Original lyrics from here.

Shoujotachi yo (Young girls, together) – AKB48

The stars spread out in the sky
“which one is the brightest?”
Anyone who heard that question
would not be able to answer
In the darkness first
the light that we can’t see is here

on the corner of the stage
we continue to struggle
with emptiness and regret
during our youth

young girls, together
dawn is almost here
the future of your dreams is starting here, whoa whoa
young girls, together
don’t give up on anything
put aside everything sad
with full strength
with full strength
sprint forward!

when people look at stars
and the stars that no one cares about
who can tell the difference between them?
in the light that can’t speak
is it the distance
or because of the clouds
give me a reason

while thinking that this is not really living,
if i am frustrated and anxious
it seems like there is support behind me

if you worry
when will (you) become strong?
today’s tears is tomorrow’s strength, whoa whoa
if you worry
step forwards
if you stop walking, this is the end
come on, come on (the easiest translation of ganbatte)
(i) believe in you

young girls, together
dawn is almost here
the future of your dreams is starting here, whoa whoa
young girls, together
don’t give up on anything
and put aside everything sad
with full strength
with full strength
sprint forward!

(this is the theme song of the AKB48 documentary, to be continued: in ten years, what will the young girls be think of themselves now?)

Essentially, the only fangirling that I’ve done in the last 2 months has been over AKB (well, and a little SKE).  I’m not into NMB or SDN (yet), even if I do like members from SDN like ex-AKB members Yukarin (Sato Yukari) and Nonti (Noro Kayo).  Hopefully my wota-ness will not get to the point where I can name HKT members next year.

This post is a “awesome girl” post no. 1, in which I detail why you should like individual members.  However, in the interests of time (and energy), I will only cover about 4 girls at a time.  Hopefully this will be done in 15 (or less) posts.  With maybe a couple of miscellaneous posts covering the kenkyuusei, SKE and SDN members whom I like as well.  I will try to make each member entry as detailed as possible, and this will be in order of er.. well…  honestly, whomever is easiest to write about at that point in time.  To be fair, I will also try not go on and on about my oshimen and top 10, because I figure I’ve already said A LOT about them.  Well, at least of my oshimen and no. 2.  So I will limit my “AKB awesome girl profile” to 2-3 paragraphs per girl.  I’m also including a paragraph or so about member relations, because a lot of them are defined by their roles in the group.  That said, I’m not going back to individual AKBINGO and SHUKAN and/or making of episodes to reference what I say, so take it with a pinch of salt.  It IS something that I started while waiting for my laundry to finish tumbling in the dryer, after all.

1)  Miyazawa Sae “Saechan” (Team K)

Of course, we have to start with my oshimen.  Saechan ranked 9th in the senbatsu elections last year, and is one of the most prominent members of team K.  While not one of the “front” girls, she’s definitely one of the most popular in the group.  This is because of her extremely giving, supportive and “fun” personality.  Her “catchphrase” is “GENKING, Miyazawa Sae desu” – which reflects her focus on being an energy-provider/encourager for the people around her.  During Shoujiki Shougi (truth chess) against Sayaka, she was forced into admitting that she gets tired (i.e. she denied it, and failed the lie-detector) but even after such a result, she insisted that she wasn’t tired.  That is the type of person that Saechan is.  During the same round of Shoujiki Shougi, she also said that she’d “like” to become a perfectionist.  However, the irony is that only true perfectionists would believe that being a perfectionist is something to aspire to.  This is reflected in her dancing and singing, which she’s constantly working on to improve.

At the same time, while being popular, competent, positive to the people around her and an irreplaceable pillar of team K, Saechan has a surprisingly negative view of herself and is incredibly sensitive.  During last year’s Christmas dinner talk with Miichan, Yukirin and Mayuyu, she admitted to hating herself and feeling inadequate beside the likes of Acchan and Takamina.  There are many many examples of her being self-deprecating as well, such as during the Nemousu bowling challenge, where she thanked her instructor (through her blog) for putting up with her “selfish” behavior.  Let’s just say that there was nothing that Saechan did that was selfish during that challenge; she genuinely tried her best, thought her way through problems and worked her butt off.  But Sae is just that type of person.  If things don’t work out, she tends to blame herself.

Beyond her boyish looks, she’s also really sensitive and cries easily.  This is especially so when she feels touched or overwhelmed by the situation, such as when preparing for the musical (Takamina also cried).  However, she also notes that in the presence of people who need her, she “tries to be strong”.  Such as with Yukirin, whom she became close to during the musical, Sayaka, who suffered problems at the end of last year and had to resign the team K captaincy, and even Mayuyu.  You’ll notice that in 2009 she didn’t cry when her own election results (14th) were announced, but did because she was so happy for Sayaka making it into senbatsu (12th).  Last year, after the election results, she was also filmed to be the one checking on how the emotional people e.g. Acchan, Yuuko and Mayuyu were doing.  That, again, is who Saechan is.  However, this year, she has finally decided to make one of her goals to “improve” on her previous ranking of 9th.  This is the first time that she’s ever said that the ranking was important to her, and is therefore an important note in the development of her personality.  If I was to pinpoint a time when Sae changed, it would’ve been over the course of the bowling challenge leading up to her taking the pro test (though she failed).  During that time, Sae discovered what it means to strive for a goal for herself, and to achieve something that only she can do.  I also think that she gained a lot of confidence during this time, and I’ve become really proud of her.

As said above, she’s very popular with the members because of her giving, caring and completely unselfish personality.  In the time that she’s spent with AKB, she’s grown from a gangly, awkward, slightly shy teenager into someone who (if still unconfident) is able to stand up and be relied on.  As Yuuko said in her encouragement note to Sae during the bowling challenge, a Saechan who tries her best is a “cool” Saechan.  It’s precisely because of this “ikemen quality” (and how handsome she is) that Sae has become the object of many an AKB member’s crush.  There’s just not enough time or space (given my internal restrictions) to talk about it here, but suffice to say, many AKB girls, from the older retired ones (Me-tan) to the kenkyuusei (Miyumiyu) find her very attractive.  Beyond the jokes and the flirting (Sasshi’s “encouragement” note to her during the bowling pro test was “If you pass, please date me!”) there is a genuine sense that the members appreciate her kindness and thoughtfulness.  Her grace, approachability and love for the people around her is what makes her stand out.

