fence with some paralysis. Just when he is about to return enjoying his bath, Leen barges in to announce she found a ruin of Babylon!

Episode 2
As the gang heads out to the desert where the next ruin is, they stumble into a group of refugees led by Rebecca running away from an attacking Fraze. However as they attack, it has no effect. Suddenly Ende pops up before Touya. He easily destroys it! He explains about using the same vibrations and frequency to destroy it. Also noting about the cracks in the barrier of the world and that’s why these creatures are coming in. It seems Fraze’s goal is to look for a sleeping king. As in Ende too. Then he leaves. Tending to the refugees, Rebecca and her men are helping these slaves escape the cruelty of their kingdom. But as their master has died, their slave collars cannot be taken off. Oh my, just leave it to Touya to easily take them off! But since they have their slave status, they cannot return to their kingdom. Yumina offers to take them all in. Later Leen questions him about Ende. Who the f*ck that guy? He explains how they met and especially this strange coin he paid him with. Francesca recognizes this coin minted more than 5,000 years ago! Then they also ask him about Fraze so he tells them what he knows as told from Regina. Not that he wanted to keep it a secret, just never found the right time to tell them. Anyway, it was predicted the world would be destroyed by Fraze but then they suddenly disappeared. Back then as the people fought back, by the time the ultimate weapon known as Frame Gear was created, Fraze disappeared. Touya is excited to hear Frame Gear is a mecha and wants to ride it. It is probably in Babylon’s hangar so they head to this ruin as Touya gets transported inside to another garden. Another weird android girl, Rosetta. She wants him to guess her underwear colour! Wouldn’t Touya love to play this game? WTF colourless?! Anyway, this proves Touya to be the new master of this hangar. To his disappointment, it’s just a workshop. Even if Touya can use his skill to duplicate, this one can at least mass produce as long as he has the materials. Unfortunately Rosetta can’t make Frame Gear as she doesn’t have the blueprint and the workshop can only make accessories. Rosetta is introduced to the other girls. Is there some rivalry or bad blood with Francesca? Anyway, Touya wants to merge both gardens since he is control. But back home, a new problem arises as Rebecca and the slaves can’t find proper work. As they don’t have any skills, they can’t join any guild. So live here until something is done? Touya is fine with that but he can’t have them work at Babylon’s workshop since he needs to keep it as a secret

Episode 3
Touya is now the manager of this library café and has employed several staffs to help run it. One day with Yumina as they are at the guild to take on a quest to take down some bloody crab, the receptionist, Prim asks Touya if he has this book series called The Order Of The Rose. She would like him to order a complete set. He sees no biggies in that until Yumina explains about the story about that book. Basically, gay romance happening between the knights! She knows about it because the author is a friend. Under the penname Riel Rifrese, she is actually Reliel Rehn Refreese, the princess of the Refreese kingdom. Yes, she writes such weird stories. Touya gets more orders from Prim as she has her fellow receptionists write down what books they want. From those shady titles, I can guess their rotten fetishes… Boy In A Cage, Sweet And Dangerous Embrace, The Mage And The Sweet Trap… Yeah… As Touya looks for those books in the store, he notices a lady being depressed as she learns the last copy of a book she wants has been sold out. Yes, Touya bought it. Learning what kind of books he is buying, she wants to trade. That volume in exchange for her signature. Yes, this girl is Riel. Touya shocks her by revealing her true name so she panics and starts thinking his intention is to steal the chastity of the next king and take over the nation! WTF?! Head chop! When Touya introduces himself as Yumina’s unofficial fiancé, once more her imaginations run wild. Yumina getting married?! Is it a sham marriage and Touya’s target is the king! WTF?! Head chop! Thankfully Yumina explains everything so Riel better keep her mouth shut if she doesn’t want another Touya’s punishment. Touya gets all the books as Prim and her friends happily indulge in their reading. Time for Elze to have some screen time with Touya as he gives her this Chinese dress as present. Stunning. Soon, Linze shows Touya a new series by Riel. It’s about an overpowered man who gets the nation’s knight, beautiful princess, her brother and prince as he climbs up the ladder. Wow. Doesn’t this protagonist sound and look familiar? Looks like Touya’s going to need to practice that head chop. Don’t look now because Riel is on a roll with more inspirations! Next volume coming out next month!

Episode 4
When Touya visits the empire’s capital, holy f*ck it’s under attack! That escalated quickly! After helping a soldier, healing him and bringing him to safety, he learns the military is rebelling against the kingdom. Inside the palace, Touya saves Princess Lucia Rea Regulus from being assassinated. Her knight aide, Carol Rillettes wants Touya to teleport her to safety. However Lucia won’t leave till her father and brother are safe. They find Emperor Zephyr unconscious and of course the perpetrator is the military guy, General Bazoar. He thinks the emperor has gone senile as he refuses to break the nonaggression pact allowing him to invade Belfast. Bazoar thinks he can do it because he has summoned the Demon Lord as his subordinate after sacrificing criminals. Also, he has a few bracelets that nullify as well as absorb magic. Touya knows he can’t win for now and teleports the rest to safety. Also, he toys with Bazoar’s pride by making him slip?! And some illusion magic to make him scared while he escapes. Back at his mansion, obviously Lucia has fallen for him but Yumina has to put her foot down and mention Touya is her fiancé. Bummer, right? But knowing she likes Touya a lot, why not incorporate him into his harem?! Sorry, that’s just me saying that. But I get what’s going on. Touya confirms with Rosetta that Bazoar’s artefacts were leaked from the store. Yeah, looks like we have a clumsy garden admin on our hands. With Zephyr awake and safe, Lucia wants Touya to find her brother. This guy looks familiar? Yeah, it’s that soldier he saved. Touya and his harem soon storm the capital and take down the military. Easy. Heck, Touya even easily defeating the Demon Lord! THE FREAKING DEMON LORD! I guess this proves he is more overpowered. To face Bazoar, he locks him in a barrier with some stinky slime. Enough for him to pass out and end the coup. Wow. It’s already over?! Using Touya’s Smartphone as projection, Zephyr apologizes to his people about the coup and credits Touya’s bravery. Touya returns to his harem but for once they stay away from him because he stinks of that slime!

Episode 5
To thank Touya for saving his kingdom, Zephyr hopes he can wed Lucia. SAY WHAT?! That’s right. Marry him as his wife! Heck, even Yumina agrees to that and has already made arrangements! SAY WHAT?! Why does Touya not get a say in this?! With Lucia happily accepting, now both nations are on good terms. That’s not the end of it, though. Both kings have also agreed to cede some portions of their land at the border so that Touya can have a small kingdom to rule! They’re serious in that seeing they need Touya to have some sort of status if they’re going to marry their daughters. Well, it’s a good offer and not like Touya can refuse, right? So as Touya discuss this with his girls, first he names his new kingdom as the Duchy of Brunhild. After his gun? It is suggested they build a new home there and move in as soon as possible as occupying this place would look like they are favouring Belfast. Also, this mansion could now be serve as an embassy for Belfast. So how to build a new castle? Just ask Rosetta. Yeah, her workshop is bloody convenient in replicating materials so there you have it. All the construction materials needed to make the castle go up in just 3 days! Damn, this is better than his Smartphone! Leen pays a visit to also inform Touya that she is no longer an ambassador of Belfast but Mismede. She got bored and switched?

Touya then gets a letter from the king. This time the emperor of Refreese is here to see him. They also want to have good relations with Belfast so, oh no, not marry his daughter?! You mean that crazy princess! Touya would love to decline but thank goodness the emperor says she is already engaged. Phew. Touya learns that more rulers want to see him. I’m sure there’s more to it than building friendly relations. True enough, the monarchs just want to hang out with each other! So Touya and his girls get working on the entertainment room and prepares lots of gaming facilities and amenities. Touya is soon visited by Tsubaki who relays the bad news that their new lord mismanaged the land and in the end, got it confiscated. Now with no place, she hopes he can take in the Takeda clan. Can he say no? With his duchy growing in population, Touya discusses with Kousaka on how the people can secure their livelihood. Yeah, build more roads and shops! Brunhild is booming in no time. Lucia comes over to hand Touya her bento. Delicious. Did he call her cute too?! Touya you smooth operator! Touya then entertains the royals, monarchs and his people in his entertainment room before ending it with a nice fireworks show. He gives Lucia a ring. Now that makes it official. He notes they look like siblings but in no time they’ll look like lovers and then a married couple. I don’t know, they look like one to me right now!

Episode 6
Touya and co find another teleportation gate in the frozen wastelands. Touya teleports in to meet its admin, Bell Flora. So he has to pass an acceptance test which is groping her boobs?! Because he didn’t do anything more, she passes him and proceeds to register him as her master via kiss. I swear, this registering thingy is getting weirder and weirder. Touya learns that this is an alchemy ward. Basically it houses all sorts of medicine. Mostly lust based ones… Flora is then introduced to the rest and since her huge racks stand out, cheeky Leen wants to know if Touya fondled them. Flora spills everything to the kissing and makes him sound like a lecher. These girls should’ve seen this coming, right? Touya goes to research on how to fly. Yeah, he manages to do so but goes overboard and gets a bit dizzy. Talking to Elze, some technicality that he can’t cast this fly spell on her. But if he combines it with levitation, there you go. Now they’re both flying. WTF loophole?! With the God of Love calling Touya about some of his harem wanting to meet their parents, Touya goes to see Yae’s parents. Surprisingly, father agrees to their engagement. So, no duel? Father changes his mind and wants to how strong he is. But it is Yae who will fight on Touya’s behalf since she doesn’t want him to get hurt. Noting how much she loves him, they let this pass. Next, Touya sees Linze and Elze’s parents. No problems here but one of the kids note about some thunder bears causing trouble in the vicinity.

Touya easily takes care of them and while the guild confirms all his kills, he waits and what do you know? Ende shows up. Time to let us in a bit on what’s going on. He explains more about Fraze who are from another world, trying to look for the king’s core. It is however residing in someone’s body. Because the human heartbeat drowns out the sound, they cannot hear and that’s why they kill to eliminate the noise. This was why the world was almost destroyed 5,000 years ago. As looking for their king is just instinctual, they aren’t even aware of being invaders. Ende admits he was also there to help exterminate the Fraze until some barrier got repaired and they left. As the barrier is weakening, there is no telling when they will return. Especially the advanced ones. As for Ende’s mission, although he is also seeking the core, he isn’t killing anybody. Killing Fraze is just to buy time until the core is transferred to the next world. He is just a traveller. Touya is worried history might repeat itself so he sees Rosetta if she can create Frame Gears. Long story short, no. The most they could do now is gather materials and they need tons of need just to make one. Touya then confides in his familiars so they think he needs something that can fly. In that case why not summon the Flaming Emperor? And so they summon this phoenix who agrees to form a pact with Touya because he has already formed so with her pals, thus she trusts him. With Touya naming her Kougyoku, he has her release and scatter numerous birds all over. They are to track anything suspicious and let him know. He hopes to find the remaining Babylon ruins.

Episode 7
Wow. We’re moving on fast! Yumina sleeping with Touya! Only makes sense because they’re married, right? Oh wait. They’re not! Not just yet! With Kougyoku reporting another Babylon, Touya and his girls head there. But first, time to show his wives’ chops as they all take down the monsters. Yeah, Touya not even needed! Touya enters the teleportation circle and this feisty petite girl attacks him with a wrench! But this Shana rip-off AKA Fredmonica AKA Monica is easy to deal with. She slips up, unwittingly showing her pantsu many times. She even throws a tantrum after admits losing. But soon registers Touya as her master via kiss. Touya is relieved that he hit the jackpot as this a hangar where Frame Gear is stored. But here’s the bad news: No fuel to run them. Runs on ether liquid. Maybe Flora can help make some? Yes she can. But she needs ether ore. Uhm, what’s that again? The girls show this little crystal which Flora confirms it is so. However they need big chunks to make a decent one. Don’t worry, use the Smartphone to find its location. How convenient! There’s some in Brunhild! Touya tests out piloting a Frame Gear and then creates a few simulation cockpit so his wives can train in them. Production of the real Frame Gear is slow but at this rate they’ll soon have enough for everyone to pilot them.

Suddenly Sue comes running to Touya and desperately wants to marry him! He likes young girls, right?! Woah, woah! Hold on! Reim explains that Prince Zabune of Linhea Kingdom wants to marry Sue right now after seeing her at a social party. Like Sue, he is against the marriage because Zabune has reputation for being a womanizer (and Touya is not?), mistreats others and is already over 30 years old. No wonder Sue is so desperate to marry Touya even if she will be at the bottom of the pecking order. Discussing with the rest, his harem of course agrees to this. The more the merrier! Heh. Only for Touya’s case, RIGHT?! But the problem now is trying to refuse the marriage because this will lead to Linhea severing relations. Well, got to give Francesca points for suggesting to just kill that useless bastard! Of course Touya wants diplomacy so he goes to talk to Sue’s father first. This won’t be easy dealing with Zabune as he has the prime minister’s backing, Wardack. This is why he isn’t expelled from the royal family as he is the one holding real power while its king is just a figurehead. Plus, Wardack is the same family of Queen Dacia, Zabune’s mother. He uses that status to get things his way. The only decent royalty is the second prince but his mother is a concubine. Unfortunately his mother is kept isolated due to an illness and he is forced to live away with her. Linhea’s emissary is here to talk things out. The king pointing out Touya will be Sue’s husband. When the emissary learns who Touya is and that he can do teleportation, he begs him to save his mother. He is Cloud Zeph Linhea, the second prince!

Episode 8
Further revelation reveals that Cloud’s mom, Erya is actually imprisoned and his father the king cannot do anything because Wardack is holding all the power and might kill him. Hence Zabune’s engagement to Sue is only because he wants to ascend the throne. Touya and the other kings hold a summit to discuss this. They all agree to do something about Linhea but dump all the responsibilities to Touya! Touya using his invisibility mode, goes with Cloud back to his kingdom. Cloud talks to Zabune about his failure to get Sue because he is already engaged to Touya. Zabune mercilessly beats him up and then says he should’ve kidnapped Sue because it won’t matter after he enslaves her. Furthermore, he wants Cloud to start rumours that Touya is a womanizer and since he won’t, more beating up. Later, they rescue Zabune’s slave and disables the slave collar. Just in time because they see Zabune talking to Wardack about his missing slave. Wardack suggests killing her since he doesn’t need that slave. Good thing they saved her because the collar just got crushed! Wardack then continues to tell his plan to Zabune. Obviously send Cloud to some northern kingdom to declare war. They will then kill Cloud on the spot for that. First step to prevent all that, Touya teleports Cloud to where Erya is held captive to rescue her. Now that nothing is holding back Cloud, they can go on the offensive. They also meet Marquis Koupe who is a good man who helps Cloud as they plan their next move.

Touya in invisible mode uses his Smartphone to record the devious dealings behind closed doors of Wardack. Basically Wardack knows Erya has escaped and this puts a damper on his next plan. So before Erya’s escape reaches the king’s ears, they plan to make him renounce his throne to Zabune who is revealed to be the child of Dacia and Zabune! Now you know where the fatty genes come from, right?! Touya conveniently replays this footage to the rest who are shocked of this plan to oust the royal family. Soon the king of Linhea makes his announcement to step down and pass on the throne to… Cloud! Why? He summons Touya to play that footage in front of everyone. Now that the king knows everything, he is no longer scared of Wardack and strips him of his title and everything. Zabune continues to blame others and this isn’t all his fault. But the king won’t turn a blind eye to his evil deeds and passes on the death sentence! He gets scared and then blames Touya, even threatening to ruin his women and nation?! Oh yeah, Touya doesn’t hold back to shoot a few warning shots at him! Try it, buster! Scaredy cat got so scared he fainted! With Cloud the next king and Koupe the next prime minister, although officially Zabune, Wardack and Dacia have been officially given the death sentence, they are actually now slaves in some other kingdom to atone their crimes. Sue is happy with all this good news. What is he going to say to his future wife? Oh Touya, don’t make her cry… Since the others already gave their blessing, Touya will wait till she is 18 to marry her. Everybody happy and wins in the end.

Episode 9
After witnessing a marriage between the royals of different nations, Touya’s girls also dream of theirs. Oh damn, he has to hold 6 weddings?! Count ‘em! Assuming he doesn’t get more! Hence as Yumina suggests, they should all go on a date with him to improve their intimacy and relationship. After all, Touya has been so busy working in his duchy that he lacks spending time with them! Oh my! I wonder if that’s a blessing. And so we see them going out on a date with him and taking turns to hold his hand. When jealous punks try to rob them, his girls easily beat the sh*t out of those losers. No need for Touya to even raise a hand. When they return, Sue is mad because she was left out of this date. Therefore she gets to date him all by herself the next day. Rosetta then contacts Touya that a Frame Gear is ready. Happily he and his girls go to check on it. Since Yae has the least magic proficiency, she is given the honours to ride it first. Works like a charm. Yeah, now everybody takes turns to pilot it. So sad Touya is last in line… Rosetta then hands him a sword made out of Fraze’s crystals. She also has made some bullets out of it but since she is out of orichalcum material, she hopes he can get some. Using his Smartphone to look for orichalcum golems, he notes there are some at the kingdom of Lestia. He flies three to see a village under attacked by Fraze. The knights are on the verge of defeat when Touya swoops down to save them. Time to test his new sword. Cuts like knife through hot butter. Once the threat is gone, Touya talks to the knight leader who is also the kingdom’s princess, Hildegard Minas Lestia. She is grateful for his help and notes his specialized sword to fight Fraze. Noting that her gaze is hinting she really wants such sword, Touya thinks of building good relations with Lestia, he gives her a few of his swords to commemorate their meeting. Touya then leaves to get some orichalcum. When that is done and about to go home, he sees a strange deer who then leads him to a very badly wounded girl. He tries to heal her but she passes out.

Episode 10
Flora tells Touya that this girl is amnesiac. Although it is mostly about herself as she is still able to speak, write, etc. Better not insult it is a result of Flora’s treatment because she threatens to chop of his dick and regrow it! OMFG!!! Touya talks to her and obviously she remembers nothing. Finding it hard for her to be nameless, he calls her Sakura because of her beautiful hair colour and eye. Wow. He sure knows how to charm, eh? But sorry, still amnesiac. As Sakura wanders around his territory, Touya notices she has a beautiful voice. Great singer. Even greater as he plays the piano and she accompanies it. But soon Touya is given an important quest from the guild. Apparently this Catoblepas creatures can petrify you when you look into its eyes as well as emit poisonous gas. 13 adventurers have fallen victim and nobody is as strong as Touya to stop it. Guess he has got to do it. He lets his wives know so they’re eager to help him too. Before that, Touya gives Yae a special sword created to fight Fraze, making other girls jealous. Then the gang goes to tackle a Catoblepas and after a hard fought battle, manages to decapitate it. Though, Touya almost got his feet petrified but thanks to the recovery spell, it saved his skin. Though, his affected clothes can’t be saved. The Catoblepas’ petrification is still in effect even when it’s dead so Lucia almost fell victim to it. This part is cue for some trolling fanservice because her pantsu got petrified! Touya is forced to look away while the girls handle this. Uhm, should Touya cover his ears too?! Then another Catoblepas but this time Touya hits an idea. Use some mosaic spell to cover its eyes! Why didn’t we all think of that?! Touya is rewarded after taking down the rest of those beasts. He recovers the petrified adventurers too soon because what happens when a group of naked men are within visual distance of hot chicks? I guess they’re not as hot as Touya… The kings are having mecha fun battling each other in the Frame Gears! Touya agrees to lend them each since he believes Brunhild can’t handle all of Fraze and it’s best to have everyone prepare for it.

Episode 11
Look who is visiting Touya? Why, it’s the God of Love! Posing as his sister, Karen, she meets his future wives and they’re ecstatic to meet her as well. So apparently watching all the love flocking by Touya isn’t enough and thus she has to come down herself to soak in all that love power. WTF. Soon, Hildegard and her grandpa who is the previous king, Galen visit. Galen heard about the machines he has to fight Fraze so Touya shows them. Galen wants to borrow them and Touya agrees if he doesn’t misuse it. Of course this means Galen’s purpose of visit is also to build relationships and become his ally. Hildegard then requests to fight Touya’s strongest. After sparring with Yae, she soon learns that Touya has not one, not two, not three but 6 fiancees! OMFG. Oh, look at the despair on her face. Karen then jumps in to push things forward to claim Hildegard is in love with Touya and wants to marry him. No use hiding now. She admits it and his wives approve of her becoming Touya’s seventh! Oh my. Seventh heaven. Because Galen won’t allow his granddaughter to get married without resolve, Touya fears he must fight him… But now we see Hildegard talking with the council of Touya’s wives as they approve of her. Karen then eggs Hildegard to describe the coolness of Touya and how he looks in her eyes. Yeah, Hildegard spilling all the romantic stuffs that sends other girls squealing. That’s what you call love at first sight. And now it’s time to prove herself as Hildegard fights Galen to prove herself to marry Touya. At first she looks like she is losing ground so Touya does a sneaky move by using his Smartphone to project a sexy bikini babe to distract that pervy old man. This allows Hildegard to come back and win. Now Touya’s wives are jealous. Because who that busty babe! GRRR!!! Oh… Uhm… Gotta tend to the winner and injured. And now Hildegard is official as all the wives gather because Karen is going to spill more juicy stuffs on Touya like his first love as a child! Aren’t we all eager to hear such stories!

Episode 12
All the girls are dressed in sailor uniform because well, Karen said that is Touya’s fetish! WTF?! Oh Touya, are you going to deny them?! Yeah, you girls look cute. See how happy they are? Soon Touya finds himself in another Babylon ruin. However this is both the tower and rampart together as both found each other a long time ago and docked. He meets Preliora AKA Liora who is the admin for the rampart who surprisingly sounds very normal and accepts him as her master without any testing shenanigans. She then brings him to Pamela Noel, the admin for the tower. How to wake up this sleepyhead? Give food! She too doesn’t have him go through all those weird tests. As long as he can feed her with lots of food and provide a good place to sleep, she’ll register him as his master. Okay. What more can he ask, right? And here comes the kisses as registration… Soon Touya gets word that Belfast’s king now has a healthy born son. Finally he has an heir to his nation. He gives Touya the honour to name him. Yamato. Need to inject some Japan spirit into this prince?! But soon the Babylon androids confront Touya because they saw through the clairvoyance gem that he will have 9 wives and each bore a child for him! OH WAIT! WHAT?! Reminder, currently he has 7… This is so because there are 9 ruins and hence that magic number. So, he gonna give each his wife a Babylon garden to administer? The other girls heard about this and wants an explanation. No use hiding, Touya. The cat is out. Wow. For them to look so disappointed at him for having more wives… Are you girls sure not treating him as your property?! Then they decided it can’t be helped so they still charge him guilty. WTF?! The only way out is to kiss each one of them. Touya ‘escapes’ for now by claiming to go celebrate Yamato’s birth. During the fireworks, Touya claims he wants to live with all of them forever despite not having children yet. Oh, you don’t know… Cue for each of them trying to kiss him. While Yumina and Linze got a normal kiss, Sue gets a little peck. Lucia runs away after being too embarrassed and Hildegard passes out. Yae and Elze beat him up after he kisses them. WTF?! You girls wanted this, right?! Then they all continue to watch the fireworks as the androids get even more curious as they peek into the crystal ball to see all his wives. Yup, count them. 9 beautiful wives in their wedding dress.

First Wives Club: The Real (Royal) Housewives Of Brunhild
Can the ending get any cheesier than this?! Yeah, got to remind us all the wives that Touya will soon be marrying and f*cking so as to give him a child! I can’t imagine they will all grow up and fight a battle royale to succeed Touya’s throne! HAHA! Made that one up but I guess that bloody succession thing is for another delusion story another time. For now, everybody just happy to live their peaceful lives as it is. Assuming Fraze doesn’t come burn down everything. Oh heck, the battle for attention among his future wives will be the greatest battle Touya will ever face like no other! Better appreciate the good times right now.

If there is one thing that I want to point out about this season’s plot, it is for Touya to amass his wives! I am sure that there are other plots about this series but as far as I can see for this second season, it is all about Touya getting more wives! Like having his usual quartet from the last season wasn’t enough, because I suppose the more the merrier and now how many does he have? Spoiler alert, ending credits animation should give a good idea on how many wives he will supposedly have by the end of the season. Yeah it’s no joke. Are they trying to make Francesca’s predictions come true? She predicted he’ll have 9 wives. Oh heck, it will come true! But that is so only so far… If it’s not fiancees and future wives that Touya is getting, there’s be a bunch of other girls who are interested in him or least stay a close acquaintance or ally like those garden androids. So in order to hide the fact that he has too many girls around him, hence he is given his own mini kingdom with his own subjects so it won’t be looking so obvious that Touya collects and keeps girls. HOLY SH*T! WHAT AM I SAYING?! Oh wait, with his own kingdom to rule, this means he now has a place where his girls can run around scot free under his supervision!

The only interesting plot that interests me is the Fraze (respelled as Phrase officially but I’m keeping my old spelling for consistency purposes). Once again, Ende pops up mysteriously to drop more bits and pieces about this very strange phenomenon. And then off he goes and disappears like the wind again. So aside from the cringey wife amassing shenanigans which is actually my favourite subject of such anime series (that I shamefully admit to), I was hoping to see some sort of development regarding this Fraze thingy and the strange thing that these creatures are looking forward. Oh well, are they trying to say to wait for another season to find out more?! Oh dear. In the meantime, we’ll get back to more of Touya’s wife amassing antics. After all, not all the gardens have been found and it’ll be some time before Touya finds and merges all of them. Only then I am guessing he and his wives, girls and allies will be ready to take on the full onslaught of Fraze. Too bad it’s not in this season. Time to for me to go think up some crazy Fraze conspiracies like the sleeping king they’re looking for is Touya because the core they want is the heart filled with love, something Touya has after amassing his wives! Oh yeah. Somebody stop me.

Is it me or do I feel that this season it seems Touya has relied a lot less on his Smartphone. Sure, he does use it from time to time but I don’t see him spamming it all the time in utilizing it. Perhaps whatever needs to be created has already been done and there is no need for him to overwork the app whatever. Also, Touya’s girls are strong enough and a bunch of savages especially when they work in a group to take down monsters. Ah yes, Touya not really needed so he doesn’t need to get his hands dirty or even whip up his Smartphone to do something because his wives already got it all covered. So yeah, in a way it feels like a shame that his Smartphone has been relegated to a secondary tool. But in other ways, it feels a lot better since he doesn’t need to rely on that thing that we have becomes so attached and relied upon in our daily lives. Remember, despite the title of this anime, the main star is Touya, not his Smartphone. Hell yeah, on a trivial note, Touya sure didn’t need that Tinder app, the way he is amassing his wives naturally! HAHAHA!!!

As for the Frame Gears that Touya is slowly manufacturing, how come I feel that this is going to be like China’s panda diplomacy policy? Oh you know, Touya is willing to lend his mecha to them if they are allies to fight off Fraze. Yeah. That. So if you’re not an ally and want to have your hands piloting this big boys’ toy, you better get on the good side of Touya. And with all the allied kings hanging out at Touya’s place, they must be having the time of their life with Touya’s hospitality as well as the Frame Gears. It’s like Touya is the scapegoat to provide them with all sorts of entertainment. Oh well, only he could create and come up with such, right? Just like dumping all their responsibilities on him because no matter what, Touya will still get it done. Somehow. We are so assured.

As for the characters, what else can I say about them this season? Touya as the main character trying to live his second life and now he has to juggle with more responsibilities as he got his own mini kingdom. The land and his wives, that is. From the looks of it, he is handling it all fine and he’s not getting a mental breakdown because you know, so many wives! I’m sure I want to make some cringey joke about one wife is enough to drive a man crazy and freaking Touya has how many of them?! Yeah. But I guess that is why we’re all so jealous of him.

As for his harem, the more officially gets inducted, obviously the more of the pie they have to share. Get what I mean? But I guess it is alright for them because Touya’s coolness and awesomeness is to be shared by everyone! Touya belongs to everybody! Anyway, the original wife quartet has been given their dues last season so they don’t make much of an impact as the newly inducted ones. After all, there needs to be some sort of excuse why Touya takes them on. Like in Sue’s case, it’s to save her from a bad marriage and what a way to kill 2 birds with 1 stone because he also helped to kick out a dictator in that kingdom and bring justice back to it. Wow. You could also earn yourself a cute wife if you save an entire kingdom from terrorists and rebels. That’s how he got Lucia. And then the classic case of love at first sight for Hildegard. There is no stopping to Touya. In time too, Sakura will be official because with no memories, might as well make new ones and the best way is to marry him! By right Leen should be his wife too but I’m sure she is playing hard to get. It is a good thing the ruler of Linhea is a prince because if it was a princess, oh my goodness, another marriage at hand! Yikes! Overall, these Touya’s wife council might approve of each other and they’re all so friendly with each other. But they get jealous when he looks at outside women… Imagine a wallpaper hologram was enough to send some suspicions. How to solve this? Make her part of the wives pact! I can’t imagine Touya married to every single girl in this world. This is too much!

Thankfully not every girl he meets becomes his wife. In the case of Riel, I’m sure it would have been chaotic had she been that but thankfully and oh God thank goodness she is engaged to someone else. Someone else’s crazy wife problem… Heh. But you’ll never know. In time this may change and Riel may even join the party and write books for Touya’s harem that would open and awaken hem to a whole new world. Uh huh. More like a can of worms + Pandora’s box! As for the garden androids, each have their own quirky personality and although most of them are perverted in nature in one way or another. I think Monica is just being tsundere. And who could forget about Flora threatening to cut off Touya’s dick! That sure woke him up.

Although J.C. Staff took over from Production Reed in doing this sequel, thankfully there isn’t any obvious difference in the quality. The character designs and the art style mostly remain the same unlike certain sequels that somehow downgraded their visuals when they changed their studios (looking at you, a certain part timer devil series). While last season’s seiyuu’s are retained, new ones include Miyu Takagi as Lucia (Miyu in Wake Up Girls), Miyu Kubota as Sakura (Medusa in Jashin-chan Dropkick), Yuu Seizawa as Hildegard (Yumemi in Kakegurui), Madoka Asahina as Rosetta (Kominami in Bokutachi Wa Benkyou Ga Dekinai), Hisako Kamemoto as Flora (titular character in Shinryaku! Ika Musume), Miharu Hanai as Monica (Sassa in Busou Shoujo Machiavellism), Moe Kahara as Liora (Akari in Shokei Shoujo No virgin Road), Misaki Watada as Noel (Yaeka in Kumichou Musume To Sewagakari), Kenichi Ogata as Galen (Santori in Radiant) and Shunichi Toki as Cloud (Fukuma in Kyuuketsuki Sugu Shinu).

The one catching me by surprise is Misaki Kuno as Riel. I didn’t know it was her before I saw the credits. She wasn’t putting on her squeaky high pitch trademark voice as her character sounded a bit lower. This season’s opening theme is Real Diamond by Gemstone7. Not only it sounds generic a manufactured pop song, but it is quite heavy on the techno and synthesizer effects, making the song generally one huge noisy dubstep mess. The ending theme isn’t so bad but still not really to my liking. All of Touya’s 9 wives sing Isekai Jewelry. Still a generic anime rock pop but with the girls singing in their cute squeaky voices.

Last time I checked my blog on this series, it seems I didn’t really dislike it as I thought I would. My, how things changed throughout the years. Yeah, the first season was mediocre but enjoyable. I can’t believe I wrote that and I don’t even remember it! Must be all the disappointments of isekai tropes throughout the years that had me believe deeply that this Smartphone series had to be one of the worst isekai series out there. Good thing or not, I don’t find this sequel that terrible too. Maybe I put my hopes very low, so low that the limbo rock champion can’t even pass! Yeah. That and that’s why I don’t find this second season of this dreaded series to be that awful in the end. Can’t believe I’m saying this but it’s true. But this season still sucks, by the way. The sequel might not bring anything much save for Touya, wait for it, amassing his wives and the interesting potential of Fraze once again remains elusive. Wait a few more years down the road and with more disappointing isekai animes, I’ll probably forget all this and start believing the Smartphone isekai series as one the worst in the genre again. Who needs a Smartphone and all its app when you have great gorgeous wives by your side who can do much more than any Smartphone could! They should rename this series as, In Another World With My Wives…

Shin Shinka No Mi S2

Well, well, well. Didn’t think this would get another sequel so soon but I guess it is better to get it out sooner than wait for many years down the road until everybody forgets about it and will eventually never care. Heh. That’s what I’m thinking about for Shin Shinka No Mi S2. Because we still do remember about a certain chubby boy who powers up by eating some weird fruits, gets a bevy of hot chicks into his harem and save the world, right? Good for him. Life (or rather the series’ plot) had it made for him while people like us continue to watch this in hopes it’ll be better than the first. Why do I have a feeling I already jinxed it?

Episode 1
Seiichi is fighting a vampire kid. And lost. Before she kills him, Saria to the rescue. Unfortunately, not even her pink gorilla form is enough to put a scratch. She gets killed off! As she lies dying in his arms, she is about to kiss him… Not sure if this is a dream or vision because Seiichi wakes up from it. Phew. Still safe in the carriage with his harem on their way to Barbador Magic Academy. Barna explains about the teaching role Seiichi is supposed to have. As there are many nations enrolled in this academy, among them include those from another world. Because their magic is so strong, they are made hero candidates and this causes them to be ostracized from other students. Hence Seiichi’s job is to be their saviour and quell the situation! I’m sure youngsters wouldn’t get that Hokuto No Ken reference! Of course Barna also has roles for his harem. Saria and Lulune will be students, Artoria will be an adventuring instructor while Oliga will be Seiichi’s assistant. I’m sure there are perverted intentions behind this… When teacher Beatrice Rogena comes in, she gets mad at Barna for neglecting his principal duties because all the paperwork has piled up. If this is old man is scared of her, damn you’re screwed. Even so, he still tries to fool around… He deserves what he gets. But don’t worry, that nastiness is only for him as Beatrice is quite nice with Seiichi and co. It seems Seiichi will handle Class F, the class Beatrice formerly was in charged with. She laments she couldn’t bring out their talents and hopes Seiichi would do a better job. Seiichi’s first entrance to the classroom, the cliché basin tub falling on his head. To his shock, the class has only 4 students! A seemingly violent delinquent, a proud b*tch, a guy with a bear mask and a bookworm. Heh. All start to harass him! Good luck! Meanwhile Kreis and Helio plot an attack on Barbador to revive the Demon Lord by gathering lots of negative emotions. Suddenly Kreis gets tied up by Demioros and Angrea. They aren’t waiting for this pig’s plan so they’ll go attack Barbador right now.

Episode 2
Seiichi gets harassed by the punk, Agnos Passion. However he is put into place by Beatrice. So this guy scared of her? Not only him but the others as well. Yeah, maybe Beatrice is the scariest of them all. The class introduces themselves. Other than Agnos, there are Brud Lev Kaiser who as the name suggests is the prince of Kaiser Empire, Helen Rosa and the bear mask dude, Baird Lutra who only communicates via sketchbook. Saria also introduces herself but damn, everyone is in for a shock when she transforms into her pink gorilla form! Seiichi already having pessimism he can’t handle this class! But don’t judge a book by its cover! In order to gauge what they are really like, Seiichi needs to witness their powers personally. As Class F prepares to head to the hall for this special session, Seiichi and Beatrice go talk to Barna. It seems Class F has a reputation for being dropouts as each are dealing with a major problem. Meanwhile Class F learns Saria is Seiichi’s wife! You think that is shocking enough until she reveals Oliga is his sister, Artoria his girlfriend and Lulune his servant. Aren’t you just jealous? Also in the hall are the elite class, Class S who is led by no other than Theobald, Brud’s brother and crown prince. As expected, he is arrogant and has that holier-than-thou attitude. He falls in love with Saria upon seeing her and wants her to become his woman. However she rejects him. Twice! Basically, Seiichi > stupid prince. Theobald will settle this in the upcoming class tournament. As they leave, Seiichi just comes in. Now Theobald knows his face. Seiichi will start testing his Class F students one by one. Helen goes first. She views it as an insult that Seiichi is underestimating them since he says he won’t use his magic against them. She takes out her knives and starts attacking. Wow. Girl is so damn mad. Meanwhile Demioros and Angrea are on their way to Barbador and they think of having a competition with each other. The one who kills the most students wins.

Episode 3
Helen is on the offensive. But before she can go in for the kill, Seiichi does something too fast to be seen, lifts her into the air and catches her. This is an embarrassing moment for Helen but she beats him up since his hand is groping her boobs. Agnos wants to go next but Brud suggests the 3 of them fight him together. While they put on an impressive display, it is eventually Seiichi who overwhelms them without breaking a sweat. Time for some tears as a very frustrated Agnos lamenting how they don’t have any magic. Yes, this is what is ostracizing them from other students. Seiichi could feel for them because he too was bullied. Hence he is going to save them this time. He uses his special viewing skill and sees some chains around them, preventing their magic from activating. And then using a skill with a long ass name that sounds like spoilers, he breaks those chains. Now those failures can cast magic! Wow. Now they’re like pros in casting their elemental powers. Now they respect Seiichi sensei. Meanwhile Karen has been searching around for Seiichi. Yeah, she has been sensing Seiichi’s presence in the academy and going around to look for him. Can she not make it look so suspicious? Especially how she is creeping out Artoria and Lulune by sniffing them! WTF???!!! Definitely has Seiichi’s smell on them. As Seiichi and his girls are treated to first class meal at the academy, suddenly here comes Karen. She is so glad to see him that she runs and hugs him. Right in front of his wife, girlfriend, servant and sister. Smells like some disaster coming up! Meanwhile Demioros and Angrea have arrived at the gates of Barbador. They easily hypnotize the guards to let them in.

Episode 4
Artoria beating up Seiichi for having another woman. Speaking of which, looks like the women are going to have a real battle. That’s right. Can childhood friend defeat the combined might of mistress, servant and little sister? I don’t know but wife trumps them all! With Karen’s loss, she explains Seiichi as her childhood friend. She was once bullied for being tomboyish. But Seiichi was brave enough to protect her and got beaten up. Unlike the rest, he accepted her for who she is. It baffled Karen even further to think that Seiichi can still smile like that after losing his parents. Seiichi continued to get bullied and it broke Karen’s heart she couldn’t protect him. Seiichi’s turn to reveal his true origins and even show his actual original fatty form. He apologizes for deceiving them but as we all will know, they love Seiichi for who he is. It’s the inside that counts. Remember, Saria’s a pink gorilla behind that cutie pie. Once this is cleared, Karen talks about Kaiser Empire who sent the students here. Because they are ostracized by local students, she doesn’t want Seiichi to get bullied again since his old bullies might spread nasty rumours if they know he is here. As they part, Oliga starts to get scared once she sees the slave bracelet on Karen’s hand. When Seiichi learns Kaiser Empire gave all the students this to increase their stats, that is when he goes into some demonic rage! OMFG! Is he going to turn into some Demon Lord at this rate?! So strong his anger that it resonates throughout the continent! Everybody must’ve felt it. Eventually some creepy shadow demon seems to want to devour him but Seiichi is pulled back in the nick of time into reality by Saria. Everyone is glad Seiichi is okay. Barna clarifies the bracelets was perhaps Kaiser Empire’s ploy to destroy the alliance between Wimberg and Demon Lord domain. Their goal is world domination after all. Seiichi’s resonance has helped destroy all those bracelets. Barna is thankful but can’t help give him that sad look. Karen wants to join Seiichi’s groupie and with a new role: As his older sister! Uhm, childhood friend not good enough? Meanwhile Helio frantically contacts Demioros and Angrea that the bracelets are destroyed. Their plans to accumulate negative energy are for naught. He doesn’t know what that surge is but it seems it affected the Demon Lord’s revival and increased his strength. This means killing the students will be even worth it.

Episode 5
Class F seeks Seiichi’s special training. Yeah, got to beat up that cocky prince bastard. Speaking of which, looks like he is dropping in to check on them. He wastes no time in mocking Helen since she is from Valsha Empire, a small nation that will soon be ruled by his. She wants to freaking kill him but Brud tries for some conversation. Theobald soon realizes who Seiichi is and wants to fight him. Brud reminds him his fight is with them and the competition will prove they have improved. Theobald leaves and the rest continue their training. The day before the competition, fanservice time as we see the characters get into the bath. Please skip the guys and let’s go to the ladies! Oh, Saria in gorilla mode… Meanwhile Demioros and Angrea are busy eating snacks and even shopping for clothes! So much so this little kid, Destra pops up to them and sends shivers down their spine! He tells them to get the job done already or else. Yeah, no more slacking. With the competition starting, looks like Seiichi won’t be watching this as he has got a terrible stomach ache! Yeah, he’s fighting his own battle. Just before Brud vs Theobald begins, Demioros and Angrea barge in. They get straight to the point that they want everybody to die so as to revive the Demon Lord. They put up some magic barrier and how many students die trying to get out? Theobald thinks he is good enough to fight them but think again. Angrea turns manipulates and turns his underlings against him. Brud saves him and suggests a truce. Everyone work together to fight them. Glad everyone is on the same page. Because with such great cooperation, they are able to return the favour to Angrea. However they break her mask and looks like this is taboo. Yeah, ugly half burnt face. Because now she turns into a mad scowling b*tch and burns everybody! I guess she doesn’t like pretty people and is going target cutie Helen. Not so fast. Beatrice to the rescue! Sorry, Seiichi still stuck in toilet…

Episode 6
Beatrice steps in to protect her students. But can she do it as Angrea hypnotizes Agnos into her subordinate and forces him to fight her. She is put on the defensive and the most hurtful thing she hears from him is that he thanks Seiichi for bringing out their magic and not her. While the others try to convince Beatrice this is not true, Beatrice admits this is true to a certain extent. Even if she failed, she still wants to be their teacher. She reprimands Agnos and because his body somewhat remembers all her reprimanding, breaks free from Angrea’s spell. This makes Angrea furious but all that anger got her nowhere as Beatrice delivers her ultimate discipline and sends her to her defeat. Agnos can’t remember what happened but he feels the need to apologize to Beatrice. With everyone being so happy, they forgot about Demioros and he doesn’t like being ignored. Poor Barna, getting punished for that. Don’t worry, as a masochist he loves it. Angrea wants Demioros to lend his powers so she can continue fighting. However he tells her off that she isn’t part of the Demon Lord’s apostles as she has no mark on her body to signify the borrowed power like his. In despair, Angrea disappears. Demioros unleashes his fist and kicks of fury upon Beatrice. She takes a beating. Uhm, what are the students waiting for? Care to chip in to help? Even so, they get defeated. Demioros wants to slaughter her students to see her despair face. He is not amused she plans to sacrifice herself to save them. Oh well, whatever. Before he is about to kill her, look who is done with his business and has come to the rescue? SEIICHI! It’s about time! Seiichi so pissed that even Demioros is scared! Even if Demioros unleashes his full power at max, not sure what black magic Seiichi does and easily defeats him with a single punch! Holy sh*t! Victory just like that! Yeah, we’re all glad Seiichi is back. Meanwhile the rest of the apostles gather and since the defeat of that weakling duo, it’s time to take action. Yeah, didn’t place much hope on them in the first place. Meanwhile Seiichi’s revelry with the rest is cut short when Demioros fires his final shot at him before he dies. However Airi dives to protect him. Too bad both are down. Saria in despair that beloved Seiichi is dead.

Episode 7
Oh man, everyone mourning over Seiichi. So he really died?! End of show. Just kidding! We see him and Airi in the underworld. Yup, they’re really dead. It seems Seiichi doesn’t recognize who Airi is. Then this voice telling them they have to navigate through several trials and pass through the gate of living if they want to live. First task is for Seiichi to answer a yes or no question if Airi fell in love with him at first sight! Airi is tied up and can’t speak. Seiichi ponders for a while and goes for no. Correct answer! Reward is a flashback of how they first met. In middle school, Airi was a plain girl and her social awkwardness made her have no friends. But she somehow clicked with Seiichi since he was a bully victim and they slowly enjoy each other’s company. Now Seiichi remembers her. She thanks him for being able to be where she is now today. Because this time she will be protecting him. Ranze receives a letter from the Demon Lord domain about the alliance. Uhm, so Guscle and Eris are to be Wimberg’s representative?! Is he planning to fail?! Are there no other viable ones than these perverts?! Seiichi and Airi are before the maze. They must face a few macho gay punks if they want to reach the gate. Yeah, need to protect his own ass too because they’re want to kanchou it!!! There’s a lot of nonsense going about here as Seiichi eventually battles the punk boss. I don’t even know what’s going on but when the punk boss uses his ultimate kanchou on Seiichi’s ass, he gets back up and they start doing some fist fighting that has Seiichi emerging victorious. As they enter the gate, the voice reminding him about his stats… Seiichi returns alive, much to the relief of his harem and students. But what’s this? Suddenly an injured Louise collapses before him. First time she appeared this season and this is what’s happened to her? Oh, Airi’s evil smirk…

Episode 8
Louise was ordered by Ranze to bring Seiichi for the alliance summit. At the same time, Wimberg’s members are recruiting new members! Holy sh*t! Is this some freak show audition???!!! Everybody fails! I didn’t know there was a certain standard to be freaks?! Only this guy, Vitor seems to pass all their stupid audition requirements and be the only new recruit to the guild. WTF. Oh, they’re late in welcoming the Demon Lord’s domain entourage! Here comes Lutia and co. Meanwhile Zakia overhears Helio’s plan with Kreis. He is going to cut him down but the old wizard flees, confident that nothing can stop the plan already in motion. Zakia then remembers the previous emperor he served, Alf told him about a battle he fought when monsters attacked a country and lost. Hence he created this nation to prevent that from happening again but look at the state it has fallen into. He hoped Zakia will rise up and lead the nation when it comes to that. Though, he must work with other nations to avoid the crisis. Zakia is on his way when Destra pops up to attack him. As gallant Zakia fights, he is no match for Destra’s powerful magic. Not even when Zakia pulls out the magic sword bestowed upon him by Alf. Before Destra could finish him off, Louise protects him. You thought she could turn the tide but she too gets owned by his might. Then Destra is about to finish her but Zakia protects her and bears the brunt of it all. This scene reminds Destra of some personal tragedy and trauma so he gives up and leaves. Zakia then tells Louise about a certain group trying to revive the Demon Lord. Unfortunately, Zakia dies. Wow. They killed him off, huh?! Now Louise tells all this to Seiichi and Saria as she brings them back to Wimberg. Meanwhile at the summit… Both sides are throwing insults at each other! Big fight! No alliance! Oh dear. This is what happens when you have demons meeting with perverts! But surprisingly, it is Vitor who gives his rousing speech how they are supposed to work together, only everything starts to open their eyes and now hug each other as brothers. Wow. WTF. I guess Seiichi doesn’t need to do anything but witness Ranze and Lutia put their handprint on some plaque to signify their alliance.

Episode 9
Taking place after Seiichi and Saria left the academy for Wimberg, we soon learn this Airi is an imposter and is no other than Gempel who is one of the Great Devil Order and can make doppelgangers to copy their appearance as well as abilities. A short flashback shows he was a noble but nobody cared for him and only approached him for his status. Gempel beats up the Class F guys as he plans to kill them when Seiichi returns to bring them despair. Next he targets Lulune but that donkey girl is quicker to react seeing she thought ‘Airi’ was going to steal her food! However as her master’s saviour, she shares it and considers Airi her friend. Oh, there’s that buzzword to make Gempel start to doubt. Never had friends, eh? Then impersonating as Lulune, he targets Oliga. Eh? She shares her umbrella? Yeah, that friendship buzzword again to make him feel confused. Meanwhile Seiichi and Saria make a stop and they meet Destra who find Saria looking a lot like someone he knows. They talk for a while before he leaves. Seiichi has this feeling he has seen him somewhere. Now Gempel impersonates as Seiichi to get Artoria. On pretence he wants to hug her so he can stab her from behind, however her embarrassment means she punches him in the face faster! Artoria then mentions she will accept Seiichi for everything he is because he accepted her. Yeah, nobody accepted you, Gempel? This makes him start to wonder if Seiichi is really a good guy. Hence he impersonates as him to find out more. Enjoying the school life? Then as Barna is going to talk about the Great Devil Order, a monster attacks. Gempel using his scary eyes to scare it away. Barna then mentions of an evil presence he cannot pinpoint. An assassin from the Great Devil Order perhaps. That is when Karen pops up to reveal this Seiichi is fake. Can’t fool her nose. She shows the real Airi who has been found in a chicken coop. This is when Gempel reveals himself and his goal to make capture and kill all of them before Seiichi. However after being in Seiichi’s shoes, he realizes his entire life was without love. Losing loved ones can be very sad. From now on he will try to find others who will accept him. Wow. So he’s quitting?! Yup. He is. So they let him go like that? Of course. Hope, right? Second chance. But of course somebody won’t let Gempel go so easily (did Gempel think he could get out of this either?!) and kills him off!

Episode 10
Everybody is having a great drinking party. But next morning, pacifier man is dead. Vitor and Guscle play detective to find who the culprit is while Eris plays the tsukkomi at their shenanigans. Yeah, I can tell you this is not how detective work is done! Even they interrogate their own pals for more detective shenanigans. Eventually pacifier man gets up and reveals the truth that he tripped over his bottle while trying to take a leak and passed out. Case closed. Everybody happy and can go bath now! Wow. What stupidity. No wonder Eris is not impressed. But that night as Eris walks alone, Vitor comes up to her and tells his intent to kill her while revealing his identity. He beats up Eris but before he could kill her, Guscle saves the day. What is the meaning of this. Vitor adds his goal to fight the strongest and see their despair face before they die. Guscle punches him and sends him flying out of town! Now they can fight each other to their heart’s content. After a few punches, Vitor feels the excitement so he turns into his true form. Uhm, he becomes like the Hulk but without being green? Yeah, time to show off those muscles. Vitor doesn’t care about the Great Devil Order and just want to fight the strongest. So both guys trade muscle punches until Vitor realizes Guscle is much stronger than him. Yeah, that’s why his muscles are shaking in fear, right? Guscle unleashes his strongest punch. He misses but you can tell how powerful it is since it destroys the mountain range! Vitor admits his defeat and goes away. However he is soon approached by Jutis. Vitor admits his first loss but felt he has no regrets about it. He promises to get stronger and win the next time. Well, if there is a next time. Because Jutis kills him and takes his essence. Well, he did say he didn’t care about the Great Devil Order, right? His death will help nourish the cause. Meanwhile Seiichi is in a pinch as he can’t do any magic.

Episode 11
Flashback shows Destra liked a certain teacher. Then she died. Now he’s a sourpuss who hates memories. Barna talks to Seiichi and co for the real reason he is called to this academy. But first, time for some history lesson. Uhm, they’re trying to tell a legend about gods and would it help if they did some better animation than this CAVEMAN DRAWING???!!! Anyway, long ago when the worlds were being created, a faction of gods rebelled to reign supreme. After an intense battle, they lost. Their hatred cursed the world and those negative feelings took form in the fruits of evolution. The gods who noticed it took action to suppress its spread and that’s it is considered as a rare item. As the Demon Lord was the one who led the revolt, those who ate too much fruits of evolution will fall into despair and become fodder for his revival. Yeah, how many did Seiichi already ate? Max limited. Now we talk about Destra who was a student at this academy. He already lost his parents in a war so you can’t blame him for being in despair and wanted to kill the gods for all this. So when Barna took him in, one of the teachers, Libera thought and cared for him. Naturally Destra took a liking for her. Until one day monsters attacked the academy and Libera died to save him. In despair again, that creepy shadow demon told him it is his fate to be in such despair. That was when Destra vowed to destroy the gods and world. He is given a power that will turn everything into despair with a mere touch. Destra transforms into a death maestro (is that how he is named?) by eating a fruit of evolution. Barna blames himself for not being able to protect Libera that day. Well, now Destra is here to settle the score. Barna tries to bring him back to his senses but that kid’s already lost it. Barna willing to take each other out and be the last person he would kill but too bad the old geezer only killed himself. Destra then whisks Seiichi and Saria away to another dimension. This place is where the Demon Lord sleeps. Destra explains his other power to stop reincarnation. Those hit with it will be gone forever. He is grateful for the Demon Lord giving him a second chance in life in which he could gleefully watch others drown in despair. But as he waits for the Demon Lord’s revival, he has grown tired of it. This is where Seiichi comes in. He will feed him who has ate a lot of fruits of evolution for the Demon Lord’s revival. But this only so he could kill him. What? Because Destra’s goal is to kill all the gods and the Demon Lord will be the first. Seiichi fights him but considering he is weakened, he can do no jack sh*t. Destra finishes him off.

Episode 12
Saria won’t allow that as in gorilla form, Saria smash! Too bad she still can’t stand up to Destra’s might. And dies! OMFG! REALLY?! Seiichi now so sad that his fruit of evolution within starts to activate. Oh, Seiichi going to turn into the Demon Lord? Because this is what Jutis is hoping too for his revival. Seiichi is now in some dimension as he watches flashbacks of his life. Basically, recycled scenes from both seasons. He doesn’t care anymore as Destra tries to convince him that this world is fake and sucks. Come with me and destroy the world together! Thank goodness Seiichi hears Saria’s voice. Because that is enough to snap him out and tell Destra off that he is not him. Unlike him, because he was bullied and suffered, he doesn’t want others to feel the pain. And now Seiichi transforms to his true self! Cool clothes, more handsome face! WOW!!! But WTF… This cringe music and dance!!! WTF???!!! The evolution of love has him revive the dead or heal the gravely injured?! OMFG!!! The power of love cliché!!! Destra cannot accept this and throws dark kamehameha balls of despair. Too bad Seiichi’s hadouken of love absorbs them all! Now Destra is in despair. He thought Seiichi was the same as him. Seiichi hugs him and says he too can change and be kind to others. But I guess this is it for Destra. He kills himself so as to join Libera in the other afterlife. Not even God Seiichi can even heal him. Bye-bye. For real. Seiichi reunites with Saria as they hug. So as not to get us too comfortable with this reunion, hence Saria in gorilla form making out with him. Yeah, then they go home where everybody welcomes them back. We see everyone living their normal lives. Seiichi continues to hang out with his harem. Ranze and Lutia completing their alliance. Vitor still hanging out in the guild while Gempel now the new teacher of Class F. Even Angrea and Demioros happily hanging out together. Not forgetting Destra reuniting with Libera. A dream? Who knows? Only Jutis the loner continues to bide his time. Is he turning into a Demon Lord?

Bitter Fruits Of Despair
Oh. THANK GOODNESS THE CRINGE HAS ENDED! Seriously, I don’t know if I could take it if it lasted for just 1 more episode but all I can say that it is freaking over! YAHOO! And I freaking hope that they won’t make another season out of this! Let’s hope that the big words of “FIN” at the end means this series (at least in the animated context) is concluded for good! No more next season or sequels for us, OKAY!!! It better stay that way!!! Sorry folks, we’re not going to be around to see Seiichi and Saria’s love evolve to the next level!

I have to be brutally honest that this season really sucks! And I’m not saying that the first season itself was great either. Having said that already says a lot about this season. It quickly spiralled and went downhill very fast. So I was wondering why the f*ck it had gotten this bad and tried to do a little Google search over the internet, especially about the new characters that were introduced halfway through. Then I got stumped as I couldn’t find any decent info about them until I stumbled and realized that these characters from the Great Devil Order are actually anime only characters! Oh my. They don’t appear in the manga and light novel source, huh? This is bad. No wonder and I figure that is the reason why they called this season as Shin Shinka No Mi. Some new characters and some new (more like deviated) plot. So, basically the producers want some liberties from the source material and strayed so badly by adding these new characters that they f*cked up the whole thing. Yeah. Really. WHY?! If they weren’t interested in doing a sequel, why bother making crap like this? Were there some contract obligations they must fulfil and hence this nonsense? I don’t know. Either way, this season really sucked balls real hard!

Therefore this whole plot thingy about the revival of the Demon Lord from the Great Devil Order is one freaking distraction that we don’t need that just cheapens the entirety of the series. Pointless. Nonsensical. They dragged out the entire story of this and look what we have? Wasn’t there supposed to be some nefarious plot from Kaiser Empire to take over the world or something? And then suddenly they got usurped by this Great Devil Order distraction and that’s where it went downhill. Heck, now I realized that I may have gravely mislabelled some terms here especially the Demon Lord and Great Devil Order. As the series termed it as Great Devil (majin), at first I thought it was the same or used interchangeably as Demon Lord (maou or something like that). But with this anime only plot, I realized too late that both may be different entities since the Demon Lord as of the Demon Lord’s domain is the father of Lutia. Certainly the Great Devil couldn’t be her father, isn’t it? If so, why is her character left out of this device? Hence my blog could be riddled with such mistake and I’m not going to bother going back to correct them! Not worth my time! Hmph!

Even if you don’t even focus on these characters, the flow of the series is just pathetic. I know this is a funny series but certain times it feels more cringe than funny. This is because at some instances the jokes come from parodying other popular anime titles such as Jojo, Fist of the North Star and that obvious Detective Conan one. It just falls flat and comes off as cringe. For example, the time wasting episode of Seiichi and Airi in the underworld. That episode was like WTF-was-it-all-about kind of material. And then you see them doing dumb parody stuffs like as though they have no original ideas of their own. Big fail there.

Oh, here is another worse part. In the initial episodes, it seems there is not much story to tell. I’m saying this because the episode ends slightly early and after the end credits but before the next episode preview, they have some short segment of characters doing funny skits or explain whatever stuffs. Last season we had Saria telling us about Seiichi’s ever growing and expanding stats and skills. Whatever happened to that? Are they saying Seiichi has already reached the maximum level and has everything so we don’t need to be bored by all his overpowered stats? Yeah. Good for us too. But they replaced it with some chibi satire and thus in a way, making the whole thing feel a lot worse. Like as though they needed to kill some extra time since the episode proper ended too soon.

Moving on to the characters, so why do we need these new characters Great Devil Order characters for? I believe it is to give the other established and supporting characters some sort of screen time or else the whole season would be rather pointless. For instance, Demioros and Angrea got things rolling by attacking the academy. This is so that Class F failures could rise up to the occasion to prove how they have grown as well as give Beatrice some sort of redemption. Then we have Gempel so that Seiichi’s harem could have their turn at the spotlight. This is followed by Vitor so those guild weirdoes could make us cringe with more of their dumb antics and make us realize they’re still around (they want to make us think Guscle is some stupid muscled brain guy, huh?). Finally, it’s Destra so our main guy Seiichi and Saria will have their go about it. And to have the Great Devil Order occupy the final stretch of the season, it just feels like one big mockery of the series. I don’t mind if it’s meaningful or had some sort of importance. But it had none of that and that’s why this series, wait for it, sucks hard pink gorilla balls!!!!!

These new characters are just so paltry that I figure that is the reason why nobody cares about them as you could see after their episode in focus, they get killed off. Yeah, don’t have to bother about wondering about their fate after that. It’s like they needed that whatever plot to make them realize something and turn over a new leaf and after that goal is achieved, their character gets killed off. Saves us a lot of everything but it makes me wonder why bother to have them in the first place. Oh right. Already mentioned my ‘speculations’ in my above paragraphs. But of course they had to go for the happy ending and revived everyone. Not that we care anyway. I was thinking Libera could have something to do with Saria because damn, they look so similar and perhaps that is why Destra also somewhat targeted her. However nothing came out of it so I’m just going to speculate that Libera could be the reincarnation of Saria or her descendent. Oh you know, her sister’s daughter or something. Sorry folks, no such big twist. Just your plain boring Destra kid who loves his sensei. Uh huh. Not that I care anyway at this point.

As for the recurring characters, they too share the similar unfortunate fate. Really nothing much about them. Especially Seiichi’s harem. They get way lesser screen time than before and if they’re around, they’re just there to show their faces so as to make us feel that they are still around. Because otherwise why would they even want to separate Artoria and Lulune from Seiichi’s class? Even Oliga was with Seiichi but she was so negligible that I thought she would be given the invisible woman title. And why, they turned Lulune into a glutton because in almost every scene, she is seen eating something. Saria of course as Seiichi’s main girl and pink gorilla wife, she still has the bulk of the screen time but even so it is to showcase her retard dumbness. Oh right, we give that a pass and call it cuteness. Power of love, baby! See how it evolved because Seiichi doesn’t freak out and still love Saria in pink gorilla form! No discrimination, you racist people! That’s the power of evolution and love for you!

Karen and Airi whom I hoped to have greater impact this season, they too fail. Because Karen has been turned into some Seiichi scent sniffing character while Airi has largely been usurped by a doppelganger so as to give the series a much needed twist and drama. Both whom are which just feels boring! So are they officially in Seiichi’s harem or not? And what about the other students in Seiichi’s original class? Weren’t they supposed to be ostracized or something? Yeah, I guess we don’t even care about that. And Barna is like the punching bag because it’s like suddenly he can turn into a clown in the midst of something serious. Just to showcase how much of a pervert and masochist he is. He even admits this himself!

Then there’s Louise who also feels so paltry. Like as though her role for this season is to be a messenger girl. But I guess that small part is better than not appearing at all! Heck, I thought she was in danger of being forgotten as she did not appear at all in the initial episodes and only around halfway. And they actually had to kill off Zakia! Really?! Did this happen in the original source?! I don’t know. Not that I care anyway. Because I thought this guy would have some sort of redemption seeing he has his own kind of justice but too bad he got killed off by an anime only character. That really sucks for him. I hope his revival at the end doesn’t make him a zombie because hell, he was seen bursting out of his grave. Yeah. What the hell. But the biggest WTF could be that Gargand dude. WHO?! Remember at the end of the last episode in the first season, suddenly a red sentai warrior popped up on Seiichi’s carriage as he was on his way to Barbados? Yeah. Remember him?! So, WTF happened to him?! Did they really forget about him?! All was it all just a figment of our imagination?! And to think Saria told us to wait for next time to find out more about him. Yeah, they really tore this series to shreds. And hell, do you remember that dungeon admin, Sheep?! I guess she really went off on a long vacation and never came back! Jesus… There are a bunch of other characters from season 1 that didn’t show up but I just won’t bother anymore (Lorna where were you????!!!).

Despite Hotline being the studio for last season and also the one doing this sequel, it boggles me how they can make such inferior animation quality! Not to say last season was a masterpiece and was just hovering about near average. Hence my conspiracy theory may be closer to the truth that the staffs my not have the heart and mind to even do this crappy season. You see the choppy and jerky animations permeating all over the place. Not even Saria’s retard cuteness could save the day. They should have done better than this mediocre sh*t quality or don’t even do it at all!

And so they think they can attract veterans like me to watch by adding a handful of veteran and established seiyuus I well recognized into this season. That’s right. It was pleasant at first to note that they have casted Jun Fukuyama as Gempel, Tomokazu Sugita as Vitor, Miyuki Sawashiro as Destra and Daisuke Ono as Jutis. Oh heck, even throwing in Ami Koshimizu as Angrea and Kikuko Inoue as Libera for some more wow factor. Wow. Couldn’t be happier. But then the poor story and characters soon overwhelm all that and the thrill is no longer there. Back to being despair again.

The other new casts as Chiharu Sawashiro as Demioros (Jura in DanMachi S4), Lynn as Beatrice (Mikoto in Muv-Luv Alternative), Minoru Shiraishi as Agnos (Hiyama in Arifureta Shokugyou De Sekai Saikyou), Rui Tanabe as Helen (titular character in Ryuugajou Nanana No Maizoukin), Toshinari Fukamachi as Brud (Hajime in Arifureta Shokugyou De Sekai Saikyou) and Shouya Ishige as Theobold (Wakana in Sono Bisque Doll Wa Koi Wo Suru). Funnily, the listed Baird’s seiyuu as “???”. Sure, this character has no lines and on occasions only put on some huffs and groans but other than that, he is largely a silent character. So you mean they have somebody just for this character?! The opening theme is Evolution by Nano. It is a rock piece trying to sound edgy but it comes off to be noisy and chaotic in my books. The ending theme is Adore Me by Erii Yamazaki and although another rock outfit, I just find the singer’s girly voice to be somewhat unsuitable for this kind of song.

Overall, this sequel is definitely a huge disappointment and has downgraded itself from bad to worse. The story and the characters couldn’t get any worse than this. CAN IT?! Yes it did! I don’t know if it should be in the running for the year’s worst anime series because I’m so numb now that I’m not feeling the supposed disappointment. Yeah, some security mechanism to self-protect my sanity! Unfortunately, this fruit which had the potential to grow and perhaps vitalize our soul with nutrients, it went stale and bad fast. You could say the fruits here did an irony of devolving instead of revolutionizing things. It killed everything. The poison apple with a toxicity rating of category 1 has evolved into a rotten tomato with a rating score of 0%!!!

P/S: Yes, tomato is a fruit!

Arifureta Shokugyou De Sekai Saikyou: Maboroshi No Bouken To Kiseki No Kaigou

Holy mackerel mermaids!!! WHAT DO YOU MEAN THIS SERIES IS GETTING A THIRD SEASON???!!! Yup. I can’t believe it either and had to read it a few times and from different sources to makes sure it was fake news. I must be getting the wrong idea that this series sucked because it could be just me but everyone else loves it and that’s why it is getting another season. So I suppose to celebrate that, hence another set of OVAs for the second season, Arifureta Shokugyou De Sekai Saikyou: Maboroshi No Bouken To Kiseki No Kaigou. So folks, if you are a lolicon and fans of Myu, take heart that she is going to take the lead here and make you fawn over her cuteness and all.

Episode 1
Taking place when Hajime and co are still at Erisen, it seems everyone is somewhat disappointed that they couldn’t find the hidden treasure of Erisen. 6 out of the 7 legends are a miss but they still put their hopes on the last legend as Hajime suggests all of them stay overnight at sea since this will be their last adventure together here. You mean he is inviting Remia to come along too? No wonder the other girls are not f*cking impressed. Yeah, Remia gonna mess up the harem’s pecking order… Even more evident when Kaori asks Remia straight if she is targeting Hajime but she just laughs and gives mixed signals, almost fuelling a b*tch showdown. As they camp out over the ocean, Myu tries not to fall asleep seeing this is a one in a lifetime adventure. Then of course it’s time for action as a heavy mist falls over the place. They spot a shadow of a whale as Myu could feel a strange magic everywhere. She claims it is not something bad and is calling out to Hajime for help. After a huge storm, next thing we know, we see Remia walking alone in some city ruins. She is attacked by some death reaper but luckily Hajime is here to save her. He needs to find Myu too but first he has to deal with more bad CGI death reapers! Meanwhile Myu is also alone and somewhere in this ruins. A voice is trying to guide her to her brethren or something. If only he could not speak in riddles! Can you please be more specific?! As Hajime tends to Remia’s sore feet, they talk about Myu and Hajime has a hunch why Remia is flirting and being suggestive around him all because of Myu. I don’t get it. Anyway, Hajime isn’t mad and perhaps the others would understand (?!) because it’s all for Myu’s sake. HUH?! WHAT?! Myu is surrounded by Cerberus and its hell hounds but luckily a white whale pops up to protect her. When the numbers get too much, here comes a mermaid brethren to the rescue. She introduces herself as Meiru Melusine and is the captain of her pirate gang.

Episode 2
Meiru is also lost and since Myu is so cute and reminds her of her sister, she adopts Myu as her own sister right now! Myu and Meiru reunite with the latter’s party that consists of Oscar, Naiz and Miledi. Looks like Myu remembers clearly papa’s description of them. Especially Miledi as the most annoying person in the world! The others can’t help laugh but they’ll stop laughing when Myu also mentions about the bad description Hajime has about them. Except for Naiz. He’s a nice guy. Time is running out as the whale needs them to hurry and find 2 creators. Meanwhile Hajime has reunited with his other girls as they are fighting endless hordes of bad CGI monsters. Hajime is losing his cool as he can’t help think of finding Myu. He can’t concentrate on fighting. Before he gets serious in using his powerful weapon, Meiru and co intervene and wipe out the entire wave. Everyone is assured but also puzzled as Myu returns to them riding on a whale! The moment Hajime, Yue and Shea see Miledi, they really want to kill her! Innocent or not, she’s dead meat! Of course this farce is put to a stop by Myu. Miledi wants to mock them for being told off by a loli but she too gets an earful. Clearly, we all know who is tops of this pecking order, no? Getting down to business, Myu says that this whale needs the help of Oscar and Hajime to save him. She channels the whale’s power to them as they see a flashback of this place.

Once a booming civilization, they got greedy in seeking more power but went into ruin and destruction after a failed experiment causing monsters to overrun the place. In a final attempt, such power was sealed away by the protector which is this light whale. Now the seal is broken and the monsters are gaining their power back. Hence he seeks creators to repair the seal and brought the greatest synergist from different times to repair it. So while Hajime and Oscar repair this crystal on top of this tower, the rest protect them from the monsters’ onslaught. At first Hajime has problems doing his synergy skill but after he ‘steals’ Oscar’s, he now takes the lead. When the seal is repaired and this discount Leaning Tower of Pisa straightens back, the monsters disappear and they are soon thrown back into their own time. When Hajime and co wake up, they think they have fallen asleep. Since they have no memories of all that, they also have this feeling they forgot something important. Then the sea lights up. Lots of glowing fish and that whale. Myu believes something good has happened like meeting some great people. The rest feel that their magic and skills have levelled up considerably. Myu makes a wish of wanting to stay by her papa forever. Meanwhile Meiru’s side too don’t remember about it all but they also have a great feeling that something good happened.

What An A-Myu-sing Adventure!
Oh well, I guess that wasn’t so bad. After all, I have already set my expectations low enough so as long as I am not disappointed, that is probably good enough. This OVA is at least intriguing enough as we bring together Hajime’s party as well as those liberators of the labyrinth. So far it doesn’t give us much hints about them but I speculate it could be the reason why they left great powers for people like Hajime whoever conquered their labyrinths. And because they don’t retain memories of this adventure, it makes me wonder if there are many other such incidents in the past as well. Oh you know, Hajime and his girls being brought to different lands and even time to fix things. Once their mission is completed they get their memories wiped out but in return get some latent power up. This explains why Hajime and co are so powerful and almost invincible. Yeah, such a convenient ploy if they ever need to make more of such episodes in the future.

Of course we have to talk about Myu as she is the star of this particular OVA. Aside her flaunting her cuteness in everything and all, it seems it is hinted that Myu may have this strange power that transcends space and time. It is the reason why the whale sought her powers as she is the only whom Myu could hear and listen its thoughts directly. Other than that, Myu has clearly shown us that she stands atop the hierarchy because nobody dares to disobey her. Don’t want to be a dick for not listening to what a loli says, do we?! Plus, Hajime and everyone else say they’re doing it for Myu’s sake (whatever that means) and they view her as a brave and strong girl. She could be the key in the entire plot of this series. Although she was left behind with mom on Erisen, I bet they’ll meet again somewhere in the future. From the way I see it, Myu is an indispensable force for Hajime. As for the rest of his harem, they aren’t too prominent but looks like some are not happy and turning their attention to Remia because this MILF might steal Hajime from under their noses. I’m waiting when that happens… Will they listen to Myu in the event if Hajime gets hitched to Remia? I can only imagine the worst…

It still boggles me how they can maintain such bad CGI. While it is not the worst, it certainly still remains the same as in previous seasons. Like as though they want to remain this as their trademark. Oh well, as long as they just remain the CGI effects on monsters… At the end of the day, I’ll still have to wait and see when the third season arrives. Who knows? It could be better. After all, I didn’t find the second season to be much worse than the first so in that sense I guess there is still hope. A series that has gone from zero to hero is rare but it is not impossible. What are the chances this series could be it and especially one that is of the dreaded isekai genre? Yeah. Could be all just an illusionary dream and a far-fetched encounter…

Strike The Blood Final

OMG! It’s finally here! The moment that I have been waiting for a long time has finally arrived. Not that I am a big fan of the series to be honest. Really. With Strike The Blood Final coming and going back in 2022, I can finally put an end to my wretched misery of all the dreaded confusion, hard to understand moments that made me go, “HUH?! WTF?! I DON’T GET IT!” that have bugged me ever since the series’ inception. Yeah, why am I still watching this then? Nostalgia? Got to finish what I started? Or is it the harem? Maybe. Oh yeah. But it feels like a long road thinking back where I come from when I started watching this series. Uhm, more like a long trip that I didn’t remember a damn thing! Yup, the case of where the destination is more important than the journey. That’s right. I came in watching this fifth and final season with not much recollection of all the twisted plots and storylines in my head and hoping some sort of miracle will happen (not going to go back and f*cking read my old blogs either! Because I was probably winging it as I wrote the episode synopsis! Hell yeah! And also not going to rewatch the entire thing!). The miracle of the series finally ending! Yahoo! My final season has begun! No senpai, OUR final season!

Returning With Glory Arc

Episode 1
Avrora meets Glenda. Now that her memories are clearer, she has seen this world’s true form. She summons a familiar to destroy some barrier. And beyond that is Mogwai who welcomes her. Meanwhile Radori Ren leads a fleet of warships to attack some giant relic called Shito. It is the last of the relic left by the Tenbu clan. Of course those warheads can do no sh*t as the giant familiar is shooting Dantou that contains vampire familiars in it. If all that is too heavy, then let’s get distracted as we see Yukina trying to have sex with Kojou! What is this excuse of the need to suck his blood and power up her Sekkarou? Only, Nagisa catches them in the act! Busted! But! When Nagisa thinks it is her brother’s blood she wants, she will gladly support her. Huh? How? She is going to stab Kojou! OMG! She’s really going to kill him! Is she jealous? This farce is put a stop by Asagi who explains how Nagisa came to this conclusion. When Kanon was in comatose state, it was deduced that if Kojou sucked her blood, this would prevent her from becoming an angel. Kojou then has Castiella stab him because of some weird reasoning that when an organism struggles for survival, its libido increases. WTF I don’t understand but yeah, it worked. And that is why Nagisa was trying to do the same. Back to serious business they are now having an audience with Radori who introduces herself as the admin of MAR and of course Shafriar’s sister. She shows them the clip of them fighting a familiar using Dantou. Though, she assures them that these are artificial vampires synthesized and have no will and emotions of their own. Since there are 6,452 of them and Shafriar has took them to Node, they can literally level the surface 3 times over. Of course this is not only Shafriar’s goal and is only a stepping stone for something much bigger. Now this is Radori’s goal: She wants to negotiate and buy Itogami. Sell everything including its citizens to MAR. This is to ensure their safety as well as the rights to be subjects of Tenbu. Agreeing to these terms will avert a war. So don’t take too long on the decision. As Radori leaves, Aladar and Zana are here to arrest her. Of course she won’t go down without a fight.

Shafriar still thinks Kojou is trying to interfere with his goal and orders his men never to let him enter Node. Kured talks to him about not fulfilling his bargain yet but Shafriar explains the Fourth Progenitor has the ability to open a portal to Node which is the only passage to Else, the land of the east. Now that Avrora is the Fourth Progenitor, they must find her. Since she is not in this city, she must be in the sky thanks to Glenda. He hopes Kured can help search for her if they are to achieve their goals. Meanwhile Kiriha would gladly take a ring that would make her a familiar of Kojou. Sayaka vehemently protests this so Kiriha believes she is in love with Kojou. Of course she denies this. But then news comes in as MAR is having negotiations with the Japanese government to avoid deaths of millions. However this would give MAR a free reign to do whatever they want. Suddenly Glenda comes in. She is panicking and needs Shio and Yuiri’s help to save Avrora. Since time is of essence, she forces them to come. Kiriha unfortunately gets sucked into her portal too. Asagi and Motoki talk to Shtra and Broodt. They are told about the Shito Carena City which belongs to the Ren family, a fortress where Tenbu lived for thousands of years. It cannot be hit by any attack and its other half remains in Node. Although it can be attacked from the inside, they have never heard anyone coming back alive from it. Shtra and Broodt also explain their hostility against dragons because they deem them as invaders who came from another world to investigate theirs. As they are in no shape for revenge, they hope Asagi can pass the message to Kojou to kill Shafriar for them. Asagi takes this responsibility and also notes MAR made a mistake by trying to negotiate with Kojou. Obviously that guy will not accept whatever terms they proposed. Kojou sees Aladar and Zana turned into stone. La Folia arrives to tell them how Radori used the same technology on how they sealed the Dantou. If she can seal the familiar of an ancestor, it is not possible to do the same to a vampire or a Progenitor’s blood servant. Oh, and she’s here to get her ring too.

Episode 2
Wow. Looks like Yume and Yuuma are snapping up those rings too. Yukina getting worried and trying to get them back?! Isn’t Kojou the one who is supposed to be in charge of who gets it? During this petty squabble, looks like Aladar and Zana are gone. Snatched right under their noses! Reporting this to Natsuki, she also notes that a dozen Dantou have been taken from Node and who knows where they will appear in this world. Plus, the Japanese government has made a deal with MAR. So they’re abandoning Itogami? Maybe. But for now she can’t have Kojou use his familiars to destroy Shito since its huge debris will rain down. Back at Kojou’s house, because Sayaka is acting suspiciously, Yume uses her powers to make her tell the truth. Aside her hate for Kojou and wanting to do perverse things on Yukina as well as somehow she finds Kojou attractive, she reveals the big decision by her organization to destroy the Kaname stone to sink Itogami. Doing so will destroy the gateway to Node. Later as Kojou ponders about regretting letting go of Avrora and they would never have come to this state, Asagi talks to him that his decision allowed everyone to be still alive. She also wants to claim a ring and confesses she loves him. Just like she loves this island, she won’t let it sink. She doesn’t care if he loves others, she’ll try to win his heart no matter how long it takes. Just give her a chance. Well, can’t argue with that. After taking the ring, he sucks her blood. As Yukina is in a dilemma to destroy Kaname stone, Paper Noise is willing to do it on her behalf and take the blame. This resolves Yukina to do it herself but oh look, here comes Kojou with Astarte. As lord of this domain, he wants to protect it and won’t allow them to destroy the stone. He has Yuuma and Castiella as back up to help him fight against Natsuki, Shike and Paper Noise. Yuuma trying to convince Natsuki she can’t destroy this island because she made a pact to protect this place. Hence Itogami is where her dreams came true as both humans and demons live together in harmony. With Lydianne and Sayaka coming in as reinforcements, all that is left is Yukina. She is still confused but wants to destroy the stone or else there will be casualties. She is left shocked when she sees Kojou powering up to stop her. Then she realizes Asagi has made a pact with him.

