Well, never expect the angst to end, eh? Good that Vampire Knight is taking a break till the Fall season comes and I won’t be writing down episode 12, ’cause it’s the same old stuff (And more angst than ever). I want to see modifications in Guilty (For those of you who are unaware, it is confirmed that the name of the second season is Vampire Knight Guilty.) After the show ends, I’ll be moving on to blog World Destruction, hopefully it won’t end up like any other game-anime adaptations which turn out to be sucky in the end (And wish it doesn’t gets boring; with excellent animation by Production I.G but story turns out like crap.)

If you notice clearly, you’ll hear a lot of those crunching sounds that make the vampires as if they suck blood. This episode has the MOST of it. One fault I’m trying to point out is that they try to squeeze out too many information into the series. Why bother putting lots of information when you have the 2nd season? I mean, you could just leave some things for viewers to wonder so that fans of VK will try to make out theories to see what comes next. But 1 thing I praise is that the animation quality was better than all the other episodes. Hope it doesn’t get too dark.

This part makes me wonder why Shizuka wants the human to become a vampire. It’s not as if she wants to turn all humans in the world into vampires. I’m so impatient for World Destruction to come, and everyday I’m crossing dates, waiting to do a countdown.

Even if Shizuka kisses Ichiru in her real body, she would suck the blood out of the boy like a mosquito and he DIES! At first when we were first introduced to Shizuka Hio, I hate her till I want to be like Kagura and vomit all my meals I’ve eaten for the entire day. But after reading the recent chapters of the manga, I think she killed Zero’s parents for a reason and not a lunatic serial killer who kills out of pleasure. She turns out to be nice after all, so I don’t really hate her so much after all.

Listening to ‘Apologize’ by Timberland feat. One Republic, this picture reminds so much for the song ~It’s too late to apologize…it’s too late…~ If Ichiru is more forgiving to anyone, even to Zero, he wouldn’t be tied up like a Level E vampire later. Anyone wants to make a petition to Studio DEEN to stop making Zero into one of the members in the Emo community? Wish this is the last time Mamo-kun would stop acting as characters who are emo, especially when he acts as Kirie (In the trailer I’ve watched today, his character is not so depressing compared to the other roles he played.). At least in the manga he does not screams to the entire academy ‘WTF!!!It’s the end of the world!!!!!’

After the incident, Yuki does nothing other than worry and went back to studies. Yori is also surprised that the dance event changed the usual cheery personality of Yuki. Yuki does not care about poor Zero anymore, boo hoo hoo. :’(

Fire extinguisher, anyone? I smell smoke out of nowhere…

Woah, super powers like Superman! Might as well take steroids and go save Yuki from her ‘enemies.’ I wonder if there are side effects if he keep using his powers like this.

First you put Zero into the room back at episode 6, and now you put Zero into confinement with chains all over him as if you are in the Middle Ages. What happen to technology in the now-modern days and they proved to be more effective than those chains (For the spell, I still find them reasonable.)

Care Bear hug! (No, seriously, this is the first thing that came into mind.) When I take a look closer I found out that Zero sucks blood, again and this time, from a male pure-blood vampire. This part of the story will take place much much later, and I don’t think Studio DEEN are putting things into the right place, and what’s the point in having the 2nd season if most of the plot used in the later chapters in the manga are put early in the 1st season? It’s just a waste of money and time if you do that.

Overall, I still enjoy the show and to my horror the faces of the characters almost look the same in all episodes and scenes. The story is also good, and if they follow the manga more faithfully it would be better for me and the manga (VK) followers. Three things I hope the anime will improve:

1. Art work and animation. For now, I would have give them a B-. Be thankful I’m a kind person if not for the manga I would have given VK a C instead. More expressions please!!
2. Get rid of too much angst and dark colors. I know VK has a gothic feel, but not that dark and making the other characters saying unnecessary lines will ruin the whole atmosphere. If they add some light colors into it things would get much better. A ‘C’ for this, sorry.
3. Not bunch out too many information into the anime. This would create a suspense for people to use their brains to think why they left some plot holes and some questions are not answered in the story-yet. A B for this.

Other than that, Vampire Knight has a 7/10 rating for the entire first season. Vampire Knight Guilty will only come this Fall, but right now I’m in the World Destruction mood, and hopefully that it’s not too gloomy even though the main characters are going to destroy the world instead. Here’s the commercial for the upcoming anime I’m set to blog soon in 4 days. World Destruction, ready to be destroyed in 4 days!!!!!

Oh yes…the look of a stereotypical killer…so good Zero’s little twin brother arrived in the anime faster than the speed of light all the way back from the stone ages. I mean what I said, and I don’t want Zero to become another rip-off of Beethoven who whimsically had a very depressing life and die of STIs, with little or no people visiting his grave. Or like Mozart who died with debts hagging all over him. And yes, I have watched episode 12 of Vampire Knight. I’ll bunch 12 and 13 together next week and I know that chapter 41 of the manga is out.

HOW dare they draw Shizuka-sama so badly in the anime??? Boy, I like her looks more in the manga than the anime but to me it still sucked my frekin’ ass high time. And I think others who read the manga also feel that way. Impz has given me permission to blog the Vampire Knight anime so I’ll be taking over for the time being. Both of us are pretty busy lately, and don’t expect either him or me to write every single episode of VK.

Zzz….too lazy to write the entire summary for VK, I’m just going to my thoughts, since I do not have the luxury of time to write every thing in detail. This would be a joy for some, since I won’t be mentioning a lot of spoilers. Prepare yourself for picture-heavy references.

My interest in VK is falling lately, and run away, you cowards from the Association. Ever since I’ve watch episode 10 it’s been kind of laggy to Impz and I and the quality of the art is starting to fall, damn Studio DEEN, you and your super-tight budget! Maybe I should just stick back to the manga where the art is not-so-painful…

EWW, this sounds so gay. I know they are brothers, but if Ichiru replace the word love to like this would sum up to be a different thing together. And I pity Mamo-kun (Been to his blog sometimes and that’s what he called himself) to voice both twins with different variations. I still think it’s good according to my standards, but I was expecting someone else to voice Ichiru even right before the anime was in productions.

GUNS OUT! Why must everyone torment Zero???? If only he has a positive mindset for once and push aside his moody or emo personality. I’ve seen too many of them and Zero’s just happen to be one of them. And maybe after the 1st season ends I will not blog on the 2nd season if the quality of art, the storyline and Zero’s personality remain where it is. Hope Studio DEEN make some improvements in the 2nd season or else I have to filter the 2nd season, putting it in my ‘Not-watching’ list.

If Yuki was more concern about her future (And maybe she don’t have one, not mentioning any manga-related spoilers in the post) she would have concentrate on her papers than the Disappearance of Zero Kiryuu. See what you’ve done to the chairman, he’s all twisted and I pity him. Poor chairman, he only wants to have just ONE chance to dance with Ruka. And speaking of Ruka, I’m starting to like her from chapter 39 onwards, not drooping on Kaname almost all the time.

And now he’s a damn twisted person all over again. Sigh…

Please no more H…in the manga it wasn’t drawn like this so explicitly…it’s as if Zero and Yuki are making love and some of the lines that Yuki said are so H…..oh the boredom…I’m going to join Hijikita from Gintama to cry watching a not-so-heart-breaking movie in the theaters.

Spot-on. It’s H all right.

C’mon, the Chairman’s probing you to dance with him. What’s so afraid of dancing with a human. If you don’t suck his blood like Kaname does to you Ruka then he won’t know your secret. Just dance and everything will be fine. And so what if he’s not vampire with royal blood? Just pretend he’s Kaname if you don’t find my idea suiting your taste.

Even though I’m a feminist, you don’t have to say it bluntly in front of the Chairman. Look what you’ve done. You are going against human rights, do you know that?

Somehow for this picture only one thing comes into mind: stubby people. Man they look so short when they turn their backs and arg…..it just irritates me. And when the show is over I turned my computer off for the day.

Overall, I don’t find this episode to be good in the animations in terms of quality. They put too many things into the episode and viewers might find the plot too rushed. And to all viewers, for the summer lineup Impz has madly typed, I’ll be only be picking one series, and that will be World Destruction. Let’s hope this anime will brighten up my days to come and not like the Tower of Druaga or Persona -trinity soul-, which are too crazy and boring for its own rights. Hope World Destruction will not end up like the game-based anime listed above and just be an action-packed and plot-wised anime, and not some kind of junk that people will stop watching after a couple of episodes. Please don’t disappoint me, World Destruction…

Dear Kaname Kuran…. Geez…

It’s high time the results are going to be posted. Because of WordPress I was stuck in a state of dilemma , trying to make a decision if I have to download FireFox to get my pictures done. And here I am, I got this simple-to-use but almost-gave-me-a-heart-attack program on my side. You know that I’m never a tech geek, always a no-tech geek.

Turning back to the votes, in mid-May, I can see that most people voted for Zero than Kaname and seeing that 7% of the people who visit THAT do not know who they are, it’s a pity. But I’m not blaming you if you have been sitting under the rock for the past 10 years and have no clue to the anime/manga world. But since I’m such a forgiving person I’ll put this issue aside.

