Character review: Shizuru Viola

[Anime Adoru]

Edited Jan 3: If you want to join the discussion, please make sure you read revision 2 of this post before you jump on some of the things I said: http://forums.animesuki.com/showpost.php?p=432904&postcount=46

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Looks like only hard-core fans are left in this thread. So I though I'm copying over this post from my blog at http://adoru.wordpress.com hoping for interesting (and civilized, in case you disagree :-)) feedback.

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In a recent popularity poll about the Otomes in Mai Otome, Meister Shizuru Viola scored first place, followed by Arika and Erstin. The high rankings of cheerful Arika and all-around-lovable Erstin did not surprise me. The top spot for Shizuru did, so I thought it is time to reflect on her character and why she is portrayed the way she is.

In Mai Hime, I pitied Shizuru for her unfulfilled love for Natsuki, and admired her for her stoic suffering over the cards life had dealt her. Even her behavior towards Natsuki in the last episodes of Mai Hime seemed forgivable when I saw how it all went down the tubes in violent and tearful self-destruction. Still, Shizuru didn't play a major role in Mai Hime, and her character had been left largely unexplored.

In Mai Otome Shizuru figures more prominently. She is the first Meister Otome we encounter and she probably left a lasting impression on everyone who saw her kick into action in the first episode. She is a pillar of Garderobe, the School of Otome, and she answers only to Natsuki, the school headmaster. She is stunningly beautiful in a classical elegance kind of way: Great face, shape, and voice, great regular and battle costume, and even a customized sound when she walks in her battle costume.

Maybe the most obvious change over Mai Hime is that in Mai Otome, Shizuru's love for Natsuki, is being answered. From the surprised expression in Natsuki's face when Shizuru first bows down to the awe-struck Arika as if to kiss her, to the proverbial "fan-service" scene at the pool that made everyone wonder where exactly Shizuru stuck her fingers to make Natsuki blush in such an ecstatic and embarrassed way, it is made abundantly clear that Shizuru and Natsuki are a couple.

One thing that has not changed is her controlled behavior. Rarely do we see an authentic and spontaneous emotional expression. If we see an emotion at all, I always feel it had to pass multiple layers of self-control before it was considered appropriate for public display. Despite her soft voice and (under most circumstances) mild manners, I perceive her as cold and controlled. When Nina freaks out over her missing father, Shizuru first slaps her to bring her back to reality, and only then hugs her, trying to calm her down. Control of the situation overrides empathy.

Garderobe is its own diplomatic entity, so any action Shizuru takes is one that represents Garderobe, and she is only too aware of it. Before episode 12, we saw mostly defensive actions. Shizuru killed the slave in episode 1, fought Rado in episode 3, and defended her group against Midori in episode 10. In episode 12, however, we see how she aggressively enters Akira's bedroom and forcefully holds her in check. Shizuru may have been wondering about the masquerade. Still, is this a way to address the peaceful representative of a foreign country?

So what makes Shizuru tick? At the end of episode 10, Midori challenges Shizuru: What are you fighting for? Why do you protect this (in Midori's mind) distorted world? Shizuru's answer is clear: To protect the person I love. (Natsuki, obviously.) While understandable, what a poor answer for a person endowed with so much power. So all Shizuru cares about is Natsuki, and beyond that the world and its people aren't worth much.

This is the more so regrettable, as for the girls at Garderobe, Shizuru is the larger-than-life Onee-sama, an object of admiration and infatuation. I fear that as a role model Shizuru instills the same values she lives by into the students of Garderobe. Maybe this is desired so: To create otomes who don't question their masters and follow their orders dutifully. It is telling that she inspires both "good girls" like Nina and "bad girls" like Tomoe.

Shizuru may make us admire her power and elegance, but I think her morals are severly lacking.

This review is dated as of episode 12.

[Vallen Chaos Valiant]

Shizuru may have been wondering about the masquerade. Still, is this a way to address the peaceful representative of a foreign country?
Since she knows the representative had lied about her gender, Shizuru has all the rights to suspect the representative might not be a representative at all. In this case, Shizuru treated Akira like a potential spy. You certainly can't blame her for that. She has just cause to do so in her own territory.

[Anime Adoru]

Since she knows the representative had lied about her gender, Shizuru has all the rights to suspect the representative might not be a representative at all. In this case, Shizuru treated Akira like a potential spy. You certainly can't blame her for that. She has just cause to do so in her own territory.

Yeah, I thought about that, but I think calling a bluff doesn't mean you should physically attack a person. I think the proper way would have been to talk to Natsuki and then confront Akira in a non-violent way if the situation was considered problematic.

[Vallen Chaos Valiant]

Yeah, I thought about that, but I think calling a bluff doesn't mean you should physically attack a person. I think the proper way would have been to talk to Natsuki and then confront Akira in a non-violent way if the situation was considered problematic.
Attacked Akira?

I do seem to recollect it was Akira who drew her weapon out first... Akira was prepared to kill Shizuru in order to silence her. Shizuru was acting out of self-defense, and most certainly could have done much more than holding Akira in place if she wanted to hurt her.

[Xellos-_^]

Yeah, I thought about that, but I think calling a bluff doesn't mean you should physically attack a person. I think the proper way would have been to talk to Natsuki and then confront Akira in a non-violent way if the situation was considered problematic.

I don't think it was attack, it was more of a molestation :p We can guess why Shizuru wants some quality time alone with Akira.

[Owaranai Destiny]

I don't think it was attack, it was more of a molestation :p We can guess why Shizuru wants some quality time alone with Akira.

Certainly, the way she acts around some girls (Arika, Natsuki etc) warrant that kind of comments. I can't say someone is wrong for thinking that way.:heh: I wonder what she noticed on Akira that roused her suspicions though.

[Xellos-_^]

Certainly, the way she acts around some girls (Arika, Natsuki etc) warrant that kind of comments. I can't say someone is wrong for thinking that way.:heh: I wonder what she noticed on Akira that roused her suspicions though.

She has cute girl detection radar. Didn't you notice the ping when she notice Akira is a girl :cool:

And I would place Shiho on the same level with Tomeo. Shiho just likes to plays some embressing and nasty tricks but she hasn't really gone after any of the girls. Tomeo is just evil.

[Kieli]

Looks like only hard-core fans are left in this thread.
Yes, hard-core Shizuru fans as well. Which is why I'm puzzled you felt the need to bash her here. IMHO this probably would have been best left on your own blog. We've had enough Shizuru bashing in this forum over TWO series for quite some time thank you. Or were you looking to start a flame war? :eyebrow:


One thing that has not changed is her controlled behavior. Rarely do we see an authentic and spontaneous emotional expression. If we see an emotion at all, I always feel it had to pass multiple layers of self-control before it was considered appropriate for public display. Despite her soft voice and (under most circumstances) mild manners, I perceive her as cold and controlled. When Nina freaks out over her missing father, Shizuru first slaps her to bring her back to reality, and only then hugs her, trying to calm her down. Control of the situation overrides empathy.
You DO realise that someone has to act the adult in a school full of children. Shizuru is Natsuki's #2 and that means being on top of everything that goes on (erm...no pun intended...just in case Shigan is lurking around with more New Year's cake). Natsuki doesn't have complete faith and trust in her for nothing. Not everyone needs to be like us Americans and reactionary to every little thing that goes on. Shizuru picks the time and the place to show emotion. It's called maturity. She slaps Nina to get her under control because the child was clearly hysterical and needed to calm down. She was at the point where hugging her was not going to do. Nina was too irrational for that. Shizuru may have slapped her but it would have been FAR colder for her to simply walk away than to offer Nina some comfort. On what planet is that behavior considered cold? :twitch:
Shizuru may have been wondering about the masquerade. Still, is this a way to address the peaceful representative of a foreign country?
Do realise that Shizuru is also in essence a bodyguard. She has a responsibility to protect the school and its inhabitants. Natsuki permits her to do as she sees fit to that end. If you think that a snake is in your midst, is it really wise to make it strike to prove your point? Not hardly. Confronting Akira indirectly was best...she needed to be sure her observation was correct before bringing it to Natsuki. That is the prudent thing to do in a dicey political situation.

So what makes Shizuru tick? At the end of episode 10, Midori challenges Shizuru: What are you fighting for? Why do you protect this (in Midori's mind) distorted world? Shizuru's answer is clear: To protect the person I love. (Natsuki, obviously.) While understandable, what a poor answer for a person endowed with so much power. So all Shizuru cares about is Natsuki, and beyond that the world and its people aren't worth much.
Actually, I totally disagree with this. Just because you fight for someone you love, does not mean that's ALL you care about. Your logic is deeply flawed.
Shizuru may make us admire her power and elegance, but I think her morals are severly lacking.
Thus far, like most Shizuru bashers, you really haven't supported your argument with anything more than perilously thin and spurious evidence. There is no concrete evidence in any of the episodes that her "morality" is questionable. Like VCV once said, these Otomes are soldiers and, like it or not, are being bred and trained to that end. Soldiers are often called upon to do questionable things in defense of their country or the people they love. Don't kid yourself. If you asked a soldier in Iraq to tell you the real reason why they're bleeding and dying over there, they'd tell you it was for their most important people: family, wife and kids, girlfriend, friends, etc. Shizuru is no different.

