View Full Version : [Mai Otome] Episode 15 Discussion/Poll
Catgirls
2006-01-17, 00:25
Welcome to this week's Episode of Mai-Otome! The poll is closed until Thursday around 11:30 AM – EST. Please do not vote in the poll until you have seen the episode.
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Discuss your expectations of the episode if not aired.
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As always…have fun and enjoy yourself. =^.^=
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Arika is really a hermaphrodite.
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Arika is really a hermaphrodite.
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Poll
The poll is fairly self explanatory, but just in case:
(*) = I want to kill myself., (**) = Meh., (***) = Average., (****) = Good..., (*****) = Awesome!!!111
Timeless Enigma
2006-01-17, 00:55
I'm really anticipating this episode.
What am I expecting?
Some plot development, more character development, and hopefully a new OP, but I doubt that OP part.
Let's see if "North Hound" Sergay Wang will be able to put Arika down gracefully.
EDIT: I wonder if the ShizNat fans have seen that one already, heheh.
It doesn't seem like the next episode will have much action. :( This will be a boring week.
It doesn't seem like the next episode will have much action. :( This will be a boring week.
Yeah i agreed. the preview was very disappointing. Everyone was either crying or blushing. :upset: i really really don't find the match between Arika and Sergey interesting at all so nothing to look forward to! Give us shizuru + natsuki fans something to look forward to!! lol
Tremalkinger
2006-01-17, 01:04
I honestly have to say... this episode has me in a lot of suspense. What's Sergei's reaction going to be to Arika's confession? And Nina's reaction to it, when she finds out, should be good too. Sunrise could go in a lot of different directions with this.
*rubs hands*
Yeah i agreed. the preview was very disappointing. Everyone was either crying or blushing. :upset: i really really don't find the match between Arika and Sergey interesting at all so nothing to look forward to! Give us shizuru + natsuki fans something to look forward to!! lolDon't go by episode previews anymore... They are very deceiving. We were shafted out of an intense Otome battle in 14.
If the episode title is "Arika, cries" then maybe she'll get rejected by Sergay? :heh: I highly doubt Sergay will accept Arika's feelings. I guess the dark plot should start soon.
What episode in MH did the "Ikusahime Festival" start?
MattAlchemy
2006-01-17, 01:41
What episode in MH did the "Ikusahime Festival" start?
I think it was episode18, why is that you ask?
Ending starts there in MO?:heh:
Timeless Enigma
2006-01-17, 02:01
Episode 17 for new OP huh, well I guess that must be when the **** hits the fan.
Hm... I don't think this will be a boring episode at all, I'm a sucker for more "getting to know the characters and their troubles." I seriously have not noticed the lack of action so far.
It only gets better from here.
I hope we'll get some meaning behind "North Hound." Most likely it was the nickname he was given as a footsoldier or a precise tactician (similar to Andrew Waltfeld's "Tiger of the Desert"). Maybe Sergay used to be a ruthless killer? Oh the possibilities.
Oh wait, this is supposed to be all about Arika. :heh:
Nightengale
2006-01-17, 02:11
I hope we'll get some meaning behind "North Hound." Most likely it was the nickname he was given as a footsoldier or a precise tactician (similar to Andrew Waltfeld's "Tiger of the Desert". Maybe Sergay used to be a ruthless killer? Oh the possibilities.
Maybe he can kill Slaves with a harpoon? :eyebrow:
I often wondered how the hell did he escape from that Aswald Fish-Slave. I doubt an aquatic Slave vanishes in the water, and there's no way Sergay can outrun a Slave carrying Arika. And there was wayyyy too much blood on that sea of blood left to be Sergay's scratch on his hand. And I don't think killing Slaves is as simple as just poking them with something sharp.
Nothing about Mai Otome is boring. Either we're given action, red-herrings, or something that will surely get a rise out of us.
Like that silly, and yet, realistic love triangle between Arika, Nina, and Sergey. And SUNRISE sure has spiced it up this time with Arika being the real princess. I think SUNRISE must be looking forward to the weekly letter bombs and such...
But hey, the show must go on. So be kind, will ya :)
Just what will happen now? Arika is not Rena's daughter, and so Sergey's original incentive to take care of her has all but disappeared. Unless he really likes her and is willing to betray his own country for her.
Because that is what he'll have to do to keep Arika from Nagi. And remember, Nagi needs her to control the world. (Now I think that that is such an idiotic thing for Nagi to say, but he must have his reasons.) Either way, what will most likely happen is that Sergey will try to play both sides - protect Arika and provide Nagi with enough red-herrings to keep him at bay.
No, I don't think that Sergey will tell anyone about what he learned. At least not yet. The little girl-thief, however, might cause some trouble for Sergey.
But what will happen to Arika's pendant? Most likely the thugs will take it. Will they succeed in raping her? No, because the act would ruin their main character. But I do think that they will humiliate her and possibly broadcast naked images of her. Once her image is tainted, how can she still become an otome?
Either way, the main thing in their action is to remove Arika's drive to become an otome. But Arika is though. And some righteous anger is good. She has the habit of forgiving and forgetting far too easily. Her hair should be blond.
Sergey is clearly the hero (or depending on viewpoint, villain) in the series. He uses his manly charms to enrapture both unofficial candidates for Queen, causes disorder in Windbloom as an Artai agent, and when things get hairy enough he plants Arika/Nina as Queen and the road to King's throne is set in stone. After that, he uses his intimate knowledge of Artai to implicate it as a hostile nation to set all countries in the path of war, and after years of politicking, campaigning and plotting he will finally realize his ultimate goal, Emperor of the World.
wombatlord
2006-01-17, 02:39
Maybe he can kill Slaves with a harpoon? :eyebrow:
I often wondered how the hell did he escape from that Aswald Fish-Slave. I doubt an aquatic Slave vanishes in the water, and there's no way Sergay can outrun a Slave carrying Arika. And there was wayyyy too much blood on that sea of blood left to be Sergay's scratch on his hand. And I don't think killing Slaves is as simple as just poking them with something sharp.
It's the most unexplained thing in the entire show, especially since the guy clearly thought his slave had won and killed off Arika and Sergei.
He must be a hell of a swimmer and the slave very dimwitted.
It's the most unexplained thing in the entire show, especially since the guy clearly thought his slave had won and killed off Arika and Sergei.
He must be a hell of a swimmer and the slave very dimwitted.
Yeah seriously... How did he escape Ketos with only a scratch?
Nightengale
2006-01-17, 03:37
Yeah seriously... How did he escape Ketos with only a scratch?
He killed Ketos? :confused:
Tate in MH suffered from the "inability to contribute" syndrome until the last episode. Maybe they're up for a change.
Maybe he shot Ketos in the eye... A one-in-a-million shot to the eye would be more than enough to waste a Slave...
wombatlord
2006-01-17, 03:55
The thing is, he can't have killed the slave or the Aswald guy would have realized it instead of thinking it killed Sergei. Right?
Nightengale
2006-01-17, 03:56
The thing is, he can't have killed the slave or the Aswald guy would have realized it instead of thinking it killed Sergei. Right?
Hey, for all we know, Aswald slaves and Shwartz(sp?) slaves may work differently? After all, they're already shaped differently.
Sergey is clearly the hero (or depending on viewpoint, villain) in the series. He uses his manly charms to enrapture both unofficial candidates for Queen, causes disorder in Windbloom as an Artai agent, and when things get hairy enough he plants Arika/Nina as Queen and the road to King's throne is set in stone. After that, he uses his intimate knowledge of Artai to implicate it as a hostile nation to set all countries in the path of war, and after years of politicking, campaigning and plotting he will finally realize his ultimate goal, Emperor of the World.
I guess that's why he's called the "North Hound"
Shizuru-chan
2006-01-17, 05:15
Well even though the preview for ep 15 was boring, im still expecting something to happen. you'll never know. And im not really a fan of ArikaxSergay..
i want ShizxNat. lol..well best hopes for ep 15:p
Tempest35
2006-01-17, 06:16
Hey c'mon, you don't get a name like 'North Hound' by sitting back and looking pretty, no matter what Nina thinks. Most likely got it ... when he was 18...?:confused: Geez - he was 19 when he adopted Nina so he got that sort of moniker in one year of service in the army???
And I know this is :topicoff: but doesn't Rad look like Briareos from AppleSeed?? :heh:
>> Geez - he was 19 when he adopted Nina so he got that sort of moniker in one year of service in the army???
I imagine he is a minor aristocrat or related to one, since he got sent abroad to study from a poor nation, so his house and clothes in Nina's flashbacks might not be entirely due to military achievements. If not, then he must be a conventional military heavyweight, which, while not entirely believable, wouldn't exactly trouble me. However, his status and the deeds inherent in his nickname are just as impressive at his current age.
Yeah seriously... How did he escape Ketos with only a scratch?
The wonders of the plot-shield. :heh: At the current rate I suspect that no one important will die in this series except possibly Tomoe.
As for this episode, I expect it to be boring. Arika will be saved and everyone will rejoice...
Maybe he can kill Slaves with a harpoon? :eyebrow:
I often wondered how the hell did he escape from that Aswald Fish-Slave. I doubt an aquatic Slave vanishes in the water, and there's no way Sergay can outrun a Slave carrying Arika. And there was wayyyy too much blood on that sea of blood left to be Sergay's scratch on his hand. And I don't think killing Slaves is as simple as just poking them with something sharp.
Sergey is actually a woman and materialized her Otome robe and struck fishy down.
Damn ...as a woman i wanna say only one thing.
I hope they kick some ass soon , and I mean by that some Maistar level battles.
By Thursday we shall know what happens in 15.
Well this series may also turn out like Gundam seed destiny if Fukuda is working in da shadows :eyebrow:
Sergey is actually a woman and materialized her Otome robe and struck fishy down.
Considering how much people here at AF speculated way~~~ too much, this might actually be possible.:heh:
Well this series may also turn out like Gundam seed destiny if Fukuda is working in da shadows :eyebrow:
Nah, if he was, it'd be like GSD from episode 5 onwards. For him to only screw up at the last few episodes can be considered a miracle.;)
Let's hope the initial raw captures are a little better this time.
I'm not sure if anyone picked up on this but Miyu said something about the slaves being Child-like during her conversation with Shizuru. What do you think? Think the otome's can still call out their Child?
Just wondering ^^
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-17, 15:05
Think the otome's can still call out their Child?
Where was it stated that Otomes can call out childs?:eyebrow:
Better yet, what does that make Iron Fang/Gakatenou? It was a CHILD back in Mai Hime and if it's a slave here then what is a child? Or was it a CHILD?
Xellos-_^
2006-01-17, 15:16
Where was it stated that Otomes can call out childs?:eyebrow:
Better yet, what does that make Iron Fang/Gakatenou? It was a CHILD back in Mai Hime and if it's a slave here then what is a child? Or was it a CHILD?
It is a Slave or a Child?
Natsuki and co id it as a slave but would they know of the difference between a Slave and a Child?
According to Miyu (doremi subs) the slaves that spark the border fight are slaves that are getting more "child like." So appearantly there are differences betweens Slaves and Childs in terms of abilities.
Tempest35
2006-01-17, 17:01
Arika vs Nina!!! Sweet!
... more than likely it's gonna be interrupted yet AGAIN. Mou~!
I also want to see Sergay vs Rad in a 'continuation bout' from MH ... but probably NOT gonna happen either.
Catgirls
2006-01-17, 17:41
Please try to stay within speculating or posting about Episode 15 and not, say, Episode 17 or 18. Thanks. :)
Tempest35
2006-01-17, 17:52
Gomen nasai...:bow: :bow:
Okay, now that Sergay more or less 'knows' who the real Princess is, who is he going to tell - Nagi or Natsuki? I'm in favor of him telling Natsuki over Nagi any day, especially if his reaction to the brieifing he got from the Grand Duke is any indication.
Maybe he can kill Slaves with a harpoon? :eyebrow:
I often wondered how the hell did he escape from that Aswald Fish-Slave. I doubt an aquatic Slave vanishes in the water, and there's no way Sergay can outrun a Slave carrying Arika.
we are forgetting that Arika had her GEM-protector with her :heh:
It was enough for Sergey to be near her... GEM could work as before, with Mashiro and Slave incident...
Yohko didn't notice Robe activity, because indeed it wasn't any Robe.
...but well, maybe he is the hero :D
Please try to stay within speculating or posting about Episode 15 and not, say, Episode 17 or 18. Thanks. :)
Ahem... Oops :uhoh:
And thanks for moving them :)
Forgot about the other threads. You'll find the future episode synopses here (http://forums.animesuki.com/showthread.php?t=26320&page=18)
Gomen nasai...:bow: :bow:
Okay, now that Sergay more or less 'knows' who the real Princess is, who is he going to tell - Nagi or Natsuki? I'm in favor of him telling Natsuki over Nagi any day, especially if his reaction to the brieifing he got from the Grand Duke is any indication.
You hit the nail right on the mark, I think. Arika's world could fall appart depending on what Sergey does (and I'm not talking about that love thing.)
If Sergey tells Natsuki, Arika may be forced to retire as an Otome
If Sergey tells Nagi, Nagi may just use Arika to control the world with. It is, after all, why he had Sergey search for the real Queen.
If Sergey tell Arika, Arika may just spill the beans. If that happens, see point #1.
Now that Sergey discovered who the real queen is, he is left with a major dilemna.
Sergey can continue to fund Arika, although he knows she is not Rena's daughter
Sergey can remove Arika's funding. But in doing so he will arouse suspicions.
If Nagi is ever to discover that Sergey funded the Queen and, yet, didn't inform him that Arika was the Queen, heads are going to roll...
What a convoluted plot SUNRISE was able to come up with. And that Arika is in love with Sergey doesn't make it easier. In fact, it may just force Sergey to do the right thing.
Selling a person off who one doesn't care about is much easier that selling a person off who one cares about. So, Sergey, Hound of the North, what are you going to do? Is your heart enfolded in ice as you devour your victims? Or has it melted thanks to Arika?
Tempest35
2006-01-17, 21:52
You hit the nail right on the mark, I think. Arika's world could fall appart depending on what Sergey does (and I'm not talking about that love thing.)
If Sergey tells Natsuki, Arika may be forced to retire as an Otome
If Sergey tells Nagi, Nagi may just use Arika to control the world with. It is, after all, why he had Sergey search for the real Queen.
If Sergey tell Arika, Arika may just spill the beans. If that happens, see point #1.
Now that Sergey discovered who the real queen is, he is left with a major dilemna.
Sergey can continue to fund Arika, although he knows she is not Rena's daughter
Sergey can remove Arika's funding. But in doing so he will arouse suspicions.
If Nagi is ever to discover that Sergey funded the Queen and, yet, didn't inform him that Arika was the Queen, heads are going to roll...
What a convoluted plot SUNRISE was able to come up with. And that Arika is in love with Sergey doesn't make it easier. In fact, it may just force Sergey to do the right thing.
Selling a person off who one doesn't care about is much easier that selling a person off who one cares about. So, Sergey, Hound of the North, what are you going to do? Is your heart enfolded in ice as you devour your victims? Or has it melted thanks to Arika?
I think Nagi already KNOWS that Sergay was doing exactly that - that's why he sent that briefing to him - to see whether or not Sergay's gonna be side with him or take off. In which case, Nagi will probably grab Nina to use as leverage and to keep Sergay's mouth shut about Atari's involvement.
He'd probably keep on funding her just because he wants to. She certainly got the potential - that's why Natsuki won't get rid of her despite all of the 'new facts' that will come to light. She said that she'd leave things up to fate (hints from a 'past life'? hmmm...) and you can't get any more 'fated' than Nina, Arika, and Mashiro.
As for the Hound of the North - that's partly the reason why I say he's gonna run to Natsuki - Hound of the North / Duran - anyone else see any similarities??? :D b
Xellos-_^
2006-01-17, 22:40
As for the Hound of the North - that's partly the reason why I say he's gonna run to Natsuki - Hound of the North / Duran - anyone else see any similarities??? :D b
*watches as he shiznat fans chase tempest with pitchforks and buring torches.
Winchester
2006-01-18, 01:19
There's a (slight) possibility that Arika and Mashiro may figure things out on their own in the next episode - there is after all a bunch of portraits of their mothers in the castle, and they just might make the connection based on haircolor, if nothing else.
I'm pretty sure they *will* find out eventually - and I sincerely doubt that the pair of them would want to trade places. It'd be a pretty bad idea if the public has already accepted Mashiro as queen to suddenly replace her with a country bumpkin, after all. I would enjoy having things end up so that Mashiro and Arika co-ruled - with Mashiro accepting Arika as her equal rather than servant, even if the true extent of the equality wouldn't be visible to the public.
They'd likely have to thwart a revolution first, though...
Hmmm...
With Mashiro's recent bad decisions, and then dumping everything on the council of dukes, it may be that there's going to be some kind of assassination attempt on her (again), to clear the way for a "competent" ruler. Lucky Arika is there, with the sapphire pendant... (hope, hope, hope)
SP
(needs his Meister Arika fix - haven't had one in six eps)
I don't think Sergey will tell Natsuki, he doesn't seem the type to break an allegiance to his liege lord, unless it is a life or death situation (here's to hoping he won't die saving Arika in the end).
Considering Arika will confess/show her feelings to him judging by his expression in the preview, maybe we will see a flashback of Mai from his perspective. Or then again, maybe the troubled expression comes from pondering how best to introduce the concept of polygamy to the girls. The more the merrier!
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-18, 03:54
I don't think Sergey will tell Natsuki, he doesn't seem the type to break an allegiance to his liege lord, unless it is a life or death situation (here's to hoping he won't die saving Arika in the end).
Hold on... Sergay is already considered a security risk by Negi (and Negi said so to his face), so how is Sergay not the type to betray him?
Both Sergay and Negi are hiding things from each other, and they both know it. The only problem is, Sergay would be the loser if they openly declared war right now... Sergay had to obey Negi for the moment, and that's why Negi hadn't had him killed, yet.
Aye, I forgot about that little schism. Utter loyalty to Nagi is beyond Sergey, but I still think he is reluctant to betray him. He may play his own game but it's hard to say since we haven't had a good look at Sergey's ambitions, beyond that "just for precations" letter.
Nightengale
2006-01-18, 04:16
Hold on... Sergay is already considered a security risk by Negi (and Negi said so to his face), so how is Sergay not the type to betray him?
