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Norn9: Var Commons Part 9 - Natsuhiko Azuma Route

Time for the pretty boy Natsuhiko! Lmao, I love Mikoto's imagination of Natsuhiko belittling her for thinking her scribbles will capture him hahaha. LMAO at Mikoto's drawing of Natsuhiko, the gun is so cute hahahaha. I died when Ron started laughing and asked if he could keep it😂😂 Hahahah when Nanami was about to say it was a monster until Koharu stopped her😂 LOL, I died when Heishi tried to hide his thoughts on the drawing from Mikoto but used telepathy instead😂😂😂 I have to admit, Mikoto's imaginary Natsuhiko is so entertaining🤣 I love how Koharu sniffling can make Kakeru take action and stop the guys from fighting, and at the same time her glare can make everyone apologise for doing whatever they did, especially Kakeru🤣 No one can go against her hahaha. Wow, Ron really has no chill, he literally just shoved Mikoto off the ship, at least Natsuhiko is gentle lol, princess carry CGs are the best☺️ Even though Mikoto was scared initially, it's nice to see her usual snappy self even when she's basically been kidnapped haha. LMAO at Mikoto's imagination of Natsuhiko as what she perceives as a sadist. I did not expect Natsuhiko to ask if Mikoto would prefer him to feed her rice porridge mouth to mouth or spoon feed her as a threat haha! It's nice to see how sweet Natsuhiko actually is even if he doesn't really show it, and he really does want to stop Shiro Yuiga profiting from selling weapons to countries.

It was cool to see Mikoto and Natsuhiko work together to stop the wars, but it's pretty crazy how Shiro has personal armies he contracts out to fight in wars, his strength and influence is quite widespread. Awww, Natsuhiko got a maid robot to serve Mikoto hoping she would feel better since it's a "girl" and not a guy like him or Setsu so he thought she would feel more comfortable with it, but it ended up making her even more scared lol. I feel so bad for Natsuhiko's efforts but you really can't blame Mikoto, she's stressed enough as she is and she's all alone with no support. It's so sweet how Natsuhiko tries so hard to help Mikoto, he even made a white hiyoko for her so she'll be less scared with something more familiar! It's so funny how the hiyoko keeps saying if Mikoto doesn't do something like eat, Natsuhiko is going to disassemble it so it makes Mikoto feel bad hahaha. I wonder if the hiyoko is based on Natsuhiko or if it's actually him or something though haha. Awww, Natsuhiko taking her to see the stars and then touching her flushed face thinking she might be sick was so cuteee. I loved their talk about going to the moon and how that's probably a more useful use of time than chasing after Shiro lol. Aww, Natsuhiko has been taking her to see the stars often enough to teach her the names of them too, that's really cute! It was so sad to see Mikoto so happily want to tell Natsuhiko only to hear about him continuing his plan to kill the espers, everyone she loves and wants to protect. Natsuhiko hugging Mikoto after knowing about how distressed she is over everything made me want to cry like she did. I'm glad Natsuhiko finally feels like he tell her everything.

Natsuhiko risking his life to cover and protect Mikoto, and then losing his memory because of it is saddening..especially since he has goals he needs to fulfill. It sucks though, they both instinctively know that this happy peaceful life won't last but still try their best to enjoy it without really knowing "why"; Natsuhiko because of his lack of memories, and Mikoto because she can't admit her feelings. It's been really nice to see Natsuhiko so honest about his feelings towards Mikoto, he's like letting his whole sweet side out now haha. I was so happy for them when they finally conveyed their feelings to each other! Lmao when Natsuhiko made her rice and egg porridge and kept saying it wasn't hot enough because he remembered Mikoto saying she likes scalding hot porridge🤣 He really remembers everything she says and holds it closely in his heart. Ron has to be the jerk that ruins everything of course, but dang he was ready to murder Mikoto very quick. I'm happy that Natsuhiko reassured Mikoto that memories or not, he still loves her the same. Lmao at Natsuhiko blushing when Setsu nearly busted him for being the one controlling the white hiyoko to talk to Mikoto. I died when he started asking Mikoto if she wanted more functions like an anti-theft alarm😂😂

I can see why Natsuhiko is so sad about the Reset when it comes to science. Imagine making it to the moon and then having that all reset so many times that you've lost so much knowledge and experimentations. It is devastating to think about. Lmao at how happy Natsuhiko was when Mikoto ran to him because she was scared of Ron. It made me really happy to see that just as Mikoto learnt more about the world and things beyond blindly listening to the World's orders by meeting Natsuhiko, he also learnt many things from Mikoto which changed his mind about killing all the espers and his way of doing things. I liked how he realised that to an extent, he also viewed the espers as weapons like Shiro did, rather than the humans that they were, so it made me happy to see him able to change his mind about it all. For a second, I was really wondering if they were going to leave a brainwashed Kakeru somewhere out there lol, so I'm very happy that Heishi and Itsuki went to look for him and saved him, I was honestly worried lol. Pretty anticlimactic that Shiro just up and died because he ran out of time like Aion eventually will, a very disappointing end to Natsuhiko's initial goal lol. But at least he's now free to really do all the research he wants and stuff. Natsuhiko and Mikoto can live that free life they used to live once again. The tragic love ending was sad, thinking about Natsuhiko dying as he tried to destroy all of Shiro's weapons and then Nanami erasing Mikoto's memories to save her from that pain was just so sad. The short story was so adorableee! I love how Mikoto tried so hard to make hamburg steak for Natsuhiko, and it was so funny how every time Mikoto hurt herself, Natsuhiko came running to the kitchen and left behind medicine and bandages for her lmao. It was so sweet to watch them do that and then enjoy the meal Mikoto worked so hard on, super cutee!

Overall, I really enjoyed Natsuhiko's route! I can see why alot of people like him haha. I really loved how Mikoto and Natsuhiko developed their relationship throughout the route. She was understandably cautious of him at the beginning, but it was really sweet to see how kind Natsuhiko was from the very beginning. It was difficult for Mikoto to notice because she was too scared, but seeing Natsuhiko awkwardly trying to make her feel comfortable and happy was so adorable. It was pretty funny when he failed like when he got a maid robot that could explode to protect Mikoto😂 I was so glad when he made the hiyoko for her, but the cutest thing was him communicating with her through the hiyoko and trying his best to not let her find out that it's actually him haha, he plays the role really well though haha!! I also really liked how difficult it was for both of them to come to terms with their love, mostly Mikoto because Natsuhiko wanted to kill her friends, but Natsuhiko also had to open up to understanding that espers were human too and not just weapons to be destroyed so I really liked how their relationship helped them both understand their respective perspectives towards how best to handle the situation with The World and what kind of future they wanted to have. I think it was also really nice to see a bit of how their married life would be like when they lived in that village and shared the same sentiments of wanting to continue living like this together forever, that was sweet~ It's sad that we don't get to see everyone else on the ship in this route, but I do have to say that Natsuhiko more than makes up for it haha. He is the best!

[atopearth]

White Album 2 Part 8 - Coda (Normal End & Kazusa Normal End)

Coda Normal End

You can't tell me to not cheer for Kazusa when the reason she was running in the snow barefoot in France was because she saw Haruki and tried her best to chase after him. She's willing to give up her life for him, she loves him so much, how could I ever want Kazusa to back off? Kazusa agreeing to go all the way back to Japan just because Haruki said he wanted to hear her piano is so sweet yet saddening to think about. She's been at a standstill for 5 years, unable to move forward emotionally, and unlike Setsuna and them, she didn't have any friends beside her except the piano. I honestly don't blame Setsuna for being hurt about Haruki lying and not telling her about his meeting with Kazusa for the interview. I don't know how he thought he could hide that. I know it's difficult for Setsuna to ask whether Haruki is lying/hiding about something but I guess what irks me the most about Setsuna isn't that her main concern doesn't seem to be that she's scared of her question ruining this relationship but instead she's scared of her "true self" leaking out. As partners in a relationship, it always irks me that Setsuna always feels like she needs to be perfect and never really reveals herself properly so I feel like we're stuck only having the cute and positive side of her "at the end" when she's so much more than that.

Anyway, I can't blame Haruki for desiring Kazusa because they are both so obviously obsessed with each other, I feel like it's impossible for them to not be drawn to each other. It doesn't help that Haruki uses Setsuna as a sexual outlet sometimes so he can avoid the guilt of his feelings towards Kazusa. The normal ending for Coda is pretty saddening. I feel bad for Kazusa. She came all the way back to Japan for Haruki but things ended up like that and her reputation in her home country got hit badly, it's terrible. As for Setsuna and Haruki's relationship, I guess it's the same as before but with Haruki much more resolute in his understanding that he will love Kazusa the most forever even if the one he'll stay beside and give his love to will be Setsuna. To be fair, that's not an uncommon thing to happen in the real world and I guess it's fine if Setsuna is fine with it, which she is, and Haruki does love her after all and has decided to be with her so I think the fact that he chose her in the end is something to be happy about because he's not indecisive anymore.

Kazusa Normal End

Haruki really likes to drive himself into a corner doesn't he? He guilt tripped himself into proposing to Setsuna but prioritises Kazusa too much, and now he's begun to be unable to live without Kazusa. The more he betrays Setsuna, the more he can't face anyone in society aside from Kazusa and the further he digs himself into this self-made hole of his. It's honestly depressing to watch. I feel so bad for Kazusa that she had to be the one to break it off with Haruki despite her being the one that wants to be with him the most. Haruki is just spiralling downwards in this hole, unable to get out, unwilling to get out, and if Kazusa doesn't let go, he'd basically destroy everything in his life to continue this toxic relationship with Kazusa where he numbs himself from everything and forces himself to not think about anything through sex. It's sad that it had to come to this but I'm glad that Kazusa recognised how detrimental this all was to Haruki's wellbeing as a person and said she wanted him to be happy and that's why she's letting go, since the only one who would be happy from all this was her. I think the worse is that Kazusa loves him so much, but having to admit that Haruki will only be in pain if he stays with her is just terrible. I can't imagine having to part with the one I love because my existence makes their life difficult and toxic and that I'm destroying their life.

Why is this considered a Kazusa ending when Haruki doesn't even end up with her?! Not gonna lie, I think it's a great Setsuna ending but not a Kazusa ending. It's just depressing for Kazusa. Yeah, she gets the fame and conviction to leave Haruki but other than that, her life truly is nothing but piano and her mother. Setsuna's forgiveness knows no bounds and sometimes I wonder if it's humanely possible to be that strong and forgiving but also love someone so much that you can forgive all these things about them. I mean it's a great quality to have, for Setsuna to bounce back after one week and even acknowledge that she will never be the only one he loves and will never be the one he loves the most but still be okay with it. But I'm not sure how long something like that can truly last since if Kazusa appears again or they meet coincidentally overseas, will everything just go downwards again? However, I do feel like this ending in a sense is quite 'realistic' because I do feel like Haruki will always inevitably choose Kazusa.

Overall, these endings were just more painful endings for Setsuna in that she's forced to face she'll never be Haruki's number one. Maybe she already knows that, but for these endings, it's shoved in her face and she can't avoid it. I think Kazusa's normal end was disappointing in that it felt just like, was it Chiaki's route in Closing Chapter where all they did was just have sex and be dead to the world until the girl snapped out of it and told Haruki that this can't go on anymore. However, I do admit that this time around, it was especially painful because it was Kazusa. She loves him to a debilitating extent, so her giving up on him to allow him to function again as a normal human being and acknowledging that her existence beside him will only bring him down unlike Setsuna's which will raise him up just hurts, I hated watching it and I felt terrible for her. I'm looking forward to her true end now because can we just give Kazusa her happiness now?

[atopearth]

Amnesia: Later Part 2 - Shin Route

Shin is as rough as always and lacking in awareness, but when it comes down to it, he's very reliable and kind. I loved how when the heroine's feet hurt from wearing geta, he immediately got her bandages after she told him, and he immediately took her home. He might not be like Toma and notice things like this but I'm similar so I can totally understand, and I think that's fine because you can never see and understand everything, and that's why it's so important to communicate in a relationship. What I really love about the fireflies thing is that she made a promise with everyone to see fireflies again, and everyone else also takes that promise seriously and wants to show her fireflies again to make her happy, and I just find that so sweet. It's also so cute how Shin's mother purposely buys snacks the heroine likes to share them with her. I think it was really sweet of Shin to pick her up after work and walk her home and then personally apologising for not being able to hang out with her the next day like he promised, I think it was very thoughtful and shows how much he cares even though he must be busy studying.

I have to agree that I felt bad for Shin that the heroine doesn't want to be alone with him. Like obviously it's because she's nervous and scared but she doesn't tell him, so he's just being patient not really knowing that it's really because she's shy and actually really likes it and not because of something like she doesn't trust him or whatever negative thing he's probably thinking. I'm not surprised Shin thinks she doesn't really like him considering how she's seen to be so unwilling for just kissing, she better be honest now! It was very sweet of Shin to plan a party for her full recovery. Sometimes I forget about how this is actually set after the good ending in the original game and just think it's a random side story lol, so when they mentioned Toma and stuff, I was like oh yeahhh...forgot about that drama. It's kinda cute how she's asking Ikki for advice like how she probably did in Toma's route haha, guess she'll always go to him! I'm glad though because she really needs to be the one to step up imo.

I liked how the heroine remembered how they first started dating and realised that she needs to show him how she feels instead of leaving everything out and not expressing herself properly. I'm also glad Shin acknowledged that even though he said he'll go along with her pace and be patient, he hasn't really looked at things from her perspective because even though I was on his side, I did think that he should try to think more about why she acted the way she did instead of constantly pushing and being exhausted by that. Shin being shocked at the prospect of sharing a soft serve together and asking what's the point of that was so funny hahaha. Everything is for the romance Shin, the beautiful romance!!

Shin is such a teenager haha, he should feel happy that the heroine wants to hold hands with him and even feed him her homemade lunchbox haha! I mean, I get it, but I still feel like the happiness stemming from someone loving you so much to want to do all these things with you wins against the embarrassment of doing all this in public. Shin basically proposing to her because she's worried about how 'casual' a boyfriend feels compared to when they were childhood friends that could be together forever was so cute! He really listens to her worries haha.

Shin is so sweet😭 I couldn't help but feel so happy for them when he gave her a ring in the same place he gave her that ring made from a flower and said he'll marry her as a child. I love how supportive Shin's mother is! She gave him her ring to give to the heroine as an engagement ring for the future and told him to take care of her because she'll be a part of their family one day omgg. The heroine is so loved😭 Honestly, even though I thought a lot of this route was tedious because I feel like the original game addressed the childhood friends hurdle adequately, so having the heroine and Shin have to jump over something similar again was kinda tiring to read. But I did think it was quite cute in its own way with how realistic it kinda was? To be troubled about something silly that could have been solved if they just talked properly lol. Anyway, that ending scene made it all worth it so I'll forgive how frustrating it was loll. I love how Mine and Sawa teased Shin and the heroine, it was so cute and funny, but I agree with them, they are practically like newlyweds! It's so cute that the heroine is going over to Shin's place all the time and even cooking dinner for his family, that's so adorable~ I'm sad that the cuteness was all at the end and all the anguish was in the middle hahah, but I'm still happy because it was cute enough, just that it could have been better.

