Several shows ended this week, but as expected DanMachi Season 5 will be AOTS. Several shows were stronger than expected, though, like Orb: On the Movements of the Earth and Nina the Starry Bride.

Figure 1 Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 Episode 11

Bell charges a strike against Ottarl.

Episode 11 of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? begins with Lili ordering all her scouts forward to find Freya. They find her along with her entire famalia in a shrine on the west side of the ruins. Lili orders everyone to reform and prepare fight them head on. Hedin orders everyone on offense and the battle starts a the base of the shrine. Despite early successes, Heith is able to resurrect everyone and Haruhime is forced to use their level-boost early. Heith and Hedin counterattack, defeating the vanguard of Lili's forces. Freya's first-class heroes advance, further defeating Lili's coalition. Meanwhile, Bell attempts to sneak behind Freya's lines but gets ambushed by Van. He quickly defeats him, and this them approached by Ottarl, Freya's strongest. Ottarl offers him one free hit. Bell, using his strongest charged ability, Argo Vesta, breaks Ottarl's sword. Ottarl, claiming their evenly matched, tells him it's time for a real fight. Lili's coalition continues to collapse against the might of Freya's first class heroes. Ottarl defeats Bell. Asfi departs, despite Herme's protests.

Figure 2 The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians, Episode 12

Kurumi and Yuzu celebrate after they break the seal on the seventh wonder of Rettoran.

Episode 12, and the finale of the anime version of The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians begins with Kurumi and Yuzu casting a joint ancient magic spell array on the seventh and final wonder of Rettoran, stopping the meltdown. Everyone wakes up from their stupor, and Suzuki-sensei thanks them for saving Rettoran. A week later they hold the Rettoran Festival as planned. The Standard Class's Rube-Goldberg yakisoba is well-received. Yuzu retakes the Magumi exam—without Mirai. She passes. Mirai tells Yuzu she'll become a magician without the test. Suzuki tells Kurumi she's planning to leave Rettoran again. She apologizes to Mirai—she placed into the Magumi program, but specifcally requested her placement in to the standard program that way she'd learn Ancient Magic. She tells Suzuki she'll continue learning ancient magic.

Figure 3 Nina the Starry Bride, Episode 11

Hikami attempts to assinate Sett.

Episode 11 of Nina's very exciting show (Nina the Starry Bride) begins with Queen Halle placing Sett under house arrest for a month for entering the arena. Nina is forbidden from seeing him in the interim. Prince Bidoh tricks Nina, Azure, and the other messengers to visit the city together. Privately, Azure asks Nina to return to Fortna with him—when he tries to kiss her, he pushes him back, telling him she is determined to protect Fortna. That night at dinner, Queen Halle informs everyone that Sett will marry Nina in a month and they will invade Fortna thereafter. Azure and the other messengers are given a declaration of war. Hikami intercepts a herbal "medicine" and tells Nina to deliver it to Azure while he remains under house arrest. Nina asks him not to invade Fortna. He agrees. Set drinks the tea, which has been poisoned, and collapsed. Hikami appears and tries to kill him.

Figure 4 I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, Episode 12

Alicia explains Liz's charm magic to her.

Episode 12 of Alicia's incredibly exciting show, I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History begins with Mel telling everyone Liz unintentionally uses charm magic to coerce those around her. They suspect her charm magic has become unstable, causing nearby students to behave erratically. Prince Duke speaks with Liz privately, and tricks her into meeting with Alicia, who she has been avoiding. Alicia explains how Liz has been casting Charm without realizing it. She confesses that she loves Duke, telling him she cares about him far more than Alicia does. Duke tells her that he'd love Alicia regardless. Liz's Charm breaks. Alicia tells her to still become the Saint she wants to be. That evening, Duke and Alicia bring Will to meet his younger brother, the King. At the end of the episode, Duke asks Alicia for a response to his earlier confession of love. The next day, however, when she sees Duke she learns he's lost his memories of her.

Figure 5 Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 12

Celina and Dolan embrace in the lake where they first met.

Episode 12, and the finale of Goodbye, Dragon Life, begins with Dolan defeating Al la Kalavith to break from his nightmare and return to the human world. Dolan tells Christina he'd like to enroll in Galoa Magic Academy. This upsets Celina, who wants him to stay in the village. She contemplates leaving with him, but can't—people in the city view lamia as man-eating monsters. Alone, she realizes that she's in love with Dolan. He takes and easily passes the entrance exam. Dolan asks Denzel if Celina can attend the academy with him as his familiar. He says yes. When Dolan returns he finds Celina has left the village. Dolan begins searching her, and finds her late that evening near the lake where they first met. Dolan asks her to form a familiar pact with him so she can attend. Celina, knowing a lamia like her will be ostracized, initially refuses. Dolan insists and Celina relents. The next day they form a familiar pact, and Dolan, Celina, and Christina depart for the magic academy.

Figure 6 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 45

Torame plays with the Cures shortly before turning back into a stone statue.

Wonderful Pretty Cure! Episode 45 begins Iroha reflecting on the death of Fuku-chan. She bumps into Otsuru and her friends outside the Mirror Stone Shrine, and pays her respects to Fuku-chan. They find Torame and ask to play with him. Iroha, Mayu, and Satoru join them. They all transform and play a game of tag. During the game he trips and falls and Cure Friendly saves him. Afterwards, they continue their game. Torame tells them he used to run in the mountains like this with his friends, and he wanted to do it one last time. The anger that stained his spirit fades, and he asks them to purify his hatred. They do, and he returns to a stone statue that Iroha places outside Toboe Shrine.

Figure 7 Magilumiere Co. Ltd., Episode 12

Sakuragi, Koshigaya, and Makino seal the mutated Kaii.