Yukina wakes up in Kojou’s house. She is still confused. Why is he treating her so nice when she is the enemy and the one who betrayed him? He believes she did nothing wrong. Her job to observe-cum-kill him and sink Itogami were orders from her superiors. Hence there were no betrayals nor does he have a grudge against her. Since Paper Noise and Shike have been captured, Yukina will have no reason to follow orders from her superiors. She is free to do what she wants. Yukina is still not convinced as she is still confused because if Kojou doesn’t agree to MAR’s terms, many will die. She fears Kojou will be blamed. So this is the reason she tried to destroy Itogami? So it’s basically love, right? It’s so like Kojou to assure that he’ll take care of everything and that includes making sure Shafriar will not get what he wants. The question is what does Yukina want to do? Oh look, now Kojou has to go meet with Radori. So we see the rest dressing him up nicely. Kojou leaves Kanon and Yume with an important and dangerous mission so in return they want an adult date with him. I guess this is excuse for Yukina to continue to observe him till the end. Yeah, the moment she looks away, girls are flirting with him. Everyone is glad that Yukina has made her decision.

Episode 3
Shio, Yuiri and Kiriha are now in Node. They meet up with Glenda who brings them to Avrora and Mogwai. Mogwai has them here because he wants them to protect Node from Shafriar as this place is the central management system that sealed the Dantou familiars. As magic cannot be used here, this is why they have to protect this place from dragons as they are the ones capable of standing up to the Progenitors. Don’t look now but Kured is here. Too bad the girls can’t stand up to Kured’s might as Avrora still has trouble controlling her familiars. Kured wants her to join him. But then Nagisa possesses Glenda and then powers up with Avrora to turn Node into its true form. Kojou now negotiates with Radori. Before he accepts her deal, he wants to know how strong a Dantou familiar is. She brings his entourage back to Shito to witness themselves as they are going to destroy Tokyo with one. Soon they receive news that La Folia is leading a fleet of allies to attack Shito. Radori orders to launch a Dantou to destroy them. However after launch, it does not activate and falls into the sea. La Folia then launches an attack on Shito. This is thanks to Gajou’s info when he told her that when a Dantou is launched, Shito must materialize in the real world, making it susceptible to attacks. This is where Kanon comes in to attack and ground the Shito to prevent it from disappearing back to the other world. With Chaos Bride and Fall Gazer seen preparing to attack, the high priest surrenders!

Radori is upset that Asagi planned all this but she digresses and this was all part of Cain’s plan as he foresaw people like them trying to misuse the Dantou. So even if they launch a Dantou, it will be useless as all are neutralized. Now for some technical sh*t explanation that I can’t understand. What I get is that for the Progenitors could tame the Dantou but in exchange for that power, they are cursed to immortality. But the Dantou don’t have the blood memory to control familiars. That is where past memories of people all over the world being uploaded to the net and forming a virtual world to create fake memories for the Dantou. As long as they continue living, they can create new ones. The Ren siblings are upset they have danced into Cain’s palm as all the Dantou familiars are useless. Now that negotiations are over, Kojou has Castiella guided by Motoki to destroy the inner structure of Shito. The siblings escape but Shito is going to fall. No worries, Kojou summoning a familiar that negates gravity to prop it up. Receiving news that MAR is trying to make a move on Itogami, the rest will handle it and leave it to Kojou and Yukina to save Avrora from Node. The duo are alone together as Yukina gets a bit upset about Kojou’s bluff. She thought he wanted to destroy Itogami for good. Well, they’re even since Yukina tried to do the same without telling hm. So keeping her in the dark was just to convince and fool Radori. So no more lies? The others rendezvous with Natsuki on Itogami as she explains MAR is trying to attack Itogami to cover up its failure. Yes, Radori trying to get Keystone Gate even if it means sinking the island. Kojou explains to Yukina the truth behind Node: It is actually a space colony made by Tenbu to travel to other planets if anything happens. That’s right. Node is in space! So… Magic doesn’t work in space?! They meet with Glenda who will bring them to his daughter.

Episode 4
See the obvious difference how Kojou treats Avrora from his other girls. When Kojou sees Mogwai, he can tell he is Cain himself. In Itogami, he exists in binary form as his personality is engraved inside a tomb. Kojou knows his entire goal: To free the Dantou familiars. Although the Fourth Progenitor was created to kill him, he took advantage of it. By being killed, he sealed Node and then divided himself into many parts by creating 12 familiars. After some time, he resurrected as Itogami’s AI and created this country and have been making preparations for this day. Kiriha and the other girls squabble to get Kojou to suck their blood because they want power to defeat the dragons. Kojou then becomes enraged when Yukina takes a direct hit (although not fatal). Shafriar is back and he is hell bent on getting his revenge on Kojou. Although Kojou can summon his familiars, they cannot last long. Hence Shafriar controls Avrora and forces her to summon her familiar. As Kojou tries to go save her, this is what Shafriar has been waiting for as he fires directly into him. OMG! Kojou dead and turned into dust???!!! Avrora picks up the final of Kojou’s ring. She is crying blood and as it drops onto it, Kojou’s harem start to have that orgasmic feeling. Now that Avrora has become the final familiar of Kojou, he revives! Back in the flesh! This means all his harem familiars also power up as they fight back. The tables turned on Radori as Motoki has called the JSDF to join in the attack. Even Aladar and Zana have revived. Even Kii is back to give Radori a taste of her own medicine. Poor girl wants to surrender but too late for that. Get wrecked!

Before Yukina fans can feel left out, Kojou wants to suck her blood. Calling her cute and all, even promising to take responsibility of not leaving her, there you go, one bite for the road. No matter how angry Shafriar is, we know his days are numbered. After Kojou defeats Kured, he now turns to Shafriar and is going to make him pay for doing all this sh*t just to dominate humanity. So yeah, this final fight is going to be his. Correction. Our fight, senpai! But wait! Shafriar still has an ace up his sleeve. He is wearing an armour designed to destroy Progenitors. It seems he is able to control zombie dragons who were tasked to monitor the Tenbu when they came to Earth but got killed. This infuriates Kured but Shafriar cuts him down. Shafriar is in for a surprise because familiars other than Kojou’s pop up. Who do they belong to? Vatler! Can’t have a finale without him, eh? Kojou and his girls then break Shafriar’s armour and send him to his defeat. The day is saved. These events are watched afar from Reina and Moegi and they are glad papa Kojou is victorious since he protected their possible future. In the aftermath, we hear Kojou and co talk about the Dantou familiars are sent to various Demon Districts across the world. Hey, can’t house all 6,000 of them in Itogami, no?! As students, they won’t be treated as research subjects. Shafriar and Radori are undergoing trial. Vatler has headed for Else with Kured as his guide. So he has run away from Earth since he has too many enemies here? They joke about him returning with a possible army from Else for revenge. In that case, Motoki suggests Kojou to increase their strength by creating a second generation of stronger vampires. Oh yeah. You know what that means, right? The real fight over Kojou’s seeds will begin when?

V Strikes … And You’re Out!
OMG! We’re done with it! YAHOO! But oh well… I know this is very unfair of me to say that the final season and arc is nothing much because firstly I do not remember much about the convoluted plots from previous seasons. So if I said I was expecting a lot more and then they start to spam all those previous plot devices from previous seasons, you bet I am going to blow my top and my brains explode from all the things coming together in the final season. Yeah, too much for me to handle. So with everything as I have seen being minimal (in my opinion) and just getting straight down to the point, I think in this context this finale was the best possible way for a dumb person like me to at least watch something out of it. Hey, I have to admit although it was not as freaking confusing as previous seasons (because mainly I FORGOT!), somehow I still manage to eke out that little sense of enjoyment for this final season as they sufficiently tie up what is necessary. That itself is a big achievement for me and as this is the final season, it makes it all the sweeter. Phew.

I am also not sure if I should be happy or not (of course I should!) because the other shocking thing about this final season is that it has only 4 episodes! OMG. What?! Only 4 freaking episodes?! Here I thought it was going to have a dozen more considering the trend this series has ever since it decided to adapt itself into a OVA format from the second season. The second season had 8 episodes. Then the third had 10 episodes. When the fourth one had 12 episodes, what would a normal person deduce the final would have how many episodes? 14, right? Yeah, for me I thought it was going to blow back up to 24! I was even prepared for the long dreaded fight that would last for several years! But what do you know?! Holy sh*t! Only 4 episodes, dude! Wow. That saves a lot of my time and brain power! So for better or worse, I guess this is fine.

As I have said, this finale gets down to the point and tries to avoid any detours or distractions unless it has something to do with Kojou’s harem. Heh. What I’m trying to say is that from the past seasons, the series has a lot of characters appearing in it. So with the finale with only 4 episodes to boot, many of them felt like making their few seconds cameo and that’s it. Once again, it is that dilemma of mine after finishing watching this, to wonder if it was anything much. And of course once again in conclusion, it was for the better for people like me who were already so confused and all so it’s better for these characters to just have a few seconds of appearance than none at all. I guess I’m sad Polifonia didn’t make the cut, huh? Poli-who? Don’t know. But I know Mamiko Noto voiced her character. F*ck. So I guess other characters like Ibliss and Nina who don’t appear here at all, don’t really matter, huh?

Just want to note that for this season, Yukina felt a lot like a worrywart. In the sense that she seemed like she is confused, lost and uncertain. Heck, I was going to make some joke that this is the only season where she does not say the trademark line combo. Oh you know, when Kojou says it is going to be his fight, then Yukina would interject and correct him that it is our fight. Yes. That. Until of course that single scene. Otherwise, it seems Yukina is spamming more often the lines of that she is Kojou’s observer. It’s a roundabout way of saying I love you and want to be with him forever but whatever. Considering how things have turned out, I guess now she still can’t rest easy because his harem is out for his seeds! The real battle begins! By then, will it be OUR battle?! Every woman for herself! For Kojou! It would be mind blowing to see Kojou having f*ck all of them and having daughters that look so much alike like their mothers. Next generation of Progenitor fighters of the Empire Of The Dawn! Yeah! I hope that won’t happen so I won’t be sticking around to get more confused!

Oh well, I have come a long way since this series’ inception. I don’t know what else more to be said because at this point, it also feels weird that I am also leaving a series that I have a love-hate relationship with (more towards the latter because of its confusing plots and terms!). From the action bits to the harem fanservice that was the main motivation for me sticking through thick and thin for the series, oh man, I don’t know how to explain this strange feeling welling up inside me as I type this. The final farewell. Just like the light novel did back in 2020. Unless they adapt another side story sequel from it! PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, NOOOO!!! The fight is over. My fight with this series is dusted and done. No senpai, our fight… Has only just begun! That’s right. This series might be over but there are many other animes out there whose fight have yet to finish! Now we go Strike The Other Animes!

Date A Live IV

Majihiku wa… I hope the reason why they made Date A Live IV is because they and everyone else missed Kurumi. A lot. Very much. There can be no other reason, right?! Not because the light novels already ended its run back in 2020 and hence they have enough materials to adapt the remaining chapters and plan how they are going to go about it, right?! I mean, rarely an anime series gets a fourth season and this far, right? So what else could it be because of our majestic darling Kurumi herself, right? Because finally are we going to see Shido conquering Kurumi or even better, Kurumi becoming everyone’s b*tches and conquering Shido himself! Oh yeah. I hope I get to see the latter. Majihiku wa…

Episode 1
Looks who’s back, b*tches! Kurumi clones causing havoc at some lab to free a trapped Spirit known as Sister. Aw, shucks. That’s all we get for Kurumi for this episode?! Now we go back to Shido and looks like he is okay after whatever check-up. He goes to see Kotori but she’s in the midst of raping Mana?! Actually, trying to undress her to get her check-up due to all the body enhancements that DEM has done on her. Well, let’s leave those ladies be. As he goes to town, he stumbles upon an unconscious girl in the alley, Nia Honjo. Turns out she is hungry. Not sure she is hungry in the horny sense because she can flirt with him as he carries her home. Shido learns she is a mangaka and one of his favourites. But something doesn’t add up as he read that manga 10 years ago and the author stopped writing for health reasons years ago. Well, better start cooking before she dies of hunger. That’s not the end of it as Nia makes him help her finish her manga before proceeding to ask him to go out on a date with her at Akihabara next week. Yeah, need someone to carry her stuffs, eh? He declines but she wonders if he is okay with that. Hence she transforms into a Spirit for him. That change your mind? Isn’t it his job to date Spirits? She knows him because of her angel, Raziel that tells her what happened in the world. Though, it can’t predict the future or read people’s hearts. However if you write it down, that future will happen. So, like Future Diary?! She also mentions she was captured for 5 years under DEM, hence her hiatus. Now she can resume her work. And since she is listing down all his embarrassing manga characters he created when he was young, I guess the date is settled. So at Akihabara, Ratatoskr is observing his closely. Yeah, first dating choice comes up. How to compliment her clothes, huh? Ironically the safest option is dead last so Shido has to go with the bold and daring flirty one. Being the pervert Nia is, she likes it somewhat. The date continues as we see Nia an eager beaver with all the things she has missed out. The date proceeds smoothly until she trips. Shido tries to catch her but falls over her. Great chance. But before Shido can do anything, Nia says that she can’t fall for him because she can only love 2D. EH?! But I can relate!

Episode 2
Emergency meeting! Must be real serious if Ratatoskr starts brainstorming like this, huh? Nia is ecstatic to see a favourite manga character before her. Her happiness level shoots up. But when he is about to kiss her, all that drops back to zero as she busts Shido in disguise. WTF is the meaning of this?! He gets beaten up for that. But at least now they know she can get happy with such a character so the next plan seems to be sending Nia a demo dating sim. Shido the protagonist. Nia is amazed at how advanced this game is and has been playing for 2 hours and her happiness level slowly rising. But when she uses Raziel to find out more about the game and she discovers it is Shido doing real time voice acting and all (and everybody is just spying on her), she blows her top. I guess it gets desperate now as Shido’s harem now brainstorm to help. Suggest to turn Shido 2D?! Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean steamrolling him flat. Just turn him into a manga character. That way, if Nia knows what Shido has done, she’ll like him too. But looks like Nia knows what they’re up too thanks to Raziel. Even if they make such manga, it’s not like she’s going to read it, right? After all, she is rushing for this Comico event in a few days. That is when Kotori comes up with a challenge that if their manga sells more than hers, she must read theirs. Challenge accepted. Soon, Nia is visited by Kurumi (ALL HAIL THE QUEEN!) and knows she is the one who freed her from DEM. Kurumi knows Nia is the second spirit after Spirit of Origin and needs a favour to ask from Raziel. It is to tell her who the Spirit of Origin is and a way to kill it. Later Kurumi talks with her clones about the disappointing news that even if all their powers combined, they won’t get close in killing the Spirit of Origin. But Kurumi isn’t cowed yet because all that doesn’t matter since she controls time. Kotori has everyone draw to see who has the better manga skills. In the end, Natsumi will be their main while those supporting her are Shido, Origami, Yuzuru and Kaguya. Reine then brings Shido and Kotori to talk to Hiroki Takajo, a fellow mangaka who was Nia’s friend. She too is unsure what happened because their friendship soon fall to the wayside. Since she is unable to help, Kotori can only deduce because Nia used Raziel, she must’ve found out something unpleasant. Perhaps that is why she couldn’t trust others except 2D. Shido and his girls burn the midnight oil till they finish the manga. Girigiri. Look at those bags. Hidoi. Better freshen up if they’re going to start their date.

Episode 3
How are Shido and his girls going to compete with Nia? Well, for starters, Kotori and the Spirits dress up as sexy Playboy bunny girls! That sure going to help in the attraction. Yeah, Kotori bringing the crew of Ratatoskr to help in buying and Origami and her AST pals too. Nia seems to be winning as she has a box left to sell. So Miku uses her influence to call all her otaku fans here. Nia is surprised that Takajo is here to visit. Takajo notes that even if she hates her, she will always look forward to her works. This has Shido deduce that Nia likes Takajo but distance herself when she found out about her dark side and got scared of getting too curious that she’ll use Raziel and discover more. Nia rubbishes that and admonishes his nosy behaviour but he is still adamant to help her. Damn, they’re descending into some shouting argument while selling their comics? In the end, both sell finish at the same time and since Nia acknowledges the effort they put in, she’ll read their manga. Yeah, it’s called Shido A Live. Better than Date A Shido, eh? Anyway, Nia finds out that Shido has been telling the truth on what he has done to his Spirit harem. Just as she is about to give him a chance to go on another date, suddenly she turns into a Spirit. Ellen wonders why Nia never inverted this during her imprisonment despite all the torture they gave her. Westcott explains during that period, she lost faith in humanity. Now that Shido opened her up, the device that locked those memories is also now deactivated as she remembers those tortuous moments. Shido and his Spirits try to tackle Nia but their powers overwhelmed or nullified. Shido manages to break out once he realizes using his Spirits’ weapons isn’t written down. However before he can save Nia, Artemisia Bell Ashcroft swoops down and kills Nia and extracts her crystal core which contains her powers. Westcott then absorbs it and gains Nia’s abilities. Of course he wants to take the rest too but that will be for another day as his body might not be able to handle it. Yeah, better to get them one by one and slowly. After they retreat, Touka senses Nia still has some Spirit essence left since she pulled back some of her conscious when she got stabbed. This means Shido can still save her. Yeah, a kiss will do. Glad to hear Nia’s back? In the aftermath, Nia has lost her powers and is now a normal human. Guess it’s a good time to reconcile with Takajo. She learns that some have been a Spirit for a few years and others as pure Spirits. But she notes all Spirits were humans to begin with.

Episode 4
Apparently Nia was just assuming that. Also, she feels her powers have not gone away completely so she thinks she can still stop Westcott from using the book. Shido learns from Mana about Artemisia. She is AST from Britain but the baffling part is that she hates Westcott so why is she working with him? Meanwhile we hear once again Tamae’s complaints how she has reached the big 3-0 and refuses to accept it. Even more so, her friend is getting married! Guess who is single again? Definitely not okay. Heck, she even wishes for an asteroid to rain down on Japan! Oh sh*t! One just hit near school! FOR REAL?! Then the Spirit alarm sounds. Yup, another one is detected. In space! Nicknamed Zodiac, Kotori shows footage how DEM approached her and being upset from being awakened from her slumber, she uses Michael to easily lock/unlock their abilities as well as using some wormhole to rain down meteorites to destroy them. That explains why several locations around the world faced this similar phenomenon. How to send Shido up there to talk to her? Use 3D projection! Had that not been the case, Shido would’ve died as Zodiac tries to kill him all the time without giving him an inch to speak. So when she is baffled why he is alive, he explains it including his goal. She introduces herself as Mukuro Hoshimiya and refuses Shido’s attempts to help her. She does not need happiness as she has no emotions. Even if Shido claims he can make her happy, he cannot decide what is happy for her. Even so, if he seals her power, can he guarantee her safety? She warns him that any further deliberations, she’ll destroy the Earth!

With the conversation ended, before Shido can be depressed, Kotori tells him the facts that they cannot ignore this dangerous Spirit floating above Earth. Even if they leave her alone, DEM won’t. They’ll try to use her power and if they fail, Earth gets exploded. Either way, they must seal her before DEM. That’s your answer. But how are they going to unlock Mukuro’s heart? Don’t worry, Kotori brings them to a newly upgraded Fraxinus. It can go to space! Also a voice assistant named Maria who is definitely better than Alexa or Siri… The gang is then summoned to meet Woodman. He introduces himself as Ratatoskr’s leader. But Nia interrogates him about manifesting Spirits 30 years ago and wants to know his goal. He admits along with Westcott and Ellen, they founded DEM to capture and harvest Spirits and their power. However all that changed when Woodman stumbled into the Spirit of Origin and decided to change his ways and protect Spirits. Why? Because he fell in love with the Spirit of Origin. Hence he and Karen (Ellen’s younger sister) defected to form Ratatoskr. Talk time cut short as DEM has found them and is attacking the place. As Shido and co rush to their stations, Westcott has already infiltrated it. He has no time to play with them yet as he needs to go deal with Woodman and sends them sinking into his wormhole.

Episode 5
Shido is a piggy in a straw house when a wolf wants to eat him! He runs and hides in a brick house and finds Red Riding Hood AKA Yoshino visiting her grandma. But isn’t she the wolf too?! Before they can be eaten, here comes Nia shooting her guns before Momotarou AKA Touka calming the wolf with her dango. So they realize they are fairytale characters. But who is Nia supposed to be? Ah, Fatima from Silver Bullet. It’s her own manga. Then we see Kotori as the matchstick girl and the twins as Hansel and Gretel. They meet up as they heard the emperor is going to put a familiar mermaid on display to sing. But the guards won’t let them in because of the way they dressed so here comes Cinderella AKA Natsumi to use her womanly charms. However the clock strikes 12 and she reverts to a peasant. The guards chase them away. But Kotori has an idea to enter. Meanwhile, some of Westcott’s men infiltrate Fraxinus. Thanks to Maria creating a life-like tiger hologram as distraction, the crew manage to overpower them with their weird ways. Kotori uses her matchstick magic to disguise everyone as elegant ladies. Yup, Shido as Shiori now. As expected, Miku is the little mermaid and when the emperor comes out, she is Origami. With everyone praising how splendid her clothes are despite being naked, I think we know which fairytale she came from. Touka mentions aloud she is naked so Origami claims only those who don’t love Shido will see her naked. Care to change your answer? But Origami becomes embarrassed realizing she is actually naked! When the wolf, ogres and a monster from Nia’s manga enter to attack, Shido’s only option is to have everyone run since nobody can use their powers. However a cooler swordsman Shido slashes them all! He is one from Natsumi’s manga. He then cuts open a portal that leads them back to reality. Shido talks to his counterpart about his dilemma with Mukuro. Heroic Shido knows all about it. He is him after all. Even if he thinks he has made the wrong choice of sealing Spirits, he will still go save her. Because if Mukuro claims she locked her heart to avoid being sad, that means at one point she became sad. That sounds like SOS. Now Shido has all his doubts removed. Back on Fraxinus, it’s time to go full speed ahead to save Mukuro.

Episode 6
Westcott and Woodman face off. The former wants him to come back to DEM but he refuses. Time to fight then. Fraxinus nears Mukuro as they send Shido to go unlock her heart. Thanks to whatever abilities from Maria and Kotori. Shido can manoeuvre and dodge easily Mukuro’s asteroids. But looks like they have company. Those damn DEM ships are here. While Fraxinus takes on Goetia, Origami is there to keep Artemisia from obstructing Shido and take Mukuro. With Fraxinus having better upgraded weapons, they send Goetia and Ellen to defeat. At the same time, Shido and his Spirits manage to outsmart Mukuro and unlock her heart. As Artemisia still will not give up despite DEM’s defeat, she fires at Mukuro in hopes of completing her mission. This time Shido is able to protect her although they are free falling back into the atmosphere. A short flashback of Mukuro getting a new family. In the aftermath, Shido wakes up in bed while his Spirits are relieved he is okay. Kotori claims Mukuro went missing after that but here comes Mukuro popping out from a portal to give her darling a big hug. Thanks to her heart unlocked, she is now filled with gratefulness. She will continue their date tomorrow and allows him to rest up. This means the obligatory fanservice scenes whereby the girls trying to fight to wash his back in the bath?! Healing is going to take a while. Meanwhile Westcott has also lost but is recovering. Ellen asks about him attacking Ratatoskr’s base and he admits to that. As for Woodman, he didn’t say a thing to her because she will kill him if he brings her along. Next day, Shido begins his date with Mukuro. Oh, it’s not space but the park, eh?

Episode 7
Shido and Mukuro are having a typical lovely date. When Shido thinks of cutting Mukuro’s messy long hair to look better, she becomes defensive and rejects. So he just ties it up for her and they continue their date. Mukuro wants him to only love her but of course Shido can’t do that since he loves the other Spirits equally. In that case, Mukuro ends the date prematurely and goes home. Next morning as Shido cooks breakfast, Kotori is distraught to see an unknown man in her home and kicks Shido out. My, what an extreme case of sleepwalking! He goes to school but none of his friends know him. Starting to panic? Yup, all the other Spirits don’t know who he is. Then he realizes Mukuro is behind this. She pops up and admits that she locked their hearts and memories of him. Now they can be together alone in love, right? Oh sh*t. Is Mukuro yandere now? As Kotori and co gather and discuss about the unknown man, Origami’s head starts to hurt. Then her other split persona comes out (the Origami of this world after Shido and Kurumi changed history) and since she still remembers Shido, she tells them he is the one who saved them all. Also, Touka’s personality got inverted. As Shido and Mukuro continue their date, Origami finds them and tells what happened. Mukuro is about to lock her memories but inverted Touka enters the scene as she wants revenge on Shido. Before Mukuro and Touka can fight over Shido (not in the most romantic kind of way, mind you), Origami interjects and suggests winning Shido’s love via a non-violent way. So the first to kiss him wins? So now they’re at a maid café trying to win his heart. Oh boy, Shido is going to suffer seeing the girls are pretty aggressive in their own ways to make him submit! Is this really love? More importantly, is this going to turn into a b*tch fight soon?!

Episode 8
Kotori is thinking hard about Origami’s dual personalities. She wonders who changed the world but each time she thinks about that, she gets confused. I know. I am too. Since Shido and co are kicked out from the maid café for being too raunchy, they head up the tower. However Mukuro has uneasy feelings. As she takes a breather at the toilet, Touka reveals to Shido that the inverse Spirits were actually when the Spirit of Origin made Sephirah. That original form is what you people call inverse. Only later they are ‘refined’ to be compatible with humans. This leaves Shido in shock so Touka gets rough on him and plans to steal a kiss. But Mukuro will not allow it and now this escalates into a Spirit level b*tch fight. As Touka cuts off a bit of Mukuro’s hair, this enrages her as she locks her heart and powers up. Anybody who steals the one she loves from her will die! Of course Shido and Origami won’t sit by and watch. Origami goes to fight Touka as Shido deals with Mukuro. Shido doesn’t want everyone to forget him as they are precious. But Mukuro feels sad since she thinks her love isn’t enough. She hates being alone and won’t let anyone take her. Now she locks the world and is going to try to stop it from spinning so they can be forever together in space. Great timing as the other Spirits are here so Shido has them as well as Kotori and Fraxinus do something about it. When Mukuro attacks, she accidentally cuts off Shido’s arm! Flashback shows somebody gave her a core to become a Spirit. Then she got blamed by her family as people they know forgot about them. That’s when she locked her heart. As Mukuro is going to be inverted, Shido hugs her and claims he is alone like her too. Then he talks about being family because there’s nothing to be afraid of now. Because we’re family. With that logic that one-sided love won’t work in a family, just like that Mukuro calms down. Now he has to deal with Touka but since she lost interest, she kisses him and hopes he would not make Touka sad. So the old Touka back? Mukuro won’t lose as she kisses Shido. She assures she is no longer worried because they’re family. Got to love that word. Later Mukuro talks to Shido as she remembers watching the stars with her sister. She laments worrying a lot when her family loved her a lot. Since he is the same like her, probably why she feels at ease around him. She thinks of changing things and perhaps cutting her hair. Of course she wants Shido to cut it. Next day in school, look who decides to come back to class? Why, IT’S KURUMI!!! WHERE YOU BEEN, GIRL???!!! WE ALL MISSED YOU!!! YEAH!!!

Episode 9
Kurumi assures she isn’t here to wreak havoc. Otherwise she would’ve taken the students hostage and went with violence. We believe in queen Kurumi! Westcott talks to Ellen and Artemisia how Fraxinus now have 10 Spirits. However there is still hope to use Shido and make the Spirits invert. He introduces Nibeelcole, his ‘daughters’ to help them for their next mission. Kurumi agrees to give Shido her Spirit power but on one condition: She wants to devour all the Spirit power he has and that means killing him. At that moment, Shido felt something strange happening to him. At the same time, as Ellen is on her way, she is intercepted by Mana. She has Nibeelcole help her but lucky for Mana, Kurumi and her clones pop out to help. Back to Kurumi and Shido, while he agrees that is both their goal, Shido adds that his other goals include the Spirits atone for what they did and to live a happy life. Since she doesn’t intend to steal his Spirit power by force, they enter a competition to see who will fall for each other first. If Kurumi falls for him, she will give her Spirit power with no fuss. Otherwise, Shido dies. Back home, Kotori is not happy he made this decision without letting Fraxinus know. What else can they do about it now but to devise a plan? So they discuss about Kurumi’s objectives of wanting so but Nia thinks she knows an answer. She reveals about Kurumi’s visit and hence her goal to find the Spirit of Origin and destroy it, making it never existing in the first place. This proves that Kurumi can travel back in time but for that, she needs Shido’s power. Of course this raises more questions as why she would do that. Mana interjects and lets them know about Ellen’s interception. As for how she knew all this, Kurumi came to tell her the exact details of when it will happen. So why did she do this? Probably she didn’t want DEM to get their hands on Shido. Next day, Shido is surprised Kurumi is at his doorstep to walk him to school. Why is he surprised? Isn’t the date already begun when they agreed to the challenge? Shido surprises Kurumi by taking her to a place filled with cute cats. But it’s a draw when she tickles him and he starts purring like a cat. Meow. WTF…

Episode 10
Shido and Kurumi challenging each other with their cute lunch. At this rate both might lose… But it ends with a draw. Kurumi’s next challenge will be next Wednesday. Why? Oh. It’s Valentine’s Day. Hence the rest of the Spirit girls think of also making chocolates for Shido. But some like Origami, Miku and Nia trying to go the extra mile by seducing Shido in his sleep. Thankfully (or not), he kicks them out. Mission failed. But soon Shido is visited by Nibeelcole who plans to kill him. Thanks to his regeneration abilities, they will keep killing him until he dies! Then suddenly he wakes up. Was it all a dream? Because now he sees Kotori all grown up and busty! Sexy! Even the other Spirits too! Except for Origami, Miku and Nia turned into kids. What gives? Turns out this is their training to make him resist Kurumi’s charms. NOT A CHANCE! Of course this fails too seeing Shido is gay. Weak guy runs away. Heh. Then all the girls gather to make Shido their Valentine chocolates. WTF Origami trying to make a huge chocolate mould of herself. Shido gonna die from excess sugar overload… Then Kurumi pops up and wants to join in too since she is making the same for Shido. Kotori agrees as they will be able to get some data out of her. Obviously Kotori sucks and thankfully before she could press the panic button, Natsumi teaches her some basic chocolate making skills. Come that day, Shido’s Spirit harem give him their chocolates. Which guy wouldn’t be delighted after receiving so many?

Episode 11
Some Spirits give Shido their chocolates. Meanwhile Tonomachi and the other guys are getting really jealous of that. Not sure what black magic cult they’re starting to curse Shido but the majihiku wa group ‘saves’ them by giving their chocolates. Whatever. Now it’s back to the real deal because Kurumi is here. The real test is about to begin. Shido takes her on a date. First stop is the lingerie shop. See that coming?! Rest of the date is pretty generic. At the end of the day, Kurumi asks if he wants to really know her past. Since he is adamant, she destroys or the spy devices from Fraxinus. Then she whisks him away to an abandoned place of her to let him peek into her memories. Before she became a Spirit, just a normal girl who is best friends with Sawa Yamauchi. One day, a monster attacked Kurumi but she was saved by a hero of justice, Mio Takamiya. She wants Kurumi to join her in saving the world and gives her a Sephirah. It is then Kurumi became a Spirit. We see Kurumi going around taking down Spirits as she gets used and better with her abilities. At the same time trying to juggle her normal school life and friendship with Sawa. But one day, a tragedy happens. Kurumi spotted Sawa’s dead body and Mio collecting a Sephirah from her. She explains Spirits are humans who were given Sephirah by her. Normally they aren’t compatible and must be refined. That is, by giving them to humans over and over again despite humans will go berserk when exposed to this power. Like how Kurumi killed Sawa. Only then when a human with strong affinity remain themselves as a Spirit. That’s you, Kurumi. Mio thanks Kurumi for helping her recover a Sephirah since it is a tough job. She hints she has a goal to achieve and cannot stop until she reaches it. Then she stole her memories and it’s goodbye. Back to present, Kurumi adds that only thanks to Zafkiel, she managed to get her memories back. That’s why she is adamant in killing the Spirit of Origin.

Episode 12
Kurumi wallowing in self-pity. Wow. Not sure how I should feel about this. Her goal is to change history by killing the Spirit of Origin AKA Mio and to do that, she needs Shido’s power to change history. Of course she will not do this for free and will compensate him. WITH SEX???!!! Holy sh*t! Not sure how I should feel about this either!!! Sex interrupted by Nibeelcole but Kurumi has her clones drag them to hell. That was easy. But after that she falls unconscious. Meanwhile Ellen cannot comprehend Nibeelcole’s failure since it was a sure victory according to Beelzebub. Could somebody be leaking their plans? Westcott thinks somebody is leaking their attacks instead. As Shido tends to unconscious Kurumi, her goth version pops up to say that Shido is supposed to be dead. When Kurumi told him about that condition of hers, Shido was then shot dead by Artemisia. His other Spirits came to his aid but in the worst outcome, Shido got decapitated! Those Spirits inverted as they unleash their wrath, slowly destroying the world. Kurumi managed to escape but even using her Daletto bullet to reverse time, it still cannot bring back a life. In despair, that is when she kisses him but soon realizes the Vav bullet is restored. It is a bullet that sends a mind back to the past and she thought it was sealed after her fight with Kotori. Before that fight, Kurumi kissed Shido and that somewhat sealed Vav in him. So by kissing him again, that power returned. Hence Kurumi will have her clones die for Shido’s sake. Using Vav to send her mind back to a week before, it seems Kurumi’s clones have been protecting Shido from the shadows. Shido has fallen into DEM’s hands 204 times. Yeah, all those strange moments he got owned by Nibeelcole, those were one of those many times. Each time that happened, Kurumi kissed him to revert time again. Now it has pushed her psyche to the limit. Wouldn’t it be easier to just devour him rather than to relive this nightmare? Hey, and make her lose the game?! Besides, we all know what Kurumi’s nickname is, right?! Kurumi wakes up and doesn’t like this interference. Date is over for today. Then she deliberates with her goth version about spilling all this to Shido but goth girl doesn’t see any reason not to. Phantom then shows up to give some warning advice. Kurumi doesn’t appreciate it and shoots her down! That was easy! Because it’s time to unmask Phantom’s true identity: Reine!!! WTF?! Kurumi now realizes as all the puzzle pieces fall into place. She has her clones drag her to hell. Shido returns to Fraxinus. He wonders if they can trace Kurumi. Reine says no. Hmm… He then tells them what Kurumi told him. Because this time it will be him who will save her.

Date & Be Happy
Majihiku wa!!! You mean this has not ended yet and we’re going to have another season???!!! Yup. Looks like it. And it should come as no surprise by the way the series is heading. After all like I have said, the series has already ended and now with remaining volumes and chapters left at hand, they can take their time to plan out how they’re going to end the series. Which means we’re not sure if it is going to be a few more seasons or everything dumped into one big season finale. Only time will tell and we’ll be there to witness the fate of Kurumi, Shido and the rest of the Spirits. How long should we wait? Dunno. When it’s ready, it’s ready. Majihiku wa…

Oh well, I guess at this point we all should know what the story is about, right? Pro dating master Shido dating the Spirits to make them happy because only then their powers can be sealed and the world can spin for another day. That’s supposed to be the whole premise of the series and considering that we are into the fourth season, I have to admit that feels like a drag. Somewhat stale. Yes, I’m not a big fan of the series despite watching it from the first season. And so I thought there would be some sort of twist along the way but I suppose they aren’t straying from the formula. I may be wrong as they might put in some twist towards the climax but too bad this means this season doesn’t seem like it. In short, this season felt boring to me.

Because you know, it’s more or less the same thing as every season we see Shido adding more Spirits to his harem and this season is no exception. At this point I am hardly feeling any sort of excitement. This season adds Nia and Mukuro to the fold as the formula to have them in the Spirit harem remains the same. You know, the Spirits have some sort of peculiar problem and it is up to Shido to find a way to save her. At first she might seem hesitant and resisting due to the unfamiliarity, stubbornness and all that crap. But I assure you because Shido is the main character, the plot will go in his favour. Like Nia felt pretty easy and it feels like she just existed for the plot for Westcott to steal her Raziel. Then there is Mukuro whom you thought would be a tough nut to crack. But once you find the loophole in her heart, everything else that follows will easily fall in place. Once they have been conquered, they become background characters in Shido’s ever expanding and bloated harem. I wonder if he is going to need a bigger house if he is going to date and rescue 100 Spirits. Assuming there are that many. Oh right. Assuming Nibeelcole becomes part of the gang. Holy sh*t! Majihiku wa! Is her character created so that we can have multiple Kurumi clones vs multiple Nibeelcole clones?

It goes without saying that means the other older Spirits already in Shido’s harem felt like insignificant. I don’t know, if being with Shido is all it takes for them to be happy. So be it. I’m just curious about the pecking order if any and if it ever comes down to it, though. Some of them are forgettable like Yoshino who is there just to remind that she is still there existing. The same can be said for Natsumi. It’s like they only need her whenever they need her power for convenience. Then there are the twins who feel like they have a little more significant appearance since they have a bit more dialogue than the rest. Origami who was the wild weirdo also feels a little toned down. She’s still the crazy twisted sexual harasser on Shido but this season she scaled down a lot. Touka being the first Spirit in Shido’s harem, I guess they needed to give her some sort of prominence and that’s why the baffling moment she inverted just to fight Mukuro a run for her money. It’s like they needed some cheesy harem b*tch fight or something. And who the f*ck is Artemisia? Suddenly they introduced her character that doesn’t make any decent impression. Like as though Westcott thinks Ellen needed an assistant or something. Like 1 or 2 hot babes from DEM would effectively turn the tables on Ratatoskr anyway.

Unfortunately, Kurumi being the main motivation why many like yours truly continue to stick with the series through thick and thin, for better or worse (more likely the latter), does not bring much to the table either. That’s the problem when you have high expectations. So the first half of her arc feels as boring as the rest. And then we have the revelation of her past and how she came to be. Honestly, that doesn’t feel exciting either. It just feels like one of those revenge stories. Even the mighty queen needs some saving in the end eventually so that Shido can remain as the main hero of the series. Yeah. You better not make Kurumi cry. But at the end of the day, we all can forgive this little disappointment and still love you with all our hearts, our dear queen Kurumi, RIGHT???!!! Imagine having to relive 204 times and counting to see your beloved die and reset the whole damn thing again. This has got to be worse than that Endless Eight from Haruhi, right?!

For some odd reason, I keep wondering if the Spirit named Phantom would pop up. I don’t know why, it something that keeps bugging me at the back of my head while I was watching this series. Probably I’m still bugged by last season’s credits that listed Phantom as “???” in addition to Kana Hanazawa’s character also listed as “???”. Maybe I missed her somewhere. And then of course, the final episode revelation. Now I know why they listed it as so. Who would’ve guessed, no? At least not me. I wasn’t paying that close of an attention to eye bags Reine. What a way to thrust a character whom everyone would probably brush off easily back to the spotlight and the plot. Speaking of new seiyuus this season, they include Hitomi Nabatame as Nia (Margery Daw in Shakugan No Shana), Akari Kageyama as Mukuro (Beatrice in Princess Principal), Eriko Matsui as Artemisia (Isuzu in Log Horizon), Yumiri Hanamori as Nibeelcole (Hayasaka in Kaguya-sama Wa Kokurasetai) and Aya Endo as Mio (Miyuki in Lucky Star). This season’s opening theme is Over by Miyu Tomita. Typical generic and dramatic upbeat song. Maybe only suits Kurumi. Sorry it sounds bias but that’s how it feels. The ending theme is S.O.S. by Sweet Arms. It’s a rather strange song. It’s like some slow dubstep, trying to be sultry sexy or something but overall fails to impress. Weird.

I feel that the art and animation look a bit different. It could be just me as the characters do look a bit child-like. The difference is not obvious but if you do look a bit harder, then you will notice it. I think that is because the series has as many different animation studios as they have seasons. Can you believe it that for each season, a new studio helms this series? What is this? Musical chairs, anime studio version or something. When AIC Plus+ started off animating the first season, Production IMS then took over for the sequel. Then after a long hiatus, a different studio took over for the third, J.C. Staff. And now you have Geek Toys (Plunderer, Kawaikereba Hentai Demo Suki Ni Natte Kuremasu Ka) handling the fourth. Yeah, whoever feel like doing the next season, please step forward. Can’t have the same studio doing the next season because it will break the consistency. Yeah. Maybe SHAFT can do it and shock us all with their trademark animation, eh? Can’t wait to see Kurumi doing that trademark head tilt and send orgasmic shivers down our spine!

Overall, this season still does not impress since it ended on a cliff-hanger. Especially when Kurumi’s arc isn’t even completed! What gall they have! Definitely a build up for the final stretch. Can’t say I am looking forward to it but if it comes out, I’m obliged to stick around and find out what happens. Though, I can guess pretty much what will happen. Shido getting fed up of dating and let the world burn to the ground!!! That’s his real intention in accumulating his Spirit harem! HAHAHAHAHA!!! Oops. One of my favourite speculated endings. Otherwise newcomers who jumped right into this season will be a lot left confused since the plots, settings and characters from previous seasons are heavily brought over. Doesn’t make a difference to a person like me either who has forgotten most of it. Go back and rewatch season 1 again? No way! My memory isn’t so bad as that Hollywood movie, 50 First Dates! Not gonna date the same Spirit over and over again! But my memory is bad enough the reason why I keep coming back to watch this series since I don’t remember much and I still keep hoping it will turn out for the better. Sadly, this season wasn’t it. I think. Majihiku wa…

Isekai No Seikishi Monogatari

After my stint with Mnemosyne, I thought I was ready to handle Isekai No Seikishi Monogatari and give it a try. Because you know, both series had episodes that last for about 45 minutes each. That’s pretty long for my standards (even if I binge watch for hours albeit different half hour anime series for each binging session). And of course this one has 13 episodes so it’s like watching a 26 episode series altogether by compressing 2 episodes into the price of one. It’s a (silly) reason why I put this series off for so long. Also the other reason being that since this is a non-canon spinoff of the Tenchi Muyo series, at that time I wasn’t sure if I wanted to jump into this series because it had lots of sequels and spinoffs itself. Was worried I might get confused and having too much on my plate just for this classic retro favourite of many. So I never got started. Until recently as said with my spell with Mnemosyne. Oh right. There’s also that hot anime chick on the promotional poster too. 45 minutes per episode seem a lot bearable now…

Episode 1
Lashara Earth XXVIII is crowned queen of Shitoreiyu Empire before the crowd. Of course a couple of shady people have their own shady plans to take her out. That night, they launch an attack on their flying fortress, Swan. Chiaia Flan rides her Seikijin (mecha) to fight a white Seikijin piloted by Kenshi Masaki. However this is only a distraction as the masked accomplice, Dagmyer Mest heads in to assassinate Lashara. Thankfully, mechanic Wahanly Shume is here to protect and makes a fool out of him since she tests her weapons on him. Now that he is forced to retreat as his accomplice, Doll picks him up, he blames Kenshi for this failure and entrusts him to assassinate Lashara. Or else. Kenshi fights both Chiaia and Wahanly but something goes wrong with his Seikijin. He abandons it and tries to assassinate Lashara with his own hands but is too weak to do it. Chiaia wants to kill him but Lashara has a better idea and believes he will be of use since it is very rare for a male to pilot a Seikijin. As long as they don’t report it, her prestige will not be affected. Kenshi is imprisoned in a cage but he remains silent and won’t speak. As Lashara ponders with Chiaia those behind this, Lashara has already assembled a few new members to her team. This includes Wahanly since she is quite a brilliant mechanic and the other is Mexiah who is Chiaia’s sister. That night, Ulyte visits Kenshi and manages to talk to him and get his name. This leaves the other girls impressed and some jealous he was able to get him to speak. Maybe Kenshi’s a bit shy around girls? Then WTF Mexiah trying to seduce him by sleeping with him naked? Not that Chiaia will allow.

But soon, Kenshi has been freed by Doll. This is all part of Lashara’s bait plan. Kenshi is taken back to Dagmyer who accuses him of failing to assassinate Lashara. He realizes too late that Kenshi has a tracker on him. Did they not check him before bringing him back to their base?! Kenshi claims he did not say a word to the enemies and realizes he has been betrayed because Dagmyer has no reason to make good his promise of returning him to his original world. In fact, doing that is impossible. He is just a sacrificial pawn to assassinate Lashara. Kenshi fights his way out and jumps down from their flying fortress. Aura Shurifon, the dark elf princess who has been keeping tabs on this, accidentally saves him and inadvertently reveals herself. Aura returns Kenshi to Lashara but will only hand him over if she explains the situation. As Kenshi continues to weaken, they thought it is his Aho (energy to power the Seikijin) overload but turns out he is suffering from some disease. Mexiah and Aura race to go find the herbs to cure it but at the same time, Dagmyer attacks Swan with his men. Chiaia is outnumbered but thanks to Wahanly’s tank, she can manage. Aura is ambushed by Doll. As Aura weakens, she inadvertently unleashes her dark elf field that repels and immobilizes Doll. After they get the herbs, they return to assist Chiaia and Wanly. Yeah, another retreat for Dagmyer. That’s his favourite game, huh? Kenshi is soon healed and everybody is happy. Rest up. Dagmyer talks to his father Babalun about this failed mission as Lashara’s side has already entered the territory of the Holy Land. He pleads to lend Doll again but is told she will be asleep and he will manage this on his own.

Episode 2
Lashara thinks of making Kenshi her servant so as he could accompany her in the Holy Land. She talks to Chiaia about Doll who is probably the same age as her and could also come from another world. Arriving at the academy in Holy Land, they meet Dagmyer. Of course they don’t know he is the perpetrator as he was fully masked then. But Chiaia is suspicious since the Seikijin she fought has very familiar fighting stance patterns. Could it be him? Nah. Kenshi thinks Chiaia has a crush on Dagmyer but she brushes it off as they’re just childhood friends. We also see them meet Maria Nanadan who is the princess of Havoniwa and Lashara’s cousin. In short, they don’t get along and now they’re trying to make Kenshi choose who has the better underskirt?! Not sure if it’s a safe pick as he chooses that of Yukine Mare, Maria’s servant. Then they talk about marriages and because of the limit of the number of Seikishi (those who pilot Seikijin), that is how countries manage their marriages between them. And with the few male Seikijin, they are often viewed as breeding tools as the female ones have more freedom to choose whoever they want. Uhm, should it not be the other way round? Next, they witness a duel between Wahanly and some b*tch. Due to limited Seikijin, the church assigns its numbers to different countries and hence a duel is to see if they’re worthy. They probably pick Wahanly thinking she’s a weak mechanic. They’re going to find out the hard way as she uses her tricks to beat her opponent. Even Kenshi can tell Wahanly’s training bot is rigged but she still manages to come out tops.

Later as Kenshi picks foods in the forest, he is attacked by a couple of dark elves who think he has invaded their territory. Only thanks to Aura that they back down. Since Kenshi picked some rare delicacy mushroom that could sell for a high price, he gives it to them and so peace is made. He talks to her about marriage as she opines that it is part and parcel of maintaining progress and security, that’s why Seikijin is a form of power. Later Kenshi finds Ulyte almost unconscious in the forest. He gives him some herb to drink but is made worse! He is brought back to the infirmary to heal so Dagmyer who is Ulyte’s nephew chides him. It seems these Mest guys have their own ulterior motive to find something. Kenshi now talks to Yukine about marriage (why the f*ck is he so bothered about this?) so she doesn’t mind fighting if it brings peace. Thus this Holy Land where many converge, it is the best time to try to make friends. Then talking with Wahanly about Aho and Sea of Ena, a bit of some history how many countries can be traced back to a single organization. Man, Kenshi really going around to talk to everybody and since Ulyte is well, it’s time Kenshi pours out what is bugging him especially how odd this world seems. Well, whatever he finds odd here is actually pretty common in this world. Kenshi takes his leave when Ulyte bugs him for any girl he likes. Time for some fanservice distraction as Kenshi is accidentally pushed into the hot water pipes by Chiaia and ends up in Lashara’s bath. As long as nobody knows this, it’s alright, right? Next day, Lashara and Kenshi watch the Seikishi degree ceremony as Chiaia and the likes are given a cat ear? Strange indeed.

Episode 3
Lashara learns that Babalun has become PM and this means he has authority and control over the nation. However she doesn’t have proof he is behind the recent attacks. Thanks to all the rumours, many girls are interested in Kenshi. He has to run for it and finds himself in the principal’s room. He is then told about the shorthanded of staffs and how one needs to work to earn his keep. Basically if Kenshi is going to live here, he needs to do jobs. The harder the jobs, the higher the pay. So as we see him being put under various duties, he excels in all of them. This guy is just so damn efficient and strong! You bet those department heads will be fighting over to keep him. The principal has no choice but to make everyone share him as long as they don’t overwork him. But seeing he is still going stronger (lasting way better than an Energizer bunny!), I guess he is fine the way he is. Later Kenshi meets Aura and it seems she is trying to help a bullied girl retrieve her handkerchief that is being placed on the edge of the cliffs. Don’t worry, like an agile monkey, Kenshi retrieves it in no time! This leads to Kenshi meeting Lithia Po Cheena who is the student council president. Later, Kenshi is surrounded by girls who are interested to know more about him. He runs and they give chase. Too bad they run out of steam and drop like flies. So much so Kenshi has to assist in the rescue to retrieve them. Damn, this looked like a disaster aftermath scene! With Kenshi making a lot of progress and money, you bet Lashara is happy with all the cash coming in.

Hence the next plot of her plan is to have Mexiah teach him some ‘etiquettes and manners’. Oh boy. No matter how much she frames it as high paying or entice him that it will be a step closer to return to his world, he is just suspicious of what Mexiah sensei will be teaching. We’ll leave you to your imagination on what happened because now he is like a zombie and will only obey Mexiah’s commands. So, this is what a massage machine looks like, huh? Chiaia becomes victim #1… And so they have the rest of the other girls get this special treatment. This guy so damn good that anything that touches them, they get this erotic reaction… Better than sex, maybe?! So I guess the principal has to put a stop to Kenshi being abused and well, just relegates him to washing students’ backs. Later he talks to Ulyte that he saw insignia on the backs of the girls while washing them. He explains those are contraceptive barrier but if a girl invites you, don’t hesitate! Soon, Mexiah comes running to Kenshi for help. Looks like the other girls riding in Wahanly’s Kikoujin is going to get them for, uhm, outraging their modesty? So the massage was too much for them to handle, huh? As they run, looks like part of the academy gets destroyed. Time for the principal to really put a stop to this as she summons all of them to her office. Firstly, from tomorrow they won’t need to be at the academy due to shortage of staffs and supplies and that they are to help in repair what they destroyed. There will also be a few specialists hired to help them and she wants Kenshi to supervise them all.

Episode 4
With the repairs complete, the girls take a much needed bath. However some are keeping their distance because WTF Kenshi is here? Need any back scrubbing services? In light of the recent events, maybe not. But Mexiah still strips him to make him join in for a meeting. And that meeting is just to announce they’ll be back to school tomorrow. That’s it. Everybody gonna have their revenge on Kenshi by giving him their massage… There is an incident where there are holes popping up all over Swan. It couldn’t be those cute furry little critters named Koro as they’re too big. Lashara and Chiaia stake out and find the culprit is Kenshi. Yup, caught a big Koro alright. They learn he is digging holes to find such crystals. It seems such crystals remind him of his sister’s spaceship. Although it is not frequent for people of his world to own spaceships, Kenshi never realized until now why his sister owned one. He also remembers he was often hypnotized by her. Lashara thinks if this is what he says, he may not be summoned from another world. When Chiaia accidentally breaks his pendant belonging to his sister, poor sad Kenshi’s face. She promises to fix it as she asks many parties but many don’t seem to know how to fix this fine exquisite piece. Then with Maria’s suggestion to use some Havoniwa weaving technique, Chiaia is going to try it make it herself. One night as Kenshi goes out again, this time he stumbles into an intruder leaving. He gives chase but loses her and stumbles into half naked Mexiah instead. Oops. Wrong turn? Turns out to be Emera (Dagmyer’s servant) and she stole something from Wahanly’s room. That Kikoujin draft is now in the hands of Ulyte who shows it to Babalun. Of course Wahanly and the rest soon get to know somebody stole her research and although she isn’t worried about the drafts being stolen, she is happy to have all the data from the actual combat.

With rumours floating that Kenshi doesn’t have a formal education, the principal summons Lashara and suggests in making him a student here. After all, he is a Seikishi candidate too, right? Learning that he will be in the same class as Maria, Lashara gets jealous and warns him about getting to chummy with her. Kenshi’s right to ignore her… Kenshi is then met with Lapis Larz (that handkerchief girl) who gladly shows him around. In class, the only male friend he made is Ceres Taito as the rest are too stuck up. During sparing lessons with Mexiah, it seems Mexiah tests him and all he did was dodge. Knowing his skills are far greater despite he claims his family doesn’t have martial arts or swordsmanship background, she takes him off and not practice with the rest. Of course those jealous noble guys would like to teach him a lesson and gang up on him. Too bad they tire or trip themselves. And that is just Kenshi dodging them! Thanks for the great lesson! Yukine then reports on what she saw to Maria. Knowing that Yukine is interested and likes Kenshi, it’s time to make this servant boy theirs. Chiaia finally repairs the pendant, much to Kenshi’s happiness. But since she uses a red string and Lashara comments how it symbolizes eternal love in some culture, can she have it back to change its colour? No way! Lapis reports to Lithia that after observing Kenshi, he does meet the requirements.

Episode 5
As unanimously agreed, Kenshi will be loaned to the student council and that means he is part of it. He is summoned by Lithia and he thought he will be doing odd jobs but it turns out he will be doing nothing for a while. Now that Kenshi is part of the student council, this makes him even more famous among the girls. You bet they want a piece of him. Oh boy. Another round of chasing. Meanwhile, Dagmyer has recruited a few guys who agree with his ideals into his fold. Only Ceres opts out as he is unsure. With all the chasing, Kenshi soon realizes that perhaps this is part of his job in the student council. Lithia confirms it because with all the attention on him, she and the student council members will be able to get tons of their work completed. But with Lithia exerting herself too much, she is on the verge of collapsing. Kenshi helps Lapis make tea for her and thanks to his herbal remedy, Lithia feels a lot better. The girls continue to chase Kenshi but seeing this is going nowhere as he is hard to catch, they need to come up with a better plan. So… Trying to catch him with nets?! I can see where this is going!!! Obviously Kenshi continues to outsmart and outrun then all. Kenshi learns about baptism. Don’t understand this part about how it is some contract with a goddess to recover one’s Aho. Kenshi thinks he doesn’t need it but apparently it is for the Seikijin. Theoretically this would make the Seikijin invincible but due to operational limits, it can still be damaged it goes beyond the recovery rate.

As the chase continues (oh boy, the girls using their mecha now eh? How far can those plugs go…), this time Yukine helps hide him in Maria’s manor. As Maria has advised her to be bold and take it far with him, she strips herself and is about to seduce him. However she hesitates and feels uneasy about this, falling into a state of unconsciousness. Kenshi catches her but the other girls come in right at that moment and misinterpret this rape scene. With this, Maria uses this as an excuse that Kenshi has stolen Yukine’s chastity and will now be her husband and in turn will be Maria’s servant. Of course Lashara disagrees with this so Aura suggests a game to decide it. The game will be gathering ingredients from Aura’s forest and creating a nabe. The best one wins Kenshi. Of course Ulyte suggests Kenshi participating so as to give him a chance for his own freedom. We see Lashara-Chiaia coming back with all poison ingredients and the rest are just bare bones. Wahanly tries to steal from Kenshi with her improved Kikoujin but Kenshi outsmarts the machine. In the end, Kenshi’s nabe is the best and he wins. But soon the girls find out what makes his nabe so delicious and nutritious is that he used creepy and nasty looking ingredients for it! Don’t judge a book by its cover! Feeling sickly now, eh? The truth really kills… Now nobody say that to Lithia. She’s really enjoying her cuppa and feeling really good…

Episode 6
Dagmyer fails in some compatibility test and this has him frustrated because it is saying Doll is better than him. With the summer vacation here, Lashara is not pleased she has to tag along with Maria to her villa. It seems Flora (Maria’s mom and Lashara’s aunt) called wanting her to join her. Normally Lashara would prefer to spend the holidays herself had not for the fact Flora offered to cover all her expenses as well as blackmail her in revealing some embarrassing childhood stories. And yeah, she wants to meet Kenshi too and invites the usual suspects. And so the whole journey, Lashara is pouting… Kenshi thought he saw Ceres but after tailing him, he hides to eavesdrop. After being busted, he learns that Ceres is a commoner and with his Aho resistance, he is one of the lucky ones selected to be a Seikishi. That changed everyone around him. They accuse Hazuki who is his lover to just want Ceres’ seeds as male Seikishi is forbidden to have relationships with commoners. As they can’t be together in this area, they hope Kenshi will keep this a secret. Meanwhile, bandits observe from afar and their target is Dagmyer and Ceres. Everyone meets Flora as Lashara and Maria get embarrassed by her flashy welcoming. Flora then test rides Wahanly’s Kikoujin and is impressed with the improvements. At the villa, Flora has everyone play this orientation game. Basically, pillow throwing and stealing one’s obi. The winner gets whatever he/she wants as well as Flora’s big lovely hug and kiss! You win some, you lose some. Lashara and Maria team up against her but they fail. Kenshi swiftly takes everyone’s obi and a trolling seductive moment with Yukine. This guys is good. In the end, Flora and Kenshi square off but she declares him the winner. Lashara and Maria thought they could get the last laugh by having Kenshi massage Flora but they got more than they bargained because it’s like she’s having fun and orgasming?! What a tiring night…

Next day as Kenshi is out picking herbs, he saves Hazuki running away from the bandits. She overheard them about their plans to kidnap the guys. Kenshi carries her as he jumps his way back since the bandits already begin their attack on the villa. Yeah, security is abysmal. But don’t worry, we have Kenshi, right? With everyone gathered at the same place except Aura and Flora, they have Kenshi go get them. Kenshi heads to Aura’s room. WTF she’s acting like a shy perverse?! Was it last night’s game where he saw her naked after unrobing her? But soon she wakes up from her half sleepiness and returns to her normal ways. Better forget what you saw or she’ll make you take responsibility for real. Kenshi goes to get Flora next. Oh boy. Queenie just want to have fun with him, huh? Even more so when she is clinging onto him as he pilots the Kikoujin and fights the bandit leader, Cordyline riding a Seikijin. Meanwhile Cordyline’s daughter, Lan meets Dagmyer and the latter wants to go talk to her mom to employ them all. Cordyline orders a retreat since she cannot best Kenshi. The rest then devise a plan to rescue Dagmyer and Ceres. Dagmyer talks to Cordyline and wants to employ her and her bandits to prove he is different than other men. Perhaps the way he f*cked her made her agree, huh? And they still got enough time to prepare before Kenshi and co mount a rescue, huh? Yeah, it was really an easy one because with Kenshi distracting the other bandits, Wahanly hijacks the truck holding the hostages and drives away. Apparently this is all part of Dagmyer’s plan. You wonder why Cordyline’s men didn’t give chase, eh? With Kenshi plans to help Ceres and Hazuki escape, the rest of the girls agree to close an eye on this. Yeah, just brush all the problems to Flora. Even if Aura doesn’t agree at first, Kenshi’s innocent puppy dog eyes forced her to change her mind. And so they have the lovers go ‘missing’ during the midst of the battle.

Episode 7
Lan has infiltrated the academy as a student. Thanks to Dagmyer, the other bandits have also infiltrated the Holy Land and are hiding in Dagmyer’s special room. Soon Dagmyer suggests holding a warrior tournament to see how effective their lessons have been as well as deepen the friendship of Seikishi from different countries. It is approved and of course Lashara is going to play bookmaker and take bets. All part of the fun and entertainment, right? This is where she’ll rake in the dough, eh? Of course that would have worked in her favour had not a majority of the students placed their bets on Kenshi! He is really popular. If that guy really wins, Lashara will be broke! Soon, Mexiah takes Kenshi away and will be under her supervision 24/7 before he goes into action. She already got Lithia’s approval for this. The girls aren’t worried about this until Lapis brings up this means Kenshi will be alone with Mexiah… Worried now? Indeed. Mexiah is going to give Kenshi some private lessons. Oh sh*t… The warrior tournament gets underway as we see Kenshi participating in some marathon. In order to make Kenshi lose, Lashara has placed several traps including a starting handicap like making him count to 10,000 and chaining him to something heavy. Without Lithia screaming her head off at him to just go, he would still be at it. Lashara still has more tricks up her sleeve like making Kenshi go off the actual track but her trickeries come to an end as Lithia confronts the cheating bookmaker. With everyone else retiring from the marathon (seriously, are they this weak?), the only ones left are Kenshi and Aura. Kenshi has caught up to her and he thought of trying to lose the game to be considerate. But this thought of his is obviously written all over his face so Chiaia warns him if he loses, she’ll confiscate all his crystals! Instantly Kenshi runs like hell!

Aura loses steam and retires, making Kenshi the winner. However as he crosses the finish line, he still won’t stop running! Could this be part of Mexiah’s hypnotism? As Lashara as lost big, she thinks of covering her losses suggesting a bet on when Kenshi will stop! Even Wahanly’s improved Kikoujin can’t stop Kenshi until Chiaia makes another threat she’ll take away the crystals if he won’t stop. Works like a charm. Later Aura tells Kenshi how he had won and both congratulate each other. Aura tries to confess to him but is interrupted by Chiaia picking them up for the award ceremony. Meanwhile Dagmyer claims he has found what they’ve been looking. Lan suggests getting rid of their main hindrance but Ulyte prefers not to do anything that will expose them. Emera tries to warn Dagmyer about killing Kenshi because the entire Holy Land will be under investigation. Dagmyer shuts her up although Ulyte claims she is right since Kenshi once handed those bandits’ ass to them once. Charging in blindly like the last time might get them all killed. As Kenshi is out finding more crystals, that intruder attacks him and she even tries to sacrifice herself just for that. Kenshi’s quick action saves them both. Then the intruder just left dejectedly? Her accomplice somewhat thanks him for that and as reward, warns him a storm is coming. Next day, a giant fortress approaches the Holy Land.

Episode 8
Dagmyer and his buddies take over the control room. This allows the giant fortress which is a Shitoreiyu flagship commanded by Babalun himself, easily get past the defence security. The enemy Seikijin fly in to wreak havoc over the Holy Land as orders are given to evacuate the students. Of course Lashara needs to do something about this or else her reputation will tank. Heartbreak for Chiaia as Dagmyer’s Seikijin goes into battle and they confirm it is indeed him who was piloting this Seikijin. Kenshi once again rescues a weak Aura from bandits as Lashara instructs him to distract the bandits while they evacuate the students. Meanwhile Flora contacts Babalun over this invasion and since he dares her to attack, she is glad he gave his ‘permission’ because now her train is firing all its cannons at the flagship. Of course Flora is also here to help take in the evacuating students. Lithia wanted to ride her Seikijin into battle but stupid Lapis keeps stopping her. WTF trying to protect her from a Seikijin blast?! If Lithia had gotten onto her Seikijin this wouldn’t have happened. Of course Kenshi is here to save the day. Seeing how troubled everyone is, you bet Kenshi is not going to just sit back and do nothing. Hence he rides Lithia’s Seikijin and transforms it into a white Seikijin. He moves faster and is more powerful than the enemies as he rips them apart one by one. News spread that Kenshi is piloting this as some girls saw him enter it.

Dagmyer thinks he has the numbers and can restrict his movements in this maze-like arena. But how wrong he is. Kenshi is even faster and slyer, continuing his kill streak. Now that the flagship has arrived at a certain point in the Holy Land, Babalun then activates something, this causes Mexiah to be in pain as she gets kidnapped and then turned into Doll. Babalun then reveals Mexiah is not actually Chiaia’s sister but was found in some ruins. She is a product of the warrior civilization. Babalun claims the malevolent god has revived as Doll pilots a faster and more powerful Seikijin that gives Kenshi a run for his money. However it could be that remnants of Mexiah inside her is preventing her from killing Kenshi outright. Although Mexiah has been completely fused with her, she still has her memories and wants Kenshi to join then. He can’t go back to that place and offers Doll to join him. She can’t too. She was made to only fight. With all the students evacuated, Flora fires the biggest cannon and this conveniently throws Kenshi back onto Swan. With the enemies trailing them, Flora’s final trick as she blasts the boulders to let everyone get a clean escape. The bandits celebrate their success as they loot the Holy Land and make it their base. Dagmyer is of course not in celebrating mood since he still can’t beat Kenshi.

Episode 9
Babalun is happy to be in possession of Gaia’s shield, the thing he has been looking for that is lying underneath the Holy Land. With Kenshi being even more famous, more girls boldly propose to be his wife! Lashara tells Wahanly and the principal about Kenshi’s true origins. They think it is better to leave this matter to Naua (Chiaia’s father). Wahanly then teaches Kenshi how to use a gun while piloting Seikijin. As Swan is being restrained, Lashara is of course worried about her possessive rights on Kenshi. That night, Chiaia tries to kill Kenshi will he is asleep. Flashback shows Emera approached her and had Dagmyer communicated with her about killing Kenshi. He claims that he has no true freedom and is doing things as ordered by Babalun. Hence killing Kenshi is just to assure that he won’t control the Seikishin. Of course Chiaia can’t do it. Can’t kill such a nice lad. Lashara saw this coming and talks to her about it. But the next day, Chiaia seemingly betrays to head to Dagmyer’s side. With that, Lashara breaks Swan free just to go after her. Chiaia confronts Dagmyer about doing all this. Looks like he is trying garner some sympathy points by confusing her. But when his intentions of becoming ruler is clear, Lashara who is eavesdropping this conversation from a communicator will have no qualms in beating him up. Swan infiltrates Holy Land but is bogged down. Dagmyer foresees this and set a trap. He orders his man to destroy its prism reactor but here Kenshi is to save the day. Nobody could best him in hand to hand combat so you think they can do it when he rides his white Seikijin? But will Doll here riding a black Seikijin with Gaia’s shield, this call for a retreat. I mean, Chiaia’s rescued, right? Doll cannot pursue as she has used up a lot of energy to even get here. Now that Chiaia’s feelings are clear, she will continue to be loyal to Lashara. Lashara thinks Kenshi’s reputation as a Seikishi will allow them to get help from different countries. Until Kenshi points out that they have to find an excuse for the church first. Oh that… Speaking of them, they can’t seem to be making a good decision as they can’t trust unverified info. Babalun is also thinking the same of what the church will be doing. It’ll take some time for them to organize the special forces.

Swan is being guided to the dark elf’s kingdom of Shurifon. After docking, a minister talks to Lashara about the church’s decision of asking countries to help reacquire the Holy Land. However Shitoreiyu will be put under collaborative management to cover the cost of war and that means becoming a subordinate of the church. But first, Lashara needs to garner support from Shurifon’s king. She goes talk to him but since he doubts Kenshi’s abilities, the only way is to see it for himself. Yes, another obstacle race warrior competition. They must look down at Kenshi as the guards show him around the huge course and tell him all the traps, ambushes and jamming devices around. Not that Kenshi is fazed. He got lots of energy. As the race begins, the king makes a good start. However he is puzzled that Kenshi has always reached the pit stop ahead of him and whizzed through the obstacles without any problems. Finally the king reaches the finish line. In first place! Kenshi got lost collecting ingredients in the forest and just arrived in second. Oh Kenshi, you sure broke Lashara again! Yeah, she bet everything on him!!! When the king attacks Kenshi and he is able to react so fast, he is impressed and accepts him that he is like the spirit of the forest. Hence the only one who is fit to be Aura’s husband is him. Lashara trying to make a profit from this, huh? Marriage discussions can wait because looks like Dagmyer and co just arrived here from a hidden teleport device in the church. Though, it can only be used once because when you arrive, the whole thing explodes! Time for round 2.

Episode 10
Since Dagmyer and co don’t know everyone is in the forest having an event, they decimated the palace but no casualties. The king leads his men to surprise attack them but the tables turned when Doll pilots the black Seikijin and wielding Gaia’s shield. Of course Kenshi to the rescue in his white Seikijin. Although nothing can break through Gaia’s defence, any great impact is still felt by the wielder. Once the evacuation is done, Kenshi escapes. Doll is unable to escape as using Gaia has greatly used up her energy as she collapses. Once everyone is safe, the king proposes to formally announce Aura’s engagement. Lashara reminds him about whom Kenshi belongs to but the king is wise enough to note that Lashara can compensate for the damage by just handing Kenshi to him. Maybe they’ll discuss this the next time. Soon, the church and Havoniwa are under heavy attack by Dagmyer’s side. The church decides to send a few of their representatives to Swan in anticipation of further attacks. Many got intercepted and the only who managed to get away is Reia Second. Thankfully Kenshi finds her unconscious in the escape pod and brings her back to Swan. There, she seeks an audience with Lashara and wants to borrow Kenshi. She claims that Babalun’s attacks may have been devastating but have not fully crippled them so as to make an example to other countries. Babalun’s success is due to Gaia and perhaps not even Kenshi’s Seikijin could stop it. Their next step is to head to the Barrier Workshop.

But first, Swan heads towards Havoniwa to check on the survivors. They caution about Meteor Fall which is a huge defence mechanism. Well, if it’s not showing up means Havoniwa is done for. Yup. The capital is in ruins. Oh, Meteor Fall then shows up and it is being hijacked by Cordyline and her bandits. So it just drops huge rocks on you? Kenshi and co try to destroy one of its legs but it is fully fortified and they can’t get close to it due to some nullification thingy. And their Seikijin can’t fly that high to take out the command centre. Oh, but Yukine arriving just in time to do that! Thank to that, Kenshi manages to destroy a leg and trip it over. Yukine then brings them to a secret place where everyone in Havoniwa has been evacuated. Guess who is glad to see Kenshi and wants to get in his pants? Yeah, old broad wants to marry Kenshi and leave ruling the country to her daughter… On to serious business, the representatives of the attacked countries contemplate on what to do. But now the biggest problem is to decide who holds authority over Kenshi and for the first time, Lashara is really sweating in her pants. Yeah, so agonized about it that she locks herself in her room. You mean she can’t claim total possession over him like always? That night, Kenshi talks to her and basically she is in tears as she does not want him to leave her alone. He assures her that she was the one who gave him a place when he came here all alone. Then he asks if he could buy Swan from her. Of course he’ll pay when he has the money. Next day, Kenshi announces he has no intentions of following anyone or country because Swan is his home. Hence it is a neutral zone and an independent country of its own. Anyone is welcome to be part of it. You bet everyone wants to join this new nation. So great this plan that Kenshi gets a round of applause. First order of discussion is to ban Kenshi from digging for more crystals. And he thought he could be king of his own country… Sure, he might be king but majority rules!

Episode 11
Several Seikijin is spotted hunting down another of their kind. Turns out it is Ceres. Kenshi can’t sit by and do nothing so he goes to help his friend. The other Seikijin bullies scram upon realizing they can’t deal with this sh*t. But all this is just a ploy as Ceres binds him together and is going to self-destruct. Of course Ceres is not one to do this as he was being threatened by the bandits. They found him living a peaceful life with Hazuki and took her hostage. If he wants her freed then he must do their bidding. So how is Kenshi going to get out of this? Well, a few screaming and then suddenly his white Seikijin turns into half black! It goes berserk as it breaks out and pummels Dagmyer’s side mercilessly. Even Dagmyer is sh*tting in his pants! This guy is so scared! Had not Emera came to rescue him, he would’ve been torn apart. Lashara recognizes this semi-black Seikijin of Kenshi as it was the first time they met. But unlike destroying others, this time he is destroying himself. Kenshi’s Seikijin then crumbles but he is okay. Ceres and Hazuki are invited to seek refuge in Swan. Dagmyer has been so affected by this and now he is traumatized and locked up in his room.

Swan finally arrives at Barrier Workshop as they meet Naua. Time for a history lesson. Long ago, the warrior civilization was a united state. Back then, the Seikishin robots were made not for fights but games and competition. As technology advanced, so did their design and all. But the best Seikishin cannot even compare to a modern average Seikijin. Because of that, people from other worlds were summoned and the dark elves were one of those races (it explains their moment of weakness as they try to adjust to this world). As competition became intense, shadier stuffs to buff up and manipulate the pilots began. Some even went to recreate it from scratch. Hence creation of Mexiah. As the games became more brutal, core crystals were created. It stored data and skills so when a pilot is done for, all that can still be restored in another. Due to an order misunderstanding, Seikishin went on a rampage and the survivors did away with Aho power and fled outside the Ena Sea. Eventually many records of this civilization were destroyed. Mexiah was one of the 3 greatest Seikishin developed in the Ena Sea to defeat Gaia. Records stated that another doll was sacrificed to defeat Gaia. After that they erased her memories and returned her to an infant state and was sealed deep underground. Gaia’s shield that cannot be destroyed was protected by the church and hidden in the Holy Land. Hence the creation of the church was for this purpose. As living in the Ena Sea was hard, there had to be allocation of resources and organizations established for this became the church’s predecessors. Hence dangerous technology are offered in limited numbers by the church is to prevent such incident from happening and corruption within the church. 22 years ago, Naua found Mexiah in a capsule and raised her as his own daughter. She is following Babalun due to some limiter. The place is under attack by Doll and the bandits as they are here to capture Swan. Reia shows her true colours as she steals something and flees. From the mask she wears, she was that imposter. With Kenshi kicking the bandits’ ass and even testing Wahanly’s improved condensed bullets that even penetrates through the enemies’ replica of Gaia’s shield, Swan manages to escape.

Episode 12
Lan takes over Dagmyer’s role as she rallies the bandits to bring down Swan at all costs because if these countries unite with the Holy Land, governing their own continent will no longer be possible. Kenshi and the girls think of a way to win against Gaia. It is suggested that Kenshi use his super compression power to create a weapon. As for that weapon, Yukine brings them to her hometown where it sits a large rock. Nobody has ever gotten close to it because of some barrier that prevents them from doing so. Only Kenshi can enter. Even the elder is stumped seeing this so he has to give his blessing to let Kenshi use this scared object as a weapon to save the world. For days and nights, Kenshi, Chiaia and Aura take turn trying to compress it. And once the process is seemingly going to succeed, waiting Lan and her bandits attack. The trio have to continue the process or it’ll be back to square one. Yukine is left to defend all by herself. Can she last? Thankfully here is Lithia and the other academy girls back to help. With Kenshi compressing this rock into a Tenchi sword, you can see how massive and powerful it is as it blows away the baddies with a swing! Kenshi and co are glad to reunite with Lithia and the rest. The latter pleading their service to Kenshi as they will help fight alongside him. Too bad those girls won’t be chasing him soon because Kenshi passes out from fatigue. Time to let the king rest in his chamber.

As Kenshi rests, he is surprised as Mexiah visits him. She is here to tell him after she found something out while talking to Naua. During the warrior civilization where manmade humans were created to defeat the Seikishin, they possessed high quality bodies that they could marry with real humans. This means it is also possible to have hybrid children with those from other worlds and they could be even more powerful. That never happened as Gaia attacked them as those who could control the Seikishin. This led to the inability to summon more from other worlds. But since it was possible to send someone from this other world, they had no choice but to send a manmade human to another world and summon the human born from that union back to this world. Thus Mexiah believes Kenshi is the same as her as the special biological wave of manmade humans won’t disappear even with intermarriage. All this is a trap as Mexiah traps Kenshi as Babalun shows his face via communicator in an attempt to force Kenshi to bend to his will. However Kenshi claims he has his own will and doesn’t believe in fate. To prove it, he breaks out from his binding (just scream out loud!). Since he won’t obey, Babalun will have him killed. Mexiah reverts to Doll as she escapes but not before deactivating some gravity thingy on Tenchi sword. The weight is causing Swan to crash but luckily Kenshi is back up and props Swan back up. Shitoreiyu, Havoniwa and Shurifon have joined up as they prepare to attack the Holy Land. Dagmyer is finally out from his trauma after Ulyte gives him some pep talk and hope.

Episode 13
Lan and her bandits are confidently stationed at the first checkpoint of the Holy Land. They believe the allies will come true here and will not go through the highlands since they have bombed the Havoniwa railways. With the replica Gaia’s shields, they only need to hold them off until Seikishin revives. Victory is then theirs. With the allies here, the great battle begins. However Swan is reported using the Havoniwa railways to bypass this. Yeah, the bandits might have bombed holes all over the lines but the holes are only a few hundred metres wide, enough for the Kikoujin to jump over them. Lan’s side gets pincer in when Shurifon’s king uses a trebuchet to sling their Seikijin onto the other side to attack. Lan tries to call for more reinforcements from the other checkpoints but nobody answers. It seems those checkpoints have been abandoned as Babalun has recalled them knowing the bandits will flee once the going gets tough since they’re just doing all this for monetary rewards. Hence these reinforcements are now fighting Lithia and her fellow students. When Swan reaches the Holy Land, Dagmyer requests to duel Kenshi. There isn’t enough time for this charade but Kenshi as a true Seikishi takes up this challenge. Dagmyer is easily brought down but he isn’t panicking. This was all just to buy time as the Seikishin revives as Doll is absorbed into it. Then Babalun sacrifices his own body to be absorbed into it to transform it into the ultimate Gaia. Kenshi fights him as the other girls are forced to retreat so as not to get in his way. With all the other bandits taken down, everyone can now only watch in baited breath as Kenshi battles the final boss. How great is your faith in Kenshi? It’s time to believe in him!

