Although I will say Bye Bye, Earth isn't particularly remarkable. I am also finishing season 4 of DanMachi in order to prepare for season 5. I really wish it didn't get a season 5, because now I actually have to finish season 4, and boy is it boring. The pacing is so slow it fills like filler. I think the last four episodes they fought a single monster? Ugh.

Figure 1 Bye Bye, Earth, Episode 8

Belle draws Runding and prepares to duel Kir Royale to the death.

Episode 8 of Bye Bye, Earth begins with Sherry inviting Belle to a ball at the castle as a way of thanks. When she arrives, however, Sherry puts her in a dress (tomboy feminization) to prepare her for the evening. At the ball Sherry sings for Belle. Kitty the All arrives and dances with Belle. Adonis learns of his father's death at Katakombe at the hands of Gaff and challenges him to a duel. Kir arrives at attacks Gaff after he refuses Adonis challenge, and their God commands them to strike Kir down. Kir's sword, like Tiziano's, has become corrupted. God relays a message through Sherry: Belle Leblanc is ordered kill Kir Royale. Just as the order is given, he arrives in the ballroom. Belle draws Runding for her final divine trial and begins their duel. Quickly, Belle, realizes her blade can cut Kir, but Kir's attack wound Belle. Belle realizes that the divine tree, much like Tiziano's and now Kir's sword, consumes soloists. And, just as birds are divine messengers of death, Nidhoggs are messengers of the divine tree. Belle lands a decisive strike on Kir, who tells her she has no regrets shortly before crumbling to dust. Following her victory, the king prepares the keys for Belle's (and Adonis') final trial. Adonis tells Belle he lives by spreading "rot", and tells her he wants to be free of this cycle. Belle invites him to journey with her, but remains hesitant.

Figure 2 Midnight Punch, Episode 8

The Mayonakas celebrate their idol concert on stage after the power is restored.

Midnight Punch Episode 8 begins with the Mayonakas arriving at Tsuma-fes, a content creator meet-up. The meet-up, ran by Tsuma-shi (a famous streamer), is split into segments: a collaboration and a solo segment. In the green room they meet with other content creators to prepare for their collaborative segments. The Mayonaks are paired for a singing segment, and because the Outlaw Kids are a no-show Fu gets paired with Shura, followed by a game of red-light green-light with Tokage. The Outlaw Kids show up late for the game, and Tokage wins with a single jump and profess their love for her. Ichiko does a cooking segment against Ken and, after walking off stage to buy ingredients herself, creates a stunning dish of almond tofu (instead of Mapo Tofu).

Live goes mad after accidentally drinking a drink containing garlic causing her to go mad before her final collaboration segment, but her competition, Plumb Wrong Logic, was revealed to be having an affair, ending the segment early. Leading into the solo segments the venue suddenly loses power, and Masaki grabs the disgraced Plumb Wrong Logic, but he can't fix the issue. Regardless, the Mayonakas decide to begin their song in the dark. Masaki finds a fangirl who cut the power, punches her in the face, and restores power to the venue while the Maynonaks are on stage, creating a grand finale.

Figure 3 Wistoria: Wand and Sword, Episode 7

Will punches Julius in the face, ending their duel.

Episode 7 of Wistoria: Wand and Sword begins with Elfaria being presented a list of scouted students from the Grand Magic Festival, one of them being Julius. Elfaria responds she'd rather have Will by her side. After the OP, Will approaches Julius in the Colosseum and tells him he has no intention of losing. Julius uses his Mirror Images to surround Will and immediately begin his attack. The crowd is shocked to see such a spell, as it was one of the twelve secret arts developed by Elfaria herself. Julius imprisons Will and tells the arena he will be Elfaria's successor. Will breaks free of the imprisonment and swiftly incapacitates Will's two friends. Will's mirror images collapse, as Will (and the Crowd) realizes his friends were controlling his mirror images to create the illusion he was actually using one of Elfie's arts. Julius is still able to create weaker mirror images defenselessly, but will breaks through the illusion and quickly strikes the real Julius, landing his first hit of the match.