2)  Watanabe Mayu “Mayuyu” (team B)

Yup, my ex-Oshimen, who is my current #2 AKB girl.  Mayuyu started in AKB as a 13-year old girl, and has just turned 17 this year.  In the 4 intervening years, she’s changed a lot.  Previously, she used to be so controlled with her expressions that she earned the nickname “cyborg”.    Mayuyu’s biggest selling point used to be what we aniota call “moe”.  Put her in cat ears, a maid outfit and/or stockings for zettai ryouiki, and watch people react as if they’ve seen a baby kitten sprawled out napping on a baby golden retriever.  Now, she often shows her personality through AKBINGO “dokkiri” episodes, where members are pranked, and through random SHUKAN AKB and backstage episodes.  She’s also learnt that it’s okay to show different aspects of herself, and now delights in this.  Watch the episode of Shoujiki Shougi against Sasshi, where she intentionally puts down Takamina’s MC-ing through Sasshi, even after the game has ended. (Takamina’s response was “what’s this about hurting people even after the game?”) Or when she unintentionally pisses off a whole lot of people during another Shoujiki Shougi episode through Nyannyan.  I suspect that she often gets away with crap like this because of her adorable (moe) face, and is only emboldened because of it.

More on the “gap moe” (gap in personality vs what she looks like), Mayuyu’s unintentional expressions when she is pissed off are quite incredible.  In the AKB SHUKAN Guam DVDs, her expression at being in the “hell” group which wasn’t allowed to see through a blindfold while in a submarine was pretty hilarious.  Her famed grumpiness was also showcased when they woke her up in Guam and she asked them “isn’t that enough?” – which was amusingly made moe by her eye-rubbing and sleepiness.  However, while she’s grown comfortable with showing the human side of herself, she’s also developed in other aspects.  One thing that has definitely come to the fore is how competitive Mayuyu is.  She really hates to lose.  I’d say that her competitive streak is probably on the same level as Tomochin’s.  Whether over slipping a rank in senbatsu elections or in losing a cosplay race competition, she seems to get equally upset.  Well, she said that she was very upset over losing in the cosplay race because everyone seemed to underestimate her, so she decided to try her best.  So yes, she hates being underestimated as well.

It’s really amazing how much Mayuyu’s grown in the last few years.  In an early episode of AKBINGO (I think? May be Shukan.) Nyannyan and Mayuyu had to go into a haunted house for a challenge.  She and Nyannyan were terrified standing outside…  Then Nyannyan went in… and Mayuyu shut her inside alone, prompting squeals for Mayuyu to let her out.  Her evilness in that was just… hilarious.  Later on, both Mayuyu and her ended up in tears, though they both completed the challenge.  About 2 years on, in the “Ghost walk” in Guam, Mayuyu was in a group with Yukirin and Kitarie.  While Yukirin and Kitarie said that they had to “be strong” to protect Mayuyu, in the end Mayuyu was the one who manned up, took on the challenges and yelled at the people for trying to scare them.  Her comment in the dark to the “ghost” who was creepily muttering about wanting to be thinner about the benefits of dieting was something quite extraordinary.  It left me in stitches.  But Mayuyu’s response to this challenge also illustrates how much stronger she’s become, mentally.

Mayuyu’s relationships with the other AKB girls have also changed with time.  When she started out, Mayuyu was spoilt by Yukirin (whom she still jokingly calls “Okaasan”, or mother) and protected by everyone around her because of her age.  She was also strangely isolated, due to her rather extreme introversion.  Besides hanging out with her Warota ex-B mates, she didn’t really seem to talk to anyone else.  Last year, she started becoming closer to Saechan because of their filming together in Sakura kara no Tegami, and to Yuuko because of their bonding over Yukirin’s butt (they became the Oshiri sisters).  Many in the group are still very protective of her (including Takamina, whom she says is like a “dad”) but she’s gaining independence and a self-assurance which was very much on display in Guam, when she wandered off to explore/play on her own.  Additionally, Yukirin mentioned that while Mayuyu (being like a younger sister) used to come to her for support during stressful periods, last year she started to rely instead on Mayuyu for support during her periods of insecurity immediately after she was made team B captain. Mayuyu’s development as a person/artist still isn’t complete, and I’ll continue watching to see how she grows.

3)  Takahashi Minami “Takamina” (Team A)

It’s hard to explain how the most respected member/leader of AKB48 is also the most-mocked, the most-pranked and the most-insulted.  There are few things that haven’t already been said about her, but I especially liked Miichan’s comment about how “if you don’t like and respect Takamina, you’re not human”.  Takamina is a born leader.  Better still, she’s a leader who genuinely cares about her colleagues and works hard to encourage others.  There are few Takamina speeches (usually impromptu, recorded backstage) that haven’t touched me.  While Saechan tends to work behind the scenes in helping to encourage others, Takamina tends to approach matters directly (Takamina once commented that while she and Saechan tend to argue a lot, it’s mostly about the means to achieve things, and not the goal).  If she feels that people haven’t done their best, she will say it – and comment on how things could be better.  She doesn’t attack people, and always seeks to solve a problem by providing assistance.  That is why Takamina is seen as the “father” and “protector” of AKB48.  She will never say a bad word about anyone, or be unconstructive with her criticism.

One incident that stands out in my mind is a “dokkiri” episode of AKBINGO, where Yuuko pranked Takamina by pretending to break a valuable guitar and blaming it on her.  Instead of getting indignant and pointing out the truth, Takamina instead chose to take the blame, and apologise.  That, for me, illustrated Takamina’s way of “being the leader”.  She would protect the group under her charge, regardless of personal consequences.  There are many, many examples of Takamina’s empathy and how deeply invested she is in each individual in AKB.  I decided to pick the specific example above because it illustrates how she does this without thought for personal advancement.  While others might take the role of “captain” to be a means of furthering their career, Takamina sees it as a responsibility for everything that AKB has given her.  This is also why, apart from being the leader of team A, she is also THE leader of AKB.  Being AKB’s spokesperson/leader means that apart from the extra effort that she puts into learning dances (she’s not good at dancing) and organising people, she also has to liase between teams and producers/event organisers.  There is no one in AKB who works as hard as Takamina.

As THE leader of AKB, she turned up in her pajamas at the radio show where Sayaka resigned the team K captaincy.  She did so to tell Sayaka that she understood the difficulties associated with the captaincy, to console her about her “human mistake” and to pledge her support.  That is Takamina through and through.  Her sincerity, support and empathy for everyone, especially everyone in AKB, cannot be questioned.  (Though her deep empathy means that she cries at EVERYTHING.  The crying is always mocked, but not her empathy.)  This is the reason why people feel free to mock her and make fun of her in a friendly way “to gain an interesting reaction”.  No one in AKB would make fun of her character, or how hard she works, or how she leads.  All of these are unquestionable.  Because of her approachability and openness, she also doesn’t mind digs about her height, her fashion sense, how she’s actually male or how her jokes/stories are uninteresting.  As such, she remains well-loved and incredibly respected.