Chiaia, Aura, Wahanly and Yukine of course won’t sit down and do nothing and return to try and help him. They think of charging this barrier bomb to be used against Babalun. It is risky but hey, Kenshi isn’t the only one who gets to risk his life, right? And if he b*tches more about it, threaten to take away his crystals! Once they charge it up, they give it to Kenshi to toss at Babalun. BOOM! Well… Nothing happens! Not a scratch! What now? I think it weakens Gaia a bit as Kenshi hears the voice of Mexiah/Doll for help. Kenshi goes on a mad slash-cum-swinging spree. I think it’s the motivation of digging up as much crystals he wants that got him going. Babalun is confident he cannot be cut. But suddenly he gets cut! Gaia disintegrates after Kenshi pulls out Doll who in turn reverts back to Mexiah. Babalun is still alive but is trying to look for a body to maintain his form. That is when Ulyte shoots and destroys his core. Ulyte then collapses and reverts to his true other form: Reia. Some short flashback how she was infused with a core crystal when young. It ate away her body so to survive she created another persona AKA Ulyte. Her body changes depending whose will is stronger. Thanks to Kenshi’s herbs, Ulyte’s body was able to hold out until today. Reia then has Kenshi take his bow to all the females who are proclaiming their new hero. Because now the real battle begins as everyone is going to fight over the right to be Kenshi’s wife! Uhm, I don’t know, as king he should be able to take them all, right? Kenshi’s answer? As always. His favourite game: Run away! Not today, girls! Lastly, we see Dagmyer picking up Babalun’s core. Lan sneaks from behind trying to kill him to restore her reputation but is swiftly (and fatally) dealt with by Emera.

From Isekai’s Strongest To Common Harem Place
Why do I feel somewhat unsatisfied with that ending? Like, it happened too soon? Oh well. I guess with the biggest baddie and pain in the ass gone, that’s pretty much the end of the story. After all, who is going to be the biggest threat to the land and continent now, right? I hope that this ‘war’ over Kenshi won’t spill over into some kind of bigger and messier war that we have seen in this series that will last for generations and lead to the destruction and downfall of mankind for the second time! Holy sh*t! That would have been an epic alternate timeline and story that I would love to watch but as far as this series is concerned, I suppose all’s well, ends well.

Being someone who is really unfamiliar with the Tenchi Muyo universe, perhaps there were many Easter Eggs and borrowed elements from that said series that fans would have spotted and connected with to some of the lore. I know that some of the characters were borrowed and inspired from those other series (like Kenshi who is obviously Tenchi, the main character of the main Tenchi Muyo series) but as I have said, this series being my first and so far the only one in the Tenchi Muyo universe (I did watch Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure, another spinoff of the Tenchi Muyo series back in my heydays way before the internet but I’ve long forgotten about it) so there were a lot of things that till the end I didn’t quite get, understand or put everything into a bigger picture. This series itself might be a standalone non-canon to the main Tenchi Muyo series in its story and setting but I have a feeling that it would help and made a bit more enjoyable should you have some prior knowledge and experience watching the Tenchi Muyo series.

The story overall seems pretty decent and while I won’t say that it is pretty impressive, but it is not really all that bad either. Basically, it’s your typical isekai hero being the chosen one who saves the day. It sounds pretty cliché in that sense but I would say that they did execute the flow of the story well enough to avoid me being bored. After all, 45 minutes per episode is a pretty long time. The first half of the story feels more like child’s play since it feels close like one of those high school set pieces. Pretty much the high school life. Of course it also sets the events for the second half of the story which is basically some weird invasion and war thingy. I don’t know why I was expecting some sort of World War II thingy with Babalun trying to become the Hitler of the series and going around doing mass genocide and massacre but oh well, can’t have a series that slaughters a bevy of cute anime girls, right?

The confusing part was when they tried to tell and reveal the history of the warrior civilization and you know me, being a simpleton, even that seemingly simple history seems to make my head spin. Basically I saw it as some docile version of Terminator’s rise of the machines to destroy humanity. Heh. It tried to reason and bring justice about the Seikijin and why the current civilization is so. But I still can’t really see how it is connected. Had they left that part out, perhaps I would even ‘understand’ since I would just accept it all as Seikijin is part of the technology of the world, etc. And WTF you have dolls created to defeat Gaia, blah, blah, blah… So confusing! And I only found out after I finished watching the series that Babalun is the other third doll created to fight Gaia after I went to do a bit of reading up online. I don’t think there is anywhere in the anime that states this and I certainly would have remained clueless had I not stumbled upon this and a few more other facts that were not blatantly stated in the anime. Wow. My head feeling heavy trying to put all this together after reading these extra facts. To think that I was going to criticize the series for not having enough depth in the story had they left it all out from the anime. Sheesh.

For the characters, it might seem like the series has lots of them but many are just playing the supporting role. Since the Tenchi Muyo series is famous for being a classic harem anime, hence the whole bunch of girls here vying for his attention (and hence giving some sort of weird logic of having rare male Seikishi or something so that we have more XX than XY around). However I don’t find them doing so to be cheesy unlike in many other animes of the genre that would have resorted to cheap fanservice tactics that would have mostly degraded the females into some slutty character. There is almost nothing of that sort here (unless it’s those dirty old aunties like Mexiah and Flora trying to take out their suppressed horniness on that innocent young lad) and the most you’ll see of them is fawning over him and if they’re overflowing with energy, they’ll chase after him. In the end, the rabbit always gets away. With that kind of stamina, I can only imagine how long he’ll last in bed… HOLY SH*T!!! I think he can even take on the entire girls in the academy and still have energy left to spare to go dig for crystals! AY CARAMBA!!! Though, this is still largely a harem genre for the most part. And yeah, don’t see any bare tits fanservice here. And perhaps those battle body suit that makes them look a bit slutty.

So, Kenshi being the typical male hero, it’s not anything new that I have not seen before these days. You know, the kind of good guy who sticks to his principals way stronger than elephant glue and will always protect the ones he loves (after all, who gave him a place of belonging? Don’t bite the hand that feeds you) while at the same time has his own quirks. Especially that unhealthy obsession in digging up for crystals. So I figure he is not going to be happy until he digs up the entire world’s crystal? Yeah, if you need him to get anything done or change his mind, just threaten the crystals. That will sure make this guy turn into a teary bug eyed dude. It goes without saying Kenshi is so reliable because of his immense and monstrous strength. It feels like a free pass to let him do whatever he wants or get away, only he isn’t a bloodthirsty megalomaniac trying to take over the world. Good thing he is on our side, eh? What everybody else struggles to do, he can perhaps do it with ease. Where can you find such multi-talented young lad? If you’re wondering about his previous life that is very much shrouded in mystery, let alone not fleshed out well and only hinted in bits and pieces, once again if you don’t know the Tenchi Muyo works, you’ll get lost like I do. And thanks to that reading I found out Kenshi is the younger half-brother of Tenchi. So whether or not he gets back to his own world or continues to make this new world his home, it’s up to you to figure out that story.

I don’t see Lashara as one of the leading candidates to be Kenshi’s wife. Perhaps it is because this sly and sneaky young queen is mostly seen trying to use Kenshi as a tool (not in a bad sense) to make money (okay, maybe this one is bad) and that she is not very possessive of him (in the romantic kind of sense). She is quite casual and open minded, something which is both good and bad given her position as the reigning queen of Shitoreiyu. While it was hinted in 1 moment that she really wants him by his side, it is still not clear to me is it as a money making device or as a companion. Because you know, when other girls go after Kenshi, she’s like okay with it and doesn’t join in the race but sits back and watches the fun. But in the end, now that Kenshi might really belong to someone else, better start putting on your best running shoes for this long and possibly bitter race to Kenshi’s heart, you majesty. Likewise, I don’t see Maria being really interested in pursuing after Kenshi. Could it be that since Yukine has ‘booked’ him, she prefers to play the supporting role? Thus I’m seeing both princesses as some sort of mini manzai comedy combo whether they are at each other’s throats hating each other’s guts or forging a temporary alliance against Flora.

Obviously the other supporting female characters have their crush on Kenshi because that’s what I mostly see and remember them. It’s not clear the pecking order to me. Yeah, could it be that all of them are on equal footing? But yeah, it’s good to have diversity in your harem too, right? So we have Chiaia who is Lashara’s bodyguard who is the one often using the crystal threat against Kenshi. Are you sure this is a way to a man’s heart? I guess she needs a replacement after abandoning her feelings for Dagmyer. Every group needs that mechanic nerd genius. Wahanly fits that bill and she might not sound as feminine in trying to get Kenshi’s heart so she might be hiding under the guise of having Kenshi test out her inventions. You’ve got so many boisterous girls already so we need a shy and reserved one. That’s you, Yukine. Shy girl may usurp all of you if you’re not careful. Then there is the prideful Aura and my speculation is that for her character to have some sort of romantic moment with Kenshi, hence that weird weak fragile moment of hers. It’s the only way to break down this dark elf and let us know that she too is a strong candidate to be Kenshi’s wife. Lithia too has her pride and despite calling Kenshi a wild beast for most of the part, eventually she too wants the rights to become his wife. Still haven’t found out how he made those great healing herbal remedy, eh? Some things are better left unknown.

Dagmyer feels like one of the weakest characters in the series. But you have got to give him points for not giving up and keep on trying until it finally broke him. So it’s true that it was said that he will never become stronger than he is. Hence in retrospect, it feels like he is just one of those minor antagonists and a little thorn on the heroes’ side. In the end, he somewhat regained a bit of honour as a Seikishi despite going down but he went down with a fight. Thankfully not every girl here will fall head over heels over Kenshi so that’s what I’m figuring out for loyal Emera who remained at Dagmyer’s side till the end. With no competition from Chiaia, he’s all yours for the taking. Ulyte/Reia character feels confusing for the sake of some twist at the end. I mean, how can this handsome sensei be a bad guy, right? So was Ulyte/Reia waiting for the right moment to assassinate Babalun? Speaking of this main antagonist, he can somehow control Doll/Mexiah but can’t see through this? Weird. And to think his character is so one dimensional as he wants to take over the entire world. Not sure why this ex-legendary saviour wants to become Gaia. Did I miss something? Did he live long enough to become the villain? And to think his name was inspired by the Tower of Babel. Honestly, when I first heard it, I thought it was based from baboon! HAHAHA!!! He almost looks like one too!!! HAHAHAHAHA!!! Oops… Sorry went too far.

The action scenes are pretty decent and it does its best to entertain you with all the explosions and the likes. But if you’re wishing for something even more like how each Seikijin has some sort of unique attacks, you’d be disappointed. It feels like it is more bombastic and loud as you see the Seikijin pounding each other while some other puny supportive cannon or beams being fired all over the place. Sometimes it gets a bit messy but I guess that is how war goes. Of course when Kenshi is in his white Seikijin, he bulldozes and butchers through everything. As if his human form wasn’t already on cheat mode, piloting his unique Seikijin makes him close to being God status. Especially when you see Seikijin being ripped apart like a piece of paper. But thankfully nobody dies, right? Oh right, a few bandits (I assume Cordyline perished with Meteor Fall) and some of the academy guys under Dagmyer. Not that we care for them, right?

Art and animation are pretty standard but if I should say, it still beats a lot of animes these days in terms of quality. Mind you, this series first came out way back in 2009. As it is OVA and each episode is released on a monthly basis, you bet some effort are put into making this series look good. Including the chicks. Especially that hot chick on the promotional poster that caught my eye. If you haven’t guessed it, it’s Lashara. So sue me. Even the CGI here would put many recent animes to shame (especially those that are fully rendered in CGI – looking at you Ex-Arm, Tesla Note!). While it is not perfect, it still blends in well with the rest of the 2D animation and it is smooth as hell. Yeah, a bit too smooth that it might look a bit unreal. As for the Seikijin design, since I’m not a mecha expert, I find them a bit weird. Because the pilot seat is inside this huge glass right smack in the middle of the Seikijin’s torso. Weird, right? This anime is jointly done by AIC Spirits (Maken-Ki, Girls Bravo) and Bestack (Tokyo Majin Gakuen Kenpucho, Sasami: Mahou Shoujo Club).

Voice acting, glad to know that Hiro Shimono as Kenshi sounds like his usual joker characters like Zenitsu in Kimetsu No Yaiba and the titular character in Peter Grill To Kenja No Jikan. Others whom I recognized include Rie Kugimiya as Lan (barely since she wasn’t in her trademark squeaky tsundere voice), Hiroki Yasumoto as Babalun and the late Miyu Matsuki as Flora. The other casts are Madoka Yonezawa as Lashara (Ui in K-ON!), Natsuko Kuwatani as Chiaia (Suisei Seki in Rozen Maiden), Rie Nakagawa as Wahanly (Nue in Tayutama), Junko Noda as Aura (Kitsune in Love Hina), Momoko Saito as Maria (Nazuna in Working!!!), Mie Sonozaki as Yukine (Reina in Witchblade), Kana Oomura as Lithia, Ayumi Tsunematsu as Mexiah (Maiya in Fate/Zero), Mai Goto as Doll (Mika in Nogizaka Haruka No Himitsu), Hiromi Konno as Lapis (Sae in Amagami SS), Sachie Abe as Cordyline and Reia, Hyousei as Emera (Superbia in 11eyes), Takuya Satou as Dagmyer (Alvin in Kono Healer Mendokusai) and Tatsuhisa Suzuki as Ulyte (Ban in Nanatsu No Taizai).

The opening theme, Follow Me featuring Sound Around by Seira Kagami is quite a nice piece. Upbeat and filled with positive vibes, it gets you into the mood of the series. As for the ending theme, Destino by Alchemy+ feels more like slow rock and very dramatic-like. It feels like a total opposite from the opener as this one has this darker vibe. But I gotta ask why the f*ck is one of the still pictures, Lashara sitting completely naked with a clothed Kenshi?! WTF this means?!

Overall, this series is pretty okay and enjoyable for me. It falls within expectations the kind of comedy action fantasy genre. Just that not knowing about the Tenchi Muyo universe may have prevented me from enjoying it further. After watching this, I am not sure if I should try watching the other Tenchi Muyo series especially the main ones. Well, ugh… For now, it does not seem very likely. Don’t really feel like investing in that classic. Yeah, maybe I might be missing something that I will enjoy but that’s the risk I’m willing to take. Heh. Who knows? Maybe in the future that will change. Or once I run out of harem animes to watch. Knowing very well girls will never run after me like how they run for Kenshi… :’(.

Arifureta Shokugyou De Sekai Saikyou S2

Oh dear. Looks like it’s here. The first season was bad and didn’t impress me but I need to watch Arifureta Shokugyou De Sekai Saikyou S2 to give it a chance as I promised that hopefully it will not suck as bad as its prequel. When you’ve been the worst, the only way left is to go up, right? Unless it hasn’t reached the bottom yet… So yeah, there is a chance this sequel might swing either direction and I’m such a benevolent person to give this crappy series another chance. After all, the only thing that clearly stuck in my mind about this series was how the main badass character stuck a huge pole in the ass of a female dragon!!! The isekai part, the clearing labyrinths part, main character can materialize any badass his weapons to easily clear a room filled with monsters, his other friends back at the kingdom part, the whatever else about this series part, not really remembering them that much. Just no more pole sticking jokes please, okay?

Episode 1
Oh wow. An opening sneak peak of Hajime killing a god? Look forward to it… Princess Liliana is happy the hero party has returned. She learns from Shizuku what happened especially about Kaori’s decision to go with Hajime. Then there is Kouki who has fallen into depression since he couldn’t live up to his hero role. Oh, the kingdom also summoned a second batch of students? Now we return to badass Hajime as he drives through Gruen Desert. Damn, Kaori and Yue are shameless to fight over Hajime! Took Myu and Shea to make them know some shame. With this aside, they are ambushed by monster sand worms. We’re not worried at Hajime’s awesome driving, but damn again, the girls got the guts to fight over Hajime during this intense moment?! Thank goodness he has great concentration. After wiping out the sand worms with his missiles, they see a horde ahead but it’s like they’re hesitant to eat their prey. After disposing them, they find an injured lone man. Kaori diagnosis he has mana overload and will soon die from it if not treated. Normal healing spells won’t work so she uses a higher level and with Hajime’s ring (always his tool works, huh?). While it doesn’t solve the root of the problem, at least he is okay for now. They learn he is Bize Feuward Zengen, the son of Lunzwi who rules the nation of Ankaji, a trading hub near the city ocean of Erisen, Myu’s home. Apparently someone has polluted their oasis and causing them to have mana overload. Thankfully a special mineral called Stillstone is the cure but it is only available from Gruen Volcano. Of course, seeing how many adventurers are out of action and supplies running low, Bize is one of those who were sent to seek help but he too didn’t make it. So yeah, he is asking them for help since they are high level adventurers. All the girls looking at Hajime for an answer… We all know he doesn’t want to but he gives excuse since they’re heading there… So yeah. We’ll help. Hooray! Now we can resume the shameless fight over Hajime. Meanwhile, Mikhail is shocked to learn from Freid Bagwa that Cattleya (that demon babe) got killed by Hajime. He laments that because of these irregulars, many of their missions failed. Now he seeks to acquire a stronger magic to defeat his enemies and avenge his fallen brethren.

Episode 2
Arriving at Ankaji, Bize takes them to his father who takes them to the hall where many are injured. While Kaori and Shea help with the healing, the rest go create a new oasis. Basically Yue using her powers to make that. She tires out and replenishes herself with Hajime’s blood. I bet the kiss is the one that did the most healing. Hajime then goes to the polluted oasis and drops many bombs in it to reveal some slime that is the source of the pollution. After destroying it, the oasis is still polluted but rest assured it will be back to healthy levels given some time. Hajime also accepts the quest to mine Stillstone at the volcano. Kaori hopes he can come back safely so she’ll try her best. Until Myu points out if papa is going to give Kaori a kiss like he did for Yue. Instantly Kaori becomes a yandere… Don’t know how he escaped that but here they are inside the volcano. After fighting a lava beast, they continue deeper and since the heat is getting to Yue, they take a break. Tio deducing that this place could be a labyrinth and testing them. In particularly, if they can keep their focus in this tremendous heat. They continue their boat ride on the lava river until they reach a strange base. But as they approach it, they are greeted with lots of lave projectiles. Seems that if they want to get closer, they have to defeat these lava snakes. That’ll be easy, right? Just destroy their core and they won’t regenerate. After downing 10 of them. More pop up. Did they regenerate? I guess somebody needs to tell us that they have to destroy the same amount of snakes as the gems on the wall. Yeah, there are hundreds of them. Oh well, time to kick ass. And it becomes a competition to get the most kill because they’ll get a reward from Hajime. Did he even approve of that?! But yeah, it serves as a great motivation. Once Hajime downs the last snake, suddenly he is hit by a huge blast. Hajime dies. End of season 2. Just kidding!

Episode 3
Yue becomes so worried about Hajime that she didn’t see the next wave of ambush coming. Luckily Tio protects her. As she races to heal him, Freid reveals himself and the one who laid this ambush. Hajime recovers enough to throw some sarcasm. Freid claims as he got some divination from his god and hence a self-proclaimed God’s Apostle, he will do anything for his god and that means to remove threats like him. Hajime doesn’t give a f*ck and as long as he stands in his way, he is his enemy. Next round of fight begins but Freid has also brought a huge solid defence. Once again Hajime gets cornered by Freid’s power. This has Tio realizing she got complacent and didn’t stop to think that Hajime is human and can die. Flashback shows her father told her clan to go into hiding or they’ll be massacred. They can come out when the time is right. Looks like that time is now because before Hajime gets finished, Tio reverts to her black dragon form and saves him. She is able to give Hajime some breathing space and deliver frustrations to Freid. Hence he has to resort to his final resort as he has removed a cornerstone from this volcano. All of them shall die in this rising lava. This means Gruen will now erupt. After Freid escapes, Hajime wants Tio to escape and return to Ankaji with a message. He doesn’t intend to die now but will keep his promise to get the Stillstone. With that, Tio flies out as the layered hatches of the volcano start closing. Freid is raining down beams as traps but since Tio is a masochist, she loves that pain and is making her stronger! She makes it out and before Freid can take her out, Hajime’s traps that he sent along with Tio, blasts Freid away. Meanwhile Liliana talks to Shizuku about the meeting between the church and castle officials. They still insist Kouki to get strong to fight demons. Although no decision is made on Hajime yet, she heard of rumours of branding him a heretic. Meanwhile Hiyama is frustrated Hajime isn’t dead yet. A voice suggests they work together and they’ll get what they want.

Episode 4
Tio manages to return to Ankaji and tells Kaori about the message. They understand this and decide to take Myu back to Erisen. So is Hajime alive? You betcha. He is resting on his submarine over the wide ocean. Flashback shows that they managed to get inside of the base before the lava engulfs them. Inside is a magic circle and a message by Naiz Gruen that says he hopes humanity will be based on free will in the future. As the lava starts rushing in, Hajime says he made a submarine beforehand and was worried it couldn’t withstand the lava. So that’s the reason why he didn’t test it out?! Oh, looks like it COULD withstand the lava! It’s going to be a wild ride as the lava pushes them deeper instead of the surface. The follow the tide until they resurface in the middle of the ocean. Because of hostile sea creatures, Yue needs to do her stuffs but lacks blood. Since Hajime is weak himself, Shea offers herself. So as they wait, they are attacked by mermaid tribe who think Hajime is the one who kidnapped their kind. A familiar sound is heard dropping from the sky. You mean Myu is so happy to reunite with papa that she jumps off Tio?! Luckily he catches her in time. Kaori glad he is alive and wants to be close to him as reward. Time’s up. It’s Tio’s turn. At Erisen, a local recognizes Hajime’s mission and acknowledges the return of Myu. Loli mermaid can’t wait to see mama, Remia and rushes to see her. However she is still injured from the attack while protecting Myu from her kidnappers. Good news, we have a healer here. Now the biggest issue here is Hajime being called papa by Myu. This means Remia wants Hajime to continue being her papa. Everyone else starts gossiping about Remia’s remarriage and you bet Hajime’s harem isn’t going to like this! Rivalry up by an additional girl, even more so MILF material! Sorry you other mermaid people who were vying for Remia’s hand, no emergency meeting gonna solve this. Meanwhile Aiko talks to Shizuku after reporting to the king. It seems to her dismay that they have labelled Hajime a heretic since he won’t obey the church. They might send someone strong after him. Aiko also remembers what Hajime said about the God the church worships that is related to Hajime’s goal. She doesn’t have solid proof and wants to talk to everyone about this.

Episode 5
Leaving Myu behind, the rest are free to go explore the sunken ruins of Melusine. Not sure how they are going to find it but damn, Hajime is lucky to have got all the coincidences like filling up the pendant from Gruen with moonlight that pinpoints the location of the ruins. Heck, this special pendant also opens the secret doors marked with pentagrams with just the cost of using the stored moonlight power. Once arriving at the underground cavern, they fight easy monsters until they meet their match with this giant jelly clione. It keeps regenerating and Hajime realizes this one has no core. Also, the surrounding walls give off the same aura so it’s like they’re in the monster’s belly. They escape via the whirlpool’s vortex. However they end up separated and Hajime ends up with Kaori. Finally their much needed time together? She is having this dilemma of why he saved her instead of Yue. Well, Yue can take care of herself. So, is that his way of saying he trusts Yue more than her? Definitely. As they continue their journey, they arrive in a ship’s graveyard. Suddenly they get thrown into a middle of a pirate battle! Knowing this is an illusion, they jump off. Hajime thinks this is Melusine’s concept by showing the tragedy of what a crazed god can bring. As Kaori rests due to being overwhelmed by the illusion, Hajime questions her of why she tagged along. Ever since joining him, she has done nothing but apologizing. Her smile is also different. She knows he is implying she is dragging him down and he did not bat an eyelid to say yes. He talks about Shea who was in the way at first but has much improved. He tells her straight that he loves Yue and she will always be someone special to him. So if all Kaori can do is compare herself to Yue and feel defeated, she shouldn’t be around him. Clear of the pecking order now? Meanwhile Aiko is about to go talk to her students but a nun tries to hypnotize her to make her follow her. However she snaps out of it. Oh well, just punch her in the gut to knock her out then!

Episode 6
Hajime further adds that he allowed Kaori to tag along because he thought she knew what’s best for her. But now she doesn’t appear that way anymore. If it comes down to it, he’ll have to send her back to Shizuku. Ouch. It hurts deep but I guess she’ll have time to answer that since they are being shown another illusion on the ship. This time all races have gathered after a year signing a peace treaty. However the humans realize it was a foolish decision and decided to kill the other races off. They think believing in other pagan gods aside the one and only true creator, Ehit is blasphemous and total peace can only be achieved when there is total annihilation! Bloody massacre scene ends before it gets too graphic for Kaori to stomach. As they explore deeper into the ship, Hajime is attacked by guards. Are these ghosts or not?! Reuniting with Kaori, he knows this is not her but something possessing her. He does not waste time to shoot her! Don’t worry, his magic bullets cannot harm Kaori’s soul. Damn, this guy so evil it is making the possessor scared! Because Hajime threatens to torture but not kill her until she leaves Kaori’s body! You bet the possessor won’t want to have to deal with this sh*t! When the real Kaori returns, she steals a kiss from him. This is her answer. She still loves him and wants to follow him even though his heart belongs to someone else. Because the best thing for her is to be by his side. They finally reach the magic circle and Hajime feels odd since this labyrinth feels too easy. Good timing, the other girls also arrive. Time for Kaori to brag about her kiss to Hajime to assert some authority but Yue is not flinching. Is this b*tch showdown getting on or not? A hologram of a mermaid leaves a message to not blindly believe in gods but to make your own path because happiness only comes to those with free will. After taking the seal, they are forced out. Now they have to deal with that clione monster. Hajime has a solution but he needs time. Can the girls hold out for him? Oh dear, the clione going to eat them whole! Thanks to Lehman summoning his school of fish to help out. Hajime completes his missiles and fires into the monster, destroying it quickly before it could regenerate. Meanwhile Shizuku and some of the students are discussing about the strange coincidence of events like Aiko who hasn’t returned from Divine Mountain and Liliana hasn’t returned either. Meld says he’ll be doing his own investigations. Meanwhile we see Aiko unconscious at Divine Mountain because as noted, she must not interfere with what her students are doing which is going to be a lot more interesting.

Episode 7
Must be nice having a cute loli mermaid waking you up, huh? Trying to troll us by thinking of sullying Myu’s innocence as she asks about Hajime’s dick! She didn’t say that but that is clearly what she is implying at ‘the part that grows big’! Sorry Myu, sometimes you can’t have everything that papa has! So as Myu plays with the other ladies, Hajime is thinking how to say goodbye. Of course Remia comes to talk to him that he has to do what he needs since Myu isn’t that dumb and knows she cannot keep him here forever. This has Hajime resolve to do that. Time for another trolling fanservice moment as Myu steals Shea’s bikini top and hands it to papa. Everyone thinks Hajime asked for that so they too give theirs. Remia ups the game by giving her bottom! Soon that moment comes as Hajime talks to Myu that he will be leaving on a long journey but promises to come back to get her before he returns to Japan. Yeah, he wants her to see his hometown. In that case, Remia will also want to tag along. Hey, can’t separate mother from child, right? I’m sure this won’t sit well with the rest. Remia’s admittance into the harem would throw the balance into disarray! I mean, SHE IS MILF MATERIAL!!!!!! Later Yue talks to Hajime about if he can cross over between worlds whenever and wherever as he wishes. Oh well, he’ll do whatever it takes. Look who you’re talking to. Next day, Hajime and co say goodbye to Myu as they depart Erisen. Freid rallies his army as he has received divine decree from his god to destroy the infidels. It’s time for war. Meanwhile Meld is talking to his subordinate, Jose about some void phenomenon that is making soldiers feeling lethargic. It is affecting a large chunk of the army but the king is getting more energized for war as he is going to punish demons under the name of god. Meld has him gather those who know dark magic. In his room, Meld writes letters to Bize and Hajime in case of something happening to him. He is stumped that his life is not targeted because killing him would certainly affect greatly the soldiers’ morale. Hiyama then comes in and to talk privately. He is nervous when Jose knocks on the door. The moment Meld opens, Jose attacks him. He notices that Jose is brainwashed. When Jose tries to kill a cowering Hiyama, Meld protects him, only to be stabbed from the back by that coward revealing his true colours.

Episode 8
Hiyama somehow didn’t do a good job in finishing off Meld. Meld fights back and with more guards coming in, he is forced to flee. But that is short-lived because awaiting him is this angelic warrior, Noint. She blasts him away! Hiyama and his conspirator relish that the biggest obstacle is no longer in their way and now all they have to do is lie low from Shizuku and expedite their plan. As Hajime and co drive along, they stumble into bandits attacking a travelling group. Hajime kills them all and as Kaori heals the injured, she is surprised to see Liliana here. Uhm, you no remember the princess, Hajime? She tells them the weird happenings back at the castle. Her father has been becoming more radical and at first she thought it was just to deepen the bond with the church. But it doesn’t feel that way. Then the knights and soldiers started becoming lethargic and everyone was adamant to brand Hajime a heretic and not listen to those who objected. Then she saw Aiko got kidnapped by a nun to Divine Mountain. Knowing the castle is under surveillance, that is why she ran away along to seek help from a nearby kingdom. Hence she travelled in that group but couldn’t be happier to stumble into Hajime. Of course Hajime is going to rescue his loli sensei and beat the crap out of anybody who gets in his way. His evil face just makes his girls wet! Aiko getting the surprise of her life when Hajime busts in to talk to her. Why look so surprised? Wasn’t she calling his name? Not sure why they have to talk right here instead of back with his entourage but I guess this Divine Mountain has no guards whatsoever because they think nobody knows where Aiko is, huh? She updates him on what happened. She also now understands why Hajime killed Shimizu although she will never get over that. She thanks him for saving her then. Hajime is resolved to take on anybody and especially the church whom he believes he will have to face off sooner or later. Hajime then receives word that demons just broken through the barrier and are invading the kingdom now. Hajime saves Aiko before they get disintegrated. Looks like Noint wants to play.

Episode 9
Hajime calls on Tio to come right away. Hajime in a pinch?! Well, he can’t fight Noint properly if he is holding Aiko. Wow. Tio has never felt so needed. Meanwhile we see Yue and Shea facing up to Freid and his invading demons. You bet they’re going to make him pay for hurting her master-cum-lover. Shea goes up against Mikhail as the latter is freaking angry about killing Cattleya who was his betrothed. However Shea doesn’t care about his sob story since Cattleya attacked first. In fact, she was given a choice to run and her life spared by Hajime. She chose. So sorry not sorry, not interested in hearing this. Mikhail and his troops go all out to attack her but Shea has her giant kendama to deal with long range attacks and yeah, she can even heal herself! Too bad Mikhail won’t be able to avenge Cattleya as he gets defeated. Shea considers being called a monster a compliment because it means she is strong. Now we go over to Yue fighting Freid. A little bit of drama to show how powerful Freid is and even stabbing through Yue! If you have not seen it coming already, you should by now because Yue transfers all that pain back to Freid, reopening his old wounds. Realizing he cannot win, he escapes. Understandably Yue not happy she couldn’t finish the job. Now we see Hajime against Noint. He sure has a hand tied behind his back while carrying Aiko. WTF can’t he just let her do a piggy back ride instead of this inefficient princess carrying? Hajime does his best to stand his ground. He soon realizes the church also playing dirty tricks on him as they’re singing some song from their base to weaken him. Hajime wonders if Noint is okay fighting him rather than protecting the kingdom. Well, if that is how it goes, so be it. This has Hajime think that humans are just pawns to Ehit to kill time. This means at this rate the god worshipped by the demons will also be Ehit or someone under his control. Noint doesn’t care although Hajime just wants to ascertain some facts from the Liberators. Noint continues her offensive. It’s about time Tio gets here. Now with Aiko off his back, perhaps the real fight can begin.

Episode 10
Aiko wants Tio to turn back so she can assist Hajime. She might not have any combat experience but she has a responsibility to bring everyone back to Japan. If this is Aiko’s resolve and knowing Hajime will approve of loli sensei, she agrees to do that. Hajime continues his fight with Noint but he realizes that her magic is not even diminishing. Not sure what happened because it’s like suddenly he mixes his powerful and light attacks against her, he destroys her swords and even cuts off a wing. Noint left to be on the defensive? Eventually he takes her down. Wow. He was just struggling a moment ago and suddenly he got all powered up that god had no chance. Is it because of the script?! Anyway, at the same time the church gets destroyed. He learns that Aiko tried to imbue Tio’s breath with some magic but she didn’t expect it to be this powerful. This means she also killed all those church people, eh? How does it feel to have your first kills? Oh, Aiko in despair. Okay. No joke. Here, have Hajime’s hug. Feeling better? Then they see some ghost guy guiding them to some rubble. Underneath it is a magic circle. Hajime believes he is a Liberator and stepping into it transports them into the labyrinth designed by Laus Barn. It seems to defeat this one, one must fulfil other conditions including defeating 2 other labyrinths, have no faith in god and defeat some effect powered by the force of god. Gee, like as though it was written for Hajime. Since he cleared all that, a guide will pop up to show him this place. Yeah, here’s a shiny ring as your reward. Now they have to go back and help the rest at the capital. We go back a few hours earlier, Shizuku and the rest felt some uneasiness after waking up in the middle of the night. When Nia reports demons have broken through their barrier, they want to go find out what it is but Eri Nakamura suggests coordinating with Meld first. However Jose tells him he is busy and gathers them in some place. They realize too late as Jose unleashes a blinding light and the guards stab all of them! Gee, did they miss their vitals on purpose? Shizuku gets betrayed by Nia and also gets stabbed. To her horror, the culprit and traitor is Eri.

Episode 11
The whole point of Eri’s betrayal is so that she could get Kouki for herself. Because Kouki is such a kind guy, he is surrounded by lots of people AKA losers and trash. Hence all of her doing is to get this chance to get them out of the way and make Kouki only hers. She reveals her Spirit Binding ability which is an enhanced version of necromancy. Despite all the guards here are already dead, they are given some sort of autonomy to think and act like the living although it is minimal. She kills off one of her classmates, Reiichi Kondo to demonstrate she means business. She is going to give Shizuku the special role because she wants to see Kaori’s face when she gets killed by her best friend. Before Eri could kill her, Kaori to the rescue. With Liliana’s help they are able to put a damper on Eri’s plans. Liliana who is unaware of Hiyama’s intentions, lets him in so he quickly takes advantage and kills Kaori. Now she’ll be his forever! Yeah, sick twisted kids. Kouki so mad that he breaks out of his chains. Time for him to be a true hero. He breaks free his friends as they prepare to fight back. However Kouki is weakened when he is forced to fight Geld. Even more so, he was poisoned by Eri. Before Eri could turn Kaori into one of her puppets, here comes Hajime! Sorry Kouki, not your turn to shine still. Hajime is not pleased with this mess and punches Hiyama away. He has Tio and Aiko heal Kaori while he confronts Eri. Sneaky brat still tries to worm her way out. Hajime shows he is not interested with all that crap as he kills Geld to put him out of his misery. Then fires his gattling gun and puts all those dead soldiers out of their misery! Everybody get down! He is going to kill Eri next but a mad Hiyama wants to get his revenge but gets his ass handed to him. Still blaming Hajime for everything, Hajime doesn’t give a f*ck and throws him to his fate with the demons outside. Freid is now here and is still as arrogant, believing Hajime cannot protect everything. Why, Hajime uses some special orb and rains down a beam to destroy everything else in the kingdom! May he remind you that he isn’t friends with the kingdom and if you get in his way, you’re dead meat. Get it? Time for another tactical retreat for Freid as Eri escapes with him. Good, because now it is time for everyone to pitch in and concentrate to bring Kaori back from the dead. Hajime gives Shizuku some hope to believe in them and wait. Somebody needs to clean up his mess, right?

Episode 12
Liliana reads the report in the aftermath. Eri is the great mastermind behind the invasion of this kingdom. By using her abilities on Cattleya, this was how she managed to get into contact with the demons as she used her to send a message. In exchange for access to the kingdom, she’ll get freedom for herself and Kouki. The invasion failed and she escaped with the demons. Another culprit is a nun from Divine Mountain who was the one who kidnapped Aiko and brainwashed-cum-killed the king. Currently she is missing. We see Hajime’s girls healing Kaori while he goes to talk and console Aiko who is probably going to have a hard time getting over this. He allows her to cry on his back. Hajime and co return to the rest. But where is Kaori? Trying to keep the suspense, huh? He claims she’ll be here shortly but throws caution that it isn’t his fault that she looks different now. Oh sh*t. What happened? And here Kaori comes falling down from the sky. Hajime didn’t catch her. Says a lot. Indeed, Kaori looks different. Long story short, Kaori is now in Noint’s body. Hajime used his magic to transfer her soul. Although Kaori’s original body is also repaired, Kaori requested this because she wanted to be stronger. Her original body is kept frozen and she can return to it any time. Phew. But uhm, does being in Noint’s body make her stronger? Or does she intend to use this body as guinea pig to get all the scars of training before being transferred to her perfect body? Anyway, as long as Kaori is alive, that is all that matters.

Kouki is mad that Hajime never told them about the conspiracy. Well, if Hajime did, would they have believed him? As for going to defeat the big boss, Hajime hints he doesn’t care about this world (what about Myu then?!). Kouki accuses him of being powerful but yet does nothing. True. But Hajime also admits Kouki is powerless, the reason they fail because of their weak willpower. Hajime’s next goal is to the labyrinth at the forest’s east. Liliana wants to tag along seeing she wants to speak to the empire seeing the events that have happened. Shizuku and the rest also request to come since they want to get stronger and that means getting the God-like powers like Hajime. Now, it might seem Hajime agrees but this isn’t because he is such a good friend. He intends to use them as bait and meat shields! Before we forget what this anime is remembered for, the shameless fanservice by Hajime’s harem as they try to feed him. Then Tio wants a reward for protecting Aiko and it is to brutalize her ass like the first time! OMFG! WHAT?! This gives everyone the wrong idea but Hajime’s girls don’t blame Tio as he was the one responsible in awakening her perversion. If that’s the case, Hajime is going to grant her wish. Uh oh. I don’t he is going to stick this pole into her. Beat down? Why the masochist getting scared?! Hope she likes it. Early next morning, everyone sets off on their journey.

Episode 13 (Special)
This filler takes place in between the first and second season. During their travels, Hajime stops so as to let Kaori down to go heal some injured people. This has the other girls wonder if they can learn magic from Yue. However Hajime is against this and warns them. So does he think Yue is useless? Well, he warned them… So as Yue starts teaching, she’s saying gibberish! Do you understand all that?! Then when she gets technical and explains it with scientific terms, you girls are lost! Wow, Tio thinking herself as dumb! When Kaori returns, she learns what is happening and also wants to learn. Hajime even warning if she wants to learn, do it from Tio. Yue sulking. Kaori is eager and follows the same gibberish and voila! She did some magic! That sure boasts Yue’s morale as a teacher. In town as they shop for clothes, they ask about Myu’s people on what they usually where. Nothing. Don’t get funny ideas. Because Myu praises Yue as her big sister, this makes the rest jealous as they try to impress to loli. Too bad she says their bad points and this gives Yue a big smug look. Then she has an idea they should swap clothes. Whoever wears what, we win, right? Of course the biggest lottery is when Kaori ends up in Shea’s clothes. Don’t stare! Continuing their journey, Yue feels great as Myu sleeps on her lap. Her smug look has the rest tease this perversion. But Yue’s regret is that Myu doesn’t call her mama like she does papa for Hajime. But Myu explains she already has one so Yue can’t be her mom. She can be her onee-sama instead. A big loli hug makes Yue melt with all the fuzzy warmness. The rest note Yue’s regression to an infantile stage as Hajime himself explains about such phenomenon that would want to make one cuddle up like a baby. Are we impressed? Yue further thinks that if she can’t be Myu’s mom, she’ll have to get her own baby. Assaulting Hajime when? To compromise, she asks Hajime if he wants to be the baby. The shock almost has him crash his vehicle. Yue continues with those doe-like eyes. Driving is getting more dangerous!

From Common Edgelord To World’s Overpowered God
Hey… HEY! Guess what?! Somehow I don’t find this sequel to be as bad!!! Hooray! Felt like some sort of an achievement there! Not sure if it is because I have set my expectations so low that nothing could go limbo rock lower than that or there wasn’t anything more cringe or crappier than that sick pole sticking ass joke. Yeah, that one still take the cake. Ah yes, almost forgotten about that had not Tio brought it up at the end!!! At least it was a good thing the same actions were not repeated, but the concept was there and so were the memories. Yeah. But at least this season did not suck as hard as the first and going by that standard, it is very much a good enough accomplishment. Phew. This means not a candidate for one of the worst series of the year? We shall see in the end…

Well, I have to admit that as the season reaches its climax, perhaps it was that part that got a bit more interesting since Eri began moving things and started her betrayal. A little too late but I guess it’s better than nothing. Because for the early and middle parts for this season, it was mainly the same usual stuff of overpowered Hajime and his brutal harem finding labyrinths to conquer. Pretty standard affair. Nothing really that exciting. Now that Hajime will be travelling together with his old classmates, perhaps it might be a different ball game altogether. Could be better or it could be worse but at least Kouki, Shizuku and co won’t become permanent minor background characters should they continue to get stuck and left behind at the kingdom.

Character wise, Hajime still maintains his badass personality although he will get a bit soft for those he trusts. Very evident you can see how he acts and talks with Aiko. Why not just admit this loli sensei into your harem? Ah well, she places the safety and wellbeing of all her students first. One thing ‘good’ about Hajime is how he made his resolve regarding his love. And that is Yue whom he will always forever love. Unlike many such characters, they were unable to decide and left everything as status quo so as not to rock the boat. Hence Hajime is ‘good’ in that sense for not wavering on his decisions and has been very firm on it ever since. So while you might think that newcomer Kaori may not stand a chance but as we can all tell, she won’t give up. After all, people change. Like how Hajime turned from a wuss into this badass anti-hero. While it might seem improbable, there is always that slight remote possibility. So that is why I’m thinking that her body swap with Noint is to facilitate that change not only for herself but also Hajime is not likely inclined to see her as the old Kaori. New Kaori stronger than before, so will he look at her differently like he will for Yue? Only time will tell. So new body, can Kaori still stand up against Yue in her spat for Hajime? We can only wait and see.

The other girls in Hajime’s harem do not feel as annoying as they were last season. Perhaps they are all capable women and strong enough to be Hajime’s support and hence the idiocrasy of Tio and Shea are not given so much of the limelight except for some light-hearted moments. While Tio is still a pervert but that is when they are not fighting any enemy, Shea feels much less a muscle brained hare I often thought of her the last season. Yeah, sorry about that. Then there is of course the ‘daughter’ Myu whom Hajime is very fond of. For better or worse, she has been returned to her village but with Hajime’s promise to come get her, you bet that’s not the end of her yet. After all, don’t bring a child to the battlefield. And yeah, should Remia actually be part of the harem, Hajime has got all group ages covered from loli to teens to MILF. Oh boy, are we ever gonna get so jealous.

As for the other classmates, Kouki and Shizuku I don’t feel they are prominent than last season although they have more of the limelight in the final stretch. After all, what else can they do when they are stuck in the castle? Kouki can’t virtue signal anymore after realizing how weak he is and Shizuku barely getting by. The other classmates, still can’t remember their name. Good riddance Hiyama is dead so this means we can leave this jealousy business out the next season. Yeah, it will be a pain to see Hajime and Hiyama fight again all because of Kaori but that kind of fight will be so mismatched as we know Hajime is God level while Hiyama is only acting by his blinded rage of jealousy. May he rest in peace.

So with Eri being revealed as the big traitor among them, it is interesting to see what kind of plans she will have next. Because even if the invasion has failed, she still has her Spirit Binding ability in which the demons will find useful for their retaliation. Otherwise, do you think they would really want to take a human in after failing and being thwarted? This means Hajime will have an enemy to focus on or at least some vengeful demon will be targeting him so as to settle the score. It is pretty weird that they couldn’t finish their business as Freid has escaped from his death fate THRICE! His first pseudo victory at the volcano, the second after Yue held her ground and the third which didn’t even get started because Hajime so badass this guy probably pissed in his pants and made the cowardly but right decision to retreat. Yeah. Live and there’s always a next time. I thought Noint would be an important character if not some sort of valuable antagonist but it turns out that she was to serve as Kaori’s new body. I mean, such a powerful character but lacking any back story, I guess that says it all.

This season’s art and animation remain consistent with last season. Still mediocre in my opinion. But worse of all, the CGI has not really improved. Yes, you can see the atrocity of those 3D models that were used on the monsters. Especially those dragons. They just look so lifeless. Like NPCs. And because the scenes aren’t particularly well lit and some are quite dark, perhaps you can’t see the whole horrendous effect. Forgettable. Thank goodness they are only used on monsters. I did not notice if CGI is used on others but I bet you it would have sucked ass if it was 100% completely CGI like Tesla Note or Ex-Arm. Yeah. It will hurt even more painful than Tio’s ass been brutalized by Hajime’s thick and hard pole!!! Oh f*ck, just made that stupid pole joke I swore I didn’t want to.

Action wise, Hajime has got a reputation to keep because he can materialize just about anything for whatever, making plot convenience the backbone of all their adventures. Sometimes they want to troll us and create some tension when we see him weakened or almost to the point where we may think he has been beaten. But nope. Either his harem has him covered or he’ll find some sort of way to make a comeback. It’s all within expectations. Imagine if Hajime actually dies, that would be even more shocking. So don’t worry people, veteran isekai watcher like me can assure you that by a very long shot that Hajime will never ever die. Because he is main character after all. What will Myu think of papa breaking his promise to take her to his world if he kicks the bucket, eh?

This season’s new cast include Sayaka Ohara as Remia, Rina Satou as Noint and Katsuyuki Konishi as Freid, the only ones I recognized. The rest are Noriko Shibasaki as Liliana (Chisato in Tsugumomo), Asuka Nishi as Eri (Mimosa in Black Clover) and Makoto Ishii as Mikhail (Arthur in Tears To Tiara). This season’s opening theme, Daylight by MindaRyn is your typical anime rock but somehow I felt it lacks some sort of oomph to match the series. Oh I don’t know, it’s not as badass enough to match Hajime’s character, I think. The ending theme is Gedou Sanka by FantasticYouth and is a mix of rock and hip hop. Sounds a bit sultry too so another a bit of a mismatch for this series.

Overall, it is a good thing this second season is not as bad as the first although it still doesn’t pull the series out of the doldrums. Generally the story and the characters are still hovering around the average line and the CGI is still hopeless. Can they do without that the next time? With seemingly interesting developments and direction, perhaps it could maintain this momentum and finally give the series its true overall reputation it deserves? Well, if we get another season in the first place. Yeah, I guess the general sentiments aren’t so good so instead of making haste to announce another one, they’ll do so after a few years down the road. After many bad isekai adaptations of other animes later! By that time we may feel nostalgic and had it good that this series wasn’t so bad to begin with. Especially when you still remember a certain dragon babe got her ass brutalized by a thick and hard pole!!! By that time it could have turned from common cringe to world’s strongest meme! Oh boy…

Shuumatsu No Harem

It sounds like an ultimate fantasy of horny men. The kind of plot that was written specifically to play out male fantasies or at least virgin losers who can’t get laid. The kind of story that would definitely have one think that this came straight out of some porn director’s mind or a hentai game. Yup. I’m talking about Shuumatsu No Harem. In the not too distant future, a certain virus decimated almost every male in the world. With men being considered now as scare resources, hence it becomes a competition of all sorts for the women to mate with these men to produce children so that humanity can continue its existence. I know. Sounds freaking ridiculous at first glance, right? But yeah. That’s what this anime is. And yes, those of you who are planning to dive into this, you better expect the sex scenes. That’s what it’s about and why we are here, right?! Can I call this the world’s biggest Sex-lympics too?

Episode 1
Reito Mizuhara confesses to Erisa Tachibana. Of course she knows his feelings since they have been together for a long time. This confession is prompted because Reito has contracted cellular sclerosis and will be induced into a cold sleep to help treat it. So what does Reito hope for Erisa to say? He thinks he is being considerate because he doesn’t want her to wait for 5 years but I guess that’s not the answer she wants to hear. At the hospital, Reito says goodbye to his siblings, Ryuu and Mahiru. Erisa barges in last minute to say her goodbye so Reito gives his pendant for her to hold onto till he wakes up. 5 years later, he wakes up and before him is a discount Erisa? Nope. It’s Mira Suou who claims he is his attendant. His sclerosis has been healed and she will explain to him what happened when he was asleep. 4 years ago, a virus named Corona MK Virus infected and killed half the population. It is transmissible via air and there are no cures or vaccines for it. Reito is shocked to see the devastated lands. He realizes something is really wrong. Where are all the men? Yup, that virus, MK Virus is Male Killer (f*ck! I thought it was Mortal Kombat!) and only infects males. Many of them died (FATALITY!!!!) and there are only a very small number of them in cold sleep. Heck, currently there are only 5 males in the world right now?! Reito is spared because somehow his sclerosis problem made him immune to it. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Yup, Mira wants her to mate with the women of this world! F*ck everybody! Literally! You can see how desperate some horny women are. Luckily those bodyguards took them out.

Reito watches the history when MK Virus was at his height. With all the men gone, I guess UN became UW (United Women but f*ck, not United World?) took control of the riots and chaos to govern the world. It was found that men that underwent sclerosis treatment were immune to MK Virus and they will be slowly released one by one as the world’s new hope. Reito wonders if artificial insemination would work. Nope. If you are born male, you still die within a few days. Even using the sperm of a male with immunity (one who woke up before Reito) failed. So it has to be sex, HUH???!!! Reito is still in shock but Mira wants him to get down to business to propagate his seed. Since he won’t, she’ll let someone he knows to convince him. Mahiru is happy to see him. She shows him Ryuu sleeping in cold sleep. Where’s Erisa? She has been missing 3 years ago. Mira reports to her boss who chides her for her failure to have Reito start his f-*cking job. He isn’t impotent and not even gay, so what’s the hold up! Get to it! So that night, Mira herself tries to seduce him but thoughts of Erisa has him reject her. Well, if he isn’t going to f*ck her, then she has no further business with him. She leaves but Neneko Isurugi offers to let Mira skip the queue and let her f*ck her man. Mira declines since she is in charge of Reito. Later Mira has Reito do window shopping on the girls he would like to sleep with and of course he declines. He is not an animal! Mira explains that many women have fallen into poverty. Those who bore his child will definitely be lifted out of it. You save her, you save humanity. Think so? Also, there is a possibility that men in cold sleep might die within a year as this method is just delaying the advancement of the disease. With Mira begging, Reito wants her to give him a month to find Erisa. She is the one he wants to mate with. She agrees but has a condition. He will sleep with a girl she chooses. The reason is that if he is intent on saving himself for her, his seduction will fail. Hence it would be easier for them if he succumbs to temptation.

Episode 2
Kyouji Hino is the first guy who got unfrozen. He has f*cked a lot of women and is somewhat bored with his next choice. So Neneko brings him his favourite actress, Rena Kitayama and this guy gets it on. As Reito enjoys some fine cooking, Mira says she’ll assign a nurse and bodyguard for him. He’ll be sleeping with them. But whatever he does in bed with them is another matter. Hino then meets Reito and he is happy to make friends with another male. He claims the paradise he is in now as he gets to f*ck lots of beautiful women. No time to chat, got to go make some babies! As Reito thinks about finding Erisa, suddenly Akane Ryuuzouji comes in to seduce him in his bath. Not sure if it got too hot to handle because Reito faints! Wuss! Don’t you dare kill the golden goose! Later he wakes up and finds this loli, Sui sleeping next to him. Don’t worry, nothing happened. These women are the ones that Mira said will be assigned to him. As Mira takes Reito to the lab where Erisa works, he explains why he believes Erisa is still alive. Inside the pendant he gave her has a tracker. It’s working but it cannot pinpoint its location if she’s outside Japan. How convenient and inconvenient. Suddenly a bear runs loose! WTF?! This is to show how Sui takes it down with a single kick! So yeah, Sui is the bodyguard while Akane is the sexy doctor. I wouldn’t have guessed it. Inside Erisa’s lab is a mess. After she went missing, someone broke in to steal her research on MK Virus. Reito remembers Erisa’s goal to become a doctor to find a cure for rare diseases was because their dog died. Hence Reito wants to become a doctor to find a cure for MK Virus. I guess there is only so much he can f*ck, right? Might as well go for the big cure. No fun… As part of that goal of his, he announces worldwide via interview and lets the world knows about his intentions and goals. Mahiru doesn’t like this because this attention will put him in danger. But thanks to that, he can now have access to the lab for research. Then he stumbles into some hidden communicator that belongs to Erisa. Looks like a message from her. She reveals that MK Virus is not natural and manmade! OMFG!!! I HOPE IT’S NOT FROM THE WUHAN LAB!!! She also claims there are liars everywhere and nobody can be trusted. Now we see a group of shady UW b*tches of Japan’s branch. They mock at Hino who is f*cking like a horse and also the same for Reito who won’t even f*ck a single woman. What a failure. What a waste of time. Especially having Mira tend to him. They plan to unfreeze the third guy and proceed to the next stage in their plan.

Episode 3
Shouta Doi became a target of bullying. Not even his best friend could help him. Everyone else doesn’t even care. His teacher, Yuzuki Hanyu knows his plight but there is nothing much she can do. At least her kind words of encouragement gave him some hope. Of course one day he got diagnosed with that cellular sclerosis. When Yuzuki told the class and had them say goodbye, nobody gave a f*ck!!! Ultimate disrespect when they just went off like as though they don’t exist!!! Yeah, probably they see her as only a pair of boobs. The night before the cold sleep, only his younger sister, Mayu made a courtesy call. They even joke by the time he wakes up, she’ll be older than him. And so Shouta goes into cold sleep with nobody to even see him off. But he can take heart he won’t have to see those bullies again. When he wakes up, he is greeted by Karen Kamiya who is his perky assistant. He learns what is going on but still finds it hard to believe it. To soften the shock, he is sent back to his former high school and his classmates are all girls. Still feels weird. After school, Karen takes him to see Yuzuki who is very happy to see him. She wants him to come to her room tonight to talk about things. During PE, Shouta sits out as he watches the rest play. Karen introduces some of the potential girls (why the heck describing their boob size?! Not that I’m complaining…) that include Natsu Ichijou, Shunka Hiiragi, Akira Toudou and Chifuyu Rain Kuroda. She hopes he can get to know them all better. That night, Shouta goes to meet Yuzuki. Basically, she seduces him and lets him f*ck her! Oh yeah, if this is a dream, he doesn’t want to wake up! So you feeling unreal from everything still? Next day in class, he interacts better with the other girls since some share the same idol group passion with him. During volleyball, Akira accidentally spikes the ball and it hits both Shouta and Chifuyu! All the girls rush to Shouta’s side. ARE YOU OKAY! Akira will do anything to make it up to him! Nobody cares for Chifuyu… How things have changed… Late Yuzuki visits Shouta while playing the piano. I guess she got worried about him getting hurt and does some ‘magic’ to make the pain go away. But wait. There’s more. She is also feeling some sort of pain in her chest and hopes he can make it go away. I can see where this is going as she is stripping herself… Oh yeah, definitely the pain will go away! Meanwhile Karen reports to a higher up regarding this tactic of hers. All the girls here are unaware that there are other men alive and that Shouta is the only man in the world. Whatever. Just get the results.

Episode 4
It’s the weekend. No school. Don’t worry, we’ll have extracurricular lessons and f*ck each other! Oh boy. Shouta now taking the initiative to go f*ck Yuzuki. That’s my man! During pool lessons, Shouta is also sizing up the attractiveness of the other girls. Chifuyu being the cheeky flat chest as she exposes Akira’s tits as proof why she cannot go faster in swimming! As a result, Akira tosses her into the pool! Her legs can’t reach the bottom… Later, Shouta is shocked that Natsu is here to stay with him for a week. Turns out some rooms have their air-conditioning spoiled and what a coincidence they are 1 room short. And did I mention that Natsu is a rich girl so her servant does everything for her and that includes dressing her up as well? Oh boy. Shouta gonna be her servant and undress her… He’ll get used to it… That night, she requests to sleep with him. She tells him how she was supposed to get married 5 years ago to a guy that is 20 years her senior just for her father’s business. However her dad and fiancé died from the MK Virus. In a way, she felt it was a good thing this virus happened. Shouta doesn’t blame her and also agrees this virus was a good thing. And hence this is your sleazy excuse for them to undress and have sex! Shouta is getting good as this game… Meanwhile Reito is surprised his interview has made him even more famous and there are girls thronging outside the gates just wanting to see him. Mira also reports that Mahiru has been going to the refugee area a lot. She will try to warn her to not do so very often because there it could be dangerous if they find out she is Reito’s sister. Shouta goes to apologize to Yuzuki for doing it with Karen. She’s find with it since he belongs to everyone. Yeah, why is she crying? Shouta then confronts Karen and wants to know the truth behind this school. He thinks they’re keeping him alive as he is a precious sample to fight against MK Virus whom they have no clue for the vaccine. Hence she is just using everyone to get data for the vaccine. She then reveals about how artificial insemination won’t work and they don’t know if his child will inherit his immunity. But if they don’t have his genes, humanity won’t survive. This school has done its job in checking the girls and all of them here likes him. None of them are coerced into this. So it’s just his job to impregnate them and they’ll take care of the mom and baby. Win-win for everyone. As proof, Karen asks everyone to strip and they duly do so. Meanwhile the higher ups are pleased with Shouta’s progress. But since no results are shown on Mira’s side, they plan to remove her as Reito’s attendant.

Episode 5
Reito might be popular to many but to some like Rea Katagiri, she thinks he is a sleazebag for she saw him forcing himself on Maria Kuroda. Actually it was an accident whereby she bumped into him and she ran away because she has fear of men. Soon Reito is summoned by a couple UW directors. He is told that Mira will no longer be his attendant. Replacing her will be Rea and Maria. While Rea replaces Mira for his daily needs, Maria will be assisting him in his research. Reito wants an answer for Mira’s dismissal but they tell him if he likes her so much, just mate with her. This doesn’t help with Rea blaming Reito for not getting the results and hence Mira’s firing. While Mira and Rea are friends, the former doesn’t like it when the latter badmouths Reito. Though, Mira isn’t his attendant but she still follows him in his group. Now Reito’s group heads to Keimon City. While it is famed for its hotsprings, this is also where the MK Virus claimed its first victim. Reito talks to Maria about the possibility that it is manmade and she gets very talkative and excited about this theory. Now for some fanservice as all the girls join Reito in the hotspring and some having them wash his back. It got too much for him when Akane has him wash several of her parts. I guess he can’t go further down south… Reito is then brought to see Taniguchi who is the wife of the man of Japan’s first MK Virus victim. She refuses to tell them anything and has them leave. Later we see her talking to Erisa as she tells her that her lover is here.

For the next few days, Reito tries to talk to her but she is not opening up. One night, Sui sneaks Reito to the open air hotspring. Not sure how this is illegal but there are other female students coming in so he hides in the sauna. Then this American, Chloe comes in and threatens to scream if he leaves. WTF, does it matter? Reito plays by her rules. Whoever leaves the sauna first loses. She collapses first so he takes her somewhere to cool off. Again, she wants him to feed her water via his mouth or else she screams. He does so but at this time, Sui has brought some of the girls for help and they misinterpret this scene of Reito trying to mate with a stranger! Of course this was all an act by Chloe. Reito is now reduced to Taniguchi’s errand boy and she won’t accept anything that is not done by him. As he leaves to go do her errands, Taniguchi talks to Mira to find out more about Reito’s behaviour. Selfish guy in the good sense basically. That night, another one last talk with Reito about the girl he loves. Reito notes that he might do mating with others but in his heart there will always be a girl he loves. She has him come back tomorrow and maybe she’ll talk about her husband. Finally! Taniguchi remembers talking to Erisa about losing her boyfriend but she can accept the fact if he falls for another girl, he will always be the only one she’ll love. It reminded her of her husband. When she is asleep, a shady nurse injects her and causes to go into coma. Before she loses consciousness, she left a note to give this picture of her and her husband to Reito.

Episode 6
Reito investigates the hospital where the epidemic started. Sorry folks, it’s not in Wuhan. HAHAHA!!! Akane then confronts Rea about Taniguchi being poisoned. She is trying to get Rea’s alibi on what she was doing that night and Rea claims she was writing her report. Meanwhile Hino is still on his f*cking roll but he realizes he is getting bored of it. So he gets permission to perhaps find one out on the streets and mate. Guess who is that lucky girl he fell for at first sight? Mahiru! Looks like not all women are straight. Rea’s sister seems to be on the verged to be raped by this lesbo when Rea knocks her out. Rea needs a favour from her. On second thought, maybe both sisters are into incest… Results show that the picture of Taniguchi has nothing special. But in the toilet when Reito uses a special scan, some load of data of the MK Virus pops up. Oh sh*t. This could be a clue! But because some data are corrupted, he cannot get a clear picture. Unsure who to trust, he asks Maria about the slow vaccine development. She too is frustrated that not enough research is given and most resources are focused elsewhere like food. Even more so, there’s no data on vaccine and the Japanese counterparts are not even given any access. All the top medical professions are in US and so are those top directors of UW. Neneko seeks Reito’s help because of Hino’s request to mate with Mahiru. Of course Mahiru declines and as per rules, mating without consent is not allowed. What’s that word… Ah, rape! So they want Reito to go talk to Hino because he might have a better chance of giving up? Too bad Hino even gets more persistent and hopes Reito would just set them up. Okay, okay. We’ll see how it goes.

Those UW directors discuss about the small skirmish the refugees have with the security. They realize that there are growing sentiments all over the world and UW is losing its popularity. Rea then suggests using Reito to hand out food rations to appease them and the directors agree since he is quite popular. Akane and Maria sexily ambush Reito in the bath because this is the only way they can talk to him as he is very closely monitored. They warn him about doing investigations on his own because this will get him killed. Also, many talented medical professions have gone missing and it is unsure if they are alive or not (could Erisa be one of them?). Akane also reveals that one of Japan branch’s UW directors is Kihara, who is her mom. We see Rea trying to seduce Mira but I guess Mira doesn’t swing that way. Rea vows to make her forget that guy. Reito gives out rations to a long queue of livid fans. Of course there are some women who aren’t pleased with this and believe this is just UW’s tactic to shut them up. A sniper is about to snipe at Reito but luckily Rea’s sister takes her out. Sadly, she didn’t make it but it seems this sniper is not found in any database. Rea’s sister thinks Rea is in love with Reito to go this far for him. She assures she hates that guy and is only doing so because if his die, a certain someone she loves will be sad. Hino trying to impress Mahiru but she’s not f*cking interested and leaves. You’re rejected, dude. So I guess more wild f*cking with his own harem? What’s this unsatisfied feeling… Akane and Maria show Reito their secret computer room that uses some old underground internet connection that is undetectable by the world. Yeah… They warn him not to trust Rea or UW directors since they’re only interested in controlling this country. As they scour the internet for clues, Maria is shocked to see names of her friends on the list of this Keimon’s central hospital. She thought all of them were in US as they are top medical professions in the field. It’s like they’ve all gone missing in an abandoned hospital. Reito believes this hospital might be where MK Virus was first developed.

Episode 7
Tonight’s the last night Natsu will be with Shouta. Wanna have last sex? Sorry girl, not in the mood. Bummer. Next day, Karen holds a draw to assign Shouta’s next roommate. That lucky girl is Rikka Yanagi. While Rikka gets aggressive and wants to do it right now, Shouta is having some traumatic fears. Because these kind of girls were the girls of his bullies. He runs away to the teacher’s room for his safe space. Also coming to sit with him is Shunka. She knows his bruises and that he is a bully victim. Then she strips her top. This is to show she too has some bruises. Yup. Another bully victim. Both connect with each other and what do you know? They start making out! I bet this ‘magic’ is going to make the pain go away!!! When they return, Rikka again wants to f*ck Shouta. This has Shunka enter a b*tch showdown with her. Poor Shouta panics and runs away. As he sits outside, Akira comes to sit with him. He cannot take his eyes of her bust. Since she is still sorry for that incident, she lets him touch her boobs. In that moment of madness, Shouta enjoys fondling those marshmallow tits! He comes to realize this inner monster and runs away. Next day, he sees Akira cleaning the gym. This time, she gets aggressive as she ties him up and rapes him! When that is done, she can’t stop apologizing. She just had post nut clarity, HUH???!!!

Next day, Karen announces every day there will be girls assigned to Shouta to take care of his daily needs. This is to increase the turnover rate since the roommate thingy is for a week. Rikka gets chosen first so again she gets aggressive to kiss him. Shouta breaks free and trips, scraping his hand. This causes Karen to panic as she sends him to the infirmary for check-up. He is a national treasure, remember! Even taking a full body scan! Yeah, I hope that certain body part isn’t broken. Once he is given a clean bill of health, Karen has Natsu, Shunka and Akira help ‘heal’ him further. Before you know it, it’s a mad orgy in the infirmary! Everyone using their ‘magic’ to heal him! Damn, how he satisfy 3 girls in the end?! Later Shouta catches Chifuyu trying to make a potion to make him fall in love with her! She too tries to get lucky with him. So he asks what she likes about him. She straight answers his face. So funny that he laughs. Chifuyu gets embarrassed and even more so when he hopes she will mature a bit more before they mate. The one who claims to be the most mature is the most immature, right? Turning point when Karen tells Shouta that Yuzuki has transferred away and won’t return for a few years. This makes Shouta seething with anger. Now that he has lost his hope, Shouta becomes aggressive in making out with girls. He just doesn’t care. He kisses them as and when he likes and f*cks them in bed. So is he blaming the school for making him mad? I mean, eh can have any girl he wants. One day, Karen introduces a new transfer student: Shion Hoshino. That shock on Shouta’s face…

Episode 8
Shion was Shouta’s classmate and quite a popular girl. When he was getting his usual beat down by the bullies, Shion and her friends came into the area to have lunch. Her friends wanted to leave but Shion acted like nothing and sat down and just ate while the bullying continued. Now it looks like she needs his help but he isn’t going to help her easily. Shion tries to get info from the other girls but they keep their distance. Not going to increase the rivalry for his dick, right?! Karen then explains to Shouta that Shion wanted to be an entertainer but it is very hard for her to break through in this time and age (you do realize she is in her early 20’s, right?). Hence if she is part of his harem, the UW directors may reconsider. It may be that she is just using him as a stepping stone but Karen suggests he gives her a chance. So she is forced to come to school in her undies. Then as reward, he makes out with her on the rooftop with other girls watching. Just like old times, eh? She is forced to follow his whims if she wants to achieve her goals. After this, Shouta has another person whom he wants so he requests Karen to get her. After a detour of seeing Shouta take Akira’s physical measurements (oh my, everything about he is big!), Karen takes her to the toilet where Erika is chained up like a slave. She is Shouta’s bully’s girlfriend. Of course he proceeds to bully and torture her. She threatens to kill herself if he is going to rape her but he isn’t even thinking of wanting to rape her. He is just going to humiliate her and get even. Way even… Shouta is the king of this school as he boldly makes out in class. Karen decides to spice things up since the other girls aren’t really being aggressive this time and hints a lifetime hierarchy in Shouta’s books. Then we have this pool lesson whereby Natsu and Akira cooperate to cut Shouta’s trunks and then let him fit inside in Akira’s swimsuit. Fun, right? The other girls take turn being aggressive to get Shouta’s attention and he doesn’t mind as long as he could f*ck them. The dream is real, even if it’s all fake. Shouta even moves on to mate with girls from other class. One of them, well, Erika is chained along the side. Don’t mind her. She’s just a pet. He makes out with the girl and lets Erika watch. Later that night, he notices Erika panting. He knows she is addicted to some drug and was picked off from the slums. He teases that desperate slut to get it from his mouth. Meanwhile Reito and his aides head off to the hospital where the researchers disappeared and believes Erisa might be there.

Episode 9
The Japanese UW directors get word that a messenger from UW’s peacekeeping bureau, Mansfield will be visiting Japan. They think it is to search for the local terrorist organization, Izanami but why would they send a messenger for that? They think they have the upper hand as they have other male specimens in their possession. When they go meet her, it seems she is not Mansfield but her assistant, Pope. The real Mansfield is already somewhere in Japan. When Shouta tries to pick Hikaru Sakaki for today’s mating, she gives excuse that she is having her period. Later we see her communicating with Erisa and they are putting forth their plan. So we see more debauchery from Shouta as he lives out his paradise, doing whatever he pleases with the girls. Karen catches Shion for trying to escape as the latter finds this whole thing a crazy concept to conceive babies. Reito and his side investigate the hospital. They find a ventilation hole enough to fit through. It leads them to a secret underground lab. They got busted. A Japanese UW director and his researchers are going to kill them as they have seen this place. However they are killed off by guards from the peacekeeping bureau. One of them being Chloe. Yes, this is Chloe Mansfield and from UW World HQ of the peacekeeping division. Ever since Japan made Reito’s announcement public, she began infiltrating as an exchange student to investigate what is going on in Japan. With the whole building laced with explosives, they have to escape via helicopter. Meanwhile Pope tells those Japanese UW directors that she knows they have more than 1 man who is MK Virus resistant. They summon the guards to arrest her but the joke is on them as the guards arrest them instead. Hey, they work for UW and not them personally. Of course the traitor among them is Shutou and she has been feeding info back to UW. Chloe explains that this hospital is where MK Virus might have originated and they blew it up to cover their tracks. Ever since Reito’s announcement, terrorism activities around the world have also increased due to the increasing wealth gap. Then she shows a picture of Erisa and claims she is part of the terrorist group. A worried Reito wonders what happened to her. As Shouta returns to his room, an explosion rocks his school. It is reported that terrorists have kidnapped him! Fun’s over?

Episode 10
Shouta wakes up in hospital and Karen is so glad there are no serious injuries. Yeah, especially his dick, right?! The most important body part! Anyway, she tells him about the failed plot by the terrorists to kidnap him. Then she also reveals to him that there are 4 other men besides him and some aren’t awakened yet. That shock on his face. Yup, must realized that his monopoly days are over. With everything in a mess, she wants him to come to Tokyo with her where Japan’s UW head office is. She reveals her goal is to become the top woman of the world and she knows their interests aligned. Of course if he wants to mate with her, she will be so happy to offer herself. Shouta agrees to work with her. Hikaru is spying on them and contacts Erisa on this. She’ll be returning to them soon. Yeah, we see Erisa and the other group members, f*ck, are they like KKK cultists?! Anyway, they are happy they have stolen a chamber that contains the fourth man. They are going to awaken this servant of theirs. Chloe explains to Reito that the terrorists took advantage of the chaos in Japan to simultaneously attack the labs and that’s why one of the chambers got stolen. Had Japan’s UW report to them about other men, swift action could’ve been taken. She confirms that Erisa is one of the leaders of Izanami. Later Chloe reports the situation to her UW bosses. Some details include Hino has somewhat stopped mating and they think he’s found someone he loves. They sound shady as hell because Chloe looks like she has this hidden agenda to realize her own utopia. Chloe then sees Hino and asks about his usual attendant not being with him. She cannot accept any girls he chose for himself and everything must go through HQ. This doesn’t sit well with him. Reito realizes the pendant’s signal now shows up at Niigata. Akane then talks to him about how she cannot trust Chloe. She talks about her mom who is hardworking and all but cannot be the ones responsible in releasing this virus. Some sob back story as she mentions mom didn’t even turn up to her younger brother’s funeral as she prioritized work over her family. Because now she is facing charges of manufacturing the virus.

Suddenly Izanami hijacks the broadcast all over Japan. Erisa makes an announcement that they are not terrorists and that everyone has been deceived by UW. She shows proof by showing the awakened fourth man, Zen Kinebuchi. This shows UW is keeping other men’s existence a secret. Another damning proof is the satellite remains they found in an abandoned factory. High concentration of MK Virus is found there and the then president of that company is now one of the UW leaders. It means the current leadership of UW is the one who spread MK Virus around the world. Phew. And we all thought it was going to be China’s fault, HUH???!!! Another damning revelation: UW’s true goal is to eliminate all men and create a utopian world for only women! Now I understand why UW is named so. There are huge resources and development in America in creating female using only female genes. Shady snippets show Mira could be a clone of Erisa! Erisa’s demand is for all women to rise up against UW and for all men in their custody to be handed over to them. A world without men is totally wrong! True equality! The broadcast is then cut off as UW has taken back control. As usual, they say don’t believe the lies of terrorists, blah, blah, blah. Reito confronts Chloe about this and she tells him if they wanted all men dead, they would’ve killed them when they first arrived. Chloe then reports to her bosses and it sees they managed to control the feed and no one outside Japan saw the hijacked broadcast. They have also brainwashed their staffs and other leadership roles so the next phase is on. With Sui’s help, Akane manages to break into the detention centre to talk to her mom on some things. When she returns to Reito, she suggests all of them leave this place. After all, he wants to go see his lover, right? But with Reito hesitating, she thinks Chloe has some influence over him. As they enter a room, Shouta introduces himself. Woah! New looks! Looking pretty confident now, eh?

Episode 11
Shouta was put into some anti-aging machine that will maintain his youth for 30 years and that’s why he looks different. Meeting with Reito, they ask about Chloe but all Reito can say is that he doesn’t trust her. Maria is also reunited with Chifuyu who is her little sister. Reito then talks to Mira and wants her to escape with him and the rest tonight. However she cannot. Unless he mates with her. He thinks UW is important to her despite she knows he will reject her. Then she breaks down as she mentions that she too actually wanted to leave. But she just can’t. Short snippets of her being brainwashed since her existence about Reito whom she will serve. Suddenly UW agents barge in. Pope is here to take them back to US. Along the way, they are ambushed by Akane and Sui. Pope holds Mira hostage but she is taken out by Rea. Shouta and Karen see Chloe and hope to make a deal. One of Karen’s request is to meet the 3 sages who supposedly rule behind the scenes of UW. They are all from different backgrounds with the only similarities being their intelligence and hatred for men. Chloe says if Shouta is willing to cooperate, she’ll have that chance. Also, because Chloe is now Kihara’s replacement and sitting on the top director seat of Japan’s UW branch, Karen requests she wants that seat. Rea brings Reito and co to a hiding place where Mahiru and other refugees are hiding. They will leave this place by night. Since we haven’t have any sex scenes this episode, here, have some with a neo Shouta f*cking his usual harem. A new man, new greatness? Then he meets Karen to see if there is any update. Chloe is still thinking about it while Reito has fled. Reito and co are to board a ship away from Japan. Only Rea and Mira will not follow. Reito says goodbye to Mira but promises to be back. Rea also promises to find someone to take care of Ryuu. The ship departs and the one who will be helping them get to Taiwan is Hikaru. Reito will meet Erisa there since it is too dangerous for her to stay in Japan. Reito then gets a special call from Hino. Yeah, just use the underground internet and UW can’t trace! He calls Reito brave because now he is locked up and unable to mate. Of course he won’t escape like Reito. He can’t leave behind his expecting wives and will stay to protect them. Chloe tortures Pope for her failure. She also sends Rea and Mira to prison while relishing the next phase to eliminate all men is at hand. Karen shows Shouta a few girls he can pick to mate next. This is one of the deals she made to Chloe because since UW came to Japan, all mating are off except for Shouta. He’s not going to waste this god given chance. Reito and Erisa finally meet in Taiwan. They’re happy to see each other and vow to find a cure for MK Virus.

Go Forth & Multiply!
This is how it ends? It feels a bit rushed, like as though they needed to give Reito some good news and somewhat a happy ending. After all this time trying to find Erisa, and now he meets up with her like this that easily? With things are heating up and turning in another direction (has anyone already forgotten about that photo Tachibana gave Reito? Red herring?), it remains to be seen what will happen next. So will this get another season? Oh, I don’t know. Did Kaifuku Jutsushi No Yarinaoshi get one either? Yup. Exactly my thoughts. Because if the story goes on to become some sort of world war fight against the top echelons of UW and not much mating anymore, then I can see why it won’t be so interesting to make another season of it. Yeah, what’s the use of having a sequel when there’s no sex in it!!!

I don’t know if the fanservice has been numbing my mind because right now the plot of the story seems pretty generic. On the outside, it looks like a simple plot for (lucky) surviving guys to come out and mate with desperate girls in the guise of saving humanity. But of course there is always that sinister plot twist about the virus’ origins and the ulterior motives of the authorities. Sounds pretty okay if you ask me because otherwise it would be just another generic boring mild pseudo porn series, trying to watch these guys f*ck their girls. Heh. Had the entire series been just that and without the rebellion and truth and all, I think a lot of us would’ve just stopped watching and go directly to porn to get our fapping fix. Just saying. So yeah. Even if the so called twist is to be expected and somewhat predictable, at least it is better than having pseudo sex all the way through. After all, this isn’t exactly like those pseudo hentai animes out there.

One of the weird things I find about the plot is that I was given the impression that Reito is the main character. While he still technically is and this could be largely just my opinion, however a big chunk of this series focuses a lot on Shouta. Because of that, I find Shouta’s part to be a lot more interesting than Reito. I mean, look at Reito. This guy is trying to play the holy man by not f*cking with all the hot girls offered to him and saving his virginity for the only girl he loves. Wah. So noble. Too bad we’re not here for that goodie two shoes preaching! Instead, he goes on this BORING mission to find a cure for this virus and then stumbles into a web of conspiracy. BORING! Can we get some f*cking on this guy’s part?! No, of well then, looks like it’s up to you Shouta. Thus it feels like Shouta has more fleshing out of his own story and some of his girls compared to those on Reito’s side.

Of course, we have to talk about the fanservice and pseudo sex scenes here which are the main draw of the series. Well to be honest, I for one have watched so many ecchi and fanservice shows that this has somewhat become numbing to me at this point. I’m not saying that I was bored watching those mating scenes but it’s not like I felt the same sexual stimulation whatsoever. I don’t know if that’s a good thing or bad thing. Maybe aging and my libido has some sort of correlation with each other… Anyway, the kind of sex scenes are mostly what you can expect on the level of Kaifuku Jutsushi No Yarinaoshi. Only difference is that the women here don’t get raped and they engage in mostly consensual intercourse. Hence your excuse for such scenes and seeing their orgasmic faces.

There is one thing that actually bugs me, though. After a girl mates with the guy, it is often mission accomplished, right? Because the man would have impregnated her and there would be no more reason for her to be a slut for him. But as far as we can see in the cases of Shouta, his usual harem continues to stick with him even after he makes out with them. Of course I won’t deny the possibility of they loving him but it makes you somewhat forget about the true goal of this whole thing. Hence with Shouta’s harem keep coming back to him for more love making sessions, it feels like that these girls are horny sluts who just want to f*ck. Yeah. Straight out from a porn video. The more girls he f*cked, the less girls we should see hanging out in his school but it looks like the numbers remain constant. Lest you tell me that Shouta has been shooting blanks or his pull out game is very strong. Uh huh. Because another conspiracy theory of mine to support this is that if he is done f*cking all the girls in his school, ultimately he might not be of any value anymore. Although this is by a long shot because there are many other females outside of school who want to get his seed. Hence by not impregnating them so quickly, he will get to play out his desires for a longer time period. Because from what I understand, Yuzuki’s transfer is because she is pregnant. Assuming that is true, Shouta can’t just be a one time wonder, can he?