Will tells Julius that he and Elfaria were raised in the same orphanage. He's seen and studied all her spells. He knows the strengths and weaknesses of her magic. Enraged, Julius attempts to overwhelm Will offensive spells, but he's able to parry and dodge all of them. He catches up to Julius and lands a final decisive blow. The crowd erupts that "no-talent" Will defeated Julius. Squad 12, led by Wignall, quickly picks up the crown while Will is recovering, thus winning the game. In the tower, Elfie cries over will exposing her past. Colette arrives and celebrates with Will, praising him for defeating Julius.

Figure 4 The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human, Episode 10

Ike rescues Satie from Corass's pirate ship.

Episode 10 of The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human continues the Satie abduction arc, with Corassa telling his crew that Satie isn't Yuria. Instead, he decides to make her his maid. Ike learns of her capture, and Eltria gives him a ship to pursue. Satie accidentally (intentionally) starts a ship fire using strong alcohol, then further spreads the fire using additional materials aboard the ship. When the pirates find her and try to rape her as a punishment, Ike arrives. He quickly defeats all of the pirates. Ike tells Satie he saw her message—the burning ship. The Captain, Corassa, attacks Ike with strong magic, telling him Satie will be his. In the ensuing fight, Ike destroys Corassa's ship and captures him and the remaining pirates. Eltria agrees to sign a trade agreement with Ike. Eltria holds a ball for Ike and Satie to celebrate their victory. There, Eltria tells him to take care of his daughter: as a condition of his treaty, he has to marry Yuria. The ball is, in fact, a wedding ceremony. The Demon Lord Dairokuten appears and tells Ike is has to head back to Ivalias immediately.

Back at Ivalias, Cefiro defends against a lengthy siege where the humans are starving out the remaining demons. As the episode ends, Cefiro is fighting to the death on the ruins of the city.

Figure 5 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 9

Okumura encourages Ririsa to continue to cosplay, dispite the harsh words from Nagomi.

2.5 Dimensional Seduction Episode 9 begins with Hanyuu-sensei sneaking into the cosplay event. Nagomi expresses jealously over Ririsa (and Mayura) for only cosplaying characters they like, instead of what makes them famous. Ririsa turns this thought over in her head, wondering if she truly loves cosplay, or just the character. While walking by Okumura, Nagomi mistakenly believes he's Kai, the 2D characters from her imagination. They find the event emptier than expected as the entire crowds around Nagomi outside the venue. Ririsa, however, can't find her skirt. She tells everyone she certainly packed it—perhaps someone took it by mistake? Nevertheless, Ririsa blames herself, telling them she doesn't deserve to cosplay as Lilliel. Okumura learns of Nagomi's harsh words towards Ririsa, and he encourages her, telling her they're in this together.

Hanyuu-sensei arrives and tells her how when she was in high school she couldn't talk about her hobbies with anyone either. Her only encouragement was one teacher, and perhaps that's why she went into teaching herself. Okumura asks several cosplayers if they've seen Ririsa's missing skirt, and Hanyuu returns as Mayura to further encourage her. You cosplay because you want to, just as Okumura returns with her skirt.

Figure 6 Narenare: Cheer for You!, Episode 8

PomPoms fulfill various cheer requests around the town.

Narenare: Cheer for You! Episode 8 begins with Kanata watching a news story about their baseball cheer match over breakfast. All of the girls meet to and discuss the news story, and Anna tells them they've gotten tons of cheer requests following the story, including a TV interview request. They fulfill all the cheer requests, even the small ones, and post it on their YouTube channel. Hana-senpai watches the channel and observes PomPoms increasing popularity with mild jealousy. They get so many requests they discuss whether or not they should start turning some of them down and, despite Kanata's consternations, they decide to reject vague nebulous cheerleading requests. Regardless, Kanata still decides to show up to some of their rejected jobs and complete them by herself.