As for her relationships with individual members, her relationships with Miichan, Acchan and Nyannyan immediately spring out as the most important.  All 3 members also started in the original batch of AKB, and remained through these 6/7 years.  Essentially, they grew up together, saw the same things together and supported each other through tough times.  Miichan, especially, respects Takamina deeply.  Both Acchan and Nyannyan refer to Takamina (jokingly) as a “male” because of Takamina’s over-protectiveness and general gallantry.  One incident that sticks out in my mind is the huddle with Miichan and Acchan after last year’s senbatsu, when Acchan lost her first placing to Yuuko.  Acchan was apologising for the result while holding back tears, and Takamina was hugging her.  Takamina also commented on how Miichan was also holding Acchan, ended up sobbing harder than her, for her.  It was quite amazing, and shows their closeness.

4)  Itano Tomomi “Tomochin” (Team K)

I’ve always wanted to write a post about Tomochin because I feel like she’s one of the most misunderstood members of AKB.  Though she’s incredibly popular, it seems that she’s popular merely because she’s pretty and “cool”.  I noticed Tomochin for a completely different reason.  Pretty early on, I realised that although Tomochin is quiet (especially during back-stages) and doesn’t fool around with other members or do lulzy things like pranking them, she always seems to be on the border of participating.  For example, I can’t remember if it’s from AX2009 or another concert, but the other members were playing with the heights of the mike, Tomochin was standing a meter away, looking intently, as if she wanted to join in, but not really saying anything.  There were numerous instances where something similar happened. That was what made me realise that Tomochin is actually really shy, and because of that, lonely.  Things are better now that she’s become best friends with Chiyuu, but before that, she was very isolated in team A.  For that reason, there were various rumours that she would “graduate” soon.

Now that she’s transferred to team K after the whole “team reshuffle” of 2009 and has launched a successful solo career with Dear J (with yet another single to come), she seems much happier.  However, I noticed that she was ranked in some magazine lately as being among the “most despised” women of 2011.  This irritated me, because obviously these people saw Tomochin’s face and were judging her based on her “cool” look and the “bad guy” character whom she currently plays, Shibuya, in Majisuka Gakuen 2.  On the other hand, the image of Tomochin that I hold in my mind is that of the lonely kid looking in from the outside, wanting in but not being able to say anything.

Tomochin is also very sensitive and empathetic, despite her very obvious competitive nature that comes to the fore in AKBINGO dodgeball/cosplay race/swimming festival/any competitions.  During an episode of AKBINGO where Saechan’s basketball ex-coach and middle school teacher sent in a tape talking about how Saechan overcame bullying and pushed through her difficulties in school, everyone was surprised when Tomochin ended up crying (Tomochin and Saechan are not close).  Tomochin revealed that she had also been bullied in school, that that she was touched by how Sae was able to become the strong person that she is today.  Also, listening to the audio commentary of Team K’s Sasae during AX2010, we hear that Tomochin, while being her usual quiet self and listening to the song in the background, started crying because of the song, its lyrics and how it reflected what it was like being in AKB.  THAT is who Tomochin really is.

As I mentioned before, Tomochin is shy and tends to keep to herself.  She is pretty close to Acchan, Takamina, Nyannyan and Miichan, just by virtue of all of them having essentially been raised by AKB.  They all know each other so well that these people are even able to tease Tomochin about her solo career (teasing Tomochin is something that is just NOT DONE).  However, it can be said that she didn’t really have any other close relationships till “the other Tomomi” turned up.  Chiyuu has been great for Tomochin, they confide in each other, go out together and support each other even without ever having been in the same team.

… with that, I’m done for the first installment.  It took a lot longer than I anticipated.  Don’t know when the 2nd installment will be…  But I’ll try for this weekend.

A resting Saechan

orz I thought “there’s no way that I could ever change oshimen”, but within 2 weeks I’ve come to realise that though I love Mayuyu and think she’s adorable and incredible, there’s no doubt that the person whom I support and want to succeed the most is Saechan.

There are many, many reasons for this, but just watching her grow through the bowling challenge, through the musical, through her interactions with the other members, “real” talk sessions, her blog – I can’t help but wish that she’d find real happiness.  She just tries so hard, and is so supportive and loving to everyone around her.  With her there’s nothing of Sempai/Kouhai, she insists that everyone calls her Saechan.  You’ll often notice that during emotionally stressful times she’s always there, like a pillar of strength for the people around her.  She’s often willing to lend a hand and an ear, as well as provide a shoulder to cry on.  What’s better, she’s completely sincere in her efforts and really cares.  This is what I like about Saechan.  It’s also why everyone says that she’s REALLY ikemen.

What I LOVE about Saechan is that although she does this for other people, she doesn’t expect reciprocation in the least, and pushes herself to succeed on her own.  At the same time, she keeps her own troubles, frustrations and pain to herself and pretends to be strong for the people around her.  Later, she never gives any credit to herself, always crediting the people around her for being supportive, and for “putting up with her selfishness”.  I see nothing selfish about her, Saechan is one of a few really REALLY good people whom I know.

It also doesn’t hurt that she looks fantastically hot in anything boyish, adorable in anything casual and has a really strikingly natural face with natural expressions.  Plus, she can dance (her hip hop is HOT), can sing (relative to most of her AKB colleagues) and seems incredibly REAL. orz

… I think I’ve fallen for Miyazawa Sae.

But I also ship Saeyuki with a passion.

It seems a travesty that despite the amount of fapping I’ve done on twitter, I haven’t actually put a post up about AKB48. I used to mock them and their fans; now I’m a fanatic. ORZ

Worse still, I have infected innocent civilians with this zombie-like fever. It can’t be helped though. I really, truly, honestly like most of the girls.  Their variety programs (and various videos) are simply too entertaining and hilarious to dislike. Their singing is (on the whole) uneven – some girls can really sing, and some (like my oshimen) sound like the usual Japanese anime characters on helium.  But I can ignore that.  It’s amazing what can be ignored when there is cute and lulz to be had.

After about 3-4 weeks of intense information gathering and video-watching, I know most of the girls. I have also acquired quite a bit of gossip about the senbatsu girls, their relationships and an entirely foreign vocabulary that is usually associated with wotas. ORZ

During these first few weeks of entering the AKB fandom, my rankings have been in constant flux, usually with the members whom I was gathering information about at that moment rising. Now, I aspire to be like Miyazawa Sae, and become an MD (Minna Daisuki). Not DD (Dare Daisuki), or love anyone. I want to love everyone, and enjoy all sorts of moe and hilarity.

My oshimen, given my aniota status, is obviously Mayuyu from team B. She’s more of an otaku than even I am, since she buys character CDs. Watching her 5400s stalking program pretty much convinced me that we are the same.  Her level of otapower cannot be faked.  90% of brain power on otaku stuff, 10% on “others”.  Except that I read and am sciencey.  Plus, she is adorable, introverted, self-deprecating, has a really strong competitive streak and an evil (well, hilarious to me) side.  There are many more reasons why I love her, but I’ll just stop here because it could turn into an essay.  My oshimen’s remained the same for the last few weeks, but the rest of my “top 10″ keeps changing.

