The boku goddess returns!!!

Summary:

A man attempts to rob a bank, blaming his his actions on the desperate need to help his family. Fumika suddenly shows up to deliver a letter to him, however, putting the crime to an end and surprising the surrounding officers in the process. The Shigofumi that was sent to the man was from his now deceased daughter, who was the one he was trying to help. Overlooking this scene from above, Fumika again states to Kanaka that the Shigofumi neither bring good or bad things to the world. Natsuka and Kaname meanwhile discuss the recent appearance of what seem to be curses around the school. As these deal with people like Kikugawa Kouichi, who was involved with Shigofumi in the past, Kaname suggests the possibilities of the letters’ involvement. Natsuka brings up that this shouldn’t be possible, however. Kaname also brings up how he had attempted to help Mikawa in the past, but she had denied his help because of certain circumstances. Now attending school again, Mikawa suffers torment from most of the students around her. Injuring herself from pins in her shoe locker one day, Mikawa is given a bandage from a girl named Suzune. Mikawa is surprised Suzune’s kindness, watching her as she later leaves the school with her friends.

When Mikawa returns to the hotel she is currently staying at, she is slightly surprised to see Chiaki waiting for her there. Chiaki wonders why Mikawa doesn’t simply leave the school she is at, but Mikawa doesn’t give a clear answer. Chiaki relays this information to Fumika in the Shigo world later, then suggesting that Fumika should just see Mikawa. As usual, Fumika denies the suggestion because of her own circumstances. In other places, Haruno meets with Nojima to discuss things about Fumika. Haruno also brings up her sister’s relationship with Nojima’s son. At the school later, kids on the rooftop gossip about another appearance of curses. Suzune overhears Mikawa’s belief that the other students’ thoughts are wrong, however, as she leaves the rooftop. The students who were with Kikugawa and Morishita wonder about the situation as well, and one of them bring up Fumika’s appearance on the rooftop when previous events occurred. Kaname’s friend discusses all of the strange events that have happened at their school, but bringing up the friendships he has made while there, he states that not all of the experiences are bad.

Natsuka and Kaname are surprised to see Mikawa on their way to meet Morishita later, then finding that they are all there for Fumika’s sake. When Morishita sees the three in an office, he seems to recognize Mikawa as Fumika. Natsuka attempts to stop Kaname when he brings up the Shigofumi, because of another person’s existence in the room, but Morishita reveals that this man once received a Shigofumi as well. Morishita then discusses the existence of Kikugawa’s sister, who he had lied to in the past about his brother’s revengeful message. Shinozaki Suzune actually had a different last name than Kikugawa because of their parents’ divorce. Hearing about this girl, Mikawa realizes that this is the person who had helped her earlier. Later at her home, Suzune recalls memories of her parents’ divorce and her later discovery of her brother’s death. Because of this, she has been creating fake letters of the departed.

One of the bullies from school panic when he receives Suzune’s false letter later. In the letter is a map, which he and his friends decide to follow that night. Having had help requested from Mikawa earlier, however, Matoma appears to scare the boys off. Suzune waits in a building full of traps for the boys, but she instead only meets a cloaked courier. Suzune claims that it was the boys who were wrong, but when the courier gives her a letter suggested to be from her brother, she can only read it with belief that Kikugawa would not be happy with such things. This is quickly interrupted by Fumika and Kanaka, who reveal that the fake courier is actually Mikawa. Suzune wonders why Mikawa would do such a thing, so she reveals that she is being abused as well. She states that this is the price she must pay for doing things such as shooting her father, but having seen Suzune’s kindness and being touched by it, she did not want her to create the same burdens. While leaving the scene afterwards, Fumika states that she had gone to see Mikawa because of Chikai’s request. However, Kanaka easily sees that there were other reasons for this.

On a latter day, Suzune visits Mikawa while she is having lunch. Even though Mikawa warns Suzune that she shouldn’t get close to her, she reveals her wish to take back the things she has done. When Mikawa receives a reply mail from one of her other friends, she puts on a smile even though she believes that such things are unnecessary.

Impression:

Too bad there wasn’t much boku in this episode… Either way, this was still awesome. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this episode when I heard there was going to be a Shigofumi OVA, especially when it was titled as the 13th episode, but I already knew there was nothing that could keep me from loving it. This arc dealt with a lot of the past Shigofumi characters, especially with those dealing with Kikugawa and Morishita, so it definitely couldn’t be considered something like filler. Although there were no actual Shigofumi in this episode, Suzune’s circulation of fakes was just as interesting to watch. Suzune actually made an appearance in the sixth episode, and I remember wondering what importance she was going to play in the future. Her befriending of Fumi was really awesome, showing again that this series isn’t all about negativity.

I loved actually being able to see what Fumi-chan was dealing with after the 12th episode, even though I hated how she was being bullied at school. Speaking of the said bullying, I know I can’t be the only one who said “Jigoku Shoujo” after seeing the thumb tacks in the shoe locker. (Come on, this show already has too many similarities to that series in the first place…) Fumi’s fake Shigofumi outfit was really awesome when she showed up in it, and I think I squealed inside when Fumika started talking about how cute it was. It was nice to see Chiaki too, and drunk at that. Also, yes Aroduc, that was obviously Yui Horie you were hearing as Suzune in this episode. JC Staff was probably like, “Hey, I know you’re busy recording for ToraDora and all, but can you help us with this depressing emo anime real quick? Thanks.”

Anyways, this is definitely a must watch for fans of the series. It easily reminded me how much I adored this series while it was airing, and it even has me screaming for more. “AHH! I WANT MORE BOKU…!”

Fumika, you meanie head! My final impression is included.

Summary:

After spending quite a bit of time with Nojima, Fumi walks home with Kaname and Natsuka. Natsuka wonders about her sudden discussion, suggesting that Fumi has changed. Fumi states that she must change, or rather, that she is already changing. Now attending school again, Fumi introduces herself to the class. When she looks up, however, she is horrified by the looks the students give her. In his own class, Kaname discovers that mails about Fumi have been circulating throughout the school and the internet. When Fumi meets Kaname after classes, she dishonestly tells him that she is enjoying herself greatly. Kanaka has difficulty with her new partner in the Shigo world, and learns from Matoma that Chiaki is also troubled about Fumika’s disappearance. As news about Fumi and her father spread throughout the media, Fumi is unable to remain calm inside Natsuka’s house. In her own room, Natsuka looks through the pictures she has of Fumika. In other places, Haruno and Kirameki are forced to keep their profiles low.

Whlie waiting for Fumi on another day, Natsuka wonders why Kaname will not talk about Fumi’s situation. However, he believes it is probably for the same reason as Natsuka’s. Natsuka finally guesses that the one that the one Kaname fell in love with was actually Mika, wondering if he is only kind to Fumi for that reason. Kaname does not believe this is of any concern to Natsuka, but she states that it is. As Natsuka confesses her love to Kaname, Fumi walks away after listening in. Natsuka meets Fumi when she reaches home, wondering why she left before her. While passing her, Natsuka wonders about the time she saw Fumi at the shrine. Fumi confirms that what Natsuka believed she saw was her imagination, causing Natsuka to run past her in difficulty. Fumi almost calls to her other self, but she decides that she must do things on her own this time. Elsewhere in the home, Fumi overhears the troubles of Natsuka’s parents. In the Shigo world, Matoma meets Chiaki to comfort her in his own way.