Kanata meets with Megumi whose condition is getting worse. Megumi becomes increasingly upset that she isn't able to cheer for anyone. Kanata tells Megumi without her the PomPoms YouTube channel wouldn't exist, but she dismisses the sentiment. They begin to get negative comments for turning town requests, including several aimed directly at Kanata. They all learn Kanata has been cheering behind their backs, and Anna leaves practice early.

Figure 7 I Parry Everything, Episode 9

The Emperor observes Lynne, Ines, Noor, and Rolo on a distant hill.

Episode 9 of I Parry Everything begins with Noor mistakenly thanking Rolo for helping calm the dragon down. Noor decides to send the dragon back to its homeland instead if killing it, despite warnings from others who tell him it's dangerous. Through Rolo, he tells the dragon to go home and to never harm humans again, and the dragon departs. As it does, it's hit with a strong attack, grounding it, as a large army from the Magic Empire appears on the outskirts of the city. As Noor, Lynne, Ines, and Rolo arrive to check in on the dragon, they are attacked by the magic empire using the same super weapon that grounded the dragon. Noor immediately parries the attack as the others duck for cover. Ines begins to block additional attacks, and Noor decides to distract the enemy army while the others flee. Lynne, misunderstanding his request, launches him directly into another volley of attacks, which he immediately parries.

Using the resulting momentum, Noor charges directly towards the army parrying all their attacks. Their parried weapons fall back down to earth, injuring many of them. The enemy Emperor witnesses Noor's fury and and trembles in fear as Noor parries the remaining super weapons. Realizing Noor is wielding King Clay's Black Blade while witnessing the defeat of his entire army, the Emperor flees in fear.

Figure 8 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 30

The Cure's updated forms, powerful enough to defeat the Gaogaons.

Episode 30 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! telling Mey Mey she placed the Mirror Stone in Animal Town long ago to grand animals' wish to be friendly with humans, but humans corrupted there wish and drove the wolves away. Gaou orders Zakuro, Torame, and the other Gaogaons to defeat the Precures, and warns them not to let their guard down around Niko-sama. Violent Gaogaons rampage through Animal Town, the Cures stand inside, and Satoru laments his inability to help. Komugi encourages Iroha to find a way to befriend the wolves, and the Cures leave to confront Torame. Yuki tells them to fight the Gaogaons together and they all transform, but they're still quickly defeated by the Gaogaons. Cure Friendly calls for the aid the Kirarin animals, and with their borrowed power they're able to just barely fight back against the Gaogaons. Cure Friendly tells Torame she'd still like to be his friend—the people of Animal Town love animals, and they can find a way to get along.

Niko-sama grants the Cures her own power and they all transform again, launching a join attack that frees the Gaogaons. The tell Torame to deliver a message: The Precures want to speak to his boss, Gaou. At the end of the episode, Niko-sama asks to live in Iroha's house.

Figure 9 NieR:Automata Ver1.1a 2nd Season, Episode 20

9S destroys the second sub-unit core.

Episode 20 of NieR:Automata Ver1.1a 2nd Season begins with A2 at the others defending against an attack on Machine Village. Pascal arrives with heavy weapons to provide additional fire support. However, the machines launch a suicide attack destroying the entire village. Pascal is able to evacuate only a few surviving machines back to the Resistance Camp. A Goliath Class machine appears and begins making its way towards the resistance camp. 9S arrives at the second sub-unit and hacks in. He learns that the machines have data on everything, including Project YoRHa itself. He learns that YoRHa androids share the same data structure as machine lifeforms, but then dismisses the notion as machine propaganda. A2 intercepts the Goliath Class machine, enters "Berserker Mode", and begins to fight. Pascal hacks a nearby unit and assists in her fight. At the sub-unit core, 9S is reverse-hacked and the machines intercept his memories of 2B. His memories are deleted as he destroys the core.

Figure 10 Failure Frame, Episode 8

Touka, Seras, Eve, and Lis flee the city for the Land of Golden-Eyed Monsters.