[atopearth]

Butterfly’s Poison; Blood Chains (Chou no Doku) Part 6 - Majima Route & Overall Review

I've been wanting to do Majima's route since I first started this game, and I'm still excited for it or maybe even more excited now that we know him better. I still love the innocent and kind him but I'm also curious about the depth of his hatred and the love he has for Yuriko. Ohh how interesting...because Yuriko confessed to Majima, he called off the plan to murder her father and everything? I have to admit though, that dance with Shiba was nice, he may be crude but he's so blunt, I love it lol. It's interesting to see how her parents reacted to Shiba's proposal while they're alive and healthy. Yuriko is really relentless and brave to tell Majima again that the one she likes is him and that's why she doesn't want to get married. Knowing the reasons as to why Majima is pushing her away hurts but it can't be helped. I love Yuriko, she's so relentless, but I honestly don't blame her for not giving up, how could she when Majima told her that he does like her but their social status is just too different and there will be too many problems to overcome? Of course she's going to find a way for it to work out haha. Lmao, Yuriko is so cute, she just found a random cafe and asked them to hire them, and then when they were suspicious, she was like I'm not going home until you hire me, this girl hahahaha! I actually didn't expect her to really run away from home and live with all the other waitresses and start a life here though, like wow girl, she's really determined! Definitely admire her, that's very brave. I'm so glad she met such kind people though, the outside world is tough so it makes me happy to see her thrive as a waitress and actually enjoy her life more than being an aristocrat. It was very sweet to see how understanding everyone at the cafe was when she left with Majima, they really are very very kind. I loved it when Majima appeared to save her and take her home though.

I was wondering why Majima took so long to find her, but it was mainly because he was observing her wondering what her purpose for being a waitress was haha. LMAO when Majima said he can't be her gardener anymore and that's he's going to quit and Yuriko was like since Majima doesn't want to be with her anymore, she's going to go to a nunnery😂 I'm happy that Majima and Yuriko left the manor together but I wanted more confrontation with the parents haha. Oh wow, Yuriko's father personally killed Majima's parents right in front of him and even slashed Majima as well, he just survived because his mother protected him. I see... Majima's biological father saved him and swept everything under the rug so he hates his real parents and Yuriko's father, he hates all of them for erasing the existence of the parents who loved and cared for him and sacrificed their lives for him whilst the ones who gave birth to him protected themselves and their sin so he wanted revenge against them all. Although I really like Majima, opium is a terrifying drug and if I had to say one thing I can't forgive about Majima is how involved he is in spreading opium and ruining people's lives. I always wondered why Majima took so long to carry out his plan since he's been at the household since Yuriko was a teenager, but it seemed like he enjoyed being with Yuriko much more than I thought. He loved her much more than I thought. He knew she was his sister but still fell in love with her at first sight. He chose her birthday party because he hated the idea of her getting married to another man so he wanted to ruin everything. I like their peaceful life, I really do, but I'm still kinda sad that Yuriko never found out that he's her brother and her parents never got to have a bit more of a reaction to everything considering how big of a deal it all was? I mean, I still loved the romance and everything, and I understand Majima wants to keep her innocent and pure forever without knowing everything but..I feel like trash for saying this but I wanted them to fall down together knowing the weight of their choices. Maybe I'll get more in the extra story?

Majima's tragic endings break my heart. Considering that I wanted to pick the "take me with you" option, glad to know that it meant Yuriko would go to Shanghai and forever be Majima's little sister and not her lover as she helped him with his business like his second in command. But I think the other tragic ending was worse because not only did Yuriko suffer so much mentally having killed Saburo to protect herself, but having everyone around her dead or disappear so she had no one but Majima to rely on, so he tortured her by making her sell herself. In the end, he achieved what he set out to do in this ending, but seeing him glad that he achieved it but at the same time feel tormented because he loves Yuriko really hurts my heart. I think Majima's VA really conveyed that pain well because every time I heard how distressed he was, it really felt like I could feel his pain.

The extras are hilarious LMAO. The birthday one where Majima asks Mizuhito which route we're on😂😂 and Mizuhito pretending to be Yuriko happy at his flower arrangement hahaha. The Fujita Special cake sounds very sweet but interesting hahahaa, I need a cake with all those flavours! Lmaooo at Hideo getting influenced by Majima and thinking that Yuriko is going to cook the rare sparrow he's giving Yuriko for her birthday present since she's more about food than romance, and then telling the bird to prepare itself hahahaha. HAHAHA at Shiba's gift, the clock with his voice telling her the time and saying he'll be thinking about her has me dead, definitely a terrible gift😂 Awww Majima turning the trees in the garden to say happy birthday is so cuteee, lmao at Mizuhito saying the garden isn't his🤣 I died when Majima muttered that it's going to get burned later anyway, this guy, technically the whole manor burns down loll😂😂 Majima the Gardener route hahaha. The Butler chapter was so funny too! A clumsy Mizuhito that can't hold anything heavier than chopsticks because he's a recluse lolll, and Majima calling Kyoko a shameless crone for wanting to be served properly welcomed home hahahaha. I loveeee how it jokes about everyone's weird fetishes in their respective endings hahaha, Mizuhito's paintbrush one is certainly one I would have liked to read in the 18+ version of the game hahaha. Majima and his burning down the manor joke kills me every time because it's not even a joke😂 Mizuhito dying in most endings, and Fujita making a dig at Shiba for getting to marry Yuriko but always having a terrible life because she cheats on him or tries to kill him is so funny. I love the fireworks with the thank you very much haha. Legit died when Majima told Saburo to burn down the manor hahaha. Kyoko in Fujita's body is something I never knew I needed, the ohoho killed me hahaha. LMAO when they said Mizuhito's body is infested with STDs😂😂😂 I died when Mizuhito tried to take Hideo's body to the red light district to experience losing his virginity again, the nerve of this guy lmao, I couldn't help but LOL when Hideo was like a cute girl saying he wants his first time to be in a room with a view of the sea😂😂😂😂 The escape passage has an elevator too, I'm dead😂😂😂 I agree with Majima, what kind of house is this hahahaha. I really didn't expect this epilogue sorta thing to be so funny but I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it!

Overall Review

Personally, I really loved Chou no Doku. It was short but just the right length because it never overstayed its welcome. It set out what it wanted to do and show and achieved it. I really wanted to read something depraved and a forbidden romance and I think it really delivered in all different aspects. It has incest amongst other issues such as SA but I loved how it never shied away from scandalous topics, questionable actions and depraved behaviour. My favourite routes would definitely be from most liked to least liked Hideo, Majima, Shiba, Fujita, Mizuhito and then Kyoko if we can count her haha. I loved how pure Hideo's love was and all the obstacles they had to get through for their love to blossom the most. I enjoyed discovering the depth of Shiba's love and how much he was willing to overlook as long as Yuriko was with him. I loved having a more passive guy like Fujita who was gentle and followed the lead and strength of Yuriko. I loved Majima for both his evil and kind side because they both made sense and I couldn't help but love both sides of him as much as he struggled with his revenge and his love for Yuriko. Mizuhito's route didn't hit me as much as I would have liked sadly and Kyoko is creepy but hot LOL. The game isn't very long but I think it really showcased every guy and their love well along with the different Yurikos depending on who she is dealing with. I liked how bratty she was with Fujita but also loved how witty she was with Shiba, but also enjoyed how sincerely she chased after Majima. I definitely recommend this game as long as you're fine with the TWs because I really enjoyed the variety of tragic endings that gave a lot of life and character to each LI as well as Yuriko. It definitely satisfied my itch for a read that is less pure and more depraved hahaha!

[atopearth]

Norn9: Var Commons Part 8 - Ron Muroboshi Route

Time for the (apparently) trash man?! I love trash though. LMAO when Nanami wondered about why Ron was always so tired when he does nothing, and then contemplates whether his exhaustion is because of old age😂😂 Excuse mee, Nanami!! Hahaha. I like the CG, I mean I guess it helps that Ron not buttoning up all his shirt buttons makes him hot too hahaha. Ron obviously only cares about what everyone's powers are but I can't help but be interested in him. Lmao at Heishi being soft on Ron's laziness just because he reminds him of his little brother that doesn't like to do chores either. I agree with Nanami that Ron is so frustrating to talk to hahaha. But I am also curious about why he stepped in between her and Akito. I guess Ron likes to playfully annoy people and also dig at people's wounds when he can in order to see how they react. Ron is such an ass, it's actually hilarious. Love how bluntly he said he wants Nanami to be his lover so he can use her power because whatever it is, it seems useful. It's funny how even Nanami thinks Kakeru is a nasty guy hahaha. I agree that Kakeru and Koharu really do smile so happily and genuinely with each other though, I think that's the main reason why I love them so much. Even though Ron is dodgy, I do like how he's making Nanami think about whether she's just changed from listening to the orders of her father to listening to the orders of The World instead of actually being able to choose what she wants to do. Setsu bumping into Nanami must have been on purpose..Anyway, I enjoy Ron and Nanami's interactions because Ron says whatever he wants and Nanami is very honest about her dislike towards him haha. HAHAHA, I thought Ron was heating up some hot chocolate or tea or something for Nanami but he was heating up sake for her, this guy lol!

I loved it when Ron just asked Nanami if she wants to run away with him. Man, when Ron pushed Nanami down and even kissed her, like dang, glad she was able to punch him, but at the same time, it was obvious that she was only able to escape from his grasp because he let go. I think it was great when Ron basically said to Nanami, you are not your power. Considering how she's only been used by her father for this power and how she only got on this ship because of this power, it's hard for her to not think that this power is her, but Ron telling her that this power of hers doesn't define the person she is was nice. She's always seen herself as horrible because of the terrible things her powers are capable of after all. I loved it when Nanami held Ron's hand so he would stop going the wrong way but he still ends up trying to walk the wrong way lmao.

It's so funny how everyone goes to Nanami about Ron's behaviour, she's like his new caretaker haha. They're so funny together, I love it. It was so funny when Nanami said she couldn't imagine Ron having friends, and he said they probably hate him, so she responded saying are they really his friends if they hate him? And then Ron was like she's not fond of him but he thinks of Nanami as his lover hahahaha. This guy man. When Heishi said it's rare to see Nanami let out her emotions on someone...I guess that's what I enjoy about their relationship. Nanami usually keeps to herself and hides her feelings and stuff, so having Ron get on her nerves all the time, to the point that she can't hide how she really feels is nice. I love the option of slapping Ron awake, but lmao that he enjoys it and it basically has no effect of him😂 Honestly, it's such a low bar, but Ron remembering Nanami's name and telling her he remembered it was cute, I can totally see how she got caught off guard haha. So Ron actually has a proper reason for wearing sunglasses? One of his eyes is an artificial eye and the other is getting weaker, and he hopes to get another artificial eye but has to fulfil the request of this friend of his before they'll make it for him? I liked how honest their interaction felt in the bed, and it was really cute to see how much Nanami cared for Ron, but dang, he got her to even fall asleep there on his bed in his arms haha! He must have been able to notice how tired she's been.

Ooh okay, I didn't expect things to start moving again. It's saddening that Nanami was forced to use her powers on Mikoto because Ron basically threatened her, but it is quite apparent that just as Nanami wanted to protect Mikoto, she also really wants to protect Ron. Nanami pleading to Ron asking him to not hurt people anymore really broke my heart. She likes him so much she can't bear to see him hurt the people that are precious to her, nor can she bear seeing him as a bad person. Ron stealing Koharu's powers is definitely bad since hers is the strongest offensive power that's basically capable of destroying all of civilisation. Dang, Ron was wild, I didn't expect him to take out his artificial eye and throw it away since he couldn't fulfil his part of killing the espers. Honestly, I'm not sure how I feel about the happy ending, mainly because erasing Ron's memories as he wanted may have stopped him from doing "bad stuff" but it also feels like the Ron now is missing something and I can't say I like him as much as I want to anymore. I guess memories really are important to form a person's sense of self huh, because Ron feels very empty, and I just can't think of it as a happy ending even if they're technically living peacefully at this moment in time anyway. Okay that tragic love ending was sad, Nanami killing Ron and herself is terrible. Well, damn, that bad ending was uncomfortable. Seeing Nanami basically live a life like she did back then but instead of following her father's orders, she's now following Ron's just so she won't be abandoned is just sad, and the fact that he uses her like a puppet and makes cruel jokes is just..horrible. I've always wondered why everyone didn't force Ron to do work properly so seeing that addressed in the short story was nice even though everything basically happens as you expect it would haha. HAHAHA, I love how Ron just took Itsuki's request to lie and then just answered Sakuya's request by telling him what he wanted to know without any regards to the fact he accepted Itsuki's request lol. Nanami's request for him to hold her hand was super cute though!

Overall, I definitely liked Ron's route much more than I thought I would. I have to agree with the others that you'll probably want to ditch your self-respect and accept that Ron is trash in order to enjoy it though haha! For me, I've always loved fictional trash men so it was a great ride. Personally, I found Nanami and Ron's interactions the most fun. Nanami never minced her words and Ron never cared enough to feel offended by anything so it was really fun to watch them banter with each other. But what I also really enjoyed with them was how even though Ron never made it seem like he cared, his actions showed otherwise, and the fact that he remembered things about Nanami was very telling of how he felt. I loved how he made her contemplate her choices of following The World, and I also really liked how he felt comfortable with her and even told her about his eyes. It wasn't a healthy relationship and the ending was quite unsatisfying to me but I think the first half more than made up for it. However, Ron definitely does do things that can be uncomfortable in his route whether it be pushing Nanami down, being terrible and manipulative in his bad ends and just all around causing pain for Nanami until the end when she erased his memories so yeah, he's definitely not a guy for everyone. One disappointing thing though is how they didn't bother going into Ron's thoughts or his past much for me to really understand his character and why he felt like he couldn't stop himself from this madness. And I also wanted to feel how much he needed those artificial eyes but because of his attitude most of the time, it was kinda crazy to think that he did all this stuff just for artificial eyes lol. Like it's his reason for doing everything he did throughout all the routes but it was never elaborated on so that sucked especially since he seems chill enough to not care lol. Otherwise, in conclusion, he's trash but I love him, extra points for Tomokazu Sugita being his VA!