At the airport on another day, Fumi meets her mother Isawa Kirei. Kirei believes her daughter is doing very well, but she surprises her and Nojima by claiming that she does not want the responsibilities of a mother. When Fumi wonders then why she married her father, Kirei replies that she simply wanted to experience a woman’s happiness. Kirei quickly leaves to a man named Lorenzo, leaving Fumi to panic at the sounds of camera shutters. Losing Fumi, Nojima calls Kaname in order for him to help search for her. Elsewhere, Haruno starts conflict with the rest of her colleagues. Kaname finds that Fumi is not at Natsuka’s house, but Natsuka again brings up that Fumi is not Mika. Fumi ends up returning to Kirameki’s household, despairing that she returned to her hated place in the end. She points her gun to her head, but is quickly interrupted by Fumika’s entrance.

Fumika expresses that Fumi was unable to change in the end, as she approaches her. In front of the shrine previously, Fumika was actually forced to help Fumi pull the trigger because of her fear. Fumi wonders why Fumika left her alone when they were finally able to be together again, so Fumika expresses her belief that she needed to change. As she continues to approach her, Fumika suddenly knocks Fumi down. Kaname finally leaves Natsuka to go to the Kirameki mansion, stating that it is no longer about loving or hating. Fumika states that Fumi cannot win against her, but Fumi surprises Fumika by actually throwing the gun to her. Fumi believes that Fumika should shoot her, expressing that Fumika was the one who actually wanted to live and make friends. As Fumi claims that Fumika just did not want to disappear, Fumika is put in shock.

Natsuka is still troubled about Fumika’s disappearance, but Kanaka appears to state that Fumika certainly does exist. As the conversation is relayed through Matoma, Chiaki also hears this. Natsuka quickly rushes to the Kirameki mansion with Kanaka in hand, recalling the given memories she had with Fumika. In reality, she came to like both Fumi and Fumika. At the mansion, Fumika confirms that she really did want to make friends and enjoy life. Countering her, Fumi states that she wanted to have fun as well. As the two go head to head, the argument actually ends in Fumika’s smile. Fumika was wrong about the Shigofumi she held, even though she believed she would have to disappear. Fumika thanks Fumi, resulting in the both of them falling into tears. When Fumika and Fumi’s friends arrive, they are surprised yet relieved at the situation before them.

ED: As the credits roll by, we are shown how all of the previous characters are doing in life. As Fumi passes Fumika in the crowds, she states that she will not allow Mika to return to her body no matter what.

Impression:

Boku punch indeed. Fumika and Fumi were so cute! Honestly, this was probably one of the weirdest and most forced endings I have ever seen. It already seemed kind of out of pace when the climax started coming with the last episode, but I guess that’s what happens when you have so much material shoved into a 12 episode series. While watching Fumi struggle with her life in this episode, I was again impressed with the importance placed in the media in this series. The snapshots of Fumi were a nice touch, and even I started getting annoyed by them. Kirei did end up being Fumika’s glittering mother, which came to no surprise, but she actually played a very small role in the episode. The bgm that played when Fumi reached the mansion was totally groovy, and I definitely shouted for joy when my boku goddess showed up. I didn’t believe she was gone for a second! Anyways, I guess it’s all up to the final impression to relay the rest of my thoughts…

Final Impression:

Shigofumi was one of those hit or miss shows before the season started, but after I saw the first episode, I was convinced and hooked. Although many were impressed by the shock factor presented early on, I saw even more potential. A story about life, death, and humanity, Shigofumi became a work of brilliant storytelling that I would connect with on many levels. The series was fairly well received throughout the community in the beginning, hyped up with announcements of censoring and pre-licensing, but many started turning away after seeing what they believed to be a typical episodic type show. Those who stuck with the show probably realized that this wasn’t the case, and I continued to love discussing my appreciation of the show throughout the season. Complete with great animation and a stunning soundtrack, there were more than just a few things to appreciate about Shigofumi.

I liked to joke about my love for Fumika on a regular basis, but in all seriousness, that just proves how easily fans were able to connect to the characters. With a strong cast including talents such as Ueda Kana and Chiba Saeko, the most fans could complain about was a talking staff. Some may have claimed that it was hard to become attached to characters who only lasted for an episode or two, but I found that this wasn’t the case at all. Each episode did enough to flesh out every character with their own unique story, creating memories that I will never forget. Further more, the stories make us wonder how the characters went on after their tragedies. With a perfect mix of reality and fantasy, the tales presented allowed viewers to relate the stories with their own lives. I felt a wonderful connection with every episode, and I’ll never forget some of the themes that were displayed. Shigofumi now has its place in my heart as one of my favorite anime of all time, even though this was already the case after episode one. Live on!

Boku > Watashi

Summary:

Awakening, Fumi-chan wonders where she is. She is unable to keep her balance when she starts walking, and sees Kaname and Natsuka as they walk into the room. Natsuka quickly embraces Fumi in gladness, but Kaname takes the rational action of calling the nurses about the situation. In the Shigo world, Chiaki wonders what Fumika will do by delivering the gun that she used on her father. Fumika suggests that she will have Fumi fire it at her, but those around her are only able to put this off as a bad joke. In other places, the book editors and Nojima learn of Fumi’s awakening and relate this to their own situations. Natsuka and Kaname find that Fumi cannot remember them very well, but Natsuka believes it will come with time. The group is interrupted by Chiaki’s panicking entrance, as she warns Kaname and Natsuka of Fumika’s plans afterwards. When Fumika arrives at the hospital, she is shocked to find Fumi gone.

Natsuka has Fumi over for dinner at her house, so Chiaki is relieved to prevent Fumika from meeting her other half at the moment. Kaname enters the hospital room in the meantime, lying to Fumika that Fumi has been transfered to another hospital for a week. Natsuka realizes that Fumi has never had sukiyaki before, so she explains to her how to eat it. Fumi is surprised at how delicious it is, pleasing those at the table. Kaname and Natsuka report to each other on the phone afterwards, relieved that things have worked out so far. Chiaki meanwhile asks for a favor from a certain woman. Before heading to bed, Fumi thanks Natsuka for what she has done. Natsuka asks Haruno what would happen to Fumika after Fumi’s awakening, so Haruno suggests that she would disappear. She assures her, however, that Fumika would still remain inside Fumi. Awake in bed, Fumi remains troubled.

Natsuka discusses old class events with Fumi the next day, and Kaname brings up his own memory. Kaname one day saw an angry dog in front of Fumi, but by the time he was close enough to help her, Fumi had already defended herself. Fumi is unable to remember this, but Natsuka again suggests that time will return her memories. However, Kaname still remain troubled. After delivering a Shigofumi to a troubled recipient, Fumika attempts to find Fumi’s location. Kanaka wonders about Fumika’s intentions again, suggesting that she does not wish for her to disappear. Although everyone else laughed at Kanaka’s wish to be human, Fumika did not. Kanaka suggests that she enjoys being Fumika’s partner, so Fumika thanks her. However, Fumika still suggests that she must accept punishment for herself.