Both Sergay and Negi are hiding things from each other, and they both know it. The only problem is, Sergay would be the loser if they openly declared war right now... Sergay had to obey Negi for the moment, and that's why Negi hadn't had him killed, yet.
I don't know about that......We all know that Nagi is a very careful one, despite his image.
And even knowing that Sergay is hiding something from him, he doesn't seem to doubt him very much. Letting him in on Artai's involvement in the conflict between Remus and Romulus.... Sergay has all the knowledge to strike down Nagi if he really wanted to.
Either Sergay is more than what he seems, or Nagi has something on hold of him.
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-18, 04:23
I don't know about that......We all know that Nagi is a very careful one, despite his image.
And even knowing that Sergay is hiding something from him, he doesn't seem to doubt him very much. Letting him in on Artai's involvement in the conflict between Remus and Romulus.... Sergay has all the knowledge to strike down Nagi if he really wanted to.
Either Sergay is more than what he seems, or Nagi has something on hold of him.
Oh, Negi is VERY careful indeed.
Negi doesn't doubt Sergay's words directly because he double-checks everything anyway. Half the time Negi send him off on missions that are meaningless because he needed a decoy. (Remember that time when Arika fell off the cliff? Negi told Sergay to investigate the ruins in that location even though he already had John Smith sent beforehand. Sergay was a decoy, to make it look like Atari had nothing to do with John Smith.
Negi is positively waiting for Sergay to betray him. And Sergay knows it. It would be impossible to catch Negi by surprise, in any case. He is only told information that Negi wants him to know.
Nightengale
2006-01-18, 04:32
How about the possibilty that Nagi is playing double-crosser?
Nagi clearly promised John something in exchange for their cooperation. He said to John that he told Nagi about the plan. What if the content in the letter is not what it seems and he's playing Sergay to be the decoy, where he can be in a position to both not fulfill his promise to John and lay out a scapegoat, hiding his involvement with Shwartz.
Unlike MH, Nagi here is clearly his own man and don't seem to be doing anyone's bidding.
>> Sergay was a decoy, to make it look like Atari had nothing to do with John Smith.
I don't see why Artai's cooperation in the search effort made it any more or less suspectible to suspicion in the ruins matter. I believe Nagi wanted to give Sergey a peek of the forces at play here and to give him what he wanted (permission to look for Arika) to ensure amiable terms between them.
>> Negi is positively waiting for Sergay to betray him.
That reads more like he gleefully anticipates treachery, which isn't exactly a smart policy to adopt in governing. While he may get perverse pleasure in destroying Sergey's plans, the man is still more useful alive than dead.
>> How about the possibilty that Nagi is playing double-crosser?
I certainly think Nagi has no intentions of sharing power, and is keeping all ways open to him. He is using the Schwartz the same way the Schwartz use him, but he makes sure he's one step ahead all the time.
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-18, 04:57
That reads more like he gleefully anticipates treachery, which isn't exactly a smart policy to adopt in governing. While he may get perverse pleasure in destroying Sergey's plans, the man is still more useful alive than dead.
Well, knowing Negi, if Sergay isn't more useful alive than dead, he won't still be alive would he?:heh:
I certainly think Nagi has no intentions of sharing power, and is keeping all ways open to him. He is using the Schwartz the same way the Schwartz use him, but he makes sure he's one step ahead all the time.
Agreed.
But few things are as entertaining to watch as seeing two evil forces destroying each other. ^_^
>> Well, knowing Negi, if Sergay isn't more useful alive than dead, he won't still be alive would he?
Touché. But I don't he's anxious to see him dead though.
>> two evil forces
Nagi is just misunderstood!
Tempest35
2006-01-18, 06:12
*huffs and puffs* Whew! VERY good work out...*:Dv at Xellos*
Sergay has a sense of justice that Nagi just doesn't have. :p That and Sergay also has a kid and he doesn't want to use Nao and Nina if a war breaks out. Granted Nao is currently a Trias Pearl and Nina's the 1st ranked Coral, Atrai's got a lock on good draft picks for Otome.
Dang it, Mai's gonna be such a late-comer to the series...;_;
Sergey can continue to fund Arika, although he knows she is not Rena's daughter
Sergey can remove Arika's funding. But in doing so he will arouse suspicions.I don't think there's an issue with "funding," like Sergey doesn't have to cut a check every week. It was probably one lump sum that paid her whole tuition to Garderobe, which included her room & board.
Perhaps her Peral-year isn't paid for yet, but they may have scholarship things availible if she's really good. (though we know she's not)
I don't think Sergey would withdraw funding from her, he'd feel too guilty leaving her out to dry like that. Though, given that Natsuki knows she has the Sapphire of Heaven, she'd probably stretch some rules like she did with Arika's enrollment to keep her funded. A little reactive accounting here:naughty:, a little extracuricular activities there:naughty:, and she's covered.
Natsuki: "Arika, you're out of money. As such, from 7-9pm every night you shall be Shizuru's plaything."
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-18, 09:48
Technically, Arika is still Atari's future Otome candidate, so there isn't a legal reason for why Sergay should stop her education. If the nation's as desperate for Otomes as they claim, keeping Arika on their side is still a good idea. Even if Arika isn't an Atari native but of Windbloom descent, Negi wants her around anyway. Either way Arika would be financially supported for as long as the school is still running.
Technically, Arika is still Atari's future Otome candidate, so there isn't a legal reason for why Sergay should stop her education. If the nation's as desperate for Otomes as they claim, keeping Arika on their side is still a good idea. Even if Arika isn't an Atari native but of Windbloom descent, Negi wants her around anyway. Either way Arika would be financially supported for as long as the school is still running.I guess Arika would have some alligence to Artai, but she was funded anonamously and I still think that makes her a free agent.
Though, when Sergey was talking to Natsuki that he didn't want Nina or Nao to be involved in a conflict, Natsuki asked him, "aren't you forgetting someone?"
He covered it up by saying, "I don't know what you mean." But it's pretty obvious that Natsuki knows Sergey is paying for Arika, and he knows she knows that.
Natsuki: "What about your little Arinko?"
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-18, 11:12
Perhaps her Peral-year isn't paid for yet, but they may have scholarship things availible if she's really good. (though we know she's not)
Uh after the exams, Arika jumped from 50 all the way up to 29. Considering the time period she entered, that's pretty good for a student.
Not to mention her combat capabilities, for a beginniner to go against a top student, she lasted longer than anyone else would've.
I guess Arika would have some alligence to Artai, but she was funded anonamously and I still think that makes her a free agent
Regardless of the situation, Nagi clearly has no problem supporting Arika as he told Sergay. Should the funding be cut or something, Nagi will step in for her.
Sergay also has no reason to cut the funding as well. As a matter of fact Sergay can't do much with the information he found because he has no reason to spread the word other than to Nagi which he was ordered to do in the first place.
There's more to Nagi than he's letting on.
There's a (slight) possibility that Arika and Mashiro may figure things out on their own in the next episode - there is after all a bunch of portraits of their mothers in the castle, and they just might make the connection based on haircolor, if nothing else.
Hair colour, in Arika's case, means nothing when connecting her to relatives. Neither of her parents needed red hair.
Rakshasa
2006-01-18, 11:20
Hair colour, in Arika's case, means nothing when connecting her to relatives. Neither of her parents needed red hair.
Hair color or not, Rena's face looks very much like Arika's. Which makes me kinda confused after last episode.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-18, 12:58
Hair color or not, Rena's face looks very much like Arika's. Which makes me kinda confused after last episode.
i don't know if Sunrise is just putting out red herring but the last eps it seems Arika starting to look more and more like Rena. And now they throw this little tibit of info out there that is both very reliable and unreliable at the same time.
Btw is it me or is anyone else waiting to see Miyu in action again. Hopefully not against Akane but I just see Miyu take downa couple of Slaves with her arm turning into sword/canon and see everyones reaction to it.
I don't know about that......We all know that Nagi is a very careful one, despite his image.
And even knowing that Sergay is hiding something from him, he doesn't seem to doubt him very much. Letting him in on Artai's involvement in the conflict between Remus and Romulus.... Sergay has all the knowledge to strike down Nagi if he really wanted to.
Either Sergay is more than what he seems, or Nagi has something on hold of him.
Oh, Negi is VERY careful indeed.
Negi doesn't doubt Sergay's words directly because he double-checks everything anyway. Half the time Negi send him off on missions that are meaningless because he needed a decoy. (Remember that time when Arika fell off the cliff? Negi told Sergay to investigate the ruins in that location even though he already had John Smith sent beforehand. Sergay was a decoy, to make it look like Atari had nothing to do with John Smith.
Negi is positively waiting for Sergay to betray him. And Sergay knows it. It would be impossible to catch Negi by surprise, in any case. He is only told information that Negi wants him to know.
I think you're both right and wrong. But I do think that Nagi trusts Sergey more than the unanymous John Smith. And Nagi didn't know about the Aswald being there, did he? So, perhaps he sent Sergey check out the coast line because he wanted him to check upon John Smith, cared for Arika and knew she was within that vicinity, or knew that Sergey would feel better having something to do.
Nagi knows that everyone has secrets - even one's closests friends. But secrets do not necessarily imply that one can not be trusted or that one does not obey. And besides, Sergey and Nagi are not friends. So what can you expect? Besides, if Nagi did something that was contrary to the country's best interest, I wouldn't support him either. And Nagi's greed seems to be clouding his judgment.
However, on the point of betrayal, I do think that Sergey will betray Nagi in order to save Arika. Nagi wants her to control the world, and, Valiant, that is the important - and not some meaningless reason - why he asked Sergey to look for the real Queen. Having the reputation of the 'North Hound,' Sergey knows how to do this investigation without drawing attention upon it. And it got results, but not results that he expected.
Now Sergey has some choices to make. His image of the North Hound will most likely fall appart as he chooses personal feelings over obedience and coldheartedness.
But we shall see, shall we not, what those future episodes bring?
Hair color or not, Rena's face looks very much like Arika's. Which makes me kinda confused after last episode.
I, too, believe that Arika being the real queen is far from conclusive. I am not sure if we heard all of the details yet that the old woman told Sergey. Perhaps there is some missing information.
This is a waiting game I can't stand. But we should at least know more at the end of this episode. In the meanwhile, the odds are in favour for Arika being the Queen, and unless something substantially adds to the evidence already presented, we have no choice but to accept that Arika is not Rena's daughter but the Queen. :(
I guess 'grandma' didn't know any better either, and 'guessed' by the pendant that Arika's mother was an otome.
kuro_neko
2006-01-19, 01:37
I never considered Arika Artai's candidate for Otome. When Natsuki mentioned to Sergei that he was skipping someone in Episode 14 I thought of Mai. It would make sense. If she was, as it was said in Episode 13, already pledged to a Master while entering the school, and that Master happened to be a very scary Nagi, but then she fell in love with Sergei and knew she couldn't do it, or Tate, or whoever.....I think it would be very interesting indeed if Mai was supposed to be Artai's Otome......given Takumi is a Prince, it is also possible she was being educated to be his Otome, but that just seems a little too....incestual....granted Otome don't.....I mean....but, still....plot wise, I think being pledged to Artai would make a good twist.
I never considered Arika Artai's candidate for Otome. When Natsuki mentioned to Sergei that he was skipping someone in Episode 14 I thought of Mai. It would make sense. If she was, as it was said in Episode 13, already pledged to a Master while entering the school, and that Master happened to be a very scary Nagi, but then she fell in love with Sergei and knew she couldn't do it, or Tate, or whoever.....I think it would be very interesting indeed if Mai was supposed to be Artai's Otome......given Takumi is a Prince, it is also possible she was being educated to be his Otome, but that just seems a little too....incestual....granted Otome don't.....I mean....but, still....plot wise, I think being pledged to Artai would make a good twist.
Um, I see self-contradiction...
You said that Mai is the one that Sergey is missing out, but she comes from Zipang, Takumi's country. So why should Mai even serve Artai at all? huh?:eyebrow:
So far, I take it that Otomes only serve the country they come from, since otherwise, if Akane were to become Kazuya's Otomes for example, that would cause some conflict between the 2 countries involved, and start a war.
And when Natsuki said Sergey left out someone, she didnt nessarily mean that the person would be part of Artai, and merely pointing out that Sergey is funding Arika.
I think Natsuki is a very perceptive woman, being headmaster and all. She *knows* that Sergey's hiding something, and she probably knows what it is too.
My guess is that Natsuki knows that Arika is supported by Artai.
I think Natsuki is a very perceptive woman, being headmaster and all. She *knows* that Sergey's hiding something, and she probably knows what it is too.
My guess is that Natsuki knows that Arika is supported by Artai.
Natsuki? Perceptive? :eyebrow:
With "someone" (Shizuru) around her all the time and love her obviously (ok, at least like her more than "usual"), she still can't figure that out. Very perceptive.
Natsuki? Perceptive? :eyebrow:
With "someone" (Shizuru) around her all the time and love her obviously (ok, at least like her more than "usual"), she still can't figure that out. Very perceptive.
Aww that's a bit mean - that's part of the convention it seems (i.e. shoujo-ai often has a clueless participant for a while) rather than something that ''fits'' Natsuki.
Actually I think she does know - I'm not going to hazard a guess at what the ShizNat 'deal' is right now, but I find it hard to believe she's completely oblivious. I mean how could you not pick up on the vibes.
Anyway, I think if she can already work out Sergay is Arika's benefactor, then there's a possibility she can work out the rest. Sure Shizuru did often 'guide' her through theories before, but this sort of thing is closer to what could be described as her 'forte'. Her love-life seems something she's a bit more, hmm, 'dopey' with.
My guess is that Natsuki knows that Arika is supported by Artai.
Not nessarily funded by Artai, though technically you can say that.
Its better worded that Sergey is funding Arika using his own money, which derives from Artai.:heh:
Xellos-_^
2006-01-19, 04:04
I never considered Arika Artai's candidate for Otome. When Natsuki mentioned to Sergei that he was skipping someone in Episode 14 I thought of Mai. It would make sense. If she was, as it was said in Episode 13, already pledged to a Master while entering the school, and that Master happened to be a very scary Nagi, but then she fell in love with Sergei and knew she couldn't do it, or Tate, or whoever.....I think it would be very interesting indeed if Mai was supposed to be Artai's Otome......given Takumi is a Prince, it is also possible she was being educated to be his Otome, but that just seems a little too....incestual....granted Otome don't.....I mean....but, still....plot wise, I think being pledged to Artai would make a good twist.
Kuro, you need to get some more sleep. That absolutely made no sense :eyebrow:
Mai is form Zipaing was wsuppose to be Takumi's Otome.
Atai and Zipaing are 2 two different counties.
Theres nothing between mai and Sergy except some rumors and some clubs that could interprete in a different way.
Lackadaisical
2006-01-19, 04:24
Kuro, you need to get some more sleep. That absolutely made no sense :eyebrow:
Mai is form Zipaing was wsuppose to be Takumi's Otome.
Atai and Zipaing are 2 two different counties.
Theres nothing between mai and Sergy except some rumors and some clubs that could interprete in a different way.
Now that raises an interesting question.
What happens when a country wants one of its citizens as an Otome but Fumi declares them a pillar?
Does a person get to choose who they end as Otome for? Especially in the case of a powerful Otome, I can't see any of the countries just standing by while their citizen is sworn to defend Garderobe rather than their own county. It would be nearly as if the Otome was assigned to a foreign, potentially enemy country.
What happens when a country wants one of its citizens as an Otome but Fumi declares them a pillar?
I believe Otomes can choose who their master is, but it has to be from the same country. Not sure.
And I do believe the post of a pillar can be rejected if the Otome wants. Though I dont see a reason an otome wouldn't want to be a pillar(political reasna aside).:heh:
Actually I think she does know - I'm not going to hazard a guess at what the ShizNat 'deal' is right now, but I find it hard to believe she's completely oblivious. I mean how could you not pick up on the vibes.
Actually, I wouldn't bet my two cents on that. This is of course speculated on based from Natsuki's MH behaviour, but she is rather sensitive and blushable :D to openly displaying her affections in any way. And while I want to tear out my hair for it, she really -hasn't- shown Shizuru any other affections beside the infamous poolscene - which I've noted down as fanservice rather than love vibe :D.
I agree on that Natsuki must be both deaf, blind and in coma to boot to -not- notice the signals Shizuru is sending - but then, this is former Kuga with a cause, if any of the former cast would be given the obvious-to-love role, it would be her :D.
What happens when a country wants one of its citizens as an Otome but Fumi declares them a pillar?I think this would be not unlike a doctor being invited to the World Health Organization of our modern day United Nations.
Sure, Doc Johnson loves his native Estonia, but now he gets to do medical work on a world-wide scale.
An Otome who becomes a pillar would spend her time working for the Otome community itself and supporting her kohai. And I'm sure an Otome can book vacation time to go back to her home country and family for a while, she's not a slave after all.
Natsuki, Yukariko and Shizuru all seem to have plenty of freedom and authority. I'm sure if thier jobs could allow it (eg: Garderobe's summer break) they could spend some time off in the world doing thier own thing.
As for what a country would do, I'm sure they'd be extatic. "Hey, look at us, our country is Otome pillar material!"
Also, think about this. The countries all fund Garderobe equally (or at least based on percentages of their GNP), but they have money flowing in, and therefor get a vote and say in Garderobe operations. If Otome must go to the country they came from, and said country funds thier tuition, and they become a pillar, I imagine that country would have that Otome's tuition fee deducted from thier dues to the school.
Though keep also in mind, that some girls are funded by thier families to persue thier dreams, rather then the country of origin. Are these girls free to go to any country? I would think that they are, and if they are, then all the girls are free to any country.
I don't think of Garderobe as a finishing school for cyborg assassins (though it is, in most respects). Garderobe represents it's own national entity seperate from the other countries. Granted, it's within the Windbloom borders, but the Vatican is in Italy.
A girl who becomes an Otome joins an internationaly community based on peace and security. Granted, they are assigned to specific poltical leaders as bodyguards, but thier purpose and the purpose of thier weapons is to protect and serve. But like all weapons, they can be abused.
But like all weapons, they can be abused.
History of humanity is written with weaponry and supreme military strategies.
(In a strict literal sense, humanity has written history in bloodshed with brute force)
A nation has better weapons than the rest, that alone arouses its leaders to overwhelm the other nations and attempt to conquer them.