At the moment, it stands as follows:

1. Mayuyu (Watanabe Mayu, Team B)
2. Saechan (Miyazawa Sae, Team K) -> more or less equal with 3
3. Takamina (Takahashi Minami, Team A) -> more or less equal with 2
4. Yukirin (Kashiwagi Yuki, Team B)
5. Tomochin (Itano Tomomi, Team K)
6. Yuko (Oshima Yuko, Team K)
7. Acchan (Maeda Atsuko, Team A)
8. Sasshi (Sashihara Rino, Team A)
9. Chiyuu (Kasai Tomomi, Team B)
10. Lovetan (Oota Aika, Team A)

Plus, I also like Matsui Rena and Jurina from SKE. ORZ  Others whom I also like but didn’t rank are: KitaRie, Yui-nyan, Kojiharu, Moeno, Harugon, Sayaka, Ayarin, Kanachan, Myao, Miichan and Nacchan.  ORZ I know, I’ve practically listed half of AKB.  It can’t be helped that they’re endearing and hilarious in different ways though.

This fandom has really helped to train my memory.   The lulz and adorable mostly comes through their variety shows, AKBINGO! and Shuukan, as well as fanservice and their respective blogs.  I think I may write up something in the next few days summarising what I’ve learnt about their relationships.  It seems a bit of a waste simply to hoard the lulz in my mind without sharing it.

"what it means...?"

I realised today that the raws are out. It’s a relatively long chapter this time! Thanks Fujieda sensei!

Also thanks to whomever scanned/uploaded it.

It’s so, SO, SO much squee. I’ve never been gladder for Japanese classes. I might post my half-baked “translation” of the conversations (especially the parts between Seriho and Sarasa-chan) later, as a White Day present for other Yurifans.

I think I can see where the title came from, it seems to be modeled after that 1998 Italian movie, where the hero dies and the heroine/surviving kid is the one who records the “wonderful” past that was, and the sacrifices that were made that “made life wonderful”.

I’ve started playing this game, and I’ll be honest – I’ve wanted to play this for a long while, but didn’t get around to it till recently.  That’s because I was all stressed out at work, so I completely stopped watching anime because I didn’t want the stress of the deadline of “keeping up” with new anime.  So far, Tomoyo After is loads of H-scenes which – I have to admit, I cannot protest.  Ever since I saw CLANNAD and CLANNAD After Story, I’ve been a huge fan of Tomoyo (she’s my favourite CLANNAD girl, and mai waifu no. 5).

However, in typical Key fashion, it’s hilarious, sexy and – did I mention hilarious?  Tomoyo’s best points and cutest characteristics are elevated to the max.  But also in typical Key fashion, I already know that this VN has a crap sob-story ending that will probably make me cry.  That was also another reason why I didn’t want to start it till recently.  Despite all that, what I’ve seen up to this point is wonderful, and I’m enjoying it very much despite the fact that Tomoyo’s seiyuu is not my much-fawned-after Houko Kuwashima.  Her Tomoyo voice in CLANNAD quite literally gave me shivers.

Oh well.

The soundtrack’s and the promo-movie are also great, I love them.

I’ll be starting on Planetarium after this, and probably Little Busters! Ex after that.  Little Busters! is a bit scary just with the sheer number of girls’ routes that I’ll have to make my way through. Then the huge task that is Eden*, if I haven’t gone off this VN binge by then.

Notes and disclaimers:  Yes, fiction.  Yes, Haruka and Minako are not really yuriyuri for each other.  Yes, I stayed up all night writing this because…  I had inspiration.  I totally own Haruka and Minako and make them make out for my own pleasure everyday…  NOT.

My very first fic after the jump.

Merry Christmas in SPHERE-land (Mina/Haru)

1 week before Christmas, 2010

Tomatsu Haruka’s eyes widened, her perfectly-plucked brows almost disappearing into her hairline.

“What?  You want to what?”

“I said, we should spend Christmas together again this year.” Minako Kotobuki re-stated calmly.

“Did you forget what happened last year?  How could you ever want to do it again?”  Haruka asked, horrified.

“Of course, but I think that was still better than pathetically spending Christmas eve alone in Tokyo.  Neither of us can go home, and both of us have the day off.  Aki-chan’s got that radio show, and Ayahi’s spending it with her family.  It makes sense despite what happened last year.” Minako reasoned.

“But…  but…” Haruka whined.

“Unless you’ve got plans with someone else?” Minako inquired, turning her head slightly away to look at Aki prancing around in a red hat under the mistletoe, making kissy-faces at them.

“Not reall-”

“OK, it’s settled then.  I’ll stay over again, and we can watch movies.”

“EHH?  Why don’t we ask other people to join us?” Haruka looked around, as if trying to find a way out.

“Like who?  Most of the people whom we know have boyfriends, or are spending it with family.  Those who are single aren’t our age and would rather spend it together watching KAT-TUN DVDs, hanging out with their cats and drinking sake under a kotatsu.  Unless you would rather that…?” Minako looked on sceptically.

Haruka sighed, her last out exhausted.  “Okay, I guess we’ll order in KFC again.  It’s tradition and stuff…”

Minako glared. “Are you that upset about last year?  I promise that we won’t drink this year.  Or do you just not want to spend Christmas with me?”

“NO!  It’s not that!  It’s just – I thought that you’d want to spend it with your other friends, since we’re already booked out for SPHERE work the entire week after Christmas.  We’ve got to promote our live RINGS DVD, remember?”

“My other friends have plans, and also…  although you’re noisy and hyperactive i-i-it’s not like I get t-tired of you, so it doesn’t m-matter.” Minako grumbled almost inaudibly, blushing.

Haruka secretly grinned to herself.  “I didn’t quite catch that last bit…  But nevermind, we’ll meet up in the morning for shopping, head over to my place for dinner and end the day with a movie if it’s okay with you.  We can exchange presents!”

Mina-chan’s face lit up as if it was Christmas morning itself, the dimple making an appearance and her eyes twinkling.  “Good!”

2 years ago, Minako’s POV

I fidgeted in my seat, nervously awaiting the arrival of my manager and other colleagues.  I was dressed in my winter uniform, a white ironed dress-blouse, complete with starched collar and dark green school tie and navy blue sports coat.  I was also wearing my uniform’s skirt which was pleated and plaid in matching green colour, and dark leather shoes.  It wasn’t the most comfortable outfit, but I was used to it, and hadn’t had time to change after rushing down to Tokyo by Shinkansen following my broadcasting club meeting.  I stood as I saw a group of people approach, with a fair-complexioned, young girl dressed in jeans and a jumper standing in the middle and looking directly at me.

