A lady sleeps in the bed of flowers, as she lays there in a relaxed manner and undisturbed by the bloodshed and ashes of the battle. When she wakes up, she will remember nothing. Yet, her steps will always be remembered by the few that have witnessed this spectacle.

The few are us, the audience as we are brought into the world of Red Garden as it came into a close.

Episode 26 gist

With the impending battle coming between the Animus and Herve’s clan, the four gals looked on, only to see an explosion between the transport links. One by one, the fighters of each side fell, as the police was prevented from entering the area due to the collapse of the bridges. We saw Herve coming in, carrying a rapidly falling Ana. The four girls fought Herve but was no match for him as he escaped to grab the books away from the Animus. Eventually, everyone fell as Lise found her way into the area.

She seems to be lost and still thought of herself like the old Lise, as a belated meeting of the five girls occurred. Ana also turned into a monster, attacking Herve viciously. Herve had to kill her eventually, as he eventually died. As the two books returned to the side of the Animus, they were finally able to be reborn, as the four girls lived once again among a flower bed, symbolizing the end of the fight. Lise also disappeared in ash, thanking everyone for the friendship…

Thoughts on this episode

I must say that I am a bit shocked at the abrupt ending. I do not know what is going on with the production but I guess the very fact that they chose such an end does not disappoint me. It put up an amazing climax, yet allows a continuation that I feel will be told in the OVA interestingly named “Dead Girls”. If you ask me, I enjoy the ending due to the spectacular fight scenes and the ironic end of Herve and Ana.

To start off, the episode really concludes pretty nicely in the epic battle of the Delors and the Animus. I have never realized how bloody this battle is going to be and my expectations of Lise fighting the four gals as the final battle was not satisfied. Yet, it was probably a good thing that it is not because it allows the ending to be a beautiful one, albeit a tad too open-ended for my needs. I do not really get the symbolism of the new blooming of the flower except the simple message that it is perhaps a moment of rebirth.

I also like the scene of Herve going totally hysterical at the start, trying to lie to himself that Ana will be able to survive. It is clear at the start that she is starting to struggle when they arrived at the scene for the two books. I really felt vindictive for Kate, especially since she is also a pawn in this whole game, but Herve simply snaps without even thinking of the consequences. It might be sad for him, but I guess he actually deserves what he got: to kill Ana himself. That scene, to continue on, was also the saddest scene because it is clear that Ana has totally changed to a monster, yet he is still trying so hard to deceive himself. I found myself unable to look at the screen from the disturbing notion.

I guess the ending in which everyone died is perhaps the most climatic. However, I must say that Lise’s disappearance into dust (as she is infused with the blood of the Delors) is a bit sad for me because the time for her relief is so short that her only respite only lasted for a few moments before she disappeared. It’s sad that they do not have any merry endings, but I guess that’s not what you watch Red Garden, ironically.

Thoughts on the whole series

To me, the most interesting character for the whole series has to be Lula. Even though she is not a main character, her character has gone into a lot of character development that it’s hard to dislike or hate her to do the things that she did. I also felt that the redemption of Lula at her death is constructed excellently. I agree with the four girls that Lula initially seemed to be a total pain and seems like she is never bothered about the plight of what happened.

As the plot rolls on, it is apparent that many things are affecting Lula, and the things that mattered to her, such as J.C, is a very strong point that is driving Lula. I totally like the transformation from her being a hard hearted person to someone who slowly reveals her true self until the point of death. She has fully redeemed herself for all the harsh words, especially with the hiding of the loss of memories. It is just painful to relive her own issues.

In a way, this is what Red Garden is about. Everyone learns a lot more about themselves and the common stringed theme is the idea of redemption from their past. Everyone has hurt and pain. Kate grows up from her pain of restriction and allows herself to finally set free. Rose is binded by her fear for her family and parents and eventually learned the true feeling of trust and friendship.

Rachel did not have that much of a redemption but she finally resolved her issues with her boyfriend and learned to bury the past properly. Claire finally resolved her family problems with the feud of parent-child and finally gained peace with her father, hence learning the truth about her father.

It’s perhaps a pity that the enemy is one that is not evil, yet that’s how the story goes. Herve is perhaps a very strange villain, simply crazed by the growing desire to keep his loved ones alive. Initially, he reeks sympathy due to the very hope he holds to protect the two siblings. However, his twisted values turned him completely at the wrong direction. Initially, I still thought that the fact that he is trying to save the four girls with Emilio but he is already going bonkers in his head.

On a whole, Red Garden does suffer sometimes with plot jumps along the way, but it is nevertheless one of the few series that have captured my attention for the whole spring season. With very well constructed character development, Red Garden is a very well done series if you can look beyond the slightly different graphics (that is not that bad) and the slow pace at the start. Good stuff here, I enjoyed the ride.

Since I have gotten both Episode 20 and 21 at the same time, I decided to do two summaries at the same time for the small amount of people that follows Red Garden. That, by the way, is a huge pity because it is such an excellent show. So, this is perhaps a double package with tons of text and discussion about everything that had happened.

The end is near and the night is soon to be over. What will happen?

Episode 20 summary gist

Rose was taken sick after exposing herself to the cold weather for too long. The doctor said that her body was abnormally cold when it should be hot, and advised her father to bring her to the hospital for further checks. Rose woke up, apparently recovered, as her father brought her back to the house. It seemed that Christmas was coming, as Rose told her father about her mother’s recovering health and that the two siblings were waiting for him to be back. On the other hand, Claire finally met her father, and she realized that her father actually hunted all around Europe to find out about the people who cheated on his brother and tried to minimize losses. Nevertheless, the business was unable to recover and the inevitable happened.

Her father admitted that he did not do his job as the father when he buried himself in work due to the depression he felt over the loss of his wife. That was when the children were hurting and he escaped from reality. He knew that it was too late, and hoped to undo and alleviate at least some pain they suffered by helping the brother to learn management. Claire understood her father as she left after a conversation with him about meeting next time for a meal.

At the medicinal company, Herve and Emilio had infiltrated the area and was discovered by the security, as the grandfather asked them to bring Ana to him. Kate woke up as the depressant lost its effect. Herve went over to find Ana. Emilio came in after a smoke bomb and carried the two away, but Kate said that she hated him for betraying her sister. Lise was clearly losing it and Kate refused to let Lise leave on her own even if she was slowing down the escape. Emilio finally carried Lise and brought them to escape to a room. Kate continued to blame him for forsaking her sister and was an enemy. Emilio convinced her that he loved her sister the most, which was why he was trying to save her.

As he pressed Kate to escape, Emilio was stabbed by one of the assailants. Kate then left the room, only for the professor to stab Emilio completely. As Herve found Ana, he was surrounded and he saw Emilio dead. He challenged his grandfather, but his grandfather said that Herve was only concerned about his personal feelings and not about the survival of the clan. The grandfather then said Herve was no longer a clan member or an ally, but a despicable traitor as Herve had no more right to protect Ana anymore. Herve told him to wait and stabbed the grandfather.

Herve then seized control of the clan, telling them that the enemy was in fact in the high school and it was up to everyone to get rid of the curse. Lise started to walk aimlessly after the blood spluttered on her face. The professor tried to stop her but was bitten on the neck and killed. Lise then crawled out on all fours, jumping out of the window, escaping from the crowd. All this happened while the other five girls, including Lula was listening to this changed development. They then escaped from the building before they were caught. The next day, they started to question the head of the clan what the high school was hiding, and she obliged with the answer about the book. She then led them to an underground tunnel, the one that they had seen previously but way deeper into the secret hideout.

Firstly, the headmaster showed them the old body of hers, laughing without humor about how much older she was compared to the real headmaster. Sitting there was a group of animus, living yet unable to die due to the curse. Without the other book, they would just continue to live, and they wished that they could finally get the two books so that they could die. If not, they would have to survive forever and asked the four girls to retrieve the books for them. The four girls noted how ironic that everyone wanted to live, even if their memories were deleted, but these animus simply wanted to die.

Episode 21 summary gist

Kate and Jessica are working on some paperwork for Grace, but since Paula was not around, they jokingly said that they had no one to impress for staying so late. As Kate reached her locker, Paula was waiting for her and they went out together during Christmas. Claire was cleaning up the hamburger stall as the owner came in, surprised that Claire arrived so early. Claire indirectly told the owner that she was no longer working for him anymore and he gave her a stash of money, saying that “it was because he got rid of a meddlesome person”. At the car, Claire told Ewan that she did not need her help for carrying her stuff, and Ewan complained that he came because she said she required help.

Ewan then tried to ask Claire out for a date but could not mutter the words. Eventually, Claire told him that it was the exact reason why she asked him out for, and Ewan was surprised since Claire was usually insensitive. Rose was also preparing Christmas food for her family, with her mom back at home as they waited for Santa Claus. On the other hand, Paula was showing concern for Kate as she did make up for Kate. Kate laughed that she never bothered with it, with the only few times being her mother doing it for her when she was young and her child days to play with it. Paula then asked her if she told Kate not to go, would she not go tomorrow for the fight? Kate smiled sadly and said nothing.