Episode 8 of Failure Frame begins with Touka confronting Eve, telling her he can save her along with the Witch of Taboos—they can kidnap her and escape in the middle of the night. To prove his strength, he paralyzes Eve and tells her he's the one who killed Civit and the Five Dragon Knights. Seras also reveals herself and confirms his strength. They tell Eve to meet them at a bridge out of town that night. Prior to their meeting, Eve overhears the Duke planning to paralyze and kill her at her final act, and to turn Lis into a sex slave. She meets Touka and Eve and arranges to "kidnapp" Lis.At Lis's tavern she's abused by the owners and the patrons. Eve enters the tavern and rescues Lis, while Touka executes the owner for her past abuse of Lis. Together with Lis, the flee towards the Land of Golden-Eyed Monsters. However, they are pursued quickly, and Touka and Eve set a trap.

Figure 11 No Longer Allowed in Another World, Episode 8

Sensei speaks with the dancer, Esche, the Spirit of the World Tree.

Episode 8 of No Longer Allowed in Another World begins with the party arriving at the largest tree in all of Zauberberg, Grun's World Tree. At the base of the tree sits the town of Toneriko. When they arrive they find a casino has been set up in its place, and the mayor explains several other worlders arrived and built it. As a result, the World Tree is beginning to wilt and die. Another other worlder, Yamada, overhears the mayor's words and tells them he wants to help save the World Tree, too. That night, while exploring the town, he's approached by a mysterious dancer who dances in order to put him to sleep. The dancer, Esche, takes him back to the Inn after he falls asleep.

The mayor explains to other members of the party that Esche, the "Witch of Toneriko", befriended the other worlders and makes a fortune charming them with her liquor and dancing. The next day Sensei returns to the bar to speak with Esche. She speaks to him of the helping spirit of the World Tree, and tells him to pray for it to ease his pain. Instead, he tells her she is the one who needs saving. Sensei overhears the Casio boss discussing plans to entice more people to the casino, but Esche tells them the deal was to fleece other worlders, not the townsfolk. Sensei's party destroys the casino, and Yamada defeats the other worlders running the casino. The townsfolk, however, treat Esche with contempt despite her efforts to save the town. Sensei explains how Esche kept the other worlders at bay and stopped them from corrupting the town, but the ignore him. Esche leaves and the town celebrates. Sensei laments the town attacking its own protector and he too departs. The Mayor tells Yamada they plan to continue to sell the leaves of the world tree and offer him a profit-sharing agreement, and Yamada realizes the town itself was wicked. At the end of the episode, the leaves of the world tree wither and fall, and the spirit of the world tree, Esche, appears before him, telling him to find peace in his life.

Figure 12 Spice & Wolf, Episode 21

Holo hatches a plan with Lawrence to learn more about Tereo.

Episode 21 of Spice & Wolf begins with Lawrence and Holo spending time with the townsfolk of Tereo in the local tavern. There, Lawrence makes a faux pas by mentioning the town may be "blessed by god", and learns that the town worships Lord Truyeo, a pagan snake god. As a result, the church levies punitive taxes against the town. The next day Lawrence wonders how the town makes money to pay, and he drops by the miller to mill some of his flour. There, he learns Enberch buys all their grains, and in return they buy everything else from Enberch. The miller tells him Father Franz negotiated the terms, which are very favorable for a town of Tereo's size. He inquires about the miller's relationship with Elsa, but doesn't get a lot of information besides "we're friends". Lawrence tells Holo that the abbey they're looking for may actually be a pagan temple for the snake god, and perhaps it's better not to disturb the balance. Holo proposes a dangerous idea to upset the balance as the end credits roll.

Figure 13 A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero, Episode 10

Miku, Takagi, and Airi vist Hikari in the hospital.