Episode 12 of Magilumiere Co. Ltd. begins following the Kaii mutation. Sakuragi and Makino attempt to rendezvous with Koshigaya while Kouji and Nikoyama begin developing new spells to counter. Makino gets knocked off her broom, and Sakuragi defends her while it reboots. Koshigaya arrives just as Kana's shield breaks, and Niko begins sending them a new spell to defeat the Kaii in a single hit. Makino acts as a decoy while Sakuragi and Koshigaya prepare their spell, but the Kaii grows in strength and Kouji orders them to stall while more powerful magic is developed. Sakuragi casts a spell at its maximum output directly at the Kaii's core, and Koshigaya and Makino help her contain the core shortly thereafter. Sakuragi and Makino work together for the remainder of the month. In a post credits scene, Kouji attends a meeting with the Council of Magical Organizations regarding mutated Kaii. The ending card is a confirmation that season 2 is in the works!

Figure 8 The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan, Episode 12

Noel's party of four: Koga, Alma, and now Leon.

Episode 12 of The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan begins with Alma landing a killing blow on the dantalion, winning the challenge. Leon's party, per the rules, is forced to disband. Afterwards, Noel asks Leon to join their party. After some hesitation, he accepts. Noel buys a former execution site has a clanhouse to save money. He names their near clan Wild Tempest. Harold learns Garmr, King of Wolves, has appeared in Quartz Valley and dispatches Wild Tempest to defeat it. They struggle, and the party believes they're going to die as the Garmr corners them. When it does, Noel offers information in exchange for their lives. As Garmr entertains the notion, Noel furtively poisons him using Alma's blood. As the episode ends, Noel tells Harold his clan will become party of the Regalia in six months.

Figure 9 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Episode 13

Novak tortures Oczy while questioning Badeni.

Episode 13 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins with the fight between Oczy and Novak. Novak breaks his sword, but Oczy nevertheless fights to the end, eventually pinning Novak. Additional inquisitors arrive and strike Oczy with multiple crossbow bolts, knocking him out. Novak orders they save Oczy—he needs to take alive for questioning. After the opening with see a young Oczy speaking to his professor at the end of class regarding his research into heliocentrism. The professor tells him it's time he realizes what's driving his research. Oczy awakens—it was a dream. Novak, buy his side, tells him he's in the inquisition chamber. Novak tells him he'll be sentenced to death. He asks Oczy why heretics like him even exist. Oczy tells him he desires freedom.

Prior to their capture, Oczy hands Badeni his book. He burns it to hide the evidence. He tells Novak he knows next to nothing, and Novak brings in Badeni, who has been captured. He begins to torture Oczy while questioning Badeni. Badeni denies having collaborators. Novak tells them the origin of their Orion necklace—it came from Rafal. Badeni tells him he's burned all the evidence, and is prepated to face the "nightmare" before him. Badeni asks him if heliocentrism is really blasphemy. Novak continues his torture.

Figure 10 Ranma 1/2, Episode 12

Ranma asks Shampoo for Blend 119 which he needs to restore Akane's memories.

Episode 12 of Ranma 1/2 begins following the fight between Akane and Shampoo—Shampoo erased Akane's memories of Ranma. Genma and Tofu confirm Akane's memories have been altered via Shampoo's strike, and Ranma and Akane begin looking for her. Later, Shampoo arrives as a nurse-in-training at Dr. Tofu's practice. Dr. Tofu tells Ranma they can restore Akane's memories with Blend 119, a shampoo formula found in China. Shampoo has the blend, and Shampoo offers it to him on the condition he kills girl-Ranma. In an off-handed comment, he tells Akane she's isn't cute and she regains her memories. Shampoo arrives and attacks Akane, but Ranma stops her. Ranma reveals he and girl and Shampoo breaks down crying and leaves.

Figure 11 You Are Ms. Servant, Episode 12

Yuki speaking with Hitoyoshi on the roof as the sun sets on New Year's Eve.

Episode 12 of You Are Ms. Servant begins with Naka helping Yuki pick out a birthday present for Hitoyoshi. While trying to get a gatcha-capsule toy, Hitoyoshi's dad happens by and helps her. Yuki returns home and Hitoyoshi tells her his dad will soon be back home. Shortly thereafter, he arrives. He tells him about Yuki, and he immediately identifies her as the famous assassin Xue. He speaks highly of her former master. His father wishes him a happy sixteenth birthday then departs. Privately, he thanks Yuki and asks her to take good care of him. She then invites him on another deito! They watch the sun set and she hands him his birthday gift. Yuki asks to be a part of his family. Hitoyoshi tells her she lover her. She responds that she loves him too.

Figure 12 The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest, Episode 12

Laust and Narsena deliver the killing blow agains the Dragon (Mist).

Episode 12 of The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest begins with the second wave of the labyrinth uprising. Ralma struggles to maintain the barrier as Laust tries to heal Hanzum's wounds. Marnel orders everyone in Mardet to fight outside the barrier in order to take the heat off of Ralma while Laust and the others attack Mist. Laust orders Narsena to stay back during the fight. Laust is gravely wounded during the fight, causing Narsena to ignore his orders and rush in. She, the Sleeping Princess of legend, decides to sacrifice herself. Enraged, Laust's demon form activates and attacks Mist. Together, he and Narsena land the killing blow. Amherst is promoted to Guild Master. Laust tells Narsena he'd like to go on a new journey to find the hero of legend, and asks Narsena to come with him. She accepts.

Figure 13 Let This Grieving Soul Retire!, Episode 12

Lady Eclair challenges Krai to a bidding way for a mask relic.