“Hajimemashite, Kotobuki Minako desu.  Yorushiku onegaishimasu.” I bowed shyly at the girl.

“Yorushiku.  Tomatsu Haruka desu.  But ‘Haruka’ is fine.” Haruka grinned at me.

It was the first time we’d met at the Music Ray’n office, and we were introduced to each other by our manager as “another member of the group that we’re organising”.  What could’ve been an awkward first meeting somehow easily slipped into typical schoolgirl conversation.  I guess Haruka was always that type of person – confident, outgoing, cute, personable, very easy to talk to if a bit random.  I’d heard that another girl around my age had been recruited too, and meeting her set me at ease.  If I were to work with her from now on, it would be okay.

“Okay.  ‘Minako’ is fine with me too.” I smiled back.

“Hey, where are you from?  I don’t recognise that uniform, and you’ve got a Kansai accent.” Haru-chan gripped my hands, dragging me towards the black couches that lined the office walls.

“I’m from Kobe.  Manager-san says that I should practice speaking like a Tokyo-ite, but it’s difficult.  I’m still practicing it in-between schoolwork and my club…” I mumbled, now self-conscious.

“Kobe?  Cool!  I like your accent, it’s very cute.” Haruka grinned again.

“I’m not from Tokyo either, Ichinomiya’s home.  When are you graduating?  I’m pretty much done next year.” Haruka leaned forward, fidgeting.

“I’ll be done in 2 years.  Until then, I’m commuting to Tokyo for this in between school.” I glanced at her, slightly envious.

“Oh, I know how difficult that is.  Do let me know if there’s anything that I can do to help you out.  Like, schoolwork.  Though I’m not so good at it either…  Say, have you met the other people whom we’re working with?  I’ve heard that they’re a few years older and already doing some voice work.” Haruka looked almost nervous.

“I haven’t met them yet, but I’m sure that we’ll be fine if we just work hard and try our best.” I smiled at her.

“Hah, I thought that I should try to be helpful since I’m a bit older, and here you are, reassuring me.” she looked amused.

“It’s nothing like that – I – I’m sure that I’ll come to be a burden on you, Haruka-san.” I blushed, embarrassed.

“There’s no need to be so polite, we’re all the same age.  ‘Haruka’ is fine.  Oh!  Say, did you eat yet?  I’m starving, I had to rush here from school.” she grabbed my hands, already heading towards the exit.

“-no, I had to travel here after my club meeting and I don’t really like train bentos…” I said, surprised, as I was dragged along.

“I know this awesome place…  Say, have you had a BLT before?  It’s delicious!”

“What’s a BLT?”

2009, 2 weeks before Christmas, Haruka’s POV

“Minachan Minachan!  Let’s spend Christmas eve together!  Aki and Ayahi can’t make it, so it’ll just be the two of us.  It’ll still be fun though!  My dad brought over some choya and sake, says that we can have some to celebrate your K-On! success and A.T.M.O.S.P.H.E.R.E.!” I excitedly glomped her from behind.

I sensed her back stiffen on first contact, then relax with a depressed sigh.  I could almost feel her frown, even though I couldn’t see her expression.

“Haruchan, can you not do that…?  I don’t mind spending Christmas eve with you, but don’t you want to spend it with that guy you’re dating instead of me?  I mean, you don’t need to take care of me just because I’m stuck in Tokyo for A.T.M.O.S.P.H.E.R.E. promotions…”

“But you’re cuuuuuuuuuuuuute!  I can’t help it!  And don’t say that…  All that guy talks about is cars.  Who cares about cars?  He’s so boring!” I whined.

“Okay, okay.  But we’re not drinking!  I’m not 20 yet, and neither are you.” Minako’s face softened into a warm smile.  “And please help me to pass on thanks to your dad and family, they’ve really been good to me.”

“You’re always so mean.  I’m good to you too!” I pouted.

“You bully me, never listen to me and are noisy all the time.  There’s no reason to thank you.  Though I guess without you, I wouldn’t know your family…  Fine, thanks.” She glared at me again.

I gave Minako a hurt look and turned my back to her.  “I don’t want that kind of thanks.”

After a few seconds’ silence, she sighed deeply, grabbing my hand, and pulling to turn my body into a warm hug.  “I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean that.  You’re my best friend.  We’ve been through so much in the last year, and I couldn’t have done it if not for you.  Your family’s been great to me, but if I were to start thanking you, I wouldn’t even know where to start.  For the big things, the little things…  There are too many things to thank you for.  So thank you, Haruchan.”

After another few seconds, unable to hold back the giggles, I started shaking uncontrollably in her embrace.  “Ha-ha-ha…  Hahahahahahahaha.  You act mean but you’re just a big pussycat, Minachan.”

Minako’s eyes widened, then narrowed into a glare again as she pushed me away from her.  The evil eye that she gave me only made me laugh harder.

“Hahahaha…  ha… oh God” I tried to catch my breath as I held my sides, aching from laughter.

“Ahem.  I mean…  Thank you for taking care of me too.” I cleared my throat, blushing slightly.

“Haruchan no bakaaaaaaaaa!” Minako yelled while flouncing off angrily.

3 days before Christmas, 2010

After the debacle of Christmas a year ago, Minako did have reservations about doing the same thing this year.  Then again, she didn’t want to be stuck alone in the small apartment rented for her by Music Ray’n while everyone else was out celebrating.  That would be a little bit too pathetic.  Besides, her management had pretty much ordered her (and every other female of eligible age in the company) to find something innocent and “acceptable to blog about” to do on Christmas eve.  Not that she didn’t appreciate the sentiment and the protection that it would provide, but this order seemed a little too…  personal.  Nevertheless, they were overjoyed with the idea of her spending it with Haruka.  “Kills two birds with one stone” was the expression they’d used.

However, this meant that Minako would have to buy something special for Haruka this Christmas.  Her mother had brought her up to always bring door gifts and something extra-special for a host.  It was only polite, and besides, Haruka was still her best friend.  Despite how annoying she was.  It wouldn’t do to give something generic like a picture frame, but it wasn’t like she was talented enough to make something personal for Haruka.  These were the thoughts that crossed her mind as she scouted the aisles at the local department store.

“Perhaps I should bake some cookies and give them to her in a glass bottle,” Minako murmured quietly to herself.

“…or maybe some gourmet chocolate like what I gave the other SPHERE girls on Valentine’s…”

“…she doesn’t even play MonHan like Satomi-san and Hikasa-san…  Speaking of which, I wonder what they’re doing this year…”

“… stupid Haruchan, she’s so difficult to shop for.  I can’t even give her make-up; we have the same stuff from shopping together.  She doesn’t read, she doesn’t cook, she doesn’t play any musical instruments or have any special interests…  She’s so troublesome.”