Episode 10 of A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero begins with a brief backstory of how Miku and Hikari met—at a card store where they played against each other with decks full of rare expensive cards. Hikari clones Miku's deck, but Miku instead helps her create a deck that fits her own play style. They continue to play and spend time together, eventually becoming good friends. After the opening, everyone gathers around Hikari in the hospital. The doctors tell them she'll be okay after some rest. Her parents arrive and thank them for caring for Hikari. Her father explains Hikari has a genetic disorder that progressively causes organ failure which cannot easily be treated. Hikari has been exploring the dungeon in the hopes of finding an elixir that can cure her illness, later telling Miku that it would cure the illness for everyone in the future who also has it as well. Together, they agree to explore the dungeon in the hopes they'll find it.

Airi and Takagi agree to help search for it as well. They travel to deeper floors and begin slaying monsters, but find nothing. They visit Hikari that evening empty-handed. Haruka calls Takagi to ask about Hikari, but he dodges the question. He enters the dungeon again, only with his summons, vowing to become a hero.

Figure 14 Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?, Episode 8

Reiren is told she's traveling with the humans to the land of Mythical Beasts.

Episode 8 of Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World? continues the fight between Kai and Alfreya. As Alfreya collapses the entire platform they're fighting on, Reiren and Jeanne launch a joint attack that wounds him, allowing Kai and opening to land a final blow. Alfreya's final words to Kai are words from Sid: "Supposed to exist". He tells Kai to shatter the hatred in the world to return it to its original state. That night Jeanne asks Rinne about her past, but she remembers little. The next day humans form an alliance with the Celestials. The learn The Last Riser first appeared 10 years ago when Alfreya met with Fang King, Rath=IE, leader of the Mythical Beasts. With Reiren as their guide, the humans plan an expedition for the land of mythical beasts. At the end of the episode, Rath=IE tells the Hero of the Spirits, Rikugen Kyoko, that the spirit race will depart from the world.

Figure 15 My Wife Has No Emotion, Episode 10

Mina sits in a park with Mamoru after she realizes she is completely lost.

My Wife Has No Emotion Episode 10 begins with Mina learning of Mamoru's Class 1 certification. She, however, is a Class 2, which allows her to act autonomously, and decides to go shopping (taking Mamoru along) to prove it. While on the way, Mina gets confused when she encounters a crosswalk without a push-button cross signal, and has to take a roundabout away to get to the supermarket. After leaving the supermarket, she fails to access her computerized map and gets lost. After wondering around all day, she sits in a park telling him he'll soon run out of batteries. Mamoru helps Mina read nearby address signs and slowly makes their way back to the apartment. That evening Takuma hears of a news story where the network Mina runs out went down, hence her inability to access her map.

After dinner Takuma and Mina take a bath together. That next morning Mina becomes to malfunction. Her speaker has failed due to water damage. Takuma works with Mina to develop a system of beeping in the interim between now and when the new speaker arrives from the factory. While Takuma is at work, Mina tries to teach Mamoru hiragana and katakana. Together, Mina and Mamoru develop a system of clicking to communicate that Takuma slowly begins to understand.

Figure 16 Dahlia in Bloom, Episode 9

Dahlia sells a magical foaming soap dispenser.

Episode 9 of Dahlia in Bloom begins with Wolfred speaking with this brother, Guido, regarding his new business with Dahlia. Guido asks if he's considering marriage, and he tells him no. In a flashback, we see Wolfred and his mother defending Guido and his mother against a group of bandits, while he cowered in fear. Guido explains how he's been overcome with guilt ever since that day, and Wolfred tells him not to think about it anymore. Dahlia introduces a new foam soap bottle that enters accelerated production (after a round of bizarre negations with a workshop that wanted... less money from the contract). Wolfred drops by and delivers notes on etiquette and notices Dahlia is injured. She explains she was injured when a magical device she was trying to imbue exploded. Wolfred asks to try the device, a bracelet, right as the episode ends.

Figure 17 ATRI: My Dear Moments, Episode 8

Natsuki after reading Atri's journal which explains how she's mimicking human emotions.