And of course at this point for an anime which has heavy ecchi and fanservice elements, there will always be the censored and uncensored version, right? Yes. For the record, I watched the censored version because my mind and imagination are still superior to you amateur porn peasants! HAHAHA!!! Anyway, I want to point out that if you watch the censored version, there is going to be this very blaring and obvious black streak. Like as though somebody ripped out that part of the screen or more accurately, somebody took a thick black permanent marker pen and started blackening out those areas. Fancy watching that ass shot and what pantsu they’re wearing? Or want to take a peek at their cleavage? Or when the girls just suddenly barge in and somehow their front is super exposed? Well, not a change! Here’s the holy black hole of censor for you! You know what to do if you really want to see those delicious parts. Of course you already know my case and thankfully the censorship here is not as bad as Kaifuku Jutsushi No Yarinaoshi level and that’s why I could tolerate and accept this unconstitutional violation of freedom of expression! Yeah…

As for the characters, well, what else can I say about them. Reito as the main character still manages to keep his head and mind clear and that is perhaps a good thing since who knows how far he’ll fall down the rabbit hole if he starts f*cking like a rabbit. In a way, it makes him a boring character too because he is on his way to get his sainthood, the way he wants to uncover the truth behind it all. Shouta like I’ve said, he sounds more interesting because we see him from being a bully victim into 50 Shades Of Grey kind of master. It feels he has more character built than Reito. Then there is Hino who just feels negligible. I think many of us will fall under this guy’s category of happily f*cking whoever he wants until he is bored. Other than that, there’s nothing really more to this guy we can say at this moment. But at least the only thing we can say credible about him is that he is staying back to protect the girls he mated with. It is safe to say that guys aren’t just crazy sex maniacs who wants to have fun f*cking any vagina they can find. Hard to believe but men too also want to treasure those they have sex with so in this context Hino isn’t such a sleazebag after all. Now with the fourth guy awakened, his harem is going to be a hell lot different class than the rest. Is it me o with these guys having their own harem, it’s like they can start some sort of battle tournament. I don’t know, maybe like Sekirei? Just saying.

As for the female characters, I don’t think they’re really that impressive either. Just to note a few like Chifuyu’s character feels like she is written to play to comic relief character. Akane feels like she has a sharp intuition but unfortunately circumstances didn’t really flesh out her character properly yet. There is more to meet the eyes on this Chloe character because don’t let those ungodly boobs blind and fool you. Uh huh. Those tits so big that it’s like she is a character who jumped out of a hentai video. Probably that’s her best weapon to distract you because the way you see her wrap around those boobs so tightly to give that delicious illusion of her boobs bursting out, yeah, be warned again don’t, be fooled. So it doesn’t matter if men or women helm the top leadership of the world, they’re all basically f*cked up. I also have this feeling that there is more than meets the eye for this Karen girl. She puts on a very lively and cheerful exterior and I can’t help feel that there is more to her agenda than being just the number one woman in the world. My guts and experience this kind of jovial and sunny disposition means you are hiding something terrifying. Friend or foe, I can’t really tell. Some like Shion and Erika, it makes me wonder why their appearance is necessary. Perhaps in the future they might have a role but for now it feels redundant and perhaps just to let Shouta get his revenge on them.

Last but not least, Erisa and Mira. Well, it looks like the latter is highly a possible clone of the former with all hints pointing to that but they could still shock us with something else. Oh you know, maybe Mira came from the future and is the daughter of Reito and Erisa!!! Holy sh*t! Time travelling crap now?! Isn’t Mira taken from mirai which means future?! I hope this won’t come true. Anyway, Mira’s presence feels insignificant and even more so when she has been taken off as Reito’s attendant. Like as though she would serve as some sort of plot twist later when they meet up with Erisa. So my other dumb conspiracy theory of why Mira won’t go with Reito is because if she sees Erisa, she might disappear because of that time paradox thing. It’ll be more plausible to think that she and Rea stayed back to become internal moles in UW but with Chloe in the way, most probably they have something else in mind.

While there are some dumb moments that don’t make sense, the one that really takes the cake is the old secret underground internet. Uh huh. This feels like the lamest excuse so that our heroes and rebels can connect and communicate with each other without having UW to actually trace them! There it is, we can talk without even worrying those b*tches are eavesdropping on what we’re doing! This is so f*cking unbelievable! Imagine a different set of internet that the biggest organization in the world right now can’t even tap into?! Like, are you sure this is happening?! Or am I missing something here?! Are there actually men who are secretly alive and living in burrows like hobbits who are maintaining this network and keeping it up and running?! And here I thought if they used the ancient way of writing letters, they are more likely not to get caught instead of connecting to the internet. Sheesh. Yeah, who am I kidding? Who writes letter in this modern day and age!

Art and animation are pretty standard and jointly produced by Studio Gokumi and AXsiZ who have produced a few animes together like Koukaku No Pandora, Tonari No Kyuuketsuki-san, Seiren and Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san. Nothing much I can say here as the characters look pretty standard and of course bishoujo looks because who would want to mate with fat ugly b*tches, right?! Yeah, it’s an amazing that Japan still got a lot of hot anime girls and some with big hentai tits. Don’t worry, we even have flat chest lolis like Sui for those with lolicon fetish. Other than that it’s just pretty standard and nothing a masterpiece even for those sexy scenes. Hey, I watched the censored version so how can I tell those ass and tits look in real time?! Also, didn’t notice any 3D or CGI so I guess that’s really good news? Don’t want those sex scenes to look f*cking weird, do they?

Voice acting I only recognized Ayana Taketatsu as Karen and is that Yu Kobayashi as one of those mad Japan branch UW directors? Yes it is. Wow, it’s been quite a while since I have heard from her. Now, one of the funny thing is that I cannot find exactly who voiced Erisa. Her name is not even in the end credits of each episode. Even more so, when I try to Google it, there is no info on this. Hence I making a great speculation that Erisa and Mira are voiced by the same person, Haruka Shiraishi (Asirpa in Golden Kamuy). It is unfortunate that I am not really familiar with her voice so I cannot spot this. But it really feels weird that her name isn’t in the credits so as to cover up some twist?

The other casts are Taichi Ichikawa as Reito (Bam in Tower Of God), Kazuki Ura as Shouta (Subaru in Shadowverse Flame), Takuya Eguchi as Hino (Hikigaya in Yahari Ore No Seishun Love Comedy Wa Machigatteiru), You Taichi as Akane (Anzu in Prison School), Yurie Kozakai as Maria (Pekola in Jashin-chan Dropkick), Rumi Okubo as Chloe, Arisa Aihara as Natsu (Irohani in Usakame), Riho Ida as Akira (Rin in Love Live! School Idol Project), Aya Yamane as Sui (Ruhuyu in Show By Rock! Mashumairesh), Haruka Michii as Shunka (Saki in Seven Days War), Natsumi Takamori as Chifuyu (Raiha in Go-toubun No Hanayome), Marika Hayase as Yuzuki (Lulu in Death March Kara Hajimaru Isekai Kyousoukyoku), Reina Ueda as Shion (Dia in Sekai Saikou No Ansatsusha), Yukina Shutou as Mahiru (Orphia in Seirei Gensouki) and Keiko Watanabe as Rea (Anna in Saihate No Paladin). The opening theme is Just Do It by H-el-ical and so sorry it has nothing to do with Nike but this song sounds plain and not really my cup of tea. The same can be said for the rock ending piece, Ending Mirage by Exina.

Overall, this show is definitely going to have a lot of divided opinions. Many on the onset would judge this is some sleazy trash trying to take advantage using sex as its selling point while also demeaning woman and making them look like sex objects. Yeah, how the f*ck is making a utopian world for only lesbians empowering women? Hence you would have to really have a broad open mind to not look at that narrow kind of point of view since this series is blurring the lines of sex as a means of procreation and/or recreation. This is one of those animes that if you like a lot of fanservice, then this anime is for so you might want to pay extra few cents for the director’s cut to remove the censors and perhaps additional footage (if there is one!). Otherwise, this whole thing may come off as weird even more so as its coincidental timing with a certain C-word virus! Imagine how different everything would be if this actually was an erotic comedy rather than some dark serious dramatic sci-fi enhanced with some sex scenes. Hey, it could’ve been worse. Imagine the reverse with the world filled with men as the majority of women are killed off! Rape horror? Even worse… GAY FEST TIME, MY GAY BOIS!!!

Shinka No Mi: Shiranai Uchi Ni Kachigumi Jinsei

Oh no. Not another one of these sort of animes again. Well, it’s too be expected there needs to be at least 1 of this sort every season, right? And so, Shinka No Mi: Shiranai Uchi Ni Kachigumi Jinsei once more takes the tiresome isekai trope and is going to milk it dry and make us hate the genre all over again. That’s right. Loser guy in current world gets whisked to another world. Check. Gets chance to power up gradually and that means getting all sorts of skills, abilities and magic and the likes in the easiest possible way. Check. Obtains a bevy of beauties that should be his official harem. Check. Something sinister plagues this kingdom in the other world so our new born hero is the only chosen one who can save the day because the script says so. Check. Are we ready to face disappointment all over again? Yes we are! Oh, what’s this girl in his harem is a pink gorilla???!!! Okay, maybe this won’t be THAT disappointing after all… Maybe…

Episode 1
Seiichi Hiiragi has been transported to another world. Suddenly a hot busty naked girl clings on to him and wants to marry him! He can’t believe his eyes because in the previous world, he is a fat, ugly, stinky bully victim. One day, some so called God made an announcement over the entire school. He will transport everyone to another world and gave them certain skills. He advised them to form groups and of course Seiichi is left out since his stats are obviously the lowest. As Seiichi is last to be transported, God gives him another skill. Seiichi finds himself in the jungle and not eaten for 5 days. Maybe this fruit will do the trick. Hmm… Fruit of evolution? Roll credits! Tastes horrible but this satiates his hunger. Then he spots a group of smart monkeys. Once they’re gone, he steals those fruits and healing potions they were making. Meanwhile we see the other students being transported in some city. Karen Kannazuki and her friends are worried he got teleported somewhere else. Seiichi thought he is going to die via food poisoning but it seems the fruit of evolution saved his life. Oh, he has none left. Suddenly he is attacked by a monkey. No match for it. WTF his body odour killed it?! It drops a lot of goodies. F*ck, why not just give him all the skill upgrades and tools! Anyway, with his first step in evolution, Seiichi evolves into a thinner version (though, his stats are still low). So evolution process is only at 1/10? Imagine each time have to go through such painful process… For 5 months, Seiichi fights and defeats monsters to level up. Until the group of monkeys return. This time he is forced to fight a huge pink gorilla, Saria. Thanks to all the skills, Seiichi is able to dodge her first attack. This amazes Saria and even more so when he withstands her attacks. She gets more interested in him and wants strong guys. Seiichi continues to fight but as he finds himself at the losing end, he finally uses his trump card which is his body odour?! Well, it didn’t her. In fact, Saria loves it, stops the fight and takes him away. She wants to marry him now. Hey, at least he didn’t die, right? Oh sorry, I take that back. He’s dead anyway if he has to marry her!

Episode 2
So Saria and Seiichi are playing house now, huh? Well, will he show his gratitude since she cooks for him and even washes his clothes? Apparently she learnt all this stuff from a book she found in a cave. That’s how she could talk too. Don’t underestimate the power of books! He panics when she says she is going hunting with her monkeys to find the fruits of evolution. Apparently if you eat 11, you die! Seiichi and Saria both ate 10 already. She was planning to give the extras to her husband but some bastard stole them. She’ll kill him if she finds him! Seiichi comes clean as the thief so she forgives him. While fishing, Seiichi thinks of escaping but stumbles into a spider monster. I hope it’s not from that Kumo show… Instantly Saria owns it. Meanwhile, we see the students in training. It seems they were summoned to fight the Demon Lord so for now they are honing their abilities. Though, some of them are impatient and want to fight real monsters. Seiichi continues to run from Saria. But she is chasing him not because she is possessive of him but to warn him about the direction he is headed. Too late. He stumbles into a dungeon that is being occupied by Skeletor. Sorry, it’s just Demon Lord Xeanos. He is disappointed that Seiichi is weak and as he is about to kill him, Saria protects him and gets stabbed. Seiichi becomes sad and enraged. Yeah, flashbacks of their time together. This powers him up to fight Xeanos. Seiichi admitting he loves Saria and that true power is what enables him to defeat Xeanos who is grateful for showing him true love. Xeanos dies and is reunited with his maid, Marie. At this point, Saria turns into the hot naked babe as we know. Then a flashback on Xeanos’ tragic past. A good noble who was loved by many, but was betrayed by the emperor. Marie was the only one by his side until the emperor caused her death. Devastated, he became a monster a lived a secluded life. Not sure why they read this book on his back story, but hell yeah, more goodies to pick up and skills to obtain. That is when Seiichi goes through his final evolution. More handsome and cooler?! As Seiichi plans to leave the forest, Saria will follow him too. Edward Riusentstein Balhead Heibatos AKA Sheep who is the dungeon admin pops up to congratulate them on clearing this dungeon. They are rewarded a cultivation set of fruit of evolution as well as a special full face helmet for Seiichi? Sheep then teleports them outside the forest. Time for a new adventure.

Episode 3
After defeating a slime, more goodies and Seiichi levels up. He gives the boots to Saria but there’s a letter for him. Turns out all this is planned by Sheep. His helmet has evolved into a robe so he is able to hide his status and identity without using the helmet. At the gates of the royal capital, Telbert, Claude Schreizer has them take some identity test since one cannot enter without one. They passed but still need to get a proper one from a guild inside. Seiichi peeks into this guild… Is this a BDSM club?! Oh wait. The sign says it’s a guild… Damn, it only has weirdoes! They think of looking elsewhere but the guild master, Guscle Clute (obviously a muscle freak) ushers them in. So the BDSM queen, Eris McClain is the receptionist? After registering them, a group of punks enter to take Seiichi away. You think it would be some violent trouble at the back alley but turns out these punks are BDSM perverts and this is going to be Seiichi’s welcome party?! RUN!!! He manages to get back and this astounds Guscle and Eris since no one has ever escaped unscathed before. The next test is to appraise their abilities to see what kind of quests suits them. But the only one who can do that now is Artoria Glemm. At first she refuses to take on the job but since they insist… Artoria takes them to a church and leaves Saria with a task. Then she has Seiichi follow her. He notices how she saves a kid from some falling wood rack. Although she anticipated it, she still feels sad about it. Seiichi’s task is to destroy this ruin. But the moment he touches the structure, the whole thing collapses on him. This has Artoria panicking as she tries to dig him out. Flashback shows that she always courts disasters for all those around her and hence the reason she lives alone. Luckily Seiichi is still alive. Although relieved, Artoria lectures him about the importance of sensing danger if he is going to be an adventurer. Meanwhile the other students are still training. Zakia Gilford who is the leader of the knights feels bad they are training these kids to fight against the Demon Lord when the war doesn’t even concern them in the first place. He hates to see any one of them die and in that sense he is against this war. It is treason if anyone hears this. Seiichi and Saria have no place to sleep so Artoria offers them to stay at the inn she is staying. This shocks Guscle and Eris but they see new hope for her. Seiichi and Saria accept her hospitality.

Episode 4
Artoria has Seiichi and Saria undergo their first test. They are to gather medicinal herbs. While Saria excels, it seems Seiichi only manages to gather rare items! Is this bad luck or good luck?! As he continues his search, he stumbles upon a group of demons. Looks like they’re planning to set traps for humans. Although Seiichi didn’t hear what they say, they think their plan is busted. Hence they call forth their troll to hammer him. Luckily Seiichi absorbs its power but before he could asks for the herbs, those demons get scared and run away. They return to their boss, Leia Falzar who punishes them for disobeying orders. But she thinks they set teleport traps to the Black Dragon’s Dungeon is too much. Artoria’s next test is for them to go hunting. But as they are about to start with a slime, it disappears. Artoria checks the place and realizes it is filled with teleport traps. She calls off the mission and is about to return to the guild to report but steps on one. Seiichi and Saria in their attempt to save her also get teleport with her into the dungeon. Artoria gives them a guide stone in case they get separated. Right after that, she accidentally steps on a trigger and a wall separates them. Well, the guide stone is of no use since it keeps banging into the wall. Well, duh. That’s where Artoria is, right? Seiichi and Saria make their way to a room with a treasure chest. Obviously suspicious. They don’t want to open it but the chest gets mad and insists. Seiichi defeats it and what pops out is a book that tells of its tragic history. Uh huh. Treasure chests were a must in dungeons until some newer item box replaced it. It got mad and wanted to interact with humans and started learning magic but only to be chased away by humans who think it is a monster. So it wandered around places it held fond memories off. Sob, sob… Not! The chest drops unlucky items. Who would ever want to wear items that deduct your points? As the guide stone glows in a different colour, they realize Artoria is in trouble. That’s because after fighting her way through monsters, she finds herself in the room of the Black Dragon. She takes a beating until she is close to death. That is, until Seiichi and Saria pop up to save the day.

Episode 5
When the guide stone was glowing, Seiichi just punched through the walls to get where Artoria is! He leaves Saria to take care of her while he faces with the Black Dragon. For dramatic purposes, we see Seiichi losing badly. Until the cue to level up, he finally turns the tables and kills the dragon dude. Woah. You mean the dragon has his regrets too?! So yeah, more levelling up and after picking up lots of goodies (including some spatial magic that will conveniently teleport them out of here and straight back home), I guess it’s time for Seiichi to hear the dragon’s sob story. Long ago, he was the deity of this land. But those damn humans wanted to kill him to make weapons out of his scales. The one who saved him was the Demon Lord but he too got slain. Both of them were sealed in this dungeon as the Black Dragon vowed never to lose anything precious to him again. What a sad story. Then a note from Sheep congratulating him for clearing this dungeon although he failed in the mission to allow the Black Dragon and Demon Lord to live together. Since Sheep will be away for a vacation, he doesn’t want Seiichi to clear dungeons until his return! Returning to Telbert, Artoria shows her luck of negative 2 million. She feels as long as she hangs around everyone, she’ll bring bad luck to them. However other guild members consider her as their precious member. Uhm, this happy news causes her to run away? Meanwhile Leia is not happy to learn the Black Dragon has been defeated. She is unsure who but she takes it as a sign that somebody is opposing the demons. As Seiichi looks for Artoria, he stumbles into Adrianna (Artoria’s best friend) who advises him to get closer to her due to her predisposition. He finds Artoria sitting alone at the ruins. So he takes Adrianna’s advice by hugging Artoria? He’ll hold her this way till she loses her anxiety. Isn’t he enjoying himself? Then he remembers he has a ring that could negate her bad luck and double it instead. After putting it on, her negative 2 million becomes positive 4 million! Well, only if this didn’t look like a proposal! Ah well, there goes Artoria running away again. This time her heart racing and we all know why :-)…

Episode 6
Artoria is avoiding Seiichi like a plague. Her face blushes whenever she sees him. We all know why. While Saria goes to help the orphanage, Seiichi goes to gather info. He learns from Guscle the recent event of another country summoning people from another world to fight the Demon Lord. Eris recommends the library so Seiichi gets worried about his friends. Meanwhile the king is impatient that Zakia hasn’t have the summoned ones do practical training yet. His advisor, Helio Robahn suggests enrolling them at Barbador Magic Academy. This will also help show their nation’s power to the world. But if the kids disobey? Here, these enslavement bracelets to make them obey. Hehehe… Seiichi can’t find any news at the library. But WTF, just by flipping the page, he acquires new skills?! WTF???!!! No wonder Seiichi is crying to just let him be a normal kid!!! In town, Seiichi follows a great scent to Café Accogliente and makes acquaintance with the bar master, Noahd and a commoner, Ranze. As Artoria is still confused, she stumbles into Adrianna who tells her that she is in love with Seiichi. Artoria is sceptical if she deserves to fall in love at first but after realizing she loves Seiichi a lot, she really wants to be with him. Just leave that to Adrianna. Similarly, Ranze and Noahd learn about Seiichi putting a ring on Artoria’s finger. That means swearing to eternal love. Can’t back down from it. Because you’ll be executed or at best, castrated! Seeing his reaction, they know his heart is set on another girl. So why not cultivate love for both of them? Is that another way to say polygamy is allowed? Either way, he must not give a vague answer and make a proper decision. Seiichi returns and faces Artoria. Before he can say anything, she kisses him. She confesses she has fallen for him and wants to be with him. With Seiichi still undecided, here comes Saria. If you think it’s going to get worse, Saria tells Seiichi to accept Artoria. Saria has accepted that women will flock to strong men and that she doesn’t want to monopolize his charms. That’s a strange way to allow a harem, but okay! Now they can kiss and accept each other without doubts. And all the characters celebrate this happiness like as though they got married. DID THEY?!

Episode 7
Guscle suggests it’s time for Seiichi to get a horse of his own. As he goes to the stable, the owner introduces a few types. And then this donkey. She beats the sh*t out of the owner because unless you’re stronger than her, nobody touches her! Seiichi’s skill allows him to understand what she’s saying. She then attacks Seiichi but with his stats, you bet he easily overwhelms her. Now that he is stronger than her, Lulune agrees for him to be her master and will serve him for life. Okay then, he’ll take this donkey. Seiichi treats Lulune to all kinds of food. So this donkey can eat whatever humans eat? They stumble into Clay Berger who is trying to convince this roadside painter, May Cherry to enter a painting competition. May recognizes Seiichi since he bought some works from her. But she has low self-confidence to enter despite Clay seeing some potential in her. Seiichi says he is going to enter the Royal Cup race and if he wins, May can use this as motivation to enter the painting competition that comes after. Lulune’s motivation is of course the 5th prize, which is some tambuli fish. So is Seiichi going to win this or not? On race day, Lorna Kirizas of the Valkyries is the announcer as she announces the 2nd prize as sexy photos of their captain, Louise Balze! WTF?! First prize is of course spending the day with the Valkyries. So while the other guys are up for this, I guess Seiichi and Lulune will aim for 5th place? The no holds barred race begins as everyone makes a great start. Except for Seiichi and Lulune. Why is she dragging her feet? Turns out she was so excited for today’s race, she forgot to eat breakfast! Oh look, just in time for Seiichi’s fruit of evolution to ripe. Here, have this. Lulune feels the power welling up! As the racers can knock each other off, now they have to fight monster wolves too? Don’t worry, here comes Lulune all powered up to zoom past them. So powerful her stomp, it kills those wolves!!! Even the big bad wolf boss is no match! Seeing how powerful this donkey is, the competitors get scared and forfeit?! WTF?! But Seiichi and Lulune continue to race to the end and win it. The win of course spurs May to enter the painting competition but Lulune is in despair that she didn’t get the fish. With Seiichi comforting her that she’ll have another chance and there are more delicious foods out there, looks like it is time for Lulune to evolve into a hot humanoid girl! Naked! All I can say is, welcome to the harem!

Episode 8
Artoria so jealous she gives Seiichi a beat down! She finds it hard to believe that Lulune is a donkey who has eaten the fruit but Saria transforms into a gorilla to prove it. Now you believe? Lorna and Claudia Asterio are here to pick up Seiichi. Uhm, they look like arresting him… Meanwhile Leia who is a division captain of the Demon Lord’s army, meets with other division captains too: Zolua Waltorre, Xellos Albarna, Jade Raven, Urus Bashew and Liaretta Valheim. They are summoned by Lutia Butte who is the Demon Lord’s daughter. It seems she wants to seek alliance with the human side, especially the Wimberg Kingdom. Her aide, Kreis is not amused because this goes against their principals. Even more so, her father was sealed by those pesky humans. However Lutia believes they have to move on and build friendly relationships on both sides. Leia then reports the defeat of the Black Dragon who lost to a human named Seiichi. When she summoned his soul, she wanted to gather an army to seek revenge. But the Black Dragon didn’t want it because he was challenged fair and square. He had no regrets. With Lutia bent on moving forward, Kreis tries to remind her about the prophecy that would bring calamity to their kind. The division captains threaten to kill Kreis for disobedience so the fat pig runs away. The division captains pledge their loyalty to her while Kreis hatches another unholy plot. Seiichi is brought to Louise. He sees her sparring with other Valkyries and easily beats them. Amazing. You think Seiichi is going to spend time with her. Well, yes. He is going to have a mock battle with her! He is left dodging her attacks and what do you know? He levels up? Enough to knock the sword out of her hands! Suddenly an impressed Louise wants to call him master! Uhm, that’s a weird way of wanting to be inducted into his harem! Later Louise and Claudia tell Seiichi the truth that despite Louise can’t use any skills or magic, her swordsmanship is top notch. She has been so strong since a young age that nobody rivals her. In a way, it isolated her and made her lonely. Seiichi saved her from that. Seiichi understands what it’s like to be a loner. So he’ll be his teacher? WTF he now attains an instructor skill?! But today’s lesson will be put off since they receive reports somebody attacked the king. Louise tells Seiichi to go home for today but I guess since he has come all the way here, he won’t back out. Using his newly acquired skill, he manages to pinpoint the assassin and even see her identity?!

Episode 9
Better than the internet, Seiichi finds out she is Oliga Calmeria and a young girl. He confronts her and dodges all her attacks. When she becomes persistent in taking him down, he knocks her out unconscious. With the other Valkyries arriving, they let Seiichi know that their king has been cursed with a spell to sleep forever. Oh no! Can it not be undone! Not that anyone knows. But Seiichi thinks he can. Taken before the king, he is shocked to learn that he is Ranze. No time to think if he was impolite to him then. Florio who is Louise’s brother and leader of the magic division can’t even heal him. Yeah, time for Seiichi to elevate his status further as he thinks up of something. Not sure how this slip of a tongue has him level up. But don’t laugh at this kiddie named spell because heck, it reverses the curse and turns it into a blessing! Oh sh*t! Now the king will have eternal health?! Ranze wakes up to see Seiichi and learning he saved his life, he will reward him with anything. So Seiichi having a bath with the king? Hey, not many commoners can do that. Ranze tells of his dream whereby the entire world is equal. No fighting, everyone can sit down together like this. Elsewhere, Seiichi’s girls are talking about him. Artoria worried he might bring back another girl. You don’t say… But Saria isn’t fazed and believes in Seiichi. That sounds like a weird way to accept a harem! WTF Artoria fantasizing some weird dating sim whereby the Valkyries try to kiss him?! Eventually Seiichi got kissed by Guscle?! WTF???!!! Since Artoria admits she will still feel jealous, she suddenly has leg cramps. Is that a sign to force her to accept the harem?!

Meanwhile Karen and co are being confronted by bullies. They notice the heroes have been ostracized but the bullies are adamant as they believe it is because they are strong. Zakia is disheartened to learn that the heroes have been sent to Barbador. He is worried that the heroes might turn against them. But Helio sees no worries as he has put enslavement bracelets on them. Suddenly someone tries to snipe the king. Zakia protects him but must go find the culprit. The king wonders who the assassin is as Helio tells him about Ranze trying to form an alliance with Lutia. But the king isn’t worried and has sent a certain assassin girl to do the job. He should be humiliated right about now. If only he knew… Seiichi’s girls visit him. Damn, Artoria ready to beat him up upon knowing he got another woman?! You mean she doesn’t recognize Louise at first?! Yeah, Artoria even blaming Saria that she was the one worried about him that he would get another girl. The girls weirdly introduces themselves. Saria the wife, Artoria the girlfriend and Lulune the servant. After today’s events, nothing surprises Louise. In fact she is proud to have him as he master. So Louis the student, then? Meanwhile, Oliga is tied up and prepared to be S&M interrogated by Lorna.

Episode 10
You thought Lorna is going to do some painful torture on Oliga to get her to talk. Turns out the ‘torture’ is teasing her with food. You want this? Then ‘fess up! Of course Seiichi doesn’t approve of this bully tactic and so does Louise. Hence Louise punishes Lorna with no dinner! Treating Oliga with kindness is the right way to make this cat girl talk. Meanwhile Zakia wonders what he has been protecting all this time. When he confronted Shien, the culprit who sniped at the king, he was called a puppet. Shien is doing this as revenge against the country because they killed his beloved Naturiana. She was a nice demon girl but the king’s orders to exterminate demons led to her death. And she was just selling flowers. Damn those bastards. Since then, he vowed revenge. Of course Shien knows he is no match for Zakia and escapes. Next time, he hopes when they fight, he will not be a puppet. Woah, you mean Seiichi has trouble removing Oliga’s enslavement collar? Just do what he did for Ranze! What’s so difficult if no such spell exist? Just create a new one! But since he cannot picture freedom, some blooper he imagines America’s Lincoln president and voila! The collar comes off! America FTW! America freedom!!! Oliga tells how the Kaiser Empire discriminates against beastfolk people like her. Many were taken and trained as killing machines and those who survived became assassins. And that was how Oliga lived her life and took many. Seiichi gives her hope that she can start over again and wants to take her in. Wow. Welcome to the family. You can be the little sister. Yeah, Saria and Louise give her blessing. No other objections? I take it that silence means acceptance from the rest. Meanwhile Helio and Kreis are in cohorts together as they make plans to revive the Demon Lord. Seiichi and his girls practice magic. But soon Louise needs a favour to ask of him. Because she will be away with her Valkyries to assist the Black Paladin to fight growing number of monsters appearing at the border, she needs him to help protect Ranze while she is away. Is there a reason for Seiichi to decline? And so the Valkyries depart, leaving the kingdom in Seiichi’s capable hands.

Episode 11
Seiichi continues to improve his magic. Yeah, another level up to who knows what kind of skill is that. Guscle and Eris are here and it seems they have brought Barnabus to see Ranze. Barney Barna who? He is the greatest mage who has mastered all magic, that’s who! Florio is a big otaku diehard fan of his while Ranze was his student. It seems he is here to complain about how students were summoned from another world to his Barbador academy and they have been nothing but trouble. Before Seiichi could piece the puzzle together, a guard reports that monsters are seen marching towards the gates of Telbert. How many? 5000. Hah! I thought they were a million! Oh, 5000 boss level monsters! Okay, then. Let’s go defend our city! Of course with the Valkyries away dealing with the monsters at the border, you bet Louise is going to be extra worried when she receives report from home. Of course this is all a setup from Kreis because he thinks he can take down Telbert now that the Valkyries are away. But I guess he doesn’t know about the crazy guild because damn, these are all perverts who are going to protect Telbert?! In addition to muscle power Guscle and S&M queen Eris, when you’ve got those BDSM punks, a striper, a baby fetish otaku and a guy who wants to destroy everything, damn, you’re more worried about this bunch than the monsters! Because screw logic and physics, somehow these guys can power up and destroy these boss level monsters like easy pie! Oh, no need to bring out trump card Seiichi yet. Let these guys do the job while Seiichi just sit back and watch while giving snarky comeback comments. Before this entire crazy battle is considered some perverse fight, we also reasonable fights like Claude and Noahd showing off his elegant assassin techniques. Of course, Seiichi’s girls enter the fray too to avoid being casted as just being there to look pretty! Even Barna gets a bit of the action. When they think they’ve ended this fight, looks like more monsters are coming. Holy f*ck! Big boss grade monsters?! God level when?!

Episode 12
Big boss grade monsters pushing everyone back. Can Seiichi do something? WTF he is worried his wide range spell will hit anyone indiscriminately. Why don’t you think of something that will fix that then?! That’s right. He thought of something and just like God, the lightning strikes of justice dispense its divine retribution and kill only the monsters! And just like that they’ve won! OMG! The divine retribution even stretches as far as striking Kreis!!! One roasted fat pig coming up! More goodies for Seiichi as he levels up to the extreme! Oh man, can we call him God Seiichi now?! Barna so excited seeing this original spell of his, that he is squealing like a little girl! He wants Seiichi to become a teacher at Barbador. But Seiichi declines since he promises Louise he would wait for her return and also he doesn’t want to leave his friends (you mean harem?!) behind. Don’t worry. Barna will turn them into students or teaching faculty staffs. Since the girls will go wherever he goes and Seiichi yearns his school life again, I guess that’s settled. They’ll leave once Louise returns. Yeah, never leave home without your harem, haha! So in the meantime, Seiichi takes turns dating his girls. Wow. They’re progressing this fast, huh? Even having him thanking and confessing his love to Saria but short of kissing her because cheeky kids watching and accusing him of making Saria cry! Before we forget about that art competition, here it is! WTF this abstract art from Clay. But the winning entry goes to May because she drew a handsome and gallant Seiichi riding a donkey! With renewed hope, she tells him that she is going to Amuria to study arts. She hopes when she returns, she can use him as her first art subject. Louise returns and her worries are blown away seeing how safe the city is. Now to foreshadow something dark. Kreis and other demons are before the Demon Lord who is not pleased that his resurrection is delayed. He needs more chaos and despair for his return. Hence it is suggested they target Barbador since there are lots of fresh young blood there. Meanwhile Karen and co bump into Airi Seto. She claims she is Seiichi’s childhood friend and thought Seiichi might have teleported here too. She explains Seiichi has not many friends and he once saved her. If they see him, please tell him that Airi is looking for him. Everyone says goodbye to Seiichi and his girls as they leave for Barbador. Along the way, this sentai hero of justice, Gargand makes his appearance. Who the f*ck?! That’s right, Seiichi. Another weirdo.

Tutti Frutti: Harem Beastmaster
Wow. They’re really trolling and teasing us if there would be another season, right? They’re really leaving it hanging and making us agonize if there would be a sequel. Will Gargand be the main character next season???!!! Well, as of this writing I haven’t heard anything yet. But perhaps once we let our guard down, they might announce something out of the blue as surprise! After all, with so much potential being thrown in the final episode, it would be too good to waste that opportunity to make another season. Unless the majority of sentiments of the viewers are not very good. You know, this is another one of your overpowered isekai harem animes. What’s there to like about this when there are dime a dozen of such similar animes in the past. But never say never. There’s always that possibility.

Honestly if you ask me, this whole season feels like one big waste of time. It is actually just the chronicles of Seiichi levelling up and obtaining his bunch of girls. That is mainly about it. Because of that, the whatever conspiracy from the other kingdom and that the fate of the other students feel more like side distractions. Because of how much they focus on Seiichi’s achievements, the brooding side story of the other students under training in the other kingdom seems to be much more interesting! Maybe it is the way how they show bits and pieces of it. Because we’re so damn bored in seeing Seiichi level up to ungodly heights, hence it is more curious and interesting for me to want to know what is actually going on in Kaiser Empire and what the fate of those students are going to be. It looked like this season is just setting and introducing stuffs and perhaps the next season, they will finally move into the next gear with Seiichi finally meeting his schoolmates. But as far as this season is concerned, it is one big bore because like I’ve already pointed out, it is just trying to turn Seiichi into a great hero. And a great hero must have a loyal bunch of girls hanging around him. Sighs.

Sure, we see Seiichi adventuring into the dungeons to even defeat the undefeatable Black Dragon as well as the final arc having a bunch of powerful monsters trying to invade Telbert. But of course this is all part and parcel of the plot and script of Seiichi to, wait for it, obtain his harem and grow more powerful than ever. Otherwise, how would an ex-chubby ostracized loser like him prove his worth in this new world? So do you now understand why this whole season feels like one big waste of time save to prop up Seiichi’s image? It’s like the real plot and danger to the world, those bastards plotting to revive the Demon Lord which is supposed to be the real story have taken a back seat and just biding their time for now. Oh heck, maybe I must have jinxed this myself. I keep thinking that this would be the more interesting story but when it comes out, it turns out to be even worse and sleazier than this one. Who knows? It could be that bad. This is that kind of series and genre after all. You know, they brag about how powerful they are and the doom and despair they’ll bring. Until Seiichi steps into the fore and just chant some gibberish and destroy them in a second! HONESTLY I HOPE IT WON’T BE LIKE THAT! Because when you have the protagonist start off every episode introducing himself, hi my name is Seiichi and then narrate the story so far, you know you’re screwed when they waste this much time on the opening just to fill up the rest of the airtime space.

Worse, it was never explained how these bunch of ‘chosen’ students got whisked away in the first place. As though they thought and thought hard for a good reason but then decided to f*ck it and come up with the cheapest and most stupidest way of whisking them away. Uh huh. The voice of God just one day telling the whole class you’ll be transported away to another for no reason. Like, WHAT THE F*CK?! Hey, at least they didn’t kill them off like a certain isekai spider series. Good heavens. Sure, the students are summoned to fight monsters but the way they start off this series, it just feels so damn stupid. Like as though they were rushing to set this setting and then get it out of the way so that we can all focus in seeing how chubby Seiichi turns into a cool hunk of a man. Yeah.

The characters are pretty bland and cliché. Yes, this is supposed to be a funny anime and hence you’ve got lots of jokers and weirdoes. Even Seiichi himself looks like a joker when he plays his main role of making comeback lines. It’s probably a reason why we don’t take him and this series seriously. Heck, are we supposed to? I’m sure many veterans like yours truly have learnt to set your expectations so damn low so that you won’t be disappointed when this season ends. Works like a charm. It would save you a lot of heartbreak so take it as an advice from me as a ‘veteran’. Don’t actually invest and put in too much hope. And if the series actually turns out good, you’ll be so much in awe instead. Sure, all you have to do is apologize just eat your words for looking down on this. But for 9 out of 10 such animes, I bet you they do not fall far from the tree of disappointment.

So Seiichi checks off the list of what a main protagonist needs for this isekai genre. Funnily enough, the way he easily powers up without doing almost anything reminds me of that isekai spider series starring Aoi Yuuki. Uh huh. That one. F*cking hell lot of levelling up and skills that we probably will never even remember! So it’s the same case for Seiichi but this time the source of his godly levelling up is due to some weird evolution fruits he ate. And all he has to do now is wait for the announcement of his levelling up or obtainment of skills. Did they copy the voicing style of the stats announcement from that isekai spider show as well? Sighs. I wish life skills were that easy to get. And this guy even has the gall to complain and loathes each time he levels up because he feels he will become less and less of a human! WTF?! Do we feel like killing this guy now?! Anybody would kill to be in his shoes to get free upgrades and easy level ups! His life is already made and all setup! It’s in the title itself, dammit! He should’ve known by now that it is not the outside appearance that matters but the heart. As long as he has that human heart, Seiichi will always be Seiichi even if he becomes God! Yeah.

Who knows what kind of skills and abilities he has got. It is all so messy that I don’t even care. In order to keep track of all the stats that he has obtained so far, at the end of every episode and before the next episode preview, Seiichi’s girls will host this segment to see a list of achievements he has. I don’t know, I don’t even bother reading them because what good will it do for me to know? All I know is that Seiichi can do anything! Even if he can’t do it now, I’m sure he will be able to obtain it later somehow. So yeah, the stats don’t mean anything much even to a guy like Seiichi because he’s so powerful already, who else can best him in these stats? But curiously, I do notice he even has gold amount in his stats? Like, why?! What for?! This whole stats thingy takes after a typical RPG stats so I suppose they want to feel complete with that in addition to all his skills, titles, equipment and skill points. Definitely his stats page will put all RPGs to shame!

Next up, Seiichi’s harem. Pretty generic too but in order not to be as cliché as possible, I suppose half of his harem are actually beast girls! Saria, Lulune and Oliga’s true form are animals. I’m just waiting for May to be officially listed somewhere so now he can have a dog girl in addition to a gorilla, donkey and cat! So while it might seem like he is housing a pet shop, they also disguise his harem as some sort of family so as not to make it so obvious that they are his harem but obviously it is so obvious that they are. Saria the wife, Artoria the mistress, Lulune the servant, Oliga the little sister and Louise the student. Nice family you’ve got there. All that is left to complete this line-up is the childhood friend, Airi and high school girl, Karen. We need more variety and that means add girls from his own world too, you know. Best of both worlds, that’s what it means! And who knows? Maybe they’ll throw in the surprise and make the Demon Lord Lutia to be part of Seiichi’s harem! I know she’s not in the poster or other credits animation and that’s why she might be the bonus surprise to throw us off our balance.

Because Seiichi was a bully victim, he doesn’t replicate that nastiness when he came to this world. He doesn’t want such misfortune to befall on others. It is the basic of ingredients to see why these girls start to follow and fall for him because of his kindness. Because Saria was the first one and she is pretty much like a retard, hence everyone has to accept her reasoning that Seiichi is to be shared by all and toe the line. And that is how Seiichi pretty much keeps the order of his harem without them resorting to b*tch fights to monopolize him. Heh. I made that up but you pretty much get the idea why they get along, right? There’s only so much the novelty of a pink gorilla could bring to the table and attract attention before it quickly dies of and forgotten. Just like Harambe :’(.

As for the other characters, don’t want to dwell too much on them because most of them are weirdoes as we have already seen. Especially those from the guild like Guscle who is a muscle freak and they try to distract us with his big bulge. And Eris the S&M queen who looks like she has a body for pleasure and a whip for pain! Yeah, is this the only guild in town? If so, I can see why it’s so effective. Then you have Ranze the good king while his counterpart in the Kaiser Empire looking like your typical evil king. Also, the demons aren’t really a bad bunch like we all pigeonholed them to be, just some of them in their ranks trying to provoke a war from the shadows. Then there’s Zakia who feels like he is on the wrong team. You can tell this guy has his dignity and loyalty but because he is on the wrong side, he keeps questioning and feels conflicted in what he is doing. I am going to bet that once he meets Seiichi, his eyes will open and he will have a clearer picture of what he wants to do.

The art and animation although they generally seem bright and colourful, sometimes almost looking a bit cartoonish, however I do notice that sometimes the quality feels a bit amateurish. Just take a look at the characters’ face a bit closer and you’ll find that sometimes they look like as though they were drawn by amateurs as there are some inconsistencies. Take a look especially when the characters do that flabbergasted I-can’t-believe-it face. You’ll notice how silly it looks. When Seiichi was in his chubby version, why the f*ck does he look like Haruyuki from Accel World?! And strangely that Karen girl has this striking resemblance to Accel World’s Black Lotus too?! Suspicious… This anime is done by Hotline (Ishida To Asakura, Sparow’s Hotel) and Glovision. I guess we hardly hear about these studios so it’s no surprise the best quality isn’t there.

This series has got a few popular seiyuus to lend their talents but of course seeing how this series turned out, it feels like a waste. Like Hiro Shimono who is the voice of Seiichi feels very much at home with all the joker type characters. Now you can add this one to the list. At first, I didn’t quite recognize Kana Hanazawa behind Saria’s voice because she was in that retard voice that I haven’t heard of for so long! Wow. Brings back memories of how I first got to know her voice, huh?! Then the rest are like Marina Inoue as Artoria, Youko Hikasa as Louise, Satomi Arai as Sheep and Satoshi Hino as Xeanos. The other casts include Rimi Nishimoto as Lulune (Rimi in BanG Dream), Yurika Kubo as Origa (Hanayo in Love Live), Tetsu Inada as Guscle (Gamagoori in Kill La Kill), Yuuka Nishio as Eris (Nanami in BanG Dream), Shiki Aoki as Lorna (Homura in Edens Zero), Nozomi Nishida as Claudia (Tsubasa in Hachigatsu No Cinderella Nine), Shunsuke Sakuya as Ranze (Nambuuko in Seisen Cerberus), Shuuichi Uchida as Florio, Sora Tokui as Lutia (Niko in Love Live), Yoshino Nanjou as Karen (Kokoro in Tantei Opera Milky Holmes), Yumiri Hanamoro as Airi (Nadeshiko in Yuru Camp) and Kenta Miyake as Zakia (Boku No Hero Academia).

The opening theme is Evolution by Yoshino Nanjou. I feel that this dramatic rock piece is a mismatch for this kind of series. After all the sentiments I had, I just have this feeling it feels wasted on this. The same can be said for the ending theme, Moonlight Walk by Poppin’ Party. Yes, that group from BanG Dream here performing this rock piece. Again, I feel it is a mismatch because mainly the ending credits animation is mostly some sort of chibi RPG-like animation and to play this kind of song that should’ve been a fit for action series like Naruto or Black Clover, it just feels awfully weird. Imagine, hearing this hardcore rock music but visually you are shown all the cute chibi stuffs. Even that, notice how mediocre the animation quality is? Thank goodness my eyes and ears didn’t explode from this disparity!

Overall, this series falls within the expectations of disappointment. It is no better than all the other trashy isekai genres out there that has come and go. But thank goodness my experience that had me lowered my expectations, I didn’t find this to be a bad watch and hence I can assure you that this will not end up in my top 10 list of worst animes of the year! Despite the expected disappointment, to be honest I also had a bit of fun enjoying al the silliness and clichés. So it’s not all that bad and I can’t entirely fault the series to be like that when I myself keep coming back to watch this sort of genre! Too bad I didn’t eat any fruits to evolve to watch higher intellectual animes. Next season’s isekai ecchi fanservice harem, here I still come! What if those are my poison apple… GASP!!!

Otome Game No Hametsu Flag Shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou Ni Tensei Shiteshimatta X OVA

Before you Bakarina fans get to see the movie, here, have Otome Game No Hametsu Flag Shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou Ni Tensei Shiteshimatta X OVA or Hamefura S2 OVA first. This OVA focuses more in depth on the first person perspective of the main characters and their relationship when they first meet Catarina. So I guess we need more fleshing of their young days, huh? Somebody needs to satisfy all those shotacons out there… OOPS!!!

Geordo
Geordo thinks he is not an important child in the family. Already the third child, the eldest duo already have their attention. And with Alan always being sick, he too has been given his due attention. Hence he has no clear goal and ends up studying and practising swordplay. Until he met Catarina. And yes, that fateful incident where she tripped and scarred her forehead. So to take responsibility for this, Geordo’s family decides to betroth Geordo and Catarina. So when they go to officially reach out to her to make an official engagement, they are shocked to see her dressed as a peasant and doing farming! While her mom is not impressed, Geordo knew she would be an interesting person. He proposes to her and obviously she wasn’t listening when she accepted it. Until he kisses her hand and that shock look on her face was priceless. Fun days are here.

Keith
Keith comes from a troubled household. The first one was always fighting so he holed himself in his room and skipped meals. Until some stranger showed up and brought him to the home of his father and stepmom. They had 3 sons and all hated Keith. Naturally, they abused him. One day his magic went berserk. Not sure if there were some deaths but that was when he changed family again and this time into the Claes family. Because Catarina is always smitten with him, he felt very warm with her. He lived his peaceful life with her so much so he had forgotten about his dangerous magic. Yup. That incident that almost killed Catarina. Back to those gloomy days of holing himself in his room. The thought of being called a monster scared him to death. But Catarina was the bigger monster as she tore down his door with an axe to promise they’ll always be together. Keith started crying at her big heart. Oh, sorry. Forgot the biggest monster is mom. Who’s gonna get an earful for wrecking the door…

Mary
The youngest of 4 sisters, you bet Mary is hated by her sisters because of her hair colour and it got even worse after mom died. She found solace in a garden in which she met Catarina. They both become friends and garden buddies. Because Catarina views her as special, Mary vows to become a worthy person and wants to become an equally impressive figure by her side. Say goodbye to the weak and cowardly Mary.

Alan
Always sick, Alan started getting depressed to realize that Geordo was always better than everything he does. Even more so when others started comparing them and put Geordo on a high pedestal. Alan started developing inferior complex. At that time Mary became his fiancée and when she talked about Catarina, this made Alan thought Geordo’s fiancée was trying to take Mary from him. Hence he challenged Catarina directly. Yeah. Tree climbing. WTF how can a human climb that fast???!!!! I swear Catarina must be some tree climbing demon… Of course it is easy to see that Alan quickly grows to like her because she never looked down on him. But soon it’s back to depressing days as he still compares himself to Geordo. One day Catarina decided to find out Geordo’s weakness on his behalf. That fake snake toy had Geordo freaking out. That priceless scared looks on his face. Alan realizes they’re both the same and he had never seen the real Geordo until now. He laughed so hard that his worries vanished.

Sophia
Although Sophia was blessed with a great family, other kids bullied her because of her hair colour. So she became a recluse and indulge herself in books. Her favourite hobby is daydreaming whereby she would be popular among others. One day at the party when she was about to being bullied, that saviour in the name of Catarina came to her rescue. She goes to thank her and because they are fans of a book, they quickly click. Sophia now gets invited to her home now and then to read. Sophia had always wanted a friend and thanks to Catarina, she found that dream that she had given up on ever finding.

Nicol
As Nicol’s dad as a Prime Minister, he often accompanies him to the castle for official duties. He noticed Geordo and Alan’s relationship becoming better one day. He learnt they frequent Catarina’s house and coincidentally, his sister too got invited to her home. Nicol was worried because she thought that a new girl would start to bully Sophia all over again. Though, Geordo assured him that Catarina is different. While this is true, voices of other adults mumbling about their household start to multiply and he became tired of shouldering those feelings he kept bottled up inside. Of course that first person to understand all those feelings was Catarina. Hence he also gives an excuse to want to go to Catarina’s house not as Sophia’s escort but to see Catarina.

The Young Ones…
Darling we’re the young ones… And the young ones… Shouldn’t be afraid… To live, love, while the flame is strong… ‘Cause we may not be the young ones very long…

Well, I can’t say I am very impressed nor very enlightened. Because for the most part, we already know what happened for these characters in the TV series. It is just given more prominence here and from the views of that character themselves instead of short snippets and clips of the flashback here and there. Though, it still feels like short snippets because how the heck can you fit the stories of 6 main characters into an episode that is only 30 minutes long? Of course the only slightly interesting one to me is Mary because it gives an insight of her past although not by very much. Maybe it was mentioned that she was bullied by her sisters but I guess perhaps I wasn’t paying attention at that time. Otherwise, this OVA just feels very basic for an origin story. Something that we already know but fleshed out in this manner.

Of course the irony is that Catarina is the centre of all these characters and the one who helped them to overcome their problems and change. It feels odd because do you remember that she is supposed to be the main villain and a bully?! Yeah, ever since our girl got reincarnated into this Fortune Lover game, she discarded that evil role of hers and now becomes the main heroine. Speaking of which, Maria is obviously missing since she has not childhood connections with Catarina. Which in a way feels odd because she is supposed to be the main heroine of Fortune Lover. To notice her absence is very jarring. But I have to remember, the name of this series is Otome Game… Ah f*ck that long ass title. The name of this series is Hamefura and not Fortune Lover. Big difference. Now we all know who the main character is, right?

There isn’t anything much else for me to say because otherwise this OVA feels like some snacks for fans of the series while waiting for the movie to be released. Here, have this seemingly recap episode childhood version while bidding your time before the feature film arrives. It’s nothing new and mostly it just tells us what we already know but from the main characters’ perspective. Which is almost basically the same as Catarina told us. I’m sure Catarina’s liveliness and positivism will blow away all those who grumble and complain that this OVA isn’t anything worth your 2 cents after being bundled with a manga volume. But then again, having an upcoming movie saved her from a certain doom that would’ve killed off this series for good. And that is how Bakarina survives reality’s doom flags. For now. So keep those movies or sequels coming or it will spell doom for our beloved idiot, Bakarina!

Strike The Blood IV

Wooh, wooh, wooh… For the longest time… Wooh, wooh, wooh… For the longest time… Yeah. That is how it feels while waiting for Strike The Blood IV to finish its run so that I can watch all of them at the comfort of my own pace. And oh boy, it sure did take its time. Well, it might not seem like a long time since this fourth season took just slightly more than a year to release its dozen episodes but you know, it all happened when a certain damn virus was at its peak and having the entire panicky world in lockdown mode. That’s 2020 for those who have fast forgotten already. Heh. Yeah. Uh huh, I think one of the volumes were delayed because of the virus, making the wait even (slightly) longer. But hey, I’m still so confused at this stage and don’t remember much, so why am I still ‘investing’ in this series? You know me, gotta finish it. I’ve gotten too deep inside to turn back out now.

Paladiness Of Mirage Arc

Episode 1
Kojou finds himself washed ashore on Onrai Island and is found by Castiella Shizuri Kasugaya who is supposed to be his observer. Oh? Since when did she take over from Yukina? It also seems Kojou has lost most of his memories. Then we see Kojou joining the local Koma College and part of Castiella’s team that includes Rui Miyazumi and Yuno Amase. In a practice to take down a golem, Kojou tries to summon his familiar but it cannot materialize. Hence he gets smashed! Of course as a vampire, he regenerates in hospital. The rest explain how Castiella took care of it and she was in despair when he ‘died’. Too bad Castiella wakes up to see Kojou’s dick and smashes it!!! Damn, it is really gonna hurt even if it regenerates… That night, as Castiella accompanies Kojou (that observing excuse again), they see a monster known as Debris destroying the place. However it is quickly destroyed by a ghost girl. Looks kinda familiar… Castiella then reports this to her instructor, Kako Magatoki. She doesn’t doubt her report but believes there is no one as powerful as Kojou. To test him, she wants her to take him to explore the Carceri caves. This might get him to reveal himself and if he is a threat to world, Castiella is to destroy him. As Castiella’s team descends into the cave, they have to fight slime worms known as Larva. Basically they are animals who turned zombies. They are helped out by Shido Okurayama who is the strongest dude in Koma as well as his assistant vampire babe, Nozomi Kamikiba. After defeating it, time for some fanservice because there’s a hotspring base inside the caves. Nozomi allows Kojou to suck her blood but moral police Castiella will not allow it. So a strange tussle before Nozomi yields to her. And then Castiella beats him up because she almost show her modesty. When they prepare to head to the next stage of the caves, Kojou receives strange visions of seeing his comrades die. He realizes he has been through this before. As Yuno heads off to scout, Kojou goes after her, hoping to stop her from being killed. Too late, she gets killed! With Debris surrounding them, also popping up is this spectre woman whom they believe is controlling the Debris. Yeah, she kills off everyone except Kojou and Castiella. She claims Kojou cannot protect anyone despite repeating this over and over. This peace is just an illusion. Just let go and destroy everything. Kojou tells her to STFU and summons his familiar. But again is put out. This time by the ghost girl who is no other than Yukina. I knew it.

Episode 2
When Kojou tries to stop Yukina, she stabs him and they both disappear. Kojou now remembers everything as he finds himself back home on Itogami. As he recuperates in hospital, he learns he was missing for a full 3 days. Eh? But he was training on Onrai for 6 months! Furthermore, Onrai doesn’t exist anywhere in this world. This Carceri Arcade is actually a full dive game that Kojou tried at the mall. But after he entered the booth, he went missing. You bet Yukina pressed the panic button and thought some organization kidnapped him. So, did Kojou experience was just a game? Yeah, it felt so real. But an important mission awaits him for now: He must take this remedial test or he’ll end up repeating the year. Imagine, you in the same grade with your little sister… As Asagi makes her way, she is attacked by Larvae. Because Castiella is there, she thinks she is controlling them. The tank is put out of commission and Asagi could’ve been done for had not Yuuma chased her away. Kojou has time to talk to Natsuki during the exam? Oh well, the only way we can find out that Gisela is a branch of the unorthodox Lotharingia Church. They were all wiped out during the Tartaros Lapus incident. Natsuki then leaves to attend something. Fighting resisting LCO mages? However they realized they have been abandoned and used as pawns. They surrender but won’t hand over this machine since the Witch of Ashdown ordered them not to. Right after Kojou finishes his exam, the school is attacked by Larvae. To Kojou’s surprise, Castiella is controlling them. She is hell bent on bringing Kojou back to Onrai. Yukina fights her. Yeah, battle of the observers to see who gets Kojou. When her headgear falls off, this reveals her horns. Yukina then knocks her out. Flashback shows Shinako handing over her sword and responsibility to Castiella to protect everyone before dying. Hey, she did say she’ll do that in her stead, right? Now we hear the gang talk about Castiella’s race as an ogre. Contrary to popular beliefs, they are actually gentle monsters and try to avoid human contact. Because of their horns, they are often targeted and kidnapped as their horns fetch a high price in the black market. WTF Kojou wants to touch them?! Can’t you see she is embarrassed?! Imagine substituting boobs with that… Awkwardness interrupted because Asagi blames him for being indecent. Also, she points out that Castiella tried to kill her. Yuuma is also here to take Castiella’s blood test. Asagi explains that what Motoki said about Onrai not existing is true. But it does in dreams. Huh? It means it could be a prison barrier and exists in a different dimension.

Episode 3
Oh God. Some technical explanations about Nano Shikigami infused and that’s why Onrai can house 6000 inhabitants. For why it is doing so, they have to ask the creator who is no other than Kako who is part of LCO and someone paid her to do this. Yeah, she is here. Long story short, she claims the power to keep Onrai in existence is fading and only the power of the vampire can help sustain it. Of course to further help sustain it, she suggests Kojou and Castiella have 10 babies who will inherit his powers. Since it will be too taxing on Castiella herself, she’ll allow Kojou to impregnate his other girlfriends. You bet this idea will be shot down instantly. Kako claims the real creator doesn’t want Onrai to be free. As they fight her, Kako transports all of them to Onrai. Kojou is glad he didn’t lose his memories this time. He is with Castiella as she believes the creator may be Shinako and she lies deep within the island that cannot be accessed normally. Kojou is then sniped by Rui but luckily they manage to escape. Meanwhile Yukina finds herself before a guy only known as The Blood. He is Kako’s sponsor. His objective is to destroy him and claims she cannot save anyone. He leaves as Yukina notices a coffin containing Shinako. Kojou and Castiella seek refuge at the base. But the place is rundown as the creator doesn’t want them to progress. Fanservice time because Castiella forces herself on Kojou. Why do women who want Kojou to suck their blood have to do this? Why even unbutton her shirt if he is going to just bite her neck?! Aside the dumb moment of revealing herself as a virgin and trying to kill him for it, I guess those real tears that she has nothing has Kojou determined. Yeah, after caressing her horns, he sucks her blood. Keep this a secret? The part about her being a virgin? BAKA! Luckily after they’re done, they are surrounded by all the residents of Onrai. Don’t worry, they don’t have to fight because Lydianne and Asagi shoot some anti-Nano Shikigami whachamalit to knock them out. It is also why it helps keep their memories. Whatever. With Yuuma, they go to face Kako.

Kako then introduces Shinako who is actually the real Castiella herself. Yes, Castiella is the one who created Onrai out of guilt for failing to save those refugees. Thus the Castiella we know is a fake, created from her memories as well as the other residents. Kako will let this fake be killed by the real one but of course Kojou won’t have this BS. So basically his words of hope include him learning it is nice to be with everyone and that even if her body is fake, she is the only Castiella he knows. That should be the clincher. And don’t forget, it’s our fight, remember? Yup, Yukina dropping in to help fight. Thanks to Kako’s grimoire, her time acceleration magic whachamalit has her predicting Yukina’s moves. But Yuuma sees through that trick because she herself is some witch’s daughter as she makes a copy of the grimoire to send Kako to her defeat. Likewise, Castiella defeats herself. Uhm, so this considered victory or loss? With Castiella finally waking up after 6 years, she quickly makes acquaintance with Nagisa. Nagisa notices her uniform and looks like Castiella will be transferring to her school next month. Nagisa will be her senpai then. Castiella realizes Nagisa is Kojou’s sister. Because she too pleads to rub those horns! It’s all in the genes… Meanwhile Asagi becomes some ruthless secretary to Kojou as he is forced to do lots of paperwork and other harsh schedules. This is what happens when you go missing for 3 days and let work pile up. It doesn’t help with Motoki revealing he sucked Castiella’s neck and even more so she is the youngest blood sucker. Although Castiella is 20, she is only 15 physically. You bet those disgusted looks on Yukina and Asagi’s face. Time to work this pervert to death. Give him a break? Yeah, they’ll break his soul!

Tournament In The Nightmare Night Arc

Episode 4
Kojou and co will be returning to Itogami after a business trip at Aldegyr. Yeah, everyone so baffled nothing happened! So at this point they think Kojou is a trouble magnet, huh? Well, wait no longer. At the airport, they briefly meet a guy named Kii Juranbarada who is looking forward to see him back on Itogami. During the flight, Nagisa becomes scared because she sensed some war going on at Itogami. With communications cut off, the plane makes an emergency landing in some south islands. They are then attacked by a group of thugs led by Mark Ugaki. He claims this is his domain and allows them to join his gang. Of course they don’t so he transforms into his troll form to fight them. Well, he’ll soon learn who is more powerful… Ugaki is interrogated and explains the day before, war broke out on Itogami and even the Keystone Gate was destroyed. This is the doing of a group named Order The End (OTE) who works under the Fourth Progenitor. You kidding me, right? They took over the island’s system and turned into some sort of tournament. Hence clans started forming their own domains and killing each other. As proof, there he is the Fourth Progenitor on TV. Uhm, isn’t that Blood? He is claiming himself as the Fourth Progenitor. Due to Kojou using his magic, this attracted other domain lords. Mainly the federation consisting of beastmen are here to kill him. However they are soon taken out by OTE as they claim they are doing this to awaken Kojou as the true Fourth Progenitor. Blood also shows his face. Both progenitors fight. Damn, they caused a nuclear explosion?! Island almost destroyed… In the aftermath, everyone is separated. Kojou only finds Kanon and Ugaki who is deeply injured. Then a helicopter lands. A few men claiming from the War Management Committee who are neutral in overseeing this war. With Ugaki out of commission, I guess he is leaving it to big bro Kojou to continue it for him. With Kanon seeing a shikigami of Yukina, they follow it. I think this episode lacks fanservice so we see this WTF scene of sexy Yukina and Asagi in their undies as they cook after having their bath. Need to stay clean and pretty, right? Motoki and Nagisa are being chased by the beastmen. However they run away once they reach the domain of Lilith. That’s right. Yume is here to protect them. Yukina and Asagi arrive at a school but is attacked by a sniper. Yukina goes into action only to find her opponent is Castiella. Uhm, so this is her domain? Rui and Yuno welcome them.

Episode 5
Eh? How the f*ck did Kojou end up with bed with Kanon?! The shikigami turned out to be Shike and seeing how Kanon needed her rest, oh look, love hotel area. Things could’ve been worse as Kensei is even here! But he isn’t shocked seeing his daughter in bed with another man. If she willingly allowed it, he has nothing to say! Meanwhile Motoki is shocked that Kii and his servant, Zana Lashka are under Yume’s domain. Flashback shows after their brief meeting at the airport, Aladar was looking for them and told them that Kii is the First Progenitor AKA Lost Warlord. Yume’s domain is about to be attacked by other domain lords. Nothing a bit of Kii showing off to chase those weaklings away. Motoki questions his purpose and it seems Kii wants to exterminate ghosts? Kojou learns that Kensei isn’t in prison because it is destroyed and that no official documents state he is a prisoner. This means this is also true for those other prisoners. They then head to his lab in which Astarte is seen recuperating in a chamber. It seems OTE attacked the place. Natsuki and Astarte went to intercept. Astarte was slain by a magic sword while Natsuki devoured. It is believed that somebody is more powerful than her and using to infiltrate the prison barrier. Indeed, it is Blood who has taken Natsuki hostage inside the prison barrier and he can’t have her wake up. Blood explains something about his plan to use collective subconscious dreams to access a door deep within the prison barrier that Natsuki herself doesn’t know. That door leads to all apostles of OTE who are imprisoned from past eras. He will free them all and have them set upon Itogami so as to choose a new king who can end the despair. As Yume’s domain is having a stare down with a couple of other domain lords, suddenly OTE apostles drop in to attack. Blood makes his announcement for the domain lords to go on to the next phase and that the OTE apostles will attack everyone indiscriminately. He views those who cannot protect their domain aren’t fit to rule Itogami. As Kii and Zana notice how messy the magic styles of OTE apostles are, they do some test and confirm they are from different eras. All they need to do is destroy their mask and send them back to the prison barrier. But in doing so, other domain lords target Yume. Before she is dead meat, she is saved by Yukina and Castiella. Kojou’s plan is to rescue Natsuki and since the gate to the prison gate is open, Kensei can send him in. Too bad he is attacked by Blood who will not let anyone get in the way. Kojou vs Blood round 2.

Episode 6
Yume and Castiella agree to form an alliance. Then there is a call from Asagi but the line isn’t clear. She warns them not to return to Castiella’s domain and to look for Kojou to join him. Her line is cut off when she is about to reveal the true goal for this whole setup and that OTE isn’t the only enemy. Natsuki seems to be trying to piss off Meriloe who is guarding her. She becomes enraged when she claims they have all been used by Blood. When she attacks, she is knocked out by a couple of the prisoners. Seems Natsuki has temporarily released Shtra D and Broodt Dumblegraff to do her bidding since she knows OTE’s true identity. They have 48 hours to get the job done and hurt no unrelated civilians. When Meriloe attacks Natsuki again, this time her familiar protects her. And its armour that is supposed to suppress its abilities shatters, Meriloe is f*cked. Back to Kojou and Blood’s fight, Kojou is spamming him questions but the question he wants to know most is why he looks exactly like Avrora. Blood explains the concept of a vampire’s familiars. They are actually grudges, curses and hatred. They were once gods but blamed Cain and became tainted, turning into demons. The 3 progenitors inherited the blood of the cursed gods but with few survivors of Tenbu, they created an artificial vampire. Hence it is the Fourth Progenitor who will be the strongest vampire and it is Kojou’s duty to prove it. Thus this is OTE’s true goal here. Blood reveals his true name as Kenon and is supposed to be a prototype Fourth Progenitor who is Kojou’s shadow. His job is to make him the king of the new world. He summons a couple of familiars to fight but luckily Yukina and Castiella are here to help him. The familiars turn out to be a dragon and an ogre lady who calls Castiella a traitor. But the gig is up as Blood realizes Meriloe has failed to keep Natsuki in check. Time to retreat. But the problem is just beginning. Before them is a huge storm and there is Chaos Bride! Not only her but all the military might from Fall Gazer (Second Progenitor) popping up all over Itogami. With that, Kii requests to form an alliance with Yume. It can be said Itogami is now occupied by one of the 3 progenitors or OTE. La Folia sees off Sayaka as she parachutes down a plane since her kingdom of Aldegyr cannot get involved in this war. Similarly, Yuiri and Shio are flying on Glenda as they are trying to deliver Avrora with them to Kojou. However they’ve got company in the form of Fall Gazer herself on their tail.

Resurrection Of Vampire Princess Arc

Episode 7
Chaos Bride comes to see Asagi personally. It seems she wants her on her side. Meanwhile Glenda’s side continues to run from Fall Gazer. However when they couldn’t, Yuiri suggests Shio take Avrora and run. Yuiri and Glenda will stay back to stall her since Fall Gazer hints that Glenda is her target. Chaos Bride offers the safety of the people in this domain should Asagi join her. However Asagi refuses and corrects her on 2 things: She is just a guest here and her true lord is Kojou. Chaos Bride takes this as they are enemies. She tries to attack her but Asagi escapes. But when cornered, she is lucky to receive the support of Aladar and his men. As Chaos Bride can’t risk it all yet, she retreats and hopes to talk to her again. During this time, Kojou with Yukina and Castiella are looking for Blood. When Chaos Bride and Fall Gazer unleash their power at the same time, it causes Kojou to feel strange. Something in him starts to awaken. Luckily he is knocked out by Natsuki. He later wakes up in Kensei’s lab. He is told that Natsuki later went on to subdue 70% of the northern domain. With the other progenitors occupying other directions of Itogami, the northern parts hope for a strong candidate too and Natsuki could be the one. However she has returned to the prison barrier to repair its seal. As Kojou’s stomach growls, WTF Yukina and Castiella fight over what kind of food he should eat? Elsewhere, Sayaka is trying to get to the main island when Gajou comes up to her, seeking her help. It seems Mimori has been arrested for releasing Avrora. Imagine Sayaka’s surprise when he learns Mimori is Gajou’s wife. That means… Kojou’s father! In the shower, Kojou can’t fathom he still feels hungry and thirsty after food. That is when Kanon comes in to offer her body! Fanservice time, Kanon version? She could hear the beast inside him roaring and although she can’t help in battle like the rest, this is how she would like to do it. Loli seems tempting enough but interrupted because Castiella is here. After hiding her, it seems Castiella also has the same idea to offer her body as she can sense his hunger. What do you mean you’re not satisfied with this bombshell ogre body?! Heck, she promises he’ll get more satisfaction from this body than other girls! Sounds pretty tempting itself until… Yukina is here! Oh f*ck! Don’t tell me same problem!

Episode 8
Yukina is shocked because… KOJOU IS BLONDE NOW???!!! Meanwhile Shio and Avrora are taking a break in an abandoned convenience store. Shio wondering how she got into this mess. It all started when Mimori broke Avrora out and told her to take her to Kojou. They are attacked by a Dino Rider but it is easily destroyed by Motoki. Yup, Yukina is willing to give her body to satiate Kojou’s blood urge. He fears it will never end. Simple. Take responsibility till the end! The moment ruined when a sneeze is heard. Yandere Yukina is out. Castiella busted. Another sneeze. Kanon busted. Care to explain? Suddenly Kojou starts to feel pain. His resonance is working again. Similarly at the same time it is also affecting Avrora. Kojou tells them to run away but the girls cling onto him. So did Kojou bite them? Then as he takes a walk, he is visited by Kii who is here to warn him that at this rate, Scorched Banquet will happen again. The same story is being told by Fall Gazer to Yuiri and Glenda (Yuiri a bit shock that Fall Gazer isn’t a man like she thought). Anyway, Kojou thought he has control over his familiars but apparently Kii reminds him that they are not pets but monsters who live within. When they run out of prey, they’ll go looking for their own. Once Kojou has all 12 of them, he’ll be the strongest vampire. With other progenitors here, that’s why his familiars are trying to look for magic AKA memories. Even if the entire Itogami’s magic is devoured, the familiars’ appetite won’t be solved. They will devour the strong emotions then the Fourth Progenitor will take all those memories and cause an outbreak of pseudo vampire syndrome. This is what the real Scorched Banquet is about. Once Kojou consumes Dodekatos and get back the 12th familiar, the banquet will end when he becomes the complete Fourth Progenitor. Or, he can take everyone’s memories. The choice is his.

Kojou learns from Shike that Yukina has been sent by Paper Noise to go get Avrora who is having difficulties escaping from Fall Gazer. Later when Kanon asks Kojou about Castiella’s whereabouts, from the way she worded it, it looks like Castiella overheard his conversation with Kii. Hence she is going to stop Blood on her own. Not exactly, she has Rui and Yuno as help to plough through those MAR mechas. Kojou already has enough women problems and look who is parachuting down now? Sayaka! She explains that she has been roped in by his parents into this mess. Learning Yukina isn’t with him, she gets worried. Even more so because this means Yukina is going to kill Avrora just to stop the Scorched Banquet. If she knew this would happen, she would’ve preferred Yukina to rely on him. But there’s another way to stop this apparently. Yukina has now come into contact with Shio and wants Avrora to be handed over. Shio won’t do so and fights her but is no match. Before Motoki gets his turn, Avrora is willing to be killed by her. Yeah, this makes Yukina in despair and confused seeing doing so will make Kojou suffer alone again. Avrora doesn’t want her to feel that way since her body was destroyed once. It is then Yuiri jumps in to ward off everyone. Looks like Yuiri is very determined to kill Avrora just to stop the Scorched Banquet. Again, Avrora is ready to resign to her fate but look whose turn it is to stop her? Blood of course. He came to pick up his onee-sama.

Episode 9
Castiella fight that ogre woman, Izea Nyos who calls her a traitor because of the outfit she is wearing. Because it is Gisela who destroyed to ogre clan. There’s an explanation why it seemed so but it isn’t and that’s why Castiella defeats her without the need to kill her. However Izea blocks a shot directed at Castiella and is critically injured. That shot is from Shafriar Ren who is the chief of MAR. Before Blood could summon his familiar to do his bidding, look who jumps in now to interrupt it? That’s right. It’s Sayaka’s turn. Seems Blood is shrinking or turning younger due to the effects of summoning his familiars. Then Fall Gazer shows up. She changed her mind about letting him live as she didn’t want this war to end so soon. Blood escapes in time but manages to take Avrora with him. Kojou reunites with Castiella and learns what happened. Shtra is also here and claims he is here to kill Shafriar. This is the mission Natsuki gave him for his temporary release. Shtra and Shafriar are survivors of Tenbu but the latter is a traitor who stole Tenbu’s legacy and descended to the ground. Kojou has Glenda take Castiella back to Kensei to treat Izea. Yukina and Sayaka will come with him to Keystone Gate to track down Blood and save Avrora. Before they part, Castiella gives Kojou a kiss. On the lips! How lucky this charm gonna be, huh? They talk about Avrora and the Scorched Banquet. If it comes to the worst case scenario, Kojou wants Yukina to kill him because she is the only one who can do it and he doesn’t want to take the memories of everyone. After they find Blood, little guy have no reason to give up so they fight. But the ladies have to settle with Zana since Kii doesn’t want this to end soon. So the Fourth Progenitors have another rematch. Blood claims that Kojou is incomplete, the reason he won’t be able to beat him despite himself being a failure prototype. But Kojou turns things around when he manages to give Avrora some hope and she helps Kojou to eliminate Blood, much to that chibi’s dismay.

To save Avrora, Blood bites her. Shafriar is watching and impressed with this. He disables small fry Shtra from doing anything troublesome. Because Avrora has not disappeared, this can only mean 1 thing: Aside Kojou losing his blonde hairstyle, he has transferred all his powers to Avrora. Meaning, Avrora is now the Fourth Progenitor. But the change in person doesn’t change the overall ritual as Shafriar uses a dagger to open Keystone Gate. He claims everything that has happened so far was under the control of MAR. With the dragon killing off Dumblegraff, Shafriar will keep his promise to show the scenery of their home. A floating island above Itogami materializes. Node was once ruled by Cain and there is only 1 person as powerful as Cain can connect this world to Node: The Fourth Progenitor, the strongest vampire created to destroy Cain. Shafriar’s goal is to bring the world under the control of Tenbu again. Hence this is what the war is truly about. Whoever wins this war also rules the world! Now that Kojou is completely human, does Yukina have any reason to follow him? I mean, her role is to observe the Fourth Progenitor, right? Well, she claims she isn’t a Sword Shaman anymore because of that ring he gave her to suppress her powers. She can’t use her spiritual powers and is his blood servant. I guess that’s a great excuse-cum-loophole for her to follow and be with him always. As for Avrora, you bet Kojou wants to go save her to stop her from being used again. Feeling guilty of turning her into the Fourth Progenitor and fell into Node? He vows to bring her back and from now on it is his fight. Wrong! It’s our fight, senpai!

Seize The Twelve Beast Vassals Arc

Episode 10
Node is disappearing and it proves that it can only exist here in the night. As Kojou and Yukina try to get off Keystone Gate, they bump into Yuuma. She lets Kojou grope her boobs to prove that he is no longer a vampire. She knows about this since she is a spy on Management Corporation. She also has a message to him from them. Because he is now human, he has to stay out of this since he is unrelated. You bet Kojou disagrees about being unrelated by Yuuma teleports them away. The duo reunite with the others as Kojou asks Asagi if she can access Keystone Gate to control the gates of Node. Long story short, if the right conditions are met, yes. But Asagi wants to know even if so, what does her plan to do with the familiars. However a more pressing question: Why does he want to save Avrora? Does he love her? You mean this guy is really dense with that direct question?! Asagi even blurts out that he is asking her and Yukina to save the woman he loves. Instead he asks her back what she has got to do with this. Understandably, she gets mad and leaves. Your bad. Even more so, he still thinks Asagi is mad because she has to do manage the island and is busier while he just focuses on Avrora. I think the answer is much simpler! But too complicated to say! Even when Yukina points out about jealousy, Kojou doesn’t think so! OMFG!!! She asks straight if he really loves Avrora in a romantic sense. Well, Avrora has always been a part of her so she’s like a sister. As for that love, he isn’t sure. And so the mystery continues…

They return to Nagisa but looks like Kii and Zana are with her. They assure she will not be harmed. Kii is here to make a deal with Kojou. They want to prevent Node from destroying the world and need Kojou to do it. Why him? Can’t he do it themselves? You see, all vampires cannot use their familiars in Node. With the exception of the Fourth Progenitor. That’s why Shafriar took Avrora. With that, Kojou agrees to do it. Kii cannot guarantee his success but will give him a chance. But there is another condition since he is taking this mission: He needs to find 12 people as his blood companions to control his familiars. Since Kojou disagrees with that, Zana kisses him before stabbing him. Yukina so mad she beats down Zana?! Kojou’s wounds disappear as Kii reveals what Zana did was give him eat the familiars. You see, Kojou might be human but he is not an ordinary human. He just lost the ability to control his familiars but still has the curse inside. The familiars are from Blood and they stole it from him during that fight. So now Kojou needs to gather blood companions to control his familiars. Failing which, they will run rampant and destroy Itogami. Kojou and Yukina leave. The latter undressing herself to allow him to suck her blood and become his blood companion. Unfortunately he can’t. He has no more vampire fangs! His body is human, remember? As they talk about this possible overlook by Kii, suddenly the familiars take over Kojou’s body. Look who is here to save the day before Yukina is toast? Kiriha! After learning what happened, she too strips because it is obvious she is going to seduce Kojou with her charms. Well, that’s not vampire urges she’s dealing with now. More girls into the picture, Sayaka, Shike and Natsuki. Yukina wants Natsuki to help imprison Kojou in the barrier but unfortunately that won’t work. Kojou may be imprisoned but the familiars will still remain.

