A huge thanks to Spider Lily for this wonderful patch!!! It was totally worth the wait!
I just finished the first two stories and I have to say
Spoiler for Chapters 1 & 2:
The first one was kinda disappointing. It almost feels like it was made just so that the number of stories would equal seven. Just a short exhibit of fanservice, and even Ryukishi's mastery of constructing dialogue is absent. At least it featured some new costumes, which however, contrary to standard Ryukishi weren't that impressive.
The second one, I did like. It had me kind of sceptical at first, but it quickly won me over. Ryukishi really knows how to write a horror story, this one was particularly evocative! That scene where Izanami devours his victim actually came back to haunt my sleep at night
So, yeah, it did give me a very good scare, but I was kinda let down by Izanami's sudden transformation from a wicked Shinigami to a fatherly, friendly coach (though I did expect it to be honest, this is Ryukishi we're talking about, he has pulled a Beato like this in all his works so far, even RGD)
Maybe Higanbana isn't WTC level, but it is tremendously enjoyable to read. Even though Ryukishi is, to put it frankly, an amateur writer, he compensates for that with talent. His way of storytelling is so unique and original that even when the theme isn't, his stories are always fun. I really look forward to reading the rest!
P.S: Does anyone else feel the art seems kinda sloppy this time 'round? Well, except for the breathtaking sprite of Sumire's sister whose name slips me atm.