[Preston]

Ooooh, toughie, I don't know which side to bet on...yet. I'll decide after ep 13. :D If and when Nina does find out about Sergey's sponsorship of Arika, it's probably gonna be mulled over by the fact that Sergey admits to it himself. Won't stop the fact that Nina might want to fight Arika over it (one of those much needed head-clearing fights). Nina will have to come to grips with the fact that she does like Arika herself, despite wanting Sergey. ^^

Agreed.

I beg to differ. ;) Character bashing aside, how about Tomoe or Shiho? They don't seem to be liking Arika more as time passes.

People suffering from some type of insanity and mental instability aside, no one will be able to hold a grudge against Arika for long. ;)

Yes, hard-core Shizuru fans as well. Which is why I'm puzzled you felt the need to bash her here. IMHO this probably would have been best left on your own blog. We've had enough Shizuru bashing in this forum over TWO series for quite some time thank you. Or were you looking to start a flame war? :eyebrow:

....

I like Shizuru, and I wouldn't call that character bashing. It's one person's take on her current state of mind, one which I would agree on in parts. I really wouldn't call her an ideal figure for the Otomes of the school to work towards being like, why, is hard to put into words.

Otomes may be trained to be soldiers.. actually, no, fancy bodyguard-maid commodities, but they arn't bred for the purpose. Good God, now that would be even more morally incorrect. It's a school. A private school. A school that leads down two main paths: A fancy lifestyle where you are respected, have a powerful and rich husband, or a life serving one person as a glorified bodyguard. I, personally, would not refer to an Otome as a conventional soldier. The soldiers in the Otome world, are.. uh.. the soldiers. Sure, some duties that would be first thought of as those of soldiers may fall upon the shoulders of Otomes, but it's more of an acting duty, kind of like a conscription. 'Your country just got itself in a mess, no-one else has your skills, go sort it out, you have no choice in the matter. (If you die you'll get a free gravestone in a hall not just anyone can get to.)''

EDIT: Why is this thread no longer stickied? No episode for another week.

[Anime Adoru]

I posted this review because I'm interested in understanding Shizuru, Arika, etc. (I still don't get why I'm so hooked on this series. Yes, I'm the brainy analytical type.) I have a review on Arika done, and it is as much light and shadow as for Shizuru. I deliberately wrote this in a personal style to make clear this is my opinion. I'm also interested in getting arguments in where I'm wrong, ideally based on facts from the series.

She slaps Nina to get her under control because the child was clearly hysterical and needed to calm down. She was at the point where hugging her was not going to do. Nina was too irrational for that. Shizuru may have slapped her but it would have been FAR colder for her to simply walk away than to offer Nina some comfort. On what planet is that behavior considered cold?

You are making a moral judgement. Some people favor empathy over self-reliance/being in control, others favor being in control over expression of emotions. Very much simplifying, these are the two moral systems (since you are mentioning the U.S.) that either dominate Republican or Democratic politics. There is nothing wrong with your judgement, it is one of two possible. Do you know a scene in the series where this comes out more clearly than the first slapping, then hugging situation?

Confronting Akira indirectly was best...she needed to be sure her observation was correct before bringing it to Natsuki. That is the prudent thing to do in a dicey political situation.

Honestly: She could have observed, and thought to herself: Ah, confirmed, a girl, and then: an impostor! Please take a look at the scene. She is forcefully holding Akira against her will. I call that disrespecting another person. What would you have thought if Akira had demasked Arika that way upon first meeting?

Actually, I totally disagree with this. Just because you fight for someone you love, does not mean that's ALL you care about.

Hmm... It is the one thing she says she cares about. Do you have a scene/situation where it is clear she cares about other people other than for material reasons like her job would ask her to do? Anywhere where she jumps into action to help people outside of her job? I'm not aware that Sunrise paints her that way; happens a lot for other people, most notably Arika, that way, though.

[Anime Adoru]

[COLOR="DarkRed"]I really wouldn't call her an ideal figure for the Otomes of the school to work towards being like, why, is hard to put into words.

I'm not there yet either. Her elegance and beauty each time is breathtaking, and I'm thinking how cool, and yet still I perceive her as cold and don't really know why. Looking for situations to put my finger down.

[Anime Adoru]

I don't think it was attack, it was more of a molestation :p We can guess why Shizuru wants some quality time alone with Akira.

Maybe. Not sure. Are there more people here who think this was sexual rather than political aggressive?

[Kieli]

I posted this review because I'm interested in understanding Shizuru, Arika, etc. (I still don't get why I'm so hooked on this series. Yes, I'm the brainy analytical type.) I have a review on Arika done, and it is as much light and shadow as for Shizuru. I deliberately wrote this in a personal style to make clear this is my opinion. I'm also interested in getting arguments in where I'm wrong, ideally based on facts from the series.
It does not seem like you're interested in learning about Shizuru insomuch as you are making clear your opinions. You don't state in your piece your interest in learning other viewpoints. You simply make statements of opinion that you don't quite clarify as such.
Shizuru may make us admire her power and elegance, but I think her morals are severly lacking.
And you are not making a moral statement here? Clearly you are. To state otherwise would be incorrect.
You are making a moral judgement. Some people favor empathy over self-reliance/being in control, others favor being in control over expression of emotions.
Some people do, you are correct. But that does not make them morally bankrupt or lacking in morality. They simply have very different viewpoints on how their chosen morality should play out. Let's take for example, Nina's behaviour in the last episode towards Arika. I personally feel that she is bullying Arika because she can get away with it; purposely venting her frustrations over her "father" and his relationship thus far with Arika in a particularly odd situation. Others feel that the scenes were merely for comedic value and found them amusing. Thus, I ask, is Nina morally deficient for acting out on Arika or is she merely "doing her job"? One could pose both of these questions to Shizuru. Is she being morally bereft by slapping Nina into sensibility then showing compassion later or is she doing her job as #2 and caring for the welfare of a student despite the actions needed to calm her down?

If one is planning on judging Shizuru's actions, the judgment will almost always be dependant on one's own moral code. But to judge her actions thus far without knowing the true intent underlying them is to do so without sufficient evidence.
Very much simplifying, these are the two moral systems (since you are mentioning the U.S.) that either dominate Republican or Democratic politics.
And those are? I am American and can tell you than there is more than one system of morality that drives Americans...unfortunately having a two party system means that others would view us in those terms which is inaccurate to judge the country's political views at large. The squeakiest wheel gets the grease and all that. ;)
Honestly: She could have observed, and thought to herself: Ah, confirmed, a girl, and then: an impostor! Please take a look at the scene. She is forcefully holding Akira against her will. I call that disrespecting another person. What would you have thought if Akira had demasked Arika that way upon first meeting?

I have taken a look at the scene. Several times, in fact. I am not blind. I would have thought that Akira was doing her job. Shizuru had no idea what the intent was behind the facade Akira was using. Was their an assassination attempt planned? Was there an attempt to steal technology planned? Who knew? Directness is often the best way to get to the heart of a matter. Garderobe, for all intents and purposes, is a municipality that governs itself. As such, Shizuru's role is similar to the secret police or spy agency. Trust me, you won't get such as a by-your-leave if you encroach on their territory under less than honest pretenses.
Hmm... It is the one thing she says she cares about.
It seems that you are harping on one line as a means to define her entire existence at Garderobe and to define her completely. What a ridiculous notion! Shizuru offers to help Arika with her studies but she didn't really need to take a personal hand in things to find out information about the contract between Mashiro and Arika (god knows everyone ELSE knew about it). Shizuru has always shown fondness for Arika and even to Nina, despite giving her a good crack to get her head back in the game. Shizuru leapt into battle as she was ordered as Natsuki wanted her to go after Aswald but was prevented by Midori. Midori asks a question, Shizuru answers it honestly but I doubt that is her only reason.
Do you have a scene/situation where it is clear she cares about other people other than for material reasons like her job would ask her to do? Anywhere where she jumps into action to help people outside of her job? I'm not aware that Sunrise paints her that way; happens a lot for other people, most notably Arika, that way, though.
How is it that you can possibly think you know for sure anything about Shizuru after, what, 12 episodes, only a few of which she was in predominantly? I say, let the series play out and then I might entertain your absolute theories.

[Kieli]

Maybe. Not sure. Are there more people here who think this was sexual rather than political aggressive?
It's Shizuru. It seems that people are more willing to view her as a molester and rapist from Mai HiME than to view Otome Shizuru as a different entity. True, she is playful and suggestive, but she's never been shown to truly molest anyone (well other than the massage scene with Natsuki by the pool) thus far.

[Matrim]

Ah, confirmed, a girl, and then: an impostor! Please take a look at the scene. She is forcefully holding Akira against her will. I call that disrespecting another person. What would you have thought if Akira had demasked Arika that way upon first meeting?


I would have thought - well done Akira, it was blooody obvious this wasn't the real Queen. ;) Seriously, what's your problem with Shizuru being suspicious of an imposter? Disrespecting another person? I would call it more of an attempt to arrest this person and quite a justified attemt, too.