Episode 12 of Let This Grieving Soul Retire! begins with Arnold being repeatedly told he shouldn't take Krai's words at face value. While looking at relics soon to be listed for auction, he encounters a rare mask and begins searching for the owner. Be bumps into Lady Eclair, who questions his level. Krai asks Ark Brave for money to buy the mask, but he refuses. Word spreads around town that Krai is interested in a "powerful" relic. They learn Arnold is the owner, and Krai and Sitri negotiate with him over a price. Arnold, believing it's too dangerous to keep it, agrees to sell it. Lady Eclair upsells Krai's offer and buys it out from under him, planning sell it at auction for even more. Krai and Sitri speak with Lady Eclair, who again tells him his levels are false—he's using relics to pretend to be strong. Sitri tells her she has more funds than she does. The Earl, not wanting to lose face, decides to raise funds to ensure they win the mask.

Figure 14 The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, Episode 11

Elentzia (again) fights against Jill following (another) betrayal.

Episode 11 of what-is-even-going-on-in-this-show-anymore (The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor) begins with George and Elentzia believing Jill is dead. Meanwhile, Hadis is captured. Jill, alive, awakens and meets a black dragon that saved her—it then attacks her, telling her a goddess sealed her magic. After agreeing to help the dragon's egg hatch, it agrees to stop attacking Jill. Jill mounts the dragon and it agrees to fly her back to her friends. She finds Lawrence, Zeke, and the others, and leads other dragons to them. They coordinate a counterattack to rescue Hadis. During the attack George reveals a document that shows Hadis is not related to them. Hadis is the true Dragon Emperor, and their family lineage is false, not his. As the episode ends Hadis breaks free of his imprisonment.

Figure 15 My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student, Episode 12

Keisuke pretends to marry Moryia so that his wife may find peace.

Episode 12 of the worst anime of the season (My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student) begins Takae fabricating a story regarding her memory loss to her classmates. Mai and Takae bump into Keisuke and Moriya and follow them. She watches him give Moriya a wedding ring, and says she's glad to know Keisuke has moved on. Content, her spirit passes on and Marika's memories return. Mai tells Keisuke mom has moved on, and Keisuke apologizes for his fake proposal. Their entire remarriage was a ruse to convince Takae to move on. In a dream, Takae thanks Keisuke then departs. Mai and Renji get married as the credits roll.

Other Remarks

I am considering buying a Nord Wave 2 synthesizer and learning a bit of electronic music! I'll keep you posted. Today is the first day of winter break for me. Students did reasonably well. And I'm happy to finally get two weeks off (two weeks which, I'm sure, will fly by).

This week's episode of Wonderful Pretty Cure! was most certainly not wonderful. I cried when Otsuru's dog, Fuku-chan, died. I suppose we should have expected it. The touches of the older dog being in diapers was noticed and an extremely precise detail I wouldn't expect Toei to pick up on. DanMachi has entered its final arc: the wargame against Freya. I'm greatly looking forward to its resolution.

Figure 1 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 44

All of the Cures cry as Otsuru says goodbye to her dog, Fuku-chan.

Episode 44 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! begins with everyone planning an 18th birthday party for Fuku-chan, Otsuru's dog. The day of the party, Fuku is unable to get up and struggles to breath. Zakuro hatches his most powerful Gaogaon yet: a tyrannosaurus rex. Its raw strength breaks through all of their barriers. Otsuru attempts to rush Fuku-chan to the vet, but the road is damaged from the t-rex. Zakuro notices Fuku is dying, stops his Gaogaon, then leaves. At Friendly Animal Hospital, Iroha's mom tells her Fuku-chan won't last the night—she should prepare to say goodbye. She tells them it'd be better for her to die in her home instead of a the hospital. That evening they given Fuku-chan the gifts the made, and Osturu thanks her for the joy he brought to her life.

Figure 2 Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 Episode 10

Hedin orders the Freya Famalia to war as the wargame begins.

Episode 10 of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 begins with Bell accepting the war game on the victory condition he'll meet the "real" her. Everyone apologizes to Bell for how they treated him while under Freya's spell while Hestia begins to gather allies. The games is a hide-and-seek, where they must find their own goddess while being allowed to interfere with their opponents. Finn meets with Lili and begins training her to be a strategist. Other families in Orario side with Hestia to get revenge on Freya, but Hermes tells them it's pointless if they can't work with another strong family like Loki's. Bell reaches level 5. Horn is locked in a perpetual sleep in her Syr form—Heith is unable to revive her. Bell trains right up until the day before the war game.

Hestia's side is given a handicap: Freya's famalia must find her and all gods allied with her, while her famalia must only find Freya. Lili tells all the gods to choose their own positions in order to increase randomness. Following Finn's advice, she gives a speech and Bell speaks with her privately thereafter regarding Freya's strategy. Cassandra tells them about her dream, and tells them the "wind will blow in their favor". The war game begins right as the episode ends.

Figure 3 Nina the Starry Bride, Episode 10

Nina speaks with Queen Halle.

Episode 10 of Nina the Starry Bride begins with Hikami recounting the story of Fortna's founding. Sett tells Nina the decision to invade Fortna is a forgone conclusion—the King of Galgada has already made the decision to invade. The day of the tournament Nina arrives and stuns the crowd with her beauty. She publicly asks the King for possession of Forta. The King, revealing herself to be Queen Noa Halle, asks her to join her for the duration of the tournament. In a flashback we see Azure agreeing to become King for a year. But Azure plans to keep the throne and Fortna. Queen Halle explains that she's preparing the "perfect" throne for one of her sons. By mistake Yor's champion isn't a former general, but instead a violent murderer, Dogra. Dogra kills several champions, even after they've surrendered. This upsets Nina, and she jumps into the ring to declare the fight is over. Dogra ignores the request and immediately attacks Nina. Az enters the ring to defend her. Sett enters the ring and swiftly executes Dogra. He then attacks Az.

Figure 4 I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, Episode 11

Alicia cuts of her hand in solidarity with Carol.