[atopearth]

White Album 2 Part 7 - Coda (Setsuna True End)

Time for Coda!! I'm excited to see Kazusa in the story again! As for Setsuna, she really is quite childish tbh lol, I mean it's great that she wants to stick to the promise of meeting once a week but if Haruki has a business trip, what can you do lol. I guess because she's childish, she's also easy to cheer up, but at the same time not really since she's going all the way to Europe. Even though I do think Setsuna's dad is too strict most of the time, considering how airheaded Setsuna can be, I don't blame him. But I do admire Setsuna's relentless pursuit of Haruki I guess, especially to the point that she's willing to go France just to not break their one week promise to always see each other. I honestly wanted to cry a bit seeing and hearing Kazusa. It's probably been about half a year or more since I played the Introductory Chapter so it's been a long time for me too haha, not as long as Haruki and them though. Honestly, both Setsuna's and Kazusa's sprites having big breasts is kinda weird, I feel like the proportions make them look weird, I feel like they don't look natural and as pretty as they used to lol. Anyway, I can see why Haruki can't leave Kazusa alone even if a part of it is because he wants to be with her. She nearly got frostbite! So dangerous and careless of her! I can't say I didn't enjoy Kazusa and Haruki awkwardly chatting together, but I couldn't help but think about how he's going to lie to Setsuna again. Which I'm glad he eventually confessed to because they've decided to be together and continuing to lie to her will just become worse and worse on his conscience and to Setsuna when she finds out, especially if she ever talks to Kazusa.

Honestly, I can't even blame Haruki going back to Kazusa's house and walking down memory lane because that's something I've definitely done before. As for Kazusa, of course she would go haha. It's sad to see them fight, but I'm not sure how I really want their relationship to be right now so I'm not really mad😅 Even though I really didn't like Tomo before, now that she's not annoying more, it's great that she can be a friend Setsuna can confide in about everything even if Setsuna can be frustrating lol. I don't think anyone could have rejected Kazusa hearing how vulnerable she was on the phone. I wanted to tear up just listening to how exhausted and sad she was from just having to live and deal with everything with her concert, the media and Haruki. Kazusa sleeping so peacefully at Haruki's place was really cute but I agree with her mother, Touma Youko. Haruki needs to clearly reject Kazusa for her sake because she'll never do it and she'll keep hoping. Haruki needs to do it because he has Setsuna, and he's obviously wavering too, so rejecting Kazusa will be for his own sake too. But I guess it's easy to say haha, it's difficult to completely end things with someone you really like even if you know it's pointless to continue. Back in the day, when I had someone I really liked but knew it was going nowhere, I also wanted to just stop all contact with them to give myself my sanity back, but I couldn't do it, every day I would go online and look for them and hope to see them online and talk with them. It made me happy but also unbearably sad. And to this day, whenever I think about it, it makes me happy but also extremely hurt.

Anyway, even though I feel bad for Setsuna, I can't deny how much fun I'm having watching Kazusa and Haruki bantering about the silliest things, it's just so nice to watch them. LMAO when he protected Kazusa on the train so she wouldn't have to see that terrible article or whatever it was about her and then she's like there's something poking her butt, and he's like it's my camera!😂😂😂 Kazusa with glasses is so pretty! Honestly, I was really enjoying Haruki and Kazusa interactions, so when Tomo came around to try and tell Haruki to attend Setsuna's concert, alike Kazusa, it felt like I was brought back to reality. Sadly, Haruki and Setsuna are both so stubborn to their detriments. Is Haruki really planning to never talk to Setsuna again until she goes to him? Like he probably feels guilty about Kazusa too but seriously? Can't you fight for this relationship that you cherish? And Setsuna...how long does she want to drag this on, were the last two years that that they shared together meaningless enough that it can't beat her insecurity over him meeting Kazusa once? Honestly, the only people who truly lose are those who keep running away without a fight and she will always lose if she can't take that step forward. I thought she would have had at least a bit more confidence in their relationship but I guess her inferiority towards Kazusa will always win. Haruki bringing Kazusa to see Shibata, her housekeeper back in the day was so sweet.

I can't even blame Haruki when it comes to Kazusa because I definitely can't push her away haha. I'm weak against her too. I'm so glad Kazusa told Haruki about how she was the one who took his first kiss, first everything and then Setsuna stole him away, because Kazusa deserves her chance to tell him everything considering Setsuna made it impossible for her back in the day and caused her to suffer so much. Yeah, there's no right or wrong when it comes to loving someone but they were friends and every time I think about that time, I remember how much I hated Setsuna for doing it even if I could understand why. Even though I'm doing Setsuna's True End, I honestly can't actually feel like that's the path I want to take. I'll still read it of course, but I don't think I could ever pick her as Haruki even if it hurts her. It breaks my heart to see Kazusa like this because she could never move on.

I guess my biggest problem with Setsuna and Haruki's relationship is that they don't communicate properly and they still don't. They continue to hide their feelings, their thoughts until the very last second when they're going to explode and then they're just like yay everything is solved now. The only things they go through together are taking breaks from each other, but they never actually solve their problems together. I'm not surprised Setsuna already knew Haruki was meeting Kazusa. I guess what I don't like about this meeting is that Haruki came here not really because he wanted to see Setsuna but because he wanted to run away from Kazusa and those feelings. He wants to see Setsuna but only because he wants seeing her to reaffirm his own feelings and force himself to not think about Kazusa rather than really care about Setsuna herself. It was obvious that Haruki not attending the concert wouldn't bode well, but just like him and the others, I underestimated how much it would affect Kazusa. She really truly finally broke. Honestly, it was so hard to listen to Haruki say he loves Setsuna the most because it was painful to watch Kazusa so thoroughly expose her emotions and pain, but at the same time have to listen to Haruki say that. Personally though, I really don't feel Setsuna to be the one he loves the most. Kazusa can get quite frustrating and difficult to deal with haha, but I can understand why she's like that. I can't believe Youko has leukaemia... She can't abandon Kazusa like this... I don't want her to die... I wanted her and Kazusa's relationship to continue forever. Kazusa's life is just full of suffering isn't it? Not only does she think Haruki's pitying her, but now she's found out about her mother's condition. Seeing her break down and cry made me want to cry too.

Haruki walking all around the place thinking about the women who gave him support throughout his life and wishing Mari could come back and give him advice and guidance was just saddening. I wouldn't know what to do in his situation if I loved Setsuna the most but couldn't bear to reject Kazusa. How much must we tear Kazusa down? I didn't expect for Setsuna and Kazusa to meet yet but I guess it's inevitable. How fitting for the three of them to work together again with a two week deadline. Honestly though, Kazusa's VA always gets to me. She breaks my heart every time because you can hear how much she's suffering and at her wits end. I guess one thing we can learn from Setsuna is how she never gives up even if it torments her, which can be a bad thing too lol. I was actually thinking that it would be so nice if they could include a song with the three of them in the album so I'm really happy that Kazusa overhauled the whole thing to do what she wanted haha. It really feels like the school festival again. I do feel bad for Haruki though, he's probably the one that's the most out of practice haha! It might be corny but I love the idea of the CD jacket being pure white - a white album to represent the song that connected them all, it's so fitting. The funny thing is that it means Setsuna wasted all her time designing when the perfect one was the simplest one haha. I've always loved how much the three of them love each other, so seeing Setsuna and Kazusa tell each other that they love Haruki as much as they do the other makes my heart really warm.

I had no doubt that Kazusa's concert would be a success, but I was still sad that Haruki and Setsuna couldn't be there to witness it. One thing I'm very happy about is Kazusa deciding to stay in Japan for her mother. Kazusa wanting to succeed in her mother's dream of being number one in the world is so sweet. I can totally see why her mother cried, it really was the sweetest thing Kazusa has ever said hahaha. Honestly, after everything that happened, I found it difficult for me to think Haruki could really love Setsuna more than Kazusa. Every time he said Setsuna was the most important from now on blah blah, it felt empty to me because I don't think I could ever think so. As for Setsuna, I guess it's great that she's consistent but honestly her desire for the three of them to always be together whilst being jealous of Haruki loving Kazusa tires me. I won't say she's fake because it is a genuine desire of hers but I guess that naivety and blind wish for everything to be like that whilst wanting to monopolise Haruki as her lover will always rub me the wrong way. I also don't like how she always feels like she needs to not show Haruki her ugly side and only wants him to remember the perfect part of her when what he loves about her and how he got to know her was through the imperfect parts that she showed and revealed to him in the beginning. Anyway, overall, even though I think Coda is nice, I don't think Coda is for Setsuna, the whole story seems to be meant for Haruki and Kazusa and I don't think you can convince me otherwise. So unfortunately, Setsuna's True End is quite lacking and if I had to choose, I think her ending in CC without going to France was the perfect end for me.

[atopearth]

Amnesia: Later Part 1 - Girl's Party and Waka's World Routes

Girl's Party

Super exciting to play Later!! I bought the Japanese version hoping to play it one day fully expecting it to never be localised but here we are hahaha, I'm not even mad that I "wasted" my money because I'm so happy haha! Ooh so Later follows if the heroine didn't pick any guy and doesn't have a boyfriend and is just living a normal life? Toma and Shin arguing about which yukata to pick for the heroine is so cute lol. I love seeing everyone in yukata! Personally, Mine, Rika, Shin and Ikki look the best to me, but especially the former two because they're so cute and pretty! But the black on Shin and blue on Ikki is just so perfect too! I've always wanted the heroine to interact more with the girls so I'm very happy we have Girls Party routes! Sawa is always such a good and silly friend, it's hilarious how bad her grades were😂 I'm also very surprised that Rika is from a family of farmers! Very different from her image haha! Kent is 190cm??? Omg lol, he's like 35cm taller than me, a whole ruler😂 Toma saying his favourite animal is humans definitely matches with that cage in his apartment😂

I can see why people wouldn't like Mine especially when I think about those routes when she was an ass to the heroine initially because of her jealousy, but at the same time, I can't really hate her because she's quite nice and very cute lol. It was sweet to see how she was happy that the heroine considers her a friend and it was honestly adorable how she said she misses the girls when she doesn't see them haha, I didn't expect her to be that honest! Lmao at Orion calling her a tsundere. Shin buying a book and then going to Toma's house to read it is so cute lmao, I know he's a soft guy on the inside but it's so funny when I try to imagine it haha.

I love Rika's fated meeting with the random substitute teacher, Orion is right, it's just like a shoujo manga haha! I think the funniest part is that I can't imagine Rika running to school with bread in her mouth🤣 Anyway, I really enjoyed the Girls Party route if we can really call it a route lol. I really wish it was longer though! I think having the heroine just getting to chat with Mine, Sawa and Rika is so much fun, I really want more haha.

Waka's World

The Ruthless Sergeant's World

Okay, I never knew I needed a Waka route until he said maybe he even has a chance with the heroine. Like, yes please!! And the best thing about this? We get all the different Wakas from the different worlds! Since it seems to be set before the heroine's amnesia, it's actually really cool to see the heroine's personality and actually have her talking to and responding to people lol. The heroine praising and admiring Mine for never being late to work was so cute, I can see why Mine can't win against her. As for Waka ruthless sergeant version, I can totally see why all the newly hired employees run away haha!

I was really touched by Waka when he said that he's the manager, so everything that happens is his responsibility, and that it's his job to protect his staff. I mean, Waka can be over the top but when he says stuff like that, how can I not want to cry? How many managers truly care about your well-being as much as him?😭 HAHAHA, I was wondering what Waka was going to do, but self-defence classes at night?🤣🤣 I agree with the heroine, Waka's hobby being making miniature gardens is adorable hahaha! It's so funny how soft he gets whenever he talks about them😂😂 Honestly though, despite how funny it is, I love how much effort he puts into them that they each have a story behind them. Awww, I would have loved to see Waka show the heroine his garden and everything, it would have been so cute! Why are these endings so short?!😭

The Quiet Man's World

Waka is always saving the heroine in every world haha! Anyway, I was just surprised he let her go find by herself at night, but I guess we knows he's not going to allow that anymore. It was nice to know that he called Shin and Toma to pick Mine and Sawa up just in case. This Waka is very dedicated to his magic trick to have all 52 cards spread around the cafe and to have remembered their locations so that whatever card the person chooses, he can always do his trick. He's so dedicated lmao.

The Flamboyant's World

I can't get used to this Waka LOL, especially the 'hehe' lollll, kill me😂 He's so whatever about everything and says what he wants, it's so not him hahahaha. Loved their little coffee break though. He does whatever he wants too hahaha! I have to admit though, he's very refreshing to see considering how strict his other personalities are when it comes to work at the cafe. I love their little date that comprised of shopping and dining at a cafe, and dangg the confession! I totally didn't expect that ahaha, the Waka that made the most progress!

The Assassin's World

It's interesting to see Waka analyse everyone's personalities and split them between those who gravitate towards darkness and those who remain pure no matter the adversity. I guess Ikki, Toma and Mine being the former reflect their personalities in their routes and Mine's when she's being an ass when it comes to love and jealousy lol. A gentle Waka is pretty nice too. I liked their walk home, and lol at Shin and Toma protecting her by watching over her as she walks home at night hahaha.

Overall, Waka's routes/endings were fun! I wish there were actual CGs though, so disappointing in that aspect and I'm also kinda sad that all the routes were basically teasing the possible relationship but nothing happens! I want moreeee, they can't stop right when it gets good! Now I'm just sad even though they were short and fun😭

[atopearth]

Butterfly’s Poison; Blood Chains (Chou no Doku) Part 5 - Kyoko Route

I didn't expect Lady Kyoko to have a route so I'm confused as to whether it's a romantic route or some sort of route about the truth that answers questions that we might have regarding Yuriko's parents? It seems like Yuriko's mother and her brother were in love and she reluctantly married Yuriko's father? And Yuriko's father is obsessed with her and probably knew about her love for her brother and that's why Mizuhito recalled that scene where their father burnt a kimono that was sent from Yuriko's mother's brother and she was terrified? Could Majima be Yuriko's real half brother? Lol. He really is! I found their kiss so sad though. Yuriko already liked him so having to find out that he's her brother and the one who killed her parents was sad. I understand his need for revenge against Yuriko's father because he most likely tried to kill him and probably killed the parents who raised him, but what did Shigeko do? I didn't expect Yuriko to become a detective and solve cases for people who can't go to the police haha, definitely an interesting and unexpected job! On to the Kyoko ending!