Fumi goes to return the school album to its place as Kaname and Natsuka leave her, but she becomes shocked when she sees another book on the bookshelf. Natsuka wonders to Kaname if Fumi and Fumika will be happy if they became one again, but they are interrupted by a panicking Kanaka who has lost Fumika. Looking at the book before her, Mikawa Kirameki, Fumi panics at the horrifying memories that return to her. When Kanaka and the others return to Natsuka’s house, they find that Fumi is now missing as well. Running through the city, Fumi again believes that she was the one who shot her father. Working with the woman Risala, Chiaki finds that there is a way to save Fumika.

Fumi desperately searches for her other self, and finally finds her at the entrance of a shrine. Fumi embraces Fumika, apologizing in her panic for firing at Kirameki. Fumika finally reveals that it was actually her who did this, however, putting Fumi in even more shock. Fumika reveals what she has experienced through the years while Fumi was asleep, assuring her that the only ones who were wrong were herself and Kirameki. Fumika then presents her gun to Fumi, requesting that she shoot her. With this, it would end. A fire is heard throughout the red city, but when Natsuka finally finds Fumi, she denies that she met anyone. Behind her, she hides the delivered gun in her hands. When Fumi meets Nojima, she quickly gets to the point by claiming that she wishes to sue her father. Elsewhere, a glittering woman receives a phone call.

Impression:

Um………What just happened!? This being the second to last episode, the plot dealing with Fumika and Fumi is quickly being thrown at us (I refuse to call them Fumi and Mika or Fumika and Fumika…because that’s just confusing). I was kind of surprised at Fumika’s wish to end her own existence, and it was pretty awesome to finally learn the meaning behind the postage stamp on her gun. Who would have thought it was her own Shigofumi? I, for one, just thought it was a cool design… Fumi’s playing of wii tennis was really cool (even though I think that game is for losers who buy the wii to play crap), and I totally got Touka Gettan vibes out of nowhere from Risala. Why is everyone in the Shigo world a druggie? The woman at the end of this episode is already being suspected by many to be Fumika’s mother, and that really wouldn’t come off as a huge surprise at all. With only one episode left, I refuse to believe that it is all over for my boku goddess.

Oh, and thanks Aroduc…….jerk.

Hey, you’re not Fumika….and stop poking that bird!

Summary:

A young girl pokes at a bird, wondering why it isn’t moving. Her mother calls out to her as Fumika, explaining to her that it is dead and will not return to life. Fumika later leaves her home’s living room full of gossiping women to talk to her uncle Takehiko. She finds that he is having trouble coming up with something to paint, as everyone else in the house begins to leave. Takehiko takes Fumika to enjoy cake in the city, explaining to her that he is attempting to do his own painting rather than the work he has been forced to do in his workplace. Takehiko later visits the arcades with Fumika, but becomes distracted while playing game. The women from before talk together in a bar, discussing the unclear situation of Takehiko’s career. While Takehiko watches a movie with Fumika, he remembers a recent trip to the clinic. The doctor explained that he had developed cancer, and that it would not cure.

Takehiko gets into some trouble with two delinquents later, but is unable to defend himself against them. A pair of security guards come to his aid, but Takehiko is also given a fair amount of blame. Takehiko is questioned in the police station, but the interrogator ends up lecturing him about work after finding that he does not have a stable job. Fumika encounters a crying police woman while waiting for her uncle. In the woman’s hands is a Shigofumi, which Fumika has just delivered. The younger Fumika believes that Fumika has been picking on the police woman, but the woman explains that Fumika has delivered an important letter to her. When the younger Fumika wonders if there is a letter for her as well, the two Fumikas find that they have the same name. Takehiko is given a call from one of his work acquaintances after a confirmation from the interrogator. The man on the other end makes Takehiko realize that he would not be able to return to work, and is disappointed with Takehiko’s answer as he thought they were friends.

Fumika visits Fumi-chan again, with Kaname and Natsuka follow shortly after. Fumika has continued to visit, as she believes Fumi-chan can hear her voice. Takehiko talks on the phone with one of the women from earlier, becoming upset that they are setting him up for a normal job. He realizes that everyone would rather have him live a normal life, but he does not believe he has that option anymore. While Takehiko drives back with Fumika, he finds that she would like to visit the shop she heard the women talking about earlier. Takehiko tells her that she would be unable to go, making him wonder if she is envious of adults. Takehiko states that the adult world is not all that great, before stopping to the side of the road. He finds that the car will not run, so he leaves Fumika to wait for him. While walking down the street, Takehiko thinks to himself that he has started to lose everything. He believes that this is fine, however, as his life will end soon anyways.

Takehiko stops when he hears Fumika chasing after behind him. She suggests that she will go with him, making Takehiko realize that it is lonely being alone. Fumika interrupts Takehiko when her game beeps. When Takehiko sees the screen, he remembers that the characters inside were those that he created. With this, Takehiko has memories of the times he has spent up to this point. He had always painted pictures as a kid, making his way through college and eventually to his workplace at the game company. Takehiko thinks that he became a graphic artist because he wanted to make paintings, but further realizes that he just wanted to make people happy. A truck rushes towards Takehiko and Fumika shortly after, however, making Takehiko push Fumika out of the way. Realizing that this is the end, Takehiko believes that the situation is not bad at all.

Later at Takehiko’s funeral, Fumika is only able to believe that her uncle is sleeping. However, she realizes something when she touches his face. Outside, Fumika appears to deliver a Shigofumi to her. Inside is a single drawing of a sleeping Fumika. The younger Fumika asks Fumika if her uncle is dead, finally realizing that she will not be able to see him anymore. With this, she turns off the game she has constantly been playing. In the hospital elsewhere, Fumi-chan opens her eyes.

Preview: Awake.

Impression:

OSHI-! Okay, before we get all excited about the last five seconds of this episode, I’m going to have to talk about the other 20 minutes of it. Going back to the episodic style we had in the beginning of the series, this was definitely one of the stronger episodes for me in the past few weeks. I felt quite connected to this episode, even more so than some of the earlier ones. For one, I am a digital media student. Just the scenes themselves seemed familiar to me, but I loved even more the beliefs Takehiko held towards his work. Following “normal” lives just doesn’t work for artists, and they live to change the world in some way. At least, that’s what I believe. Watching Takehiko struggle with his life, I became intrigued at how mainstream Japanese thought works. Themes of death may be thought about a lot by a few here in the states, but it just isn’t introduced in the media the same way it is in Japan. Unfortunately in this episode, Takehiko died a convenient death before he could live on with his new realization.

The young Fumika was really cute in this episode, but I somehow doubt she will be making a returning appearance with only a couple of episodes left. The Animal Crossing type game she was playing looked like a lot of fun, and it even played well with the theme of the episode. I really love the role of symbolism video games are playing in this series, which was also introduced in one of the earlier episodes. The blank canvas Takehiko stared at earlier in the episode was beautiful, representing his own blank state at that point. Of course, everything in the episode built up and revolved around that. Takehiko’s expression to Fumika that the adult world was not all good also hit base with me. It is always interesting to see the envy that children have for adults, along with the wish adults have to return to their childhood. Fumika’s realization about what death really was by the end of the episode was excellent, as it is something everyone deals with at some point of their life.