Episode 8 of ATRI: My Dear Moments begins with Natsuki wondering why he kissed Atri... a stupid ponkotsu toaster. At school Natsuki is despondent, and Yoko asks him what happened with Atri. After some badering, Natsuki relents and tells them he kissed Atri. His friends ask if he has romantic feelings for Atri, and he tells them he's unsure. That evening, Minamo tells Nastsuki that, like him, she believes Atri has a heart. Atri, who has been learning to cook from Minamo, makes Nastsuki dinner. Atri tells Natsuki that she loves him, and he further questions his feelings for her. Natsuki decides to treat Atri like she's a human with a heart. Atri has a vague memory of hurting someone, and questions if she, too, has a heart. Natsuki thanks her for saving his life, telling him her kind words are what she was taught. Natsuki has a dream of Atri being there when he lost his leg, too. Natsuki reads through Atri's diary, and and finds it incredibly mechanical. Atri's diary explains how she's been mimicking human emotions, attempting to emulate what she believes he wanted to hear. The episode ends with Natsuki telling Atri to stay away from him.

Figure 19 Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian, Episode 9

A hypnotized Masha comforts Alya and Kuze.

Episode 9 of Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian continues the absolutely ridiculous student council drama arc (god damn this is miserable), with her grandfather telling Yuki she cannot lose to Masachika. After the OP, Alya feels mildly guilty for winning the student congress and wants to help Taniyama. She speaks with Nonoa to try to prevent the negative things being said about Taniyama. Nonoa decides to take the fall, spreading the rumor that Taniyama left the debate because of her, not because she lost to Alya. For fun, Kuze pretends to hypnotize Alya and Masha, and Sarashina-senpai has to snap them out of it.

Other Remarks

My Gitzo Systematic tripod and right-angle arm came in. I may make a seperate post about them either tomorrow or Monday (I get Monday off!). I may still have to buy a few extras for it to make it all work as smoothly as I want, though. Such an extra ball head. Ami Ami still hasn't shipped my Pon no Michi plushies. I think they got delayed. Still no word on when the Nord Grand 2 will be in stock at B&H Photo, either. Although given that I just the Yamaha YC61 less than a few months ago I hope B&H makes me wait!

Now that school has started my daily schedule is pretty fixed. I go to work, then after work it's light piano and calligraphy practice. I watch anime during the day, otherwise I'll run out of time after work. I wish I had more time for my hobbies, alas, I have to work.

Figure 1 Bye Bye, Earth, Episode 7

Belle embraces Sherry after hearing the bard in the tarven sing.

Episode 7 of Bye Bye, Earth begins following the Battle of Katakombe. Under a light funeral rain Belle bumps into a weather player, the castle's lead vocalist Sherry, who's impressed by Belle's feats. Belle takes Sherry to Bennett's mansion to dry off and change her clothes. She and Sherry take a bath together, and is shocked to learn she's a princess. Back at Belle's home Sherry sings for her and is shocked that Belle can notice the pain in her voice. Adonis tells Kir he can revive the sword Belle broke in their earlier duel, but it may turn into Nidhogg and curse him, as it did when he revived Tiziano's sword. He warns Kir of the risk, believing the priests may be doing it intentionally, and repairs his sword. Afterwards, he's learns that it wasn't his repaired sword that drove Tiziano mad, and is relieved. Belle meets and Adonis and explains she felt mild feelings of jealousy for Sherry when she met Gaff. Adonis asks if she's a grown woman, and if she'd like to have his kids one day, further clarifying he'd like to sleep with her. Belle tells him she'd be okay with it if she fell for him.

Adonis shows Belle his curse: he can't grow swords. Instead, his nomad's curse is that he destroys them. He tells Belle he's still on his journey, and his curse hasn't become blessing. Realizing his story is like hers, Belle asks Adonis to go on a journey with her. Adonis agrees. Sherry visits Belle and asks why she believed singing caused her pain. She takes her the Inn with Kitty, Adonis, and Bennett, to hear another song from the bard. When Sherry hears it, she's moved to tears. Sherry tells Belle she wants to feel needed, and embraces her.

