Well do ya?!

Since I have just about finished my finals and am bored out of my mind like how I have always wanted to be since the quarter started I thought it was time to add a bit more to weep over now that 2008 is almost over and 2009 is a few days away. Given how I am a creature that thrives on negativity I thought perhaps it was time to go over some of the dick moves that we have seen so far… Let us recall for a moment the trolls and those full of fail characters.

So any one up for some RAGE? (Note shameless image dump ahead.)

(WARNING: this post will have a lot a rage and mean words for many a character if you cannot tolerate copious amounts of RAGE read no further)

Trolls of 2008

Shoji Kawamori (Macross Frontier)

Planning Conference for Episode 25, and some people thought he loved Ranka and Minmei more than his toys…

This man is my 3D hero, he trolled everyone twice, first with the pineapple cakey, and then with the end. I have already stated how much I love the ending of Macross Frontier and eagerly await the next crop of soon to be trolled people who watch the Macross Frontier Movie expecting an ending… If history is anything to go by these people will be even more pissed than those who wanted to see if Mylene ended up with any one in the Macross 7 OVAs. Mr. Kawamori is a life long troll, heck I bet one of the reasons why we never saw Battle Frontier transform was because of the grief we gave him back in Macross 7. He even brought Ranka up to a high only to let her character suffer from one of the biggest backlashes in Macross history, he even made the call to recycle shot Ranka so that Battle Frontier could look more GODLY when it socked the shit out of Battle Galaxy. That was some EPIC trolling Mr. Kawamori, let’s hope next time will be just as fun.

Abra Lindt (Gundam 00)

He even did a dance while Trolling Seel.

Lindt is a low level troll who lurks on /k/ I have to say that was a mighty fine troll on Seel for having Kataron for tea. Even if every one laments his lack of morals, Lindt is like Oberstien and Garak, he has no use for such small things. Not content with trolling the Sultan of Seel Lindt has also trolled Saji by trying to shack up Andrei and Louise, certainly Louise could do better, but Lindt will not suffer to see Saji happy. He might not get along all that well with Katie, but when Patrick applied to be in the A-Laws for the nth time, Lindt gave his blessing and now Patrick is back. I am sure that when this is all over Patrick is going to thank Lindt for helping him achieve happiness.

Mrs. Nakagami (True Tears)

Trolling her son for being dumb.

Even if I found Hiromi to a bit detestable and jealous to the point that she was greener than Impz’s hair, Mrs. Nakagami was by far more able to hold a grudge and make Hiromi feel it ever since she walked in. That was one awesome troll on Hiromi Mrs. Nakagami, funny thing is Hiromi bought it along with Shin. We still have no idea what the whole deal was with Mrs. Yuasa, but maybe some day we will find out. Still for telling a most cunning lie of all and turning Hiromi into a coward, Mrs. Nakagami was the biggest bitch of True Tears, not even Hiromi was that underhanded. Still let’s hope that Hiromi will never end up like Mrs. Nakagami, when the daughter of Noe blesses the sequel. Next time Mrs. Nakagami, learn to photoshop.

Crusader (The Cancer that is Killing Impz)

!

Me for making this post…

Failures of 2008

Jihad-kun (Gundam 00)

I make no secret of how much I dislike this traitor to the Kurds, and it has never been without reason. Frankly I have no idea why he was ever selected to pilot a Gundam, though granted I never understood how Shin Asuka was given one either. Suffice to say though Jihad-kun has made plenty of dick moves during the course of Gundam 00, perhaps he’s like some hopeless moron that can’t make sense of anything, but one thing is certain Jihad-kun has very poor judgment skills. First off despite his bitch, moans, and complaints to the contrary Jihad-kun’s first dick move came not long after he was squeezed out of his mother’s womb. Where any other child would have done something to thank his mother for her birthing pains with flowers or something, Jihad-kun repaid her by killing his dad, and then killing his mum too. Sure the rotten little bastard blames Prince Ali for this but if his brain washing was so effective why did the little runt try to stop his buddy the suicide bomber? That’s right folks Jihad-kun was too dumb to be brain washed effectively and as a result made all those stupid decisions on his own because Haruhi knows Ali would not have told Jihad-kun to try an obstruct a mission. Not limiting himself to killing his own parents Jihad-kun made another dick move by saving Nena…so much for peace and justice when the only person he did save in season one was a mass murderer. Not content on only saving mass murderers Jihad-kun went two steps further in saving that loser Saji so he could cry and drag down Gundam 00 with his woe is me attitude, worse still Mariana was freed to plague us with kiddie meat shield day care for the duration of the year. Out of all the people he could have save not one was a Kurd, sure Jihad-kun pretends to be a good guy, but judging by the people he has saved he might as well have saved Corner from heartbreak by Ribbons to cement his year of being an ass. Way to go Jihad-kun, may your inability for form coherent thought make for more dick moves in robbing every one of happiness because Saji is miserable.

On the piloting side of things, I can’t believe how this guy can claim to be Gundam when Gundam 00 seems to hate his guts and refused to Trans-Am against Bushido Bob. Really with the way Jihad-kun’s getting his ass kicked he better hope that O-Raizer will help him last five minutes against Prince Ali, otherwise come Sunday maybe his first kills will be team kills. Sucks to be you Jihad-kun now you’ll go down as the worst Gundam pilot ever, if he had to pilot a GN-XIII he’d be worse than Patrick.

Princes Poverty (Gundam 00)

I told her not to watch Cabbage Love…

You know for a monarch who has been ruling for almost a decade she has done less for the average Azadistani than Prince Ali. At least Prince Ali killed off the warring factions even if he had to kill every Azadistani infidel in Azadid to do it, but at least death by fire is faster than a slow death at waiting for Princess couch potato to get off her ass and do something. For all the poverty we see in Azadistan it’s funny how she gets to live in a big fancy palace all day watching TV, you have to admit it’s a real dick move for her to suck up tax money while her people starve and shoot each other on the street. Thank goodness the Feddies came in and stopped her bullshit rule.

Kataron (Gundam 00)

I see you got the message, good to know Kataron can read.

In what is possibly one of the more memorable dick moves of the year Kataron, the terrorists who need protection started a day care for children right next to their Mobile Suit Hangers. Despite their propaganda Kataron are almost as dickish as Hamas in hiding behind inhabited apartment buildings. Perhaps they fancy themselves as some sort of charity, but using kids to be a meat shield for your Anfs is a dick move Karaton…way to go. I am sure the Feddies are evil because they don’t put kids anywhere near their GN-XIIIs. Surprising thing is not even Ribbons is using a kiddie meat shield to protect Gadessa, GARzzo, or Liberty Prime (Arche).

Saji Crossroad (Gundam 00)

Always brings a smile to my face.

Any one who likes this guy needs their head examined, the biggest loser in all of Gundam. His only role is suck and drag down the series with his angst. Way to go Saji talking a big chunk of BS about how much you miss Louise as you flirt with Jihad-kun and Marie. I hope Louise kills Saji for trying to steal her Soma.

Marie (Gundam 00)

You heard her Marie GTFO!

Where do I begin with Marie, she’s disgusting and on the fast track to useless. Either Hal scares this clueless bint into the darkest recess of Soma’s mind that Space Loli comes back to kiss Louise or Hal kills her to spite Al. Either way I miss Soma… If Soma were still around then Saji would have only that lose Jihad-kun to talk to, but now Marie just has to have fake fights with Feldt and give comfort to Saji.

Desu-Yellow (Gundam 00)

Annoyed yet?

God hate this kid, so freaking annoying that you just want to kill her with fire before she says desu again. I hope Prince Ali gives this bitch a cab ride.

Ranka Lee (Macross Frontier)

My Ranka folder nearly ended after episode 20.

One of the most heated fan camp wars to happen all year was from the Ranka faction that wanted to ship their Ranka over having Battle Frontier take on Battle Galaxy in the mecha battle of the year, suffice to say the Episode 20 Revolt was only one of Ranka’s daft decisions that broke my rage meter beyond repair. Such was the idolatry of Ranka that my duties as secret police became more heated as Ranka shippers took to the blogosphere using two or more IDs from the same IP address (You know who you are…) to justify her bullshit because Ranka was moe. Never before had I seen such dedicated worship for moe and loli than in the case of Ranka. Not even Hiromi shippers were as rabid as Ranka’s Moe Guards, I had expected True Tears to be the biggest battle ground, but mein gott is seem that Macross had suffered an invasion of shippers who had no love for the GODLY mecha ending. How it was possible that any one could have thought that I could have tolerated maltreatment of my Alto-hime despite my dogged determination to fanboy my hime until death was in for a great deal of disappointment. It was all fine up until Ranka cried and the Fleet almost died incident, that was the last straw and then she eloped with Brera. It was at that point I was no longer willing to give Ranka the honor of marrying my Alto-hime, and Ballte Frontier agrees.

Would have been more interesting.

I really wanted to like Ranka, but after her abuse of my poor Alto-hime I could not tolerate her antics any more. At first it was all nice and innocent and then after Galia 4 Ranka became famous and made plenty of dick moves against her former friends, she let Elmo get kicked out by Grace without a word in his defense. After all those hard times poor Elmo believed in Ranka when Ozma didn’t and how was he repaid? With treachery, sure Ranka had about much spine as a snail, but all of her cuteness and moe counted for nothing in the end. The saga of woe did not end there as Ranka let my poor Alto-hime get beaten to a pulp by her bodyguard Brera at school for a huge dose of public humiliation…way to go Ranka. Way to stick for my Alto-hime whom you professed to have loved, but not nearly enough to stop your Brera. Ranka thought she was the hime of Frontier and had my Alto-hime climb up a building like some adulterer to have a chit chat when a phone or lord even a visit to Alto-hime’s home would have sufficed…sorry Ranka, but you don’t treat my Alto-hime like that and get away with it. Worse part is you never even realized you were showing that stranger at the time more love than you did to my Alto-hime.

She went from Ninjin Loves you Yay, to Ninjin Loves you ? NAY!

Then Aimo Day came and Ranka decided to hang President Glass out to dry as the public booed him during the parade…that took some cojones Ranka to ditch the leader of Frontier like that without a word or an apology to his face. Little children can be so mean sometimes…Not limiting herself to unintentionally pissing on President Glass Ranka then had a bout of heartbreak and then a great slaughter commenced because Ranka suffered from emotional turmoil and didn’t even apologize. Ranka’s lucky that Sheryl and Alto-hime were there instead of me, I would have tossed her off the roof at that point. I won’t pretend I could sympathize with a little girl who had her heart smashed because she waited forever and a day to confess to my Alto-hime. Oh Ranka you could have shone, but alas your love of song was as weak as your professed love for my Alto-hime. Ranka did not let up on the deluge of disappointment when she saw Mikhail gutted by one of Ai-kun’s friends and then had the gall to ask my Alto-hime to piss on Mikhail’s memory and his oath to protect Frontier to help Ranka take Ai-kun home…if that was a big enough of a dick move she even let Brera kick my Alto-hime’s ass in one last fight and then turnabout and run off with Brera. Oh words could barely convey my RAGE at Ranka for abusing my poor Alto-hime like that. With love such as Ranka’s who needs enemies? All this abuse heaped upon Ranka’s friends and my Alto-hime…and let’s not forget how big of a dick move Ranka did to the Vajra in getting them all pumped up to mate only to have them get blown to bits, and tear her friends to pieces. No doubt Ranka’s fans would say that these were all very nice things Ranka did to these people, of course these same people might be masochists…not that there is anything wrong with being a masochist.

Hungry? Grab a Ranka…

Yeah I have been intolerant of Ranka for almost half the episodes of Macross Frontier, it just sucks when you get high expectations only to see it all blow up in your face. I don’t take lightly to treachery I don’t tolerate it form Jihad-kun and I sure as hell will never tolerate it from a little girl. No for me duty is the most important word in the English language, my standards are not so flexible and weak as to cut a character slack when they fail as hard as Ranka did. Ranka had the best qualities of Minmei at the start and all of it was for nothing all my hopes for Ranka were dashed and spat upon by her base damsel in distress act. Ranka made an oath to the people of Frontier and she broke that and to me that is something vile and detestable to my grunt sensibilities. Oh she was important alright, but good grief did my hopes for her turn sour and into a most powerful hatred I normally reserve to terrorist scum and Saji. Her ignorance of her own malicious behavior was nothing short of appalling and in the end I could not like her any more because she just didn’t do anything to redeem herself from fraternizing with Brera and pissing on everyone. But hey maybe one day when Ranka grows up I can forgive her for all the dick moves she never realized she made. It takes a lot of BS for a green haired loli to be panned even by Impz, but some how Ranka did it. I just wish it didn’t have to be like that. Ignorance is never an excuse Ranka, well let’s hope she learned something at the end, and just maybe in the Movie I will get to see an improved Ranka from that spoiled little brat who nearly sank another fleet. Children can be so cruel.

A new year is about to start in 26 some odd days…and no Mako-cakes will not be reclaiming his manhood.

Well another year has almost past and overall it was pretty good. Much fun was had, many gut busting laughs occurred, and memories both good and bad were made. So here are some poorly laid out thoughts on 2008 even if Fall is not over. I might do one for fall once all is said and done, but even so this post is already rather long. I hope you all had a fun year watching anime, no matter what your genre. Feel free to add some of your own stuff as this is hardly exhaustive, otherwise relive the rage relive the joy, savor Shinichiro’s tears one more time.

Outstanding Lasses

Noe Isurugi (True Tears)

Poor Noe never did find love by series end, but still helping others does make her a better person…

Poor Noe never did find love in the end, but she did help along a couple idiots find happiness. While Shin and Hiromi were content with going nowhere fast, Noe leapt out of a tree and changed every thing, Shin art was thunderstruck, Hiromi was threatened, Ai-chan was forced to face reality, and Nobuse gained the courage to carry on. Still for holding back her true tears for a while after Shin poured out all of his, Noe was an Outstanding Lass for being that selfless and not so vile as to beg a rival for any sort of help or pity points. Besides, Jibeta appreciates her mercy. I hope she finds a good guy some day that understands how great she really is, who knows maybe one of her new friends has yuri tendencies, perhaps both…

Sheryl Nome (Macross Frontier)

By series end this was no idle boast…

I for one was pleasantly surprised when Sheryl stopped being a haughty diva with a bad attitude and became a brave young lass. For a character that was never meant to be much more than Ranka’s older sister figure, Sheryl like the great Misa took on a life of her own and compelled Kawamori to make some changes after episode five. Who have thought that underneath that haughty hostility was one of the more memorable Macross women to ever exist. If you told me that Sheryl would be saving people towards the end I would have laughed my ass off during the early eps. She was on top of the world fell to rock bottom and still with a bit of hime help was able to pull herself together to sing on the Bridge of Battle Frontier. She even sent of Mikhail with style, and risked her own life for the sake of others. Were she a lesser woman Grace’s revenge would have been complete over the Nome family. For believing in the power of her own song and helping out Ranka, and her rather thick headed hime, Sheryl prove to be an Outstanding Lass of the highest order.

Klein Klan (Macross Frontier)

She’s no Sinagporean that’s for sure.

Poor Klan lost her Mikhail, but she did mourn in her own way, the Meltran way. For some one who had her own fair share of grief it was most noble of her to try and help Mikhail’s friends now that he was gone. Besides some one still had to take care of the kids. As the only person that command Alto-hime’s respect I say she did pretty well in putting hime on the right path, she did prevent Sheryl from running away at least. After all only a foolish miclone picks a fight with a Meltran, those armor piercing slaps are the least weapons of their formidable arsenal. Alto-hime is very fortunate to have such an Outsanding Lass as his onee-sama. I hope Kawamori gives her a happy ending of her own someday, next Macross perhaps?

Katie (Gundam 00)

Still waiting for a Gundam 00 College Years spin off. I bet Katie was a Bio Major, and Prince Ali had a blast in theology class as well as chemistry. Bushido Bob was probably in Japanese studies and president of the anime club, and poor Patrick was still trying to pass his entrance exam. As for Sumeragi…Partying 101?

Poor Katie has her hands full with an irritable XO, an Innovator conspiracy, a devoted book dumb suitor, a pill popping yuri pilot, and a cosplaying ace to deal with. All of this while having to lead her brave band of men and women against CB and their magic GN particles that almost put Minovsky Particles to shame. Life is tough Katie, but never has the thought of defeat or angst crossed her mind. Even if she one of the unsung heroes of Gundam 00 I think Katie is an Upstanding Lass for not adding to the wangst that CB and Kataron keep pumping out. I wish her the best of luck so that Prince Ali might be put on the fastest route to kill more terrorists. Besides she made Patrick a man and mildly dangerous to the point that Patrick was actually able to cripple Lockon Mk I and filled Tieria full of lose for the second season. The Power of LOVE is indeed a curious thing…

Touma Minami (Minami-ke)

The really surprising thing is that Touma is technically being groped…

It’s hard to think for oneself and doubly hard to think for some other half wit as well. One cannot help but admire the camaraderie that Touma has for fellow cross dresser Mako-cakes. That swim suit gambit was damn clever and even greater deeds were done to protect Mako-cakes’ identity even as Touma had little reason to do so. Friends will do a lot of things for you, but few would genuinely help you cross dress for your lustful ambitions. When Mako-cakes was about to give up on going to the pool, Touma pulled through so Mako-cakes could see Haruka in a bathing suit, incidentally Haruka was tossed in optimal proximity to his last known position in the pool. For going above and beyond what a friend would normally do, Touma is an Outstanding Lass.

