~Entering the Unknown~

Jigoku Shoujo Mitsuganae#24:

Yuzuki was still reflecting Ai's words when she was lying on her bed. She decided not to think about it and went to her balcony to see a flash of someone who vanished instantly.

Next day, she went to school and heard Ai's bell again when she passed by a girl. She proceeded to the result exam board. She was confused when she could not find her exam number and someone else claimed her exam number as her own with evidence. Yuzuki was shocked and hunted for her exam registration but failed. She called her mother but no one picked up the phone. Outside, some residents were commenting about a vacant apartment when they saw Yuzuki hunting for her things. She told them that she lived in the unit. Yuzuki went to her class to continue her hunt. Everyone seemed to forget her. She checked her class list but her name was not on it. She was shocked as she ran across the school corridor into school field. No one remembered her. Afar, Ai's subordinates observed her. Yuzuki walked on the street and saw her lost friend - Aki who had been ferried to Hell last time. Aki vanished and reappeared behind Yuzuki, asking her why she had not saved her. She vanished and Yuzuki collapsed to the ground, demanding Ai to appear. She yelled that she did not want to become the next Hell girl. Ai watched her from top of a tree. The medical teacher - Shibata approached next to her and took her to office for milk. Yuzuki told her about the situation and she reassured that she still remembered who she was. Shibata told Yuzuki that she herself was never chosen as a candidate but an oberver to candidates for Hell girl. Yuzuki pleaded Shibata to help her but the latter told her that she was unable to help.

Later, Shibata took Yuzuki to her house where she showed her her grandfather's photo. Her grandfather had attempted to stop Ai but failed as it was fate that the system worked. Shibata had been forced to become an observer because they wanted her to give up for the world was corrupted. To some people, Hell Correspondence was their only hope. As such, Shibata's father had given up the stopping of Emma Ai. Yuzuki refused to accept her fate. Shibata told her that she and her father had given up because they were tired. Shibata told Yuzuki not to go to a particular tomb stone as something bad would happen. Shibata told Yuzuki that she had already vanished from the world long time ago and that everything was an illusion. Flashback, Yuzuki could not find her mother in the dark.

Back to present, Yuzuki yelled that she did not believe and ran off in tears. In the street, Yuzuki ran, screaming in tears, everyone around her not noticing her presence at all. She returned to her house. In her house, everything was broken and abandoned since long ago. Yuzuki whispered for help and saw a door and a little girl's skeleton clutching a broken teddy bear. Emma Ai and others appeared before her, telling Yuzuki that the skeleton was her. Yuzuki was shocked.

COMMENT: This episode keeps me in deep thoughts. It is really scary if you wake up in a world where your existence to other people is totally erased. It's scary to learn that everything you possess is just an illusion and the moment you lose everything you treasure, you realise you are actually dead. To exist in a world where you are completely nothing is worse than Hell itself. Death with no senses of what's going on around you is a blessing.

Mobile Suit Gundam 00 S2 #02 - #03:

Setuna went to fetch Sumeragi - the strategic analyst after she tried to run away from the harsh reality for two years and he also managed to convince Lockon's younger brother to join Celestical Being. Lt Perie joined A-Law which was a Peace organisation under the Federate. Princess Marina Ismail was being abducted by people from A-Law. Wong Liu Mei - the contributor for Celestical Being purposely passed information of Celestical Being head location to A-Law so that change to the world could be accelerated. On their route back to Celestical Being base, Setuna, Sumeragi and Lockon's brother (who renamed himself after his elder brother) learned of the attack. Despite the below percentage performance of Exia, Setuna managed to drive it to optimal level and drove the enemies away. In the base, Setuna told Saji that the gundam behind the attack on his girlfriend and her parents were Gundam Thrones which had completely different goal as Gundam in Celestical Being.

Shortly, Wong Liu Mei passed information of Allelujah's imprisonment within A-Law base to Celestical Being. Sumeragi was convinced to come up with a bold strategy to save Allelujah who had been locked for four years. The mission was a success and Tieria was surprised to learn that Lockon, who was new in the battle, shot as well as his late elder brother. Setsuna managed to rescue Allelujah as well as Princess Marina Ismail. The Catrons - another organisation against A-Law took the chance to free the other prisoners. Allelujah told Lt Perie that her real name was Maria and as she was in pain in the recollection of her memory, Allelujah left in his prepared Gundam back to the base where he met Lockon's younger brother who inherited his elder brother's will as Gundam Meister.

D.Gray Man Issue #185: Born of Hatred and Love

Renee from American headquarter told Komui something shocking and Komui looked back with dark face. Along the corridor, the researchers were curious of the people from America branch while Kanda was practicing in the training ground with Bookman. Maria, meanwhile, was sparring with Allen who enquired for ways to destroy akuma without using Innocence as he was worried when the lost soul within the destroyed akuma did not appeared purified during his last battle. Maria advised him against sympathising akuma. Maria stated Allen was just like Kanda who had deep darkness around them. Allen was surprised and Marie took advantage of the opening and kicked Allen who accidentially slammed into a man. Noticing the symbol of akuma above Allen's eye, he attacked Allen who bled against the wall. Marie went to attend to his injury. The person - Goushi's Innocence had caused the reaction to Allen's eye. Allen was confused as he couldn't sense him an akuma but he saw some kind of dark aura around him. Link stepped in and revealed Goushi's identity as 'Crow'. Allen was shocked. Goushi stopped his Innocence and Allen's eye returned back to normal. Crowley and others heard the commotion and ran to Allen. Link scolded them for being slow. The people from 'Crow' told Allen that they were beings who had been converted into half akuma through biological generation and did not react well to Innocence. Allen was stunned. They introduced themselves. They were appointed 'Third exorcists' to be stationed in the Order by order of the Pope. Back in the office, Renee mentioned of the egg and the incident tragedy 9 years ago. Something seemed connected to Kanda. Renee told Komui that for them - humans to prevail over akuma, some sacrifices were necessary. Meanwhile, Link was shocked that the people were half akuma.

COMMENT: Good, looks like I'll be able to see Kanda's past soon. I've been pretty curious of it since I last watched the anime a year ago. Wish Naruto's villain characters can be as difficult as those in D.Gray Man. The villians in Naruto manga seem like they are reaching their limits already.

Jigoku Shoujo Mitsuganae #23:

Yuzuki was writing in class and the class was staring at a student who was throwing papers at one particular student. No one helped him. Yuzuki could sense Emma Ai's bell tinkled. Outside, the bullies forced the student to give them money. In a school office, Yuzuki told the school medical teacher that she wanted to be a normal student and did not want to become Hell girl. In class, Mizuhara - the boy who had been bullied earlier was being called to staff office where the teacher praised him for his school work and near graduation. The bullies outside the office overheard their conversation involving Mizuhara's watch that was a memo from his father. Later at home, his father gave him a camera where he took shots of scenery. The bullies confronted him again and took photo of him being bullied. Mizuhara allowed them to take his camera away. That night, he wailed in bed, recalling the bullies' threats to him. He logged onto Hell Correspondence and received the straw doll from Emma Ai. Mizuhara was not happy that he had to go down to Hell if he pulled the red thread. Ai questioned him if he was totally sure that he had never hurt anyone before. In the main bully's house, his younger sister told him off for wasting water. The younger sister saw the hell mark on his chest. She reminded him of his dream. He told her to make sandwiches for him while he worked hard for their dreams. Later that night, he read an article when his younger sister woke and asked him of their father as she had no recollection of him.

Next day, Yuzuki and her classmates were studying in the fast food resturant. Bone lady and Reiji were observing Yuzuki in disguise of resturant workers. Meanwhile, Mizuhara and other classmates were visiting a factory in school trip. The bully decided to return the camera to Mizuhara. He arrived to see Mizuhara left off with his parents for his bright future and feeling jealous and pissed, he bullied Mizuhara again in the forest. He picked a stick and started attacking the frightened Mizuhara who pulled out the straw doll. The bully knew as he had went through this before. He taunted Mizuhara and challenged him to send him to Hell as he would still not be able to gain true happiness after doing so. In fright, Mizuhara pulled the red thread and gained the hell mark on his chest. The bully was being ferried to Hell as he apologised to his younger sister. Next day, the students were being reminded of exams and also one bully's disappearance. His friends told the class that Mizuhara had sent him to Hell through Emma Ai. Yuzuki was upset. Outside the school, Mizuhara saw other student being bullied by some students. It was exam time. Yuzuki sensed the bell of Emma Ai tinkling again. After exam, she sensed more bell tinkling as she walked through the street with her friends. In a flash, she saw Emma Ai and tried to run away. She told Emma Ai to stop bothering her and that she did not want to become Hell girl. Emma Ai challenged her to send her to Hell. In another flash, Emma Ai vanished. Yuzuki ran off in fright and ran into a rest room, wailing for help.

About Mobile Suit Gundam 00:

Also completed Mobile Suit Gundam 00 anime last night. Celestical Being was being crashed with deaths of some staffs and great injuries of the Gundam meisters. Four years passed, the world begun to rethink the way to maintain world peace by setting up a centralised World peace force. Meanwhile, Celestical Being reorganised itself with improvised models.

Also continue with Mobile Suit Gundam 00 S2. It was 5 years since the collapse of Celestical Being. The world was in peace, or appeared to be in peace. Saji begun his dream job in space but was being framed for a crime he did not commit and sent to do hard labour in space. Just then, A-Law struck to masscere the prisoners there. Seteuna who was working under cover, came out and saved Saji (also his ex-neighbour) in time. One of the A-Law meisters was in panic as she carried out the killing mission. When she returned to the base, the people in charged called her Louise (she was Saji's girlfriend who had lost contact with Saji years ago since her parents' deaths). Setuna fought in his Exia and was about to lose when Teria flew his Gundam to assist him in time. Same time, Saji was aghast to learn that Setsuna was a Gundam Meister and in his angst over his sister's death and his girlfriend-Louise's fate, he almost shot Setuna. Teria told him the harsh truth of the real world. Same time, the military colonial was not happy that his son had joined A-Law. On Earth, Setuna approached Lockon's twin brother.

A good turn of event. I guess I'm going to continue with the second season when I'm free after all.

Rewatch Naruto #134 - #135:

Naruto activated black rasengan while Sasuke activated Chidori at their ultimate strength level and crushed their blows at each other. In a flash of white light, they saw each other more clearly. When the ball of chakra cleared, Naruto laid unconscious on the ground. Sasuke's headband fell next to the fallen Naruto. After gazing Naruto for the last time, Sasuke left in the rain, determined not to follow Itachi's way to become stronger and sought for his own way for strength.

Kakashi arrived to see the fallen Naruto. He picked him up and found their earlier battles at the Valley of End ironic. With that, he left. From nearby hidden area, Zetsu was watching. Among the trees, Naruto woke and was upset over his failure to get Sasuke back despite efforts of Shikamaru and others, feeling that he had let them down. In a dark corridor, Sasuke followed Kabuto and Orochimaru. Orochimaru was pleased with Sasuke's dark chakra force.

Back in Konoha, Shikamaru was depressed. Chaoji and Neji were in critical condition while Kiba's sister treated Akamaru. Temari and Shikaku told Shikamaru off for not able to take the blows of failure. Tsunade and Shizune finally came out and announced that Chaoji and Neji were out of danger. Another medic nin arrived and announced that Kakashi had successfully retrieved Naruto who, although sustained serious injury, was alive. Shikamaru broke down in tears and promised to get better results in future mission when Tsunade told him that his mission failed.

Later, Sakura overheard Shikamaru and Naruto's conversation that Sasuke did not return to Konoha. Despite her disappointment, she thanked Naruto. When Naruto was alone in his ward, Jiraiya visited him and told him that because the Akatsuki was after Naruto, he was accepting Naruto as his official student and would take him for three years training. Naruto wanted to go after Sasuke first but Jiraiya told him that he would not be in danger of being taken over by Orochimaru as the latter had already taken someone else's body and would not be able to switch body three years later. Nevertheless, he advised Naruto from going after Sasuke as the latter had went to Orochimaru willingly. He warned Naruto that if he insisted on his way, he would be placed under ANBU's watchful eyes for he was wanted by the Akatsuki. Naruto told Jiraiya that he rather be forever foolish and not giving up his pursue of Sasuke. Naruto stated that he would become stronger and fufil his promise for Sakura as his will of Ninja. Smilingly, Jiraiya left off, promising to train Naruto once he was out of hospital.

COMMENT: The official part 1 of Naruto is over. The two episodes are definitely the most touching of all. I can still feel the emotion eventhough the server was slow when I was watching #134. The next few episodes onwards are all fillers until Naruto Shippuuden. I guess I'd not be rushing myself with them for time being.

Bleach #215:

Aizen and his team faced off the remaining Shinigami captains and vice captain. Aizen also knew the city had been swapped by the Soul Society. Meanwhile, Ulquiorra watched over Orihime in the other world. In other place, a girl soul was running as a number of Hollows were running after her. The Hollows were being dissolved by the reiatsu. A shinigami jumped to the girl soul's aid. He introduced himself as Sidou. He told her to run to somewhere safer and wondered about the battle above. Same time, in the sky, the Shinigami commander captain, captains and vice captains watched Aizen, Gin and others before them. The captain commander told others to stand back as he transformed his walking stick into sword and activated strong flames at the Espada and Arrancars so that they could not leave from the flame of circle. Gin was amused. Aizen was indifferent. Back in the world of Arrancar, Ulquiorra walked along the passageway towards Orihime. He asked her if she was afraid as there was no one to protect her and she would die here by herself. She stated that she was not scared as everyone was trying to save her. Meanwhile, Ichigo was flying through the air towards the tower where Orihime was imprisoned. Hollows appeared before him and he fought. In the tower, Ulquiorra found it ridiculous to depend on friends not to be afraid. Orhime stated that she had came because she wanted to protect her friends. However, as she sensed her friends fell because of her, she stated she wanted everyone to be safe. She had finally understood their feelings of losing friends. Outside, Ichigo flew up towards the tower where a number of Hollows confronted him. They fought. Rukia, Renji and Chad came along to take them down for Ichigo so that Ichigo could go after Orihime. Rukia faced off the leader of the Hollow. In the tower, Ulquiorra dismissed Orihime's theory as nonsense. Flashback, Orihime recalled her bidding of farewell to Ichigo before she had left with Ulquiorra. Back to present, Orihime stated that as long as her soul and her friend's soul were as one, it was sufficient. Ulquiorra questioned the visibility of a soul within a body when Ichigo crashed into the tower where they were standing.

COMMENT: New opening. Very rock. Prefer Naruto Shippuuden's new opening. New ending which was pretty cheerful and light. The ending also shows all the Espada who would appear in the battle against the Shinigami captains and vice captain above the city.

Fullmetal Alchemist-Brotherhood #02: The Day of the Beginning

Ed and Al were travelling on the train to investigate on a priest who was rumored to produce flower out of the air. Ed recalled his reading on Philosopher's Stone.