At the end power corrupts.
In episode twelve, Takumi commented that the main reason most girls aspire to become Otome is for the power, although Natsuki vehemently insists that Guarderobe possess a rigurous selection process.
Actually, I wouldn't bet my two cents on that. This is of course speculated on based from Natsuki's MH behaviour, but she is rather sensitive and blushable :D to openly displaying her affections in any way. And while I want to tear out my hair for it, she really -hasn't- shown Shizuru any other affections beside the infamous poolscene - which I've noted down as fanservice rather than love vibe :D
Shush you! ;) No, well, I suppose not - but she's not totally the same as in HiME, she's more comfortable and 'trusting' - silent looks (jealous look? well I'm not going to debate too much on that) are at least a step further than we got last time. And Shizuru hasn't landed herself in a royal mess (yet). It depends what you define as 'love vibe' - I'm sceptical too on how this will pan out, but - if putting it one way; Natsuki hasn't shown any ''affection'' to anyone of any kind (heh) except an obvious sweet ''closeness'' to Shizuru (and maybe a teeny bit of trust to Youko too) - so Sunrise have kinda created a route where it's either Shizuru or ''no-one'' ;)
There's still time - that she is 'rather sensitive and blushable' (aww) in displaying her feelings may well have stifled anything from happening - but absence makes the heart grow fonder and all that - plus would you ''blush'' after mistaking two 'friends'. No, surely not. But you'd blush if you thought 2nd friend may look into why you mistook them for the 1st 'friend'. Stupid Youko, you should have let Natsuki 'explain', I'd love to have heard it.
I agree on that Natsuki must be both deaf, blind and in coma to boot to -not- notice the signals Shizuru is sending - but then, this is former Kuga with a cause, if any of the former cast would be given the obvious-to-love role, it would be her
I wonder if she has the uncanny 'deep sleep' thing again....
In episode twelve, Takumi commented that the main reason most girls aspire to become Otome is for the power, although Natsuki vehemently insists that Guarderobe possess a rigurous selection process.
I'm not sure what she meant that time - in how many they let in the school, or how many are made into Pearls etc. Occasionally her logic is a bit weird: some of the girls were in obvious turmoil over these recent events and there wasn't much gentleness over it - just a quick slap on the back from good ol' Maria.
Lackadaisical
2006-01-19, 11:11
I think this would be not unlike a doctor being invited to the World Health Organization of our modern day United Nations.
Sure, Doc Johnson loves his native Estonia, but now he gets to do medical work on a world-wide scale.
An Otome who becomes a pillar would spend her time working for the Otome community itself and supporting her kohai. And I'm sure an Otome can book vacation time to go back to her home country and family for a while, she's not a slave after all.
Natsuki, Yukariko and Shizuru all seem to have plenty of freedom and authority. I'm sure if thier jobs could allow it (eg: Garderobe's summer break) they could spend some time off in the world doing thier own thing.
As for what a country would do, I'm sure they'd be extatic. "Hey, look at us, our country is Otome pillar material!"
Also, think about this. The countries all fund Garderobe equally (or at least based on percentages of their GNP), but they have money flowing in, and therefor get a vote and say in Garderobe operations. If Otome must go to the country they came from, and said country funds thier tuition, and they become a pillar, I imagine that country would have that Otome's tuition fee deducted from thier dues to the school.
Though keep also in mind, that some girls are funded by thier families to persue thier dreams, rather then the country of origin. Are these girls free to go to any country? I would think that they are, and if they are, then all the girls are free to any country.
I don't think of Garderobe as a finishing school for cyborg assassins (though it is, in most respects). Garderobe represents it's own national entity seperate from the other countries. Granted, it's within the Windbloom borders, but the Vatican is in Italy.
A girl who becomes an Otome joins an internationaly community based on peace and security. Granted, they are assigned to specific poltical leaders as bodyguards, but thier purpose and the purpose of thier weapons is to protect and serve. But like all weapons, they can be abused.
Otomes are a resource. A extremely valuable resource.
A doctor works to benefit the sick. As a member of a international health group he would merely be helping on a world wide scale as you said.
Otomes are armies. It has been made clear that in war Otome are the first and last defense and offense. By allowing a Otome from their country to join a foreign country or Garderobe they are putting an army in enemy hands.
Otome are at best weapons in pretty clothes. That has been made clear by Maria. Exists to protect their masters. Those masters are kings and queens. Anytime a war breaks out they serve as the armies.
The first thing Remus and Romulus did when the border skirmishes happened was to send their Otome to fight. Not to send diplomat or the regular army. They sent the otome.
By allowing Otome to become pillars they are placing metaphorical armies in a state that might have conflict with their state in the future.
While their are controls on Garderobe's action, as seen in the mountain events, it still doesn't make sense to allow your Otome to go unless you already have an Otome. In the case of Zipang, which had no Otome, I doubt many people took the fact that their star Otome was being taken away from them lightly.
Does anyone know if the Otomes mentioned so far serve a country different than their country of origin?
The only people rich enough to send a child to Garderobe are likely to be nobles or highly successful business leaders. How would it look to a noble or buisness if their relatives might one day serve as the vanguard in an attack on their own country?
I can't see an Otome being allowed to serve in a foreign country. Recall that Artai has no Otome and Sergay is constantly looking for them. If you could get an Otome from a foreign country why doesn't Nagi have one?
As for pillars, so long as the country's leader has an otome, it is likely that the country might see a pillar as an extra voice of influence in Garderobe. But if the country doesn't have an Otome, such as Florence or Artai, I can't see them letting a Otome go willingly. Takumi, of course, would have probably let Mai become a pillar if see wished.
Shush you! ;) No, well, I suppose not - but she's not totally the same as in HiME, she's more comfortable and 'trusting' - silent looks (jealous look? well I'm not going to debate too much on that) are at least a step further than we got last time. And Shizuru hasn't landed herself in a royal mess (yet). It depends what you define as 'love vibe' - I'm sceptical too on how this will pan out, but - if putting it one way; Natsuki hasn't shown any ''affection'' to anyone of any kind (heh) except an obvious sweet ''closeness'' to Shizuru (and maybe a teeny bit of trust to Youko too) - so Sunrise have kinda created a route where it's either Shizuru or ''no-one'' ;)I think Natsuki just knows how to keep business and pleasure seperate. She is a world-famous school's headmaster, after all, and a pillar (we assume).
My case:
(1) At the beginning of episode two when Shizuru was about to kiss Arika and looked at the shocked expression on Natsuki's face before (somehow) KOing Arika.
(2) Just before Arika's battle with Nina, Shizuru used her gem to activate Arika's robe. Natsuki was in the scene and very visibly unhappy with Shizuru's contact with Arika.
(3) The pool scene where Shizuru's hand "slipped." Were that anyone else, I'd expect Natsuki to react like Nina does when she gets tickled. IE, homicidal maniac time. Natsuki did not.:naughty:
(4) Natsuki just expected Shizuru to be there, and was surprised by Youhko-sensei. Granted, she had other things on her mind, but her reflex was to expect Shizuru.
Shizuru is playful, even in public (occasionally too much so), and Natsuki is a professional. But after hours and in private, I'll bet you anything Shizuru can melt Natsuki's exterior with a wistful look.But if the country doesn't have an Otome, such as Florence or Artai,...Florence is Haruka and Yukino's country.
I don't disagree at all that the countries use Otome as military resources. I'm just saying that it's not what they exist for. It hasn't been mentioned in the show at all yet if an Otome has to go back to her country or can go to any country. Until they do, I'm going to belive the Otome can go anywhere.
Natsuki hasn't shown any ''affection'' to anyone of any kind (heh) except an obvious sweet ''closeness'' to Shizuru (and maybe a teeny bit of trust to Youko too) - so Sunrise have kinda created a route where it's either Shizuru or ''no-one''
How true, so from our point of view, Natsu-chan should just give in to Sunrise, fate and Shizuru for her own good, there's simply no room for anything else. If just the poor gal knew what is in store for her...
*pours frustration into fanfiction*
bluegarden
2006-01-19, 11:43
Sergey to the rescue
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/356/1137688568569257c5qo.jpg
And nao helps too :D
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/2664/1137688576674c79f7bq.jpg
Oh No!! it happened.... It seems
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/6528/113768902288206909jn.jpg
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/9860/11376890077688a935sg.jpg
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/2606/1137689086697afed7sw.jpg
But in the end is seems it's was only a kiss on the cheeks
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/3351/11376894424294vh.jpg
Sergey to the rescue
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/356/1137688568569257c5qo.jpg
And nao helps too :D
http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/2664/1137688576674c79f7bq.jpgI think you REALLY need to put some spoiler tags around those links!:)
I think Natsuki just knows how to keep business and pleasure seperate. She is a world-famous school's headmaster, after all, and a pillar (we assume).
My case:
indeed. She will show no affection at work. It is Natsuki. :)
And don't forget about ep.7 scene. Natsuki and Shizuru at Natsuki's apartament after hours. :D
Already seen the pics in the link posted, meaning that this week's episode has already aired in Japan.
I'm very afraid for those who object or are against ArikaxSergay fanshipping or just ArikaXSergay
The last pic shows that maybe the two of them have kissed.
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-19, 11:59
And nao helps too :D
http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/3884/1137688576674c79f1sv.jpg
Wow...talk about being a little TOO happy to be part of the rescue group. Especially that big guy in the back, it's like Santa just came and gave him a great present or something.:heh:
Those two guys, the one with the glasses and the bald guy, they weren't with her in episode 5. Wow must be a big gang then.
I think you REALLY need to put some spoiler tags around those links!
THis is the 15th episode discussion, why would you need tags? :eyebrow:
Already seen the pics in the link posted, meaning that this week's episode has already aired in Japan.
I'm very afraid for those who object or are against NinaxSergay fanshipping or just NinaXSergay
The last pic shows that maybe the two of them have kissed.
Negative, it didn't happen. I think Sergei told her off (scroll down, some of the 2chan comments - よかったチューしてない[thank goodness they didn't kiss],セルゲイ株↑↑↑[Sergei's stock just rose]), points to it.
ShinigamiRukia
2006-01-19, 11:59
Those people in that pic with Nao are they like her group? theyre wearing her same shirt >__> i cant help but find that funny
And i hate sergay, dunno why tho =D
Pfffft, no offence if anyone else seems intrigued, but this episode doesn't appear to have me craving for the SUB let alone the RAW.
I can basically intrepret it solely from pictures alone.
Anyway here's another link:
Mod Edit: Link expired.
I feel ever more sorry for Nina and Tomoe is at the point where even she knows she's completely nuts!
This pic did make me laugh though:
http://img396.imageshack.us/img396/5750/ep152ov.jpg
just...priceless...
http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/6629/mashirohappy5xl.th.jpg (http://img474.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mashirohappy5xl.jpg)
poor natsuki ... having a huge cat in the face ;) cannot wait for the raw
Question: is it suppose to be:
Pfffft, no offence if anyone else seems intrigued, but this episode doesn't appear to have me craving for the SUB let alone the RAW.
or
Pfffft, no offence if anyone else seems intrigued, but this episode doesn't appear to have me craving for the RAW let alone the SUB.
?
ShinigamiRukia
2006-01-19, 12:28
just...priceless...
http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/6629/mashirohappy5xl.th.jpg (http://img474.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mashirohappy5xl.jpg)
OMG! Poor natsuki indeed XD
So has tomoe really lost it?
?
Well either would be fine in their own way, but I mean:
'I'm not craving to watch it in English (SUB) let alone trying to use my basic Japanese to interpret what's going on (RAW)'
I don't always download the RAW unless I'm really intrigued (not the greatest connection speed) and I think I'll be able to hold off till the SUB...
THis is the 15th episode discussion, why would you need tags? :eyebrowI would think that because the episode hasn't aired yet, but you're right. Sorry. :bow: Episode 15 pics belong in the episode 15 thread.
alangaruku
2006-01-19, 12:39
Not that I want to see anyone
get raped, but it would have been
more interesting if Arika loss her otome
power. It would be, "omg what will
happen to Arika now". For what I heard
ep. 15 another boring ep. Is it true?
I'm starting to get really bored with this series.
Lackadaisical
2006-01-19, 12:53
I found it rather amusing that the posters in the 2ch thread say the same things that people on animesuki do. Fans are fans, I suppose, even when the exist in different countries.
The most interesting thing about this episode isn't anything about the episode itself, in my opinion, but the fact that this episode seems to be the least attention grabbing so far. Even in some of the more pointless episodes in the past I watched with alacrity when the episode came and waited for the raw. The show seems to have lost some of its momentum with the latest two episodes. Hopefully the show picks back up soon. It seems likely that around 17 or 18 the show will jump back into style. It is somewhat disappointing, that while the mid-arc of Mai Hime really strengthened the show, the mid-arc of Mai Otome seems to weaken the show.
The episode wasn't bad and was still better than most other shows but Mai Otome seems to lack the draw it had for episodes 1-13.
I wouldn't blame this on the Sergay-Arika possible relationship. I find it odd that the show had that huge build up into 13 with everyone thinking Akane or Kazu might die and then the chance of a Otome war in 14 only to let the drama disappear. Arika, everyone knew, was never in any real danger. I can't help but ask if we really needed these two episodes.
15 looks somewhat boring from the pictures but the action that begins in episode 17 still has the chance of matching Mai Hime.
USCPharmacist
2006-01-19, 12:57
Rejected!!! Arika hahahahaah (<---the author is a cold geek)
So nothing happened that even came close to the "misgivings" of the preview?
No rape/molestation? No Sergay kicking ass? No kiss? No setup for an Arika vs Nina psycho duel to the death? How disappointing....
ehmp.. I guess I should be happy that this Arika x Sergay is going no where fast.
I wouldn't be surprised if Nina was jealous of her own mother the whole time.
From what I can tell just from the screenshots, I don't think that Arika was rejected. I think that Sergey probably got Arika to back off in a way that doesn't come off as a rejection, but still leaves open the possibility of ArikaXSergey.
And I'm thinking that while this won't be one of the "must-sees", I do believe that we'll see Arika have some more fire in her now. Striving to become the best Otome, as well as to make sure Sergey notices her (extra drive). Hell, that might've been exactly what Sergey tells her. First become an Otome, then we'll talk about it. Although, I was hoping he'd spoil it to Arika about him being her Ojii-san...
I also noticed from the screenshots, we can expect Miya to be kicked out. I might be wrong, but I think so.
stillmissing
2006-01-19, 13:31
http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/7687/56272681mp.th.jpg (http://img213.imageshack.us/my.php?image=56272681mp.jpg)
>> stillmissing's image
I'm going to have to hazard a guess and say this is the occasion when Mai rejects love, considering the parallels in this episode? If so, I'm highly satisfied with Sergey. No tears or words, just silent acceptance.
I hope Sergey didn't pull an iron curtain over Arika's feelings, I liked the situation. Besides, I get my rocks off whenever someone says they hate Sergey x Arika.
ShinigamiRukia
2006-01-19, 13:47
>> stillmissing's image
I'm going to have to hazard a guess and say this is the occasion when Mai rejects love, considering the parallels in this episode? If so, I'm highly satisfied with Sergey. No tears or words, just silent acceptance.
I hope Sergey didn't pull an iron curtain over Arika's feelings, I liked the situation. Besides, I get my rocks off whenever someone says they hate Sergey x Arika.
I, on the other hand, hope he did put a curtain over Arika's feelings, cuz i'm evil:D
The most interesting thing about this episode isn't anything about the episode itself, in my opinion, but the fact that this episode seems to be the least attention grabbing so far. Even in some of the more pointless episodes in the past I watched with alacrity when the episode came and waited for the raw. The show seems to have lost some of its momentum with the latest two episodes. Hopefully the show picks back up soon. It seems likely that around 17 or 18 the show will jump back into style. It is somewhat disappointing, that while the mid-arc of Mai Hime really strengthened the show, the mid-arc of Mai Otome seems to weaken the show.
The episode wasn't bad and was still better than most other shows but Mai Otome seems to lack the draw it had for episodes 1-13.
I wouldn't blame this on the Sergay-Arika possible relationship. I find it odd that the show had that huge build up into 13 with everyone thinking Akane or Kazu might die and then the chance of a Otome war in 14 only to let the drama disappear. Arika, everyone knew, was never in any real danger. I can't help but ask if we really needed these two episodes.
15 looks somewhat boring from the pictures but the action that begins in episode 17 still has the chance of matching Mai Hime.
Pretty much what I was thinking as I scaned down the screenshots. I've almost always downloaded the raws, hell, I got into the whole Japanese P2P thing initially for Otome, but I think I'm going to pass on the raw this week. Mainly because I doubt I'll understand it. Kageho's probably right though, maybe we can be rid of angsty Arika for a little while (until the serious stuff comes along). On the plus side however, while HiME seemed to change its mind after the mid-arc on what it wanted to be (Searrs and the Golden Age! ... actually no, forget that, kill each other) Otome seems much more focused. While the last episode may have seemed boring on the surface there's a whole lot of complex plot threads that need to be dealt with, and have been. If there's as much dark action as HiME, a non-reset ending, and a story that's focused and makes relative sense, I'll be pretty happy, even if it means having to wait through a few extra actionless episodes to make sure everything works out in the end. We'll probably feel better about 14 and 15 in a few weeks time :D
>> or I'll have to look back on them as fillers once the series is done
Arika needed these episodes. She was way too quick to say "I'm prepared" to Natsuki's list of things an Otome has to give up in her life. I don't think she even thought of the possibility she could be fighting in a war for her master and she certainly didn't know anything about love. In essence, she had no idea of what sacrifices she has to make in order to succeed as an Otome, and now she does, or at least has an inkling.
SpeedRcrX
2006-01-19, 14:28
just...priceless...
http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/6629/mashirohappy5xl.th.jpg (http://img474.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mashirohappy5xl.jpg)
It's one of my favorite screens too
I like these ones :
http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/445/1137688576674c79f6ml.th.jpg (http://img299.imageshack.us/my.php?image=1137688576674c79f6ml.jpg)
Even Nao has her own sentai team :D
http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/478/1137688629587d1f13ex.th.jpg (http://img299.imageshack.us/my.php?image=1137688629587d1f13ex.jpg)
Even Salaryman like to be a sentai ;)
http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/3630/1137688907502833e4xx.th.jpg (http://img299.imageshack.us/my.php?image=1137688907502833e4xx.jpg)
Hmmm What Chie and Aoi do together at this time of the night :D
ShinigamiRukia
2006-01-19, 14:43
I love those captures of nao, especially her expression in the last one =D
Kageho's probably right though, maybe we can be rid of angsty Arika for a little while (until the serious stuff comes along).