Sakura (Wagaya no Oinari-sama)

I bet she’d make a great writer, rated G and otherwise!

While Hosaka was under delivering on fantasies this year, it fell upon poor Sakura to fill in the gap. She did so magnificently providing plenty of imaginary fanservice. Oh the power of the girl’s imagination. Even if she was the only normal of the lot, she was able to kick ass and get a hell of a ride home thanks to Kuu-chan. Maybe one day she’ll realize that she only has one rival, but until then may her imagination run riot, Haruhi-sama knows that a fertile mind is more interesting than reality.

Louise Halevy (Gundam 00)

While Piloting Sumltron…with Soma in her arms…and sharing a passionate kiss.

Haruhi-sama knows how much I hated Louise in season one as the stupid air head with her undeserved wealth and poor choice in men. How gloriously she has changed since her family’s run in with Nena. In fact she has exceeded all expectations and has not become the morality pet that I dreaded would be. Joining the yuri side of things was awfully nice of Louise as is her proper attitude about kicking CB and Kataron’s ass to avenge herself against the protectors of Nena. May Prince Ali help Louise achieve the revenge she has so long been denied. Long may her yuri love for Soma power her fighting spirit, and may the pile of dead terrorists be tall in her quest for justice. Outstanding Louise just outstanding, may the superior pilots of the Federation teach you all they know.

Excellent Evil

Hayami-sempai (Minami-ke)

Sorry Kana, but your cooperation is not neccessary…I don’t know what happened, but I can tell.

It is always more fun with Hayami-sempai, her juice is much more fun than Akkiko’s jamu with far more interesting results. Besides where Maki lacked the chutzpah to fight Hosaka, Hayami slapped the guy over the stolen bento, she even kicked him hard. While there are many ways to be evil a great malicious being knows precisely where to apply their trade. Given that Hayami has few wants, her treatment of Hosaka carried the hallmarks of excellent evil. No one is safe from Hayami-sempai, even the smartest fall to her juice, and while Kana never takes a sip, we all know that even juiced Hayami is a force to be reckoned with. No one seriously thinks Hayami spared Kana…I may not know, but I sure as hell can dream.

Grace O’Conner (Macross Frontier)

I am proud of that technological terror, delicious villain is delicious and evil. ALL HAIL GRACE!

Who could have suspected a Kikoku Inoue voiced character was the real villain, still evil Belldandy is deliciously evil. Grace does it all, from managing and helping ruin the careers of idols to piloting a VF-27 Grace’s skills are many. One cannot help but appreciate how close she was in getting her vengeance on her erstwhile researchers. She made and broke Sheryl with Ranshe’s precious bugs and used Ranshe’s kids like pawns. Sure she was helped by the fact that Ranka was in way over her head, but in crafting her own nii-san as Ranka’s Prince in a Valkyrie was the most malicious and terrible thing that could be done. The only thing that could have made it worse was if Ranka was with Brera’s child, thankfully for Ranka that fate was avoided. Lord Grace was almost Queen of the Galaxy and used the descendants of her enemies to do it had she succeeded the name of Nome and Mei would have been cursed for all time. Fire could not stop her, dimension eater could not stop her, and if you think that Grace was killed by Alto-hime with Mikhail’s gun…well Grace has been dead before. With any luck Miss Kikoku Inoue will bless us again with her evil voice may her legacy be as enduring as Kamijin’s.

Kana Minami (Minami-ke)

Don’t underestimate the cruelty of Kana…

Being smart is not all its cracked up to be, and without a doubt Kana has wrought more havoc and broken more lives than your typical stupid girl. Kana not only gets to defeat Chiaki more often than not, and has also taken control of Chiaki’s clique of friends. The continued success of the Mako-cakes experiment is absolutely diabolical, Kana doesn’t have to do much more than give Mako-cakes a nudge and the rest just follows. From inadvertently leading on Fujioka to ruining any hope Mako-cakes has of ever being a guy again Kana may not know it, but if she was even a bit smarter the world might be dancing to her tune. Unless of course there was some one even more evil…

Haruka Minami (Minami-ke)

What occurred that dreadful I can never say for I am bound by wards and oaths of a terrible power, but I tell you this, when we say Haruka is AMAZING that applies to everything…

It’s always the kind and gentle ones who wreak terrible vengeance once you push their kindness to the breaking point. Like her Banchou legends it is hard to discern truth from legend, no one knows what Haruka did to Chiaki and Kana that day and neither have ever spoken of it…perhaps there are things in this world that are simply too terrible to mention.

Upstanding Blokes

Patrick Colasour (Gundam 00)

Patrick can fit only a limited number of thoughts in his head, and most of those some how involve Katie.

Sure the man is an idiot, but given how the series he’s in is stocked with characters with emotional baggage with loads of emotional turmoil Patrick is still the only real good guy in the series. He hasn’t done anything evil and his reason for fighting is the only honest one and the only one associated with love. Besides the more screen time he sucks up the less Haptism and Marie get to rear their hateful visages. Never will you see any angsting on the part of old Patrick, he doesn’t know much and he doesn’t give two shits what other people think. If nothing else the man is persistent and has been pursing the love of his life for over four years, that right there is loyalty and devotion of the highest order. If nothing else he annoys the hell out of CB fanatics because Patrick is better than Tieria. Patrick is like root beer he’s bubbly, happy, and the more you watch the more you begin to like the fact that he also takes time away from Saji, Marie, Haptism, Mariana, and Desu-Yellow. He’s not only upstanding for piloting for his Katie, but he’s insidiously happy as well.

Saotome Alto (Macross Frontier)

Hime takes after his mother.

While almost universally panned by every rabid shipper that followed Macross Frontier, my Alto-hime was still a reliable one in that he honored his promise to stick with Sheryl who lost everything, going against his boss, his crew, and losing for a time his VF-25. Furthermore he chose bros over hoes and remained a friend to Luca and saved him from the curse of Kak’s colors instead of running away with Ranka. Most importantly of all hime did not have the high level of emotional baggage that seems to plague mecha protagonists these days. Hime trolled the shippers and for that he is a most Upstanding Bloke. Besides I tell you all again the triangle was resolved it all depends on how sharp your ears are…

Nobuse (True Tears)

When can his glory fade?
O the wild charge he made!
All the world wonder’d.
Honour the charge he made!
Honour the Green Brigade,
Noble Nobuse!

Poor noble Nobuse got caught in a love triangle, were he a lesser man he would have killed his best friend turned rival in a fit of rage. He could have done it two since Nobuse was able to see off two interlopers with but a glance, truly that reputation was hard earned and done over a veritable mountain of vanquished foes! Instead of destroying his friendship this Upstanding Bloke took an altogether different path and not only spared his rival a beating, but also saved his ass from getting beat by others. Never sparing himself he even sought out a curse so that his beloved Ai-chan could get a clean break. In the end his undying love was felt and he got the start that should have been his the first time. While there are some who may still hate Nobuse for giving Ai-chan happiness, such miscreants ignore the fact that Nobuse was a better man than his best friend. He was decisive, where Shin hesitated, he was strong where Shin was weak, and he never set eyes on anyone else. His heart was inviolable and for such strength of character Nobuse is an Upstanding Bloke.

Prince Ali (Gundam 00)

God knows ’twere better to be deep
Pillowed in silk and scented down,
Where love throbs out in blissful sleep,
Pulse nigh to pulse, and breath to breath,
Where hushed awakenings are dear . . .
But you’ve a rendezvous with Death
At midnight in some flaming town,
When Spring trips north again this year,
And I to my pledged word am true,
You shall fail that rendezvous.

In this Noble Prince of Kurdistan is the will of Tomino reborn, while death’s door has become a Sunrise joke, Prince Ali has come forth to restore its permanence and cull the fat from a bloated cast. He kills not for some false morality, but for his own fun and it cannot be denied that it was Prince Ali who did the most noble thing in Gundam 00 so far by killing off roughly 66% of Team Trinity and giving Nena a taste of her own medicine. Truly Prince Ali has done more for the good guys than CB did all season and then some, after all it’s not as if Jihad-kun and his buddies killed any one who deserved it, hell even Ribbons one upped them when he gave Corner a broken heart… Also while the killing of Kinue was rather unnecessary it did set her soul free to be reborn in Macross Frontier as Sheryl Nome, a fair trade by any account. No genetic engineering will be found in prince Ali, for he is a GOD OF WAR who honed his martial prowess the old fashioned way,  neither super soldier, newtype, nor Innovator, Prince Ali is 100% Bad Ass Normal. For killing off the greatest number of villains in S1, Prince Ali is an Upstanding Bloke.

Mako-cakes (Minami-ke)

Meido has changed…

It’s indistinguishable…(courtesy of Comrade Haesslich)

While Mako-cakes hasn’t done much more than give us all a good laugh, I think that in itself was service enough. Lord knows many of us will never see meido in the same way again and Mako-cakes has broken many an otaku. May Mako-cakes show us all how there is no price too high to get into the home of your crush, and incidentally attain more female company without being a loser harem animu lead. Oddly enough it is nothing short of astounding that this not so book smart kid has such discipline. Had it been anyone else the pretense would have ended long ago with some thing unseemly happening. For maintaining the pretense of being a girl and out girling Chiaki Mako-cakes is an upstanding bloke, more so because he has yet to jump Haruka despite ample opportunity to do so, Mako-cakes is an Upstanding Bloke.

Ozma Lee (Macross Frontier)

The cake was excellent by the way…

When the death flags were flying high and the hearts of fans stopped at the sight of his bloodied cockpit, Kawamori trolled every one with pineapple cakey. It was brilliantly done on the part of Ozma despite the womanizing myth it seems that baking might advert the bane of aces. He was a terrible squadron leader that failed to convince his crew to follow his lead, but he was a decent enough guy to Cathy who almost married that Leon fellow. If nothing else he’s upstanding because he broke the pineapple curse, nuff said.

Bobby (Macross Frontier)

Don’t worry Cathy Bobby will adopt you!

Bobby may have given up on love, but one can’t argue with the quality of his parenting nor the quality of his children. Along with Cathy he actually went to a pre-battle sale that made total sense 80% off everything is something no one in their right mind could pass up. Bobby even had a big enough heart to help out poor Cathy after she lost her dad. He did after all help raise the smartest crop of bridge crew we have seen this year that was not cursed with the stupid. For that alone Bobby is an Upstanding Bloke, besides I am not stupid enough offend the only ace cap ship helmsman of the year.

Memorable Moments (mecha and otherwise)

Hiromi wins twice (True Tears)

Cry, CRY! CRY some more!

Ugh…I wish I could forget about that false hope they instilled in me. Here’s to Hiromi not losing her lead, just remember how much you both owe Noe for stirring up the stagnant waters between you two.

Macross Frontier two part Finale (Macross Frontier)

My Happiest Moment of the Year.

Oh yes Kawamori ultimate troll against the shippers and delivery of the mecha battle to beat of 2008. If you believe that new age hippie in that he made a harem ending that is all fine and well, but if you had the Macross OSTs looping for a while now you will have noticed that the end of Prolgue F was only played for Sheryl and Alto-hime, moreover Battle Frontier capped off its score with the same tune slightly mixed. Thus were Sheryl and Alto-hime blessed by Battle Frontier, and every true fan of Macross will concur that Battle Frontier knows best. So that was the end in musical terms that Kawamori has been touting for 25 years, Battle Frontier hath mused and only a fool would argue with a big bad capital ship with huge Macross Canon after you realize Kawamori is rather eccentric and always high on something in public. When Battle Galaxy was previewed the end was no longer in doubt and we finally saw two and a quarter Macross class vessels duking it out to the death. The way was cleared the character shots were rushed to make way for Battle Frontier and Battle Galaxy as well as a host of ghosts, valkyries, ships, and bugs. It was epic and had ever real mecha fan on the floor twitching violently upon its conclusion after the sensory overload and GODLY mecha action that had been cooking in Kawamori’s hookah for 25 years. Epic fan wank to go with EPIC TROLL for Kawamori. If your mecha sense was not firing on all cylinders you are no fan of mecha.

Metal Gear Rex vs Metal Gear Ray (Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots)

I wish I was that good… (Spoilers!)

When I first saw the MGS4 trailers my jaw dropped when I got a hint that this was possible. Sure it was really the end…but it was at least on par if not slightly better than the old man fight. It was so much fun to play, slightly hard at first, but by Tsuruya’s fang it was everything I wanted it to be. Sure Liquid was a cheap bastard, but a few AT missiles can take care of that…Thank you Mr. Kojima, I am satisfied with your conclusion of the Metal Gear Saga. I can also stop egging people on to send you death threats motivational letters to your office since MGS3 ended.

Liberty Prime (Fallout 3)

Better dead than Red. (Spoilers)

What more needs to be said about one of the most definitive mecha moments in gaming for 2008. Western mecha may not be as popular as it once was but mein gott I dare say Liberty Prime has the most personality of any mecha this year. It certainly has more motivation to liberate Alaska than Gundam 00 has for helping Jihad-kun. Sure the Liberty Prime was no Zaku but hell it lobbed nukes like grenades and has some of the most awesome lines ever in anything mecha. Without a doubt Liberty Prime had one of the most just causes of any mecha, it did not pretend to fight for world peace or any such BS, but was completely honest about what it would do…destroy all communists. The only people who did not have their mecha fancy tickled were agents of the Red Menace. We all know what Liberty Prime has to say about that…

Mako-cakes’ continuing slide (Minami-ke)

Just friends? Maybe more…?

For some reason watching a character slowly become something else is at times hypnotic, I bet many of us could not help but watch with terrified glee at how Mako-cakes became more and more girl than boy. It’s like a black hole the viewer is simply drawn in and cannot escape after reaching the point of no return. Kana has scarred the poor guy soon to be gal for life, and I doubt any of us would be surprised if Mako-cakes signed up for gender reassignment. Thankfully for him at least his slow slide into femininity has gotten him more female company than most boys his age, oddly enough those in on the secret don’t seem to mind at all and Uchida along with Touma seem keen on keeping Mako-cakes as is, so at least Mako-cakes has some faint hope for someone to take him in if Haruka spurns him. Funny how it was all his love for Haruka that made him what he is today, one cannot help but wonder if Mako-cakes even remembers his original objective. Scary thing is…I bet he kept that bag of clothes. So much for his wild manliness that cannot be contained… Hopefully next year there won’t be a damned Fuyuki.

Death of Team Trinity and the coming of Yazan’s heir (Gundam 00)

Now it gets fun…

I am still a cautiously optimistic about Gundam 00 despite my dismay and disgust at the sight of Desu-Yellow and Saji. However it has been some time since Gundam power levels have been taken down to the low that they have, I wish the Gundam 00 team the best, and at least for now they can console themselves that they have beaten out SEED (even if they aren’t getting as high ratings, at least Fukuda is out of the way) for the time being (Marie withstanding). Still the destruction of Team Trinity was by far a high point and presaged how Celestial Being has been doing less good for the world than Prince Ali. If nothing else it does feel as if Tomino is back in charge of things and with any luck Prince Ali will kill even more useless cast members. It was an awesome Gundam jack that made Anavel Gato look like an amateur and the losers of Cosmic Era look like a bunch sissies. Prince Ali simply flew up and kicked the shit out them BY HIMSELF, only the heir of Yazan Gable could be this bad ass, and when you are Prince Ali you don’t need no Permit the reputation says it all. Such a pity that the traitor Jihad-kun saved Nena from justice… The conclusion for season one was good, but this was the moment when Gundam 00 really started firing on all cylinders, the tech gap had been bridged and Ali had delivered the Earth Sphere from the depredations of the Trinities. It’s worth noting that after Prince Ali slew Johann the only wedding intervened on was that of the hated Azadistani occupier.

Getting a boyfriend is tough, but for lovable lasses like Miya here reading this post could help her come up with a winning plan to make Lulu her HUNNI. Ah music to me ears.

Well I guess waiting for the professor to compile all the data from every land is now the norm so in the mean time I guess more posting time. So this post has been incubating on my hard drive for sometime ever since True Tears ended but it has been expanded quite a bit since then.