Hmm... It is the one thing she says she cares about. Do you have a scene/situation where it is clear she cares about other people other than for material reasons like her job would ask her to do?

Does she have to care about other people? After all, you can have egoistical characters and I like such characters if they are well developed. For instance, Nao in Mai HiME.

I don't like Shizuru one bit and I still can't believe that I am actually defending her (such is the power of boredom...;)) but I still don't find your arguments to be too convincing. But you get bonus points for going agaisnt the dominant opinion. ;)

People suffering from some type of insanity and mental instability aside, no one will be able to hold a grudge against Arika for long.

Except me, you mean? ;)

[deathsvengeance]

Anime Adoru and Kieli:

I personally think the slap (to Nina) was symbolic of Nina's rough life. The slap was a "pull yourself together and think clearly" action. Nina clearly wasn't responding to anything else and she was disrespecting her superiors by eavesdropping and attempting to go against orders.

I don't think Shizuru is cold at all, if she was cold and didn't care about others, why would she slap Nina or care about Nina at all?

Anyway, my personal view about Shizuru is that she is a sexual predator lol Honestly most of the time I don't even think of her as female because she acts more like a horny man :P

[coefficientX]

I am seriously sick of people calling Shizuru a molester.

In her act of pinning Akira, is there ANY contact between the 2 of them except hands? I don't see holding firmly on Akira's wrists means molestation. Moreover Akira is the hostile one so i don't see any fault with Shizuru acting on self-defense. When you want to prevent someone to hit you or attack you, if you are stronger than that attacker, the best way is to hold firmly on that attacker's wrist to stop him/her. I know this because I always hold my mum's hand firmly whenever she tries to hit me. :p I mean children is not right to hit their parents right? So ain't the best way is to stop them from hitting you? :p Ok back to topic...

Just because she likes Natsuki, does not mean that she is a molester. If that is so, does that mean all the straight guys in the world are molesters?

Really, many people just think that because Shizuru likes Natsuki, because she is a lesbian, every act that she does is either molestation or make Natsuki jealous. WTH?

In ep2, i see hugging Arika and winking at Natsuki, as the signal to hint that they should take Arika into custody so they can find out more about that Souten sapphire without letting any other non-Garderobe personel know about it. If that is to make Natsuki jealous, Natsuki would have blushed or show her usual pissed-off look. Moreover, by hugging Arika, Shizuru succeeded in 2 things: 1) Arika faints-in-kakoiii-shivers so Garderobe can take Arika into custody 2) Sergay will not be able to see Shizuru's hint to Natsuki (since Arika's head helps to cover the wink).

In ep3, Shizuru only hugs Arika help the latter materialise a robe that usually can't be done w/o the otome earring. IS THERE any instance u see a horny look on Shizuru's face?

In ep9, the applying of suntan lotion is a nice fanservice from Sunrise. But still, that does not mean Shizuru's love is answered by Natsuki. IMO, sad to say, Natsuki still loves Shizuru as a friend only.
Do you know that applying suntan lotion on a good friend's back is seriously a very very normal act between girls? Girls-to-girls are alot alot more physical than guys-to-guys. Often, do u see 2 girls holding each other hands, share food, feed each other. These are ONLY acts between two good friends. Even when trying out personal stuffs such as bras, it is absolutely normal and common that you ask your girl-friend how does it look on you. Sometimes, girls attack each others boobs (yeah squeeze and punch) but all these do not mean lesbianism. Girls often tease each other too! What i am trying to point out is, that physical actions between girls, DO NOT signify lesbianism NOR molestation.

So please watch Mai-Otome normally and stop thinking that every actions that Shizuru does, means she is horny or she wants to molest someone.

[Tempest35]

Oh, and one moooore~ thing:

I've never hated Shizuru, even when she went to the 'darkside' in MH. I pitied her though and after seeing MO, I realize why. MO Shizuru doesn't have NEARLY as much social pressure on her as did MH Shizuru. MO Shizuru doesn't have to worry about Natsuki not liking her because she knows that Natsuki does like her (probably not in that way). They have a close friendship as one would expect of a former Oneesama-Coral. Shizuru got all the touchy/feely stuff out of the way when they were younger. ^^; Besides, in MO, close female contact/frienship is encouraged in Guaderobe - its an annomly in MH Fuuka Gauken.

Both her and Natsuki are mature women now, teenage issues are over and done with, and they both are in a comfortable stride with each other. No outside pressure can interfere with them and say that what they have isn't right or morally acceptable by society - at least to Shizuru's face.

[Anime Adoru]

In ep2, i see hugging Arika and winking at Natsuki, as the signal to hint that they should take Arika into custody so they can find out more about that Souten sapphire without letting any other non-Garderobe personel know about it. If that is to make Natsuki jealous, Natsuki would have blushed or show her usual pissed-off look. Moreover, by hugging Arika, Shizuru succeeded in 2 things: 1) Arika faints-in-kakoiii-shivers so Garderobe can take Arika into custody 2) Sergay will not be able to see Shizuru's hint to Natsuki (since Arika's head helps to cover the wink).

I read it almost exactly the same way with one difference: For a short moment Shizuru pretends to kiss Arika, probably to keep Arika mesmerized and to make some fun of Natsuki as well. Natsukis expression, put in to the next frame, was one of surprise about that action. Natsuki didn't display dismay, which shows the stength of their relationship.

[Pazu]

I am seriously sick of people calling Shizuru a molester.



(sorry, couldn't stop myself...;) )

I agree. We don't see Shizuru molesting anybody...except Natsuki :)

But lot of people do like to think about her like about molester and sexmaniac. Somehow it is not so difficult. Check this out answering questions below.

based on ep.12
1. Why Shizuru noticed that 'prince' is not a prince
A. she saw no adam apple
B. her CGR worked
2. Why she didn't tell Natsuki
A. she wasn't sure
B. she was afraid of Natsuki's comment "There is only one thing in your head"
3. Why she was prying Akira
A. to make herself sure
B. because she has peeping net around Garderobe and it is her habit
(I wonder if Natsuki knows about it...Naaah, she is main target;) )
4.Why she was holding Akira
A. to defend herself from Akira's attack
B. for some moment of ... pleasure
5. Why she gave Arika permission to materialise
A. to have some help
B. again, for moment of pleasure

so...
if your answers are:
A. - well, who are you? we are talking about Shizuru here :D
B. - you know, people can think about something else than sex...:upset:
(even in Shizuru's presence :) )

and that is the way it works. more or less.

[JayF]

(sorry, couldn't stop myself...;) )

I agree. We don't see Shizuru molesting anybody...except Natsuki :)

But lot of people do like to think about her like about molester and sexmaniac. Somehow it is not so difficult. Check this out answering questions below.

based on ep.12
1. Why Shizuru noticed that 'prince' is not a prince
A. she saw no adam apple
B. her CGR worked
2. Why she didn't tell Natsuki
A. she wasn't sure
B. she was afraid of Natsuki's comment "There is only one thing in your head"
3. Why she was prying Akira
A. to make herself sure
B. because she has peeping net around Garderobe and it is her habit
(I wonder if Natsuki knows about it...Naaah, she is main target;) )
4.Why she was holding Akira
A. to defend herself from Akira's attack
B. for some moment of ... pleasure
5. Why she gave Arika permission to materialise
A. to have some help
B. again, for moment of pleasure

so...
if your answers are:
A. - well, who are you? we are talking about Shizuru here :D
B. - you know, people can think about something else than sex...:upset:
(even in Shizuru's presence :) )

and that is the way it works. more or less.


My answers are

1) B
2)B
3)B
4)B
5)A

Looks like I don't think about sex with her around all the time, although sometimes she makes that pretty hard to not think about sex.:heh:

[Catgirls]

This thread is a bit juxtaposed, but I tried to put most of the cogent pieces together. I realize that any conversation about Shizuru is, A.), somewhat flame bait and B.), very over talked, but I'm confident that you guys can keep the conversation polite and interesting.

Cheers. :)

[Efreeta]

do[/B] like to think about her like about molester and sexmaniac. Somehow it is not so difficult. Check this out answering questions below.

based on ep.12
1. Why Shizuru noticed that 'prince' is not a prince
A. she saw no adam apple
B. her CGR worked
2. Why she didn't tell Natsuki
A. she wasn't sure
B. she was afraid of Natsuki's comment "There is only one thing in your head"
3. Why she was prying Akira
A. to make herself sure
B. because she has peeping net around Garderobe and it is her habit
(I wonder if Natsuki knows about it...Naaah, she is main target;) )
4.Why she was holding Akira
A. to defend herself from Akira's attack
B. for some moment of ... pleasure
5. Why she gave Arika permission to materialise
A. to have some help
B. again, for moment of pleasure

so...
if your answers are:
A. - well, who are you? we are talking about Shizuru here :D
B. - you know, people can think about something else than sex...:upset:
(even in Shizuru's presence :) )

and that is the way it works. more or less.

