Status Update

There won't be an update for a while since I am going to college soon in two weeks. Fortunately, my first class is late in the afternoon so I don't have to worry much.

Since college is the first thing on my mind and well as buying a new laptop, I'll be very busy.

I'm still dabbling now. I have no idea what to watch since I have a particular mood for something. Currently, I want something intelligent while still being a funny and charming series. Right now, I'm watching Nostalgia Critic so it sorta fit the mold I wanted to watch now.

Fanfic Recommendation: What Survives of Us

This would be your reaction too.

Long time since we had one, eh?

For the record, this recommendation is a rather surprising one...

Warning: Male Pregnancy, painful birth scene (at least, it's not graphic)

Link: What Survives of Us

See, why it's so surprising?

Anyways, my thoughts on mpreg is pretty much a guilty pleasure. Even though I know how illogical it is, it's still a guilty pleasure.

The Omega/Beta/Alpha dynamics on the other hand is absolutely not. It's the very fact you can examine the gender roles and how much it impact the players in the game and the world. Porn aside, again psychological acknowledgements.

Review: This is officially my favorite Sherlock mpreg story to date. There are stories of birth and just plain sexual intercourse but it's always the thought of the birth that would decide the factor. Are the parents ready to be parents? Is the 'mother' willing to go through the pains and their body feeling like it's splitting in half to give birth to a child they may or may not want? Since Sherlock, who doesn't seem to look at children as well as other adults, prizes his body could contain himself during pregnancy and birth. This story amplified what character Sherlock truly is but he is doing everything out of love for a child he and John created. It's unlike Sherlock but at the same time, you know it's also Sherlock to do something for someone he love and he himself love. John was portrayed as someone who protects Sherlock like his knight in shining armor but in this situation much like the fall, he's utterly useless. He felt that and he wants to still protect him and love him.

This time, they are going to make it through with their second child.

Hibari Kyouya's Character

Don't get me wrong, I love Hibari Kyouya no matter how much of an ass he is. It's just how he came to be this vicious that the entire neighborhood of Namimori is willing to bow down to him is what interests me and seems like a lot of people too.

Amano did not even think of making a back-story for this little terror here. Welshy once said on one of his reviews that making a very sympathetic backstory or something of the like would decrease the fearsome reputation the character had built. To me, as long as the back-story would justify the actions but it had to be good for the character, it's alright for me.

In fanfics, Hibari's childhood was once happy until tragedy struck him and his family. We can only fear the worst for him in those stories trying to explain his actions like why he is choosing to be the best of the best of all fighters in the world and of course running an information network. Whether it is watching his own parents die before his eyes or his own friend forgetting his own existence, it was too much for him and he despaired from any real human connection.

I sincerely do love dark and troubled pasts for characters. It gives depth and a psychological analysis. Even a normal life can be filled with such things. Asian parents have such horrible disciplinary and forceful techniques that eliminate chances for a child's self-worth growth. As cliche as it is, it's one of my favorite cliches simply because it can explore a huge range of psychological disorders even as Hollywood style.

In canon, if Hibari's back-story was revealed, most people - out-of-universe - would either decry him for making less of a badass or sigh in relief since we finally got some story about him! In-universe, it would likely be shocked all over the place; people always thought Hibari had always been like a demon since a little kid especially when given tonfas at a young age. Kids started out innocent until something they witness first-hand they shouldn't see or exposed to emotional pain they couldn't handle.

I'm still love giving Hibari such torture since he seems to be the type to keep people at a distance (heck even Kusakabe, a brother to him, is kept at arm's length whenever I notice them on manga/anime), his element Cloud notwithstanding. Maybe, he's afraid that his heart would be broken and so he hardened his heart. *shrugs*

The character of Kyouya Hibari is too interesting to pass up to make up a tragic story for him. Other than being such a violent fiend, it's no surprise that most people would think violence = internal pain/trauma. It goes one way or another.

As long as his actions make sense in the context in terms of the story, it's fine by me. Though I had to wonder why Tsuna, may he have been beaten up, been spared or at least beaten to a less degree than Gokudera or Yamamoto...

Character - Arcana 

Tsuna - Temperance (pre-character development) -> Fool

Reborn - Hierophant

Gokudera - Magician

Yamamoto - Emperor

Ryohei - Sun (hilarious but between the Star and the Sun, I ultimate chose the latter because it encapsulated Ryohei more)

Lambo - Star

Hibari - Hermit

Chrome - Strength

Mukuro - Devil

Kyoko - Priestess

Haru - Lovers

Lal Milch - Wheel of Fortune

Collonello - Lovers

Bianchi - Empress

I-Pin - Temperance

Xanxus - Chariot

Squalo - Temperance

Dino - Magician

Byakuran - Death

Yuni - Death

Shoichi Irie - Judgment

Giotto - Fool

Daemon - Tower

Enma Cozart - Emperor

OC Couplings

I really can't see L with anyone really... I thought he was asexual at best. 

I'm never the one for OC pairings EVER unless it has characters who does not have a designated love interest. To me, Original Characters can be good when done right but horrible when done wrong.

I don't steadfastly ship any OC pairings at all (perhaps not yet). You already saw my utter hatred for Mary Russell; that's how it's done incorrectly.

You can see the love triangle...

To my surprise, I love OC Couplings when it is kept ambiguous. Take for example, Seiji Yukimura & Reborn in Birds Love Namimori and Fen & Harry Potter in Card Captor Harry. Just to let you know, these just came at the top of my head. That doesn't mean I support them.

It's a given that these two ships are given a lot of teasing more than what the couplings you thought should be given (Shizuka for Seiji and Winter for Harry). However, both ships show just how compatible the two ships are but they are maybe, maybe.

Their interactions are worthy of any Yay. Anybody can see sometimes the (blatant) subtext. Other characters take it the wrong way whenever they are acting unusual together like being very nice and acting like a lovey-dovey couple. Unlike others I seen, they seems blissfully unaware that they are seen as such but does have an idea and acts tsundere-ish (Reborn and Fen).

I usually avoid any OC with a canon character like a plague if they are the main ship but if it's a side, that's a maybe. Sometimes, I may not know since these pairings above aren't definite and not listed.

Like crossover couples, I don't easily won over so like other works I let fanfiction and other fan products to do it for me. It has to be some other sources that does not list the pairings as much. Granted, listing pairings can grab attention if romance is the main point. However those will only work on me if there are any canon pairings or fanon pairings but not OC pairings.

This is my opinion. I like to only pair OC with OC only. Even though they are some great OC pairing out there with a canon character, I just have a bad experience with one and I don't read them much. I just feel that it's just wish fulfillment or an empty slate.

Top Three Favorite Anime

You might have seen this list before. Coincidentally, JesuOtaku (Hope Chapman) has the same list as I did...for only the top 3, only that.

Anyone from my past posts can see that I don't have a definite list. I already have a hard time making grades (see Code Geass and Death Note; the two have the same score because I can't be sure).

The one listed below are in fact A+ or Five Stars or Ten Stars or whatever. It's just a perfect grade even though there are some hiccups then and there in the respective works.

The list is definite and not likely to change. Heck even Madoka Magica still haven't reach the levels no matter how well I managed to grade it. From 4 to whatever number is still up in the air since I still have no idea where to place anime/manga I genuinely love below these top three. I still don't know why it's so easy for others to make a list and a rating...

1. Fullmetal Alchemist - Hiromu Arakawa, Studio Bones
2. Cowboy Bebop - Shinichiro Watanabe, Studio Sunrise
3. Trigun - Yasuhiro Nightow and Yosuke Kuroda, Madhouse

I am not the arrogant type who believe that angsty is better or something like that. I judged works on its own merits as much as my friends do. One of my friends said while the series are good, it doesn't exactly appeal to her.

My friends know what type of anime generally capture my interest: psychological realism. I like things realistic, keeping things grounded no matter how ridiculous the circumstances may be. Why else One Piece still manages to survive unlike Naruto and Bleach? Heck, I even liked Bleach at first until it jumped the shark repeatedly. Naruto, I cringed at how broken the themes are.

While there are works out there had their fair share of said type, these three had shown a good grasp of what to tell. Their maturity and understanding of their world enraptured me like no other. I basically have no word for it.

I could refer you to JesuOtaku or Bennett the Sage for the series, the latter with the last two. I don't want to review properly on this blog since well reviews of them are over the place, praising them. It's like Sherlock again. Admittedly, these three anime were one of the starting points where I started to get really interested in storytelling and the working behind the scenes.

I don't exactly squeal over them like mad; sure my friends know how much I love these three series. Then again, I almost squealed when I found the complete DVD collection of Trigun at AX.

I still haven't found anything Cowboy Bebop or Trigun. There are lots of Tiger & Bunny though. There were a lot of Sunrise productions merchandise. I still managed to get a shippy SuzaLulu wall-scroll though and of course an FMA wall-scroll.

I should've taken a picture of Wolfwood in my trip to AX. I seen the cosplayer but I never gotten the chance to. Then again, I haven't been able to find proper FMA cosplayers; all I found were nameless Amestrian Soldiers, not Riza or Roy or Havoc.

I will be listing below only Japanese media.

Okay, so I want merch of these: I want useful or practical stuff like purses/bags/pouches/towels/etc. or electronics or storage trunks/cans. I don't certainly mind charms like bracelets and necklaces (I prefer the former though) and figurines/plushies. I want to have first volumes or to complete volumes manga or the complete series of the anime like Collector's Edition.