As a military man I simply adore how shoujo shows have one thing that most other genres lack, doctrine. While there is many a mecha pilot and shounen brat that is ready and eager to charge forth into the fray, this to me is at best some piss poor doctrine and a serious lack there of at worst. In any case the typical shoujo Heroine displays far more tactical and strategic acumen at achieving her objectives so here is a breakdown of a few that I have come across, this list is by no means comprehensive and I hope that a few of you have some proposals of your own. Like war for the shoujo heroine there is no substitute for victory in her love life and in her struggles all is fair, though not all is right. To form a coherent doctrine she has to break things down into strategy (over all vision of how to achieve her goals), operational art (amassing the resources she needs where and when she needs them), and tactics (what she does in every date/meeting). It is no simple task and while there are preferred doctrines proper execution and the will to win remain key to a decisive victory.

Blitzkrieg

Best feint ever…

The crème de la crème of love doctrines being the most commonly used with varying degrees of success. Within Blitzkrieg positional confrontations are to be avoided, with mobility, combined arms, flexibility, and snap decision making being the hallmarks of good modus operandi of successful practitioners. While tactical elegance is usually a given strategic planning is not, even with 100 successful tactical victories in dates, it can still be all undone if those victories are not used wisely. Advances may also be limited with regards to limitations in income which affect operational art. With regards to the target (i.e. the hapless boy the shoujo has set her sights on) an armored thrust along a narrow front violently executed will be part of her opening moves to penetrate the target’s defenses and garner the target’s immediate attention along with daze, fear, and confusion. While maintaining momentum and tactical initiative the shoujo will endeavor to bypass all strong points and effect a full encirclement on her target. Once this is achieved swift capitulation by her target will be forth coming as her man/woman will have no choice but to submit to her will. Hopefully by this stage her target will be over awed enough to the point that capitulation will be swift, final, and voluntary.

Noted Practitioners

Amu’s numerous Shugo Chara allow her to be flexible in offense and defense.

Hinamori Amu (Shugo Chara) – with her very own combined arms team of Ran (Panzer Grenadier), Miki (Heavy Panzer Abteilung), Su (Pioneer/Combat Engineer), and Eru (Artillery) her ability to punch through defensive lines is unparalleled with her subsequent domination over Ikuto, Tadase, Kukai, and Kairi. Her rapid progress on no less than four fronts is nothing short of amazing. Sadly her lack strategic vision as to who she wants to end up with (this blogger is of the opinion that Ikuto is the only choice) may hamper her ultimate success. Her repeated victories over Utau are nothing short of love-field judo that has left Utau beaten and almost broken.

The most loved of all losers in love.

Isurugi Noe (True Tears) – One of the most famous contributors to the doctrine, her plight bitterly demonstrated what a lack of strategic vision could do to an expert tactician. Unfortunately for Noe that while she was able to achieve in mere months where it took her rivals years was nothing short of amazing her ultimate objective was not secured quickly enough. Too late did Noe realize who it was that she loved and too late did she realize the efforts of her Nii-san Ally resulting in her defeat. Shinichiro was able to avoid a complete encirclement by Noe and affected a head long retreat to Hiromi’s formidable defensive works. Once there a long drawn out siege was deemed untenable and Noe moved on with her life blessing the life of a better, luckier, and worthier man. Shinichiro would never forget what could have been and Hiromi was forced to acknowledge Noe’s superiority in tactics.

Shock and Awe

Hime was shocked, but will hime be awed?

Much like the afore mentioned Blitzkrieg this doctrine also emphasizes combined arms, but with displays of overwhelming power, dominant environmental awareness, dominant maneuvers, and spectacular displays of force to paralyze the targeted boy’s/girl’s perception of his/her little world and destroy his/her will to resist her affections. She must seize control of the environment and paralyze or so overload her rivals’ and beloved’s perceptions and understanding of events that the beloved and any rivals would be incapable of resistance at the tactical and strategic levels. The failings of this doctrine with regards to maintaining such high levels of power meant that it is a strategy for the short term. Love wars of attrition should be avoided where ever possible and there are limitations to sustainability as it is a very resource (money and time) intensive method. The key to success is to achieve rapid dominance and make off with the objective as quickly as possible in 13 episodes or less. If the series is to last longer than 13 episodes victory is no longer guaranteed and use of surges might be necessitated to keep her in the fight.

Noted Practitioners

That’s the Shock and Awe spirit for you.

Sheryl Nome (Macorss Frontier) – while Sheryl’s initial objectives were at first unclear her ability to achieve rapid dominance over her Alto-hime was swift and nearly decisive. Only a last minute propaganda victory by Ranka prevented a quick conclusion to what will now be a drawn out slugfest. Despite Alto-hime’s initial misgivings and wariness Sheryl was able to use great displays of Sheryl power to overwhelm him and secure his friendship often leaving her beloved speechless and at a loss for words with but a kiss. Unfortunately for Sheryl her falling victim to Grace means that she will have to initiate a surge in order to secure Alto-hime’s undying affections. Her task is also complicated by the fact that her beloved is highly desired by everyone else on Frontier.

When I first saw this series I thought that this was just yuri-baiting, and how delightfully wrong I was.

Chikane Himemiya (Kannazuki no Miko) – The premier theorist and most successful practitioner of Shock and Awe, Chikane was able to delay her offensive until the last moments to achieve complete strategic and tactical surprise on both her rival Soma and her beloved Himeko. With her awesome displays of Chikane power Himeko was swiftly taken and Soma was sent packing in short order. Such was her mastery of the doctrine that her yuri-love trumped out a more traditional and expected relationship. While her campaign is fraught with controversy, Chikane demonstrated that for all her questionable actions, that there is no substitute for victory. Like a master she achived all her initial goals in 12 episodes rather than the allotted 13.

…and that would be the last mistake Katsura’s enemy would ever make.

Kotonoha Katsura (School Days) – the most heavy handed of the Shock and Awe theorists Katsura suffered much during her long campaign to win the head of Itou. Where her rivals all attempted to and succeeded in sleeping with her prize, Katsura triumphed over them all once she gained the ability and ruthlessness to use Katsura power in sharp and awesome displays of her dominance. Where her rivals all ended up sluts, riddled with STDs, and in one case dead, Katsura was forcible deflowered but remained innocent as her consent was not given and her assailant was not Itou. Nevertheless despite the costly battles once Katsura amassed the operational requirements, her vengeance and victory were decisive and final. Sekai and her unborn bastard were left dead, and her other rivals soon all succumbed to all manner of diseases forced into perpetually single as no man or woman would take them for lovers. Katsura won the head of the bastard Itou and sailed off to distant lands with all of her power and wealth. It is said that she made a drinking goblet out of Itou’s skull, but as to her true fate, that has faded into legend.

People’s War

This victory belongs to Ranka and all who supported her.

Often the preferred doctrine of shoujo who are born or possess more humble, though not communist, means, People’s War favors infiltration tactics by a shoujo with more limited resources, and relies on effective local support to achieve her aims. Hallmarks of this doctrine include:

1: A short artillery bombardment to start any offensive action, featuring heavy shells mixed with numerous caterpillar projectiles, which would concentrate on neutralizing the target’s and rivals’ front lines, rather than on destroying them by itself.

2: Under a creeping barrage, shock trooper shoujo would move forward and infiltrate the boy’s/girl’s defenses at previously identified weak points. She would avoid combat whenever possible and attempt to destroy or capture the target’s headquarters and artillery strong points.

3: After the shock trooper shoujo and her local support had done their job, units heavily equipped with cake and chocolate would make heavy attacks along narrow fronts against any of her beloved’s strong points the shock trooper shoujo missed. When the artillery and locals were in place, she could direct the fire wherever it was needed to accelerate the breakthrough.

4: In the last stage of the assault, she and her local allies would mop up any remaining resistance.

It is a costly doctrine to employ and often entails an emotional toll that is at times too awful to contemplate, however if a shoujo sees things through to the end her target and her rivals may be bleed white to the point that she is the one with the last 1000 valentine chocolates. It is a more attrition oriented doctrine that rewards patience and tenacity in face of daunting odds.

Noted Practitioners

Ranka during the Birthday Offensive.

Ranka Lee (Macross Frontier) – despite Sheryl’s early and dramatic successes, effective local support enabled Ranka to stay in the fight to achieve her grandiose public relations victory securing for Ranka the attentions of Alto-hime, where her initial overtures often fell flat. Stealth was her favored means of achieving her goals and she achieved great success in her first film by getting a kiss from her hime. Ranka continues to draw upon strong local support, but currently lacks the means to consolidate her gains due to the lack of comparative Ranka power in comparison to Sheryl. With Sheryl now on the defensive it remains to be seen if Ranka can maintain her recent gains.

A masterfully done feigned sleep by Aihara.

Aihara Kotoko (Itazura na Kiss) – the most noted advocate of People’s War whose eventual victory is all but assured. Despite lacking overwhelming Kotoko power Aihara enjoys unparalleled local support from her future mother in law, and her allies. While her beloved Naoki remains defiant every observer has noted that his ability to mount continued resistance is fading fast. We are in effect seeing the last throes of the Naoki resistance in a few months time he will take Aihara’s name and wear a nurse outfit. Kotoko’s most determined rival is a petty princess who while exceeding Kotoko’s intelligence is nonetheless losing to the “stupid girl.” Nevertheless with ultimate victory and Naoki’s unconditional surrender a good many weeks away Kotoko will have to endure much hardship to be happy, but she will be happy in the end. Episode 14 just aired Kotoko has won a hard earned victory, the War of Naoki’s Ring is now officially over with Naoki’s unconditional surrender to Kotoko. The terms of Reiko’s surrender were notably Carthaginian.

Once again Risa receives aid from an unexpected source…

Risa Koizumi (Lovely Complex) – one of the most famous, but at least the tallest contributors to the theory, Risa’s campaign was a long and hard fought one. Many were the times in which thing looked bad, but with decisive local support she fended off her rivals and would be suitors to win her prize. Her collective title of Hanshin Kyojin with her beloved chibi is a testament to her arduous campaign where her tenacious nature proved that love knows no height. Despite the hard fought nature of her offensive, her terms were rather generous to the vanquished and her beloved. May she be as happy as she is tall.

Methodical Battle

Hiromi works out in her fortress of doom during the War of Shinichiro’s Picture Book.

The most time intensive doctrine available and preferred method of childhood friend types, Methodical Battle is the least flexible of all doctrines. Entrenchment and establishing of extensive defense in depth are required for successful implementation. The goal is to establish such an intricate defense that no rival can hope to assail the methodical bishoujo in her fortress of doom. Fatal errors include the possibility that her defense may be flanked and the chance that an airborne coup de main can dig her out of her fortifications in short order. Thus a defense be lavishly provided for with fortified rooms within or near a target’s house and a deep system of block houses and forts to delay her rivals as long as possible. The ultimate weapon however remains childhood memories and preferably a yubikiri and first kiss. With these a methodical bishoujo cannot lose because she has already been chosen from the outset. Timing is critical however and while her defensive lines are formidable she must keep her beloved within the deepest layers of her defense and hope that her center of gravity is never struck. If the lynchpin of her defenses (i.e. childhood memories) is compromised her defensive line might become irreversibly compromised.

Noted Practitioners

How I wish Shinichiro took her up on that.

Hiromi Yuasa (True Tears) – The most controversial advocate of Methodical Battle, Hiromi was able to camp out in her beloved’s home for many moons allowing her to construct an elaborate defense that Shinichiro retreated to in the face of the Noe Blitzkrieg. While she was almost fatally flanked and destroyed her masterful appeals for Noe’s pity were sufficient to delay Noe long enough to prevent a complete encirclement of the objective. While the landmines will require years to clear, Hiromi won a costly victory without having decisively vanquished the memories and deeds of Noe Isurugi. Long will Shin remember Noe, and long will Hiromi feel the effects of her very close defeat at Noe’s hands. At least she has her man and the fact remains that there is no substitute for victory.

This is how it ends.

Slag. Damn you Hiromi (fires AK-47 angrily into the air)! Okay now that my fury at Noe crying semi-sad tears has largely passed I think I can write a bit more about what happened. Hiromi and Shin are a couple, hooray. I can at least console myself with the fact that Hiromi has moved on a bit form her old ways, at least she knows that she was being a nasty woman, but at least she started to change. When Hiromi started confessing her faults I already saw the fist signs of Hiromi ascendant. When Shin’s face lit up when Hiromi said she loved him Noe getting a broken heart was a foregone conclusion. I guess the childhood friend thing really ran that deep. I’ll keep this short since I don’t have the words to describe the anguish I felt when Noe walked off on her own.

I don’t hate you, I just don’t like you…

Amen.

I just hope that now that Hiromi has everything (plus Shin) she ever wanted that she will be all the better for it. Not sure how doing a split is important, but okay. In all honesty I wasn’t even teary eyed by the time the final confession took place. Noe took all of them. Just nuts… Even if it was a less than perfect love with the selfishness so long as they are happy I can refrain from burning them in effigy. Yeah love isn’t fair sometimes. Well cheers to Hiromi and those who never once wavered in their conviction to support her. Still it was good to see how Jun demonstrated his superiority in tearing apart her less than genuine words regarding Noe’s condition. Jun is still the master of the weirding way. I am also glad that Hiromi was able to reconcile a bit more with Kanae and if the parallel holds then Hiromi is in the same position Kanae was all those years ago when Mrs. Yuasa was able to make her husband’s heart waver. Still they are family now and Hiromi is now going to be stuck with them both as step parents and as in laws. I wonder how that wedding will play out…

Me too.

Yep, same here.

Indeed.

Well Noe got rejected by Shin-chan, and it did make me very sad when Shin declared his love for Hiromi. At least Shin recognized the fact that he loved Noe too, but in the end loved Hiromi more. I did not expect the guy to cry, but it was a mark of how if Hiromi had not even been a factor he would have fallen through the earth for Noe rather than just fall hard. When Shin-chan broke he went down on both knees. Well I guess he wasn’t just leading Noe on then and Noe was the light that allowed him and eventually Hiromi to shine. I am glad that Noe was able to rebuild a life of her own on her own power. Perhaps some day when she is ready to love again she will find a nice guy who will help her out of a tree. Who ever that guy happens to be he will be a very lucky guy.

Yay.

(Ascaloth, Stripey, Kurogane, and Kabitzin pile in only for Mentar to vault over them and get first dibbs.)

No they wanted to see…

I have to give credit to Noe for not just breaking down into tears from the outset and tried to find her own strength. I accept the time skip as measure to show how Noe was able to get on with her after Shin and Jun left. It was fitting that spring was the time when Noe cried again because it was the culmination of her efforts to renew her broken heart and look confidently towards her future. Life goes on and time will heal all wounds though not always fully. In hindsight may her tears were of joy, joy that her meeting with Shin-chan eventually netted her handsome dividends or they were of sadness at her first failed love, perhaps a little bit of both.

Step-by-step, day by day, let’s start over…

I really wanted to hate this guy right now, but I couldn’t kick a guy if he was this down and out.

Advance!

As for the good man Jun he has taken his love for Noe to a place far enough and maybe one day Tomoyo will waltz into his life. After all one as simple as Tomoyo would be unaffected by Jun’s powers, still Tomoyo is missing her shots. One day she will make one but until then Jun’s love for Noe runs deep. I still wish they had expanded on Jun a bit more but as it stands I can write him off as a man of few words. I still wish they would have given us the juicy details of Kanae’s hatred of Mrs. Yuasa, but I suppose that we are just going to have to believe the Mrs. Yuasa was more like Noe than Hiromi.

Yep.

…

…

Yes Hiromi’s hero, but not mine, not Shirukii’s, or the other Shin’s.

Nobuse and Aiko are doing well and Aiko seems much more radiant now that she is no longer dreading Nobuse’s company. I trust that by the time they marry that Aiko’s heart will no longer waver in the face of Shin, and Nobuse can call upon Shin to be his best man without fear. I still liked how even Nobuse was shocked that Shin and Hiromi were back together. Clearly Nobuse also favors Noe as a good girl.

Aiko is in love again.

With you Nobuse…(put down the knife)

It was a fun ride and it felt good to get some closure even if Noe’s fate was bittersweet. I still think Noe was the catalyst for the major developments. I liked her the moment she jumped out of her tree and into Shin’s life. It was because of Noe’s inspiration that Shin became a man for Hiromi, and it was because of Noe that both Hiromi and Aiko were compelled to confess. Aiko went bust quickly, while Hiromi was forced to end her sitzkrieg strategy and get out of her jealous rut even if by a little. Noe brought two couples together. Nobuse sought her help in letting Aiko go, and Shin needed Noe to be his guide and help him realize what he really wanted and to do what he had to do. I still think Noe deserved better, but now she can stand on her own. I hope she becomes a great woman who will make Shin regret ever letting her go.

The friendship between women is a glorious thing, besides megane girl is hawt even at this distance. Usagijen will always be Noe’s friend till the end they just haven’t met yet.

I would love to wake up to this.

Ah well, no hard feelings and it was great to see that True Tears did turn out great even if some of us wrote it off when it was first announced. PA Works deserves to be commended for the great job they did, they dangled the possibility of a Noe end so brilliantly that many of us who dared to hope bought it lock, stock, and barrel. The music was as always excellent and the still frames were pretty and colored. I look forward to more from PA Works and hopefully the spark, the charm, and the story will all be there in their next production.