Episode 11 of Alicia's very exciting show (I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History) begins with Liz overhearing Duke call Alicia "pretty". After the opening Alicia, Gill, and Duke discuss possible cures for Dotten Sickness. Liz asks Gill to teach her about Roana. After he refuses, she uses her charm to coerce him, but Prince Duke arrives to break the spell. A distraught Liz uses her powers to force Jane cut off a classmate's (Carol's) hair as punishment for liking Alicia at all. Alicia cuts her own hair in solidarity. Later, Duke tells her shorter hair is so cute it's "infuriating". Soon, short hair becomes a sign of support for Alicia, and the school's opinion begins to change. Alicia finds several other girls bullying Jane for "disgracing" Liz and she intervenes. Meanwhile, Mel continues to research Liz pursuant to Duke's request.

Figure 5 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Episode 12

Badeni baptizes Oczy as he prepares to fight against the inquisitors.

Episode 12 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins with Novak asking to see Badeni's research. While searching he finds Rafal's old necklace and quickly decides to leave. Badeni tells him they need to depart immediately. Badeni begins burning evidence and tells Oczy to steal a horse and flee. Oczy tells him it'd be better if they stay together—he still needs his observations. Without his observations his model is not research, but faith. In the dark, Oczy sees a carriage traveling towards them at full speed. It's Novak along with a group of other inquisitors. He tells them the heretic they're pursuing have approached his family, and he's pissed. He burns what he can and orders Oczy to flee through the escape tunnel he dug earlier.

Oczy refuses. He picks up a sword and tells Badeni he'll buy him time. Badeni tells him drawing his sword against the clergy will certainly condem him to hell. Oczy responds he's ready to die for heliocentrism—it is his faith. Badeni beseeches God to forgive Oczy and carry him into heaven. The carriage and the inquisitors surround Oczy. Oczy dodges their fire and quickly kills all of the inquisitors except Novak. Novak draws his sword, and asks Oczy if he's prepared to die.

Figure 6 Ranma 1/2, Episode 11

Shampoo gives Akane the kiss of death.

Episode 11 of Ranma 1/2 begins with Akane breaking up Shampoo and Ranma's long passionate kiss. Because Ranma defeated her they must now marry. Akane tells Ranma their engagement is dissolved. Ranma tries to tell Shampoo he has no interest in dating her, but she remains madly in love with him. Later, Ranma reflects on how pretty Shampoo is. The next morning Akane finds Shampoo sleeping in the same futon as Ranma, so she throws water on him and Shampoo proceeds to try to kill girl Ranma. Shampoo bumps into Ryoga (as a pig) on the street, cooks him, and delivers him to Ranma at lunch. Akane manages to revive him, but Shampoo gives her the kiss of death in response. Akane and Shampoo go out in the yard to fight. Ranma, with visions of her death, rushes to stop them. But he arrives late and finds Akane unconsciousness. When she awakens, she's completely forgotten who he is.

Figure 7 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 24

Mikari discusses her love for Okumura with Ririsa.

Episode 24 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction begins with Mikari telling Ririsa why she loves Okumura. Ririsa tells her she also loves Okumura... as if he were a manga character she can fangirl over. Okumura overhears everything, and panics because he doesn't like her like "that". Hanyuu-sensei also overhears everything, and tells him he doesn't have to end his relationship with Mikari because he doesn't reciprocate her feelings. Okumura struggles to trust women due to previous issues with his mother. Hanyuu-sensei tells him angels axist in the 3D world, too. That evening Okumura tells Ririsa he wants to take photos of her specific Liliel. Okumura sees the real "Ririsa" behind her Liliel cosplay and takes his best pictures to date.

Figure 8 Acro Trip, Episode 12

Date Chizuku (General Dante) watching Berry and Chrome fight at the end of the final episode.

Episode 12, and the finale Date Chizuko's very exciting show (Acro Trip) begins with Date demanding Mashirou be returned to Berry. Meanwhile, Berry Awakens in Chrome's base and he asks her about her hobbies and interests. Baryou calls Chrome and tells him has has Mashirou. He and Berry leave to rescue Mashirou—teleporting directly to the train platform and demanding he release Date and Mashirou. Baryou takes them all to a lodge for the night, including his daughter, Kokoa, and Date's father and grandfather. Date and Berry get their own room, and she, Berry, and Kokoa go to the baths together. That evening everyone eats dinner and celebrates together. At the end of the episode, we see Date and Chrome still carrying out evil deeds and fighting Berry Blossom.

Figure 9 The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians, Episode 11

Suzuki saves Harris during the meltdown.

Episode 11 of The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians begins with Suzuki-sensei telling them Rettoran was once blooming with Element M, but humans sealed it away to wield the power only for themselves. Harris's magical (vital) energy is harvested from students at the school and. He tells Suzuki magic belongs only in the hands of the qualified. Harris's vital harvesting machine begins to meltdown. Kurumi, Yuzu, and Suzuki plan to use ancient magic to stop it. If they find the seventh and final wonder of Rettoran they can break the seal, release the energy, and stop the meltdown. Harris uses his own life force to attack Suzuki. Suzuki defeats him then helps him escape. They return to the sauna stone they recovered from Lake Goudy and use its power break the final seal.

Figure 10 Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 11

Al la Kalavith tells Dolan she will, after all these years, finally kill him.