After three hours, Minako finally gave up and headed to Shinjuku station, where she was to meet Haruka.  They had decided to “do Christmas properly” this year, and were going to buy a tree and ornaments.  Haruka had whined about needing help, and Minako decided that she couldn’t turn Haruka down since the only reason why they were celebrating Christmas together was because of her insistence.

Haruka turned up 10 mins late as usual, attempting to surprise her from behind a pillar.  As usual.  Minako had pretended to be surprised, but had already recognised her earlier, even behind the white hygiene mask that Haruka habitually wore in public.  She had her hair tied up, and was wearing a thick woolen coat, a long thick scarf, gloves and knee-high leather boots.  All in all, she looked as almost any native Tokyo professional would at this time of the year.  Minako always recognised her though.  She figured that it must be Haruchan’s gait, or posture.  Anyway, there was something about the atmosphere around her that was very recognisable.  As they headed out to the local department store to pick out a plastic tree (Haruka refused to get normal pine trees as they were expensive and she’d be picking pine needles up for months afterward), Minako slipped her arm through Haruka’s.  It was warmer this way, she reasoned.

At the department store, they picked out a small half-meter high tree, exactly the right size for Haruka’s tiny Tokyo apartment.  They also bought paper streamers and shiny ornaments and a small set of multi-coloured LEDs.  As they left, Minako noticed that it was pouring outside.

“Can I share an umbrella with you?  I think I left mine at the office.” Haruka asked.

“Sure, you’re lucky I brought a bigger umbrella with me today.” Minako put it up and beckoned her under it.  Haruka grinned and grabbed the umbrella from Minako, holding it up while proclaiming it to be her duty because of her height.  As they walked back to Haruka’s apartment, she slipped her arm through Minako’s.

“Sure is cold today…” she commented, her breath misting in the air through the mask.

“Yeah, sure is.  I can’t wait to get inside where it’s warm.” Minako shivered.

Haruka noticed, and pausing, she unwrapped half her scarf and wrapped it around Minako’s neck.  She then pulled her right glove off, grabbed Minako’s hand, and stuffed their joined hands into the deep pockets of her coat, pulling their bodies closer than before.

“Really, you should dress more warmly.  Don’t want to catch a cold.” Haruka fussed as Minako blushed.

“I thought that I’d spend most of the day indoors, and didn’t know that I’d be doing this with you till late afternoon.  You can’t blame me.” Minako said, annoyed.

“Okay, okay.  Oh, guess what?  Today, you won’t believe what Ayahi…”

As Haruka started telling Minako about her day at the office and on the radio show, Minako drifted off, lulled by the warmth of the scarf, Haruka’s body against hers and Haruka’s familiar talk.

“Oy, don’t fall asleep.  You’ll trip.  It’s wet and dark.  Besides, we’re almost there.”

“Mmmm.  OK mom…” Minako mumbled, snuggling closer to Haruka.

“Minachan!” Haruka sighed exasperatedly as she took care to balance Minako on one arm, close the umbrella, standing it against her door frame as she fished for her keys.

Once she’d got the door open, Haruka half-supported and half-dragged Minako into her apartment, put the lights on and half-kicked the door closed behind her.  She then pulled off both their shoes and dumped the almost-limp body of Minako on to the fold-out couch.

“Looks like she won’t be going back tonight either…” Haruka mumbled to herself, setting about getting bedding and two thick blankets for Minako.  She didn’t bother to wake Minako; it was about 10:30pm and Minako had stayed over enough that she had a few sets of work-clothes at Haruka’s apartment.

As Haruka moved Minako into a more comfortable position and pulled her coat off, Minako mumbled “Haruchan’s being mean again, Aki…  Make her stop…”  Haruka couldn’t help but smile, saying “yes, yes,” while tucking her in under the blankets.  She then went to the kitchen, filled a glass of water and placed it on the kotatsu, next to the couch.

“I’d better mail Minachan’s parents on her behalf since she won’t be calling them tonight…” Haruka commented quietly as she gently tucked a loose lock of Minako’s fringe behind her ear, switched off the lights and headed for her own bedroom.

Christmas Eve, 2009, Haruka’s POV

“What…  if…  it doesn’t sell…?  What shall we do then?  Haruchan!  Answer me!” Minako slurred, slumped over the kotatsu.

“Someone once told me that it would be fine as long as we just worked hard and tried our best.” I answered, holding her, semi-horrified at how little it took to get Minachan drunk.

I regretted it.  There were no words for how much I regretted “just one glass to celebrate”.  Or how I’d insisted that Minako drink too.  Then again, I didn’t realise that of all the possibilities out there, Kotobuki Minako was a clingy and depressed drunk.

“Haruchan!  What if it doesn’t sell and SPHERE gets disbanded?” she looked at me, teary-eyed, clutching at my arm.

“I’m sure that we won’t get disbanded yet.  I promise you, ok?  Besides, your solo seiyuu career’s already taking off.  It’ll be fine.” I assured her.

“That’s not it!  I…  If we get disbanded, I won’t be able to be with everyone anymore!  I’ll miss everyone so much!  Haruchan…”  Minako descended into a deep depression, tears rolling down her cheeks.

“It’s ok, you’ll still be able to see Aki at K-On recordings, and Ayahi’s like your sister, she’s definitely going to take care of you still…  I’m your best friend, I’m not going anywhere either…” I patted her gently on the back.  This was not what I’d expected or wanted in the least!  Spending Christmas eve comforting a sobbing Minako was definitely not high on the list of ways that I wanted to end the year.

“Haruchan!  Promise that you’ll always stay my best friend!” she pulled my head towards her, trying to make eye contact.

OK, this I could definitely do.  I looked her straight in the eyes, gently removed her hands from my head, and smiled.  “It’s ok.  I’ll always be your best friend and be here for you.  No matter what.  I promise.”  I then pulled her into a gentle hug, hiding the tears in my eyes, patting her hair down gently on her back.

In a way, I was quite touched by how she wanted to stay with all of us.  In this past year I’d graduated from high school, and even though all my friends had agreed to keep in touch, between university and work and each of us having our own lives, it was already difficult to keep track of each other.  I’d put this loneliness, melancholy and disconnect down to growing up, and realising that Minachan was fearing the exact same thing, I did the only thing that I could do.  I made a promise that I’d try my best to keep.  If only to make sure that she wouldn’t be sad.

As I held her, I started humming Ikimonogakari’s “Yell”, which seemed appropriate for the situation.

“Hey, Haruchan.” Minako interrupted my humming.

“Yeah?”

“Thank you.”

“It’s okay.”

“Hey, Haruchan.”

“Mmhmm?”

“The chorus was flat.”

“Yes, yes.”