Back where it all began…

So here will it end.

Noe is at least happy, and though she is on her own now I think she will be fine. Thanks for supporting Noe, Aiko, and Hiromi. Thanks for watching. Noe is Moe. Sieg Noe.

Tears of the Three Views is in good hands…

Yeah I know, we’re doomed.

Andohbytheway Hiromi when Noe’s daughter gets adopted by Shin-chan, do not act like Kanae. Remember you owe Noe big time for turning Shin into a man.

What ever you do, do not ever take off your mellow glasses. They are the only thing keeping Jealous Hiromi from sticking out her ugly head. Megane Hiromi is fine too, seriously.

Fin.

Yes mein Noe, fly I will.

Sorry for the lateness of this post I had to run about to a dental appointment and then do tech support for my cousin. Nevertheless my glorious Noe is having a rough time and at times I just had to stop mid way and mull things over. While there are those who would say that the Hiromi momentum is nigh unstoppable the Noe occupation of Shin’s thoughts is undeniable and at this point it can swing either way though the Hiromi momentum has seriously stalled in this episode. At this point Noe is poised to crush the Hiromi salient and end the battle for Shin-chan’s heart. As it stands things look grim for Hiromi…

Yep Noe’s red seeds, not Hiromi’s.

You know even Kanae looks more radiant without the hate and jealousy, much more dignified in this version. That or Shin has been promoting Kanae far too well.

First off the Mugiha festival was splendidly done. It did look pretty didn’t it? I never could have imagined that PA Works would animate that much of the hat dance, but just as well since it was a sight to behold. I never could have imagined based on Shin-chan and his fellow dancers using air hats. It was also kind of cute how both Hiromi and Shin-chan were all dolled up in traditional garb. Still it seems that the Nakagamis are indeed local magnates as Shin-chan is on the fast track to succeed his dad. I also like how they named the sake Tears of the Three Views, and how taste and price will make us cry tears of joy.

So Noe and Shin-chan do not even talk at all during the course of this episode and yet every other thought Shin-chan has is about Noe, and while we remain uncertain as to whether of not Shin-chan will return Noe’s affection Noe has easily supplanted Hiromi as the greatest influence on his life. Noe did not cast Jibeta off to his death and I for one let off a sigh of relief. While Noe’s once piercing gaze revealed the inner hearts of all, now it seems that her talent was not what it once was and the wounding of her shoujo kokoro has done much to erode her confidence. Still I am glad that Noe has come away with a better understanding of Jibeta and how moving forward is just as good as flying. Jibeta is most wise. It would also seem that Shin-chan has come on strong for Noe as demonstrated when Noe was the one he fixed his gaze upon, and add to the fact that he tried to ward off Hiromi when he was getting dressed it would seem that Shin-chan is not all too eager to jump in with Hiromi now. Shin wants to know what Noe said to Jibeta and he want to know what she thinks, if his precious art book is his greatest achievement thus far then why share it with Noe first? It seems that what Noe thinks and what Noe says is of great importance to Shin-chan, while Hiromi hardly gets consideration this time around.

So certain are we?

You have taken your first step into a larger world.

I do not think that it is strange given how much influence Noe has had on Shin-chan and I do think that it could be the basis for a relationship. I doubt Shin-chan knows who precisely is in his heart and while Noe keeps telling herself that it is Hiromi, her powers are but a shadow of what they once were and Noe admits to not knowing anything regarding the true feelings of Hiromi, Jun, and Shin. The thing that kind trips my internal klaxon for me with regards to Hiromi is that she is still hung up on the past rather than moving forward. Her taking off her sandal and saying “don’t leave me behind” really emphasized how she wasn’t wholly moving forward, but rather trying desperately to reclaim what she and Shin-chan once shared. Shin-chan seems to have his inner flame rekindled by thinking about Noe and seeing her again. Shin-chan has finished his book and is prepared to finally make good on doing the right thing. However Hiromi seems to long for simpler times and she may well end up chasing the Shin-chan of her memories.

Well I guess a sad Hiromi is fine too.

…art plentiful Hiromi-chan. So stop rubbing your ability to cry in Noe’s face you meanie.

In any case it would seem that Hiromi and Aiko were good fiends and yet before the coming of Noe neither made a move on Shin-chan with any sense of urgency until Noe came along. Funny how we can try and discount the potential of Noe and Shin when both Aiko and Hiromi were motivated to make their much delayed confessions once Noe showed up. Cleary both see Noe as a viable girlfriend for Shin-chan. Hiromi’s confrontation amply demonstrated how much Hiromi feared Noe’s grip on Shin-chan’s heart. I doubt Hiromi would have begged Noe to leave them alone if Hiromi felt confident that Shin-chan loved her. While Hiromi may lack our knowledge that Noe has done nothing at all Hiromi still remains fearful that Shin-chan may yet choose Noe.

You will buy this lot of Aiko Imagawayaki. You want 12. Here’s the money. Here’s a tip. Good Day. (See Nobuse is a master Jedi he did not even need to wave his hands.)

You do not have control of your fear, Kanae has taught you poorly. Now release your tears only your desperation can stall Noe.

Speaking of Aiko she looks much more radiant now that she is with Nobuse again. Gone is the uncertainty and desperation of Aiko past. I am really glad Aiko has moved on, and while Shirukii laments that Aiko did not go off on her own, and Kabitzin doubts her relevance, keep in mind that Aiko did have a purpose. To show how a real man (Nobuse) won his girl back. As sidekicks go Nobuse is far better than that useless lout Sunohara from Clannad, and is much more capable of garnering sympathy by not acting like a complete ass. Nobuse has earned his stripes and is now happily mitigating complaints about his beloved Aiko’s masterpieces.

Impressive.

Most impressive.

O_0 (Notice how Noe stopped smiling when Jun kissed her cheek)

Now that Jun has made his confession it is clear that his actions not only stemmed from wanting to see Noe happy, but it was also a means for him to let go of his beloved Noe. You have to feel for the guy who while being utterly ruthless (he was also being very polite too) nonetheless was doing his utmost to suppress his feelings. While the same can be said of Hiromi, Jun did not have a Kanae class obstacle to make good on his feelings, and that must have taken great strength of character. Had Jun been Stripey he would have leapt on Noe long ago rather than endure years of anguish at not being able to love the one in your heart. I cannot help but wonder if Jun and Noe will reconcile since Noe was genuinely shocked by Jun’s feelings. I really hope they come to terms and can be brother and sister again even if Jun has to move out. I really want Jun to be able love some one wholly and truly even if Noe can’t love her dearest onii-chan like that I am sure Tomoyo would be more than ready to step in, though if Mugiha no. 4 claims Hotarugawa no. 4 for her own I will not complain.

I just love the way Noe ties her scarf.

Like any good Jedi Noe is able to run long distances without breaking a sweat.

Noe has tried ever so hard to try and forget about Shin-chan and in the end she could not forget about him. When Hiromi confronted her Noe tried to stay home but she could not. Now that Jun is about to leave her and armed with the belief that Hiromi is the one In Shin-chan’s heart, Noe probably jumped off that tree to prove to herself that she can stand alone. After all in every case before Noe jumped off the tree where she first met Shin-chan she needed him to break her fall. Noe’s safety net is gone and if Noe is to be able to move on with her life she has to be able to operate alone. Now that Noe is convinced that Shin-chan is leaving her Noe probably felt that she had to be able to make that leap of faith. As Noe said before if she could fly, she could also forget. That is why she jumped that is why she loves Shin-chan more than Hiromi. Noe took so many great pains to let Shin-chan go and it seems that it has all been in vain. If Noe can land on her own then Noe can and will go on with her life and for get Shin-chan on Noe Power alone. While that dastardly Tanuki claims that Hiromi has maximum love for Shin-chan Hiromi has only demonstrated her love mostly in the form of jealousy, Noe on the other hand has actively tried to let Shin-chan go without the passive-aggressive attacks on her rivals.

A happy Hiromi is a lovely Hiromi.

You’re doing it wrong…

Hiromi’s desperation clearly indicates that the HiromixShin end is in serious doubt and the odds are pretty much even given how both are mentioned in Shin’s internal monologues. It would seem to me that Hiromi is trying to entrench herself as Shin-chan’s girlfriend despite the fact that there has been no confession on his part. It’s almost as if Hiromi wants to convince herself that this is indeed the case, but nonetheless she still sees Noe as a threat and rival. Such was Hiromi’s fixation on the Noe threat that Hiromi missed much of Shin’s dance while she glared at Noe, whose attention was focused on Shin-chan. I suspect that Hiromi’s inability to confront Shin-chan about it is because she herself is afraid of the answer she might get. If Noe had never entered Shin-chan’s life then she could have been certain, but now Noe’s legacy to Shin-chan seems much grander than the impression Hiromi had made on Shin all those years past. Hiromi says that they can be honest and see eye to eye now, but I don’t think that they have been honest given that Hiromi kept her doubts to herself and tried to get Noe to back off without Shin-chan’s prior knowledge. Hiromi’s actions tell me that while she has changed in some ways she is still very much beholden to her old shoe gambit. Hiromi claims that things are going great and that Noe has to leave them alone. I think that Hiromi knows that she needs to stall Noe and buy as much time as possible to make up for the time she lost. Given how Shin-chan was kind of blowing her off about watching him dance Hiromi has every reason to doubt Shin’s love for her. Shin-chan even lied about where he was going after his number ended.

I take it that Shin will stare at Noe properly from now on, and by properly I mean lovingly.

Kurogane gets a cameo! Doesn’t he look adorable? I always knew that the crybaby was a shouta. (No offense Kuro Impz told me to say I swear)

I trust that Noe is okay because a little fall like that is nothing for my glorious Noe. In fact I am sure that she will be more than able to earn her jump wings when she becomes a paratrooper. For then Noe will not only be able to fly but also land on her own two feet as well. Besides the snow and shrubbery will save her. Yes my heart did stop there for a moment, but I banished the thought of harm coming to Noe in almost an instant. So fear not comrades Noe is a tough otome and I am sure she has Fallschirmjager blood. At any rate another outstanding episode where PA Works has again left the audience stunned and confused about how this will all play out in the end. I am for a NoexShin pairing, but if Hiromi can forgo the jealousy then I will accept her victory. Though I want to salt that blasted sea slug with his own tears for mocking Noe.

That being said I hope Noe lands safely upon the Shin’s first confession.

Damn it Shin-chan you could at least pretend to be happy…

Noe…our dearest Noe’s heart is now all but broken by the pain of having lost her first love in so short a time. Though there is one more festival yet to take place the thought of having Noe cry sad tears makes me curse the name of Shin-chan and howl with righteous fury. Oh, Hiromi gives her fans some service. Merry Bloody Christmas…Kurogane, Kabitzin, Stripey, Ascaolth, and the unknown Hiromi fan. Merry Bloody Christmas, again…

Hiromi fans would like us to believe that this is the Hiromi that they know and love…

I call bullshit, they just wanted to get a good look at her cup size, and her pantsu.

Well it’s good to see that the Nakagami family is getting along just fine, with increased sales of their rice wine. I am curious as to how this festival is going to play out since it looks like the whole town is going to be in an exceptionally good mood. Mr. Nakagami is keen to see that artist son of his do the dance properly and Kanae looks well too now that she is no longer marred by hate. Still how about some background on the Mrs. Yuasa and Kanae feud?

Whoever marries Kabitzin, Ascaloth, and Kurogane better have feet this saxy…

Tomoyo is not amused…so quit peering into her room. You too Stripey!

So Hiromi has moved out, and I guess she lives like any single otome would alone, that is gallivant one’s home while woefully underdressed and without shame…It’s some how very human at least when it concerns lazy college students who live like pigs, though this could be an American thing. I just wished she went all Risky Business Tom Cruise instead of that foot thing. Ah well, in any case while that evil Hiromi Propaganda Ministry made up of Kabitzin and undoubtedly Ascaloth too would accuse the good man Jun of creating a setup for the basketball match there was no need for the legions of Jun fan girls have gotten wind of Hiromi’s maltreatment of Noe’s nii-san. Besides I doubt Jun has that much clout to control a whole school, and with his wisdom he appreciates the subtlety of non-action as exposed in the Tao by Lao-tzu. Still, kudos to Jun-san on saving Hiromi when she refused to save herself; though Jun was not aware that Shin-chan was lurking in the darkness it was Jun who did something like a real man ought to. Without concrete proof Kabitzin seems to have jumped onto this alleged Jun crime and has started spread malicious rumors like a high school tart, for shame comrade are you not a man? Men don’t spread rumors; men crush their enemies! Not content to conduct a smear campaign against Jun that dastardly sea slug is now spreading lies about Jibeta and Noe…’tis sad that a grown man is picking on Noe out of spite and malice.

Jun nii is man of action, when Shin-chan cowered Jun stepped in to save Hiromi. Funny how those two are no. 6 and no. 4 respectively.

The public is overawed, Hiromi is impressed, but Tomoyo just wants to have Jun’s babies…Good luck Tomoyo!

As a firm believer in the sanctity of contract Hiromi has to give Jun as kiss as part of the deal, Shin-chan did get a kiss from Noe, it is only fair. Well time will tell if Jun has indeed fallen for Hiromi at some level, after all why try a steal a kiss if it weren’t worth something? I hope Jun diverts his attention to saving Noe now that Hiromi wants to stand one her own. Besides even if Hiromi loses out in the end the contract still holds and Jun has to take responsibility and keep Hiromi company…though no more motorbike rides in the snow. While the Hiromi Propaganda machine would have us believe the Jun trusts no one, when Noe was in danger Jun swallowed his pride and asked Hiromi for help in enlisting Shin-chan in the search. While Hiromi’s refusal to join the search and tardy notice to Shin-chan is deplorable Jun trusted that Hiromi would still care enough make the call despite Hiromi’s unfounded hatred of Noe. As I have said before Jun knows Hiromi best.

I concur Jun would probably like Tomoyo more. Cuz Jun has a thing for genki girls.

Now’s not the time to go back to jealous Hiromi, the most ugly Hiromi of all. Fellow True Tears Fan Soundwave agrees… Show ▼

I still don’t get why Hiromi has such lack of faith in her new beau. It’s not like Noe insisted upon staying like Jun, and besides Hiromi already got her kiss. Noe holds no grudges against Hiromi, yet Hiromi can’t forgive Noe. It’s not like Noe lured Shin-chan back and Noe is still a fellow human, so why is she still so insecure? Why does she have such little faith in Shin-chan’s promises? If Hiromi can’t trust Shin-chan then really why are they together? Hiromi has already won the spotlight so why not ask Shin-chan about whatever is in her thoughts? Is she that craven that she fears the answer? Even when Shin-chan asked about HiromixJun Hiromi could not just flat out tell him that there was nothing going on between her and Jun at the romantic level. While Hiromi seemed impressed by Jun’s show of audacity in stopping the flood of fouls, if Hiromi felt nothing why not go ahead and say it? It’s a littler too early in their budding relationship to start pouring on the lies and the deceit.

Tsuruya’s Fang! Kabitizin and Ascaloth are part of the cast…I see that they remain their snarky selves.

Well did he?

Shin-chan after bagging Hiromi still dreams of Noe, and the Hiromi kiss occurred it seemed less than romantic… To rub some salt into Hiromi’s wound while Shin-chan only illustrated one page of her picture book, Shin-chan made a whole book for Noe. Not content to leave well enough alone, Shin-chan starts chasing Noe around school as well. Thankfully Shin-chan is laid low by a glorious display of Isurugi courage on the basketball court. Shin-chan is not spared as now he is to suffer the pain of loneliness as Aiko has graduated and Noe is with Jibeta. Ha ha haha, fool! Pain is my friend – time to introduce Shin-chan to it! Seriously though I thought that he resolved to do things right, yet again he suffers from confusion. Since he is feeling lonely at dance class why not ask Hiromi to accompany him? Moreover why the heck didn’t Hiromi offer to escort him to and from his classes to mark out her beau?

One Happy Ending down two to go! May you never tire of each other’s company.

Aiko and Nobuse decide to start over again, and while this development was a tad too early I suspect that the next episodes will hit so hard that not even the 12 Labors of Nobuse will be able to shine in the dark days to come as the final resolution occurs. Still it was sweet of Nobuse to show up during the phone call. While in my book Nobuse has already earned a sweater it is good to see that he is being humble about this, it was most compassionate of him to take Aiko back. In time they will be happy, now that Shin-chan is no longer a factor. As much as Kabitzin thinks Aiko is playing some sort of game kudos to him for not making some crude joke about the not open for business sign as a do not disturb sign. I for one applaud their reconciliation as Nobuse has endured much in his love for Aiko, I hope he gets his sweater one day. Good to see that they are going to take things one day at a time. Nobuse almost cried tears of joy when Aiko called him, if you have a problem with this then please voice your comment and leave your name I have a M203 grenade with your name on it…I don’t rock and roll. I blow shit up! First one up Shirukii…tsk tsk Nobuse has suffered much and to deny him his Aiko is a crime…In deference to your support of the Royalty Noe a bit of advice, ignore the pain. It’s only going to get worse!