Well, my answers are:
1. Why Shizuru noticed that 'prince' is not a prince
A. she saw no adam apple
2. Why she didn't tell Natsuki
A. she wasn't sure
3. Why she was prying Akira
A. to make herself sure
4.Why she was holding Akira
A. to defend herself from Akira's attack
5. Why she gave Arika permission to materialise
A. to have some help

So I guess I see Shizuru in a kind of neutral way;) , although I find her character incredibly intriguing... mostly because, outside her Meister role, she's quite unpredictable.:heh:
I'm very curious to know something more about her personal backstory or background, before venturing into a whole analysis of her character in Mai Otome...

[guest]

1. Why Shizuru noticed that 'prince' is not a prince
A. she saw no adam apple
I have heard so many people mentioned this, but why would a "young" boy have adam's apple? The "fake" prince strike me as a young teenage boy. It is quite possible that he hasn't had adam's apple yet. Why is this considered a clue? Takumi doesn't have one, either.

[Vallen Chaos Valiant]

Okay, since this is a thread dedicated to M-O Shizuru, I might as well post something I read about recently.

In an interview with a production team making the "Sentai" show Midori loves so much, the director explained why they colour-coded their Sentai heroes; the Red is always the leader and so on.

But the most relevant to this thread is their discussion on the colour "Purple".

Purple, though considered a colour Japanese Royalty is associated, is NOT a heroic colour. That's why you never see a Purple Power-Ranger.

Further more, as a side point, Post Gen-1, the leader of the Decepticons in the "Transformer franchise is nearly ALWAYS purple. That was intentional, and hasn't changed. The is a reason Optimus (or Convoy) is red in colour... (And guess what colour Mai would be wearing?:D )

That's not saying Shizuru will turn to the dark side or anything; I am saying her colour of Purple is a sign of regal importance rather than heroism.

[himalayan]

Maybe the most obvious change over Mai Hime is that in Mai Otome, Shizuru's love for Natsuki, is being answered. From the surprised expression in Natsuki's face when Shizuru first bows down to the awe-struck Arika as if to kiss her, to the proverbial "fan-service" scene at the pool that made everyone wonder where exactly Shizuru stuck her fingers to make Natsuki blush in such an ecstatic and embarrassed way, it is made abundantly clear that Shizuru and Natsuki are a couple.
.


you know what, i think you're a shiznat fan in denial. excuse my personal attack. but i think few shiznat fans are convinced that they're a couple via that scene. it's either you read too much into things or you should wear that shiznat is love shirt you have. XD


Shizuru may make us admire her power and elegance, but I think her morals are severly lacking.

harsh, much? to accuse someone of 'severly lacking' morals is such a bold move. and considering the amount of shizuru-sama-take-me-onnnnneegai people in this forum, i cant help but see this as a flame bait. but okay i changed my mind, i wont.

first, you have not presented enough facts to satisfy your ending statement. i understand this is your point of view but be responsible. dont play the 'this is my opinion wildcard'. most of the scenarios you have pointed out are pretty much open to several interpretations and is not concrete enough to convince moi.

shizuru fights for garderobe, she's there for natsuki and she cares for the students. it seems to me that she is very aware of what's wrong and what is not. otherwise she's probably paving her way to world domination. what more do you want? fans love shizuru because despite the fact that she's a very strong character she's also flawed. and in some way, it makes her more human. what you're asking for is a shizuru set high above a pedestal. a goddess. a perfect being who will never succumb to her own emotions.

well she's not and that's why i love her. :)

[Juju]

I have heard so many people mentioned this, but why would a "young" boy have adam's apple? The "fake" prince strike me as a young teenage boy. It is quite possible that he hasn't had adam's apple yet. Why is this considered a clue? Takumi doesn't have one, either.


Correct me if I'm wrong - all the male populace out there - but when puberty hits, doesn't the show of your 'apple' come at say....14-ish? And I contend that the reason why Takumi doesn't show at having one is...the animators, for art purposes, decided not to draw that in? Artistic discretion and all... then again, I could just be grasping straws :D

I prefer saying that her radar went apeshit ;) :p

[demon_god04]

:topicoff:
@ Vallen Chaos Valiant

Hmm thats interesting I always wondered why they coloured thier sentai heroes as such would you mind elaborating or tell me were to find the interview?

[Vallen Chaos Valiant]

:topicoff:
@ Vallen Chaos Valiant

Hmm thats interesting I always wondered why they coloured thier sentai heroes as such would you mind elaborating or tell me were to find the interview?
To demon_god04:
Here you go...
http://www.fansview.com/2003/animereactor/ar01.htm

**************
As for Shizuru's "Girl detector",I believe there are more than one logical explanation for this. Adam's apple aside, we know there are people in the world who are more observant than others, and out of these people many of them are specialised in identifying things that interests them. It's like how a CSI would be more clearly able to observe and obtain info from a crime scene.

Shizuru likes girls. There's no doubt about that. Further more, Akira in the Mai-Otome world did not cross-dress by choice as she did in Mai-Hime, but rather took up the disguise in an emergency. In a sense, she was less prepared, and can be caught-out by a trained eye. The others in Gardrobe are either too worried about Arika being discovered to notice, or dismissed the irregularities from Akira as "foreign behaviour".

[Catgirls]

FYI: I'm pro Shizuru (HiME & Otome). Her character has the depth and sympathy that makes Mia-HiME the polemic stroke of genius that it is.

/plus she's hot.
//did I mention that she's hot?

[JayF]

So what exactly was Shizuru going to do with Akira after she disarmed our fave ninja?

From the Doremi subs, she said before we find out why you're impersonating Takumi.

So obviously she was going to do SOMETHING!

What is it, make your choice.

Before voting, I recommend watching the scene again and watch Shizuru leering (I think) expression.

1)Disarm Akira of any hidden weapons to prevent herself from receiving a Jipang stabbing

2)Disrobe Akira to treat herself to some Jipang cuisine.:naughty: Shizuru wants a change from Garderobe's "menu" of Corals and Pearls.

Maybe someone can make a poll or something.

[Juju]

So what exactly was Shizuru going to do with Akira after she disarmed our fave ninja?

From the Doremi subs, she said before we find out why you're impersonating Takumi.

So obviously she was going to do SOMETHING!

What is it, make your choice.

Before voting, I recommend watching the scene again and watch Shizuru leering (I think) expression.

1)Disarm Akira of any hidden weapons to prevent herself from receiving a Jipang stabbing

2)Disrobe Akira to treat herself to some Jipang cuisine.:naughty: Shizuru wants a change from Garderobe's "menu" of Corals and Pearls.

Maybe someone can make a poll or something.


HONESTLY speaking and this may be because I'm just an idiot anyway, but...I seriously didn't think for the life of me, Shizuru was going to do anything to Akira. UNTIL my 'friend' remarked: "Didn't you think it was obvious? She was about to kiss her or something..."

After re-watching, many times, I do acknowledge that there is a distinct -pause- right before Arika shows up. Shizuru definitely had something in mind. But like many rabid-foaming-at-the-mouth fans , I would so be willing to be taken advantage of by her... :heh:

[demon_god04]

So what exactly was Shizuru going to do with Akira after she disarmed our fave ninja?

From the Doremi subs, she said before we find out why you're impersonating Takumi.

So obviously she was going to do SOMETHING!

What is it, make your choice.

Before voting, I recommend watching the scene again and watch Shizuru leering (I think) expression.

1)Disarm Akira of any hidden weapons to prevent herself from receiving a Jipang stabbing

2)Disrobe Akira to treat herself to some Jipang cuisine.:naughty: Shizuru wants a change from Garderobe's "menu" of Corals and Pearls.

Maybe someone can make a poll or something.

Im going with a little from column 1 and a little from column 2...... while shes helping herself to a little apetizer im sure she can also "pat" Akira down for weapons:heh:

[Xellos-_^]

I am going with the Cute Girl Radar myself on how Shzuru detected Akira. Remeber the ping that came right before her face light up like cat who just found herself with a new toy. :D

[asthalanthil]

Well I watched it again... You know, if this was the age of watching stuff from VHS video, all the sections with Shizuru would be worn off now... That's how much I rewind to her sections!

And there *is* that little grin thing that looks as if she is enjoying it a bit too much. But I think it's a combination of several factors and not really because she wanted to... to uh... uh... derive any sort of pleasure from Akira.

1. The innate satisfaction of that she can always spot a girl
2. And I think she *knew* or suspected that the deception wasn't evil or anti-Garderobe in nature- one of the reasons she doesn't tell Natsuki 'cause perhaps she didn't want Natsuki to over-worry (and get more wrinkles on her cute face)

And would just like to ask the Japanese speakers out there. What Shizuru says, after Akira asks her to let her go, is it more of

a. No, I won't (let you go) before I find out why you are impersonating the prince
or
b. No, I won't (let you go). Before I find out why you are impersonating the prince... (I will do something else :p)

[Shigan]

You DO realise that someone has to act the adult in a school full of children. Shizuru is Natsuki's #2 and that means being on top of everything that goes on (erm...no pun intended...just in case Shigan is lurking around with more New Year's cake).
No sorry, I ate it all- *wipes off face* -but I got some pean-paste mochi if you want some. Damn do I love new year just for all the candy, I can't wait to the Chinese one that's in another few weeks :D. *stuffs mochi down Kieli's hatch* As for Shizuru, yup, she would definetly always be on top, in the rare cases where she wouldn't it woul--uh-- whatwerewetalkingaboutagain?