Until then, I can see that Zero is leading up ahead from Kuran until I came back from my trip to Australia, telling Crusader to close the polls (Which is a little late, since I told him to close the poll officially at 31st May, which I was still in Australia. Don’t think of laptops in my trip.). I was expecting to see Zero winning the poll but the results proved me wrong, and with a close 44% compared to Kuran’s 49%.

Let’s move the differences aside and I’ll be writing on Chapter 40 of the manga, which is considered VERY late according to the calender and it’s already June. I still have holiday homework to do so maybe this will take a while. *sob* TT_TT

Yeah it seems that I am the one who got volunteered to do this post, I know you’re all screwed. (show your frustration by spamming this post demanding that Reverse Vampire, or Briar make the next post, I have exhausted all other methods of persuasion, namely waiting and watching)

So it seems that the resident Vampire Knight fans are MIA I cannot help but wonder what pathetic excuse they have for not blogging this series in the absence of gruppehfurhrer Impz. After all if you’re a fan you would claw your way out of your grave to watch and blog this amirite? So episode seven was grueling march through a lots of Loli-Yuuki and Kaname, I for one don’t like this Kaname fellow and his aristocrats who live off the hard work of the human and class C-E vampires as they sit around and look pretty. As you can expect this is going to show up in one form and perhaps another. I am also drinking a bit of rum and coke…So I apologize in advance if I don’t give Kaname an inch or an ounce of respect.

To the average person this looks impressive, but for a professional I can say that Zero’s aim this day was piss poor. Only one shot at the bullseye and a lot of strays. This tells me that Zero got lucky (and lazy) and accidentally hit the target… Kaname Pumpkin on a stand, Zero. Pumpkin on a stand.

I have to ask how big of loli-con is Kaname any way… I know he looks 15 but how old is the bloke really?

You know Mr. Cross it is only right and polite knock before entering a lady’s room…

As I said before episode seven was an exercise in endurance for me, having to watch Yuuki fawn over Kaname. I can sort of understand her adoration of her hero and savior, though let’s be honest here Kaname probably wanted Yuuki like fine wine. Kaname being the blue blooded useless Noble Pureblood that he is wants to partake of Yuuki’s blood after it has aged for a couple years. One can only lament at Zero’s impotence in this one as he fails to run the butter knife through Kaname’s heart. Well it comes as no surprise that Yuuki was seen off and was instilled with fear as Kaname sucked off that clingy bint Ruka. Clearly Kaname likes his blood ancient rather than fresh. Sadly Yuuki thinks that just about everything good that occurs in her life is somehow linked to Kaname. Poor Zero gets no respect.

Headmaster Cross is a genius, the fellow seems to disarmingly stupid that even allegedly smart people like Keikaku Kanme is dancing to his tune, like when Yuuki was learning to dress herself. He never has to tell people to do things for him; he just comes off as so pathetic that Cross guilt-trips them into doing his bidding, thus brilliantly avoiding any anger or ill feelings.

Yeah those Goth kids always made me apprehensive too. Why couldn’t they go off and pillage Rome like real Goths instead of writing bad poetry and hating their life.

No MOAR!

Oh and they eat children…

Zero came off pretty badly this round I can understand if they want to make clear his uber pistol skills, but as a soldier who has to shoot to standard I remain less than impressed. Sure Zero has some neat parlor tricks like making dotted lines, but I would have been more impressed had he been able to not only shoot rapidly and on target, but also with correct magazine changes and for him to do so quickly. Still I think that Zero needs to do the practical pistol course rather than a fam fire for marksmanship. I am being overly mean… Zero does okay as an average pistol wielding stoic. Also next time wear some freaking hearing protection; though do enjoy that lovely smell of cordite. Unfortunately the boy still lacks a witty comeback to Kaname’s declaration of why he let Zero live. I hope zero takes Yuuki and makes the Pureblood regret it. Kaname can go back weeping to Ruka, just as she planned.

Episode eight has some old foggy bint, named Ichio, show up to fap his gob in some political power play as Ruka and Aido interfere. Aidou gets slapped yet again! Sadly it was not a challege to the death… Ruka gets off just fine and dandy, though let it never be said Kaname was being sexist and patronizing towards women. For the Nth time Ruka offers her blood to Kaname but he doesn’t want any, Ruka then cries fake tears. Yuuki continues falling out with Zero because she is still trembling when giving her blood and fruitlessly denies that she doesn’t want to give Kaname her blood. Zero gets a mission to take out a Level E Vampire and proceeds to his target with Yuuki following him thinking that Zero is running away from home. Shiki and Rima have also been tasked with killing the mark but Zero kills it first. It was for the most part a carbon copy of the manga chapter. I just wish Zero was more of a no-nonsense kind of hunter, sadly I doubt that Zero could be that ruthless and make himself my kind of scum.

For pity’s sake tuck in you shirt man its Sunday.

Well the least you could do is try and look like you are happy to see him…

Fake Tears? More like no tears…

News flash genius it tasted terrible…like wine in a box.

Lastly that loathsome Kurenai Maria (a.k.a. you know who) and her 10th rate boy toy (the bloke who brings a knife to a gun fight) are coming to the party next episode. Overall both 7 and 8 were by the numbers with RukaxKaname existing only in Ruka’s dreams while hopefully Yuuki is starting to see that Zero is a hero. I guess Ataksuki is going to be Ruka’s Ersatz (substitute) Kaname from the look of things. Not too sure if Ichio is some one to be feared, sure he may be smart but no one can out smart a well aimed bullet… Not too sure how these Vampires organize their government since it appears that this vaunted senate or council of elders can dictate little to individuals. I hesitate to call them anarchists, but I guess that palace and courtly intrigue will suffice where sound government does not. Quite why those C Class vampires don’t start a revolution to overthrow their intrigue loving “betters” is beyond me though it would amuse me if there was a bunch of Class C blokes moving towards a proletarian revolution. Then again these peasants will probably never be seen much, as social revolution is a bit off for a shoujo series, but I digress.

The Force is with you Young Yuuki but you are not a woman yet…

Your destiny lies with me young Yuuki. Kaname knows this to be true.

You have control of your fear…

All too easy.

Lastly sorry if I am not on par with Impz when it comes to this series, I just blitzed through volumes 1-4 of the manga and most of this series. I like it but I am probably not a hard core fan like most of you blokes. I like Zero mostly because he has a gun and has saved Yuuki more than once or twice…it also does not hurt that he is a gun toting stoic. Let’s hope Impz comes back, soon.

Vampire hobo.

This is what we feared the pale face is a demon the only thing she feels at all is greed. Beneath her milky hide there’s emptiness inside. I wonder if she even bleeds.

What happens when you have to hurt the person you are trying to save? What happens when you have to have the urge of killing your best friend/lover in order to save yourself? What will you do if you are in that position? Zero does not want to turn into a vampire that is driven by mere instincts for blood, killing his loved ones without any hesitance. He would truly become a beast in human form, left to roam the streets in search of fresh, delicious blood.

With the appearance of his teacher, it seems like Zero will be pushed onto the edge of that slippery cliff of no return. Will he return back, or simply give up? Yes, I am taking over Vampire Knight for this week before passing the reins back to someone like Calawain, Crusader, RV or Riex (or no one will manage this). I am going for vacation soon!

[Skip the summary]

Episode summary

A flashback revealed that Zero caused the eye wound on Tooga Yagari. In the flashback, young Zero looks extremely remorseful, only for Yagari to remind him that he did not sacrifice his eye to see such a pathetic sight. Back in the present, Yagari pointed the gun at Zero again, only for Yuuki to shield Zero. Yagari is surprised that Zero has not succumbed to Level E, and Zero told Yuuki to give him up. Kaien also arrived to stop Yagari. Yagari informs Yuuki that he is Zero’s teacher and Zero affirms it.

Yagari also remarks that instead of fearing Zero, Yuuki’s anger was on him (similar to a certain idiotic headmaster). Kaien told Yuuki to move away for now, and Rumi is clearly concerned over Yuuki’s sadness. The next day, Zero did not appear. During evening time, Yuuki searched for Zero in his room but he is not there. Yuuki asked Yagari what he did with Zero, but he simply told her to buzz off. He then left, adding that he has to teach the Night class as stipulated by Kaien.

After Yagari left, Kaname comes close and suggested about Zero’s induction in the Night Class to Yuuki. It is also clear that Yagari and the vampires are not that “friendly”. After the lesson is over, Yagari gets a dagger thrown to him, and he considers that a “feedback”. Yuuki is waiting outside, and Yagari told her that Zero is at the guest room.

Yuuki rushes over to find Zero. Zero re-accounts his memory of a pretty female nurse in school that tried to attack him. She was a Level E and went berserk. Yagari’s eye was injured while protecting young Zero. That was when he knew about the danger of vampires. Zero believed that if he is to be killed by the man who protected him, it is fine. Yuuki says that Zero is simply running away and asked to enter. In the bathroom, she allowed him to suck her blood.