Rachel went to a party in a very sizzling shirt, teasing Amanda over her attempts to copy her. With Amanda getting rather annoyed, she laughed and left. Her friend, Samuel chased up, confessing to her that he always admired her and also loved her. Rachel gave him the reason that she had to fight enemies and after the fight, no matter what happened, she would lose her memories. Samuel took it as a strong rejection but he maintained that he would always admire Rachel because she was always so strong. She simply thanked him and left.

We see the dazed Lise walking around, getting picked up by a guy. She stared blankly, before mumbling that she needed to go to school because she would be booked by the Grace if she did not do so. Herve bought a Christmas present for Ana, who looked to be struggling. He promised her that he would bring her to a tall Christmas tree next year when she felt better. He told her that she would no longer need to wear a thick scarf and blanket to go out.

On the other hand, Paula was mobilizing the forces for the impending fight between the two clans. She also visited the grave of JC, celebrating Christmas with him. Claire was happily ordering every single dish in the restaurant, as the background music played was her father’s favorite song. Ewan was shocked how cool Claire was by ordering everything. Eventually, they finished all the food as Ewan overate, fearing that he would waste such food. Claire passed by the district she used to say, as she described the owner of the house filled with Christmas lights to be a big miser while saying that the nice restaurant sold expensive and horrible tasting food. They also passed by Claire’s house and she greeted her father who was in the car as Claire’s car passed by.

Kate and Paula had partied their way to the morning in a club, as Kate said it was a place that was not a place she loved to go. Still, she thanked Paula for all the help and started to cry. Paula told her not to because the mascara would come off, as she smiled. Claire dropped off the car and Ewan invited her for breakfast, only to realize that they were still full from the feast. Suddenly, Claire approached close and gave him a kiss, as they smiled and Claire said her final farewell. Rose was about to leave her family but her father arrived with the presents, as Santa Claus really did arrive. The four gals finally met up in school, as the headmaster gave commands, telling them to defend this place with all their might as the other clan would invade anytime.

Thoughts

Wow, this is the first time I did two detailed summaries at one post, but I guess it feels good to catch up to the last episode, with Episode 22 being released just a few days ago. I actually chose to do these two episodes together since one touches at the start of the end in the impending war, while the next is the calm before the storm. I personally liked what happened in Episode 20 where Herve really turned completely psycho with killing his grandfather simply for the sake of saving Ana. I can fully understand why his grandfather did something like that, but it was still painful to see how he was driven completely out of the normal spectrum for the human brain. It is seriously disturbing for me to see Herve still smiling so brilliantly to a faltering Ana, who was clearly about to die. What is he thinking?

I am also amazed at how Lise first appeared in Episode 20 with her mind totally going nuts, and we see her in the beast like mode, killing off the professor within a single bite. As we saw in Episode 21, she was in fact running around loose, but it seems that she will also be there with everyone else in the war of the two clans. I really want to know about the plan for the two, and the fact that the animal instinct in her (that blood) and her new body (Animus) will mean that she is probably much stronger than any of the people from the two clans.

I also like how Claire resolved her matters with her father as well as Ewan, who she clearly loves dearly. It is a very happy occasion for me to see that Claire is no longer alone, and that she has finally resolved all her differences with her father, albeit a bit too late to have any real chance of improving their relationship. I am so respectful for her father too, and the fact that he who was a great businessman, went around searching for those bastards who cheated his son all around the world. He really loved his family and wanted to compensate. Ewan is also one of the funniest guys around, with his stammering, but he clearly cared a lot for Claire. Claire is really loved, even by the hamburger owner. He really cared about Claire, like a harsh father.

Rose’s happiness is definitely secured. It is amazing how Rose is finally turning the corner, with her mother back in Episode 21 and finding out that her dad did not really elope with any woman. It is good that her father is working hard for the family, even though he had made a wrong move and the return of his father for the gifts is a nice touch. Rose can really happily forget her memories.

Rachel, to me, is the most pitiful among the four. She had abandoned the people she loved, but I guess the only consolation was Samuel, who seemed to genuinely care for her. A pity she had closed her heart off. Last off was Kate, who was in happy dreamy yuri land with Paula. Ya, what else do you expect me to say about the two?

To end off, Red Garden Episode 22 is about the invasion and it seems that Lula is dead. Or is she?

Just one blood filled picture to represent what has happened…

Red Garden is getting more disturbing and is turning out to be one of the best Gonzo works that I have seen.

Note: Since Shinsen should be out with the English subs very soon, it’s just a brief summary

Story gist

The younger policeman found out about Lise from his dead compatriot, as he dialed up Kate. He wanted to know everything but he was eliminated when he found Lise that had blood all over her. It seemed that Lise had killed several people that tried to bring her back before she was eventually held. Rose was there to see her father work but it seemed that she was a little sick. Rachel’s boyfriend was reminiscing the old times with Rachel and wanted to get back with her. Even though Rachel wanted to do just that, she was torn of herself as an animus and rejected it. Claire visited her brother only to have a quarrel with her father once again, since he only arrived when everything was over. She had not forgiven her over his acts when he abandoned her mother (his wife) when she was dying.

Inside the ward, we saw that Claire’s brother is starting to study, as it seems that her father had made plans for teachers to teach her brother on the art of business. Claire dismissed it as just another act but her brother said that their father really cared. We also saw Paula trying to encourage Kate as she was feeling completely down, telling her that she knew everything that happened to her. That was why Paula protected her all the time, since she was helpless to do anything at all. Rose had also fallen sick after waiting too long in the snow, as her father brought her back to rest. Back in the hotel, Emilio and Herve were discussing about plans when Kate called them, telling them that she was outside the medicine company. However, she was caught as Herve said that he had to save Kate from their clutches. Kate’s last look saw Lise on the other side…

Thoughts

Is it just me but did Red Garden suddenly hope into a very strong bandwagon of violence, blood and plot twists flying everywhere like fighting chickens and donkey ears? I am pleasantly surprised at the sudden growth of this series, especially when people already assumed that Gonzo tends to disappoint more than amaze. It’s really depressing that Red Garden is not getting the accolades that it deserves because the amount of plot and pacing is immaculate.

My only complain in this episode is that I dislike how Rachel handled her relationship with her boyfriend, or well her ex-boyfriend. Even though I know that she is an animus and she worries that she might eventually forget and hence hurt him, I still feel that there is a way that she can rely on him since he is genuine in staying with her. I understand why she rejected him because of the fear that she will one day not remember anything if they win, or die if they lose. Still, the hopeful side of me is still wishing for a better end that will never come.

I am also disappointed at the backlash of Claire toward her father, which I feel was a bit too mean on her part. I mean, her father is clearly trying to compensate for not being around, even though I have no idea why he left for overseas during the period when her brother required him most. It is perhaps due to work, and Claire has a little bit of an argument for it. It is not strong though and I hope that she can finally understand that her father is trying hard to earn her trust. She is mature, but yet willful at such things.

I laughed when I realize that they actually fall sick just like normal people, with Rose falling ill in the cold. I do find it an irony that they are just like normal people other than the fact that they have a body that will not crumble. Now that the cause of the curse is down to the fact that both sides owned a book. I wonder when the full launch of the attack will come, since both sides know exactly where the headquarters are. More accurately, Herve now knows where the enemy is, yet I do not understand why Herve is aiming to rescue Kate when she’s the enemy. I don’t get that part at all.

To talk about something good, I like how they moved the plot in which that Kate is actually caught by the enemy. I know that Herve and Emilio are going to save her, but I do wonder what the other girls will do or whether they will find out anything as well. Usually, I feel that when they go into the heart of the enemy, some truths might appear and I do wonder what will appear in front of me.

The next episode seems to be the rescuing of Kate and perhaps Lise.

Red Garden continues to disturb the senses whenever you are lulled into a sense of security. This above image summarizes the biggest shock in this episode, as I continued to be impressed by this series a lot.

Episode 17 is accidentally deleted before I can blog it, and it will be problematic to get it again. Hence, an episode is skipped. I apologize and let’s move on to the gist of the episode and my thoughts on this.

Episode summary

Rose was making eggs for her siblings when the butterfly arrived outside the window, giving her the warning that there was a battle. On the other hand, Lise was driven by Emilio and Herve to the seaside, to abandon her at the place they met. However, the older police man saw them and gave chase. At night, the three girls were there except Rose, and Kate proposed to look for her simply because she was concerned. Rachel said that Rose would probably be crying and frightened as Kate said it was no longer the case. Rachel said that was why she had to bother about her.

Herve and Emilio abandoned Lise on the beach, as they talked about her situation when she was found. She would probably be kept like a corpse-like person by her family when found, since she was “dead” and yet alive. At Rose’s area, Kate called her but Rose did not pick up the phone. As she finally met them, she said that they were here simply because they were looking for responsibility and simply wanted to stick together for the sake of life.

Rose was tired of fighting just to live, since everyone dear to her would be forgotten by her eventually. Kate said they were together simply because they were concerned. Eventually, they talked about life, their fear in their loss of memories and yet hoping that people would still remember them. Even if everyone had forgotten about them, it was important to live wholesomely until then.

Lula came over and said that she eliminated the monsters for today. She then brought them to JC’s corpse, telling them that the reason why she hid the information about losing their memories. Lula was part of it and she was unable to face it. Hence, she was unable to tell them herself if she was unable to face it. On the other hand, Lise was walking toward the sea, with the policeman chasing her. It seemed that she was under drugs, as the older policeman seemed to realize that the medicine company had something to do with this mysterious force.