:D

As for Shizuru's morals, for the love of Lain, don't you think it is kinda ridiculous to judge someone moralic character judging by -one- single sentence spoken. And to be honest, Mai Otome hasn't given us a situation yet which's graveness is dire enough to make a final decision about whoever is a true good person.

And besides, morals shifts as much as cultures. While all cultures value things like courage, friendship, love and loyalty, we do it to different degrees, with different priorities and for different reasons - Morals are as much about popularity beliefs and agreement by majority as a election campaign, the difference being that morals have to cultivate though people's beliefs/norms/characters and what their culture allows over many many years.

Mai Otome happens on a another planet with for us foreign formed nations and cultures in what seems like a pretty far away future - their morals and what they hold dear may differ a bit from yours, which would be quite understandable.

[Anime Adoru]

you know what, i think you're a shiznat fan in denial. excuse my personal attack. but i think few shiznat fans are convinced that they're a couple via that scene. it's either you read too much into things or you should wear that shiznat is love shirt you have.

I admit that I accepted as a fact that Shizuru and Natsuki are a couple, probably, because everyone did. It didn't occur to me that this might not be the case. Is there anyone here who thinks they really aren't a couple? Unfortunately, as usual, most such stuff is left implicit, for your imagination...

Whether the pool scene "proves" this or not, I don't know. I just picked a favorite scene. Just remember how the episode 8 and 9 thread when nuts over it :-)

[Anime Adoru]

harsh, much? to accuse someone of 'severly lacking' morals is such a bold move. and considering the amount of shizuru-sama-take-me-onnnnneegai people in this forum, i cant help but see this as a flame bait. but okay i changed my mind, i wont.

It wasn't meant to start a flame war. After the discussion, I accept that my statement was too harsh, and take it back. I think I have a better understanding now of where this was coming from.

I stand by that she is very controlled (which to me comes across as cold). The soldier argument is well taken, though it makes me worry if someone seems to be a soldier all the time.

In terms of morals, I'd rather say now that she has comparatively narrow morals (protecting Natsuki, the school, etc.) That maybe enough for a real person for a lifetime, but this is an anime, where people are usually out to change the world for some unworldly higher cause :-) So her aspirations and morals seem somewhat limited, probably deliberately.

One aspect was mentioned that makes her stand out and led some to call her a molester. I wouldn't use that term, but I think what she has is a certain aggressive playfulness, and thinking it through again, I think it is based on her being very self-assure about her powers, as if nothing bad could ever happen to her. I don't remember a single scene where she seemed afraid or unsure. For most people, who fight their way through life (incl me), this may come across as somewhat arrogant.

And yes, of course, I'm just an in-the-closet ShizNat fan and all of this is only to upset her so she comes and gets me :)

[Anime Adoru]

I always wondered why they coloured thier sentai heroes as such would you mind elaborating or tell me were to find the interview?

Here you go... http://www.fansview.com/2003/animereactor/ar01.htm


Interesting. Is there any meaning to the pink/green color coding of Coral uniforms?

As far as I observed, Arika has pink stripes, while about everyone else has green strips on the costumes. I just assumed that this is a hint to the viewer who is who. Usually, among Corals, it is always Arika and then someone else, and you don't always see the faces or hair.

[guest]

Super long post warning ahead.:D
In terms of morals, I'd rather say now that she has comparatively narrow morals (protecting Natsuki, the school, etc.) That maybe enough for a real person for a lifetime, but this is an anime, where people are usually out to change the world for some unworldly higher cause :-) So her aspirations and morals seem somewhat limited, probably deliberately. You know, it's this kind of people who are more flexiable and can adapt variety of situations. People who are "out to change the world for some unworldly higher cause" in real world or in anime, are usually very rigid, hence, they break easily or they just hide it. What I mean is, once something out of their comprehesion happens to them, their morals (standard, or norm, whatever they have lived up to this point) shatter and they turn to the dark side of humanity very easily. It's either this or they just do things that are against their belief and hide them. It's human nature that we are all flawed and CANNOT help it. Either you let it out or destroy yourself (and maybe people who care for you). This is my opinions of this matter. Nothing personal. That's why I love Shizuru.:bow:
One aspect was mentioned that makes her stand out and led some to call her a molester. I wouldn't use that term, but I think what she has is a certain aggressive playfulness, and thinking it through again, I think it is based on her being very self-assure about her powers, as if nothing bad could ever happen to her. I don't remember a single scene where she seemed afraid or unsure. For most people, who fight their way through life (incl me), this may come across as somewhat arrogant. I think I understand what you mean but my take of this is different. Shizuru (or anyone else) can be as arrogant as they want IF they have the quality to back it up. If people think that she is being arrogant because she is being "self-assure about her powers, as if nothing bad could ever happen to her", then they are the truly arrogant ones.

I believe in "if you are not good at something, you listen." There are people in the world who are just, more intelligant, smarter and more insightful etc. If you are not as good as them, you listen to them, instead of thinking that they are being arrogant. This is the way people who are not as good learn and get better. Nobody in the world is good at everything. Whe you see people who are better than you at something, I think you sould listen to them, instead of thinking them as being arrogant.

Shiruzu is very good at "hangling things." She knows how to deal with the situations and knows exactly what happened, what the meaning behind that, and know exactly what to do. Her way of "handling things" has been excellent (coming from students of Fuuka academy in My Hime. "it was said that she and Reito are the greatest couple of this school). She probably knows all about this Hime things way before anybody (from the vampire ep in Mai hime and Nagi's commets). She is very insightful--she figured out Nao's metality with such little interaction with her. She knows what is going to happen and how to deal with people according to their personality--Haruka can never beat her and sometimes, even being a slave and do all Shizuru's work for her, becasue she just knows how to deal with her all too well.

From what I see, she CAN be arrogat because she has the quality to be that way.

I am more than happy to team up with her and follow her instructions because this way, we have greater chance to succeed on things AND I would learn a great deal of how to handle things in the future. If I don't, I am running a risk of failure when it should not have happend. That's why some poeple are struggling with life. ;) *coughHarukacough* So all it takes is to listen to people who are better than you. Of course, you will have to admit that they are better than you first. Hard to swallow, isn't it. ;)

[Kieli]

No sorry, I ate it all- *wipes off face* -but I got some pean-paste mochi if you want some. Damn do I love new year just for all the candy, I can't wait to the Chinese one that's in another few weeks :D. *stuffs mochi down Kieli's hatch* As for Shizuru, yup, she would definetly always be on top, in the rare cases where she wouldn't it woul--uh-- whatwerewetalkingaboutagain?
*tastes the mochi* Hmmm..not bad. Heh heh, my mind went there too. It always does where shizuru is involved. Even moreso now that you've demanded that I write a fluff chapter for you :D
The soldier argument is well taken, though it makes me worry if someone seems to be a soldier all the time.
Obviously, you weren't raised as an Army brat. My father was a career soldier (82nd Airborne Rangers, 315th Infantry when he retired) and I can tell you that, although he removed his uniform at home, he was ALWAYS a soldier in manner and deed. There wasn't a thing he did that didn't scream SOLDIER. Trust me, once it's ingrained in them, very few can ever put aside their training for very long. They will always be the person they are made into and trained to be.
In terms of morals, I'd rather say now that she has comparatively narrow morals (protecting Natsuki, the school, etc.) That maybe enough for a real person for a lifetime, but this is an anime, where people are usually out to change the world for some unworldly higher cause :-) So her aspirations and morals seem somewhat limited, probably deliberately.
I think you're mistaking morality for goals or focus. Shizuru's focus is narrowed down to protecting the students of Garderobe and Natsuki. Her morality, however, may be a bit more flexible and diverse. Throwing the word morality around can get you into trouble especially if you're using it incorrectly in this context. Her aspirations may seem limited, but her morality or moral system is still in question because that has not yet been defined nor determined. Shigan said it best concerning morals and morality so I'll refer you to her post for a better dissection of that issue.

[himalayan]

Whether the pool scene "proves" this or not, I don't know. I just picked a favorite scene. Just remember how the episode 8 and 9 thread when nuts over it :-)

lol yes i remember as much. XD



In terms of morals, I'd rather say now that she has comparatively narrow morals (protecting Natsuki, the school, etc.) That maybe enough for a real person for a lifetime, but this is an anime, where people are usually out to change the world for some unworldly higher cause :-) So her aspirations and morals seem somewhat limited, probably deliberately.




i agree with the above post that you're mistaking morals to goal/focus. dont trivialize shizuru's perception of what is right and wrong just because you have a different view on morality. if shizuru's morals are narrow, then what of the rest of the characters? wouldnt that make arika, tomoe, nina and company look..very very very shallow? arika will destroy nina's dream of becoming an otome just so she can fulfill her own dreams. tomoe will probably strangle arika given a chance. and i doubt if nina will actually choose her friends over sergay given a decisive situation. but okay, let's give her the benefit of the doubt.

if i may say so, shizuru probably has the strongest 'morals' so far . she probably knows when to attack and when not to. when to interfere and when to stay away and just watch. let's not get much into her 'playfulness' since it's probably fanservice anyway. but honestly, i cant see shizuru harassing an unwilling victim in the near future - save for natsuki, come sunrise's decision to recycle plot from hime.