Yuuki knows she did something unforgivable, but she is not scared of Zero. Zero feels pathetic that he has to drink like a vampire and hurts someone without being able to control himself. Zero told Yuuki to give him up, and this drinking of blood can only delay the inevitable. Yuuki reminds him that she will fulfill her promise: the promise that she will keep doing whatever she can to prevent Zero from turning to Level E, even if she is hated by Zero. Zero mumbles that he can never hate her, and is concerned of her wound.

Yuuki leaves Zero and told him to go for classes. On her way back, she meets Kaname and tries to move away so that she will not be detected for giving blood to Zero. Kaname says that Yuuki is starting to hide things from him. Yagari is surprised at Kaname’s actions and wonders why Kaname did not kill Zero for drinking Yuuki’s blood. Kaname is clearly enraged, but tells Yagari that it is done to keep Yuuki by his side. The next day, Zero did not come to class. Yuuki realizes that Yagari will be trying to kill Zero.

Yuuki rushes there in time to see Yagari pointing the gun at Zero as she screams out. At that moment, Zero realizes it and holds the muzzle away from him as the bullets missed its target. It turns out that Yagari simply wants Zero to fight on until the last second, and wants to stop him from escaping any more. Yagari also tells Yuuki to take care of Zero if he goes berserk, and hands the reins to her. It is also clear that Yagari’s shot in the pool is just to remind Zero not to give up, because it is impossible for him to miss from there. Yagari reminds Zero “That woman” exists.

Thoughts

Wow, that is such a wonderful episode. I really like how they make that scene where Zero drinks the blood of Yuki. It is downright awesome that they manage to make it feel so sexy and dangerous at the same time. Whoever thought about making such a cute looking Yuuki present herself as an offering in such a sensual way is a sick freak, but a very brilliant one too.

I was a bit annoyed already at Zero’s emo-ness, and this episode seems to mark the end of it. It is really a huge relief for me that he finally stopped sulking. Despite my preference of the pairing between Zero x Yuuki, his constant escapism just keeps me from completely seething in annoyance and anger. It’s a good thing that he finally snapped out of it and decides to live on for himself, as well as Yuuki. Moping for too long can be awfully annoying!

I am really surprised at Yagari. He really feels like he is going to kill Zero at times, with words that sting like bullets a few centimeters away from the heart. Yet, in the flashback, he shows that he is simply a man that will be a guardian for Zero. No matter how awful Zero has turned into, Yagari just does not want Zero to be a pathetic man that escapes from reality. He is harsh but effective, and it is perhaps Yuuki’s strength that brought Zero through.

To me, that is a key reason why I really like Yuuki x Zero. This episode does not exhibit love at all in a romantic sense, but a form of stability and trust that far exceeds any form of friendship in my opinion. They are like soul mates, despite the difficult relationship due to Zero’s awesomely retarded and cold behavior. Nonetheless, I really feel that the relationship between Kaname and Yuuki feels forced, and Yuuki is simply admiring Kaname due to being a vampire, and his rescue.

That brings me to the last topic for this episode: Kaname. He is really fleshing out much better in the anime. Even though he is aloof, it is much clearer that Yuuki is everything to him. In a way, that aggressive and selfish manner might turn some people off (and those who hate him, even more) but his character development is not stale. He does things in a way that is totally pragmatic, and I want to see more of a “human weakness” in him. For example, when he flared up by stubbing the cigarette of Yagari.

That, by the way, is the second best scene for this episode (other than the sensual blood tasting of course). So, what is your favorite scene for this episode, and why?

I think Zero would like Yuki’s blood than yours, Kaien.

Sorry if this post is a little late because of distractions such as exams, exams, exams…But whatever it is, I’m back. I need more spotlight and ignored by the rest of the Internet world for almost months now. (And I think I’m going to flunk my Math all because of formulas floating around my head and attacked Reverse Vampire’s nerve system till she dies.) If you don’t want any VK spoilers, go to thoughts below.

Summary:
It began when Yagari steps into the academy. Zero and Yuki were summoned to the Chairman’s room, with Zero’s blood placed on the bracelet Yuki had. Kaien explained how the bracelet on Yuki and the mark on Zero’s neck works by tapping on his neck with the bracelet. Red sword-like weapons nailed Zero on the floor and explains more that this method will keep Zero out from his blood temptations temporary and has been used by vampire hunters since the beginning. Zero was also given the blood tablets to surpress his hunger for blood.

Giving a few words to Zero, the Chairman told him that if he needs blood he could suck his blood other than Yuki, but instead of being friendly Zero pounced on Kaien, leaving him to his own business. The injured Kaien (With cracks on the wall.) told Yuki that he entrusts Zero to her or if not Kaname would do something to him. Yuki seems clueless who the person is, with the Chairman stunned at her answer (If my friends sees Yuki acting aloof she would ‘execute’ her, but I think she won’t because she likes Yuki).

TIME-OUT! Let’s go for a break for half-time.

The next day, Yuki and Yori rush into the classroom just in time for lessons and heard some of their classmates gossiping about the new Ethnics teacher coming to class. Right after that the entire class went back to their places as Yagari enters the classroom with the other students asking all sorts of questions (Mostly about himself, personal stuff.). Zero was pretty shocked to see him in class and left after that with Yuki following him out of the room. She soons caught up with him and in a glance outside the gates they saw the Chairman standing. He gives them permission to get out of the school to perform some errands for Kaien, which Yuki and Zero later spend their time in a cafe.

Yuki enjoys her parfait while Zero laments into having Shio Ramen at another stall (Probably the one on episode 3.) Later, she asks Zero if he knows Yagari and tells him that he (Yagari) is scary. A waitress comes and asked if Yuki and Zero knows Aido from the academy, due to the unique atmosphere coming from vampires which she also felt the same way in Zero. He then later brought all the stuff they bought and left the shop, feeling guility on being a vampire and does not except the fact that he’s one of them. He felt a scent after that, dropping all the things on the floor and disappears. Yuki walked out of the cafe later, only to find the stuff on the floor. She began to become worried about Zero and search for him. Finding at many places, she walked through a small pavement, only for her arm to be cut by a broken part of the rails and blood flowing out from her shirt. A Level E vampire attacks Yuki from above and she uses her rod, Arthemis to defend herself.

Now Zero you have ruined Yuki’s day. It’s the only time she had her wings unclipped.

Shocked to hear that her blood was tasty from the Level E vampire, Zero came to the rescue and uses Arthemis to defend themselves. Since Zero is now a vampire he does not reacts very well with the weapon. Just as the Level E was about to attack Yuki and Zero, a sword was stabbed and sliced on the vampire and became sand. The person who attacked the vampire are reveal to be Ichijo and Shiki who came under the orders of Kaname and tell Yuki and Zero to come over to the Night Class dorm at night.

Finally night came and the two Guardians were waiting outside the dorm with Zero telling Yuki to use the gun he borrowed from Kaien, passing it down to her for protection. She denies it, arguing that the Night Class students are good people. She told Zero that if he ever goes berserk she could use the bracelet to stop his movements, Zero told her down that the magic could only work temporary before entering the dorm. Aido and Kain leads the two Guardians to the dorm, as Yuki observed the true faces of the vampires for the first time. She doesn’t feel comfortable about it and leading them to Ichijo, he surprises them with his not-so-vampire attitude to Yuki and Zero. Yuki asks a question to the vampire why he killed the Level E and not the hunters. Aido and Ichijo explains that the Level E vampires are not the same as them and the class system in the vampire society.

Let’s invite Impz and his green-haired girlfriend to enjoy the exclusive 1st class candle light romantic dinner!!! And I would like to have the cake for myself.

THE CAKE IS MINE!

Yuki starts an argument that Level E vampires are not cruel and knew that they don’t want it to happen. Kaname enters the stage, who orders the two vampires to take down the Level E in the first place. He invites Yuki and Zero to come near him as Yuki sat down on the couch with Kaname, feeling uneasy at first as the other vampires stared coldly at her. She rejects the offer until Kaname insist angrily (Even though he doesn’t sound like it.) and follow his orders obdiently. Kaname pulls her nearer, whispering that staying close to him is the safest. She thanks Kaname for the help, the pureblood tells Yuki that all vampires that are humans before must be destroyed and explains what happened in the past during the war between vampires and vampire hunters. Saying things that angered Zero, he points the Bloody Rose at Kaname as Seiren uses her hand as a knife near her neck. He orders the other vampire to put her hand down and did so.

Interrupting the rather solumn atmosphere, Ichijo reminds the rest about the party to go on. Back at the Chairman’s office. Yagari and Kaien discussed about Zero and what happened earlier when Yuki was attacked by a Level E. Kaien denies that the Night Class students are out in the open and are good students but was ’shot’ down by the vampire hunter’s words that he knew the fact Ichijo and Shiki were hunting down the Level E in the beginning. Yagari was about to left the office but with Kaien interrupting saying stupid words ‘Him and I, it’s hot, the root of a vow’ using a microphone, Kaien was pounced, AGAIN.

