LOVE POWER! YEA!!! My final impression is included!

Summary:

Minato despairs at his loss of Musubi, as Benitsubasa continues to torment him and the others. Haihane attacks Kuno, but Haruna stands in his way. Seeing the damage her Ashikabi has taken, Kuno finally takes the chance to be winged by him. With this, she unleashes the true strength of her voice. This weakens Haihane and Benitsubasa, but Kuno damages herself in the process afterwards. Continuing to be annoyed by Minato’s unwillingness to give up, Benitsubasa moves in to assault him. Tsukiumi appears just in time to stop this, then using her powers to fight against both disciplinary squad members. Uzume almost moves in to help her friends, but Kazehana advises her against it. Having come closer to the scene, she expresses her wish to see something from Minato. Traveling throughout the torn city, Shiina believes that there is no mistake that Kusano is in the area. He and Yukari barely miss Kusano as she rides off with Matsu, however. Hayato and his Sekirei intercept the two afterwards, as Hayato quickly expresses his wish to have Shiina for himself. Shortly after defending Yukari from one of Mutsu’s attacks, Shiina finally shares a kiss with her. With his wings now in place, he unleashes a devastating attack against his pursuers.

Minato and the others are meanwhile shocked when Musubi seemingly revives. The person inhabiting Musubi’s body is actually Yume, as she introduces herself as a previous disciplinary squad member and the 8th Sekirei. Unpleased with Benitsubasa and Haihane’s actions, she easily defeats them with a large attack. She expresses her delight with the amount of love around afterwards, especially with Minato’s feelings towards Musubi. This is interrupted by Karasuba, delighted herself at the chance to fight Yume again. Yume expresses that she should not be fighting her at the moment, however, and Musubi’s conscious is brought back before she can make contact. Minato is overjoyed at Musubi’s return, but the group does not have much time to think about this when large attacks are sent towards the bridge they are on. Haruna and Kuno fall off with part of the bridge, but they are assisted to the other side by Uzume and Kazehana. Haruna asks again if Minato would leave with them, but he replies with his belief that he still has many things to do in the city. With this, Haruna and Kuno escape with wishes to meet the others again one day.

ED: Life goes on as usual, with several hints towards future development. At the end, the series promises to continue.

Impression:

I’m actually suppose to be studying for a Physics test coming up here in a few hours, but I was far too excited about this episode to let it pass up. The effect used during Kuno’s singing was a bit cheesy, and the pacing might have been a bit fast, but this episode was pure win from start to finish otherwise. Tsukiumi’s fight was just awesome, as was Yume’s against the several disciplinary squad members. I also have to mention that Benitsubasa’s “boku” made me explode a little inside. Hayato’s going in for a kiss with Shiina was kind of disturbing, but looking at his main Sekirei, I guess it wasn’t to be unexpected. Yukari’s kiss with Shiina seemed a little forced in the anime, but it wasn’t that less satisfying. This would make them the “most evil duo” for the rest of the series. It’s a really fitting name, especially with Yukari’s ruthless kicking of the nuts shown later in the episode. I will admit that I do feel like it would be better if the second season had continued right after this point, but there’s just no way the manga would have enough material to span 12-13 episodes at the moment. I do find it amusing how Homura’s transformation is being made so obvious though. On a more random note, Uzume helping Kuno and Haruna at the end reminded me of Wilhelmina from Shana.

Final Impression:

Sekirei is one of those shows that I instantly take a liking to after picking it up. Looking into the manga with the intention of simply sampling it before the season started, I was instantly hooked. Even after reading all the way to current chapters, watching the animation did not feel repetitive or slow at all. Seven Arcs did a wonderful job with the adaption, staying true to the original story from start to finish. One of the most appealing aspects of the anime adaption would be its huge cast, full of several of my favorite voice actors. It is actually hard to list out the amount of seiyu that were included in this show, as practically all of them are notable for their great work. Of course, to fuel this budget of great production, 7arcs probably already expected the large amount of dvd sales that this show would be getting (Boobs anyone?). It may not seem like I have much to say for a final impression, but from here on, I can only be excited about the second season whenever it decides to show up. For now, reading the manga is satisfying me just as much. It will probably be awhile before Sekirei actually ends, so this is just the beginning.

Wha-? Only one episode left? Huh~?

Summary:

As Haihane sets off to take care of the escaping Sekirei with Benitsubasa, Natsuo takes the chance to ask about Karasuba’s relationship with the first disciplinary squad member. This was Yume, who had given her life to Musubi several years ago in order to save her life. Karasuba was angered when Yume gave her core to Musubi, as this no longer gave her the chance to defeat her with her own hands. With Minato and the rest of the group in place, they all make their move when Matsu announces the time to start. Hikari and Hibiki take down several of the M.B.I. guards, and Kusano ambushes many herself by using her power of growth. With irregularities in her prediction a bit later, however, Matsu announces how dangerous the situation has become. When Minato expresses his need to save Kusano despite this, Matsu is no longer able to let herself stay distanced from the rest of the group. In other places, Takami finds that Minaka had expected these things to happen all along.