Even though it's an illicit relationship and one that shouldn't have happened, the fact that Shigeko loved her older brother and he reciprocated was bittersweet to see. Shigeko was sad that they were siblings because it meant they couldn't be together, and her brother was thankful for it because it would mean they would "always be together" as family. The existence of Majima was proof of their love but also of their sin. It was sad that Shigeko knew she would never get to see her child again after giving birth. Even though it didn't work out, I'm proud of Yuriko for having the courage to tell Majima she likes him! Omg the attempted sexual assault was terrible to read, definitely Saburo. I felt bad for Yuriko. She was already distressed after having to face memories of her disastrous birthday party and having to remember that her gentle and kind father will never be there for her anymore and then this happens. Glad Majima came and was able to help her. Majima blaming himself and hugging her made me want to cry😭 I don't even want to do Kyoko's route now because I'm so smitten with Majima haha!

Okay, I'm so glad we weren't subjected to descriptions of how she was raped because I'm already heartbroken for her that she had to experience that even if she fainted so she didn't have to consciously live through it but I still feel so violated for her. When they went into Kyoko's room, my first reaction was most definitely wtf LOL, what are all those dolls literally placed everywhere in her room? There's so many... Wow, Kyoko in a Western evening dress is so beautiful! Like dang. That dance CG? Kyoko was so hot and Yuriko looked so cute. Well, we knew Kyoko slept around but to think she does it anywhere and everywhere, and she likes to leave the door slightly ajar as well! Not that it matters even if she gets caught because I doubt anyone has the power to really go against her and her wealth. I think it's quite interesting to see Yuriko become a peeping tom and watch Kyoko all those times and then basically become enthralled with Kyoko enough to want to do it with her and hate all men. I like the attitude of wanting to be above men since she and Kyoko had to suffer something like that, and it's understandable because it's when these things happen, you start to think about how physically weak women can be and how hateful you feel for that, so I can see why they would be like that.

I love the options for when you guess wrong about who the culprit for murdering her parents is and who the secret child is. Shiba's was so funny because he basically just kept talking to himself without Yuriko getting to say anything and she just gives up🤣 Mizuhito admitting that he's been stealing Shigeko's kimono to sell to fund his drinking expenses was silly. But LMAO at the Fujita one, even Yuriko thinks she's an idiot for thinking he's the secret child when he's obviously got foreigner blood in him😂😂 Hideo's one is so silly too because she goes all the way to his house and then just gets driven back home😂😂 Did Majima and Yuriko actually have the chance to play with each other when they were young?

Overall, I don't think there's much to say about Kyoko's route because it's pretty short. As other people have said, it's more of an informational route telling us who Majima is and why he hates the family. I guess the biggest revelation other than Majima actually being Yuriko's brother is that her father seemed to be much more obsessive and cruel than we and even Mizuhito thought. It's sad that Yuriko's memories of him will be tarnished after she finds out in Majima's route. As for the Kyoko ending, it was pretty uncomfortable because of the sexual assualt even if it wasn't described because it felt terrible to think about how helpless Yuriko was. It was fun to see her kind of get back up with the help of Kyoko but she kinda just turned into another Kyoko so not much to say about that lol. Definitely underwhelming and can hardly be called a "route" considering how short it was, but I'll admit that Kyoko was hot haha, you can definitely see why so many men and women would seek her out and be willingly played by her, she's got the looks, the charisma and she's very seductive. She definitely isn't a great person and she's obvious about it but I guess that's also something good, she doesn't hide how unapologetically terrible of a person she can be, so I did wish her route was longer so we could see more of how crazy she was, I feel like it ended right when the story should have started haha, oh well.

[atopearth]

Norn9: Var Commons Part 7 - Akito Shukuri Route

I am very intrigued by the relationship Akito and Nanami share since he obviously knows her powers and whatever she's done in the past. And I have a soft spot for Akito because he's always so considerate towards others by cooking for them all the time and teaching others. I'm glad Heishi stood up for Nanami when Akito couldn't hide his utter disdain towards having to be paired with Nanami. Akito's hatred for Nanami really runs quite deep, although I can understand why he slapped her hand away and wouldn't want Nanami to touch him since touching someone is how she erases memories. I love how Nanami is basically stalking him lmao, I mean I guess it is monitoring haha. I died when Akito was confused about whether he was scared or not of the Hiyoko? that looks like a penguin hahahaha, even his fear is confused😂 HAHAHA, I love Hiyoko Channel and how they bribe Natsuhiko with books and stuff to interview him. It's so cute how one alcoholic drink is his limit, lmao when he took the gun out when the hiyoko called him adorable for that being his limit though😂 Can Akito see and talk to Aion?? Maybe after talking to her, she gives him the water powers? Honestly, it always feels so bad to see and hear how much guilt Nanami feels, enough that she's basically ready to die if Akito wants it and that's very saddening. Of course Akito is too kind to even think about wanting that though. His look of concern towards Nanami when he grabbed her as she nearly fell to her death was very telling of how he really feels. Lmao, I love Kakeru so much, he's had enough of their arguing so he got some handcuffs specifically made just to force them to get along better hahaha. How will Akito cook in peace?!

Heishi is so random it's hilarious. I love how he was talking about rainbows with Ron, and he was like can you just get to the point hahaha. Poor Akito got electrocuted lol! I guess having Kakeru get sick now is the only way to keep Akito and Nanami stuck together haha, a mad Koharu is always the best. It's tough seeing Nanami and Akito together because as Masamune said, Akito gets hurt when he says crap about Nanami too. He tries his best to distance himself from her so he won't know anything about her circumstances and can keep on hating her, but the more he talks with her, the more he's starting to understand that she hates her powers and for having using used it in the past, and that makes it hard for him to continue hating her. Akito reassuring Nanami that Mikoto and Ron will be okay in his own rough way was sweet. Seeing Nanami so genuinely smile and feel happy that Akito truly is a kind person even to someone he hates so much is so heartwarming. The first thing I thought of was they could just check if the barrier around the ship is still up to see if Mikoto is alive, so I'm glad Nanami realised that haha. LOL at Nanami nuzzling herself against Akito's fluffy ears in the dream hahaha! It was so cute when he ran away lmao. Even though Nanami is still understandably confused, I was really happy when Akito hugged her in real life after the dream and tried to tell her that the one who tried to kill her wasn't him. I'm glad he's communicating with her trying to tell her that he knows that whatever happened in the past isn't completely her fault and that he doesn't blame her as much anymore, or at least not to the extent that he still wants her to die for it.

It's actually pretty hilarious that Nanami has a solid reason for ruining food, or at least Akito's food, and it's because she doesn't want to get used to how good it is otherwise she won't be able to eat ninja/emergency rations anymore haha! I really like how considerate and thoughtful Heishi is in this route. He always asks Nanami what she wants, checks how she's doing, doesn't force her to do anything but basically lets her know that if she doesn't want to stay with Akito as his partner, she can change any time. It's really nice to see how supportive and kind he is to watch out for her all the time because she doesn't watch out for herself. Akito so thoughtfully caring for Nanami is still the best though, so cutee🥰 I can totally understand why Nanami is scared though. I don't think I could handle Akito hating her again either when he's been so gentle now, it would break my heart too. Omg, when Akito called Nanami cute, I died, they're so adorable. I was so happy for Akito and Nanami when they finally talked and Akito acknowledged that he was selfish and confusing because of his actions towards her. It was so nice when he hugged her. And I was so happy when Heishi was happy and relieved for them because they both finally had a proper talk. I appreciate Heishi so much in this route. It was so sweet when Nanami told Akito that she told Heishi she wanted to stay by Akito's side🥹 On the other hand, I am very curious about this love triangle with Kakeru, Koharu and Senri, like I'm so invested in what's going to happen to them, I hope no one dies. HAHAHA, I died when Akito basically said Nanami was prettier than Koharu and Mikoto, and Nanami responded saying he needs to see an optometrist😂 Omg, I loved it when Nanami asked for Akito's necktie instead of jewellery, that's definitely much more special! Akito so straightforwardly calling Nanami pretty because he finally realised that Nanami doesn't understand his tsundere attitude was so cute hahaha, he tried so hard that Nanami even fainted because of how overwhelmingly sweet it was hahahaha.

I feel really silly for not realising that Senri is actually Akito's younger brother when they both have the power of water. I was so happy for Senri when he realised he has a brother, it must have been so heartbreaking for Akito all this time to have been right next to him but not be able to be with him because Senri doesn't have memories of Akito. How could he not hate Nanami when Senri was always there reminding him of what he could have but can't have now. Akito kissing Nanami was so cuteee, how did Nanami even resist hahaha. It was nice to know that Akito asked Kakeru to take care of Senri and that's why he always bothered him. I won't say Kakeru was always "right" in the way he dealt with Senri but I do agree with Akito that it did help Senri come out of his room more. I thought Shiro was Kakeru's real dad all this time but he actually captured Kakeru when he was really young and brainwashed him before he was saved by The World?! I feel so bad for Kakeru... Seeing Akito push himself using powers when he's not a proper esper and slowly kill himself is just so tough to watch, especially since you can see how concerned Nanami is. I won't deny that Akito kissing her to reassure her was pretty cool though hahaha. I'm so glad Nanami remembered Akito's advice and stopped herself from adding random stuff to the rice porridge she made for Akito haha. Funnily though, I just realised that Akito hasn't cooked in his own route much at all lol! Now that we know Senri is Akito's little brother, it really makes all those times Akito cooked Senri's favourite food and stuff so much more meaningful, especially when they go back into the past and see how happily Senri talked about loving Akito's cooking and how much he loved Akito.

I don't blame Nanami because she was forced to erase Senri's memories of Akito, especially since the village people really might have killed Akito to make Senri continue to provide water for their village at the cost of his health and probably his life. But I can understand Akito's hatred especially before he got to know Nanami. Not only did Akito lose his little brother and their whole relationship, but he also lost the ability to protect his brother properly because of it, and that's caused Senri so much pain considering how Akito was the only one who actually cared for him. Senri became all alone and became afraid of people to the point that he doesn't want to interact with anyone, how could Akito and Nanami not feel guilt over that. I couldn't help but cry over Akito and Senri's past. It's so disgusting that the village people chased after Akito who was still a child to kill him just in case Senri remembers him. I can't imagine how terrible Akito must have felt to be forced to leave Senri behind. And I can't imagine what kind of life Senri had to live as basically a doll to give water to this village that just uses him and destroyed the only person who cared about him and made him all alone and think that he can't trust anything or anyone.

I can see why Akito blames himself and why he couldn't help but hate Nanami as a way to cope with everything, and yeah I can understand that the villagers were desperate but if you're so desperate to save yourselves that you lose your humanity for it, is there even any point in living? If you have to kill a child and force another child to basically be a slave that only exists to do your bidding, is that kind of life worth living? I don't have the answer for that, because many people desperately try their best to live for their own reasons, but knowing that these people didn't even hesitate in choosing to kill children to save themselves disgusts me, especially since the only reason presented in the game was that they didn't want to move somewhere else because this land has always been their ancestors etc so they had to keep it alive. Land that is only prosperous from exploiting children shouldn't exist at all. And lol as usual, this game really likes to skip over the plot, because they literally just said Aion broke and that's all! Lmao when Akito hid in his bed to hide from facing Senri, they're both so scared of facing each other, they're both so adorable😂😂 I really enjoyed how happy the ending was but I really wanted to see Akito and Senri talk!! Hopefully we get it in Last Era. The tragic love ending was pretty sad because Akito chose to live in a fake past where he could protect Senri and save the village, and Nanami chose to stay with him there. Akito trying his best to make jounamagashi because Nanami didn't get a chance to try it was so sweet. Seeing him do so much research and try his best to make it properly was so cuteee, especially when he faced against the hiyokos and didn't let his fear overwhelm him because he prioritised wanting to make Nanami happy.

Overall, I think Akito had the most satisfying route from beginning to end out of everyone so far. There's still some flaws of course but negligible because Akito was great. I loved seeing the progression of Akito's hatred to understanding and then love. I think the best thing was that even though you know Akito really hated Nanami for some reason, you could also see that he was too nice of a person to truly hate her, I'd say Nanami hated herself more than Akito did. It was really cute to see them awkwardly dance around each other's feelings, be confused about their romantic feelings for each other but still want to be beside the other despite the past. I love how he acknowledged that he distanced himself from Nanami not only because he hated her for what she did, but also because if he didn't know her, it was easier to hate her and blame her. Honestly, I really wished we got a proper reunion between Akito and Senri but I loved their back story and Akito's hatred was totally understandable in the end even if Nanami was forced to do what she did. And the romance was honestly really cute! They're both so shy and awkward at times, but also super adorable in how honest they can be. I loved it when they both tried to get the other to say their first name haha, definitely the best overall route! Kakeru is still my favourite guy though!

[atopearth]

Butterfly’s Poison; Blood Chains (Chou no Doku) Part 4 - Mizuhito Route

Will we finally see the pain Mizuhito harbours in his heart every route until now? He always seems to be barely living with not much reason to wanting to live every route so I would really like to see a happy ending for him in his route. I feel like Mizuhito is the most obviously happy one to have been chosen to accompany Yuriko out with Shiba. I think the truly saddening thing is that even if Mizuhito and Yuriko want to work, they're basically "not allowed" to because once they do, the only thing that keeps this household "alive" and considered noble would break down and they'll become nothing, they won't even be a shell of who they are. Shiba was pretty smooth to put a rose in Yuriko's hair disguised as fixing it haha, but I found it so funny how Mizuhito found the need to want to wash Yuriko's hair because of it lol. It was obvious that Mizuhito finds it difficult to breathe in this manor considering the circumstances around his birth but hearing him tell Yuriko that he can't survive without going to the red light district and getting a woman's love from them because he never ever got to receive it from his mother and Yuriko's mother throughout his life hurts. Hugging Yuriko really helps Mizuhito keep himself together huh? They're not actually blood-related? I thought about it since Kyoko talked about how much Yuriko's father loved her mother but I didn't think the story was going to backpedal on the sibling thing haha. Anyway, I didn't expect him to reveal his feelings towards Yuriko so fast but I guess it was the "right" opportunity since he just told her that he's not actually her brother.

It was pretty cruel for Mizuhito to force her to choose him or Shiba or neither of them so quickly when she's barely had time to process everything that's happened to her family and then she needs to process the fact he's not actually her brother and that he's always loved her. But I guess Mizuhito is dying in his own way and Yuriko is forcing him to not go to the red light district where he feels like he can find some sort of solace so yeah I guess he does need Yuriko to make her decision, otherwise the torment will kill him. Sigh, messy situation, I wonder if Shiba witnessed their whole argument because it was probably pretty scandalous lol. I mean Yuriko's right, regardless of the blood relation, the fact that they grew up together and that Yuriko has always viewed him as a brother hasn't changed. Funnily, considering their relationship is the most socially unacceptable one, their first kiss felt like the most innocent out of all the guys lol.