Switching back to the Night Class (Glad that this is about to end.) Yuki and Zero saw the vampires dancing and sucking blood from each other in the case of a couple and Shiki and Ichijo, Zero left the dorm and Yuki followed him. Ichijo and Shiki reveals to the others that Level D vampires are unable to consume blood tablets because their bodies would not take up. Meanwhile Yuki met Zero at the pool with Zero preparing to suck her blood she pushes herself and the vampire into the pool to prevent Zero from sucking her blood temporary. The guardians went up to the surface and behind her was Yagari, shooting at Zero as his blood covers the entire pool. The episode ends when the truth was revealed that Yagari was Zero’s former vampire hunter instructor.

Thoughts:

Sorry for the late post as you know, exams in my way (And as a price I’m going to flunk my Math, boo hoo hoo.). And as for the poll Crusader will help me close it as I’ll be away to Australia between the last week of May to the first week of June. I will be announcing the results in mid-June when I return. Anyways, I need more spotlight; I’m not famous but what I think of this episode that it’s somewhere at the beginning in Volume 2 of the manga and the anime follows it without any changes (But with some original content in the first few minutes of the show.). I would say it brings out more tension than the manga which I think the anime should be praised of. Let’s hope nothing ruins it along the later episodes of VK and you get sick and tired of the script as it did for me in Persona -trinity soul- which bores me with its lack of action and doing most of the stuff in their everyday lives.

Answer: The Underdogs saved the town, not the vampires.

In case you find things rather boring lately, I’ve been thinking for a while to do this. Originally the vote of President in Cross Academy, now it’s the Fight of the Fans: Zero VS Kaname! (Now that Democracy Rules!)

If you like Zero, please vote for him. And if you like Kaname better, vote for him too. The poll will start now and will stop after 31 May 2008. Results will be mentioned in mid-June (Due to some reasons and I’m going off for a vacation.) But for Impz and I we prefer Zero but it’s up to you to decide. Their fate in in YOUR hands!

Last week, the transformation was complete. Zero, who has struggled for the last four years of his life in the academy, can no longer resist the sweet scent of blood. He has turned into a beast in human form, one that thirsts for blood. He cannot prevent. It’s within his instincts to bite when the thirst comes. It got to him. He was fighting for the last four years. He lost.

He bit on Yuuki’s neck and drank her blood. Will that lascivious and beautiful scent of Yuuki’s blood drive Zero insane?

[Skip the summary]

Episode summary

Yuuki realizes Zero is a vampire, as Kaname arrives. Kaname calls Zero the filth of vampires and Yuuki thought that Zero will be killed. As she tries to stop Kaname, she faints from being drained by Zero’s bite. Yuuki regained consciousness in the infirmary, and started crying naturally. Kaname asks if she is scared of vampires now. Kaname leaves after Kaien’s warning that the blood scene has aroused the night Class. Kaien also told Yuuki about how Zero is quietly suffering from this for the last four years.

Kaien explained that Zero used to be human, but was bitten deeply by a pure blooded vampire when his family was massacred. Aido realizes it is Yuuki’s scent, even though Kaname told the others to stop prying. Kaname wanted to send Zero to the night class, but Kaien is reluctant to do so. Yuuki overheard it, and did not want that to happen. She realized that Zero has been hating himself for a long time, and realizes her hurtful words about beasts in human form.

The next day, Yuuki decides to look for Kaname. Aidou is dealing with some businessmen, but pushes them away. Yuuki is glad that Kaname kept the Zero incident a secret. Aidou starts to get jealous over Yuuki, and scares her with his ice magic. He realizes that Kaname saved Yuuki, and adds that Yuuki’s blood should be offered to Kaname. Kaname appears and says that he is not interested. Aidou knows he is in trouble as he is slapped by Kaname for his insolence.

Kaname assures Yuuki that she is different and kind. Yuuki says that Kaname looks lonely. Kaname says that Zero should accompany her to such a dangerous place, since he has the obligation. Yuuki asks him for his condescending tone, but Kaname adds that he cannot forgive someone who hurts the girl he cares for. Yuuki says that she has hurt Zero from her words. Yuuki requests for Zero to stay on in the Day Class, but Kaname says that he cannot do that even for her since he will become Level E.

Yuuki runs off. Kain questions about why Kuran is associating with a vampire hunter and everyone cannot accept it. Kaname simply says that Yuuki is the only girl he loves in the world. At night, Zero is packing his stuff, and he is reminded of Yuuki through a photo. He remembers that the gun is given to him by Kaien since it has the power to hurt vampires. Yuuki sees Zero pointing the gun at himself, and attempts to wrestle the gun away.

Zero points the gun to his neck, telling Yuuki to kill him before he turns Level E. Yuuki shakes her head in disapproval. He explains he cannot control himself, and tells Yuuki to shoot him since she should be scared of him. Zero runs off, and Yuuki gives chase after seeing the dropped photo. Yuuki hugs onto Zero, telling him that it is all right. The leader of the Vampire Hunter association came to discuss about Zero’s condition and reminds him that they have sent “someone” over.

Thoughts

Before I start, let me just say that I am disgusted at myself for reading the manga before the anime started. I realize that it’s so tempting to make some random manga spoilers, and have to keep myself away from it. Now, after my mini rant, I must say that this series has captured my attention on the very first episode. It has drama, it has decent graphics and it has a good plot that is well improvised by the animation company.

The concentrating of Yuuki’s neck is somewhat sensual, fitting the dark atmosphere of the anime. The lighting style and angles that are used to the animation add to the dark gloomy feeling. One particular scene that stood out for me is the exchange of words between Yuuki and Zero at the end of the episode. It was desperate and I could feel the pain directly extracting from the words of Zero and Yuuki.

It has been a long time since my heart has been wrenched so badly by the protagonists of the series. I have to admit that due to future events, I am not too impressed with Kaname. In fact, I must say that I dislike Kaname and prefer a Zero x Yuuki ending. Nonetheless, some of Kaname’s aloof behavior and his natural arrogance as a pure blood is shown in this episode. It fits his character like a book, and it’s clear he really loves Yuuki. However, his treatment of Zero was harsh and cruel.

It is like a cat playing a rat that is completely exhausted. It taunts it. It scratches it gently. It looks at it with malicious eyes before consuming it completely. It is apparent that Kaname is using Zero merely as a tool, but it does make sense for him to. Zero is the only person Yuuki can truly trust, no matter whether Zero is a vampire or not. He knows his standing in the vampire world means that Yuuki might not feel that comfortable.

I do like the addition about Kaname looking lonely. I do not remember seeing this scene, and I feel that it adds more flesh to Kaname’s character. I must admit that the anime is definitely a notch above the manga right now, and it is a rare case where the anime is likely to end off much better than the manga if they keep this up. Let’s hope that this is the case.

A few questions for you readers out there to think about (without cheating or using manga spoilers):

1. What do you think about Yuuki’s feelings toward Zero. Is it romance or merely companionship like a sibling?

2. Who are the supporting vampire characters you wish to have more character development?

3. How would you appraise Zero in this episode?

With a decent start, Vampire Knight proves to be an inspired anime as it transfers seamlessly from the manga to anime form. Vampire Knight Episode 2 continues to reveal about Zero’s degradation from a human to a vampire. Nothing is said why he is turning into a vampire, but it is certain that the time of transformation is near. However, Kaien suddenly drags Zero and Yuuki over for breakfast. It turns out that today is a special day where they do not have to fulfill the usual duties as a guardian.

They are given a treat, but also to inspect the dorms of the Day and Night Class. What hilarity will ensue? For VK viewers who do not want to be spoiled by the summary, use the anchor tag “[Skip the summary]” after the read more to jump to thoughts.

[Skip the summary]

Episode summary

The vampires are anticipating a surprise check as Seiren informs them. The vampires are not worried, and Ichijou is warned about his underwear lying around. However, Ichijou proudly proclaims that his underwear is of high quality silk. Kain enters Aido’s room, with Aido proudly proclaiming his collection of the items that Kaname destroyed in anger. Kaname finds out and starts breaking the ceiling lights, and glares coldly at Aido. Yuuki also confiscated most of the vampire photos taken by the Day class. Yuuki understands that it is due to the beauty of the vampires, and notices that Zero is lazing off. She goes to warn him, only for him to report that he is done.

They move over to the vampire’s mansion. Aido’s prized possessions are taken away as well. Yuuki wants to know the thing in Zero’s pocket, and realizes they are pills. However, Zero gets angry and rushes off, telling that it has nothing to do with him. Yuuki gives chase before panicking when she loses sight of Zero. Yuuki starts thinking about being worried to be lonely, as she remembers that day of red blood. Yuuki sees a dash of red, but it is just a red balloon. She helps the boy with the balloon, but he runs off. Yuuki gives chase, while Zero is eating some food. Yuuki finds the boy but realizes he’s a vampire.