On motorcycle, Matsu quickly saves Kusano from the M.B.I. members surrounding her. Kusano fires rounds while riding behind her afterwards, using them to sprout plants out from underneath her enemies. Seeing the large stalks from Yukari’s room, Shiina realizes that this are Kusano’s doing. Minato and the others are finally able to cross the bridge they were headed for, but they encounter Haihane and Benitsubasa before they can escape. Musubi seems to be overtaken by Benitsubasa, but she refuses to lose so easily. Benitsubasa continues to send very large attacks in Musubi and Minato’s way, and when Minato is sent to the side of a ledge, Musubi has no choice but do as Benitsubasa orders. Minato is eventually able to get back onto safe land, but Musubi’s Sekirei mark seems to disappear due to her defeat by Benitsubasa. In other places, Tsukiumi also leaves the Izumo Inn with some words of advice from Miya.

ED: “Kimi wo Omou Toki 「きみを想うとき」” by Saori Hayami – I absolutely love the new ending by Saori Hayami, and that probably comes to no surprise by now. They could have easily put in another character from their usual set up though. Maybe they’re saving characters for the second season?

Preview: The finale.

Impression:

Can’t say I didn’t tell you so….like five times. But we can put that, and my grumpiness from just coming back from my 8:00-10:00 lab, aside for now. This episode was pure action from start to finish, and very entertaining. I did think that some of it could have been better, like the awkward art at times, but that is a very minor complaint. Things like Kusano firing rounds out of a freaking rocket launcher while Matsu drove her via bike was ridiculous, but hilariously awesome at the same time. Shizuka Itou fans will be jumping for joy after watching this episode, as she played the dangerous Benitsubasa. This character was a thrill to finally see on screen, though seeing her tongue sticking out was a bit distracting when compared to the manga.

I did think that the fights, and the whole arc at that, did seem to go by a lot faster while watching them animated. I’m actually quite surprised that we are already at this point, after only 11 short episodes. I do praise Seven Arcs move to stay almost completely true to the manga though. It’s probably impossible to count the number of times I’ve heard people complaining about anime ruining some of their favorite manga counterparts. Musubi’s defeat might have come off as a surprise to first time viewers, though the preview kind of ruins that cliffhanger. There’s more to it though…don’t worry. I’m more excited about seeing Tsukiumi’s fight next week, and a nice climax to end the first season of this great show.

Told off by a loli.

Summary:

Kuno tells the story about how she met Haruna to Minato and the others around him. She had been lost in the snowy city, and constantly chased by Hikari and Hibiki, when Haruka appeared to offer some warm food to her. From this moment, she realized that she had found her Ashikabi. Kazehana is quickly fond of this story, believing the power of love fueled the meeting, but Seo only offers to help with a price. When Miya makes a call to Seo, however, he quickly agrees to do so for free. Meanwhile at the Izumo Inn, Tsukiumi can only wonder why Minato plans on helping an escaping Sekirei. When she meets with Miya, however, Tsukiumi realizes that she probably shares the same feelings that Kuno does for her own Ashikabi. Though she originally thought she could become the most powerful alone, she now feels as if she wants to become the strongest for Minato’s sake.

While making their plans, Seo brings up the dangerous Hayato of South City to Minato and the others. This was the Ashikabi who commanded the defeated Yomi as well as the current Akitsu. Seo also makes the group realize that no one would attack the Izumo Inn, as it has a powerful force of its own. While training with Miya, Tsukiumi also realizes this when she is swiftly defeated by her. Seo goes on to plan the location of exit, then warning the group of the disciplinary squad that would be their greatest barrier. On the other hand, Musubi quickly becomes excited at the chance to fight this group. Haruka takes the chance to reassure Kuno that things will be alright, and Matsu assists the group with their plans when they go to the Izumo Inn that night.

As the group holds a party for Haruka and Kuno at the inn, Haruka takes the chance to ask Minato if he would escape along with them. Before Minato can answer this, however, he takes the chance to speak with Tsukiumi who seems to be avoiding the others. Tsukiumi reaffirms to Minato that she does not plan on helping Kuno and Haruka escape, but when he brings up that only Musubi would be able to fight the disciplinary squad, she wonders if he is worried about the Sekirei Plan or Musubi in particular. When Uzume returns home, she is bothered when Kazehana reveals that a party is being held for her targets. However, Kazehana easily realizes that Uzume is not moving due to her own will. When Tsukiumi describes her feelings to Minato, he instantly feels a sensation in his heart. Their conversation is interrupted by Matsu, however, and Tsukiumi attempts to take back her words afterwards.

The next morning, Kusano expresses her annoyance with Tsukiumi who is not helping despite having more ability than her. Kagari expresses body pain to himself, and when Miya sees this, she quickly realizes that changes in his body have already started taking place. Seeing the aftermath of Miya and Tsukiumi’s battle, Musubi creates an even bigger crater with hopes of becoming stronger herself. Minato gets a call from his sister who seems to be busy, as she is bringing Shiina around town in reality. Not far from them, Akitsu and Mutsu follow them. Even when setting their plan in motion that night, Minato still cannot answer Hayato’s question about escaping with him.

ED: NO.