Wee... The noob, that is I, is right~!!! ...ahem... Please excuse me slippage of self-control. ...WEEEEEEEE~!!!
Heh... Anyways, I think that the Arika we see in the show is a fascade. She wants to be genki for the world to see. She's really insecure and unsure of what she wants to do and worried how others will see her. I should know, the more I watch of Arika, I'm more reminded of how I used to be when I was younger (not that I'm old, mind you, I'm still young dammit). You shield yourself from all the bad things and protray yourself as everything is all right, you make choices as you feel about them not with your mind (becoming an Otome on split second thinking). So while she'll become more driven to her dream of becoming an Otome, I think its also her insecurities (Sergey, her contract with Mashiro, some other things I can't think of) that this is why I think that angsty Arika will be showing up more and more now, that side of her will become even more so prevalient as we go along (cause the story hasta get darker soon, right?).
Ok, I had to re-write this post up cause I jumped from Point A to C to B, and then I had to fix it up so it went from A to B to C and now it doesn't look so good, but hopefully this looks decent.
Edit: Why aren't more people commenting on how Miya's probably kicked out?
>> or I'll have to look back on them as fillers once the series is done
Arika needed these episodes. She was way too quick to say "I'm prepared" to Natsuki's list of things an Otome has to give up in her life. I don't think she even thought of the possibility she could be fighting in a war for her master and she certainly didn't know anything about love. In essence, she had no idea of what sacrifices she has to make in order to succeed as an Otome, and now she does, or at least has an inkling.
Agreed, hence why I edited it before you posted :p It took 3 drafts of that post to actually make a decent response, it's strange how much of an episode you can forget in a week. Sorry about that.
Edit: Why aren't more people commenting on how Miya's probably kicked out?
Because it might still not be true? It's better than everyone going wild with speculation, finding out that's not the case and everyone claiming you told them false information :heh:
Sergey rescued Arika? Talk about unsurprising turn of events. :heh:
I have reached the point where instead of waiting for the sub I will read the spoilers and then watch the episode because this series seem to be really going down and I don't really care about spoilers, at least not until the story starts to become intersting again (if it ever does).
At least we have Nao so there is something to look forward in this episode, after all. Although Nao to the rescue is quickly becoming a bit of cliche. ;)
Ok, maybe saying her being kicked out is wrong, but she's not in an Otome dress and from the looks of it, she's walking by Tomoe with a hanki and frankly something at least happened. That and from the looks of it, she's looking at Tomoe like "do something, please~!", but I digress I'm jumping the gun. I just figure it something worth talking about. Even if we just digress into wild speculation like how I don't think Arika was turned down by Sergey.
Tempest35
2006-01-19, 16:45
>> stillmissing's image
I'm going to have to hazard a guess and say this is the occasion when Mai rejects love, considering the parallels in this episode? If so, I'm highly satisfied with Sergey. No tears or words, just silent acceptance.
I hope Sergey didn't pull an iron curtain over Arika's feelings, I liked the situation. Besides, I get my rocks off whenever someone says they hate Sergey x Arika.
And thus the 'Legend of the North Hound' is born...determined never to let his emotions rule him any more (Crush on Rena ended in disaster and now this). He becomes a new person - new hair, accepts a dangerous job and becomes cold as ice. Of course this breaks when he finds Nina-chan 3 years later...:D
And another thing, this might mean that if Mai disappeared, it might not have been Sergay's fault, but rather her own guilt and the bitter taste that her 'unfinished' relationship left in her mouth?
Okay, enough spec on that subject, back to spec on the eppy. ^_^
I'm sure that Sergay realized that if he let her down gently, there's the possiblity of the 'crush' coming back. The only way to really squish something is to ... well squish it. So he HAD to be all 'iron curtain' on her to make sure that she realizes that, no, there's no chance of me liking you that way, even if and when you get to 'legal age'.
So now the two 'love-trodden' girls have their 'heart-to-heart' and cry it out, only to make them stronger and more bonded. Awww~ Kagutsuchi, eat me now...-_-;
:heh: Naw, I like that - this will bring Arika and Mashiro closer together and make them stronger for it.
Now if only i can figure out if Mikoto is on Natsuki's face through Mikoto's will alone, or did Mashiro throw her fat cat on the Principle? :D
bluegarden
2006-01-19, 17:02
http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/7687/56272681mp.th.jpg (http://img213.imageshack.us/my.php?image=56272681mp.jpg)
It's that tate??!!!
He's back!
Yay no kiss!!
Xellos-_^
2006-01-19, 17:20
It's that tate??!!!
He's back!
Yay no kiss!!
Or could be a younger Sergy. Maybe a flashback to when he was with Mai :eyebrow:
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-19, 17:21
http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/7687/56272681mp.th.jpg (http://img213.imageshack.us/my.php?image=56272681mp.jpg)
We've discussed this earlier about SergayxMai and this indeed sheds light that Sergay may actually BE the lover. When the story was told, we see Tate's outline and Sergay at that age would have that outline. When Nina looked at those pictures of him, we only saw glimpses when he was a kid but now we know what he looked like at a younger age.
So it's good that he doesn't close with Arika because we know that's not gonna be good for him later on.:heh:
Does he ever say in the episode that his heart belongs to someone else?
lone_wolf
2006-01-19, 17:34
OKay, finally saw the episode. While it wasn't eventful, I still enjoyed it nonetheless. And while we're at it, did anyone happen to catch this?
Nao was asking Chie what she was doing out of school and she replies that she was on a date....*cough*...Aoi. I mean Hell, they came to the scene of the crime together!!!LOL
;)
--Lone Wolf
Xellos-_^
2006-01-19, 17:36
We've discussed this earlier about SergayxMai and this indeed sheds light that Sergay may actually BE the lover. When the story was told, we see Tate's outline and Sergay at that age would have that outline. When Nina looked at those pictures of him, we only saw glimpses when he was a kid but now we know what he looked like at a younger age.
So it's good that he doesn't close with Arika because we know that's not gonna be good for him later on.:heh:
Does he ever say in the episode that his heart belongs to someone else?
I can see Mai coming back to see Sergy and then see Sergy with a 15 year old girl. The north Hound willl become the Roast Hound :p
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-19, 17:45
I can see Mai coming back to see Sergy and then see Sergy with a 15 year old girl. The north Hound willl become the Roast Hound :p
Which one? Nina or Arika? Or both?:heh: Though with Arika he's pretty much stopped it, man I admire a guy with self-control.
Speaking of Miya....I still do not understand. Was it not Tomoe who influenced her decisions and such? Why did she not blurt out Tomoe was involved as well or had a hand? Or is it because she's such a puppet that she doesn't realize that it is Tomoe calling the shots and instead she thinks she's the main one responsible?
bluegarden
2006-01-19, 17:49
The women in sergay's life
-rena
-mai
-arika
he's da' pimp!!
Screenshots are evil. :heh:
Surprisingly this was a good ep with plot developments. They talked about the blue star. We've learned why was Miya so faithful to Tomoe. (Miya was really pretty in her casual clothes.) Nao and her gang, and Chie×Aoi moments was good as always.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-19, 17:53
Screenshots are evil. :heh:
Surprisingly this was a good ep with plot developments. They talked about the blue star. We've learned why was Miya so faithful to Tomoe. (Miya was really pretty in her casual clothes.) Nao and her gang, and Chie×Aoi moments was good as always.
What info about the Blue Star :eyebrow: Spill the beans please.
lone_wolf
2006-01-19, 17:54
Screenshots are evil. :heh:
Surprisingly this was a good ep with plot developments. They talked about the blue star. We've learned why was Miya so faithful to Tomoe. (Miya was really pretty in her casual clothes.) Nao and her gang, and Chie×Aoi moments was good as always.
Yeah, i liked this episode as well. And we finally get to see the letter that Nagi sent to Sergay.:heh:
Yup! Nagi's Evil.:heh:
--Lone Wolf
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-19, 17:54
We've learned why was Miya so faithful to Tomoe.
You mind explaining why? I'm really curious.
Wait a second, I just realized something.
If Arika is gonna fight in that competition, that means she could get hurt...and if she gets hurt....Mashiro gets hurt too right? Miyu said that the contract can still exist even without the stones.
Chuongfantasy
2006-01-19, 18:05
I'm still don't understand, so is Miya from Luteria or Remus??? Why did the two of the otome battles????
Timeless Enigma
2006-01-19, 18:14
Man Sergay was cold as ice. Expert marksmanship Kira Yamato stylee without an aimbot. Now that's how you get a name like "North Hound."
I didn't expect him to use a firearm at all though, I was expecting an oldfashioned beatdown, but oh well. Next time he should use a silencer though.
He was also cold as ice when he dumped the icewater on Arika's feelings, but it had to be done.
I tell you, Sergay is the highlight of the show for me, he's a very integral part of the show.
This is the episode I have been anticipating the most so far in this series. I'll be honest though, it did disappoint, a little, but it was still solid.
The shot with young Sergay and Nagi in that warehouse full of books though, interesting.
EDIT: I really feel bad for Miya, but I guess that's what happens to the weaker-willed. Tomoe better "get hers" real soon.
You mind explaining why? I'm really curious.
Tomoe's last words were something like this: "It's sad, but i'll never forget you." and she gave back a letter to Miya. The letter was the key. (I don't know it was a love letter or a blackmail. Storywise both are acceptable.)
Anime Adoru
2006-01-19, 18:21
Heh... Anyways, I think that the Arika we see in the show is a fascade. She wants to be genki for the world to see. She's really insecure and unsure of what she wants to do and worried how others will see her.
I'd agree on how she is handling Sergey's rejection. You would think on the outside she is pretending everything is fine while it is eating her up inside. I'm not sure the joint crying with Mashiro would have helped but this is just too fast (for healing). So I think she isn't back in balance yet.
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-19, 18:27
Tomoe's last words were something like this: "It's sad, but i'll never forget you." and she gave back a letter to Miya. The letter was the key. (I don't know it was a love letter or a blackmail. Storywise both are acceptable.)
I suppose so, though is that what's Miya holding in that screenshot? Because at the end she's ripping it up I think. So watch out Tomoe. What goes around comes around.
I wonder what scenario would become if Nina had found out that Sergey and Arika almost smooch?
Ideas anyone?
Ah, feels good to say this: Good episode! I've started looking forward to the future episodes again. ;)
Seems like Arika is back on the otome track again... Hopefully, that little chat with Mashiro helped her get over the crush-thing... at least a bit. Time will heal the rest. Though I can't say Sergay's little talk with himself on the sofa seemed like good news to the Sergay x Arika non-supporters. It's not over yet. :uhoh:
Anyway, great to see Nao (enjoying her new Trias-status...) and Chie (dating Aoi!) again. At first, I thought this episode lacked "the cool people" like Shizuru, Midori and Miyu, but then I realized these two were in it, and I guess they were cool enough.
Seemes like a lot will happen in the next episode (a lot spoiler-iffic stuff), since the preview... didn't show anything at all.
And what will happen to all the "big forehead!"-jokes now that Miya is gone? :(
Well not that I'm feel like abuse Miya forhead anymore... poor girl.
And yes the preview it's so normal and plain that is even stranger and worrisome than usual. The deley of camera on Erstin in the last seconds worry me a bit...:(
Xellos-_^
2006-01-19, 19:32
']Well not that I'm feel like abuse Miya forhead anymore... poor girl.
And yes the preview it's so normal and plain that is even stranger and worrisome than usual. The deley of camera on Erstin in the last seconds worry me a bit...:(
I haven't seen the preview yet. But if they show a preview with normal everyday stuff and no tension. I would next ep is the ep that the stuff hits the fan. And please don't hurt Erstin, she is cuddly to hurt ;_;
Takemi_Ikazuchi
2006-01-19, 19:35
I think it's clear by this episode that Sergei was one time, a womanizer. North Hound does not come from his military merits but rather from his bedroom conquests.
Mai was probably one of his victims which would explain why Natsuki hates him so much, and why Nao is so sarcastic of him.
Nagi literally told him to use his skills to seduce the real princess, but it seems his consciensce won for now.
He seems to fit the one of the typical archetypes for a playboy.
He fell in love with a woman he could never get as a child, and overcompensates later in life :heh:
The way he speaks of Rena in this episode makes me wonder if he is still hurt over that.
The preview is just a simple sequence without any kind of editing (for what I can see) with Nina, Arika and Ersting at twilight...
First appearence for "Mai", but obviously I'm talking about track n°16 of Mai Otome OST :)
bluegarden
2006-01-19, 19:57
I think it's clear by this episode that Sergei was one time, a womanizer. North Hound does not come from his military merits but rather from his bedroom conquests.
Mai was probably one of his victims which would explain why Natsuki hates him so much, and why Nao is so sarcastic of him.
Nagi literally told him to use his skills to seduce the real princess, but it seems his consciensce won for now.
He seems to fit the one of the typical archetypes for a playboy.
He fell in love with a woman he could never get as a child, and overcompensates later in life :heh:
The way he speaks of Rena in this episode makes me wonder if he is still hurt over that.
if he hurted mai i hope she comes back and frys him. I do hope mai isin't sad and deppressed like in MH
frodo1701
2006-01-19, 20:00
I think it's clear by this episode that Sergei was one time, a womanizer. North Hound does not come from his military merits but rather from his bedroom conquests.
Mai was probably one of his victims which would explain why Natsuki hates him so much, and why Nao is so sarcastic of him.
Nagi literally told him to use his skills to seduce the real princess, but it seems his consciensce won for now.
He seems to fit the one of the typical archetypes for a playboy.
He fell in love with a woman he could never get as a child, and overcompensates later in life :heh:
The way he speaks of Rena in this episode makes me wonder if he is still hurt over that.
After watching the episode I woluld have to agree with you completely. I think he aquired that title by his capabilities to suduce. I think Nao knows this and that is why she has made some of her more colorful remarks to Sergey in the earlier episodes.
I'm wondering if the old servent lady died natuarlly or was she "silenced" because of what she knew. Either way, Sergey is last person who is going to learn the secret of who the queen is from that source.
I think this was an excellent episode for filling in plot gaps. I wish I knew enough Japanese to make it all out. Here's to Fansubs.:bow:
I also agree with those who say the preview is too bland. Something big is coming!
>> North Hound does not come from his military merits but rather from his bedroom conquests.
Are you serious? That was some quality marksmanship he gave us there, I think his nickname is more closely tied there than in nailing chicks to the bed. He also touched the scar on his forehead while he reminisced about the part when his informant addressed him as the North Hound. It is of course possible that some of his past conquests slashed him there out of jealousy, but I find it highly improbable. As for Nagi's instructions, Sergey has been his right-hand man for at least over half a decade, it's likely he knows a bit about Sergey's favourite pastime.
Who in the world would name a ladies' man "the North Hound" anyway?
Timeless Enigma
2006-01-19, 20:14
The scar on his forehead was likely from the time he rescued Nina, since in one of her flashbacks we see Sergay with blood running down from his forehead.
But hey, it could've been a jilted lover:heh:
ifhaseth
2006-01-19, 20:15
I wonder how Sergay was scouted into Nagi's service in the first place... Nagi's got that scheming grin on his face even as a little kid. :uhoh: But I wouldn't be surprised if this was just another plot point that never gets explained.
The episode wasn't bad. There was some plot development, some humor, some Nao (always a good thing ;)), and they finally pulled both Arika and Mashiro out of their respective slumps by shoving them together in a room and talking/crying it out. Their bond is stronger than ever, which will lead (hopefully) to more robe action from Arika in the next episodes.
Sergay gets bonus points from me in this episode... if only he'd be more decisive!
I also agree with those who say the preview is too bland. Something big is coming!
Episode 17 from the looks of it. New OP, some long-awaited Natsuki action, and maybe even the return of Mai. Can't wait. :D
It wasn't a bad episode at all... although I really do think they could've utilized the time a bit better. Really though, not bad, just not quite what I'm expecting at episode 15. If 16+ is where all the intense action and drama begins, I hope they pull it off better than some series. Faith!
Oh, and group me with the folks who are relieved with Sergay shooting Arika down.
I cannot wait for Natsuki to materialise. Two more weeks!
Akuma-sama
2006-01-19, 21:08
The scar on his forehead was likely from the time he rescued Nina, since in one of her flashbacks we see Sergay with blood running down from his forehead.
But hey, it could've been a jilted lover:heh:
I can see it now...
Mai: "You... You total rotten bastard! After all I've sacrificed for you---argh! Otome slap of doom!"
Sergei: "You're not an Otome any--awp!" *SLAP*
And Mai left in a huff to the nearest bar, where she would later be picked up by a buff lumberman with a very large beard by the name of Thor (the beard, I mean; the lumberman's name was Bubby), who would bring her to his small wooden lodge in southern Altai, from where they would make many bearded sons and daughters.
Back to Sergei, in his disorientation after having recieved the Otome Slap of Doom, stumbled around, looking for someone else who could possibly fill the place Mai left behind.
He did.
Sergei: "Come with me, I'll keep you warm."
Nina: "...uh?"
:heh: oops, sorry 'bout that :p
']First appearence for "Mai", but obviously I'm talking about track n°16 of Mai Otome OST :)
Man, you got me worked up! :( Just reading everyone's posts, I can say this was a disappointing week. Another week to go.
It's so surprising to see Nao in a good role, she's actually helping people. :heh: It feels so weird, warm and fuzzy.
Another thing that I forgot to mention a long time ago was that Natsuki's Coral class seems so much younger compared to Arika's Coral class. How many years do they go to school anyway? :uhoh:
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-19, 21:33
It's so surprising to see Nao in a good role, she's actually helping people. :heh: It feels so weird, warm and fuzzy.
Apparently you missed some parts where Nao helped out even if she asked something in return she was still willing to help. Other situations she didn't even asked, it's who she is.
Another thing that I forgot to mention a long time ago was that Natsuki's Coral class seems so much younger compared to Arika's Coral class. How many years do they go to school anyway? :uhoh:
Growth spurts? :heh:
Pearl corals are suppose to be 2nd year students I think and Nina's class is suppose to be graduating this year.