Yuuki screams in fear, as Zero senses it and leaves abruptly. Yuuki tries to escape from the vampire, as another appears. She then runs up an abandoned tower, as she wonders about the danger of vampires. She fights against her own knowledge of beautiful and peaceful vampires. Her past memories start to haunt her, as Zero reaches the spot where Yuuki is bitten. The female vampire appears to attack Zero. Zero seems to be reminded of something as he hesistated. The vampire calls Zero a comrade, and Zero shoots her with the bloody rose.

Zero sees the young vampire, and remembers someone in his past. The kid attacks Yuuki, but Kaname appears. He covers Yuuki’s eyes as he destroys the boy (mouthing that the vampire hurts someone precious to him). Yuuki thinks that it is not a vampire, but Kaname also says that it is a level E vampire. Kaname adds that Zero has left for his dorm, when he is waiting below. Kaien talks about the vampires of vampires, the pureblood vampire aka Kaname. Kaname discusses about Zero, as he wonders what Kaien is doing about Zero, as Zero is threatening the peace.

Yuuki looks for Zero back in the dorm. Kaien explains that Zero has already suffered terribly from the massacre of his family and does not want to hurt him. Kaname reminds Kaien that Zero is bitten by a pureblood vampire, just like him. Yuuki finally finds Zero, only for Zero to chase him off. Yuuki thinks that Zero considers her a hindrance, as Zero tries to reach out for her. However, he simply unveils her bandages, as he smells blood. He then bit on Yuuki, as Yuuki realizes he is a vampire.

Thoughts

Way to up the ante, Vampire Knight. Studio Deen is really pulling the nice stops to make Vampire Knight accessible for even the new anime viewers. Vampire Knight really gets exciting this episode, what with the revelation (which is like ABOUT TIME) that Zero is a vampire. Now, it is a slight departure from the manga canon. In the manga, Yuki only visibly fears the vampires for the first time when Zero bites him. However, in the anime, they added some original content to increase the tension in Yuuki’s heart.

This is a very rare occasion, considering how often animation companies screw up with original content. However, I say Well done for adding this original scene. It not only makes it much scarier, but it has a stronger impact to Yuuki when she realizes that the person she cares for so much is also a vampire. If it’s not enough that the person she loves is a vampire, her closest compatriot turns out to be a vampire that bites her happily.

That is painful enough. Add to the fact that she has just been assaulted by two vampires and the disturbing memories of her past. That just adds to the emotional turmoil. The best thing is that it has been done with some style in Episode 3. It’s worth watching again.

I really like the scene when Zero’s mouth is filled with the blood of Yuuki. It is just such a haunting scene as it states everything that Zero does not want to be. I hope it explains a little why he is so emotional. It is his own fear in which he is transforming to something that he has been trained since young to hunt down. He is transforming to a being that kills his own family. He is bitten by a pureblood that wants to increase his suffering. He sees his own family getting killed.

Yet, at the end, he is shocked at his own loss of control. He actually hurts someone he cares for so much. I really sympathize with Zero a lot, because it is clear that he cares for Yuuki a lot, but he has struggled in his heart about being a vampire. He is a beast in human form, one that will survive on blood. A bloodthirsty animal that will go berserk at the sight of blood. He will be a creature that might break the peace between humans and vampires, if he is allowed to remind with the humans.

On the light side, I really like Ichijou so much this episode. He is so hilarious with his proud proclamation that his underwear is high quality silk, and will not be embarrassed by the search. Aido’s worship of Kaname is awesome too, with Kaname’s response at his collection priceless. Let’s end off the review with some questions.

1. How do you think Yuuki will be likely to react to Zero’s true identity, considering she is freaked out just a few hours ago?
2. Kaien is revealed to be an ex-vampire hunter, any opinions to that?
3. How do you like the modifications to the anime episode (question for manga readers)
4. How much do you think this episode conveys that tension (question for anime viewers)

Cheers!

Sometimes, I wonder if I watch anime for the right reasons. For most of the people who watch Vampire Knight, they are in either for the story (which is good or bad depending on whether you are a Kaname or Zero fan, or that whether you are a manga reader or not) or the nice bishies on show. On the other hand, I am here to admire the cuteness of Yuuki. Still, considering that I like cute anime gals, this should be no surprise.

Anyway, this episode is on the Saint Valentine’s day, where girls give chocolate to the person they like. Of course, our Night class will be popular for this special occasion. What will happen during this special day of giving?

Episode summary

From last episode, Zero is reaching his limits as a flashback of a bloodied woman appears. The next day, Yuki and Sayori are discussing about Valentine’s day, while the school president disses the whole event. However, when Sayori mentions to the class president about getting a present (he starts imagining Ruka), he smiles with glee. The boys are complaining that they will not receive any chocolate. Sayori is not interested, and Yuki is reading some chocolate books. Sayori also points out that Zero is looking (with a dark aura), and Zero asks whether it’s appropriate for Yuki to give chocolate to Kaname. Zero also stares down at everyone who sees him as the hope for the boys against the night vampire.

Kaien talks about the event with Zero and Yuuki. Zero asks impatiently why they cannot cancel this, but Kaien says that it is a chance for the beautiful vampires to hang out with the humans. Kaien adds that there are still vampires who looks at peace, and asks Zero to understand his notion of peace one day. Zero says he cannot do it, but Kaien asks whether it is Zero’s perception that they are beasts in human form. Yuuki ended the awkward situation by giving Kaien and Zero presents. Yuki also remembers the time that the aloof Zero is brought in.

At evening time, the vampires also discuss about the valentine’s day. A girl tried to climb the wall and falls, but Zero comes in to catch her. However, he warns that the event will end if they violate the rules, causing anger. The vampires exit from their mansion. Kaname goes close to Zero and asks if Zero’s body is all right. Zero challenges Kaname openly to a fight after hearing that. At night, Yuuki is preparing chocolate for Kaname while Zero struggles. Kaien tries to give him a blood pill, but he rejects it. Kaien says that his body is already beyond the limit and has a craving. Looking at it, Zero also realizes the limit of his body.

Yuuki proudly proclaims to Sayori that she bought chocolates in the end, as the fangirls are getting excited. Yuuki realizes Zero feels strange today. A fence is set up on both sides of the pathway to stop the fangirls from charging in, as the vampires mostly appear bored except Aidou (faker). Aidou rushes forward, but Kaname calls him back strictly. Ichijou receives a lot while Shiki and Ruka moves off quickly. Ichijou drags them back. Kaname receives chocolate from the fangirls, with Ruka commenting that he is being kind. Kain says her face is scary and Ruka questions why he is looking so stern. Ruka also receives a chocolate from the class president.

Kaname has his hands full and rejects more chocolate and tells Yuuki to be careful. The fangirls shove forward, and Yuki falls as the chocolate drops out from her pocket. Zero passes Kaname the dropped chocolate. Zero and Yuuki argue with each other about Zero’s nosy behavior. Yuuki says that Kaname and her are from different worlds while Zero feels a shock. As they moved away from sight, Kaname throws away all the chocolate except the one given by Yuuki. Zero disappears, and he is at the stable. The girl who was saved by Zero earlier wants to pass Zero chocolate, but was chased away by a fast tiring Zero.

Kaname and Ichijou are wondering where the other vampires are. The rest are confronting Zero, and Kain tries to defuse the situation. However, he is thrown by Zero, as Aidou’s ice power and Kain’s fire power appears. Yuuki comes in time to stop the fight. Zero tells Yuuki to leave him alone. Yuuki thinks about the barrier within Zero’s heart again. Yuuki finds Zero at the shower, as she buttons up for him. Zero is concentrating on her neck. Yuuki also gives him the only chocolate she makes, and tells Zero to appreciate it. Zero reminds her to leave him alone, as Yuuki finds a blood pill. In his own room, Zero is coughing badly and clearly struggling.

Thoughts

Is it just me but Yuuki looks so much cuter in the anime compared to the manga! Yuuki just feels so much cuter than how I remember her in terms of mannerisms, looks and the silly things she does. I am not sure if Studio Deen did anything with it, but whatever it is they did, I am applauding their move. I am fully enjoying this series, even if it feels a bit forced light-hearted. For now, it seems like some kind of calm before the storm, considering you are dealing with vampires, and not foxy spirits.

I must also add that it feels so wrong, but Ichijou is so cute in this episode. If there is any vampire that stands out, it must be Ichijou. The rest of the vampires are clearly believing only in Kaname’s pure blood rather than caring about some idealistic peace created by Kaname and Kaien (the reason why they have this alliance is unknown too for now). Ichijou is the only one that believes in this peace, and the sight of him happily enjoying every single chocolate and letter is just so cute. I wish they have more scenes of him rather than the other vampires. I prefer Ichijou than anyone other than Zero and Yuuki.

Kaname is a very interesting engima, if you think of the title in itself, “Vampire Knight”. I am starting to wonder who the “Vampire Knight” is, since it is quite clear now that Zero and Kaname are both vampires. The thing about Vampire knight seems to be more inclined toward Zero, who seems to be slightly more approachable than Kaname. However, anything can go from such a series. It’s a shoujo.