Flashback years ago. Trisha was impressed with her sons - Ed and Al's talent on alchemy like their dad. Unfortunately, on the same year, Trisha passed away from disease. Ed was angry with their father for not returning to Trisha before her death. At her gravestone, Ed was thinking of bringing their mother back from death when Winry came along to see Ed and Al, calling them for dinner. At dinner table, Winry's grandmother argued with Ed for not drinking milk. In the morning, Ed, Al and Winry went to school.

At night, Ed talked to Al about human transmutation and researched on it. They even sought for a teacher to bring their skills to higher level. One night, Ed and Al decided to proceed with human transmutation. Things begun to go wrong. An eye appeared in the middle of the circle. Al was being dragged away and his body vanished. Ed found himself ahead of a Gate where he saw a faceless man. He saw many eyes looking at him and was being dragged away. The person told him that he would be shown the 'Truth'. A lot of information went into his head. His leg and arm vanished. He understood the Truth. He thought he saw the image of his mother. In a flash, he found himself in front of the faceless person again, complete and whole. The person told him he could not show him and demanded a toll fee. With that, Ed's arm and leg vanished. Back to reality, Ed found his arm disappearing. In front of him was a monster-like creature struggling in front of him. Ed was aggravated and screamed for Al. Just then, an armor collapsed near him. Ed drew a blood seal in the armor and called back his brother-Al.

Back to the present. Hughes passed the report of Issac to Roy. Along the way, Hughes asked Roy why he made Ed a state alchemist. Roy knew Ed saw the Truth. He waved Hughes away. Flashback 4 years ago, Roy had went to Ed and Al's house to see blood, knowing something went wrong. He went to Winry's house and yelled at Ed what he had done. He saw Al's condition. Later, Roy discussed with Winry's grandmother about the incident. She told Roy about a monster which the Elric brothers had created. Meanwhile, Riza and Winry chatted. Winry told Riza that her parents were killed by soldiers and that Ed and Al were going to be taken away. Same time, Roy wanted Ed and Al to let him know if they wanted to advance further or stop in their trace. Riza told Winry that she joined military to protect someone important. Riza bidded Winry farewell. Roy was confident that Ed was interested in joining when he left with Riza. Later, Ed told Winry and her grandmother that he decided to join the military. With installation of automail arm and leg, Ed and Al trained themselves. Al was impressed that Ed could transmute things without creating the transmutation circle, just like their teacher. In the military HQ, King Bradley met Ed who was attending the examination. Ed performed transmutation without drawing the circle. King Bradley was impressed but Ed's weapon was already sliced by Bradley without his knowing. Afar, Winry and Al wondered of Ed's exam. Later, Ed was being presented with the State Alchemist token as well as the name 'Fullmetal'. Ed was pleased.

Back to present, Al told Ed that they were reaching Lior - their destination. Ed was hoping to find information of Philosopher's Stone to restore Al's body back.

COMMENT: New introduction speech about transmutation, equlvalent exchange and human transmutation. Also pleased that Rose and Lior incident are still retained. Good to see 'Truth' and that faceless person behind the Gate.

Rewatch Naruto #130 - #132:

Sasuke thought of his past as he hit Naruto. Flashback, Sasuke was always envious of his elder brother who always won praises from his father until his change of attitude. Since then on, his father begun to focus more on Sasuke, taught him fire technique and told him not to follow his elder brother - Itachi's steps. Sasuke's mother told Sasuke that his father had been secretly praising Sasuke when he was not around. One night, Sasuke witnessed Itachi massacring the entire Uchiha clan, leaving him alone. Itachi told Sasuke that the only way to obtain the legendary Mangeku Sharingan was to kill the closest friend.

Back to present, Sasuke was prepared to kill Naruto as he plunged Chidori into Naruto's chest. Meanwhile, Kakashi returned from a mission and learnt of the incident. He reassured Sakura that he would resolve the matter, summoned the dogs and went after Naruto and Sasuke, regreting for taking their earlier conflicts too lightly. Back to the battle field, Naruto recalled how he had wanted to befriend Sasuke since long time ago when they were in school due to their common lonely fate of without parents, but was held back because Sasuke outshone him in everything. He thought of the time when he watched Shikamaru, Chaoji and Kiba being fetched home by their family members while he had no one. He had passed by the river side and had common feeling as Sasuke who was sitting by the river bank. Back to present, Naruto realised it was only a one-sided friendship of him to Sasuke eventhough Sasuke told him that he was his closest friend. Before Sasuke fully stabbed him with Chidori, Naruto's Kyuubi Chakra erupted. Sasuke was shocked by his rapid recovery ability and Chakra.

07-Ghost #01:

A flashback, a boy was looking up at a man. The city was in ruins outside the building. The boy - Teito woke, confused of the identity of the man in his dream when his friends rushed him out for the day. The kids were elite group in a military school. In the hall, they assembled. The elite students had special abilities. The city appeared futuristic and peaceful. From school, Teito and his friend - Mikage watched the plane outside and spoke of their dreams. Teito had no recollection whom his family was as he had lost all his memories. Later, Teito and Mikage duelled to prepare for their final exams. Teito won.

That night, Teito and Mikage chatted about their past. Teito told Mikage that before he came to the school, he was a slave who was to fight to his death until the school chairman - Miroku took him in. Mikage was happy that Teito spoke so openly about himself and sworn that both of them would go through the exam smoothly.

Next day, the students were being assigned to different teams for exams. A student - Shuri taunted Teito for his ex slave identity before walking away. In the hall, Teito and others were to kill a criminal to pass the exam. The criminal was taller and larger than them and he was fast. He begun to attack the students. Outside, the senior military people were talking. In the exam hall, Shuri was panicking and pleaded to leave while his followers were being tossed around. The criminal attacked him. Teito saved him in nick of time and fought the criminal with Mikage bravely. Teito managed to subdue the criminal but the senior military - Ayanami killed the criminal and taunted Teito for being soft. That night, Mikage told Teito that including both of them, only 19 students passed. Mikage was proud of Teito for not being a killer. In the middle of the night, Teito dreamt again of the same man who promised to come for him one day. Redness covered him.

Next day, the students were schooling as Teito thought of his dream. He sensed something and heard sound. Someone was talking behind the door. It was Ayanami who was ordering for the finding of a stone - The Eye of Mikaru. Teito recalled something in his dream. In his dream, a plane as well as a troop of people were coming for him and the man - his father. One of the man in the troop was Ayanami who killed his father before his eyes. Teito whimed in pain and he entered the room attacking Ayanami. A man appeared and defeated Teito instantly. Ayanami questioned him and remembered Teito as a former slave. Teito was dragged to a cell and chained up. Teito's belongings was searched. Mikage was told of the incident. He ran to look for Teito. He entered the cell and saw Teito covered in blood of the warders. Mikage pulled Teito and fleed together with him. Teito begged the divine to protect Mikage as they were faced with oppositions. Teito tried to prevent Mikage from being criminal by taking Mikage hostage and escaped by himself on a plane. Ayanami watched him and attacked the plane from the balcony.

COMMENT: Looks good enough with quality rival that of D.Gray Man's. Will consider continue with it. The OP is pretty nice too. The opening is 'Hiiro no Kakera' by Suzuki Yuki and the closing is 'Hitomi no Kotae' by Noria

Shangri-La #01:

A girl - Kuniko was being released from her confinement and was fetched by a group of people who ranted over their anxieties over her. They headed to Duomo. Everywhere, the cities were in ruins, covered in algae. Many towns were half submerged in the sea as they rode on a boat. Kuniko ran around the town happily. Along the way, people greeted her warmly. In a place, a woman - Ryoko was being attended by her servants while she enquired on news of the moon and other matters including Kuniko's current whereouts. On the road, a couple were being taken away for blocking a royalty girl's path. Meanwhile, Kuniko was yelling to the world of her return. In a place, some people from the top were discussing on taxation on emission of carbon dioxide in Japan as they were questioned by a girl via a computer. The people were being told off for using cheap labour and being irresponsible for carbon dioxide emission. They begun to argue over some proposals to give in to the girl's MEDUSA plan. The politician finally gave in to the girl's plan. In her room, a little girl was playing with her teddy bear after her successful negotiation for wealth. Ryoko talked to her people of Metal-Age which was an anti-government organsiation. In other place, Kuniko was chatting with a woman who had fetched her earlier. They saw some factories emitting carbon dioxide and went to stop the situation. They told Tehiksho off for the carbon emission. All of them were alerted of arrival of military which promptly bombed the city. The people were Altas Military. Kuniko ran of to deal with them. The military knew she was Digma 2. She tried to talk them off and had to dodge off their bullets. The woman whom she talked earlier came to her aid. As Kuniko struck, the three knives held by different people (Tehiksho's knife that represented head of Metal Age, a royal girl and Ryuko) all over the world vibrated. Kuniko felt the noise familar.

COMMENT: The two ladies who fetched Kuniko were voiced by men, wonder if the characters are men in fact. Argh.. Anyway, the anime looks better than that Samurai anime I've watched the night before. This anime is promoting environmental danger if carbon dioxide is emitted too much.

Phantom - Requiem for the Phantom #01: The Awakening

An assassin was carrying out a mission.

Flashback, he woke to find himself in a room, losing his memories. Other place, a woman - Lizzie told another woman - Kuro off in her job as bodyguard. In a lab, two men were examining a subject - the assassin. In a rundown building, the assassin was moving through the corridor. In the lab, the two men were observing his activity. A girl was being summoned to carry out her task to test the assassin. She shot him. He ran. At the brink of his death, he reached his sub conscious and defeated the girl, slashing away part of her mask and remembered seeing her somewhere before in the past. Flashback, a girl was begging for answers of the world on a swing in playground. Back to present, the assassin stopped himself from stabbing the girl as her mask fell away. He left the building and saw the barren land outside. He yelled for answer to his name and the girl told him that he was Zwei and she was Ein. She shot him and he collapsed. The people and a lady - Kuro approached them, marvelling over Zwei's ability. Ein was being summoned back to work as Phantom.

Back to present, Ein and Zwei were carrying out their assassin mission in the estate. Their target was shot after Ein told him that they were phantom - Inferno's top assassins. From afar, Lizzie returned back to her relaxation. In a room, Kuro announced that another miafia was destroyed so that they could bring about a new order. In the airport, some men were approaching the custom. In a building, a girl was looking out of window. In the city, Ein and Zwei were riding in a car, remembering their identity as just puppets.

COMMENT: This anime plot and arts style reminds me of 'Darker than Black', except the songs aren't as good.

One Piece #395:

One Marine head was laughing his head off as one powerful man - Dark King was being auctioned at human auction and told his men to keep it a secret so that the man wouldn't destroy more of his men. Meanwhile, the human auction commenced. Mr Disco was the host of the night. In the cell, Camie was being chained. Same time, Mr Disco introduced the first human - a young man. The people started to bid. Mr Disco proceeded with the next one. Meanwhile, Sanji was pissed as he was being told of human auction as he rode behind Divul's back on his fish and he hurried the latter to find Camie fast. Same time, Nami and others were also on their way to find Camie and collecting information towards Peterman and the auction house. Other place, Zoro was being confronted by bounty hunters who were no match for him. In auction house, the auction was still ongoing. Sanji and others reached Grove 1 destination at the same time. At the auction entrance, the auction guards were obstructing Sanji and others from entering. Nami proposed playing by the rule and paid to get Camie back for Camie was on explosive collar right now. In the cell, Camie panicked as people were being dragged out for auctioning. Nami and others entered the auction house. Other pirates - Kid and others watched them. Nami and others flared up as the customers started bidding a girl on the stage. Nami was determined to get Camie back using the treasures on the ship. Chopper agreed with her. Nami moved forward while Sanji beamed his admiration for her. Outside, the pirates received falling notes from the Marine that Ace was going to be executed. Meanwhile, the auction was still ongoing. Sanji was pissed off with the treatment of the people who were being auctioned. Outside, Luffy was rushing his driver to take him to auction house fast. Same time, Zoro was still figuring out his route. Robin and others were also on their way. In the auction house, Camie was being confronted in the cell.

COMMENT: New opening ' Share the World'. Did not expect the 'Save Ace' arc will be coming so fast.

Tales of the Abyss #26: A New World (FINAL)

Luke and others finally reached the place where Van was believed to be there. They reached the top where Van waited, impressed that a replica had won the original. Luke wanted Van to acknowledge him as a human and not a replica. He stated that he would live his life to the fullest. Tear wanted Van to change himself, just like Luke. Van wanted to overturn the Score. Jade stated humans had their right to decide how the world would be destroyed. Van challenged Luke to defeat him. Van unleashed Loreiei's power. Luke fought him. Guy went to fight Van as well. Van pushed him away. Jade and Anise tried to help. Tear healed Luke who resumed the fight with Van. Tear and others attacked Van at the same time. Afar, others watched from their ships. At battle field, Van sent all of them to the ground. Luke and others bought time for Tear by fighting Van. Tear started to sing the Hymn to counteract Van's power. Van was in pain as Loreiei was trapped within his body. Luke activated the power ball into Asch's sword. Van tried to attack him but was shot by Natalie and attacked by others. Luke sent his slash at Van whose sword broke. Luke stabbed Van. Tear's Hymn stopped. Van stated that Tear understood the seventh lynic that Yulia loved the world and that she wanted everyone to be happy. Van collapsed and forbidded Luke to call him teacher. With that, he vaporised from existence. Luke still viewed him as his teacher as he used to teach him. Tear bidded Van the final farewell. Just then, the ground shook. Luke told others to run first while he released Loreiei as promised. Jade reached his hand to him and stated Luke had changed and wanted him to return alive. Guy told Luke likewise. Same for Anise and others. Luke told Mieu to return to his clan people as his job was over. Tear wanted Luke to promise that he would return. In a whisper, she stated that she loved him. With that, all others left. Luke stabbed the sword into the ground. With bright light, he entered deep into the ground where he reunited with Asch's body. Flame surrounded them and shot into the sky. From afar, Tear and others watched.

Under the moonlight, Tear watched. It was two years since the event. The world had changed as what Luke and others had hoped. Just then, Natalie and others came to meet her as they believed Luke was still alive. Natalie asked Tear to sing the hymn. She agreed and started to sing as she thought of the current life of people around them. As wished, everyone was living peacefully. Luke's parents and others attended Luke's funeral as they thought him dead. The song ended and Jade suggested heading back. Tear was about to go when she saw someone approaching her from afar. It was Luke. Natalie and others turned back and saw as well. Luke stated he had returned as promised. Tear begun to weep as she approached him. Natalie and others went towards them.

COMMENT: Expected but completed ending. Change of the image for the final ending, involving all characters, both major and minor.

Bleach #214:

A confusing and misleading start about a weird animation of Kon being a savior of the world.