The next day, neither I nor Minako could meet each other’s eyes.  Then again, maybe it was the fact that I had to hold back her hair while she threw up in the toilet at 3am.

2 days before Christmas, 2010, Minako’s POV

I didn’t remember much about last year’s Christmas at Haruka’s, to tell the truth.  However, the fact that she’s always avoided the topic and her reaction to my suggestion this year suggested that something terrible must’ve happened after I drank that sake.  To avoid awkwardness, I couldn’t bring myself to have the “what did I do?” conversation with Haruchan either.  I did, however, resolve to give her a perfect present tomorrow to make up for it.

I’d already decided to bring a strawberry log cake to thank her for her hospitality.  Not just for inviting me over on Christmas eve, but also for taking care of me last night.  I was struck by her thoughtfulness, how she remembered that I often got thirsty in the middle of the night, and when my mother mailed me to let me know that Haruchan had informed her that I was staying over, I resolved to somehow make it up to her.  Strawberries were Haruchan’s favourite fruit; the log cake was my Mom’s suggestion.

That just left the Christmas gift itself.  On that point, I was still stuck.  Haruka often said that she didn’t need anything from me, but I still needed to get something for her because I knew that she would have something for me.  Besides, despite what she said, I know that she was really happy last year when I gave her a personalised drawing of santa-Nagi by Takenashi-sensei.  She’s framed it and put it up on her shelves, next to our first official photo of SPHERE.

Suddenly, inspiration struck.  I knew what I’d be giving Haruka for this year’s Christmas.  What was better, I knew with great certainty that she would love it.  I started rummaging through my cabinets as I dialed my cell phone.  I’d need help for this.

Christmas eve, 2010, afternoon

Minako waited impatiently at the train station, switching the bag that she was carrying from arm to arm as she stood in front of the sign, tapping her foot.  Despite being bundled up in a thick coat, stockings, a thick jumper and boots, waiting outside at this time of the year was still cold.

“Trust her to be late again,” she grumbled.

Suddenly, a flash of white appeared at the station entrance, both arms waving vigorously.  Minako waved back impatiently at Haruka, who was wearing a white coat, lined with white faux fur and her knee-high boots with stockings again.

“Sorry, sorry!  I got caught up in some errands!” Haruka immediately apologised, hands clasped in front of her chest.

“Whatever, let’s go,” Minako stamped her feet, trying to get warm.

Haruka hooked her arm through Minako’s, and they quickly walked to the nearby shopping center.  After a few hours of window-shopping and afternoon tea, they ended up at Shibuya, looking at the beautiful Christmas lights and taking in the sights.  The beauty of it all was almost surreal.  Within the throngs of people and loud conversations, there was almost a sense of peace as they walked, arm in arm, down the streets.  However, soon it was time to return to Haruka’s apartment.  The sun had set at 5pm, and the KFC was due at 6:30pm.

As they quietly took the almost-empty train back, Minako smiled to herself.  Spending time with Haruchan was always fun, regardless of what they were doing.  “I must’ve done something extraordinary to have earned her presence by my side,” she thought, her heart thumping, spreading the warmth throughout her chest and body.  Of course she would never actually say that; it would only swell Haruka’s already big head.  However, she did slip her hand into Haruka’s, as they sat side by side, not needing to say anything, rocking with the momentum of the train.

After dinner, as some lame romantic comedy played in the background, Minako brought out the strawberry log cake and watched as Haruka’s eyes lit up.  “Wha-…  I love you Minachan!” she exclaimed.

Minako smiled as she cut the cake, saying “No, you love strawberries.”

“How did you get that?  They’re not in season now!” Haruka asked, overjoyed as she started using her fingers to pick out strawberries.

“These are imported from Australia, it’s summer there now.  I wish I could visit…” Minako explained.

“Huh, summer during Christmas.  Isn’t it weird?” Haruka looked at her.

“Yes, yes.  Now, eat up.  This won’t keep.” Minako pushed a plate in front of Haruka.

“Aren’t you having some?  It’s good!” Haruka asked while licking her fingers.

“Yeah, but just the cake.  You can have the strawberries.” Minako said while cutting herself a slice of cake.

“Nu-uh, you like strawberries too.  Come on Minachan, open up…” Haruka speared a large, juicy strawberry with her fork and held it to Minako’s mouth while she was distracted with the cake.

“Okay, okay…” she bit the strawberry, the sweet and slightly acidic taste spreading across her mouth.  “Delicious!” she exclaimed, trying not to dribble strawberry juice.

“Thanks Haruchan.” She smiled and giggled, reaching out to wipe a bit of cream from the side of Haruka’s mouth.  “You’re so clumsy, no one would believe that you’re already twenty.” She commented, gently cleaning her own thumb off with a napkin.

“Now I know why Hikasa-san said that she felt like you were older than her…” Haruka grumbled.

Minako simply glared.

After cake and the movie, Minako and Haruka were resting under the kotatsu, full to the brim and feeling incredibly satisfied.

“Ugh, I’m stuffed.” Haruka groaned.

“Ugh, me too.  It was good though.” Minako slid in beside Haruka to be closer to the heater.

“Mmmm.”  As Haruka started dozing off, Minako nudged her.

“Hey, Haruchan.”

“Mmmm?” Haruka mumbled, half-asleep.

“I’ve got something for you.” Minako said quietly.

“Didn’t you already give me a strawberry cake?  That’s more than enough…” Haruka drowsed.

“I’ll go get it,” Minako said while standing up.

“No – don’t get up – ” Haruka started getting up too.

“It’s okay.  You stay here.” Minako gently pushed Haruka down again.

She soon returned with what looked like an ordinary notebook, and handed it over to Haruka.  On the cover was a colourfully-decorated caricature of four girls with the words “SPHERE ADVENTURES”.  As Haruka flipped through the book, she saw not only the first SPHERE official photo, but many others along the way, including those of them at Budokan, tours across Japan and at their first live.  Each photo was decorated with little cartoons, Minako’s, Ayahi’s and Aki’s comments and memories covering the adjoining margins.  On the last page were everyone’s wishes and hopes for the coming year, as well as the large words “We love you always, Haruchan!”.

Haruka’s mouth dropped, amazed at the amount of work that had gone into it.  Soon, though, her eyes misted over as she closed the notebook.

“B-but all I got you was a lousy pair of earrings!” she protested to Minako.

“Baka.  We wanted to give this to you.  We all noticed how sad you became when you lost contact with your classmates after graduation.  Now that we’ve made this for you, you’ll always have us, and our time together.  No matter where we might end up in the future.” Minako gently admonished her.

She gazed at Minako with a look of wonder, before pulling her into a tight hug.  “Thanks, Minachan.  You’ll always be my best friend, you know.”

Minako clung back strongly, smiling.  “I know, you promised.”