• Hetalia - 
• Pokemon - Any series, I will see what I browse and deem what I want to buy.
• Persona - 
• Detective Conan/Magic Kaitou -  I would love Kaitou Kid variations of merch. Not that I wouldn't mind Conan merch, just that I tend to be drawn to the Kid merch. 
• CLAMP - Any series you throw at me, I will buy something I will deem likely I want to buy.
• Fullmetal Alchemist - While I would honestly prefer the 2003 merch, I don't mind Brotherhood merch.
• Trigun - Only the really special ones 
• Cowboy Bebop - Only really special ones 
• Sailor Moon - I don't mind the first anime, Crystal, or anniversary. I know that my cousin would be getting me a Samantha Vega Sailor Moon Luna bag for Christmas; I specifically requested the metal insignia because really a cloth one, especially when one was sloppily sewed on, would not be a great one for a Japanophile...when that person wants to buy merch from Japan anyways. More expensive but I need to buy the merch to support the anime/manga. 
• Madoka Magica - 
• Shugo Chara - 
• Digimon - Depends on product and series. I would love to buy Tamers merch. 

I admit the flaws of everything that I watched. If there is something that is decidedly wrong on how it was portrayed like the treatment of women, then that's bad. Like slut-shame (as in insulting someone just for have an active sex life or being proud of their sex), homophobia, etc.

Favorite Book: Fahrenheit 451

I just love this book with all my heart. I don't exactly declare it my number one favorite but it's still up there.

I always love the dystopian genre and such a bookworm. I can literally read anything you give me as long as the plot interests me. It's just this book that I grew to love and I'll gladly reread it.

The characters are simple but brilliant. The plot is easy enough to follow. Basically everything about this book means the world to me.

Final Review: Walk on In

This is the best I could do with the picture. While I know that it's from the anime (obvious), it's the closest thing to what we have to the love triangle in the fanfic (the boys in love with each other albeit they are oblivious to love LITERALLY and Shirley to Lelouch and she doesn't know about the recent addition to the Lamperouge household.)

Let me just give you a brief review of Code Geass as a whole (yes, that includes R2): It's good but not great. The melodrama didn't flow well (much like Death Note) in my opinion and sometimes very contrived. The series is as subtle as an elephant dancing ballet to Swan Lake, wearing a tutu. They had some very interesting ideas that carried through. While the politics in the series can be a bit stuffy (a very nationalistic show), it's an alternate universe that they took good use of. It's very hammy and very hopeful which is the point that contrasts it from Death Note. This also carries through to the spin-offs. I still enjoy the series nonetheless.

Now moving on with the fanfic review and why I think it is my personal favorite among the retellings of CG.

Links: Walk on In

While most stories would go through the same route as the anime without putting much thought in another perspective (there are exceptions that I won't named since opinions vary), this story instead went off in a different direction and instead sets on reconstructing the series.

Yes, unlike the brutal deconstruction of Gundam as it is (even though Gundam do tend to deconstruct itself later), it's reconstructing everything from Suzaku's patriotism (I highly doubt he'll backstab them this time) to C.C.'s place in the plans (She is running from Zero and Mao) to Marianne's place (a majority of characters take it upon themselves to take care of her children) to Suzaku's place as a Knight to Lelouch (instead of becoming Euphie's, he's Lelouch's first and foremost).

It's actually subtle (and respects its characters) and keeps you guessing with mysteries and secrets upon mysteries and secrets. It helps since it has very good writing of ambiguity. There is guesses for Zero's identity out there (Marianne is the most possible but Akito and Rai could be possible too. It has to be a canon character, someone that knows the inner working of the Britannian Royalty, someone connected to that coin). It expands on Canon with a noteworthy perspective. I love it when people explored with different eyes.

The series could actually divulge on things that the anime could've touched upon (the executives again). The author could tell how C.C. came to be in this story and how she's involved.

There are some inconsistencies since the FBI was mentioned (unless it's fiction within fiction because Britannia has their Knights of Round and soldiers even though I don't doubt Charles would have a secret service). Technically Britannians are British moved to America but they're not Americans. Then again, Britannia is both modern America and Britain set in the Sixties.

I'll split it up into sections and subsections because it's much easier to explain. And the Plot and Culmination will always be the last to discuss. The story itself is rather complex for thirty episodes (I say episodes because it is patterned like an episode).

This could get supremely analytical. And it might get confusing since I have a habit of rambling.

Characterization and Development

The story depicted Lelouch as someone who chose to live his life and not pursues vengeance. He's still a Broken Bird.

Lelouch: He's very kind and trusting yet he's still broken. Yeah, but being tsundere, he refused to admit it. He takes the place as the girl in romcoms, you know being the love interest of a 'bad boy', the heart of the story (and the characters), the reason for motivation. The reason why he is like this because there had been some incident in the past that he is trying to redeem himself. According to one single action in the prologue, he is willing to go up against Zero's men who is attacking C.C. The entire prologue establishes his character in this fic.

Literature is a different medium from film. After the action is depicted if, in writing, it would be explained in thought later on. However, in the film, it would be explained in actions. The story, while not at the zenith of "show, don't tell", has shown first. The thought process is something used to describe the mind and only on that person. We know it but others don't. Forgive me for going off topic. Obviously, from other posts, you can see that I tend to go on and on and get off topic.

Continuing about Lelouch, he's very sentimental. He allows his emotions to get the better of him even though he knows better (IC victory!). He sees these strays as himself, trying to run away from a large governmental figure with no home. Repeatedly and rightfully, many people pointed out that it would get him killed and boy he almost did. However, it's clear he can't help his heroic syndrome. He wants to save everyone. He's the messiah in this one as opposed to the dark messiah. He's pure, horrified at the sight of bodies in the Shinjuku massacre and C.C. even said to Suzaku that Lelouch would likely think badly of him if he reveals the bloodshed he had been a part of.

As stated in the caption, he's still a Broken Bird. He longs for his mother and happiness, trying to grasp whatever straws he had left and that is music. As stated in the chapter titled "Days", he uses music as escapism. It actually fit well with his canon Zero actions, taking his pain out into the world. He fears his mother hating him for doing something wrong.

He tends to avoid anyone including his own sister about personal problems which unfortunately unintentionally hurt them. He didn't try to keep people at arm's length, trying to make others see him as a villain. He didn't try to broaden his horizons until he fell in love. His tendency to keep secrets did end up biting him in the butt.

He's probably one of the most well-developed characters in this fic. His character development and content with life is what makes him stand out from the main characters whose point of views are emphasized.

...Let's just hope that his Code and his mother's Geass don't ruin their lives.

Suzaku: Such a different Suzaku yet he is still in-character. I have this very strange habit recognizing in-character actions, very subtle ones like my brother's very weird habit of accidentally (really, it is!) finding harem anime.

I would call this Suzaku as the Suzaku in canon, a hypocrite. He kept people at arm's length only to back away upon his personal problems. He has a calling to be a knight one day (but I doubt he will be a perfect one; reconstruction or not, the fic is acknowledging its deconstruction). His knight goal in canon was to help the people, not the ends justify the means. He felt that his lack of punishment is well lacking and he had been trying to kill himself. This Suzaku (in the fic) repressed his pain and trauma until he blows up. The ghosts haunted him and he feared Lelouch will die because of him.

This guy has a reason to live: Lelouch... who will eventually become an enemy. Like his original canon self, he wanted punishment for being such a failure. Well, he was a failure knight in the original canon. Like the original, he hates himself.

If death took away Lelouch from him, I think he's going to go mad.

That doesn't mean he can have his fun. He's still the Stepford Smiler in CG as always. He tends to be the tease, always flirting and nearly seducing Lelouch in the latest omake. C.C. even has a camera to prove it. His personality is to hide and repress his pain. Lelouch wants to see that smile, something that Suzaku wants in return.

I don't doubt he will commit atrocities like his canon self. He does take account of others but he is selfish, wanting to protect and love Lelouch. C.C. noted that he's using him. His selfishness is very much emphasized. He wants his revenge and did not take account of what others thought because that's all he wanted.

He's very well-developed for a Black Knight.

C.C: She's still a Broken Bird with a Sugar Ice Bird personality in this. However, it's worth noting that she grew during her stay with the Lamperouges. She had been accepted into the household, helping with the groceries and playing with Nunnally; She became part of the family. It rather makes a surprising difference with Suzaku who kept people at a distance.

Throughout the story, she was defrosted that even she noticed when she escaped Mao's wrath with Lelouch in "Run". She knows stuff that she better withheld, knowing that it'll hurt the Lamperouges. She's very wise in regards to feelings and did not want any of them (especially one who would inevitably fall in love). She inevitably became one of those overprotective guardians.

It's very likely she knows who Lelouch and Nunnally is. She just doesn't know the coin's symbolism and significance to Zero. She knows that they are living happy lives and she doesn't want to throw their lives into a loop.

Not much of her backstory has been discussed yet. There might be a possibility her past had been changed in some circumstances.

Nunnally: She's still the kind disabled princess we know and love. I'll make a remark about Alice once or twice which revealed according to AO3 to be an official couple amongst SuzaLulu, Kalino, and Sayomiah.

She wants her brother to be happy. The incident made her very concerned and it's implied that she became crippled in that. If hospital bills that were mentioned in the prologue "Stalkers" are true, then she is taking physical therapy. When she notices her brother was off, she needs to know and savor the knowledge that her brother trusts her the most. She also has a hand on matchmaking her dear brother and his loving biker and a mischievous sense of humor.

If Nunnally had regained her eyesight at the end of the series, then likely she will here but the circumstances are unknown. She has to earn her happy ending.

Her best friend Alice is a stalwart companion to her since, someone Lelouch trusts wholeheartedly. She isn't developed much but her scene in the end of "Theft" had proved that the two had always been together.

Suzaku's promise to Nunnally to protect her brother and become his Knight would likely play a huge part in the future.

Ohgi: I highly doubt that he'll be traversing down the path of idiocy in this story. Yeah, I thought he was stupid too in R2. I'm adding a bit of Viletta discussion in this mess.