And yes, of course, I'm just an in-the-closet ShizNat fan and all of this is only to upset her so she comes and gets me :)


lol. get in-line and here's your number.. it says #500212. tough luck. :P

[Tremalkinger]

I know I'm late... I'm on vacation, what can I say.

This is the more so regrettable, as for the girls at Garderobe, Shizuru is the larger-than-life Onee-sama, an object of admiration and infatuation. I fear that as a role model Shizuru instills the same values she lives by into the students of Garderobe. Maybe this is desired so: To create otomes who don't question their masters and follow their orders dutifully. It is telling that she inspires both "good girls" like Nina and "bad girls" like Tomoe.

Shizuru may make us admire her power and elegance, but I think her morals are severly lacking.

While the rest of your evaluation was up and down, nothing was flat out wrong until this paragraph. All I can say is... what? Shizuru's relationship with Natsuki isn't undying allegiance, but mutual discussion and respect. How many scenes have we seen with the two of them drinking tea and discussing things? They bounce ideas, suggestions and theories off each other. So long as they're in the office, they treat each other like equals.

As for Shizuru with the students, where did you ever get her 'instilling values'? We've been shown limited contact with the students, but what we have seen has been gentle teasing. The only even slight justification was the stern slap, which has already been discussed before.

[Pleroma]

She IS a rolemodel.

The values of yuri are a cornerstone of a proper Garderobe education after all.

[ZippyDSM]

I might be a drooling fan boy but ....mai himes version was a stoic strong willed person with a love that could not be and went alil insane from it,Mai otomes is the same minus the insanity altho if anyone hurts Natsuki all hell will be brought to bear to rend her enimes apart...0_o

And I feel soemtiems she likes to hit on/flirt with some girls just to see Natsuki's responce and they are cute togather :3

[Anime Adoru]

I figure I post the next revision of my review to get away from some of the more controversial stuff I said and to incorporate what I learned from the discussion. If you read the original post and harbor no bad feelings, don't bother reading this review. If anything, it got more lame.

--------

In a recent popularity poll about the otomes in Mai Otome, Meister Shizuru Viola scored first place, followed by Arika and Erstin. The high rankings of cheerful Arika and all-around-lovable Erstin did not surprise me. The top spot for Shizuru did, so I started thinking about Shizuru and what makes her tick.

In Mai Hime, I pitied Shizuru for her unfulfilled love for Natsuki, and admired her for her stoic suffering over the cards life had dealt her. Even her behavior towards Natsuki in the last episodes of Mai Hime seemed forgivable when it all went down the tubes in violent and tearful self-destruction. Still, Shizuru didn't play a major role in Mai Hime, and her character had been left largely unexplored.

In Mai Otome Shizuru figures more prominently. She is the first Meister Otome we encounter and she probably left a lasting impression on everyone who saw her kick into action in the first episode. She is a pillar of Garderobe, the School of Otome, and she answers only to Natsuki, the school headmaster. She is stunningly beautiful in a classical elegance kind of way: Great face, shape, and voice, great regular and battle costume, and even a customized sound when she walks in her battle costume.

http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep01/ep01pic34tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep01/ep01pic87tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep01/ep01pic93tmb.jpg

One of the most obvious change over Mai Hime is that in Mai Otome, Shizuru's love for Natsuki, is being answered. From the surprised expression in Natsuki's face when Shizuru first bows down to the awe-struck Arika as if to kiss her, to the proverbial 'fan-service' scene at the pool that made everyone wonder where exactly Shizuru stuck her fingers to make Natsuki blush in such an ecstatic and embarrassed way, it is made abundantly clear that Shizuru and Natsuki are a couple.

http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic22tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic23tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic24tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic25tmb.jpg

One thing that has not changed is her controlled behavior. If we see Shizuru express emotions, I always feel that it had to pass multiple layers of self-control before it was considered appropriate for public display. Whatever the situation, she maintains a refined and dignified behavior, as considered appropriate for a leading otome. She certainly always seems in control of a situation, whatever the circumstances. For example, when Nina freaks out over her missing father, Shizuru first slaps her to bring her back to reality, and only then hugs her, trying to calm her down.

http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic18tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic19tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic21tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic22tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic23tmb.jpg

For the students at Garderobe, Shizuru is the larger-than-life Onee-sama, an object of admiration and infatuation. Whether it is "good girls" like Nina or "bad girls" like Tomoe, they all view Shizuru as a role model and most likely aspire to be like her. Deliberately or not, Shizuru instills the same values she lives by into them.

So what makes Shizuru tick? At the end of episode 10, Midori challenges Shizuru: What are you fighting for? Why do you care about this (in Midori's mind) distorted world? Shizuru's answer is clear: To protect the person I love. (Natsuki, obviously.) It is safe to add that she wants to protect not only Natsuki, but Garderobe and its students as well. While this explains much of Shizuru's behavior, it doesn't really tell us why she chose these goals. Except for the occassional glimpse into her relationship with Natsuki, we never really manage to look beyond the professional Shizuru.

As such, Shizuru remains as mysterious and undefined as she appeared in Mai Hime.

This review is dated as of episode 12.

[Maceart]

Shizuru is a very powerful Otome. She holds no allegiance, only to Garderobe, and will only fight if necessary (or commanded by Natsuki). In a way, she's a souless android. But, you can say that's also unrequited love for the school.

[babuji]

I figure I post the next revision of my review to get away from some of the more controversial stuff I said and to incorporate what I learned from the discussion. If you read the original post and harbor no bad feelings, don't bother reading this review. If anything, it got more lame.

--------

In a recent popularity poll about the otomes in Mai Otome, Meister Shizuru Viola scored first place, followed by Arika and Erstin. The high rankings of cheerful Arika and all-around-lovable Erstin did not surprise me. The top spot for Shizuru did, so I started thinking about Shizuru and what makes her tick.

In Mai Hime, I pitied Shizuru for her unfulfilled love for Natsuki, and admired her for her stoic suffering over the cards life had dealt her. Even her behavior towards Natsuki in the last episodes of Mai Hime seemed forgivable when it all went down the tubes in violent and tearful self-destruction. Still, Shizuru didn't play a major role in Mai Hime, and her character had been left largely unexplored.

In Mai Otome Shizuru figures more prominently. She is the first Meister Otome we encounter and she probably left a lasting impression on everyone who saw her kick into action in the first episode. She is a pillar of Garderobe, the School of Otome, and she answers only to Natsuki, the school headmaster. She is stunningly beautiful in a classical elegance kind of way: Great face, shape, and voice, great regular and battle costume, and even a customized sound when she walks in her battle costume.

http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep01/ep01pic34tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep01/ep01pic87tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep01/ep01pic93tmb.jpg

One of the most obvious change over Mai Hime is that in Mai Otome, Shizuru's love for Natsuki, is being answered. From the surprised expression in Natsuki's face when Shizuru first bows down to the awe-struck Arika as if to kiss her, to the proverbial 'fan-service' scene at the pool that made everyone wonder where exactly Shizuru stuck her fingers to make Natsuki blush in such an ecstatic and embarrassed way, it is made abundantly clear that Shizuru and Natsuki are a couple.

http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic22tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic23tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic24tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep09/ep09pic25tmb.jpg

One thing that has not changed is her controlled behavior. If we see Shizuru express emotions, I always feel that it had to pass multiple layers of self-control before it was considered appropriate for public display. Whatever the situation, she maintains a refined and dignified behavior, as considered appropriate for a leading otome. She certainly always seems in control of a situation, whatever the circumstances. For example, when Nina freaks out over her missing father, Shizuru first slaps her to bring her back to reality, and only then hugs her, trying to calm her down.

http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic18tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic19tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic21tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic22tmb.jpg http://www.adoru.com/mai-otome/ep10/ep10pic23tmb.jpg

For the students at Garderobe, Shizuru is the larger-than-life Onee-sama, an object of admiration and infatuation. Whether it is "good girls" like Nina or "bad girls" like Tomoe, they all view Shizuru as a role model and most likely aspire to be like her. Deliberately or not, Shizuru instills the same values she lives by into them.

So what makes Shizuru tick? At the end of episode 10, Midori challenges Shizuru: What are you fighting for? Why do you care about this (in Midori's mind) distorted world? Shizuru's answer is clear: To protect the person I love. (Natsuki, obviously.) It is safe to add that she wants to protect not only Natsuki, but Garderobe and its students as well. While this explains much of Shizuru's behavior, it doesn't really tell us why she chose these goals. Except for the occassional glimpse into her relationship with Natsuki, we never really manage to look beyond the professional Shizuru.