Preview: The battle for escape is on.

Impression:

Dayam Kusano, you tell her gurl! This episode was pretty win, especially since it had lots of super tsundere Tsukiumi screen time. Her short battle with Miya was freaking sweet too, revealing more of Miya’s true identity as one of the strongest Sekirei. The scene did remind me of Ikkitousen or Tenjho Tenge again though, with Tsukiumi’s clothes ripping off at the end (That always annoys me). Kazehana had a lot less focus this time around than I was expecting, but hearing her get all giddy about the power of love was definitely awesome. I didn’t like how Uzume put on the “nice boat” eyes in this episode though. Even if I already know what is going to happen, it still sucks watching her struggle against her friends in secret. Most of this episode was just set up though, and the real meat of this final arc will be showing up next week. It’s definitely going to be a ride, so I can’t wait to see this season of the show end with a bang.

Um, hello…..Ikkitousen?

Summary:

Tsukiumi quickly sends an attack in Uzume’s way, but she is forced to stop it when Kazehana steps between the two. Kazehana then expresses her distaste in the situation, as there are two Sekirei fighting against one. Tsukiumi doesn’t believe this is the case, but she soon realizes that Kazehana is referring to the excited Musubi behind her. Musubi turns to meet Kuno instead, due to Tsukiumi’s orders, but she is surprised to hear that she and her Ashikabi Haruka do not wish to fight. Kazehana continues to get in the way of Tsukiumi’s advances, eventually disappearing with Uzume after introducing herself as the 03 Sekirei. Uzume questions why Kazehana saved her afterwards, but finds that she had easily recognized her behind the veil.

When Matsu finds that she is the only one with Minato at home, she attempts to get into an “experiment” with him. This is interrupted by Kagari, and when Minato leaves to do the laundry, Kagari asks if Matsu could give him some medicine for something that is bothering him. Musubi suddenly shows up to take Minato somewhere, which turns out to be his old apartment complex. Inside, Minato meets Haruka and Kuno. Back at the Izumo Inn, Tsukiumi enters Matsu’s room to question the circumstances she has observed. Matsu reminds Tsukiumi that the battle royal would be decided with brains, and not just strength, but this ends in Kusano entering to stop a argument between the two.

While having small talk with Haruka, Minato finds that they are quite similar to each other. Haruka eventually gets to the point, however, by saying that he and Kuno want to drop out of the Sekirei Plan. Minato wonders why this is a problem, so Haruka brings up the several M.B.I. members guarding the exits to the city. He also mentions the Disciplinary Squad member that they ran into while trying to escape earlier. Minato and Musubi return home while wondering how to help the two, but they meet an angry Tsukiumi and Kusano when they get home. Uzume and Kazehana reach the Inn later that night as well, though drunk. When Minato wakes, he is shocked to find both of them in bed with him.

Later in the morning, Uzume and Kazehana claim to have met by coincidence. In reality, Uzume had challenged Kazehana after being saved by her. Kazehana quickly showed that she could easily defeat her, however, and let her go when she claimed that she had things to do before being defeated. Minato reveals the plans Haruka and Kuno had to the rest of the group, but when he speaks with Matsu about this, she warns him that going against the Sekirei Plan would be going against the M.B.I.. When Karasuba hears about the Sekirei and Ashikabi who plan on escaping, she believes an interesting turn of events would start to occur.

ED: Uzume, which wasn’t too surprising.

Preview: P….p…party~!

Impression:

Whatever anyone tells you, this is not Aroduc’s blog. Really though, since posting nudity on my blog is in violation of the TOS, you should check his post on this episode for it. (Though, you will probably have to settle for being entertained by what sprite he chooses to cover up the tits.) This week, we got a taste of what will make the Sekirei DVD sales skyrocket. It’s that simple. I couldn’t even pay attention to some of the dialog in this episode because of how ridiculous the scenes were. You guys are just going to have to check that out yourself though, since I’d rather not spend this entire post trying to describe it.

It’s really hard to believe that this season of Sekirei is almost over. Things are quickly moving towards the direction of Haruka and Kuno’s escape, which is what I’ve been predicting to be the end of the first part of this series ever since I saw the OP. As the manga is continuing, the next part probably won’t show up for quite awhile. I loved seeing Kazehana in this episode, and Yukana’s voice was definitely a joy to hear. As Kazehana claims that she will only listen to 01 and the game master, her suggestions in this episode finally made me realize that Minato is probably Minaka’s son. The anime just seems to make these things much more obvious, but I probably just didn’t pay enough attention to the manga while I was reading it. There was also a lot of Tsukiumi screen time in this episode, which I thought I simply had to mention. Kusano is always fun too, even while biting people’s legs off.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a Physics lecture and lab to attend to. Though, talking about boobies on an anime blog would probably be more fun…

Splashing a loli is still so mean.

Summary:

A boy named Haruka attempts to escape the city with a girl named Kuno. They are quickly detected, however, and confronted by the Sekirei known as Haihane. Watching this from above, Homura realizes how serious Minaka has become. As dinner time approaches at the Izumo Inn, Minato enters Matsu’s room to find that she is looking through the M.B.I.’s databases. Matsu brings up her interest in a certain Sekirei, as this person has been leaving the side of the Sekirei she has defeated. This is none other than the white veiled Sekirei. When Musubi tries to tell Uzume about dinner, she finds that she is not in her room.