Timeless Enigma
2006-01-19, 21:47
To Sergay
At last, we get the opportunity to put our plan into action.
So, I want you to find the (mother?), the true princess as soon as possible.
We need her for (our lives?)
In order to find her, you can do anything.
Well, you may use your technique to seduce her.
The stuff in parentheses are guesses at words I cannot make out, but this is adequate enough.
Sergay is turning more into a "James Bond"-esque type of man, ahaha.
Nagi once mentioned that he should've gotten Sergay to "take care" of his brothers' wives, and now this. I think I will agree with those who say Sergay shows traits of "the player." I still don't think that's where "North Hound" was born out of however.
To Sergay
At last, we get the opportunity to put our plan into action.
So, I want you to find the (mother?), the true princess as soon as possible.
We need her for (our lives?)
In order to find her, you can do anything.
Well, you may use your technique to seduce her.
...Now I wonder if Sunrise was planning on making MO into a ero anime. Theres even the "super-H" manga coming out.
:uhoh:
MattAlchemy
2006-01-19, 21:58
Is that Tate? If it is, does this mean Tate in MH didn't refuse to go into Otome? I heard he refused to be in Otome, so they made Sergey with another voice. Wow he looks perfect already.:D
A little late but...
Otome 15 RAW Teaser: http://media.putfile.com/Otome-15-RAW-Teaser-Bridging-the-Age-Gap
ArchDragon
2006-01-19, 22:08
...Now I wonder if Sunrise was planning on making MO into a ero anime. Theres even the "super-H" manga coming out.
:uhoh:
Nah, in the manga, Sergay isn't even the leading male char.
The "super-H" version of the manga is probably all about yuri, since anything "normal" will destroy the Otome's nanomachines.
----------------------------------------------
Is that Tate? If it is, does this mean Tate in MH didn't refuse to go into Otome? I heard he refused to be in Otome, so they made Sergey with another voice. Wow he looks perfect already.:D
I'm quite confident now that Sergay Wang = Tate Yuuichi.
Most people didn't like Yuuichi in HiME so Sunrise overhauled his char inside out.
---------------------------------------------
Anyway, I'm glad that Sergay finally showed signs of breaking away from Nagi's plan.
Had he decided to follow Nagi's order to seduce "the real queen", Arika is already at his mercy.
I just hope that he didn't die too soon, although if HiME's Yuuichi is any indication, he'll be brought back to life eventually.
BTW, all you Doremi fans are in for treat this week. We got a VERY crisp raw.
bluegarden
2006-01-19, 22:27
in omnscient summary. it says that sergay blames rena for what happened to the queen and king.
so i guessthat's because in the manga rena had a thing with rado of the aswald
Nah, in the manga, Sergay isn't even the leading male char.
The "super-H" version of the manga is probably all about yuri, since anything "normal" will destroy the Otome's nanomachines.
Well, I had that impression because of a certain....*ahem* h-doushinj(sp?) pic posted at this link:
More link later.....
http://dat.2chan.net/18/res/2153868.htm
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-19, 22:46
in omnscient summary. it says that sergay blames rena for what happened to the queen and king.
so i guessthat's because in the manga rena had a thing with rado of the aswald
In episode 7, he told Arika that the current Otome just so inconvenietly retired at the attack.
That's what he meant.
Because of that no one could stop the rebel.
Nightengale
2006-01-19, 23:00
Personally, I doubt that the North Hound nickname was obtained through his flirtation conquest.
Assuming the Fire String guy is Sergay, I think that Nagi's words of Sergay's seduction techniques is a mockery of him being able to get a woman who's both a princess and a woman whose dream is to be an Otome to fall in love with him, and as a result, suffer because of her feelings towards him.
Personally, I want the real princess to turn out to be Nina, so just I can see Sergay seducing Nina and some serious Sergay angst.
Solitaire
2006-01-19, 23:02
']The preview is just a simple sequence without any kind of editing (for what I can see) with Nina, Arika and Ersting at twilight...
First appearence for "Mai", but obviously I'm talking about track n°16 of Mai Otome OST :)
Sounds interesting. For some reason i've been anticipating that song in the anime...it just sounds so mysterious yet cool.:cool:
Omniscient
2006-01-19, 23:13
Episode 15 Screencaps and Summary (http://randomc.animeblogger.net/2006/01/19/mai-otome-15/)
The episode wasn't the most exciting, but plenty of things happened. I breathed a large sigh of relief when Sergay turned Arika down. That's one relationship I hope never comes true. Didn't feel like there were any huge revelations (unless you count the kiss thing), but I guess there can't be some for every episode. Still a good episode overall, and as several people have hinted, we're heading towards a batch of more exciting episodes.
MattAlchemy
2006-01-19, 23:23
A little late but...
Otome 15 RAW Teaser: http://media.putfile.com/Otome-15-RAW-Teaser-Bridging-the-Age-Gap
Wow that was good. Thanks for giving us every episodes RAW Teasers, we owe you one.
kazekiri
2006-01-19, 23:53
Florence is Haruka and Yukino's country.You either meant Aries or Akane there in place of the first or second parts. Haruka is from who-knows-where but Yukino is an elected leader, they usually pick citizens. ;)
I'm still don't understand, so is Miya from Luteria or Remus??? Why did the two of the otome battles????She's from 'Lutecia Remus' and Yayoi is from 'Lutecia Romulus'. I guess the countries have a shared history or something. As to why they're fighting, Nagi and Smith are Up To Something.
kazekiri
2006-01-19, 23:55
Sigh, yet again they're making us wait for the new OP.
Tremalkinger
2006-01-20, 00:05
I was terrified this was going to be the last episode of Mai Otome that I watched. This episode very easily could have destroyed the series for me.
Luckily for my sake, I loved every minute of this episode. Maybe it's partially because I haven't been enjoying the previous ones and my expectations were lowered, but this episode seemed like one of the best so far. I'm tired, so I won't try and do this in essay form. List of good stuff:
(1) Sergey turns down Arika in a way that made me like both characters more.
(2) More Nao!!!!
(3) More Mashiro!!
(4) More Shiho!
(5) A Chie/Aoi date :heh:
(6) Natsuki with messy hair
(7) A decent amount of plot
All the episode was really missing was Shizuru and Irina, but hey... I loved it anyway.
I finally watched episode 15. Man, this episode was full of character interaction from Arika and Mashiro to Chie and Aoi to Miya and Tomoe. I seriously feel sorry for Miya and now hate Tomoe even more. As 2chan posters said, "Tomoe, die!" :heh: We also get a pretty nice new vocal track.
Also, does anyone know how they know Miya did it? Chie's awesome! She figures out everything. Now if we can have Chie VS. Tomoe. :eyespin: And Nao as a part of Trias is pretty cool. It seems nobody is wearing Akane's white uniform yet.
Well I got the RAW anyway - heh I'm such a schmuck, why do I always end up giving everything the benefit of the doubt.
I've got a short-hand response and an essay, so for the sake of being caring, I'll put the former (although I may put the latter after I've seen the SUB)
I really hope this is a transition episode, because I'm becoming a bit disgruntled with this aspect of the show. I've not really been fully ''there'' since episode 11 to be honest, although Shizuru, Natsuki, Miyu, Midori, Irina, Chie and Nao were obvious perks (I'd say Akira would have been too if not for the cheesiest costume in history) I think it's basically because I don't really have an opinion on the SergayxAika ''thing'' - I knew the unlikelihood of anything happening, and I wasn't suprised at all by Sergay having to be cruel to be kind. Arika's characterisation has been somewhat ''iffy'' for me, but if you like this sort of thing then each to their own I guess. Actually I wasn't surprised by anything that happened in this episode, except the utter cheesyness of the gang being gagged and bound.
So Tomoe didn't get the Sapphire, but she obviously is interested in it.
OMGWTFKTHNX
http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/7092/tomsapph00009ca.th.jpg (http://img32.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tomsapph00009ca.jpg)
http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/9646/tomsapph00013ev.th.jpg (http://img32.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tomsapph00013ev.jpg)
I also don't want her to die especially as I finding her sadism quite entertaining - if she wasn't in the show right now, Otome would be void of any real nastyness in the Garderobe building. So please no, keep her in it - if Sunrise had bothered to give her more than one real sympathetic scene then she could have been a very interesting character. I quite like PastPrime's theory that Tomoe-the-Windbloomian suffered 14 years ago and has resentment for the Blue Sapphire holder for the lack of protection. Who knows, I'm a bit dubious about Sunrise on this one.
Anyway, it certainly wasn't a ''HiME ep 15'', but it was fine.
EDIT: First the shower, now the bed, ahhh, Natsuki...
Those people in that pic with Nao are they like her group?
Yes, they can be seen in a previous episode near Nina Wong when Nao finds the guy in the bar that sold Arika's uniform.
However, the gang seems to have changed some members, an indication that Juliet's gang is bigger than it seems.
Episode 5:
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/4317/julietgangep52lf.th.jpg (http://img220.imageshack.us/my.php?image=julietgangep52lf.jpg)
Episode 15:
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/4804/julietgangep152jj.th.jpg (http://img220.imageshack.us/my.php?image=julietgangep152jj.jpg)
Same outfits. Nice fashion choice...
I read the summary and it seems like a really boring episode. I guess with such low expectations I will like it more when I actually watch it. ;)
First the shower, now the bed, ahhh, Natsuki...
http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/7494/natsukibed15sq.th.jpg (http://img5.imageshack.us/my.php?image=natsukibed15sq.jpg)
:D Did I see well? Does Natsuki keep an alarm-clock under the covers?! Looks like she has problems waking up, like her MH counterpart... :heh:
Edit: What is Tomoe saying about "Shizuru onee-sama"?
wombatlord
2006-01-20, 04:57
http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/7494/natsukibed15sq.th.jpg (http://img5.imageshack.us/my.php?image=natsukibed15sq.jpg)
:D Did I see well? Does Natsuki keep an alarm-clock under the covers?! Looks like she has problems waking up, like her MH counterpart... :heh:
Edit: What is Tomoe saying about "Shizuru onee-sama"?
Hah! I thought that was an alarm clock. I was just 'WHAT THE???' at it.
ranchan13
2006-01-20, 05:16
After seeing the upcoming "Graduation" battle, I have a feeling Arika's time as a Coral is not long for this world.
http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/7494/natsukibed15sq.th.jpg (http://img5.imageshack.us/my.php?image=natsukibed15sq.jpg)
:D Did I see well? Does Natsuki keep an alarm-clock under the covers?! Looks like she has problems waking up, like her MH counterpart... :heh:
Indeed! I think it's probably refering to this from HiME:
http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/2320/kawaii8ii.jpg
Awwww. What a darling.
Edit: What is Tomoe saying about "Shizuru onee-sama"?
Yeah my ears started burning too at that point. :heh:
It's probably some deluded seething over the Sapphire as well.. but anyone clarify....?
I found it strange how the blue star was specifically shown in her scene rather than anyone elses during that 'arrest Miya' sequence.. And she's actually sitting up troubled rather than being delighted in her latest nasty plan.
I was just 'WHAT THE???' at it.
Were you worried Natsuki had something else under the covers... :heh:
Naked Fish
2006-01-20, 05:40
From the looks of it I'm not the only one who is becoming dissapointed with Otome in general. Episode 15 and nothing of great interest has happened. No big conflict, every conclusion to an episode looks like it's leading to something big and then ends up not so big. Arika's moments of angst and Tomoe's irregular appearances and acts of mysterious hate just aren't cutting it.
True, HiME did suddenly decide "Oh we ended the whole golden age thing a little earlier. Well, might as well kill everyone." But, that was a lot more enjoyable to watch than the constant speculating that "The BIG episode is coming soon. It's gonna be BIG! And it's coming!"
We really shouldn't have to wade through all of these episodes just to be really entertained. There hasn't been a large fight for ages! And the whole point of Otomes is to fight, right? Too much dialogue and foreshadowing, it's time for something good. It's been time for a while now.
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-20, 05:49
Well, in effect Mai-Hime was a show with two distinct halves.
This time, Sunrise wants to make Mai-Otome one continuous plot.
It's sort of unfair to demand more fighting... After all, MH had a "monster of the week" format for a while, and many people consider it unimaginative (though done very well).
Or would you prefer there to be a Slave attack every episode? It would seriously cut into screen time for the army of characters who needs development...
Back in GSD, I wished that Sunrise had decreased the meaningless Gundam battles and actually showed the characters interacting. I believe I got my wish indirectly via MO. Each to their own, I guess... If want to see non-stop action I would watch Diebuster.
Edit: What is Tomoe saying about "Shizuru onee-sama"?
She just says "Blue Sky Sapphire... that's why Shizuru onee-sama....." - she must be thinking the gem is the reason why Shizuru has been interested in Arika.
Then they go to her seeing Miya and calling her useless garbage or something.
After all, MH had a "monster of the week" format for a while, and many people consider it unimaginative (though done very well).
Sure it was unimaginative but it was at least three times better than what we have got so far in Otome, IMHO. It had the battles but it also had better character development (most of which in the second half but also a lot in the first). I don't think there are many people who prefer the new characters rather than the old cast of MH which in a way proves my point. And it's not as if the "love" vs "duty" conflict is that original anyway. I actually don't want more battles I want things to move on a bigger scale, for instance Nagi really starting with his plan to dominate the world, a war breaking out, not only some border conflict or someone important actually dying.
Naked Fish
2006-01-20, 06:04
Well, in effect Mai-Hime was a show with two distinct halves.
This time, Sunrise wants to make Mai-Otome one continuous plot.
It's sort of unfair to demand more fighting... After all, MH had a "monster of the week" format for a while, and many people consider it unimaginative (though done very well).
Or would you prefer there to be a Slave attack every episode? It would seriously cut into screen time for the army of characters who needs development...
Back in GSD, I wished that Sunrise had decreased the meaningless Gundam battles and actually showed the characters interacting. I believe I got my wish indirectly via MO. Each to their own, I guess... If want to see non-stop action I would watch Diebuster.
I don't mind the continuous plot, and I'm not saying that I want there to be a fight every episode. But the fights so far have been fairly forgettable and, like I said in some other thread I can't be bothered finding, the obligatory character introduction fight, in which they cannot ever die or be seriously injured.
I would however, like to see something that is actually really exciting. Much like episode 1 was. I never watched GSD, even though it's on TV every night monday to thursday over here. I didn't see the first few episodes, and watching a random one ended up just being confusing. The character devolpment in MO is good, but, not all of it is necessary, and this episode is just a low point in the series again.
I did, just after my post, check out some spoilers on the next few episodes, and it looks like MO will finally begin to move on. Took it long enough.
edit: Matrim said exactly what I was trying to say! Things should start moving on a larger scale! Well that's a suprisingly simple way to sum it all up.
She just says "Blue Sky Sapphire... that's why Shizuru onee-sama....." - she must be thinking the gem is the reason why Shizuru has been interested in Arika.
Then they go to her seeing Miya and calling her useless garbage or something.
Thanks a lot for the explanation! :bow:
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 06:29
Well, Sergay is still playing the traditional "daddy long legs". I haven't read the book, but in Garasu no Kamen (The Mask of Glass) we often see stuff like this between Maya and Hayami Hasumi. They were a bit sneaky making it look like they might have kissed then only later in the ep showing what really happened.
I think Arika calls the blue star a "lighthouse". Not sure. In Sergay's little poem recital he mentions "orugan" (probably reference to the harmonium). Looks highly likely that the Blue Sky Sapphire and the blue star are connected somehow. As a side-note, early on in this scene when Sergay shows Arika a view of the city, he says that Earth would have even more amazing science, and Arika says she can't imagine it at all.
When Tomoe mutters about the Blue Sky Sapphire and Shizuru, I think she thinks that Shizuru is only interested in Arika because Arika has the Blue Sky Sapphire. I think we'll see Tomoe steal it at some point, or try to - which'll probably be her undoing. Looks like Chie is suspicious of Tomoe though anyway - and Nina also asks later if Miya really did that stuff all by herself.
btw, Aoi and Chie weren't on a "date" in the real sense. (The use of the word in Japanese isn't quite the same as in English). What happened is that Aoi decided to consult Chie about Mashiro, and Chie suggested taking Arika to Mashiro.
The talk between Arika and Mashiro is nice. I think it's VERY well done - the animation, voice acting, plot/character development.
At the start, I can't quite tell if Arika is being devious or still trying to be hyper. Anyway, when Mashiro hears the knock on the door she says something like "if it's a change of clothes, leave it outside, if it's food I don't want any...". Then Arika walks in merrily saying she heard Mashiro had shut herself in. Mashiro says "It's got nothing to do with you!", and Arika replies "You're so cold - we do still have a contract". Mashiro then yells back, because Arika doesn't think of her as being the proper Queen (or so Mashiro still thinks).
Anyway, Mashiro explains what happened, and is upset with what Takumi said, because "she's trying her best". Arika starts to say "Could it be that you've fallen for Takumi" but before she can finish, Mashiro sort of denies it but basically gives it away completely. Mashiro tells Arika she better not tell anyone, and besides she wouldn't understand anyway. That's when Arika smiles (in an odd way) and says "That's right, I don't understand anything about love" and tears start streaming down her face. Of course, Mashiro realises Arika has fallen for someone too, and Arika nods to confirm it. Then we have Arika's flashback, but I don't think Arika tells Mashiro anything about this.
Later on, Mashiro shows Arika her re-design (in colourful crayon) for her castle. Arika is rather dubious, but thinks the design is just like Mashiro. Mashiro says she wants the castle to be reborn (ie change completely). Arika then says - let's have a race: whether I can become a Meister first, or whether you can become the queen first. Mashiro grumpily says she's already the Queen. Arika then changes it to "whether Mashiro can become a queen who can make everyone happy", first. Mashiro likes the sound of it, and agrees to the "race". Then begins the selection tournament between the Corals for two to show a demonstration battle at the Pearl graduation ceremony. The chosen two (ie last 2 remaining in the tournament) are guarateed to graduate to Pearls. Arika and Mashiro are really hyped up :)
I'm not quite sure what "farewell gift" Tomoe hands Miya. Probably (a copy) of whatever she was using the blackmail Miya.