Any viewer who sees the obvious hints for the last two episodes should be able to get this information about Zero being a vampire. Yuuki, even with a rather innocent outlook, should be able to put two to two together about Zero’s secret identity now, and will understand why Kaien keeps reminding Zero about vampires. Kaien knows Zero is a vampire, and he is trying to get him to face reality. He needs to know he needs blood.

On the story this week, I feel that it is just building up the tension toward Zero’s transformation into a vampire. I feel that it is done perfectly, as Kaname clearly knows something about Zero at the very least. Perhaps, there is this thing about scent or aura that vampires can sense. That is why Kaname asks if “he is all right”, which is ironic since Zero hates vampires so much. For those who think he is way too emo, there should be some explanation later when the arc focuses on him. I will not spoil any further.

The preview seems to hint something about a regretful fang. Perhaps, it’s the revelation of Zero’s identity. For the manga readers, I have not forgotten you. This episode covers Chapter 2 of the manga, and my guess is that they will follow a chapter per episode. Whether this will result in a problematic ending is still too premature to say. Anyway, see you next episode entry!

It’s really a total pain when I have to blog two possible blockbusters in a single day. I am not complaining though. After Special A, the second series that I have been anticipating is here. Vampire Knight, derided by some as ridiculous and adored by others, has finally transited from manga to anime. As usual, with a manga adaptation with a rather strong following, it is always treated more critically than other manga. Does Vampire Knight Episode 1 fulfill its promise, or is it a time to flame on?

On a relevant note, I will be working as an editor for Orange subs fansubbing Vampire Knight. Do support us, all right? I cannot wait for the DVDs to arrive too!

Episode summary

Yuuki remembers how she is assaulted by a vampire when she is young, only to be rescued by Kaname. Years have past, and Yuki is now a prefect/guardian of Cross Academy. Surrounded by fangirls of the day class, Yuki is tasked to keep these fangirls away from the special Night class led by Kaname during the class change. The night class, with Aido in particular, gains a lot of attention from the others. Yuuki is shoved down by the mob surrounding Aido and Kaname is concerned. That earns the wrath of the fangirls.

Eventually, Zero the other guardian, appears to chase away the fangirls and warns Kaname & co to be on their way. Yuuki reminds Zero about his responsibility as a mediator, and Zero returns the warning. As Kaname walks off, he also rots a rose, displaying his supernatural powers. At night, the night class mentions about the vampire inhibitor while Aido is annoyed at the snooty behavior of Zero where he touches Kaname’s hands. Shiki also mentions about the nice smell of Yuuki, but Kaname clearly cares about Yuuki. Ruka also uses a book to hurt Aido’s hand. The moon is finally concealed while they speak. It is the time of the vampire.

In the office, Zero complains about their role to the school chairman to find more helpers for this escorting of the Night class. He adds that Yuuki is unreliable, but Yuuki adds that someone who always skips class has no right to berate her. The school chairman says that the night class’s secret identity (being vampires) cannot be revealed since the two classes study in the same school. The chairman adds that he feels better when his “son” and “daughter” is working on this. Zero gets even more annoyed, stating that he is NOT his son. Zero asks Yuuki to complain, but she seems to believe that the two can co-exist.

The chairman then talks in a grand manner about the pacifism between vampires and humans. As Zero leaves in annoyance, the chairman does admit that there are vampires who are savage. Yuuki says that she has no memory what happened five years ago where the chairman took charge of her after Kaname brings her to the academy. Kaname is the one who started her life. Ichijou warns that the reason why the vampires are peaceful is because of Kaname, and this peace is fragile. Yuuki also tries to cool down, telling herself that Kaname is from a different world. Zero also seems to be struggling, requiring some pills.

The next day, due to sentry duty, Yuuki dozes off in class and is asked to attend remedial lessons. Her friend, Sayori, seems to be completely uninterested of vampires and the night class. She also informs that Zero has already escaped remedial lessons. Yuuki finds Zero in the stable and is about to scold him. However, she earns the wrath of Lily, with Zero telling Lily that Yuuki is completely harmless. Yuuki tells Zero that it is time for sentry duty. Yuki thinks about the darkness in Zero’s heart.

At night, Yuuki dreamily gazes at Kaname, and Zero warns her not to display her affections in full bloom. They then walked to the ceiling of the school. Yuuki tries to hide her embarrassment by stating that the night class’s conduct is good, and there are no day class trespassers. Zero asks if she truly believes in peace between the two groups. She believes so, but Zero says he becomes a guardian to find the most effective way to kill these beasts in human form. Yuuki remembers the hatred in Zero’s eyes when he is brought here four years ago, and it is still the same now. She acknowledges that there are evil vampires, but believes in Kaname.

From the ceiling, Yuuki finds two trespassers at ground level and swings down using a tree. One of the girls is bleeding. She tries to move them away but Aido and Kain are already here. Aido speaks of a sweet smell, but it turns out that Yuuki hurts herself while swinging down. Aido licks the blood off Yuuki, and is about to bite her throat. The two students realize that Aido is a vampire and faint. Zero appears with a gun, reminding Aido about the no-biting rule. Aido says he already tasted blood, only for Zero to release the trigger to shoot slightly away from Aido.

Kaname warns Zero to get rid of the Bloody Rose. Kaname promises to discipline Aido and Kain, while Rika removes their memory. Kaname apologizes that Aido has scared her, but Zero drags her away. In the bathroom, Yuuki thinks about whether she can remove the darkness in Zero’s heart. Zero enters, completely ignoring the fact that she’s female. Zero adds that the smell of blood has disappeared. Yuuki wonders about the smell of his blood. Zero goes into the room, and he seems to be struggling. Zero is also a vampire. Aido is also slapped by Kaname for his careless remarks of Yuuki’s blood.

Audio

The OP is haunting, giving the right vibes for a vampire show. I also like the ED, which sets a huge ending mode, with Yuuki looking dazed and bloody. The soundtrack for this series is downright excellent and I am happy to say this is the first series that Impz has enjoyed through the sound of the ambiance. Some of the background sounds and music fits the theme of the night. It brings me to the world of the darkness, the time of the vampire.

I also like Yui Horie’s voice for Yuuki. It is exactly how I imagine Yuuki will sound like, unlike the cognitive dissonance I felt listening to Yuko Goto’s rendition of Hikari. That said, I always hold Yui Horie in very high regard, just like Kurogane. In addition, most of the guys sound all right, even though I feel that Kaname’s voice seems to bring a hint of haughtiness. Considering that he is a vampire, it is perhaps logical. For some strange reason, I feel that Ichijou’s voice seiyuu is chosen well too. It’s so queer how I am mentioning about seiyuus of guys, when I am a guy myself -_-

Animation

Animation is well done considering that the animation company is Studio Deen. No love is lost between me and the company, with their rather bad treatment of Hatenkou Yuugi. The character design is pretty, with Yuuki looking even more impressive than in the manga. However, there is a nagging feeling that the key frames are animated by them, while they outsource the in between frames to some Korean animation company. I am not sure but it is a concern by someone in orange-subs that triggered me to think.

Vibes

Let’s be honest here, despite my clear biased interest of Vampire knight. Vampire Knight is nothing revolutionary. It does not set out a new path of shoujo. It is simply following the path of a shoujo series, and doing it very darn well. In that case, all the characters are nothing truly new, but it has a good strong story. Despite my concern over future manga spoiler plots, the characters are likable, with differing degrees of sophistication.

I will not talk about the debate between Kaname and Zero, a very heated debate between fangirls of the manga. That is a very tricky topic, particularly since it is not time as yet. I believe that there are enough mysteries/hints in the first episode that will be good for anyone. The first thing is the true identity of Zero, and his unexplainable hatred of vampires. Who is he and why is his family killed by vampires? Who is the Headmaster Kaien Cross, and why did he set up a peace pact with Kaname? Why is Kaname caring so much about Yuuki.

So, who should be the target audience for this series? For one, if you like pretty boys, and a pseudo love triangle between Zero, Yuuki and Kaname, you should apply. If you like a strong shoujo series that does not break too many boundaries, yet constructing each of its step with some intent, you should apply. If you like vampires, it’s obvious you should apply. For those who are looking for action once again, this is not your anime. So, have I tempted you enough to watch this?

If you do, follow THAT Anime Blog for subsequent episode summaries of this vampire series that will start out light hearted before going on with darker themes.

P/S: Please do NOT post spoilers of the manga for manga readers.

Reverse Vampire’s View:

Not going to mention any spoilers. I was really anticipating the anime series for months now (Yes, MONTHS!) and for my P.O.V, it was pretty cool for my standards but there are some minor changes on how the story goes (If you want to point the differences, read the 1st chapter of VK and compare.) The only thing I’m disappointed at is the part when Kaname came in after Aido got a taste of Yuki’s blood; his head is waayy too small. But I find nothing wrong with the rest of the episode. The ED gave me the creeps when Yuki was dancing like a puppet to be precise, or a doll, to sound nicer. But anyways, I will rate this episode: 8/10.