Kusano later appears in another one of Uzume’s costumes, making Minato begin to wonder what the purpose of them was. Miya explains that Uzume had worn them to please a certain person, who has been hospitalized for quite some time. Minato quickly guesses that this is Uzume’s Ashikabi. Uzume visits her Ashikabi named Chiho in the meantime, waking her from a kiss on the cheek. Chiho apologizes for not being able to do anything for Uzume, but Uzume replies by saying that she is fine with her simply being alive.

Minato later alerts Tsukiumi and Musubi about the dangerous Sekirei Matsu has found, but he is surprised to find that they are actually very excited to meet her. Tsukiumi confronts Minato while he is alone in his room later, quickly guessing that he is worried about them. When she assures him that there is no need to do so, Minato beings to feel the same calmness he received from Musubi in the past. Minato panics when he finds Musubi waiting behind his door soon after Tsukiumi leaves, however, and even more so when a large bear’s aura seems to surround her while they walk downstairs. As Uzume returns home late, Matsu notices a bit of blood on the bottom of her pants. While Uzume is in the bath with Musubi and Tsukiumi later, she takes the chance to observe some of it.

Traveling through the city, Mikogami is alerted by his Sekirei Mutsu that Mitsuha has fallen to Karasuba. Mikogami quickly questions the status of Shiina, and becomes enthusiastic when he learns that he hasn’t moved during Akitsu’s watching over him. While having dinner with Shiina in her apartment, Yukari brings up his previous talk of searching for someone. Shiina explains that he is searching for Kusano, who had been separated from him shortly before he was found by Yukari. This makes Yukari remember the times she had been saved by her own older brother, and how dependable Minato was in her times of need. With this, Shiina expresses how nice it would be if Kusano found someone like that.

When Uzume visits the hospital again later, she is quickly given another target by the man named Izumi Higa. Before she leaves for this mission, Higa reminds her of the short time that Chiho has left. Musubi and Tsukiumi leave the Izumo Inn at the same time, ready to find the strong Sekirei they are looking for. Haruka and Kuno are confronted by the veiled Sekirei while running through the city, but before they are attacked, Musubi and Tsukiuimi arrive to face their opponent. The veiled Sekirei refuses to introduce herself of course, because she is none other than Uzume. Arriving at the scene behind everyone, Kazehana expresses her distaste in such a sight.

ED: After Minaka, this doesn’t even faze me at all.

Preview: Intervention by Kazehana.

Impression:

Kusano looked like she liked it this time. Chuu! So, I don’t know if it’s just because it’s animated or what, but I only vaguely remember some of the events from this episode. It’s probably just the fact that my long term memory really sucks. I loved this episode from start to finish either way though, and it seems like they’re moving along with the story very quickly The Izumo Inn obviously holds the coolest characters in the city, with Uzume being one of them despite belonging to an Ashikabi other than Minato. Though we’ve already seen male Sekirei belonging to male Ashikabi, it is still pretty interesting that Uzume’s Ashikabi is female. That almost makes this yuri anime, right? Jokes aside, It’s pretty cliched to have Uzume working for Higa while he holds Chiho hostage. But hey, what kind of plot are we really expecting from this kind of show?

Yukari’s talk to Shiina about her older brother made for some more of the irony that this show is all about, and it makes me really wonder what is going to happen when Shiina and Kusano are finally reunited. Other notable/funny parts included Miya’s constant suggestion of Minato being a he-n-ta-i, and Kuno’s perfect faceplant into the ground later in the episode. I dunno what it is with those kind of scenes, but they always make me giggle. Musubi’s hidden bear aura made its first big appearance in this episode too, something that’s always had a mysterious vibe about it. Also, when Minato first noticed how good Tsukiumi looked, I wanted to slap “slowpoke.jpg” on his forehead. Kazehana’s appearance at the end of this episode would have made for a nice cliffhanger if the preview didn’t totally spoil it. I’m looking forward to seeing more of her in the next episode, mainly for a lot of Yukana action.

Splashing a loli is so mean.

Summary:

As progression is made in the Sekirei Project, Takami and Minaka recall when they had first come across a mysterious woman on the island they were investigating. When morning arrives at the Izumo Inn, Minato wakes will all of his Sekirei in bed with him. When Miya discovers this, she quickly assigns rooms to everyone due to the rules. While Miya is out shopping later, Karasuba stops by the inn. Although Minato notices that she is on very good terms with Musubi, the other inhabitants seem to be suspicious and even fearful of her. As Karasuba leaves, Homura recalls that she is the M.B.I.’s dog. Because of her reputation, she is also called the “Black Sekirei”. Shortly after these events, Matsu is alerted of action in the Sekirei Plan. When Minato turns on the T.V., it is revealed that leaving the city’s limits would no longer be possible. This would mean that a war would be started soon.