Episode 11
We see Avrora living a normal life. I suppose this is a dream. But Glenda tells her to wake up soon since there are no vampires on this land. In order to suppress Kojou and his rampaging familiars, Chaos Bride seals him in her dimension. However she is only giving them half a day to find 12 blood companions. Kojou sees Cain trying to rewrite some laws via forbidden spell and bring a doll to life but failed. Chaos Bride not impressed. Apparently he is looking through Chaos Bride’s memories. We see a majority of Kojou’s harem gathered together. Oh yeah, I love Asagi’s sarcastic idea: Did Natsuki gather them to lock in a room so they can have a battle royale to kill each other?! OH YEAH! I WANT TO SEE THAT!!! EVEN CASTIELLA AGREES ON THIS! Kiriha tries to be sarcastic as she hints of eliminating Asagi first. Asagi’s cool answer: Who the heck are you! Before a b*tch fight breaks out, Natsuki ambiguously puts it that all of them are to become his fake wives and spend a night with Kojou. Yeah… I guess blood companion sounds boring as f*ck. Yukina has Nina turn Zana’s chain into 11 more rings. So, take this and you agree to be Kojou’s wife, oops I mean, blood companion? Castiella is first to offer herself but Natsuki declines her because she is very injured. THEN WHY THE F*CK YOU GATHER HER?! So the first (aside Yukina) to put on the ring is Kanon. Yume offers next but Natsuki also declines. Lolis not allowed and this include Lydianne. THEN WHY THE F*CK YOU GATHER THEM?! Don’t want Kojou to look like a loli pervert?! I thought saving the island is more important than self-image?! So with the rest arguing and the likes, Natsuki asks Yukina if there are other girls who can be Kojou’s blood companion. I guess guys are out, huh? Yup, no gay moments. That is worse than being a lolicon. Astarte can’t be Kojou’s blood companion since she has a familiar inside. As for Glenda, Natsuki is very unsure who she is but currently she is missing. For Yuuma, she believes she will cooperate. Sorry girls, looks like Asagi refuses to join this slut race farce. She finds this whole blood companion thing to be shady and even more so if Kii himself proposed it. I mean, you think that guy would allow something so boring to happen? But Asagi knows of a way to settle this without resorting and degrading-cum-insult you women as sluts. Oh well, and that’s the end of the slut fight dream…

Asagi goes to see Fall Gazer and wants her to become a servant serving Castiella in her domain. Of course she will not ask her to do this for free and has come well prepared with a compensation. Hmmm… Now what can possibly satisfy this Second Progenitor? Well, it’s some very rare and pot of excellent curry!!! OMFG!!! ASAGI YOU DUMB OR SOMETHING?! While others might see it as an insult, Fall Gazer laughs her ass so hard. Yeah, haven’t done so in centuries. No wonder this island so interesting. And that seals the deal for her as she considers spice equivalent to gold and silver in trading of the past. Of course with a condition: Asagi is to eat with her and tell her all about her elaborate plan. As night falls, Natsuki prepares Astarte to use her familiar to begin their operation. Of course she knows the risk as it will shorten Astarte’s plan. Everyone else is ready and in position to get this operation started. We return to Avrora’s high school dream life. Seems Avrora has forgotten some of her memories but Glenda claims that is the key to remind of who she is. She hints there is a classroom somewhere in this school that hides the secrets of the world. Find it and she’ll recover those lost memories.

Episode 12
Kojou seeing memories of Cain dying after his defeat. Cain leaving it to Glenda to escape and leaving all his familiars to the Fourth Progenitor. Now we see Kojou’s harem waiting for the mission to start. Kiriha trying to assert her dominance and pour fuel over fire. Justina giving Kanon some bracelet to help in her fight. Motoki perhaps tricked Yukina and Castiella to wear Playboy bunny outfits because he thinks it’ll help seduce Kojou. I know how this will turn out… The moment is here as Chaos Bride releases Kojou back to reality. So he is in his armoured beast form, eh? We see Kojou’s harem fight the rampaging familiars and try to bring them down. When the sword familiar is going to drop and cause a huge damage, who can stop it? Time for La Folia to make her grand entrance and prove she is still a worthy contender as Kojou’s official wife. Astarte uses her familiar to fight one but since this is at the expense of shortening her life, Nagisa needs to do something. She claims she can talk to familiars and just like that, the familiar calms down and listens to her. Hey, why not she talk to the rest of the other familiars too???!!! It will save them a lot of trouble if she is actually this powerful! With Kojou running away via instinct, Yukina’s only way is to cut herself and draw him to her and away from the protection of his familiars. She allows him to suck her blood but Castiella won’t allow her to lose any more blood and lets Kojou bite her. With that, Asagi then grabs a hold on him and has Mogwai do some cleansing programme to bring Kojou back. Yeah, all his girls happy to see their man back. Kojou hugging Yukina, is this a sign he has chosen? In the aftermath, Asagi answers Kojou’s question of why the familiars listened to him. It’s because he sucked Castiella’s blood. Some explanation about the other progenitor’s position and with Asagi’s negotiations and the likes, this makes about 90% of Itogami’s subjects under Castiella. Hence when Kojou bit her and made her his blood servant, this also made him the winner of the domain war. Later Yukina wants him to suck her blood so she can continue using Sekkarou. He gives excuse she can’t lose any more blood but gave himself away and hints he is full. Yeah, he sucked the blood of other girls! Hey got to help replenish their energy after using up during the fight! Their argument goes off track when he questions her in that bunny suit… It’s complicated. Meanwhile Shafrair is stumped that the Fourth Progenitor’s whereabouts is unknown and it is mostly likely Glenda’s doing since she is a familiar of Cain. No rush. Just keep looking. He is now in a place where there are loads of familiars in chambers. This is the ultimate magic weapon of Cain to destroy the world.

Strike The Blonde! Strike While The Blood Is Hot!
Well, it isn’t a surprise now by the time this blog of mine is released. Yup, another season! But I can take a big sigh of relief because the next season will be the final one!!! OMG!!! HOORAY!!! I can finally put to rest this wretched series! After all, the manga recently ended only back in mid-2020 so I suppose they have all the materials they need to adapt the final chapters. Which brings to me the question of how many episodes the finale will have. Because as I noticed, ever since this series adapted the OVA format, it has been increasing its episodes with each subsequent seasons. Season 2 had 8 episodes, season 3 had 10 and this one has a dozen. So by this historical trend, will the final have 14 episodes? Or will it have more than that? I need to know because I’m going to have to play the waiting game again, waiting for all of them to come out before I get to start my comfy watching pace. In the meantime, I guess I’ll be singing, Wooh, wooh, wooh… For the longest time… Wooh, wooh, wooh… For the longest time…

As usual, if you have been following me and my blog on this series, you would have very well know that even at this point I am writing this sentence, I still do not understand what is going on! At least not on the bigger picture. Past incidents, stories, arcs and heck, even the terms, I have mostly forgotten and does not even ring a bell! Even if I did note it down in my previous blog (thank goodness?), I still can’t recall them. You could say I have wasted my time but oh well, I do remember the harem. IS THAT ALL I ACTUALLY REMEBER FROM THIS???!!! Anyway, if I have to put it bluntly, I didn’t really enjoy this season either because of my failing memory. Not to say that the stories are uninteresting or confusing, even if they are (hey, at this point the plot has to be super thick already), it is only made boring and confusing due to my absentmindedness. Hence the boringness and confusion enhanced because of that.

But damn, I really do wished that they actually had that bloodbath battle royale whereby all of Kojou’s wives/girlfriends/mistresses actually fight each other! I thought I was the only one who would ever come up with that shameless perverted idea but that damn Asagi was really sarcastic! Isn’t that why Kojou has been amassing his girls throughout the course of 4 seasons with various arcs and all the troubles that he has encountered?! Man, I can only dream of that. But looks like it will always continue to remain as an elusive pipe dream. Unless they make a side story that has nothing to do with the main story. Oh yeah. Sighs… But just for the record, I think Asagi will be the one who would win the battle royale waifu death match because she is the brainiest one! Yup, while you think those with better offensive power and main heroine aura like Yukina, Sayaka, Castiella and even Kiriha would be the front runners but when it comes down to fighting to be the #1 girl on top of the list, it will take more than just mere brute force. Sure, Asagi doesn’t have good physical fighting capabilities and prowess and is possibly ranked one of the lowest in this category. But I’m sure such death matches aren’t about raw aggressive and violent power if you want to make a fair fight among all the waifu contenders.

Okay, let’s get back to this season before I wander off into the unrelated wishful dream of mine. Oh heck, there isn’t anything more that I can elaborate on because I already said I am so confused by everything. This means I don’t remember much about the details even for this season. Just basically Kojou getting into trouble whether it is for the island or with his harem babes. Some sort of familiar summoning fight but the fight ends without a clear winner or resolve because there will be next time. Another arc most presumably. And now we’re at this point where we’ve got a lot of characters being thrown into the fray as we reach the final stretch, so hell yeah we’ve got from all the other progenitors at once on the island to even Kojou’s parents making their cameo. Only Vatler is missing. After last season’s battle and hinting something gay with Kojou, I guess this season isn’t his stage to shine.

And yeah, I can’t say anything much for the characters too because, you’ve guessed it, my stupid brain keeps forgetting. So let me just note what feels of significance to me for this season. I guess we all finally somewhat get to know why the series is named so. Your years of waiting for answer of who the f*ck is this Blood in the title finally answered. Sort of. Well, he starts off okay at first because of that mysterious enigma they display for his character. But after he is revealed to be just a failed prototype as the Fourth Progenitor, then it’s like he became insignificant. It’s like, so okay, we might know where the title comes from now but it’s back to Kojou as the main character. Yup, finally that guy reverts back to being human but not really a complete human. Yeah. That damn loophole so that Kojou can still play some sort of a heroic role or be the catalyst or some factor for the final arc.

Yeah, there’s nothing else I can talk anymore so let me touch on the harem again. Yukina doesn’t feel as possessive as I remember her like last time. If my memories of her aren’t that faulty to begin with. I still don’t get it about the part she isn’t a Sword Shaman anymore but it’s just another excuse to stay by his side. Whatever. At least she’s a bit bearable and doesn’t get into some sort of jealousy rage. Well, at least for the most part. Sometimes she does so since to remind us that she’s still a girl. So they add the final girl into the harem AKA Castiella because with girls like Sayaka and Kiriha coming in very late this season, we need a girl who is not a loli to up the harem factor and give Yukina a run for her money. Heh. What am I saying? Asagi could be the smartest one since she refuses to objectify herself as part of Kojou’s harem but in the end she can’t fight fate and eventually she’ll fall back to her rightful place. No, not as Priestess of Cain, mind you. The only girl sorely missing from Kojou’s harem this season is of course La Folia. Although she did turn up finally, I guess it is better late than never. Can’t leave her out entirely, eh? I think I will stop here talking about the harem. It’s short but I guess I have nothing else to say to the rest. Heck, not that I know any better.

What else to talk about? Basically everything else remains the same. Like the action parts, I guess they’re still following the same formula because what else can they showcase? Not really the best masterpiece and feels mostly obligatory because when you have shady people trying to do shady stuffs, some sort of fight to protect is inevitable. Then of course there is the fanservice which is of course the other selling point of the story. After all the seasons, I still feel it is silly that all the girls that Kojou sucks their blood, they offer themselves by stripping to their undies. It’s a dumb reason but it’s the only way we get to see them in their undies or at least their bare skin. Yes, the OVAs are uncensored so a few bare tits moment. Imagine you pay a few more cents for your DVD or Blu-ray collection but now Yukina pantsu or little Kanon tits. Yeah… The infuriated annoyance…

New seiyuus joining this season that I recognized include Takehito Koyasu as Kii, Ayako Kawasumi as Chaos Bride, Shizuka Itou as Fall Gazer and Hiroyuki Yasumoto as Shido. I thought Kako sounded familiar and it looks like I really am losing touch with how Rie Tanaka sounds like. The others are Saya Aizawa As Castiella (Yuzuki in Taisho Otome Otogibanashi), Atsumi Tanezaki as Zana (Mjurran in Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken), Souma Saitou as Blood/Kenon (Hermes in DanMachi), Tomoaki Maeno as Shafriar (Junichi in Amagami SS), Ai Kakuma as Nozomi (Rossweisse in High School DxD), Arisa Sakuraba as Izea (Nozomi in Hanebado), Sayumi Watabe as Meriloe (Tachibana in Koi Wa Ameagari No You Ni), and You Taichi as Shinako (Anzu in Prison School). Kishida Kyoudan & The Akeboshi Rockets sang some of the previous seasons’ opener so here they are again doing it for this season, Akatsuki No Kaleido Blood, another hard rock outfit that befits the pace of this series. As for the ending theme, Dear My Hero is sung by Risa Taneda (voice of Yukina) and sounds more like generic anime pop.

Overall, this series at this point is not for those who are not willing to invest in very confusing storyline and characters. You must have that kind of mind to understand and even enjoy what the heck is going on. Otherwise it really zaps the zest out of you and you’re reduced to what’s going on for most of the time. Of course reading the light novel source would greatly help but even that is if you’re into that kind of convoluting stuffs. To me, it’ll always be a certain vampire boy accumulating his harem throughout the season! I know it’s not but that’s how I shall remember it! Yeah, some kid with extraordinary powers fighting against the supernatural on some artificial island while hot babes flock to his side and fight alongside him. Confusing sci-fi and supernatural muddled with cheap thrill fanservice. How can Kojou and Itogami take all this sh*t when I’m already next to death?! Oh well, I said I’ve already got my feet too deep inside to even get out. So let me use this dormant non-STB period to prepare myself mentally as I get ready to face and fight the final season. No senpai, it is our final season!

Seirei Gensouki

Sighs. I guess the year 2021 must be a very lonely and empty year for Sword Art Online (SAO) fans since no sequel or spinoffs under that popular franchise did come out during this period. What a long and sad wait it must be to see the next Kirito in action, right? How long more must they wait. Oh well. Don’t despair. Even if there is no SAO in 2021, at least watch its substitute or pseudo, Seirei Gensouki to pass the time. A series whereby our pseudo Kirito main character isn’t only good in his swordsmanship but in the magic known as spirit arts as well. Then follow him as he travels all across the fantasy kingdom (not isekai, mind you) and accumulates a bunch of girls to his harem. Yeah… Okay, so I made up the connection between this series and SAO but some of the familiarities are so similar that I can’t help make this BS connection. I’m not an SAO fan so I’m pretty sure I’m not suffering from any SAO withdrawal symptoms or anything. Am I?!

Episode 1
When Haruto Amakawa was young, he had to move so his childhood friend, Miharu Ayase was pretty sad about it. He promised they will meet again and marry. Even to protect her even if he dies. Many years later, Haruto is a teen. The bus he rides in, goes out of control, gets slammed by the train! And it starts raining. Wow. Bad day. Now he’s dead. Uhm, how he gonna protect Miharu? Well, don’t be because further flashback shows in high school, he got devastated seeing Miharu going out with a new guy!!! OMFG. Bad day indeed. Now, Haruto has fulfilled the necessary requirements… So he is reborn into isekai! Yeah! This time as a kid named Rio who lives in the slums. He cannot fathom why he is having memories of this Haruto person in this Japan place. He remembers asking his mom why his hair is black and that’s because the family came from a very faraway place. And of course mom got killed and all on Rio’s mind is revenge. Soon, a group of hooded girls come asking if he has seen a girl with purple hair. Since Vanessa Emal is being rude, Celia Claire asks nicely. Rio hasn’t seen anyone of that sort. Celia uses her magic scan to scan the area. Surprisingly, Rio emits magic aura. He can use magic too? They go off in search for that girl as Celia gives him some silver coins as reward. Rio returns home but gets stabbed! Thanks to the coins he hung around his neck, it saved him. Before the perpetrator could kill him, a hot chick vision teaches him how to use magic. How f*cking convenient!!! Did she install this programme in his head? Because suddenly he becomes a kung fu master with magic and kicks ass! Oh well, Haruto did some judo in his life. After disabling the assassin, he notices a huge sack in the corner. Hey, isn’t she the purple haired girl they are looking for? Flora Beltrum is scared and wants him to take her to her father. Because she saw a dead body, she passes out. Rio carries her out but the group of hooded girls, especially Christina accuses him of kidnapping her sister who is the kingdom’s second princess. Rio refutes such thought. Vanessa needs him to come to the castle to clarify.

Later as the royal guards inspect the place, they arrest the perpetrator who is still breathing. Among the crowd is the accomplice and seeing he has failed his mission, he activates something that causes the assassin to die instantly, leaving all the guards baffled. In the castle’s dungeon, Rio is annoyed that he is being tied up and being tortured by Charles Arbor, the vice captain of the royal guard knights. He is trying to make Rio confess to Flora’s kidnapping. Of course Rio keeps denying doing such heinous crimes and Charles continues to torture him. Flora wakes up and is told what happened. She too tells what happened and wants to immediately see her father. Vanessa and Celia go check on Rio and they are appalled to see him beaten to a pulp! When they mention that Flora owes this kid her life, sh*t hits the fan for Charles. Oops. Sorry. Okay guys, let him go. Now let’s scram. WTF. Celia must have healed Rio’s face good as he wakes up and bed and Celia apologizing all that he has been through. She tells him he has been granted an audience with the king as he wants to express his gratitude. Rio knows he needs to undergo protocol and so he cleans himself up and makes himself presentable. Now he goes meet the king.

Episode 2
With the consent of the king, Rio is enrolled in the royal magic academy. Of course, all the nobles look down on him but luckily Celia who is their teacher (she’s a 12 year old genius?!) protects him. Also, Rio knows his place so he doesn’t give a f*ck about it all. Because Rio still can’t read well, he has private tutors at Celia’s place. Her place is a mess. Still a 12 year old at heart, huh? During military training, the instructor has Rio spar with him. Did I mention that Haruto also took kendo lessons? Yeah. Everyone shocked to see his stance. I suppose they don’t do kendo is this world. Rio impresses the instructor as he notes he will make a fine knight. However Rio says he doesn’t intend to join the knights, pissing off some of the nobles. What’s their problem? As Rio continues to study and work hard, the ostracizing by the others has him remember those painful memories of Haruto. Yeah. Miharu. Haruto’s moving was due to his parents separated. When he saw Miharu in high school, she never came back again like as though she erased him from his life. When Rio occupies the top spot along with Christina after the exams, the nobles is in disbelief. Especially Alphonse Rodan who thinks he cheated. Of course the ladies tell him off to stop his unsightly behaviour as this makes him ungentlemanly. They’re not protecting Rio either for the record.

5 years passed (I guess now it’s time for Yoshitsugu Matsuoka to take over despite still looking like a kid) and an exhibition tournament will be held. Among those chosen are Alphonse and Rio. Alphonse protests but the instructor tells him off it has been decided so STFU. We see Rio talking to Celia and she hears his intention to leave this kingdom. It seems he is planning to return to Yagumo, his parent’s hometown. Mom promised him to take him there when he is bigger. Of course there is talks of marriage on Celia’s part since she is already that age. All I’m getting is that Celia is part of Rio’s harem, right?! During the tournament, first up is Rio and he is against Charles! That dude has a bone to pick with Rio since he got demoted 5 years ago for that fiasco. Charles becomes desperate in trying to take him down but Rio remains cool and his kendo style triumphs his whatever royal knights style. Charles a bad loser wants a redo but the referee, Alfred Emal tells him to STFU and just accept this loss. That night, Charles gets dunk as he complains to Reiss Vulfe about all this. Yeah, blaming it all on Rio, huh? You bet Reiss is that guy who tried to kidnap Flora then. And since Charles talked too much and reveals about Rio’s torture that didn’t expose anything, Reiss now connects the dots. Celia wants to go congratulate Rio for his win but then sees him going off to a secluded place. What’s this? A girl who was smitten at his swordsmanship at the tournament hands him a love letter? First heartbreak for Celia. Damn those tears welling up faster than you can say “You’re f*cking in love with that kid, girl”!

Episode 3
Celia teaches magic in class. Later, Stewart Huguenot (bully #2) is impressed with her but WTF he warns Rio not to flirt with girls because of his tournament win?! He even accuses Rio of trying to flirt with Celia but she denies. Cool Rio just ignores and walks off. The class has some outdoor practicum that will impact on their grades. With Alphonse as the leader, he is to lead his class to a goal within a certain timeframe. Of course he and Stewart bully Rio into carrying the heavy luggage and poor Flora can do nothing about it. They fight a few low level goblins. No sweat. Then they reach the cliffs. Stuck. What now, commander? As they are surrounded and attacked by orcs, when Stewart gets a little bruise, he’s acting like it’s the end of the world and accidentally pushes Flora off! Rio drops down to go save her by floating her back up. Don’t worry, he floats down safely. After the class manages to defeat the orcs, they try to determine who pushed Flora off. Stewart of course tries to blame it on Rio and claims that coward ran away and made him collide with Flora. But their issue now is getting out of here when suddenly a minotaur pops up. You dead this time. When all is loss, everyone retreats. Flora is trying to treat an injured classmate when the minotaur is about to kill here. Oh cue for Rio to come in and kill this monster. Easy pie. How the f*ck could Flora carry that fatty classmate away?! Anyway, once done, Rio vanishes into the forest and won’t rendezvous with the rest after hearing all that trouble. All this monster setup was done by Reiss who was testing Rio’s abilities. Now he is ascertain why he can use the spirit arts. At the academy, Celia hears the Huguenot family trying to complain about Rio to Garcia Fontaine. Something about some house power balance whatever. Noting the royal family has weakened, he has no choice but to put the blame on Rio and leaves it to them. When Rio returns, Celia instantly hugs him. She is glad he is okay but soon tells of the false charges that will be put upon him. It is regrettable that it is cue for Rio to move out and head to Yagumo. Celia is sad but don’t worry, Rio will write letters to her. In his alias: Haruto. Bye, Rio. Can’t wait for those letters. After he leaves, it’s time to let all those tears she has been holding up, flow. Damn those memories of times spent with Rio. Such a great kid. Those letters better come! Meanwhile the Huguenot family lets loose Latifa, a beast girl assassin to hunt down and kill Rio.

Episode 4
Rio arrives as the next kingdom of Amande. He is surprised a shop is selling soup pasta. The owner credits it to Liselotte. Rio is advised to head to the merchant guild of Ricca to get stuffs he wants. He is served by maids, Lotte and Cosette for all his needs. Damn good service. Of course Lotte is Liselotte in disguise. As Rio leaves town, he sees an unconscious person on the ground. It is Latifa who tries to ambush him. Despite Rio getting poisoned, it doesn’t take long before he recovers and both of them start fighting. In the end, Rio gets the better of her. This causes Latifa to panic as she struggles, not wanting to die. Rio is forced to put her to sleep. You remember that bus Haruto was on that crashed? In that bus too was a loli, Suzune Endo. Yup, she reincarnated into this world as Latifa. However, as slave as Stewart, she was abused and tortured every day. Latifa wakes up as Rio assures her he has taken off a collar that forced her to be obedient. Realizing she is free, she can’t help but cry. When she’s done with that, she answers Rio’s questions. Although she doesn’t know her master’s name, she only knows Stewart. Rio connects the dot as this would make sense why Stewart wants him dead. Since she doesn’t intend to kill him anymore, he lets her go free. He also tells her in the east direction, Wilderness is where her kind lives. Well, it’s in the same direction Rio is going, right? Yeah, Latifa follows him. Not sure why Rio has to be a mini dick by being reserved that she might kill him. You’re making her more afraid! Heck, she even wants him to put on that collar because she hates to be alone! Okay then. You can follow him, but throw away that collar. And so both of them continue their journey through various lands. Damn, it’s like they’re crossing worlds. One night as they’re camping, Rio is surprised that Latifa knows what a spaghetti is. She used to eat them. Rio suspects she could be from his world. That proof is when she is having nightmares while sleeping, crying for her family and wanting to go home in Tokyo. Next morning, Latifa feels embarrassed to have slept holding onto Rio’s mantle. She thinks he looks like that Haruto guy from the bus. She gets permission to call him her onii-chan. During their journey, they reach an area where there is a huge tree sticking out like a sore thumb. Latifa cannot see it so Rio thinks there might be some magic blocking it. As they walk through and then camp there, one night a magic wolf appears before Rio.

Episode 5
The blinding light temporary blinds him. He is then ambushed by beast girls who think Rio is a kidnapper. Even more so when they think Latifa is his prisoner. Rio uses his hearing and senses to defend himself. He tries to reason with them but they don’t really trust humans. In the end, he is put to sleep. In his dream, he sees that hot chick vision again. She doesn’t know who herself is but knows she is deeply connected to him. When he wakes up, he is chained in bed as Latifa is seen emotionally running to hug him. She is mad to whoever did this to her beloved Rio. We see the beast girls very ashamed of themselves. Ursula the elder has them apologize and unlock his shackles. She even tells him tomorrow there will be a formal meeting by the elders just to apologize to him! Next day, Ursula takes him to see the other elders, Syldora the elf and Dominic the dwarf. They formally apologize and want to show their gratitude (damn, these people know how to do the Japanese bow?) but Rio only has a simple request as he wants to take Latifa into their care. Because she is so attached to him, he needs to stay here for a while to lessen the impact. Dryas who is the spirit of the World Tree then pops out to meet Rio. She senses a spirit sleeping in him but finds it odd because he never made any pact with any spirit. So she peaks into his soul and finds a person-shaped spirit sleeping there. Such spirits are rare and rank second highest or greater. It could be one of the 6 great spirits who disappeared after the great war with the demons a thousand years ago. With that, the elders think of treating him like a saint. Let’s say that has lots of special privileges. He returns to Latifa’s side and looks like they’re going to be living in a very nice house. Plus, some of the beast girls, Sara, Orphia and Alma are going to stay with him. Damn, now he has beast girls harem! Rio is shown around town. Now it’s time for the rites of the Grand Spirit Festival to begin! Meanwhile Reiss and a newly joined newbie member descend into a cave to steal a wyvern’s egg as the parent is away hunting. He lets the newbie carry the egg as they fly back to their kingdom. Of course Reiss knows that soon those horde of wyverns will be chasing after them in no time.

Episode 6
Latifa, Sara and Orphia are drunk. Yes, the much needed harem hijinks as they cling onto Rio. The party’s just getting started! Rio talks to Ursula that he wants to leave this village soon. This means he needs to tell Latifa. Meanwhile Reiss and the young lad rest nearby. Since Reiss is going away to do some business, he has him guard the egg. He also assures him what to do should there be any troubles arise. As the horde of wyverns are gone, Reiss returns to the cave and steals all the other eggs. Rio talks to Latifa about leaving the village. Hey, she did admit she was already having so much fun here, right? As expected, she throws a tantrum that she wants to go with him. He refuses since it will be dangerous. Not surprisingly, she can’t accept it and runs away. Sara and the rest detect something strange within the barrier as they go check it out. They see the young lad. When they try to talk to him, he rides the griffon and flees. At the same time, he is attacked by the wyvern. Realizing that he is heading towards the village, they need to warn the villagers as well as keep the wyvern at bay. As Reiss has finished his harvesting, he uses his magic to kill the young lad. You can imagine a surprised Latifa when she sees a dead corpse, a broken wyvern egg and an angry mother wyvern! Thanks to Alma, she is saved. But learning that the wyvern might be targeting the village, she does a dangerous move to distract it. Of course, here comes Rio to save her again after he heard what’s going on. Time to show why he is the boss because he defeats the wyvern with his own bare hands! This sends the other wyverns fleeing. Next day, Rio and Latifa talk properly. She really wants to be his little sister as he is a very kind and caring person. She accepts him leaving for Yagumo. In turn, he explains why he wants to return there. This is when Latifa also reveals about her reincarnation. She is surprised to hear Rio admitting the same. He didn’t tell her because of her unstable mental state then. It is also a reason he wants to go to Yagumo since he has regrets back in Japan. Latifa promises to get stronger and will wait for his return here. Before Rio leaves, everyone gives him very nice gifts. Damn, how is he going to carry them all? Don’t worry, one of the gifts is a time-space storage. Ah… Oh, this wyvern armour coat makes Rio one step closer in looking like Kirito!!! And off Rio goes as Latifa tearfully bid him goodbye.

Episode 7
Rio reaches Yagumo and is taken to see the village chief, Yuba. Explaining about his parents and reason to travel here (to make a grave for his parents, Ayame and Zen), Yuba reveals that she is Rio’s grandma. She is the mother of his father. Currently her only other living relative is Ruri who is the daughter of Rio’s father’s late older brother. Rio’s cousin, right? She also takes him to their graves in which they have already erected. As his parents had to secretly leave the village, it is possible they would most likely never return and hence made the graves. But for what reason, she cannot tell now and only when the time is right. As Rio is going to stay here for a while, he needs to make himself useful. He meets other villagers such as Sayo and her brother Shin. As we know, Rio is a master of all trades so he is superior to everything than Shin, making this guy jealous. One time he improvised on some bath thingy, Ruri and Sayo are impressed with it but apparently not Shin. Making him even more jealous is that the girls cling on and side by him! The start of a new Rio’s harem, eastern version! There are other girls swooning over him too but too bad they’re just extras. But trouble soon comes waltzing in. Gon who is the son of the neighbouring village’s village chief is here on pretence to stop by to rest as he was on his way to the capital to trade but his cart broke down. With such an obvious rape face, you can tell this guy really wants to harass Ruri. Shin tries to protect her but is too weak. With Yuba here, she allows him to stay but with strict conditions. Next day, Yuba and Rio welcome the tax examiner, Hayate Saga who checks the rick stocks of this village will be. By evening, Ruri and Sayo watch Rio train shirtless. Damn. Don’t mind us. Rio then talks about why he does this. A girl he swore to protect but couldn’t anymore. They’re not in contact either. Not sure where she lives. Maybe she’s in love with someone else too. So he is just training for himself. But if he is alive, one day he might meet her again. That night, Gon comes in to rape Ruri and Sayo. Thanks to the trap laid out by Rio, Gon is caught red-handed. But that near rape scene sparked some familiar trauma. This has Rio keep punching Gon to a pulp. Had not Hayate stopped him, he could’ve killed the bastard! Hayate arrests him and will be sent for punishment. Rio rues that he might turn into that man who killed his mom and that he has been averting revenge all this while. Next morning, he apologizes to everyone but they understand and instead are grateful for protecting the girls.

Episode 8
Before departing the village, Yuba gives Hayate a letter for his father. Rio accompanies Sayo and Shin to the royal capital. Doesn’t this kamutan look and taste similar like ramen? Then there’s this moment Rio buys Sayo a hair ornament. The shopkeeper even telling her to do her best because this young man has a lot of competition going on for him! That aside, it looks like there is a brazen daylight kidnapping in public. But luckily Rio steps in and saves the day. Hayate gives the letter to his father, Gouki. Shocked that he has met Rio, Rio is then asked to meet them. Gouki reveals the truth that he and his wife were attendants to his mother who is of royal lineage. That’s right. Rio is of royal blood. During a time when the kingdoms were at war, Zen was scouted as a great warrior. So great his skills that he was selected to be Ayame’s guard. You can tell they fell in love with each other. When the war ended and the kingdoms were to sign a truce, the ambassador of the neighbouring country liked Ayame and tried to kidnap her. Of course Zen foiled his plans. Unhappy, he then demanded if the truce to be finalized, Zen must be executed and Ayame be given as political marriage. Of course the obvious answer was to let them run away and the king arranged it in secret. They have no contact whatever since but now that Gouki has received Yuba’s letter, he is certain that Rio is Ayame’s son. Rio is then brought to see the king and queen who are of course his grandparents. They want to know about Ayame and Zen’s death. Rio doesn’t know much about his father as he passed on when he was young. As for mom, he was killed before his eyes by Lucius who is supposed to be Zen’s comrade. The next thing Rio knew, he was living in the slums. The rest is history as we have seen. It seems Rio wants revenge on Lucius and is willing to dirty his hands and walk down the path of hell to kill this dude. If that is his choice, so be it. But the king wants to ascertain if he is strong enough for that. Who knows, Lucius may be sneaky enough to kill Zen. Hence he has Gouki spar with him. In short, Rio surpasses everything to easily defeat Gouki. Impressive. Your majesty’s solicitude was not even needed. Rio also meets Komomo, the girl whom he saved earlier on and is Gouki’s youngest daughter. With everything in order, Rio pays his respects at his parents’ grave before moving ahead with his revenge goal. Going back to Beltrum?

Episode 9
Ruri finds it hard to believe that Rio is of royal lineage. That means she is related to royalty too, right? And then she gets awkward realizing all that. But of course, no need for formalities with Rio. Rio then tells them his plan. In one year’s time, he plans to leave Yagumo. Later all the girls get suspicious and jealous when Ruri’s way of talking to Rio has changed. Are they this close now? As the time goes by, Rio one day tells Ruri about his plan to leave since he hopes the spirit arts he taught her will be useful when he is gone. That shocked look on her face. I guess it says she wasted her time not trying to court him, huh?! She starts crying. Oops, just dirt in her eyes. Later she thought of crying alone but Shin catches her and thinks Rio did it. She tries to deny Rio has any part of this but Shin rushes off to see Rio. Instantly he prostrates himself for Rio not to leave. Please don’t go! Sayo feels embarrassed about this and will talk things out with Rio. During the harvest festival, Sayo finally sums up her courage to confess to Rio. However he turns her down. I guess that is one of the many reasons why he has to leave. She wants to follow him and even promises to train herself to not get in his way. Answer is still no. Okay then, how about to be just by your side? Just no. Rio leaves. The crying starts. Time for Shin to do his brotherly console. Rio leaves very early in the morning. Sayo is seen waiting at the gates to see him off. The last time not only Shin consoled her but Gouki as well. He asked her if she really loved Rio and would cast aside this village for him. So I guess she indeed loves Rio but I guess she can’t leave the village so she bids him farewell. At least her heart is clear now. Rio returns to the World Tree. Everyone happy to greet him. He sees the elders as he tells of his journey. During his travels, he thought a portable house that can be fitted into the time-space storage will be helpful. Yeah, can’t sleep in the woods all the time, right? Let Dominic think about that. Rio pays a visit to his harem. We’re so happy he is back but looks like he can only be staying here for a few months before leaving again. But he promises to be back sooner. You think the girls are embarrassed enough with his return. Wait till he compliments them how much they have grown. More blushing as Latifa says to take a bath together! Wait. I take that back. Because next morning, Rio is shocked to find a naked girl sleeping next to him! Not a dream! Flesh feels so real! The ultimate blush for his harem when they see this unholy scene.

Episode 10
Everybody calm down! Let’s analyse the situation. Rio is in bed with a hot naked woman and it’s our fault for coming in like that, OKAY! It’s something we’re not meant to see, OKAY! But jokes aside, who is this chick? She claims she is Rio’s contracted spirit. Though, she is amnesiac and knows nothing else. However ironically, because she refers to him as Haruto and claims she knows everything about him as Haruto, yet she doesn’t know anything! WTF???!! I’M F*CKING CONFUSED! Anyway, she has no name and wants him to name her. Yeah, after noticing how similar she looks to Miharu, I guess he calls her Aishia. In the ancient language it means spring. Just like in Haruto’s name, huh?! Then they go see Dryas and the elders for advice. Dryas doesn’t recognize this spirit so I guess we can write off she is one of those 6 great spirits. Dryas also says she should have retained the memories of her previous life before contracting. Nil. As for referring to Rio as Haruto, Rio claims he is wanted in the district of Stahl when he went by that name. What element is Aishia good at? All of them! They test her out and it seems Rio is given a run for his money. Could’ve destroyed the village had not Dryas stopped them. She will impart spirit knowledge on Aishia and so everyone continues to live their peaceful life. Once Dominic is done with the mobile rock house complete with a nice bath, Rio wants to get going by tomorrow. Wow. Time really flies. Hence we have a nice little Rio-Latifa moment. In the bath! She tells about her past life and about that bus accident. I guess this makes certain for Rio that she is indeed that loli in the bus. Because she claims she always wanted that cool onii-chan as her big brother, WTF Rio apologizes he couldn’t be that brother for her?! As Rio leaves, more gifts apparently. It includes a teleport stone that will bring him back here once and a pin that changes his hair colour since he is a wanted man. I GUESS THIS ANSWERS SOME JOKE I HAVE IN MY HEAD ABOUT HIS CHANGE OF HAIR COLOUR!!! Back in Beltrum we see Charles being the same dick and Celia having some sort of uncomfortable relationship with him. When Rio and Aishia return to the capital, they sneak into Celia’s room to see her but it is cleared out and empty. Did she resign? Using some hypnotic magic to ask a fellow professor, it seems Celia will be wedded off to Charles tomorrow! No wonder the town is bustling in preparation for tomorrow’s big noble wedding. That shock look on Rio’s face… I mean, nobody takes a girl from his harem, right?! NOT ONE WOMAN!

Episode 11
Further revelations reveal that this is a political marriage and not out of true love. A couple of years ago, Beltrum went to war with their neighbouring country, Proxia and suffered a crushing defeat. The Arbor house managed to negotiate for peace and the royal family lost its power and authority. The Huguenot faction was made to take responsibility but they fled the country with the royalty. The only thing left is to of course see Celia in person and ask her if this is what she wants. We all know the answer. We see Celia, her father and Charles having dinner. Her father pledges his loyalty to the country but because of rumours he is secretly siding with the Huguenot, Charles doesn’t really trust him and threatens him to take some sort of responsibility. Hence this marriage is to help protect his standing. BS, right? The night before the wedding, ah my dear Celia remembers about Rio. Wish to see him? Before she could burn his letter away, her wish is granted. Tada! Here is Rio! Sceptical at first but after ascertaining it is really him, she gives him a big hug. She notes how much taller, handsome, dashing, stronger, he has become. There’s your hint where her feelings lie! So he asks about the wedding. Of course we all know Celia is lying that it is her decision. Then she jokes for him to marry her instead and elope somewhere! I can bet this is not a joke! Second hint, dude!!! As always, she brushes it all as joke and tells him to leave. Don’t come to the ceremony. It’ll be embarrassing. After he leaves, I guess she can finally cry. Her final wish came true, what else can she wish for? Haruto returns to Aishia. He can’t ascertain Celia’s true feelings! OMG! You serious?! Oh well, I think she didn’t spell it out CLEARLY for him. What now, boy?

Early next morning, we see Charles and Reiss meet. Because of their countries being hostile with each other, Reiss warns not to fraternize with him so openly. Celia so beautiful in her wedding dress that Charles is putting on his rape face. But to calm her down, he has his wives tend to her. OH F*CK! THIS GUY HAS ALREADY 6 WIVES!!!!!!!!! The first wife, Tenasina tries to throw her weight around and remind her of the pecking order in which Celia obediently nods to her every command. Luckily Christina is here to see Celia personally. It is a weird and sad feeling for Christina because now that the royalty has lost power, she is able to walk around like this. She also feels bad that thanks to the royalty losing the war, the ill effects have resulted in this wedding. Even more so Celia has lost her smile from her teaching days. For that, Christina is truly sorry. The wedding ceremony begins. The huge crowd happily greets the beautiful bride and her groom. Is it me or does the escort look kinda gloomy? Naturally, Celia too. But she has to put on that fake smile. Of course Rio is here as he sends Aishia to telepathically communicate with Celia. When she realizes Rio in the crowd, she starts to tear up. She feels embarrassed for he has seen her in this state. Charles is worried she suddenly cries but she covers that she is happy. Good. Because Charles claims that this is all part of his plan to take over the kingdom one day. Who would’ve guessed… Because Celia cannot talk with Aishia anymore, she thought it was all a dream. As Celia is about to step out of the carriage, suddenly an intruder rushes towards her. It’s Rio! Time to steal the bride!

Episode 12
OMFG! See how Rio defeats all those damn guards! So many and yet they can’t do anything about him! And Charles thought security was flawless, huh?! Well, flawless victory for Rio! He punches Charles in the guts and takes Celia hostage! Nobody can do anything, thinking it’ll aggravate the situation. Good. Because time for Rio to telepathically talk to Celia if this is what she wants. Well, she already gave you her answer, right? I mean, IS THAT REALLY WHAT SHE WANTS?! Because he would hate to lose things that are precious to him (like his mom) and that she is truly precious to him. Gee, that’s a longwinded way of saying he loves her and can’t stand her being wedded to another guy! He can make her wish come true and escape this kingdom with her. Well, if he has put it that way so much… Okay! That’s the magic word he wants to hear. And here we go! Yeah, those clone soldiers are a laughing stock as they still can’t hold him in. Because no matter how many they are, Rio jumps over them!!! F*CKING HILARIOUS!!! Reiss is part of the guests and although he doesn’t recognize Rio physically, his magic feels familiar and he believes this is Rio. He tests him with some energy ball in which he manages to deflect. Reiss is happy he has grown stronger. Alfred takes over the security and has the guards do a wide search over the city as he tells whiny cry-baby Charles to STFU. In an alley, Rio leaves Celia in Aishia’s care. They’ll meet up later as Rio will buy time as decoy. And so we see Rio kick ass against all those useless clone guards. Copy and paste, huh? So much so it’s time for Alfred to fight him one on one because he can’t pile up the injuries. Yeah, they’re useless, right? Of course Alfred is on a class of his own but Rio uses the chance to escape after he unleashes a powerful magic move. Alfred believes he didn’t hit Rio and that he has fled. True enough, Rio reunites with Celia and Aishia at the outskirts. Some little romantic time together until the sky turns dark and starts shooting down coloured beams! OMFG! Did Rio unlock some harem special?! Aishia senses something wrong and tells Rio to go save them. Over the plains, a pair of siblings, Aki Sendou and her brother, Masato are seen lost and with… OMG, it’s Miharu?! Did they arrive late to this isekai?! However they are kidnapped by thugs to be sold. Thank goodness for Rio coming in just in time. No time for diplomacy. Just slaughter them all! YEAH! As he frees them, imagine the shock on his face when he rescues Miharu from her cell. Uhm, hi. Awkward…

Gensou-Kirito’s Spirito Harem Chronicles
Oh sh*t! What the heck does that mean?! Oh, I know what that very well means. ANOTHER F*CKING SEASON!!! Well, if they actually announced it but so far at the time of this blog of mine. Nothing. I bet they saw that this series wasn’t going to be as popular as they think they would and with tanking popularity and criticisms, they might just wait for the respond of the DVD and BD sales to confirm if they’re going to do another season. Otherwise for better or worse (mostly the latter), we are going to be left with this unsavoury cliff-hanger that will certainly leave a bad aftertaste in the mouth and leaving a lot of fans and haters salty. Yeah… Don’t tell me the story ends after the main character reunites with his first love. Technically this is how many romantic stories end. Too bad, this one isn’t THAT romantic to boot.

You know, sometimes I think the true entire plot of this series is about Rio travelling across the land just to accumulate a bunch of girls enough to create his own kingdom of mini harem in the end! Do you not see how it is?! Of course the light novel that this series is adapted from has many other stories and twists but from the point of view from this anime, it seems just like that. I know, I know, not enough episodes to flesh the entire story out. Whatever conspiracies against the kingdoms and all, it is not so visible here as Rio travelling around the land and amassing his own girls. Yeah, it’s pretty funny to think that Rio has this sort of strange charm to attract them. Because it makes me think and feel that there are no other guys in this land that these girls have never met before who are as good as Rio. Uh huh. I suppose that is why we need to have his backstory as a kid from current day Japan to die and reincarnate in this fantasy world. Because Japanese values are the best, right? Rio’s considerateness, politeness, courtesy as well as his masterful skills in the sword and spirit magic makes him the (isekai) world’s most eligible bachelor! Damn this guy managing to steal the heart of at least a girl in the town he stops makes me feel I can write a parody song version of Ricky Nelson’s Travellin’ Man! No kidding!

So yeah, aside this harem gathering side mission, the overall story itself isn’t too shabby but it still feels like there is a lot more potential for development and fleshing out. We’ve already went through the life and times of Rio from young till he is a teen. And then a journey across the land to reach the far end of the continent just to reach his homeland only to receive another revelation that he is of royal heritage. Wow. That surely earned him a lot more points. What now after visiting the land of his ancestors? Revenge. But too bad a dozen episodes here will not be enough to see Rio exact that. And of course I’m predicting that he’ll get involved in more dark conspiracies by puppet masters pulling the strings from behind the shadows before he can avenge his parents’ death. I mean, if he manages to do that fast, goddamn he is the luckiest guy in the world to get what he wants fast. Then what next? For now, it’s stopping Celia’s unjust wedding… And mission accomplished!

I don’t think this series was meant to fall under the comedy category. Yeah, I don’t think I see it anywhere in the tags while reading the synopsis. Sure, some funny moments here and there but that’s just spontaneous rather than this entire series was supposed to be a comedic one. What I’m trying to say is that at the end of every episode, we have this very short and funny segment. Dubbed the Exciting Bonus Manga by Futago Minazuki (one of the authors of this series), it is basically a yonkoma manga styled shorts in which the characters do some funny little stuffs. Yeah, you get more funny comedy stuffs than in the episode proper altogether. It doesn’t have any bearings on the real story and it’s just some mini fun to earn your mini smile since it is pretty silly in its own way. Oh, there is also a mini web spinoff that runs concurrently with the series, Celia-sensi No Wakuwaku Magical Kyoushitsu. Basically a chibi Celia explaining to Rio, Latifa and us about stuffs. It wasn’t translated so didn’t really stay and ‘waste my time’ watching the whole 60 seconds clip. Heh.

As for the characters, it is hard for me and many trying not to associate Rio with Kirito. You don’t know how many times I have mistakenly typed Kirito’s name in place of Rio or Haruto in this blog! Thank goodness for spellcheck! What else can I say about this guy? He is so good a guy and because he is main character, girls like him. That’s all there is to it. Like I have already pointed out, Rio is such a nice guy and that is one big reason why the girls take a liking for him, it’s like there are no other guys with similar kindness in the same town. Yeah, those royals at the noble academy are jerks. And then those at Yagumo are well, uhm, basically rednecks. Like Shin. Sort of. So who else is oozing such cool and calm composure save for the one and only Rio? Thank goodness Rio never lost his Japanese touch after he died. Had those Haruto’s memories never come into the orphan Rio’s mind at the right time, that Rio could’ve grown up to be a dick as well. A nobody. Ah, such great timing and convenience. Hey, at least Rio used it to make his way up in life. Yeah, this guy is so nice, sometimes do you feel like getting sick and throw up? That’s why we can never be like him and get the girls :-(. On a trivial note, when Rio was given the hair colour changing device, my own personal joke was this was how Asians get westernized and turned into Caucasians! HAHAHA! Of course now taking a closer look, the hair colour isn’t blonde but a very light beige. But you do get the joke, right?!

As for the rest of the female characters, they fall into some sort of harem tropes, right? Oh well, you can guess who they are as they appear at the end of the opening credits. Count them! Oh my, there’s more than 10 babes there?! MOEE THAN 10!!! No wonder why I said he can operate his own mini harem kingdom. Not only Rio has got girls from the western side and of the eastern type, from royalties to commoners, he also got beast girls and spirits to boot! Variety is the spice of life! So inclusive! I’m just wondering when other races like vampires would eventually fall under his charm.

So I can’t really say much about these girls for the time being. Maybe I’ll touch on a few of them like Aishia, whom I suspect could be Miharu. Because if the great Dryas can’t even identify what kind of spirit she is, my guess is that she could be Miharu from Haruto’s world who somehow died in an accident (it could be on the train the bus collided with!) and reincarnated as a spirit. It sounds like a long stretch but hey, no rules say that being reincarnated in the other world must be of the flesh and blood. So yeah, Aishia could be the first love that Haruto/Rio has been searching for and is under his nose all along. And even more convenient that Aishia has no recollection of her other memories but somehow knows but barely knows about Haruto and Rio? Hmm… Suspicious…

And of course the final scene of the final episode smashed this conspiracy of mine and immediately put an end to more dumb theories that I would have in store. Well, at least in a way this is also good news because now Rio can have an extra girl in his harem! Oh damn, yeah! No need to fight and restore Aishia’s memories to Miharu because now they are 2 separate different entities. So who is Aishia? Don’t care for now but we all know she is part of the harem and the one serving closest to him. The only girl who has gone deep inside of Rio… Yeah!!! And why does Miharu and those siblings arrive in their original human form instead of their memories fitted into some native kid? Beats me. Maybe the whole orchestrator of this isekai thingy forgot about them and realized too late and just decided to drop them in as they are. Heh. Because good news for Rio as he doesn’t have to worry that Miharu looks different and can still remain looking the sweet first childhood sweetheart he has always known by then. And all those other coloured beams… I wonder if they are more girls from Earth to be saved by Rio and added to his harem! OMFG! This is indeed harem collection madness! Hurry up! Gotta save and catch ‘em all!

Then there is Liselotte who seem pretty redundant at the moment. Rio’s short stop at Ricca and Amande felt like she was going to be somewhat prominent or something but he left as fast as he came. Perhaps Liselotte is for now just not having any sort of role and could be some sort of foreshadowing in the future. After all, she is part of Rio’s future harem, right? Flora and Christina also felt like missed opportunities but considering the current pace of where we are at now, they’re taking a back seat for now. Let’s see who else… Latifa, imouto trope. Sara, Orphia and Alma, 3 stooges? Almost. Ruri, cousin trope. Forbidden love, maybe? Sayo, Japanese beauty. But of course. Komomo, loli trope. Because could be future retainer to serve under Rio if he so wishes to use his royal lineage one day. And not forgetting Celia, loli teacher sensei. Alma mater. Boy, Rio sure did come back at the right time, huh?

It is one of those rare moments in reel life where the hero and the main villain do not meet face to face (though Reiss has indirectly caused some inconvenience to Rio as tests). Reiss I believe could be the puppet master and manipulating everything in the land from behind the scenes. I won’t be surprised if he too had a hand in killing Rio’s parents. Lucius was just in cohorts with him or taking orders from him. He could be the last boss that Rio will have to face but that is just highly speculative from me. After all, there is nothing much known about Reiss especially his goals and what he truly intends to accomplish (perhaps he just wants chaos to flood the land) and that enigma makes him a lot dangerous. So here, have this one dimensional villain AKA Charles because who else needs to be the final arc’s antagonist? A jerk who never changed since yesterday. Somebody needs to play the bad guy so that Rio can swoop in and save the day, look even much more cooler and make Celia’s heart go Gyah~ Kyah~ KYAH!!!!!! Heh. I wonder when Alphonse and Stewart will return to play the jerks to help further elevate Rio into godly status. Hmm… What if Reiss also had a hand in making that bus-train accident and killing Haruto to make him reincarnate in this world???!!!

Action scenes are just pretty mediocre. I don’t really find anything memorable here but it’s just to show off how good Rio is with the sword and if not, his magic. That’s why it’s hard for me to not see Kirito in this dude each time he unsheathes his sword. Just short of mastering long range weapons like bow and arrow. Heh. Especially the final episode wedding crashing scene, it was just awfully goddamn weird. All the trained elite soldiers couldn’t do anything to Rio or even touch him. Quality > quantity. Also, Rio has main character privileges. What a f*cking joke…

Art and animation are pretty standard too. Typical conventional anime style character designs an all. Nothing extraordinary. As usual, I’m going to b*tch for the umpteenth time that Rio looks so much like Kirito and no matter how much I say this, I still can’t get this off my chest! Damn, I’m not even a hardcore Kirito fan! As usual, I think I see characters from other animes in some of the character designs such as Latifa looking suspiciously like the titular character Sewayaki Kitsune No Senko-san or any other anime fox girl to boot. I’m too lazy to think and list down for the rest ;p. Is it me or does Alfred look like Boku No Hero Academia’s All Might but without all the American buff macho manliness and in uniform? This show is done by TMS Entertainment who did Dr Stone, Kamisama Hajimemashita, Yowamushi Pedal, Megalo Box and the remake of Fruits Basket.

Voice acting, wait for it, yup, Yoshitsugu Matsuoka as Rio! How can we not stop pigeonholing him as a Kirito character when he continues to play such similar characters?! Yes, this is not the only Kirito clone character he has played. Others as seen in Tate No Yuusha No Nariagari, Campione, Kuusen Madoushi Kouhosei No Kyoukan and even DanMachi. Sure, I mean percentage wise, his roles as Kirito clones are miniscule and negligible. But it made the most impact compared to the myriad of other characters he voiced. So once more, how can we not associate this guy with Kirito?! Other recognizable seiyuus include Koji Yusa as Reiss, Sayaka Ohara as Yuba, Nao Touyama as Liselotte, Yuko Kaida as Ursula and Chiaki Omigawa as Ruri (OMG, where you been, girl?!).

The other casts are Akane Fujita as Celia (Kaiko in Imouto Sae Ireba Ii), Yuuki Kuwahara as Aishia (Tooru in Kobayashi-sab Chi No Maid Dragon), Tomori Kusunoki as Latifa (Natsumi in Deca-Dence), Kaede Hondo as Flora (Elaina in Majo No Tabitabi), Sayumi Suzushiro as Christina (Oono in High Score Girl), Yurika Kubo as Sayo (Hanayo in Love Live), Hiyori Nitta as Sara (Rino in Jinsei), Asuka Nishi as Alma (Shinobu in Kin-iro Mosaic), Yukina Shutou as Orphia (Shizuku in Idoly Pride), Yurie Kozakai as Dryas (Pekola in Jashin-chan Dropkick), Atsushi Tamaru as Charles (Ayato in Gakuen Toshi Asterisk), Hiroshi Naka as Dominic (Garp in One Piece), Kazua Ichijou as Syldora (Zafira in Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha), Takaki Ootomari as Gouki (Makoto in Centaur No Nayami), Kenji Hamada as Alfred (Killer in One Piece), Maki Kawase as Vanessa (Junko in Zombie Land Saga) and Sayaka Harada as Miharu (Chiya in Urara Meirocho). The opening theme is New Story by Marika Kouno. Typical generic anime pop. Nothing special. Elder Flower by Aguri Oonishi as the ending theme is as dramatic as it gets and it is also heavy and deep on the bass lines.

Overall, this series isn’t a masterpiece. It is far from perfect and has its flaws but it isn’t all that bad. If it had more episodes to flesh things out or perhaps given another season, it could be interesting to see where it all goes. The worst part is me keep thinking and associating the main character as Kirito and hence flooding and blinding my judgement that this series is no more than a fantasy isekai version of SAO. And yes, it overall still feels like a harem gathering anime. And also yes, this is still isekai and the dread of any anime falling under this category will be subjected to severe biasness and prejudice. It’s already got a mountain to climb. So far it did not impress. At this rate the chronicles might turn into chronic pain. Sorry, bad pun. So yeah, when the next SAO gonna come out then?

P/S: For those curious about my Travellin’ Man song parody:

I’m a travellin’ man and I’ve made a lot of stops
All over the world
And in every part I own the heart
Of at least one lovely girl

I’ve a pretty loli sensei waiting for me
Down in my old uni
If you’re ever in Yagumo stop and see
My cute Japanese Ruri

Oh my Miharu my first childhood love
Makes my heart start to yearn
And my Latifa down at the old World Tree
Waits for my return

Contract spirit Aishia baby inside of me
I remember the time
When those beast folks girls walked in while we’re in bed
We freaked out oh so fine

Oh I’m a travellin’ man
Yes I’m a travellin’ man…

Kanojo Mo Kanojo

This season’s comedy, romance, harem and mild ecchi anime, Kanojo Mo Kanojo. Ah yes. If you ever wonder how you want to get a harem of your own and to go about it without letting the public know, perhaps this anime should have some guide and tips for you! Heh. Just kidding! Anyway, our lucky bastard AKA male protagonist finds himself having to juggle going out with more than 1 girlfriend. So rather than pick and choose (that is, letting one side lose, hence vanquishing her forever), why not go for a win-win situation where he dates them all! In secret! Screw monogamy! Polyamory is in! It’s not an affair if they consented to it! Nobody shall stop their happiness! Yeah. Can they do it? Without being discovered and screwed by society? Well, if they’re happy, who am I to complain… *Staring with piercing jealous eyes*.

Episode 1
When childhood friend Saki Saki (yes, that’s her name) confessed to Naoya Mukai, they become the happiest couple in the world. As Saki goes out with her friend, she teases him not to cheat her. Well, this guy took it too literally so he starts hugging her and promises not to do that! In the middle of class! So as not to lose out, Saki also puts up a brazen act to cherish his love. Later as he hangs out alone at the rooftop, Nagisa Minase approaches and confesses she loves him. Because he finds her cute, she is glad all that extreme workout for the past 3 months paid off. Heck, she even cooked him an elaborated bento! So will he go out with her? Well, he has Saki… A sad Nagisa understands but won’t give up. So does Naoya. What? He wants to date both of them so he is going to bring her to see Saki for permission!!! So when he does so, Saki is smitten by her cuteness and wants to hang out. Let’s get to know each other better! So once they have their fun, it’s time for sh*t to hit the fan as Naoya reveals the truth behind all this. Guess what? Saki punches him! That’s your answer. NO WAY JOSE! So Saki isn’t good enough for him? Apparently Nagisa is okay with him dating both of them since she can’t envision them breaking up and she doesn’t want to lose out. Naoya tries some reverse psychology convincing. Basically this proposal of his is because he can’t lie to his feelings and both of them. Answer is still no. Naoya and Nagisa try to ‘bribe’ her that they’ll give and do many things. Still no. Nagisa’s puppy dog eyes, almost… And Naoya’s prostrating. Oh well… A very reluctant Saki agrees. Damn, she’s starting to hate this guy, huh?

Now that they’re all dating, what now? Naoya suggests they all live with him since he doesn’t live with his parents. Nagisa is okay but Saki feels the need to tag along so as not to lose out. So if Naoya lives alone, damn this house feels like one for a small family! He lives in this place all by himself before?! After Nagisa cooks delicious dinner, it’s fanservice time as the girls get to know each other better via bath. Oh yeah. Only, those damn steam censors… Saki feels envious that Nagisa is better endowed than her. And then Nagisa gives permission for Saki to have sex with Naoya as she doesn’t want to be the third wheel! But Saki says they haven’t even kissed yet. Let’s not rush things. And when Nagisa says to work hard and do such things together, Saki just had to confront Naoya if he wants to have sex with them. Being the dead honest guy he is, YES HE WANTS TO! BRING ON THE THREESOME! BUT! He feels the need for them to establish good relationships first before leaping into such things. He’ll give up on the threesome! Everyone is relieved. For a while. And then Saki asks if that means giving up sex with her forever? Of course. That will be unfair to Nagisa, right? Oh Saki, you sound so disappointed?! Naoya gets the wrong idea he made her abstain! Man, this is getting confusing…

Episode 2
Is Saki losing her mind? I guess any normal girl would if your guy is openly dating another girl. She tries to convince Nagisa that since Naoya is a pervert for wanting a threesome, you hate him, right? Well, Nagisa doesn’t mind it if Naoya wants it. So another pervert… Yup, Saki losing it further. Well it’s going to get worse as Naoya lines up their futon as they’ll be sleeping together! But without the sex part of course! Saki pretends to sleep but keeps hearing ambiguous lines from the duo. Eventually she thinks they’re having sex but he is just holding her hand to make her feel better. A very embarrassed Saki plays along to his suggestion that she too is lonely. Nagisa wakes up early to cook breakfast so as to score points. However she still wants to get ahead and by doing so, she needs to dig for info in their handphones. A trove of secrets. Well, got to know what they like, right? She starts off looking at Saki’s handphone. This is what happens when you don’t erase your search history. Nagisa finds all her searches are related to sex!!! She then looks at her tweets about her feelings after Naoya double dates them. Naoya wakes up and sees this. Oh no. This is followed by Saki. In order to protect Nagisa, Naoya lies that he looked at her search history. Of course he doesn’t know what it’s all about as Saki gets the wrong idea and flusters like mad. In the end, she punches him to forget it all while she herself goes back to sleep to forget. Wow. That works.

When Nagisa reveals that she is in the same class with them but went missing because of that workout just to confess to Naoya, Naoya won’t have her lag behind class and will tutor her all day long! Saki joins in so as not to lose out. In short, Nagisa sucks at her studies! It gets bad enough that she takes a long toilet break just to Google for a way! She fears he will lose faith in her for being stupid! But the duo get worried as she is too long in the toilet. Could she be sick? She manages to give an excuse and although she protected her reputation, she felt like she lost something else. Nagisa returns to study but still gets it wrong. Time for another toilet break. 3 hours! As they head to school, Saki doesn’t want their relationship to be found out. Their reputation will be tarnished. Since this is Nagisa’s first time in class, everyone is staring at her. Who this girl? Weird stares indeed. Yo, she a plague or something?! Naoya feels bad for her and walks up to her to try and be friends. Seems to be going fine until he realizes the sadness in her looks. He can’t take it and wants to reveal the truth about them! Of course Saki will not have that and beats him up to shut his mouth. She takes him away to remind him of it. Sure, it looks bad that Nagisa is ostracized but if the rest found out about their double date, they would think Naoya doesn’t care for Saki. And that’s not what she wants. Nagisa comes by to assure them she’ll be okay by herself and hopes they won’t fight. She hands them their bento and will go somewhere else to eat by herself. The duo feel bad for treating her like a stranger so they agree to hang out secretly in school. And Naoya still can’t tell everyone the truth.

Episode 3
Since the rooftop is off limits, they’ll have to find another place to hangout. What place doesn’t have many people during recess? The toilet! Damn it stinks! Well then, how about outside behind the toilet! Still stinks! But with bugs! Another place? A cleaner toilet?! Does Nagisa have any other places to hang out? Finally they think the gym storeroom is the perfect place since it is locked during recess. They sneak in via window and have their lunch. Too bad, no locked storeroom cliché moments. As they enjoy their lunch, Saki realizes that she has done nothing to contribute to this relationship. I mean, it is either Naoya or Nagisa who has been cooking or cleaning. At this rate, she’ll lose out! NO WAY! She runs away?! Next time, Saki asks if there is anything she could do for him. The tables turned as he asks her what she wants and then buys her cake. Mmm. Delicious. JA NAI YO! She tries cooking but obviously sucks. Realizing her uselessness, there is only one thing left… That night, she crawls into his bed, ready to have sex! However Naoya refuses her, citing the promise. NAOYA YOU GAY!!! Can’t blame for Saki to be mad, thinking he prefers Nagisa’s huge boobs. Poor Saki decides to run home. Don’t worry, she lives next door. Nagisa thought this means she is now alone with Naoya and can do things together. Too bad dumb Naoya is not going to give up to get Saki to come back. Don’t you feel like slapping this guy? First, he writes thick love letters for her! Won’t accept? He’ll read it aloud then! DON’T! Spend all his money on her favourite gacha game! Didn’t even get anything valuable. What a waste… Buying all the cakes she loves? Not accepting bribes! Taking cute pictures of dogs and cats? Plenty on the internet. Thinking that boobs are the problem, he shows his porn account that he loves boobs of all sizes! BAKA!!! At this point Naoya has not slept for 3 days and is at his limit. Nagisa is so worried for him and will do anything for him. Can’t she just be the one? She’ll be Saki’s part for him too. But no can do. He decided to date them both and will see it through. Yeah, it rekindles why she loves this jerk. Hence next day, she purposely makes Naoya touch her boobs. This has Saki jealous as she jumps right over! Gotcha. Now that she’s here, you can talk to your heart’s content.

Episode 4
Saki comes clean that she can’t do anything like Nagisa does. Because of that, she fears he will be happy with just Nagisa. Although Naoya claims he is happy that Saki doesn’t need to do anything, that’s not the point. Punch out! KO! Naoya’s reasoning is that because he is responsible for this, he needs to make them happy first before his. But Nagisa understands Saki’s feelings. Because she too feels she isn’t doing enough despite Naoya is satisfied. So with everybody wanting to make everybody happy, the twisted logic is that he shouldn’t shoulder this double dating thing alone by himself. Even they too want to make him happy. Naoya regrets his immature thinking and wants Saki to punch him. Punch out! KO! Hey, he wanted it. So now that is solved, Saki and Nagisa also become rivals and won’t lose out to each other. I see this is where the complication begins… Later Saki tries to get to know Nagisa more by playing his Call Of Duty knockoff game. Nagisa did play it before. Yeah, she put 1000 hours into it. But she still sucks! At every turn, she gets killed! So much so, Saki can’t help but feel amused at her. Heck, while training her to snipe, somehow Nagisa slips and shot Saki! HOW DID THIS EVEN HAPPEN! Oh yeah. Fun times. Nagisa decides to watch some MeTube (?!) video to get better on this game. The top gamer of this is Milika. Saki doesn’t like her. You know those Twitch streamers who keep flaunting their boobs? Yup. She’s that kind… But they notice her school uniform in the background. Is she from their school? Next day as the trio eat at their usual place and Saki bragging how she made sure the place is secure, suddenly Rika Hoshizaki climbs in! Saki forgot to lock the window this time?! Rika can tell they are in a 3 way relationship and it doesn’t help that Naoya admits to it just to deflect the misunderstanding it is anything sexual. Rika gets cocky about keeping this a secret despite Saki prostrating herself. Heck, Naoya is going to give his whole life savings of 200k! Too bad, Rika doesn’t need such loose change as she makes more than that. This has Naoya worried if she sells her body. Nagisa then points out that Rika is Milika. The hair, eyes and boobs. Rika panics. Now it’s her turn to plead not to let others know about this. Saki’s turn to be cocky. Now we’re even. They promise not to bust her secret. Even better for Naoya. Even if she tells others their secret, he will take hers to the grave. Rika realizes they are good people and wants Naoya to be her boyfriend. WHAT?! Hey, can’t say I’m shocked. Saw this coming…

Episode 5
Rika claims it’s time for her to get a boyfriend but Nagisa can tell her ulterior motive is to get a man to protect her from creepy stalkers. Hey, she is a famous MeTube star. Rika shows off all her sexy points. And just when you think Naoya is going to take the bait. He rejects her. If he dated everyone who is cute, this will not end. Says the guy who is dating 2 GIRLS! Time for the next desperate action: Showing off her G cups! He’ll get to grope them if he dates her. Sorry girl. He’ll only grope the boobs of girls he loves! Then she finds out they live in the same place. She wants to live with them too and show she is worth it. Plus, she’ll pay rent and cover all their expenses. Yet another rejection by our (Un)Saint Naoya because he disapproves a man and woman living together if they’re not in a relationship! Rika is defeated for today but will be back. Next day, they see a tent pitched outside Naoya’s house! Oh dear. Yes, you bet she is going to stay here till he accepts her. Okay. Let’s see how long she can last. The cold is going to kill her and there are bugs too. Determined not to give up, she orders online all the stuffs she needs. It’ll arrive tomorrow so she just have to hold it out. To keep herself warm, she films herself and uploads the video of her doing exercise. However she cannot stop because once she does, the cold overwhelms her. Yeah, just make sure those boobs are in the right view. When morning comes, the stuffs arrive. What do you have to say about that now? You stink, go home and take a bath! Rika then improvises and using the survival tutorial, shows it to them how she takes a bath with all the stuffs she’s got. Don’t forget to film it too. Saki and Nagisa are worried that Rika will eventually live here. They need a plan to counter this. And that is to go seduce Naoya in the bathroom with their swimsuits? I guess this is the quality time they’re talking about to make him treasure them more. So expect a few fanservice shenanigans. Eventually Naoya wonders how this will deal with Rika. Well, Nagisa hopes to look at them a lot. And so he stares. At their delicious parts. IS THIS WHAT THEY MEANT?! Nagisa so cute when she’s blushing and calling him a pervert. I think she levelled up a lot. Meanwhile Rika sleeping nicely in her tent and sleep (trash) talking she’ll make Naoya her man. Keep dreaming…

Episode 6
Another failed attempt by Naoya to shoo Rika off his property. Saki and Nagisa think maybe they don’t need to rush this and push her and in time perhaps Rika will just go away. When Rika goes to the nearest store for the toilet, Naoya quickly calls the pawn shop to come pick up the tent items. But his girls disagree with this. What were they saying about taking this slow? Naoya fears that he might fall for Rika. He once promised Saki he was the only one for her but fell for Nagisa. That’s why he needs to put in effort in loving them both. While the girls are happy and have confidence that he has no intent of falling for Rika, however Naoya doesn’t have the confidence that he might not stay true. He is after all a two timer. Yeah, he admitted that. So they agree to help drive her out. As the pawn shop is on the way, Naoya will stall Rika while the girls pack her stuffs. Of course Naoya fails as Rika sees her belongings being taken away. Naoya tries to hold her back but she screams rape. Heck, Naoya doesn’t care and even admits he is just a two timer jerk?! Naoya is willing to compensate her stuffs. A million yen? Definitely lying. But Naoya is willing to pay! He’ll take up jobs just to pay her off! In the end, her stuffs are gone and Naoya gives her his IOU. But she tears it up and swears she will never leave home again while clinging onto him. Drama interrupted when Rika’s dad is here. He was worried she never came back and asked the school about it. Dad is certainly confused about Naoya. Not her boyfriend but a two timing jerk? WTF?! So did his daughter fell for this idiot? She claims no, but she would if he begs. Isn’t that being tsundere? Saki and Nagisa have a bad feeling of where this is going. Worse, when Naoya says he has no intention of dating her, dad thinks his daughter not attractive enough?! Naoya claims otherwise and reveals her popularity on MeTube. That is when daddy learns she has been exposing her boobs to the world! It should’ve been the end of her but stupid Naoya continues to vouch for Rika. When dad forces her to go home, she punches him. That’s when he’s had it and steals her phone, threaten to delete her account. What’s this? Naoya to the rescue! Continue to vouch how amazing Rika is and all the hard work she has put into her channel?! Because of that, he will protect her!!! OH NO! That look on Rika’s face, she has definitely fallen for him!!! Rika agrees to go home for now and talk things out with dad. She’ll be back. Drama over, but it’s just the beginning of the nightmare for Saki and Nagisa. The competition just ramped up.

Episode 7
Saki is at her wits’ end so she takes a break and goes home. Mom wonders how their relationship is going and asks if they even have sex! Sorry to disappoint you, not even kissed! Mom is shocked and wonders if Naoya has low sex drive! Is she implying she wants her daughter f*cked???!!! I understand her daughter is the cutest in the world is one thing but this… But mom has an idea. Later as Nagisa tugged in early for the night, Saki returns in a Playboy bunny outfit! Are you turned on and want to f*ck me?! I think that is what is implied. Although Naoya finds her cute, but because of the promise, he can’t do it. Saki tries to twist all that by saying if it was her, she’ll definitely f*ck right now!!! Then she jumps on him. Her mini boobs barely holding the suit starts to sag. Naoya holds them up to protect her modesty but gets beaten up. So you wanna f*ck or not? She runs away calling him a pervert but her tone sounds like she loves it. Next morning, Saki is so bubbly and happy. Nagisa is suspicious. Did something happen last night? Later, Nagisa finds the bunny suit in the laundry. She asks Naoya about it. Was Saki cute enough and does he like cosplay? Soon, she returns in a maid outfit! I APPROVE! NOW PUSH HER DOWN AND F*CK HER LIKE A BEAST!!! That did not happen but they start playing master-servant role. Really loving it, huh? So when all 3 are eating dinner together, Nagisa forgot and is still in her role. Thank goodness Saki thought she was just hearing things. In school, Rika is stalking Naoya outside. You bet Saki will not have this. Rika claims she isn’t in love with him but with that guy standing next to her, her actions don’t match. Anyway, before this blows up into some drama for the public to see, Rika drags Naoya to talk alone. Naoya goes first as he apologizes. So he strips himself and wants her to take embarrassing photos of him to be spread on the internet?! This is to get back at him for putting her through an embarrassing moment. WTF?! But Rika finds it cool?! Naoya continues to claim he can’t fall for her because it’s bad if he becomes a three timing asshole. But each line serves to critically hit Rika as she tries to endure herself from completely falling in love. Now it’s her turn. She claims making videos was just her way to become independent since dad always bugged her about her bad grades. So it wasn’t to show off her boobs? Damn, I thought wrong!!! Hence, Rika is happy that he protected something precious to her that he has no relevance in. Rika takes the ultimate hit when he is glad he saved her hard work. She can’t stand it anymore and runs away. Her face red and her breathing so hard, she has definitely fallen hard for him. But Saki eavesdropped on everything. That damn b*tch…

Episode 8
Look who is coming to bug Naoya again? Yup. Monster tits. Hence a showdown between Saki and Rika. However Saki seems to have the upper-hand as she convinces Naoya to stay close to her. Naoya thinks she has been lonely all this time and obliges. This means even during class, they’re hugging each other?! Yeah, the teacher and classmates just ignore them. Next period is PE. Rika won’t give up so Saki takes Naoya and hides in a room. Nagisa plays smart and sends an anonymous message to Rika that her identity is busted so come to the rooftop if she doesn’t want that to leak. This buys enough time for the duo to change and get out. Back home, I guess Naoya has to be fair with all the hugging so Saki reluctantly gives her permission for him to hug Nagisa. Yeah, he wants her to watch them too! So as they passionately hug, Saki starts feeling all weird. Wait, she likes it? Is this what NTR is all about?! Until both end up in an ambiguous position I guess it’s game over. An uppercut for Naoya and a pervert tag for Nagisa. Look who isn’t giving up on Naoya yet. Yup. Cow tits. Looks like she is more aggressive in trying to talk to him. Because he claims he is a studious person, Saki tries to paint he is a dumb guy since despite all the studying, he still flops. But… Rika impressed! She loves how hardworking he is! WTF?! Back home, Naoya wonders… Could it be that Rika has a crush on him?! Wait a minute. YOU MEAN THAT LAST REJECTION HE DIDN’T REALIZE IT WS SO???!!! Time for Saki and Nagisa to have a meeting. Fearing that he would actually fall for Rika and hence the start of the three timing (more competition bad), Saki comes up with the wildest BS. Naoya himself is a plain average guy to begin with. As for Rika, she is in heat and that’s why everything he says, she blushes. Thankfully the dumbass believes but wonders if it happens to them too. Uhm, only girls with huge tits go into that. Naoya all over her too. Time for her to BS her way out. Thankfully the dumbass believes in her. Next day in class, guess who is coming over to see Naoya? Yup. Jumbo tits. Suddenly Naoya stands up and needs to apologize to her. Because he thought she has a crush on him! Now, is this perfect public display of drama? Embarrassed Rika takes him away to talk.

Episode 9
Now we’re back at the rooftop for another discussion. Rika embarrassed that he knows she likes him?! I THOUGHT THAT WAS THE POINT?! As the retard tries to apologize and all, Rika realizes Saki put that BS crap into his head about being in heat. Naoya still thinks she won’t like a guy who two times others because if she does, she’s got to be pretty messed up! When Rika gives the lame excuse that she just has a cold, the reason she is blushing, Saki whispers to Naoya about the embarrassment of admitting you’re in heat. He thinks of finding her a boyfriend so she could get some relief with him! Rika beats him up but poses a question in case if she likes him, what would he do? Since he has his hands full with Saki and Nagisa, he would turn her down until she gives up. If you think that puts an end to everything, looks like Rika will not give up. This time she barges into class and admits out loud that she loves him! WTF Naoya thinks he misheard and wants her to say that again! You do know how to humiliate this tsundere, don’t you?! She is forced to say this again and déjà vu has it she takes him away to talk. This time all the related parties now discuss in the storeroom. Rika revealing the way he protected her from her dad was the reason she found him attractive. It is her business whether she likes a guy who two times. Since her mind is filled with him day and night, she does the ultimate by kissing him! Their first kiss for the record. Then she throws down the ultimatum. Because she is not into polygamy, he better dump his girlfriends first before going out with her. As Rika leaves, Shino Kiryuu who is Saki’s best friend heard it all and is shocked about Saki’s two timing. Naoya and his girlfriends are in shock. Yeah, those dead fish eyes… Especially Saki who is feeling depressed too. Maybe this is punishment for having small boobs?! Naoya thinks of kissing them to make up for this but Saki beats him up and asks if he had naughty thoughts when Rika kissed her. No, right? So this means kissing them without the proper mood is useless. The girls then vow to give him the kind of kiss that will make him excited and unforgettable. This is when Naoya realizes that he needs to get closer to both of them, show it to Rika how much they are in love with each other that it makes her want to give up. As he says I love you in a manly way, it makes their heart skip. Now you remember why you love him, no? In order to gain experience for this, Naoya suggests going on a date so as to learn on how to react on their feelings. Saki further suggests the hotspring. That will be perfect. Yeah, I can see what’s going to perfectly happen too…

Episode 10
Saki and Nagisa still can’t get Rika’s kiss out of their head. Well, this hotspring trip better do the job. Shino wants to talk to Naoya but he is quickly taken by Saki to go do shopping for the trip. During the shopping, looks like there is this weird rivalry and guilt between Saki and Nagisa. They both realize they want to kiss Naoya before the other especially with Saki brazenly admitting it. This has Nagisa vowing to support Saki in this trip and let her kiss Naoya first. Because if she herself does it first, she won’t know how to face her. Not sure what logic this is but NAOYA IS A LUCKY BASTARD, RIGHT?! After the shopping is done, guess who has been secretly following them around? Yup. Jumbo tits. Now she knows that they are going on a vacation, you bet she wants to crash it. The night before the trip, Shino calls Saki to confirm she is going on a trip with Naoya. Shino suspects Naoya is two timing her and needs to make sure. On the train to Hakone, looks like Naoya is so adamant to let his girls have the best time of their life, care to shout that louder, I don’t think everybody heard you! Communication is key so he holds their hand. All the way! Like, super awkward! Everyone looking just wondering what the f*ck happening. Upon arriving at their inn, looks like Rika is already waiting there! She wastes no time in pouncing on him. Make that double trouble because Shino is also here! She believes Naoya is two timing Saki but Nagisa is fast as she claims she came here with Rika. Rika is forced to play along or else Nagisa will reveal her Milika personality. Then they rush into their respective rooms. Nagisa leaves a message for Naoya and plans to sacrifice herself to allay Shino’s suspicions and keep an eye on Rika. So you both go have fun. Of course Naoya will not sit for this. The 3 of them came here to enjoy and so shall that be! Hence he climbs over the balcony and on the roof to reach Nagisa-Rika room. They’re in the middle of bathing! He knows they’re naked and all but looks like he is desperately trying to get Nagisa to come with him. SHE’S NAKED, BLOODY HELL! Eventually she locks the door and runs away. Too bad, this means she leaves him with Rika. Oh dear. Along with succubus tits, not good. Her chance to seduce and flirt with him like her…

Episode 11
Rika tries to ask about the kiss. Was it real good that you can’t stop thinking about her? Sorry to disappoint you but it was just a little surprising. This is where Rika adopts a change in strategy. Realizing seduction will not get them anywhere, she wants to talk and get to know each other better. Okay. But you have 5 minutes! So she asks a lot about the things they like, their dreams and all. She gets to know that he watches a lot of her videos before these shenanigans. It makes her feel very happy. But time’s up. Time to let him go. One final free service as her towel comes undone and he sees her ass. No time to stare! Got to go find Nagisa! His rooftop running this time has him slip and fall into the woman’s bath. And Shino is just about to get in! Almost seen her naked, did he?! On to serious business, she wants to know if he is two timing her. At least he is smarter this time and won’t answer right away but asks back why she cares so much. As Saki’s friend, she is of course worried about it. To put it bluntly, Saki is stupid!!! Then she goes on to talk about the downsides of two timing and goes as far as the law banning polygamy! Didn’t know that did you, Naoya? Naoya still can’t tell her and tries to escape but this time she stop him by grabbing his pants?! She threatens to scream rape but WTF he will face that punishment later?! In the midst of the struggle, he falls over her as her towel totally comes undone. Cliché time because Saki and Nagisa just come in. They see a totally buck naked Shino on top of Naoya with his pants halfway down!!! OMFG!!! Was docking successful?! Then he hugs her closer so as not to expose her?! HUH?! Saki is sad that Rika stole his kiss and now her best friend is cheating on her! This has Shino ask about the kiss but all this come to a stop as Nagisa takes photos of this ambiguous position. Is this blackmail to shut her up? Because Shino stood up and expose her every part to let Naoya see, she runs away in embarrassment. End of indecent exposure antic. Nagisa wants to go back to Rika to avoid further suspicions as she further explains about the promise and that it won’t be fair to her to keep intruding on them since it was her who came in between them. As it is a dream to be Naoya’s boyfriend, that’s why she is trying hard to keep this two timing a secret. Sounds very good and all but Naoya will not accept this! Before things get complicated, Saki kicks him out. The girls then talk as Nagisa reveals this secret and hopes Saki won’t tell Naoya. Basically she isn’t good at anything and tried very hard just to be average. Yeah, she really put in the time and effort. But it’s no good when she’s not improving at all. Until that fateful day before the entrance exam, she met Naoya.