School has not been always the most favourite place to go, but I’m ‘forced’ to because it’s for my sake and future. I’m quite busy with school, music lessons, school, writing fanfictions, projects, school, school…wait a minute, did I say school 4 times? You know how school is like, someday I’ll rename school into an Overload. I should announce that school is making my everyday life miserable, especially when it rains every single Wednesday. (Ok, that was a lame joke. It’s something personal.) and my back is aching.

SPOILERS FOR THOSE WHO HAD NOT READ CHAPTER 38!!! If not, click ‘more’.

Coming back to chapter 38 (I’m not outdated, I’m always on the lookout of anything new for the Spring season, and yes, I’ll be co-writing the VK anime posts with Impz). Moving on, the chapter starts with going back into time, 10 years before Haruka and Juuri went X.X, the stage is focused more about the Kuran bloodline (Showing how Rido looks like 10 years ago was added in the chapter too.) rather than what happened to Yuki after she was back to her vampire self.

In this chapter, it indicates that purebloods has quite a long life which twist the story even further and after exchanging a few words with Juuri, Haruka went on with the fight with Rido (And his servants, who does not contribute to the story and all the hack and slash.) and more fighting (with 110% more blood added!!!)

Rido looked as if he was playing a game of peek-a-boo at Haruka. Go back to reality, yeah?

More lengthy speeches occupy the entire chapter (With no specific explanation why Rido called Yuki his ’sacrifice’.) with more fights going on, but with our little young Kaname entering the battlefield, Haruka didn’t expect a surprise attack from Rido. Using the sword that could be only used by vampire hunters, Kaname took over the fight after Haruka exchanged more words with Kaname before he shatters into something that looked like glass pieces.

Kaname took over where his father had left off and using the hunter’s sword, but indicates that:

KANAME: I WILL KILL YOU ONCE AND FOR ALL!

He knew that he could not finish off Rido (The reason is on the next stanza.), his uncle began his last words before disappearing before Kaname. Kaname has ‘killed’ Rido, and we go back to the present, with Ichijou seeing Kaname using Ichiru’s sword piercing through his hand, dripping some of his blood to the Rido body that has not been awaken yet. Ichijou stops Kaname from killing Rido, but ignoring his warning, Kaname let his blood to infect into Rido.

Before leaving, Ichiru asked why he had not completely killed Rido off, and guess what:

Wow, fanciful words, Kaname. Then I am the queen of all vampires.

You’ll see Ichijou’s grandfather and the head of the Hunter’s Association having a small conversation who await for Rido’s revival (Uh oh@!). Shifting to where Zero and Toga is, Zero was held prisoner in the Hunter’s Association, with Toga unable to help him with the tight situation (As mentioned in chapter 37 which I’ve not written.) and the only thing that he does to help him was passing him the Bloody Rose before he left. Leaving Zero with a confused (And probably a clouded mind) mind, that chapter concludes.

Thoughts:

After reading the chapter (Maybe 4 times, that is.), I would say I pity Zero just by looking at the last pages. I had a hunch that now Yuki too is a vampire, he’s now a boy who is lost in the middle of nowhere, and no one to turn to.

Lately, my friend and I had been discussing the chapter regularly, and here is what she predicted:

I would have to break this down into choices on what happened to Zero, either he is brainwashed and then later sent off to kill Yuki, or kidnap Yuki and bring her to Rido. But I think the first option is probably out, since I don’t want to see Yuki die. But I would be happy to see Yuki wearing the Night Class uniform. The second choice is Zero will be blackmailed by the Association or the Council and is forced to be with Yuki for some time. I too pity Zero, but this is how the story goes

I would have to disagree with what my friend said in a certain extend. I like Zero very much, and not wanting to see him being brainwashed than being blackmailed. We’ll just wait and see what the next chapter will bring us. Life have to be unfair sometimes, right? And that gives me more inspiration to write my 2nd VK fanfic (Which is in a planning process currently.) which Kaname-lover fans would hate. Not continuing the post, review on what you think about this chapter. Maybe your ideas would be posted in the next post writing about chapter 39.

That’s it for the review of Chapter 34. Not much is happening. Let’s go on to Chapter 35.

Don’t kill Zero, please…And please kill Kaname ASAP (Even if he’s Yuki’s brother).

And the caption say lots of words even if it’s only a sentence. Yuki is KANAME’S sister. I hope this story doesn’t get into the incest section like Angel Santuary (Not a big fan of Kaori Yuki’s works. Kaori Yuki, Yuki Cross/Kuran, woah, speaking of puns!) And to start off, Zero ignores Kaien again (I’m starting to pity Kaien these days) and walk past Ichiru without saying a ‘hello; to him. Takuma and Rido (As Shiki) then met Ichiru and talked a bit (See picture above to see what are they talking about). The scene changed to where Chapter 34 last stops, Kaname is still seen sucking Yuki’s blood (For what I observed and the picture below is making me think of Kaname doing something with Yuki which is inappropriate for kiddies to see.) Then Yuki was seen with her body being cracked apart like a broken vase. The blood-sucking part is complete and Kaname continues by biting himself on the wrist and then doing a ‘mouth-to-mouth’ CPR as if it was kissing (Forgot what that’s called. I’m not a medic student but I think I ask my otaku friend or my brother who is in the SJAB.) The things that I’m writing now, it’s like every 5 minutes my mother will come and ask to check her e-mails for mail. I’m losing my concentration every single time she called me to stop. ARG!

Not very appropriate for kids to look at this page (Turns to next page of VK)

Yuki awakes and called Kaname to stop ‘kissing’ her in the lips by kicking him (Way to go, YUKI!) and Kaname wipes out the blood that remains on her mouth and asked her if she remember who Kaname really is. And thanks to my hero Zero he managed to stop the relationship between Yuki and Kaname, point the gun at the both of them and as he was about to shoot Yuki stopped him and declared that Kaname….is her brother.

And now the answers to our questions are solved mostly, as we go back to Kaname and Yuki’s past starting with her remembering her parents’ names, Kuran Juri (Kaname/Yuki’s mother) and Kuran Haruka (Kaname/Yuki’s father). Kaname came home from Takuma’s mansion one snowy night 10 years ago and Yuki was happy to see him coming back. Her world then was her house basement, no windows and a door. (I’m starting to think that her parents are being overprotective and not taking Yuki to expose reality.) Juri then asked Kaname about the visit in Takuma’s house and if Takuma to have a great influence on Kaname which I think he didn’t. (Funny pictures) Juri continues teasing Kaname and Yuki cried (You should see her expression, makes me laugh) as her mother continues to be all loving at Kaname and Yuki but Kaname had other plans.

And the flower thing when everyone in Cross Academy came back after the vacation, it was reminded here on the picture above. And I finally know the reason why Yuki must not go up to reality (I still can’t forgive her parents.) The senate recently at that time wanted to use the pureblood’s for the value of their existence and the power of their blood. They could oppose, but Yuki at that time is still young and most likely won’t do anything with Yuki. Her father think he’s being selfish (He’s selfish, just like Kaname, but I like his father more than him) but thinking it’s for the sake of Yuki, Kaname continues to protect Yuki. Later Yuki told Kaname that she had a dream of a person with eyes of different colors but one day…

The good days have ended, and Yuki is taken to be Rido’s ’sacrifice’ (Still not figured out what this sacrifice means but all I know that he’s taking Yuki away to do something bad) and when Yuki/Kaname’s parents came to their rescue, Yuki was with Kaname feeling scared, but too bad their father died just like that and Kaname’s mother came after a few minutes to say her last words, telling Kaname to protect Yuki if something happens to her. Yuki’s mother then takes Yuki away and Kaname went to kill Rido (My assumption, that is.) Taking Yuki to another room, she takes her memories on vampires away and then killed.

It then goes back to the present, and for this chapter, our past questions are being answered here but yet there are a few new questions appearing in this chapter.

1. What does Kaname means when he said “I would have been happier if I was born as her real older brother? Does it means that Yuki is adopted twice, first by the Kurans and then Kaien later?

2. At the last pages of VK Chapter 35, how does Yuki’s mother get killed when they are stuck in a room and how was she able to be at the snowy place in the first chapter?

3. Is Yuki really a vampire? If so, how come I don’t see fangs or anything else that she is a vampire? Perhaps she is a special type of vampire?

And to all of you on Earth, Happy Christmas’ Eve and have a great Christmas coming your way.

The true nature of a pureblood. And I’ve came up with many reasons why I hate him soooo much.

Warning, if you are a Kaname fan, either skip this post I’m going to write now or read it and start flamming on my post. I just don’t want people to get hurt just by seeing this post on me hating Kaname Kuran. PLEASE, for your own safety (And health, perhaps), do not read this post if you are a Kaname fan.

ARG! In my point of view after reading chapter 34 of Vampire Knight, I would want to buy a Kaname Kuran human dummy (Okay, maybe shops do not sell a Kaname dummy, but just a dummy will do and I will paste his face at the dummy’s) , bring it home and use a baseball bat to kick the pureblood’s ass!