Working as an owner of a coffee shop, he is the Everyman which I loved to bits about Ohgi until his rather dubious actions in R2. Seeing this is going in the way of fanon, he's ultimately the levelheaded one. Viletta herself is the PE teacher at Ashford way before any of this fiasco will be going on and I doubt she's spying on Lelouch for one; a regular Britannian teacher. She is even aware of the Black Knights (I think...).

He's one of the points of views we get to see so he's going to be very important. He seems to represent Suzaku in canon as Naoto represented Lelouch in canon. Their past was almost similar as if they are taking the place of the canon selves.

He could be a messiah if not for his willingness to fight on the battlefield. Lelouch stated that he's not the type to hate needlessly and Ohgi acknowledges it. He wants to regain the country's colors. However, he does not want any civilians caught in the mess which is sensible unless he knows their past.

Now, Ohgi does not know his friend is a prince. Yet. Nor his boss is also his friend's mother.

Kallen: She's still the spunky girl we know although her hatred has transcended. Unlike her canon self, she will not attend Ashford Academy or Uni either. She's also part of the gang too and would have connections to get into Ashford (being half Brit and all).

While not much of her had been discussed yet, it's still pretty much the same as the canon self. She's still developed enough.

Gino: Gino here is still a happy-go-lucky guy albeit a Stepford Smiler due to Anya's death. Yeah, Anya just got a bridge dropped on her.

Not much of Gino is known in this story unless you take account of canon. But if we do look at his past in canon, then why the hell is he part of a Britannian gang? I would understand the Knights of Round. Actually, we still have yet to know more about the Holy Assassins other than V.V. (being a reconstruction of CG, not the killer of Marianne but rather her rival). There was a throwaway comment that the Holy Assassins is a 'corps' of sorts. Still, we need to know more.

Gino was training to be a Knight until the shipwreck. According to Lelouch, he would have been a part of the Knights of Round.

I could divulge what I could get from Lelouch's expression about Gino in "Appointment". He's an energetic prodigy, having been friends with Lelouch and his sister for many years. Due to Anya's death, he became hollow and vengeful that V.V. had ordered him not to do it. Also, he said he is willing to commit murder-suicide with Suzaku and Kallen's deaths. Yeah, it's messed up.

Likely, he will know Zero's true identity and the entire story (but he can't say it out straight due to complications) thanks to V.V. He has been put on the bus since "Rest" so I can't discuss it much.

Rolo: Rolo is still raised to be a killer but now he sees Lelouch as his living emotional crutch. His character is much more expanded, revealing in this canon at least that he does not have geass.

The Geass Cult raised children to be assassins, yes, as weapons. Rolo on the other hand in this fiction was raised rather 'traditionally' in the role of being an assassin.

Some of his past were shown in brief flashbacks as being raised to be a killing machine with no emotions and no thoughts of music. He's only starting to open up due to Lelouch's words. He has absolutely nothing to lose, according to him, when he learned Lelouch's imperial status.

He, like Gino, been put on the bus since the ending of the Holy Assassins Arc as the author called it.

The Royal Siblings: In this story, Cornelia li, Euphemia li, Clovis la, and Schneizel el are very close to Lelouch and Nunnally vi Britannia. Not much of them are known as of now so I can't discuss the sisters.

Schneizel is quite a change of character. He's the real Light Yagami expy, not Lelouch in the original canon (Lack of Empathy; I wouldn't call him a sociopath/psychopath since he lacks ambition). Here, he cares for his beloved siblings so much, acting as both the reasonable authority and the eldest sibling of the group (he is the second prince). From his little rant at the end of "Knight" and supported by Lelouch's dreading thoughts in "Rest", he is willing to burn Japan in revenge for taking the lives of his precious siblings. However, since he was able to see or meet his siblings in Area 11 when he was sent there three years ago, he was able to let go the idea of revenge, knowing that they were living peaceful lives. I don't know about his willingness to take the throne yet; he might even throw in his support to any one of the top contenders.

Clovis still takes the doomed route. As the designated villain, he had cruelly ordered to kill the Shinjuku residents to cover his mistakes. The Black Knights are less than pleased. Yet they did not take into account of revenge; it's made pretty much canon in this story that he is avenging Lelouch, Nunnally, and Marianne...that and covering up his mistakes. He's a very insecure man, something the Black Knights didn't think of.

The Siblings will reunite and you know it.

The Student Council: The student council (Milly, Shirley, Rivalz, Nina) loves Lelouch and want to make him happy and not make him suffer emotional/traumatic pain ever again (maybe comical pain...). They pretty much love him. Nina had not been discussed yet in the story so I won't analyze it other than the fact that she was kidnapped by the Japanese when she was a child.

As opposed to falling in love with him, Milly loves him as a little brother. She recognizes that he don't have true smiles and wish to make his life great and meaningful (and not stuck in the past) with an assortment of blackmail and festivals. When she realized what kind of relationship Lelouch has with Suzaku, she's happy to know that he connected with someone who doesn't know his true identity. She acts like the cool big sis that I love about her.

Shirley is something I tend to see as a surrogate sister to Lelouch. Her crush, much like Molly's crush on Sherlock, is just a crush. I just hope it doesn't blind her to the truth that Lelouch is in love with someone else. Her relationship is quite meaningful that Lelouch is willing to trust her very much to take care of his sister when he's gone.

Rivalz had been developed somewhat. He's concerned (rightfully) about Lelouch, wanting him to live like a normal teenager (he's not normal, to begin with). His friendship is very meaningful; he refuses to take any bull from him and wanted answers and he did. He became close to Lelouch since then, I believe.

Now, I believe they will play a larger role in the future.

Marianne: A very important character I'll discuss. Her death was the trigger to Lelouch's start of darkness in canon that is (in here, Lelouch didn't go through with it since he made a promise to his sister to never fall into the dark path ever again after an unknown incident) and the start of this story again.

This time, her purity sue personality is now carried through but she's still Marianne the Flash. I still think that 'purity sue' part would be deconstructed with her playing the part of Zero which I'll make clear in the next section.

In canon, Marianne displays herself as a kind rebellious Empress who cares for her children. In reality, she is none of these; selfish and manipulative, she fooled everyone to believe so, even her own children who she cares to some extent...but not enough to stop the war against Japan.

My thoughts with the out-of-nowhere twist? Stupid, stupid, stupid! I know the writers are trying to make Lelouch's life a living hell (to make him more appreciative of what life had already given him) but this twist had not been even hinted at. There's a reason why Magic Knight Rayearth's twist so well is because of its pure manner of a typical RPG game and it's created with no plot holes. That twist left a lot of holes to be filled in.

Yeah, this is the twist I hate in R2. It doesn't make bloody sense.

I would actually prefer if Marianne actually disagreed with the plan and keeps a rational head. In fact, she could've been Zero if Lelouch nor Suzaku was not. Britannia could actually wrong her time to time especially since she's of commoner blood.

That's what this fanfiction had done and for that, I love Tainted Ink and Paper.

She had been protecting her children for so long (and now as Zero, she'll make a perfect world for them and get rid of those who wronged her...even though I think Lelouch gonna stop her). It makes an interesting foil with Ohgi. Ohgi is not a father yet but he upheld a fatherly presence. Given this series' good writing this far, I expected there to be foils. Ohgi has been protecting Kallen, having promising Naoto. They both are doing it for noble reasons.

Marianne is a very important character that had not yet been discussed to a large length so it's short.

But you consider the Zero section an extension.

Zero (S/he warranted his own section)

Just who is Zero?

Unlike the original in which we know who the hell Zero is, this series would keep us wanting to know who is behind the mask.

You have to remember that the mask has a voice modulator so it makes him so unrecognizable. The only one(s) who know his true identity would be C.C. and possibly Mao. The Black Knights, Jeremiah, Sayoko, Lelouch, the Royal Siblings (excluding Clovis at the last minute of his confrontation), basically anyone out there doesn't know.

The series made a point of Zero existing. Does he exist? Of course, he does. But just how he came to existence?

There were theories that ran through the reviews are usually Marianne and Lelouch. Since chapters denied Lelouch (how the hell can he be in two places at once? The recent arc Lancelot on its first chapter no less basically Josses Lelouch ever having a double life or a Jekyll and Hyde problem) especially the current chapter, Marianne seems the best choice right now. There might be a possibility it could be Rai or even Akito but Marianne herself. It better pay off since the 'Yusei = Z-one' did not. *whimpers* It was such a good twist if that happened if the pillar of hope had lost hope due to his friends' deaths.

Let me explain my reasoning:

Zero stated he was on that ship carrying Clovis' beloved 'deceased' relatives and on the ship that held an unknown project. However, we don't know how many canon Britannians is on that ship. Aside from the fact it's a Japanese cargo ship, I don't think any Japanese would know what is in that cargo they were transporting, which eventually revealed to be something important to the Britannian Royalty. The only people we soon know who was on that ship were Lelouch, Nunnally, Marianne, Sayoko, Jeremiah, Gino, and Anya. C.C. has the possibility of actually being in that ship and saving Marianne (and I have absolutely no doubt she knows the true titles of the Lampourages). In canon, C.C. did save Lelouch and the possibility saving Marianne is not too slim. The project itself is unknown too unless you know Canon which could relate to the Geass. The probability of C.C. and Mao on that ship is none too slim. I don't know if Marianne knows about the project or not but likely she did or she did at the last minute. The burning flag just helped it. You know, Clovis, you could just check the passenger list on that specific ship and deduced from what you remembered on who knows what.

It's worth noting that Marianne's official death was burning to death while her children were drowning. While the other passengers' deaths are unknown for the time being, it's safe.  