JC was buried into the coffin as Lula cried. The four girls then traveled to Lise’s grave, reminiscing the times when Lise was alive. Lise was seemingly mature in looks, yet like a child at times. They then discussed about the people that would remember them and Rachel said that Claire’s friend would definitely remember her. Kate added that even if Rachel had quarrelled with her friends, it would make them regret and they would also remember them. As the snow fell, they convinced each other that they would not be forgotten. It was the reason why the day was cold as the four looked forward, rather than worrying about the future.

The older policeman was still trying to get Lise back in her senses, when the grandfather and the other clan came. He asked who they were, but the grandfather said nothing except that he need not tell anyone that was going to die. A gun shot came as the policeman was shot in the head and he died, with the blood splashing all over Lise. Lise finally got her senses as she realized the blood was on her. An eternal scream of shock resumed in the background…

Thoughts

I am totally surprised how the old policeman was clinically removed. I guess his curiosity and underestimation of the powers have resulted in his death. I wonder if Lise was under any drugs when she is walking toward the sea. I have a feeling that she is more like in a total state of shock rather than under some form of medication, even though the look in her eyes, especially the look after she realized where she actually is. That look will be in my head for a while.

I also wonder about the fate of the girls if they are to find out that Lise is in fact alive. Considering that the grandfather has already discovered where Lise is, she will definitely be locked up in a more secure area this time and I swear that the grandfather will probably realize who are the people who have brought her out. I do want to see the impending conflict between Herve, Emilio with the rest of the clan. It will probably be interesting.

This episode also brings to an endearing philosophy of life that the four girls finally embraced. In a way, they are living a borrowed life that seems to bring them nowhere. However, does life really bring you anywhere in the first place? I believe that the girls have finally resolved their worries. Even if they have to fight, as long as they live their lives wholesomely, will anyone say that they are not living as well? That is perhaps the essence of life. Even though they are forced to this situation, they are definitely living life to the fullest.

For that, I am glad for them.

I also enjoy the humanizing of Lula. For most of the series, we see her doing ruthless and harsh things. We finally see that her harshness is not due to the fact that she is used to the situation or her character. It is in fact her fear and confusion that her brother is someone that she could not remember. It must have hurt so much to her brother, JC, who is often in despair over the lack of memories of her sister. I cannot imagine the pain for the both of them and he died prematurely without regaining back the memories.

Still, Lula is living in the past and I hope that the death of JC will bring her back to a more normal life, if it’s possible. I also wonder about the relationship of the four girls toward their closed ones. In their own words, I believe that even if they forgot who they were, their family members will always be there for them. I will be hopeful that the ending will at least be bittersweet for the four of them.

Since Shinsen has released Episode 16, I will simply go for my thoughts which will probably be due to the fact that I have an immense backlog and lacking time to write too much. In my opinion, this is one of the best episodes in Red Garden due to the climax leading to JC’s death, and the fighting scenes are pretty good.

Personally, I found Herve’s words to be really powerful. It is possibly true, since he has no reason to really lie to them and it really confuses the situation. Initially, the girls are given the knowledge that Herve and his clan is the enemy. Now, we are given the truth possibly that both sides are simply fighting for survival and there is no right or wrong. It makes you think that Kate and the other girls are really pawns in this game where both sides are trying to get the cure of the curse back in order to recover.

What will happen to the girls? They would probably die if Herve and his clan got the other book, since they know now where the other clan is hiding. If they finally grab the book back from them, they would forget their memories. It is a dilemma that will eventually reach a losing conclusion for the girls, no matter what the outcome will be. All this will simply spiral into the hopeless future that they fear so much. I just got a feeling that this series will have one of the saddest endings ever and I do wonder how they are going to resolve the situation, considering that there is about 6-7 episodes left. Seriously, putting myself in their shoes, my first question will be this.

What am I even fighting for? Hope, I have none. Life, I have none. Relationships, I have lost all. Humanity, I am losing it.

In my opinion, I find it hard to convince myself if I am in their shoes.

Anna is also showing signs of weakening, which means that Herve will probably be turning totally desperate soon. It will be likely that he will be locked up, especially after showing himself to the enemy. It’s strange though that both Emilio and Herve are a match for 6-7 of the other clan. A full frontal confrontation looks exceptionally likely, especially when JC, the brother of Lula is killed. Revenge is definitely on the hands.

To end it off, I do wonder what the trauma will be on Kate after discovering Herve is making use of her all the time. Since Emilio has shown himself, what will his relationship be with Kate’s sister? Questions are presented ahead more than answers.

Who is the biggest victim?

Is it Herve? Is it the four gals? Is it Lisa?

I do not have an answer to this series that is growing in character complexity.

Episode summary

Mirellie was weakening rapidly as Anna tried to assure that she was all right even though Mirellie was fearful of dying. Kate tried to call Herve but could not contact him as she was told by her sister that guys did not like gals who were too sticky. Rose’s attempt to find her father was unsuccessful but she did get a hint to find where he was while Claire finally met up with her brother.

It seemed like his brother was in a mess as one of his traders did not get back to him but he dismissed it as a small problem. Her brother also stated that Father would help in any case but Claire warned him that he was not that trustworthy. Her brother stated that Claire had misconceptions of him due to her father forsaking her mother even though her brother called it an accident.

He then left Claire after picking up a phone call, returning to the office but was unable to contact his father as he had gone for a trip overseas. Mirellie’s illness was getting worse as it was clear that she would not survive. Herve’s grandfather told Anna not to see the scene as well as Herve, with the heartbeat of Mirellie stopping. A whole group of men holding onto steel posts went into the room with the mercilessness slaying of her as Herve tried to stop them by saying that she was alive. As the beating continued with Herve restrained by other men, Mirellie was killed. Herve was angry, shouting hysterically that they did not do anything to save her, hence causing the death of Mirellie.

Herve went over to Lise, as he was starting to put his hands around her neck, attempting to slowly strangle her to death. Lise looked totally oblivious to Herve, simply remembering the happy times that she spent with Herve in the amusement park, as she smiled with tears that it was good she met Herve then. Herve finally broke down, saying that Lise was also a pawn for the clan and was not the cause at all. Herve looked like a broken man as he went along the corridor staircase, eventually picking up the call from Kate.

The next day, they met up and Herve said that he knew that she was killing a man yesterday with the other three girls. She tried to deny it saying that the man had attacked her and she tried to escape. However, Herve completely controlled the situation by stating that he saw her killing the man with a baseball bat and warned her not to tell anyone that he knew about this. A parcel was sent to the police which was the diary of Lise as they went over to school to question Kate. Kate was in fact with Claire, as she was very troubled by Herve’s threat and wanted to talk to both Rose and Rachel too. Paula called Kate over to meet up with the police.

The police questioned her about the diary and asked whether she knew anything about Lise’s boyfriend and the police speculated that it might be the last place Lise visited. Kate simply stared in shock as she left the room, with Herve calling her to ask what the police said. She dutifully said it, with Herve outside the school and dumping boxes. We later realize that the boxes were medicine produced by the company of Herve’s grandfather. Herve also made sure that Kate did not tell anyone, as Kate had problems telling Claire about it. The others, including Lula, the principal and the head of their clan discussed about why the diary suddenly appeared and wanted to do more investigations of the people around Kate as they got to check out Herve.

As the police finished their investigations, they went down only to find the boxes dropped by Herve as they found the identification card of Lise. They mentioned how someone was trying to tell them something. Jessica had heard everything that was said, as she confronted Paula, asking about what was exactly happening. Paula told her to mind her own business in a slightly kind way. Rachel was with her boyfriend as they discussed how Rachel was avoiding them. They actually planned to have a meet up that night but when she realized it was a group gathering, she declined citing reasons that she was busy. Rose was also seen trying to find her father in a bar with no avail.

As Rachel’s boyfriend drove the others to the party place, they saw Rachel and the teacher smiling happily, as he left in shock while driving in the car. JC was spotted spying on Herve, only to notice that the police was there too. Claire also rushed over to her brother’s office, only to realize that the company had fell. His brother was tricked by one of the traders with all his money. She tried to contact her father, only to realize the same thing that he had went overseas. She also got confirmation that his brother actually suicided as there were shots of everyone looking in despair.

Thoughts

One thing scary about this episode is the change of Mirellie when she finally was stomped to death after turning to a man-beast. It was one of the most chilling scenes that I had seen in this series, simply due to the fact that she was a mild and gentle being that could do no wrong at all. When you see such a being totally killed by men who could not be bothered with anything but to eliminate her in the beast-form, reality will hit you into wondering why such wonderful people have to suffer such a pain.

The second thing was the reaction of Herve. I have no clue what is going through his mind, but I do know that he’s severely disturbed mentally after the death of Mirellie. In a way, Mirellie is one part of his mental support and that pillar has disappeared after witnessing how she was killed in the most merciless way by his own family clan members. It was even worse for the trauma, considering that he had seen the same thing when his mother changed to the same beast. I cannot imagine how much damage will be done to his psyche.