Miya runs into Karasuba while returning home, quickly preparing to fight her. When neither are revealed to have their weapons, however, they both leave each other with mere warnings. Before her departure, Karasuba recalls that Miya’s Sekirei number is 01. While riding with her Ashikabi Natsu later, Karasuba gets out of his car at the sight of Mitsuha and Akitsu. Akitsu easily realizes the threat of Karasuba, but Mitsuha is quickly defeated by Karasuba when she challenges her. While Minato and Musubi are finally alone at the Izumo Inn, Musubi takes the chance to tell Minato about the promise she shares with Karasuba. Karasuba had believed that there were no need for humans, but Musubi thought that she would surely love the person that became her Ashikabi. Because of this, Karasuba had proposed a challenge. She and Musubi would have to be the last Sekirei standing. Musubi would be right if she came out on top, and vice versa. Seeing that she certainly loves Minato in the present, Musubi expresses her wish to show Karasuba the same feelings.

Elsewhere, Yukari drags Shiina through the city in woman’s clothing. When the Ashikabi Mikogami sees this, he realizes that Shiina has not yet been winged. With this, he starts to desire Shiina for himself. Tsukiumi is outraged when she finds that she must wear a certain set of clothing to help around the house, and even more confused when Miya asks for her to help with groceries. When Miya promises that whoever is the most successful with this task can sit next to Minato at the dinner table, however, she and Musubi quickly leave the house. Minato wonders if this is okay, but Miya expresses that it is nice because it is normal. That night, a Sekirei is defeated by a woman who uses a white veil as her weapon. Kazehana, continuing to drink as usual, notices that the air has a bad aura about it.

ED: Oh god, why? Minaka isn’t even a Sekirei.

Preview: Uzume and Kazehana.

Impression:

Ku-chan, you poor thing! Man, I don’t remember these events in the manga at all. It just shows how bad my memory is, which is one of the reasons I even started an anime blog. I guess it helps to make things refreshing again though. I was even more surprised at the beginning of the episode, with more hints of Minaka and Takami’s involvement with each other. The anime seems to be making use of dramatic irony a lot more than the manga, though neither really have a huge shocking factor to their events anyways. Karasuba is quickly set up to be a dislikable antagonist in this episode, but I think she’s way cool either way. The revealing of Miya’s true position is really awesome too, though again, it’s not really that surprising. Also, Romi Paku still needs to go back to NANA. Hahaha. Next week should be really fun with more development for Uzume, easily one of the most underrated characters in the series. Kazehana will actually be making a proper appearance too, for fans of her character.

Tsukiumi! L.O.V.E.~!

Summary:

Kusano attempts to prevent Tsukiumi from attacking Minato with her powers, but Minato expresses his need to become Tsukiumi’s companion no matter what. Tsukiumi sends a large attach in Minato’s direction, but because of the reactions in her body, she cannot get a direct hit on him. Hikari and Hibiki soon remind Tsukiumi that they are her opponents, then showing the power they have when sharing kisses with Seo. To everyone’s surprise, Minato runs in to protect Tsukiumi from the girls’ attack. Tsukiumi soon sends an attack towards Seo, causing the cat he had caught to run off in fear. Extremely angered by this, Seo approaches Tsukiumi with the threat to make her his Sekirei. Tsukiumi is unable to move her body while this happens, but she realizes that Seo is not the one she would like to have as an Ashikabi. Minato calls out to Seo in response to this, asking for him to leave Tsukiumi alone as she is his Sekirei. Hikari and Hibiki also attack Seo, believing he has been unfaithful to his promise that they would be his only Sekirei.

As he said that she was his Sekirei, Tsukiumi has Minato take responsibility for the claim. With a changed heart, Tsukiumi shares a kiss with Minato. After the winging, Tsukiumi is reminded that Kusano is also Minato’s Sekirei. This only slightly annoys her, but when she finds out that Minato now has four Sekirei in all, she sends a small attack his way. When the group returns home, Tsukiumi surprises Miya by claiming to be Minato’s wife. This sends jealousy in Kusano’s way, while Musubi simply claims to be Minato’s wife as well. During the commotion, Kagari can only find Minato mysterious for being able to wing someone as powerful as Tsukiumi. After Tsukiumi properly introduces herself to Miya, Miya surprises Minato by admitting her knowledge of the Sekirei plan. To explain this, she reminds him that her husband worked for the M.B.I.. Tsukiumi almost recognizes Kagari as Homura, but because he does not have his mask on, this is put off as a coincidence. Matsu worries slightly about Kagari’s body while alone with him afterwards, but he only recalls his wishes to defeat a certain person before leaving for work.

Yukari meanwhile remembers previous events while Shiina is in her shower. Shiina had explained that he was involved in the Sekirei plan, and that he believed that Yukari would be his Ashikabi. When Shiina described the kiss they would have to have to seal the contract, however, Yukari could only change the subject. When Shiina exits the shower in the present time, Yukari suggests that they go out to get clothes for him later. Back at the Izumo Inn, Tsukiumi is properly introduced to Matsu and Uzume at the dinner table. While Tsukiumi enters the bath with Musubi later, Kusano takes the chance to ask who Minato likes outside. Minato states that he likes everyone, causing Kusano to give him a kiss on the cheek and expressing her wish to become his bride when she grows up. In other places, Takami reports the recent events to Minaka. With this, he announces the next phase in the Sekirei project.