Now to talk about the last five seconds. Fumi-chan woke up! OMIGOD! Yea, that’s all I really had to say about that one. The next episode looks quite interesting, and I’m looking forward to a strong end for this series soon. Fumika, what are you doing!?

Ah! My Boku Goddess

Summary:

When Chiaki was still living, she rode in a car with a boy who said something to make her blush. Another car with two distracted passengers crashed into them, however, ending her life. In the present time, Kaname and Natsuka follow Fumika to visit Fumi-chan. Fumika tells Fumi-chan about Kaname and Natsuka’s visit, while praising Haruno for what she was able to do to Kirameki. Natsuka wonders if the personality she met in the past was actually Mika, which Fumika is forced to confess to. This makes Kaname wonder about the one he came to like. When Kanaka switches the conversation to Fumika’s work, Kaname wonders what exactly a Shigofumi is. Before he can get his answer, the group sees Chiaki outside.

Chiaki reveals her realizations about Fumika, in particular about her not truly being dead. Chiaki wonders if Fumika will go out to play with her, which Fumika surprisingly agrees to. However, Fumika would choose the location. Kaname and Natsuka tag along, so the group travels across the sea via boat. Chiaki eventually reveals that she is Fumika’s senior, and that she has already died. She brings up the incident that caused this, which makes Natsuka and herself begin teasing Kaname about talk of love. On the other end of the boat, a girl in summer clothes stands alone. When the group reaches their room, they discover that it is the first time that Fumika has went on a trip. Because of this, they get her acquainted with what it means to do so.

Natsuka later brings up to Kaname that the island Fumika wanted to visit was actually the one next to them, making him wonder what she is thinking. As fate would have it, this is the same island that the mysterious girl wishes to visit. Natsuka brings up the earlier conversation about Kaname’s confession to Fumika, which he obviously has trouble talking about. As they are listening in, Chiaki wonders how Fumika feels about this. Fumika reveals that she does not really understand love’s meaning, however, making Chiaki realize her circumstances. When Fumika wonders about Chiaki’s case, Chiaki can only state that this was a thing of the past for her. Elsewhere, Haruno presents a draft from Kirameki to Ochiai’s Editor in Chief.

When the girl from earlier visits a house, she introduces herself as Shirakawa Touko. Chiaki brings up Fumika’s want to go to the next island while the girls are in the hot springs, which makes Fumika finally reveal that it is to deliver a Shigofumi. Fumika frightens Natsuka when she suggests that the recipient may be dead, causing her to fall down the steps. Natsuka falls on Touko in the process, but she becomes even more frightened after seeing the contents of Touko’s luggage. Touko eventually explains to the girls that her belongings are actually for a hakamairi visit, further revealing that her reason for doing so is her nervousness towards confessing to a person that she likes. This causes Chiaki and Natsuka to bring up conversation about love, but Fumika decides to go to bed because of lack of interest. Of course, Chiaki won’t let her do this.

The next morning while they travel to the next island, the group wonders whose grave Touko will be visiting. Touko tells them that it is her grandfather, Kiyosumi Saizo. This puts Chiaki in shock, as this was the person she knew in the past. In a bit of disappointment, she realizes that he got married. When the group reaches the island, most begin enjoying themselves. Touko begins preparations for the hakamairi, while Fumika sits with Chiaki. Chiaki explains that she visited her town recently. However, none of her familiar places were there. It has been 50 years since she died, and it was a given that things would change. The only thing that hadn’t was herself. Fumika realizes that even Chiaki’s previous lover had changed before dying, then inviting Chiaki to the hakamairi.

The girls join Touko, and Chiaki again realizes that the grave before her belongs to her previous lover, Kiyosumi Saizo. She pays her respects, bringing up Saizo’s living happily long after she died. She becomes shocked when she sees a postage stamp on a nearby stone, however, with a message accompanying it. This makes Chiaki realize that Fumika’s work was to deliver this message to her. Touko reveals that Saizo never actually got married, further surprising Chiaki. Chiaki then remembers the wonderful times she spent with Saizo, and the last night that she lived. Saizo had brought up all the fun times he spent with Chiaki, and prepared to propose to her. However, this was when the accident happened. With this, Chiaki agrees to Saizo’s proposal, letting a single tear run down her face. On the boat ride home, Touko decides that she finally has the courage to confess.

Preview: Meeting….back on track with the death stories!

Impression:

Yup, Shigofumi is now entering love comedy territory….and that just makes me love it even more. There were so many funny parts in this episode, and even if it was focused on Chiaki, I still almost died from awesome Fumika overload. I laughed when Natsuka mentioned that she “even said boku”, proving that it was Mika that she met in the past. Fumika’s love for Fumi-chan was killer too. Kaname’s interaction with Matoma made me think about the genders that the staves have for the first time, and Kanaka’s human like actions had me rolling in my chair. Of course, just because this episode was really funny does not mean they went off track at all. The fact that they can make such an episode work so well with the story just proves how well the writing is done. Touko’s introduction might not have been the most powerful though, and I did notice Inamura Yuuna’s voice pretty quickly. Heck, her character even resembled Akao.

This episode was still able to focus on a theme, which happened to be the moving on of life and love. I think these two concepts played very well together, but maybe it’s because I expose myself to too much romance series. People change throughout time, and that’s a given no matter what the circumstance is. The story of Chiaki’s eternal love was beautiful though, especially with the symbolic ring. Not only was the writing as excellent as ever, but the screenplay worked so well with it again. When Chiaki talked about her old sights changing and disappearing, she looked across the dark and empty city that had overtaken them. My eyes were definitely wide open at that point, and I was sighing out of amazement again when they visited the grave. I always like to point out the color isolation in anime too, but that’s just a silly habit. Next week, we’ll be back to the episodic type story that drew me into this series in the first place. I guess I’ll have to be ready to talk about a lot of things again.

Recently, some concerns about the shift in focus in this show have been brought up. All of these concerns can easily be addressed, however, by the main premises of the series. This would of course be….boku boku boku boku boku boku boku boku….

Summary:

A young Fumika plays in the forests, talking to herself as Mika and Fumi-chan. She claims that they are one, and together. In the present time, Kirameki fires at his daughter. Confirming that Fumika is in pain, he expresses how dangerous her gun is. Kaname quickly assaults Kirameki, and Natsuka runs to Fumika’s aid. Despite Haruno’s attempts to stop him, Kaname eventually locks Kirameki inside one of his own rooms. Natsuka is amazed to see Fumika’s wounds heal before her eyes soon afterwards, just as Kanaka had suggested. Natsuka covers Fumika up while Kaname and Haruno return, but they are surprised when they hear Kanaka speak. After Kanaka explains that Fumika will not die and introduces herself, Natsuka asks for Fumika to tell them about herself. In the Shigo world, Chiaki discusses with Matoma about how different Fumika is from her. Matoma decides that this means she is still a child.

Kaname is confused as to how Fumika and the hospitalized Mikawa can both exist, but Natsuka convinces him to let Fumika explain. Fumika confirms that Kirameki is her father, and that her mother had left before she could get to know her. Haruno knows that this woman’s name was Isawa Kirei, who is currently married to someone else. When Fumika was a child, she was treated well by her father. Kirameki was kind because he loved himself, and he loved that which was created from him. However, the days came when Kirameki began using Fumika’s body for what he called art. He would write about the Shigo world on her body, unable to accept words like “beautiful”. Deciding on the word “traitor”, he caused his daughter an extreme amount of pain as he continued to write on her back.