That is why I really think that Kate is in serious trouble. She is now confronting an enemy that knows absolutely everything of her, and she has no clue who she is dealing with. I am seriously hoping that she will not fall by the ploys of Herve, especially that he is starting to look like he is losing the plot in this situation. I do not know who he is fighting against, but it is clear that he seeks to take revenge of both sides, and no matter how it was, it seems a worrying prospect in the future episodes.

With JC tailing Herve, and the preview showing a fight between the two, it seems likely that JC will be one of the first few victims. I hope JC survives, since we honestly do not know much of him and I see it greatly unlikely that Herve will die since he is one of the main antagonists of the show.

The future of Anna seems to be the most important point to see when Herve snaps. It’s a good thing that he no longer sees Lise as an enemy, realizing that she is but one of the pawns in the game. For that, I am so glad that it’s established in Herve’s mind because Lise looks to be the clear victim without knowing anything at all. I am actually curious what intentions Herve has about linking the police to Lise’s diary as well as the identification card littered with medicine from Herve’s clan. It seems to make little sense for me.

The only reason to do it is mere vicious revenge toward his clan for forsaking Mirellie. Yet, that makes no sense to allow the police to have any links and hints to carry on their investigation. It sounds really queer what Herve is doing. So this is my question. What do you think is the thing that Herve is trying to achieve by providing clues to the police?

Rose is finally useful. I am so glad for her because I have been totally annoyed by her futile attempt to do anything at all.

In a way, I like it that they finally resolved the whole issue since it is clear in Episode 12 and 13 that Rose’s continual weakness is affecting the group. Anyway, let me go straight on this Red Garden episode.

Episode summary

We have Rose being ignored by Rachel in school, as she vowed to be stronger. Kate promised her that they would train tonight as she went down the stairs to meet Claire who was late. Claire told Kate to give her a break as they discussed how Kate’s powers were released during the last fight and Claire’s need to fix up her car, as Jessica looked on at the conversation. Amanda and Rachel’s boyfriend were having fun with darts, while Rachel chatted with her teacher, only to realize that he was married with a novelist and only came out for coffee as his wife was getting inspiration.

On the other hand, Kate and Rose were training, with Kate realizing how to do the leaps after a cat suddenly jerked her into action. Rachel, on her way back, saw how Rose was training. The next day, Kate’s father wanted to go to school after the reporting on Kate constantly missing classes and being late. However, Kate’s sister said it would be problematic if he went since it would make a big issue, so she volunteered to. Kate also realized that Herve was lying to her after noticing that the bar was not officially open yet. During the meeting, the principal assured Kate’s sister that everything was all right and it would be managed accordingly, as Kate’s sister also introduced Emilio while the principal introduced Paula.

As Kate’s sister left, it seemed that Paula was part of the clan (calling the principal grandmother) as Paula said that she wanted to tell Kate about the situation. However, the principal said that she was the only person who could protect Kate now. They also discussed that some drastic measures would happen, especially when the enemy was starting to lose their female descendants. All this was overheard by Jessica. Kate also thanked her sister for the trouble, with Emilio having a short fit of discomfort.

Herve was by Mireille’s side as it seemed that she survived. Emilio also met up with Herve, telling him that Kate found out that he lied as he vowed to make a better lie next time. The police inspector also tried to find out some more information about Herve, with no avail. Claire was trying to fix her car, as well as repaying the money to her brother. However, when she reached the area, it seemed that there was some busy times and she left.

Kate also met up with Herve, with Herve saying that he lied and telling her the whole story about Mirelle being sick and he had to rush off to see her after panicking. He then professed that he could give up if it was just him but he would do absolutely anything to save his sister, as Kate was touched by his gesture. At night, Rose was training still as she finally found out how to release her powers. Just then, the butterflies appeared as they fought this time with two monsters.

It was still the old Rose in fear, unable to fight back. As they barely repelled the monsters, Kate and Claire decided to split up with Rose and Rachel, with Rachel calling out to them not to leave her with Rose. Rose was clearly still useless, as Rachel was about to be attacked, only for Rose to bash in and be shoved by the monster. Rachel called out to the monster with a baseball, backing off as the monster was about to attack her. However, Rose simply grabbed a pole as she leaped up, whacking viciously with the pole when she landed on the ground to kill the monster. Rose started to ask if she did anything as Rachel thanked her, saying that she should have done so sooner. It seemed that all four of them finally have a better trust of each other, now that even Rose was fighting.

Thoughts

Finally, are we all glad that Rose finally grew a spine? I am honestly happy that the main problem in the fights is solved right now, what with the silly “I am so scared that I cannot do anything” crap. I think anyone whose life is in danger will really get sick of such an explanation, which is why it makes me feel so good when Rose is in fact the person who saves Rachel.

She really proves to everyone that even though she is indeed the weaker link among the four, she does make an effort to protect them. Rachel disappointed me slightly though, with the fear she emits when she can fight back easily. I mean, she has a baseball bat but she just simply backs down and fears? Isn’t that the same thing that Rose is doing, except in a more drastic manner? How can you criticize someone when you are also doing roughly the same thing? In my opinion, that is Rachel’s character flaw and it might show up when something bad happens. You never do see Rachel blaming herself for the situation at any point of the anime right?

It is slightly surprising for me that Paula is in fact the grand daughter of the principal. It is perhaps not very shocking because the amount of protection that Paula gave Kate but coming out from the horse’s mouth still shocked me quite a bit. It is clear that it’s painful for Paula but she knows that it is under the orders of her grandmother as well as the headmistress (the head of the clan) to protect Kate. I am sure that Paula generally likes Kate on the friendship level (stop being disappointed, you yuri fans) and yet she feels compelled to tell her the truth. I think it’s pretty logical to hold the falsity from a person you consider a friend, especially when you know that withholding the truth and telling it both hurts them.

Herve is a total vicious person. By using the story of Mirellie, it is clear that it’s a good way to gain sympathy from Kate, in order to cover the fact that he lied. I mean, anyone who does not have the background logic of the whole clan’s troubles will understandably be touched by Herve’s actions. With such an abstract idea simply that her younger sister is suffering from an incurable disease (the monster changing), it is clear that this move will give him the chance to get closer to Kate and hence be able to spy on her more. I have not watched Episode 15 (will watch it tomorrow), so there might be some plot twist then.

Lastly, a question on a very subtle thing that happened. Do you think that Emilio is going to succumb to the monster disease too, what if the itchy gesture? I personally read a bit more into it and think that it will be the next plot twist for Kate?

What do you think?

Considering that the English subs have caught up of sorts, I will just do a brief overview for this and allocate more time for thoughts. This is perhaps to continue my little love for this wonderful series, even if there is not much people who watches this. Still, I hope to open this little space of my blog to people who enjoyed this and will discuss the various topics in Red Garden.

Enjoy!

Story guist

Kate was feeling happy after the date with Herve and she felt this strange happiness that she had never experienced before. We also see Jessica’s displeasure on Kate, as well as the boss of Lula’s clan right inside the school, discussing about the enemy coming closer to the four. Rachel was also noting the problems between her and her boyfriend opening up, after Amanda openly confessed to him about his love. At night, they faced two opponents this time where two significant events happened: Rose’s helplessnesses that nearly killed Rachel and Kate’s release of her power.

Rachel started to think of Rose as a liability, with Claire echoing the same view. Rose then met up with Kate, telling her to teach in the ways of fighting. We also notice that Lise was starting to remember things such as Kate and the diary, with Herve provoking her that he was going to meet Kate. After the practice, Kate went for the date with Herve, experiencing new things in Coney Island that she had never done before. We also see Rose in an attempt to train her physical body. However, Herve received a call and suddenly rushed away, making a sudden excuse. Kate then reached home in a slump, shocked at the new feelings she had for Herve. Herve, on the other hand, realized that Mirellie was in a critical condition, with her assuring Anna that Mirellie will be all right.

Thoughts

Give me a reason not to hate Rose. Rose is one of the most useless characters (if not, the most useless) among all of them, with nothing to contribute at all. She is not only always dependent on Kate for moral support, but she is also severely problematic in the battles. Even in fear, a person has some form of self-protecting mechanism to start attacking and fight back. Rose absolutely just sits down there with a weapon, fearing for her death and not protecting the very comrades that were keeping her alive. She is but a liability that seriously needs a huge dosage of courage, spine and fighting spirit.

I do not think it is the part about her not knowing how to fight, but her reluctance to fight/fear to fight. You can have the best martial arts but without the heart and courage to go forth when it’s needed, all these skills are totally useless. Still, I applaud Rose for finally growing some spine and starting to train herself physically for the next battle. In my opinion, she is not training herself physically, but it is the sheer will to try and make a difference. That is the biggest difference compared to all her talk and no walk. She is actually doing something to prove everyone wrong and I hope to see her in a more helpful position soon.

Herve really creeps me out. I do understand that he is a kind man to his sisters, but his one-line track of mind is severely vicious and dangerous. His continual hatred for Lise is disturbing, even if Lise is somewhat related to the slow demise of Anna and Mirellie. I still have to disagree with him on his actions, since it is only hurting himself. His attempts to revive Lise’s memory is very juvenile. I can see why he did it to disrupt the advances that the clan is doing but he is also part of the clan. As much as the clan wishes to save his two kins, the overall survival of the clan is of the utmost importance. As a very important member of the clan, Herve should have some rationality amidst his emo feelings and strong liking for his siblings.