I guess I can't blame Yuriko for hiding the thing about the geisha from Mizuhito but yeah, it wasn't going to be hidden for long. Honestly, I'm not too into their relationship and I'm not sure what it feels like it's missing because I generally love stories about forbidden love🥲 maybe it's because Mizuhito keeps referring to Yuriko as his little sister lol, like you've already decided to see her as a woman, can you keep it like that lol. Anyway, I really like their CGs haha, and I also like how Mizuhito has finally started to talk more about how he started loving Yuriko and how her existence gave him basically a reason to feel like living because she brightened up his life. I think Mizuhito has hit the nail on the head on why I don't think I like their relationship. It's because you can tell that Yuriko has just been going with the flow of not wanting to be abandoned by the only person left in her family, and because she understands that Mizuhito loves her, she was basically forced to be with him romantically or suffer being alone. I won't deny that maybe she does have some jealousy and stuff like that that could lead to something romantic between them, but her love for him feels more like she doesn't want to lose him to anyone else rather than she likes him and actually enjoys the romantic gestures. But I liked Yuriko's answer. Maybe they can't call this feeling love, but does it really matter? The most important thing is that she was happy Mizuhito wanted her and she was happy that she could have him, and I guess she's not wrong, maybe I shouldn't overthink haha.

HAHAHA, I died when there's an option to ask Fujita what colour is Majima's underwear. The most hilarious thing is that if you pick that option, Fujita seriously answers Yuriko, and then falls to the floor in despair that he hasn't done well enough in Yuriko's education to make her ask something like this LMAO. I guess Mizuhito's endings are really full of depravity lol! The one where they got addicted to sex in the storehouse was certainly interesting lol, but it seems like as long as you keep making the wrong choices, Yuriko and Mizuhito will die from the fire directly or indirectly. Personally, I have to say I liked how crazy the threesome sorta ending with Hideo was, like Mizuhito seemed like he went full on crazy and loved the idea of dragging Hideo down "to his level" and he loved seeing Yuriko indulge in all these sexual acts and listen to everything he tells her to do. I felt bad for Hideo though. I guess the double suicide after realising they wouldn't be able to escape the fire was the most "romantic" way to die but yeah sad all around.

Overall, I really thought I would like Mizuhito and his route but apparently not haha! I think I felt mixed feelings throughout it, especially their relationship. I don't really mind stories about forbidden love but I think theirs lacked what I love about forbidden love, which is that sense that both of them can't live without the other and that if all these things happened, how could they possibly not fall in love with each other kinda feeling. I never felt like I got those feelings throughout this route so I guess it perfectly encapsulates the idea that the relationship is wrong and they know that but they still want to continue to indulge in it not caring about what is wrong or right, which is fine, but just not my thing and not what I expected. I also kind of hoped that Mizuhito's route would reveal more about the family, his reasons for quitting painting and his prostitution, and it did, but I don't feel like we got anything above surface level, so even though Mizuhito's life definitely sucked and was terrible, and now I think I can finally better understand why he committed double suicide with that geisha in the other bad ending, I don't think it was portrayed well enough for me to empathise. I never really felt like what they had was love, and was mostly obsession, which can be seen as "love" as well even if it's unhealthy I guess but it never really felt enjoyable to me and instead felt more uncomfortable as Mizuhito and Yuriko continued their rendezvous. I did like the ending in its own twisted way with how obsessed he was to get famous from painting his little sister though lol. Anyway, Mizuhito's route wasn't bad, but sadly not my thing, it definitely has the most sex though if that's what you want haha!

[atopearth]

Final Fantasy XVI Part 3 -  To Live is to Hope

I'm glad they addressed the anklet on Torgal's leg, I've been curious about it. Nice to know it was from Cid. I'm glad the kids helped stand up for L'ubor because I was just about ready to leave this town to die. But of course it's better for everyone to be alive because then that can truly change the situation of the people and the Bearers. I liked the quest following in the will of Archduke Elwin. I'm sure he must be really proud to see both his sons living as he would have wanted them to, unwavering in their beliefs for a world where Bearers and everyone can live as they will. I like Isabelle, she's very strong, mature and cool. Her story was very bittersweet too, it's a common story but you could really feel how grateful she was towards Northreach and the Veil for taking her and her lover who was a Bearer in when no one else would, and how much they treated her like family and kin that she's willing to give everything to protect this town and it's people. Her strength and resolve throughout the game in caring for this town goes to show how beautiful Northreach is and also why I have a soft spot for this town too.

It was really sweet to know that Clive tried to take Jill to see snow daisies when they were young because she was sad. He didn't get to show it to her back then but at least now he's been able to fulfil that promise. It's not as romantic as the flower scene in FFVIII before the end but not many things can top the feelings I had back in the day. Anyway, I'm really glad we got this scene because I was like, what about Jill the whole time I was doing all these side quests haha. Glad she got a bit more screentime and it really warmed my heart seeing them hug each other so comfortably and happily. I'm happy that we got the Dion side quest, I think he and I really needed it. Harpocrates also needed it I guess since he never got to watch over Dion any more than the brief time he did when Dion was young, but the fact that Dion remembers and respects him goes to show his importance in his heart. It was cute how Mid also hugged Dion before they left for Origin and he was so surprised haha. But what about Terence? Did he die? I really wanted Dion to get a proper farewell too. I really like Gav's relationship with Clive, so when he started crying, I wanted to tear up too😭 What?! No Torgal for the final battle? That's ridiculous, we've never separated from him, how could we go without him? What is life without Torgal? I mean I should say the same for Jill but I have to admit that I feel more incomplete without Torgal than Jill lmao.0

I knew it was basically impossible for Joshua to live until the end but having to watch him die and Clive absorbing the Phoenix just makes me sad. Little Joshua knighting Clive was the cutest thing ever. As for Ultima, honestly have no feelings for him because he's a pretty typical JRPG villain lol. What, I couldn't believe that was the ending because it was so anticlimactic, I wasn't sure what to feel even when I got back to the title screen. And honestly, what I hate most aren't endings I dislike but inconclusive endings and this is one. It reminds me of Gantz and I'm still salty to this day. I honestly don't care if our main characters really died or not, I don't care if the ending is sad or happy, but I hate that they showed nothing that was an "ending". Everything was just the aftermath of the final battle and then the end. Even that book is just a cop out to make you feel better or something, is it written by the real Joshua resurrected? Clive in his name? Jote in his memory? It could be anything but because they refuse to show it, I don't think I really care either. Just seeing Jill and Gav cry as they welcome in a new life is very unsatisfying. I felt bad for Torgal. How many people he cared about died before him? Anyway yeah, I have no doubt that a world with L'ubor, Martha, Byron and Isabelle and them will be perfectly fine but that doesn't mean I spent 60-70 hours on a journey with Clive just to not see a proper ending for him and I'm just disappointed in this decision. Maybe they're trying for DLCs again or a sequel (EDIT: DLCs coming as expected I guess) but seriously, it leaves a bad aftertaste considering everything that's happened. Dion's implied death was the worst. And the battle where we couldn't play with Bahamut or Phoenix was lacklustre considering how great the battles with Titan and Bahamut were. Anyway, it's crazy how the Bahamut fight was so long, but the ending to an entire game was so short and meaningless.

Overall, I still enjoyed FFXVI. The highlights of the game are definitely the Eikon fights and the side characters. I'm not one to fall for the sway of graphics considering I grew up with the blocks in FFVII but I can very assuredly tell you that the fight against Titan was great, and the fight against Bahamut was pretty freaking cool despite how terrible of a situation it was. In terms of Eikon fights though, I was quite disappointed that Shiva never really got to shine considering how beautiful she was and how cool Shiva always is. Even Garuda had better screentime. Odin had his splitting the sea moment too. As for the side characters, honestly the side quests were tedious at times because running around was annoying and there's only so many times we can kill bandits and fetch materials that are super far away.

I'd say the side quests were worth doing because they really helped towards world building and giving me a better view of how towns and people were. I won't say I liked all of them but Martha and Wade, Isabelle, Eloise and Theodore were great. In terms of main story characters though, my favourites were definitely Joshua, Dion, Gav and Cid. It's funny but this is one of the rare times where I actually loved the younger brother more than the older brother hahaha, I guess I just loved how even though Clive was Joshua's shield, Joshua turned out to be the one to protect him more than he did once they got older. I loved the sibling love and care for each other. I loved Dion's story the most because it was very straightforward and understandable. He was a good guy who cared about his people and his father but wasn't able to stop the destruction caused by Ultima because of these feelings he had for them. Gav and Clive is my favourite relationship because their trust and heart to heart to each other just makes me happy to watch all the time. Cid was cool and a great role model, charismatic and strong in his beliefs, a good way to show what Clive was to become as he continued his journey.

However, I do have to say I probably have more negatives than positives for this game. Personal preference but I wasn't a fan of the combat system. I can understand why there's no "magic system" but the utter lack of debuffs and status changes etc really makes battles quite one dimensional in that your focus is really to combo and dodge/block. Attacks from enemies are basically meaningless because the only difference is how much damage they do and not what they do. Weapons and accessories aren't any better because weapons can only have better damage and stagger but nothing else, and accessories don't really add much change to make me really care what I was using. I mean as I've said, I was using the accessory that does attacks for me so you can take my words with a grain of salt lol but I was just so disinterested in the combat, I couldn't bring myself to bother. Oh and the non-existent party system was disappointing because it never really mattered if you had a party or not, it was just more characters on screen but really, I always felt alone in battle and completely forgot their existence. Anyway, as I was disappointed with Shiva's lack of screentime, I was also disappointed with Jill's presence in the story because her character fell flat for me. She and Clive were cute at times but I kinda wish she had more of a character if that makes sense. Barnabas was also disappointing considering he was closest to Ultima and that he was Odin, so he could have brought more insight and development to those things but nope. I have to say though, the story was very average. I thought the story was going to be more "mature" and go for the exploration of politics, Clive's revenge and fight for forgiveness etc but instead it went down the JRPG killing god route which was very disappointing to me especially considering how boring Ultima was. Oh well I guess. Despite my grievances, I'd still give it a 7.5, it was a nice ride but nothing really hit me, it basically met my expectations which was that even if I don't like the game, the Eikon fights should be cool, and I'd say the game definitely delivered in that aspect with Bahamut, which is kinda ironic because when I first saw Bahamut, I thought he was the ugliest out of all the Eikons hahaha! Who would have thought I'd like his Dominant Dion, and the Eikon fight the most in the end? Odin was the most beautiful but also the most disappointing. Anyway, I'd say the game is worth playing just to see the Eikon fights haha, they are just that visually stunning!

[atopearth]

Norn9: Var Commons Part 6 - Masamune Toya Route

Okay, after Itsuki not flying with me, I'm a bit more cautious towards being excited for Masamune, but I really love big brother types so I can't hold in my excitement anyway lmao. One thing I just realised about choosing Masamune for Koharu though, that means Kakeru and Senri are partners! Lol! Poor Senri, I apologise. Lmao, I love how Koharu described everyone as nice, I mean she's not wrong I guess🤣 I died when Ron appeared with a gas mask and Koharu said they're nice sunglasses😆 it's so cute how she tries so hard to see the good in everything hahaha. I feel sorry for Akito though, the poor guy who's the best cook had to be stuck with Heishi and Nanami. I died when Koharu was about to faint from the terrible smell HAHAHA, I mean it's not funny for her but omg, I'm glad Masamune came to her rescue lol. I feel kinda bad for Masamune, he has to go around solving all the problems everyone makes lol. Dang Koharu is strong, she weeded the whole place herself and watered it too! Masamune blushing because of Koharu saying she wants to help him as much as she can is so adorable. He's finally found someone that genuinely cares about how much rest he's getting, acknowledging all the hard work he does mediating and tries her best to support him to make his work burden lighter haha. The sad thing is that Koharu thinks she's a bother to him, which is totally not true! I mean, it was pretty funny how she accidentally intruded on the guys bathing hahaha. But since she feels so bad about it, I feel like I shouldn't laugh haha, especially since it makes her think about how whenever she tried to interact with people, they would think of her as a bother and call her a monster.

I actually wanted to cry when Koharu said she wanted to dissolve her pairing with Masamune and pair up with Senri and stay in her room all the time as well so she won't cause any trouble to others. My heart broke that she had to come to that conclusion. I was really happy when Masamune told her he wanted to stay partners with her so he can keep an eye on her or he'd be worried sick. I'm also glad he told her that it's impossible to not hurt people, but that doesn't mean people can't learn from their actions and become stronger and better at it, and if you don't interact with people, you can't help them either! LMAO when Masamune started tearing up because Koharu thanked and appreciated him for all the work that he does. The best part was when Nanami appeared and said the salesman analogy, legit died. Okay, Masamune with glasses is a 10/10, I love him. I also love how he's properly spending time with Koharu now and teaching her common knowledge, although Koharu is great at stumping Masamune with her questions haha. To be fair, fairy tales are dodgy and it's true that the princesses, well I guess both sides are basically silly for jumping into a relationship barely knowing each other but what would I know~ people would just say you're not romantic haha.

I think Masamune really suits Koharu because he's really patient with teaching her things and to listening to her when she finds it difficult to express herself. LMAO, I died when Koharu really listened to Masamune and covered up her ears when Itsuki started talking to her😂😂 I honestly love Akito though. The moment he heard Kakeru got sick, he immediately started making rice porridge, he's such a great guy😭 Omgg and he even bothered to make rice balls for Koharu because she missed out on breakfast, that's so sweet!! Mikoto and Koharu baking cookies together was the cutest thing ever, I loved how Mikoto made some for Sakuya too. It was funny how Masamune went up to the rooftop to enjoy the cookies but I honestly didn't expect him to act that way and kiss Koharu, like nooo, don't become the "all men are wolves" guy hahaha. Yes, Masamune, it was wrong of you to just do that, but that's not what I wanted to hear!! Koharu was so brave to ask about it and thinking whether he likes her and he apologises without elaborating😭😭 I can understand why though, since he did ask Koharu to trust him and that he wouldn't do anything to her but then he ended up doing something he said he wouldn't do..

AHHH Masamune, remember your own words! You're the one who said it's impossible to never hurt anyone, don't run away thinking you won't be able to hurt Koharu if you're not her partner anymore!! I definitely blame Masamune in this situation. Koharu is the one that's clueless and doesn't know anything so he needs to get a grip! Sorata in hiyoko PJs is so cute. What I hate the most is that Koharu has always been honest with Masamune but he always holds himself back, it really hurts to see Koharu put in so much effort but Masamune won't really show her how much he likes her. Soo glad he finally told her how he felt and that he has a duty to be impartial to everyone on the ship so he couldn't and shouldn't make her be any more important than she already is in his heart. It's always so nice when they finally communicate, I'm glad Koharu was able to tell him all her negative feelings since she was trying so hard to be a good girl for him. I guess it's funny because Masamune was trying his best to be a good guy to her too. HAHAHA, Masamune gets drunk eating sweets?! Is that why he was so different and couldn't control himself lmao. That's hilarious and random. Anyway, I find it so adorable how they're both sighing now because they want to touch each other but Masamune's duties prevents him from being allowed to do so. I love how Koharu helped Mikoto and Sakuya's love. It always hurts me to see them distressed over hiding their feelings for each other so I'm glad Koharu told Sakuya that it's okay to love someone.