ED: Double trouble…and they’re not even Minato’s Sekirei!

Preview: Karasuba, the black Sekirei.

Impression:

Tsukiumi! I choose you! Man, this episode was awesome. Having the fights and effects animated from their manga counterparts just made things so much more exciting. I really loved seeing Tsukiumi throw her water around, right down to the “Water Festival” attacks. Kusano was as awesome as ever too, and Hanazawa Kana’s Potemayo role started to show through a bit when she started hissing at Tsukiumi. Although my memory of the manga is already hazy at this point, I do remember that some things were made more dramatic in the animation as well. Hikari and Hibiki’s kiss with Seo, for one, was a lot more flashy this time around. The short scene with Yukari and Shiina almost made me go, “Silly Seven Arcs, you’re not Shaft!”, but I should probably leave personal bias out of that one. Other than that, watching all of the Sekirei’s usual antics was as fun to watch as ever. With Karasuba appearing next week, there might be some slight changes in how the story develops soon.

Needs more Tsukiumi screen time.

Summary:

The girl who has approached Minato in the bath quickly introduces herself as Sekirei number two, Matsu. Matsu becomes annoyed when Musubi returns faster than expected, effectively stopping her advances on who she believes to be her Ashikabi. Matsu quickly traps Musubi, but before she can continue her business, Miya appears to stop her with her usual warnings. Matsu is properly introduced as a member of the Izumo Inn afterwards, and Minato is surprised to see that her room is located behind a hidden wall. After Matsu mentions her departure from the M.B.I., Miya reveals that her late husband was also a member of the group. Yukari has trouble in her room in the meantime, as Shiina asks for a kiss in belief that she should become his Ashikabi.

Homura confronts Mitsuha and Akitsu in the city, though they quickly escape when they see that they cannot easily defeat him. Homura finds himself drained after this encounter, however, and further finds that he cannot control is powers properly. Tsukiumi appears to help him in this predicament, then declaring that the two of them cannot be defeated as individuals. Homura contradicts Tsukiumi by saying that she should be one to acquire an Ashikabi, as it would make her more powerful. Tsukiumi then expresses her realization that her body seems to be reacting to an Ashikabi, but she believes she should find and kill this person.

Minato is shocked to see Matsu enter his room late at night, but she quickly gets to the point by making herself his Sekirei. This moment doesn’t last for long, as Miya enters to punish Matsu once again. The next morning, Matsu finally joins the rest of the group for breakfast. Minato notices that Uzume is not there, and is further surprised to see that Kagari seems to have injured his hands. While having dozed off later in the day, Minato sees a vision of Tsukiumi in his dreams. When she declares that she will kill him, he quickly wakes in shock. Minato gets a mail from Yukari soon after, expressing that she will not be able to visit because of various events. Minato recalls that the dream he just saw was similar to the one he saw with Kusano, then guessing that Matsu may know something about this.

When Minato visits Matsu in her room, she reminds him of certain details in the Sekirei plan. There are 108 released Sekirei, all who must fight until only one remains with their Ashikabi. The mastermind of the project is, of course, Minaka. Minato suddenly wonders if he has the power to do anything, not caring about the final prize, but concerned about what could happen to those close to him. Reminding him that he was able to win over herself, the number two Sekirei, Matsu simply tells Minato to have more confidence in himself. When Minato brings up the dream he just had, Matsu describes the ability for Ashikabi to become stronger when they acquire more Sekirei. When she finds the Sekirei that he has seen in his dreams, however, she panics due to Tsukiumi’s personality and nature.

As Musubi and Kusano are confident, Matsu comes up with a plan to intercept Tsukiumi. While Minato and Kusano travel through the city later, they run into Seo after catching a falling cat. Hikari and Hibiki meanwhile confront Tsukiumi, though they are forced to retreat after seeing that they are not much of a match for her. As Seo notices that Minato has become Matsu’s Ashikabi, he reveals that he was the one to actually built the hidden room for Miya’s husband Takehito. This conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Hibiki and Hikari, and Tsukiumi soon after. Upon seeing Minato, Tsukiumi’s body immediately reacts. With this, she again declares she will kill him.

ED: I didn’t see anything, alright. Nothing.

Preview: I saw Tsukiumi. Wait, something else is going to happen too….yea…something.

Impression:

No. No, I don’t care about how important Matsu is to the story. No, okay. What this show needs is…more Tsukiumi. I dunno, I typically like the light-headed main character types like Musubi, and I’m still the big Hayami Saori fan that I always have been, but number 09 has been my favorite ever since her introduction in the manga. Sure, she’s got a pretty stereotypical and cliched role…but….it’s a enjoyable stereotypical role? I expressed slight problems I had with Inoue Marina’s playing her role earlier, but after watching this episode, I really didn’t think it was that bad at all. I thought it was quite fitting actually. I think I might like Matsu a bit more in the anime than I did in the manga too. It’s interesting what animation and voice can do for an experience. I’m loving Kusano, for one, five times more than I did before hearing her awesome squeals and seeing her random antics in motion.