In the sky, the weird fortress floated in the air while Afro - the shinigami of the town told Urahara about the raising danger with Hollows. Kon was pissed with Ichigo's disappearance. Tessai explained everything in full details as Urahara was busy. Later, Kon recharged his new power watch with normal recharger when Ichigo's classmate went to see him. She was unhappy with Ichigo's hiding of cetain details to her. Kon went to look for Ichigo's other classmate - Asano who told him that he had been forced into the role after Urahara knew he could see Hollows. Asano wailed. Tessai interrupted them. The others came along for their next mission to infitrate the fortress. Kon and others set off and flew to the fortress and started their fight against the protuding Hollows. Kon and Ichigo's three classmates infitrated the fortress where they were confronted by Hollows. The reluctant Kon was being called to go to the core. The female Arrancar appeared and confronted them. She was being frightened by another Ichigo's classmate. Kon was being hurried off to the core. Asano was being chased by a Hollow. Throughout, Ishida was in charge of explaining the purpose of each character's costume. Meanwhile, Kon entered the core where a creature was immersed in a tube. Suddenly, something big confronted him. It was a giant Hollow. It attacked him with fiery beam. Meanwhile, his other K members went forward to fight other Hollows. Tessai told Kon that everything would be recorded for Rukai. To impress her later, Kon gave his best to fight the Hollow and destroyed it. The place begun to collapse. Kon and others made their way to the exit as the fortress fell. Outside, Urahara gave the fortress a final blow and got Kon and others back safely. Kon and others went to sleep. Urahara was glad to finish the job without being noticed by the enemy. Just then, the four pillars appeared at each corner of the town. Urahara knew the time was up.

COMMENT: Finally the important four pillars up, meaning I'll be expecting the official plot from the manga starting next week. Wonder if there'll be a change of opening or something next week as well since it's a new Arc. Looks like the Bleach anime is moving up and catching onto manga plot faster than Naruto.

Sengoku Basara #01:

A battle between two troops. At different fedual territories, the lords were briefing their people. At battles, different special ability warriors were fighting. At a camp, Sasuke reported a situation. Oyakata and Yukimura argued and Yukimura set on his way. In other camp, Kenshin ordered the people to begin their match. Each camp, the people were anticipating their enemies' next move. Yukimura faced off Usegi Masamune and they fought. They were stopped by Sasuke. Yukimura went on one knee from the stress of Masamune's blow. Later, he was briefed by Oyakata. Yukimura commented on Masamune's strength. Oyakata and Yukimura fought again for causal duel. Sasuke was speechless. Other place, other warriors were relaxing with drinks while discussing their future battles and tactics against other troops. Next day, other troops were moving on and fighting. Below, Yukimaru and Oyakata with their troops met Masumane and his troops again. Oyakata ordered Yukimura to prevent Musamane from getting a person's head before them. He set off.

COMMENT: The opening song is pretty rock. A bit too rock, more rock than 'Naruto Shippuuden' and 'Samurai Deeper Kyo' in fact. Interesting is, two character's name - Sasuke (appear in 'Naruto Shippuuden' and 'Samurai Deeper Kyo') repeat in this anime. A name - Kenshin appears in the anime as well. The entire plot was confusing with too many characters being introduced. I'm dying for some ancient fighting animes. The design of some characters look a bit weird. I can't differentiate whether Kenshin is a man or woman. Yukimura reminds me of Ranma. Still watching and seeing if it's worth continuing. The background music is nice though.

Just watch the new Naruto Shippuuden opening 5 and ending 9 a moment ago.

The new opening is Hotaru no Hikari by Ikimono Gakari.

It seems a bit Sasuke-centered with a bit more of Naruto as well as backdrop of the First Hokage and Uchiha Madara's statues.

Not surprising as the next arc is more on Uchiha Sasuke search as well as Orochimaru's act to take over Sasuke's body for his own. Still, the video seems a bit gay.

Also watch the latest ending which seems a bit rock. Though it's not particularly my cup of tea, it's better than the previous one, I guess...

Rewatching Naruto #122 - #123:

Naruto faced off Kimimaru and was about to be stabbed when Lee came to his aid. Sasuke broke out of the pail and despite Naruto's pleading to return to Konoha, he ran off. Lee covered for Naruto so that the latter could go after Sasuke. Same time, Shikamaru observed the linkage between Tayuya's finger movements with her corpse puppets. When he was almost winning, she went to her next evolution and he had difficulty holding her down. Meanwhile, Kiba was carrying Akamaru, dodging Sakon and Ukon's pursue.

In Konoha, Gai and Tsunade were shocked to find Lee missing with Tsunade's sake. Gai knew Lee lost control if he was drunk and was worried. At the grassland, Lee drank the sake and went dizzy in face of Kimimaru. Same time, Gai told Tsunade that Lee was a natural in drunken fist fighting technique.

Rewatching Naruto #108 - #111:

Naruto and Sasuke's blows were being diverted away by Kakashi. Kakashi went to tell Sasuke to forget about revenge. Sakura went to look for Naruto. At night, Orochimaru's four ninjas confronted Sasuke, defeated him and advised him to become stronger under Orochimaru. With that, they left. At the ramen stand, Sakura told Naruto of Sasuke's curse mark from Orochimaru and Naruto told Sakura of his recent encounter with Orochimaru. He reassured Sakura that Sasuke would not go to Orochimaru for power. Later that night, Sakura went to the exit of Konoha to see Sasuke leaving. She tried to stop him and confessed her love for him but he knocked her unconscious and left.

Next day, she told Tsunade about it. Tsunade assigned Shikamaru the mission and recommended Naruto to be tagged along. Naruto was shocked with the news. Shikamaru managed to get Naruto, Kiba, Chaoji and Neji in the mission team. Sakura and Lee (who had just finished the operation) saw them off. Naruto reassured Sakura that he would take Sasuke back to her as he understood her feeling for Sasuke. Lee consorted Sakura and stated Naruto was showing the 'Nice Gai' pose, meaning he would definitely carry out his promise.

The four guards of Orochimaru's placed Sasuke under fake death and put him within a wooden pail shielded with barrier. They faced off two Konoha junins who were soon defeated. Shizune who was on mission with them healed them quickly. At the same time, Lee was trying to walk up the staircase without support until Tsunade told him being patient was also part of training. She handed a bottle of medication to Lee who agreed to rest. Meanwhile, Shikamaru and his group caught up with the four guards who were taking a rest. But their locations were discovered.

COMMENT: Still cannot resist feeling tearful when Naruto, who likes Sakura, tried to make Sakura happy by giving his best to let her reunite with Sasuke.

New FullMetal Alchemist: Brotherhood OP:

Came across this on the web. Still prefer the previous version of FMA anime though, more action. Managed to watch the raw version of the first episode.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood #01:

The former state alchemist - Isaac created chaos with his ice alchemy after his deflection in the Isbal war, wanting to assassinate King Bradley and his military dogs. Roy assigned Ed and Al to handle him but he escaped. Later, in Roy's office, Hughes entered and mistook Al for Ed and commented Ed's shortness. He showed them his daughter and wife. At Hughes' home, Al couldn't eat apple pie. Meanwhile, the ice alchemist visited Kimbley at his cell after freezing the warder, he told Kimbley about the corrupted military and wanted Kimbley to join him but Kimbley rejected.

Later that night, he attempted to freeze the city using a transmutation circle. Ed was shocked to see the red light from the activation and suspected Philiosopher's stone was involved. In his battle against Armstrong, Al and Ed, as well as Roy and his team, he disclosed Al's situation as a soul being sealed within an armor after he saw the blood seal within the empty armor body. Ed was aggravated as he recalled the time when he used human transmutation to get Al back. The ice alchemist ran off and was slayed by Bradley in a dark alley. There was a flash of 'Father's face as the city was resolved back to normal. Kimbley smirked in his cell as he sensed the final disappearance of the 'Philiospher's stone'. In a dark church under the red moonlight, Lust marvelled over the death of a pawn - Isaac while Gluttony was eating something next to her.

Comment:

The anime was more light hearted at the first half of the episode, including dialogue text boxes as compared to the previous version. The plot was also completely new. King Bradley, Hughes and Kimbley have made their appearance too early. My only relief is, I think I see 'Father' in this anime version.

Have completed three animes this week, they are:

1) Mugen no Junin
2) Casshern Sins
3) Toradora!

Rewatching Naruto #92 - #97:

Naruto trained himself to overexhaustion and Shizune took the unconscious Naruto back to the inn. Meanwhile, Tsunade drugged Jiraiya while they were having sake at the wine stand. In the inn, Shizune persuaded Tsunade not to go to Orochimaru. Tsunade knocked her unconscious. Next morning, Jiraiya struggled to Shizune and Naruto. Shizune told them the situation. Same time, Orochimaru ordered Kabuto to kill Shizune. Outside the inn, Kabuto gave up as he saw Jiraiya and Naruto with her. At the same time, Tsunade was waiting for Orochimaru at the last place they met. Tsunade asked Orochimaru not to destroy Konoha and he agreed. She activated her chakra and was stopped by Kabuto who saw through her plan to kill Orochimaru.

Tsunade fought Kabuto who used her weakness for fear of blood. Naruto, Shizune and Jiraiya appeared to aid Tsunade. Naruto was shocked to learn Kabuto was a double agent for Orochimaru and also saw Orochimaru's real face the first time. Kabuto insulted Naruto who tried to fight him but failed. Jiraiya suggested himself fighting Orochimaru while Shizune faced off Kabuto.

Naruto tried to hit Kabuto with rasengan but missed and was being hit against a rock. Kabuto easily defeated Shizune and moved on to beat the terrified Tsunade. Ignoring his pain, Naruto rushed to defend Tsunade and finally managed a completed rasengan against Kabuto who took the chance to cut Naruto's heart vein. Kabuto was seriously injured by rasengan impact and Tsunade was shocked to find Naruto's Kyuubi chakra unable to reach Naruto due to the cut vein. As Kyuubi sensed darkness, Tsunade's tears brought Naruto back from death while she tried her best to save his life. Recognising Naruto being a threat in future, Orochimaru attempted to kill the unconscious Naruto but Tsunade defended him with her body and activated her stored chakra. Jiraiya, Orochimaru and Tsunade activated summoning technique. Jiraiya (with Gunta toad) and Tsunade (with her giant slug) fought against Orochimaru (with his giant snake). Tsunade and Jiraiya were shocked to see Orochimaru had been using changing bodies technique all the time as he escaped with Kabuto. Later in the inn, Tsunade told others that she would be returning with them to Konoha as Fifth Hokage. Naruto taunted her youthful appearance that did not tally her age and they went out to fight again. This time, instead of hitting him off, she kissed his forehead. As they made their way back, Tsunade could see her younger brother and Dan's illusion through Naruto as he shared the same dreams as them.

#97: Comical episode when at a hotspring inn, Naruto tried to help two desperate debt collector getting money from Tsunade. Forgetting the debt had been cleared, Shizune tried to prevent Naruto and the debt collectors from getting Tsunade's case which was full of debt evidence. Jiraiya failed to soak in hotspring with young girls.

Tales of the Abyss #24: Land of Glory

Ships shot the floating city. At the palace, Luke and others were praised for stopping the storm barrier and were prepared to go for next difficult mission. Later, Anise greeted replica Ion who was playing with the emperior's pig. Anise wanted to take Ion to Daath where he would be safe. On the way outside, Luke sensed Asch's thought as he approached them. Luke wanted to pass the item to Asch who scolded Luke for not having intention to kill Van. Luke reminded Asch that eventhough he was his replica, he had his own feeling and wanted Asch to stop Loreiei. Asch walked away. Later, Luke and others took Ion to Anise's parents. Tear went off to spend time alone, thinking how the earlier Ion replica had saved her life. She begun to sing, wishing everyone, whether replica or original would be happy. Tear thought of her time with Van when he told her of the song which he had taught her. She heard someone thank her when Luke appeared and told her that her song sounded different from usual as it gave him strength. They went off when Luke sensed another headache attack. He saw his hand glow and Tear told him that she knew his pain. The hand stopped glowing. She admitted she had eavedropped his and Jade's conversation. Luke asked her not to tell others so that they would not worry. Tear knew he was scared and asked him to admit his fear as everyone was around him. He thanked her. In a plane, Asch sensed pain, wondering if he had enough time. In a room, Natalie approached and hugged her foster father, weeping. In the hall, Luke met Guy who pulled him to his foster parents. Guy silently thought that his path would not be revenge. Other place, operation for battle was commencing. Jade briefed everyone of the battle plan and their roles. At sunset, Natalie told Guy that she was confused as Asch and Luke were dear to her. Guy told her to listen to her heart once everything was over. In the bar, Jade was deep in thought when Anise approached him, discussing life after the battles. At night, Tear and Luke chatted alone by the sea. Luke thanked Tear for watching over him all the while and felt blessed for having Tear and others around him. Next day, warships were moving towards the floating city, sending missiles at it. In the air, Luke and others were flying in the plane closer to the city which attempted to ram them. They saw another plane approaching it. The city moved to the sea surface to the shore. They moved towards it. On the top of the city was Van who knew their arrival.

A Fan-made video of Naruto Vs Pain:

Saw this video. Definitely a fan made one, but it's really well done.

Saw the video trailer of FMA anime which is commencing on 5th April 2009 in Japan.

I look forward to it.

Rewatching Naruto #45 - #47:

Naruto managed to win Kiba with his intelligence as well as shadow clones. Hinata fought Neji in the next match. With Naruto's encouragement, Hinata finally summoned her faith and confidence in the match. Even though she lost in the end with severe injuries, she smiled as she was carried for medical treatment. Naruto vowed to fight Neji in revenge for what he had done to Hinata.

D.N.Angel Issue #44 - #48:

Risa was kidnapped by Argentine in the amusement park to lure Dark. Satoshi met Daisuke again when the latter attempted to find Risa. He told Satoshi of Risa's situation. Daisuke had hurt himself when he fell from the sky in form of Dark to the ground where he regained to his former self. Satoshi tried to calm the infuriated Daisuke down. Daisuke felt weakened as Satoshi told him that he knew the kidnapper was Argentine.

In his illusion, Niwa Daisuke saw Risa crying and she claimed Dark was not coming for her. She turned into Riku and Daisuke was confused only to feel Dark slapping on his shoulder, joking with him and marrying Riku off. Daisuke was aghast.

He woke to find his anxious mother hugging him in his bed as he had been sleeping for two days. She instantly announced his condition to his father. Daisuke remembered Risa and wanted to go and save her. His father told them that he had overheard Daisuke's muttering about Argentine and went to do some research. He had found that during the cultural revolution, near the end of the era, Argentine was created - an art piece of Hikari that was never seen by anyone. Daisuke asked about Riku. His mother told him that she had passed out after sensing something wrong about Risa and had not woke eversince. Daisuke felt frustrated for not able to save either of the twin. Daisuke insisted on going to save Risa, feeling sure with Dark's help, they would succeed. But Dark told Daisuke that this time, he could not help him.

Dark told Daisuke that because of Daisuke's unstable feelings, it was too dangerous for them to go together. Daisuke had created the wings by himself using his rage. If Daisuke was to summon Dark with his anger, he would end up like Satoshi. Daisuke's father understood Dark's explaination and elaborated to Daisuke. Only the right feeling would summon Dark which was consideration for someone else. Daisuke understood and decided to save Risa and Riku by himself.