As such, Shizuru remains as mysterious and undefined as she appeared in Mai Hime.

This review is dated as of episode 12.






About what shizuru said earlier in ep 10 "To protect the person I love"..more likely she wants to protect every student in Guarderobe and doesn't want the same black fate to befall the otomes. Furthermore Shizuru might want to prevent a war from happening so that nobody would have to die from combat and can live in a better and more peaceful world.

[Kieli]

Shizuru is a very powerful Otome. She holds no allegiance, only to Garderobe, and will only fight if necessary (or commanded by Natsuki). In a way, she's a souless android. But, you can say that's also unrequited love for the school.
A soulless android, hmm? I'm still wondering what proof you have of that and what anime you're watching because it's sure neither Mai HiME nor Mai Otome. :eyebrow: That whole think before you speak thing? That might be a good idea. :heh:

[ghost89475]

One of the most obvious change over Mai Hime is that in Mai Otome, Shizuru's love for Natsuki, is being answered. From the surprised expression in Natsuki's face when Shizuru first bows down to the awe-struck Arika as if to kiss her, to the proverbial 'fan-service' scene at the pool that made everyone wonder where exactly Shizuru stuck her fingers to make Natsuki blush in such an ecstatic and embarrassed way, it is made abundantly clear that Shizuru and Natsuki are a couple.

Actually, I can't really agree with the highlighted part. Natsuki is definitely more comfortable with Shizuru's...er...intimacy, but until i see some declaration of love or action to prove(am i asking for too much??)... then, i still see it as one -way...

One thing that has not changed is her controlled behavior. If we see Shizuru express emotions, I always feel that it had to pass multiple layers of self-control before it was considered appropriate for public display. Whatever the situation, she maintains a refined and dignified behavior, as considered appropriate for a leading otome. She certainly always seems in control of a situation, whatever the circumstances. For example, when Nina freaks out over her missing father, Shizuru first slaps her to bring her back to reality, and only then hugs her, trying to calm her down.

This, I totally agree. That's why when she goes nuts, I'd definitely be moved...

For the students at Garderobe, Shizuru is the larger-than-life Onee-sama, an object of admiration and infatuation. Whether it is "good girls" like Nina or "bad girls" like Tomoe, they all view Shizuru as a role model and most likely aspire to be like her. Deliberately or not, Shizuru instills the same values she lives by into them.

I think the better word will be influence...besides, i don't think her fans really know her much to understand what are the values she lives by.

[Juju]

Actually, I can't really agree with the highlighted part. Natsuki is definitely more comfortable with Shizuru's...er...intimacy, but until i see some declaration of love or action to prove(am i asking for too much??)... then, i still see it as one -way...

I have to agree with this statement, only because as a hopeless and utter romantic, I just LOVE when emotions are reciprocated after the long, arduous task of going to the pains...meh. I don't think though, that Sunrise will do that for Natsuki's character, anytime soonish. The torment is just too delish. ;)

[ZippyDSM]

To me they are a couple unlike in MH altho they could be just overly close friends that tease each other(Arika tickle attack of nina comes to mind) but dout it,shes always cool calm and in controll but has a palyfull side that I giggle at when its showen.
SHe is a cool and collected person that will do her best for the shcool and Natsuki.

[Shigan]

Actually, despite being far far more closer and affectionate towards each other in MO, I am still not ready to declare them a canonized couple, and I am a hardcore Shiznat fan. While it seems like Natsuki is to a certain degree aware of Shizuru's feelings, we have yet to actually see any real token of affection between them.

If I had seen MO as a indenpendent show without having seen MH, I would definetly not have rooted them as a settled couple yet. And before the whole poolside "where did Shizuru's hand go???" argument gets dragged up again against this, I've had full body massages done a couple of times and trust me, the hands go everywhere.

And however the Shiznat couple is heavily suggested in MO, no, I am actually not ready to see them as obvious bedmates yet, not with what I've een given this far. I really do hope Sunrise has planned a sidestory involving this issue since if they dont after literally -showering- us with innuendos, I'm going to get mad.

[Diodati]

I think they’re together – because - Natsuki would be either be a fool or have no taste whatsoever. ^_^

Heh in all seriousness, the only problem is that yuri is still very much at the ‘alluded to’ stage in more ‘mainstream’ anime. So there is a danger that this may end up very anti-climatic. But then Sunrise aren’t dumb, they know how popular they got with the fans when HiME finished – HiME didn’t have time to really expand or conclude certain plot-lines; even Shizuru only got more open in the last 5 episodes.

Whereas in Otome, the hints have been going very early, the characters are constantly together, Natsuki’s reactions have been pushed much further already – she knows Shizuru’s stance on it (or so it seems, no betrayal please) – so we’ve got 13 episodes for SOMETHING (beautifully) concrete to develop, especially from the grumpier one. It’s gonna happen baby, I really think it will.

Here lies optimist post #54.

[ZippyDSM]

*L* eh they are very close and to most pll they seem like a "couple" some might dout but its going to take hem saying that they are not or at least one of them *L*

[GundamZZ]

If their relationship goes beyond "beautiful friendship", many fans will be disappointed. Fans like tease, not outright queers.

About Shizuru's moral stance, I think many people have overanalyze her character. Japanese fans(or Tokyo fans) like to watch graceful Kyoto girl once awhile, like Afura Mahn. Anime industry lacks voice actresses who can speak decent Kyoto accent. If they just hire anyone who lacks the skill, the fans will be outraged. So far, Shizuru's actress has done the fine job. Shizuru will be remembered as Yamato Nadeshiko.

Her flirting with girls is due to fan service. Some fans like to compare her with Marimite's Sei, so Shizuru(Otome version) inevitablely picks up Sei's traits. It's a bummer nevertheless.

[lone_wolf]

If their relationship goes beyond "beautiful friendship", many fans will be disappointed. Fans like tease, not outright queers.



Umm....careful....there are people here that can be offended

...like me for instance.:mad:

Remember you don't speak for all of us.


--Lone Wolf

[GundamZZ]

Umm....careful....there are people here that can be offended

...like me for instance.:mad:

Remember you don't speak for all of us.


--Lone Wolf

Why? I go by what people call by themselves comfortably. You can check Google.
I speak about TV viewers(customers of Sunrise). Foreign fans are only potential(just potential) customers.

[lone_wolf]

Why? I go by what people call by themselves comfortably. You can check Google.
I speak about TV viewers(customers of Sunrise). Foreign fans are only potential(just potential) customers.


Okay nevermind the gaijin then.

Ever been to all the nihongo Shiznat sites that are out there?:heh: There's more than a plethora of them...(admittingly I search like mad to find these sites:heh: )...and the neat thing about these sites are that most of these are created by females.:)

True that a lot of it is fanservice for the males but there are a growing number of nihongo fans that do appreciate this kind of relationship between Shizuru and Natsuki. But anyways...


Whoa...this is off-topic everyone. My apologies, Cat Girls.
If you choose to delete this I wouldn't blame ya.:heh:

Okay back to regular discussion...

--Lone Wolf

[ZeusIrae]

For me,Shizuru is a player.She likes to play with other people's head.She know very well the effects she has on arika and the other students.
Why did she had a smile when she was holding Akira?My idea is that she was in control of the situation.And there's nothing except perhaps Natsuki that she likes more than being in control.Every time the situation is complicated and out of her control she gets serious(=nina slap etc).
For the rest,she smile.Sometime it's just a I-am-so-cool smile,when the situation is intresting she makes real one.

[asthalanthil]

For me,Shizuru is a player.She likes to play with other people's head.She know very well the effects she has on arika and the other students.
Why did she had a smile when she was holding Akira?My idea is that she was in control of the situation.And there's nothing except perhaps Natsuki that she likes more than being in control.Every time the situation is complicated and out of her control she gets serious(=nina slap etc).
For the rest,she smile.Sometime it's just a I-am-so-cool smile,when the situation is intresting she makes real one.


Uh... I'm sorry but I think you might be making her sound more sinister than she actually is.

I mean, I think that Shizuru (V and S.F) as well has a mischievous streak in her a mile wild so she just enjoys teasing people.

Sure, there's a very thin line between manipulating people's thoughts and emotions and teasing them just to get a rise out of them...

But I think her intentions are more out of mischief than cruel manipulation.

And as for the I-am-so-cool smile... :love: More more! I swear my heart jumps each time she does that... *ahem!* Excuse me :heh:

And as for the 'fake' smile... I can't really remember an occasion when she gives a 'fake' smile... But I guess it's fitting with the persona Sunrise gives her...

The elegant, calm fighter who doesn't bluster but instead smiles calmly.

So yup, I think she ain't as sinister as you make her out to be, but I guess one *could* interpret her as sinister if one chooses to. I can imagine, that if you took out all the bits where she's shown as being kind or concerned, she'd start looking damn sinister indeed.

[Kieli]

If their relationship goes beyond "beautiful friendship", many fans will be disappointed. Fans like tease, not outright queers.
This very much sounds like someone who hasn't really thought about what they're saying and makes random generalities due to their own personal preferences (which is sounding mighty homophobic to me). So...people are not fond of Sato Sei from Marimite? Because I can tell you, she was outright queer. Her relationship with Shiori was a definite and I know for a fact that Sei was a fan favourite.