I’ve came up with a lot of reasons why I hate this pureblood more than anyone else in Vampire Knight. So far are:

1. He thinks so highly of himself and went destroying buildings, flowers, things, paintings, walls etc. Erm, Kaname. I think that if you keep on doing this to Cross Academy property, poor Kaien is going to be so broke that he can’t afford to pay all the damage you’ve done. And by the time Kaname knows what he’s done Cross Academy is no more. Yuki will leave him for eternity, Kaien will disappear and Zero will perhaps kill him without any hestitation.

2. He’s controlling an army of mindless noble and ordinary vampires. Think of it; all the students in the Night Class and the people of the Council are being mind controlled by Kaname. . And those vampires do not have a mind of their own to know to differenciate what’s right and wrong. (RV is trying to ask Aido and Kain if sucking blood in school bounds is right.)

3. He killed so many people (Shizuka Hio and his uncle, but his uncle managed to survive by transferring his soul to many people like Shiki and the kid we saw earlier in early chapters.) and telling them that it’s all for Yuki or peace between humans and vampires. What rubbish is that as I knew what his motives are just by looking into his eyes. BTW people, my eyes don’t lie when judging things. (I think).

4. He manages to get away with anything he has done wrong because he is a pureblood. I think it’s just crappy to get away with anything, even killing just because he is the ‘king’ of the vampire soceity, talking about fairness. It’s Kaname being spoilt (eg. sitting under a tree with cushions and snacks at the side of where he’s sitting. He deserves to get his butt spank and go to 1 year of boot camp to learn about the meaning of discipline.

By the look of his face, he’s going to kill me anytime now…

5. Violence is not always the answer to solve a problem, Kaname. But you’ve ruin it by doing all sorts of taboo and hurting people who get in your way. Geez, did your parents teach you that violence is never the answer (Before they die)? I’m not blaming your parents Kaname, but if they taught you how could you forget?

6. He doesn’t do anything to show pacifism between humans and vampires. His eyes are telling me that he wants to start another human-vampire war. All talk and no action. Keep promises but didn’t done it. He’s blackmailing Yuki all right to fall in love with him no matter what happens, even if he betrays Yuki. I’ve seen you giving some of your blood to Zero to slow down the process of turning Zero into a Level E vampire but RV thinks that you have a motive doing that.

7. Lastly, my army of reverse vampires (Not me, reverse vampires are vampires who turned vampires into humans instead of the other way round, going out of the norm. No, not dhampirs. Reverse vampires.) can do better than Kaname Kuran in believing in peace between humans and vampires. Vampires are not immortal, not gods, they’re only just….vampires who have magical powers. So don’t think so highly of yourself, Kaname.

And maybe that’s about it. If anyone of you like me is a hater of Kaname, create a fan club and then get people who hate him too to join the club. If anyone has it, you can maybe ask me to join the club too and we will share the pain of looking at Kaname. And if anyone of you have a Zero fan base, please allow me to join too, and I’ll be happy to do anything.

That’s why, Kaname is out, and why Zero is in. (Throws a tomato at him.) Not trying to be anti-vampire here, people.

See what Kaname has done to make Zero into the way he is now! (Hugs Zero like a plush toy)

Okay, before I start anything for today’s review of Vampire Knight chapter 33, I would like to say a few words. Sorry I haven’t been updating for some time now as I’m busy with things that are personal/private to me. Lately I’ve been meeting some Kaname-hater fans, so maybe someone would like to start a ‘Hate Kaname’ fan club (RV laughs like an evil villian) but I won’t get too far to pin point everything I hate about Kaname, or else fans of Kaname would want to kill me for that.

Off to the current chapter, Ichiru was invited to enter Kaien’s office and get to meet Kaname for the first time (In previous chapters Ichiru did not know that Kaname was the one who killed Shizuka, and still believes Zero was the one who murdered Shizuka.). So I presumed that the both of them are meeting each other for the first time and all that drama that is happening at the office is tense, very tense. After Ichiru leaves, Kaien asked if it’s bold to gather people like Ichiru to play a ‘game’ with Kaname. This ‘game’ is mentioned again when Shizuka enter Cross Academy, who possessed Maria (Shizuka’s niece) in Volume 4 of Vampire Knight and was thought to end somewhere in Volume 5 where Shizuka was killed by Kaname. Kaname is going to screw this up and by the looks of Kaname in eye contact, he’s lying about the vampire-human pacifism. I KNEW IT! Kaname’s lying all right all because of his parents.

Kaname’s lying all right…I can see it in his eyes…

And Ichiru’s right, why don’t finish him once and for all if he’s from the Council? But going on anyway, the reason why Ichiru came into the Academy is not yet known but going to be in a few chapters (I hope, and I really, really hope that mangaka-Hino doesn’t slack this time). Then Kaien took out his glasses (I wonder what he look like behind the glasses which I would want to know more.) and said that he would made that ‘woman’s’ wish come true. That ‘woman’ looked somehow like Yuki, except older and her hair longer saying that even they are vampires they could still the sadness that humans feel (Vampires? Is that ‘woman’ a vampire? Till that point I’m still wondering what’s going to happen in later chapters). Talk about angst, there’s more. Yuki’s not her usual self anymore, it seemed that our once cheerful and energetic Yuki is gone now. She’s becoming like a lost child finding answers to her questions.

Yuki’s still pondering what Kaname was going to do to her when Kaname becomes Yuki’s lover, terror flies when there was a bloody hand coming out of nowhere and (stupid fucked up vampires, thinking you’re so god-like and think lowly of us humans) Yuki must not be a vampire, or else they’ll ruin everything, and I mean it EVERYTHING! Yuki managed to snap out of her daze thanks to dear Yori (Finally, she made more appearances this time), concerning about Yuki and told her to get some sleep. She’s going to predict that Yuki will fall asleep in class later on but Yuki met Zero and the Night Class students, Aido, Kain, Rima and another vampire were ordered to protect Yuki, now that Kaname is officially Yuki’s boyfriend. Sometimes I would want to say something bad about those vampires, all because of a pureblood’s order, they would do whatever they want for them. I should say that the Level B vampires are all cowards, following orders like dogs even though they are of royalty. Sheez, I wonder if the Night Class students have any brains (Except for Aido, as he’s a genius and some other vampires in the Night Class). Everyone got so jealous of Yuki that they would want to pound her like a rice cake (But they did not, as they are just whispering among themselves to be envy of Yuki).

Someday I would get a medium to find out what’s in the mind of those nobles. It would be very interesting.

Don’t say that we humans are inferior, Aido! Not true, and the price of getting too close with people like Kaname is worse than being ignored by the entire world. I would rather be ignored by the entire world than being followed by mindless noble vampires 24/7, if I’m Yuki. The next thing you’re going to see after Zero talks to Yuki in class is that we’re going to see Aido leading Yuki and Zero to Kaname, and told Yuki more about his investigation about the enemies of the Kuran family but when Aido and some other vampires (Could be friends) put the book in their hands it burns like the one back in Chapter 27. After that we see Kaname sitting under the tree with cushions!? (Someone, get Kaname into a boot camp. He’s being pampered too much, that’s why!) Why, Kaname? WHY???? And Kaname, Yuki’s not a little girl anymore so just treat her like a normal teenager could you? I wish Kaname goes to boot camp at the most dangerous forest on Earth and then tell hhimself not to get spoilt all the time, Kaname is a softie. Why does Kaname gets away with anything he’s done? WHY, GOD??? But moving on, Kaname still does not tell Yuki about her past when he sees her afraid and shocked.

Finally Kaname admits that he’s evil all the time and I could see Kaname being a very extreme sadist by looking at Yuki’s petrified looks on her face. Yuki goes on being a confused and lost and more angst moments by looking at Kaname I know that he’s going to rape poor and lost little Yuki at this very moment by the looks of him.

I know that face, you’re not going to rape Yuki, you sweet talk pureblood!

Then Ichiru visits Zero and Yuki at night just to exchange a few words at each other and left. I was hoping they would say something more and meaningful other than Ichiru saying ‘I hope you won’t get close to Yuki and leave her alone, or else she will be coming after you and eat you up.’ Ichiru then took a potion out after he left the room and saying that the potion is useless now. The use of it, we are going to see more in further chapters.

Lastly, we are going to see a car heading towards Cross Academy and inside the vehicle is Takuma and a possessed Shiki plus a chained coffin. And all that the chapter ends.

At least the chapter does not suck like the previous chapter, it has more to the plot rather than on the sidelines where you see Yuki and Kaname dating and talking blindly to each other. I wish I could see Zero doing something, not just stand there like a dead log but this time he shows more concern of Yuki (Finally Zero’s doing something rather than play goosebumps). Kaname is being evil taking over both the vampire and human ‘world’ with his servants from the Night class staying mindless zombies always.

Next, you’ll hear me, Reverse Vampire, talking about taking over the entire world, I mean it, the ENTIRE world, by playing computer games. (So Kaname, you’re not the only one who is conquering the entire world, RV style!)

I knew that car is heading towards the cliff. If Kaname and Yuki are in it, it could be a Japanese love suicide if they love each other so much.