In a room, Risa woke to find herself in a room where Argentine played a piano. As he approached her, she threw a vase, warning him not to come any closer. Argentine appeared confused as he stated that according to his creator, human beings liked to wake up to music as he handed her a fallen rose. Risa was shocked to find her attire changed while she was unconscious. She left the room in anger. Meanwhile, Daisuke's father told his wife that Argentine was one of Hikari's art pieces that was already destroyed. Meanwhile, Risa was shocked to find herself looking down from a crumbling staircase of a tower. Daisuke was shocked to learn the information from his father. Meanwhile, Risa returned to her room and could see blue skies from the balcony. She wanted to know what the place was. She threatened to jump if Argentine came any closer to her. He promised not to get close to her as he needed her. He told her that he wished to become 'Dark Wing'. Risa was confused.

Meanwhile, Riku woke to see her mother by her side. She suddenly remembered Risa and Daisuke and asked her mother how she was home. Her mother told her that Risa was missing and that no one had seen her. Riku wanted to go and look for her but was stopped by her mother as she had been unconscious for days. Riku could sense that Risa was in fear. Other place, Daisuke was reassured to know from Towa that Riku had regained consciousness. Towa told him that Riku and Risa were twins and probably Riku could follow the connection to reach Risa. Daisuke decided to look for Riku so that they could find Risa together. He landed on one of his mother's traps. Just then, Daisuke's classmate - Takeshi came to visit him. Daisuke's mother invited him in for a tea. Daisuke saw his mother stealing Takeshi's cameras as he had been secretly taking photos of their house. Takeshi, while marvelling over Daisuke's young looking mother, reminded Daisuke that he had missed school for days as well as Risa and Riku. He wanted Daisuke to tell him any information he knew. He demanded to know Daisuke's development with Riku. Towa who came to serve tea got embarrassed when she witnessed Takeshi hugging Daisuke and flew off with red face. Takeshi told Daisuke about the disappearance of Risa. There was a rumors that Dark was the one who kidnapped Risa. Daisuke insisted that Dark did not kidnap Risa. Takeshi believed him. Takeshi challenged Dark to rescue Risa as he was a girl hunter. Takeshi asked Daisuke why did he always get onto Dark's side and suspected Daisuke was hiding something from him.

Meanwhile, Risa questioned Argentine what he meant by 'Dark Wings' and wondered if the boy before her was a human. He told her that both he and 'Dark Wing' were not human. He told her that 'Dark Wing' was Dark and Krad and together, they became one. Risa told him to stop saying. Same time, Riku was in great discomfort as she pondered where Risa was. Other place, Daisuke was on his way to save Risa on his own. He ran into Satoshi. Satoshi had been looking for Daisuke as he wanted to talk to him. He told Daisuke that he knew where Argentine was. He wanted Daisuke to cooperate with him. On his finger was a ring which controlled Krad within him.

D.N.Angel short story #1:

Towa showing readers Daisuke's everyday life which consisted of many traps set by his mother to train him as a thief.

D.N.Angel short story #2:

Daisuke's mother gave her son his birthday present which he accepted with suspicion. Dark was depressed as Daisuke's mother reminded him of his old age. Daisuke sketched a protrait of Dark to cheer him up. Dark criticised the picture but thanked Daisuke the next day.

D.N.Angel short story #3:

Risa fixed Riku's hair with ribbons as they set off for school. Daisuke was confused with Riku's changed image. Riku was pissed with Daisuke's lack of reaction. When Daisuke finally summoned his courage to compliment her image, Riku slammed him to the ground in embarrassment. Next day, Riku tried to do the same hairdo but was not skilful enough to do a proper job.

D.N.Angel #49:

Dark was suspicious of Satoshi's intention when he volunteered to help Daisuke to find Argentine. Satoshi extended his hand to Daisuke who wondered if it was a trap to catch him and Dark. Despite Dark's protest and his mother's earlier warning about Satoshi, Daisuke accepted Satoshi's offer and took his hand. Satoshi told Daisuke to call him once he had prepared for the rescue operation as he walked away. Back home, Daisuke's grandfather and mother ranted at him for working with Satoshi. Daisuke explained that Satoshi was his friend and that as a descendent of Hikari, he might know Argentine more than anyone did. His mother and grandfather were speechless. Daisuke's father told his wife to trust Daisuke's judgement. His grandfather told him not to let his guards down and Daisuke noted. As Daisuke prepared for the operation, he told Dark that he did trust Satoshi. Daisuke hoped Risa would wait for him as he looked into the night sky. In the mansion, Riku hoped for Risa's safety. In the living room, Riku and Risa's mother was weeping over the twin's separation yet again and worried for Risa's disappearance. Towa told Daisuke's parents that Riku, probably influenced by Risa, was weakening. In the living room, Daisuke's father knew Dark's only way to exist was to be loved.

Other place, Risa woke to find herself in different dress. She glared at Argentine and yelled him pervert for taking advantage of her while she was sleeping. She wanted him to take her home when he demanded answers about the pains of arts that were destroyed due to dissatisfaction of the creators. His creator had once concluded him a failed art and stated he was in pain. He was sure that the Dark wing was thinking of her till now because she was important to him. He had sensed it because he had ability to read thoughts of things and that he sensed Dark wing's presence while Risa was sleeping. He told her that long ago, Dark wing carried suffering and pain where ever he went. In that way, Dark had changed. Argentine asked if Risa was Dark's 'heart'.

In school, Takeshi was spreading his reports on the disappearance of Risa and that Dark was responsible. He told Daisuke to help him distribute his reports. Dark was pissed off. Daisuke ran off as Takeshi asked him to help in getting news of Dark's every move. Just then, Takeshi noticed his father at the school gate and went to meet him. At the riverside, his father asked Takeshi to tell him information about Dark as he knew Dark would never kidnap a girl which was against his normal activity. He told Takeshi to make way for home with him. Takeshi told his father that his mother was returning home and reminded him of family dinner.

At night, Dark placed a card outside Riku's bedroom indicating his vow to save Risa. As he prepared to leave, Riku woke and attempted to stop him. Dark attempted to flee but she grabbed his waist, wanting him to take her to where Risa was. Dark was aghast as he might change back to Daisuke anytime. Daisuke (in Dark's form) reassured Riku and told her to wait for him to take Risa back to her. He flew off.

In other place, Risa was wondering why Argentine wanted to be like Dark. She sensed something in Argentine that reminded her of Dark. He took her down the tower to show her something. He showed her his created girl 'Qualia' which he stated was incompleted.

In the night, Satoshi took Daisuke to a place where Argentine was located. He suspected Risa was being held in the middle tower. Along the way, Satoshi told Daisuke their possible ways to reach Risa. Daisuke felt uneasy for Satoshi to be involved with the dangerous mission. Satoshi reassured that it was not only Daisuke's matter. Flashback, Satoshi's foster father told Satoshi that one of his ancestors' disposed art work was getting out of hand and he told him to finish it with his own hands. Back to present, Satoshi and Daisuke made it to the other side of the bridge. For a second, Daisuke sensed his wings and suspected something had made contact with Dark.

Other place, Risa wondered if the girl was alive and Argentine did not know but knew she was destroyed as she was a failed creation. Argentine told Risa that he was not completely destroyed like the girl. He had been alone for a long time. He had tried to recreate the girl like what his creator had done but she lacked the heart which meant she was still worthless. Meanwhile, Satoshi explained the possible traps and equipments around the areas to Daisuke as they moved on. Satoshi knew Daisuke carried the 'key' to deactivate the traps. He wondered if there was some coincidence to it. Satoshi knew he was running out of time to obtain the answer. Other place, Risa asked why Argentine thought of bringing the girl back and he replied that he sensed he and she were somehow bound together inextricably. He believed that once he obtained feeling if he became Dark wing, he would know the answer to that. The girl suddenly smiled. Same time, Dark and Satoshi sensed the strengthening of Argentine's power and were confused. Daisuke also sensed it as the wall began to crumble. He warned Satoshi of the crumbling ceiling as he pushed him to safety. Both of them fell into the water and Daisuke swam hard, fighting to bring both of them to water surface. In her house, Riku read Dark's note and worried for Risa. In other place, Risa told Argentine that he was in love with that girl. Argentine sensed strength in his hand and knew he had feelings. He grabbed Risa's wrists and stated that she had taught him many things which he had been ignorant to it all the times. She yelled him to let her go. Same time, Satoshi regained conscious to find themselves under the bridge. Daisuke had passed out and he pulled him to him, calling him to pull himself together. He pulled him to dry ground and tried to blow air into him but was pushed off by Dark in nick of time. Dark told Satoshi that he was complicated before reverting back to Daisuke. Daisuke was relieved to see Satoshi well. While Daisuke was worrying about Satoshi's missing glasses, Satoshi thanked Daisuke for saving his life. Daisuke replied with a smile that he was glad he was okay. They set off with their mission. Along the way, Satoshi told Daisuke of his clan's ability to give life to arts. He warned that Argentine was unlike usual art pieces and was similar to Krad and Dark. Daisuke was confused and hoped Dark could answer his doubts. Eventually, Daisuke and Satoshi reached the foot of the internal of the middle tower.

COMMENT:

Dunno why Daisuke/Satoshi's contrast slightly reminds me of Naruto/Sasuke.

Woah, 'Skip Beat' has finally changed a new opening and ending. Looks cute.

Rewatch Naruto #24 - #27:

It was about Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura taking written papers in the first round of Chuunin exam for #24 - #25. There was quite a bit of Naruto/Hinata scene when she did not mind risking her exam just to let Naruto look at her answers. I also finally noticed that Kakuro had disguised his puppet as an extra examiner which was detected by Ibiki.

#26 commenced the 2nd opening and ending of 'Naruto'. #26 also was a flashbacks of the previous few episodes introducing team 7 and the members' techniques, minus the details of Zabuza and Haku part. Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke did the introduction as the next part of the episode was not ready yet and Kakashi was late in the delivery. Naruto introduced general backgrounds of team 7, Sakura introduced ninja techniques and Sasuke introduced how he was always the center of attraction to opponents unlike Naruto. #27 went on with the commencement of second part of Chuunin exam in the Forest of Death. Hinata's team succeeded in getting a team down, Naruto's team was a target of several teams and Shikamaru's team managed to dodge a detection. Before the commencement of the exam, Naruto's face was scratched by Anko's kunei.

The Chuunin exams made me think back of the latest 'Naruto' manga plotlines when Akatsuki was to find information of all Junchuuriki and Bijuu as well as Konoha ninjas' team work in tracking the real body of Pain while Naruto having to get the courage and means to stop Nagato (Pain) from taking himself away for the Bijuu extraction for the safety of the shinobi world.

Naruto Issue #436: Peace

Ino's father exclaimed that he knew where the real Pain was to the others. He had realised that when he earlier looked into the mind of the Amegakure ninja whom Jiraiya had captured. That time, the ninja's mind had indicated that about a tower where they had always took dead bodies to and stated that his job was to transport dead bodies for Pain. Ino's father analysed of the need of sending of chakra from a person to be as close to the receiver as possible and considered the tallest location to place the corpse. He recalled the rumor from the ninja that Pain lived in that tower as well as the woman who appeared as Pain as she looked just like the body of a dead woman who had been taken to the tower. Ino's father concluded that the tower must be a laboratory where those black chakra transmitters were inserted into the corpses. Shikamaru wondered what it had to do with Pain's location. Ino's father replied that the current best location to transmit the chakra signals must be the highest location near Konoha. With that, Shikamaru's father told others to make a thorough search of anywhere high up.

Meanwhile, Naruto continued to be pinned to the ground by Pain who told Naruto that his goal was something that not even Jiraiya could achieve. Pain told Naruto that through justice, he would bring peace. Naruto stated that Pain was kidding him. Naruto retorted that what Pain had done to his friends and teachers and his destruction to Konoha was not justice and peace at all. In his anger, he stained his wound even more and panted heavily. Pain asked Naruto what he wanted. Naruto shouted that he wanted to defeat Pain and to bring peace to the world of ninjas. Pain mused that his way was also justice but his own friends and family as well as village were all destroyed too. Pain stated that not only Konoha ninjas were allowed to talk about peace and justice. Naruto questioned what Pain meant by his words. Pain explained that in the competition among the shinobi world, small villages like his was always the battlegrounds. Each time, his land would be laid to waste and people impoverished, bearing the blunts of the wars while the great nations prospered. Naruto was silenced. Pain stated that both he and Naruto wanted the peace Jiraiya spoke of. Pain stated they were both ordinary people driven to revenge in name of justice which in turn bred more revenge, turning into chain of hatred. Pain stated that people couldn't understand each other. He stated that the world of ninjas was ruled by hatred. Naruto recalled Jiraiya's words that he could tell that hatred was spreading. The then 13 year old Naruto was confused. Jiraiya explained further that he wanted to do something about it but did not know what. Even so, Jiraiya had then believed that one day people would truly understand one another. Naruto had then stated Jiraiya's concept sounded difficult to understand. Jiraiya told Naruto to find the answer if he couldn't and Naruto agreed then.

Back to present, Pain asked Naruto how he would face this hatred to build peace. Naruto was silence as he thought hard. He confessed that he did not know. Pain told Naruto that he created Akatsuki to break that chain of hatred. He needed the power of the Nine tailed fox in order to unite all powers of the tailed beasts so that he could build a weapon far more powerful than what it took to destroy Konoha as he wanted to destroy an entire land in an instant. Naruto was stunned. Pain continued on that the world would eventually knew true pain and fear of pain would bring an end to war which would eventually lead to world stability and peace. Naruto retorted that Pain's words was nothing but a lie. Pain continued on stating that people were stupid and if he did not do this, there would be no peace. He stated that time would pass and the pain would heal. Subsequently, the checkmate's power would weaken and people would start fighting again and that time, they would use the weapon themselves and once more knew true pain. Naruto stared at him.

Somewhere else, the real body of Pain stated that by then, a short time peace would come again. The real body was stabbed with metal rods and antenna like things. He was seated on a four legged thing with Konan standing next to him. Pain stated that it would give birth to short period of peace within the endless chain of hatred and that was his wish. The real body of Pain coughed and Konan told him (addressing in his real name - Nagato) not to overdo it as he had used too much chakra. Pain stated that he could see peace.

COMMENT: Pain's theory reminds me of Celestial Being in Gundum 00. Anyway, there's a lot of dialogue in this issue. Wonder why Pain was taking all his time discussing with Naruto about peace and justice. Maybe he lacked audiences for his ideology and Naruto seemed like a good listener for him. Or maybe he wanted to fully convince Naruto to follow him without any struggle. He could always knock him out and drag him off for extraction of Bijuu at his current condition.