Fumika feared these frequent events, but she could only endure it. She was confused when Kirameki screamed out that he hated her, as she tried to reply that she loved him. Fumika could not believe that her kind father would do such a thing to her, claiming that she was not herself. As Kirameki continued to yell for his daughter to disappear, Mika was born by splitting from her other self. The Mika who split from Fumi would cheer her other personality up while she was in pain, and the two became best friends. She was her only friend in the world.

The two managers from earlier meanwhile discuss Kirameki’s strange behavior and his daughter. While Fumika gets back up after becoming fully healed, she confirms to the others that no one met her because she was always in the house. The only other human she knew was her father, until she started going to school in Junior High. This was the first time she had seen so many people, and it was frightful. However, remembering people like a young Natsuka, she recalls that it was not all scary. When Fumika states that it was Fumi that attended school, Natsuka confirms that Fumika was the one called Mika. Fumika even brings up that it was Fumi who turned Kaname down, and explains that it was only because she was afraid.

Natsuka gives Kaname a hard time about this, so he tries to get aid from Haruno. Haruno is in the room further away observing the Shigofumi, however, when a rumbling noise erupts throughout the building. Fumika realizes that this was Kirameki’s doing, as he has broken himself free. While Kirameki searches for a gun, he notices that one is missing from his wall. He remembers his daughter reaching for a certain gun, when Fumika enters the room to wonder if he has remembered. Fumika states that it was her who shot him, as she locks herself inside the room before Natsuka and Kaname can follow.

As Fumika begins charging towards Kirameki, he attempts to defend himself in fear. As Kaname and Natsuka desperately try to get inside, Haruno arrives with Kanaka who suggests for them to use her. Kirameki claims that he hates Fumika despite how much he loved her, but Fumika states that Fumi had loved him until the end. She recalls the time when Kirameki suspected her of betraying him. As he attacked his daughter repeatedly, Mika feared that her other self would die. Mika took over to fire at Kirameki, but this resulted in Fumi’s shock.

As Fumi cannot even hear Mika’s voice anymore, Fumika threatens to end Kirameki’s life. The others burst in to stop her, as Kanaka warns Fumika about the consequences of killing a human being. Fumika could care less, still pointing a glass pen at her father. Haruno stops her, however, coming up with a simple solution to stop the conflict. An explanation would be made for Fumika and Kanaka, and Kirameki would continue writing. Kaname expresses his surprise towards Natsuka’s sister while walking outside afterwards, as does Kanaka towards Fumika. Kanaka refuses to let Fumika go on her own the next time, as they are partners. Fumika agrees, while remembering her promise that she would always be together with Fumi. Natsuka and Kaname wonder if they can wait as well, as they also like Fumi. A bit surprised, Fumika is only able to smile and thank everyone.

Preview: Fumika and Chiaki enjoy some hot springs action.

Impression:

Wow. I am in love. Ok, I was already in love after the first episode…but I’m still in love. This episode was simply amazing. As suspected from the last episode preview, we were basically given the full course on Fumika’s background this time. It was kind of hard to keep up with names for a bit during this episode, but Mikawa Fumika was basically split into two personalities. There was Mika, the cheerful and protective side gone courier, and the pain stricken Fumi-chan who now lays in a hospital bed. Watching Kirameki attack at his daughter was a visual treat, as we got some very dramatic displays of his writing all over her body. Of course, it was only a matter of time for this to be revealed after the hint in the first episode. It looks like Natsuka and Kaname will become a regular part of Fumika’s life as well, but this was also building up to happen. I certainly think it works, and the storytelling this show offers just continues to amaze me.

Although a lot of us already suspected the possibility of there being two Fumika’s, the introduction of this episode did come off as kind of confusing. Coming back into the present time with an instant Street Fighter like upper-cut didn’t help. I can’t tell you how much I laughed at that. I have new respect for Kaname, seriously. I know I wasn’t the only one who appreciated the wonderful imagery with Kirameki’s insanity, and I definitely got some Tekkonkinkreet vibes from that. Although this episode clearly experimented with different styles, just a few parts did seem awkward. Natsuka and Kaname’s interaction seemed a bit forced at the end for one. Although I am really loving these developments with Fumika’s character, I do wonder if they will continue to give us episodes like they had in the beginning with the few episodes they have left. It’s hard to tell from the next episode’s preview, but maybe that’s because I was only concerned with my boku goddess and Chiaki in the hotsprings. Oh, it’s so wrong…..but it’s so right! If you can’t tell from that, I can’t wait for next week. Shigofumi love forever!

Mikawa Kirameki

Summary:

A woman stands on the ledge of a tall building in the city. In her hands is the book with the name Mikawa Kirameki on its cover. Two women discuss a recent marriage while going through files. One of them suggests to the woman named Kasai Haruno that she should get a boyfriend, but Haruno expresses that she is having more fun reading books right now. Haruno is called to by her superior, who recalls that she enjoyed the book Mikawa Kirameki. To her surprise, Haruno is put in charge of the book’s author. Haruno returns home to her younger sister Natsuki, who she guesses is becoming interested in having a boyfriend. Haruno further learns that Natsuka is also interested in the book Mikawa Kirameki, so she surprises her with her new position. The girls’ excitement is soon interrupted, however, when Natsuka gets a call from Kaname.

Chiaki sees Fumika in the Shigo world, but finds that she is not paying attention to her call. Fumika is more worried about the letter she is now sending to a person named Mikawa Kirameki. When Kanaka asks about this, Fumika reveals that this is the person she shot while she was still living. Natsuka nervously prepares for a visit from Kaname, but finds her sister having trouble down the stairs. On her way out to work, Haruno playfully greets Kaname who has just arrived. Natsuka invites Kaname in after apologizing for this, but he can only be concerned about the piece of bread that Haruno dropped on the ground.

Kanaka wonders why Fumika is headed to the hospital, so Fumika states that it is an important stop. Inside her house, Kaname asks for a favor from Natsuka. Natsuka finds that it is about Mikawa, however, making her mention the two’s earlier break up. Kaname denies that this is what it is about, telling Natsuka that he met Mikawa despite the fact that he shouldn’t have been able to. Meanwhile, Fumika stands in front of her other self, who has continued to rest. Kanaka wonders how the girl in bed looks exactly like Fumika, so Fumika mentions the relation of “Fumi-chan”. Kaname wonders why Mikawa shot her father, and why she can no longer open her eyes. Natsuka is interrupted by her older sister, however, who calls for help regarding the map she has left at home.

After helping Natsuka deliver the map to her sister, Kaname learns about their connection to Kirameki. Kaname prints a copy of the map to Kirameki’s residence for himself, suggesting that he would be the only one who knows the reason that Mikawa will not open her eyes. When Haruno finally reaches Kirameki’s estate, she finds that it is a very unique building which mirrors the sky. Elsewhere, two talk of the recent failures and progress of the book Mikawa Kirameki. Haruno meanwhile meets Kirameki at the door. Fumika states that she will soon be meeting Mikawa Kirameki, and that she wanted to see the girl in bed before then. Pulling out her gun, she apologizes to Fumi-chan.