I am not really dissing Herve too much here, but part of it actually stems down from the fact that he is using Kate’s feeling toward him simply as a form of reconnaissance. I am a great fanboy of Kate, due to her strong resistance, attitude and love for life. It also added to the scale that Kate is the spiritual leader of the group, with her personality holding the group together when Rose is being a total whiner. She is a rather innocent lady and being tricked as a pawn in the game disgusts me much more than anything else. My greatest fear will be how she will collapse when she finally realizes that Herve is simply playing with her. No matter how strong a person is, the abuse of a relationship is always the best way to hurt someone and I can fully see Herve making full use of that advantage.

Very importantly, I am shocked that the boss of Lula’s clan is in fact a teacher. From some of the words said, it is clear that the recruiting of members is a constant process, which meant that Lula’s recruitment of the girls is not the precedent case. In fact, I feel that both clans have very few members due to the impending war between the two, which is why Lula has to use this special technique in the new bodies of the girls to continue the fight. Still, I want to know what the true seed of the fight came from, because such an immense hatred between the two clans must have some important history involved. I cannot wait for them to unfold.

On the human relationships, I really feel sympathy for Rachel, yet I cannot blame Amanda for stealing her love. The truth is that Rachel has neglected her boyfriend quite a bit, no matter how much she did love him. Her failure to admit to her boyfriend will eventually become the reason why she will break up with him and I do not see much of a happy ending with Rachel and her boyfriend. That can only make huge mental turmoil within Rachel, even though I do see the teacher as a form of mental asylum. Rachel’s mental strength is also growing a little, if not much, which will be interesting to note in the future battles and problems to come.

In all, a very interesting episode that showcases the growing anger of Rose’s incompetence, Herve’s approach to Kate and her feelings as well as the uncovering of the boss in Lula’s clan. Good stuff.

No rock, no life! Just if you are wondering, the IDA came about because Impz tends to have little motivation to blog a full entry if people are not interested in it. This is why I relegated Red Garden, one of my favorite series, in this section. Feedback if you like this ^_^. That said, I will have one short summary-like entry for Bokura Ga Ita and Asatte no Houkou later (since these two shows ended recently). Look out for it.

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Red Garden Episode 12

Summary

Kate was told by her sister that Herve wanted to meet her again after the “accidental meeting”. The other girls also learned about Herve trying to meet up with Kate, as they encouraged her to do so, since Kate generally avoided interactions with the opposite sex. We also see Rachel’s boyfriend getting very close with Amanda, and he seemed to be in a hurry to be away from her when Rachel called for her, saying that he would call her later. Claire and her friend also went back to normal after Claire took the advice of the gals and told him that she was working back at the hamburger shop.

Paula also informed that she had used her veto power for Kate, since she said Kate had spent all her time in the school and told her to work hard together. The police detective also found that the pictures of Lise before and the corpses were inconsistent, while Rose realized that her father had been sending back money, meaning that he was working hard somewhere. As Kate, Emilio, Herve and her sister met up, it seemed that Herve was making a good impression and then Herve asked whether Kate would join him to walk along later. She accepted it, even though Emilio warned him not to do anything strange. Lula and JC were also tracking her, saying that it was age for Kate to fall in love. It seemed that Kate was pretty interested in him, as he set up another meeting with her at Coney Island, despite her saying that she was boring. We also saw the cynical Herve with Lise, trying to trigger her past memories by talking about movies and the exchange of diaries.

Thoughts

I do not know the true intentions of Herve, but I suspect it is nothing good. The fact that he had clearly acknowledged that Kate was an enemy meant that he getting close to her was a ploy to do something like spying, or an even more deviant plan that I cannot think of right now. I am also worried for Rachel’s mental wellbeing, as in the end of the show, she overheard that Amanda was in the same place as her boyfriend at a very late time, which is going to be nothing. With him avoiding her, it probably means the end of her relationship. I also am glad at Claire’s relationship going well with her close guy friend, because it was clear that he was very concerned, just that he had been avoiding her as he feared that her temper would ruin things once again. A solid build up episode, i think the story will go with more Kate and Herve stories. I am worried what will happen to Kate though.

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Happiness Episode 12

Summary

We saw that Anri and Koyuki falling after “fighting” with Ibuki and company as Ibuki entered the sacred place where their hidden treasure was found. It seemed that Koyuki already predicted that they would fall, so it would be better if they feigned it right away. As Ibuki entered the area, she started to get the gem, trying to use its power to revive her older sister so as to see her again. Shinya was then hurt as he was trying to protect Ibuki. Outside, the rest of the people were trying to repel the monsters caused by the sacred treasure.

Haruhi also found Yuma as she hugged him, telling him that his magic saved her and that his magic was not merely destruction. He rejuventated in energy as he took the flute, which was the flute used by Ibuki’s sister. They then rushed over to Anri and company, who were having trouble repelling the monsters. Yuma’s spiritual energy with the flute repelled all the monsters as he finally went inside the domain. With everyone’s strength pooled into it, he finally was able to seal the gem, ending the show. We then realized that Sumomo finally recovered, and that Yuma moved into the magic class.

Thoughts

Boring. Well, just kidding. Happiness! is a decent show but there are two things that let it down tremendously. One is the low count appearance of Jun, which will have made matters much cooler. Second is the graphical quality. The story itself is average, which is pooled down lower by the low graphical quality. I threatened to drop this show but I decided to at least blog about the last episode, which is perhaps a bit of respect for a decent premise but execution wise, it is a bit bad. However, it is still a decent watch if anything. With it ending, I have more time for other series, I guess.

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Mamoru-kun ni Megami no Shukufuku wo! Episode 12

Summary

We have Ayako seeing how Eme-chan was in night gown and trying to charm Mamoru. She got very angry and rushed off, with even Shione knowing that it was going to be dangerous if she was to disturb her at this “burning aura” Ayako. Mamoru, on the other hand, continued to work very hard for the test as he wanted to impress Ayako. The president also saw the sulking Ayako, with Ayako complaining how Mamoru could not tell that Eme-chan was trying to sexually seduce him. Still, when the results came out, it seemed that he only had a D. He wanted to greet Ayako but Ayako looked disappointed (because he was with Eme-chan) and he mistook it as her being disappointed at his results.

The president then set up a party within the school, as Ayako realized that Eme-chan and Mamoru were cooking. She was of course extremely angry and jealous as Eme-chan confessed to him, saying that she wants to “love love” with him. Ayako then rushed away, with Mamoru giving chase. Eventually, they got back happily together as they resolved their differences, realizing that they both did things in love for each other. They then had their first kiss like how Ayako wanted it, under the sunset, as everyone had a chorus of Merry Christmas.

Thoughts

I loved how the first kiss came about and it is probably not as grand as I had expected. Still, the relationship is clearly developing on the whole, with the fact that there are hints that Mamoru’s “weak” power might not be as weak as they think it is. I do wonder how Mamoru’s latent energy can be tapped and whether this series will have a more serious approach at the end. Still, I think it will be those happy go lucky series. That said, I am getting very annoyed by the stalker’s antics but pleasantly happy with Shione’s 1001 different hairstyles. Tee hee.

Kate = Sleeper Hold?

This is a build up episode, presumingly, with a strong complication with the introduction of Herve in the life of Kate. I think this will start to grow to be a very complicated relationship, since Kate has no idea that the enemy is so close. Herve, of course knows it.

Will Kate be ….captured? I cannot wait to know but for now, it’s the episode summary and thoughts waiting for this episode!

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Episode summary

Kate met up with her sister and her boyfriend, Emilio as they talked about how her sister actually met up with him and that she was the one doing all the chasing. Kate responded that he would definitely be accepted as they left the place, only for him to ask for Kate’s boyfriend. As Kate stammered to respond, her sister said Kate did not have one, since she was very slow in such things and told her whether she needed any introduction. Her boyfriend then added that they should talk about finding a guy for Kate as Kate smiled. In the Grace room, the other Grace met up with Paula, stating that one of the latecomers today was Kate and requested for Kate to be out of Grace due to her behavior being unacceptable.

A cut scene appeared of Claire, with her close guy friend ignoring her as he saw her in school. As Rachel and her boyfriend walked along the corridor, they had the conversation where Rachel left early and bumped with the teacher. Rachel lied about the situation He then accused her of making him a green cuckold and asked if she had slept or kissed with him, with Rachel slapping him on the face. She was about to cry, as she said it was nothing like that. Her boyfriend eventually gave chase and consoled her, saying that he did not know what possessed him to say that.

In the shoe closet area, Kate met up with Paula, with Paula saying that the other Grace were trying to kick Kate out but she would not allow it. Kate instead accepted it because she realized that she had not done the duty in an accepted manner. However, Paula refused, saying that it would directly affect advances of Kate’s life in the future and that she would do anything to stop them, as Paula decided to use a clause in the rules to stop them from kicking her out. Paula then hugged Kate, assuring her that if she had any trouble, Kate should not hesistate to find her (yuri, anyone?).

We have a few scenes then of Rose and her friend trying to find her father, Paula using her powers as the president to veto Kate’s stay in Grace and Claire trying to find a job in a sleazy restaurant where the girls were wearing very few pieces of clothing. Rachel and her boyfriend were also discussing to have an Arts day, as Rachel told him not to be overly concerned with the incident earlier and that it was not like him. However, he insisted that they visited a museum. We then saw Herve talking to Lise in a very unemotional way, before leaving, stating that the time was up. Lise then asked why Herve was so cold to her and whether he hated her and he replied “YES”.