It does.

Selfless Noe is Moe, Poor Noe. T_T

It’s interesting how Jibeta has become the most GAR chicken of the coop while Raigomaru tinkles in his feathers. Jibeta is a magnificent bird in his own right, for it was Jibeta who stood by Noe and was always there for Noe. Now that Noe needs to rekindle her flame of hope that once burned so brightly I support Jibeta in his quest to fly. It is true that Noe would like to escape from her pain, but unlike some daft moron who would attempt suicide she tries instead to turn Jibeta into a brave chicken, who is worthy of song. Noe is a brave and glorious otome and while she marched off to fulfill what maybe her final duty with the roach song on her lips, I could not help but feel moved. Noe’s acceptance that Hiromi is the one in Shin-chan’s heart proves that it is her light that pierces the fog of despair. As being the victim of a broken heart goes Noe took it better than I could have expected, her admission was suitably stoic and while Jibeta has a daunting task ahead of him I hope he endures well after his maiden flight.

Fly Jibeta, Fly!

Would you look at that…ready for battle are we? I hope she didn’t blacken her teeth as well.

Well next time Hiromi gets dressed up as befits a daughter of the Nakagami clan, Hiromi fans will be pleased. However I am not sure who Jun nii is going to kiss, and I am curious as to how Shin-chan ended his book. I hope Jun leaves Hiromi alone for a while and in the rather unlikely event that Hiromi no longer occupies his heart I hope Jun will be there as a friend to Hiromi. Who knows maybe with a Hiromi and Jun friendship Tomoyo can hang around her Jun-san as it is clear that Tomoyo knows how to pick’em. Well now that Aiko and Nobuse have broken through the coming storm only Hiromi, Noe, Jun, and Shin-chan are left to reap its full force. It’s interesting to note that it was not snowing when Hiromi met jun for the last time and that it was snowing when her beloved Shin-chan was rushing headlong to see Noe, at first I had thought that during the beach scene that Hiromi had it all wrapped up her much loved snow, beach, and Shin-chan were all there, but alas Shin-chan still thought of Noe. Now that I think about it each couple has their own special place For Aiko and Nobuse that temple held significance as their first place of Nobuse’s confession and later rejection, however later it was Aiko’s store where they first met and later reconciled that held special meaning. Hiromi and Jun have the park where they first and last met. Noe and Shin-chan have that pier. Hiromi and Shin-chan, well they have that bamboo forest but Shin-chan just blitzed through it without much as a second look during his dash to the sea.

There is yet hope for Noe to have tears of joy, and I assume it’s because of usagijen’s heart felt appeal to Noe’s obaachama. Clearly heaven is moved by by the unseen bonds of women!

Losing in love with dignity.

Merry Christmas to Kuro, Stripey, Kabitzin, Ascaloth, and the lot of you HiromixShin-chan supporters you got your end earlier than any one could have anticipated. I was hoping that Santa would be throwing hefty lumps of coal at you guys but you all been very good boys and girls this year. Well Shin-chan has resolved to do things right from now on, I hope he and Hiromi will go off happily into the sunset never to return. Alas Jun nii will have one final card to play, though it will probably be in vain. Now that Shin-chanxHiromi is now out of the way I would have hoped for Hiromi to get off the stage so Noe, Jun, and Nobuse will have a chance to shine more brightly. Were it so easy…

Is that all? Your wishes seem to be on a roll as of late…

We’ve heard enough…

Hiromi decides to move out and try and start from scratch again, and now that she is no longer under the same roof as Shin-chan they will do things the right way from now on. Still I found Hiromi to be a bit insufferable in victory just simply expecting Jun-san to relent when she wanted to break up. Unlike Shin-chan Jun has a deeper sense of honor and martial pride. He doesn’t accept Hiromi’s charity and decides to pay for the repairs himself. Jun could have done a lot worse but true to his rigid discipline he did not use physical violence, but made clear that he will never agree to Hiromi’s proposal. I hope that they can stay friends in the end. Hiromi and Jun have so much in common, though it is only on the matter of Shin-chan and Noe that they disagree. It’s not that Jun hates Hiromi, but that if he agrees then he will have betrayed Noe, and that is something the honorable Jun can never do.

Neither can I…

You’re going to have to fight Jun one last time…

While Shin-chan and Hiromi are off to a new start it doesn’t look like it will be smooth sailing since, Hiromi’s surprise and Shin-chan’s sketches does indicate that they have a lot of catching up to do if this is going to work out in the end. It was touching to see Hiromi and shin reconcile and it was masterfully done if a bit cheesy and melodramatic. Now that’s over with I humbly request that they get off the road. I am many things but I am not a patient man, and the 501st Noe, 503rd Nobuse, and 509th Jun Heavy Panzer Abteilung are coming through whether they are on the road or not.

It is a mark of how Jun is definitely superior to Hiromi as he did not begrudge her for not taking his call, and was initially ready to listen to her. While Hiromi thinks that Jun was not listening, Jun was able quickly ascertain her intentions and cut her off so that she need not waste any more words to justify things for herself. Jun’s refusal of Hiromi’s money indicates that the lad is not easily bought off assuming that Jun is even able to be corrupted by money. Besides it probably wasn’t Hiromi’s money any way. Still the poor sap that workd for Hiromi finds her leaving to be the most sad he even has true tears flowing forth while Shin-chan takes way too long to jump on his bike an go after Hiromi.

…

Noe found a new Jibeta!

Still Shin-chan is an idiot. He peddled down hill, used the wrong lan, and did not wear a helmet…

Noe’s remarks about the snow piling up on the thing that supported her was poetic, it aptly describes the weight of Shin-chan’s lie and the heavy burden he placed upon her heart. Her first contact with Nobuse was also beautiful Noe understood well Nobuse’s pain of being wronged in love and helped him let go. Noe still longs for Shin-chan, but her last moment with him still brought her some bittersweet joy. Such is Noe’s glorious personality that Nobuse’s impression of the real Noe was much better than that weird girl image he had. As a kindred spirit in failed love Nobuse acknowledges Noe as a comrade and a great and glorious one at that. It was good to see that Noe’s one last time made her smile again if only all too briefly. I really want her tears to be that of joy when the end comes, and if all goes well it will be Jun who is the one to return her tears and not Shin-chan as he ought to stay away if he is indeed going to do things right from now on.

Selfless Noe is Moe.

Nobuse is touched by the Blessings of St. Noe. Truly Noe has the power to heal the downtrodden!

Nobuse’s gallantry in the face of heart break was something that Shin-chan could never do. His wish to never love again and have a firm heart was one the noblest act in the whole series on par with Noe’s last seaside stroll with Shin-chan. Like Noe he is willing and indeed makes good on his efforts to let go of the one he loves. His initial refusal to break up was understandable and blunt, but his brave face and genuine desire to see Aiko smile again hit her like a thunder clap. His request of a Noe curse to never love again probably hit Aiko like a ton of bricks; though we can only assume that she was less than indifferent when Nobuse made it clear that she was to be is first and only love of his life. I sort of agree with that blasted tanuki Stripey that Aiko should strike out on her own a bit and make good on her graduation from Shin-chan. Hopefully 3 more episodes will be ample time for Aiko to come to her good sense and confess to Nobuse at their first place of union. Suffice to say Nobuse’s request for Noe’s aid was a very moving moment, more than the Shin-chan and Hiromi reconciliation given how it was much more melancholy.

The blessings of Noe has made this Jibeta fly.

I guess you expected him to beg you to stay…tsk tsk.

As for next time it seems that Hiromi’s parting words of “the one you love is not me” is probably going to be directed a Jun. Though I still have some doubts as it seems Tomoyo was going on about something being on purpose and cruel. Noe also says she doesn’t understand some one’s feelings, so maybe Shin-chan will waver, a bit more before he does things the right way. That or Hiromi will be branded as a cruel woman who led Jun-san astray. I am still not sure what to make of Jun’s remark that “you don’t want to meet up.”

She is, and you sir are very brave.

Nobuse has left you…

Well nevertheless congratulations to Hiromi and Shin-chan for getting and early end. All I can hope for now is that they march off stage to never be heard from again or be kicked to the supporting role while the remaining eps will be a good resolution for Jun, Nobuse, and Noe as they richly deserve it after the heavy price they have paid for the Shin-chan and Hiromi miracle. It still seems though that PA Works is not going to have Shin-chan leave well enough alone and some more drama is in store for us next week. Jun-san is probably going to take this treachery as a personal affront and while Kurogane doesn’t want the lad to do anything drastic, I think I can forgive Jun if he gives Shin-chan a black eye and a broken hand. That or he can run them both over with a Kawasaki Ninja as Shin and Hiromi as still hogging the road…

She found your H-doujin…

Oh shit Hiromi broke his heart too…

It would be strange but welcome if Nobuse and Noe form a jilted lovers association; those two deserve a good friend who can sympathize with their plights. Besides they would both know the cost of treachery and I think that they can get along famously. I hope Aiko realizes how devoted Nobuse was to her and now that she is aware that there is no curse that Nobuse has unequivocally let her go since she was still being unsure. It would be deliciously ironic if Nobuse in a few years from now moves on with Noe or Tomoyo leaving Aiko regretful over her youthful indiscretion at missing out on one of the most gallant men in anime history. I don’t agree with Omni or Stripey to let Aiko off the hook with her being alone yet happy. She can be alone, but I don’t want her to be that happy…

…

Hey Soundwave what do you have to say about this?Show ▼

Well again I am happy for Kuro, Stripey, Kabatzin, and Ascaloth for their desired end. As for fans like usagijen, Shirukii, rest of the Noe faithful, and me I think we can all agree to humbly ask that Shin-chan and Hiromi get off stage, it would be most unpleasant if they have to be dragged off as a precondition of a glorious resolution for Noe, Nobuse, and Jun. I know that Hiromi and Shin-chan have a lot of catching up to do, its just that they would be better off doing all that stuff off screen or at least in a supporting role. Unlike me Megatron has this to say about the current situation.

Sure…how about you Megatron?Show ▼

Great now everything hinges on that bastard in the middle, better not fuck up, and swing that purse like you mean it Shin-chan…

Well bloody hell…just bloody great. Well it looks like things have turned around for Hiromi in record time, she has a family now, her oppressor has repented, and now Shin-chan is not her nii-san. Bloody brilliant I say, she better thank Jun for wrecking his bike and not turning that bastard bunny into road kill. Well if by some miracle Shin-chan does not confess his love to Hiromi at least she now has a family to fall back on, all thanks to Jun. Noe has already left the field so any more screw ups are purely on Shin-chan’s head.

Damn right Mr. Nakagami, don’t give us this bullshit Shin-chan.

Well it was nice to see that had Shin-chan been beaten to death by a squirrel that Hiromi and Jun would have gotten along fine. I fully understand how they just looked on at the destruction of the Isurusgi bike. I am reminded of the time this old boat caught on fire (from stem to stern) and we just stood there staring blankly with shock and awe for what seemed like forever (probably much shorter when at last the MK2 went Oh Fuck) until we broke out the fire fighting equipment and gave the fire department a call. I really can’t fault them for just staring blankly at the miracle that just occurred in front of them, not a single scratch. Well at least Hiromi owes Jun big time for turning her hell into a decent enough home. It was high time Mrs. Nakagami treated Hiromi with respect and now Hiromi has a mother and father again. It was sweet that now they are trying to make her welcome to their family. However now Hiromi has no right to bitch about it any more, her foster mom is now asking for forgiveness and trying to bond with her so any angst will have to be directed at Shin-chan as the angst will only come from Shin-chan. Nevertheless I hope Hiromi has more to smile about since she has two foster parents who are going to love her as if she were really one of their own children.

Well you’re relationship is about to do the same, you are a wise man Jun-san. Once again a Hiromi smile not meant for Shin-chan…what could have been.

I hope that we get to see some of Hiromi’s family healing process, and I still want to know what exactly went down between Mrs. Yuasa and Mrs. Nakagami. I really want to see the Nakagamis do more things with Hiromi because at this point seeing something truly wonderful would dull the pain of watching Noe give up Shin-chan, more on that later.

Ya RLY

Seeing them together for what probably will be the last time under better circumstances I cannot help but to thing that they would have been perfect for each other, both like to tease and both have an arsenal of witty remarks to jab the other with. Jun would have been perfect for Hiromi even with her emo baggage Jun was able to keep his cool and just think about how he was going to pay off the debt rather than going ballistic on Hiromi. It really says something that in regards to the gasoline explosion question that Jun proved himself the wiser one as it takes a heck of a lot of pressure for an explosion. Still when Shin-chan hugged Hiromi I was surprised that Jun didn’t floor Shin-chan right then and there, such control; such discretion. While Kabitzin is ranting and raving about this all being part of Hiromi’s grand plan I have to say it was her plan to be on a totaled bike I would like to see him propose how Hiromi was able to avoid injury of some sort let alone a broken neck. I’ve had a wipe out on a bicycle in a similar situation and thank fully my military issue rain gear and K-pot kept me in tact because even on a bicycle going fairly fast it sucks and hurts to wipe out, especially on asphalt near big trees.

So this is how it ends? Not with a bang, but a hug…

I fear that now this series is now in the hands of Shin-chan and if he knows what is good for him he will stick with his choice and stay with Hiromi if that is his final decision. I don’t want the bastard trying to be nice to Noe any more, because in the end it will just make her cry more because of Shin-chan’s abandonment and pathetic nice guy façade. Judging by the Isurugi Jun’s next reaction he will not take kindly to the two oath breakers and hopefully will simply demand that Hiromi help pay for wrecking his bike. Still I fear that Shin-chan now being touched by Noe will try to fly, I hope he fails. Sorry but unless he is going back to Noe because he loves her, I do not want the bastard to try and use Noe as his muse. In fact I want his dreams of drawing to be inspired by Hiromi hence forth regardless if it turns out to be crap or not. Given that there are still 4 episodes to go I suspect that Shin-chan is going to get greedy and eventually break Noe’s heart, smash it to pieces, and fire it off into the sun.

…

Take that you unscrupulous bastard! Pour it on! Pour it on, Noe!

It was so utterly crushing to watch Noe realize how much of a bastard Shin-chan was. She tried to dig out his confession to no avail and now Shin-chan no longer wishes to fly. Nevertheless as things go Noe being the glorious person that she is lets him off gracefully and beautifully. Watching Noe say what may well be her final good bye was beautiful and touching. Even if she was using her flying metaphor we know exactly what she meant and even if we don’t see her cry, the blood she shed when digging were far more poignant that mere saline tears, as tears of blood often are. Hiromi for getting everything she needed in one fell swoop, I lament the fact that that idiot Shin-chan is going to make Noe cry tears of pain and rejection rather than happiness, though PA Works is free to prove me wrong. I hope the best for Noe because at this point things can only go one of two ways, Hiromi and Shin-chan will get all lovey dovey, or Shin-chan is going to waver in his love and hurt both Hiromi and Noe regardless of who he loves in the end.

…

It was just so beautiful, and sad…If you aren’t moved you have no heart. If you don’t like Noe you have no head!

The Hiromi miracle has really come too early and too neatly for this to be the end game, there are four more episodes to go so I highly suspect that this merely the eye of the storm rather than its end. It is going to be hard to watch Noe’s heart break, but in the end so long as Shin-chan does not interfere and sticks with Hiromi I hope Jun nii will be there to heal her broken heart. I am still hoping for a Noe ending simply because if this is the end game it is a bit too fairy tale for my tastes, almost like deus ex machina. While Kabitzin thinks that there will be some more obstacles in the way of a Hiromi ending I just don’t see the kind of drama ensuing now that Hiromi has a better home now. If Hiromi is just simply going to be jealous while Shin-chan wavers and picks another fight with Noe (because you know that it going to be Shin-chan bugging Noe and not the other way around) it just doesn’t sound as powerful as fighting for a better home would have been.

Clearly there is only one man in this picture…here’s a hint he’s wearing green.

As the episodes go by I cannot help but come to hate Shin-chan more and more. Nobuse not only had to let Aiko go to Shin-chan, but despite everything the guy is willing to stand up for his friend and ward off two bullies while Shin-chan cowered behind him. When Shin-cha got into a scrap he couldn’t even kick the guy’s ass. Tomoyo also proved to be a stalwart buddy and stuck by Hiromi despite the vicious rumors. Man it made my blood boil to see all those ass holes gossip at the fact that Hiromi and Jun had nearly died in a horrible manner. Times like these make me wish Anime Admiral Halsey made good on his resolution to make sure that by the time he was done with them that the Japanese language would only be spoken in hell. I know that bullying is a popular past time of the average Japanicus retardicus but goddamn it was a near miss. Admonish the idiots for their near miss, but don’t go talking shit when you don’t know your head from your ass. The suspensions were pretty damn heavy handed considering that they could have died. I know Japanese think differently, but in this case this Western Imperialist thinks that they think stupidly if at all…Lousy old farts wish they just all died for their God Emperor like they so dearly wanted to. Just that this coupled with Noe’s plight makes my blood boil.