Kirameki leads Haruno inside his building, showing her the many beautiful glass things he has. Haruko and Kirameki finally begin talking, but not before Kirameki panics at the sight of Haruno’s wrist. He quickly takes a pen to write things on it, to Haruno’s confusion. As Kirameki leaves the room, Haruno can only wonder about what has just happened. Outside, Kirameki believes that something is not right. While on the bus with Kaname, Natsuka begins revealing how she met and began talking to Mikawa. She does not recall much about her, but she does remember her asking one thing. Mikawa one day asked what Natsuka’s father was like.

Haruno asks about Kirameki’s work, but he denies to let her see them out of embarrassment. When the two notice rain starting to pour outside, Kirameki excitedly runs out to view it. He even pulls Haruno out with her when she tries to call out to him, surprising her even more. Kaname and Natsuka also become stuck in the rain, attempting to decipher the map that Haruno has written out. Taking a shower later, Haruno wonders about the things her friend talked to her about earlier about relationships. Kaname and Natsuka meanwhile find the silver colored road leading to Kirameki’s estate.

Haruno wonders whose clothes it is that she is borrowing when she steps out to meet Kirameki again, guessing that it may belong to a daughter. Her thoughts are interrupted, however, when Fumika appears behind her. Kirameki wonders who Fumika is, but correctly guesses that she has come to deliver a letter. While Kirameki excitedly opens the Shigofumi, Haruno talks about the time she sent a fan letter to him. Kirameki leaves the room after dropping the letter to the floor, however, making Haruno wish to read it. The letter is from a young girl, who has read through all of Kirameki’s story. The book described the world of Shigo, which she thought was wonderful. However, this lead to the girl’s suicide.

Fumika takes the chance to explain what the Shigofumi is to Haruno, before Kirameki returns with a lighter. He states that he will burn the letter with his flame, though Haruno attempts to convince him not to. Fumika states that Kirameki has not changed at all, unable to think about others’ feelings. She blames her for what has happened to his wife and daughter, but Kirameki only becomes excited after realizing who Fumika is. He explains to Haruno that she is his daughter, when Fumika again aims her gun at her father. Kaname and Natsuka appear to yell out for Fumika to stop, but this causes her to lose her gun. Now having the gun in his possession, Kirameki fires at his own daughter.

Preview: Beginning….a look into Fumika’s past!

Impression:

NOOOOOOOOOOO! MY BOKU GODDESS!!! She’s not dead though…thanks preview! But wow, Kirameki is a freak! He must have done pretty well to have such an awesome daughter thou-…Okay I need to stop that. This episode actually wasn’t that strong when compared to the rest of the ones we have been getting. I can’t say that I didn’t like it though. I think episodes like this one help to separate this show from its most similar comparison, Jigoku Shoujo. By stringing the plot together, it doesn’t just stay as an episodic show. I’m sure it helps with rating too, because it seems like most fans are the most interested in Fumika’s back story. I’m definitely not going to deny that I am. I’m actually kind of surprised that Natsuka and her sister are becoming so involved in all of this, though I’m not really shocked after Natsuka’s interaction from Kaname in earlier episodes.

I thought finally seeing a bit of the Shigo world was really cool, and we even got just a bit more information from the connections the book has with it. I also payed closer to the seiyu work in this episode, since it was just easier to with all the dialog. Ueda Kana (Koyomi in Zombie Loan, Rin in Fate/stay night) has of course been doing a great job with Fumika, and Matsuoka Yuki (Inoue in Bleach, Evangeline in Negima) plays the ecstatic Kanaka. I also took more notice to Chiba Saeko as Natsuka since her voice started coming through in this episode more similarly to her roles like Ayane in Nagasarete Ariantou or Nadeshiko in Shugo Chara. I’m pretty sure I heard a bit of Fujiwara Keiji too, who I haven’t been appreciating as much as I used to. Go back to E7 man! I guess his role in Baccano wasn’t bad though…the other actors just haven’t played many roles that I’ve been really into. I also loved some of the shots in this episode, especially while on Kirameki. I am very excited about seeing the next episode, since it looks like we will be learning in depth about Fumika’s past.

School Days.

Summary:

While a boy named Morishita is browsing through message boards, he comes across some bullying type claims. Seeing some kids use a boy’s school bag as a garbage can for the class later at school, he realizes that these types of people exist in his own school as well. Elsewhere, Fumika makes a man extremely happy after he reads the Shigofumi she presents to him. While she talks with Kanaka about this, she describes Shigofumi only as honest. Kanaka describes humans as the only ones who are dishonest, and when Fumika asks why Kanaka wishes to be human, she replies by saying that it is because humans can lie. Fumika pauses at this statement, before looking down to see many puppies feeding on a mother’s milk.

At home, Tatsumi again reminds his son that it was impossible for him to have seen Mikawa. Kaname wants to know why Mikawa has become the way she has, but guesses that his father will not tell him because of being a detective. He still asks one thing, however – if Mikawa really shot her father. Tatsumi confirms this, putting Kaname in a bit of shock. At school, the teacher calls on two students to answer questions on the board. He calls on the student that was bullied earlier, Kikugawa, but finds that he will not attempt the problem. Morishita wonders why a girl next to him is laughing, but he looks behind him to see that Kikugawa is not wearing any pants.

At home, Morishita makes a connection between what he is reading online and what he has seen at school. The next day, he confirms that Kikugawa is the one who has been bullied on the message boards. Kikugawa quickly begins begging Morishita to help him, denying that it is his own fault for being bullied. Morishita escapes, but runs into the bullies while walking inside the school building. The bullies instantly begin associating Morishita with Kikugawa, but Morishita denies the claims. The bullies state that the school needs a person to relieve stress on, threatening to shift the role to Morishita. When Morishita continues to deny any relation to Kikugawa, the bullies ask for him to prove it.

Kikugawa receives a phone call from Morishita that night, who claims that he will help him. Kikugawa hesitantly follows Morishita’s request to meet him on the school rooftop, but he only finds a strange set up and the three bullies when he gets there. They suggest a game for Kikugawa, when Morishita shows up as well to explain that Kikugawa is to walk across the beam that has been set up across two ledges. Now fearing for his life, Kikugawa begs the group for an alternative. A security guard arrives just in time to question the boys’ actions, even though the boys explain that they were preforming club activities. Morishita arrives home relieved and exhausted, hoping that Kikugawa will do his best on his own the next day.

The next day at school, Morishita and the rest of the class discovers that Kikugawa has passed away. Morishita does not believe Kikugawa’s decision to die was normal, as news casters begin arriving at the school the next day. He is stabbed in the back by a protractor the next day by one of the bullies, however, putting him in horror. Kaname and Chiaki discuss the ridiculousness of the event awhile after it has happened, though Chiaki does not believe that it is so simple. Later, Morishita begins posting on the message board about how he has become bullied. Recalling the horrifying events that have been happening to him, he describes that he feels as if the world is against him. He begins receiving support from some of the members, and decides that he must kill his heart.