Episode 11 of Goodbye, Dragon Life begins with Dolan waking up following his ambush at the end of Episode 10. Everything in the village appears fine. The races of the Forest of Ente now village the to trade and socialize. While patrolling the villages find and kill a family of bears. Dolan tells them the bears haven't attacked anyone, but they and Celina ignore him. His crops begin to wither and die. He learns the town is planning to abandon Verun Village—everyone will leave and find new homes on their own. Despite his protests, townsfolk begin to pack and leave. Christina tells him it's "pathetic" he refuses to let go, and she burns down Dolan's home and withering crops. Celina tells Dolan she's leaving the village too. Christina tells him no one wants to live with him—they know he's not human. In his dragon form he reawakens in his old home. A voice tells him the last 16 years were all a dream. Celina arrives and recognizes the Dragon as Dolan. She recounts her memories which match his "dream", and thanks him for coming into his life. Dolan confronts Al la Kalavith who sent him to this nightmare. She, the goddess of destruction, tells him she's come to kill him.

Figure 11 Magilumiere Co. Ltd., Episode 11

Sakuragi, Koshigaya, and Makino arrive to extreminate a electric-type Kaii.

Episode 11 of Magilumiere Co. Ltd. begins with Makino from Apda Co. Ltd. arriving at Magilumiere. Over lunch, Makino asks Sakuragi what it's like to work for a company built by such a brilliant engineer—her boss. Kouji explains their "Alice" system is used to generate spells in real time by working directly with the engineers who program them. Sakuragi, Koshigaya, and Makino depart for a Kaii extermination. When they arrive on scene Sakuragi explains the situation to Nikoyama who begins drafting a new spell. Koshigaya warns Sakuragi to watch Makino like a hawk. They continue to detect faint Kaii signals, even after they cast their containment spell. They lose contact with Makino as the buildings around them begin to burn. Koshigaya tells Sakuragi to find Makino and help her escape. Using her broom she rescues her from a nearby building shortly before it explains. The fire spreads. Makino reports back to Nikoyama, but the Kaii grows further, mutates, and breaks free of their containment.

Figure 12 The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan, Episode 11

Keim stabs Leon for siding with Noel.

Episode 11 of The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan begins with Harold telling Noel and Leon must slay a dantalion. The loser of the test must disband their party forever. The day of the test Noel's party starts by eating lunch. He lets Leon's party go in first. Prior to the test, Noel approached every member of Leon's party and told them that Leon will betray them. Leon's party engages a dantalion, but struggle because it can read their minds. They fight it for and hour, and Ophelia is wounded after an attack. He orders everyone to retreat. Leon proposes that they join Noel's party. That way they won't have to disband. Keim stabs Leon for his betrayal. Noel and his party arrive. He uses mind link to allow Koga to attack with a "serene mind". The episode ends with Noel ordering Alma to land the killing blow.

Figure 13 Let This Grieving Soul Retire!, Episode 11

Krai tries to avoid a fight with Arnold.

Let This Grieving Soul Retire! Episode 11 begins with Krai litigating the fallout of Liz knocking out Arnold Hail at the end of Episode 10. Arnold learns of Krai and declares him a target and begins searching for him. Meanwhile Krai wonders how he'll prepare for the upcoming relic auction given that he's in debt to Sitri. Krai and Tino spend the day together discussing his debt. While out, he bumps into Arnold and his party. He tells Tino to defeat Arnold herself, but she quickly loses. He draws out a custom-made relic that crushes Arnold's entire party. After her loss, Tino asks Krai how to she can redeem herself.

Figure 14 You Are Ms. Servant, Episode 11

Mist, Hanzum, Laust, and his party arrive at the final level of Mardat Labyrinth.

Episode 11 of The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest begins with Ronaldo telling Laust the story of the sleeping princess is true—but the princess, Narsena, has to die to fell the dragon. The dragon will soon rise again from the Mardat Labyrinth, and the Chancellor plans to sacrifice Narsena, along with the entire town of Mardat, to stop it. Mist, Hanzum, and Narsena teleport to the deepest part of the labyrinth, with Laust and his party following close behind. A group of Cyclops stands between him and Narsena, and he swiftly defeats them. Mist returns Narsena, and tells him if the defeat the Labyrinth master Narsena will not need to be sacrificed. It appears and he and Hazum tell them they will fight alongside them to defeat it. Narsena wounds it and Laust lands a killing blow. The Evil Dragon, unable to appear, nevertheless takes control of Mist. Still needing more magic to appear, Mist teleports back to Mardat and begins to break the barrier.

Figure 15 The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest, Episode 11

Hitoyoshi and Yuki wonder how the other feels.

Episode 11 of You Are Ms. Servant begins Hitoyoshi wondering if he should confess his love for Yuki. Due to a tramatic experience in the past, he hesitates fearing rejection. Yuki begins sleeping next to Hitoyoshi due to her recurring nightmares. Yuki conflates Hitoyoshi's feelings of hesitation with annoyance and begins to cry. Thereafter, Yuki begins to cry at every one of her shortcomings. Yuki and Naka spend New Year's Day together—Hitoyoshi's birthday. She tells Naka she feels like Hitoyoshi doesn't want to be with her anymore. At the end of the episode, Hitoyoshi's dad tries to call him, but he doesn't pick up.

Figure 16 The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, Episode 10

Elentzia betrays Hadis and attempts to kidnap Jill.

Episode 10 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor begins with Hadis, Jill, and Risteard forming an army to confront George. She lets Lawrence join them, with the knowledge from her previous life that he can be trusted. While camping they noticed Imperial Dragons flying towards Elentzia, but Lawrence tells them to ignore it. The next day they encounter Elentzia who takes Jill hostage. The others are ambushed, and George arrives and orders Hadis and Risteard captured. Hadis orders everyone to retreat while he and Rave fight against George's forces. Jill tells Hadis to spare Elentzia. As the episode ends George tries to kill Jill.

Figure 17 My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student, Episode 11

Keisuke and Maii accept that their mother needs to move on.