Claire found herself back at the hamburger shop that she quit in a huff, as she had a livid discussion with the boss, having a totally bad attitude. The boss however, did add that he would allow her to be back if she changed her work attitude and that some of his old guests actually missed her style of cooking. Since the place was not made for quality but for old-timers, he wanted her back. It was clear that Claire was touched by the boss’s behavior as she added that her wages would be high and he replied that he would be ok if she worked hard for it. With that, we saw a smile from Claire, saying that she would not care if her fans would increase. He then added that he would learn from her.

Rose and her friend went over to a sleazy part of town to find her father, only to run away when a guy from the attic tried to hook her up. We also see Herve meeting up with Emilio and we realized that Emilio is in Herve’s clan and that Emilio realized that Kate was in fact the enemy. Herve then told him to break up with his girlfriend and that the head family would ask him to do so. However, Emilio could not accept it, as he left, with Herve warning him that he would suffer a backlash if the head clan discovered it because they would not forgive people who betrayed the clan.

Rachel and her boyfriend were together in a party, as her boyfriend remarked that it had been a long time since they spent any time alone. However, Rachel saw the butterflies and made an excuse to leave, only to say sorry. Her boyfriend did not know why as he was left confused. They then gathered to fight the monster, with all of them showing way more capabilities than before to fight. In the end, we had a meeting of Kate’s family and Emilio, only for Herve to appear on the scene.

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Thoughts

Very importantly, if anyone has watched the fighting scene of the female characters in this episode, there is something really different in them. It is that they have became very proficent in killing the man beast from Herve’s clan. I am truly surprised to see how Kate and Claire are able to overpower their opponents completely, even in mere strength. I mean, Claire literally smashed the man beast across the air and made a huge dent in the brick wall. That is perhaps the awakening of their powers with their special bodies, even though I must admit that it is interesting to see that Rose is still hiding like a scared cat in the fight.

Yes, I am sometimes annoyed at Rose’s gutless behavior.

Also, I find that the meeting of Herve is clearly interesting. The clear disdain of Herve in the girls showed that he would probably do anything to get back at them. Add to the fact that Kate is in fact the enemy and that she has no idea that Herve is the enemy makes for some really scary plot. I can imagine Herve trying to charm Kate to him before doing something hideously wrong.

However, I cannot blame Herve for doing it if he ever does. He has to meet with Lise all the time in order to keep her in balance for the clan (even though he hated her for stealing the chances of survival for Anna and Mireille). He has to do all that simply for the clan and I think a lesser man will have cracked.

I also find that some of the scenes are very touching, yet sad as well. The scene of Rachel leaving after seeing the butterflies really shows something sad as Rachel tried to call her boyfriend after the battle, only reaching a voice mail. It also feels ominous because one of her friends in fact is interested in her boyfriend and we see her appearing to comfort her boyfriend when Rachel rushed off for the fight. I hope that is no implication that her friend stole her boyfriend away in the exchange of physical lust. I hope not.

Claire’s interaction with the hamburger boss is also interesting. Considering Claire’s character and the boss, it is a really sweet conversation, in that Claire really find someone who is able to support her. Even though it is very rough in the conversation, it is clear that the boss cares a lot about Claire and Claire realizes it. Considering Claire’s aloofness, it shows something and it probably makes her feel a lot better than anything.

Anyway, I hope whoever is reading this entry learns just a bit more and thanks for the viewing. Comment if anything ^_^. Next episode seems to deal with Kate’s meeting with Herve.

I know this is a rather heavy and serious episode but this scene where Kate tries to do push ups is hilarious. She cannot even do one at all. Pretty laughable but this show clearly is not.

Lula’s face when she said “we already tried” was painful….and sad.

Start of summary: Go.

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Episode summary

The start of the episode showed Lise on the bed, with everyone checking on her to make sure that her bodily functions were all right. The doctor also told Lise her name as he smiled. While talking to the grandfather, the doctor noted how adaptable the body was and that the body would be important for the survival of the clan. The grandfather also reaffirmed that their clan and Lula are in an antagonistic nature. As we changed scenes, Kate was explaining to the girls about how Herve’s clan was going to take their bodies as a form of reproduction in order for their clan to survive. However, the discussion was interrupted by Rose’s cellphone, as she was called by Lula.

The girls then rushed over to Lula, only for her to point out a normal fat businessman and saying that he would probably be their next enemy soon. The two clans had cursed each other and hid the way to cure each other. It was then that we realized that all these beasts were normal people, where you could not distinguish them until the symptoms of them about to change came. As the man walked past, Lula and JC tried to avert attention, as she told them that they might be attacked one day.

Kate was at home as she worried about the aspect of being abducted and having to protect themselves. With that, she tried to do push ups but failed miserably as her sister came in. Her sister asked her to meet up with her boyfriend, to see if her father would love him or not. Rachel was watching the television on an exercise machine and eventually called to inquire. A cut scene had Claire practicing her swing, only to be given advice by a drunkard. Rose was with her two siblings while they asked her when their father would return and that the meat was hard. She stumbled in speech, only to mumble that he would be back if they behaved themselves.

The police and assistant were still searching for the answer, with the older police not impressed with the report that Lise had suicided. The photo on his hand 1 week before the death of Lise was extremely strange (it might be someone else but…) as it looked nothing like Lise at all. A day probably passed as Rose went out with her friend as they talked about Rose’s father who left them suddenly, with her mom also in the hospital after that. Rose’s friend then offered to help her find her father.

Claire was also out with her close guy friend as they went around to buy lemons and groceries. He actually wanted to invite her to the movies for free, but Claire flared up before he could end his line as she felt that he did not realize the situation she was in. She then scolded him, saying that he did not understand anything since he did not have to spend any energy to waste in order to have money. Angered, she left in a rush, leaving her friend bewildered and apologizing as he turned away. As Claire looked back, she was annoyed at her own temper ruining things because she knew her friend had nothing to do with it.

At the lab, Lise asked for Herve as Herve met up with the grandfather, asking if he had forsaken both Mirelle and Anna. He said that the medicine for them had not changed, the doctor had not visited them and that everyone was simply letting them die as Lise was here to save the clan. The grandfather said that he could not possibly forsake the two girls and that the doctor was trying all his means to find a cure. The grandfather simply told Herve to meet Lise. As Herve met up with Lise, he looked at her with a hurtful and despising look, clearly disliking the person that stole the fate of his two sisters away.

On the streets, we see the same fat businessman looking troubled, sweating and panting quite heavily. JC was at the background looking at him as he had a call with his wife. Slowly attracted to a red light (the flower), he transformed as the girls were asked to kill. Claire recognized the man as the same guy they seen yesterday, with the beast biting Rachel and slamming Kate to a tree. As Claire hesitated, Rachel was in trouble before Claire slammed the baseball bat at her.

Claire then screamed at Lula, saying that the man had a family and he was normal just before this. She then asked why they could not stop them before they changed before Lula snapped. She said she tried every way, sacrificing many of her clansman while finding a way. She then added that there was only one way, to kill before they got killed. The ending scene had Herve looking helplessly through a window, looking at the rain as the grandfather and the doctor talked about Lise holding up the survival of the clan.

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Thoughts

It is without doubt that both sides have cursed each other, with both sides withholding the method to get rid of the curse. I guess the endless struggles have caused both sides to lose trust. We also know that the men and women from each clan do not have any symptoms of turning into a monster until it is too late. This is seen from the man who was fine the day before and now turned into a monster. The man had a family, had a wife and had everything in a normal state.

Unlike a few that had said earlier, the flower does not seem to be the trigger for the change. It feels more like a beacon to attract these man beasts, so that they can be directed to somewhere without anyone. It will be extremely dangerous if they are to assault normal people on the streets, no? I think that the flower is an item created by Lula and JC that will be able to add as a beacon for these transformed beings from the other clan to be attracted by it. Yet, it makes no sense in a way. I mean, how did JC know that the man is about to transform? Do they send people to observe these people constantly? I have no clue.

Claire’s outburst shows that she is still struggling a lot with the situation. However, everyone is working hard to grow stronger, which is a good thing, as Lula proved to show that she is not a bad person. The strength of this show is that there are no real bad characters.

Can you say that Herve is bad for wanting to find a cure for Mirelle and Anna? Can you say that his grandfather is bad for trying to protect his clan? Can you say that Lula is bad to curse and slay the man beasts? Can you say that the doctor is bad for choosing Lise over the two other girls because Lise is critical to their survival?

My answer for the above questions is no.

There is no longer right or wrong, good or bad sides in the story, which makes it difficult to take a side. Red Garden shows that in the real world, there is no longer right or wrong, simply where you stand or who wins. This feels realistic.

And this also makes it painful.

Your bodies are simply used for the sake of reproduction of a family clan. What a harsh truth. When you do not know when you will be attacked, where your borrowed bodies will be used for the sake of merely reproduction to keep the survival of a clan alive, what do you do?

The dilemma of the four girls. The pain of the four girls. The fear of the four girls.