Thinga are just peachy in the Nakagami house now, be happy Hiromi. The Isurugi have paid dearly for it.

So yeah unless PA Works is going to lay a better foundation for a Canvas 2 kind of ending, which I would not mind in the least. It seems logical to presume that Hiromi will get her Shin-chan in the end, whether or not they can fly is another matter entirely as Shin-chan’s first Hiromi book was not very loved by publishers and sub par. Well whatever happens I hope Jun is only going after his money now that Noe needs him now more than ever. I just hope Shin-chan isn’t going to do something incredibly stupid to cause Hiromi to angst and Noe to cry. I can accept a Hiromi victory only if she is going to be happy during the course of things rather than be as hateful as Mitsuki and emo as Haruka of that despicable KGNE. I said it before jealous Hiromi is an ugly Hiromi. Well based on the previews it looks like Aiko and Nobuse might be back on track again, I hope Nobuse forgives Aiko for her stupidity in chasing Shin when she had no chance to begin with, but such is love. I really hope Jun doesn’t beat the shit out of Hiromi or something distasteful, he has every right to be pissed, but she’s still a girl.

Noe is not amused.

Be ashamed. Be very ashamed, you two fight like old people fuck.

Also if you want to make the argument that a jealous Hiromi is a worthy Hiromi, just be warned that now that Noe’s heart is in tatters that I have broken out the flammenwerfer 35 and am in no mood to hear how jealousy is the harbinger of victory. You hear me you bloody tanuki?! Also if you dare kick her when she is down Ascaloth…I will be more than simply disappointed, comrade. Just sorry Hiromi fans, just not today. It’s hard enough to watch Noe’s heart break even ever so slightly. I need time to brace myself for the Shin-chan cruelty that is coming. I was almost moved to tears, and had I still had any left to spare I would have cried many manly tears. I think usagijen and Shirukii will understand when I say I am in a rather sour mood about this. I still hold out hope for Noe to get her man, but now I the playing field is level and it can still go either way depending on how daft Shin-chan is going to be. If Hiromi were still oppressed I would have forgiven Hiromi much more readily, but now jealousy for over Shin-chan is not going to garner any sort of sympathy from me. I suspect that the cheers of Hiromi fans will be short lived sure she has won this one, but will she win the war? PA Works is very good at protecting this ending; the short wrap up of Hiromi’s major problems probably came as a surprise to all given the speed at which everything was resolved. Something big is going to happen I can sense it, well if nothing else it’s not over until it’s over, cold comfort; I know. Let’s Just hope Shin-chan does not ruin Hiromi and Noe for marriage and life. Remember Noe, you have a many adoring fans and a wonderful Nii-san. Honor and blood for your true special person. Noe is Moe. Sieg Noe.

Yeah your Aiko still hasn’t come around yet…better luck next time.

Yeah I don’t like oath breakers, but its time to be a man about it and forgive her, Jun. As for Shin-chan… feel free to beat his ass into the dawn of next Thursday.

If you rain on her parade Shin-chan…well I have a flammenwerfer 35 and it ain’t for looks. At least Noe is going to be happy some of the time.

Who doesn’t?

Sweet mother of pearl Hiromi was actually showing signs of Mrs. Nakagami class spite and anger. There was plenty of Noe goodness and some rather intriguing Hiromi and Jun interaction this time around. Also Aiko cries…true tears.

Same to you too!

Break her heart Shin-chan and we will break you…

For Noe and Shin-chan things are looking up. Shin-chan is nearly finished with his picture book and I really think that is telling that he only really shares it with Noe who sees it as a tribute to the memory of Raigomaru. It was also darling how she kept Jibeta warm too. Such loveliness I don’t want to see crushed and dearly hope that Hiromi is not going to stage a come back. With Noe and Shin-chan they are both so much more open and happy. It stands in stark contrast to the overtones of pity and regret that permeated Shin-chan’s feelings for Hiromi. Noe wants Shin-chan to always be optimistic and to excel. Her love of the sky is one I once shared, but it seems that having less than 20/20 vision due to my mum’s genes ensured that the Air Force and Navy would not need me as a fighter pilot. If nothing else their relationship has made Noe far more tolerant and loving of the Jibetas of the world. Sure they can no longer fly but they need love too.

Compassionate Noe is Moe.

See love is supposed to bring out the best in a person, Noe is even forgiving Hiromi and trying to play nice. First fight first love its all the same to me.

I think Noe’s prophecy that the Raigomaru Picture Book will be Shin-chan’s wings will prove true in due time. I wonder if Shin-chan’s first attempt to get published with his mopey Hiromi story was an indication of how his use of Hiromi as a muse was a dismal failure much like his relationship with her proved. I hope that Noe being the superior muse will allow Shin-chan to get his work published and prove to Stripey that Noe is the right woman for Shin-chan. I don’t think that this is a case of proxy love because Shin-chan has thrown himself into his work more seriously than ever before simply to please Noe. When he agreed to let Noe love him more there was no indication of sadness just contentment.

Some cold hearted bastard…

By Jove a smile that’s not directed at Shin-chan?

Hiromi on the other hand seems to getting ever more jealous and hateful like her oppressor. Much anger in her; like her step mother. As True Tears marches on I am beginning to seriously doubt that Hiromi is genuinely in love with Shin-chan since it is all too easy to mistake jealousy for true love. Her dream or rather nightmare was more about not being abandoned rather than loved. I cannot escape the idea that maybe what Hiromi needed was not a lover but a family in the wake of her loss. Perhaps she saw Shin-chan as her protector and savior and now that she has nothing left for her but continued Mrs. Nakagami oppression then the idea that Shin-chan won’t be there to save her is really taking its toll on the girl. It is clear that while Mr. Nakagami has made efforts to make Hiromi welcome she is still not satisfied with being loved by her father. I think it matters little if Mr. Nakagami is in fact her father, but the man is being sincere and does care about her. What is clear is that she has never really gotten beyond that scared little girl who was lost in that bamboo forest so long ago.

Playful Hiromi is a lovely Hiromi.

I gather that this is how Stripey looked when Nauzron found out about his sis-con.

While I think that many of us were expecting Jun to be a jerk throughout I still beg to differ. Perhaps it is a red herring that every time Hiromi and Jun meet that it snows, but maybe it is a sign that Hiromi deep down likes the company that Jun provides, but insists on denying it. Hiromi has no confidant if she talks to her gal pals then Mrs. Nakagami will surely get wind of it soon enough. Shin-chan is out because she thinks that she loves him and while Noe would be most suitable she can’t bring herself to speak plainly with her “rival.” Here Jun demonstrated his wisdom in having a free throw contest to try and get Hiromi to open up. The fact that he agreed to handicap himself further indicates his willingness to try and start some dialogue with Hiromi and perhaps Hiromi was very much aware of Hotarugawa no. 4’s lethality at the 3 point line. He did not mind revealing something to Hiromi for the short term and for her to smile for Jun at least means that she is willing to tolerate his presence. If in fact Jun’s goal was to try and get Hiromi to be more forgiving of Noe he has partially succeeded as Hiromi did feel awful afterward and disgusted that she was ending up like Mrs. Nakagami.

That looks like concern to me…

Jealous Hiromi is an ugly Hiromi.

While Hiromi calling out Jun for being a sis-con was delightful, I think it also shows that Hiromi is not going to be the junior partner in their time together. Now that I think about it outside of being around Shin-chan, jun is the only other male that can draw out a Hiromi smile. Unlike Hiromi who has trouble letting go of her bro-con ways, Jun is able to either better able to conceal his jealousy or is genuinely happy for Noe. I think that it is the latter. While Hiromi and Jun started out on a rather odd foot, Jun, I suspect actually feels something for her. At this point it seems that he is trying not only to keep her from interfering from Shin-chan and Noe, but also protect her from herself. Jun could have easily treated Hiromi badly and left her to stew on her own, but he did no such thing. Isurugi nii followed her and tried to reassure Hiromi when she regretted her words he spoke forgivingly rather than fly into a righteous fury for her disparaging of his beloved imouto. When Hiromi ran away from home he quickly reversed his position in not riding his bike in the snow. Sure he wants to live but he saw something major in Hiromi to make him change his mind. I hypothesize that Jun saw how hurt, angry, and sad Hiromi was and rather than leave her alone he stayed with her, probably to prevent her from doing something drastic like suicide or something similarly daft.

I assume those are love bugs…Remember Nobuse success is not final, defeat is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.

He’s dead Jim not coming back Aiko.

Aiko’s rejection was suitably brutal and short when Shin-chan made his intentions clear. While we can blast him for wanting to pretend that none of this was happening I think that he desperately hoped that things could go back to the way they were. Sadly words, like water, once poured can never be taken back. Still perhaps the redoubtable Nobuse can still win Aiko’s heart with his own strength this time, with out meddling from Shin-chan. If the OP playing during their last meeting Nobuse has lost none of his tenacity and while Aiko can spurn all she wants it is written in the stars. Without friends or Nobuse her grief will destroy her utterly. Nobuse is quite a fellow even when Shin-chan announced that he was going on a date with Noe he holds no ill will toward his friend, besides he knows better than to incur the wrath of Noe. Kudos to Nobuse to walking away at Aiko’s insistence, perhaps if Aiko still has an ounce of intelligence she will begin to ponder how deep his affection for her runs. Now that Shin-chan is out of the picture maybe Nobuse and Aiko can get off on the right foot this time rather than being pressured from without.

You Lose.

Shin-chan has but Jun won’t.

I think that Mrs. Nakagami might be slowly realizing how much of horrible person she has been to Hiromi and if it was her that sent out an APB for Hiromi then she might have taken a step in the right direction. While unbuttoned Hiromi was shocking I hope Jun realizes how desperate and hurt she is, and hope that his stoicism will survive the melonpan onslaught. What Hiromi needs right now is not a lover, she needs a friend and someone she can share her pain with. Given that Isurugi Nii has gone through this already I fervently hope that he teaches Hiromi how to let go of her love that can never be gracefully. If anything thus far Hiromi has been a jerk to Jun as well since she is never short of some demand. Jun nii has always endeavored to protect Noe, but now that she is finally strong he needs something or someone to protect, and Hiromi needs some one to protect her from her own self.

Fall back! Fall back!

To the Isurugi Nii defense line.

Now that Hiromi is embarking upon the path of no return I hope that it will be Jun not Shin-chan who helps her heal the scars and pain of her years. While a dual sis-con ending would be epic and earn True Tears a great deal of infamy I hope that PA works makes this more about letting go. After all I said it once I’ll say it again jealousy doesn’t equal love and Hiromi has brought out the worst in her self by loving Shin while Jun has shined in his graceful handing off of Noe to the one she loves. Nobuse too his not sullied by jealousy while I have to say should Hiromi continue down her path she will end up like the hateful Mrs. Nakagami rather than being her mother’s daughter. Still I wonder who Shin is fighting that no name dude for, since we can’t see the footwear I am hoping it Noe rather than Hiromi. If love is supposed to bring out the best in a person the Noe has certainly brought out the best in Shin-chan as he has brought out the best in her (i.e. liking Jibeta). I think I do see Jun brining out he best in Hiromi as she is much more open with him than any one else and vice versa as only Hiromi knows about Jun’s sis-con. Every time Hiromi has seen Shin-chan thus far she has only hideous hateful jealousy to show for it.

Yep definitely concern…

You pout now, but soon we shall see tears, preferably on Jun nii’s shoulders.

I disagree with the Kuro, Stripey, Shirukii and the HiromixShin-chan demographic that the double sis-con ending is definite. While it would be an epic win for sis-con I would very much like True Tears to end with flying and the lesson that your first love is not necessarily your true love. Still I think we can all agree to expect the unexpected, and barring a dreaded Gainax ending or a Nice Boat I won’t begrudge a double sis-con victory either…Then again a union of the Isurugi and Nakagami Clans is just what both families need, just saying.

Isurugi Jun save this girl or its my boot up your ass!

Time to make amends wench.

I don’t know what you’re conspiring either…

That was most impressive I could not but help to find Noe’s response to Shin-chan’s confessions to absolutely adorable. Now that the bomb shell has been dropped it was time for Noe to shine and Aiko to start the long awaited offensive. While Shin-chan is as clueless as ever Nobuse withdrew with dignity and Jun is making sure that Shin-chan is going to dance to his tune. So Shin is still smarting from the possibility that Hiromi is his half sister, and to be honest they really don’t look alike since Hiromi definitely does not look like a scoundrel. While he had the right idea Hiromi was never one to make faces… Still I can’t believe he just doesn’t straight out and ask his parents for the truth. Nevertheless his mom is definitely plotting something. Giving up on Hiromi Shin-chan decides to go with Noe…

Noe is a bento fishing master. Most creative use of belt ever.

Right now I wish that this was a yuri series. Noe feeding Hiromi…how lovely it would have been to see it up close.

Unfortunately Noe had other plans for the short term and her use of bento lure was most impressive. Sadly while Noe is familiar with the feelings of others she doesn’t quite understand her own; good thing Jun nii is there to set things in motion for her. I really think that had Shin been killed that Noe and Hiromi would have been best of friends perhaps even lovers as the Noe feeding Hiromi went. It was cute though it ended tragically. Though Noe was most lacking in diplomacy she was right that Hiromi was keeping a lot of secrets and that Noe being the curious otome that she wants to know precisely the nature of why Hiromi blasted Shin-chan down to the ground. I hope the make nice since Hiromi is going to be a future sister in law either way. Still I hope Jun is going to make Noe and Hiromi apologize to one another since Shin-chan is a clueless bint. It was good to see that Hiromi’s friends did not go hostile when Noe was locked in combat with Hiromi, if only Shin-chan were not a factor then Noe would have many more friends…stupid Shinichiro.

Friends don’t fight. Can’t you both be friends? T_T

He knows, he knows Noe…

It was so adorable to see flustered Noe when confronted with the idea that she was in love with Shin-chan. Her subsequent evasion tactics were most brilliantly executed. I would rank having Shin-chan write it out on the ground with Stereo Gambit from “Say Anything.” While it was cute, I have say that rather than using proxy love as Stripey would like to believe I think that somewhere Shin-chan does care about Noe, he did after all keep his chicken feed, a rather odd if uniquely Noe memento. So perhaps Shin-chan was feeling something from the relentless urgings from Noe to carry on Raigomaru’s will. Noe looked most lovely and sad in the pale moon light when Jun found her one the verge of crying. I must say that Jun would make a fine partner for Hiromi if he just opened up like he does for Noe. Isurugi nii is by far more perceptive that Shin-chan and knows how to comfort those in need. Hardened by many winters he is undeniably wiser and can see through people just as well if not better than Noe, as amply demonstrated by his blunting of Aiko’s initial sweater gambit. Hopefully the whole writing of “I Like Noe” was incomplete not because he loved Noe less but that Shin-chan will take some time to appreciate glorious Noe.

He speaks the truth.

That’s why this is so hard. Honor and blood, Nobuse, honor and blood for Aiko-s heart.

Aiko’s long awaited attempt to crush Nobuse’s heart finally came about, but Nobuse delayed brilliantly. Nobuse has been Shin-chan’s friend for a long time and he undoubtedly knows that Shin-cahn is very much in love with Hiromi and beginning to feel the first pangs of infatuation for Noe. Given that Shin-chan doesn’t even consider Aiko as a girl much less a woman; Nobuse knows that Aiko is doomed to fail. His efforts to appeal to Aiko’s heart while derided as self serving, is not exclusively to Nobuse’s benefit. He had already gathered that Aiko was feeling something but as the years went by and Aiko did nothing while Shin-chan fell in love he stuck by her side.

Where a lesser man would have long ago assaulted Aiko for her faithlessness he stuck by her offering a refuge. Though in the end it was in vain He probably imparted to Aiko that he would still love her no matter what. Aiko’s designated meeting place probably did not escape him and his painful façade of optimism was probably meant to spare Aiko the guilt of having to reject him. When Aiko clicked her boots he knew that it was over and dictated how it would end, short, simple, and quite. He even took her home thus negating any possibility that Aiko would even see him break down, and to make sure that Aiko would not runabout aimlessly if she tried to backpedal. Thus Nobuse made sure that since Aiko made her decision that there was no going back. If Aiko wants to pursue Shin-chan she will do so on her own strength. He left behind no trace of wrath and went to his heart crushing with only a smile. Unfettered by guilt it was his sincerest hope that Aiko would move forward with only Shin-chan on her mind. Though it will be painful for Nobuse he will wait. Wherever she goes, whatever she does he will be right there waiting for her. Whatever it takes or how much his heart breaks he’ll be right there waiting for her.