That Britannian penny introduced in "Interview" inscribed with Marianne's initials on one side and a rose on the other just stepped up more evidence. It has to be someone close to Marianne if they got that coin. There is a possibility that she could have dropped it and Zero could've picked it up. That's very sensible idea. The coin itself is symbolic. It could be a gift from any relative of the Royal Family but more specifically from her own children. It's very likely she thinks her children had survived or else she wouldn't be setting up this rebellion. It's implied and confirmed by C.C. that Zero treasures that coin more than any other possession he has. The rose can be any meaning. Maybe the coin holds the meaning of having a peaceful life that she cannot return to (AKA her children) and are willing to make a peaceful life for her children. Lelouch, being the heart of this story, would have triggered it since he wanted to save everyone and live a peaceful life. That would have juxtaposed Nunnally's wish in the original.

More evidence came in a form of her posture. We know that Marianne was a consort regardless if she agrees with Charles or not. Suzaku described Zero's steps as a royal since birth (oh dear, he have no idea he is serving as a loyal ace to Lelouch's mother). Other than Lelouch and Nunnally, who else is royalty on that ship? According to Nunnally, Lelouch walked like "model wearing high-heels - precise, quick." However, it had proven over and over that Lelouch is not Zero and this is coming from an author who loves another person behind Zero's mask (and I do love the creative idea behind it). Zero knows the royal family and therefore the project. According to Zero, it's the fact that Charles' blood made him hate and vowed vengeance for the wrongs he had given her. She hated all of it including the abuse especially when we later see in a flashback that Marianne had protected her children from being harmed by being hit by a wine bottle.

Anya's death. Do I need to say anymore?

V.V's involvement. In the original, V.V. killed Marianne...and well Marianne took control of Anya's body. Here, V.V. wanted everything to be stopped. Likely, he knows Marianne's true plans of summoning all the Geasses and Codes together. Everything went to hell since Lelouch, her son, now has a Code, not just anyone's, Nemo's. V.V. doesn't know that little problem. Yet.

Zero's planning on the battlefield. Sure Lelouch is a great strategist too but this is his first time getting used to all the hell war has. Zero coolly handled everything without a pitch. It's even hinted that Zero might be a veteran out in the battlefield.

While we know that Zero since the end of R2 became a legacy character, the behavior will vary. Suzaku is more practical, unlike the theatrical Lelouch. Here, Zero is keeping a level-head. There are hints that there is possibility of a woman behind it since C.C. had said Zero sat cross-legged. Lelouch sat like that too but Zero is much cooler on the head.

The final evidence: Clovis' reaction. When Clovis 'reunited' with Lelouch in canon, he was happy (after getting over a little shock) until he was overcome with fear. In this, he reacts in pure shock and we don't get to see what else he had to say until he was geassed.



Relationships

So close yet so far...

Suzaku/Lelouch: Their romance has pretty much begun with laughs and tears. It's implied that their relationship began due to their actions. Suzaku sees him as the light of his day, his Heaven because of his relentless kindness and mercy while Lelouch loves the happiness Suzaku expresses no matter how much his internal pain extends because those smiles are so genuine unlike his. The two wants to be happy but being a retelling of Canon and with Geass involved it's bound to be suffering and to earn your happy ending.

Suzaku and Lelouch have difficult pasts. It's revealed that Suzaku was unable to kill his father due to Toudou's interference and he was involved in the rebellion since he was a kid. Filled with vengeance, he strived to bring down Britannia with the intent to kill the siblings who had 'died' on the ship, Eleventh Prince Lelouch and Fourth Princess Nunnally vi Britannia. Except he doesn't know that. Lelouch lost most of his family due to the fire and wanted revenge, but never carried through with it since the incident. They both want to be happy.

They got closer by knowing each other's past. They feel each other's strife and want to see the amazing person they grew to love (not that they know it). They are willing to look beyond the self-hate and gave them the love they needed. It wasn't what they had felt before.

Suzaku is willing to kill for Lelouch. He doesn't want to think what's life without him (not that he's aware of it). Seeing that this Lelouch will not likely dirty his hands, he'll be horrified. C.C. even said in "Rent" that Lelouch may care about the Black Knights' cause but I'll doubt he'll go through with violence because of the mysterious incident.

Their romance has hiccups along the way. Previously mentioned, Suzaku wanted to kill the consort and her children who had been on that ship years ago but since they 'died'... "Rest" and onwards clearly shows Lelouch expressing pain he was unable to understand. In canon, he could possibly be oblivious to love or just selectively oblivious to love but here, it's clear he's the former case. Shirley's attempts fly over his head while his blind sister notices it all. Suzaku is just through and through clueless.

They do get some humor at their expense (not that they know about their love yet). Ohgi thought the two had a sexual relationship and he, as the father figure, has to explain it to Suzaku one day. When Suzaku was dragging Lelouch somewhere private in "Days", onlookers were staring at them and one couple even said to ignore their public lover's quarrel.

Let's just pray they will have a happy ending. And I'll certainly love to see Lelouch's fangirls' faces that their idol is in love with a bad boy biker (misconceptions will pop up like Lelouch's type, sexuality, etc.).

Student Council & Lelouch: They want to see the true Lelouch and so they work. According to Rivalz in "Theft", the student council loves to make other expressions appear on Lelouch's face through academic debate (Nina), festivals and blackmail (Milly, who else?), kindness and church choir (Shirley), and gambling (Rivalz). It's very much implied they want him to be happy.

In "Days", Milly, the closest member to Lelouch, noticed his recent true happiness as of the late. Even Shirley noticed it (she's unaware of Suzaku and Lelouch's growing romance). It's worth noting that they are playing a much more major role this time. Milly keeps constant notice of Lelouch in particular since the incident and is revealed to be just as overprotective as Jeremiah and Sayoko. The incident wasn't described in detail since nobody wants to talk about it. She acts a lot of both the Big Sister and Mother of the student council which works better in this universe. I don't like the Harem CG has because it's just annoying to see them go left and right for him; there are other forms of love I think the show forget. I just don't like harem anime very much; I'm always shocked to see so much of that anime my brother watched.  I doubt a harem would pop up in this series since SuzaLulu is the official couple, but I don't doubt that most of the characters who see Lelouch as admirable and merciful to such an incredible level would do anything for him to be safe.

Rivalz, when he learned the truth about Lelouch (much earlier than in the canon), wanted nothing more but to not have Lelouch subjected to any kind of horror every again. He is even willing to go out to the massacre and shoot soldiers no matter how inept he is with guns.

Shirley had been developed somewhat. She still has the crush yet it's more subtle than that. She and Suzaku have similar views on Lelouch's smile. She loves him for one of the reasons I can deduce: love of music. I couldn't help but notice that the two of them are also foils: cheery; bad luck that seems to catch them when they are trying to get close to Lelouch; willing to do anything for Lelouch... Her 'romance' with Lelouch in canon is too short-lived like Euphemia and Suzaku's. I always thought that these two pairings are too short to cultivate more; they might grow to love them but it seems too much like they are clinging to the happiness and love they are willing to give them for the time being; it'll grow into more if given more time and no war if possible. My opinion, remember. Also, I refuse to say anything about the argumentative fanbase on Shirley.

Nina is not developed as of yet. I hope to see Table-kun again...that poor table...

Royal Siblings & Lelouch: Loyal siblings who wished nothing more than to avenge their 'deceased' siblings. They really, really love the vi Britannia's and boy would they be happy that they are alive...except Clovis who won't have the chance to see them.



On the chapter "Rest", Lelouch then learns and had never anticipated that his father would invade Japan just for revenge but he knows his siblings. Confirmed in "Appointment", "Theft" and "Knight", Cornelia, Clovis, and Schneizel wanted nothing more but to burn Japan to the ground in revenge for their beloved 'deceased' family.

It's best emphasized in Clovis' scenes. In canon, he's the designated villain even though he's a very insecure man in reality. In here, he's still the designated villain who won't even had the chance to explain his behavior why he's killing the Shinjuku Ghetto residents. He is still haunted by the 'deaths' and wanted to be at peace with it by murder.

That's the point: Designated Villains. It's quite particular in Schneizel's case since he was the Light Yagami expy in the original (Okay, Lelouch has some similarities but Schneizel is the true case). He's the only one amongst the group of siblings who loved the vi Britannia's who know they are still alive. For god's sake, he even has the photo of a young teenage Lelouch and preteen Nunnally from blackmail. When he, Cecil, and Rivalz were looking for Lelouch, he had ordered to bring no harm to Lelouch or a mysterious accident (and a strip of rank) would happen. It's just largely emphasized where in canon he has no empathy and ambition and now he has empathy. The ambition part is left in the open.

Nunnally wants to see her brother happy, genuinely happy. When Suzaku was living with them, she noticed the growing attraction between them (along with everyone else in the house) and tried to nudge them in the right direction (strawberries; leaving them alone in the music room).

There isn't much information about Euphemia and Cornelia aside from their in-character actions such as mourning the 'deaths' of their precious siblings and Marianne. Let's just hope they reunite with their beloved Lelouch and Nunnally and not become 'Masscare Princess'.

Charles on the other hand is still the corrupt emperor he is. In canon, he's not too sympathetic (Marianne is much worse in Canon; I personally hate the twist involving Marianne. I could think of something better than that.). In this, he is willing to go as far as kill Lelouch, Nunnally, and one of his consorts to not get the project off of Britannia. I hope there are some development over his character since he's the big looming shadow. And the cause of grief of many characters.

I highly doubt that Zero would kill them but he will succeed in one, maybe two murders of the Royal Family. I just hope he didn't accidentally create a genocide.

The Black Knights & Lelouch: They are friends and are not willing to make sure he is not caught up in the rebellion. Well, sorry to disappoint but he will, being the lost prince of Britannia and all that.