All these will be covered in the episode summary and thoughts. (note: I switched just a little bit in the sequence of the story for a much better flow. It does not affect the major points of this show.)

Episode summary

The scene started with Kate visiting Lise’s father, knowing that both Lise’s parents were having a lot of difficulty to get over Lise’s death. As they left the building, Kate was invited by Lise’s father to visit them whenever she could and she simply nodded as they also talked about Lise’s diary. We then see a book as it turned to a scene of Herve talking to his cousin and sister. They seemed to be doing much better after the sudden disease attack in episode 7 as they talked about going out to eat some chili hotdogs. Herve then went out of the room, asking the doctor whether there would be a change of a new medicine. However, the doctor seemed to be agreeing in an obliging manner as he said he would change the medicine at night. The doctor clearly seemed to be more concerned with Lise’s experiment.

Claire was then trying to find an odd job in order to pay her rent and her friend suggested that she asked her brother. However, she was reluctant to do so as she hated her father and that her brother was practically using his father’s money. She did not want to stoop down in order to get money that way. She also knew that she had to move off after the landowner told her either to pay the rent or move out tonight. She was also unable to find a job and decided that she had to find her brother for help after all.

Kate, on the other hand, was trying to spy on Lula and JC as she went to their day job area in order to find out more information about the mystery of their bodies. As Lula and JC went to a cafe for lunch, Lula noticed that Kate was spying them behind a tree and called her out. She told Kate that she would find nothing about them and asked her whether she had the ability to protect herself. That was when the truth came out that their bodies were yearned by a family clan whose existence was being threatened.

As the female species of the family were inflicted with a curse that caused them to turn into monsters that they often fought, the female generation of the clan was dying out. Hence, Lise was the one that they captured while Lula and her team tried to retrieve. That was why with the new body that was stolen (Lise), they had to leave the old corpse in the forest. Lula then explained that was why she asked whether Kate had the power to defend herself if she was going to be taken away for experimentation and told her that the more she knew, the more danger she would be in.

We then see the experiment of Lise starting and it was a success as they were able to implant life into her. It seemed that they were able to continue the family line as Herve walked off in dejection, being ignored by all the scientists. The scene then changed to Claire who met up with her brother who was making an art auction in order to earn money. Claire also suspected the kind father who borrowed money to her brother but he simply skipped the topic and said he was going to borrow this money and earn it back with this auction.

We also see Rose spending some time with her mother in the hospital while Rachel was out at a disco bar. Rachel was listless as she went out of it alone and bumped into her teacher who was carrying a lot of books he bought at a closing down shop. They then had coffee together and talked about being an adult and bitterness in general. We then see Claire returning to her house, only to meet up with her friend who brought some food for her. As she told him that she got the money from her brother and it was troublesome, her friend said it was just life’s troubles. Claire then noted that it was being alive that there was such a problem (read more into this).

The scene was with Herve who noticed that the medicine was still the old ones as he went over to Lise’s room to check the medicine and took it secretly. He was then shocked when Lise woke up, asking who he was and who she was. She clearly could not remember anything as he rushed off the room in total shock.

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Thoughts

Hmm, this is very interesting, considering that a big plot has been revealed. It is now clear that the clan that Herve is in is the enemy of Lula. It is clear now that Herve’s clan has eyes on the bodies of the gals, especially since it was possible to inherit the gene using the new body as a female reproduction system. That, to me, is something really disturbing, since the “virus” or “curse” as Lula said it was one that inflicted only on the female. Nothing much more is known about this, but I am pretty interested to see whether this curse will be explained scientifically in the eventual sense.

I also really feel that Lula is really a very mysterious person. Up to now, I am still not sure whether she is someone that is playing the four girls around. I now have some faith that she is not lying at the very least but whether she is being a person that is trying to help the four girls is still way up in the air.

I am also pretty curious about Herve’s need for new medicine. Is it really needed, considering that it seemed like a lost cause. It is probably Herve’s wish to find a cure but just grabbing onto every little hope he can find. It is so sad to see him trying so hard, even though it’s sad to even say that it’s almost impossible to save his sister and cousin from the virus. Hoping onto some hope that will never surface is something that Herve is doing right now. I do not like that because it will only seriously backfire on him.

A pity, a pity.

In all cases, this episode seems to be the set up for a greater story later. And wait, before I stop, why did Lise lose her memories. I do not remember Kate or any of them losing their memories except for that incident when they died. So why did Lise lose her memories completely?

Poor Rachel looked like she’s eating something really terrible. Either that or she’s receiving…No, this is not Sumomo momomo, my apologies.

Read on for summary and thoughts. Sigh, the chinese release took a while, so this review took a while too.

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Episode summary

We see Kate warning two students about their colored fingernails, as she simply smiled and told them to do it soon. At the end of the corridor, Rose said her nails were fine as they went up to the balcony to chat. Rose then related how she worked very hard to get into this school through scholarship and that she was somewhat relieved that she still has a chance to return to normal. Rose also lamented how weak she was as she said she had been marathoning and doing sit ups (5 each day, lol!) to train up, eliciting a laugh from Kate.

Jessica was talking with the head Grace, Paula about Kate hanging out with the bad students, which was a bad example to Grace. However, Paula simply said that if Kate could reform them and kept them out of trouble, it was a good thing since the role of Grace is not only to establish rules but also to keep troublemakers away from trouble. Rachel was hanging out with her friends in the mall, as she looked at a stiletto, saying that it was a good weapon (against the beast). Her friends did not get the context and laughed saying it would give any pervert a good hit as they laughed merrily. Rachel’s boyfriend felt something amiss though.

Claire returned home to see the landlord lady who pressed her for rent. She was annoyed as she could not find a job to foot the 3 months of delayed rent and almost threw her telephone out the window as the line was cut off. That night, they met up with Rachel saying how good it was for Kate to be grace as she could book people to vent off stress and spend her days happily. Kate said she never really learnt what was happiness. Claire then said she had a secret weapon as it turned out to be the telephone in the backpack after the beast was killed.

Back to school, Rose overheard Jessica and her lackeys criticizing Kate for pushing the job away and only know how to please Paula. Rose, who was with her friend, heard it as she confronted them and said that they should not say anything so bad. Jessica then threatened to book them for mismeanor, only for Rachel to come over and drag her away since they did not do anything to warrant a warning.

They then had coffee together, remarking how they would never associate with each other without this experience. It was interesting, as Kate came over to meet them. Claire was finding a job but failed to do so, returning home only to see the other three girls at the door. Kate had brought food, only to discover that the electricity had been cut and the pot turned into a cooking banzai (? wtf!).

They then made some salad with the can food, with Rose ordering them around since none of them had cooked before. Kate then found a can of milk as they fed it to the cat in her house. Kate and Claire then had a talk, with Kate saying how it would be great since they were given a chance to go back to their normal lives. Claire said it was all right if it was not the same, since they were now happy spending time together and enjoying dinner. They then had a fun, relaxing time eating horrible food and the salad, ending with a heartwarming melody that speaks of the emotions that were felt under this gathering.

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Thoughts

I always like such episodes, where there is a great bonding between the protangists of the show. Honestly, their minds have been so tight and stressed that there was no way that they could relax at all. In a way, I like this sudden mood of peace in this episode because not only it strongly contrasted with the other episodes, it is also a form of development.

I am so glad that even Rose being physically inept, has been trying very hard on her own to work out in order to be less of a liability. Rachel is also improving her relationship with the other three girls and it seems like all of them were dependent on each other. They are finally forming a team and it must be said that this is a good start for what will happen next in the future.

The warm song also made me feel really good, even though there is still a bit of off-key tunes in it. However, I like how the whole ambience of the singing created this comforting feeling that they cannot experience. In a way, Rachel and Claire gained something that they would never get if they were going back to their own lives: comrades that will support them no matter where they go.

It will seem to me that the period for Rachel and Claire’s weakness is over. Rose is also trying very hard which leaves Kate. However, I personally feel that the weakness of Kate has been initally exposed as Lise and it is very possible if they are to meet, her weakness would be exploited completely. She will then need the support of the other three girls, if they can.

Why I said that is because it seems that Lise will wake up next episode. Hmm, I wonder what her role will be in protecting the interest of Herve and his clan.

I wonder what is the purpose of Lisa?

Hmm, with the title as such, Herve is currently revealed slightly in this episode, even though I am still not too sure of the relationship between Lula and Herve (I checked the site, it is Herve, not Harvey). This is pretty interesting as we realize where the monsters actually came from (or at least a source of it) and it seemed to be rather queer how it happened.

What is the cause of this monster transformation? That will be my before thoughts.

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Episode summary

We see a past dream sequence when Herve was young and they were in the swimming pool. Suddenly, his mother collapsed as she was brought into a room in a mansion (probably the same one). After attempts to revive her failed, her ECG dropped to 0 and suddenly, she revived with the eyes of the man beast that the gals encountered. Men then came over with clubs to kill her as Herve was taken away.

As we returned to reality, Mireyu and Anna were talking with each other, with a new medicine applied to curb Mireyu’s problems. Herve was talking to one of the doctors also existent in the dream sequence as it seemed that his cousin, Mireyu was suffering from thirsty symptoms and the likes. Benden, the doctor, assured him everything was fine but he was not convinced. He then went on a song as we saw the images of his happy family in the past, as well as Mireyu and Anna talking to each other.