BTW With regards to Rena, from what Sergay says, Rena did NOT have a baby out of love. So I'm betting that Rena had a child with the King. Maybe the Queen was having trouble getting pregnant, so Rena decided to help out of duty. Since it seems the Queen really did have a baby too, maybe she finally got pregnant at the same time too. ie there's two daughters of the king, born at about the same time.
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-20, 06:35
BTW With regards to Rena, from what Sergay says, Rena did NOT have a baby out of love. So I'm betting that Rena had a child with the King. Maybe the Queen was having trouble getting pregnant, so Rena decided to help out of duty. Since it seems the Queen really did have a baby too, maybe she finally got pregnant at the same time too. ie there's two daughters of the king, born at about the same time.
Well, I believe I argued with you on this in the past, so I will keep it brief.
I fail to see why Rena would be the only one available to be the surrogate mother when there are likely many willing, patriotic women in the royal court. Especially since it's a matter of national security if Rena lose her powers.
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 06:40
I don't mind the continuous plot, and I'm not saying that I want there to be a fight every episode. But the fights so far have been fairly forgettable and, like I said in some other thread I can't be bothered finding, the obligatory character introduction fight, in which they cannot ever die or be seriously injured.
For the most part, I've actually enjoyed the fights a LOT. I particularly like Arika vs the Slave. Short and sweet, and very "genki" (just like Arika). One of my favourite battle sequences in all of 2005.
I would however, like to see something that is actually really exciting. Much like episode 1 was. I never watched GSD, even though it's on TV every night monday to thursday over here. I didn't see the first few episodes, and watching a random one ended up just being confusing. The character devolpment in MO is good, but, not all of it is necessary, and this episode is just a low point in the series again.
How do you know it's not necessary? I can think of any number of ways the events and character developments in this ep will become more important later.
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 06:49
Well, I believe I argued with you on this in the past, so I will keep it brief.
I fail to see why Rena would be the only one available to be the surrogate mother when there are likely many willing, patriotic women in the royal court. Especially since it's a matter of national security if Rena lose her powers.
I can think of a couple of reasons, but it's simply inventing ideas from thin air. If this suggestion of mine does actually happen, I'm sure Sunrise will be able to come up with a reasonable excuse (though possibly half-baked).
If we turn the question around, I think it becomes more compelling: If Rena didn't have a baby out of love, then is there any other possible candidate? (Unless Rena got raped). Basically, the king is the only possible currently known candidate.
Naked Fish
2006-01-20, 06:58
For the most part, I've actually enjoyed the fights a LOT. I particularly like Arika vs the Slave. Short and sweet, and very "genki" (just like Arika). One of my favourite battle sequences in all of 2005.
Fair enough, that fight is partial to personal opinion really.
How do you know it's not necessary? I can think of any number of ways the events and character developments in this ep will become more important later.
I did not specify it to this episode alone at any point. I meant that there were many minutes wasted on characters that really was pointless. I don't have the first nine episodes with me as my friend is borrowing them, but I think it was episode 5 or 6, the pool episode. That is the epitome of unnecessary. We knew Shiho hates Nina, Nao and Arika. We know Nao doesn't. Nao has saved Arika once before. Admittedly, it did give a reason for Nao to be Arika's sempai. But has that really played much of a part?
It really looked like things were coming together when Midori attacked. I was getting rather interested. I think that was probably the high point of the MO series thus far. So, what happened to all that tension?
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-20, 07:02
If we turn the question around, I think it becomes more compelling: If Rena didn't have a baby out of love, then is there any other possible candidate? (Unless Rena got raped). Basically, the king is the only possible currently known candidate.
Well, since Otomes can't use their power without activation, it's not impossible that a rape can occur. The King's brother maybe, or someone else questionable who was up to no good, might WANT Rena to lose her powers.
ghost89475
2006-01-20, 08:16
I like this episode.
Character interactions are always good, especially when there's such a huge cast.
Good points of the ep:
1. Nao (OMG it's that clown outfit with those glasses !!! XD)
2. Chie x Aoi (not exactly a date, but at least they're shown together in one pic, giving me stuff to imagine abt...)
3. Natsuki in bed...(but i had to look twice bcos i mistook her for Nina)
4.Arika and Mashiro interaction. (Good that Mashiro is brought back after 2 or 3 eps of angsting in the dark...She's one of the main too!! Give her more screentime!)
5. No pimping of "Shizuru".
I love Shizuru. Don't get me wrong. I just don't like her to appear just for show and not have any purpose. (eg: Ep 13's preview)
Ok, best episode in ages. I was in a really bad mood, burning headache, off work, no patience for anything, didnt want to watch the episode, but I did, and, well, apart from feeling crap, that really brightened up my mood. Excellent episode. I can't stress that enough. It might even have rekindled my liking of this series after the collection of unfortunate events that happened two weeks ago killed my interest in basically everything. I've got lots to cover, before I forget it all..
First off, in no particular order, I spotted a media technique in the Sergei and Arika scene. The blue star is linked to Arika, which is in turn linked to the blue sapphire. Frames are not positioned like that for no reason. They were one after the other, in similar, close-up shots, linking them together. For what ultimate purpose, I cannot say, but it is safe to assume the star has something to do with the sapphire, which in turn Arika is involved with.
Secondly, I am about to relinquish my claim that Erstin was involved in setting up Arika. It looked very unlikely and her reactions to Arika returning did not give anything away and looked reliable. Before I totally set aside this point, I wish to see a fansub.
So, Sergei had to look up to and knew Nagi from a young age? Interesting.
Arika slapped Sergei? Excellent, excellent news. What was he saying to get at her so much?
Was I the only one that thought Nina's reaction to Arika returning was at the least cute? Heh..
When I saw that object in Natsuki's bed the first thing that came to me was a picture frame. On second look I realised it was no such thing. (Shame, if it was a photo frame, and the photo had been of it-doesn't-take-a-genius-to-work out-who..). Alarm clock seems a very feasible idea. Though I'm not sure it looked like anything in particular.
Preview for next episode looked good, but I think I've said that to every preview. This time I mean good. Looks like some further development of Nina, Arika and Erstin's characters as a group. Hmm, when was that new OP due again?
I did not specify it to this episode alone at any point. I meant that there were many minutes wasted on characters that really was pointless. I don't have the first nine episodes with me as my friend is borrowing them, but I think it was episode 5 or 6, the pool episode. That is the epitome of unnecessary. We knew Shiho hates Nina, Nao and Arika. We know Nao doesn't. Nao has saved Arika once before. Admittedly, it did give a reason for Nao to be Arika's sempai. But has that really played much of a part?
It really looked like things were coming together when Midori attacked. I was getting rather interested. I think that was probably the high point of the MO series thus far. So, what happened to all that tension?
That, my friend, is the fanservice episode for MO.:) MH had one as well, episde 3 I believe (underwear stealing orphan). It's to please all the fans of the show (ShizNat as well.:heh: ).
Does the episode play a role in the story? Nope, neither did episode 3(?) for MH.
Arika slapped Sergei? Excellent, excellent news. What was he saying to get at her so much?
According to a blog (or a previous post), Sergey had, um, insulted Rena saying she was a fool to fall in love? or something like that.
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 08:34
Well, since Otomes can't use their power without activation, it's not impossible that a rape can occur. The King's brother maybe, or someone else questionable who was up to no good, might WANT Rena to lose her powers.
Yes, not impossible. I'd be surprised if Sunrise goes down that route though. Also, if such a thing did happen, I think events afterwards would have gone down a different path to what has been shown - can't sense any indirect evidence.
As a side-note, from a dramatic point of view, I think Arika being Rena's daughter and the king being her father would be the best.
Also, why is Nagi so interested in the "true princess". Obviously for "world domination plans" but how? And is his info correct and complete? Is it a matter of genetics - eg for Harmonium? Since it seemed to give "2 out of 3" for Arika and Mashiro, then either Arika and Mashiro are capable of playing it based on genetics, or have something that makes them qualified. Which kinda suggests that either Mashiro's legitimate or Nagi's info is wrong.
Also, why is Nagi so interested in the "true princess". Obviously for "world domination plans" but how? And is his info correct and complete? Is it a matter of genetics - eg for Harmonium? Since it seemed to give "2 out of 3" for Arika and Mashiro, then either Arika and Mashiro are capable of playing it based on genetics, or have something that makes them qualified. Which kinda suggests that either Mashiro's legitimate or Nagi's info is wrong.
I'll make a guess that it has to do with the "supposed fact" that the real princess would possess the Blue Azure Sapphire, and that the pendent is linked to the blue star.
If the pendent is able to affect/control/harness the blue star's powers in any way, it would explain the wanting to find the true princess. Dont ask me who they dont just go after the pendent though....or maybe only the real princess can use the pendent?
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 08:51
I did not specify it to this episode alone at any point. I meant that there were many minutes wasted on characters that really was pointless. I don't have the first nine episodes with me as my friend is borrowing them, but I think it was episode 5 or 6, the pool episode. That is the epitome of unnecessary. We knew Shiho hates Nina, Nao and Arika. We know Nao doesn't. Nao has saved Arika once before. Admittedly, it did give a reason for Nao to be Arika's sempai. But has that really played much of a part?
Ep 6. Quite a bit of fan-service and humour, but also:
Showed us that Nina's ticklish, and showed an interesting flashback from her. Also gave some more insights to Nina's character. We also get a better idea of how Meisters are thought of - military power - and what countries do for it. With the tentacle monster, we see Arika and Nina working together for first time, and the first time we see a Pearl in a real fight.
With regards to Nao becoming Arika's senpai, though it hasn't been used much, Arika did get part-time job idea from Nao and also help in the Mashiro contract aftermath. I'm surprised we have seem more "room attendant" interaction though. Actually, we've seen rather little of lessons in general.
It really looked like things were coming together when Midori attacked. I was getting rather interested. I think that was probably the high point of the MO series thus far. So, what happened to all that tension?
Were you really expecting everything to change immediately with just that? Only if it was a 13-ep series. Though the next ep went into more Nina and Mashiro development and info on Mai, we then got a new slave attack and with further developments leading to two countries attacking each other.
Still no Mai??? Now I'm pretty sure that Mai gonna come up at the last of the series (ep. 26) like Arika did in MH... LOL?
How do you know it's not necessary? I can think of any number of ways the events and character developments in this ep will become more important later.
Simple - you can have much better character development in less screen time. Most people from the old cast haven't changed at all during these 15 episodes so only a handful of characters are actually being developed. 15 episodes with a glimmers of a plot, so to speak, focused on the development of several characters and setting up future events is too much .
That said, episode 6 was probably the best episode so far, IMHO. If nothing important is to happen in an episode they should at least make it entertaining as that one, not boring as the last few episodes. I think I have watched some animes in which fewer important things happened in the first half or even during the whole series but I think Otome lacks the atmospere and the charismatic main characters to really pull it off.
It really looked like things were coming together when Midori attacked. I was getting rather interested. I think that was probably the high point of the MO series thus far. So, what happened to all that tension?
It was far less important than Arika's love affairs, I guess...
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 09:05
I'll make a guess that it has to do with the "supposed fact" that the real princess would possess the Blue Azure Sapphire, and that the pendent is linked to the blue star.
But Nagi doesn't seem to know about that. He seems to want the "real princess" in relation to the Harmonium, not the Blue Sky Sapphire.
If the pendent is able to affect/control/harness the blue star's powers in any way, it would explain the wanting to find the true princess. Dont ask me who they dont just go after the pendent though....or maybe only the real princess can use the pendent?
I'd be surprised if it's something like that. I think the Blue Sky Sapphire is purely an Otome thing, and not related to Wind Bloom. Basically, Pearls who graduate to Meisters are given a Meister name (such as Blue Sky Sapphire) and then decide upon a master. Mai got her "Flame String Ruby" name before being chosen for a Pillar - ie before she could get a master. So likewise, Rena should have gotten the "Blue Sky Sapphire" name before making a contract with the king of Wind Bloom.
Though this does beg the question as to why the Blue Sky Sapphire seems so special. Do other Meisters have pendants? Or has the "Blue Sky Sapphire" pendant become associated with the "Blue Sky Sapphire" Meister and can actually be separate?
scribbly
2006-01-20, 09:26
Though this does beg the question as to why the Blue Sky Sapphire seems so special. Do other Meisters have pendants? Or has the "Blue Sky Sapphire" pendant become associated with the "Blue Sky Sapphire" Meister and can actually be separate?
Not to respond to that thought much... but to note that when Arika was looking at the painting of Rena and the King... Rena was (of course) sporting the gem in her earing and the king was wearing the pendant. I have since been wondering at the significance of this.
Sometimes it feels like otome has created SO many threads of plot that just dangle ... it's becoming unsatisfactory... I want SOMETHING to get tied up.
Tremalkinger
2006-01-20, 10:09
And... wow. There NOTHING of interest in the preview for next episode. It's literally a single scene where nothing happens but Arika, Nina and Erstin talking.
This is a really good sign. I think that next episode is going to lead in with a huge change.
And... the spoilers for Episode 15 said that Sergey learned who the real princess was. Did I just miss that part?
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 10:36
Not to respond to that thought much... but to note that when Arika was looking at the painting of Rena and the King... Rena was (of course) sporting the gem in her earing and the king was wearing the pendant. I have since been wondering at the significance of this.
I can't see anything showing the King has the Blue Sky Sapphire. Some kinda pendant, but that's normal for kings. No closeups of king shown so no way to be certain, but you'd think Arika would have noticed a big blue pendant if she spotted a little blue earring...
And... wow. There NOTHING of interest in the preview for next episode. It's literally a single scene where nothing happens but Arika, Nina and Erstin talking.
This is a really good sign. I think that next episode is going to lead in with a huge change.
And... the spoilers for Episode 15 said that Sergey learned who the real princess was. Did I just miss that part?
He was told in ep. 14 that the person holding the blue sky sapphire is the real princess... How did you miss that? :heh: Or maybe I'm just not understanding the question...
Anyway, about the scene where Sergay is thinking about the whole deal with Arika... (Just after Nina is there to see him but is told he's away or something) I'm really interested in what it is he's saying. As far as I understand, it's something along the lines: "why do I have these kind of feeling for that girl... she's just Nina's age, and she's related/not related that person, Rena." Yeah... I don't understand if he says she is or is not related. Not related would make more sense of course, since he should now "know" that she's the real princess. And yet it seems like he's thinkning about reasons not to get involved with Arika, and I don't see how her not being the daughter of his old crush makes a relationship less moral... So, would anyone with better skills in japanese please enlighten me? It would be really interesting if he still thought she's Rena's daughter, since that would mean he's not trusting that old woman... But, yeah. He probably just mentions they're not related for some reason.
Tremalkinger
2006-01-20, 11:26
He was told in ep. 14 that the person holding the blue sky sapphire is the real princess... How did you miss that? :heh: Or maybe I'm just not understanding the question...
No no... I just confused myself temporarily. You're right.
What I meant to ask was did he figure out who Rena's daughter is (who has equalled princess to my mind for most of the series... but it appears that was wrong, hence my stupidly worded question).
But of course... the spoiler didn't say he'd figure that out... only who the princess is. So... yeah. Everything is fine.
I wonder what scenario would become if Nina had found out that Sergey and Arika almost smooch?
Ideas anyone?
http://media.urbandictionary.com/image/large/mushroomcloud-37024.jpg
There's no doubt in anyone's mind that Sergey's The Playa to end all Playas. However I have to agree that "North Hound" is not related to that. Seems like a mercenary or assassin's name.
BTW, did anyone notice the Alyssa-chan-look-a-like street urchin crying over the old woman's death? How much anyone want to bet this little street urchin is either Rena's daughter or the real princess?
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 12:02
http://media.urbandictionary.com/image/large/mushroomcloud-37024.jpg
There's no doubt in anyone's mind that Sergey's The Playa to end all Playas. However I have to agree that "North Hound" is not related to that. Seems like a mercenary or assassin's name.
BTW, did anyone notice the Alyssa-chan-look-a-like street urchin crying over the old woman's death? How much anyone want to bet this little street urchin is either Rena's daughter or the real princess?
Not old enough.
As soon as I saw that little street urchin I said to myself, I’ve seen this person before!
Backtracking through the Mai Hime series I found what I was looking for in EP#15 where Alyissa was first revealed as a searrs valkyrie. The resemblance is uncanny. Whether or not it means anything or not is anybody’s guess.
On a side note.
I just recently visited the official website and noticed that Arikas amulet actually has three sapphire gems in it. Two in the front and one in the back. Is it possible for one master to have two Otomes at the same time? If not how would the third gem be used and by whom? My first guess would be Nina but the way this series twists and turns it could be anybody.
One more question.
I know the old lady was already dying but what are the possibilities that Sergey sort of speed things up?
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 12:38
As soon as I saw that little street urchin I said to myself, I’ve seen this person before!
Backtracking through the Mai Hime series I found what I was looking for in EP#15 where Alyissa was first revealed as a searrs valkyrie. The resemblance is uncanny. Whether or not it means anything or not is anybody’s guess.
We already had a discussion on this back in Ep10 when the little girl stole Nina's lockett.
On a side note.
I just recently visited the official website and noticed that Arikas amulet actually has three sapphire gems in it. Two in the front and one in the back. Is it possible for one master to have two Otomes at the same time? If not how would the third gem be used and by whom? My first guess would be Nina but the way this series twists and turns it could be anybody.
I think the thrid gem was actually one the two gem seen in a different angel. There is only two gems in the Amulet.
One more question.
I know the old lady was already dying but what are the possibilities that Sergey sort of speed things up?
Doubt it, Sergy doesn't seem like the type.
Althought can someone post what the old lady said to Sergy at the beginning of Ep15. I think She said someting regarding Rena.
I think the thrid gem was actually on ehte two gem seen in a different angel. There is only two gems in the Amulet.
If you look carefully it's easy to tell that what you're looking at is the back side of the locket in a 3/4 view and not the front. It's also confirmed by showing three gems instead of just two.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 12:55
I think the thrid gem was actually one the two gem seen in a different angel. There is only two gems in the Amulet.
If you look carefully it's easy to tell that what you're looking at is the back side of the locket in a 3/4 view and not the front. It's also confirmed by showing three gems instead of just two.
Got a link or a screen shot you can post?
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 12:58
Got a link or a screen shot you can post?