Other funny parts included Matsu’s netting of Musubi, yuri kissing, Miya’s statement that “Yobai is not allowed!”, and Minato’s “Ero da!” It continues to amaze me how advanced computers are always presented in movies, T.V., and animation too. I mean, are blue backgrounds and windows popping up rapidly really a sign of the future? I also thought that Tsukiumi’s dream scene was pretty cool, even though it was just a simple filter. I’m such a sucker. There was some plot development and stuff too, but according to my recent poll, about 85% of people watching this show know what it’s really about. Next week has more Tsukiumi…..and bishounen…..you know, if you’re into that…

Holy crap, The Dark Knight was amazing. Oh wait, Sekirei…right….Sekirei…

Summary:

Touching a tree in the city’s forest, a boy realizes that Kusano was there at one point. Soon after, an explosion of light rushes through the area. Homura meanwhile meets Takami in a black car, discussing the recent events dealing with Kusano. The picture in Takami’s cellphone contains herself with a young Minato and Yukari. As Minato leaves for his job the next morning, he notices Kusano crying over the recent loss of life in the forest she was in. Kusano reveals that she must meet Shiina, a Sekirei who has a power that seems to oppose hers. Kusano fears that similar things would continue to happen if she did not, but Minato is able to comfort her. Shiina meanwhile realizes that Kusano has been crying. Of course, he was the boy in the forest previously.

While at his construction job, Minato learns that Seo has quit because of becoming busy with other activities. As Musubi spars with Miya at the inn, Kusano seems to fear their fight. Uzume suggests she go inside if she is afraid, but Kusano refuses to. Minato ponders his wish to talk to Seo on the way home that night, as he was the first Ashikabi he had met aside from himself. When he returns to the inn, however, he is shocked to find Seo inside. Miya explains that Seo was a good friend of her husband, and when Minato notices that Seo doesn’t seem to have been surprised that he was living in the inn, Seo explains that he recognized the taste of Miya’s bento lunch when he ate it. Hikari and Hibiki also show themselves eventually, and Seo leaves with them after presenting Minato with his card for odd jobs.

While in the bath with her, Musubi wonders who Uzume’s Ashikabi is. Uzume states that this is a secret, then expressing that there are situations that keep her from being with him. Although Musubi wonders if she is lonely this way, Uzume believes she is happy to simply be under the same sky as her Ashikabi. After everyone else is asleep, Kusano is struck with fear after seeing a ghost like figure behind her in the bathroom. Minato attempts to help her, but in the morning, he explains that they were unable to find anything. Although Uzume seems to know who the “ghost” really was, Miya prevents her from saying anything. While Musubi and Kusano dress up and eat with Minato later, a certain girl continues to keep watch on the group.

While looking for the Izumo Inn in the city, Yukari runs into Shiina who has been searching for Kusano. When another one of Ayato’s Sekirei goes after Shiina, Yukari attempts to save him despite not knowing the circumstances. After completing some of her chores, Musubi meets Minato in his room. Remembering the night’s previous events, where M.B.I. helicopters had picked up the defeated Yomi, Minato recalls that Sekirei who have lost their mark can no longer be with their masters. Musubi confirms that this would be the same if she had lost, putting Minato into despair. Minato decides that this makes sense, as this would end the game they are involved in, but Musubi contradicts him by claiming that their feelings are not part of a game.

While all of this happens, the girl that is observing the group starts to feel as if she is reacting to Minato as a Sekirei. She begins to use an M.B.I. satellite laser to shoot at Musubi while she is out doing chores, then approaching a panicking Minato in the baths. Meanwhile, Yukari wonders what she should do with Shiina who she has brought all the way to her room.

ED: Manly Matsu…..wah! x3

Preview: Tsukiumi, the water Sekirei……YEA!

Impression:

Why so serious? Sorry for the delay. I got caught up with work along with um…certain other things. So, despite my predictions, this episode actually held off on introducing the two new characters that have showed up. Although they certainly played their roles this week, it looks like the beginning of the next episode will have to finish it off properly. Meanwhile, Kusano continued to be really awesome in the episode. I absolutely loved the squeals she gave off while watching Musubi and Miya fight, as well as her fears when seeing the “ghost” at night. A penguin suit is fine too I guess, though it reminded me of Azumanga a lot. I also noticed that they are making it much more obvious that Takami is Minato’s mom. Maybe I wasn’t paying attention enough while reading the manga, but it just seems like they’re throwing it out there a lot more in the anime. As far as the fog returning as censoring in this episode, I kind of thought it ruined the mood Uzume was setting up. Sure, it was still a fanservice scene, but it could have been a deep fanservice scene. Anyways, the preview for next week’s episode has me rolling around in anticipation. I think the actual episode might make me explode.

Ohohoho~! You’re a pedo!