He continues to be bullied at school, but he decides that he will now be half dead. Finding that he has become boring, the bullies take Morishita to the roof one night to play the previous game with him. Morishita is unable to fight his horror, but he is saved by Fumika who arrives on the roof. After Fumika takes out all three of the bullies, she simply hands Morishita a Shigofumi. Morishita is surprised to find that it is from Kikugawa, but he is horrified when the letter puts the blame on him. He looks up to find that Fumika is gone, and the bullies have revived to chase after him. Morishita is thrown to the ground, but he finds a savior in the form of a screw driver in arm’s reach. Picking this up, he swiftly murders one of the three bullies. As the other two run away in fear, Morishita lets out a maddened scream. Above, Fumika and Kanaka realize humans’ relation to animals. At home, a bullied girl reads the message boards as well. Making a decision, she picks up her phone to call someone.

Preview: At least there was a “boku” in the preview.

Impression:

This episode needed less jerks and more boku. I kid, I kid. I can see that many would probably label this as the weakest of the episodes so far, however, and this has already proved to be true. I would probably agree, but I’m willing to give more leeway. Maybe I’m just too absorbed by the boku power. I definitely drew a lot of Jigoku Shoujo parallels with this episode, because yes, it was practically the same as one of the earlier episodes of that show. I also drew some School Days themes because of Hirakawa Daisuke’s voice, but that’s pretty random (Hey, Kikugawa…come to the roof…Kotonoha has something for you). The message board support reminded me of NHK ni Youkosou! and the bullying reminded me of one of my favorite episodes of Touka Gettan. I’d like to throw away the anime comparisons for a second though, and just appreciate this episode for what it was. Shigofumi has been set up to be episodic since the beginning, so I’d like to treat each episode as its own story for the most part.

I think we’ve all been exposed to the troubled child and bully set up before, so I think I’ll skim through those details. I do believe that the case presented in this episode was a bit extreme, but I wouldn’t say it’s the most unrealistic thing in the world. I remember there being bullies back in High School, but they would leave you alone if you just made it clear that you weren’t going to put up with their crap. This issue was brought up in this episode too, but I guess Kikugawa was pretty insistent on believing that it was not his fault at all. The inner thoughts of Morishita’s fears were quite believable, and I loved the line where he described that he felt like the world was against him. It only takes a bit of looking around to see that such isolated kids do exist, and many seem as “half dead” as the characters in this episode.

Human nature was brought up in this episode as well, which is a theme that I really love. Kanaka’s line about humans’ ability to lie was quite simple, but very powerful. I was kind of thrown off by the comparison with the dog struggling for milk at first, but it’s basically a metaphor about survival. In his most desperate state, Morishita could only save himself by doing one thing. Though, it was pretty convenient for the screwdriver to just be sitting there. Like I said, I can agree that flaws showed up in this episode. The ending was very predictable, and it seemed like only Morishita was the only one who did not see himself as one to blame. His question about people usually killing themselves over such things was very ignorant, though I have noticing that the inability to understand such actions is common. It was even discussed in an earlier episode. Some of the events in this episode and the preview reminded us that this show will not be completely episodic, however, and it looks like the mystery of Mikawa will continue to be slowly revealed.

Oh, but sorry about the serious business. Macindows was hilarious. It hurt my stomach a little bit though.

A cat is fine too.

Summary:

While a man named Mikawa Kirameki is being interviewed, he states that he enjoys beautiful things. He states that there are beautiful things everywhere, but ugly things accompany them. When the interviewer wonders how he could rid himself of ugliness, Kirameki suggests that he could simply die. Fumika meanwhile runs into Chiaki, who has the task of delivering a Shigofumi to a cat. Finding it strange that she is there, Fumika and Kanaka discover that Chiaki is after the same cat they are. While Chiaki accompanies Fumika as she searches the city for their recipient, the two girls reveal to each other who their senders are. It turns out that each of them have letters from both of the cat’s owners. Still researching at home, Kaname phones his friend about their old acquaintance Mikawa. Although his friend remembers her personality, he and his girlfriend are more concerned about her shooting of her own father. Fumika and Chiaki arrive at a shop that they believe can help them find the cat. As she has no money, Chiaki uses her powers to turn invisible. Fumika does not think she should do this, however, forcing her to reappear by swinging at her. Fumika realizes that Chiaki isn’t acting like her usual self, when two men approach the girls. Fumika and Chiaki obviously realize what they are up to, so Fumika uses Kanaka to beat them both down when they are angered. The two men drop their wallets before running off, providing the two couriers with the money they need.

In the Nojima household, Tatsumi wonders where Kaname is during breakfast. The mother Hisako describes how Kaname has remained in his room, phoning friends that she suspects are from his middle school days. In a park in the city, Chiaki prepares an aroma to draw cats to her. When many arrive, Chiaki discovers that Fumika has a fear of cats. A girl named Natsuka answers a phone call casually in her room, but she becomes flustered when she realizes that it is Kaname on the other line. As Natsuka was on good terms with Mikawa, Kaname wonders if she could give him any information. Natsuka suspects that Kaname was interested in Mikawa, so she states that she will give him a hint if he can answer her about this honestly. This makes Kaname remember the time he told Mikawa his feelings for her, but he was turned down. With this, Natsuka reveals that Mikawa is hospitalized before hanging up. Natsuka is surprised that Kaname was dumped, as she thought that Mikawa was interested in him as well.

When Fumika opens her eyes, she sees a blurry figure above her. She lets out the name “Fumi-chan”, before realizing that she has been resting on Chiaki’s lap. Chiaki offers Fumika some water, expressing her surprise that she has some cute attributes as well. Suddenly, the two girls see the cat they are after: Schrodinger. The two quickly begin chasing after it, but they run into trouble by getting in each other’s ways. Fumika takes Chiaki’s example in sprouting her wings, as they two fly through the city after the cat. Fumika eventually passes by her other self in the hospital, causing her to become distracted and hit a tree. She then lands on Kaname, who was on the way to see Mikawa. Fumika quickly covers Kaname’s eyes, using Kanaka as her cover. Schrodinger lands on Fumika as well, causing trouble for everyone. However, Fumika is eventually able to take her chance to fly away.

Chiaki follows Schrodinger into a building, despite Fumika’s attempts to warn her. Her time runs out for her wings just after she catches Schrodinger, as the wrecking ball from outside approaches the building. Fumika activates her invisibility just in time to take over the controls from a worker, however, successfully saving Chiaki. Entering the building afterwards, Fumika learns that Chiaki is fond of cats. Or rather, Chiaki states that cats are her lucky item that have helped her many times in the past. Fumika states that Chiaki had another lucky day today, as she has made a new friend. The two girls see that Schrodinger wishes to enter a nearby room, and the girls open both of their letters to find keys inside. The room inside is empty, but Fumika realizes that Schrodinger wanted to properly pay its respects to its now dead owners. When Chiaki wonders about Fumika’s family, she replies that she ended them herself. Kaname meanwhile finds his way to Mikawa’s room, with his father following not far behind. Kaname finds an unconscious Mikawa inside, and his father states that she has not opened her eyes for three years since the event. With this, Kaname can only wonder who the Fumika he met was.

Preview: Scream.