Trust Kakeru to be the one able to convince the military guys to give Mikoto time off from helping out with the war. Honestly, I really do wish there was a Kakeru X Mikoto route haha. Koharu patting Masamune's head and telling him he did a good job today was so cute, I definitely wanted them to touch each other more though considering how much they've missed each other haha. Lmao I didn't expect Setsu to be such a weird pervert, definitely gross if even Koharu thinks so😂 Masamune protecting her and kissing her hand was omgg☺️ Honestly though, even though I like Masamune, I have to agree with Natsuhiko that the Reset definitely isn't the way to do things. I....didn't expect to have to witness Sakuya dying for Mikoto in this route. I didn't expect to have Mikoto experience that. Now she'll blame herself forever, especially since they were a pair in this route.. I agree with Akito that Masamune should really start thinking about what he wants to do rather than always following what The World says, especially since Koharu is being used by the army now. It took really long, but I'm so glad Masamune has finally decided to prioritise Koharu over what The World says after everything that has happened, even he has finally understood that this isn't Aion's will, but in fact the islanders' input have instead become The World's instructions. However, I can understand why Masamune took so long to make the decision to abandon his duty. It's been something he's been entrusted with for his whole life probably and he's always believed in it, so to abandon that means to abandon everything that he's believed in and followed this whole time, and to do that requires alot of courage, especially to admit that what you're doing has now become "wrong".

It broke my heart when Itsuki couldn't decide whether forgetting about the person you loved or living in a reality without them was better, but I'm glad that they didn't choose to erase Mikoto's memories and are instead planning to stay beside her and support her, because erasing Sakuya's existence within Mikoto would break my heart, he's so integral to her it'll definitely feel like she's missing a part of herself. But I'm very very sad that they erased Koharu's memories of everyone. She finally made friends and now she's forgotten them. I do enjoy seeing how hard Masamune is working for their future though. The tragic love ending ended abruptly though, like what??? Lol. I was so into it when Mikoto listened to Koharu and blamed her for Sakuya's death, and Koharu was ready to protect Mikoto forever. I mean, aside from the endless guilt and pain for the both of them, I enjoyed how protective Koharu was of Mikoto. LMAO at the bad ending when Koharu puts too much sugar in the cookies for Masamune because of Heishi and Nanami and he never changes back from the "drunk" version of him and gets the harem ending where he just rules the ship and ignores The World, legit died, what a random ending😂😂😂 Also lmao at the other bad ending when you go into the room with Ron and Itsuki, I want a harem end!! Not some ending where Itsuki and Ron are never heard from again LOL, I mean that's so funny in a morbid way but still!

Overall, I liked Masamune's route but I do think the latter half wasn't as good as it could have been. For me, I really enjoyed the caring Masamune who slowly got healed by Koharu's sweet personality that always tries her best to help people around her and not be a burden. I liked how just as she helped Masamune feel appreciated and understand what it means to be cared for, he also taught her that it's impossible for people to not get hurt but it was fine as long as we learnt from it. I guess my main problem with the route was that because of Masamune's duty that they never bothered elaborating on, Koharu always had to be the one chasing him, telling him her thoughts and feelings whereas he always held back because of those duties. I mean it's good that he at least eventually told her how he felt and stuff, but it was still frustrating to see how hard Koharu was trying all the time to support Masamune. Anyway, alot of drama, but I think the main conflict I enjoyed was how both Masamune and Koharu tried to be a good guy/girl in the other's eyes until they couldn't anymore because they couldn't help but express their true feelings. I liked that breakthrough. Otherwise, I'm disappointed that considering Masamune is a locked route, we still basically know nothing about the island from this route. Like c'mon, he grew up there!! He has a mission!! But the story didn't bother exploring it at all! I mean I knew the plot was thrown to the side but it's completely ignored here, and lol, Masamune's powers weren't even talked about, I completely forgot he had any lmao. I also would have liked to see more of their "touching" in the story after they left the ship, like whyyy, he's the oldest, he's not restricted by his duties anymore and we're still robbed of further intimacy between him and Koharu?! Otherwise, it's hilarious how in the short story, we're still feeding Masamune cookies, the guy needs another way to relax haha!

[atopearth]

Diabolik Lovers: Haunted Dark Bridal Part 2 - Sakamaki Kanato Route

Time for the crazy little boy Kanato! I mean, he's not really little but he looks like he is, and he holds Teddy around so... Honestly he creeps me out most of the time so I don't know how I'll feel about this, but apparently Kanato is very popular so I guess I'll see if I change my mind towards him. I would like to question Yui's sanity for thinking she wants to talk to him more and believe that she and Kanato will get along LOL, I obviously think the exact opposite haha! I love how Kanato told her off for talking to Teddy so casually, yep Yui, good luck. What a nut, he just poured hot ginger tea on Yui's hands because he didn't want it, like I honestly thought she'd give him hot chocolate or something lol but oh well, gotta show the crazy. Even though I don't like Kanato's looks, I feel like I'm going to actually enjoy how crazy he is, am I a nut too?😂🥲 Very amusing that he eats human food considering how much he looks down on humans, guess he can't resist sweets. Okay, wow, I didn't expect him to chuck a fit and break plates and stuff because she took too long to make him French toast, and then what do you know, the little guy is crazier than I thought because he starts stabbing Yui with a fork for talking back to her! What a wonderful vampiric kid🥲 His mood swings though, you never know what's he's going to do! At least we know that he hates lies? He seemed pretty nice when Yui apologised for lying and then told him the truth about not liking that wax doll room. Gotta love how of all lines, they had to choose the one where Kanato says Yui would be wonderful as a doll to be first line they use for binaural audio! It's so creepy because it really feels like he's talking from one ear to the other and it really is scary lol! Especially since Kanato is talking about replacing Yui's eyes for glass beads and stuff. Well, seems like laughing, or I guess laughing at him is off bounds too! He'll want you to basically apologise for being born with the amount of apologies he expects from laughing a bit lol. It's actually funny how Yui gives her opinion on things like how being at a graveyard doesn't make her feel good/lighten the mood and Kanato is just like I didn't ask for your opinion🤣

Having Kanato whisper into my ear that I should just hurry up and die already makes me feel stuff, am I becoming weird? Anyway, I guess he's a pervert that likes seeing Yui cry? Love how Kanato's tears makes Ayato back off from Yui. Kanato knows what he needs to do to get what he wants. And of course he'll blame Yui for being the one making Ayato come on to her when she did absolutely nothing. Ohh, so Ayato, Laito and Kanato are all Cordelia's sons, whereas the others are from different mothers🤔 I'm glad Yui does question her choice of picking Kanato lol. Okay, I'm not interested in Kanato at all, but I do have to admit that when Yuuki Kaji moans (LOL), I die. This is a very dangerous game to play when you love the VAs haha! Trust Kanato to love roses soaked in blood the most lol (EDIT: After reading Laito's route about how Cordelia died, this gives me a newfound perspective towards this). I didn't expect him to take her first kiss so fast and so randomly though! Even though Kanato is hysterical, I can't help but find it so funny imagining Yui accidentally kicking Teddy haha, I'm sorry Teddy. It's obvious that Teddy is basically something Kanato can't live without, but his piercing screams for it and pain over not knowing where Teddy was really crushed me, sometimes I feel like I underestimate how much Teddy means to Kanato. Lol that it was Ayato who hid it as a prank though😅 So I guess he's not only emotionally unstable but seems to want to die too? I wonder if Kanato projects Cordelia's unfaithfulness with various men onto Yui and that's why he's always like he doesn't believe her when Yui says she didn't do anything. Kid seems pretty traumatised. It's funny to say that this crazy boy is softening up to Yui in his own way. I mean him willingly going out to the shops with her was a miracle lol, it didn't end well, but at least he's accepting her baked sweets and blood lol! Sorry but I couldn't stop laughing when Kanato said he pulled on a thread on Teddy and unravelled his stomach lolll, the CG was hilarious because you see the cotton come out but it looks like Teddy's stomach is foaming hahaha. Omg what, I knew Kanato was a nut but he hides drugs in Teddy and even takes them?! No wonder why he always seems so weird and high, I mean 90% is probably his personality but geez.

I felt so bad for Yui when she got kissed by Ayato and bitten by Laito, and she still has to be the one to apologise to Kanato for "seducing" them, the poor girl needs a break, it's painful to watch when other guys touch her. I think Yui has been totally brainwashed by Kanato at this point, which is sad lol, but dang when Kanato speaks in my ear like that, I feel like I'm getting brainwashed too haha. It was pretty funny when Kanato offered to help Yui clean up some magazines and she was so surprised she asked if he ate something wrong😂 OMG that was so unexpected, legit terrifying. The way Kanato so nonchalantly burnt this guy to a crisp and then said he'll flush his ashes down the toilet..WOW. I definitely didn't expect the guy to die even though I knew he definitely wasn't going to be let off easily. Kanato really is crazy.. Yui has really convinced herself into thinking Kanato isn't that bad and that actions like this are self-defence for him huh? Well, let's just say that ending 1 was not anything I expected! Not only does Yui lose her memories of everything, she's basically a shell of herself as she becomes an unfeeling vampire that only lives for Kanato. I'd say it was quite the terrifying ending especially since she'll be stuck in one room in a castle for the rest of her life because Kanato is way too possessive, so yeah that's wild.

I was wondering why Cordelia seemed to hate Kanato so much to want to kill him, and it seems like he killed her beloved Karlheinz? Honestly though, Cordelia taking over Yui's body, then pretending to be her was creepy. But dang was that a crazy ending lol. I like how unique the endings are though! Like Yui going around to all the guys wanting them to suck her blood because she's addicted to that feeling, like dang, she's really been "trained". Ooh, so getting her blood sucked makes it feel like Kanato is with her? Lol, she's really deep into this rabbit hole. Wow, Yui murdering all the guys to prove her love for Kanato was pretty nuts, omggg that was intense. I'm surprised she was able to do it. I guess considering how crazy Kanato is, I should have expected that his endings would be absolutely crazy too lol. Yui biting Kanato and drinking his blood is pretty interesting.

Overall, Kanato's route was pretty wild. I can see why people like him haha, it was definitely much better than I thought. Personally, I'm still not a fan because he's nuts and I don't like how he looks, but I did enjoy how he would randomly get so angry and annoyed at the drop of a bat. It was honestly pretty funny at times. I mean, poor Yui but it was amusing and quite unpredictable. I think his anger was only predictable once they got together, and anything relating to her not giving him her full attention and everything made him mad, which is similar to Ayato, so what we can say, they are brothers. He's definitely much creepier than Ayato and also brutal considering how happy he was when Yui killed them all for him in that ending, and vampire Yui was an interesting breath of fresh air. I still feel bad for her though because I do feel like she's the most brainwashed into thinking she "likes" Kanato when I'd say it's much more dubious here. Otherwise, I would say it's definitely worth reading his route even if he looks too kiddish because he's nuts on another level and I think everyone should bear witness to it😂

[atopearth]

Butterfly’s Poison; Blood Chains (Chou no Doku) Part 3 - Hideo Ozaki Route

I'm quite interested in Hideo tbh, because he genuinely cares for Yuriko but it also feels like he hates her to an extent so I want to see if he'll still be a jerk lol. OH, Hideo already has a fiancee..I guess we might get a Yuriko is the mistress tragic end?🥲 I can see why Hideo's family would want to find a girl from an even more prestigious family than Yuriko's because Yuriko's mother looked down on them for thinking they could get Hideo and Yuriko to marry. I quite like how they talked about the 'what if' scenario of if Yuriko's mother wasn't against Hideo and Yuriko getting married. Hideo was definitely happy when Yuriko said they would be happy. It's actually kinda funny how Shiba has already noticed that Yuriko is a bit jealous and curious about Hideo's fiancee and teases Yuriko about it lol. It's quite amusing how everyone can tell how much Hideo and Yuriko want to be with each other except themselves lol. Honestly, they say such embarrassing things that would basically mean 'I like you' but they're so oblivious to it. But I guess more than obliviousness, they choose to believe that it shouldn't be love because they both have their circumstances that would make it too difficult if they do decide that they like each other and want to be together. I really enjoyed their night walk though, it felt sweet to see two childhood friends so honestly talk about how they felt like they've drifted apart but that even though they've grown older, they haven't really changed at heart. Hideo visiting her frequently to check on her after her mother passed away was really sweet of him, he's so considerate.

Such a happy and talkative Hideo at the zoo lol! He's actually so adorable when he's talking about animals, I didn't expect that haha. Honestly, even though I'm as happy as Yuriko is that Hideo is always inviting her out, I am also worried about the fiancee thing considering he's been going to Yuriko's house lately and is now going out with her to the zoo and an opera too, people would definitely misunderstand. Hideo holding her hand in the crowd to make sure she's okay was so unexpected but cute. Ughhh I hate how their date got ruined, I didn't want them to face reality yet and not in this way that could affect Hideo's military career either. But I'm still really happy that Hideo prioritised protecting Yuriko above everything else. Hideo so genuinely laughing at Yuriko asking him whether he still wants to fly in the sky like a bird because he said he wanted to be a bird when he was a child is so adorableee. Yuriko really was a wild child lol, untying her obi sash to use as a rope to save Hideo when he fell into the water chasing after birds is just such a hilarious scene to imagine. Awww Hideo and Yuriko taking that awkward photo by the river was super cute! It's probably going to bite them in the ass later but I don't even care because they're so innocent and sweet, how can we not support their love?! They should run away together like Yuriko said in the beginning lol.

My heart broke when Hideo said he volunteered to go to war in Siberia. I understand his reasons, and it's true that it's probably one of the only ways for him to refuse the engagement with a lady from such a prestigious family without shaming his family but I hate it. I absolutely hate it. I love it that Hideo would rather go to war and believe in the off chance that he'll survive and come back and be able to marry Yuriko, showing how much he loves her and refuses to marry anyone besides her. But I'm sorry I can't do it, I'm too weak. If I was Yuriko, I wouldn't be able to bear the idea of the man I love going so far away just so we could possibly be together. I'd rather we separate and he marry someone else. I'd rather he live in sadness than die. I don't want Hideo to die. There's so many ways he could die. He could die on the way there, from the war, from disease and so many other things! I wouldn't want him to go even if it was in the modern day, let alone the Taisho era! I just wouldn't be able to tolerate the idea of him dying in a foreign place when he didn't need to go. It's just too heartbreaking. I loved how they shared a kiss as they bathed in the sights of the town together, and naturally, they gave themselves to each other before Hideo departed. I hated having to watch them cry at being torn apart and possibly never seeing each other again, but I also really loved how pure their love is for each other with one determined to come back no matter what and the other determined to wait for them no matter what. It's just depressing to think about all the people who have gone through this before and never got their happy endings.