Confirmed in "Knight", Ohgi wants to save him as a friend and not get him in the way of political chaos. He welcomed the quirks Lelouch has as a new flavor in life. In fact, Suzaku is willing to trust him more any than anybody on the gang.

I can't say anything much about what Kallen and the others think of Lelouch: strange quirky Britannian who is so different. Those who noticed that Suzaku is getting rather close to Lelouch couldn't help but notice his level of affection which Ohgi confirms that he is seeing Lelouch as the love of his life.

...Boy, would they be shocked that Lelouch, their quirky kind friend, is actually a prince of the country they are rebelling against.

Kallen/Gino: Relationship Writing Fumble did made this pairing rather popular (which I'll admit is a better couple than Kallen/Lelouch and I'll prefer it if she just admires Lelouch which would juxtaposes Shirley's crush).

Kallen has too much hatred clouding her to like a Britannian much like in Suzaku's case. He hates all Britannians except Lelouch and Nunnally (romantic in the first and sisterly in the second). I wonder how their relationship would go. There isn't much to talk about it since Gino hadn't realized that he's seeing her as something more in "Run".

The relationship of Kallen/Gino juxtaposes well with Lelouch/Suzaku. Their circumstances are similar sort of...

Rolo & Lelouch: Rolo still loves him. I still think in the original, Rolo is desperately in love with Lelouch. In here, I don't know much of his feelings about Lelouch but yet again it's up to interpretation.

Lelouch plays as both the Ice King and the Defroster of Ice Royalty (Rolo, Suzaku (whose internally cold and robotic), Schneizel). Lelouch opened up Rolo to other emotions, something he had been trying to do since. According to Milly, he wanted Nunnally to have a new friend.

Rolo was molded to be the perfect assassin, only killing when he wants to. Just when he met Lelouch, his emotions are slowly being revealed.

Since Rolo met him, he wanted to see him again and see that smile (which much like the love interests of Suzaku and Shirley). He wanted to live again and play the cello again. So Lelouch gave him a purpose in life again. I can't say much since not much about him is discovered yet.

He's one of the few who knew the truth about the royal statuses of the Lamperouges. And again, one of many who found purposes in Lelouch.

Plot (could count as Overall if you want)

I know it's the original anime but he look every bit of the 'bad boy' archetype.

The plot itself is a Jigsaw. CG wasn't predictable at all; it tends to play up to many Humongous Mecha anime. Us readers know CG and expect things to go the same way...well sorta since Marianne is Zero instead of her son.

The story has been a decided thirty chap; Likely a condensation of both R1 & R2. Lots of pain we are going into, folks...

However, there are (obvious) deviations such as Lelouch instead of inheriting his Geass, inherit Nemo's Code; the siblings' unconditional love; Zero's identity; how the plot was triggered... There are a lot of throwaway comments that turned a darker meaning later on and there are lots of it. Foils still exist. If Zero really is Marianne in this fic, then Ohgi will foil her.

Regardless, it tells a good story of romance and laughter which breeds great character development and examination.

Themes

The themes are, as thus far: Revenge; Love; Humanity; Selflessness/Selfishness

Revenge: Time to time, this fic has proven it to be meaningless. In an incident that had traumatizes poor Lelouch, he had indirectly hurt Nunnally and had sworn to a promise to never die for her sake (Zero Requiem was thrown out of the window). Gino was so blinded by his revenge to take out Suzaku that he and Rolo were nearly killed in the process. Suzaku wants to kill the Royal Family for putting him through so much hell, particularly the lost siblings that had drowned at sea (Lelouch and Nunnally). While Zero is much active in her revenge and would likely succeed, her revenge would be just as meaningless if her children was readopted back into Royalty, particularly if Lelouch specifically became an enemy officially. The Royal Siblings (Schneizel, Cornelia, Clovis) wants revenge for their supposed dead vi Britannia's. Only two are willing are to let go of it: Lelouch and Schenizel; both want a happy lifestyle and the latter protected him as always. Gino somewhat put his revenge on hold until he gets his answers.

Love: Family and Friendship has been quite an impact. Since it centers on Lelouch (more him than Nunnally here, folks), it's apparent that it's the love of others that will pull through. Everyone will try to get over what they have inside and become strong. Lelouch may be too trusting but it's apparent his love for others will inspire them. That might be one of the reasons Suzaku fell for him in this fic. It was love that made what the characters do what they have to do in order to be happy or what path they believe they should take.

Humanity: One of the themes I theorized. Lloyd thought this as Suzaku stole Lancelot: "It was perhaps the only flaw in machines... no matter how human they look, there is no emotion in their eyes." Suzaku, in a rather unsubtle manner, fought like a robot and acts like one once fighting. It's his defense mechanism for dealing with his pain when on the battlefield. On "Theft", C.C. had warned Suzaku to not believe Lelouch as some kind of angel sent down from Heaven because she had observed Lelouch time to time and saw him try hiding his pain. All she meant to not see him as some kind of Manic Pixie Dream Guy which most people (those who don't know his inner pain) sees him as; handsome, kind, quirky, peaceful, wants the best for everyone...wants his mother even though she's dead, wants to atone what he had done to Nunnally, had once have the feeling to kill his family... Zero herself is quite robotic herself, going after revenge only and only seeking solace through a coin. Certain characters retain their humanity through some way or another, sometimes let something like revenge consume them.

Selflessness/Selfishness: There are a few some people pushing Lelouch to go achieve his dreams. It's noted that he's too selfless to do so; for god's sake, he was the sacrificial lamb in his final plan in the anime. Rivalz wanted him to become a mastermind at chess or even an international pianist; Suzaku even supported the latter. Lelouch shrugged at both and only sees the piano as a passion for just feeling no matter how much of a genius he is. In fact, if I'm correct, his wish to just save people means more than his piano-playing. Suzaku was in particular selfish in canon and you saw how that went.You saw how selfishness went with many characters even if they are selfless.

Predictions

I do love making predictions since it was instilled into me. Everything in this story is going to jammed together soon and I longed for more predictions into the list. It's on hiatus and might even be taken off in a year or so. I just hope not because its potential is incredibly high.

Things are going fandom-wise, which means less "What an Idiot" situations (for god's sake, Code Geass TV Tropes page has one!). The predictions will be all over the place on this section, sorry.

In "Knight", Nemo had passed her code onto Lelouch, cursing him with the rest of the Codes and Geasses. Zero is collecting them for who knows what. He would soon know about the 'civilian' on the delivery truck carrying that thing he wants. I predict that he would try to get that civilian, but his subordinates don't know who it is except for Suzaku and Ohgi. They will try to keep him safe from Zero... well until Zero himself will know about Lelouch.

The Black Knights especially Suzaku will learn the truth about Lelouch and his sister's bloodline. Likewise, Lelouch will learn about the Black Knights and his connection to Zero. The circumstances of how will that happen is still up in the air. I just have no doubt that all of them will undergo a lot of pain especially since Lelouch is too damn kind to participate in bloodshed and likely want to change Britannian Political System from the inside.

Lelouch might return being a prince, though. He might not want to be a political tool but again too strong-willed. He's very smart to know when he's being used and literally he will become the name of his current title (Viceroy). He may support the Black Knights' cause but he'll refuse any extreme use of violence, but I think he'll go to the extremes much like Nunnally in canon. I'll doubt he'll side with them since he has different methods up his sleeve. Look at Suzaku in canon: he supports the cause but chooses another method.

The Black Knights will be seeing lots of Lelouch during Zero's plan executions. Well, Lelouch was caught up in their first plan to reveal themselves to the public. For Zero's reaction, he will keep Lelouch's safety above all else.

Since Gino now knows the truth, I highly doubt he can say outright. There are complications, to say the least. Let's see Gino wanted revenge for Anya and he wants to kill Suzaku and the rest of the Black Knights. Suzaku has fallen in love with Lelouch, not knowing that he's the one he hates the most. Lelouch visa versa and heartbroken of the fact that Suzaku hates him. I highly doubt he will tell why he was so sad. Schneizel, Clovis, Cornelia, possibly Euphie would know about the Codes and Geasses and hope it won't ruin their lives. C.C is being stalked by Mao and chased by Zero. Lelouch might value the Black Knights' cause but he will refuse violence. Gino wants to protect Lelouch as the rest of the others.

Circumstances would force Lelouch to choose a side, specifically the Britannian. No matter how much he hates Britannia for taking away his happy life, he can change the world peacefully through his status. He is after all a rebel prince. Mind you, unlike the original, he didn't renounce his inheritance to the throne. Violence would not do well for him since he did suffer in one incident. In fact, unlike Suzaku who just go up ranks in the original, he doesn't have any power in politics just on the battlefield. Lelouch, on the other hand, have the power to change Britannia from the inside. While the finale makes that work, this one make the two boys become what they are and not what they are really not in the original.

Euphie is currently staying at a hotel...likely the one that had held hostage in R1. She will know about her half-siblings' survival and I don't know if she will be the sub-viceroy of Area 11 again or not. I don't even know if she will whether or not figure out the identity of Zero before anyone else. Unlike Lelouch, Marianne won't let anything slip. I don't even know SAZ will happen in this universe since this universe is quite merciful in comparison to canon.

Euphie and Schneizel arrived in Japan prior to Clovis' death. The two in canon arrived after his death. Schneizel is there to unveil the Lancelot and a visit to Clovis with Euphie. I don't know about Cornelia but she'll be coming to fight Zero and the rebellion.

There will a whole lot of angst in this series, possibly more than canon. If Zero is Marianne and Lelouch returned to nobility, yeah... mother and son (and his romantic interest) will be fighting each other. There will be trust issues just as canon.