Naruto Shippuuden #80: Last Words

In Konoha, Kurenei whispered Asuma's name as the fallen petals flew off. At the fighting ground, Shikamaru screamed as Asuma fell before Hidan. Shikamaru tripped and fell as Hidan regained to his normal self. Kazuza continued strangling the other two Konoha ninjas while Shikamaru got back to his feet and dashed at Hidan but fell as Kazuza tripped him. Suddenly, crows attacked Hidan and Kazuza as a black sword attacked Kazuza. Chaoji, Ino and others had arrived. One Konoha ninja was manipulating the crows. Chaoji and others examined Asuma who was seemingly unconscious. Shikamaru could hear heartbeat and called Ino to heal him. Kazuza confronted them. One Konoha ninja - crow manipulator fought Kazuza to buy Ino time for healing Asuma. Sametime, Pain was sitting on a tower, calling back others including Hidan and Kazuza for the sealing of the Two tailed. Hidan and Kazuza were forced to withraw the fight as they received the mind signal from Pain. Hidan and Kazuza vanished. Shikamaru commanded Ino and Chaoji to hurry. Asuma regained conscious telling them that his end was near. Ino started healing him and was aghast that his four vital organs were damaged. She knew there was nothing she could do. Asuma told them that he finally understood the intention of his late father and told others his last words. Shikamaru acknowledged Asuma's fate. Asuma told Ino to keep Shikamaru and Chaoji in line and also not to let Sakura beat her in anything. He told Chaoji that he would become a strong ninja and told him to be more confident as well as put on diet. He told Shikamaru to remember the words about 'king' when they were playing shougi. Shikamaru recalled of Asuma's words of sacrifical piece and 'king' at Shougi. Asuma at present whispered words into Shikamaru's ears. He was shocked and Asuma asked him to continue his wish, told him to look into his pounch as he wanted his last smoke. Flashback, during the first introduction of Asuma to Shikamaru and others, his smoking had irritated them. Another flashback, Asuma treated all of them to BBQ and he was worried for Chaoji's appetite. Shikamaru stopped Asuma from saying the word 'fat' in time. Another flashback, Ino passed flowers to Asuma and knew he was dating Kurenei. Another flashback, Asuma and Shikamaru were discussing pieces in shougi and Asuma passed him a book of instruction. For the first time, Asuma lost to Shikamaru. Another flashback, Asuma congraduated each of them when they officially became chuunin and gave them ear rings as present. Back to present, the cigar fell from Asuma's mouth as he passed away. Ino screamed as she cried on his chest. Chaoji wept. Rain begun to fall. Shikamaru walked off and wept as he staing that he hated cigarette for its smoke always made his eyes watered. In Konoha, Kurenei was watching the rain from her apartment.

COMMENT: This episode is making me cry. Wonder if Naruto had ever consider that many people had been dying around him just because they wanted to stop the Akatsuki from reaching Naruto for his Nine tailed fox sealed within his body.

Naruto Shippuuden #81: Sad News

Naruto was still training and like Yamato, was exhausted as he had difficulty merging nature chakra with resangan. He laid on his back, reflecting Kakashi's words that he could become better than 4th Hokage. He was disappointed with himself. Yamato suggested taking a break and Kakashi decided it was up to Naruto himself. Rain begun to fall on him. He thought of the Valley of End where Sasuke defeated him and thought back the last time Sasuke glared back at him. With that, Naruto got up and resumed again. Sakura watched on with a basket of food pill. Suddenly, one clone revealed Nine tailed chakra and other clones ran away from him. The red chakra attacked other clones and original Naruto called Yamato for help. The possessed clone was attacked by Yamato's roots and Kakashi went to check on Naruto. Naruto told him that he could only manage 200 clones and was feeling the training getting too difficult for him. Kakashi stated that it was not like Naruto to be despondent. Sai joined Sakura offering her his ink umbrella. Sakura understood Naruto's difficulties to gasp the concept. Sai stated that Naruto was stupid and incapable. Sakura was pissed and blasted a tree and warned Sai from criticising Naruto who had saved everyone many times. She reminded him that Naruto was their team members. Sai showed Sakura a book to use harsh word to force a person to reveal true words. Sakura realised Sai had made her stated her real feeling for Naruto. She chased Sai away. Sakura secretly cheered Naruto on. In the rain, Naruto reasoned with Kakashi the real reason for his failure and Kakashi illustrated how he could do it. Naruto understood and resumed his practice again.

In the rain, Hidan and Kazuza sent their chakra to the HQ to do the extraction of two-tail junchuuriki - Yugito. They complained as their real bodies were in the rain. In the cave where other chakra forms of other Akatsuki members gathered, Pain and Hidan were challenging their ideology. Hidan was the second newest member after Tobi. Pain told them that their aim was to create and use money for the organisation like what the villages were doing now. But unlike them, their main aim was not to ally with the nation lords as foundation. Akatsuki planned to create armies to start wars among the nations using the Bijuus and to change everything causing the failure of the shinobi villages systems. On the tower, Pain stated the final goal was to control the world.

In Konoha, Tsunade was in grief as Shikamaru and others reported Asuma's death. The other ninjas would inform other villagers of Asuma's death and Shikamaru would inform Kurenei himself. In the field, Naruto was getting a hang of the training. One clone handle nature chakra, one moulding and other doing the watching. Kakashi was impressed with him and stated he was beginning to like him. Naruto freaked out and tried to shy away from Kakashi who approached him slowly. Just then, a ninja approached Yamato with the news. Naruto noticed it. Yamato reported stopping the training with a serious look. He approached them and told them of Asuma's death. Naruto was shocked.

Side track: A ninja-Kotetsu was goofing around his food and was being stopped by his fellow ninja. He tripped and tasted bit of the syrup which he claimed was good. He dragged others including the reluctant Shikamaru for the meal with it.

Naruto Shippuuden #78: Given Judgment ; Naruto Shippuuden #79: Unfulfilled Scream

The flame produced by Asuma exploded around Hidan. Kazuza watched calmly. When the smoke cleared, Hidan had resolved into skeleton appearance while Asuma obtained flame like injuries. Asuma realised he was under Hidan's curse that transferred his injuries to him. With that, Hidan proceeded to the next step. Shikamaru and other Konoha ninjas could only watched helplessly. Asuma activated his wind chakra onto his weapon as he faced off Hidan. Asuma was being hit back onto the ground as Hidan roared into laughter. The other Konoha ninjas tried to analyse the situation so was Asuma. Hidan prepared to stab his own chest to transfer the wound to Asuma, Shikamaru tried to stop him with his shadow and stopped it barely. He struggled with Hidan. Izumo was worried as the back ups could only arrive in 20 mins' time. Shikamaru was reaching his limit as he tried to calm himself down. Asuma tried to think of counter measures while Shikamaru tried to hold Hidan off. Subsequently, Hidan managed to push Shikamaru's shadow away slightly. Kazuza wanted to interfere. Flashback, Shikamaru was studying the datas of the missing-nin, including that of Kisame, Itachi, Deldera. He was worried for the five other Akatsuki members who were not on record. He gave up the book and started slagging, thinking of different abilities of different missing-nin. Asuma came along, overhearing his aloud thinking and sat with him discussing strategies. Asuma told him to get friends' help if he couldn't handle Akatsuki members alone. Back to present, Shikamaru forced himself to think of a strategy by linking similarities between Asuma and Hidan that linked their bodies together. He thought of the symbol under Hidan's feet and his weapon. Asuma and others knew Shikamaru had come up with an idea. Shikamaru tried to manipulate Hidan to force him out of the symbol. He knew Hidan's weapon was meant to draw blood of the victim for his curse technique. Upon digesting the victim's blood, Hidan's blood would change. The next step was to step into the symbol circle to activate the curse. Angered, Hidan wanted to kill Shikamaru who forced Hidan out of the circle. Once Hidan was out of circle, Shikamaru sent a new wave of shadows stabbing Hidan. Asuma approached Hidan. Hidan called Kazuza to help him. Asuma slashed Hidan.

Side Story: Asuma passed a bottle of plant seedlings to Kurenei in a stall and went off embarrassed. In her house, Kurenei read book on the plants and smiled as it meant comforting someone.

Shikamaru panted heavily as Asuma slashed Hidan. Shikamaru released his shadows. Hidan collapsed. The other Konoha ninjas were impressed by Shikamaru's quick wit as they faced Kazuza who seemed unconcerned. Hidan started yelling at him, much to shock of Asuma and others. Hidan was irritated to see his head severed from his own body. Hidan pleaded Kazuza to take his body to his head. Kazuza grabbed Hidan's head as it was lighter. Hidan started yelling and complaining. Asuma was astonished and shocked, so were other Konoha ninjas. Shikamaru was confident that Hidan couldn't move without his body to his head. Even so, Kazuza was likely a difficult opponent. Shikamaru got back to his feet but fell back due to exhaustion. Asuma was wondering for an escape for the entire team but Kazuza attacked Asuma and sent him straight to the ground. The other Konoha ninjas were worried. Kazuza approached Hidan's body and sewed his head to it using his tenacle thread from his own body. Hidan got back to his feet. Kazuza told Hidan to handle Asuma while he dealt with the rest. One of them activated a weapon from his scroll and other sent water at Kazuza as both attacked him. But Kazuza remained unaffected. Kazuza sent his threads attached to his separated arm at them, bounding them immobiled. Meanwhile, Hidan returned to his symbol circle to complete his curse. Asuma suddenly got up and attacked Hidan whose spears flew and stabbed him by his back. Shikamaru shouted warning to him but it was too late. Asuma fell on fours but the spear had cut Hidan across his stomach while Hidan was still within the symbol circle, meaning the curse was activated. Hidan laughed as Asuma struggled with his wounds. Shikamaru tried to run to Asuma, thinking in anger why it happened eventhough Asuma volunteered to act as a bait to save the entire team. Flashback, Shikamaru was arguing with Asuma over strategies. Back to present, Shikamaru blamed himself for not following Asuma's instruction as he ran towards Asuma while other two ninjas were being strangled by Kazuza. Hidan meanwhile toyed with his own wound, inflicting pain to Asuma. Shikamaru rushed forward. Hidan plunged his spear into his chest. Shikamaru screamed. Asuma remained stoned, he coughed blood. At her apartment, Kurenei saw her flowers fell from the seedlings Asuma had given her. She looked afar. Meanwhile, time seemed to stop as Shikamaru watched Asuma falling forward to the ground. Shikamaru ran and screamed as he approached Asuma.

COMMENT: New opening 'Closer' and closing 'Long Kiss Goodbye'.

Spoiler of Naruto Issue #436:

Thanks to some reviewers on http://inaruto.net, I managed to catch a rough summary of what's gonna happen in the upcoming issue. No fighting.

It's mainly about Pain showing illusion of what his supposed 'peace' was to Naruto who retorted that his way of 'peace' was not peace at all. Meanwhile, Pain's real body was clamped on a four legged transport which was located on the highest mountain above Konoha. There were receivers protuding over his back and Konan was standing guard next to him. She told him that he was trying too hard and he told her that his 'peace' was coming soon. Same time, Ino's father suspected the real body was located on a high point to ensure that the puppet bodies could receive his signals.

Code Geass #14: Geass Vs. Geass

Another battle was ongoing between Black Knight and Britainne. C.C. gave instruction on behalf of Lelouch. Lelouch was aghast as his gun was taken while he was unconscious and he was awared that at least one person had seen his real face behind the mask. In her class, Lulu's close girlfriend-Shirley was sobbing. In the apartment, Suzaku received a call from Lelouch. He wanted Suzaku to inform his younger sister that he would be late for home. Lelouch ruled out Suzaku from knowing his real identity. Lelouch recalled seeing Shirley at the battlefield. C.C. warned him of the situation. In the hall, the royal princesses were discussing with their subordinates on Zero. One of them suggested assigning knights to protect the younger princess. Meanwhile, C.C. and Lelouch went around searching student's bedrooms for the gun which served as an evidence for he/she to know Lelouch's identity as Zero. Lelouch found a book which highlighted Narita. At a statue, a man in white confronted the waiting Shirley. Shirley was surprised that the man knew her thoughts. Other place, the Black Knights were chatting. On the train, C.C. asked Lelouch of his feeling for Shirley. Lelouch suspected Shirley knew his real identity and wanted to find her at Narita. At the statue, the man knew every single thought of Shirley who had realised that Lelouch was responsible for her father's death. The man also knew Shirley had shot a Britainne lady who realised Lelouch's identity as Zero at the night amidst the warehouse. The man taunted Shirley being manipulative and evil. He wanted to punish her and Lelouch. When C.C. and Lelouch reached the location, they found no sight of Shirley. Just then, Lelouch's mobile rang and the man in white talked to him using Shirley's mobile. Lelouch demanded to know whereout of Shirley. C.C. meanwhile was looking for Shirley by checking with the passingbys. She saw the man in white - Mao and Lelouch on a tram. On the tram, Lelouch and Mao played a game of chess. Lelouch was astonished that he knew his thoughts. C.C. meanwhile rode on a bike after the tram. On the tram, Lelouch was shocked that Mao saw through his thoughts as he won through the game. Mao told Lelouch that he was a Greass user and Lelouch saw Shirley standing outside the tram, aiming her pistol at him. At the seaside, a Black Knight saw the Britainne who had witnessed Zero's real identity as Lelouch. She was still alive though barely conscious. At the tram, Mao continued to torture Shirley and Lelouch's minds as he lured Shirley into shooting Lelouch. Lelouch told Shirley not to be fooled by Mao. Shirley opened fire and Lelouch fell, the photos of him and her together fell all over the steps. Shirley saw them and Mao continued to lure Shirley into killing Lelouch. Mao wanted to shoot Lelouch but Shirley shot him away. She passed out and Lelouch caught her in time. Mao went to the tram for his rifle but the tram begun to move back and he was delighted to see C.C. again. His headphone fell off which was full of records of C.C.'s encouragement for Mao. At the steps, Lelouch hugged Shirley who broke into tears for her shooting of him earlier. To make her feel better, Lelouch erased her bad memories of everything including Lelouch. At the statue at night, Shirley who lost her memories chatted with Lelouch who told her of his loss of a friend. She told him cheerfully that she wanted to see the place for one last time before she left and was sure that a new day would arrive. Lelouch thanked her for everything before he left.

COMMENT: New opening and ending, and yeah, the appearance of Mao who is quite popular in RPG. Am going to miss this episode this week coz of committment event so I'm watching it online right now.

Um, forgot to add that Toradora! has changed a new opening and ending this week.

The new opening is cuter than the first.

Naruto Shippuuden #67: Multiple Death Matches

The zombies were attacking the ninjas of Konoha while Sora watched in shock from above and was unhappy that innocent people were also involved. The leader of the four ninjas did not care as the fall of pawns, ie the commoners would mean the downfall of the king. Meanwhile, the lightning element ninja zombies were making their way to their point to activate Limelight. He wanted Sora to leave with him once Konoha was destroyed.