O_o

Go ahead and cry its only gonna get worse Aiko…

Nobuse kept his wrath in check and for that he should be commended. He bore no ill will towards Aiko or Shin-chan and simply just kept out of sight and avoided contact so that he would no longer be a third wheel. Aiko’s doom was already written and her last ditch attempt to force Shin-chan to look at her is not going to end well. Shin-chan’s ensuing confusion will make things harder for him. If Aiko tries anything I am sure that Isurugi nii will be there to blunt her advances. No doubt being the thorough and meticulous man that he is Jun has already plotted out all possible courses of actions for Aiko. Like Shin-chan, Aiko is going to have to deal with this on her own. While a few would decry Nobuse for cowardice, however for the sake of Aiko’s conscience discretion was the better part of valor. Considering how Nobuse could have gone bat shit insane over this I have to disagree with Kurogane that the lack of Hiromi invited a lack of tension and drama, Nobuse’s ignominious defeat was a dramatic moment, he could have been packing heat. You can’t help but feel sorry for Nobuse he did his best and now has resigned himself to let his beloved Aiko march off to her doom, I reiterate that while he has been shafted by Aiko, Nobuse is a real man and by letting her go he has proved that he would bear any pain for Aiko’s sake. Contrast this with the unscrupulous nature of the hated Eater of Raigomaru who would have jumped on Aiko because she was just that cute, and once can plainly see how gracefully Nobuse has bowed out for now.

Since Aiko simply jumped on Shin-chan I guess Nobuse can claim that his mission was accomplished. Still Aiko is going to fail miserably, and without Nobuse or Shin-chan it will be a spectacle to see how far Aiko can get on her own or if she will be more stronger for it.

As do the rest of us. Down Stripey down, don’t you think of jumping on Noe…cuteness is not an excuse!

Embarrassed Noe is fine too.

I have to admit my tolerance for Shin is kind of wearing thin, and it’s not because he is clueless, but because he is the apple of Hiromi, Noe, and Aiko eye that poor Nobuse and Jun have to let the ones they love go. Where Nobuse has adopted a policy of non-interference in regards to Aiko’s attempts, Jun has taken a proactive approach that will surely shut down Aiko in short order while he and Hiromi get to know each other better. Whatever the out come I hope that Aiko will come back to Nobuse since I am sure that such a man would take her back because he has no other choice, he’ in love and Aiko is the only one for him. Hopefully Jun will be able to let Noe go with grace and see to Hiromi’s broken heart. Unless Noe is a non-blood related sister I don’t think that Jun is the kind of guy to make good on his feelings of sis-con.

We commend Ba’chan’s soul to Sto-Vo-Kor.

Called life.

Well I can’t wait to see what happens next and want to see what pathetic excuse Mrs. Nakagami has to defend her contemptible actions thus far. Next time Hiromi and probably Jun will get some screen time together so we can see if there is any real chemistry between them or if they will form a Sibling Lovers Support Group. Now if you will excuse me I need to run a bento fishing experiment…

Well with a face like that its a miracle you grabbed any man at all…Mrs. Nakagami.

Among other things…

Despite the usual lethargy that accompanies the end of a workday for Uncle Sam, True Tears not only bludgeoned me with the great stick of awe but managed to dispel the weariness in my being. I had planned to get some much needed rest but I simply felt so restless that I had to write this post. This will be in all likelihood the high water mark for the series as now Nobuse has been forced with make a tactical withdrawl and the truth behind Shin-chan and Hiromi’s estrangement has been laid bare. Should PA Works conclude this with flair of elegance and panache, then this will have been their finest hour. Breaking out the big secret means there is no turning back; this bold and risky maneuver is a “do or die” for PA Works and the series. Comrades in arms the die has been cast…

… … …

My thoughts exactly.

While there are those who would lynch Ai-chan as a female Takayuki (I spit upon his memory) the concurrent flashback between Aiko and Nobuse was a lesson in confusion perhaps one was romanticizing, perhaps they both were. Nevertheless it is clear that Shin-chan was the third wheel, for Nobuse to be the one to confess before a third party took courage seldom found in lesser men and women. Had Aiko rejected him he would never live it down. Aiko’s initial acceptance of Nobuse on the grounds that he is a nice guy was for the most part true. If she hated the guy or even began to resent him she would have not even touched the snacks he brought regardless of whether or not they were her favorite. Aiko’s realization that she was an idiot does cut in many ways. She was an idiot for not confessing to Shin-chan, she was an idiot for letting her relationship with Nobuse drag out for as long as it did, and she is an idiot for not accepting a man who loved her more deeply than she could possibly fathom. Nobuse is willing to do nice things for her habitually without complaint; he even kept his suspicions in check giving her the benefit of the doubt, clinging to his illusion that it was really nothing until the bitter end.

That you have been handed an unjust fate, at least you still have honor and duty…

That isn’t the only roach Noe…

Nobuse does all the things Aiko wishes Shin-chan would do, namely lavish attention upon her and give her more than a simple acknowledgement. Nobuse’s only fault was that he was not Shin-chan. Whatever caused Aiko to snub Nobuse for Shin-chan must really have been something, guys like Nobuse are decidedly rare for few men would have been able to control themselves if they even suspected any infidelity of their significant other. We can fault him for trying to gift Aiko a new sweater, but we should commend him for not flying into a rage. When Aiko spoke the truth you could see the fear, shock, and incredulity in his eyes as his heart was shattered in no uncertain terms. Whatever Nobuse decides to do now I hope that he does conduct himself with honor and humility, the best thing he can do now is conceal his misgivings and do the utmost to spare Aiko the guilt. All is fair in love and war, but not all is right. Don’t give in to hate and despair Nobuse, never forget that you have a duty to see that Aiko makes it out of this alive and reasonably well. In any case Hiromi was right busybody Shin-chan is a fool.

Oh please pick me. Pick me!

Clearly he doesn’t love you as much as the rest of us…

Noe was delightful as always and rapidly brought a bit of whimsical air to stifle the despair of Shin-chan. It was so cute to see her feed her glorious new Raigomaru replacement. She even made off with his belt and sent the busybody Shin-chan packing while desperately trying to hold up his pants. Noe giving her dear nii-san his final check off before taking off for his dayto was so sweet I need dentures. Clearly Noe looks up to her nii-san and acknowledges his aura of cool. Even if Jun teases her effortlessly, Noe still can deliver a cutting remark of her own, such as her grand presentation of the belt of Shin-chan. Still Noe is most convinced that a cute girl is the only fitting partner for Jun, I do believe that Jun does agree, though Noe does not imagine that he would have a cute one from kin so near.

… … …

I am starting to get jealous now, well not Stripey Jealous…

The first meeting of Jun and Hiromi reflected how similar they were, only that Jun was in many ways wiser than Hiromi when it came to kin so near. Isurugi nii does favor bold and plain actions as evidenced by his confident stride right into the midst of Hiromi’s practice to request a parley. Jun is indeed cold, but I think it is more of mark on his success in sealing away his feelings. Jun only shows a fraction of the emotional leakage Hiromi shows, but in doing so he has sealed off his own emotions in the process. Hiromi probably picked up on how his feelings for Noe mirrored her own for Shin-chan. It will be interesting to see how these two will get along given their similarities and Hiromi being under his tutelage so to speak. Given time I think that both can and will come to a tacit understanding of the other, who knows maybe they will both realize how compatible they are. Their first dayto was not a disaster since Hiromi’s curiosity has peaked in Jun, and if anything his eloquence and intelligence is a shared trait that he and Noe share. I suspect that his teasing of Hiromi and stroking her hair was not merely an act, perhaps like Noe, Hiromi is going to be teased in much the same manner. Jun does not strike me as the kind of guy who dallied with just anyone. His eyes during his intimate moment with Hiromi were in many ways similar to that when he put one Noe’s helmet. Only this time the light was directed in the opposite direction, probably indicating that with Hiromi he felt sad but for another set of reasons for the viewer to interpret. Hiromi was duly shocked and while Jun was making some rather bold moves, she did not betray any rage at all.

Well they do look kinda cute together…

Curious and thoughtful Hiromi is fine too.

I suspect that Jun will come to like Hiromi because he sees in her much of the doubt and pain he once felt. His statements regarding not being able to love the one he loved might prove prophetic as he cannot express his love for Noe nor does he actually feel something deeper for Hiromi who might try and find a refuge in his arms given the events that transpired. Jun feels pity for Hiromi to an extent and has fully grasped the situation, and while it is unfair to Hiromi his goal is to hand off his guardian ship of Noe as he can no longer serve that purpose in an acceptable manner. It is interesting to note that Nobuse followed his heart, Jun followed his head, and Shin-chan remains confused and befuddled. Hiromi for one cannot forget her near kissu with Jun, things as they stand are definitely up in the air now.

… … …

O_o

O_O

Hiromi’s confrontation with Shin-chan over his meddling seems to indicate more cracks within their relationship. Since Hiromi was aware of the possibility of them being half siblings it underscores why she took such great pains to limit their relationship and back pedal on the progress they had made. It took Shin-chan long enough to confront his mother over the issue of her mistreatment of Hiromi, but in the end it was Hiromi who broke the news to the clueless Shin-chan. Without words her body language conveyed in nothing short of resentment for Shin’s plots and scheming. Sure there is hope since she never really came to blows with Jun, but her old relationship with Shin-chan is now in tatters and wrecked possibly beyond repair. Hiromi acted decisively if un-wisely and drew a line between her and her beloved that neither could easily cross. Now if Shin-chan had any illusions to the contrary he will hesitate to insist upon his love for Hiromi, unless he simply opts to accept it and rush head long into the company of the glorious Noe. Speaking of Noe her creative use of Shin-chan’s belt and subsequent jig almost fully dispelled the pangs of sympathy from my heart of ice, but not completely.

I cannot describe how much I disapprove of this fighting over Shin-chan, however if you must I want a clean fight. I do mean CLEAN…

Expect the unexpected… down Stripey down.

In a single episode PA Works has set Aiko, Noe, and Hiromi onto the warpath. It is a testament that everyone was developed without it being seemed rushed. Hiromi’s conduct now seems to be less random and more thought out as to why she really tried to seal her feelings away. As to Nobuse’s unhappy fate we can only imagine his situation, but it is undoubtedly grim. Within the course of one dayto Jun has established himself as one of the more methodical sis-cons who has tried and largely succeeded in hiding his affection. Whatever happens, it all falls upon Shin-chan to make reconcile his own feelings for Aiko, Noe, and Hiromi by the last episode with no vagaries to befuddle the audience. While the clash is inevitable, I hope that all three otome fight with honor. Unlike my esteemed peers I am not going to try and place any bets on the veracity of the Nakagami Wife’s claims that Shin and Hiromi are half siblings. However I do think that we can all agree that playing the sister card this early was indeed a gutsy move on the part of PA Works and I, for one, have come to expect the unexpected. Remember PA Works failure is not an option.

Next Time: Jun and Noe have some family time, Hiromi and Noe fight in single combat upon the field of the first bento, Jun finds out about Aiko, and Shin-chan wallows in defeat over Hiromi.

That they do, if only those friends of mine could make a half decent pot roast…

While this season has been rather lacking True Tears has been earned a place in my heart as one of the best series this season. Episode Five continues the tradition of excellence that was laid forth in episodes 1-4. While news of an impending highway robbery by Bandai Visual disheartens me somewhat I shall take heart for if I must be robbed it might as well be Noe telling me to reach for the sky. Good thing that lazy brother of mine has taken a fancy to some PS3 titles such as Assassin’s Creed, Call of Duty 4, Devil May Cry 4, and MGS 4. At least now I have freed enough gaming dollars to indulge Bandai Visual so long as they add in some random True Tears stuff like a key chain, cell phone strap, or a CD with the OP and ED. If nothing else I hope most of my money will be a reward for the PA Works for doing a good job.

Impz just died from a Noe overdose.

Thankfully Stipey was incapacitated by the Noe overdose before he could make good on her suggestion.

Noe is again a bright star upon the sky she lights the way for those weak and weary of this world. Her powers of observation are beyond reproach and while I am sure of her genius her eccentricity points to an innocent point of view that is utterly incompatible with this flawed society. I fear that Noe needs to have a mortal companion is she is to interface with us mere mortals. Shin-chan is a dick for pushing Noe away like that, she hardly has any friends and while it was most glorious of her to try and make nice with Hiromi and share lunches it is a tragedy that they are fated to be enemies. Still Noe is clearly an admirer of Shin-chan’s given her desire to walk home together, have lunch, and to see him dance. She even said that he was gallant…though I may beg to differ. I like how she has a theory on why people lie: artificial foods. Now I feel kind of guilty since I have eaten many a MRE (Meal Rejected by Everyone), no wonder I am such a malevolent being. Nevertheless Noe is not one for normality given her love for tomatoes when tomatoes are hardly a staple of the East Asian diet.

If only Shin-chan were not a factor, what a glorious alliance this could have been…

God has a special providence for fools, drunks, and the United States of America.

Hiromi and Shin-chan had a great start with the walk by the beach though the lout would have done better to tough out the cold than rob a lady of her scarf. When Shin-chan paid her a visit for the first time it was clear from the music that Hiromi was indeed happy, until Hotarugawa no. 4 was mentioned. I agree with Hiromi that there should be no unwarranted interference with her own affairs. If she wanted advice she would have asked for it. To see her heart breaking as Shin-chan rambled on was a most sad affair. Still at least she seemed to enjoy her little lunch with Noe and despite their rivalry she kept things civil and made Noe welcome. Such chivalry we rarely see in rivals in wars of affection!

Surely you will make an exception for dear nii-san.

Kudos Noe for finding the best way to stop tears.

Hiromi got to have her moment under the spotlight and while there are many who dislike her I must say that her dishonesty is definitely a product of a hostile environment. I disagree with Kurogane that this mixed signal business is the result of petty jealousy nor do I agree with Stripey in regards to where she wants to be. We should all note that while Hiromi and Shin-chan were sharing the same roof he had not paid her a formal visit in more than a year, in essence since the day she moved in! Judging by her room Hiromi leads a lonely existence in the Nakagami household and is a virtual prisoner in her own home. The lady has her own living room of sorts and most strikingly of all has a heavy door instead of one of those sliding screens that predominates the place. Hiromi can never rebel against her jailer because she has no family left. She is at the mercy of Mrs. Nakagami and so long as this is the status quo she must be every watchful for any miss step can have dire consequences for one so young with no support from a family of her own. Granted her seal on her feelings is lacking it cannot be helped for the one she loves is so near and yet so distant. Mrs. Nakagami spares no effort in belittling her and is desperately searching for some contrived pretext to get rid of Hiromi. If the rumors about Shin-chan and Hiromi became more widespread we can be sure that Mrs. Nakagami will not take it lightly and could probably force Hiromi out for good. Indeed her cowardice is deplorable but Hiromi has little hope left, even if she graduates from high school where could she go? She can’t afford college living expenses even on a scholarship of some sort. Being an orphan has put a ball and chain on her from which there seems to be no real escape. Perhaps her recent activity is motivated by a bit of jealousy but her unrequited and unspoken love for Shin-chan is all that the poor girl has left to make her lot in the Nakagami house bearable.

Indeed you did prophecy this…

Your smile betrays you, so you have a crush. Your feelings for him are strong. If you will not act upon your love then perhaps she will.

If Hiromi could have escaped I am sure she would have had the sense to move out long ago given how unwelcome she is. I suspect that her parents’ deaths were unexpected or at least the trust fund they had for her is not yet in effect. Sure Hiromi may hate Mrs. Nakagami and resent her sad lot in life, but only a fool would bite the hand that feeds them. Had this been a wishy washy idealistic harem anime then perhaps she could have struck out on her own, but such is not the case. I trust that if Hiromi were in a more open environment that she would be even more radiant than she is at school. It is a tragedy that even if Hiromi can be happy at school that she still has to be robbed of it daily whenever she returns to the clutches of that hateful wench Mrs. Nakagami. True her actions may indeed be cowardly, but let it never be said that her love for Shin-chan is any less than Aiko’s or Noe’s. Look beyond her half baked lies and you will see a lady that has been all but broken by the cruelty of Mrs. Nakagami and her unjust fate of having no real home to call her own.

Well said mein Freifau.

A happy Aiko is a lovely Aiko.

Aiko seems to be readying for one last charge, one last hurrah to make her feelings known. She does so in vain and her defeat is written upon the stars themselves. Her relationship with Nobuse makes any love between her and Shin-chan all but impossible since the mild mannered Shin-chan would not dare to stab Nobuse in the back. I trust that her initial action when episode 6 starts is to use the pretext of trying to hide “Nobuse’s” sweater. If nothing else this will surely disarm Aiko of any hope she has for a place in Shin-chan’s heart. It would be interesting if Aiko gives Nobuse the sweater as a farewell gift and then try to go off on her own. If Aiko opts to leave Nobuse I hope her failure will make her realize how much Nobuse was actually there for her and how much he loved her unconditionally. It is sad that Aiko is going to have to learn the hard way about the nature of infatuation but hopefully she will be all the wiser for it in the end.

I also expect that you do know better, Nobuse. I expect you to conduct yourself with honor and dignity.

Nobuse certainly can’t forget about you…I hope you will accept him in the end.