If Zero is Marianne, there will be a lot of pain. Absolutely no doubt. Her children will suffer even more and she was protecting them. That's what happened in canon. Her own ex-husband will manipulate her especially when Lelouch will return to his own nobility. Charles might even give her and her children fake memories.

Given that this is going in sort of a way of the original canon (Inoue and Yoshida died by assassination rather than their Knightmare exploding so I doubt that Marianne would carelessly leave to search for her children on the Black Rebellion but I don't doubt that the rebellion would extend to two years), I still expect some stations of canon to appear in this fic. Since the Shinjuku Massacre had appeared, I guessed the Damocles will still appear along with incident on Kawaguchi; Kamine Island Incident (the one with Charles and his plans for Instrumentality); and the Lampourages being discovered by their father and taken back to royalty...and one of them (Lelouch in this fic) will be assigned Viceroy of Area 11 with Euphie as Sub-Viceroy while Schneizel and Cornelia take on the war but their younger siblings also take part in the war; the Kyoto Group (funding, people! and I doubt Suzaku is disowned in this one) and Chinese Federation Arc; the Demon Monarch and the 100th Monarch of the Holy Empire of Britannia.

And the world domination plans among the Britannian Royalty who believe that world domination is the best way to achieve world peace...

I don't know about Narita and all the other battles in canon that will appear in this fic but I think that a lot of people are going to be spared.

The whole rebellion took two years in the anime which I predicted the same. The Shinjuku Massacre was just the beginning of the rebellion (stealing Britannian weaponry notwithstanding). I just don't know how it'll extend to that length, possibly Marianne losing her memories after she was forcefully taken in by Cornelia and Schneizel but how that'll happen is still up in the air (They seem to be the type to discover the identity of Zero and not want to believe it but it perhaps for the sake of their younger siblings... It seems to be the best choice because Gino and V.V., who might be the next Zero if Marianne decide to go through her Demon Monarch facade and Zero Requiem...which seems to fit with her official death now - after all, she has a lot of sins now she wants to atone for and being the Death Seeker is of course... - , are very much against Charles) and incidentally going through the same routine as her son now Viceroy of Area 11.

I am using logic to see how everything would work out in the end.

I don't know if Lelouch will be the canon Nunnally in this version (a political pawn even though his friends and siblings tried to prevent that; becoming the "figurehead" as the Viceroy of Area 11 in order to manipulate Marianne and the Black Knights and later becoming the universally loved Emperor - well, he almost loved by all in this fic, Nunnally achieved that in canon). He's much stronger than that to resist being a political pawn but he as a prince has practically no say against his own father. His memories might be changed again. Nunnally doesn't look like she'll be politically active (yet) but she looks ready to fight like in Nightmare of Nunnally. Her goal was to be a singer and the dream is in reach. I don't know if she will be used as some sort of tool unless Alice is there.

The Lancelot is in need of fixing so Cecile and Lloyd have to join the Black Knights. On the other hand, Lloyd was accusing the Black Knight Suzaku when he hacked and stole the Lancelot and Cecile are with Schneizel and Rivalz. This would make it really great about their alignment.

If Zero really is Marianne (I've been saying this phrase a lot), I have no doubt like in R2 Jeremiah and Sayoko will join the Black Knights. They will keep a watch on Suzaku though because he did fall in love with Lelouch.

The story made it a point that revenge is completely meaningless (it is!). Really, it would be meaningless once they learned the truth. Even without knowing the truth, they love the Lampourage Siblings to kill them.

The Student Council's involvement would be very different. Since Rivalz learns just who Lelouch really is, he and Milly might band together to help Lelouch and Nunnally. I don't know about Nina since she is the psycho lesbian with Euphemia and I doubt Euphie will die in this story. I don't know if her bomb will appear. Shirley would still impact this story but since Lelouch is the messiah in this story, she might keep a level-head and tried to keep normalcy (or what's left of it). She's by the far the most normal because Rivalz just learned the truth in the latest chappie.

There might be a possibility that Rivalz would decide to join the military & become a Knight of Round alongside Gino and chose to support Lelouch; in canon, there's literally nothing he could do. Milly would still have her talk show and possibly her festivals. Nina might still work on her engineering job and there might be a possibility that she'll be with Euphie on this fic. Shirley is still up in the air so I don't know but I like to think she'll make a great lawyer one day.

I predict that all of them (Lelouch's friends, acquaintances, siblings, and mother... EVERYONE) will band together to save Lelouch. How? I have no idea but I think it would happen some way or another.

The whams of the Codes and Geasses will exist which I know. I just don't know about the existence of the Geass Cult in this story since Rolo don't have one neither part of it.

Charles, of course, will die by whoever is Zero (Marianne). It's very, very likely that she knows of his plan and this time disagrees with him. The war with Japan is over resources and Charles and Marianne sent Lelouch and Nunnally to Japan, essentially abandoning them. In this story, however, Marianne travels with her children and many others to Japan, not abandoning them... She technically abandons them since she's Zero and consumed with revenge. There might be a possibility she's watching from the shadows, though.

As for the succession crisis... it's the circumstances that make me think that Lelouch would take over instead of Euphie or anyone; it certainly fulfills his wish to help and save the people, he had been playing the damsel too much even though he can still play the savior... however he's more emphatic this time and wants to save everyone, putting him in a different position.

Don't forget the incident with the other siblings at Pendragon. Schneizel may be the Crown Prince but remember he's the Chancellor in the end. The fic takes more into account of the original anime than any other spin-off like NoN even though Nemo is definitely there. Cornelia had no intention to take over the throne. Clovis died. Since this is taking place in the anime canon-verse, the siblings will reunite again and will be taken back into royalty. In Nightmare of Nunnally, Euphie became Empress and this is because of the ever running support. However, it's worth noting that both Lampourages never returned to royalty in that spin-off even though Nunnally did by the end.  Nunnally wants to be a singer still but her friend would either become her personal knight or something like that. Euphemia is younger than Lelouch.

However, there might still be a chance that Euphie or Schneizel to become the next ruler of Britannia. There's not much development on them for the time being so that's why I called Lelouch as the next monarch. I just don't know about their personal knights after all (Suzaku is definitely Lelouch's, Alice's Nunnally's).

These are predictions; they might not be true anyway.

This is my opinion and please don't bash it. I'm only stating my own perspective on this particular work. I tend to ignore Fandom Rivalry, Flame Wars, any Internet Wars of any kind. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. If you send a Flame over my opinion, expect me to ignore your comment.

Respect the opinions of others no matter how much you want them to like what you want.

You do realize you can comment on my posts if only you press the title and scroll down to put down the comments. I do allow anonymous comments after all.

Posts and Their Length

This is a short post I'll make on my post lengths.

On my Opinion/Final Review post, it'll be majorly long. It'll be discussed in sections (Character and Development; Relationships; Plot; Themes; Predictions; sometimes there are some sections I would add that is exclusive to the particular work) and sub-sections (the actual characters and themes of the story) since I often feel the need to be eloquent. I want to discuss why the way it is to me. Despite all reassurances, I really can't help myself with spoilers. Just watch out for spoilers...

Fanfiction Recommendations tends to go from Summary and Review. They are often short enough.

Mini Reviews are just like Fanfiction Recs but I won't go into too much, just enough to encapsulate what the thoughts, good things and bad things.

Favorite would be very short since I'll usually be praising it and not too breathless on words.

Other posts that are just regular would depend based on how much I want to say. It could be placed amongst the Opinion collection if you want to think about it.

There will be grades now if there are anybody out there who prefers ratings (even though I don't).

I would only tackle topics that I know very well like constructive criticism of a fanfic. I don't feel brave, tackling a topic like abortion right now. That's hot water for me.

This is a warning post so keep your head's up.

Yeah and another Opinion Post is coming soon.

I'm rewatching Death Note now but only on its dub. As expected, it's a Superlative Dub.

Final Review: Guilty Crown

This is a very long post.

One of the best things about GC is its art. But not their character design.

Guilty Crown is a...Love It or Hate It show to say the least. Critics strongly criticized the weak characters, incomprehensible plot (not to mentioned how rushed it was), and its pure delusion of grandeur. It has an inappropriate awkward use of fanservice.

The pictures and bold underlined letters will be in sections. I'll try to keep it spoiler-free.

*cringes*

While my criticisms are pretty much the same, I couldn't help but cringe at the sight of such potential wasted. My number one pet peeve is the waste of potential a series actually have. See my rants on Elementary on previous entries.

The plot itself tilts heavily towards Code Geass and soon enough Neon Genesis Evangelion. They are trying to bring themselves some depth but the bad writing doesn't prove its capabilities. It's a bad mesh of both series.

Code Geass

Suzaku, Lelouch, and Akito respectively

Code Geass knows its world is weird and over-the-top (see the hamminess of a lot of characters) and I appreciate that because it doesn't try to take itself seriously to a degree. The writers know the world takes place is an alternate one and thus the world can be as wacky as it. Guilty Crown starts off with an emo teen with no confidence, so weak-willed he's easily manipulated by his enemies and friends alike.

The reason why Code Geass works and Guilty Crown didn't is because the character we came to know in the former series stemmed from family and motivated his goals. He has the power at his will and control others at his own mental expense and tragic results. Guilty Crown does not work because he did not bring together as his name intended. He is no Yusei Fudo (I know that 5D's is a reconstruction of the Yu-Gi-Oh mythos but allowing such plot twist to waste away...). He's an innocent involved in this no matter how much his backstory says otherwise. His connection to the Void is nonsense. Even the Void itself is idiotic because how the hell people knows that such a disease work enough for it to have treatment in a decade. Geass remained a secret for so long.

He's an innocent caught up in all the mess much like Lelouch. He was suddenly thrown into an escalating mess. Shu is just an innocent bystander before he was even born. Lelouch was caught up in the mess since he was a kid and he did not know it.