I think Ronbo means this:
http://www.my-zhime.net/character/img/btn_p_arika3.gif
Source:
http://www.my-zhime.net/character/index.html
http://www.my-zhime.net/character/index.html
Hope this helps.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 13:04
I think Ronbo means this:
http://www.my-zhime.net/character/img/btn_p_arika3.gif
Source:
http://www.my-zhime.net/character/index.html
i remeber this now, we definely had a lot of discussion on this before it was lost. I do think it is just showing the gem and the Amulet in different angels. However unless it was just a mistake by sunrise the sideview of the amulet doesn't match that of the front of the Amulet.
So if A. it is mistake by the artist then theres is only two gems.
If B. then theres 3 gems and that fit in with the requiremnt of three for Harmuium. So the third gem is probalby for Nina at a later date.
SoldierOfDarkness
2006-01-20, 13:38
I doubt it's a mistake, has to be a pretty big blunder on their part.
Two gems are shown lying down with one with a bird's eye view. If it was just two they would show one lying down, the other with the top view, not two lying down.
Tempest35
2006-01-20, 15:06
Feh, Sergay, Sergay...*shakes my head* Just go kill someone, you'll be back to normal in no time. :D
'North Hound' is definitely a military name. I can't imagine a 16-17 year old girl calling a guy 'North Hound' to mean that he's good in bed. 0_o; Now if he got that moniker later in the Atrai Army, and the girls are calling him 'North Hound', then that's another story.
So now Arika's passed off her angst over to Sergay, Mashiro and Arika talk and cry out their 'man problems' so to speak, Nao is patrolling the streets and cleaning out the 'trash', Chie and Aoi are 'dating' (ooooohh~) and Natsuki has furballs due to Mikoto's body-to-face. I'm curious as to how everyone will discover that it's been Tomoe all along who's been out to get Arika.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 15:16
Anyone else think it is likely that it will be Miya who will give Tomeo her just deserts :eyebrow:
It would be fitting that it will be Miya who will give Tomeo her coup de grace.
Vallen Chaos Valiant
2006-01-20, 15:33
Anyone else think it is likely that it will be Miya who will give Tomeo her just deserts :eyebrow:
It would be fitting that it will be Miya who will give Tomeo her coup de grace.
Since I don't believe (personally) that Miya followed Tomoe out of blackmail, but rather out of romantic love that was abused/taken advantaged of, I think it won't be the last we've seen of Miya.
If it was love that made Miya follow Tomoe's bidding, then it is all too easy for her to now twist the love into hatred. And who could blame her if that's the case?:(
It's always the quiet, apparently obedient ones who would be the first to snap when pushed to the edge. After all, what is there for her to lose now except her life? It would be a small price to pay, if only it mean she could be freed from her doomed feelings with the wrong person...
Anyway, it's just my opinion. I like angst, so I tend to dream up the angstiest possible scenario...:heh:
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 15:41
Since I don't believe (personally) that Miya followed Tomoe out of blackmail, but rather out of romantic love that was abused/taken advantaged of, I think it won't be the last we've seen of Miya.
If it was love that made Miya follow Tomoe's bidding, then it is all too easy for her to now twist the love into hatred. And who could blame her if that's the case?:(
It's always the quiet, apparently obedient ones who would be the first to snap when pushed to the edge. After all, what is there for her to lose now except her life? It would be a small price to pay, if only it mean she could be freed from her doomed feelings with the wrong person...
Anyway, it's just my opinion. I like angst, so I tend to dream up the angstiest possible scenario...:heh:
Kinda like stephen King, Miya finds Tomeo after she beaten in a fight, bring her home. nurse her back to health then Cuts her arms and legs off so Tomeo is now all hers :heh:
The problem with some - and I'm tired of reading all that negativism - is that because SUNRISE decided to recast their characters, many seem to be of the illusion that Mai-Otome must have a similar impact to Mai-HiME!
I could quote names, but I won't. All I will say is this: How many time have you all been told that it is best not to expect a correlation between Mai-HiME and Mai-Otome? Because doing so sets you up for disappointment. So, it's your own bloody fault that you're disappointed and can't enjoy the show for what it is.
Clear yourselves first of all those pre-expectations. Only then can you appreciate the series for what it is.
Personally, I've seen Mai-HiME and loved it to pieces. But on an altogether different level, Mai-Otome has been created with just the same sophistication and expertise, but applied differently. Although there is less killing and destruction, and righteously so (for one of America's diseases is their demand for it), it has more depth, sub-plots, and character development. The latter gives the producer the opportunity for a much greater impact.
And this series does not have the option of a reset. Stop talking about it. It's better removing the characters from the scene without killing them. Or would you rather see them dead? Because if that is so, you should look at yourself in the mirror and see just what kind of monster you've become.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 16:41
And this series does not have the option of a reset. Stop talking about it. It's better removing the characters from the scene without killing them. Or would you rather see them dead? Because if that is so, you should look at yourself in the mirror and see just what kind of monster you've become.
Last time i look, i was the most dementaed and blood crazy monster of all.
A Regular Human Being :eyebrow:
Ok, best episode in ages. I was in a really bad mood, burning headache, off work, no patience for anything, didnt want to watch the episode, but I did, and, well, apart from feeling crap, that really brightened up my mood. Excellent episode. I can't stress that enough. It might even have rekindled my liking of this series after the collection of unfortunate events that happened two weeks ago killed my interest in basically everything. I've got lots to cover, before I forget it all..
First off, in no particular order, I spotted a media technique in the Sergei and Arika scene. The blue star is linked to Arika, which is in turn linked to the blue sapphire. Frames are not positioned like that for no reason. They were one after the other, in similar, close-up shots, linking them together. For what ultimate purpose, I cannot say, but it is safe to assume the star has something to do with the sapphire, which in turn Arika is involved with.
Secondly, I am about to relinquish my claim that Erstin was involved in setting up Arika. It looked very unlikely and her reactions to Arika returning did not give anything away and looked reliable. Before I totally set aside this point, I wish to see a fansub.
So, Sergei had to look up to and knew Nagi from a young age? Interesting.
Arika slapped Sergei? Excellent, excellent news. What was he saying to get at her so much?
Was I the only one that thought Nina's reaction to Arika returning was at the least cute? Heh..
When I saw that object in Natsuki's bed the first thing that came to me was a picture frame. On second look I realised it was no such thing. (Shame, if it was a photo frame, and the photo had been of it-doesn't-take-a-genius-to-work out-who..). Alarm clock seems a very feasible idea. Though I'm not sure it looked like anything in particular.
Preview for next episode looked good, but I think I've said that to every preview. This time I mean good. Looks like some further development of Nina, Arika and Erstin's characters as a group. Hmm, when was that new OP due again?
Wonderful, wonderful,
I can't understand much Japanese, but could make out several things: Sergey's protecting Arika. If he was to encourage her love then Nagi might think that she'd be the real princess. So he insulted her pride as an otome, and her 'supposed' mother. Hence the slap on his face. Sorry, Sergey, I know you're only trying to help Arika; it's better that she thinks you're a jerk! It's essential that Nagi not find out about her real status. You probably even killed the old woman, didn't you? The saphire truly is linked to the star. Probably the source of the pendant's power. Hence it's name, Blue Saphire of Heaven. (I've never mentioned this before, but it've been suspecting this since episode 7.) The harmonium is connected to it too somehow. My comment on your past comment w.r.t. Erstin stands. It'd possible, but not probable. However, I will not dismiss it as a mere speculation, but think that you're reading more into it than you should. I will not say you're wrong, nor will I say that I am completely right. Evidence does not back either of us up; the conclusions we made are based in inference. And this is what SUNRISE may have wanted. You may have just caught on to one of their subplots in pre-development. Time will tell what will happen. But don't be too disappointed if SUNRISE doesn't take advantage of the opportunity that you've detected. When I was hoping that Arika's 'heart pounding and issues' were that of the nanoprobes, I was a little disappointed when SUNRISE took the 'love theory' and went with it rather than the technological one. The latter would've intrigued me more. It's interesting what first comes to mind when we see such an object sitting on the bed. I thought of several things, and not all of them are repeatable, before I realized what it was. Too funny :)
Looks like the commemorative battle has already begun. Is Arika battling Nina, because I couldn't make out her face. Tomoe seemed pissed off, though, and serves her right. At first I hoped that Tomoe would be battling with Arika. I would've liked to have seen Arika beat Tomoe. Oh, that would've been great.
But Nina and Arika? Well, I know that's what the preview says, but just when they become better friends? I hope Nao never tells Nina about seeing Arika with Sergey. Because Nina will get angry before Arika can explain.
Last time i look, i was the most dementaed and blood crazy monster of all.
A Regular Human Being :eyebrow:
Sorry for the disappointment, but you don't fit that description.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 17:32
Really?
Then please name another type of monster out there beisdes Humans that has delibrately killed more human beings.
"North Hound" does refer to Sergey's bedside manners, its obviously a reference to a certain position ;)
Last time i look, i was the most dementaed and blood crazy monster of all.
A Regular Human Being :eyebrow:
Sorry for the disappointment, but you don't fit that description.Really?
Then please name another type of monster out there beisdes Humans that has delibrately killed more human beings.
You're not actually serious, are you? Because this is :topicoff:
But before I sign off, I will say just one thing. Although we're all human, not everyone's nature is the same. Some are as angelic in nature as others are demonic.
Try not to put everyone in the same kettle and call it black.
I think Ronbo means this:
http://www.my-zhime.net/character/img/btn_p_arika3.gifThat is quite obviosly the same object as seen from differnt angles, that's what those pictures are for, they're profiles. We know there's two gems that look exactly the same, so they just show the one model from three angles.
That is quite obviosly the same object as seen from differnt angles, that's what those pictures are for, they're profiles. We know there's two gems that look exactly the same, so they just show the one model from three angles.
I agree. That third gem looks like a bottom-up angle and is not another side angle. And it's interesting to note that Meister Arika has 4 of those tail/flying thingies instead of 2. Or actually, is she the only Meister to have those tail thingies? It's like it's a mix between a Coral and a Meister costume.
Xellos-_^
2006-01-20, 18:15
That is quite obviosly the same object as seen from differnt angles, that's what those pictures are for, they're profiles. We know there's two gems that look exactly the same, so they just show the one model from three angles.
If you look at the amulet again you will realize that the direction the showing it on sideway does not fit how it is presented at front. It is the reverse actually, what is shown as the front of the amulet with the side viewing is the actually the back of the amulet.
kari-no-sugata
2006-01-20, 18:17
Looks like the commemorative battle has already begun. Is Arika battling Nina, because I couldn't make out her face. Tomoe seemed pissed off, though, and serves her right. At first I hoped that Tomoe would be battling with Arika. I would've liked to have seen Arika beat Tomoe. Oh, that would've been great.
It's the selection tournament for the commemorative battle. The "final" with the remaining two is the actual battle.
What Arika is in is "round 1" of the selection tournament. That's not Nina she's fighting - you can see her on the benches...
Anyway, at last we'll get to see how Arika stacks up against the other Corals.
Spectrum
2006-01-20, 18:36
Kinda like stephen King, Miya finds Tomeo after she beaten in a fight, bring her home. nurse her back to health then Cuts her arms and legs off so Tomeo is now all hers :heh:
This was sexy until the last few words.
-_-
Takemi_Ikazuchi
2006-01-20, 22:02
From that picture it is clear that there are 3 sapphire gems, two pendants and two Arikas.
Brilliant find!
I'd be surprised if it's something like that. I think the Blue Sky Sapphire is purely an Otome thing, and not related to Wind Bloom. Basically, Pearls who graduate to Meisters are given a Meister name (such as Blue Sky Sapphire) and then decide upon a master. Mai got her "Flame String Ruby" name before being chosen for a Pillar - ie before she could get a master. So likewise, Rena should have gotten the "Blue Sky Sapphire" name before making a contract with the king of Wind Bloom.
Though this does beg the question as to why the Blue Sky Sapphire seems so special. Do other Meisters have pendants? Or has the "Blue Sky Sapphire" pendant become associated with the "Blue Sky Sapphire" Meister and can actually be separate?
Well, I kinda doubt the pendent is just an Otome thing. We've only seen/heard of 1 pendent existing in MO, and thats the one Arika has. Yes, there was the title that Mai received, but it didnt mention anything about a pendent either. Shizuru/Natsuki/the teacher(name escapes me, Sister in MH) all didnt seem to have a pendent.
Also, dring the Akane's meister ceremony, only the gems (ring, with Akane wearing the earring) was presented, surely something as important as the "storage" of gems, the pendent, would be presented as well?
Not forgetting that the color of the pendent is the same as that of the blue star.
This was sexy until the last few words.
-_-
Perhaps you can remove the cutting of limbs, and replace with....
Tie her to a chair/bed with robes? Oh no, that doesn't sound right...:heh:
From that picture it is clear that there are 3 sapphire gems, two pendants and two Arikas.
Brilliant find!
INFORM THE INTERNETS! The poster knows too much!
From that picture it is clear that there are 3 sapphire gems, two pendants and two Arikas.
Brilliant find!
rofl...
Its Arika, front and back view in meister gear.
The gems part is a little confusing for me....if they wanted to show the different angle/views of the gems, why 1 top view and 2 side views?
1 side view of each gem and 1 top view that represents both.
This ep was very interesting. Up until now, we've seen the ultra nice, totally clueless Arika. Although I found her mooning over Sergay hard to take (fast forwarded RIGHT through it), her slapping him was a shock. It seemed out of character for her but considering what he said, I would've done the same thing. I know he did it for a reason and that makes it admirable. He could have easily taken advantage of her but he took the high road instead. This could cause some big trouble for him with his denka when the proverbial manure hits the wind producing unit.
Nina just endears me to her the more her frosty shell starts to melt. And the Arika/Mashiro bonding moment cracked me up :heh: I hope Arika kicks Tomoe's ass in the most embarrassing fashion. That wench needs a smackdown and if Arika doesn't deliver it, methinks Chie just might. I love Chie this time around....she's always been on the ball but she seems more ominous this time...must be her Otome power that makes her more of a stronger character than in Mai HiME.
This ep was entertaining but....only maybe three stars for me.
1 side view of each gem and 1 top view that represents both.
Actually only the top and side views need be shown to fully illustrate the gems whether it be for one or many. For some reason they felt it necessary to show us three gemstones.
It’s quite clear that the back view is a mirror image of the front and not just the front view at a different angle.
Aside from the previous two reasons for this view showing a third gem I offer a third.
Since the jewel is transparent what we may be seeing in the angled view from the back is merely the same gem that resides in the upper left as seen from the front. Since the view is not complete we do not see the second one.
It will be interesting to see later if there really is a third gem in there.
Perhaps the 3rd gem resides in Nina's cold, black heart... The girl has nothing but jet-black liquid hate running through her veins.
Akuma-sama
2006-01-21, 02:22
Perhaps the 3rd gem resides in Nina's cold, black heart... The girl has nothing but jet-black liquid hate running through her veins.
:twitch:
...er... no she doesn't, she's actually quite warm and friendly (in her own way) once you get past her walls :heh:
And two Souten no Seigyokus? That's a scary thought... Poor Mashiro ends up bonded to 2 Otomes, twice the chance of being offed XD
Well, as long as Nina's Souten Robe isn't pink...
I'M SORRY! It's the Everclear talking...
I'M SORRY! It's the Everclear talking...
Quoted from another thread:
Heh, Starks, go to bed before you hurt yourself.
:heh:
Well, as long as Nina's Souten Robe isn't pink...
You'll never know...;)
On-topic:
Ronbo has a point. If you need to show the top and side view of the gems, just 1 side-view is needed. rather, if you want to show that there are 2 gems, why not have 2 side and top views at the same time? 1 top and 2 sides seem weird to me.
At least it gives hope to Nina getting a meister gem.:D
I hope we can bypass the whole "hidden foe until the very end" thing... Kokuyou no Kimi kinda sucked...
With Otome, I EXPECT TO SEE A FINAL BATTLE BETWEEN NINA AND IRINA!
I hope we can bypass the whole "hidden foe until the very end" thing... Kokuyou no Kimi kinda sucked...
With Otome, I EXPECT TO SEE A FINAL BATTLE BETWEEN NINA AND IRINA!
We haven't even seen Irina fighting in her coral suit yet...:(
青き星 標となりて 我と我が愛しき姫を導かん
千の星 万の夜を渡り 来たるべき黄金の未来へと
ougon no mirai? sounds like there's some Searrs' links here.
Naked Fish
2006-01-21, 07:59
The problem with some - and I'm tired of reading all that negativism - is that because SUNRISE decided to recast their characters, many seem to be of the illusion that Mai-Otome must have a similar impact to Mai-HiME!
I could quote names, but I won't. All I will say is this: How many time have you all been told that it is best not to expect a correlation between Mai-HiME and Mai-Otome? Because doing so sets you up for disappointment. So, it's your own bloody fault that you're disappointed and can't enjoy the show for what it is.
Clear yourselves first of all those pre-expectations. Only then can you appreciate the series for what it is.
Personally, I've seen Mai-HiME and loved it to pieces. But on an altogether different level, Mai-Otome has been created with just the same sophistication and expertise, but applied differently. Although there is less killing and destruction, and righteously so (for one of America's diseases is their demand for it), it has more depth, sub-plots, and character development. The latter gives the producer the opportunity for a much greater impact.
And this series does not have the option of a reset. Stop talking about it. It's better removing the characters from the scene without killing them. Or would you rather see them dead? Because if that is so, you should look at yourself in the mirror and see just what kind of monster you've become.
I won't deny that I'm negative. I'm a semi-tough critic. There is more positive reviews than negatives around here, so you must get tired real quick when reading opinions that you disagree with. I'm not tired of reading positive posts, otherwise it'd just be 'bad bad bad' in here. But just like we need people here to point out the positives of the show, there have to people that find and voice negative points in a show. I don't do well posting positive, it just ends up as "This episode is really good. I liked it because it was good." I suck at complimenting shows unless there are scenes that just scream "BRILLIANT".
I don't post at all when I find it good, more than enough people do that for me.
I do post when I find something extremely annoying and nobody else has posted it, then I'm actually contributing something to a discussion more than speculation, although I like speculation just as much.
So, at my count I have posted about 5 negative posts here, and not too many others have done the same. So really, have you been reading much of the forum? Because most things here are positive.