Episode 11 of why-am-I-still-watching this (My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student) begins with Mai opposing Keisuke's remarriage to Moriya. Keiseke tells her they need to let Mom's spirit move on. Takae speaks with Mai and tells her it's time to move on as well. Eventually, she accepts Keiseke's remarriage, and prepares to say goodbye to her mother.

This is by far and away the worst show of the season. It was a mistake not to drop it.

Other Remarks

After months of saving up I finally bought Orlando Smith's Hat in Runescape. All that's left is the Scepter of the Gods and Hazelmere's Signet Ring and I can finally complete all my clue scroll items. I will likely need to buy Hazelmere's given how rare it is. As for Scepter, I'll keep periodically farming on it on the weekends. I don't feel like I'm any closer to getting it, though.

Figure 18 Orlando Smith's Hat

I placed a buy order yesterday evening for 15B and it was filled when I logged in this morning!

After playing a bit of GeoGuessr ranked I think I'm going to back off ranked for now and play classic games. The ranked matches aren't partically fun, and I kept running into smurfs who had over 90 percent winrates. I realized I wasn't really having fun, so I'll stick to Classic games and continue to learn by following the guides on PlonkIt.

After watching several YouTube videos of people playing GeoGuessr, along with the absolutely outstanding 2024 World Cup on a Livestream, I decided it would be fun to pick up and try it. I haven't been too big on playing games as of late (I really just AFK in Runescape while I'm at work to make things feel slightly more productive). And, to be completely candid, I'm not sure why GeoGuessr "spoke" to me in the manner that it did. Nevertheless, I got a subscription and started playing it, and I'm having a blast!

Figure 1 My GeoGuessr Avatar

My account name is Morganna Nikolaevna. Grab your passport and take my hand!

I'm still trying my best to get better. Websites like Plonk It really help with the tips. I'm currently in Silver II, but I won't know my true ELO until I get to Gold, which feels like a pretty weird system to me.

Other Remarks

I'm still working on Symposium Magarum, albeit at a slower pace because I'm waiting time with GeoGuessr. Next week is finals week, then I get a two week break!

We got Hestia's transformation in DanMachi this week! And a kissu in Goodbye, Dragon Life. We're drawing closer to the end of the season, and I must say this season feels weaker than the previos.

Figure 1 Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 Episode 9

Hestia recreates her eternal heavenly flame on Earth.

Episode 9 of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 begins with Ryuu attempting to escape The Freya Familia Home of Folkvangr following a request directly from Syr/Horn. Hedin incapacitates Bell's guards and begins searching for Ryuu. Meanwhile, firewood is distributed throughout Orario pursuant to Hermes' orders. The firewood is blessed with Hestia's blood. Horn meets with Bell and tries to kill him for upsetting Freya—she tells Bell Freya is suffering because he continues to reject her love. Bell realizes Horn, Freya, and Syr are all the same person. Shortly thereafter she commits suicide using Bell's knife. She transforms back into Syr and asks Bell to save her. Freya orders Ottarl to find and save Horn. Freya meets with Bell and explains Syr was her "roleplaying" personality and shatters the hairpin he gave to Syr. Freya admits Orario is under her control. Just then, his status is overwritten by the Hestia's Sacred Flame. As the denizens of Orario burn Hestia's firewood, Asfi and Hestia arrive at the top of Babel to recreate her eternal heavenly flame on Earth, breaking Freya's charm. Everyone regains their memories and rushes towards Freya's castle. Asfi flies Bell to Hestia and Hestia apologizes for making Bell suffer. At the end of the episode, Freya challenges Hestia to a war game.

Figure 2 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Episode 11

Jolenta introduces her father, Novak, to Badeni and Oczy.

Episode 11 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins with Novak telling his trainees to focus on heretical cases involving the cosmos. The Bishop's son, Antoni, chastises Novak for costing him too much money. Novak has the trainees torture a woman falsely accused of witchcraft. When they trainess ask if tortue is the best method, Novak tells him terror is the only thing keeping order. Novak recieves an emergency request from the Bishop and departs. Oczy and Badeni meet with Jolenta. Badeni tells them the theory is complete. Badeni plans to flee the village then publish his work. Novak arrives to surprise Jolenta and introduces him as her father. Badeni casually mentions how they discuss astronomy research with Jolenta, and he thanks them for his kind words. After dinner, Novak speaks Oczy and Badeni privately. He tells them he's an inquisitor.

Figure 3 Ranma 1/2, Episode 10

Shampoo busts into the room looking for Ranma.

Episode 10 of Ranma 1/2 begins right where Episode 9 left off. Ryoga tells Azusa he set Charlotte free, enraging her. Ranma and Ryoga hatch a plan where it looks like they break up. Mikado falls for it and gets thrown into the water. Ryoga follows up with an attack that throws Azusa in the water shortly thereafter. They both recover and continue their fight. Ryoga, there sheer force of will (along with his love for Akane) knocks Mikado out of the fight. Azusa leaves the wring, and Furinkan is declared the winnter. Ryoga and Ranma continue fighting over Akane, and she steps in to break up the fight. Akane gets knocked into the water, and Ryoga jumps in after her, turning into a pig. While recovering, Shampoo breaks into the room and tells Ranma he's going to kill him.

Ranma tells Akane that Shampoo is from a village of Chinese amazons. Ranma challenges Shampoo to a fight and wins. Shampoo gives her the kiss of death, promising to chase Ranma down to the depths of hell and murder him. Back at their dojo, Shampoo learns Ranma is a boy. After another defeat she kisses him again.

Figure 4 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 43

Zakuro tries to knit somthing for Gaou-sama.