The blatant supposed rivalry of Gai and Shu is nonsensical. It's so sudden that I hardly believe it to happen. I know from his point of view, Gai is awesome and charismatic but from a self-induced "no-friends" Shu is too forced. It doesn't flow naturally like Suzaku and Lelouch. Gai is forcing Shu into the mess. Yes, Shu has the power and be useful but the plot makes it seem like Shu has to do it for the world's sake but he had his own chance to see the world in a whole new perspective but chooses to remain out of trouble. Why? We only get moping and even gets moping when he was called an insult in jest from a friend. We never knew him beyond his moping and it doesn't help that most of his development is forced. No matter how 'kind' he is, he's forced to look up to Gai. Why? Gai had earned the admiration but what did Shu did beside following his plans? I understand why he's jealous but for god's sake all we are shown is just moping he's not good enough when we could see him more than just a moping character. Not even Shinji Ikari mope this much. Suzaku and Lelouch works because they are doing it for a reason. Their ways to see light in the brutal world is radical and it proves by their extreme methods.

C.C. and Lelouch are bounded because the latter does not want to die. And it's a rash decision nonetheless. Inori and Shu is so unbelievably forced. Both situations have near-death experiences and mastered their skill easily. Except C.C. and Lelouch has a lot of chemistry unlike Shu and Inori. They balanced each other out. Shu and Inori did not work together well. It's so forced that I am expected to feel sad for him when he realized that Inori honey-trapped him into joining the Funeral Parlor. The romance is just too forced. It was expected from the beginning the two would be love interests. However, what we only get from the both of them is just that they are nice to each other and not get to know each other's flaws and virtues. It's hard for me to take their romance seriously.

By the by, I would choose Lelouch over Light over any day. At least, Lelouch knows he cannot turn back on his horrible deeds, embracing himself as the freaking Devil. On Light... To quote JesuOtaku on Formspring, "ugh, do his world a favor there, I'm sure he would approve upon reflection," Light did not turn back on any of his actions or hesitate unless they are with his family (but even then...). He did not regret his actions at all if the ending is any indication.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

Just watch the Mind Screw Chart of Insanity.

Evangelion was originally a typical mecha anime until it devolves into a psychological cosmic horror apocalypic dissertation. Though the former's writing is decent, the latter is a great piece of writing. Both series had top-notched pacing and suspense for the viewer to keep going.

My biggest beef with GC is with the character-driven plot. The characters were meant to drive the story but when the characters are so bland the plot very questionable and rushed, it's hard to believe the story would work. There is one development there and then that just doesn't fit well in the dynamics. They are trying to squeeze it all in twenty-two episode timeslot with Code Geass R2's plotline.

Evangelion is very influential as there are Rei, Shinji, and Asuka expies. Some anime didn't take Eva route but they did take the disturbing and psychological route. Yu-Gi-Oh GX took this direction in S3. Breaking Judai in that season made a large impact because all this time he had been fighting for his life with a children's card game.

Shinji works and Shu doesn't because Shinji lost everything (mother died, father left) and had not grown up with love and encouragement. Even with Misato and his natural talent piloting his EVA, he hates it. Shu on the other hand had not lost everything. He blocks everything therefore he should be able to build a happy life. Ignorance is bliss after all. Meeting Inori shouldn't make him remember bits. I don't know if Shinji genuinely love Rei or projects his mother's love but it defines just how unloved he felt. Shu grew up with love if his harem and his stepmother was any sign of it. His father do love him but he died and Shu kept loving his deceased father...as far as I could gather.

Inori was supposed an another Rei expy. She's emotionless that her backstory doesn't help. Rei is the way she is because she believes herself to be expendable. Inori is too important, she knows. In the opening or at least its first few seconds, Inori has more emotions than that. She's capable of emotions if we can allow her uneven actions. I understand stoicism but the emotionless doesn't seem right on that face if she does have emotions she can act on. It would actually be subtle if she knows that she is just a vessel for Mana. Her singing are commonly seen as some kind of spell.

Her expertise of guns didn't even fit with her personality. Why she decided to have the best of marksmanship? Is she trying to reassure herself that she doesn't have blood in her hands?

Ayase was quite an interesting figure if you ask me. She's a strong character (well as strong as GC can give us) but wheelchair-bound. That makes her fall to harassment a lot because that. She's the more human of the characters and I feel for her more than any character. She's trying to be strong yet she had to accept that she's not as strong as she wanted to be. Her Void is just stupid. Why not make a wheelchair-bound machinery and let her kick butt? She's strong and the wheelchair may be her obstacle but it's also her strength. I hate her liking Shu and Gai. I actually prefer her just going off and meeting other people, preferably those who wasn't in the Funeral Parlor mess. Normalcy would do well with her. She's not a Blood Knight.

That's as far as I can go with praises.

The Adam and Eve plot is just stupidity beyond belief. I would understand if they will 'cleanse' the world of the Void or rebuilting the world in their own favor but nothing was explained clear enough for me to understand. Daa'th might have said then and there about the Adam and Eve plot that I doubt that the GHQ knows the true details.

Daa'th would work better as the bigger bad, manipulating GHQ and all that. His station in the entire scheme is implied yet it utterly failed. He has reasons he could carry through without a second thought unlike a human being. Segai and Keido didn't really work because their motivations just doesn't work (okay, maybe the former...).

Evangelion works because it uses our suspension of disbelief quite well. The plot works just because. GC just doesn't work as well.

Characterization and Development

Theoretically, the death should push Shu to become a kind king, not send him down the slippery slope.

They try to make the characters as realistic as they possibly can or as close to a marker as they can. Most characters aren't that realistic, being idiots that they are.

Shu, the protagonist, is a mopey angsty teenager who is so socially awkward and bland I wanted him to make him see Shinji Ikari for psychotherapy lessons. Shinji Ikari is someone I can understand right from the start and his angst is something I can excused. I do like Evangelion (I cannot believe a majority of my school's anime club do not know NGE, knowing how influential it was and I would gladly watch dubs unlike them because they wouldn't be able to watch anime if it wasn't for dubs no matter how terrible it was) and Code Geass (while it has some flowing drama issues and other problems, it's not all that bad.). I could see a lot of shoutouts from both series into GC.

"I mustn't run away, I mustn't run away, I mustn't run away..."

He doesn't do anything but act like Shinji, maybe even worse. Inori is a failure of a Rei Ayanami expy. Gai has the charisma but the backing of stupid plot and stupid side characters, his character was dragged down with it all. I do like Jun, Segai, Dan, Ayase & Hare and perhaps guiltily Tsugumi and Daryl. The only consistent characterization is Dan, Segai, Ayase, Hare, Daryl, and Gai. Maybe Mana and Daa'th.

The characterization is at best forced and at worst satellite. The Class Representative (I can't recall her name) is only defined by her crush on Yahiro. Inori has such a change of personality (first she's the stoic, then she's emotional, then she has C.C's characterization of all sudden) that I just settle down and watch her uneven actions. Arisa, of all her real insecurities, is just a bitch (she thinks she's in love with Gai when she's not.) Her grandfather, as cool as he is, is only defined by that. Yahiro is just polarizing to me.

Dan Eagleman, a satellite and static character, may be the only character aside from Ayase to be interesting. He's hilarious. Dan may not be well-developed but he shows lots of emotions and prove himself to be good, showing more than just being a "bad guy".

Shu has very forced character development. All of a sudden, he went all strong when it shows just how mentally weak he is. He just clung to Inori especially when he slipped off the slope. He's badly written and doesn't come off as a true character. He was meant to be the Heart of the Funeral Parlor, asking questions about morality and casualties. His kindness was his strong point. It would have been best shown if he at least show kindness to other people outside of his friends. He's shy yes but he should at least help those on the street. We were never shown anything beyond moping and the morality Shu has as a person. We only knows he mopes and he clungs to people close to him because we know it makes him strong to be close to friends. Friends we never seen him interact friendly beyond just moping.

I know Shu isn't the only weak-willed character. Hell, in Gosick, the main lead was weak-willed but we are shown more than just his weak will and understand more about him. Shu never actually developed beyond his original characterization of moping angst.

Inori's character goes all over the place. Inori was never developed enough and her character development is very  forced. We never knew her more than just a blank slate. We never knew the implication of any kind of other personality traits or what she truly was. We just never knew her beyond her silence.

Gai could have been a good character but he too failed. He has the motivation to be with the one he loves but we never knew him beyond his goals and seriousness. We learn so much about Light and Lelouch's personalities and there really are more than just meet the eye.

Most characters aren't really developed enough even though sometimes I can understand their motivation. Like the rest of the characters, we never knew much about them with the exception of Ayase and possibly Daryl. Sure Dan and the other characters aforementioned aren't developed enough but they're consistent.

Most of the so-called character development are mostly 'deus ex machina'. They give us cool scenes and unfortunately a delusion of grandeur. It's best shown in season 1 penultimate episode. All are big and large that we're supposed to be in awe. The animation is very well-done in this series which I'll admit.

Side characters became convenient and sometimes to the point of idiocy. The best example is Souta. I don't need to say anything else, don't I? They were pulled into the mess because they're associated to Shu. Like Shu, they are just there watching from the sidelines until they are forced into the battlefield.

The series is mainly character-driven with Shu, Inori, and Gai. When the story is mostly this, the story is just rushed with a timeslot that wouldn't be able to squeeze in more development.

Code Geass had been expected to fail since the beginning with no executives giving a damn about it. They originally request 50 episodes but then they have to squeeze details in 25. Here's the thing: The characterization isn't forced, the development is decent, and very good pacing. Guilty Crown has none of these.

Void

She moans when he pulls out that sword of hers.