Meanwhile, zombies emerged continuously. Ebisu and the gatekeeper ninjas were discussing how to resolve the problem as they fought alongside with Chaoji, Kiba, Lee and others. In the office, Shikamaru, Tsunade and Shizune were discussing plans and Shikamaru preferred to fight rather than racking his brain. On the rooftop, Naruto was cringing onto the edge of the tiles while the female ninja stepped on his fingers. She stated that Furido had told her not to kill him but she decided to do otherwise. Naruto was surprised and used clone technique to get to rooftop. Meanwhile, Yamato fought the Earth ninja with his wood shield technique. He used Earth technique to duck the Earth ninja's attack. Both of them used Earth techniques to fight. Other place, Sakura was examining the walls as she tried to make her way out. Moths flew from the wall, attacking her and she shrieked. Sametime, Asuma and Kitane were fighting. Kitane confessed that he liked Asuma but he had to trap him with his barrier lightning technique as he left. Asuma was frustrated. Meanwhile, Furido calculated that it was almost time for Limelight but Sora wanted to stop him. Firido stated that Sora was just like his father-Kitane and fought him to the ground and beat him. In the dark, Sakura heard Naruto's voice as he stood besides her in the woods. She recalled seeing moths. Suddenly, Naruto attacked her with his kurei. Sakura shrieked as she ran away from Naruto who multipled and dived at her. Among the house, Ino was healing the villagers when Shikamaru approached her asking her for updates. In the woods, the female ninja smirked as Sakura fell prey to her poison which gave her illusions. She approached the unconscious Sakura and kicked her. Suddenly, Sakura vanished into a needle. The real Sakura appeared besides her and punched her hard. She had already realised what was going on when she heard her voice. She had used an antidote when she was under the poison's influence. She punched the female ninja hard in her chest, sending a hunch into the ground. Meanwhile, some tall buildings created by enemy's ninjasu begun to sink, meaning one enemy was probably down. Shikamaru approached others, to figure out strategies with Kiba and others. On the rooftop, Naruto laid on the ground, barely conscious as the other female ninja attacked him with water dragons. Sametime, Yamato was ducking from the earth ninja's attack before sending water at him so that the ground would be muddy and soft enough to send the enemy sinking into the ground. With that, Yamato bound the enemy with his tree roots, burying him into the ground alive. Other place, Chaoji used ball technique to roll off the zombies while Kiba and Lee cleared off others. Just then, the zombies begun to vanish as their castor had died under Yamato's attack.

Side Track: Naruto was hungry as Shikamaru and Chaoji were around him. Chaoji introduced his potato chips and tablelets as well as gums. Shikamaru and Naruto felt worse.

Naruto Shippuuden #68: Time of Awakening ; Naruto Shippuuden #69: Despair

The Konoha ninjas were relieved with the disappearance of zombies but remained alert. Shikamaru and Ino were worried for possible problems as well as Yamato and Sakura's whereout. They sent people to check. In the woods and on the street, Sakura and Yamato were on the move. Meanwhile, the four lightning zombie ninjas were reaching their respective points to activate Limelight. Asuma was worried within his lightning barrier confinement. Other place, Furido continued to hit Sora, telling him about his pathetic father. Angered, Sora's hand turned into claw and swored to stop him. Furido begun to tell him about his monsterous hand. Sora thought of his past when people viewed him as monster.

Other place, the female ninja continued to fight Naruto who tried to slash her off with his kurei. She sent flames and lightning at him and punched him into his stomach. But his clones struck her with resengan. She reappeared with wrinkled face and resumed back to normal. Naruto was shocked to see her shocking healing power. She drowned Naruto's clones. Naruto tried to analyse her element sequences. He knew she had been switching bodies to use all 5 elements. She attacked him with water and earth again, determined to take his body. She punched him unconscious and he passed out. She begun to kiss him to absorb his wind chakra. He pulled her hair, knowing her secret was with hair. Her hair suddenly attacked him and he stamped it down. She attacked him and bound him with her hair. Naruto recalled his wind practice and slashed her hair with his wind chakra. Her hair suspended in the air and dived at him. He used resengan and finally destroyed her. Naruto panted heavily and went to look for Sora. Other place, Asuma tried to summon his wind kurei. On the cliff top, Furido told Sora about Kyuubi and power of bijuu which is usually sealed within people known as Junchuuriki. He told them there was Kyuubi Jinchuuriki in Konoha. He had managed to harvest some chakra to seal it within Sora five years later. Eventhough Sora was not a Jinchuuriki, he had power similar to one and Furido wanted to use the power possessed by Sora. That was reason why Sora had the power to destroy the walls of Fire Temple. Meanwhile, Asuma managed to free himself and ran after Kitane. Same time, Shikamaru, Chaoji and Ino were running. Asuma confronted Kitane. Asuma thought of the past when he played chess with his father - the Third Hokage and they discussed about king in the chess. He had answer for Kitane who dissolved into soil. Asuma worried for Sora. Meanwhile, Furido knew Kitane had failed. He dissolved the remaining three as Limelight was no longer effective. Furido decided to release the seal on Sora and he sent his seal into him. Red Chakra rose. Meanwhile, Naruto and Asuma were running towards the location.

Side Track: Naruto dreamt of Third Hokage who appeared in his room, telling him of his progress. Hayate also appeared. Naruto was shocked to see them legless and he shivered. He saw words telling him to visit the tombs and he screamed.

In the office, Tsunade was watching the night as Shizune reported that everything returned back to normal. She saw the red light and was suspicious. Meanwhile, the woods was filled with light chakra light as Sora dissolved into red bubbles. Naruto and Asuma reached in time to witness that. Naruto was shocked. Furido laughed. Asuma remembered who Furido was and that he used to be one of the 12 guardians. Furido told Naruto that Sora had some of Naruto's kyuubi chakra. Sora begun to transform. Naruto ran towards him but was being hit back. Furido told Asuma that they had snatched some Kyuubi chakra to seal into Sora. Naruto approached Sora as he had already heard Sora's scream in his nightmare of Kyuubi. Naruto also recalled the looks of other people at Sora in Fire temple and how it reminded him of his own past. Naruto was angry with Furido who was looking at people like him as monsters. Naruto thought of Gaara. Naruto attacked Furido who blocked him off. Naruto tried to approach Sora who told him to stand back as he could no longer trust anyone including Naruto. Sora begun to form demon fox's clock and Asuma realised Furido had messed up Sora's cell with Kyuubi chakra. Naruto and Asuma were shocked. Unlike Naruto who was the Kyuubi jinchuuriki, Sora could not control Kyuubi chakra that well. Naruto ran to Sora who resigned his body to the fox chakra. Sora attacked Naruto and Asuma quickly shielded Naruto with his body. Yamato and Sakura ran to them to assist them. Sakura was surprised to see Kyuubi cloak on Sora. Naruto used shadow clones which were instantly blown off. Kiba, Lee and Shikamaru were running. So were Chaoji and Ino. They saw the explosion. At the location, Yamato tried to control Sora as Sakura ran to Naruto. Asuma recognised Furido as Kazuma and faced him off. Yamato had problem controlling Sora as he did not wear the First's necklace like what Naruto did. Naruto tried to persuade Sora from using Kyuubi's power. Naruto shielded Sakura with his wind chakra as Sora attacked her. Naruto remembered he had hurt Sakura before with his demon fox cloak. He did not want Sora to hurt anyone with the same power. Naruto shouted to Sora that he understood Sora's pain as Kyuubi was sealed within Naruto himself. He approached Sora. Shikamaru held back Sora with his shadow technique. Chaoji used his technique to restrain Sora. Naruto approached Sora. Sora did not believe Naruto was a Jinchuuriki as he had many friends. He told him that he used to be alone when he was young and he had made people acknowledged him. Chaoji's hands were scalded. Ino used soul switch control technique to restrain Sora but she sensed no soul within Sora and she shrieked. Meanwhile, Sora evolved third tail.

Side Track: Yamato and Sakura were hosting a quiz. Naruto, Chaoji, Shikamaru, Kiba and Lee were competitors. They were to recall the Sasuke retrieval mission and enemy faced. None of them had the correct answer.

Naruto Shippuuden #70: Resonance

Sora begun to evolve while others watched on aghasted. Naruto ran towards Sora, ignoring warning from Yamato and Sakura. He was thrown back. Meanwhile, Asuma faced off Kazuma. Sametime, Yamato sent woods to restrain Sora but failed. Naruto dived at Sora but was once again thrown back. Sora confronted Naruto. Shikamaru tried to hold him off from attacking Naruto. Chaoji tried to punch Sora but his heat scalded him. Sakura healed him. Sora attacked Naruto with his fiery claw chakra. Meanwhile, Asuma told Kazuma off for sealing Kyuubi chakra into Sora. Same time, Lee tried to fight Sora but failed. Kiba attempted but also failed as well. Meanwhile, Asuma and Kazuma were arguing over their belief, Asuma was angered that Kazuma had done that to Sora who was Kazuma's son. Same time, Ino and Sakura were healing the injured as others continued to fight. Naruto thought of the past when all of them fought one another like idoits few days ago. Naruto used shadow clones and attacked Sora. His clones were hit off but his original held him on. Naruto sensed Sora within the dark. Yamato commanded Naruto to get away from Sora. Naruto felt himself begun to change and tried to get away from Sora. He saw demon fox cloak around him. Yamato tried to perform the seal technique on Naruto which was not working this time. Naruto was aghast and shocked as he continued to transform. Kazuma recalled his colleague-the female ninja who told him of Naruto having Kyuubi power within him. Kazuma cherished the idea of Naruto going crazed with Kyuubi's power. Meanwhile, Naruto tried to suppress his Kyuubi chakra while restraining Sora. Huge red ball of power formed around them as Naruto held onto Sora. When the smoke cleared, the four tailed Sora appeared before Naruto. Sakura yelled Naruto who was still holding back Sora. Naruto begun to transform further and he was determined not to let Kyuubi take control over him. Yamato had to rely on Naruto's willpower. Within him, Kyuubi told Naruto to leave Sora to him. Naruto took out a blade from Sora's claw and stabbed his own leg. He had made a promise to himself not to let Kyuubi take over his body. Kyuubi begun to taunt Naruto within his confinement. Naruto watched on at Sora and called him to return. Same time, Naruto begun to revert back to normal. Yamato was dumbfound. Naruto dived at Sora. In his mindeye, Sora found himself alone in his younger years. He heard a voice calling his name. He saw the monks who viewed him as monster. Suddenly, light emerged before him with Naruto's voice. In real world, Naruto confronted Sora, his skin still raw from the earlier transformation. He was determined to bring Sora back.

COMMENT: OP using scenes from Naruto Shippuuden movie 2.

Side Track: Sakura discussing about Kyuubi released by Naruto which first appeared in his fight with Haku. Jiraiya released the seal further before the Chuunin exam. Eventually, Naruto lost control with it but he was determined to control it with his willpower.

Naruto Shippuuden #71: Friend

Blood trickled from Naruto's leg as he confronted the Kyuubi cage in anger. He was determined to save Sora. In real world, Naruto faced off Sora while others watched on. Kazuma taunted that even Naruto-the real Jinchuuriki could not control Sora. Naruto told Sora that he was going to lend him his strength to drive Kyuubi back. He was hit back. Naruto dived at Sora but was tossed to the ground. Sakura ran to help Naruto. Shikamaru called them to run as Sora sent black ball of Chakra at them. Smoke cleared with Yamato shielding all of them with his wood. Naruto had shielded Sakura with his body as Yamato's wood could not reach them. He was still determined to get Sora back. He went to confront Sora once again but collapsed. He struggled back to feet, ran towards sora and was thrown back again. In the woods, Kiba was pissed that only Naruto could deal with Sora right now and Yamato agreed. In the woods, Kazuma continued fighting Asuma who could not forgive Kazuma's act to Sora. Sai appeared in time to restrain Kazuma with his painting technique.

Meanwhile, Naruto was still thrown back by Sora. He tried to remind Sora of the time when they first met in the tomb. In his mind, Sora was still crying when he heard Naruto's voice. He saw Naruto running towards him. In the woods, Kazuma slashed the bound and attacked Asuma who defeated him. With the slash, Kazuma died as Asuma told him that nothing would change with his death as they were both wrong about king. Meanwhile, Sora sensed Naruto running towards him and saw the past illusion of Naruto going for him many times. In real world, chakra expanded around Sora. Yamato felt Sora couldn't handle the chakra as well as Naruto as it tried to force itself out. Naruto made his way towards Sora and punched Sora. Red chakra rose into the air. Tsunade was watching from afar and made their way with Shizune. Sakura and others were shocked to see Kyuubi chakra in the air. It begun to dissolve. Yamato suspected it needed a more stable vessel. The wind cleared as Naruto found Sora lying on the ground. He called for Sora who heard him in his mind world. Real world, Naruto crawled towards Sora who begun to regain conscious. Naruto told Sora that he was his friend. Sakura and others joined in with smiles. Sai and Asuma joined them. Naruto joked Sai that he could not join in. Asuma smiled at them. Dawn broke as Sora (in bandages) bidded farewell to Naruto and others. Naruto was still in bandages. They welcomed him to drop by anytime. Sora asked Naruto to say 'Hi' to Asuma for him and he agreed. At the house, Shikamaru and Asuma were playing chess. Asuma stated Shikamaru was the knight in chess as he thought fast in strategies. He asked Shikamaru who the 'king' was and he stated Shikamaru would know when time came.

In a dark alley, a female ninja was running from Hidan and Kizune -the two Akatsuki members. She was the two-tailed Jinchuuriki.

COMMENT: End of the filler episodes of Sora and Kazuma.

Naruto Shippuuden #64: Jet-Black Signal Fire ; Naruto Shippuuden #65: Lockdown of Darkness

Two ANBU guards floated from the water as the others confronted Danzou under Tsunade's order. They found a man from Rain village. In the medical ward, Naruto was reading Sai's borrowed book about making friends and chatted with him. Naruto wondered what had got to Sora when Sai noticed Danzou being escorted by ANBU guards. In her office, Tsunade wondered for Yamato and Asuma. On the street, Sora ran after Asuma. In the room, Tsunade questioned Danzou for meeting enemy ninja from Hidden Rain village and knew he was stirring things up again. She called Ibiki to force things from the captured ninja until the elderly came to interfere. The elderly had been meeting Tatsuji - the ninja from Hidden Rin as he was a spy for Konoha and had found that the four enemy ninjas were after Sora. Sora who was hidding in the ceiling was shocked. Danzou told Tsunade off for inviting Sora into Konoha, getting the village into trouble. Danzou suggested killing Sora for he had strange strength. The angered Sora hated Asuma even more. Tsunade was about to refuse when the ANBU guards dragged Sora out of his hidding place. Sora yelled at them and wanted Asuma to tell him if he was the one who killed his father. Asuma admitted it. Sora wept and his bandaged hand turned into claws and slashed at Asuma who activated his wind Chakra. A blow erupted on a building wall, drawing Naruto's attention. He ran to the scene. Meanwhile, Asuma managed to block Sora off. Sora collapsed. Suddenly, kunai flew at Sora but Naruto appeared and received the blows for him in return for his earlier saving in the cave. Naruto turned to the attackers who had escaped. Tsunade and others came out of the hole to meet Naruto. Sora ran to attack Asuma but ran off instead. Naruto fainted.

It was night at the Fire temple, the monks were trying to dispel Sora's strong Chakra but were blown off as Sora evolved into a fox demon. Naruto woke and found himself in the medical ward. On the top of a cliff overlooking Konoha, the white hair leader was talking to Sora about the two different belief. He wanted Sora to live for Kazuka's aim. In the street, Kiba, Shikamaru and Chaoji were looking for Sora. Nearby, Sakura was walking with Naruto who recovered fast as usual. Later that night, Naruto went looking for Sora and saw Sora going to Tsunade's office. Naruto pulled her down before Sora struck her. Naruto fought Sora to protect Tsunade. Naruto ran after Sora.

Side track: Tsunade and Shizune were looking at the old photos.