Since Nobuse is going to get the boot in due time I hope that he claims the sweater as proof that Aiko did not hate him and cared enough to try and spare him any pain. If nothing else the sweater would be proof enough that she cared and that he was able to share some time with her. Should Nobuse stay his wrath and fury I hope he finds some solace in honor and duty. Men are expected to be able to bear the scars of war as well as scars of love with humility and strength. While Stripey might decry the cruelty of Aiko in leading Nobuse on I have faith that the lad is indeed a man and has no fear of pain. When Aiko needs him the most I hope Nobuse will be there to help her out of her pickle. Isn’t that what love should be? To always be there when your beloved is happy or sad, ready to bail them out no matter what kind of pickle their in? Besides I am sure Nobuse thinks that the sun shines out of Aiko’s eyes. The lad possess an attention to detail and such in depth knowledge of his beloved Aiko’s personality that he notices her change in attire and how the sweater was rather incongruent with her personality! There is no guide book to Aiko’s personality, in fact Nobuse could have only gathered this much only by staying loyally by Aiko’s side for all this time. Three cheers for Nobuse, most worthy of boyfriends, for not only does the lad work hard to avoid being a financial burden upon Aiko, but he notices the little things when Shin-chan would not even know a clue if it bit him in the ass and dragged him through town.

You Japanese always over dressing for the wrong occasions…

Well she doesn’t look angry…When Shin-chan fails you will know what to do Isurugi nii!

It was another great episode and showed how different each of our plucky heroines is. Noe is definitely a bright star, but she has no friends and is lonely as a result. Hiromi’s loneliness was forced upon her by the evil mistress of the Nakgami house and Aiko…well I am not quite sure yet. It is worth taking a note that Noe has a loving family that tries to keep her happy, yet at school she has no friends. Hiromi has no family and yet has friends who care a great deal even if they are ignorant of the Nakagami oppression. Aiko has a boyfriend in Nobuse yet somehow she still feels empty enough to pine for Shin-chan. Given that Isurugi nii is going to advance upon Hiromi’s heart it will be interesting to see if they can understand one another given their mutual interest in basketball and the shared pain of love of one so close yet so far. If nothing else Isurugi Jun for all his wit and sis-con may yet prove to be a reliable man of justice. Perhaps it is he who will put an end to Hiromi’s servitude where Shin-chan has failed, the proverbial prince upon his noble steed bike. Perhaps we will learn more about Isurugi nii and the depth of his conviction “to love the one he loves to the point of breaking.” It will be interesting to how Hiromi will react to the dashing Isurugi nii stroking her hair. It will be painful to watch Aiko embark upon a path that will only lead her to utter annihilation, but such is the wergild price of love unrequited. Suffice to say episode 6 cannot come soon enough.

Sorry Noe but you have to share the spotlight…though you still look darling while pouting.

Damn you PA works for dividing my loyalties! I mentioned before how I hoped that Hiromi and Aiko will rise to the occasion and prove themselves as worthy adversaries for Noe, and yes Hiromi and Aiko have risen to the occasion admirably. However now that they have I am not sure which pairing I would like to see. It also helps that other than the Nakagami wife every one is a decent enough bloke.

Trying to steal a kiss eh?

Poor girl, so this is what it looks like to see a hear breaking, so very sad.

I really came to sympathize with Hiromi during her conversations with Shinichiro with every line I could feel that they were driving knife into their hearts to try and conceal their affections toward the other. For Shinichiro his image of Hiromi as a lonely girl plagued with sorrow was utterly crushed. While there was more to Hiromi than basketball and Mrs. Nakagami oppression it does highlight how far Shinichiro has grown from Hiromi. It is a testament to how in the days since her moving in time has not been kind to them. Sure they share many memories, but none of them recent or pleasant ones are of significant import. Shinichiro’s talk of trying to set her up with no. 4 left her on the verge of tears and did much to devastate her heart. Shinichiro also shot himself in the foot and despite what brave face he puts up his feelings for Hiromi betray him. Whatever happens I dearly wish to see them both reconcile and be able to talk candidly again instead of like near strangers.

Yes, Noe you are bold, but are you daring?

Aiko gets to have a little dayto with Shinichiro though it seems that barring the trampling of Nobuse’s heart this pairing can never be. I am opposed to Aiko and Shinichiro hooking up since they most definitely lack chemistry. Aiko love for Shinichiro is pretty much unrequited for the foreseeable future unless Nobuse is getting the shaft that he did not deserve. I sympathize with Aiko’s plight since Shinichiro will never look her way and that when her chance came for what ever reason she ended up with Nobuse. Her dayto turned out to be nothing short of an egregious waste of money in treating Shinichiro. While it may have brought her a measure of happiness it made clear that her chance had long since come and passed given how Shinichiro is willing to confide in her about Hiromi. Aiko walked away with false hope after hearing that Hiromi was interested in Isurugi nii, but then devastated when she encountered Noe. Aiko’s happy genki personality has much more in common with Nobuse than the dour Shinichiro.

Yes, take her hand and never ever let go, for you are about to embark upon a great journey. May you never tire of each other’s company.

Noe is my kind of cupid!

I suspect that there is more to Nobuse than his demeanor implies. I am certain that he has his suspicions about how Aiko feels, but I don’t begrudge him for sticking with Aiko. Perhaps it is in vain for Nobuse but the lad does try his best to woo Aiko. Right now they get along and he is most definitely head over heels in love with her, if the man has his suspicions he doesn’t show it nor is he pressuring Aiko for greater commitment. I hope Aiko realizes how much Nobuse loves her unconditionally. The lad even took a job so that he could treat her instead of being a leech. His going for Aiko’s hand after seeing Noe and Shiniichiro in my opinion was Nobuse trying to comfort her. I hope that Nobuse stays with Aiko through thick and thin even if its going to be a while before the reality of the situation makes itself apparent enough to break any illusions Aiko may still have. Besides as a man Nobuse ought to have enough manliness reserves to see this through to its conclusion. I hope that Aiko realizes that no matter what passing infatuation she may ever have Nobuse’s unconditional love and determination to be at her side is what counts in the end. He is her Nobuse and the only way she can drive him off is to rip out his heart and crush it mercilessly, though with any luck that will not come to pass.

Yes, you are indeed daring.

Noe is being genki and darling as always what with giving Shinichiro his daily rations and tackling him to the ground to see her reflection…Her quip about suspense and tears were eloquently rude and was more the better for it. Okay Splashy Splashy should be the CIA’s euphemism for water boarding because it sounds so cute that it tastefully conceals the horror of it. Noe is far more intelligent that her eccentric manners imply since the bacteria in your mouth are indeed some of the nastiest bacteria around able to crush any bacterial invader that seeks to use the mouth as an invasion route. The same can be said of tear ducts, but mostly because tears are for the most part inhospitable places for bacteria. Noe was also able to discern the true cause of Shinichiro’s puke tears and has agreed to try and bring the two closer together. Sure this is the mark of a angel, and her wings were of the purest white. Her story about the loss of her tears was somewhat touching and her utter faith in her grandmother taking her tears away only shows how much the dauntless Noe loved and trusted her dear grandma. Her insistence that the tears that she recovers are to be of the highest quality merely demonstrates how much Noe honors the memory of her beloved Ba-chan.

So you too have felt a disturbance in the Force?

I can’t believe how unscrupulous Shinichiro was for feeding Noe bird feed. After all that he mocks her…Well given that Noe is a flame that burns twice as bright, in the odd chance that she also burns twice as fast I hope she can bring Shinichiro and Hiromi a degree of happiness before leaving this world. Well at least Shinichiro shares my hatred of crows. Good to see that even if Mrs. Nakagami is a vindictive woman that Mr. Nakagami is a hard working bloke who loves both Hiromi and Shinichiro.

… … … …

Yeah especially sis-cons.

I must say Mrs. Nakagami better have a really good reason for hating Hiromi’s mom to continuously oppress Hiromi like that. Hiromi’s lot in the house is most definitely one of inferiority since I have yet to see Shinichiro do any chores. Mrs. Nakagami’s cutting remarks about Hiromi having her mother’s loathsome eyes coupled with the defaced photo in the preview indicate that whatever history Mrs. Nakagami and Mrs. Yuasa shared it ended on a bad note. I am very curious as to what precisely transpired between them since Hiromi’s father was a dear friend of Shinichiro. Given that Hiromi and Shinichiro shared their childhoods it seems likely that the falling out between head mistresses of the Yuasa and Nakagami happened shortly before the death of Hiromi’s father. If Hiromi is in fact the daughter of Mrs. Yuasa and Mr. Nakagami then I can see why Mrs. Nakagami has it out for Hiromi, but anything else (i.e. Mrs. Yuasa was Mr. Nakagami’s first love or only love, or Mrs. Yuasa and Mr. Nakagami had an affair after the birth of Hiromi) would make Mrs. Nakagami a vindictive bitch. Hopefully more clues will be spread along the way but this mystery is of great importance to the series as a whole.

Congratulations your are a Shounen Hero!

If the Hiromi does turn out to be the half sister of Shinichiro it would add a new layer to the tragedy that is about to unfold given how strongly they feel for one another. Speaking of sis-con Isurugi Jun a.k.a. Hotarugawa No. 4 clearly has a lot of affection for Noe. His first real showing demonstrated his wit and glorious ability to complement Noe and tease her with affection. Besides I like the way this man can label Shinichiro as “carry-on-back man.” The helmet scene definitely showed that this man really loves his sister, but while I suspect sis-con there is a chance that I got nothing. When he recoiled from embracing Noe’s face he was visibly hurt and ashamed. In this respect Jun and Hiromi have a lot more in common, they both love rather eccentric people, love basketball, may very well be in love with a sibling, and while they are physically close to their respective loves the emotional distance is staggering. Given the similarities I don’t think that it is too far fetched for these two to interact more.

Happy Hiromi is a lovely Hiromi.

Your reign as the undisputed male lead is at an end, Shin-chan. Isurugi nii will run you over with Kawasaki Ninja vroom vroom ah ah!

The last scene with Hiromi was a real treat. While intelligence makes a lady most alluring, a smile does make a lady much more radiant and Happy Hiromi was a radiant Hiromi. Still Shinichiro ought to call poison control after his facial cleanser incident. Good to see that Hiromi was not above taking a picture for posterity. If this is any indication then Noe should be more than able to bring about reconciliation between there two. Isuruji Jun however does not automatically take a liking to Shinichiro despite his request that Shin-chan date Noe. Then again the teasing might be a form of affection. In any case next time Noe gets to give Shin-chan a licking and perhaps even Jun and Hiromi will meet face to face for the first time, alone… Still the Nakagami wife had better reveal something to justify her oppression of Hiromi, otherwise may the ghost of Mrs. Yuasa haunt her every step!

She who dares, wins!

All in all a good episode that managed to incite a bit of emotion in this callous soldier. Best of luck to mein good otome Freifau Noe von Isurugi, Freifau Hiromi von Yuasa, and Freifau Aiko von Endo; may you all continue to shine. As for Isurugi nii, Nobuse and Shin-chan, no tears will I tolerate from the likes of any of you nor will I suffer your uncouth ignorance and stupidity! Still may you continue to support those you hold dear.

With the conclusion of the third episode I have decide to stick with True Tears since Isurugi Noe is so darling and oozing with charm. While expectations are somewhat tepid I have faith in the cast, especially Noe. Indeed such is her quirky habits that she has few if any contemporaries this season. I doubt that this series is going to have an epic derailing ala H2O so I don’t think that Hiromi is going to break out box cutters. Still even if True Tears has little renown, it can’t possibly fail what few expectations that I have for it. Besides I am hoping for a nice feel good anime with a most adorable female main since Feldwebel Amu is stuck doing sentry and patrol work while Sumeragi and Louise continually pollute Gundam 00 with stupidity. (Song: Expectations by Belle and Sebastian)

And the head said that you always were a queer one from the start
For careers you say you wanna be remembered for your art
Your obsessions get you known throughout the school for being strange
Making life-size models of the Velvet Underground in clay

In the queue for lunch they take the piss, you’ve got no appetite
And the rumour is you never go with boys and you are tight
So they jab you with a fork, you drop the tray and go berserk
While you’re cleaning up the mess Shinichiro’s looking up your skirt

Noe’s quest to recover her tears is a most worthy cause and her ability to see through deception marks her as a true Prussian Freifrau. Her bluntness and laconic wit also attest to her sharp intelligence and intellectual agility. Hiromi and Ai have yet to prove their worth upon the fields of honor, but I do hope that each will provide Noe with a formidable foe. No doubt the tanuki who is responsible for the death of Raigomaru is keenly keeping an eye on the brotherly love Noe has for her nii-san, NBR status pending. If nothing else Noe has carried on the Prussian tradition of horsemanship as gloriously demonstrated while riding her ignoble steed Shinichiro to her dear nii-san. Noe certainly does know how to treat men, with food fit for chickens. I like how she so aptly names the other chicken Jibeto.

Hey you’ve been used
Are you calm? Settle down
Write a song, I’ll sing along
Soon you will know that you are sane
You’re on top of the world again

Monday morning wake up knowing that you’ve gotta go to school
Tell your mum what to expect, she says it’s right out of the blue
Do you wanna work in C&A, ’cause that’s what they expect
Move to Lingerie and take a feel off Joe the Storeman

Hiromi has great potential in becoming a Prussian Freifrau, she is already athletic all she needs to do is find a cause and unearth her true calling in life and fight for it. I can understand how she would want to not get too comfy with Shinirchiro as his mum would not approve. I suspect that there may have been other reasons as to why Hiromi was adopted by the Nakagami clan. Still her penchant for lying is going to cost her dearly though if the standard rules of love engagement hold her “love” of Hotarugawa no. 4 is going to hit her like to ton of bricks. At least Isurugi nii-san has a vehicle and is a formidable basketball foe. I hope that Hiromi becomes more honest with herself as Noe saw past her lies. Still Hiromi can still cause the twit Shinichiro to smile like some giddy moron expecting to mate. I fail to seewhat all the fuss is about on whether this would be a scandal, heck the students don’t particularly care and it seems obvious to all but Shinichiro and Hiromi. Perhaps that is why Mrs. Nakagami is wary, after all if Shinichiro were allowed to express his feelings for Hiromi, no doubt things would escalate to a level beyond mere walking on one another during bath time. It’s not that Hiromi is a loose girls, but rather Shinichiro is unable to commit and has a tendency towards flights of fancy rather than true love.

Tell Mrs. Nakagami the secret of the boy you never kissed
She’s got everything to gain ’cause she’s a fat girl with a lisp
She never sticks up for you when you get aggravation from the snobs
‘Cause you can’t afford a blazer girl you’re always wearing clogs

At the interval you lock yourself away inside a room
Head of English Nobuse gets you, asks you, “What the Hell do you think you’re doing?”
“Do you think you’re better then the other kids? Well get outside.”
You’ve got permission, but you’ve got to make the bastard think he’s right

Poor Aiko-chan seems to have the hots for her junior though Nobuse is most intent on winning her favor. Hopefully she will take a liking to the redoubtable Nobuse as her chances with failed artist Shinichiro are decidedly slim. Besides Nobuse is 100% blue collar and observer of the five second rule. For some reason her cakes do look delicious and her need to stand on a box simply belies her potential elite status. After all most Special Forces guys I have seen seem to be rather short and midsized guys, perhaps Aiko is a candidate for the Royal Commandos after all. I hope Nobuse proves himself worthy of Aiko’s love for he has much to do to cast down Shinichiro the pimp.

Hey you’ve been used
Write a song, I’ll sing along
Are you calm? Settle down
Soon you will know that you are sane
You’re on top of the world again

Shinichiro seems to be the mold of a loser doormat though he does get some small points for being a failed artist though if he goes down the path of one Austrian corporal I shall burn him in effigy. Thus far the bastard is barely worth his daily rations, bitching and emoing about his mail. Heck if it were so important his mail would have been sent by courier with direct signature required. He also snuck up on Hiromi in the bath; doesn’t that fucker know when to knock? Oh also red snow is not just strange, but it is a portent of disaster as we all know that if it rains blood then God must be angry with the sins of a people. Well at least he did use those tissues for an art project rather than the usual Makoto wanking routine.

And you’re cool and you know
You’re a star, you’re going far
Think of me as a friend
Not just the Prussian who played guitar
You’re on top of the world again.

The ED and OP have grown on me, and while I do not expect this to become a lasting classic Noe gives me reason to hope. Hopefully with only 13 episodes the pacing isn’t going to sag and the Noe, Hiromi, and Aiko goodness is going to stay succinct and punchy. Next time it seems Isurugi Nii is going to set up an arranged dayto between Shinichiro and Noe. Well as a fan of the old romantic tradition of going on quests or restoring a dynasty ala the Three Kingdoms the respective quests of Hiromi and Noe to reclaim their humanity has struck a chord in me. This malevolent Prussian gives his full support to your efforts!

No doubt a certain sis-con has this as his wall paper now…