Episode 12
Right before the entrance exam, Nagisa saw Saki having worries if she would do well. But then Naoya made a bet with her that if they both made it into high school, he wants her to date him. Of course she wasn’t impressed and beat him up. See, you made her forget the thing she studied! Nagisa was further impressed when she heard Shino saying Naoya has been damn persistent in confessing to Saki since elementary school. This made Nagisa admire his resilience because if it was her, she would’ve given up completely. So when all of them passed and entered the same high school, she realized she fell in love with Naoya and hence she too started working hard on herself and never gave up. Hence it is thanks to him that she can be happy for working hard to be where she is now. Nagisa hopes Saki won’t tell this embarrassing story to Naoya. Too bad the men’s section is right next door so you bet he heard it. As he tries to give his thoughts on it, Nagisa runs away. Again. This time also joined by Rika and Shino who are about to have their own showdown. Damn, Nagisa and Naoya can really run! Leaving the rest in the dust! They got so much energy not just for running but talking-cum-screaming about their twisted reasoning of this two timing relationship. At this rate they may have run halfway around Japan…

Anyway, basically Nagisa is okay to be his second fiddle so long as she gets to be with him (although she too wants to be his number 1… Confusing?) but of course he doesn’t want that. And basically Naoya wants to make them both his number 1 so he can keep his promise of making them both happy. Because if they give up now, everything they did will be for naught. He vows never to let her be alone. So what if Saki gets tired of this two timing? They’ll beg to her every day till she accepts! Persistence! At this time the rest has arrived. They played cheat by taking a cab… Shino wants the truth. Nagisa shows her true feelings as she pecks Naoya on his cheek because she too wants to be Naoya’s number 1. Saki takes this as a challenge and to bring it on. As for the two timing, they admit it and run away! They trio have a great time together during the rest of the trip before heading home and facing another interrogation from Shino. She’s not going to let this go, huh? Shino is basically disappointed with Naoya because she thought he was always madly in love with Saki and then suddenly he is dating another girl? Naoya tells the whole truth about how he fell for Nagisa and even went to ask Saki for permission! Can prosecutor Shino accept this twisted thinking?! Finally, can he really think he can make them both happy? Sure, there are lots of things he hasn’t thought about. But he is serious this time as he has set an appointment with Saki’s mom to tell her all about it! Because Shino is Saki’s best friend and he wants her to accept them. Those eyes… Don’t tell me… Of course Saki cancels the appointment. Mom must not know! After they leave, we are confirmed that Shino does indeed have feelings for Naoya! She thought he has changed but he is still the same person. However she also has her own twisted thinking. Because she believes he cannot do two timing and fall in love with anybody except Saki, hence she still needs to put a stop to this. For doing so will also make her give up on him! Naoya enjoying his bento with his girlfriends. Until Rika comes in to join them. Hugging competition begins as all of them tries to get a piece of Naoya. Oh Shino, you want to make it a foursome?! Well, not sure how it’s going to work out but leave it to Naoya to believe things will work out to make his girls happy. Yeah, we’ll leave that to you.

Mo Girlfriends Mo Problems
Yeah, seriously. I don’t know how Naoya is going to make both his girls happy but I believe he can because anything and everything is possible in anime! Because screw what society thinks that only a man and a woman can have a wholesome relationship and that those in a harem are doomed never to be happy. Because in the case if society accepts that, then all this two timing and multiple partners and even cheating will not become a problem, right?! Which means everybody can occupy the top spot and not jostle for who is number 1 anymore! Which devalues the meaning of being number 1 anyway. Yeah, this so confusing I think I better not think about it and just enjoy the delusions of the good points of having a harem… Ah, so nice to have cute girls clinging all over you… Can I not wake up from reality?!

The overall story isn’t anything much. Just a bunch of odd couple trying to get on with their polyamorous lives in secret. Which leads me to the question of why the heck does nobody actually cares about this?! Especially the students in their school. The time when Rika confessed openly to Naoya that she loves him right in front of everyone in his class, sure they are surprised at first as they watch the love drama unfold. But after that, it’s like nobody gives a f*ck anymore and doesn’t become busybodies to spread rumours or find out more! I mean, a hot busty babe like Rika would definitely turn heads, right? Even more so the fact that our main characters keep calling Rika as Milika in public when she reminded them not to. So nobody paying attention, huh? No wonder nobody could recognize Rika’s MeTube personality. Does anyone feel curious at all?! So why is everybody minding their business and not give a sh*t about this juicy gossip material?! Sure, it’s their private life and perhaps everyone in school knows pretty much about Naoya and Saki dating. So they’re respecting their privacy? Why doesn’t Naoya have jealous guy friends or classmates who lust over his pretty girls?! THIS IS SO UNREAL!!! EVEN IN ANIME!!! Hence this much needed breather gives this series to focus better on the two/three timing shenanigans among the main characters without any outside party intervention or interruption.

A lot of people dislike the sleaziness of this show because of how it depicts women as dumb sex objects who are willing to allow themselves to be cheated on. Well, too bad for you morally righteous and uptight people. That’s the problem when you can’t differentiate between reality and fantasy. This anime doesn’t aim to teach you what is morally right or wrong. I have to admit that I pretty much enjoyed all the funny antics since it made me laugh hard at many times. Good to be a simpleton sometimes. But I also have to admit that it got a little bit too draggy ever since Rika tried to force herself and become Naoya’s boyfriend. Well, if they made allowed it, I think everything would have felt too easy and cheap (not like everything itself is already feeling cheap) because the same process can happen again if another dumb girl decides to fall for Naoya and with just a little bit of pleading, Naoya accepts her into his personal harem. It’ll never end. I don’t think that’ll be funny and enjoyable anymore. So with some hardcore persistence over Rika’s attempts, it keeps the interest alive a little longer. And also to prove to you morally righteous and uptight people that Naoya isn’t some girlfriend collecting maniac. At least for now.

One reason why this series manages to maintain its charm of funniness (or dumbness – depending on which side you’re on) is the fact that Naoya as the main male character is a retard! One thing good about him is his very honest to goodness nature and that he can’t really lie about things. He doesn’t even know how to give up. Like that word doesn’t exist in his dictionary. But because of that very same fact, this makes him look dumb and a retard overall. Either you will laugh at how silly he is or cringe at it. Or both. The fact that this guy would go to great lengths just for something, whether or not it is ever plausible, it is either commendable or just plain silly. Or both. I mean, I believe he isn’t joking when he says he will do something like pay any sum of money for hush money or even willingly accept whatever punishment for his seemingly accused crime. If he had his way and his girls do not play the role of the straight (wo)man and stop him, I’ll bet that he is ready to go through that hardship. And not complain! Because he is a man of his word and sticks to it! Do you really want to love this guy or hate this guy? Or both? Oh Naoya, maybe I understand why these girls fall for you. Your innocent honest nature may be your best charm but sometimes you can overboard yourself without actually thinking its actual consequences. But you got to hand it to him. This guy unlike many other harem protagonists ended up with 2 girlfriends right at the end of the first episode! Damn, that’s class for you!

Oh yeah damn, this guy takes it a step further by being such a civilized guy. So cultured this dude that he will not engage in any sort of indecent unholy activities (AKA sex) with his girlfriends because he needs to build a better wholesome relationship first. Oh man. Either he is the holiest man with a girlfriend on Earth (not likely) or the dumbest boyfriend to ever live (yes, this most probably it). So while this series has its fanservice moments, as usual they are forced via dumb circumstances so that we can have our 2 cents worth of boobs and pantsu. Hey, this anime has a reputation and expectations to live up to! Not that I dislike that idea, though…

Saki and Nagisa are hanging in there with this what many call to be cheating or two timing but for them, it feels like a compromise. It’s a weird situation for them whereby they want to be Naoya’s only girlfriend but at the same time they don’t want the other to be left out. I’m afraid at this rate, this situation will be more like trying to catch 2 rabbits and end up catching none. It’s all fun and games since they’re both friends and hence the compromise somewhat works. Neither is perfect and have their shortcomings like Saki who feels she is inferior in her body and beauty to Nagisa whereas Nagisa feels inferior to many physical activities that normal people are supposed to be doing normally. I don’t know if their personalities are to compensate each other for their shortcomings since Saki is more brute and tomboyish while Nagisa is more polite and feminine. As long as they’re happy together… Also to note, Nagisa may be shy but she can be a bit nasty too in terms of when the need to keep their two timing a secret, she can improvise on the spot and make Rika fall in line. Smart girl.

Rika feels like the ultimate cliché role of a dumb blonde and tsundere trope. Yes, she checks off all the lists of what a bimbo is supposed to be. Her twisted logic and perseverance in trying to become Naoya’s girlfriend serve as the other big role in making this series look funny or dumb. In that sense, she is perhaps the reason why she gives girls in such genres a bad name. She’s got the body. She’s got the subscribers and a very successful social media channel. And so she’s got the money. Too bad she just can’t seem to land a decent boyfriend. I can see clearly the pecking order in this harem now… Maybe if she approached Naoya in a different manner, say, a soft and polite manner, things could’ve been different… Oh but then we don’t want any overlapping characters, do we? But considering how we saw Nagisa being persistent, perhaps a lot more bugging and nudging, will Naoya finally allow her into his kingdom? I don’t know. Persistence is the keyword here. So I won’t be so surprised if the jumbo tits finally got admitted. You know, hard work and persistence pays off, right?

They leave it really late to get Shino involved. I assumed from the promotional poster that she would be part of the harem too. Turns out she tried to play the moral police in the name of friendship but ended up getting herself blackmailed and be an accomplice in this whole shenanigans. There is still a possibility that Shino might end up in the race to be Naoya’s number 1 girlfriend since she is the first person who (accidentally) let him see her full naked body. Frontal and rear. And then she can come up with some twisted logic that he needs to take responsibility and hence him admitting her into his harem. Something of that sort I assume. So Naoya has got 2 women he is going steady with, 1 trying to force her way in and 1 other being compelled into this ungodly situation. Damn, I think I can write a parody of The Eagle’s Take It Easy for this anime… And of course we have seen her hinted about her true feelings about him. So I am guessing the more she fights it and tries to break up this silly shenanigan, the more she will find herself breaking down and one day she too will screw it all and want Naoya for herself. Best friend or not, a man’s dick is main priority! HAHAHA! That’s the crudest way to put this! For now, let’s just have her play pretend to be the moral police…

Art and animation are pretty standard with the colouring and hues all bright and colourful. But you know me, I’m a sucker for a pretty face and it’s basically the reason why I jumped into watching this series without even questioning what the synopsis is all about. Yes people, those cute kawaii 2D girls on the promotional poster was enough for me to put it immediately on my watch list and I could pretty guess much from the title itself. This anime is done by Tezuka Productions who are more famed in doing works relating to Black Jack and Astro Boy but once in a while do some varieties like Go-toubun No Hanayome and Adachi To Shimamura.

Voice acting I only recognized Ayane Sakura as Saki and Ayana Taketatsu as Rika. Ayane Sakura back to her trademark lively and bratty voice since last season’s Osananajimi Ga Zettai Ni Makenai Love Comedy she put up a much lower and softer voice in her character. I thought Saki’s mom sounded familiar. Took me a while to figure out it’s Ami Koshimizu. The rest of the other casts are Junya Enoki as Naoya (Nasa in Tonikaku Kawaii), Azumi Waki as Nagisa (Rem in Isekai Maou To Shoukan Shoujo No Dorei Majutsu) and Rie Takahashi as Shino (Emilia in Re: Zero Kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu) and Tomokazu Seki as Rika’s dad (Gilgamesh in Fate series).

The opening theme is Fuzaketenaize by Necry Talkie. Feels weird with its bumblebee-like buzzing electric guitar lines. Worse, the singer sounds flat. It could be me but I don’t think so. What’s even weirder is its animation because I’m not sure what this geometry, Fibonachi sequence and all is supposed to mean. Are they saying having a harem is f*cking complicated like maths?! The ending theme is Pinky Hook by Momo Asakura and equally as weird as it sounds more like manufactured pop with all the usual synthesizer effects in addition to the funky electric guitar. I didn’t notice the BGMs in particular but there was one that got my attention. It’s that cowboy Wild West-like, Mexican showdown-like kinda guitar pickings and fanfare. It’s weird to have this played during dramatic moments. I guess such moments are life and death, huh?

Overall, contrary to toxic and trolling sarcastic comments as well as hate for this series that degrades women and gives guys unrealistic hopes of landing a mini harem (do we all remember Kanojo Okarishimasu over a year ago and Domestic Na Kanojo a year prior to that?), I actually enjoyed this because it’s funny (yes, I laughed a lot, thank you) and it has beautiful looking 2D women. That’s right. So sue me. Animes like these were made for people like us anyway. You don’t watch this for the plot or the character development or even for the romance element, right? So it might be a trashy anime of the season but it is gold kind of trash! HAHAHA! Sighs. I wonder if that is the reason why such animes are compensation of why I can’t even land a single girlfriend… :’(.

Otome Game No Hametsu Flag Shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou Ni Tensei Shiteshimatta X

The last time our villainess heroine (how oxymoronic) managed to clear all her doom flags, it wasn’t possibly the end of it because now it looks like uncharted territory with the second season of Otome Game No Hametsu Flag Shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou Ni Tensei Shiteshimatta X. Or Hamefura S2 if that title is still too long and a f*cking mouthful for you to pronounce. Yes, it still is to me. So much so I think Catarina would have an easier time stuffing her mouths with all the sweets and desserts instead of pronouncing the title of this anime! HAHAHAHAHA!!!! Oh… Oops… Ahem… Anyway, perhaps this sequel we will get to see Catarina actually fall for a guy or maybe she’ll end up getting a reverse harem of her own. And add more guys to it! Either way, is she still doomed?

Episode 1
Catarina is glad she cleared her doom flags. Hence the mini minions narrate and introduce to us all the other characters and what happened to them. Basically a brief recap of last season. With the school cultural festival coming up, the gang are busy preparing for it. Like Catarina will help Maria promote her cookies. As the student council will be doing a play, to the disappointment of many, Catarina will not be doing any acting but she’ll help behind the scenes. Then a scene of Keith and Mary arguing over who gets to be closer to Catarina. But Catarina misinterprets as both of them liking each other. When Catarina visits Nicol and Sophia, Sophia wants Catarina to put up a play to help Nicol with his stiff expressions. She screws up her line but this has Nicol hug her and whisper something romantic in her ears. Of course she misinterprets that he also flubbed his lines. Catarina goes to see Maria doing fine at her cookie stall. Also with her is Rapahel FKA Sirius. Maria reveals she wants to join the magic department just to stay by Catarina’s side. Because Raphael thinks they won’t have time to spend together if Catarina gets married and whisked away to a castle, he suggests Catarina also join. No, not because you can delay your marriage! Oh you silly Catarina! Rather, both of you can be together! And since Maria is so excited about this idea, I guess Catarina is all aboard. Later meeting up with Geordo and Alan, noticing Geordo seems to be treating Maria differently, she thinks he is starting to fall for her, which is supposed to be what happened in the game. They are then interrupted with the arrival of their older brothers, Jeffrey and Ian along with their respective betroths, Susanna Randall and Selena Berg. While playful Jeffrey is glad to see his brothers and is really looking forward to their play, Ian’s poker face can really that of Nicol’s. Do we need such overlapping characters?

Episode 2
But big trouble is here. The main actress who plays the evil stepsister who bullies the heroine, sprained her ankle and the play will be soon. The girls want Catarina to play the part. Catarina knows she can’t do it and hopes the guys will say something. Damn Geordo encourages her to do it. And so, that is how Catarina returned to being a villainess! At least in a play. So basically this play that is written by Sophia is a rip-off from Cinderella. Just no magic. And boots for glass slippers! As the play begins, even the opening scene Catarina has forgotten her lines! Don’t worry, she has cue cards hidden in her fan… Oh wait, she dropped them! How to go get them across the stage? Sharp Mary (who plays the other evil stepsister opposing Maria as the heroine) adlibs her lines and dances with Catarina towards the dropped cue card. Could they have danced a little closer?! Stretch! And because of that, the card drops off the stage! But when it comes to the scene of bullying Maria, Catarina doesn’t need her cue cards! Damn, she is brutal and convincing as a bully! During the break, Sophia loves this adlib so much that she too has changed the script a little. During the ball, a phantom thief will come to steal the heart of Catarina instead?! All those who love her want to be this new character but Sophia shoots them down and has Nicol play that part. So during the scene, it is Geordo vs Nicol over Catarina taken as hostage. If their fighting looks a little too real, it’s because they’re not acting! They’re actually fighting over Catarina! Too add more spice, Sophia changes the script and sends in Keith (whose role is a villager) to make it a 3 way battle! With this getting out of hand, Catarina needs to do something quick. Hence she returns to play the villainess and further adlibs she is in cohorts with Nicol’s character just to steal Maria’s limelight. At the play’s end, Geordo and Maria are an item as well as Nicol and Catarina. Basically everyone loves the play and Catarina is showered with praises. That night, a girl takes Catarina to the ball. But along the way something puts chloroform over her mouth and kidnaps her!

Episode 3
Catarina wakes up in an unknown room and a maid, Lana is ready to serve her. Catarina thinks she has been kidnapped for ransom. Worse, she thinks mom will abandon her thinking they still have Keith! She is soon shocked to learn this is the abode of Selena and she denies this kidnap for ransom thingy. However she is soon secretly put to sleep by her butler, Rufus. It makes no difference for Catarina since she is enjoying her sweets and reading romance novels! So much so she forgets she is a kidnap victim! Damn, Selena thinks she is too kind for pretending to be okay! Meanwhile Geordo receives an unsigned letter saying that Catarina has been kidnapped. If he wishes to see her again, renounce his right to the throne. He shows this to Jeffrey and he’ll see what he can do. Of course soon all her friends get wind of this as they contemplate on what to do. Even wondering if black magic is involved. Then we have a flashback of Alan and Mary talking together. Alan admitting that he loves someone else but knows his love is requited. However he can’t help stay by that person side and if Mary so wishes, he can break off their engagement. Mary likewise shocks him that she too has someone she likes and her love is also unrequited. And yes, she doesn’t want to give up either. So they’re just being engaged to comfort each other as consolation? With Selena feeling all the guilt, eventually she goes to tell Catarina the truth that she is the one behind her kidnapping. But Geordo is third in line to the throne, shouldn’t Jeffrey be the bigger threat if she wants Ian to succeed? True, but with the nobles supporting Geordo more lately, she feels the competition is heating up. She considers herself as the most useless among all the fiancée, even putting Catarina high above on a pedestal! Man, that’s news to Catarina! With tears like that, I think it’s not good for Catarina to joke around… Selena further describes her first meeting with Ian since young and has thoroughly fallen in love with him. She feels she can’t do anything to support him and hence resorting to this. She thinks Ian hates her now. Aside the joke that Catarina’s mom often used to say such things to her, she disagrees about Selena being useless. And with more kind words and if she ever asks Ian himself about his feelings, Selena now has self-confident but still needs to atone for her crimes and put an end to this silly kidnapping. But as she leaves, Rufus hypnotizes her out. Looks like he can’t have this plan go awry. He needs both Ian-Selena and Geordo-Catarina pair to disappear and for Selena to take the blame.

Episode 4
Rufus claims he also has dark magic and was forced upon by his master who is hinted to be Jeffrey. But with Catarina enjoying her stay here, Rufus has gone from one amazement to another. He then reveals Rufus isn’t his real name and has many other names since he is an orphan and comes from the slums from another country. He was sold off as a slave. However he doesn’t consider himself unfortunate. Just when he thought he could not be surprised any more by Catarina’s actions, yet again he is so when she shocks him that she finds him so admirable. So they spend the whole day talking and looks like the moment is right for Rufus to kiss her but damn her stomach growls! Time to fetch dinner. This has Rufus think about his poor childhood in the slums. He lived every day stealing stuffs until he met a noble guy. It is him who taught Rufus how to read and write. He was amazed by Rufus’ wish to go see the outside world because everyone else in the slums hate it for it reminded them of their painful lives. He encouraged Rufus to move forward and named him Sora, the colour of his eyes. Soon the noble falls sick and Rufus knew the slums had no money to pay for his treatment. He resorted to stealing medicine but was caught. End of story for now. Catarina is amazed of his stories from another country and since he agrees to take her with him if she so wishes to visit other countries, she gives him a gem as mark of their promise. That is when Rufus can’t hold himself back as he pushes her onto bed! OMG! Rape scene?! He kisses her neck but she thinks he is going to put black magic in her! Sex interrupted because Lana says there is a very important message for him. Turns out to be some investigation has been done so it’s all over for him.

Next day, Catarina is rudely awakened by Rufus who claims this is the last time he’ll be seeing her. Yeah, that dream to visit other countries isn’t possible now. Catarina’s friends barge in and the one who solved this mystery is Lana whose real names is Larna Smith of the magic department. She has his men arrest Rufus. Raphael says this is the person whom he wants Catarina to meet. Larna is a master of disguise and it seems she hints she has met Catarina before. Selena is well and Ian is by his side. He isn’t mad and proclaims his love for her. Aww man, you made a lady cry… Tears of joy, right?! The rest wonder why Catarina’s wellbeing is so good. Oh damn, she’s having a better life here than at home?! Can’t tell them that. Geordo spots a bite on her neck. She claims it is a bug. What bug? Well, after Rufus pushed her down, she thought he was trying to put dark magic into her but turns out it’s a bug. Everyone so dumbfounded. Geordo won’t stand losing out further so he instantly kisses Catarina right now in front of everybody! Damn, this is more dramatic than the entirety of the kidnapping!

Episode 5
Haha… Catarina thinks that kiss was all a dream! This girl… Everybody now seems to be following her closely. But why? The kidnapping case is solved. Yeah, they don’t’ want anything else to happen to her and they’re going to keep a very close eye on her. I believe kidnapping is not the main reason… We see the true identity of Larna/Lana: Susanna. She reports to Jeffrey that Rufus’ master who is no other than David Mason has been arrested. Mason is a fanatic of Jeffrey and he went out his way to remove his brothers from the line of succession. Jeffrey is glad this is over as he reveals to us a whole wall with framed pictures of his brothers! Damn, this guy loves his brothers so much! Time for him to give his flashback. When the previous king died and named no successor, Jeffrey’s father become one. And so the siblings were thrust into a world where they had to fight for succession. He tried to talk to them or see how they’re doing. They weren’t pleased but he often came to check on them. We see from Geordo’s point of view, of his gloominess and how he was engaged to Catarina because of that accident. He didn’t think much about her at first but as he spent more time with her, he began to open up. Because of Catarina, he talked to Alan more often. The same can be said from Alan’s point of view. Always sick and confined to bed, when he was well enough to at least go outside, Jeffrey often talked and see how he is doing but Alan wasn’t amused. Of course until he met Catarina and he too opened up and realized Geordo isn’t a fearful person he thought he would be. Yeah, we even got one from Ian’s point of view. But nothing much. Jeffrey loves him but poker face Ian not so. He is so happy that he managed to protect his brothers and now even Geordo and Alan got engaged themselves. Too bad he wasted his breath because Susanna wasn’t listening. As she goes back to work, Jeffrey warns her that with the recent kidnapping, certain people might know about the dark magic the royal family has been hiding and to be careful. Because they might try to get it. Geordo has finally finished his stack of paperwork (Mary might have set him up for this because, you know) so he goes to see Catarina. If she claims that was a dream, so why is she blushing? Geordo re-enacts that dream by kissing her again! Is this how it happened? Well, it’s real now! So why the kiss? Because he loves you! Too late for the other related parties as they arrive too late. Now they want to beat up Geordo with their magic? Catarina still thinks this is a dream?! It’s not, silly girl!

Episode 6
Catarina is at a loss after receiving an invitation to stay at Geordo’s villa. So she still doesn’t get where this game of love is going, huh? Of course when the rest heard of this, they also join in. With no invitation? Sorry, Alan invited them. There goes your private time with Catarina. So as the girls take a stroll through the woods, suddenly it starts raining but luckily they take shelter in a nearby cabin. They have been here before as kids. Since Maria wasn’t with them, they take the liberty to tell her their adventures then. Uhm, why are they as kids getting along together so fine? I thought each had their trauma or something? Or is this a different route? Anyway, when Catarina suggested strolling in the forest, the rest threw caution because there were rumours of a crying ghost! While Catarina and Alan aren’t particularly fond of this, the gang headed into the forest just to find out if this was true or not. So as you can see, they had fun catching bugs and playing in the river. Until it started raining, the girls took shelter in that cabin. To ease Sophia’s fears of lightning, Catarina teaches her to dance as well as imagine themselves slaying a dragon. Once the sky cleared, they all head back to the mansion. That night they were supposed to have dinner but Catarina couldn’t make it. The rest then started to hear that sound of the crying ghost! Turned out to be Catarina’s mom very mad at her for climbing trees because she clearly did not raise a monkey! Wow. Mom is scarier than any ghost! No wonder it still haunts Catarina today. Back in real time, everyone watches the fireworks. Geordo had intended to watch it with Catarina alone but that’ll be for another time. Watching with everyone too works fine.

Episode 7
Raphael and is magic department are swamped with work. Overworked, if I should say. And Larna is nowhere to be seen. It seems Rufus is also working here but now going under the name Sora. With Catarina and co coming to visit, there’s Larna popping up just to show them a rare magic item she was tinkering with. This dollhouse is said to grant your wishes. So what would you wish for if you lived a different life? Well, we’re going to find out as Catarina opens its front door and our usual casts get suck in. Larna and the rest watch from outside those desires they have. Like Alan wants to be a free bird, Nicol a cat, Geordo a seafarer and Sophia a fairy. Of course all of them have Catarina as the centre of their interest. And yeah, Catarina herself enjoying all the romance novels, sweets and games to her heart’s content. There is a risk that they may stay in there forever but to get them out, they must find a doll that resides in it and put it to sleep. Raphael and Anne decide to go in while Larna and Sora wait outside if anything happens. Inside the dollhouse, the duo split up. Anne goes to find Catarina but sees the absurd dreams of the rest. Like Maria wishes she was buffed up! Maria the Hulk?! Maria is male and king who outranks Geordo! Keith has everyone gender swapped! Even Anne herself?! Be sure to come back for these weirdoes. I suppose Catarina has enough fun on her own so she gets out of her room and stumbles into Anne. She is told what happened so they try to find Raphael who went looking for the doll. Too bad he is stuck in his own dream. Such good work environment! No overtimes and proper rest days! Screw reality! This is better! Of course Catarina snaps him out of him, citing he may regret his actions. Yup, Raphael realizes he still needs to pay back Larna for accepting him into her department. When he comes to, the doll awakens and tries to attack them. Not sure why or how, Catarina sneaks up behind and takes out its winding key. Just like that the doll goes to sleep! So easy! And Catarina doesn’t even know what she did!!! WTF?! Everyone returns to reality. Yeah, best dream ever. It’s a reason why it is called a dream. Perfect opportunity for Raphael to drag Larna back to work. The rest leave but they won’t tell curious Catarina what their dream was. It’s a secret. I bet she is too dense to understand either.

Episode 8
Nicol is out from a meeting but Raphael can tell it is an arranged marriage meeting. It is not unusual for nobles around their age to be betrothed and since Nicol hasn’t yet, that must be it. Raphael advises him to just be himself. Meanwhile Catarina goes help her friends, Frey Randall and Ginger Tucker. However Ginger seems to dislike Catarina although she doesn’t hate her. This fact keeps bothering her. Nicol receives tons of marriage arrangements. He faces all of them but his mind can’t help wander towards Catarina. Basically he rejected the whole heap. Then one of the candidates is Frey. She quickly tells him she has no intention of being betrothed and is here out of courtesy from her parents’ request. She is surprised that he is surprised because isn’t that what he wanted too? As they talk, Nicol realizes he blabbed about being in love with someone else who is already betrothed. Of course he can’t steal her away as that would be most rude. To his horror, Nicol realizes Frey is also on the student council and that means she knows about Catarina. Even more so, Sophia has been saying to her how Nicol would be a better bride for Catarina! When Frey adds how others are not giving up and it would be sad if Nicol as the only one to give up, does it mean that she knows he is in love with Catarina? In the end, she tells him to be honest with himself. Ginger hears girls badmouthing her cold attitude. However Catarina refutes all that and instead views Ginger as a nice and sweet girl. Frey sees Ginger blushing. Could it be that Ginger is in love with Catarina? Smell another rival coming up… Nicol’s father agrees to reject all incoming marriage meetings since this is going anywhere and that he doesn’t want to force his son into this. Later when Sophia learns about this, she tells him the truth that their father actually stole their mom who was betrothed to another person. Grandpa (on mom’s side) opposed it and gave dad a challenge to become Prime Minister. Dad worked hard until he achieved it and that’s only when grandpa approved of their marriage. So I guess there’s still hope for Nicol. Yeah, for starters, he now becomes romance novel buddies with Catarina.

Episode 9
The usual ‘friendly spat’ between Geordo and Keith. However something feels wrong because Keith just gave up and didn’t reply his sarcasm as usual. Later Keith asks Catarina about what she wants to do after graduation. Not like she has something in mind right now. Hence Keith suggests they go back home to relax. Catarina reaches home first and does her gardening. And yes, the usual long winded lecture by mom. WTF she wants to vent this out on Keith but realizes he hasn’t come home yet. Keith never did that day and the next day, mom calls for Catarina as she just received a letter from Keith saying that he has run away and not to look for him. The ladies believe it cannot be him but this is his handwriting. Mom has asked the servants about Keith and lately they noticed he has been depressed after talking to Catarina! So it’s her fault? So I guess the only thing left to do is to go look for him. Yeah, Catarina so zealously packing up, she doesn’t have a plan on where to look for him! Don’t worry, Geordo has a suggestion. They go see Larna who then introduces this teddy bear, Alexander who is some magic tool who can track down Keith. Like a sniffing dog, huh? Why does it have that perverted and smug looks… With Larna coming along with this search, they let Alexander sniff Keith’s belongings. There. Teddy is pointing in that direction. Also going on this trip is Maria and Sora. As they begin their search, of course no obvious clues. During the break, Larna tells Catarina about her past. She was bored with the world at a young age until a friend introduced magic to her. She got hooked on it and never turned back since. We know see Keith beaten up and locked up in a dungeon. Flashback shows a familiar face beckoned him to come with her. He should’ve known better to follow her but he did. Thomas who is his real older brother, now beats him up thinking Keith has been disrespecting him all the time.

Episode 10
The search continues but there aren’t any leads. Geordo buys a souvenir for Catarina since she takes a liking for it but Sora gets in the way before things get too romantic. Seems that he is tasked by someone (Mary?) to do such things. Well, don’t want to get such weird feelings in the way of an important search, no? Then there is this weird rivalry between Catarina and Alexander because the teddy has been giving her smirk looks and taunts. Trying to invoke the villainess in Catarina? Also, there’s Maria talking about how she wants to be by Catarina’s side forever. You know, those kinds of stuffs. We see Keith still in prison is Sarah approaches him and is impressed he is still holding out. She reveals Thomas’ goal of wanting to see him fall from grace in society. But since he can’t wait that long, looks like she will have to turn Keith into her test subject as she uses dark magic on him. Keith fears he cannot die now as there are many things he still needs to do. He gets absorbed by the dark magic and Catarina is the last thing on his mind. Catarina wakes up in cold sweat after thinking she heard someone scream her name. She goes for a morning walk. Geordo there too. Before morning romance could happen, Sora here again… The search continues in town. Catarina being paired up with Sora. Now Sora takes this chance to hug her but I think she gets confused with his words and feels they should be searching for Keith. There’s your mood killer. When they regroup, Maria becomes afraid after seeing someone with dark magic appear in the alley. Larna goes after but it is gone. Maria is clearly spooked as she has never seen such dark magic before. Catarina calms her down with her usual hug. With Raphael reporting in with his investigation results and Alexander pointing some important location, time to move the plot along and tell the rest. So Larna tells the gang how Keith was in contact with his birth mother on that day. However he was taken away and handed over to someone else. His mother didn’t remember anything and prove was that dark magic manipulated her mind. Safe to say, Keith was kidnapped. The shock on Catarina’s face. She understood the gravity of the situation now, huh?

Episode 11
See that mansion with lots of typical baddies guarding outside? Can’t miss it. Also, Maria sees dark magic all over it so it’s got to be the place, right? Larna has called for reinforcements but they will only arrive tomorrow. Since Catarina cannot wait that long, she wants it now! Okay then, we’ll do that. Finding the gate with the least guards, then distract them with a distant explosives, the team manage to sneak in. A few guards inside but it’s just for Sora and Geordo to show off their fighting chops. And then Maria heals the baddies too? They interrogate them about Keith but they know nothing. Oh, you can’t miss this room oozing with dark aura. This must be where Keith is. Inside, they see an unconscious Thomas. Cue for him to wake up and as he hears them asking about Keith, he gets distraught. Time to spill out everything. Basically, he is jealous of Keith who is the son of a mistress as he got ahead of him in life. Hence, everything was taken away from Thomas (yeah, he even blamed the tutors for not being smart enough to tutor him!) until one day he saw how successful Keith was and decided to make him feel his pain. It was about the same time Sarah met with Thomas to execute this plan. No matter how much Thomas tortured Keith, he wouldn’t give in, making him look even more pathetic. When Thomas wishes for Keith’s death, uhm, did Thomas died?! At least saves the trouble of the gang dealing with him. They find a secret corridor that leads to Keith. The dark magic so great, this time everyone can see it.

So while the rest go find a way to put it out, Catarina and Geordo try to talk and snap Keith out of it. You think it would work? Oh wait… Catarina’s determined feelings has the souvenir light up and weaken the dark magic?! Holy sh*t?! Then she becomes a monkey as she tears out the dark magic ooze over Keith. Meanwhile Keith realizes he isn’t as before and that he has promised to stay by Catarina’s side. Hence he crawls out from the dark magic enveloping him and reunites with Catarina. At least in spirit. In reality, he is half awake as he kisses her on the lips before collapsing! The remnants of the dark magic turns into a puppy and it likes Catarina?! Sarah pops up before them and claims she was trying to experiment with a dark familiar and make it hers. However it took a liking for Catarina. How can it be since she doesn’t even have dark magic? Oh well. Whatever. She finds her an interesting person and will leave her with the familiar. The rest arrives after Sarah disappears. On the way back, Geordo kisses Catarina to ‘disinfect’ her. I guess he must always be the top scorer in this area. Catarina is allowed to keep little doggie. Initially it was supposed to be kept and studied by the magic department but since it didn’t want to be separated by Catarina, oh well, Larna says okay. And it hides in Catarina’s shadows… Creepy? Catarina is so relieved when Keith awakens. But they get embarrassed remembering that kiss. Catarina wants to forget it but Keith won’t. Because it was the first kiss with the first girl he has ever loved. Yes, Keith’s confession that he loves Catarina as a woman. Before anything else can happen, the rest of the busybodies barge in to claim who owns Catarina. Does she belong to anybody? But the main tussle is between Geordo and Keith. Poor Catarina so lost.

Episode 12
Susanna reports to Jeffrey about Thomas behind Keith’s kidnapping but he was merely a puppet and the perpetrator was Sarah. Her research shows that it seems the Dieke family had done wicked dark magic experiments on orphans and Sarah was one of their victims. As for why she is doing this, they’ll have to catch her and find out. Susanna also credits the souvenir Catarina got from the trip that allowed her dispel the dark magic. I call it plot convenience! There’s a pre-graduation party for Catarina and co. Everybody giving their flowers and best wishes to our graduating students. Ginger says she can’t attend tonight’s party because she has no dress so Catarina is willing to lend her hers. WTF Mary and Sophia also want to borrow?! They have theirs but borrowing from Catarina is a totally different story! During the party, we see the main guys have their turn to dance with Catarina and chat a little. Except for Alan, he just laughs at her pigging out the food. And when she feeds him, WTF Mary and Sophia also want that?! That night, Catarina comes into Keith’s room to show her pyjamas before she spends the night with the girls. Since she is so dense, I guess Keith needs to teach her a lesson as he pushes her down on his bed and reminds of her his feelings that day. WTF Catarina thinks it was all a dream since he was acting normally???!!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! Of course being the gentleman he is, he needs her to realize that she is a woman before subsequently kicking her out. Yeah, Catarina in shock. She goes to stay with the other girls, talk about things and who they like. Mary being so specific about the kind of lover she wants. Doesn’t Catarina look like that? That night Catarina dreams of watching Atsuko playing Fortune Lover in her room. Oh wait, there’s a sequel?! Fortune Lover II?! Is this some foreshadowing?! Obviously the main character is Maria (still remember that?) and now the romance is now developing in the magic academy with a few new hot guys. However Catarina is shocked to learn her character is still the villain and something far worse than exile will be her punishment! Oh sh*t! Thank goodness it’s just a dream, huh? And you thought she cleared all her doom flags already but when she and Maria begin her first day at the magic academy for real, they meet a couple of hot guys, Cyrus Lanchester and Dewey Percy. Uhm, aren’t they the new characters in the sequel!? You bet the doom flags aren’t cleared yet!

Doom & Dumber
Oh well, people, just like they foreshadow in those final moments, our Bakarina isn’t cleared of her doom flags yet. Because there will be a sequel in the form of a movie! Didn’t see that coming, did she?! Did we?! Just when you thought it was over, life carries on even in the digital world. Yup. A series popular enough not to be passed up for a chance for a sequel. Who knows? I won’t be surprised that they’ll have Fortune Lover III (has more hot guys), Fortune Lover IV (even more hot guys), Fortune Lover 4.5 (hot guys with side story), Fortune Lover 4.5 part 2 (hot girls with side story), Fortune Lover Remastered (hot guys in better digital graphics!), Fortune Lover: The Golden Age (grandma version!), Fortune Lover 1000 (offspring version set in 100 years in the future!), Fortune Lover the spinoff of the spinoff’s spinoffs (are we still following this?!)! Oh damn. Catarina gonna need to work even harder than ever!

This season’s plot… Uhm, is there one? Mostly feels like short random episodes and they just have a couple of mini arcs. After all, Catarina thought she has cleared all the doom flags she needed to clear so how far more can this season bring us? I thought Catarina being kidnapped would’ve set the tone for the rest of the season but it was quickly resolved (thanks to Catarina’s airhead personality) and I felt the kidnapping itself wasn’t the main theme for this mini arc. I don’t know, it just feels like to add another guy to the reverse harem. Or if you don’t like how I said that, just to add a new character. Then the final stretch we have another kidnapping case but you’d be slapping yourself in the face if you Catarina gets kidnapped again because hell it’ll spawn some sort of memes and running joke. So instead, it is Keith who gets the focus because I suppose he doesn’t have a decent screen time compared to the rest of the other guys. After all, Geordo and Keith are in the lead for Catarina’s hand in marriage, right? So we just learn a bit more on Keith’s background but nothing that the good ol’ bonds between the step siblings can solve. At least in anime. So when are we going to see Geordo get kidnapped next? If next season wills it. Hey remember, we are in uncharted territory of the game so who knows what kind of route this will take our characters especially Catarina. Endless possibilities maybe. Yeah, almost forgetting this whole series could be some isekai game thingy had not right at the end in a few episodes, we see Atsuko telling us that this whatever route is cleared. So are there more secret routes in this game we don’t know about? Or is she watching Catarina live out this life in a game?!

Catarina this season remains largely the same Catarina we know her from last season. Yes, if I have to describe her in a general word, she is dumb! I’m sure her lovers and fans would want to kill me but hear me out before you do so. You see, having read so many romance novels and being a big fan of them, the way you see her react to typical cliché flirting moments, he is very oblivious to them. Lest you tell me she is a great pretender and is keeping her cool very well. But I digress that. Each time the guys throw hints of something of being romantic, Catarina would come up with the silliest of excuses that it is not so. Can she not take a hint? Like how Keith hinted Geordo may be trying to seduce Catarina in an adult’s sense, this Bakarina thinks Geordo is out to kill her?! HOW THE F*CK DID SHE EVEN COME TO THAT CONCLUSION?! While she is somewhat slightly aware (maybe) of this towards the end due to the recent events, she is still largely clueless when it comes to romance on her part. Makes me question on what kind of romance novels she reads. But I suppose Catarina’s naivety in this area helps to make the series funny and also it won’t be so easy for the guys to win her heart because you know, she’s just dense. You can’t be too upfront or direct because that’s not so very gentlemanly, no? Imagine if she settles down with one of them, doom route! Ah yes, does she still remember this? The only doom flag that Catarina will never be able to avoid of his being scolded by her mother!!! Perhaps she could be the true final boss of this entirety!

Funny how I also almost forgot that she initially was supposed to play a villainess role but the more I see her in her sunny and carefree disposition, makes me believe that she is the actual heroine of this game-cum-series. Not you Maria. Yeah, speaking of Maria, she feels as insignificant as the rest but it is even more so for her because she was supposed to be the main heroine. Her only ‘worth’ is because she can detect dark magic. To shoe in plot convenience I must say. But too bad Catarina is the main heroine of this show so a lot of things are focused on her. Because of the lack of an antagonist, who else to fill in that role? The insignificant Mason sure didn’t make and impact and hell sure fatty Thomas couldn’t get the job done. Hence I am intrigued about Sarah and perhaps in some way her fate is intertwined with Catarina’s. Catarina herself probably didn’t free from her doomed routes and instead open up a lot of possible doomed routes along the way. Sarah could be one of them. And therefore my dumb conspiracy theory: What if Sarah is Atsuko reincarnated in this world!!! HOLY SH*T!!! I hope I’m wrong!

Due to the introduction of a new few characters, the other recurring characters get lesser screen time. After all, we already know all their setting and background from last season. Even her alter egos feel very much lacking. It’s like they don’t appear as often as before in the first season. Does Catarina not have anything ‘complicated’ to contemplate this season? Sometimes I feel Nicol is dead last in the race for Catarina’s heart and that’s why they had an episode focus on him so as to give him some sort of booster and hope. At least for those who are rooting for him. Because of that, I feel Alan has fallen into ‘last place’ since he didn’t get any prominence this season with Catarina. Most probably of his engagement to Mary but Mary herself trying to be some self-proclaimed Catarina love police is gunning to be lesbo with Catarina, just short of coming out publically. Imagine how awkward it is for both of them to be in love with the same third party. Oh wait. They are and it is. Hence Mary and Sophia turned into some sort of Catarina maniacs because whatever Catarina does or gives others, they want the same treatment. There’s a word to describe that kind of sentiment I’m feeling now… ANNOYING! I thought they were supposed to be strong independent women but looks like they turned into Catarina’s b*tches, if I should put it in a crude way.

New characters also feel a little redundant. Jeffrey and Ian don’t really do much so they paint the oldest prince as some sort of little brother infatuated idiot while the second prince as some poker face dude. So Catarina’s kidnapping was supposed to help foster the romance between Ian and Selena? I don’t see how relevant it is to the story but okay. I suppose it’s to give another hot guy potential AKA Sora FKA Rufus. Not sure if the original guys will be featured in Fortune Lover II as the sequel has new hunks and Sora is one of them. You know what they say about too many cooks and the broth… And then you have Frey and Ginger to show that Catarina has more than friends outside the circle of those related to her reverse harem. They too don’t really do much and perhaps their characters exist to help raise Catarina further up the pedestal. Susanna /Larna seems pretty reliable for the most part but something tells me that she too is more than meets the eye. Do you not find it strange that she and Jeffrey who are both polar opposites to be engaged together? Or is Jeffrey just pretending to be an idiot? Or he is really that just when it comes to his brothers? And then you have mascot characters like Alexander and that doggie. Wow everybody loves Catarina! Are you sure she is a villainess? Time to change to series’ name…

New casts joining this season’s line-up include Takehito Koyasu as Jeffrey, Kousuke Toriumi as Sora/Rufus and Yui Ogura as Selena are those whom I recognized. I didn’t realize it was Aoi Yuuki behind Sarah until after I finished watching this series. Perhaps I was getting used to the trademark voice that I am so familiar since recent animes she has been going with this one with rather than that ‘dreaded’ low-voice-for-male-characters type. Other new casts include Sumire Uesaka as Susanna/Larna (Sanae in Chuunibyou Demo Koi Ga Shita), Yusuke Shirai as Ian (Sojun in Show By Rock), Megumi Han as Frey (Sumire in Chihayafuru) and Kanon Takao as Ginger (Yui in Tantei Wa Mou Shindeiru).

Angela who sang last season’s opener, continues to sing this season’s opening theme, Andante Ni Koi Wo Shite. However I feel that this piece falls short of trying to live up to Shoujo No Route Wa Hitotsu Janai. This time round it has this carnival feel, making the whole thing feel a bit silly. Is it to reflect Catarina as a silly character? Just like last season, Shouta Aoi is retained in doing the ending theme, Give Me ♡ Me. It’s quite a heavy techno pop piece making the entire song feel somewhat frenzy and chaotic. Didn’t really like this one. The one I prefer most is the insert song by Angela, Anata Kureta Hikari. It’s a nice slow lovely jazzy ballad that befits the climax of Keith’s mini arc.

Overall, the second season is a mixed baggage. Those who love the trademark romantic comedy of this reverse harem would continue to love it like they did for the first season. But for others, it is a dumb cliché of a reverse harem trope because as long as Catarina exists, the other guys (and some girls) are compelled to somehow fall in love with her. Hey don’t ask me, I didn’t create Fortune Lover. The game is supposed to be played that way, right?! The simpleton and silliness of Catarina either make or break the entire series. It could’ve been a lot easier and simple had Catarina remained the villainess and get stuck to one of her doomed routes. But instead she opened up new possibilities that lead to a lot of complication. Like everyone still being patient and civil in trying to win Catarina’s heart but she remains to be a dense doofus despite being a ‘seasoned romance genre lover’. I think I’ll wait till everybody loses their patience and starts shedding blood over her! Entire kingdom waging war with multiple factions, lives are lost, betrayals and backstabbing abound. That’s the kind of ending I would want to see!

Megami-ryou No Ryoubou-kun

Remember the last time we had an anime about a boy who goes to live in a dorm filled with girls? And then lots of sexual innuendoes and hijinks ensued? Well, if you missed Sunohara-sou No Kanrinnin-san (admit it, it was just those huge tits from the dorm lady you missed, RIGHT?!), be glad to know that this season has something of that similar sort. However this time, Megami-ryou No Ryoubou-kun, we make the young boy the dorm manager, or rather dorm mother in this case because you know, the rest of the dorm’s occupants are hot sexy young adult females and some with really questionable personality of the erotic and lewd kind. Yeah. Can you see where all this is going? Enjoy.

Episode 1A
OMG! We’re starting off with tits in our faces?! Whose tits are those that Koushi Nagumo stumbles upon?! Flashback shows when his house got burnt down, his father instead of helping, ran away. Koushi was left to fend for himself. I see he got no relatives. Damn, not even the public wants to help a starving kid collapsed on the ground! Until Mineru Wachi picks him up. Yeah, pantsu in his face. Hope that is not what he wants to eat. She brings him back to her place to feed him and because he is dirty, she tells him to go bathe. And that’s where those glorious tits come. In his embarrassment, he runs away but bumps into Atena Saotome who just returned. Now sure how the f*ck he ends up under her skirt and his face on her crotch! Because of that, Atena nose bleeds and is close to death! Koushi is then explained this is Goddess Dorm for Seikan Women’s University and others who reside here are Kiriya Senshou, Frey, Serene Houzumi and Atena. Mineru is the interim dorm mother. After Koushi tells his story, Mineru offers him to stay and work here as a dorm mother. He will have a place to stay and will be paid. Problems solved. Except for one. They have to convince Atena. Because she refuses, she then moves out. Koushi then hears that Atena has problem with men. Being raised in a predominantly women household and went to an all-girls school, she has practically zero skills when it comes to dealing with the opposite sex. The last dorm that she was in, her roommate brought her boyfriend back and she caught them having sex. Yeah, it was devastating. Mineru thought Koushi would be right for the job since he might help solve her problem. However Koushi doesn’t want her to become homeless just because he moved in and won’t take her place. Thus he won’t accept the job and will let her remain while he’ll find his luck somewhere. Of course after all that he has said, Atena feels guilty and later sees him sleeping at the park and goes to carry him back. Koushi wakes up but accidentally gropes her boobs. Nose bleed time. Now it’s her turn to carry her back. Because he finds her brave trying to confront her fears, he too will try to confront his. Hence he will accept this job.

Episode 1B
As Koushi sweeps outside, he hears by-passers speaking ill that this is a problem dorm. He brushes it all off and returns inside to clean the rooms. Damn, it’s a pig sty! Worse, Mineru is half naked and she is so because as a researcher, it helps he work. Damn excuse for fanservice but whatever! Koushi is already so exhausted facing this when he is kidnapped into Frey’s room. Turns out she is a cosplay maniac and finds him a suitable male model for all the clothes she makes. So much so she has this habit of kidnapping people on the fly if she finds them perfect just to put her clothes on them! Call it an excuse for a dorm mother’s job but we call it fanservice because Koushi is made to measure her bust! Is this sexual harassment? Nah! Cherry boy gets so embarrassed that he slips so as to give us a cliché fanservice of huge melons over his face. But before things get steamier, Mineru has everyone clear the area because her experiment failed and toxic fumes are flowing out! Outside, when Mineru brushes off this is okay because she never got sued, Koushi scolds her what if she hurts somebody. They apologize but Koushi feels embarrassed for yelling back and runs away? They’re not even mad. Yeah, now he has to contend with women trying to take pictures of him in this cosplay outfit. He returns to cover them up but they continue to flirt with him. Just in time as Atena returns and sees this unholy activity. Hence she has a meeting with all of them and decides to become a moral police to prevent such activities. So these sticks to block out tits are going to do the job? No wonder Koushi can’t help laugh. Despite how it looks, things aren’t so bad around here. Well, until he gets a taste of sexual harassment!

Episode 2A
Mineru has completed a potion to be tested on men… Can you see where this is going? And Frey has completed a new dress for Koushi too. But it won’t be them who will usurp Koushi tonight. Kiriya comes crashing down into his room. Yeah, her crotch in his face. Turns out she loves reading shoujo manga but gets too emotional and becomes physically violent. Now you know why her room has punch marks everywhere. I guess she needs to sleep in his room for fear she will fall through the hole. Whatever. She isn’t worried about him being a guy since she has brothers. That night, she wants to talk to him since he reminds her of her brothers. Apparently her way of talking is doing wrestling submission moves on him! Oh yeah. The nostalgia. Is she trying to kill him?! But he isn’t mad and hopes the girls here would be mindful of themselves. He is a guy and you know the rest. After all, all of them are cute girls. He decides to go sleep in her room. Kiriya so flustered by his words, hope she doesn’t destroy his room. That night, Serene visits Kiriya’s room but finds it is Koushi. If he agrees to be her servant, she can help repair the damage via lunar technology. Sleepy Koushi says whatever. She kisses him and then works her magic… Next morning, the place is repaired like as though no damage was done in the first place. Koushi isn’t sure how but vaguely remembers about last time. Was it Serene? Man, that was a weird dream.

Episode 2B
As Koushi makes breakfast and all the other girls are so friendly with him, Atena thinks something must have happened while she was away. Even Serene is trusting him. So when Koushi is going to go shopping for ingredients, Atena wants to come along to see for herself how he won over them. Can she hold her nose bleed when Mineru naughtily pushes Koushi into her boobs? Well, she’s trying… Even in town she is having a hard time trying to evade men. Yeah, sneak around like a suspicious person… After doing their shopping, Koushi praises her for being brave as normally people would run away. Technically she is running away but to Koushi, she is facing it head on. Atena feels good about his words and suddenly realizes perhaps this is how he won over others. As she is about to bump into a couple of guys, she can’t hold her nose bleed any longer so Koushi thinks quick and pretends to be her brother and takes her away. Back home, he thought she is mad but actually she loves the idea of him calling her as his big sister. Call me that again! Damn, she is getting orgasms every time he calls her that! Brainless fanservice time because somehow she tripped on her own skirt to reveal her panties, her flustering causes her butt to bump into his face many times before sitting on it. How is it that Koushi doesn’t have the nose bleed but it is Atena? During dinner, with the rest continue to flirt with him and spamming boobs in his face, Atena once again plays the moral police but this time adds she will be his big sister to protect him from all the lewdness. The other girls are also impressed and wants to be called his big sister. So Atena is fine with this? Well, as long as no lusty stuffs.

Episode 3A
Now we can check off another prank off the list. Mineru teasing Koushi as he does the laundry for the ladies. Yeah. Later, all the girls have this idea of competing to see who can be Koushi’s best big sister. Frey dresses him up as a girl and claims little brothers are their playthings. Obviously a lie so she’s out. Mineru wants to use him as a guinea pig. Nope. Serene lies on his lap and wants to be fed. That’s what pets do. Kiriya does a wrestling submission move. Is there any such move resembling the 69? You bet Koushi is passed out. All that is left as Atena. She looks like playing a motherly role but unconscious Koushi accidentally exposes her boobs. Her nose bleed floods his face. So I guess in the end, all of them are his big sisters, huh? Yeah well, big sister Mineru has a big surprise for him. She has done something that will allow Koushi to go back to school next week. Wow. She must have pulled some strings, right? Oh well, just be glad Koushi is going to resume his normal life again.

Episode 3B
Koushi is happily back at school but that soon comes to a crashing halt when Sutea Koroya does a flying kick on him! She is mad he never told her his whereabouts and was worried. Obviously Sutea is a tsundere. Twintails check. But not blonde! Haha. Anyway, despite being a jerk to Koushi, she regrets it deep down inside. Poor Koushi thinks she hates him and tries to find time to talk to her but his other friends and teacher keep bugging him. When it is recess and he has the chance, he grabs her hand but she tells him to f*ck off. He realizes he forgot about her condition. Sutea eats alone at the rooftop as she remembers her relationship with him. They go all the way back to kindergarten. She has this condition that she cannot handle heat very well. Even another person’s body heat is enough to make her feel woozy. So it was evident she sat out by herself when all the other kids were playing together. Koushi invited her but she declined. Then he came up with a solution by washing his hands with ice and touching her cheeks with them. There. Feel better? I guess that’s when the tsundere started. She still remembers this feeling of his hands over her cheeks. Koushi returns and does the same with his ice packs from his lunch because apparently she has been spacing out so much, she is now sitting in the sun. It is then he accidentally reveals about the dorm he lives in. Back to being Queen Sutea, she wants to know all the details. Yeah, it’s like his fault or something. She wants to visit the dorm but he refuses. A struggle ensues and he falls over her. Not sure how the f*ck her clothes opened up. Yeah, your fanservice cue. You think she will beat him up but wrong! She puts his hand on her chest and says she too wanted to save him. And then she kicks him away! She follows him home and there’s nothing to be afraid of if he has not done anything wrong. Yup, he hasn’t so why should he feel guilty? Yeah, those boobs must be the wrong ones… Sutea’s first taste of what this dorm is about as Mineru and Frey being half naked run out due to another experiment failure. Oh hi Koushi!

Episode 4A
Now, how to explain to Sutea about this dorm? Koushi warns the ladies about Sutea’s condition. But since he himself is being too close to her, she kicks him. Because she is seen blushing and regretting that kick, Mineru and Frey get the idea. They ‘warn’ Atena about her rival but she doesn’t get it. And then they argue about being his big sister so Sutea tells them to STFU because she will judge herself if this dorm is appropriate. Who made her the big shot? Appropriate is not a word that exists in this dorm! First she looks at Koushi’s room. Pretty normal. But with Atena praising Koushi, Sutea’s caution meter rises. Is she jealous? Next is Mineru. Hope those toxic fumes are gone. Whoops. Still there! Next is Frey. All okay until Frey tries to force strip Sutea and put on some clothes. Thanks to Atena, rape didn’t happen. Well, that’s 2 strikes already. Next is Atena’s room. So clean and pretty that it is so normal! Disappointed? But with Koushi praising her, this is what sets Sutea’s caution meter rising back to dangerous levels. Kiriya shows hers next. As usual, all normal until she reads a love scene and gets so embarrassed, she punches the wall. Serene instantly calms her down with a cookie. Oops. Expired. Damn, her meter might explode at this rate! To redeem themselves, the ladies have Sutea stay here. Obviously she picks Atena’s room as the safest but is still cautious of her. Atena tries to talk to her but Sutea is troubled that she thought she knew everything about Koushi. What exactly is their relationship with him? Then they hear Koushi and Kiriya scream. Arriving at the bathroom, WTF Koushi on top of Kiriya?! They’re docking?! Well of course, Koushi was getting out and wasn’t focusing. Kiriya came in and the floor was slippery. You do the math. In the end, Sutea claims all this is unfair. Because they act like they are older but get flustered. So which is it? Kiriya is a bit slow on the take but she too understands what Sutea means and blushes along with the rest. Sutea runs away. Uhm, that’s it?

Episode 4B
A few days later, because of that incident, Kiriya and Atena are spacing out. Hence they head to university forgetting their bento. Koushi needs to bring it to them so Frey has an idea. Yup, dress him up as a girl! Even right down to the pantsu! Embarrassed Koushi makes his way there. He bumps into several girls. From the way he talks, they can figure Koushi is a guy. They don’t care because he is so cute they want to spoil him! He bumps into Atena while running away from them. She recognizes him and takes him away under the pretence they are sisters. Atena didn’t nose bleed. Because Koushi is dressed like a girl? So it’s all in the mind? After giving her bento, they need to find Kiriya. Well, don’t need to. They bump into her while carrying water and yeah, they all get wet. They change in the room and because those girls are still looking for the little cutie, Koushi has to hide with them while changing. Yeah. Fanservice cue. Don’t look, Koushi. Let your imagination run wild as Kiriya undresses Atena and then make her wear her dress since she has extra. Yeah, too tight around the chest area. Uh huh. It’s like her boobs want to bust out and spring loose those buttons! I swear, those boobs have a mind of its own… Glorious tits fanservice for Koushi but with Atena realizing too late her boobs too close to his face, now she nose bleeds. Back at the dorm, Mineru hints that Koushi has been worried for them as they’ve been acting strange since. Atena claims that she just had a lot on her mind. She shows them pamphlets of Okinawa. She suggests all of them go on a vacation for summer break and invite Sutea too.

Episode 5A
When Serene retreats to her room, Koushi goes to find out if she is against the trip. Since this is his first time in her room, it looks like a big dumpster. Trash everywhere. But she claims it isn’t trash but some power cultivating thingy from the moon. Yeah. Whatever. But this has Koushi believing that night was real since Serene didn’t outright deny it. It seems Serene isn’t against the trip. She has only been on the grounds of this dorm and the university since those places are where the moon power reaches. Hence, she feels unsafe stepping out onto unfamiliar territory. Hence Koushi brainstorms with the other girls to find some sort of lunar related thingy that would make Serene feel at ease. It’s like trying to bring along her safe zone. At school, Koushi asks Sutea about the vacation. She agrees to come. But that’s only to supervise him! Frey makes Sailormoon cosplay outfit for Serene. Geddit? There’s your moon factor! Of course some public decency law thingy has Serene reject it. Mineru tries her fumes that will make you obey her. Too bad Frey smelled it and now we get some sexy hot yuri stuff! Kiriya tries to teach taichi because the moon is part of the universe. However Serene fails because she is only for the moon and the universe is too big to handle! Eventually, Atena gives her an umbrella with a design of a starry night sky and the moon. Hey, if this works, why not just give her a picture of the moon?! Koushi also takes the liberty to sew back her torn jersey, putting Serene very at ease. With that, they’re ready for the trip.

Episode 5B
The vacation spot will be some haunted inn up in the mountains?! Atena in despair because she booked the wrong place due to the similar name. So they have some fun with the sightseeing. Koushi trying to cheer Atena up with the stairs that probably lead to some power spot. Uhm, looks freaking haunted! Kiriya gets scared and hugs all over Koushi. Don’t look now but something is way scarier than a ghost: It’s Sutea exacting her punishment! Not forgetting the hotspring hijinks whereby in order to prevent the ladies from indecently showing off to Koushi, she herself got indecent and knocked him out. That night, Koushi can’t sleep. How can he when all the boobs are surrounding him! Noticing Atena going out, Koushi and Mineru decide to investigate why. However they start to experience some supernatural stuffs. The corridor seems to be endless… Koushi thought Mineru disappeared for a moment. WTF Mineru trying to flirt with him at this moment but manages to hold herself back. Koushi sees Atena coming out from a room. She was looking for a toilet but got lost. I mean, time and space lost sense. Spooky? When they see a spooky apparition, they hide in a storeroom. Atena trying hard not to nose bleed because she is trying to work hard to show how much she has improved. She vows to protect him this time. Mood right for them to kiss but busted by Mineru. What you guys doing? That spooky apparition is not surprisingly Serene who sensed some distortion in the time and space so she went to investigate. Yeah, some lunar related thingy again. Whatever. Glad it is no biggie. With their trip in this inn ended, now it’s time for the next and real part of the trip: The beach! Oh yeah!

Episode 6A
Glorious boobs! Bouncy boobs! And those asses! OH YEAH! No wonder Sutea looks jealous. Even more so, noticing that Koushi is staring at those busty babes. Actually, he is playing the lifeguard. But the way he is staring through his binoculars to keep watch on them gives the wrong impression. A few fish nibble on Sutea’s feet. WTF one of the fish ended up in her crotch area and got stuck?! This causes Sutea to struggle and Koushi thought she was drowning. Slowpoke Koushi tries to go to her rescue but it is Kiriya who ended up doing so. On land, Sutea says she wasn’t drowning but can’t say the real reason either. Until Kiriya points out that it was Koushi who noticed Sutea first and sought her help to save her. You see, Koushi can’t swim. The others learn about this but give him great compliments. However, this makes Koushi feel even more depressed. Sutea apologizes to Kiriya for the mean things she said at the dorm. She also thanks her for saving her. Kiriya would love to hug her but we know her condition. But why does she still keep her long hair? That’s because Koushi’s first love is their preschool teacher so she’s just imitating her hairstyle. When Koushi returns, he sees Atena being harassed by guys. Time to man up. Get away from her! Who this kid? Atena says he is her brother. Haha. No effect. Scram ototo-kun. But Koushi gets aggressive as he takes Atena’s hands and go away, claiming he is her dorm mother. Those guys sure confused after hearing that. Despite Atena being grateful, Koushi just continues to feel depress. Sutea then goes to apologize to Atena like how she did for Kiriya. She laments she wasn’t able to help him. Likewise, Atena understands how she feels because she too is the same since it was Mineru and Frey who has been supporting Koushi the most ever since he lives here. Beach trip over. Going back home. Oh, Koushi still having that long face?

Episode 6B
Yup. Still that long face back home and spacing out. So much so Frey has him accompany her to a cosplay house. Do you want to dress yourself or should Frey dress you up? Hmm… Koushi not in a female outfit? Something is up… As they cosplay characters from a trending mobile game, they also have to pose and be in character. So uhm, both characters are related and in love with each other? But no cheap sleazy fanservice moments here. Because they have to be in character, this has Frey seriously asking him what has been bugging him. She wants Koushi to unleash his feelings. So as they do this mock battle, Koushi reveals the recent stuffs that happened during the trip. He should be feeling happy but didn’t. Frey believes that he views himself as a man but when the real deal comes, he chickens out. Basically he is feeling all confused because the tenants of the dorm are all females. It just feels awkward. He doesn’t want to lose everything so he pretended all that didn’t bother him as he wanted to stay with them. Frey understands he doesn’t want their relationship strained. She reveals her past self whereby she was blunt and outspoken. She hurt others because of that. She made some mistakes but hope one day everyone would see her for who she is and then perhaps she’ll discover a new love that’s different from what she is used to. Koushi isn’t still 100% sure of what to do but at least he feels better now and decided to be clear and confident about his feelings.

Episode 7
Seikan has its own cultural festival. So be glad that Koushi doesn’t have to cross-dress to enter. As Frey is part of the committee, she takes Koushi and Sutea to a shady tent run by Mineru. Yeah, she is selling illegal potions! Of course when the other committee members try to apprehend her, she runs away. Frey brings them to the occult club whereby they are talking about capturing the elusive creature known as Serene! When they think she is spotted near a stall, they go into action to capture her! You bet Koushi needs to stop this or they’ll dissect her! But once the reach outside, everywhere is covered with pink mist and everyone making out with each other! OMG! I didn’t know this was a yuri fest!!! We can all guess it is Mineru’s potion, right? Yup, while running away, she dropped her aphrodisiac bottles. One of the occult members turn out to be the woman whom Koushi met when he cross-dressed. She finds him familiar. It doesn’t help when Frey puts on the wig. It is about to get worse because with all the mist covering the area, all the women are now targeting Koushi! Sutea tries to shoo them away but she too becomes a victim. Damn, the biggest orgy festival in Japan???!!! But thanks to Serene using some beam from the moon, the mist is gone and everyone returns to normal. So they don’t remember the yuri time? With Serene using lots of her power, she is exhausted as Koushi accompanies her at the infirmary. She hints that she needs more than food for her to recover. Uhm, physical contact? Luckily before the worst happens, Frey buys her some food.

Frey brings them to a maid café where Atena is working. She thought of doing this practice to get over her men phobia but it is harder than it looks. Even more so seeing Koushi and gang here. But she is hanging in there. When a couple of guys want to hit on her, Koushi thinks of going to protect her but sees her declining them. See, she too is putting in the effort herself. Atena’s maid comrades think she wants to spend time with Koushi and allow her to go tour the place with him. But what about manpower (or maidpower?)? Weren’t they short of it? Don’t worry, Frey has got it covered. Because here is Sutea looking very lovely in a maid outfit ready to serve! Atena and Koushi go see a cross-dressing contest. Girls cross-dressing as guys. Kiriya won! Damn, she is so popular that even Atena is falling for her?! Koushi feels stuffy and drinks water from his bag. But he realizes it is Mineru’s potion! What is this effect of unmasking yourself? At the backstage, Kiriya invites them to go to some maze. Koushi excitedly wants to go! Is this the effect? See him get excited and hyped up like a kid each time they’re going to do something. In the maze, the ladies thought Koushi should be more of himself so they try to act like a big sister. This is just some excuse so they end up tripping and his hands on their boobs. When Koushi confronts Mineru about this potion, she claims it is just placebo. Does it mean that Koushi was acting on his on natural will all the time?! Meanwhile Sutea is owning the customers. The tsundere maid just turned into some sadistic queen. You perverts deserve to be stepped on the head! More chaos as the occult members try to get Serene, the committee tries to get Mineru and those love stricken girls try to get Kiriya. Oh, more guys try to get Sutea to step on them. Wow. Such fun festival.

Episode 8
Looks like Kiriya is in a pinch. Her family dojo won some special trip that can only be used on the same they they’re supposed to host a Christmas party for the dojo kids. Yeah, freaking prize > your own students! But this sets up the excuse for Kiriya to seek Koushi and Atena’s help. But first, some bathroom fanservice as Koushi sees Atena naked. Too much blood loss. Because of that, Atena cannot help with the Christmas shopping and Koushi will have to do her part. So as they shop about at the mall, Kiriya starts to realize this looks more like a date. Starting to fluster? Even more so when she hears people say they are good looking siblings. It makes her feel awkward for being jealous of Atena as she wonders what Koushi thinks of her. Once done and back at the dorm, looks like it is Frey’s turn to make their outfits. Can’t make the right size if she doesn’t strip you and take your measurements, right? And so Koushi closes his eyes but has to endure the ambiguous moans. Stupid cameraman, we don’t want to see Koushi’s blushing face (shows how dirty minded he is) and can we see some Frey-Kiriya action???!!! Eventually the kid can’t take it and crawls his way out. Déjà vu once more as another bathroom mishap has Atena losing blood. This means she can’t go with them to the dojo. Who will substitute her? Ah, here comes Serene. Just bribe her with some snack and she’ll follow you to hell and back.

Upon reaching the dojo, the kids think Koushi and Serene are newbies and proceed to put the dojo uniform on them. As Kiriya teaches judo, I guess that’s why they have to don the uniform because Serene is wearing hers so loose that her tits are going to fall out! Not if Koushi can help block this and prevent bad influence on the kids! Then it’s time to decorate the place for Christmas. Koushi hands out badges so that the kids can get presents later. However they don’t want to wear it because it looks lame! Poor Koushi spent all his time making them. Koushi then notices a lone kid sitting by herself. He goes talk to her and finds out she has low self-confidence and views herself as the worst student. Since she didn’t slack off in her training, he gives her a badge. By now, all the kids think how cool it is to get a reward so they too want one. Time for sexy Santa and her sexy elf to debut! With Koushi only blushing, I guess this shows he is the only one having those kinds of thoughts, huh? But yeah, Kiriya also blushing. So what does this mean? It means a naughty kid flips up her short skirt to reveal her pantsu! Best Christmas present ever!!! After giving the presents, Serene rides on Koushi as he is the reindeer. But something feels weird. Indeed. Serene isn’t wearing anything underneath! Giddy up! Yeah, those ambiguous hip action. Koushi makes the fastest sprint towards the changing room. After everything is done, Koushi gives Kiriya a badge for her hard work. How the f*ck does this lead to a good mood for them to prepare to kiss each other?! Only, it got awkward after they notice Serene staring at them. Good reward for today’s good work begins when it starts snowing.

Episode 9A
Every Japanese’s favourite during the winter: Kotatsu! Hooray! Time to enjoy! Everyone gathers around and since Kiriya is letting Koushi sit on her lap, this makes Atena jealous. Then our slut masters start tickling the feet and slowly it descends into some feet rubbing chaos. How’s the pussy feeling, huh?! I guess Koushi doesn’t mind this ruckus because it’s the warmth of the family he’s always wanted, right?! Yeah, time to get nostalgic. Atena has this idea to help him do his homework using the kotatsu but stupid Koushi thinks of inviting Sutea. That really killed the mood. Of course Sutea is not pleased because you know, her condition. She thinks he used a stupid excuse so as to use the kotatsu but he promises to keep the temperature at the lowest. So when they start their homework (everyone else is out), eventually they fall into the kotatsu’s trap as they fall asleep from all the comfy warmth. Sutea wakes up soon after when it gets too warm. But WTF Koushi’s feet is rubbing her pussy?! WTF???!!! Sutea’s orgasmic face, priceless! Feeling all warm inside now???!!! Only, if Atena didn’t see this! OH SH*T!!! Sutea so embarrassed that she flips the kotatsu over! It fell on Koushi’s back! When the other girls return, they can’t fathom why Koushi looks depressed. He just learnt how fearsome the kotatsu can be. Sometimes it is warm, sometimes it is painful…

Episode 9B
Koushi is ready to tackle spring cleaning. So Frey is expecting her messy room to be cleaned since she will be away for a cosplay event. Oh well, Atena is glad to help out. But something is brewing in Serene’s room. The door is going to explode?! Serene is trying to escape via window and as Koushi catches her, you know the cliché, her ass on his face. Seems Serene claims her door is jammed and won’t let anyone in. So I guess it’s back to cleaning Frey’s room first. Sutea is here to play moral police again but is roped in to help clean Frey’s room, making Atena pout with jealousy. Cleaning goes fine, just that Koushi picks up Frey’s underwear… Lucky for him (or not), Sutea thinks it is Koushi’s cosplay outfit?! Next they visit Mineru’s room. Oh my. How big is the dorm anyway?! There’s a huge lab inside it?! WTF?! Dexter’s lab or something?! Anyway, nothing much to clean as everything is quite clean already. Back to Serene’s room, she still won’t allow them in until they bribe her with food. Then they force the door open and lots of stuffs come flowing up. Is she a hoarder? Serene reveals she was keeping them as gifts for them to show her appreciation for not abandoning her and taking good care of her when Goddess Dorm received new tenants. So she admits she is a weirdo? With Mineru finding some alcohol, the ladies get drunk. As expected, all cling over Koushi but Atena murmuring and complaining about her jealousy towards Sutea. Koushi is in a precarious position. Oh what will he do? Sutea will show him! She beats him out of it! So I guess spring cleaning done for the day.

Episode 10
New Year is coming and Koushi asks if any of them are going home. None. Everyone is staying. Why? Mineru: Got to upgrade the lab to a bigger facility. Don’t ask. Serene: Something about the moon and planet alignments. Don’t ask. Kiriya: She already spent Christmas with the kids and going home means taking care of her brothers. No need to ask. We know why. Atena: She’d rather stay here. We also know why. Before Mineru can tease Koushi for being happy these cuties will be staying for him, Koushi explains how blessed it is for him to have them as his family so he wants to make this the best New Year celebration ever. Yeah, don’t ruin the mood with some cheap dirty stuffs. Koushi needs to run some errands. Because Atena claims she is busy, Kiriya accompanies him. In actuality, Atena is knitting mittens for him. During shopping, suddenly Koushi collapses! Then it becomes an emergency. Damn, they’re treating Koushi’s cold like it’s the end of the world! Frey comes rushing home to smother him with her boobs! Feel better? Uhm, I think she just aggravated his cold. Oh, here comes another drama queen. Sutea really panicking that Koushi is dying! Calm down! It’s just a cold! She touches his forehead with hers to test. But why is she getting hot instead? Yeah… Another sick girl… And then Frey tries to seduce him with her sexy nurse. Uhm, didn’t she learn the last time?! Atena tries to stop this tomfoolery as Kiriya comes in to give him some drink she made. Uhm, is this poison?! Somehow it slips and as Atena tries to grab it, it falls over her. Well, not sure how this undresses her and she got her boobs in Koushi’s face! HOW???!!! Nose bleed time. Another sick girl… Damn, at this rate everyone is going to get sick!!! Then Koushi needs to bathe. WTF Frey and Serene become his sexy wash girls? Rubbing the right place? And WTF Kiriya trying to sniff his clothes?! Since Koushi is done, she panics and gives him wrong clothes to wear. A little too small? Why doesn’t Koushi just f*cking change? Don’t tell me he has no more spares?!

I guess with the dorm mother being out, everyone is just being useless b*tches not knowing how to do things. Atena tries to make something to eat but Mineru tries to add some chemicals into it. Atena won’t allow and during the struggle, the bottle breaks. Toxic fumes that eat up your clothes! Oh my. Hasn’t Koushi has had enough of fanservice for today? No rest for the sick! By night fall, looks like his cold has gotten worse. WHOSE FAULT IT IS, HUH???!!! With the clinic closed for the holidays, if it gets worse, they’ll have to send him to the hospital. Yeah, they even admit they weren’t serious in treating him. NOW YOU DO REALIZE YOU SLUTS WERE JUST FOOLING AROUND AND MAKING HIM MISERABLE, HUH???!!! Although they suggest taking turns to look after him, Atena wants to bear the whole responsibility. That night as Koushi seemingly looks like he is pain, Atena talks about the times they first met and the things they have done. She hopes he will get well soon because there are lots of things she wants to do with him. Can I guess sex is one of them! Oops! Oh sh*t, now this bug has gotten me too! Next morning, Koushi wakes up to see Atena sleeping by his side. And what do you know? His cold is gone. The script says so because we’re nearing the end. Koushi wastes no time in getting back to work because he doesn’t want to be sleeping till New Year’s Eve. Hence perfect timing for Atena to give him her mittens to help keep him warm. He puts them on and finds it very nice and comfy to wear. And so it will be another great day for Koushi and the girls as they all go out shopping together.

Aa! Megami-sama: Mother Dominator Of Goddamn Slut House
So you see, all the misery that befell on Koushi during the year accumulated and turned him sick! Though, I don’t see how the girls did anything to redeem themselves. Their minor reflection is just a ripple in the ocean, if you know what I mean. But hell yeah, if Koushi can endure all their sexy shenanigans, what is a cold to him! And so it is going to be another happy year for Koushi and the ladies. I also foresee that more fanservice kind of luck will befall on that little guy. I mean, it is to be expected when you’re the only guy living with a house full of hot babes, right? I wonder if they’ll take in new tenants the next year since the place still has got some room. Then everything will ramp up and Koushi will have another hard time. And then get a whole lot sicker by the end of the year again. Yeah, he’s going to build up some insanely strong immunity in that sense! But that’s another story to tell.

As you would have known, the only reason why you watch this series is because of the tits and other sleazy fanservice, right? This series fills the basic necessities of all that dumb ecchi fanservice goodness that includes right down to the silly fanservice logic. You know, weird laws of physics that has Koushi tripping or falling and somehow ending up in an ambiguous position with the girls. Like, how the f*ck could that actually happen in real life?! It is just short of Koushi slipping and his dick accidentally entering the girl’s vagina!!!!!!!!!! But I suppose that would’ve been hentai logic and you might find that on the dark web if you look harder. I don’t know, I didn’t try to look for it so don’t confirm with me if a hentai version of this exists. Though, my guts say it does because of rule 34.

Now, the strangest thing I heard was that there wasn’t just a censored or uncensored version. Heck, there are actually 3 versions of this!!! Like, WHAT?! So other than your standard censored and uncensored version, I read and was somewhat confused with the ‘clear’ or ‘see-through’ version. Huh? What the heck? From what I understand (could’ve been easier if I watched it for comparison but I didn’t because you know, tardiness) it seems for example those steams that cover the censored parts, there will be less of those steams and you can see those tits and butt but with less clarity. So it’s just a blur version, huh?