Sakura was walking when she heard crash followed by electricity outsurge throughout Konoha. Naruto continued to leap after Sora. Asuma moved his way to look for them. Sakura ran into Tsunade who was in a hurry for urgent meeting. She told her that Sora had attacked her earlier. Iruka was also making his move. In the restaurant, Chaoji and Shikamaru were curious of the power breakout. Chaoji continued his BBQ meal as he made his way to prepare battle. Konohamaru and his team were also curious. Meanwhile, the main gate of Konoha was closed. She informed the ANBU guards that Konoha was under state of emergency. Tsunade told Asuma that Sora had attacked her and Naruto was currently pursuing him. Asuma was shocked and accepted the fact before departing. The four enemy ninjas appeared at the entrance, attacking the Konoha guards. Shizune verified the start of enemy attacks. The ninjas of Konoha were mobilised. Sakura worried for Naruto. Meanwhile, Naruto was running and fighting Sora. Naruto was shocked of the explosion at the main gate. The elder lady ninja altered the landscape of Konoha with her earth ninjutsu and isolated it from outside with a barrier. Tsunade raised the emergency level. Naruto was getting confused and Sora ran off. Naruto ran after him. Ebisu read the light signal and knew it was the defense barrier which trapped Konoha.

The four enemy ninja forced their request onto the Konoha and planned to kill everyone in Konoha. Eibsu told Konohamaru and others to lead other people to safety as A-rank mission. Fudou-the enemy ninja sent earth to raise. sakura in the meantime reported to Tsunade that preparation was done. Corpses broke out of the ground to attack the Konoha ninjas. Naruto was still running after Sora and they fought when Asuma caught up with them. Asuma asked Sora his reason to attack Tsunade. Sora wanted to kill the 'king' Asuma was following. Asuma recalled that the spy had reported that Hidden Rain village was not responsible for the border attack but the four enemy ninjas within Fire Country. Asuma told Naruto that Konoha was in trouble. Asuma realised that the stealing of corpses was to use the lightning Chakra to destroy the state. Naruto ran after Sora and Asuma went off to do his part in other things. He could guess the four ninjas' intention. Meanwhile, the four corpse coffin emitted lightning.

Side Track: Konohamaru introduced Ebi who taught Elite ninjas as well as Naruto.

COMMENT: The four enemy ninja's technique is sure much better than that of Konan and Pein's in later part of the manga. Shame on the Akatsuki, perhaps, Pein should take a leaf out of Fudou and other's book. Oh and a new ending 'Broken Youth' with Naruto and Sasuke dressing like samurais.

Naruto Issue #432: The Return of the Rasen Shuriken

Naruto was pissed when Pein stated that he, like Naruto, was also a fellow student of Jiraiya and loved for peace. Yelling that Pein was spouting nonsenses after that destruction to Konoha, Naruto activated Rasen Shuriken (much to surprise of the toads as Naruto had never demonstrated such technique in the village of toads). Seeing that Naruto was too powerful in sage mode, Pein sent hellhounds at Naruto's toads and told Naruto that Naruto's death would create peace, and all Naruto should have to do was to go back with Pein quietly. Nearby, Shikamaru was furious and frustrated with himself as his broken leg could not permit him to help Naruto who was fighting alone. Shikamaru's father told his son that they had to get out of Naruto's way in order to help him at this moment.

Meanwhile, Naruto sent double Rasen Shuriken with his two hands at one of Pein's bodies, sending him unconscious to the ground and his Sage mode finally reached an end, his eyes reverting back to his usual blue. Pein was at his advantage now.

COMMENT: OMG!!!! I was expecting Naruto to have one off victory against Pein and he reverted back to normal mode?? This is going to put me to an edge. I've to endure another one week to see if Naruto could get out of this problem. Maybe the toads could save him or maybe Naruto would be using the Chakra from the Nine-tailed Fox.

Soul Eater #41:

Stein was making his way along the path until Maka's father blocked his way, reminding him that he was not supposed to be out and that he had been controlled by his own insanity. He turned dog-like, and barked Stein off. In another moment, Stein found Maka's father gone.

In school, Tsubaki and Blackstar found many students no longer in school for fear of being affected by the insanity gas. Soul joined them while Maka went visiting Crona who wanted to know what was going on about Shinigami, Medusa and Stein. In Stein's apartment, Maka's father was discussing fiercely with Marie about the situation and left. Other place, Medusa and the frog witch were discussing about their progress. Medusa went off to meet someone. Outside in the street, Stein stood and multiple Medusa's illusions appeared before him. She reverted into one and reached her hand to him. He took it and was bound by a snake. A boy warned him of witches and told him to return to where he belonged to. In another twinkle of an eye, the boy vanished, so was Medusa.

In the bar, Joe was drinking coffee which he complained was awful till he realised a hidden information within a book. He showed it to Shinigami and proposed him to get Kid to investigate. In the house, the cat witch was tossing a frying pan into Soul's face as Maka was not in mood to do the cooking. Soul saw a photo. In her room, Maka was thinking about Crona and Medusa and tried to control herself from being taken over by insanity. Soul pushed the photo over and Maka recognised that it was from her mother. In the misty street, Stein left the gate passed the dozing Maka's father who was aghast. Stein made his way forward and from top of a building, Marie stood. Stein ran to her in shock and she commented that there was a better world for Stein as she leaped down the building. Medusa appeared and stated it was what he wanted. Stein was overcame by insanity. When he came to, he was bound to medical table and Maka's father plunged a knife at him.

In her home, Maka was smiling at the thought of her mother. She saw a word on the postcard. Just then, Tsubaki and Black Star visited her. In her room, Marie was worried before the computer over the students. On the street, Stein was running, panting with Maka's father and Marie's illusions pursuing him. Medusa presented an apple which vanished and a boy appeared again, telling him it was his illusion. Stein then realised that the boy was actually the younger him. In other place, Shinigami and Crona were having a cup of tea as Crona asked Shinigami to allow her to go to Medusa's place to get Stein back. She had wanted to do this to protect Maka. Shinigami agreed. Just then, Marie came along and Crona apologised to her. Marie told her to look at her and told her that she wanted to go with her. On the misty bridge, Stein was still at his loss as he communicated with the younger him. He thought of his friends and students in Shibusen. He thought of his dreams and wanted to go to a place. With that, he opened a door. Other place, Soul and Black Star were playing basketball. Maka and Tsubaki watched. Soul told Maka to play. Tsubaki joined in. Maka hit a goal. Kid went to see them with the two girls. He was still angry with Shinigami's decision to release Medusa. Other place, Stein reached a place where Medusa stood waiting. Someone laughed.

Bleach #203:

Flashback of a past when Nnoitra showed no mercy to losers. Nel was not interested to fighting Nnoitra who viewed fighting for his only aim to die in battles. Therefore, he wanted to be more powerful than anyone. Back to the present, Nnoitra laid in a pool of blood barely conscious as Kenpachi looked at him with a grin at the excellent battle earlier. Kenpachi torn off his shirt and approached Ichigo, kicking him on his head and tossing him aside, telling him to pick up his own sword. He told Ichigo to escort Orihime home soonest possible. He commanded Orihime to heal him but an Espada appeared before her and took her away before Ichigo and Kenpachi could reach them. Ichigo was aghast. When Orihime came to, she was standing before Aizen who welcomed her return with a hug. He was leaving to destroy Karakura town with other Espada and Arrancars to create the King's key. Before his departure, he told all (including Ichigo, Rukia and others) that Orihime was just an excuse/bait to lure them to the Espada's world so that he could deploy strength to destroy Karakura town which would be poorly guarded with lesser force from Soul Society. With that, Aizen sealed off the exit so that Ichigo and others would be trapped and prevented from saving the town. Ishida and others were shocked. Ichigo was angry. Kenpachi was already expecting that as the Commanding Chief had anticipated Aizen's plot. Meantime, he had deployed the other captains and vice captains to face off the arriving Arrancars and Espada in Karakura Town using the four spiritual pillars to protect the people of the town via shifting of locations and putting the people to sleep so that they could fight properly. At the town, Aizen glanced at the Chief Commander. He commanded the appearance of other Arrancars and Espada. He entrusted Ulq with the task to watch Orihime. Ichigo decided to protect his friends as first priority as he left off to find Orihime.

Tales of the Abyss #16: The Core Entry Operation

Luke and others went to see the mechanical elderly who were still arguing and also updating the others about their progress in the device. Noelle-their granddaughter was invited to go along. The mission was commenced as Jade discussed the process with the elderly. Luke and Tear ran out to see Oracle Knights facing off them. While the elderly distracted them, Jade and others ran off to commence the mission to stop the vibration of the core. Angst, Luke ran off. The elderly were shot dead as the Knights ran after Jade and others. At the port, they were confronted by sleeping gas and Jade dispelled it with his spell. It was done by some other elderly to put the knights to sleep. Suddenly, Van appeared with one elderly - Spinoza who had betrayed the others. Van wanted to stop Luke and others from accomplishing the mission. He wanted to create a new world through the destruction and from the bond of the Score. Van wanted to make use of Lorelei that could produce enough power for making replicas. The other knights came along. Jade called Luke to run with others for the mission. Van attacked after them and the elderly tried to stop Van and others. Luke forced himself to turn and ran away with others as Van killed the blocking elderly. On the ship, Anise wept over the death of the elderly while Luke apologised to Noelle for not able to save her grandparents. Tear felt like crying even more as Van was her elder brother but she forced herself to tell Luke not to brood over the matter. Meanwhile, Jade took command over their next destination. An activation was created to make the ship fly down towards the vaccuum dimension, entering the core. They went to the hall where another of Van's followers faced off them. Natalie and Tear tried to stop him as Guy and Jade landed attacks on him. Luke fought him and broke his shielf and mask, revealing his true face which was the same as Fon Master. Fon confessed that he and he himself were replicas of the real Fon. Fon himself had been a replica for two years as the real Fon was sick in bed. Fon had the closest ability as the original. Thr enemy was a failure replica unlike Fon. The enemy leaped down in his attempt to commit suicide as he knew his usefulness had expired. Anise commented that Fon was crying as tears ran down his face for the first time. Just then, Luke's headache relapsed as he heard Asch's voice again. Asch told Luke to set him free. Tear ran to Luke and heard Asch's voice. Tear begun to talk in identity of Lorelei to ask a favour from Luke. She collapsed as the effect faded off. Noelle sent the ship out of the core in time. Natalie tried to heal Tear but with no effect. Jade suggested going to medical facility as the ship made its way out of the dimension. Later in the hospital, the doctor commented that contaminated Seventh Fonons had been absorbed into Tear at the passage rings. Luke was worried.

COMMENT: New graphics for OP & ED eventhough the songs remain the same.

Tales of the Abyss #15:

The female pilot introduced her grandfather and his team to Luke and others. Her grandfather and others analysed the situation of the support to them. Later, Luke was having doubts about their success rate and suggested discussing with Peony first. Tear agreed. Natalie was not happy with it and ran off, admitting she was a coward. Later that night, Luke saw Natalie wandering alone in the street and saw her meeting Asch. She confessed her fear to him. He told her of their childhood dream to change the country when they became older. He told her to do what she could, not because she was a princess. Nearby, Tear told Luke off lightly for eavedropping. She told him to live a life of his own and took his hand.

In the morning, the group set off for their mission to Natalie's kingdom where her identity as princess was denied. There, Fon stood up for Natalie as they made their way to see the king. There, Luke tried to convince the king that no matter what Natalie's true identity was, his memory of her remained true as his daughter. Natalie tried to convince him not to go to war. The king was still thinking of following the Score which Luke told him not to follow as it was not 100% accurate. The king agreed to listen to Natalie as his daughter. She wept and he embraced her for he could not forget his time with her, especially when she first called him father. Later, the group went to see Pheony who agreed to stop war. With that, the group would be able to lower the Outer Lands. Later, the kings from the two countries signed the peace treaty until Guy stopped them to confirm their sincerity as he did not forget the death of his mother. Natalie's father was shocked to learn Guy's identity. Pheony told them the shocking truth that his country was the one who destroyed Guy's country. Jade knew the details as they did so to protect an important experiment information which was related to Van Grants. Luke was shocked and aghasted, so was Tear. Guy gave up his revenge as he had did so many years ago. Later that night, Luke tried to confirm Guy of his urge for revenge and Guy reassured that he only wanted to know the truth. He was determined to stop Van. Fon and others told them that the signing of treaty and to lower the Outer Lands was a success. With that, the group set off.

Sourcelink: http://youranimenow.com

Soul Eater #39:

The frog witch told Crona to return to Medusa as her mission had ended. Crona was reluctant to do that. In the cold building amidst the snow, Mosquito and others were looking for Kisshin. The door opened for them revealing the eyes. The spider witch was not afraid as she moved on into the building alone. The door closed behind her. She introduced herself as Arachine and wanted to see Kisshin. Kisshin used his bandage and smashed her against the wall towards him. She asked him to fight by her side. He tried to strangle her.

In the woods at daytime, Maka, Black Star and others were having pinic with Crona. They were planning to visit Stein and Crona made the excuse to go toilet and ran off. In the woods, Crona accidentially dropped her books, including a photo she had taken with Maka. Medusa confronted her and she shivered. Medusa picked the photo. Crona's mind cleared to see it was Maka who was before her and not Medusa. Later, Crona asked Maka about her mother who had been missing for years as she travelled around the world. Maka commented that her own mother was a cat tail kind of person and was a cool person. Crona found her weird. Maka told her that she loved her mother. In the cafe, the teachers were talking about the tasks Shinigami assigned to them. Nearby, Kid and his weapons were stalking Joe, wanting to know Shinigami's intention. Along the way, Kid was distracted by the inbalance statues. Joe finally reached the machine room.

Other place, Maka and Soul came to Crona's room where she had been missing since. Soul told Maka his suspicion. Maka sworn to find Crona and ran off. She ran everywhere looking for her, her photo with Crona clunching in her hand. Soul came to pick her on his scooter. In the desert, Crona was arguing with her sword. Later in a mission, Mosquito apologised to Archne for not able to protect her well enough but she was more satisfied with her success to get Kisshin to join them. In the desert, Crona was thinking over in the hole where she had fallen into. She thought of Maka when she heard Maka calling for her. In the desert, Maka and Soul were looking for her and found her. Crona told them to go back without her. She confessed that she had betrayed them by making Marie drinking Medusa's poison, causing Stein's craze. Maka jumped into the hole and demanded Crona not to say anything bad about herself. Maka wanted Crona to say that Medusa had forced her to do it but Crona could not bring herself to do it because Medusa was her mother. She started to cry and Maka embraced her. Maka sworn she would not let Crona get hurt again and Crona wept. Soul was restless and smiled. Other place, Shinigami showed Maka and Soul a letter with Crona's signature and that she could be expelled because of that. Maka refused to accept it. A teacher ran forward and informed Shinigami that Medusa had arrived. Crona was aghast. In the hall, Medusa told the teachers that she was surrendering.

Soul Eater #40:

Medusa was planning to make a transaction as she was locked in a cellar. Same time, Maka and Soul confronted a cell where Medusa was locked. Medusa asked them for a cup of water while Maka blew up at her as she recalled how much Medusa had tormented Crona. Soul told Maka to calm down. They left off. Medusa knew Stein was standing nearby as she communicated with him.