We believe it should have a similar impact as MH because it is the sequel to it. When a sequel is announced, you hope that it is as good as the original or at least fairly close to it. How is it our own fault for being dissapointed? That we expected a really good show, after it was announced as a sequel for a really good show, and using many old characters from a really good show, is it our fault that we don't believe that Otome is a really good show? When Sunrise tells me not to expect a good show, then I won't. Not because some other fans think I should take a show for slightly worse.
I'm not American. Never been there, don't even have relatives there, so I don't care if its a disease or whatever you'd like to call it there. I don't believe it has more depth than Mai HiME, which wasn't planned as well as it should have been but pulled it off nevertheless.
I haven't talked about a reset or even thought about it so I assume you're not talking about me in that respect, but 'removing the character from the scene' is boring. I don't want there to be a big fight and the loser just being 'removed' at the end. What fun is that? They can die. It's anime, not some real people from Japan filmed with a strange camera. Why are you so worked up over anybody being entertained by violence? Regular people are entertained by it. So, with your logic, any single one of us who would like to see a character in Otome die in the coming episodes, is a monster.
Yes, these average people who work their jobs and come home to families and would prefer seeing a character in MO die in the near future, are absolute monsters.
There's no need to get personal with anyone here. It's a discussion. Nothing I said incited you calling me a monster, nor did anything anybody else said. My apologies for being entertained by such a 'monstrous' thing.
I do post when I find something extremely annoying and nobody else has posted it, then I'm actually contributing something to a discussion more than speculation, although I like speculation just as much.
Actually, people do complain about the things you have. Especially for the past few episodes. Unless I missed what you have posted?
So, at my count I have posted about 5 negative posts here, and not too many others have done the same. So really, have you been reading much of the forum? Because most things here are positive.
Yes and no. Like I said, it was pretty much 30-50% negetive comments ever since the whole (ArikaXSergey crush) thing started.
We believe it should have a similar impact as MH because it is the sequel to it. When a sequel is announced, you hope that it is as good as the original or at least fairly close to it.
The thing is, MO is only a "indirect" sequel as of now. The only possible link it has to MH is Miyu, and the usage of "Mai" in its title.
Other than that, all the characters are reused (except or Tate, who seem to be replaced by Sergey.). Most keep their personalities, except Mashiro.
I'm not American. Never been there, don't even have relatives there, so I don't care if its a disease or whatever you'd like to call it there.
Off-topic: neither am I.
I don't believe it has more depth than Mai HiME, which wasn't planned as well as it should have been but pulled it off nevertheless.
Personally, I wonder if this point can be counted or not. Well planned in what aspect? Perhaps because the "main plot" isn't in line yet, so thats what you dislike about the series?
Regular people are entertained by it. So, with your logic, any single one of us who would like to see a character in Otome die in the coming episodes, is a monster.
Actually, I think the fustration might not be from the MH/MO subforums, rather in general.
Especially for titles such as Naruto and Bleach, people aren't dying enough (which to a certain extend, I agree). Its just that, being shounen titles, its pretty much impossible to expect good guys to die. Even if they did, they'd eventually get revived one way or the other.
A recommandation: watch Hell Girl(japanese name escapes me for now). People go to hell(for good, in the permanent sense) every episode if you truely enjoy seeing people "die".
So, it's your own bloody fault that you're disappointed and can't enjoy the show for what it is.
Oh, how I love such statements! So, it's only my fault that I am disappointed? Surely then you'd agree that if am to say that it's only your fault you are satisfied with the series it would be just as true (or just as wrong if you ask me?) :). I don't even expect anything good from Otome anymore matching HiME the least of all.
Although there is less killing and destruction, and righteously so (for one of America's diseases is their demand for it), it has more depth, sub-plots, and character development.The latter gives the producer the opportunity for a much greater impact.
Well, excuse me for not seeing the great character development you seem to notice in Otome. And I have said before that I love the first half of HiME which didn't have that much death and destruction. Unless the show changes very drastically, the only great impact that Otome might achieve as far as I am concerned would be the tears of joy if Arika is killed or at least removed from the show. And that's as likely to happen as hell freezing over. Moreover, even if the second half is awesome that won't make the first one any less boring.
And this series does not have the option of a reset. Stop talking about it. It's better removing the characters from the scene without killing them. Or would you rather see them dead? Because if that is so, you should look at yourself in the mirror and see just what kind of monster you've become.
We can't be sure that there is no option for reset until we see the ending. And yes, I openly admit that I want to see some characters dead. You can call me a monster if that makes you happy. Maybe it's just me but a war with no important characters dying would make the series even worse than it's now. BTW, why don't you call all people calling for Tomoe's death monsters, too? Or it's OK if it's not about characters that you happen to like?
So, just enjoy the series and don't bother forcing your views down the "haters'" throats, it's just pointless. :)
A recommandation: watch Hell Girl(japanese name escapes me for now). People go to hell(for good, in the permanent sense) every episode if you truely enjoy seeing people "die".
Jigoku Shoujo? :)
I never got the impression that Nekkid Fish wanted death just for the sake of wanting death; just to add something to what this show ''seemingly'' was centralising around. I've actually found the most profound moment of the series being the graves scene, but until some of the dangers are literally shown, then it has the danger of becoming a little 'tepid'.
I too have been a bit disgruntled with the series as of late, but I'm going avoid posting my thoughts until I've seen the lovely sub. (I also think it's best everyone takes a moment to relax) I think ultimately though, a lot of the ''haters'' are those with a high expectation of a 'real' pseudo-sequel, with Arika merely being the 'eyes' to see it unfold. But I'm not sure Otome is really that - or at least it hasn't been so far, which is fair enough, it depends on what you expect from the show. That we've all hyped ourselves up for the ep 17 'turn' though, I'm becoming a bit unsure of whether that ''will'' happen either (i.e. the potential epic participation and dissolution). But anyway.
Jigoku Shoujo? :)
Yep.:heh: Im a sucker at pure japanese-anime-names.
I never got the impression that Nekkid Fish wanted death just for the sake of wanting death; just to add something to what this show ''seemingly'' was centralising around. I've actually found the most profound moment of the series being the graves scene, but until some of the dangers are literally shown, then it has the danger of becoming a little 'tepid'.
Well, I suppose so. Its just that so far, the series didnt present the same "die!" feel like that from MH, due to:
1) Otomes being a "school" thing, while Himes were the "few chosen ones".
2) Lack of a psychotic(not really, more like, um, heartless) android (Miyu). Yes, Miyu is present, but she is "seemingly" on the "good side" now.
MH started out as a "monster of the week" type of anime, while MO was, um, different. MO was more towards the "political aspects" as well as many subplots to drive its story. Intentions of Nagi/John Smith(I feel weird typing my own first name:heh: ), Midori's goal(apparently restoring lost technology), and the "jealous little Tomoe". MH was definately more straight foward, especially since episode 9. The problem would be that MO is being compared, while its format is different.
MH = Himes fighting Orphans, later directly becoming fighting each other, and finally fighting the "boss".
MO = Otomes trained in a school, seemingly "in-the-shadows" intentions of the "baddies groups" like Aswald and Schwarts, and emotional development of main character(Arika).
You dont see little mysteries like "who is the real queen of WindBloom" and "who is Rena's daughter" kind of stuff in MH. At the most, "who is Nagi working for", who we now know to be the OL.
cant say i understood everything without subs but ther is one thing i want to know is it just me or chie catch did nao trying to drag those guys down the canal behind her boat?
also does anyone think that the ep 16 preview is focusing a little to much on erstin?
perhaps its just me but its giving off some bad vibes.
also t0o STARKS, your avatar is quite disturbing.
Erstin is being portrayed stereotypically as being meek and caring. In past series of this type these characters almost always end up in either one of two ways. Evil or dead!
the preview seems to say dead erstin to me, it seems to show her happy with her friends, which is just the kind of stuff they show just before killing a character
Akuma-sama
2006-01-21, 12:26
also t0o STARKS, your avatar is quite disturbing.
What, it's just a guy humping his own body... :heh:
Tempest35
2006-01-21, 14:17
This ep was very interesting. Up until now, we've seen the ultra nice, totally clueless Arika. Although I found her mooning over Sergay hard to take (fast forwarded RIGHT through it), her slapping him was a shock. It seemed out of character for her but considering what he said, I would've done the same thing. I know he did it for a reason and that makes it admirable. He could have easily taken advantage of her but he took the high road instead. This could cause some big trouble for him with his denka when the proverbial manure hits the wind producing unit.
Nina just endears me to her the more her frosty shell starts to melt. And the Arika/Mashiro bonding moment cracked me up :heh: I hope Arika kicks Tomoe's ass in the most embarrassing fashion. That wench needs a smackdown and if Arika doesn't deliver it, methinks Chie just might. I love Chie this time around....she's always been on the ball but she seems more ominous this time...must be her Otome power that makes her more of a stronger character than in Mai HiME.
Chie should be #1 Pearl - as much as I like Nao, I can't see her as being a 'role model' student. :heh: Still, to have Chie unleash on Tomoe would be a waste of her potential - I think that either Nina or Arika should be the ones to serve out justice. Now Chie holding her own against an Aswald, now THAT's better, in my opinion. ^^
As for Sergay, I sincerely applaud him. I would have said things differently though but hey... Now I'm curious as to how both Nina AND Arika are going to react to Sergay's sponsorship. Nina's gonna have a time limit because Arika might have a few whacks to give him in return for disgracing her mother's memory when he knew about her all along (and for breaking her heart too ^^).
Souten no Seigyoku
2006-01-21, 17:48
1st post :D
I dont think MO will have a lot of action. I dare say we'll be lucky if we get 6 action packed episodes.
episode timeline hypothesis:
ep16- the beginning of the battling part of the exam. Arika loses and stays as coral. More plotting/scheming by nagi, carthyia (sp?), aswald, etc
ep17- Exam continues while countries and other factions continue positioning themselves for the inevitable. Galderode keeps a watchful eye on situation.
ep18- Exam takes backseat while Nagi & co take center stage. Near end of episode Nagi (or someone else) makes their move. Continued Arika/Mashiro friendship development
ep19- Crap starts hitting the fan. Exam cancelled. Skirmishes occur. Everyone makes their moves. Galderobe tries to intervene. Mashiro accepts Arika as her Otome & vice versa.
ep20- Galderobe tries to play peacemaker, but fails and the crap really hits the fan. All out war breaks out.
Eps 21-26- The Mashiro-Arika master/otome relationship openly revealed. Action packed 4-5 episodes, aftermath. End credits
Thats if we're lucky. Its possible there are less action packed episodes. They might even defer to an ova... :frustrated:
Xellos-_^
2006-01-21, 19:07
1st post :D
I dont think MO will have a lot of action. I dare say we'll be lucky if we get 6 action packed episodes.
episode timeline hypothesis:
ep16- the beginning of the battling part of the exam. Arika loses and stays as coral. More plotting/scheming by nagi, carthyia (sp?), aswald, etc
ep17- Exam continues while countries and other factions continue positioning themselves for the inevitable. Galderode keeps a watchful eye on situation.
ep18- Exam takes backseat while Nagi & co take center stage. Near end of episode Nagi (or someone else) makes their move. Continued Arika/Mashiro friendship development
ep19- Crap starts hitting the fan. Exam cancelled. Skirmishes occur. Everyone makes their moves. Galderobe tries to intervene. Mashiro accepts Arika as her Otome & vice versa.
ep20- Galderobe tries to play peacemaker, but fails and the crap really hits the fan. All out war breaks out.
Eps 21-26- The Mashiro-Arika master/otome relationship openly revealed. Action packed 4-5 episodes, aftermath. End credits
Thats if we're lucky. Its possible there are less action packed episodes. They might even defer to an ova... :frustrated:
I guess you have been tot he future Ep spoiler thread lately.
episode timeline hypothesis:
Besides the fact they you need to include spoiler tags...
ep16- the beginning of the battling part of the exam. Arika loses and stays as coral. More plotting/scheming by nagi, carthyia (sp?), aswald, etc
huh? I remember reading that Arika WON, not lost. Or is that just your interpretation?
Souten no Seigyoku
2006-01-21, 20:18
was that a real comment or sarcasm? That was my 1st post. Im just making assumptions based on the fact that we've barely had any action at all
Action:
ep1- 1st slave appears. Slave vs Nina & later slave vs The Graceful Amethyst Shizuru Meister Shizuru Viola. Good sized fight.
ep3- Arika vs Nina. Rado vs Shizuru. small fight.
Fast forward to ep6- Pool Monster vs Nao. decent size, but really now....
Episode 7: Best fight of the series and my fav ep. They should have more of these fights and Arika in her meister robe, but over 7eps later...nothing.
ep9- minor fight. Arika vs Aswald member. Not really a fight...
ep10- Midori vs Haruka & Shizuru. Decent fight.
Fast Forward ep13- Akane vs Slave .v2 (3min long fight). Massive otome fight fakeout
ep14- massive meister otome fight tease/fakeout/bait n switch.
Out of those 6-ish fights there are like 3 good ones. The rest: Crap. Crap I say! The character development is great and all, but they have been rationing out the action scenes. So unless they start soon, its going to be too late.
was that a real comment or sarcasm? That was my 1st post. Im just making assumptions based on the fact that we've barely had any action at all
Real comment. Because:
A) from the episode "summary" you listed, I presume that you went and read the future episodes threads.
b) From that thread (future episode synophis(sp?), it was said that:
Arika won the fight
Lastly, even if its just your "predicton", can you put spoiler tags around it? This thread is only for episode 15, not 16,17,18,19, 20-26.
Almost it looks like we will have 13 eps addon... ^^ to final number of 39... No way I can imagine now the series is going to end in 10 eps...
Souten no Seigyoku
2006-01-21, 20:37
Real comment. Because:
A) from the episode "summary" you listed, I presume that you went and read the future episodes threads.
b) From that thread (future episode synophis(sp?), it was said that:
Arika won the fight
Lastly, even if its just your "predicton", can you put spoiler tags around it? This thread is only for episode 15, not 16,17,18,19, 20-26.
Oh no its not spoiler. I havent read any manga nor do i have info on future episodes. Im just making assumptions based on past events. I will put spoiler tags in the future if its required.
I guess I could've just said "Seeing as the series hasnt had much action so far, I doubt theyll get into serious action/fighting til the last 4-6 episodes (if we're lucky)." There. Thats better.
Oh no its not spoiler. I havent read any manga nor do i have info on future episodes. Im just making assumptions based on past events. I will put spoiler tags in the future if its required.
I guess I could've just said "Seeing as the series hasnt had much action so far, I doubt theyll get into serious action/fighting til the last 4-6 episodes (if we're lucky)." There. Thats better.
Well, just a word of caution:
The last time I put up my "assumption", this:
The school settings in Bleach would make for pretty decent fillers
Ended up in:
You have been banned 3 days for not tagging your spoiler
As ironic as it seems, the entire post was deleted (1 line post), the trace of the post was also gone (like it never existed), and it took a PM to allow that particular mod to understand the difference between:
the presence of a school setting, to "Bleach's filler makes shinigami go to Ichigo's school"
The mod used the latter as the reason as to why I was banned.
Its stupid.
On-topic: I guess the focus on Erstin "might" mean certain death for her, though it seems weird since next episode isn't even at theinvasion part yet
Souten no Seigyoku
2006-01-21, 22:17
By that standard, any "I think X will happen In series B" type post has to be put in spoiler tags. That cant be right. Anyhoo... no need risking it seeing as Im new. So back on topic...
I doubt thats the case with Ers. Its more likely that....
something big will happen the next episode, but they want it to be a suprise so they gave a non-preview by not showing any real footage
Unless...
the crap hits the fan all of a sudden and Ers dies
Or...
Tomoe goes "If you want something done right, do it yourself" and tries to off Arika. Ers-chan does a self sacrafice and dies defending arika
It's pretty much a plot episode, no action yet, but still very enjoyable.
Mai-Otome 15 out by Doremi-fansubs.
It's pretty much a plot episode, no action yet, but still very enjoyable.
Mai-Otome 15 out by Doremi-fansubs.
Its gonna take awhile....15 seeders, 828 DLs, and the link to Doremi's torrent link is not working...
PS: managed to direct-link to the torrent via another site.
Naked Fish
2006-01-21, 23:33
Yes and no. Like I said, it was pretty much 30-50% negetive comments ever since the whole (ArikaXSergey crush) thing started.
That is true. As of late more people have been getting a little disgruntled than before, but although I too was (still am) fairly disgusted by the thought of Sergey returning her feelings, I never really cared enough about the characters to say anything about it. Especially because I didn't think he would go all pedo on us.
Other than that, all the characters are reused (except or Tate, who seem to be replaced by Sergey.). Most keep their personalities, except Mashiro.
Exactly the reason I believe too much time has been spent on character development in which Matrim accurately called a boring fashion. If the character development had been more interesting, and no, that does not need explosions and death and torture and so on, then I would not be fed up in the least. So many of these characters have profoundly similar personalities to their MH counterparts, with a few tweaks here and there (eg. Natsuki was more badass). 15 episodes in and we are still seeing them develop? We already know half the cast. The new ones don't need so much time.
Personally, I wonder if this point can be counted or not. Well planned in what aspect? Perhaps because the "main plot" isn't in line yet, so thats what you dislike about the series?
I'm a little confused on what you mean here, so I apologise in advance if my answer makes absolutely no sense to you. I absolutely love MH to death, every single episode (although the cooking episode was kind of irritating). But it didn't look like it was planned too well towards the end of the series, namely episode 26. It felt rushed. Still one of my favourite series, though.
But you hit the nail on the head. I do not like the fact that the main plot isn't in line yet, or rather, things are taking their time to move on a larger scale. Most of all, I don't want Otome being squeezed like HiME had to be in the last episode. Granted, with how it's been going, nothing Otome does from now on can make it as good as HiME to me (my personal opinion) because it's just taken too long. But that doesn't mean it can't be good at all.
A recommandation: watch Hell Girl(japanese name escapes me for now). People go to hell(for good, in the permanent sense) every episode if you truely enjoy seeing people "die".
I will check this series out, then. But, I don't enjoy seeing people die every episode, much less enjoy even thinking about hell. I don't just watch shows because people die. I watched and loved Haibane Renmei. There's one heck of a lack of violence in that series. I will look this Hell Girl up though anyway, thanks.
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