Fortunately for me, I watched the uncensored version so I don’t have to care about all that. Actually not because I really wanted to or hard up for it but oh well, if the downloaded version decided to provide me with such bonus, so be it. Yeah, I was actually contented with watching censored material because of my superior imagination!!! HAHAHA! And then you poor pervy peasants think I should just come down to your level and watch the same uncensored version together. Okay. Not that I’m complaining either. Nobody loses anything, right? All hail the glorious uncensored tits! I wonder if the director’s cut in the BDs will take away the sticks Atena used to block those tits. We pay extra to do away with the Mr Fuki Mamoru censors in the BDs! So your efforts to keep the clean morality is futile! HAHAHA! I think. On a trivial note, an item in the dorm that catches my attention is the piggy bank. It is the shape of a cute little baby but whenever you want to take out its money, it is from the butthole and it makes funny sounds! Damn! Where can I find this piggy bank?!

Story wise, there isn’t any real plot to begin with. Many of the episodes feel like random shenanigans that Koushi engages in with the rest of the dorm ladies. Of course, all in the name of fanservice. What else is there to it? Because as the new kid on the block, there are many things that he is uncertain of and is trying his best to get used to. Cue for fanservice antics in your face. Hence Koushi’s predicament could be a blessing in disguise or a curse because after his house burnt down and his father ran away, this led him to where he is now and so far so good for him in maintaining his sanity and lust. Just another ordinary day of him getting sexually harassed but I suppose it’s not an issue legally if a guy is at the receiving end. All he has to do is put up with it and get used to it. Such ordinary frolics are better than say, the government trying to force everyone to evacuate because they want to build a secret military compound-cum-lab and hence everybody is going to fight nail and tooth to the bitter end to defend their dorm! Thank goodness it’s just my delusions.

Koushi as the main character and the sole male around, I guess if you have watched enough of this kind of genres, you can tell where his fate is heading to. Like I said, either he has got to be the luckiest guy in town because he gets to live with a group of weird but hot babes but at the same time that is the same reason why he is the world’s unluckiest kid. Imagine Koushi just trying to get his feet back in life and then he is trusted in an all-important position and also he has to deal with inappropriate behaviour by some of the ladies who obviously look like they want to have fun and take advantage of this minor. I mean, what is he going to do? Call the cops for sexual harassment?!

Thanks to his innocence and kindness, this is largely why Koushi remains a good guy for the entirety of this series. My heart goes out to him for trying to maintain his sanity from it all. It is both bad and good because the way he hasn’t turned into a serial rapist yet means he is either gay or the resisting force is strong. All those blatant fanservice in his face, you wonder how long he’ll hold out before everything starts breaking apart. And in the worst case scenario if Koushi does wind up being a future pervert, we all know who to blame, right? Yup, this dorm is creating a future hentai monster! I won’t be surprised if they become his first victims… But that will be another alternate timeline and story where ecchi and fanservice elements are thrown out for horror, suspense and thriller. So I guess for now, we are all happy with the way Koushi is and how he brings extra life to the dorm. It’s more fun to tease an innocent kid with sexual innuendoes rather than getting it on with 100% lesbianism, right? Either way, we viewers are fine with it!

The other female characters are totally cliché too. They have their own episode in focus but that’s standard affair. Like Mineru and Frey who are the biggest offenders in sexually harassing Koushi. Sure, they may play a motherly role in supporting him but at other times, they also have their fun with him since Koushi doesn’t really fight back and even if he scolds back, it would sound meek and cute rather than anything menacing. Koushi being a weakling enables Mineru and Frey to dominate over this poor kid and cause a lot of fanservice shenanigans just for our entertainment. So don’t complain. Be thankful instead. Are you not entertained?!

Kiriya isn’t as sexually harassing as the aforementioned duo since she is of the tomboyish trope. She treats Koushi more like a little brother to help cushion the effects of living alone and away from her real brothers. Then there is Atena who started off as this man hater trope because of her condition. She tries her best since Koushi is trying his best. And so with her being unable to be this close to a guy, it gives off these flustering moments between them and troll us with some sort of pseudo romance because well, if there is going to be any real romance brewing, Koushi x Atena is the most likely of the pair, right? You can see as Atena’s feelings slowly transforms into that. She gets more and more jealous when Koushi is seen having more fun with other girls than her. And sometimes I feel at this stage with all the physical contact, the nose bleed is just an excuse to hide this embarrassing side of hers. Oh well then, better make up your mind if you want to be Koushi’s big sister or girlfriend and future husband.

The most mysterious character of them all is of course Serene. I suppose having a character like her is needed so that viewers won’t feel bored like as though they’ve known all the female characters that have been offered. Thus people like me will try to form some sort of conspiracy theories with this emotionless girl like she is most likely from the moon due to her penchant for stating about her lunar technology thingy. It could be that Serene is the actual and real goddess of this dorm as nobody knows much about her and she has been here before the rest came. It could be she is the dorm itself. And to make her susceptible to fanservice, they turn her into a little retard. At least that is how I feel when her fanservice moments played out with Koushi. Assuming if Serene is actually some lunar deity with real powers, I guess it could explain why Mineru’s room looks so endlessly large with all the hi-tech lab equipment in it. Yup, the dorm might look normal from the outside but it is an alternate dimension and space from the inside. Will Serene explain? Only if you bribe her with some food! Uh huh. The other trait that you’ll quickly associate with this retard, oops I mean, emotionless girl. But then again, there are some things that are left better not known. Just be like Koushi. Accept and live with it.

Last but not least, Sutea. Definitely tsundere material. Loli character too. Tick off that childhood friend trope too! Yup, too much busty and mature woman, time for this character to shake up things. Well, hardly. I suppose Sutea is playing the mini moral guardian aside Atena because too much fanservice can be a bad thing. Can it?! Hence her weird condition of cannot take the heat even by the mere touch of a human contact means that she cannot touch Koushi as often and if he does, beat down. Then she regrets and laments later. All part of being a tsundere. Better do something fast or Atena might steal him from under your nose. Oh well then, better make up your mind if you want to be Koushi’s girlfriend or your personal punching bag. On a trivial note, while I think the weird name of Sutea might probably been taken from the tsundere word, as for her surname, Koroya, while I am sure it is based on the word of ice (koori) but I think it is also not wrong because of her tsundere behaviour and the times she beats up Koushi, I believe it could also work as killer (korosu) and hence Koroshiya (hitman)!

Art and animation are pretty standard and okay. Noting notable to note about. Though, some characters look like their designs are borrowed from other anime such as Atena reminding me of Lala from To Love-Ru and Sutea have this little resemblance to Taiga from Toradora while Serene has this uncanny similarity to Nagato from Suzumiya Haruhi No Yuutsu. This is what happens when you’ve seen too many animes in your lifetime that some start to look similar the more animes you watch down the road. This ainme is done by Asread who did Mirai Nikki, Yuushibu and Shuffle. On a side trivial note, I noticed that promotional cosplay posters here are real photographs of what I believe to be the seiyuus of the characters cosplaying in the character they play. Personally… They look… Ugly! No wonder I love 2D girls better! HAHAHAHA!!!

Voice acting is pretty okay too. Didn’t recognize anybody in the cast and some are newbies or unknowns. They are Misuzu Yamada as Koushi (Mio Furuta in Kumo Desu Ga Nani Ka), Ayaka Nanase as Atena (Yoshino in Sakura Quest), Chiaki Takahashi as Mineru (Nanami in School Days), Asaki Fukuyama as Frey (debut role), Risako Murai as Kiriya (Hiromatsu in Ebiten), Yuki Yomichi as Serene (Koguma in Super Cub) and Hikaru Nanjou as Sutea (Paglia in Battle Athletess Daiundoukai Restart).

The opening theme is Naughty Love by the quintet of the Goddess Dorm. Feels pretty okay, nothing special. The ending theme, Zettai Kimi Sengan is also sung by them but this time featuring Sutea. I find the ending credits animation to be weird and fitting because we see Koushi as a jester running around through all the weird stages and props until he tires out. Yup, his life is definitely a joke and he is being made out a clown by those cougars. No wonder the carnival-like atmosphere of the song fits it all so well. I want to point out that in both songs, it feels like the girls just couldn’t get their voice out in singing. I’m not sure if I explained that correctly but hearing them sing, it feels like the air is not there as they sing the song, making the song sound weak and somewhat soft in terms of impact. Also before I forget, at the end of the opening credits animation, I feel weird seeing Koushi waking up all smiling. Yeah, after having weird dreams of the Goddess Dorm babes as angels and some scenes they’re like seducing his naked body, you bet any healthy kid his age would wake up all smiling! Did he get wet dreams after that? But his morning wood might be worth it! Or has he gone crazy from all the seducing? Anyway, it still feels a bit creepy if I look at it from this context.

Overall, if you love ecchi fanservice comedy, this is one of the titles that you have to put on your list. Otherwise if you think you are morally superior and rather not watch this morally depraved series that depicts women as sexy sluts, you might as well become a monk and go live in an isolated cave for the rest of your life. I mean, this is just fantasy and clean good wholesome fun, right? Oh my. The irony and oxymoron of that line… Do note the disclaimer at the start of the series that this is work of fiction! Yeah, I know such goodness could never happen to me and many others in real life :’(.I’ll add that nobody was sexually harassed during the making of this series! I guess some laugh at comedies but some laugh louder when they put in tits and pantsu shots in your face. Ah, sexy memories are made of these…

Osananajimi Ga Zettai Ni Makenai Love Comedy

Do you still love harem animes after all this time? Okay. We’ve got one right here just for you this season. On top of that, do you like love triangles and love polygons to go with it? Yes, we’ve got that one right here too? How about we throw in the cliché childhood friend trope inside? You do love that one also, huh? Well do not fear, we’ve got it all covered. And the male protagonist is a pervert and a loser but kind hearted enough to have hot chicks flock around him. Yes, yes and YES! All yes! So cliché, so predictable, it’s not even funny! Oh well, when you can get all that in Osananajimi Ga Zettai Ni Makenai Love Comedy, what else more can you expect? Laugh, cringe and enjoy all that and more right here in this series because when your life’s an entire joke, how much more can you lose, RIGHT?! I mean, you can’t get lower than that, can you? CAN IT?!

Episode 1
Sueharu “Haru” Maru approaches Shirokusa Kachi to say how much he likes her novel. Is that his way of confessing his love? She loves to hear more about it. So yeah, this confessions ends up with him being rejected. Ouch. In class, Haru talks to his friend, Tetsuhiko Kai about some confession event at the school’s cultural festival. Tetsuhiko seems to be hated by almost every girl due to his three-timing scandal whatever. Of course he teases Haru about confessing to Kachi but I guess a girl of her calibre and status, she is way out of his league. Although Haru tries to maintain a positive image of Kachi, everyone sees her telling off boys with dirty thoughts and when a friend wants to copy her notes, she rips them apart and calls her a parasite! Woah… Later Haru sees her crying alone at the library. Back in class, Tetsuhiko suggests Haru date his childhood friend, Kuroha “Kuro” Shida since he wants a girlfriend so much. Too bad, this legal loli is also way out of his league. Speaking of which, here she is. Teasing him that he wants to confess to her or something, angering those ugly loser boys. Guilty! Haru tries to run away but Kuro claims he must be guilty for turning down her confession. He admits he does and even though they might be happy being a couple, I guess his heart is still somewhere else. Kuro then dismisses it all as just a game, pissing off Haru. Like as though Kachi doesn’t want to lose out, somehow she makes it known to the class that she is dating Mitsuru Abe, an up and coming actor. Poor Haru. He goes off to cry by himself at the river bank.

Kuro won’t abandon him. Though Haru still feels bad for rejecting her, Kuro notes she only confessed because it was a penalty game. She lets him sleep in her boobs, noting that he is a kind person, being nice to her even when he is hurt. That’s why she likes him. That’s why she’ll always be by his side. Then she suggests getting their revenge on Kachi. At first Haru isn’t interested but as Kuro paints how Kachi and Abe will look like an amazing couple, I guess Haru instantly drops the guilty verdict and is in on this revenge plan. So as they discuss their revenge plan, Haru’s idea is to dig up some dirt on Abe. Every man has his dark secrets, right? However Kuro notes that wouldn’t be winning. That would just be not losing. Achieving so means he’ll feel empty in the end. She suggests they pretend to date and this will have more impact. Kachi will be jealous and in despair, right? However, Haru can’t fathom the idea that they will be dating and chickens out. Loser. So he goes with his original idea to ask about on Abe. Yeah, everyone has only good things to say about him. Perhaps Haru shouldn’t monologue his thoughts out loud to dig up dirt on Abe because that dude is hear and heard his dastardly plans. Yeah, he heard someone has been asking a lot on him. Haru tries to shrug off that they don’t know each other but Abe now remembers all about Haru. He was once a genius child actor.

Episode 2
Flashback tells us Haru was the son of a stuntman and an unsuccessful actress. However 6 years ago, Haru left the acting business. Abe once looked up to Haru and the reason he became an actor. He reveals he is dating Kachi only to humiliate him. Looks like it worked. Yeah, Abe really hates the guy and further reveals his plan to confess to Kachi at the festival to make it official. Haru is swamped with anger but he needs to do better than this to get back at him. Hence he talks to Tetsuhiko about wanting to be in a play for the festival. Yeah, you need a good script if he wants to beat that guy in his own game. Tetsuhiko then forces him to seek Kachi’s help. He manages to sum up his courage to ask her help to write a script. She will. If he pays her. It’s like a big win as they exchange contacts. Kuro who lives next door to Haru is at his place to clean up the mess. I guess guys need that feminine touch, huh? Anyway, she spots an old photo of Haru. Who is this kid with him? He says it is Shirou. Their fathers knew each other. Shirou promised to write a great play and hoped he would act in it one day. Suspicious… Soon, Kachi calls for some materials. She teases him about his date with Kuro but looks like she knows about it all and blames him anyway. Kuro subsequently finds out Kachi was on the line but feels that it might be all a trap for Haru. Because it sounded like Kachi knew of Abe’s plan so they might be in it together. She also thinks he shouldn’t be doing acting since he hasn’t been doing so for years. He thinks it’s a good chance so he tries his flirtatious acting with her. It gets awkward for both of them but the whole lot of embarrassment is saved with Kachi’s message asking for some materials.

As Haru practises on stage, WTF is this stage fright because he panics and passes out?! He wakes up with Kachi in the infirmary by his side. She shows him the script. Basically, using the play to take over the confession event since everyone will be able to see it. Kachi also reveals she knows his child actor status and was actually supporting him. She wants to know what happened as he explains when he landed a drama role that mom wanted to act in so bad, she died in a scene. So, the car didn’t hit her but she was acting her hardest? Damn, her acting so good that she actually died?! The drama was to be cancelled but Haru pleaded not to because that wasn’t what mom wanted. And so the drama was completed. It launched Haru to stardom but soon after that he was forced into hiatus. He never told this incident because he was on gag order. Kachi hands him the rest of the script. This back story is enough as payment. Later we see Kachi’s flashback. As a child, she was useless and often bullied. Her father brought her to Haru since she looked up to him. Yup, she is Shirou. They made that promise but one day they just couldn’t be together anymore so she was in distraught he broke their promise. Hence she wanted to get back at him by becoming prettier and famous. To make him regret for never coming to see her. Eventually she realized she was in love with him. She hated him once but now she’s back at loving him again. Kuro goes over the revenge plan. As Abe sings and dances his way at the confession, Haru will usurp him and do his confession to Kachi. To problem is that Kachi may reject him even if his acting is better. Well, he is just going to believe in her. Kuro doesn’t want to listen to Haru and thinks he wants to stop their pretend dating. But he just wants to tell her he’ll be away at Tetsuhiko’s place to practice. So believe in him that he can get through this, right?

Episode 3
There’s still time before the main event so during the festival, Haru is shocked that Shirou is here to see him. Of course Shirou is keeping some distance because we all know it’s a certain someone in disguise. Anyway, Shirou is here to tell him about her insecurities, reasons she think Haru didn’t come to see her anymore. She also mentions about debuting as a novelist last year and winning some award. And then Shirou reveals herself as Kachi. She worked hard all this time so as to earn his recognition. But when she came to this school, she was devastated to see him close to Kuro. Haru apologizes for not knowing. Kachi also wants to be known not as Shirou but Shiro. Opposite to Kuro I suppose. Today’s revelation was because she finally heard to truth about Haru’s background. She never knew all of it and felt selfish for blaming all the while. That’s why she decided to tell him herself. All that is left now is for the confession event. Since Kuro also heard this, looks like there’s going to be some catty rivalry between the white and black. Before that, Kuro talks to Haru about things. Everything has come down to this. A soft slap so as to reset their relationship. From now on, whatever Haru does is none of her concern. But she still blames him for putting her through all this? Is she still trying to influence him by making him feel guilty? The confession event is here. Abe being the last guy goes out to sing and dance on stage for Shiro. This is of course then usurp by Haru. Is it me or is their dancing awfully weird? Animation issues, maybe… Once that’s done, it is time for Haru’s confession. He starts of by saying that he was in love with Shiro and the reason he is on stage was because he just wanted to get revenge on them. However this makes him realize there is someone else who is more important: Kuro. A loud screaming confession for him to her. Will you be mine, Kuro? Kuro: No. WTF???!!! Everything has been a joke!!! In the aftermath, we see Tetsuhiko talking to Abe and knows he was playing the bad guy. Abe explains that Shiro was like a sister to him and it was very obvious she was in love with Haru. However she was at a disadvantage seeing Kuro confessed first although Haru rejected her. In that gist, she made up a lie that they were dating. So by being the bad guy, Haru would focus his hate on him while Shiro approached Haru. He doesn’t mind being hated so long as Haru gets back on stage. After all, he is a big fan of Haru. Eventually after this event, all 3 of them are the biggest losers. Yeah, all of them regretting big time.

Episode 4
Let’s see how our losers are doing. Yup. Not good. Haru can’t get over his rejection trauma. Kuro regretting she rejected him out of revenge but realizes that she really loves him. Shiro sad that Haru rejected her for another girl. Eventually, both girls blame the other for making Haru do this. If you think that’s bad, wait till you see next day. This whole incident is now known nationwide! And Tetsuhiko must have something to do in spreading this viral clip! Yeah, every talk show is talking about this! If you think that’s bad, it’s going to get worse. Suddenly this loli, Maria “Momo” Momosaka runs in to hug her onii-chan! Oh, you mean this famous actress from The Perfect Little Sister series?! Looks like she’s seen the video and that’s why she’s here to reassure her love for him. Oh sh*t. Cue for b*tch fight coming up. Because looks like the rest wants an explanation who this loli b*tch is. Haru was from the same agency as Momo and he was like her senior who taught her stuffs. Oh, Momo. Do you have to put it so ambiguous that he thought you ‘other stuffs’? And she didn’t bat an eyelid claiming he is her first love. B*tch fight can start any time now… So Tetsuhiko’s apology is just a pizza for Haru? Heck, he is then introduced to a friend of his, Rena Asagi who hands her card and claims herself as jack of all trades. Apparently now that Haru might be return to acting, she is smelling the money trail. So depending on how much you pay her, she can do anything. Except erotic stuffs. Too bad, you pervy Haru! Haha! Oh, and it is Rena who bought this pizza so that Tetsuhiko could help introduce her to him. Amazing. Suddenly Shiro comes up to Haru and wants to go out with him?! Since she is tongue tied, her chubby friend, Meiko Mine clarifies what she meant was that she wants him to come with her. As their fathers know each other, they’re hoping to see each other again. Shiro tries to accuse Tetsuhiko for uploading videos of her without her permission but that shameless dude is unapologetic. Because it didn’t do her no harm and the videos hardly has her in it. Now Kuro comes in. Since Haru is so traumatized, he turns into a monkey and hides behind Shiro! Oh damn, this gives Shiro the superior moral high ground! She accuses Kuro for causing this to Haru and that she better leave him for a while. Poor Kuro leaves. Yeah, not before Haru sees those tears in her eyes.

Later as Haru talks to Tetsuhiko about this over the phone, he still feels guilty and scared for what she did to Kuro. He thought he understood her but he didn’t. Of course, this is also heard by Kuro so Tetsuhiko asks her next move. When Haru returns home, he is shocked to see Momo waiting for him like his wife. I didn’t know they were married?! He tries to put his foot down but Momo plays cool and all. I guess he can’t be mad on an empty stomach but luckily for him, Momo has whipped up some good cooking for her love. She also explains she actually knew his whereabouts but always hesitated to come. After all, they parted ways in an unceremonious fashion so she needed some sort of trigger to come see him. That video was it. It was also the thing that convinced her that he is the only one who can save her. Haru thought someone his blackmailing her but she takes out a card from her agency. Looks like the new president is Shun Hardy. He took over from his mom who fell ill but recovered and decided to retire and travel the world. Got to enjoy life while you can. As for his personality, she thinks it is best he finds that out himself. Hence Momo is here under his orders to convince him to come back to the show business. Momo also has the same extra card but to be given to Kuro. Looks like Shun also saw the video and wants Kuro too. Suddenly Kuro’s sisters knock on the door. It’s an emergency. Kuro has developed amnesia! Say what?!

Episode 5
It seems Kuro’s ‘amnesia’ is her different eating habits. Uh huh. She’s eating food like normal. Momo shows herself so the sisters thought Haru got a new girlfriend after Kuro dumped him. So do they not recognize the famous loli actress until she introduces herself? I guess they do now. Haru also introduces the sisters to her: Midori, Aoi and Akane. Together with Kuro, they are known as the Colourful Sisters. Momo continues to flirt with Haru like it’s no big deal, giving the sisters the wrong idea about their relationship. Momo leaves since Haru and the sisters have to talk about Kuro’s case. Good news or not, her memories till the festival are only gone. This means her confession of Haru is forgotten. As for Haru’s return to show business, the sisters are also as torn like him. They’d be happy if he returns but also feel sad since he won’t be spending much time around them. But whatever the decisions he make, they hope he’ll make it with a positive mind set rather than a negative one. Next day, Haru talks to Kuro about it. She saw the video of the confession but has no idea why she did that. Haru tries to reason that it’s because he did something dumb that caused her to reject him. She suggests that they start all over again and doing so, they won’t have any problems. Shiro is here to pick them up since the media is gathering outside school. Haru suggests Shiro to leave Kuro out of whatever she’s planning despite their thorny relationship. During lunch, Haru tries to test Kuro’s memories to see if she really lost them. He knows she hates wieners because she almost choked on them. Surprisingly, she dares to try them but wants him to feed her. She eats it like no big deal. Then he hands her the card from the agency and tells her what’s going on.

Soon, Kuro barges in and heard about Haru’s decision to go to the agency. She’s not pleased. But how does she know? Kuro hired Rena to place a camera to spy on him! Tetsuhiko rats out Kuro’s doing so Haru beats him up just for her. After that, Tetsuhiko notes about Shiro’s goal to have Haru act in the stories she write. Because Haru will be going back to the agency if he plans to go back to acting, this means he will have to leave his school life. While he can do that when he is an adult, Tetsuhiko suggests he enjoys his only school life now. As Tetsuhiko has setup an online channel on WeTube (?!) for his entertainment club, he wants Shiro’s help to write stories for its content and Haru to play in it. While it is obvious he is after Shiro’s talents, he also acknowledges that Shiro is the only one who can bring out the best in Haru. They agree to do this interesting stuff but first Haru needs to head down to the agency to talk things over. Tetsuhiko and Shiro want to come along but agree to not intervene. At the agency, they meet Shun who is quite arrogant and pushy, trying to convince them to take up the offer. While Haru is indecisive, Kuro has made her decision that she is here to decline. Shun then throws money in the equation. If both of them get into show business, in 3 years they can make 300 million! Wow. Oh Haru, your dirty thoughts are seeping out… Kuro maintains her decision to reject the offer since money isn’t everything. That is when Shun starts to badmouth her that her parents didn’t raise her right and all. Shockingly, Haru pours wine all over him and warns him not to badmouth his childhood friend.

Episode 6
When Shun calls Haru a trash, this time it is Tetsuhiko’s turn to really get mad. I mean, REALLY mad. Like as though he really is going to fight him. Haru holds him back as Shun calls security but luckily Shiro’s dad is here. He hears the whole issue but it seems no physical violence was done, I guess the law can’t do anything. That is when Momo suggests a commercial contest. If Haru wins, he will join Shun’s agency. Otherwise Shun will not file a police report and can’t stop Haru from joining another agency or interfere with him. She sets other rules too including their commercials will be posted on different websites and the one with the most votes win. However, Momo will not be on Haru’s team because she wants to show him how much she has grown. This devastates Haru since he was planning to use her popularity to boost his! Damn, this guy is shameless as he prostrates himself and begs her! Embarrassing! Good luck, Haru onii-chan! So we see the Ultramarine Alliance discuss their commercial. They’re going to do a promo on some sports drink. Meanwhile, a slightly deeper insight to Momo’s past. Due to their broken family, her sister, Eri couldn’t go to college and Momo hated herself for being powerless. Until she was scouted by an agency where she also met Haru. We see him encouraging her to do her best as she picked herself up and worked her way up. Until that fateful day he left. Although she continued to work hard, she was always alone. Though, her fame now is enough to put Eri through college. We watch Ultramarine Alliance’s commercial. Haru looking pretty wild there. I guess they really go all out with the youth theme. Later a courtesy call by Haru to Momo that he also watched her commercial and won’t admit defeat. Momo is glad that he’s back. Ultramarine Alliance has a follow up commercial. Wow. Looks edgy. Psychotic. Violent. Messy. Bloody! Bizarre! Acid trip! WHAT THE F*CK IS GOING ON???!!! No wonder Momo feels she can’t win this but takes heart she can still chase after him. As she is no more alone, she believes Haru will be waiting for her at the end of her path. And just like that, Ultramarine Alliance’s ad wins by 2 votes! Phew. Close. A win is still a win.

We see Tetsuhiko keeping his end of the deal with Shiro’s dad. The latter has done some investigation on this and looks like he knows about Tetsuhiko’s true goal in doing this: He is using Ultramarine Alliance to get revenge on Shun who is his father???!!! Later Abe talks to Tetsuhiko and he also knows what is going on. Abe thinks Haru and Shiro came up tops in this contest but Tetsuhiko says Kuro is the real winner. Flashback shows Tetsuhiko’s meeting with Kuro who expressed concern about Haru going back into showbiz. She knew Tetsuhiko will take sides of those that brings him the most profit and hence she wanted him to side with her on this one. Because of his actions and odd friendship with Haru, she also sensed that he has an ulterior motive. Kuro then told him she will pretend to have amnesia. This will force Haru to side her and she hopes to use this time to get close to him and heal his trauma. She foresaw that Haru will go to see Shun and knowing that scumbag will be a jerk, he will be mean to others. Haru hates those who are mean to those dear to him. This means his return to acting will be as good as dead. Aside Kuro, Tetsuhiko notes the other big winner is Momo. Because now she has transferred to Haru’s school! Apparently Haru misinterpreted her words to save her. Or was she just being sly in the words she chose? Anyway, although she didn’t get along with Shun, the timing was great since she was starved for love. Hence she used this opportunity to quit the agency to rely on him to get her transferred to this school. After all, she has been acting so much that she hasn’t been to school regularly. Yoroshiku ne, onii-chan. Oh boy. Can Haru weasel his way out from his expanded harem? Yeah, Haru the biggest loser. Even more so when he later finds out Kuro was pretending being amnesiac as her habits all suddenly returned to normal. He sure was fooled. Not sure if Kura was a great actress, though… Maybe…

Episode 7
Haru feels disappointed Kuro lied to him. He wants her to apologize and explain but as a woman, you think she’d admit it? This leads them to a mini quarrel and just like that, their relationship is strained again. This time it’s real. Back home, looks like Haru is regretting his actions and fears Kuro’s backlash. Same for Kuro too. She fears that this might lead Haru astray and she’ll be left behind in the harem race. Meanwhile Shiro calls Tetsuhiko to make a proposal with him. Because the last time he told her that she lost a lot of ground. Although Haru’s relationship with Kuro reset, Shiro has her dreams come true but this means her romance with Haru has taken a back seat. Tetsuhiko chairs the first meeting for Ultramarine Alliance. Momo will officially join next week when the papers are complete. He talks about official members and unofficial members (like Rena) as well as voting and veto rights. His first proposal is to shoot a music video at Okinawa with the girls in their swimsuits. While the guys like this ideas, this is opposed by all the girls. It seems by majority vote, they can vote this down without resorting to veto but Shiro doesn’t trust them and fears one of them may change their mind. Hence she forces Tetsuhiko to drop the swimsuit thingy. He does so but now Kuro still doesn’t like the idea that they are being displayed like items. Time to call for a vote. Oh man, 3-2 in favour?! Which one of you b*tches is the traitor? Shiro accuses Kuro for voting in favour since her relationship with Haru is bad and might be using this to mend it. But Kuro seems to have issues of attending this shoot this weekend as her parents are away on a business trip and this puts her sisters home alone. In that case, Tetsuhiko suggests to bring them along. Can’t he just postpone? As this club is created late, they missed creating summer memories so he hopes to make some before next year where they’ll be studying for their exams. When Kuro learns the shooting will be held in a private villa and beach owned by Shiro’s dad, Kuro realizes this is a setup. This means Shiro was in cohorts with Tetsuhiko to vote in favour of this. Haru doesn’t seem to understand it all and this causes more friction with Kuro as they start arguing.

With Kuro not coming over to Haru’s place to clean, it is Aoi who does so in her place. Noting that their relationship isn’t that good, she asks him what happened and perhaps she could help. She tries not to take sides and also tells both their good and bad points. Because both are focusing on different goals and methods, it’s a reason why they may be out of sync with each other. She then asks if he likes Kuro or anyone else. Because if he does so for someone he isn’t fully committed to, it’ll only lead to trouble. Meanwhile Tetsuhiko remembers his talk with Shiro’s dad. Seems he discovered something on Rena too. She is Tetsuhiko’s half-brother from a different mom?! Damn, his family is getting complicated! As Rena doesn’t know this, Tetsuhiko doesn’t want her to know so don’t go blabbing your mouth. Then a call from Shiro to confirm about their plan. All she wants him to do is sit back and observe how she’ll make a comeback to make Haru confess to her. That has been her only goal in life. Of course Tetsuhiko isn’t so sure it will turn out that way and besides, he is worried in maintaining the balance of Ultramarine Alliance. Because if Haru does get a girlfriend, it’ll be all over for Ultramarine Alliance. But he is going to sit back and see how things unfold. Ultramarine Alliance arrive at Okinawa courtesy of Eri. Eri is trying to lead and hint Haru about something. Does he like Kuro? Shiro? Momo? Don’t make Momo cry. Oh sh*t… When Momo goes to get ingredients to cook, this shocks Shiro because she has this perception that great actresses can’t cook! I take it. Shiro can’t cook, right? Yeah, that lie is so obvious. Hence Momo is going to have a cooking showdown with Shiro.

Episode 8
Eri sets the theme as nabe. Sorry Shiro, nobody could hear your fried chicken suggestion. Later we hear the guys talking. Basically Tetsuhiko could guess what Haru is thinking as he wants a harem. Hey, he is the main protagonist of this show! Of course Momo and Rena were eavesdropping and heard that. Momo is glad to know what kind of person Haru is and his personality is the reason why he is always awed by Tetsuhiko’s ideas. Romantically, Momo realizes that she is behind Kuro and Shiro in Haru’s harem. But she’s not panicking. Her position is so only because she is not his romantic interest yet. Hence her brilliant plan is to get him to notice her while let the other 2 fight each other and that itself prevents them from getting together with Haru. They arrive at the villa. Shiro sets down the rules for who gets to sleep in which bedroom. Obviously better to have the guys together and risk yaoi gay time than some straight hetero ecchi hijinks, right? Then everyone hits the beach. Haru gets a secret message from Shiro that she wants to show him her swimsuit but not in front of everybody. So please come to this secret place where she is waiting. Power of boners is strong so you bet that pervert will do that. And so she shows off her sexy swimsuit. The pervert passionately gives his opinion and loves it. Shiro then gets close to him by sitting on his lap. As we all can see from miles away, romantic moment interrupted when Momo calls Haru. So the rest are watching this? Even better. Recording this! Now it’s time for Momo to get mad and boy, damn she runs faster than Haru! As the girls tussle of Haru, he accidentally touches Momo’s boobs. All her padded bras come off. Now she’s going to kill him. I hope she’s not serious…

Later everyone practises dancing. WTF Haru’s dance so girly?! Are you sure this is talent?! Yeah, Momo and Shiro say he is amazing. Are you sure that is amazing?! Oh heck, what do I know? Because Shiro feels so down, leave it to Haru to give her some words of encouragement. You bet he is now dancing for somebody. Apparently that isn’t enough so Shiro leaves the villa herself and bums away at the beach, feeling all depressed. Partly because she doesn’t know how to make nabe. Going to lose, right? Of course Haru the hero has to go see what’s wrong. Apparently she isn’t the same person she used to be. Is that a bad thing? Once again Haru has to give his motivational talk that being strong isn’t the only important thing. She is only digging her grave if she can’t be honest with herself. He is happy she is trying to practice making his favourite food. He believes the real thing will somehow turn out great. This great atmosphere is good enough to make them prepare for a kiss. Well, is anybody going to interrupt them? Okay. Carry on… Ah well, some subconscious mind thingy made them pull back and return to the villa. Another time, maybe? Heh. Hopefully. Next morning, Haru has a ‘rude’ awakening as the Colourful Sisters have arrived. Kuro pointing out that Haru must be having the time of his life. The way he’s sleeping so casually, you bet. Oh sh*t…

Episode 9
Haru and Kuro are being stubborn but luckily the sisters break them up before the whole morning is ruined. The practice continues and we don’t want to see all that boring serious stuff because now it’s relaxation time! Oh yeah! The Colourful Sisters in their swimsuits, the moment we’ve been waiting for! Kuro is going in for a more stylish one, seeing she needs to be taking control now after observing Haru is being quite close to Shiro. With Midori quipping Kuro’s black heartedness is the only thing that tops Shiro, Kuro is going to get her but Midori hides behind Haru. Speaking of which, Kuro takes Haru away for some talk. Eventually, both are still not giving in about their apology. In that case, Kuro will randomly spam “I love you” so he can laugh it off as a joke each time. She does so and each time it is making him embarrassed till a point it drives him crazy. Haru and Kuro then do some studies. He remembers it is thanks to Kuro’s help that he managed to get into high school. Wow. I didn’t think he was THIS stupid! As they’re setting up the stage, Akane has some suggestions of her own. But she is also here to talk to Haru and notes how he has more friends now and it makes her feel that he is far away. That night, Haru spies on Shiro practising alone. He also eavesdrop on his talk to Meiko like how she doesn’t intend to seek Haru’s help because she wants to be dependent on herself. She doesn’t want to go back to those days where she clung onto him unconditionally. So we see Shiro’s solo practice but because of her feet injury, she keeps tripping. Haru has no choice but to only cheer her on from the shadows. At the same time, Akane is watching over Haru. She talks to Aoi that her heart hurts a lot now each she looks at Haru. Oh my. I think we know what this is. Aoi too. So she hugs her and hopes she doesn’t go there. She believes all the sisters too have the same feelings for Haru but held back in respect for Kuro. Hence if love is poison, then lies are her medicine. It’s like her painkiller but the side effect is that the pain hurts afterwards. So a stronger painkiller is needed? A vicious cycle…

Before the girls head up to the stage to do their dance. Kuro is concerned since Haru is paying more attention to Shiro. That feet of hers… The dance is pretty good. Tetsuhiko thinks they should do another take since they have more time but Haru insists nothing will top this. Shiro then trips. Haru tries to catch her. Would’ve looked like a cliché love hugging scene. Only it fails spectacularly. And Haru’s arm injured. Oh damn, call the hospital?! Sounds serious. But the worst part is how Shiro is blaming herself now. This is an injury that’ll take a long time to heal… Back in school, Abe bugs Tetsuhiko who is editing the videos. He wants to know the progress. Simply put it, Tetsuhiko believes Shiro is leading. Momo was too scared Kuro that she didn’t do anything to stop Shiro. Furthermore, most of the shots from Haru’s camera were on Shiro. Abe heard a different story from Shiro and was told all she did was screwing up. The plan might have failed but romantic wise, it isn’t over yet. The irony that Shiro’s failure may have kicked in Haru’s protective instinct. I mean, which guy doesn’t love a clumsy girl who always does her best compared to a pushy and aggressive one? This could only mean that it is going to get messier. I mean, haven’t you heard? Shiro is going to live with Haru from today! Yeah, Haru and Kuro just heard this from Shiro’s father and are in shock. Apparently Shiro still feels guilty for causing his arm to be hurt (well, it’s in a cast) and will take responsibility to look after him. Can’t give that single-boy-and-girl-living-together-who-knows-what-will-happen excuse because their maid, Shion Ooragi will also be staying together. Shiro looking very worried now. Very.

Episode 10
Every pervert’s dream. If you think naked Shiro is going to have sex with Haru just because it’s that time, well think again. Because it’s all just a dream! Oh Haru, you wish, right? Reality hits hard because not only Shiro is staying in Haru’s house but Kuro and Momo too. When is war starting? Oh right. It has already begun! So I guess Kuro’s sisters aren’t the main contenders so they just leave some stuffs and go. Aoi and Akane acting shy and strange while Midori acts tough and scolding Haru. We all know why… But tonight’s harem comes to an end when Kuro’s mom calls her and tells her she CANNOT stay with Haru. Aww, MOM! Also, Eri calls Momo to tell her the same thing. Aww, ONEE-SAMA! So as Shiro talks to Kuro, Haru returns to his room but Shion trying to mock and warn Haru about getting the wrong idea about Shiro’s love for him. When a character calls herself a genius, you know she’s an idiot. But Haru thinks she does have a point when he might be mistaking Shiro’s love to be just her admiration for him. Shiro returns and because his arm is injured, she wants to wash his back. You bet this is going to happen… Meanwhile Kuro recalls what Shiro told her that despite she will be getting closer to Haru tonight. This makes Kuro feel her rejection for him during the school festival is not as bad as this. Of course she isn’t going to throw in the towel yet. In class, because Momo is being too close to Haru and those guilty loser guys trying to get Haru, Shiro steps in to warn those losers if they do something to Haru, she’ll give them an exact barbaric punishment. Also, she tells Momo not to further hurt Haru since she is injured. Momo obliges but this might all be a ploy for Shiro to monopolize Haru as she feeds him. Still can’t use his hand, right? Later Kuro talks to Haru since she is worried about anything happening last night with Shiro. She knows he is a pervert and Shiro is a pretty woman. Guess how that adds up? He assures her that nothing of that sort happened and they just studied the whole night.

Tetsuhiko calls the gang to the clubroom for an emergency meeting. Apparently Shiro’s dad plans on doing a documentary about Haru’s disappearance. Basically from the time Haru quit as a child actor to his recent return. Of course Tetsuhiko will only agree to do it if Haru is 100% okay with it. While Kuro is against it because he doesn’t want Haru to be further hurt, Haru wants to clear up the misunderstandings with the truth. But Momo cautions that they are dealing with the media and they can twist the truth for their own gains. Hence, Tetsuhiko has come up with a counter measure. It will showcase the true ending of Child King. That was the last role Haru starred in before he quit and the first time he acted with Momo. The original TV ending had a teen actor to portray the ending after the time skip. Now that Haru is of that age, he can actually act a different and true ending altogether. This would definitely generate some buzz. If Haru is 100% okay with it, Tetsuhiko will make sure their proposal will not be compromised. Haru is given till the end of the week to decide because for now, it is exam time. Later, the frontrunners of Haru’s harem converge to ‘discuss’. Basically, all of them know what the other sly vixen is doing to seduce, flirt and get closer with Haru. Thus it is proposed that all of them should yield 1 demand and accept each other’s demand equally. This means Kuro has to stop playing the I-love-you game and Momo cannot do anything thoughtless that causes a commotion. In return, all of them will take turns taking care of Haru but only when Shion is around. Momo then has an idea on the true ending documentary. We won’t hear what it is now but it looks like all the girls think this is a good idea that will give them the advantage for Haru. The true devil’s game begins!

Episode 11
Stupid Shion trying to frame Haru despite having all the evidence right in her hands! And she’s still denying?! And calling herself a genius?! Time for Kuro to teach this baka maid a lesson… Putting aside that shenanigan, Tetsuhiko calls everyone for an emergency meeting. There’s a crisis on their hands. Looks like publications are spinning stories about Haru’s retirement from showbiz due to his mom’s death. This is most likely Shun’s work and Momo wants to give him a piece of her mind for ignoring her warning. However Tetsuhiko warns her not to because she will be playing into his hands. If she does, he will be waiting to throw more scandals at her. Of course Tetsuhiko has a plan but only if Haru approves it. When Tetsuhiko pitched in his true ending, a different major network jumped on it. Collect Japan TV is a streaming company and is currently loading up on old popular titles. One of them is Child King and you bet this will be a great promo. So they will make their documentary about Haru and tell the world the truth via this network. As Haru’s image will also impact on Collect, they will want to be careful with this. The girls will personally interview Haru about his past as part of the documentary. First up is Shiro as Haru gets invited to her huge mansion. They talk about stuffs but ultimately the important one was when they were young, Haru wanted to bring Shiro to Tokyo Tower. However she was too scared as she has never been outside before. But his boldness had him eventually take her there. Of course it ended in failure as the servants all stopped them. But at that moment, Haru looked like a hero to her. Her Superman. Wow, mood is good enough for them to kiss but they remember they’re still on camera so cut! Haru then brings Shiro to Tokyo Tower. Upon returning, you bet Shion is throwing all sorts of accusations. But Haru knows how to shut up this dumb maid. He can give her photos of Shion at Tokyo Tower if she be nice to him. Well, what’s it going to be? Do you want the photos or not? Shion thought she is smart as after he sends over the pics, she has no more reason to be nice to him. But Haru only sent her half. MEANIE!!! EVIL!!!

Next morning, Shiro is about to wake up Haru. Trying for a morning kiss, huh? Too bad here comes Momo barging in because it’s her turn. Darn, if only she was a few seconds faster… So will the cat fight begin? Momo is shameless in trying to help change Haru. Noticing his abs, I guess Shiro also joins in rubbing them. Oh yeah. Shion checks on them and misinterprets the situation. Call the police! Now it is Momo’s turn to bring Haru to a very nostalgic place. It is the site where his mom died. Her logic is that what happened to Haru’s mom is the biggest event in his life. Like it or not, he has to face it. Thinking she is the only one who can share such moments with him, she’ll use her gentleness to calm him. In that moment she will burst out from her little sister image into a woman who is worthy of his love. At the site, Momo asks about the incident as she records him talking about the truth how his mom died. It was basically a freak accident as she was not actually hit by the car. He also explains how he protested the cancellation and wanted to continue since mom worked so hard for this show. However the irony was that despite pouring his heart and soul into his role, it was the first and last time he acted alongside his mom. He couldn’t act each he started thinking about her. It got too heavy and that’s the real reason he left showbiz. You think Haru is the one who is supposed to be emotional thinking back about this tragic past. But now that Momo thinks about it, she too felt something off. She thought of not letting her emotions get the better of her but it did. Soon it is Momo who starts crying and apologizing for all the wrong things she said to him. She can’t forgive herself for that. But kind Haru will because he’s Haru. As Momo mentions how much she also loves his mother, this also affects Haru as he too starts crying. But sad lovers can do nothing but console each other in tears. Damn, I’m feeling really weird after all this too…

Episode 12
Back home, Momo is upset because Haru tried to tease her?! Who gave Momo the right to only tease him, HUH?! Anyway, just a ploy so that if he wants to make up, he must kiss her by the lips! But that won’t happen because Shion playing the moral police is here to stop them. But the duo know how the handle her. They claims Haru has a photo album with lots of unseen pictures of Shiro. And they can’t show it if they’re violating some moral standards. So do you want to see it or not? Yeah, Shion nose bleed like flood waters! But the teasing went too far so Shion kicks him in the shin! OMFG! I hope she didn’t fracture it and cause him to be immobile! Good thing it did not. It was all just for comedic effect. And Shion flashing her pantsu all this time, does it mean that will be the last we’ll see of her this episode?! Back to serious business, Tetsuhiko tells Haru that they need to upload the documentary ASAP before Shun makes his move. Also, Collect wants to air the true ending the same time they air the documentary so they have to be quick on that too. So as Haru meets up with Kuro for the shoot, it’s time for a long narration of Haru being a normal kid until that tragedy struck. He changed after he left showbiz and kept all to himself. Kuro has seen all those sides of him during his stay at her place. Then there is this secret place where they used to hang out just because everywhere else was just too noisy for him. It was a place that created a special bond between them. Mind you, nothing ecchi happened. Now, Kuro confesses to Haru and loves him in the romantic sense. Her rejection during the festival was because of revenge. But now she wants an answer from him. Oh sh*t. Every harem guy’s nightmare. HOW TO ANSWER?! While he definitely loves Kuro, however he also has such feelings for other girls. Yeah, you don’t say… Because he took too long to answer, she gives up. This is her personal resolve that if he took more than 10 seconds, she will not pester for an answer again. I mean, it was obvious if he couldn’t be straight with her, it means his feelings lie somewhere else. Hence she proposes this childhood girlfriend thingy. From all that explanation, is it like a mistress? Basically more than a friend but less than a lover. They can opt out of it any time without the risk of being rejected and at the same time they won’t be pressured to give an answer. Yeah, Haru like us doesn’t quite get the details but just the gist of it. Kuro teases her that he can touch certain parts depending on the mood and situation. But of course a kiss and doing ecchi stuffs will automatically convert their relationship into lovers. So be careful. Yeah, Haru’s IQ and brains melting… Mine too as I watch this anime! HAHAHA!!! And yeah, he has to keep this relationship a secret.

Abe sees Tetsuhiko about the uploaded documentary and true ending. He also gives his thoughts on all this. He believes Tetsuhiko came out tops on all this. He knew Shun was going to do something to damage Haru using his past and hence this documentary thingy so that Haru could overcome his past himself. With 3 girls in love with him, they take him to places with fantastic memories. He also thinks Kuro came up with this but Tetsuhiko denies and in fact she was at the most disadvantage. Ever since the Okinawa trip, Shiro held the biggest advantage but with Momo’s proposal, this became Shiro’s biggest disadvantage and it was Kuro got the biggest advantage out of it. He also knows about the childhood girlfriend proposal and this gives Kuro some sort of insurance for the uncertain future. Though, it makes her look like a desperate high school girl, this resets their relationship to back before the confession at the festival. Had she ditched her pride, they would’ve been dating by now. Same case for Shiro too. Tetsuhiko knows all of this because Kuro herself told him. Either way, Tetsuhiko will find out so might as well tell him and give him a warning not to tell others. This means by telling Abe, if this actually goes out, he’ll get blamed! An accomplice, huh? Sneaky! Now that a few girls are swooning over Haru, our main heroines are noticing it and planning to make their moves to crush them before it gets out of hand. Less (wo)men more share, right? The final scenes show the true ending in which Haru’s character wakes up from coma after 6 long years with all his lovers by his side.

Yahari Ore No Seishun Love Comedy Wa Makemashita!
Uhm… That’s it? My, it sure didn’t go anywhere, huh? Because the final episode feels like one big focus on Kuro and somewhat her redemption to reset her relationship with Haru (I guess Shiro and Momo had theirs in the penultimate one). I mean, after she has been too long in the bad side of his books and their relationship not really patching up, hence this long ass narration and reconciliation just to get back to where they started. Hey, even if they did not progress any way forward, at least it is better than being stuck in a rut. Also, this back to square one isn’t really just restarting if you look at it from another perspective. It’s also moving forward rather than being stagnant. But too bad, can’t say the same for this anime. It ended in such a stagnant and boring way that it made everything so meh. Yeah, now I’m really worried if I did lose some brain cells and IQ over all this…

Sometimes I felt confused by the direction and pacing of the story. You know, everyone is having expectations that this is going to be another of those silly generic romantic harem comedy of the season. So in order not to fall into that trap and seem like that sill generic romantic harem comedy of the season, hence the change in pace of the series. Because the synopsis of the show told us about Haru getting rejected by Shiro and hence Kuro his childhood friend wanted to join up to get revenge on this. Well, that didn’t even last halfway. That school cultural festival thingy was the climax of this synopsis and after that, the plot went somewhere else. Because after that, it didn’t really felt much like any revenge plot whatsoever and it’s just another one of those ubiquitous silly generic romantic harem comedy of the season.

The main contenders trying to get Haru’s heart but at the same time, trying to complicate things with his past child prodigy acting. So it’s because of this showbiz thing that Haru was once into, it became like a double edged sword for the girls and the overall pacing of the series. On one hand, it is a stepping stone to get to Haru’s heart but on the other hand, it becomes a stumbling block because this is the most haunting thing in his life. They try to play up this past of his is some big and serious issue. It may be for Haru but for us, we’re just left confused. I guess we don’t understand the kind of plight that has-been celebrities go through, huh? And that is why at the end of it all, I just got confused by everything. I bet you’re expecting me to say that they should’ve done away with this ‘complicated’ child actor thingy and go straight into some cheap sleazy harem fight. Yup. And then I’ll complain how boring and generic it is. Heh. Damned if they do, damned if they don’t. Sighs. The fate of such genres and people who watch them…

So after the festival event, I felt that the music video shoot at Okinawa felt somewhat redundant. I don’t know. I felt it wasted some time and didn’t have any major impact. Not that I could really see it. Yeah, after all that shenanigans and aside somewhat confirming the Colourful Sisters’ unrequited love for our main character, at the end of it all we got was just Haru injuring his arm. And that sets the next and final stage for this season. Honestly, I didn’t keep the score but I just don’t feel that any of the girls got any closer to Haru. Sure, they have their personal moments with him but it is nothing that would make me feel like they’re running away with the lead. It’s just an illusion. Basically everyone is trailing far behind. Am I right?

Oh well, the characters feel pretty cliché and generic. After all, what are you expecting? So Haru isn’t any different from many of the other male protagonists in other similar genres because that is how this kind of shows work. Yes, Haru is a pervert. Yes, Haru is also a nice guy. Yes, Haru has got a lot of girls liking him. What else can you add to that? Oh. Make him a retired child actor! Oh yeah. I’m sure that should make a difference. But I guess he is still in a much better position than those loser guys in his class. Yeah, those jealous losers can say nothing but “Guilty!” to Haru just because he got hot chicks flocking to him. Oh well, it’s a sin to not be the main character. And they’re guilty of being just that! Guilty!

Now let’s go over to the main contenders in this harem race. Shiro. Beautiful talented girl who is our main character’s first crush. Got rejected. Bad move. Now she regrets it and is having a hard time trying to get her feelings reciprocated by him. Well, try harder. Kuro. Typical childhood friend who is always there for him. Rejected him. Bad move. Now she regrets it and is having a hard time trying to get her feelings reciprocated by him. Well, try harder. At the moment, Shiro might look like she has the upper hand because she is gentle and more mature in handling such stuffs while Kuro is more brash and, uhm, wicked? It doesn’t help seeing Haru and Kuro are currently in a quarrel (although thankfully that ended in the end). Well, I guess these girls certainly live up to the general representations of their named colour.

Momo. Even bolder than Kuro, she is only so because of everyone’s mind set that she is of the little sister role. She’s trying to snatch it all from behind and hoping the main duo will fail. But there’s a risk in waiting for that to happen because who knows some other outside factor might sway Haru. Like you know, a fourth girl? Gasp! This contest is not big enough for another rival! Too bad Colourful Sisters. Haru already has enough on his plate and wouldn’t you like to complicate things by announcing your candidacy for the race to Haru’s heart? In hindsight, probably it is the best and smart move they bottle up their feelings. Too many cooks spoil the broth, huh? 6 is already an ungodly number for a harem to have as main contenders. I know, I know. There can never be too many babes for a harem but if you really want to talk about a worthwhile harem, 3-4 should be most ideal. I think.

Tetsuhiko is the most enigmatic and perhaps the most dangerous character of them all. He isn’t just your typical the-other-guy and more than just the best friend of the main protagonist. He is quite scheming and has lots of plans behind his back. As long as something interests him, you bet he will do all it takes to enjoy it. Also, he is one of the most complicating characters because of his very strange family ties. Especially the shocking revelation that Shun is his father and Rena his step sister. Especially why this dude is so angry at his father. Could there be some past abuse or something? Another revenge story? I bet it would be interesting to know how all this ties up together but I guess we’re too focused on the sleazy shenanigans of Haru and his harem so this one goes to the back burner. Hence for Rena, her character actually feels a lot redundant (if not, the most redundant of them all) and not really important. It is just strange to think that her ties with Tetsuhiko is the only flimsy thing that makes her slightly relevant. But nevertheless still mostly irrelevant as far as the plot and direction of this series is heading. Abe’s role also feels redundant after the festival confession. It’s like he meets up with Tetsuhiko just to keep the score. Uh huh. Somebody keeping the score card of Haru and the girls’ progress. I don’t know, all sounds so confusing to me.

Shion as the dumbest character is clearly written as a joke. But sometimes I feel that she represents what most of our sentiments for this series is. You know, we know that this series is going to be sleazy and cheesy and all that mind numbing generic stuffs. But yet we won’t admit it and we continue to ‘love’ it because we are so into this kind of genre! AM I RIGHT???!!! Yeah, you got to give Shion points for being confident despite the odds obviously stacked against her. Or maybe she is just that stupid to begin with. Anyway, Shion is there just for some variety and she doesn’t really shake up the foundation or anything else. Because we’re tired of seeing and expecting the same predictable results of our main trio of heroines, hence Shion is the much needed comic relief we need so as to make those heroines not look as bad. Hey, this is a romantic love comedy, right? Some sort of dumbness is expected.

The art and animation looks pretty decent and simple. The colouring and hues are quite light too. But I still can’t get out of my mind that weird animation dance scene that Haru did at the festival. I think the animation quality made it look freaking weird… If you find the characters having this familiar super cute looks, that is because Doga Kobo animated this crap, uhm, I mean silly generic romantic harem comedy of the season. Hence the masters of mostly animating cute girls doing cute things genre adding this one to their list that includes YuruYuri, New Game, Himouto! Umaru-chan, Gabriel Dropout, Mikakunin De Shinkoukei, GJ-Bu, Love Lab, Maoujou De Oyasumi, Uchi No Maid Ga Uzasugiru and Watashi Ni Tenshi Ga Maiorita. But the art can be simple enough that I sometimes get confused between Tetsuhiko and Abe since they look almost similar. Maybe I should look harder.

Voice acting, I suppose Yoshitsugu Matsuoka is helming in yet another sleazy character role. But I guess this beats every time we all try to pigeonhole him as Kirito, right? So as Haru, I guess he is better than other less than stellar non-Kirito-like characters like Makoto in Hatena Illusion and Aito in Mangaka-san To Assistant-san To. The only other seiyuu I recognize is Ayane Sakura as Shiro. Though, she is putting a lower voice than her trademark bratty/b*tch one. Heh. And with Inori Minase as Kuro (Hestia in DanMachi), I wonder if there was something to do with Go-toubun No Hanayome because these trio had a main voice acting role in that anime too. Yeah, it would have further fuelled my conspiracy theory had they roped in Ayana Taketatsu, Kana Hanazawa and Miku Itou somewhere! They did not and that was the end of my intriguing thought.

The rest of the other casts are Saori Oonishi as Momo (Aiz in DanMachi), Kaede Hondo as Shion (titular character in Tejina-senpai), Nobunaga Shimazaki as Tetsuhiko (Shido in Date A Live), Tomoyo Takayanagi as Rena (Mira in Koisuru Asteroid), Akane Fujita as Midori (Sagiri in Eromanga-sensei), Miyuri Shimabukuro as Aoi (titular character in Yuragi-sou No Yuuna-san), Natsumi Hioka as Akane (Tsukuyo in Busou Shoujo Machiavellianism), Takuma Terashima as Abe (Otoya in Uta No Prince-sama series), Minami Takahashi as Eri (Megumi in Shokugeki No Souma) and Wataru Takagi as Shun (Chudelkin in Sword Art Online: Alicization). Chance & Revenge by Riko Azuna as the opening theme is a rock pop outfit. This is quite a highly energetic piece and I find it suitable for high octane anime series like car racing shows. Yeah, so it’s weird to hear this one here. Unless racing to Haru’s race is a high octane nerve wrecking race… As for the ending theme, Senryakuteki De Yosou Funou Na Love Comedy No Ending Kyoku is a duet between Shiro and Kuro. Sounds like another generic anime pop.

Overall, this is your, wait for it, silly generic romantic harem comedy of the season. It’s got its fair share of funny moments and jokes, some cringe moments, some much needed dramatic moments and the ending is pretty bland. I mean, the usual main guy didn’t choose which girl he wants to be with but that is all within expectations. But nothing that is out of the ordinary. Nothing that has been done and tested. After all, we’re eventually here to see cute girls going after a plain guy, right? Don’t be surprised that many call this garbage of the season and the title is there to serve just as clickbait. Only people (like yours truly) who love this kind of genre can stomach all the clichés and predictability that this genre has to offer. It’s the strange kind of love-hate relationship we have with this kind of genre as we keep complaining about stuffs but come back next season to still watch the same thing. I suppose that is why this vicious cycle is our tragic love comedy that we won’t stubbornly give in or lose to!

Ore Wo Suki Nano Wa Omae Dake Ka Yo OVA

As if the end of the TV series wasn’t bad enough to kill us with its cliff-hanger tension, then the damn Corona virus had to delay Ore Wo Suki Nano Wa Omae Dake Ka Yo OVA for a few months! Oh yeah. Aren’t we just dying to see the conclusion of the TV series already? Although I’m pretty much confident of how things will end up, we’d love to see how the main character who claims himself as not the main character makes a comeback, right? We all love underdog stories. That’s why they had to split the OVA into 3 long episodes. However I saw it as one long movie and broke my own curse of not watching anime movies! OMG. This is such a milestone! Yeah, the tension really literally made me do it!

Oretachi No Game Set
Time for a little flashback and elaboration when Joro was waiting outside the stadium for Sun. It was then Pansy came to talk to him and wanted to be friends. No matter how sexy and beautiful she is, thankfully power of friendship > power of boners so he has to put off their conversation to some other time. Now we delve further into Sun’s past. Being a reserved guy, he found it hard to make friends and was a loner. The only person, Shiba whom he thought was his only friend betrayed him. Eventually he found out he was talking behind his back all the time and was like the rest who hoped he was never around. Instead of being angry, he was scared since his fear was being hated by others. Ever since, Sun decided to adopt his nickname and new sunshiny persona. On the outside he is a cheery and popular guy but on the inside he is still the same gloomy guy. Now we return to reality as we resume where we left off. As we all know, each girl received a hairclip and will give it to the guy they love. The one with the most hairclip at the end wins. But as we have seen, Cosmos, Himawari and Asunaro already gave theirs to Hose. Making it even worse, the girls make clear rules that all seem to go against Joro’s favour! On the day of the game, Himawari calls Joro to go to the game together. But he can clearly hear a conspiracy behind this because with Cosmos and Asunaro, they’re going to call the rest of the girls and get them to give their hairclips to Hose (part of the rules state when a girl hands her hairclip, both guys must be present). Hence Joro for pretty much of the day tries to avoid these girls. Yeah, the rules are so damn complicated that we need another round of explanation! Hey. At least this time they’re better presented.

Joro spots Pansy at the stands and tries to secretly go talk to her to convince her to give her hairclip to him. But first she asks what she thinks of him. He can’t answer right now. He also has to leave since Hose is seen nearby. After Joro helps a lost girl find her sister, he hopes this magnanimous act would convince Cherry who is watching him to give her hairclip. He even tries convincing her that he’ll help to get her and Hose together. Nope. She’d rather play the supporting role. As she is about to call Hose, Joro then gropes her boobs! Cherry beats him up but makes a mess out of the place. While she is forced to clean up, this enables Joro to escape. Later Joro stumbles into Hose. The former pointing out he saw him talking to Pansy. But Hose notes that one hairclip isn’t that important since he is just 1 hairclip away from clinching victory. He tries to call the other girls but this place has no reception. Joro then helps a girl finds her keys but luckily he has help from Sasanqua. I guess he has to promise to reward her afterwards. Of course this is part of the act to convince Tsukimi who is watching him. Instantly she shoots down his proposal to give her hairclip. Nothing can convince her not to support Hose. Before Joro can run away, Himawari and Asunaro grab hold of him! Time to call Hose. But first, more Sun flashbacks. After he made friends with Joro, he thought he was the same kind of person. The kind of guy who has something to hide and put on a façade. But one day he realized his mistake. As usual, Shiba was badmouthing Sun behind his back. That was when Joro came up to him to defend Sun. He will not forgive anyone who tries to sabotage his friend with lies. After the confrontation, Joro reverted to his timid ways. It was then Sun realized the kind of person Joro is. Unlike him who did things to be liked, Joro did things to protect others.

A private meeting between Joro and Hose reveals the latter wants to amend the rules. The loser now cannot associate himself with Pansy’s friends too. Uhm, can they just amend the rules like that without consent from other girls? Oh well, if Joro agrees, he must be pretty confident, right? Joro knows Hose is a totally different person and true enough, he shows his true colours. Hose’s intention is to rid every last atom of Joro’s existence from Pansy’s life so as to claim her for his. He also knows the different layers of masks he puts on for others as well those he hides. Before the big final game, looks like more Sun flashback. To sum up this flashback, we see Pansy talking to Sun as she confided in him about the person she likes. Turns out to be Joro. During the game, Shiba tries to apologize to Sun for all that he has done but Sun doesn’t think he should because he himself is no better. Relating about a certain someone he wanted to beat so badly that he resorted to underhanded ways, no matter how much he tried, he could never beat him or be at his level. In the end, he realized he can just be himself.

Before Cherry and Tsukimi could give their hairclip to Hose, Cosmos and Himawari stop them and try to convince them not to give up their own love and use Pansy as an excuse. Both relate their own feelings and experience because they know they’re lying about their own feelings and acting so the person they love wouldn’t hate them. They admit so but they still blame Pansy for it. But with more words of motivation and how their bonds were there, Cherry and Tsukimi confess their feelings to Hose but of course he apologizes. As expected, right? Cherry gives her hairclip to Joro but Tsukimi give hers to Hose. Now, you would think that Hose with 4 clips out of 6, he is the winner, right? But Joro is not scared. This is where his real tactic comes to play. Remember those girls he helped? Along with Tsubaki and Sasanqua, he has now 10 hairclips! I mean, the rules did not state he can only receive from the 6 girls, right? Oh yeah. Joro winning. But guess what? Hose also had the same idea! He has tons of his fan girls to come give him their hairclips! OMG! He has amassed 98 hairclips!!! Hose figured out his plan as he observed Joro sneaking about in the stadium and knew something was up. The other girls get desperate and want to change but looks like it is obvious some rules they want to change, they can’t because it was clearly stated down already. Can’t change your vote or give multiple hairclips from the same girl. Hose brags on his win and reveals the rule adjustment of those friends with Pansy will also have to stop talking to Joro. But of course there is a way out of this: Stop being friends with Pansy. Immediately they shoot down this idea since they will not stop being friends with her.

Before Hose could claim ultimate victory by asking Pansy’s hairclip, here comes Sun and Tanpopo. Looks like Sun has gathered his ton of fan girls to give their hairclips to Joro! Hose is shocked because he didn’t see Joro talk to Sun at all. Joro hints this plan was initiated from the very start and because of their deep bonds, I guess they understood each other. Also, as the rules state, the game ends when all the original 6 girls hand over their hairclips. It is the same reason why Joro somewhat had Pansy delayed giving hers. So as long as the game doesn’t end, he can still get hairclips from other girls. With the Joro’s new tally, he now has caught up to the same total as Hose. Hose is now desperate. What about the outcome of the baseball game? To ramp up the drama, we see Sun losing faith and about to give up. But seeing Joro’s written motivation underneath his cap, yeah, that should do to trick. In other words, Sun’s team wins! Sun then confronts Pansy about their promise to become his girlfriend if his team wins. He wants to call that promise off. Hose is now freaking desperate. He tries resorting to stealing and the likes but remember, the rules. Not even Cherry and Tsukimi are willing to obey his command to convince Pansy to give her hairclip. While Hose wants Pansy to give it to him, Joro tells her to do what she wants. And with that, she hands the hairclip to Joro because she is in love with him. With that, Joro wins 100-98! Hose resorts to name calling like Joro being a nobody. He admits it but at the same time he is nobody’s pawn. Because he is an ordinary guy, he knows he can’t fight alone and has friends. Hose faints from the shock as his girls take him away. I suppose that’s his cue to exit the stage. Bye. Forever. And Joro revels in his victory. Correction. Make that their victory!

Now the toughest part is here. Joro is going to confess to which girl he likes. He faces Pansy and confesses to her. So that makes Pansy the winner, right? Well, then he also does the same for the rest of the girls. He’s going for a harem? Yeah, one girl a day. Apparently the girls don’t like this harem idea and leave this jerk alone. So as Joro has only Tsubaki to confide in, she knows that Joro made such decision so as not to ruin their friendship. Had he chose one, this would fracture their relationship and the ultimate goal was to give Pansy best friends. Of course Joro denies this since he is not one to choose and just reports. Joro then gets all the skewers to go to his best friend, the other person he loves. Gosh. So he’s gay?! Nah. Just kidding. So the guys have their time together as they reminisce things. Sun especially realizing that the girls eventually reject him. So is Joro the only one who is in love with him? We can only take that as a (gay) joke. Of course we can’t end this with a seemingly gay scene so we have a very beautiful Pansy in her true form accompanying Joro for a walk as she thanks him for keeping his promise. It makes her very happy and yeah, once more another confession she loves him.

We Will Always Love You!
That was a nice conclusion to it all. Everything ends beautifully and whatever the friends protected from the start to finish, they did it with perseverance thanks to the power of bonds. That bond is put to the ultimate test in revealing Hose as the series’ antagonist. Well, if you look it from that perspective. So I guess it’s bittersweet memories, that is all he’s taking with him, so goodbye, please don’t cry, we all know that’s what he needed. Heh. I just somewhat butchered Whitney’s Houston’s hit… So Hose is just like everybody else having his own façade for others and the hidden side. Now I understand perhaps why Pansy wanted to get away from him. But I hope he honours the deal since being the guy he is, he might not want to give up on Pansy after losing in such a sore manner. But that’s another possible story for another time. In the meantime, you can count on Joro will forever be Joro. After all, he is eventually the chosen main character. The question now is how to get his harem dream come true if he is to take his main character role to the next cliché step… Hmmm… I wonder if masking it under the guise of friendship will count. But I believe Joro wanting to truly be friends with everyone, that’s no mask. That’s his real side.

The game to outwit each other and get more hairclips looks quite interesting and clever. Though, I did predict this in my previous blog, I didn’t go further like these guys. So I guess I wasn’t as smart at them if I were to be put in the same challenge :’(. It isn’t the case of rules exist to be broken, but how one interprets them. This is how the law works. But I’m not going there. Many of the main girls didn’t get much an important role here because of the seemingly mind game between Joro and Hose as well as the flashbacks of Sun trying to reconcile with himself about his own worth and what’s important to him. Just a little bit displeased that Tsubaki feels more like an extra here. Like she didn’t matter except when the plot commands her to show up. And Sasanqua the eternal tsundere. It’s not that she wants to do this, you know! Although they seem minimal, but for a ‘normal’ guy like Joro, these little sum of its parts prove the greatest. The bench didn’t get played as a running joke here but the harbinger of doom seems to have its roots way back to Sun’s confession for Pansy. Thankfully, the final scene of Joro and Sun together on the bench, no break ups were initiated. I guess it only works between a boy and girl, huh?

Overall, this OVA is an enjoyable conclusion to those who have been waiting for one since the TV series ended even if it is still filled with its typical anime clichés. You know, main guy somewhat gets the girl in the end and the main villain is forever vanquished?! Not sure if there would be another season since I just found out the manga ended a month before this OVA was released! Only time will tell if Joro will add more ‘flower girls’ to his harem. In a huge garden filled with a variety of flowers, a watering can can continue to keep this floral garden beautiful because it allows you to be up personal with the flower you’re watering rather than the superior hose that can spray and reach a wide area. That’s why this series bloomed so beautifully. But it won’t be the only series that I’ll always love :-).

Otome Game No Hametsu Flag Shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou Ni Tensei Shiteshimatta

In many movies, series, books and even games that we indulge in, we are always being told from the perspective of the hero or the heroine. How many are there that would look at the angle and view of the villain or antagonist? Sure, there are but they are few by far and in between. After all, nobody wants to be the bad guy, right? Well… Otome Game No Hametsu Flag Shika Nai Akuyaku Reijou Ni Tensei Shiteshimatta (or Hamefura for short if that name is too freaking long ass for you to remember) has the main character being reborn into the role of a villainess of a dating simulation. Considering she is a pro in playing this game and has conquered almost every possible route there is, that is only when she was playing as the role of the heroine. Now what happens if you are taking on the villainess role? Looks like every path you take will end in your doom, no?! And hence her life’s mission is to make sure to avoid setting off the death flags that would lead to her doom. Sounds easy, right? Well, just remember there is no save game moments here. One chance, baby. One chance…

Episode 1
Catarina Claes is introduced to the third prince of the kingdom, Geordo Stuart. She instantly falls in love with him and as they stroll around the garden, Catarina slips and bumps her head. It seems she starts seeing her life in flashbacks. Hmm… A high school girl who is hooked on otome games and then got killed? Oh gosh. That is actually memories her past life! Though she is okay, she only has a scar on her forehead. As such women will find it hard to find a partner to marry, Geordo hints that he will officially propose to her later. Catarina’s parents are ecstatic to hear about this and want to celebrate this. But soon Catarina finds these events familiar. In the popular otome game she was playing, Fortune Lover, there existed a same prince with the same name. However he was sadistic and had an evil fiancée who locked him up because she blamed him for the scar on the forehead. Uhm, isn’t Catarina that villainess?! The main protagonist of the game is Maria Campbell, a commoner. In the game she meets other male characters and depending on which route you take, you end up falling in love with one of them. Other than Geordo, there is Alan (Geordo’s younger twin brother), Keith (Catarina’s half-brother) and Nicol Ascart (son of the premier). If you follow Geordo’s route, Maria is often bullied by Catarina and in the end, Geordo killed her and broke up with Maria to go into exile. That is the bad ending. The good ending has Catarina been exposed for her crimes and gets exiled. It seems there are other endings too but all either has Catarina get killed or exiled! Catarina researches more about this world and soon realizes this is indeed the world of Fortune Lover.

Now Catarina has a meeting with various versions of her inside her mind to find a route that will avoid her getting killed or exiled. They come to a conclusion to be good in magic. So the best way to be good in earth magic is to do farming? Yeah. How else can you communicate with the ground? Geordo is here once more and sees Catarina in this state. Shocked at first, he eventually says nothing and proposes to her officially. Catarina accidentally accepts and this sets off the flag as it follows the exact events in the game. Even more so when Keith is introduced to stay with her. In the game, because he is the son of a mistress, he is often bullied. Thus he locks himself alone in the room. He grows up to be a playboy but finds true love in Maria. No prizes to guess what happens to Catarina. Hence another mind meeting as they decide to be nice to Keith to avoid him being lonely. She tries to impress Keith by climbing a tree but slips. Almost ‘killed’ him with her butt? Later she has him demonstrate his magic against his will. But it goes berserk. Catarina wakes up in her room alright. She learns from her parents that Keith cannot control his strong magic and vowed not to use it upon others. Catarina realizes she was in the wrong and goes to apologize to him but he has locked himself up in his room. Flashback shows he used his magic that almost killed a couple of bullies trying to throw stones at a bird’s nest. He got ostracized since. Hence his thinking is that if he is alone, he can’t hurt anyone. Just then, Catarina uses an axe to chop down the door! Just to apologize! Uhm, is she apologizing on the broken door? Be careful of splinters… Catarina gives him hope that he can control his magic via training and she promises to always stay by his side. But for now, Catarina’s mom is going to scold her for breaking down the expensive door! Is this part of the death flag?

Episode 2
Catarina receives an invitation to a tea party. Fearing that she doesn’t know any manners, they send Keith to go along with her. You bet Catarina wants to bring back all the delicious treats but with Keith warning her about what mom said, Catarina tries to eat them all! Tummy ache? Luckily she manages to relief herself but stumbles upon Mary Hunt in the garden. Because she learns Mary plants very nice flowers, Catarina is interested to learn more about gardening (since hers is wilting). Mary agrees to go take a look at her garden and both lolis put in the effort till Catarina’s mini garden finally blooms. Later Keith explains Mary was a very lonely girl because she is often bullied by her sisters (as Mary is from a different mother). After her mom died, she felt she had nowhere to go. Keith also explains about Mary’s engagement to Alan. This shocks Catarina because this is part of the game as well. In the game, Alan has health issues and always felt inferior to Geordo. But all that changed for the better after meeting Maria. The game is a good ending if Alan and Catarina end up being a pair and their respective future spouse backing down. A bad end is if Alan and Mary end up together. Thing is, Catarina said the exact words about Mary’s gardening that Alan would have said to her in the game. That line was what clinched Alan and Mary’s relationship. So is Catarina looking at her doom?

Catarina talks to Mary again but it looks like Mary said those same lines to Alan. Soon, Alan comes to visit Catarina. He is not pleased and thinks she is seducing his Mary! Because when he tries to invite her out, she gives excuses she has plans with Catarina. Also, she talks nonstop about her! Catarina dismisses all this and instead accuses of having no appeal at all. That is why Mary won’t accept his invitation. Realizing too late she said too much, Alan considers this as an insult and challenges her. He lets her pick the challenge. Tree climbing? Yeah, Catarina always beats him. Rematch? This goes on day after day. Yeah, it’s like he visits her every day just for this challenge. So I guess it is time for Geordo to step in and break this up. Alan still insists on a challenge so Catarina suggests playing piano. Catarina is good but Alan is better. They praise him but Alan is displeased. He thinks they are mocking him and runs away. Catarina finds and talks to him as he laments Geordo is good in everything. On the contrary, Catarina knows Geordo has a weakness. She believes it is snakes because while gardening, she saw his scared face when stumbled into one. To prove it, Catarina throws a toy snake at Geordo. As expected, he gets frightened. Of course he finds out and he is going to tell her mother about this prank. Oh dear, another scolding from mom. Can she not avoid this doom flag? But all this left Alan laughing his ass off. After another mommy scolding, Catarina is still confident that if her doom flag arises with Geordo, she can pull off this snake prank to buy her time to escape her death. Heh. It’ll be easy…

Episode 3
Another tea party invitation for Catarina. This time it is by Geordo and Alan. Also invited are Nicol and his younger sister, Sophia. She seems most displeased. As usual, Catarina eats a lot till she needs to go to the toilet. Then she got chased by some dog and only loses it climbing up a tree. But then she spots several kids ganging up on Sophia. As she really needs to answer the call of nature, she jumps down and that scary face scared those kids away. Back at the party, Catarina and Sophia talk. She finds her similar to some romance novel she is reading and what luck, she is named the same as that character and also shares the same interest as her. She invites her to her home the next time. When she does, Nicol also tags along. That is when Catarina remembers. He is the childhood friend of Geordo and Alan. As he has a very strong sister complex, you cannot win over him unless you win over his sister. As Nicol’s rival isn’t Catarina, hence no matter how they interact with him, there is no danger of the death flag. As Catarina and Sophia become friends, Catarina is also impressed and loves her silky white hair. This shocks Sophia. Because many view it as creepy, including her red eyes. Many use this to discredit the family and call her a cursed child. But since Catarina doesn’t find it so, she hopes they can continue to be friends and this makes Sophia very happy. Along with Mary, the trio become form their own romance novel book club of their own. Catarina also visits Nicol’s residence from time to time. Before she leaves, Sophia goes to get a recommended book she forgot. Hence Catarina is left with Nicol. Not wanting this awkward silence, she mentions their family is blessed. At first he doesn’t look too happy but changes his outlook and agrees with her. Knowing his devilish smile, he fears that Keith’s heart might be stolen and this might open some BL route! She won’t let that happen! Glad to know she isn’t into BL. Yet.

Many years passed and we see Catarina now a gorgeous 15 year old teen. She heads down to celebrate her 15th birthday with all the usual suspects attending. They too have grown up splendidly. She dances with Geordo first as he asserts he will never break off their engagement. However she is okay if there is another girl who catches his eye and if so, she’ll gladly back off. Then he just kisses her nape and claims he could easily take her any time. She is left clueless as Keith tries to rub off the ‘bug’ on her nape. He warns her not to see Geordo alone. When Catarina dances with Nicol, everyone looks at them with utmost fascination. She asks if there is someone he loves. He does but he can’t say because he is not supposed to fall in love with that person. This has her to think if he is in love with someone’s wife or a guy! Later, I guess Sophia and Mary also want to dance with her since she is such a beautiful lady so she obliges. But now the real problem comes because she will soon enrol in a magic academy which is the beginning of the game’s setting. She hopes that all that she has done in the past to foster and fix a close relationship with the related characters will avoid her own doom as well as stay with them forever.

Episode 4
Catarina needs to be wary of Maria who possesses rare light magic. Her mini mind minions review the effort she has made over the years. Though there are some changes, there are some still remain the same. For example, Geordo who had no interest in Catarina in the game now gets along with her well although he still doesn’t break their engagement. Alan no longer has inferiority complex to Geordo but Mary isn’t attracted to him. At the academy as Catarina enjoys sweets from Geordo, she learns that he has already stumbled into Maria and helped her. Oh dear. Things are already starting to role. Even more so when the same happens to Keith. His reaction clearly indicates he takes a liking for Maria so Catarina assures she will support him. But does she need to shake him up like that? And when Catarina herself crosses path with Maria, she can’t concentrate in class as her mind is preoccupied with this heroine. Hence another mind deliberation on what to do before her doom flag sets in. In the end, they decide to do farming because if she gets exiled, at least she has this survival skill. After getting permission by the school, she starts farming her vegetable farm. As top students are to automatically join the student council, Geordo, Maria and Alan being the top 3 are in. Catarina. Down at 80th. Catarina finds herself visiting the student council office often that also consists of current student council president Sirius Dieke (Serious Dick what?!) and Nicol. Catarina enjoys Maria’s sweets but has to be careful how she knows about her as her info of Maria comes from the game she played. One evening, Catarina spots a handful of girls bullying Maria. Catarina jumps in to scare them away (evil villain face came in handy?) and then eats all her cupcakes the bullies threw on the ground. Too good to resist, huh? I guess the 5 second rule doesn’t apply to her. Catarina feels embarrassed upon realizing this but Maria’s sweet smile blows away all that. Later Catarina remembers such scene. In the game, it was Catarina who led the bullies on Maria. Then Geordo popped up to scare them away and ate her cupcakes. She realizes that since this didn’t take place, Geordo’s romance route won’t happen and that her doom can be prevented.