Other place, Shinigami was still surprised with Medusa's surrending to Shibusen. Maka's father was feeling guilty for not able to destroy Medusa completely that other time. In the cellar, Medusa was talking to Stein who was reaching his insanity. Medusa had been planning to manipulate Stein to her side. Maka's father approached Stein in time and told him to go home. He and other guards took Medusa to a room for questioning. He couldn't do anything to her because she had borrowed the body from a child. She told Maka's father that she had a piece of information which she wanted to inform Shinigami directly. In the desert, one Shibusen's teacher was digging the ground and found a box with a snake symbol and realised it was BREW. It was brought to Shinigami who requested Medusa to be brought to him. Medusa requested for the chains to be taken off her and he agreed. Shinigami gave a hit on her head and she was not amused when she was lifted like a kid. She also had to endure Maka's father's ranting at her pumpkin panties which Maka used to wear. She moved away until they promised to stop the nonsense. She told them that she knew where Kisshin was located and wanted something in exchange. It was to ensure the safety of her team and her immediate release.

At the spider witch-Archnes' mansion, she was cuddling Kisshin as she summoned Mosquito to turn on the insanity machine directed at Kisshin. The insanity aura was shot into the air forming a dark spirl in the sky. All people in Shibusen saw it. Shinigami saw through Medusa's intention to pick up the easy victory by setting Shibusen against Archne. In the cell, Medusa was confident that her plan would work. Maka's father went to visit her and told her that she was released. Outside, Kid told Maka to see the official release of Medusa who was escorted out by her father. Kid knew Medusa had gotten some transaction with Shinigami. Blackstar reassured Maka that they would beat up Medusa one day. Crona was shivering at the sight of her mother. In his room, Stein was restless. Maka was aghast and confused. Medusa was pleased as she laughed at the thought that Shibusen and others would be dancing in her palm. Marie entered Stein's room and found him missing. She yelled for him as she ran out of the house. Since then, Stein had disappeared.

COMMENT: New ending theme 'Strength'by Abingdon Boys School (who had also sung the first opening for D.Gray Man) which is better than the earlier one. The new ending include Kisshin.

Bleach #201:

Kenpachi was happy with the strength of his opponent. They fought again. Nearby, Orihime was healing Ichigo. Kenpachi's sword slashed the Espada's weapon into pieces as well as cutting the Espada across his face. The Espada sent yellow reiatsu at Kenpachi who swept it away. The Espada was terrified as Kenpachi confronted him. He slashed off the eyepatch on Kenpachi's eye, causing his strength to raise. Kenpachi slashed at him with extremely strong reiatsu. The Espada panted as blood dripped from him. Kenpachi was not happy with the knocking off his eyepatch which used to seal off most of his strength. The Espada started to build up his reiatsu and evolved multi arms and a pair of horns. Ichigo was shocked as he saw all the Espada's wounds closed. Kenpachi grinned as the Espada's reiatsu had made his sword sharper. They exchanged blows and the Espada slashed Kenpachi who collasped. He started to confronted Yachiru. Orihime ran towards her. Ichigo tried to stop her but he couldn't cross her barrier. Ichigo was shocked. Yachiru was not worried and pointed towards the waking Kenpachi who cut one of the Espada's arms off and decided to cut off the Espada's arms one by one. The Espada regrew his arm and dashed at Kenpachi again, sending him clashing into a pillar. Kenpachi broke out of the rubbles and fought him again. The Espada stabbed him with his arm that had grew a moment ago. The Espada-Nnoitra laughed.

Bleach #202:

Yachiru reminded Ichigo not to interfere Kenpachi's fight. Kenpachi was smiling again and he roared into laughter. He wanted another round of fight. They exchanged blows again. Nnoitra could not understand why Kenpachi was able to fight back despite the countless times he slashed him. He slashed Kenpachi's neck with a powerful blow. Kenpachi decided to use kendo which the Shinigami commander had forced him to learn once. There, he learned that using two hands to hold a sword was more powerful than using one. With that, Kenpachi held his sword with two hands as Nnoitra dashed at him. He sent a powerful blow at him that caused sand to tower into the air. When the sand cleared, Kenpachi remained standing while Nnoitra's horn fell to the ground. Nearby, Nnoitra was kneeling on the ground, panting heavily. Kenpachi left him. Nnoitra called him back and insisted fighting on. Kenpachi refused as he knew Nnoitra couldn't fight anymore. Nnoitra got to his feet and attacked Kenpachi who decided to oblige to his request. Nnoitra recalled the past when Nel questioned him why he carried out the masscre which was not included in the mission assigned by Aizen. He replied that lowly Hollows had no right to live and challenged Nel who refused to fight him. Back to present, Nnoitra sworn not to lose to Kenpachi. Flashback, Nnoitra looked up at Nel who saved him from committing suicide. Nnoitra told Nel that he hated her for following him. She told him that he was weaker than her and walked off. Nnoitra was pissed off as people dumped pity on him. He wanted to attack everyone until they could not stand. Back to present, Kenpachi slashed Nnoitra. Nnoitra finally collapsed as he looked at the child Nel for the last time. Same time, Nel woke and recognised him when he fell.

COMMENT: New ending with Orihime thinking of people around her under the setting sun.

Flame of Recca Issue #234 - #248:

Recca was informed that Yanagi was the reincarnation of Sakura hime. Ouka regret for not able to save Sakura hime that time and told Recca to protect Yanagi no matter what. Recca agreed. Kokuu told Recca to return to the real world as others were already waiting for him. He bidded Ouka goodbye before leaving via the mirror. Meanwhile, Fuuko was throwing a temper in Mikagami, Domon and Kaoru's presence as they waited for Recca. Kagerou reassured that Recca would be present soon as Recca dropped onto Fuuko's head from the ceiling.

In his room, Kurei woke from his reflection of his past when his ninja clan wanted to kill him for having evil omen on the village. Joker entered to inform him of Mori Kouran's hiding place. While waiting for Raiha, Kurei visited Tsukino-his foster mother. He told her of his dream of his past. He told her that he respected Recca's mother-Kagerou, Tsukino and his real father-Ouka before he left. She told him to stay healthy as she hugged him from his back. That night, Kurei left with Joker to look for Mori. In Mori's mansion, Yanagi was chatting with Aoi about her picture books. She felt guilty for stealing Yanagi's memories of Recca. Meanwhile, Recca and his group were making way to Osaka where Mori's mansion was located. Meanwhile, in Mori's mansion, Aoi was informed that Yanagi had been shifted from her room. In a room, Yanagi was bound within tenacles as the draining process reached level C where Mori reached the cocoon stage. While Aoi was upset over the status of Yanagi, the estate was being announced of intruders.

Nearby, Recca and his group (including Kagerou) were fast approaching the estate as they faced off Mori's followers. Yagami who was supposed to be dead faced them and evolved into Mori's body clones. Suddenly, some monk like characters appeared and aided them to destroy the clones. They were Kukai, Daikoku, Minamio and Fujimaru whom they had met in the earlier part of the tournament. More people from the tournament arc appeared to help Recca and the group. Inside the mansion, a hooded figure showed Recca and others the plan of the building as well as Mori's location. He wanted Recca and his group to find the 5 rules, one per person. By collecting the five disc, the gateway to the location - Heaven & Hell tower where it housed Yanagi would be open for them. All of them were forced to go on separate ways to accomplish the tasks. (This part reminds me of Bleach.)

Domon reached a hanger when it was almost night. He smashed two cylinders and revealed two girl enemies. Meanwhile, Kaoru was being directed to another point. Same time, Domon realised the two girls were not enemies as they were from Kurei's side. Like him, they were also searching the disk in order to reach Mori. As such, Domon teamed up with the two girls to find the disk. The three were confronted by two cute maids. The two maids invited the third enemy to appear. It was a robot. Domon handled the robot while the two girls under Kurei chased after the two maids who threw explosive at them. They succeeded breaking the robot's control from the two maids and Domon also ended the fight with the robot. Same time, Neon confronted the hooded person who had offered the disk plan to Recca and others earlier. She recognised him as Genjurou who revealed himself as an old man. He provoked her and left as he sent his robots at her. Domon and the two girls appeared in time to crush the robots from Neon. Shocked, the old man tried to flee but Neon's barrier stopped him from doing so. She slashed him into pieces. And so, Neon, Domon and the two girls obtained the disk. They checked the program in it and found a url.

In other place, Kamui was waiting for Kaoru who was supposed to fight him. Instead, Recca faced off him as Kaoru had been terrified to go. Kamui collapsed in depression. Angered. he sent his machine gun at him. Recca sent his fire at him. Meanwhile, Fuuko went to location 3 at a pyramid. She saw a girl being attacked by a group of robots and rushed to help. She led Fuuko into a laboratory. Fuuko crushed a location which revealed a mummy like enemy who attacked her with his bandages. He was using paper makougu and he introduced himself as Karame. Fuuko slashed his paper easily. In the woods, Kukai and others who were trying to find Recca so as to help him were killed by a masked enemy who worked for Mori. The enemy appeared and attacked more of Kukai's men who were fighting Yagami. He turned and killed Yagami who approached him.

In the dome, Recca was still fighting Kamui who promptly ran off. Recca entered a room where Kamui directed many fighting tanks at him. Recca sent his sixth dragon at the weapons. Then he summoned two more at Kamui who was shocked by Recca's ability to summon more than one dragon and merging them at the same time. As Kamui thought he was going to die, Recca cut him off his system, saving his life. Kamui was confused. Recca told him that they would not kill people and Kamui pounced at him, touched but he was hit off. Mokuren faced off Recca within the same zone.

Meanwhile, Neon, Domon and the two girls reached the sodom homepage on the computer. Domon tried to convert the message to others but his phone could not go through. So were Neon and others. In the pyramid, Fuuko was still fighting against the mummy-like enemy-Karame. In the hanger, Neon found a message and realised there was another enemy lurking around.

In the woods, Domon was running, hoping to warn others when he was faced with oppressive pressure. Kukai pressed Domon down, warning him not to talk. Nearby, the masked enemy was looking for opponents. He wandered off without detecting Kukai and Domon. Other place, Kaoru entered a building. He ate his sandwiches given by his admirers in school and thought of the battle. In the woods, Kukai told Domon to keep himself alive as they parted. In the pyramid, the building was collapsing.

Other place, a masked man-Gaou confronted Kaoru, attacking him and demanding whereout of Domon. Kaoru recalled Domon warning of Gaou who was addicted to chocolates. Gaou sent stone technique at Kaoru.

Flame of Recca issue #249 - #262:

Gaou faced off Kaoru who was shocked by the giantic impact of the stone technique which his weapon couldn't cut. As he was about to lose hope, he recalled his younger self when Kurei trained him to fight. He realised he had forgotten not to give up. With renewed strength, Kaoru started to search for the weakness of the technique. He started cutting along the weakness point of the legs causing the stone monster to collapse. The chocolate habit kicked in again and Gaou thought of Sekiou. In the woods, Mikagami and Kagerou could feel the ground shook. Pissed, Gaou torn off his mask for his chocolate. Kaoru told him that his feeling for his brother had lost against his greed. Because of that, Gaou lost. Gaou insisted he only lost to he himself. Kaoru ran off. At the pyramid, Fuuko ran towards the disk and was trapped in the cage triggered by the girl whom she had saved earlier. She told Fuuko that her real name was Kirito-member of Shishiten. She bidded Fuuko farewell and ran off with the disk. Fuuko cut herself free and ran after her. Kirito sent Fuuko falling down the bridge into the river.

Meanwhile, Kagerou went into battle as well. Her opponent showed her a scene of torturing a mother fox while the young fox was forced to watch helplessly. Kagerou freed the mother fox which reunited with her child. The mother fox suddenly evolved into a monster. Angered, Kagerou decided to fight him but he trapped her into poison gas. Other place, Domon was running towards the pyramid. Learning Fuuko was not in real danger, Domon ran to the next site. Same time, the opponent was aghast to see Kagerou missing. she appeared from his shadow with the baby fox in her arms. Before he could tell her his name, she slapped him to death and retrieved the disk. The baby fox finally accepted her. In the tower, Mori instructed Hiroku something.

Nearby, Yanagi was listless as she was bound to the wall. Along the corridor, Recca could sense Yanagi calling for him and he hurried along. He came to a giant pond area where he faced off Mokuren. Aoi was meanwhile forced to remove the last of the few memories of Recca from Yanagi to stop her from calling for him. In other place, Mokuren sent human eating plants at Recca. Recca activated his flames. But Mikoto was already behind him and slashed him from the back. Mokuren showed off his left arm which evolved with spiky killer plants. Kukai suddenly entered the scene to aid Recca. Kukai and Recca faced off Mikoto and Mokuren together. Mikoto entered her giant puppet and fought Kukai while Recca fought Mokuren.
After being hit on the face from Mikoto for three times, Kukai revealed his oni side and destroyed the puppet with a punch. Mikoto fell out of it and moved towards Mokuren in pain. After she pleaded with him to leave the place, he stabbed her.

Angered at his cold-bloodedness, Kukai and Recca attacked Mokuren. Kukai attempted to cut Mokuren's roots but his fist was slashed instead. Recca activated his flame dragon but Mokuren appeared from water to attack him and dragged him into the water. The water was boiled and flame dragon emerged through Mokuren's body. Recca leaped out of the pond. With strong might, Recca hit Mokuren's upper body into the pond and collapsed into Kukai's arms, exhausted. Kamui stormed in, telling them both to escape as the dome was going to explode soon. Mokuren tried to stop them but Mikoto got up telling him that everything was over. She had became attached to Mokuren's feeling and as such, lost her ability to escape on her own even if he stabbed her. As the seemingly blind Mikoto slept in Mokuren's arms, the dome exploded.

Recca was dreaming of kissing with Yanagi when he woke seeing Kukai performing CPR on him. Kamui passed the disk to Recca. In the computer room, Kagerou read the disk and saw Domon's comment about getting the disk. There were also fake posts from Kirito. Meanwhile, Domon saw the battle field where Kaoru had fought earlier and was uneasy with the stone statue. In the woods, Kaoru sensed someone following him. It was the masked monster like man. At other place, Mikagami entered a building where he met Hiruko. In other computer lab, Recca, Kukai watched and ate as Kamui showed them the content on the disk. They both saw messages from Domon and Kagerou on the BBS. In other place, Mikagami was fighting Hiruko. Hiruko mentioned the name Meguri Kyouza who was in tower 'Heaven or Hell'. Mikagami was distracted by the news. In the woods, the masked monster continued to stalk Kaoru who begun to run. Kaoru even knew the monster's name was Kadotsu. Other place, Mikagami told Hiruko that his desire to know everything surpassed his hatred and his thirst for revenge for his late sister and with that he defeated Hiruko. Someone whom he had earlier thought was the murderer had shown him the right way. With that, Hiruko let Mikagami go so that he could find the truth from Meguri Kyouza who was believed to be his sister's real murderer. In the woods, Kaoru revealed to real form of other ninja. Other ninjas emerged. They were Kukai's subordinates.