Wonderful Pretty Cure! Episode 43 begins with several classmates asking Mayu to teach them how to knit. Niko-sama brings them all to Niko Garden to help them get yarn from Mey Mey, who also likes to knit. She returns and teaches her classmates various knitting techniques. Meanwhile, Torame mopes around town and becomes increasingly upset by all the lovey-dovey couples. Mayu and Yuki find Zakuro trying to knit something for Gaou-sama and offers to teach her. Satoru continues to read the villager's old diary and learns that many years ago Gaou had a human friend. Zakuro spawns a Gaogaon crab and all the Cures transform to fight it. The crab cuts directly through the nets they spawn, and Cure Lillian uses her knitting skills to repair the nets, purify the Gaogaon, and send it back to Niko Garden. Afterwards, Satoru shares what he learned about Gaou with everyone.

Figure 5 Nina the Starry Bride, Episode 9

Azure tells Nina he will rescue her from Sett.

Episode 9 of Nina's incredibly exciting show (Nina the Starry Bride) begins with Nina rushing to speak with Azure, but he declines to say anything, upsetting her. Sett, noticing she's upset, tries to cheer her up. The next day Nina goes to speak with Az, but he again pretends to not know her. Sett arrives and tells the messenger (Az) if he touches Nina he'll kill him. He tells them to enter the combat tournament at the upcoming festival then departs—they'll get "anything" they want if they win. Back in Fortna, Muhulum overhears the previous King telling Azure he can be King for... a year. Prince Yor plans to release a war criminal, General Holt, from prison, and have him fight on his behalf at the tournament to win Nina. Sett offers to teach Nina how to fight with a sword, after he kisses her and tells her he loves her! That night, Hikami escorts Nina to Azure for a brief meeting. He tells her he'll take her back to Fortna before her wedding in the spring.

Figure 6 Acro Trip, Episode 11

Berry gives General Dante some soup as they both take shelter from the rain.

Episode 11 of Acro Trip begins Date (as General Dante) and Berry waiting for Chrome together while taking shelter from the rain. Berry is shocked to learn that Dante is part of an evil organization, and believes Chrome is coercing her into her evil deeds. Instead, Date insists she's evil and flees just as Chrome arrives. On her way home Date watches Berry save an unknown salaryman. As a treat, the salaryman treats them both to lunch. He introduces himself as Baryou Ohmizo, CEO of Ohmizo Technica. When Mashirou arrives, Ohmizo-san confronts him as a failed Fossa Magna dropout then kidnaps him. A sleep deprived Berry attempts to fight Chrome's kuma kaijins but gets overwhelmed and collapses. Chrome and Date teleport her back to their hideout. Date suspects Mashirou's absence may be weighing on her. Date finds Ohmizo with a caged Mashirou at a nearby train station and confronts him.

Figure 7 I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, Episode 10

Luke, in his pride, rejects Will's ideas.

Episode 10 of I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History begins with Will explaining how, as a child, he lost control of a level 100 spell. As a result, he lost his ability to lose magic and his younger brother, Luke, become king. Later, he was falsely accused of treason and, after gouging his eyes out, banished him to Roana. Will tells everyone he plans to visit Luke and ask for him to free Roana. At school, several girls try to side with Alicia regarding a shared hatred of Liz, but she tells them she doesn't hate Liz. Just her ideas. Later, Jane apologizes to Liz for making a scene earlier, but Liz's friends tell her not to associate with Liz anymore. The girls who purported to hate Liz earlier lie and tell Liz Alica was bad-mouthing her. Finn, overheard what happened, steps in to defend Alicia. Alicia calls them "trash", upsetting everyone, including Liz. Prince Duke speaks with Alicia, and asks her to leave Will to him. He kabedon hers and tries to kiss her, but she rejects his advances. As a result, he becomes even more obsessed with her.

Figure 8 The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians, Episode 10

After months... Suzuki-sensei returns!

Episode 10 of The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians begins on day 2 of Kurumi's and Yuzu's Magumi test. Another student, Sally, collapses while Yuzu and Kurumi are on their way to the exam. Kurumi recreates from memory an ancient magic array her grandmother once used while sick. Kurumi and Yuzu don't make it to their test in time and fail. They realize all of the teachers are missing around Rettoran, and other students begin to collapse around campus, and Kurumi runs out of magical power to heal everyone. The head of the MaRC club suspects a large source of element M is directly beneath Rettoran. There only hope is finding Suzuki-sensei. Harris-sensei calls all the Magumi st udents to the library. Daikichi requests everyone else follow him. The Magumi find that they're locked in the library, and Harris's capybara leaves him. Suzuki-sensei is freed and meets everyone else.

Figure 9 Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 10

Diadora kisses Dolan after he saves her and the elven village.

Episode 10 of Goodbye, Dragon Life begins with Celina recovering from her wounds and resuming the fight. With a significantly higer mana output from Dolan's gift, she's able to quickly defeat Gellen. Meanwhile, Dolan unleashes his full power against Georg. Headmaster Olivia recovers a strange artifact outside the final demon gate, and the others contemplate closing the gate, locking Dolan in. Celina, Christina, Diadora, and the others arrive and oppose closing the gate—they're convinced Dolan can and will win. With several swift strikes, Dolan defeats Georg and exists the portal. Dolan and the elves collapse the portal, declare victory, and celebrate. After their celebration, Dolan hears Christina singing an old folksong about his previous life. After the credits, Dolan, Celina, and Christina arrive back in town. Dolan is immediately attacked by an unidentified demon.

Figure 10 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 23

Mikari tells Ririsa she loves Okumura.

In a show that is most certainly wearing out its novelty, Episode 23 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction is a beach episode. Okumura feigns interest in the "3D women" he's with following advice from Hanyuu-sensei. When he takes of his shirt, the girls are shocked to learn Okumura works out. While speaking to Nonoa, he finds her, a 3D woman, cute. They go on a spooky night walk where the town locals try to scare them. Okumura, however, remains unphased, and ends up carrying Aria. When he does, she realizes she's got a crush on him. She asks if he liks any girls, and he tells her he doesn't like 3D girls. 2D girls, unlike 3D girls, will never betray him. Aria tells him she'll never betray him, either. The next day they do a cosplay swimsuit photoshoot. Hanyuu-sensei believes his dislike of 3D women is adversely affecting his ability to take photos. At the end of the episode, Mikari tells Ririsa that she loves Okumura.