Episode 5
Catarina gets closer to Maria. She also notices Sirius is more popular with the girls than Nicol and ranks higher in grade too. Catarina then realizes she doesn’t interact with them often outside the student council room. As Maria is still being bullied, she needs to find a way to protect and get closer to her so Keith suggests hanging out with her more often. Brilliant idea. During lunch as she tries to make her move, she sees a group of snobbish girls bullying Maria. Instantly Catarina goes to protect her and dispel whatever rumours of Maria being a cheater. The bullies as expected run away with their tail between their legs. Later Catarina remembers this similar scene in the game. As you would have guessed, it was Catarina who led the bullies and Keith who saved her. So now that they have prevented this Keith’s route, looks like her doom flag is slowly being prevented. Trying to get closer to Maria and ask is there anyone she loves, is Catarina the right answer? Heck, even Mary and Sophia say they like Catarina! Holy sh*t. This game got yuri harem route?! As Catarina plans to expand her farming experience, she heads to the outskirts and at the same time visit the town where Maria lives. Apparently Maria is pretty well known because of her light magic. Some girls pester them for Maria’s real father as they think the rumours of Maria being the illegitimate child of a noble is the reason why she has such rare power. Keith ignores them and takes Catarina away. Maria is surprised to see Catarina and Keith visit. She learns about their farming hobby and allows them to set up a mini farm outside her house. We see Maria’s flashback that she was just an ordinary child. Until she started using her light magic, everything went downhill as others started suspecting and ostracizing her as a special child. She laments nobody wants to see the real her. Maria’s mom realizes she has been a terrible mom ignoring her daughter’s plight. She promises to help Maria and hopes her friends will continue to be friends with her. When Catarina returns home, she didn’t expect her own mom to visit. Yikes! Mom heard rumours about her making her own mini farm at school. Oh dear. A ‘long chat’ they’re going to have. Eek!!!

Episode 6
Summer vacation is here! Though Catarina’s mom allows her to keep he farm, but she has to stop shouting those strange farm words. Catarina and Geordo are supposed to go to the lake alone but Keith learnt about this and quickly joined in to avoid anything suspicious. Then the rest of the gang also join in and we got boat races to lovely picnic before a bird steals a snack from Catarina’s hands and she shamelessly goes after it. While the gang is out to get a book from the bookstore, when Nicol waits alone with Catarina, he gets close to her to thank her for being with them. Like as though prepping up for a kiss, Nicol further adds that he would love to stay by her side. Catarina can’t handle this shock and faints. Not sure if the summer heat is part of the culprit… Then everyone attends Alan’s piano recital. Dazzling. After that, Catarina talks to him and wonder about the last song because it is as though he played with someone in mind. He starts acting all embarrassed so she thinks it is. Then with other girls calling out for Alan, Mary doesn’t sound very pleased. Hence Catarina concludes that contrary to what has happened, Mary actually likes Alan secretly. Catarina then accidentally asks Sirius if he has someone in mind considering he is the only one not engaged to anybody. Of course he says none. Reality soon sinks in as the last day of summer vacation is here. Because Catarina hasn’t done her homework! Oh dear. I suppose that’s why she has Keith to help her out with some. This has her remember in her previous life she also always did her homework on the last day. Then she is awakened by her maid the next morning. Her homework is blank. Oh sh*t. So was that all just a dream too???!!!

Episode 7
Before she became Catarina, she was a normal high school girl. Yes, this was her previous life. Somewhat boring until she became friends with a classmate, Atsuko Sasaki who introduced her to Fortune Lover. Unfortunately such days didn’t last long as her friend died in a traffic accident. She became sad. Atsuko’s last message was a route she didn’t clear in Fortune Lover so as a sad friend, she promised to carry on in this new world she gave to her. She noted that if she had a chance to be reborn again, she wants to be friends with her again. Oddly, this is dreamt by Sophia. Uhm so is Sophia that friend of hers? It is exam time and you bet Catarina needs to pass this because certainly she doesn’t want to meet her doom via her mom’s wrath, right? Yeah, not part of the game’s plot! They are divided into groups and must find a magic stone in a very dangerous labyrinth ruins to pass. As we can see Catarina being clumsy and activating all the traps! Thank goodness they have luck too. She tries to help but activates yet another trap. While the hot guys diffuse it, she accidentally drops into a trapdoor. Oh dear. Will she meet her doom from something that is not part of the game?! When the others reunite and tell what happened, Nicol suggests using his wind magic to trace the whereabouts of Catarina’s voice. They manage to locate her since she is hunting, uhm, mushrooms? Doesn’t those look poisonous? Catarina falls off the edge in her mushroom hunt but is luckily caught by Sophia. Hey. Why is she the only one trying to pull her up? What happened to the rest? Some whirlwind makes them land safely and now the rest arrive. You guys are late. Everyone is happy that Catarina is okay and even more so she is in possession of a magic stone! She didn’t realized it was one as she picked it up just to cut off the mushrooms! Maria thought she saw some ominous shadow behind Catarina. Catarina wants to cook a mushroom broth with this haul. The guys aren’t so keen but the girls will follow her even if it means death! Can we settle on something else like cheesecake or something?

Episode 8
Catarina can’t focus studying on the test so what does she do? Farming! When Alan comes to talk to her, Mary gets jealous and wants to get in their way. But that won’t be necessary since Catarina wants to resume studying and invites Mary to study with her at the library. Great news! Only, she invites the rest of the gang. In the library, Catarina picks up some ancient book and this has everyone get absorbed into it. Only Maria and Mary didn’t because they were away to get sweets. So after they see this phenomenon, they realize this book could be one of the 7 mysteries of the school. You can’t get out if your desires aren’t fulfilled. Hence Mary is tormented to see everyone in the book trying to hit on Catarina! From Geordo’s flirting moment on their wedding day to Keith’s cheeky food teasing moment to Sophia doing a wall slam and even trying to confess her love to Catarina and Nicol doing some cheesy phantom thief thingy to steal Catarina’s heart! So these are their desires, huh? No wonder Mary can’t stand the cringe and wants to burn the book! When they get to Alan’s part, they just see him playing piano but Mary knows how it will eventually end. Finally they see hungry Catarina stumbling into a house made of sweets. Yup, she gobbles them all until she becomes fat and, uhm, WTF the whole thing explodes and everyone gets purged from the book?! Once everyone hears what happened, they get embarrassed. But Catarina continues to enjoy her sweets in real life. It is theorized that because inside the book is fictional, Catarina’s desires can never be fulfilled since she will never be full from the sweets. Since her desires are so much greater than the book can handle itself, the book couldn’t contain it anymore. So basically Catarina’s desire > ancient magic book. Wow… In the aftermath, we see Catarina and Alan watching the sunset together on a tree. Looks like a lovely moment, right? Not if Mary can do something about it!

Episode 9
Catarina tells her maid, Anne Shelley that she has passed and will be able to move on to the next grade. Great. Surprisingly, Catarina thanks her personally for it. Anne is surprised to hear that. We hear her narrate about her observations that those around her have feelings for Catarina but she herself is too dense to realize it. From Geordo to Keith and even Mary herself (Catarina thinks she is joking?). Alan too but unfortunately he himself is also too dense to realize that. She also notices the same in Nicol despite hardly ever talking. While Sophia also loves Catarina, she noticed about her brother’s love for her and also tries to hint to Catarina about it but you’ve guessed it. She’s too dense to figure that out. Also there is Maria but it is most likely a normal friendship kind of love. The girls then have a pyjamas party. Of course they talk about love. Instead of who, Catarina asks what they’ll do for that person they love. So Catarina will cook her love the things she grow in a garden? Okay. Then they ask Anne if she had someone in mind too. She tells them she has no intention to marry and doesn’t elaborate further. Cue for Anne’s flashback. Born into a baron family, she obeyed her father’s words to be a submissive woman. But one day her house caught fire and her mom died. Because of that scar on her arm, her father deemed her as useless for marriage and told her to leave. Heartbroken, she found her way working as the Claes’ maid. Catarina as a kid was hard to handle but she already accepted her fate to just obey as her young mistress wished. Until that one day she got her forehead scar, Catarina changed. Catarina became more thoughtful of her and even gave her a present. Anne was happy. Until one day her father returned and told her he found someone who would marry her despite being ‘damaged goods’. Catarina then told him off that she still needed Anne for various things. Anne then got the courage to reject her father. Hence Anne will always be grateful to Catarina and follow her wherever she goes. One day, Geordo gets an invitation letter from Catarina to meet at her garden. He finds it suspicious at first because Catarina doesn’t do such things. A prank? But as her fiancé, he can’t decline her and even thinks of buying a pair of golden shears to surprise her. Of course when he gets there, the usual gang is there. Yup, Catarina invited them all! It’s harvest day and she even has uniforms for them to help pick her harvest! Oh well. At least he gets to give his shears, right? Only… Everybody else got the same idea and bought one for her too!!! Oh my! As Catarina works hard to avoid her doom, this could probably be her first real test because a bunch of girls now confront her and vow to expose her evil deeds!

Episode 10
The girls show ‘proof’ how Catarina bullied Maria. Catarina is worried because this feels very similar to the doom flag in the game. Even more so when her friends are here, it is over if they vouch for the girls. But to her surprise, Maria rubbishes the claims while the rest assure Catarina could never come up with those schemes because she is stupid! Should that make her happy or insulted? Though Maria admits she has been bullied, it is not by Catarina and in fact she helped her. She can name those bullies now if they want to. Those girls just run away with tails between their legs. While the rest try to get to the bottom of these false accusations, Catarina is only happy thinking she conquered her greatest crisis. Don’t rest on your laurels yet… Later, Maria notices something and wants to investigate it herself. But Catarina will soon regret that decision not to go with her because it is the last time anybody saw her. The friends go in search of her but to no avail. Geordo then talks to Catarina about what he found out. His investigations show those girls couldn’t have come up with such schemes themselves and somebody put it together for them to carry out. The problem is, they didn’t know who. They felt the urge to do so and when it’s over, they felt a terrible sense of remorse. Geordo thinks someone with dark magic could only do this and erase their memories. It only works on those with negative emotions, that’s why those girls were used. But if Catarina was the target, why was Maria kidnapped? Because her light magic can only detect dark magic and hence she could be a threat. Also, dark magic is not one that is born with. There is a ritual to sacrifice a life to obtain it. Catarina becomes worried and dreams of everybody being killed! She regrets that it would have been better had she be the only one effected. So as she is hanging out in the school garden alone, Sirius comes talk to her. That is when she remembers something so important that she can’t believe she forgot it until now. In her previous life, her best friend told her about a secret character. However his route is super bad ending where everyone else got killed. And that hidden character matches Sirius’ description. At first Sirius plays dumb about dark magic but soon shows his true colours because he can’t stand Catarina’s kindness. Flashback shows Maria confronted him about his dark aura. After revealing his plans to get rid of Catarina whom he so detest, he put Maria to sleep. Now, Sirius doesn’t bat an eyelid to tell how much he hates her and wants her gone. But Catarina could only see sadness in his eyes and tries to comfort him. But he isn’t taken in by this and puts her to sleep forever with his dark magic.

Episode 11
So Catarina returns to her previous high school girl life? Well, she seems to be forgetting her days in Fortune Lover and continues living her normal high school life. Of course we will soon discover that it is all a dream because back in Fortune Lover world, Catarina has been asleep for 2 days and the doctor cannot figure out why. At this rate she will die without ever waking up. Hence, cue for all her pals to reminisce the good ol’ days with Catarina. How she saved them and never realizing their true feelings for her up till this point. Of course they realize no good will come if they continue to mope so they’re going to do something about it. Stay by her side and emotionally call her to come back? Yeah. Maybe that will work… You bet it will! Because she is confronted by Atsuko who tells her this is not the world she belongs. She regains her memories as Catarina as Atsuko also tells her that Maria is kept hidden in a hidden room in a storehouse. Both friends say goodbye for one last time and from what Atsuko says, it looks like she has reincarnated in the form of Sophia. Now Catarina has awakened, everyone is happy. But Catarina wants to get down to business and save both Maria and Sirius as she tells them what happened. They head down to the storehouse that Sirius’ family built but now abandoned. Inside the secret room, they find Maria alive and well. Then they make their way to where Sirius is. Creepy atmosphere. Is he trying to summon a demon? Anyway, Sirius is hearing voices in his head forcing him against his will to avenge his mother. Don’t be in a hurry to slay the demon first. Catarina wants to try diplomacy and conversation.

Episode 12
Sirius is in shock not because Catarina broke out from the spell but she has the guts to confront him again despite he had full intention to kill her. Catarina doesn’t think he wanted to kill her because he would have done so after putting the spell. That’s why she is here to talk to him. It’s flashback time as Sirius claims the real Sirius died a long time ago. We see Sirius living a poor but happy life with mom. Until one day they were kidnapped by a marquis’ wife. She blamed his mom for having a healthy son but hers was dying of an incurable disease. Not wanting this ‘unfairness’, she had a mage sacrifice her to achieve some dark magic to transfer her son’s soul into Sirius’ healthy body. After that was done, she killed off the mage so as to silence him. Of course the magic failed as it only transferred the memories and Sirius is still Sirius as he played along to inherit his family’s fortune. Okay, so I see what happened. But I fail to see why he has a grudge against Catarina who has NOTHING to do with it all. So what he doesn’t like how she saved others? How does Catarina have anything to do with his revenge?! Catarina gets honest with him. Sure, she can’t save him because she is not the heroine but the villainess. That’s why all she can do is just stay by his side. Her words somewhat reflects exactly of his mom’s. It goes without saying that the mage has been manipulating Sirius and implanting false memories in him because Sirius has realized mom didn’t want revenge but for him to live happy. The mage will not accept this but with the touch of Catarina’s blessing, Sirius blows away the mage. Gee, that was easy. Others not even needed!

In the aftermath, Sirius whose real name is Raphael Walt, quit the student council and exposed the marquis’ wife’s crimes. He vows to start anew. Although Catarina is glad she avoided everyone being killed, she fears the graduation ceremony for seniors because this is where the game ends when Maria chooses a partner. She will leave during the midst of the party and confess to her lover and it’s game over for Catarina. However during the party, Maria never left and this makes Catarina nervous. Can’t take the tension, she asks Maria directly if there is any guy she likes. Well, no. She likes Catarina and wants to be by her side. Wait. Was there a lesbian route? This has the rest of her friends also claiming the same. Catarina remembers this friendship ending whereby everybody gets along with each other. In game terms, this is a bad ending but for Catarina, this is good enough! Not doomed! Raphael returns to update the friends that he is joining some magic department (Hogwarts?!) since he can’t graduate. He also seeks Catarina’s ‘permission’ to be by her side. Of course. Why would she reject him? But of course this has some jealous with the increase in competition. Catarina despite a villainess, feels truly blessed to have all her friends around.

Doom(ed) Eternal(ly)
Well people, that is not the end of it yet. At least not by a long shot. Because when I heard they announced a sequel for this, it could only mean that Catarina’s doom flags are still on! Oh my. This means she will never live a peaceful life and until she falls in love with somebody or one of her friends fall in love with anybody. But to be fair, as Catarina hinted at the end, it is a script that does not exist in the game so it could be that this route that Catarina has taken may have ended as far as the game is concerned but in her real life (in the game), it goes on. I mean, when the story reaches the end, the audiences never usually find out what happens to those living happily ever after, right? Unless of course this is another secret route that Fortune Lover has that Catarina did not unlock. Oh boy. Looks like the sadistic game creators might have actually thought our all the routes that would make Catarina meet her demise in every way! But we’ll have to wait and see then.

I guess it is hard for us to classify if this is an isekai genre or if this is another one of those protagonist trapped in a video game situation. Well, it’s kind of both obviously so if you despise both genres, it’s like they’re giving you the double middle finger by incorporating both the genres you hate so much. It is not clear if her high school girl persona actually died or not even though it is stated that she was so. You know how Catarina likes to sometimes exaggerate things, right? Making it more confusing is that she is reborn in another world that is an exact duplicate of the video game. Because genres about players getting trapped in a video game world don’t really die. Isekai genres do. Unless this isekai world is an exact clone of Fortune Lover. Such coincidence.

Although we are given the premise that Catarina is the villainess, this quickly changes as you can see it coming from miles and expect that she will eventually turn out into a good person. Hence it is no surprise that all the good she has done to those close to her has turned out for the better. Her efforts have paid off. Initially it might started out as Catarina doing all this just because she is afraid of dying young but as the story progresses, you can see that she is genuinely doing so because she loves her friends and closed ones. This is more evident when Catarina realizes that she would rather die along than let all her loved ones die. I suppose loneliness is a fate worse than death.

Though, I thought there would be someone else to play the villainess role in Catarina’s absence. You know, at least fate has it that someone would be the ringleader of the b*tches. Someone to replace Catarina. I guess nobody could be a great bully like Catarina. Just saying. It also didn’t come to me as a surprise when Sirius turned out to be an antagonist (albeit a temporary one) because you’ve got all these hot looking guys around Catarina and Sirius somewhat fits the description but is not part of the groupie? Uh oh. Could be some hidden plot twist. And true enough! I wasn’t surprised at all. After all, with that kind of name, you’d think he would be mad if people started taunting him as Serious Dick! Oh… I see he had a real name…

Strangely but not surprisingly, Catarina being the main character here, she becomes the main heroine. It makes me wonder if Fortune Lover had Sirius as a hidden character, could it be that the game also has another secret player in which Catarina is the heroine instead of Maria? If so, you get this anime then. As I’ve said earlier, the entire anime is about Catarina making good with her friends so that she doesn’t die early and it is a good thing that Catarina has decided to turn over a new leaf ever since being reincarnated. It gives food for thought what if all Disney villainess too have this good side to them had they only been given the chance. One thing is for sure, things would have turned out differently with the villainess becoming the main heroine and the heroine we used to know relegated to just a side character. Interesting. Thanks to Catarina’s sunny disposition, this is why the main characters all stay by her even an introvert like Nicol. It might be mind boggling and ironic but Catarina is the most lovable villainess, right?

So basically the key to ensure her survival is to stop bullying and harassing others and at the same time make everybody love you. Catarina being so focused in not triggering her death flag, perhaps she forgot how to fall in love. Perhaps with her being dense to realize those guys’ feelings is also a good thing because I believe the death flag is triggered when she actually falls for one of them (although initially it was Maria). I bet the other guys (and Mary) won’t take this. Another form of royal bloodbath on the cards. Now you know why many harem genres always have status quo in the end, no? So stay simple and happy. As long as nothing beats her love for sweets, world order (at least in Fortune Lover) will be alright.

Unfortunately the rest of the other characters aren’t so interesting as Catarina (despite their past and circumstances fleshed out early during their young period). Especially the main guys. It’s just like they’re there to tick off the checklist of the cliché and tropes needed for a reverse harem. Just like their elemental powers. Yeah, they got all the elemental magic covered and I don’t see how it fits any purpose. I feel Geordo and Keith are the main runners for Catarina while Alan and Nicol are the dark horses. Geordo and Keith are mostly seen trying to compete to be with Catarina in a gentlemanly way as they are the closest to her. Alan looks more like a male tsundere while Nicol is an introvert and they hardly make any impact at all. Mary being the more interesting one because she looks like she has changed the most from her original intended role. Not sure if lesbianism is part of the game route but nothing that would make Mary stay away from her precious Catarina. As for Sophia, not too sure if she also retained her memories from Atsuko’s life and if she is, she’s playing one big pretending game. Last but not least, Maria being relegated to a side character now doesn’t really feel she did much either. To a point that she’s a lot more forgettable.

Art and animation are pretty standard. Main characters are design typically to your bishonen and bishoujo style because this is also practically a dating sim so all your characters to be conquered need to be hot because we all like it that way. Even Catarina herself who is supposed to be a villainess looks pretty beautiful herself and even more so with her sunny and positive disposition. Not to mention her simple mindedness and goofy ones too. Yeah, that kind of beauty makes you forget that she’s actually supposed to be the real villain. Goes to show that if you smile more often whether you’re good or bad, it helps a lot in your physical beauty. Hopefully. Only unimportant minor background characters like those snobbish arrogant b*tches look just plain. Uh huh. Easy to tell them apart, I guess. This anime is done by Silver Link so don’t be surprise to see the animation style similar to some of their past works like Rakudai Kishi No Cavalry, Masamune-kun No Revenge, Rokujouma No Shinryakusha, Kenja No Mago and Death March Kara Hajimaru Isekai Kyousoukyoku.

For the voice acting, I believe most of the credits can be accredited towards Maaya Uchida as Catarina (Rikka in Chuunibyou Demo Koi Ga Shitai). Since this anime is mainly from her perspective, we hear her different forms of moods and dispositions (especially those chibi variations in her mind) and it gives her a lot of character. Ironically but not surprisingly she sounds a lot more interesting (aurally in that sense) compared to the rest of the other characters. Because the rest mainly sounds flat especially the guys. Trying to be gentlemanly or it is part of their personality, they sound a bit boring. So much so I feel that Tetsuya Kakihara and Yoshitsugu Matsuoka as Keith and Nicol respectively are way much toned down than their pigeonholed livelier and more passionate roles like Fairy Tail’s Natsu and Sword Art Online’s Kirito (though I somehow feel Nicol looks pretty close to Kirito, just without the sword). Even Saori Hayami as Maria just sounds like her usual Saori Hayami, if you know what I mean. Miho Okasaki as Mary (Rimuru in Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken) is only lively only when her lesbian delusions with Catarina becomes under threat. Yeah… The other characters are Shouta Aoi as Geordo (Ai in Uta No Prince-sama series), Tatsuhisa Suzuki as Alan (Ban in Nanatsu No Taizai), Inori Minase as Sophia (Hestia in DanMachi), Azumi Waki as Anne (Maika in Blend S) and Toshiki Masuda as Raphael/Sirius (Kirishima in Boku No Hero Academia).

Angela fans can rejoice since she is back singing the opening theme after taking a few years off as hiatus. Otome No Route Wa Hitotsu Janai is a strange and amusing song itself. Firstly, it has the singer singing in a cute kiddie-like voice for the verses. It also borrows a very famous and recognizable tune from Beethoven’s 5th Symphony (I guess such tune is synonymous with beware/danger scenes?!). Then you have one portion of the song that sounds like it took inspiration from Batman’s iconic theme! If you watched the opening theme of an old retro anime, Moetan, you’ll understand what I mean. Yeah, this part sounds awfully similar… And also you have lots of bells and choir background voices, making some parts of the song sound like a Christmas song. Definitely weird and crazy havoc indeed. May not fit Fortune Lover like a glove as a main theme but perhaps so from Catarina’s life and perspective. The ending theme is Bad End by Shouta Aoi. This dramatic rock piece isn’t all that bad. Because Shouta Aoi’s voice sounds so feminine, I thought it was a female rock star singing this!

Overall, this series is fun and enjoyable to watch in its own right despite just being rather okay and not breaking any new grounds. After all, we are not watching from the perspective of a villainess of being a villainess. But rather, a villainess who has abandoned her wicked ways and lived her life as a heroine. Basically you’re watching another one of those heroine lead series. Yeah. There are a few reverse harem romantic moments but Catarina being dense and all, it turns out to be funny rather than steamy. Yes people, this isn’t your usual reverse harem genre like Amnesia, Hiiro No Kakera or the Uta No Prince-sama series. And remember, all of us are the main characters in our own story-cum-lives. Take charge of it today! Though I’m still waiting for my first romance flag to kick in. Any time now… On second thought, maybe not setting off any flags and leading a mundane normal life is the best. That’s what all main characters at the beginning say…

Tsugu Tsugumomo

Even though it was announced over a year ago, I didn’t expect Tsugumomo to have a sequel, Tsugu Tsugumomo. At least not after 3 years later. It was one of those shows I was sure it would not get a sequel because you know, blatant fanservice. Heh. I suppose there are lots of perverts out there enough to warrant a sequel. Don’t worry, I made that up (though my guts tell me it is so). And I would have been even in more shock had that OVA did not come up earlier in the year and it was like to serve as a prelude for the second season. Well, you know me. I’ve forgotten a lot about this series and just basically the gist of it. Uhm, let’s see. A normal high school kid gets sexually tortured by the fanservice and crotch crushing moves of his obi. F*ck. Is that all I remember???!!!

Episode 1
We start off with Kazuya having a bad nightmare. He sees Kiriha killing his mom. Reality is as bad. Kiriha, Kukuri and Kokuyou sleeping all over him. Definitely the source of his nightmare. With Kiriha the new transfer student in class, she has to explain her relationship with Kazuya. She didn’t mince her words and admits all the truth that she sleeps with him and even it’s her job to wash his back. Hence the class becomes a kangaroo court just to find him guilty and exact some bondage punishment on this poor kid. Hasn’t he suffered enough already? On to serious business, after Kiriha explains the real truth to them, Kazuya’s intention is to form a troubleshooting office to get more info on the rise of amasogi cases in school. People can come here and consult about their woes too. Although Kazuya is one of the cursed children who attracts amasogi, shunning such children may not be a good idea as the malison may accumulate somewhere else and then materialize when the person’s heart is weak. After all, it is not right simply to pass the blame on a cursed child solely because of that. So we got Kazuya’s usual suspects and pals joining the club. Their first discussion about anything unusual happening in school recently has Chisato noting that underwear have gone missing after swimming classes. And then one day as a swimming class begins, Chisato saw some creature rummaging through the girls’ locker room. Kiriha believes it is an amasogi so whose pantsu are they going to use as bait to lure it out? I guess Kiriha doesn’t mind going commando like she always does at home. So the culprit turns out to be a frog printed panty?! Kazuya recognizes this as Chisato’s panty! He remembers?! Kazuya and Kiriha fight the amasogi who has now turned into a giant demon frog after amassing malison. Eventually they defeat it after a tough fight but to settle this once and for all, Kiriha has Kazuya take off his boxers for the amasogi. So it was just lonely? I guess other pantsu it stole didn’t quite do the job. Then WTF both underwear start floating into the sky like some weird exorcism. Right into space! WTF?! I don’t even… Aliens are going to be baffled… In the end, Kazuya and Kiriha ponder about this amasogi because if Chisato didn’t give rise to it, it must have occurred naturally. But even that takes a long time. Something more must be behind this. And it looks like it is indeed. A group of students led by Azami. Kiriha clone?

Episode 2
Kazuya talks to Kukuri of yet another weird dream he has. Kukuri worries that the seal on his memories might become undone thanks to constant divine possession with Kiriha. Meanwhile Kiriha visits Sunao and sees her getting beaten up in a training with her mom, Suzuri. Later Kiriha and Sunao talk. Sunao has repented her old ways and realized she was in the wrong but Kiriha isn’t impressed. She wants to know how Kanaka died so Kiriha reveals that Kanaka was possessed by an amasogi. Hence she was killed by her hands. Later Kazuya is invited to Sunao’s place. Susumu (Sunao’s father) would have killed him had not Suzuri ‘killed’ him first. So is this some arranged marriage meeting?! Sunao all dolled up and after apologizing for picking a fight with him, she wants him to date him. As in, romantically. You see, because she lost to Kazuya, mom views her unfit to inherit the family’s dojo. In worst case, she might get disowned! So if Kazuya is family, that loss will not be counted! So this is all just pretending, huh? How long can this lie last I wonder. So yeah, they have to really pretend because Suzuri is really watching them. So to prove their love, they can bath together, right?! Oh sh*t… Flashback 20 years ago, it seems no men could land a hit on Suzuri. It is rumoured that those who can is fit to marry he. Susumu was that man because he was cleaning the toilet, Suzuri came in to bath, before she could hand her punishment, Susumu slipped on a soap and accidentally hit her. The first and only man other than her father to touch her. The rest is history. So back to Kazuya and Sunao’s pseudo bath intimacy, how can they wash each other’s back when mother is watching???!!! SHE’S REALLY LOOKING! Daddy is in the tub waiting for Kazuya to come in and he’ll purge his ass but it is Sunao who dip in first. Not sure how fast Suzuri ‘killed’ this guy. After that ordeal is done, both of them have to sleep with each other. They have to really act it out even though mom is outside waiting. Not sure if their acting is so good or they’re really into it. Looks like when things are getting good, stupid Susumu barges in to purge Kazuya’s ass but got his daughter’s instead. He ‘died’ another time at the hands of Suzuri. Suzuri then checks Sunao’s virginity and notes it is still intact. I guess the act is over. Since they’ve been lying, she sends them to the torture chamber. Not sure if she was just trolling them because she lets them off because Sunao explained their duel so mom got a good impression of the kind of person he is. Since Sunao hasn’t technically been disowned yet, they still have to put up this act. And Sunao’s heart is confused and regretting because that pseudo sex act was just too real for her. She really wanted to do it, huh?

Episode 3
The troubleshooting office gets lots of complaint letters. Many of them about Shirou’s harassing! Yeah, this guy desperate to get a girlfriend. I don’t think targeting girls with big busts is the point here. So he doesn’t learn and wants to leave a love letter to this pretty athletic girl, Mana Manaka. Because he put it in the wrong shoe locker, it is her best friend, Mitsuri Mizushima who reads it and meets him. She takes a liking for him and agrees to be his girlfriend. Oh dear. How to get out of this mess? So with Mitsuri and Shirou and item, the whole school is shocked. Shirou finally got a girlfriend? Mana confronts Mitsuri and wants them to break up. Everyone knows Shirou is a playboy, right? But Mitsuri is mad. She thinks Mana is just jealous and just when things started looking up for her, she says such hurtful things just to put her down. Later Mitsuri tells Shirou how popular Mana is. Shirou then tells her the truth. He might like himself for who he is, but she is only so because she is comparing herself to others. Then he admits the letter was actually meant for Mana. Mitsuri of course gets upset. During the commotion, Shirou’s charm resonates. Something inside Mitsuri’s bag hints of an amasogi. She denies and runs away. He tells this to his friends so they have to act fast or it will end up like Nanako’s case whereby the amasogi almost killed her.

Kiriha and Kazuya wait outside Mana’s house and true enough Mitsuri shows up. Kazuya accuses Mitsuri of wanting to kill Mana for fear of losing her superiority over her. Too bad he was way off the mark. She is here to return the sports shoes Mana gave her. She noticed ever since, her running time has slowed. She bought another similar pair so as not to arouse her suspicions. So why Mana did this? Apparently long ago, Mitsuri was the popular one. So she tried to become her friend and since Mitsuri also looked up to her, Mana thought she had to be better than her. But with Mitsuri gradually catching up, she wouldn’t stay as her goal for long. Now that the truth is out, she fears she’ll never fall in love with her. Wait. There’s yuri going on?! Amasogi possesses Mana to turn her aggressive. Kazuya and Kiriha fight her but she is too fast and strong. She only stops when Mitsuri kisses her! Definitely yuri time. Before they could restart being best friends again, somebody turns up the power of the shoes and turns Mana into a monster. Another round of fight that is only settled when they destroy the shoes. In the aftermath, Mana is now wheelchair ridden. Kazuya blames himself for not being able fix this without destroying the amasogi. But Mana accepts this for the trouble she has created. As for Mitsuri, she has turned into a hot busty babe?! Shirou wants to date her again but his advances got instantly rejected. Nobody needs this loser now. So regretting it now… But Kiriha remains suspicious that Mana suddenly lost control like that. Something more could be behind this.

Episode 4
Gender swap! To see how everyone get to this, we go back a few days in time. It sees when the teacher, Isuzu Iraha took their attendance, many were absent. The first victim was Takashi Takayama. He fell asleep and never woke up. It is believed his pillow is an amasogi and has dragged others to do the same. However further checks show his pillow was just ordinary. Kazuya then confronted Iraha about her attendance list. Because she marked those as absent as sick. How did she know if she had never called their home? This means she knew something else. This was when Iraha fainted. Can’t take the pressure? Then they confirm her pillow is an amasogi. They cannot destroy it now or others stuck in her dream will be stuck forever. They have to go inside her dream to convince her to give up or destroy her amasogi pillow. With the help of Bakura, they enter Iraha’s dream world. And that was how their genders got swapped. They confront her but she reverts into her evil form. She uses Kazuya and Kiriha’s shadow to turn them into clones that turn against them. As for the amasogi pillow in their hands, it is just a decoy. Kazuya and Kiriha have trouble fighting with their clones since they are more powerful having their latent power drawn out. Also, they can’t lose or else their shadow clones will take over their real life persona. Meanwhile the rest stumble into the real Iraha as she explains how this happened. Apparently her students never took her seriously. So in her dreams, she always could do what she wanted and her students obeyed her. The next thing she knew, her evil side took over and she went into hiding. Osamu has an idea. Using the power of words, Iraha manage to power up to fight her evil twin and find that the real amasogi pillow is inside her body. But once she knows the game, she too can play that. Kazuya and Kiriha manage to draw out their latent power to defeat their clones and then go rescue Iraha. Once they pin the evil twin down, Iraha then does a one punch woman to destroy it and end this once and for all. They return to reality by sleeping. Next day in school with everybody back, Iraha now shows her true colours as she doesn’t hesitate to use force to get her students to listen to her. Better listen to sensei if you know what’s good for you.

Episode 5
Sunao is outside Kazuya’s home. She’s looking pretty sad. Turns out Kotetsu is in some coma and if he doesn’t wake up soon, he’ll forever remain as a normal sword. It is said that the echo stone at the Divine Navel Cave can help restore this but she didn’t go there immediately as Honoka advised it is spiritually unstable to go alone. Hence that’s why she is seeking Kazuya and Kiriha’s help. So they stay at a nice luxury lodging and the usual antics of Kiriha fooling around with Kazuya. Trying to make Sunao jealous? I don’t think she’s in the mood. Kazuya thinks they should be more considerate but Kiriha knows better because as a tsukumogami, Sunao doesn’t understand Kotetsu’s feelings. She knows the answer but it can’t be explained in words. So this fooling around is a hint? Hope she doesn’t get the wrong idea. That night, Sunao dreams of Kotetsu blaming himself for the death of Suou and that he is nothing more but a tool. Next day as they enter the cave, after Sunao puts the sword on the echo stone, she sees Kotetsu inside a bubble. Emotionally, she tries to apologize for always being mean. But then amasogi pop up. They are the ones they defeated and they reflect Kotetsu’s feelings and self-doubt. Sunao has to keep calling out to him while Kiriha and Kazuya fight them off. They manage to get all of them except the last one, the one that killed Suou. It devours Kotetsu. Sunao is in despair as Kotetsu sees her in this state. He feels the need to protect her and before you know it, Kotetsu returns. His worries were that he thought she didn’t need him anymore and was scared. The 2 emotionally reconcile and to show how much they’ve bonded, they do a divine possession and kill off the amasogi like child’s play. In the end, the side effect of doing so means Sunao has a stiff body. Sadist Kiriha wants the guys to wash her body? This is so like rape porn… Returning home, everybody is happy with this outcome. But it’s not over yet. At least for Kukuri. Because Taguri is here to take her away as part of the deal. What deal?! You didn’t think Sunao’s trip to the cave was free, huh? Somebody sponsored them. Oh sh*t… And so this loli tragedy we will never get to see… May God help her soul…

Episode 6
Iraha remembers somebody gave her the pillow. A student? Yes, those group of students under Azami. They are actually tsukumogami and they are following Azami’s orders to obtain a shard. Flashback hundreds of years ago we see the formation of tsukumogami Arumi (crystal ball), Akito (scissors) and Hifumi (die). They were happy to be tools for their master until monsters start popping up and Hifumi losing her strength. She reveals as a die, bad luck accumulates to become curses. Their owner used villagers and pushed back luck on them until they become monsters. Akito thought of telling the villagers to stop this but they never listened. They killed their owner as well as Hifumi. Enraged, Akito killed them all. They travelled to many villagers and served different masters but they only felt disappointed. Just when they don’t want to serve any more humans, they start losing power. That is when they wandered into the lost village, Mayoiga. This is basically a tsukumogami paradise as they are free to live here as they wish without a master. They make friends with Mimane (mirror), Yasuki (bow) and Chikage (spear). But after a while, the power of this place started weakening. Tanmen (bowl and leader of Mayoiga) revealed to the newbies a mummified Miurahi who is the core of Mayoiga. A thousand years ago when a volcano erupted and caused famine over the land, people mercilessly used the tools to get back on their feet. Seeing how the tsukumogami are weary, Miurahi pleaded to the god of this region for help for a tsukumogami sanctuary but it fell on deaf ears. Hence Miurahi gathered a few powerful tsukumogami to kill the god! Just one? Because one contains a shard that has immense power. Miurahi embedded himself with it and then sever his own consciousness to maintain Mayoiga. As the shard has grown weaker, it means they have to go kill another god. As the gods still hold a grudge, they cannot do anything that will make their movements known. Using Arumi’s foresight, every month they peek into the future to see what action needs to be taken. Until one day she sees a black dark power. They capture it and it turned out to be Azami. She claims to know which regional god is at their weakest and knows how to weaken them. Heading to that region, they agree to help Azami out as long as they stick to her conditions of making supernatural anomalies that would drain the regional god’s strength and stay away from malison exorcists. This is why they can’t confront Kiriha and Kazuya. They still need Azami’s help.

Episode 7
Akito and Mimane accidentally stumble into Kazuya and Kiriha at the arcade. Akito doesn’t want any trouble and to leave but dumb Mimane keeps making friends with them, telling the truth and wanting to have fun. Oh, Azami is around the corner and looking mad. Just then, they all get absorbed into the arcade. Definitely this otaku, Hiroki Hirohashi is the amasogi master and they have to destroy his arcade machine. In this elimination match, we see all of them go up against each other until Kazuya and Hiroki are left. In the end, Kazuya wins and everyone is purged from the game. Better still, Hiroki is now more responsible and will go to work instead of playing games! Akito doesn’t want this to get complicated and signals to Mimane to get out but she misinterprets Akito’s signs and kisses Kazuya! This makes Azami so mad that the ceiling collapses on her?! Luckily Kazuya saves her and she becomes docile. When Kiriha returns, Azami disappears. It gets complicated when Mimane even admits she is a mirror tsukumogami to Kiriha. Woah. It’s like they’re best friends now. You’d think Akito would be careful now but looks like another repeat. This time with Arumi, along with Kiriha and Kazuya they’re trapped in some quiz board game hosted by Wakana Wakisaka. They must work as pairs and answer questions to relationships to proceed. If they fail to answer honestly, a piece of clothing will be removed and they’ll be sent back to the start. Akito thinks this will be easy for them since their relationship goes back centuries but too bad the questions asked are too sensitive! In the final square, the question is about the guy’s true love. Kiriha is certain that the answer is herself but it’s wrong! Kiriha mad she’s not the one! As for Akito, he is confused but Arumi knows the answer. A certain girl who was a die… In the end, they get purged as Wakana agreed to destroy the amasogi herself since she was a jilted lover and wanted to break up couples with this. Kazuya and Kiriha want Akito to join their troubleshooting office. He declines at first but seeing Kiriha mentions something about Mimane telling them their secrets, he is forced to join. Now it gets complicated. Back home, Kiriha is irked that she is not Kazuya’s number one. While the other girls are happy, they really want to know who his number 1 is and forcefully go ask him. With Bakura’s help, they see his dream girl in his dream. And that number 1 girl of his… The female version of himself! WTF?! Nothing much to see here. Let’s head back. So… If Kazuya makes out with this female version, is it the same as masturbation and playing with himself?! HOLY SH*T!!!

Episode 8
More of Kazuya’s memories returning but he still can’t figure out Kanaka is his mom. But she tells him to get ready. I guess Azami is quite smitten with Kazuya. Smelling his handkerchief?! Because of that, she allows Akito and Mimane to join the troubleshooting club so long as they don’t hurt the exorcists. With the duo officially joining the club, Kiriha wants to see what they can do because perfect timing, there is an amasogi case. Yeah, some dude shut himself inside a sea urchin. With Mimane’s mirror able to imitate anything, she becomes Kiriha’s obi for Akito to use. Can’t break the shell. Until Shirou suggests luring out with boobs! Hence Mimane imitates Kiriha and Arumi but I guess they don’t want to be embarrassed. Not until Kiriha makes Mimane strip did the culprit comes out from his shell! OMG. Flat chest lolicon lover?! Case close. Akito’s worries increases because Mimane becomes good friends with Kukuri. So much so Kukuri stays at Kazuya’s place?! Oh God. Checking out his dick, huh?! And then telling Kukuri how much cuter it is than Akito’s! WTF?! Now it’s Kukuri’s turn to get some Mimane love. Yup, loli molestation in progress. But soon, Taguri brings back a wounded Kokuyou. She explains she encountered 4 tsukumogami who are trying to seek refuge here from their tyrannical masters. However Kokuyou found holes in their story and won’t accept them so they attack her. They only back down because Taguri was here and warned them about some threat. Kukuri tells them about Mayoiga’s case and knows they are here to kill her for her shard. As the enemy is regrouping outside, they make plans to fight them. It seems Mimane isn’t some dumb happy go lucky girl we all think she is. She reports back to Yasuki and co about the developments of the situation. Yasuki thinks they could team up and kill Kukuri but Mimane knows even with 8 of them, they will not be able to defeat Kukuri. Yeah, that loli molestation moment was to ascertain how strong Kukuri is and she still is. Kazuya and co get ready to fight as the assailants are here.

Episode 9
Team battle start! We have Akito and Mimane taking on ferocious axe guy. Taguri facing off with fat shield guy and skinny fan guy. On the other side with have Kazuya and Kiriha combo against arrogant flute girl. As predicted, our heroes are losing at first till it’s time to turn the tables. When flute girl mocks how she enjoyed hurting Kokuyou (is she playing with herself while reminiscing that?!), this makes Kazuya mad so he forcefully does divine possession with Kiriha by calling her real name (Ayasakura) to show some power moves. Flute girl got so scared she wet herself and fainted!!! The others also win their matches but those guys aren’t as lucky as flute girls since they got killed off. No mercy. It is then that Mimane points out why these guys are purposely fighting them like this. Yup. Distraction. Speaking of which, there are other Mayoiga tsukumogami now before Kukuri. Better get to her face or else loli is dead meat. But when they arrive, to our shock as well, we see Kukuri destroying one of them! OMFG! She’s still this strong after being weakened! Kukuri fans rejoice because we see her kickass!!! OMFG! SO BADASS! I think I have to change my perception of Kukuri. This loli power rocks!!! Eventually she destroys all of them. Good job. Well, not quite, Kiriha beats her up because she didn’t leave at least one for interrogation. But what about the flute girl? Well, she got so terrified and used up all her powers, she reverted to her flute form. So that’s like in a coma, no? Hence they leave her in Kazuya’s care for now to restore enough of her spiritual powers. Later as Akito rues more Mayoiga comrades are dead, he thinks he still needs to report back when Arumi comes running in with bad news. Looks like there is a revolt back at Mayoiga. For ecchi fans who feel scammed there isn’t much fanservice here, be glad to know at the end we have Kukuri-Kazuya fanservice. I think this is her episode so perhaps she deserves it. As Kazuya is temporarily paralyzed from the divine possession, Kukuri is going to help bath him as her thanks for caring for Kokuyou. Also, Kukuri is drunk. Yeah. That makes sense why she’s so horny suddenly. Loli lovers gonna love this. Like Taguri filming this on permanent record…

Episode 10
Taguri has contacted Takamagahara where the Japanese gods reside and rule. However if they’re expecting help, think again. Sending other gods may disrupt the spiritual balance of the area so instead they sent a message to Tsuzuraden where malison exorcists train. Yup, they’re going to send them instead as help. And what do you know? It’s Sunao and Kotetsu at the doorstep. Meanwhile as Azami and co return to Mayoiga, they are attacked by some clay golems. They manage to smoke out the culprit and destroy him. Then talking to Tanmen, it is revealed that there was a revolt in Mayoiga. Some tsukumogami insisted in attacking the regional god now and wouldn’t listen otherwise. That’s why Akito and co fought those rebels. But with their leader gone (the axe guy), the rest ran amok here but were quickly defeated. While the rebellion should die down, Tanmen also speaks of their forbidden act by feeding on humans. That’s why some of them slowly had monstrous powers and in no time they would become monsters themselves. Back to Kazuya’s household, it is without question that Sunao is the malison exorcist sent. Yup, she’s staying at his place and is the new transfer student. Wow. His harem complete now? Too bad she’s in a different class. Sunao also joins the troubleshooting office and you bet Shirou is going to get jealous especially of all the hot women congregating at Kazuya’s place. Yeah, maybe it’s time Chisato think of moving in. She’s the last one, you know… Sunao also takes this opportunity to train Kazuya. Not sure if it is also to get back for that pseudo date fiasco. And also, they take a bath together because we need more fanservice before sh*t gets real. Apparently this is part of mom setting her up to do such things. Remember, she’ll lose the inheritance. So yeah, blindfolding Kazuya and having him bath together proves more disastrous. Anyway, Sunao also provides advice on how should Kazuya treat Kiriha. Because she thinks he is treating her like a tool, and tools can be replaced. So Kazuya mans up and tells Kiriha he is the only one for her! She didn’t expect that so you bet Kiriha is in shock. But thanks to that, they are in unison and are doing well in Sunao’s next training. Back at Mayoiga, Tanmen calls for another meeting. It seems based on Arumi’s vision, she saw 2 shards. Hence Tanmen has awakened Miurahi himself. As the shard has weakened, no need to worry about it going berserk. The vision means Mayoiga is going to attack the regional goddess and Miurahi will have a boss fight with Kukuri.

Episode 11
Miurahi creates a huge ark to house the tsukumogami as they head for the final battle. However there almost seem to be a fallout with Azami as she is against hurting the exorcists. They somewhat reach a deal but Azami will not join them in the battle as the barrier around town is sealing her out. Miurahi leads his tsukumogami ark but first they have to fight Honoka and get pass her. Mimane and Yasuki stay behind to accompany her the rest go ahead. Miurahi and some of his tsukumogami come face to face with Kukuri and her side. We jump straight into the boss fight. When it looks like Kukuri is losing, it is only because she had used her powers on the barrier. Disabling it means she returns to her true powerful and mature form. Miurahi is shocked that she is this powerful and lost. Miurahi will not give up his attempt to kill her but suddenly he is killed off my Azami! Uhm, Azami are twins? Because of Miurahi’s death, the ark cannot be maintained and some tsukumogami do not have the power to retain their shape. Tanmen is forced to accept Honoka’s offer to rescue his pals. Azami’s goal is to steal Miurahi’s shard and to revive Kanaka. This is the gist of what is happening. The Azami twins are created by Kazuya. The real Kanaka is dead and this is the one Azami possessed. This Kanaka is part of them. At this point, Kazuya’s memories return. Azami’s goal is to kill Kazuya and because of that, Kazuya is the only one who can destroy Azami. Otherwise, not only Kazuya will have some atonement death penalty but the entire town will also suffer from this effect! Damn, did they just complicate the whole thing so that Kazuya is forced to fight and kill his mom?

Episode 12
The betrayed tsukumogami try to attack Kanaka but were swiftly dealt with. My, didn’t even see that coming. You know real sh*t is going to hit the fan when Kiriha is scared and wants Kazuya to run away. However Kukuri won’t allow this and must end it now as Kazuya’s life is the goal. Kanaka wants Kukuri to undo the seal on Kazuya so that they can fight at full power. But since Kukuri refuses, Kanaka takes it as she must beat the crap out of everyone first. So it’s like everybody-versus-Thanos scene but they are no match for Kanaka armed with Azami. Then it’s the final boss fight between Kukuri and Kanaka but this time the latter gets the better of her and kills her! KUKURI, NOOOOO!!! Traumatized Kazuya has no choice but to go head on but even doing divine possession with Kiriha, he goes down at first blow and this disappoints Kanaka. And more real sh*t hitting the fan with Kiriha using her body to protect Kazuya from Kanaka’s fatal blow. KIRIHA, NOOOOO!!! Kazuya so traumatized has nobody left. How now? This is when Kasumi and her tsukumogami, Saori join in the battle. However she claims she can only hold this for 3 years and wants Kazuya to become stronger by then. He passes out and when he wakes up, finds himself in his own room. Must be a dream, huh? His father is waiting in the hall as he introduces him to Ouhi Oriobana who is the head of Tsuzuraden and Bakura. She relates what happened. Kasumi and Saori faced off with Kanaka and Azami and put a barrier that stopped time for 3 years. Just delaying the inevitable. Ouhi and her Tsuzuraden came to check it and carried off unconscious Kazuya back to his home. That was 3 days ago. While Sunao and Kotetsu aren’t hurt, the other gods are badly injured although not life threatening. Kukuri? She’s dead. Oh sh*t! Kiriha? These broken obi pieces… Is she dead or not?! Kazuya is tasked to train under Tsuzuraden until he is strong enough till that day comes and his dad already gave his blessings. Oh well. 2 years 362 days is a long time so he starts moping in his bed and thinks deep. But he knows this can’t go on forever since 2 years 362 days isn’t a long time so he decides to go train at Tsuzuraden.

Lost Paradise
HOLY SH*T!!! OMFG!!! Wait… WHAT?! OH MAH GAAAAAAAWWWD!!!!!!!!!! I didn’t expect the final episode to turn out into this big sh*t cliff-hanger but oh damn, it escalated pretty quickly. And here I thought this was going to end in a predictable way with Kanaka and Azami getting defeated or at least sealed for some time and the rest go back to their normal mundane but perverted lives of molesting and outraging their victims’ modesty. They sure pulled a fast one over us. This is so unexpected. Here I was going to fall asleep and suddenly this. I must say I’m fully awakened now. And can’t wait for the next season! Damn, are they going to really wait 3 years to only announce or make the third season?! Too bad we’re going to have to wait with Kasumi and Kanaka in real time just to have that little chance of a third season happening.

The first few episodes of this season sometimes feel like standalone fillers. You know, what the heck they have that gender swap episode (if it is not for fanservice purpose, I don’t know what is), the homestay episode with Sunao (DEFINITELY SCREAMING FANSERVICE HERER!!!) and that episode where they got sucked into a video game and a quiz game. It just seems all out of place although each of those episodes slowly build the surrounding mysteries regarding the new characters in this season. Sh*t starts to hit the fan and the plot getting some decent movement with the revelation of Mayoiga and their goal to kill a god for the shard. Well, I’m sure we didn’t see it coming too about Kanaka’s revival. Or at least something that is possessing her. So I suppose it brings an end to the mystery of this new Azami character and their goal as well as some closure to Kazuya’s sealed memories. So why sealed his memories in the first place if Kazuya had to eventually settle this? Unless you tell me that unlocking his memories also mean unlocking his true and full potential of ungodly powers. Yeah, it looked like things escalated quickly.

I guess the character development this season isn’t that great either. Mostly Kazuya-Kiriha relationship but with the newer characters lurking with ulterior motives, that feels like it took away this pair’s spotlight. After all, it is still mostly the same with Kiriha dominating Kazuya by sexually harassing his daily life just so we can get our 2 cents worth of fanservice. He bonds and gets stronger with Kiriha with some training but that’s so much about it. It felt the signs were there when their relationship improves further than just fanservice perversion but Kiriha semi-dead or something, yeah I didn’t see that one coming. I don’t think she is dead because she is main character but to end this season having her character in limbo, well, not really ‘nice’.

Sunao appeared late in last season and as someone who wanted to kill Kazuya but now they try to make her part of the harem with that forced and funny homestay episode. This means poor Chisato is going to go down the pecking order. Last season she wasn’t that prominent and this season she is worse and even way forgettable. That frog panties was the only prominent one for her. Like as though they need to make an episode featuring her before she’s thrown into oblivion. Same case for Shirou. Even a loser like him needs to have a bit of a focus. But I guess that’s better compared to Osamu, Nanako and Tadataka who felt like they didn’t even exist at all. Remember who Kasumi is? No? Don’t blame you. She so irrelevant here. Until she pops up in the final moments just to give a possible lifeline and sequel to the series. She came, she went and now she’s gone in a flash. Trapped in the barrier with mom for 3 years. Kazuya, you better get stronger in your game by then! Onee-chan will be sad if she has no little brother to take out her horny desires once this sh*t is over. Heh.

My other confusion is how Kukuri manages to conceal her true powers. Because referring back to my lost blog, I said that it was her running joke that Kukuri was seemingly weak due to the poor donations and funds received from worshippers of her region. And then all of a sudden when sh*t gets real, Kukuri transforms into a powerful being! Was she just trolling us? To deceive your enemies, deceive your friends first. No wonder Miurahi was so shocked to see that she is still so powerful than ever and not even weakened. Unless she has a ton of secret worshippers… Of course the biggest shock is that they killed off this loli character! OMG. I never took this loli goddess any seriously but I didn’t really think she would die. Unless she didn’t really die and Ouhi was just putting it in the crudest of terms. And if Kukuri really did die, damn it would really suck. Where would Taguri get her loli kicks now?! Ahem. No bad jokes here. This is serious! Can’t believe Kukuri is gone…

The new characters are just rather okay especially with Mimane being shown to us as a dumb girl who is always at her pace. She loves to give Akito heart attack by doing the opposite and ruin his plans but so far things still somewhat fall in place. It’s like the duo would have been some great manzai comedy duo had they not been tsukumogami. As for Azami, they kept her character and goal a mystery till the penultimate episode and even so it made me wonder why she had to go through all this roundabout way just to kill off Miurahi and steal his shard. This is sure one long roundabout way if the intention was to let his guard down. I’m sure she could have just killed him any time when he revived and then revive Kanaka. Does she want to do it before Kazuya and surprise him? And was Azami smitten with Kazuya? Oh man, I’m so confused. Miurahi, poor guy. He just revived from his long slumber only to be duped and killed. I guess in a way this is karma finally giving him the much needed justice after killing a god. A thousand years later.

With the introduction of Mayoiga as a sanctuary for abandoned tsukumogami, I suppose it is a way to let us see all kinds of weird characters. What I’m saying is that I was just really waiting to see one that is of a sex toy! OMFG!!! I mean, this anime is already ecchi and loaded with fanservice, so why the f*ck did I not see a dildo tsukumogami???!!! OMFG!!! Are you kidding me?! Well, this only proves that sex toys are the only tools that don’t really get mistreated by their human masters. HAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!! Seriously. I mean, have you ever even seen an amasogi created out of a sex toy?! You are so f*cked if there is ever one.

Fanservice, fanservice. I guess that’s why we watch this sequel, right? Isn’t that why we watch this series in the first place? They are as expected as you would as in the first season. The irony of Kiriha not hesitating to strip at home but is not an exhibitionist in public so that we can have both sides of the fanservice goodness. Because like back at home, she can shamelessly sexually abuse Kazuya just to give us sick horny perverted otakus our fix. Yeah, come to think of it, Kazuya’s house is slowly turning into some sex den… And then outside the house, Kiriha being all embarrassed when she’s naked is also a big win for us because we love seeing a cute tsukumogami getting all red. Perhaps Sunao gets the bulk of the fanservice with Kazuya this season seeing her pushy mom is trying to play matchmaking and take it to the next level for the kids. I know it’s bad to use inheritance as a threat to get your daughter to have sex but in a way it is also good because if Sunao can’t be sunao aka honest (pun intended) with her feelings, might as well give up on Kazuya. And in the meantime, we enjoy the hot steamy scenes between them. Itadakimasu. Loli lovers are also not left out although Kukuri fanservice is far by few.

Speaking of the action bits, there are still some just like last season but overall I personally feel they are just like last season. Meh. Just sufficient. Kazuya synching better with Kiriha to pull off better moves doesn’t make it look any all different. Just feels like he gets to materialize Kiriha into a different weapon form to hit harder. Different tsukumogami pulling off their moves based on the objects they originally are, give some variety to the fight but not necessarily something exciting. Of course the most exciting and surprising fight scene is seeing loli Kukuri kicking ass of those Mayoiga rebels! Man, if there are only more scenes of this, this season could have been so much more awesome. I hate to say it but I prefer seeing Kukuri pulling off godly powerful fighting moves than other characters pulling off cheap thrill fanservice antics. So this is a good lesson of never judging a book by its cover! Kukuri, do not ever underestimate this loli! Of course, the final fight scene is as powerful as ever because it feels like the turning point of the series. Wow. Sh*t really hit the fan with that one.

Art and animation remain the same as it was since its first season’s inception back in 2017. No surprise changes. Largely the same quality, which is plain and simple. So if you’re hoping for some extravagant improvement, don’t hope for it. Like as though they made this sequel back in 2017 and only released it 3 years down the road. After all, the same studio production, Zero-G continued their efforts from the first season to this sequel. Yeah. Consistency, people!

All the same casts from the first season reprise their roles in the sequel. New additions include Yuuko Oono as Azami (titular character in Ulysses – Jeanne d’Arc To Renkin No Kishi), Shogo Sakata as Akito (Carbo in Dr Stone), Mami Uchida as Mimane (Kirigaya in Akuma No Riddle), Riho Sugiyama as Arumi (Tarua in Conception), Yukitoshi Kikuchi as Yasuki (Haruki in Haikyu), Kaede Yuasa as Bakura (Kanchal in Ishuzoku Reviewers), Emiri Katou as Saori (Akatsuki in Log Horizon), Wataru Tsuyuzaki as Miurahi, Emiri Tachibana as Iraha and Naomi Wakabayashi as Hifumi (Kud in Little Busters). Good to hear Norio Wakamoto as Sunao’s dad. It’s been a long time I’ve heard from this dude and his comical voice is still recognizable after all these years. Also, Saori Hayami making her cameo as Ouhi. This season’s opening theme doesn’t sound as frantic and chaotic as last season. Though Kaze Fukeba Tsukiyo No Hate Ni by AOP infuses some traditional tune (which is heavy on the synthesizer effects) into the song, it overall feels like an idol pop piece. The ending theme is Haru Kanade by Haruka Toujou. Nothing special if you ask me. If I had to be real picky about this song, it would be that I felt the singer’s voice just couldn’t ‘come out’ and being drowned out by the music.

Overall, the sequel is the much needed follow up to the first season with the climax of the Mayoiga battle arc to be a little interesting. Otherwise, this show is pretty much known for its fanservice and nothing else. Sort of. Except when then that sh*t hits the fan finale with Kanaka owning everybody, Kukuri dead, Kiriha might be dead, Kazuya going to training, wow that’s too much we can take for a final episode of the season. It really threw us off balance. Basically if you like the first season, you’ll do too for the second. For others, meh, maybe we’ll stick around and see what the third season will have to offer. I know. More fanservice, right? And I think 3 years will be enough of a time for us all to get emotionally stronger and see the return of buffed Kazuya taking on his sexy mom in some weird porn MILF beat down redemption story. Yeah, waiting for 3 years just to get back to jerking off to this series’ usual fanservice once more feels like a pretty long time…

Kono Yo No Hate De Koi Wo Utau Shoujo YU-NO Special

Oh my. How did I forget about this? Kono Yo No Hate De Koi Wo Utau Shoujo YU-NO Special came out at the end of 2019 (Boxing Day to be exact) so how did I miss this? Oh right. Nobody subbed it until now. Dubbed episode 26.5 of the series, it is a short special just to somewhat tie up things and see how our father and daughter duo are doing in eternity.

Infinite Parallel Worlds
Takuya and Yuno have plenty of time. Eternity in fact. So what better way than to kill time by seeing all other possibilities of Takuya at the root of Vrinda. So we see short clips of what happens to Takuya if he ends up with other girls. Like he becomes an explorer if he gets Mio or a researcher if he ends up with Ayumi. I suppose the best one is Kaori because he gets to have sex with her! So is he her sex slave in this timeline?! Of course there is one timeline with higher density than others. It is Mitsuki’s and as we know, her fate is tragic no matter what they do. You bet Takuya is going to do something about it. Hence Takuya returns to the start of this timeline and meets with Eriko who has just arrived in this world and hasn’t become a teacher yet. He tells her what happens and then brings her to Ryuuzouji’s home. In the secret room behind the tapestry, they set traps and wait for the time is right when Abel arrives. They manage to capture him and as the eternal dimensional criminal is about to escape, Eriko zaps it till it dissipates. Wow. Timeline saved just like that. With that, Takuya leaves it up to Mitsuki to further her one-sided romance with Ryuuzouji. Then he parts ways with Eriko and returns to Yuno. I suppose he isn’t going to tell Eriko some spoilers about what he found at the root, huh? Oh well. Just let her continue their research. With Mitsuki’s fate saved, Yuno praises how cool Takuya is. This reminds him of Koudai so he starts telling her how his father is like. Well, take your time.

Divergence Peeve: Mitsuki Chronicles
Oh well. It was just weird. Not to say that I am not totally satisfied but what the heck, what else can Takuya and Yuno do here? I bet they might intervene in other timelines and churn out a more positive fate according to their liking. Hey, who is there to stop them? They have all the time in the world! And so the big bulk of it sees how they free Mitsuki from her sad tragic fate (remember, she dies in every parallel Takuya was in) and while it is a good thing, I don’t know it just feels so cheap seeing how easy they did it. I guess at this point we already know the secrets and twists compared to when we started out watching the series. No wonder this special is like only 13 minutes long! Hah. Time does not matter for the duo. Oops sorry, trio. Sayless still inside Yuno.

Speaking of Yuno, I guess to make our 2 cents worth of buying this unaired episode with the Blu-ray, that is why we get to see her tits. Glorious Yuno tits. You can say it’s definitely from another dimension! HAHAHA!!! Too bad you can’t see her pussy despite being so blatantly upfront because they didn’t draw them. Same case with Takuya’s dick. I guess this can’t be considered hentai if you don’t draw the crotch area. Because it would have been damn weird to see Takuya’s erected dick when he watched all his other sexy parallel timelines. Oh wait. In this other dimension do they not have reproductive organs anymore?! At least they still got tits. Phew.

Overall, this special is just barely sufficient. It didn’t answer some of the other questions like what exactly happened to Koudai and where he is right now with mom. But I guess that might bring about other questions which will then branch off to more other questions. I don’t think my mind can take it. But as said, Takuya and Yuno has got all the time in the world to watch all different parallels. So they may actually find out whether it is true or not if the parallel universe theory. Which means there could be one whereby it is Takuya x Yuuki… STOP! Or Takuya x Ryuuzouji… STOOOOOOOP!!!!!! Some possibilities are not meant to be discovered…

Bokutachi Wa Benkyou Ga Dekinai OVA 2

It’s that time. That time of the year when you’re thinking about getting married! Yup, next step in life. But don’t worry. That’s not going to happen in Bokutachi Wa Benkyou Ga Dekinai OVA 2. The pressing question that we all want answers to is perhaps answered in this second OVA. Uh huh. Which girl will Yuiga finally end up with? Put away your study materials and it’s time to study if such marriage can really work out in the end. Your guess is as good as mine already…

The Chapel’s Bells x Blesses You
We start off with Yuiga in his usual tutoring of his girls at the restaurant. Then Yuiga’s mom’s friend drops in. Since she is already over that lingerie and massage job gig, guess what new job she has now? She’s some sort of wedding coordinator now and the wedding venue will have some sort of bridal fair. So here’s the expected catch: She wants them to be models so she can get opinions of young ones before the place officially opens. Heh. So she is assuming she herself is not young enough? Or she thinks students their age are already fit for marriage? Now we see each of the girls back home ‘fantasize’ about this. Starting with Kominami, at first she fantasizes about being his cliché submissive wife. Embarrassed, she thought she needs to dominate him but that thought is still as embarrassing as ever. Then her father saw the bridal fair pamphlet and jumps to the wrong conclusion. He thinks his daughter is pregnant and is happy to be a grandpa! He wants to check the gender of the baby… Are daughters allowed to beat up their fathers in this stupid moment? For Kominami, it’s yes. Now we go to Furuhashi. She is snacking while thinking about this. Then she realizes she is too chubby. I don’t know. She looks slim and pretty but apparently that’s not her standard. So she starts exercising but gets tired easily. Then the snacks are just too tempting to resist. A little bit of calories wouldn’t kill, would it? Now it’s Ogata. She is at the bookstore when she sees this book on weddings. Sekijo passes by and like any other cliché characters, she jumps the gun thinking Ogata wants to marry her! I’m not aware that Japan allows same sex marriage but whatever. Look at Sekijo’s disappointed face when Ogata tells her the deal behind this. And so innocent Ogata spams her lots of questions relating to weddings but each time Sekijo starts fantasizing some lesbian thingy between them. Eventually some yuri sex fantasy ‘kills’ Sekijo. That’s enough explanation for today.

Takemoto seems to have forgotten what Yuiga taught her. Blame her mind for being too preoccupied with the bridal fair! On the way back, they see Umihara and a guy together. Then they see them kiss! OMG! Shocking, right? So in the bus, it gets awkward between Yuiga and Takemoto. The latter wondering if he has kissed before. Oh well, those ‘accidents’ with Ogata and Furuhashi don’t count, right? But Yuiga even starts thinking if he would ever have this chance. Yuiga dozes off and when he wakes up, it’s like Takemoto pecks him on his cheek! Oh sh*t! Wake up call! Just a dream? Though he frets having such dreams, perhaps in reality it wasn’t because we see Takemoto fidgeting her lips… Meanwhile Yuiga’s mom’s friend sees Kirisu. They were once roommates. She also hands the bridal fair pamphlet to her thinking she has someone in her life. Though, Kirisu denies. So back home, Kirisu thinks about it that maybe it’s time. Then she dreams of Yuiga giving her the best massage and ear cleaning service. Oh well, if such dreams can ruin her normal life… Better wake up then… So the girls are at the bridal fair and try things out before the big moment of getting into wedding dresses and to take photos. As Kirisu was here early, she gets dressed first. She is shocked to see Yuiga and co and becomes embarrassed. She tries to give an excuse that she was just helping her friend and dismisses this looks good on her. But on the contrary, Yuiga says she looks beautiful! Damn, the annoyed looks on the rest of the girls! I guess they want to hurry now and let Yuiga says those words only to them. And so the modelling gig begins but since they’re nervous and embarrassed at such poses, the photo shot turns out to be more of bloopers than anything else.

Epilogue: Mizuki stumbles upon Yuiga’s mock wedding photos with all the girls on his handphone! Oh sh*t! This cannot be! The killer is the group photo of Yuiga flanked by his unofficial harem. Sorry Mizuki. You’re not part of that harem. Sorry. That’s it. She’s going to die. But first, she’s going to let out a lot of fury. Onii-chan got lots of explaining to do! I don’t think she’ll be calmed by the truth either…

Wedding Bell Blues
Heh. It feels like this OVA could be a premonition of things to come but as expected it didn’t end with a very clear cut manner. However, after looking at the wedding group photo, I am more than convinced (at least for a big majority) that Yuiga will end up marrying Takemoto. Do you not see how Takemoto is the only girl who held her arm with Yuiga’s? Also, at the end of last season, Takemoto was the one who held his hand during the school festival fireworks. After all, Takemoto is Yuiga’s childhood friend and you know what they say about the pecking order and ‘authority’ of childhood friends. So the other girls there are just to throw us off and troll us. Until that real day comes, we’ll all be left guessing but as I said, I am pretty convinced that Takemoto would be the one even though I’m not even on the Takemoto camp. So don’t change my mind if you don’t like my conclusion, convince the author to let Yuiga end up with your favourite girl! So I guess that’s it for this series. Not sure if they will have any more OVAs or another season because we’re done studying this one. Another typical romcom harem series that is a dime a dozen if you look carefully throughout the anime catalogue for this genre. There’s no specific formula to learn in how to get a harem. By the way, is there a way you can officially marry your harem? Well, polygamy is acceptable if you’re Muslim. But still, Yuiga has to pick 4 and only 4. Oooohhh…

Strike The Blood: Kieta Seisou-hen

Senpai, our fight for the fourth season hasn’t begun yet. So before the next season begins, let’s take a look at Strike The Blood: Kieta Seisou-hen OVA first. I’m sure this will be the appetizer before more sci-fi crap sh*t hits the fan in the fourth season. Remember, this is not your fight alone. This is our fight!

Who Moved My Lance?
Kojou and Yukina wake up in a classroom together. Oh gosh. Did they finally do it? And Yukina in an old fashioned bloomers. Of course they have no memories what happened last night. But Yukina thinks something precious to her is missing. Oh Kojou, it’s not her virginity! It’s Sekkarou! What were you thinking?! As they leave the classroom, they see a bloodied bat on the floor and what’s inside Kojou’s pocket? A bra?! Definitely too big to be Yukina’s! Could be Sayaka’s. Oh sh*t! Worse, he sniffs it to make out its scent but Yukina misinterprets this scene… They move on the rooftop as Kojou thought he saw someone moving there. Lots of sheets being hung out to dry. Also there is Asagi’s swimsuit. That is when they remember they were here yesterday for supplementary swimming lessons. But before they could start, it rained. Astarte then came to inform them that swimming lessons are cancelled since a storm is brewing. Hence they got permission to take shelter in the school. When they see Asagi, it seems she is flushed with embarrassment. But she is relieved that Kojou doesn’t remember what happened last night. She hopes it will stay that way. Meanwhile, Motoki, Kiriha, Yuiri and Shio are investigating Vatler’s abandoned cruiser. Looks like some monster broke out of its cage and there is a magical artefact shield in another container. Investigating further, they are then assaulted by an army of mermen and a huge Kraken. Wanna bet this squid was the one who escaped its cage?

Meanwhile, heading into the home economics room, they find Nagisa dead! Don’t worry. She’s not. That’s just ketchup. They further remember what happened last night. She also stopped by the school since the trains had stopped running due to the storm. Asagi then pointed out the big problem: What’s for dinner? After getting permission from the gardening club to use the produce in their garden (it will be wasted from the storm anyway) and make nabe, Kojou and Yukina drew the raw end of the stick as they had to go pick the produce. Yukina slipped and her clothes so Astarte gave her Natsuki’s bloomers to wear. After hearing screams from the next room, rushing over we see Sayaka trying to kill herself and La Folia assisting her?! Seems Sayaka lost some important magical ingredient. To put it shortly, some mushrooms that make you go high and hallucinate. Heh. You bet they remember that they ate some of that last night’s nabe. After dinner, Nagisa created a rice omelette with ketchup and tries to serve Kojou. Of course you bet the other girls were also flirty. Yukina complaining he looks at other girls and should have just done it with her if he wanted to. Sayaka stripping naked and crying foul Kojou doesn’t like her big boobs. La Folia trying to convince him to sign their marriage papers. Wow. It was literally hell. Somehow he got out of that and was taking a breather outside. Asagi came to talk to him but the wind was naughty and blew harder. Her skirt went up and she wasn’t wearing any pantsu. Kojou saw it of course. And you’ve guessed it, Asagi thought human brains are like the same as computers. Beat it hard enough and they’ll forget! And now we know where the bloody bat came from. Sayaka still sad and wants to kill herself. Don’t worry. Astarte says Natsuki has some of those ingredients and will share. Phew. No need for the harem to lose a girl.

Kojou gets a call from Motoki. Mermen and Kraken are too much to handle. Can come help? Sure. After they settle looking for Sekkarou. When Astarte returns Yukina’s dried clothes, she also claims the pole is no longer required and will return it to her. Eh? It seems that Yukina gave her permission to use Sekkarou as a laundry pole to dry her clothes! Yeah, blame those mushrooms! So embarrassing… With the final mystery solved, Kojou has Natsuki do them a favour and teleport to Motoki’s whereabouts. And hence your action sequence in seeing them take down the monsters. But before Kojou could do the finishing move, Yuiri realizes that this shrunken Kraken is just protecting the shield. Since it is just a young offspring, she hopes Kojou can let this one go. Kojou the merciful does so. So they just let the squid swim away into the sea? Hopefully this doesn’t come biting back in the future. While they’re happy for Kraken, they wonder about the mermen. Of course we see some shady baddie, Lei. He is being told the mermen were defeated and failed to retrieve the shield. A shame because it would really have been useful for their future plans.

Strike The Flashback
As cheesy as this OVA seems, I have to admit that in some ways that it was also fun. Oh well. Some fanservice and the usual Kojou harem problems are the things that I understood (I suppose they somewhat included Kiriha here because she was sorely missing in the third season). And hence this OVA is nothing much and feels more like a filler as our gang tries to piece back their missing memories of a night’s mishap. Blame those mushrooms! I bet it is one of those nights that they would want to totally forget. Especially Asagi. Even more forgettable-cum-laughable the officially cheesy named English title of “Who Moved My Lance?”. I thought “The Disappearance of Sekkarou” or “The Missing Sekkarou” would sound better and more accurate than this pseudo-detective-mystery-like title. Oh well. Must be those darn mushrooms making whoever thought that this title sounded like a good one. Yeah, I really want to forget about this title. I hope so when the next season comes around when we are then spammed with more action scenes, fanservice scenes, complicating supernatural sci-fi plots and more cheesy harem narratives. Oh yeah. Just another usual day in Itogami for Kojou and the gang. So senpai, are we ready to take this fight together for the fourth season?!

Tsugumomo Chotto H Na OVA

I guess we’re going to have another season. Perhaps it is the trend in today’s era. Because Tsugumomo is going to get another season and hence the crowdfunded started back in 2019 and achieved its goal. But before we bring you the next season, here is a thanks to all the contributors with Tsugumomo Chotto H Na OVA. You’ve been wanting to see the tits of all the girls in the series without resorting to some underground porn, right? That’s right. Your wish has been granted. This OVA is the perfect appetizer for you perverts out there before we get started with the sequel.

Part 1: The Slave Master
You know how strong Kazuya’s morning wood is, right? He has to put up with Kiriha sleeping naked. Because she’s like the queen, he is forced to wear clothes for her and hence touching those delicious parts. He feels bad about it but sometimes he likes it too. In school, she falls asleep and doesn’t pay attention. On the way home, she forces him to spend his limited allowance on her whims and fancies. Like on this dessert. But to show she is not all that bad, she shares it with him. Heh. It’s his allowance after all. Back home, Kiriha’s choice of dressing continues to distract him from his studies. The real test begins when she has him bathe with her. And because the sponge is missing, he has to rub her body parts with his hand. Yeah, this might not be so bad. Not only her tits, but her pussy too! THIS ISN’T SO BAD AFTER ALL!!!!!! Kazuya thought he won since she gave out a little embarrassing eek. But after she is done cleaning her, she grabs his balls to destroy his dignity and bring him back down to earth. Who’s the real master here???!!! In bed, she sleeps all over him. Even though he has endured a lot of suffering from her, he doesn’t want this relationship to change. If he could, he wants this to continue every day. You mean he likes her busting his balls?! Oh God, I hope he didn’t turn into some masochist…

Part 2: Sentou Ga!
The gang visit the public bathhouse. As you can see, Kiriha and Kukuri try to outdo each other at every single chance they get. To a point where they did kanchou on each other’s butthole!!!! I suppose Chisato has more problems than worrying about Kokuyou’s humongous tits so she has to discipline the loli duo and smack their butts till they’re red. Behave!

Part 3: The Dominator
We see Sunao dominating over Kotetsu since young. Including that one time he complained boys and girls shouldn’t be bathing together so she shut him up by grabbing his balls! Kotetsu’s suffering since then. Then this moment where Sunao came home tired and just dropped asleep. Kotetsu had to take off her clothes and change for her. Yeah, undressing fanservice. Why not just let her be? Scared he’ll get some punishment next morning? Then seeing the tears in her eyes, I guess it’s goodnight. Huh?

Part 4: Boob Job
Kokuyou wants to give Kazuya a boob job to thank him for all that he’s done!!! Since when did this turn into a porn shoot?! Claiming her tits are ugly, Kazuya dismisses all that and mentions all her good points. Including her boobs. Having said that, she insists in giving him a boob job. Got caught with his pants down when Kiriha and Kukuri return. Kukuri can’t stop shrieking. Worse, Kokuyou wants her to join in! Can she, with those non-existent tits? Kiriha can’t stop laughing…

Part 5: Incontinence Inconvenience
For some reason, Kazuya can’t move. But he needs to go to the toilet. Hence Kiriha and Kukuri try to help him pee! This is so embarrassing. I don’t know how they did it but it went okay. More embarrassment for Kazuya when they put diapers on him. So he prefers to let girls help him pee all the time?

Part 6: Erection Test
Kazuya reads a manga story to Kiriha. Turns out to be an erotic one. Kiriha is curious to know which his favourite is and since he won’t tell, she crucifies him and will test him. Does she need to call the other girls too? Oh well, I guess everybody wants to know. So as she reads several erotic settings, the gauge is of course Kazuya’s little brother getting it up each time the erotic scene is read. Safe to say, he reacts to all of them. But then there is one yaoi scenario. The other girls are interested in this one? But it seems this doesn’t belong to Kazuya. Whose? Kasumi of course.

Dakara Boku Wa H Ga Dekinai!
Poor Kazuya. He’s a sexual assault victim!!! He has got his modesty outraged almost every day especially by this tsukumogami and if luck has further abandoned him for the day, he gets his balls grabbed. Because he is a guy, nobody is calling the cops. Plus, we all otakus love seeing this guy in pain, right? Double the fun when we also get to see sexy fanservice of the girls. So who’s complaining? It’s amazing he still has maintained his sanity (and chastity) after all the sexual abuses. In that sense, he is the strongest character, no?! I suppose after achieving almost 7 million yen in crowdfunding, adapting just 6 shorts from the extra chapters of the manga volumes seemed like a rip-off. Hey, who am I to complain? I didn’t contribute a single yen! And hey, I actually didn’t know this came out (nor the second season) just only a few weeks ago! The other thing I like is the ending song which is a full on devilish hard rock piece. Yeah, so epic and badass it feels like a waste for this ecchi OVA. So thanks for the fanservice and the not so friendly memories of a girl grabbing a guy by his balls as punishment. Yikes. Now I’ll be waiting to watch the next season with my legs clutched tightly together.