Void sounds promising if used well. The premise of such a thing had been used before in many other works. It would presents the mind or wish of the character into weapons. How would the characters feel that their heart in a sense is used as a weapon so carelessly?

In the series, the writers didn't examine it. Shugo Chara! used dreams therefore they are not harming themselves. They are growing. They were in no way harmed. However, this is placed with growing oneself. That was the highest point of SC: their subtle character development. This is a magical girl series (a genre I enjoy) so they don't tend to go into details of the ethics of that. However, when an X Egg is destroyed, another would be born with it. A Void cannot be reborn.

Void was meant to represent their inner self and could change if there's any sign of character development. Not forced character development.

It will make sense if Lost Christmas actually mutates the Japanese lending them into crystalized bodies.

The characters' Voids are too convenient. All the weapons are almost too useful. And measuring one's Void is just pointless. They can test its strength but to measure one person by its Void is stupid beyond belief.

The Void Genome is supposedly called the "Power of the King". Look, it makes sense in Code Geass; C.C. wanted to be loved like an idolized queen, Lelouch's word is law, Charles's Geass is to rewrite memories much like kings rewriting history, Mao knows what people are thinking like a monitoring king, Marianne's was to live ideals through a successor, and there's a power to control people like puppets through bureaucracy. Geass was to ultimately become immortal much like how a ruler become immortalized in what they had done.

Yeah, you get it.

It doesn't make a single sense in this one. Why "Power of the King"?

Is it using people like expendable tools? It sounds like a king...except it's handed to the wrong person. He doesn't have anything to be a king. I definitely agree with Gai on that respect.

There are weapons in each person (even harmless ones) but it's just made for either rule of funny or drama (EP 15, people!).

There are no laws dictating the Void. A high school student who can put up a rule is so ridiculous. If I was there and in the student council, I'll practically snap at them what gives them the right to set rules on an unknown ability. Not even Shu's father know about the true extent of the Void. He may made up some theories but those are theories, something that can be changed.

How in the holy hell does the "Power of the King" work enough for a Student Council to dominate? Yes, they need to protect themselves and all but it's pretty stupid that they need an entire system to dictate their actions with a Void. They do need to learn how to control their Void, each special to its own use. The only good thing is that because they are free, they revert back to their animalistic instincts, going towards murder and harassment.

They didn't go towards the "Child Soldier" route. They implied it but they just went towards the dystopia. I like the dystopian genre (heck one of my favorite books of all time is one). I like it when they apply it correctly. Guilty Crown was at the start of a dystopian Japan under the rule of the GHQ. The GHQ is an outside interference trying to help even with their means. Such an example would be the Afghan War with various countries from US to Britain.

Children fighting against a large system based on their naivety is such a good promise for psychology. They don't know the true details unlike the convenience Gai has. It was examined in Evangelion; however in that case, it's the fact that everyone is broken. Not everyone is broken in GC but they are exposed to warfare and bloody skirmishes. They are forced to give up any likelihood of a happy future if they do not survive.

Plot

I hope you two have a happy life together.

While I found the whole Adam and Eve thing completely idiotic, the premise sounds very promising even if the beginning was a downgrade version of Code Geass.

It's promising because the people of Japan are undergoing sickness and need the help of other countries, especially those prominent in medicinal research. As bizarre is the Void is, it will only affect the people of Japan since it did imply that Lost Christmas only impacted Japan and nowhere else. Countries will have to interfere to help the country get back on their feet again and try to discover the cause of the Void. By the way other countries react to Lost Christmas, most would try to help just why their body is crystalizing and people just disappear when they die.

Unlike Code Geass, the universe is trying to take a reality-grounded place which just doesn't work. People know that CG doesn't take itself seriously. Much. For the sake of God, there's episodes dedicated to save a cat and making a huge pizza with a mecha. How cheery and hopeful that series was? (Well yeah, it is hopeful and bittersweet in comparison to the absolute downer Death Note was)

We are expected to believe all these things to be taken seriously. As long as they take a different angle or bring something new into the mix, then we would be able to take it seriously to a degree.

While there are rebellions to regain one's true identity (see Vietnam and North Korea), it just doesn't work in Guilty Crown. The rest of the world interfered with Japan because Japan is in need. Sure their rules are totally different from Japan, but as long as they kept the people safe from the genome they can do it under the Japanese say. They were trying to help justifying Segai's words. They have to resort to means to make sure the disease doesn't spread. As cruel as the methods are, they are trying their best.

The rebellion is just complete nonsense. Gai is only looking towards the pieces and how the hell the GHQ knows about it is something I don't see. How do they know the pieces would cause an apocalypse? Daath might be an answer to them but even then they don't know the true extents of it if they trusts a mysterious waif. I know they are trying to play with the grounds of vices but I think these smart people would know who to trust. Would scientists trust a supernatural being that goes against their very scientific mind? They are too logical. Some might be open-minded but logic tends to win out in the end.

Grand yet so...dull

The series gave us the notion of delusion. There are so many shots of grandiose, failing to living up to itself as a grand anime it was hyped to be with Supercell and the minds behind Death Note and Code Geass. Please read Behind the Nihon Review's Rescuing Stranded Scenes in Guilty Crown for better information.

The plot twists are completely exasperating. For the sake of any deity out there, there's a Wham Episode page dedicated just for this series. Plot-wise, they didn't develop enough to actually shock us. That's the problem: it didn't develop enough. It only meant to drive the plot, not the characters. It examined what happened but it's too sudden. The series is character-driven. The characterization and plot are clashing at each other to tell which point of view should be taken. Some of the plot twists aren't even hinted beforehand. M. Night Shyamalan, no matter how bad he is right now, at least used plot twists when it makes sense.

They didn't explain anything about the Endlaves. So it's basically a robot you control with your mind? They didn't put more information and just leave it as that. Could they at least explain that? I don't get it.

All in all, the narrative is very awkward and pacing is so quick we don't have a chance to understand the characters as their own characters. The plot segued into a new plot point without giving the other point they established earlier any kind of closure or carry over with the new plot point.

Anime and other works had done this before, shrugging plot points away for new ones and not giving any damn about their previous plot points. I am not saying Guilty Crown is the epitome of bad writing. In fact, the series had loads of potential we could develop on if they take the time to immerse ourselves into the world and their characterization. Sure the series is badly written, but there are times it could've been good writing if its wasn't for the plot twists and the lack of actual real development in the characters.

We never had the chance to know the characters. Yes, we are shown their traits but did any of the traits developed beyond just part of their personality or learning more about them? The characters are static in their actual development. We never know beyond their established personalities. People are multi-faceted.

I know that not all anime or all works had to be strong in plot and character development. Guilty Crown is not the only one who had not very strong development. Look at Masters of Martial Hearts with their crude plot and lack of character development.

Guilty Crown is not the best of plot and character development but hey, don't we all view on narrative, pacing, characterization, etc are subjective even though those are objective reviewing basics?

What I do understand is that the series think they are bigger than they are. Again, plotting and character development may not be the best but they obviously think it's some kind of epic story with large expansive grounds.

Themes

Dance, you fiend!!!

Guilty Crown lack a certain focus... a central one. I wasn't even sure what the series was aiming for. Below are just guesses on what the main theme supposed to be. GC doesn't have a core to tell the story. The plot twists and turns without any idea where the hell is going. Code Geass R2 may have the same problem (the plot twists and some stupidity involves, yes) but I'm more forgiving because it had a central focus: Lelouch and his goal to create a world for his sister and basically everything Code Geass has Guilty Crown doesn't.

It's hard for me to see what they are trying to say. It's hard for me to even pick apart any kind of implication of themes. However, could anyone tell me what the themes might possibly are?

I don't really hold the book of criticism. Hell, I don't

Some of the themes I believe is in here: Humans as Weapons; Growth;

Humans as Weapons: That touched upon this somewhat. Since this is wartime, soldiers are believed to be expendable; the more you used, you don't have to worry because there are reinforcements. This time, it was the point of using the human's metaphorical heart as a weapon. If the Void is destroyed, then they'll die. Shu was reluctant to use such a thing to defeat the people, knowing the ethics. However, it was throw out of the window. They are willing to be used even if it meant dying.

Growth: Even though it's less than pleasing to see such failure of it, nonetheless it's still there if not rushed. Shu became a strong leader, attracting the people although he was always manipulated. Gai reunites with Mana twice, giving all it takes to be with his love. Arisa let love get the better of her. Tsugumi was let go of her shyness which I still don't understand. Inori grew to be loved and be human. Yahiro learned that his manipulative ways destroyed his life basically.

Culmination

The series just failed to live up to its hype. The story is nonsenscial since the very beginning, the characters are as dull as a brick, and it's a failure.

I wanted to like it at first when I heard about it. Why not? Having Supercell, the writers of Code Geass and Death Note... What could possibly go wrong?

My brother told me not to watch it but my curiousity got the better of me and yeah....

It's not the worst anime I seen and again, looking back it doesn't seem that bad in comparison to some of the worst anime in recent years. School Days and Master of Martial Arts are still battling for that title. I think that title on that year was a little too harsh. The series just generate unintentional laughter.

For the rewatchability, well, I will give it a yes for those who just want to watch anime for the fun. Just watch and decide for yourself if it's good or not.

The music is great though. 

I judged something based on different standards. 

This is my opinion and please don't bash it. I'm only stating my own perspective on this particular work. I tend to ignore Fandom Rivalry, Flame Wars, any Internet Wars of any kind. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. If you send a Flame over my opinion, expect me to ignore your comment.

Respect the opinions of others no matter how much you want them to like what you want.

How we reviewed is completely subjective even though standards of critique is objective. There are no bad movies or good movies. We can acknowledge their impact on society and ambition but something we like or don't like is up to us to decide.