Figure 2 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 29

Zakura tells Mayu she must be scared following the revolution that they (humans) are the bad guys.

Episode 29 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! begins with cracks forming in Niko-sama's egg. As everyone arrives they witness it hatch at daybreak, and Niko-sama, the one and only Diamond Unicorn, introduces herself to the Cures (and Satoru and Mey Mey). They return to Niko Garden, and all the animals great Niko-sama. Niko-sama tells them how Gaou, the leader of the Black Wolves, transformed the animals of Niko Garden into Garugarus. Niko-sama sealed them into eggs, but they eggs would one day hatch, as the Cures have already seen. At a deserted shrine outside animal town, Gaou reforms and summons his companions, Zakuro and Torame, to fight on his behalf while he regains his strength. Gaou tells them find the black eggs. Dark clouds begin to form over the mountains near animal town and animals begin to flee. When the Cures arrive they encounter Zakuro and Torame who summons a monkey Gaogaon, and all the Cures transform to fight.

Torame asks why Komugi, a dog, is hanging out with humans. Zakuro asks they if they know what humans did to them—hunted them to the point of extinction. The Gaogaon monkeys multiply, but the Cure's joint attacks can't dispell the darkness from their heart. All the Cures get injured and transform back into humans. Gaou howls, calling Zakuro and Torame back to the shrine while the Gaogaon monkeys scatter throughout the forest. At the end of the episode, Iroha wonders if they're the bad guys—they (humans) hunted humans to extinction.

Figure 3 NieR:Automata Ver1.1a 2nd Season, Episode 19

Operator 21O transmitting data about the Tower to 9S shortly before she dies.

Episode 19 of NieR:Automata Ver1.1a 2nd Season begins with 9S arriving at the base of the tower. Tower System Services announces that access is not permitted at this time. Operator 21O along with additional infected YoRHa units ambush him. 21O, able to barely resist the logic virus, commits suicide prior to attack 9S. Shortly before she dies, she relays information about the tower to 9S. He learns that there are three sub-units they must destroy to break the locks on the tower. While at Machine Village, A2 receives word multiple hostile machine lifeforms are approaching. Pascal and A2 prepare to fight. 9S arrives at the first sub-unit and encounters machines in sleep mode and begins to execute them while they beg for their lives. His pod warns him his mental faculties will be corrupted if he continues to fight, but he ignores this warning. Pascal reports to A2 a significant number of machines are approaching and tells her to stall while she readies more weapons. Atop of the first sub-unit finds a computer begging not to die, which he promptly destroys, obtaining the first of three tower passwords.

Figure 4 Failure Frame, Episode 7

Touka and Seras dicuss how to find the Witch of Taboos.

After a one-week haitus due to the Olympics, we're back. Episode 7 of Failure Frame begins with Touka purchasing a mask to hide his identity. Vicius learns of the death of Humanity's strongest, along with the death of the Black Dragon Knights. She informs the other members of the Holy Alliance that they must now rely on her and her Otherworldly heroes even more if they plan to defeat the Great Demon Empire. One of them asks about the "godslayer" but she dismisses the notion. Touka and Seras arrive in the city of Monroy and begin to make preparations to venture to The Land of Golden-Eyed Monsters. Over dinner, they hear a rumor Ashint, and mage who specializes in curses, killed the Black Dragon Knights. Touka overhears another rumor about the Witch of Taboos, said to be a Dark Elf, and asks for more information. They tell him they can encounter the Witch in the Colosseum. He speaks to Eve Speed, one of the bloodsport warriors, but Eve lies and tells him she knows nothing.

That evening, Even speaks with a young dark elf and tells her to wait a little longer. Back at the inn, Touka and Seras discuss how they could persuade Eve to give them information, and Seras begins to realize she likes Touka romantically. Late that night, Touka realizes he feels the same way. He tells Seras is feelings for revenge blind all his other emotions. The next day Touka and Seras arrive at the Colosseum. Seras tells Touka that Even has earned enough money to buy her freedom, and is now trying buy a child their freedom, too. Seras tells him Eve's final match is tomorrow, and the Duke has arranged for her to have an unwinnable match.