Outside, the first flakes of snow started to fall, gently, slowly, in the calm darkness of the night.  When Haruka and Minako woke up in the morning, they would be greeted by the beautiful sight of fresh snow and a white Christmas.  But tonight, as they tucked themselves into bed, the most wonderful thing that they could think of was just across the room.

THE END.

I’ve been reading the Chinese translation of Murakami’s latest novel, 1Q84.  It’s very Murakami, and for (what I believe is) the first time ever, he’s writing a female MC.  I’m about 8 chapters in, and it’s proving a great read – despite the fact that I can’t read as fast or as easily for books in traditional Chinese, much less one translated in such a metaphorical and almost literary manner.  Not that I don’t appreciate it; it’s bringing back my Chinese education.

My parents are landing in Melbourne in a few hours, and I’ve been cleaning and hiding my Otaku stuff.  I don’t believe that being an otaku is anything to be ashamed about.  However, my parents are like Kirino’s, and consider such things a waste of time and money.  Which they probably are, it’s just that they’re highly enjoyable.  Things that I’ve hidden include:

-  Over 30 figures

-  My Hina glass

-  3 Entrails animals soft toys

-  A Pandaneko apron

-  2 Kampfer bracelets

-  1 Judgement armband

-  2 anime (WAIFU) amulets

-  1 Guitar

I considered hiding my new bass, but decided that even if I could, I would not be able to hide the amp.  My life is amazing.  I can’t hide all my books and dvds (anime/manga/comics or not) so I just gave up with that.  I figure that they wouldn’t notice anything out of the ordinary because I’ve just got SO MANY of them.

OK, rest over.  Back to cleaning…

ちょっと「古い女」の感じです。

今から永遠の十七歳です。頑張って、私。

The Good:

Bakuman – They’ve cut out long monologue sections from the manga (which I’m reading and love completely), and added a few things to make the side characters seem more interesting.  I approve.  The OP “Bluebird” is great, still waiting on it to be released in full.

Shinrei Tantei Yakumo – The writing and tension is good.  It’s supernatural, but also almost a detective show.  MC voiced by Ono Daisuke is awesome and multi-layered.

Shiki – Wracks up the tension and horror with every single episode.  The questions about morality and self-preservation are addressed in depth.  The characters are people whom we can empathise with.  The show is creepy, horrific and disturbing, reminding me initially of Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni.  However, it’s distinctly different in that we can understand the characters’ motivations and obsessions.

The Better than expected:

Stardriver – Initially expected a mecha SRSBSNS battle-series with a few love stories and touching relationships thrown in.  Hated the first episode, but came to just treat it as a spoof of everything in that genre.  It’s now hilarious and silly.

Hyakka Ryouran Samurai Girls – Exactly the same as above.  Aki-chan, Mina-chan and Kugyu all sound like they have lots of fun voicing their very extreme characters.

Fortune Arterial – Started watching for eroge-adapted bishoujos.  The harem-plot is pretty standard in every way, but the MC is not a loser, and although unoriginal, what’s done is done well.  Lia’s OP and Veil’s ED are pretty good too.

Shinryaku!  Ika Musume – Could not imagine myself watching a series about a squid girl, but Ika Musume is charming and lovely.  Her silliness isn’t annoying, and the dynamic with Chizuru/Eiko/Takeru is sometimes touching, sometimes funny.  Episode 5 had a very cute sequence involving Eiko and Ika Musume that was really sweet.  I’m still waiting on the ED by Ito Kanae.

Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt – I thought initially that it wasn’t my thing, but I guess as I grew desensitized to the coarse humour and bodily function-based plots, I started to just go with the flow and found it amusing.  The OP and ED rock, as does the Panty/Stocking transformation sequence.

Otome Youkai Zakuro – Unexpectedly sweet, also with unexpected character depth.  The dynamics of the soldiers with the half-spirits help both to grow.  Plus, the OP, Moon Signal, is by SPHERE, so I never skip it.

So-so:

MM!  - I expected a series about a guy getting off on being tortured, and that’s exactly what I got.  It’s not really memorable, some of the gags are lame, and it’s the typical brainless unemotionally-involving stuff that I can go through very fast.

Ore no Imouto – The Otaku-based siscon/brocon relationship is the basis of this show, and while I relate to some degree to Kirino, I can’t empathise with the way that she treats her brother.  As with MM!, Ayanyan voices a tsundere and carries it off.  Kuroneko is priceless and her Kuudere nature makes her my favourite.  Unfortunately because of the nature of the fanservice, which often turns me off, I’m ambivalent and not really a fan.  The OP, “Irony” by ClariS, is really addictive.  It’s horrifying that they are just a couple of middle-school girls, they completely don’t sound it.

Amagami SS – I’ll admit that I’m most excited about the Ayatsuji arc, which comes last.  I found Sae’s arc boring, loved Nanasaki (Yukana’s voice is incredibly kuudere-moe) and now we’re in the middle of Rihoko’s arc, which again I’m not too interested in.

The World God only Knows – Harem with a deconstruction of the galge-tropes.  Keima is funny but not awesome.  Ito Kanae voices Elcea, a new type of voice for her.  It’s like a Boke and Tsukkomi routine, which works, but not consistently.  The Engrish by ELISA in the OP is very distracting and annoying.

To Aru Majutsu no Index 2 – I was bored by Index 1, and am almost getting to that point with Index 2.  The church-wars aren’t all that interesting, and I’m only watching for Biribiri and Kuroko, who haven’t played a part in the series yet.  Luckily, the preview for the next arc suggests that they will soon.  OP by Kawada Mami sounds exactly like the usual that she’s been doing for Shana and Index.

Below expectations:

Yosuga no Sora – Harem, incest, and I had harem/bishoujo expectations.  The girls are pretty, that’s what I’m watching it for, but the characters and plot are very weak.  I don’t care about any of them.  The ecchi/porn and R-rated jokes which come after the episodes aren’t well-done.  OP by eufonius is terrible, to be honest.  It sounds like several songs, with no coherent melody.

Arakawa Under the Bridge x Bridge – Getting bored with the continual everyone-as-boke Riku-as-tsukkomi routine.  There’s almost nothing fresh every episode, and the characters don’t make any progress as running gags are taken as plot.

Dropped:

Togainu no Chi – Didn’t realise that this is BL, and after watching…  well, I’m still not into BL.  The characters are stereotypes, the premise is ridiculous and the plot is weak.

Soredemo Machi wa Mawatteiru – I guess I could say that I dropped it because of Omigawd, but that’s not true.  There isn’t much of a plot, the characters aren’t attractive or funny, and this isn’t even proper slice-of-life because there’s no observational humour.  Just FAIL!comedy I guess.  OP by Sakamoto Maaya rocks though.