Back at school, Kate was looking listless as usual. In another scene, Claire skipped school as she met up with Yuan and asking him what he would do if he was to be in a well waiting for death when a door suddenly appeared. He was puzzled, as Claire left in annoyance (who would seriously understand what you truly mean -_-)

At school once again, Kate was confronted by the other Grace, saying how she was doing nothing, setting a bad example by arriving late, having early release in school and yet gaining favor still from Paula (who I assume to be the Head Grace). They were telling her to watch out for her actions. The other girls are also experiencing that feeling of possible survival, as they looked to be in better mental states, even Rachel and Rose.

We then saw Mireyu and Anna chatting with each other about going out, visiting mansion, playgrounds until Mireyu was struggling once again as she was brought into an intensive unit within the laboratory. Herve confronted Benden and told him that he knew that Mireyu could not last long anymore. He then went over to his grandfather, asking him to attack “them” (I presume Lula’s group) before Mireyu and Anna fell to the monster disease.

The grandfather then brought Herve to see Lisa who was in an incubator, while saying that if the experiment worked for them, the clan might survive this after all. Herve was angry because it meant that they were going to let Anna and Mireyu become beasts.

The grandfather said that they had to wait still. In school, Paula came to talk to Kate who stayed back to do work. She then consoled her, telling her she understood and that the police came again. The police did not find out anything more from Kate but the old police seemed to be able to tell that Kate was hiding something still.

We then saw Claire talking to her employer who gave her so little money because of her erratic work where she often came late and left early, so much so that she could not pay the rent. Eventually, she quitted and left the restaurant, saying that there was nothing good happening in the world. With that, the butterflies appeared as she laughed in irony, with everyone around her looking at her strangely.

This time, all four of them fought (even Rose did) as they killed the man beast, with Herve looking from far, saying how vicious the gals were.

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Thoughts

Wow, there are so many facts to digest in this episode that I have to go point by point this time and organize it properly, rather than randomly thinking of thoughts like how I usually write things.

1. The monster disease

For the lack of a better phrasing, it seemed that there are a few things with this disease. From the hints from the past, as well as the comments made by the grandfather, it seemed to be a genetic disease that is suffered by his clan. They show symptoms of thirst and the monster in them is triggered only when they died. As seen from the evidence earlier, her mother was normal until she died and revived as a monster.

It also seemed to have no cure whatsoever, even though it was possible to curb the symptoms slightly from medication but from Mireyu’s condition, it seemed that it was to happen in a matter of time. The fact that I deduce is genetic is flawed because for now, we have only seen the transformation from girls and not guys.

Yet, the man beast that is fought by the girls are all male in gender. So, I am not too sure whether it inflicts males as well in the family. To add, it seems that there is a link between Lula (Herve mentioned about the invasion of a certain group to save themselves and the clan) and the transformation of this monster disease. I do wonder if Lula in fact has the vaccine for this.

2. Lisa

She finally appeared and seemed to be an experiment used as a weapon by Herve’s clan in order for survival. For now, I see her as possibly transformed into an antagonist for the four girls in the future and it will definitely create some super emo scenes.

3. Herve and the man beast

I personally suspect that the man beast that are released on the gals to kill are part of Herve’s extended family or someone that he did know. The fact that he said how vicious the four gals were in the fight clearly showed it. Honestly, if you are to see your former dead man-beast relative being killed to a total slump by four club wielding gals, it will be painful. The fact that Herve’s memory was etched with the notion of his own mother killed by similiar means will have strong repercussions. He also seems to be not that much of an antagonist in the way that he’s concerned by his sister. This is probably the charm of Red Garden because you really cannot tell who is the good and bad guy.

Is Lula good? I do not know. Is she giving them a false glimpse of hope because humans inherently wish for hope and life? I do not know.

Are the four gals simply a tool to further Lula’s means, eventually exterminating Anna and Mireyu? Maybe. I do not know. The next preview seems to be the gals trying to learn more about each other and trying to get along. Next episode please!

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By the way, these are the two DVD commercials and the lyrics are translated by Wao in the animesuki forums.

I am getting psychologically disturbed after watching Red Garden episode 6, particularly so since I am at a vulnerable state of mind (is studying for exams right now). The above scene to me, is one of the most powerful and painful scenes for the whole of Red Garden.

I am really impressed with this episode because it clears quite a few doubts and probably added more for me. I so wish that they will sub this in Chinese faster though, since every single episode takes so long. Sigh, beggars cannot be choosers nevertheless.

So yea.

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Episode summary

We started with Rachel doubting her existence in the world. She was starting to think that she was already dead and found no motivation to live on anymore. The scene changed as we saw Kate and Rose talking while Rose’s younger siblings were waiting to go to school via the school bus. Kate then told Rose how they had checked the house and it was empty, even though Rose was scared of hearing it.

Rachel clearly looked like she did not have enough sleep, clearly disturbed and without support from anyone at all. As we changed scenes, we see Claire playing the MD very loud as one of the Grace (prefects, i guess) and was arguing with the Grace until she was going to get a warning. Kate came over and diffused the situation, saying that it was unreasonable to offer a notice just for that. As the Grace left, we also saw Rachel blowing her fuse over something small with her friends, a sign of her losing her sanity. Kate and Rose tried to give her support but Rachel refused and instead dissed Kate for being too nosy and Rose for being a timid girl that only squatted down in fear in the battles.

Lula and JC were talking about the gals, as we changed scenes to a cafe setting. Jc was concerned, as it felt that the four girls had a chance. Lula was unconcerned but she did mention that the girls might be better off this time round and that she would give them an additional “push”. Kate informed them about lemons that could quench their thirst. It seemed that the time between them waiting for the butterflies and idling was a period where they got very frustrated and thirsty. Claire realized that it was true but Rose did not want to suck on the lemon because it was sour. Claire then teased her endlessly for being gutless. We also saw Rachel crying by herself, not knowing what to do at all.

We then saw Harvey, the man inside a research lab with two of his sisters. I am not too sure what happened, but it seemed that they were under serious medication and they were easily thirsty. The scene changed as Claire, Rose and everyone else saw the butterflies once again, meaning they were needed. Rachel was given a call by her boyfriend asking her to come for a party, but she had to decline because of the butterflies.

Kate was the first one there, with Lula cynically saying that she was starting to enjoy it. She totally rejected the notion and Lula informed her that any of them lost the will to fight, all of them would die too. As Claire and Rose walked together, they saw Rachel. Rachel, after seeing the bat, was running away in fear as she tried to escape from this predicament. She was tired of leaving a life that was not life or death. As she run, her eyes only saw visions of people with eyes of that man-beast, as she was clearly losing it. The other three gals finally caught up with her, as Rachel cried and said she rather die now than this.

As they reached the meeting place, Rachel saw she was tired of this and she rather die. Lula appeared and told them they still had a chance to be back to themselves. With that, they were brought to a secret place blindfolded, only to see their own corpses lying in the coffins. Lula simply told them to continue to fight, in order to return to the time with their read bodies instead of their borrowed bodies. They could go back to their peaceful lives.

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Episode thoughts

“It was a lonely me with no one around, sitting down desolate in a place that no one resides. I tried to make myself numb, but I have already turned icy cold.”

That was the song sang by Rachel. It is so clear how it showed that Rachel is simply the one that required the most help, yet rejecting all the help she could give. She cannot see the return of a normal life, that yearning of living yet she could not give up on her life so easily. That was being a human, because no humans would easily state that they could give up on their lives and simply die. No one could because life is precious to everyone.

It is painful to see Rachel this way, even with Kate’s help. This episode clearly shows that Kate is the main strength for this group. Even though she is equally scared like all of them, she continued to encourage Rose who is the most timid, as well as finding solutions to solve the problems that they are forcing with their borrowed bodies. She was the one who found out about sucking lemons that could quench thirst, hence alleviating that frustration building in them, helping everyone to relax.

I can see that Claire is directly affected by Kate and it seems that she is getting stronger too. The fact is that I cannot decide about what Rose will do. Rose is definitely one of the weakest, be it in mind or physical ability. She is completely dependent on Kate to protect her. Without Kate, she is probably the first one to crumble but at least she does rely on Kate for help. However, I feel that this dependency will hurt her one day very hard. I am sure they will exploit this weakness in Rose one day.

That said, this episode gave me more questions on who the hell was Harvey. He was definitely an anatagonist as seen in the preview for episode 7 but what is his purpose. I had a clear suspicion that both his sisters were also on borrowed bodies, only that the medicine is used to curb their paranoia and the likes.

I do not know, but this is a speculation again, since it seems very likely that he has an ulterior aim in all this. Also, my speculation that their deaths are fake falls flat in this episode, since the corpses are already there.

I am also curious over Lula’s claims that they can go back to their normal lives. Can they for sure? However, I feel that it is not a lie due to the fact that there are eight coffins. I assume the first four are from the gals who died, and i do not think that they are the first to suffer from this, since JC and Lula hinted that they have done this many times. This means that all have failed, but they have the faith that this time, they might succeed.

Very interesting, since there are two main mysteries now waiting in the fold.

1. Who the hell is Harvey?

2. What in the world does Lula want in order to return the girls back?