Summary:

In the past, Kusano was being told about Ashikabi by Sahashi Takami. This conversation was interrupted by a Sekirei who slashed at Takami’s eye, along with her Ashikabi who attempted to wing Kusano. Despite Takami’s attempt to stop her, Kusano unleashed her powers against the two. When Minato wakes in the morning, he sees that Musubi is wearing gym clothes in order to move around more easily. The two are quickly alerted of noises coming from outside, and they are further surprised to see that they are coming from Miya’s sword training. Musubi is instantly interested, rushing down to ask for training. Although Minato worries about this, Uzume soon appears to assure him that everything is fine. In fact, Miya easily dodges Musubi’s attacks while giving her tips. Uzume mentions that there would eventually be a time where they would all have to fight as Sekirei, and although Minato ponders this for awhile, he soon realizes that he must head towards his part time job.

After working hard at the construction site he has taken a job at, Minato becomes excited at the chance to enjoy a lunch made by Miya. He finds that a man is staring at the lunch when he starts, however, then offering some of it to him. The two introduce themselves afterwards, but Hikari soon appears to punish the man. She apologizes to Minato, but when the two see each other’s faces clearly, they realize that they have met before. Minato’s lunch is ruined during the commotion, so Hibiki offers him some bread in exchange. With this, the other man introduces himself as the Ashikabi of Hikari and Hibiki – Kaoru Seo. Seo eventually suspects that Minato is also after the young Sekirei in the forests nearby. Before Minato can think much more about this, the two are let off by their boss because of the events that would soon begin. Meanwhile, Kagari discusses Kusano with Takami.

At home, Musubi realizes that Minato has left his cellphone. With Miya’s support, she leaves to give it to him. Seo has his Sekirei take care of the nearby M.B.I. units in the area, then inviting a worried Minato to follow. In the forest-like area, a vision of Kusano appears before Minato. He expresses that he must find her, as she was crying in the dreams he saw of her. With this, Seo offers his support. In other places, Homura meets the Sekirei who had attacked Takami before – Yomi. Before Homura can attack Yomi, she leaves while letting the Sekirei Akitsu handle him. Homura realizes that Akitsu is an abandoned Sekirei, noticing the Sekirei mark on her forehead. Musubi soon passes by Homura, calling out to him as Kagari, but then putting it off as her mistake when she sees his mask. After this awkward moment, Homura continues to face off against Akitsu.

While walking towards Kusano, Seo reminds Minato of the method of making a Sekirei his own. He further explains that, although Sekirei typically find their own Ashikabi, Ashikabi can also make Sekirei theirs against their free will. With situations like this, events like the current one take place. When Yomi finds the resisting Kusano, Minato quickly starts to run to her. He makes it in time to take hold of Yomi, allowing Hikari and Hibiki to send an attack her way. When Kusano sees Minato, she quickly faints into his lap. Yomi takes the chance to attack Minato, but she is easily stopped by Musubi who appears just in time. Easily breaking Yomi’s scythe, she takes the chance to give Minato his cellphone. Yomi doesn’t let this moment last, constantly sending more attacks towards Musubi. Despite successfully ripping off most of her clothes, Musubi only turns to defeat Yomi by touching the Sekirei mark on her back. Hikari and Hibiki wonder if Seo plans on doing anything with Kusano, but he expresses that she has already chosen Minato.

Ayato Mikogami senses that his Sekirei Yomi has failed, then interrupting Homura’s fight to simply pick up Akitsu. Meanwhile, two Ashikabi from other parts of the city overlook these events. When Minato returns home, Miya is surprised to see Kusano on his back. When Kusano expresses her hunger, Miya quickly goes to prepare something. Later, while sitting outside with her, Minato recalls how Kusano saved him by using the large tree outside the house. With this, he describes Kusano as his lifesaver. Kusano suddenly asks for Minato to become her Ashikabi, taking the chance to share a kiss with him. As her wings appear, the greenery around the house bloom in a dazzling light.

ED: Same ED, but with manly Ku-chan instead of manly Musubi. Oh man, the thought of seeing all the Sekirei in this form just frightens me.

Preview: Matsu and Shiina.

Impression:

This episode was awesome! Watching everything animated from the manga this time just made me appreciate it even more. The last fight scene between Musubi and Yomi was a treat to watch, even though it was full of speed lines. There should be plenty more of that to come, considering how much fighting there is in this series. Jokes like Musubi’s almost realizing that Homura was Kagari were also a lot funny when seeing them in motion (This is probably a minor spoiler, but if you haven’t figured this out by now, you probably should have). I did think some of the art in this episode wasn’t up to standard though, which I am only complaining about because it seems like a downgrade from the past two episodes.

Speaking of art, I have to mention that looking at Minato still weirds me out. Whenever I look at him, I feel like Sekirei’s author didn’t properly learn how to draw male anatomy or something. The blushing makes it worse. While researching this last week, I came across a list of the author’s works. After seeing the description of some of these, I was quite disturbed. I do find it interesting that Sakura Ashika turned around to make something like Sekrei though, a series obviously targeted towards males. Another thing that I forgot to mention last week was the predicted series length of the series. Looking at the speed things are being covered at, and the amount of material that is out to work with, I’m assuming that Sekirei will only last for one season. It is kind of disappointing, but it only makes me expect that there will certainly be a second season in the future.