Sawako seems like a great woman and I think Hideo would be happy with her in the other routes where Yuriko is with someone else haha. I think if he got to see the strength she showed Yuriko, he would be able to love her. Hideo defied military orders and came back because he found out about Majima from another officer. It's actually kinda funny though, everyone has someone that recognises Majima in every route, it's like dang Majima, you're really not good at hiding this are you lol. I'm so glad that Hideo is leaving the military, I hope he can pursue his true interests now. Oh wow, he's already been studying birds in his spare time and has already published papers?! Dayum boy! He's already set lol. I'm honestly so happy for them, the ending made me feel so warm, they'll definitely bicker a lot but they'll also cherish each other a lot and thinking about their future makes me super happy for them haha. I was mad on behalf of Yuriko knowing that she always has to follow along with Hideo to discover new birds species in all kinds of places and having to separate from their son, but I guess I'm soft-hearted like Yuriko too, because when he said he can't live without her and can't concentrate when she isn't beside him, I couldn't get mad at him, because we all know how much Hideo loves her and how he's willing to give his life for her, so I really believe him when he says that living apart from Yuriko is like living without air, he really might die lol. I knew the tragic ending would be Hideo dying in Siberia, but thinking about Hideo's wonky writing in his letters as he got more and more exhausted, and the crinkled photo of them by the river being found in his military uniform just made me want to cry. The other tragic ending was honestly tough to read. Knowing how straight-laced Hideo is but having to have an affair in order to be with Yuriko, and he can only meet her once a week, but be forced to face reality every time he sees her bulging stomach and the limitations to their relationship, but still be unable to let it go because he loves her too much, everything just honestly breaks my heart. Seeing Hideo go from angry, happy, sad and just keep going through those rollercoaster of emotions in a short span of time of meeting her just hurts. He knows he's terrible but he can't even stop himself because he hates how he can't be Yuriko's husband no matter what and that's just so painful to watch.

Overall, I really loved Hideo's route, definitely my favourite for now haha. It had everything I wanted for a love restricted by things like social status, responsibility, duty and a strong passion for true love. I've always liked Hideo so I'm happy for him in the best end that they're able to be together even if they got distant because of things outside of their hands. I loved how we slowly got to watch over Hideo and Yuriko go again from awkwardly talking to each other, reminiscing about their past to quite openly showing how much they love and care for each other. I loved how Hideo put in so much effort to visit Yuriko and take her out when her mother passed away, and I loved how they were like childish little lovebirds when they ran away to the river, kissed, had a fight and took a photo showing their desire to marry and be together forever. I hated how Hideo decided to go to war, but I loved that it showed how much he was willing to sacrifice just for the chance to be with Yuriko. It showed the depth of his love for her and how much he didn't want a life that didn't have her as his wife, which is why I can see why the tragic ending tormented him so, especially when he believed that Yuriko didn't try hard enough to be with him and just married Shiba. I loved how they're truly like childhood friends that are unafraid to share exactly what they think with each other but still show how much they care for the other. I really liked their relationship and I thought it was really cute and sweet. I wish I could see more of them haha!

[atopearth]

Final Fantasy XVI Part 2 - Fighting to Live On Your Own Terms

I didn't expect Mid to be Cid's daughter.. Anyway, really weird tonal change in the game to suddenly start running errands lol. I didn't expect that removing the brand runs the risk that the person might die because one wrong cut or whatever and the poison from the ink could kill them😰 Well, Torgal resembling Fenrir was what I thought when we first saw the change haha. Dion seems to be a kind prince with a heartless father and scheming stepmother lol. Olivier seems very reliant on his mother, Anabella but he is young so that's normal. Gotta say though, I still think Anabella is the hottest out of everyone haha! Anyway, Clive's uncle, Byron Rosfield is a very funny and chill guy. He's so rich but so endearing, it was so funny when he gobbled up all the food in the desert inn before Clive fought against Barnabas' men who escorted Kupka. It's just sad that Joshua was so close but Clive still missed him. Harbard is pretty hot, I will look forward to seeing more of him😆 I've read comments about the Titan fight being really good, but I didn't expect the 10/10 effort they put into it, that fight was definitely visually stunning, and Titan looked awesome!

The mystery surrounding Ultima continues, but I wonder if he's some sort of otherworldly being that's trying to get Clive to gather all the Eikon powers and then destroy the world and make a new one or something to become a true God. Anyway, Barnabas has finally appeared again! He seems to know about Mythos, so I wonder if he knows what exactly Ultima is. As for Dion, he's got death flags flying everywhere that if he survives in the end, I'd be surprised haha, he seems like such a good boy and he's pretty too. Terence and Dion! They felt like a thing with how carefully Terence was treating him but dang, definitely didn't expect the kiss to solidify my assumptions! It makes me happy though. I thought Dion was alone, fighting by himself against his father's tyranny and Anabella's scheming, but it seems like regardless of what happens in the future, knowing that he at least had the one he loves beside him gives me a bit more comfort. I'm glad Joshua made it to Dion safely! I'm excited to see how things will go!

Quinten once being a part of the judiciary in Sanbreque is interesting, but it's sad to find out that his entire family was slaughtered after finding out how disgusting the Lord Chief Justice was hunting bearers. Very interesting that Quinten created this army gathering people in Lostwing to exact revenge on him though. I really wanted to choose Otto to go along with Clive to gather stardust since I want to know more about him, but how could I reject a chance to hang out with Gav?! I mean, I've been noticing the pacing issues, but gathering stuff for Mid to build a ship?! Is that what the leader of everyone does? I mean, if it was a sidequest yeah, but this is the main quest, it's just so random, especially since there's no context for this ship and why we need to build it other than its something Cid and Mid designed together. I mean, it'll definitely be useful but I really didn't need to run around that much zzz. Anyway, I just wanted to say, imagine going all the way across the map to buy one garlic and some nuts, I died. I definitely recommend picking Jill to go with to Northreach. Seeing her so happily reminiscing about memories with Clive and Torgal in Rosalith back in the day whilst enjoying a little picnic was really cute. It felt like we were finally getting to see a bit more of the happy and innocent Jill she once was.

It's sad that Mid doesn't want to go to Cid's grave, but I'm glad we got to visit it! It's been a while and I definitely miss Cid. I really enjoyed having everyone here and reaffirm their goals of destroying all the Mothercrystals, especially considering how even more terrible the environment has become, literally death of nature everywhere. Since we only have one crystal left, I wonder if I'm nearing the end of the game? Eloise and Theodore are such a good looking pair of siblings! I guess it should have been expected that regardless of what Joshua says, Dion's priority will always be the empire and I honestly can't blame him for it (even if I do think that I agree with Joshua that we need to look at the bigger picture here), because considering all the scenes we've seen with Dion, he has always been at war trying his best to protect his people. He would never abandon his people knowing that they would perish if he's not there. However, I'm not too sure how overthrowing Anabella and the new Emperor Olivier will go. And I also kinda wish Dion gave up on his father because Sylvestre isn't any better. One thing I would have appreciated from the game is if we could have gotten more interesting side side characters? It's always the Eikon and their loyal attendant/vassal/knight lol. Anyway, Dion going out of control and destroying the kingdom and hurting his people is saddening. I was happy when Joshua set out to stop him, but I didn't realise he could still become the Phoenix.

Well, the fight against Bahamut was visually stunning (once again!)! My favourite part was definitely getting to see Joshua and Clive fight together and hug each other afterwards. It's been much too long. I didn't realise that Bahamut has a move called Zetaflare though haha! Most disappointing thing for me was how things ended for Anabella though, it just felt so pathetic considering how many people she betrayed and how scheming she was to just go like that. I honestly wanted her to live and redeem herself. Olivier being some sort of creation of Ultima's used to lead the Empire to their destruction and to probably get Clive to absorb Bahamut was sad because even though I harboured no hope for Sylvestre, Dion obviously viewed him in a good light because he used to not be like this. Since we never got to see how he was, I personally have no view towards this whole thing, but if you want me to think of it as if he was my brother, then I can understand why Dion refused to give up on trying to get him to come back to his senses, just saddening that Dion ended up accidentally killing him, which is something no one should have to ever bear, that grief, anger and pain probably made him vulnerable to being brainwashed by Ultima into going out of control, not that I think he would have been able to go against it in the end, but I guess it made it easier.

But yes, the fights were pretty and relatively fun. A gripe that I have though is that I wish the game let you save or had points where it would let you save because these cutscenes and fights are so long and I'm an old lady that needs to sleep earlier lolll. All in all, I'm glad Joshua is back with us, the brotherly love between him and Clive is just so sweet. As for Barnabas, is he brainwashed or willingly following Ultima? Either way though, he seems mentally weak or unwell. Joshua kissing Jote's forehead was adorable though, I ship it. But glad to know how Joshua survived and why Jote has been by his side the whole time. I wonder why they didn't appear until that late to protect Joshua though. I'm glad we finally got to see the ending for Lostwing because I've been curious. I'm just sad that all those people died protecting Quinten and to achieve his revenge. But I guess they might have all died if they stayed in Lostwing when it got flooded with aether, but yeah oh well, at least there are people alive and Quinten has newfound resolve in building a nation. I'm also glad they're finally going back to Eastpool and making it a home again because that's where Wade and them should be.

I was wondering why Sleipnir sounds familiar, and of course, he's the horse ridden by Odin! Really goes to show his loyalty to Barnabas. Sad that he just died like that though. It's kinda amusing to see that Barnabas is a league above Clive but is that because he's Odin or something else? Very sweet of Jill to use herself as a shield to protect Clive and let the others help him escape without any hesitation. What I'm glad about is that through Blackthorne's quest, they are starting to share Cid's inventions helping people to stop relying on crystals for furnaces etc and truly getting to a self-sustainable world without crystals driving their lives. I'm very happy for Blackthorne that he has such a good friend like August always watching over him and his mental health haha, couldn't ask for more! Ooh okay, Sleipnir is a magical creation of Odin's so there's many of him! Very happy to know because he's cool. But not very happy because he doesn't do anything haha, where's the personality?!

Anyway, pretty cool when Odin split the sea in two. But the highlight is definitely the scene at the beach! Awkward nakedness😂 Anyway, it was nice for Jill to finally get to properly convey to Clive how much she wants to share in his burden and how she's willing to entrust everything of hers to him and support him. And they finally kissed! And did more but that's not important haha, I'm actually just really excited to use Shiva, I used to think we'd be able to control Jill but I guess this will have to do. Honestly, I feel so bad for Theodore and Eloise. I really liked them, so seeing Theo turn Akashic and kill himself so he wouldn't hurt Eloise was so sad. He never got to know that Eloise was happy to live the life she did no matter how tough it was, and that just looking at him made her understand that she never regretted her choice of saving him instead of choosing the easy way out. I'm really heartbroken that they couldn't have the happy ending they deserved. I didn't expect L'ubor to be a Bearer, very terrible that no matter the status, the moment it comes out, people can only see them as a Bearer and nothing else. Dalimil doesn't deserve L'ubor. I've always liked Martha so it was nice to see her motivate the Bearers. Blackthorne and Zoldat forging a weapon together was cute.

The medicine girl saved Dion! Such a nice little girl! I'm actually kinda glad Joshua punched Clive because I guess it is true that he is now taking on the burden himself by taking Shiva from Jill. I was so worried when Joshua separated from Clive, I hope he's okay. As for the complete mural, I'm not surprised that Phoenix is technically the one that doesn't "belong" but what does he represent? Is that the wings of Ultima? Does the Phoenix recreate/rebirth this world? Well, the fight against Barnabas was certainly visually disappointing and mentally tedious. How ironic that the Dominant of Odin who commands great strength and is revered across the land as a unparalleled swordsman had the weakest will of everyone and wasn't able to go against a god. Maybe that just goes to show how strong Ultima is but honestly, I don't think so. Odin is still the best looking Eikon for me, but it's sad that his story, his mystery and his existence didn't add much to the story or to what we know of Ultima.

I was just about to say, I'm so glad Terence is alive! And then now he's gone to save the medicine girl, which is understandable since Dion will never forgive himself for what he did and the damage he caused, so all he can do is mend as much as he can and help his people in any way he could, but still, I feel bad for Terence. Dion knows that Terence could never go against his orders and having to force him to be away from him when Dion is in the most danger would break his heart. Honestly, I love the brotherly love between Joshua and Clive, seeing them exert their utmost to protect the other always warms my heart and makes me so happy. Ultima is like a kid throwing a tantrum. He set his game up for someone else (he created) to play, went to sleep and then got mad that they had to discover their own way to play the game because they were never given instructions by him, and now wants his toy to relinquish everything they've learnt and listen to him again and then he'll accept them as his toy again lol. Barnabas was naive to think that Ultima would accept them even if they had no will.

All in all, the fight against Bahamut was definitely my favourite part. Not only was it absolutely beautiful, I really like Dion and his suffering for hurting his people, it's something I could feel for. Most disappointing thing was definitely Odin because I've been so excited for him since the moment I saw Odin and fell in love, but nooo. It's funny though, because I actually thought Bahamut was ugly and I really didn't care for him when he first appeared but now it's the favourite loll. Titan was also great in that it was nicely built up but I have to say that there were too many diversions to get there that by the time we fought Titan, I kinda forgot (sorry) why we hated him so much LOL. This is what happens when you don't get to play every day and you're stuck doing random quests until the real thing lol, so yeah that sucked but it was still good. Dion and Joshua are definitely my favourite characters though!

[atopearth]

Norn9: Var Commons Part 5 - Itsuki Kagami Route

I am so excited for Itsuki! He really steals the show in the other routes so I'm really interested in him! I love his playful but sincere love for Mikoto haha. Mikoto is definitely in for a ride though. I'm glad he's picked up that Mikoto is exhausted from constantly keeping a barrier up over the ship, it was pretty funny how naturally he just grabbed her hands and warmed them up that Mikoto didn't even realise what he was doing for a moment lol. Lmao when Mikoto burnt breakfast and Ron wanted to cook the hiyoko to eat😂 I loved it when Kakeru said Akito would make the better wife hahaha. Interesting to know that Itsuki was raised in a brothel. It was a bit much for Mikoto to create a barrier against Itsuki and she's exhausted too but really doesn't think through alot of things, but at the same time, Itsuki can be difficult to deal with especially when it seemed like he tried to use his powers on her. I do like how he got Mikoto to join and play cards with Nanami and Heishi, she needs to play more! I can understand Mikoto's feelings of not wanting to hamper the enjoyment of others playing games because you don't know how to play and your personality isn't a "good fit" though, so I'm glad Nanami explicitly told her that she would be happier if Mikoto stayed and played with them. Mikoto beating Heishi was funny and super cute lol, kinda wish it wasn't a choice thing though because it's basically a guessing game until the end lol. Lmao when Itsuki kept making excuses and made Mikoto chase after him all the time instead of looking for the traitor. Obviously he wants to protect her and that's why he's doing it but it's so silly thinking of Mikoto just spending her days chasing after Itsuki lol.