Impression:

We took a break from the deep themes this week, but in exchange, we got some cute Fumika action and a bit of revealing of Fumika’s past. Hey, I’m not complaining at all. Chiaki has a really awesome chemistry with Fumika, and I’m definitely appreciating her powers of revealing another side of her. It’s probably safe to say that she will be showing up more from now on, even if not every episode. I almost died watching Fumika’s cute actions this week, but I’ll probably have to leave that for another time. Also really cool was the revealing of more of the courier’s powers, and invisibility was a really nice touch. It explains Fumika’s previous disappearances, and probably puts a bit of play on the supernatural type occurrences that could be related to this type of story.

The Nojimas’ investigation of Mikawa is quite interesting, but it puts another Jigoku Shoujo parallel into play. I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of that in the future, and I’ll be more than ready to watch. The pacing so far is very good, but it also makes me remember that this will only be a 13 episode series. Hey, there’s nothing wrong with that at all though. Another important hint would probably be Fumika’s calling out to “Fumi-chan” in this episode. I’m sure this relates to her past as Mikawa, and it seems like a set up for quite an awesome twist. Other than all of the new information, even tying in the cat’s Shigofumi story quite well, the production was as great as usual. Watching Fumika and Chiaki fly around the city was a treat, and I loved the music tracks as always. I had chills when Fumika passed by herself in the hospital. Anyways, It looks like we’ll be “back on track” next week.

…Ok guys, I can’t hold it in any longer. BOKUUUUUU~!!! Hi, this is Totali. I am now dead of Fumika overload!

My boku-o-meter says that the lesbians need to lay off my boku screen time.

Summary:

A girl named Ran flawlessly beats her opponent in a match of tennis, causing many girls to cheer her on. She accepts their gratitude, while the captain Nanai smiles at her achievement. In the sky above, a lone white feather falls from the sky. Afterwards, Nanai and Ran flirt with each other in a room alone. As they are putting on an image, Nanai suggests to Ran that she could get a boyfriend. Ran tells her to stop teasing, as they grasp each others’ hands. Meanwhile, Fumika and Kanaka have arrived at a house to deliver a letter. Kanaka brings up her interest in the event that happened previously with Kaname. At the time, Fumika refused to talk to Kaname and teleported away. In the present time, Fumika refuses to give Kanaka any information about this. Ran walks out of the house in front of them, so Fumika takes the chance to hand her the Shigofumi. Ran refuses to take the letter as she is in a hurry, but she stops after hearing the name of the sender; Kaitenshi Naoko.

Ran is lost in thought about the person she lost while on the train, but Nanai appears to brighten her mood. As the train leaves, Kanaka worries because they are leaving the city. Fumika states that she will have a request made so that they can leave, and wonders if Kanaka hates the city they are in. Kanaka states that she likes it, but she gets tired of things like the food. Kaname tells his father that he met Mikawa while eating breakfast with him, making Tatsumi believe that this is impossible. While visiting places in the town they are at, Ran remembers the woman she once knew again after seeing a couple enter the shop. Nanai asks her about this while riding on a bike with her, but they are interrupted by Fumika in the middle of the forest. Ran is again troubled by the name brought up, but she she simply rides off again. Fumika and Kanaka are then greeted by a girl named Chiaki and her staff Matoma. With this, Kanaka remembers that they are in Chiaki and Matoma’s area. Chiaki finds Fumika strange, in that she usually would not have been able to leave the city.

While the girls practice tennis at their location, Nanai notices that Ran is distracted. Finally asking about Kaitenshi Naoko, she learns that it is Ran’s mother. This was Ran’s true mother, who left her for a man when she was younger. Ran meets Fumika again that night, finally receiving the letter. She throws it away right after, however, stating that she should be able to do what she wants with it. Fumika agrees, despite all of Kanaka’s suggestions. Ran injures herself while running the next morning, causing her to be put in Nanai’s care. Nanai apologizes for not seeing her the previous night, and brings out the Shigofumi that she suspects Ran was worried about. Although she has not looked inside herself, Nanai suggests that Ran read the letter. Knowing that she is worried, Nanai also assures Ran that she is always by her side. Ran is still unable to open the letter after she is left alone, believing that she is being teased again. Meanwhile, the sun begins burning at the sheets not too far away from her.

During practice, some of the girls notice smoke coming from the hills in the distance. Nanai quickly realizes that Ran is in trouble, as Ran herself tries to escape from the burning building she is in. As Fumika watches from a far distance away, Chiaki reminds her that she should not be thinking about saving the human. Kanaka is assured that Fumika is only making sure that the letter has been delivered, but Fumika will not say anything herself. Ran is unable to move much more in the burning building, but she has still held on to the Shigofumi. She is unable to reach for it when she collapses, but she says the words “mother” before closing her eyes. As rain starts to pour, Nanai rushes into the building to save Ran. Inside, Ran remembers her fearful memories of her mother leaving her as a child. Chiaki wonders if Fumika is responsible for the rain, but she denies. Instead, she states that it is a kind rain. An ambulance soon arrives, and Ran is eventually able to read the Shigofumi. In the letter, Ran’s mother had apologized to her. In reality, she had come to all of her matches to watch her. At the end of the letter, she simply wished her good luck for the future. Ran cheerfully tells Nanai about the contents of the letter later. When Nanai asks what kind of person Ran’s mother was, Ran states that she was one that would tease her a lot.

Preview: “I’m home.”

Impression:

Yes, it’s true. Aroduc and I talk about Shigofumi while we watch it in AB IRC. The conversations usually go something like this:

Aroduc: At 17 minutes, there hasn’t been a single boku.
totali: omg
totali: that worries me
totali: i will be very disappointed
Aroduc: Ha!
Aroduc: 20 minutes
Aroduc: A boku
totali: WOOOOOO
totali: i love you jcstaff
totali: you know how to please your fans

Yup…..I think Aroduc’s boku-o-meter was broken though. I actually heard three “boku”s in this episode; two more subtle than the last.

Anyways, I’d probably agree with everyone else that this episode wasn’t quite as strong as the past three, but it certainly wasn’t bad. As more people have begun watching Shigofumi with the release of subs, I’ve found that my prediction is pretty much right. Most people were only hooked to the first batch of episodes because of the shocking events and yandere action. There’s really so much more to this show than that though. The storytelling remains to be brilliant, and I am constantly amazed at how good the production is. Where is JCStaff getting these resources!? The scene with the rain creating a tear drop on the statue above Ran made my eyes open wide at the end of this episode. The theme of longing was well played as well, with Ran’s mother and her current lover Nanai. I was going to make fun of the yuri more, but they obviously took the more serious route with it. I guess you could say that Ran became that way because of what happened to her in the past, but why look into it so much?

There’s also the introduction of Chiaki and Matoma to talk about. As I suspected from the OP, it looks like she will be playing a fairly big role as another courier that interacts with Fumika. I thought Kanaka and Matoma’s interaction was pretty funny, and Chiaki reveals even more about Fumika’s unique character through her dialog. Haha, actually, I think Kanaka provides a lot of comic relief in general. Her asking about Fumika’s past and her suggestion about leaving the city were quite funny earlier on. the next episode looks like it will be revealing more about Fumika’s past and alternate self, Mikawa. Chiaki will be flying around with her too. That should be a lot of fun, but I probably won’t be able to watch it on time because I will be celebrating Chinese New Year next Saturday. I’ll catch you all on the boku channel later!