So before you manage to insult a fair number of gay AND straight fans with logic so poor you could push a ship through, bring facts. Lots of them.....preferably with a strong argument/case, Yoda and Ben Kenobi and a cast of Blood Wine to wash those pesky facts with.

Her flirting with girls is due to fan service. Some fans like to compare her with Marimite's Sei, so Shizuru(Otome version) inevitablely picks up Sei's traits. It's a bummer nevertheless.
That's one aspect but since you don't speak for all or even a majority of the fans, we'll just say that your particular opinion.

[Tempest35]

Eh, this can get nasty in a hurry...:heh:

I'll try to get back on the main topic point right now. ^^ I feel as though Natsuki's just 'used' to Shizuru being touchy-touchy with her - she was Shizuru's helper Coral underclassmen. I can imagine what Natsuki went through as a mere Coral as opposed to what she goes through now that she's older. She has a very high tolerance level for Shizru's 'antics' if they can be called that - Shizuru-'oneesama' trained her well. :D

I don't think that Natsuki LOVES Shizuru in a romantic way. Their relationship is something I can't really define other than it's a really strong friendship with its own quirks that make it one-of-a-kind. :heh: :heh: I hope I don't embarrass myself with that lame description.

[JayF]

Eh, this can get nasty in a hurry...:heh:

I'll try to get back on the main topic point right now. ^^ I feel as though Natsuki's just 'used' to Shizuru being touchy-touchy with her - she was Shizuru's helper Coral underclassmen. I can imagine what Natsuki went through as a mere Coral as opposed to what she goes through now that she's older. She has a very high tolerance level for Shizru's 'antics' if they can be called that - Shizuru-'oneesama' trained her well. :D

I don't think that Natsuki LOVES Shizuru in a romantic way. Their relationship is something I can't really define other than it's a really strong friendship with its own quirks that make it one-of-a-kind. :heh: :heh: I hope I don't embarrass myself with that lame description.


You make them sound like screw-buddies.

Not that it's a very bad thing for in my opinion.:love:

[greywing]

This is my first post on Animesuki, but inspired by the recent character reviews and having intended to write one for some time, I finally sat down and collected my thoughts about the character of Fujino Shizuru. She is one of my favorite characters from Mai HiME and I wanted to know why. I haven't quite found the answer, but I did do a lot of thinking.

The essay can be found here (http://www.livejournal.com/users/greywing/94817.html) on my LJ. All comments and discussion are welcome. Thank you.

[MattAlchemy]

Well you can't tell your teacher that Shizuru loves yuri.:heh:

Tell ehr she's got light brown hair, red eyes, and her voice is evil. She also drinks too much tea, while doing that sometimes, she cares less about things.

[GundamZZ]

This very much sounds like someone who hasn't really thought about what they're saying and makes random generalities due to their own personal preferences (which is sounding mighty homophobic to me).

I'm not going to play along with your flame war. I'm not going to sink as low as you. Be homophobic, heterophobic, mechaphobic, moephobic, etc. I don't give a damn to your childish labeling.



So...people are not fond of Sato Sei from Marimite? Because I can tell you, she was outright queer. Her relationship with Shiori was a definite and I know for a fact that Sei was a fan favourite.

So, you states being a marimite fans automatically register you as Mai-HiHE fans. I don't have to argue about that domed relationship. You basically speak against yourself. Your statement: "This very much sounds like someone who hasn't really thought about what they're saying and makes random generalities due to their own personal preferences (which is sounding mighty homophobic to me). "


So before you manage to insult a fair number of gay AND straight fans with logic so poor you could push a ship through, bring facts. Lots of them.....preferably with a strong argument/case, Yoda and Ben Kenobi and a cast of Blood Wine to wash those pesky facts with.
[/QUTOE]
You are Haruka wannabe, but it's not Fuka Academy. You are welcome to write thesis and essay for your own pleasure.

[QUOTE=Kieli]
That's one aspect but since you don't speak for all or even a majority of the fans, we'll just say that your particular opinion.
You are quite frank to use "we". Fair engouh. You always speak against yourself.
"This very much sounds like someone who hasn't really thought about what they're saying and makes random generalities due to their own personal preferences (which is sounding mighty homophobic to me). "

If you want to start flame war, there are other bbs better than this one. I won't join you.

[Kieli]

It's apparent that you seem to be having posting issues. That and your maturity level is not as high as you claim.
If you want to start flame war, there are other bbs better than this one. I won't join you.
*shrug* If speaking the truth about your comments is flaming, then you need to relinquish your internet connection. You're not quite ready for the rest of the world.

[GundamZZ]

It's apparent that you seem to be having posting issues. That and your maturity level is not as high as you claim.

*shrug* If speaking the truth about your comments is flaming, then you need to relinquish your internet connection. You're not quite ready for the rest of the world.

Now, you are spamming.

Let's shift back to topic. Is Natsuki the only one who Shizuru actully showed her true feeling(not always romantic)? Arika can be the next one.

[coefficientX]

Now, you are spamming.

Let's shift back to topic. Is Natsuki the only one who Shizuru actully showed her true feeling(not always romantic)? Arika can be the next one.

:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:
What?!?!
Gawd, hugging & kissing a confused cute little girl doesn't mean Shizuru loves Arika in a romantic way. Please realise that girls are alot more physical (i.e. touchy) than guys are. I like to hug and kiss my 12yr-old cousin alot but that doesn't mean i like him romantically! Moresoever, Arika is a girl. There is absolutely nothing wrong with kissing and hugging a cute little girl. Just because Shizuru likes Natsuki, doesn't mean that she likes EVERY GIRL!

Btw the interaction between Shizuru & Arika in ep.13 that causes a hug and kiss from Shizuru is like this:
Arika asked Shizuru whether the latter has ever fallen in love. Seeing that Arika seems moody & confused, Shizuru merely gave her a hug and kiss and told her that she did fell for someone (Natsuki i think :p) . To me, this hug & kiss is just a manner of comfort given by an elder. So stop thinking that whatever Shizuru does, she is either molesting someone or attracted to someone. :mad: :mad: :mad:



I should really stop reading this thread because many posts here makes me really mad. :(

[Kourin]

Now, you are spamming.

You made a personal attack on someone and a generalization that wasn't necessarily true. Sure, Kieli wasn't being completely mild with her words but your response was also contributing and adding to the disagreement. So you are partially responsible as well. This statement you just made was yet another unecessary move to have the 'last shot'. If you were truly sincere in getting back on topic, it'd been better to have simply stated your discussion question and not leave such an opening for further spam/flame.



Let's shift back to topic. Is Natsuki the only one who Shizuru actully showed her true feeling(not always romantic)? Arika can be the next one.

I can see Shizuru acting friendly towards Arika for the young girl's innocence and complete honesty... and also how noble she is (trying to save everyone) Something Shizuru probably most values in Natsuki and the people she deal with.

However, unless Arika matures a lot, I can't see her sharing a lot with Arika, especially when it's serious issues. She likes Arika but showing her true feelings is tough. I mean, she doesn't even really do that in front of Natsuki, much less a little kid that she's simply fond of. (seeing as how Shizuru deals with certain things on her own, i.e. Akira-incident and going off to fight Raido)

[Varion]

Now, you are spamming.

Let's shift back to topic. Is Natsuki the only one who Shizuru actully showed her true feeling(not always romantic)? Arika can be the next one.

What?!?!
Gawd, hugging & kissing a confused cute little girl doesn't mean Shizuru loves Arika in a romantic way

I don't think that's what they meant :) Hence the bolded bit. I think Kourin's post has the right idea.

[bluegarden]

on a sidenote

Shizuru's last name viola, in my country means (in a very colloquial way) rape.
the verb form like she has been raped.

[Varion]

on a sidenote

Shizuru's last name viola, in my country means (in a very colloquial way) rape.
the verb form like she has been raped.

:heh: What country is this?!

[coefficientX]

Now, you are spamming.

Let's shift back to topic. Is Natsuki the only one who Shizuru actully showed her true feeling(not always romantic)? Arika can be the next one.
I don't think that's what they meant :) Hence the bolded bit. I think Kourin's post has the right idea.

Oops my apologies. :p
The previous posts clouded my eyes. :heh:

[bluegarden]

:heh: What country is this?!


lol, carribbean country, The dominican republic:p

[Tremalkinger]

If their relationship goes beyond "beautiful friendship", many fans will be disappointed. Fans like tease, not outright queers.

...

.....

Have you read any posts by anyone in this entire forum at all?

*deep breath*

I want you to go around to different threads. Pick them at random, any threads will do. Read the posts made there. Then I want you to come back, and reread the comments you made. Then, I want you to hang your head in shame.

[Catgirls]

Locking. I'm going to clean this thread out a bit. I'll restart it in a few days. I thought a Shizuru thread would attract a certain amount of consternation. I still like this thread and think there are salvageable parts.

I also like ham on rye and Charles Bukowski.