I can understand Mikoto's sentiments though. When you bear a heavy responsibility, you'll want to bear it yourself because exhausting and breaking yourself is okay, but if you rely on someone else and end up breaking them, you'll never forgive yourself for asking them for help and involving them when it was never their business. I guess that part of her is also exactly why her and Sakuya found it so difficult to understand each other in his route. I can't help but soften up a bit towards Itsuki when he says stuff like giving Mikoto his shoulder to lean on and says he's serious about it because he wants to be her protector. It's actually pretty funny how much of a mess Mikoto's feelings are on the inside. She can't handle Itsuki's compliments because she's too innocent and can't help but feel happy about them, it's very cute but at the same time saddening since it also goes to show how much of a burden she has carried her whole life and how she's always forced herself to be strong. I love how headstrong Mikoto is. Like yeah right she was going to let Itsuki dictate what she should do even if it's a dream! I loved how she just completely brushed off Itsuki when he asked if she could make him laugh in reality lmao. Mikoto is definitely not playing the romance game, she just does whatever she wants🤣 Itsuki's really good at making Mikoto cry lol, he needs to stop saying the stuff he said was a joke, it's hurtful. Itsuki definitely deserves getting attacked by Sakuya for bullying Mikoto lol.

Seeing Mikoto understand better when Itsuki's real thoughts are leaking out is kinda endearing, especially when she apologised for being too harsh. I'm happy that Mikoto expressing a bit of her feelings finally got Itsuki to tell her how he really feels about her. Honestly, even though it was cute, I'm finding this route quite underwhelming haha. Anyway, the future has changed for Sakuya! Does that mean now Mikoto will die for Itsuki or will Itsuki die for Mikoto?😆 Hopefully it's something else because that would be boring. Even though I get why Itsuki stayed in his room since he was unable to grasp his own feelings and was overwhelmed in a sense by how deep Mikoto and Sakuya's consideration for each other was, but I feel like the flow of it wasn't really done well? Just felt kinda random. I'm glad they finally talked to each other and made up though. Honest Mikoto was cute though, I was like awww when she agreed that she wanted to stay in bed longer with Itsuki haha.

The dream of Itsuki and Mikoto living peacefully together in their little house was really cute, if only they really could stay that way forever, but I'm glad Mikoto realised it soon enough, because I'm sure if he kept that up, Itsuki probably really would die exhausting himself after those injuries from protecting Mikoto. I'm not sure how I feel about how it was Ron threatening Itsuki all along and that's why he does what he does whether it be giving Ron his powers in the other route or giving him Mikoto's in this route. However, I do have to say I am happy for Mikoto to lose her powers. Just as Kakeru said, Mikoto based alot of her worth as a person through her powers, if she didn't get closer with Itsuki, she really might have broke after losing her powers, but because he was there, she was able to actually appreciate not having to bear the burden of being someone who protects everyone around her. She can finally just live for herself and be "weak" if she wants. She can finally choose a life where she doesn't need to be the one that protects others. I would have liked to know what happened to everyone else in the happy ending though. As for the tragic love ending, I'm not sure how Itsuki's powers work for it to continue even if he dies and it just replaces himself with a dream Itsuki?? Like is that really what you want? Trapping Mikoto in a dream forever?

Overall, Itsuki's route wasn't bad but it definitely wasn't as exciting as I would have hoped. I guess the main turn off for me was how much Mikoto seemed to cry in this route, like honestly, I understand because I've cried for similar things before so I get her feelings, but at the same time, it made me remember how vulnerable and how much you lose control over your feelings and actions when it comes to love. So I guess if you enjoy that, you'll like the route, because it's all about how falling in love can mean you reveal the "weak" parts of yourself to your partner and embrace those feelings together. Personally, my favourite thing about this story was when Mikoto played cards with them because I quite enjoyed seeing Itsuki crack her shell by getting her to exposed to all these things she's never experienced because she's always regarded them as a waste of time due to her upbringing. Otherwise, I guess their romance was cute in the sense that they quarrelled their way into love whilst exposing their real thoughts and feelings. I guess I liked the whole idea but I don't think the execution of it all resonated with me because I don't feel like Itsuki's playfulness really charmed me here whereas he really did as a side character in other routes lol. Oh well I guess, at least watching them live together peacefully aiming to hold a wedding in the future after saving enough money was cute.

[atopearth]

Piofiore: Episodio 1926 Part 7 - Henri Lambert Route & Overall Review

Henri wearing glasses showing a gentle smile is so beautiful. I honestly wish for him to be happy so I'm looking forward to this route! Henri working as a translator is so nice! It's something I would love to do as well, so it makes me like him even more haha. Seeing them get to live peacefully is nice, and they're so silly but I can understand why they would think they shouldn't try to "change" their relationship but c'mon Henri!! No girl leaves her home and everyone she cares for, for a guy she doesn't love! The two of them holding hands and eating lunch together is cute~ I hope they get to live more openly without fear of being chased soon. The more excited Lili was to return home, the more obvious that the Phantom probably killed the children, but I still hoped that it wouldn't happen. They were such a happy little family. I know they need a reason to leave and face their problems, the Phantom and everything, but this is just so so cruel. I feel terrible for Liliana. I can't imagine how it must feel for her, she's the one who cared for the children the most and saw them the most, and she had to be the first to witness the bloodied house and see their bodies, I can't imagine the devastation. But I also feel bad for Henri knowing that their deaths were because of him.

Honestly, it's crazy to think that in the first game, I really felt nothing for Henri. But after seeing more of his story in 1926, his feelings and now seeing many more thoughts and emotions from him, I can't help but wish that Henri can be happy despite the things he has done. Otherwise, it's really sweet to see how happy the guys are to see her well. I always appreciate how kind Gil is in expressing how much he cares for Lili and how he's always willing to help her if she needs help. Even Yang's roundabout way of telling her he's happy to see her well was cute. I understand Henri's reasons for leaving Lili with the Falzone but I'm still hurt😭 He's too considerate for his own good, he doesn't care about himself enough. And I agree with Nicola, if I lived Henri's life where his family all died because of this Key Maiden thing and the Falzone, and then I was forced to live with distant relatives of the Falzone that hated me, yeah I don't think many people would not want revenge. Lmao at Lee being surprised at Yang saying he cares about needing to protect all the innocents dying in Burlone. You could feel Yang's sarcasm😂 Wow, Sebastiano actually killed every single former employee of the casino, all those poor people.. I actually really like how Lili isn't recklessly wanting to go look for Henri and instead just asked Orlok to give him a letter for her, I think that's very sweet since she understands everyone wants her to stay safe. I never knew I needed this, but a little Nicola and a little Henri playing together all the time back in the day is the cutest thing ever, I want to cry at the potential of how happy and sweet Henri's life could have been if he stayed at the Falzone manor with him. It just breaks my heart seeing them smile so happily.

I'm so glad Sister Sofia showed Lili the letters Henri sent to her. Lili always put Henri first and never sent any further letters back to Sister Sofia after the first one because she wanted to protect Henri and prevent any chances of people tracing his whereabouts, but Henri always put Lili first by constantly updating Sister Sofia of their lives and apologising for taking Lili away from her. He's such a thoughtful and silly guy😭 Dante, Nicola, Orlok and Sister Sofia planning a way to help Lili meet Henri without him running away was the sweetest thing ever. Everyone knows how hard she's been trying to fake being cheerful, so seeing them care so much for Lili is really heartwarming. I love how they all helped her meet Henri, and I'm so happy that he's realised how important it is for Lili to stay with him. Lmao when Nicola was making fun of how Sebastiano said Yang wasn't beautiful😂😂 It must have been difficult for Henri to go back to the Falzone manor, but I'm glad Giulia welcomed him so warmly and he can have some happy memories here. I'm glad Nicola helped Lili understand that she loves Henri, like lady, no one abandons their whole life for sympathy! It's so sad that Sebastiano dug up and stole Chloe's (Henri's sister) remains but Henri only thought about how it's good that Sebastiano is focused on him and not Lili. Honestly, I do enjoy how crazy Phantom is in this route. The fact that he killed beautiful women who looked like Chloe to gather parts of them to make the perfect Chloe is just so insane but very fascinatingly him.

I love how the guys encouraged Lili to give Henri a kiss to cheer him up lmao, but dang was she brave to actually do it! I felt so bad for Lili, Henri is really an idiot😭😭 I know he thinks nothing of himself and that's why he doesn't believe Lili could ever love someone like him, but that was sad. Nicola laughing at Henri for restraining himself was funny though, made me feel a bit better. I love seeing Henri interacting with all the guys, they're all so different and fun. Lmao at all the guys picking on Henri for having not done anything with Lili this whole time even though they eloped and lived together for so long. I died when Yang said he was a eunuch😂 I love how even Dante shyly joined in taunting Henri into doing the job of disqualifying Lili from being the Key Maiden haha. Henri is the best kind of partner for food outings! He'll notice when you can't decide between your options and just chooses both for you and he'll let you eat the best one while he eats the leftovers of the one you prefer least. Lili is so lucky🥹 I loved their date and I loved the confession. Henri expressing how much he loves her and how he thought he didn't deserve her but couldn't help but continue to want her was very sweet. Henri kissing Lili over and over again, and teasing her so gently was so nice to see, so happy for them🥹 Henri feeding her breakfast was the cutest thing ever! I didn't want to remember the pain of those poor children getting killed by someone as insane as Sebastiano, but it was also heartwarming to see Henri finally give Lili the handkerchief they sewed for both her and Henri.

Even though Sebastiano is a nut, I do recognise that his actions were probably the best way for him to force Henri to become the version of him that lived on hatred and vengeance again. And by doing all that, Sebastiano would be the focus of that hatred, so it would make him happy that Henri is so focused on him and constantly think about him. In his own twisted way, it must have made him so happy to see Henri think about him so much this whole route. It was obvious that by this point, there's no way Henri would still be super hung up over Chloe and her remains, but it was nice to see him actually say it to Sebastiano and make him die knowing that Henri will never be who he wanted him to be. It's sad that Chloe's remains will never be truly found since Sebastiano either hid it somewhere they can't find, destroyed it or locked it in that box that will explode if touched in the wrong way, but I think it's fine. The dead will remain dead and there is never any guarantee they are resting in peace as bones anyway. I loved the ending, it was so sweet seeing them smile so happily together freely in France continuing the peaceful life they had, the flower ring was beautiful! Honestly, definitely the best route and highlight of this game haha. The tragic ending was pretty cruel to have Henri go with her on such a happy date (that I enjoyed too!) and then have him end the night telling her she needs to sleep with someone and that he wouldn't recommend Yang and refuses to be the one even though she clearly expressed that she wants him. That ending was definitely much more devastating than I expected. I felt so terrible having to think of Dante's torture and Henri's mental breakdown. The only solace that could be found was that Gil died in a way that he would have liked and Orlok got to die with Rosberg, whereas everyone else was forced to die at the hands of things or people they hated the most and were forced to die with extreme regrets. But I guess I feel the worst for Lili because she will continue to live being imprisoned, shackled, raped and broken by the hollow shell of the man she loves and the crazy guy who will never let them go. Probably the most tragic ending in this game tbh and now I feel too down about this whole thing to go sleep lol! Lmao at the bad ending where Sebastiano uses a saw to cut Lili's head off, what a guy.

Overall, I kinda wish I did the tragic ending before the good ending because that shit was brutal LOL. Now my impression is that I finished this game with everyone dying haha! Anyway, it's all good, I'll live because even though it was a tough ending to swallow, I liked it because it truly was a tragic ending compared to some of the other ones. Basically, Henri's route was wonderful and exceeded expectations. I really didn't know what to think about him when I first started this route because I didn't like his route in the original game and felt it was too shallow in terms of story and just the whole running away with Henri thing. But dang did Henri's existence and personality change my mind not long after hahaha. Not only was the plot engaging with how Henri fended against Sebastiano along with getting to know a bit more of their history together and Sebastiano's obsession but the romance was so beautiful too. Innocent and filled with the desire to be together but feeling like it's better to not be together, but then in the end still choosing to be together, I love that shit hahahah. It was also really fun to see all the guys appear alot throughout the whole route because their interactions were just so fun and supportive! Sebastiano was also a much more compelling villain this time around and his insanity just went off the charts which I loved. I feel like the reason why I didn't like him in Alternativa is because Sebastiano's character was basically made for Henri, so without Henri, his character feels like "nothing" which is probably what he himself feels like too lol. Very satisfying in all aspects imo. I would totally read this route again.

Overall Review

All in all, I would give this game an 8/10 just for Henri's route itself haha, it was so good. Otherwise, I really enjoyed the romance in Nicola and Gil's routes. I will always be weak to Gil the gentleman haha. I would rate Nicola's route above Gil's just because Teo's struggles were nice to see and much more understandable compared to what he does in other routes, whereas I just wanted Gil's dad to disappear every time he appeared lol. Yang's route was nice and sweet but that wasn't what I signed up for with Yang, so even though it was nice, it felt kinda lacking. However, in terms of side character interactions, I probably loved the route the most just below Henri's because I actually really liked Rui and his story when it came to Yuan. I thought I would love Yuan more but I honestly fell for Rui instead haha. It's actually adorable how cute he was with the twins and how much of a good guy he was to admit his mistakes towards judging Lili and respecting her afterwards. I have to say though, I also like Lee much more in this game because his interactions with the twins in Alternativa was so fun haha. As usual, when it comes to Dante, even though I did enjoy the route much more this time around, I do think the story with Raul and the Falzone was pretty weak and bland, it doesn't help that other than being pretty, Raul is pretty much useless as a person with no personality lol. I also warmed up a bit more to the romance between Lili and Orlok but it's pretty outrageous that Orlok doesn't get any steamy scenes or just more romance focused CGs, but yeah as usual, Orlok isn't my type so I wasn't really into it anyway. So my favourite to least favourite route would be Henri, Nicola, Gilbert - Yang, Dante and then Orlok. Definitely recommend playing this game even if just for Henri's route tbh, it was so worth it haha. It's got pretty similar vibes to the original game and I'd say even though there are quite a few boring moments too, I still very much enjoyed it, 8/10.