Figure 11 Magilumiere Co. Ltd., Episode 10

Kana speaks with Ginji about her custom BROOM.

Episode 10 of the objectively mid show Magilumiere Co. Ltd. begins with Sakuragi and Koshigaya getting their Brooms tuned up by the child genius, Ginji. When Ginji meets Kana, she becomes so interested she decides to build her a new broom from scratch. Kouji tells the others they plan to expand their business by selling their programming and custom IDE. The next day Ginji delivers their brooms. Koshigaya repaired brook, and Sakuragi brand new one (with mountains of manuals to accompany it). She quickly begins memorizing the manuals before their extermination job that afternoon. They arrive on site and immediately attacked from a dark alleyway. She uses her new broom to scan the area, and Nikoyama quickly develops a custom magic circle to counter it. Ginji is pleased to see Kana use her creation used to its full potential. At the end of the episode, Kouji asks Sakuragi to teach a vistor arriving from another company to learn their techniques.

Figure 12 You Are Ms. Servant, Episode 10

Yuki tells Hitoyoshi she loves him.

Episode 10 of You Are Ms. Servant begins with Naka showing Hitoyoshi and Yuki her ninja skills. Grace is planning a trip to China—she tells Yuki she'll look into the whereabouts of her younger sister. On Christmas Yuki asks Hitoyoshi to go on a deito with him (on the recommendation of Riko). Afterwards, Riko tells them they're basically already a couple. She asks both of them questions from a "couple" quiz on her phone that confirms it.

Figure 13 The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest, Episode 10

Narsena gets kidnapped by Hanzum.

Episode 10 of The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest begins with Mist explaining that he was ordered to keep quiet about the impending uprising. Ralma infers that the pillars around town are to protect it. Mist and Hazum asks Ralma to construct the barrier around town while they kill the monster at the bottom of the Mardat labyrinth. A griffin attempts to break the barrier, and Laust at the others leave the barrier to fight it. A fenrir attacks them as the exit. Laust and the others fight the fenrir while Ranaldo fights the griffin. The fenrir knocks Laust out and Narsena rushes in to help him, but she too gets knocked out. Laust gets up and lands a killing blow on it. At the end of the episode, Hanzum arrives and kidnaps Narsena.

Figure 14 Let This Grieving Soul Retire!, Episode 10

Several eleven mages imbue Krai's relics.

Episode 10 of Sunday's second worst show (Let This Grieving Soul Retire!) begins Krai asking a Malice Eater from White Wolf's Den. He names him Drink, mistakenly believing "Malice Eater" to be "water" The Guild Master warns Krai about another level 7, Arnold Hail, who arrives shortly after Krai leaves. Krai's multiple live-saving rings have run out of mana and Sitri tricks other mages in the city to waste their mana charging them. Afterwards, she tricks two power elf mages, Lapis and Kris to charge the remaining relics he has. Sitri and Liz have a drinking contest at a nearby bar. While drunk, Sitri tells Krai he's borrow too much money. She demands he'll have to pay her back with his body. Arnold and his crew arrive in the bar and demand booze and women. A drunk Liz dumps the beer on his head ant attacks him and all his friends, knocking all of them out.

Figure 15 The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan, Episode 10

Leon's party, a target of Noel's harrassment.

Episode 10 of The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan begins with Noel visiting Hugo Coppelia ("the Puppeteer") in prison. He tells him he plans to free him and have him join his party. After the opening Noel, Alma, and Koga drop by a new bar full of B-Rank hunters. They bump into an elf, Ophelia, who, pursuant to rumors, hates Noel. He quickly picks a fight with her, and her party leader, Leon. Later, Kiem and Leon discussing forming a clan following a guild summons. But their application, like Noel's, is rejected. Leon insists, and Harold gives them a test: vanquish and Dantalion with an abyssal depth rating of 8. Harold tells them he'll be competing against Noel's party.

Figure 16 The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, Episode 9

Elentzia attemps to take Jill hostage.

Episode 9 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor begins with Risteard brining Hadis and Jill to meet Elentzia. They discuss their plans to deal with their Uncle George, the false emperor. Knights inform them George is setting fire to the town looking for Hadis, and they all quickly leave to put the fires out. Princess Faris der Kratos sends a message to Hadis: the get engaged to end the war. They meet, and Hadis immediately declines. She insists, explaining that this political marriage will solve all of their problems. Later, Hadis mistakenly believes Jill is cheating on him with Lawrence, and Jill quickly corrects him. Jill tells Hadis some of the dragon knights have been bullying her, and he threatens to kill them.

Figure 17 My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student, Episode 10

Takae tells Moriya to take care of her husband, Keisuke.

Episode 10 of the worst show of the season (My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student) begins with Keisuke telling Moriya the truth about his wife and Marika. Takae, Mai, and Renji prepare for their wedding. Takae, knowing that she may not make it a year until their wedding, has them practice their vows in front of her. Keisuke tells Takae she no longer wants her make bentos—he'll learn how to make them himself. Takae, accepting her work is mostly done, decides to find a way to cut ties with the world and allow Marika to return. Takae tells Keisuke to take good care of Mai, then returns home to Chika. Moryia asks Takae if she can marry Keisuke. She tells him she has no right to refuse her request. That weekend Keisuke tells Takae he's planning to marry Moriya.

Other Remarks

I started playing a new game, Geoguessr, this week. I'll make a dedicated post about soon, I think.