Figure 5 No Longer Allowed in Another World, Episode 7

Sensei writes Tama's (Matilda's) story.

Episode 7 of No Longer Allowed in Another World begins with Matilda arriving to save her father. Kaibara immediately attacks her using her father's secret skill. Sensei visits the Queen's room and reads her diary. Matilda continues her fight against Kaibara—her father advises her to give up, but she tells him her brother would never admit defeat, and continues her fight. Kaibara explains how, in his past life, he decided to murder people to feel alive. Sensei arrives and tells Annette Kaibara's story is incredibly boring and contains nothing worth writing about. Instead, Sensei dedicates his story to Matilda. He tells her to live for herself, not for the idea her father or brother imagines her to be. She's not Matilda, she's Tama. She dawns the crest of the divine beast and continues her fight against Kaibara and, using her newly unlocked techniques, quickly defeats him. Kaibara revives because he ate the flesh of The Dark Lord, but Waldelia appears and decapitates him. Sensei asks her if she feels better, and she flees. Sensei tells the others he hopes to one day write her story. Afterwards, her father tells he to continue her journey with Sensei.

Figure 6 Wistoria: Wand and Sword, Episode 6

Will fights against Sion's pheonix guardian.

Episode 6 of Wistoria: Wand and Sword continues the duel between Will and Sion (and Julius). Initially, Will refuses to counterattack Sion and instead dodges all his attacks, pleading wit him to stop the fight. The scouts watching the tournament frown greatly upon Sion's betrayal. Meanwhile, Colette flees Julius attacks, refusing to fight him as well. Mirror images of Julius appear across the stage and begin attack all other teams simultaneously using an artifact from a Magia Vander. Will finally realizes Sion will acknowledge his strength if he defeats him, and resolves to fight with his full strength. He dodges a large scale attack from Will, destroys his Pheonix Guardian, but Colette intervenes to stop them from killing each other. She tells them she defeated Julius's mirror image, and tells Will to continue on ahead and fight Julius. Julius enters the stadium first, and Will arrives shortly thereafter to challenge Julius directly.

Figure 7 I Parry Everything, Episode 8

The Elder Dragon submits to Noor.

Episode 8 of I Parry Everything begins with the Dragon of Calamity arriving at the royal capital. The Prince immediately orders and evacuation, but their escape routes have been blocked. Noor, however, misunderstanding the risk, inspired by stories of old, tells Lynne he can handle the dragon—he can be a dragon slayer. Lynne uses Wind Blast to propel Noor back to the capital, and he arrives just in time to parry the first elder dragon breath, saving the king in the process. Noor, believing the dragon is lesson scary that Lynne's magic, begins to fight it. Lynne, Ines, and Rolo arrive back at the capital shortly after and begin fighting many of the smaller monsters flooding the city. Noor parries all of the Elder Dragon's attacks, including a second Elder Dragon breath aimed directly at him. The Elder Dragon becomes frustrated that Noor isn't treating it as a serious thread, and realizes that it is the one who is weak. The Elder Dragon decides to submit to Noor.

Figure 8 The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human, Episode 9

Ike speaks with Eltria after saving her daughter, Yuria.

Episode 9 of The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human with Ike traveling south to Xenobia. He orders Lilith and Jiron to run Ivalias in his absence, and brings only Satie with him. While on the way they encounter a group of bandits, the Redbeard Pirates, attacking a carriage. He quickly defeats them then heals the wounded. The passenger, Yuria Octave, the daughter of Xenobia's leader, thanks him for saving her. She takes Ike (who falsely introduces himself as Ryke) and Satie to the capital to meet her mother, Eltria Octave, the leader of the trade federation. Eltria immediately identifies Ike as a member of the Dark Lord's army and inquires as to the purpose of his visit. He explains he'd like to sign a trade treaty with her, but she dismisses the notion. He offers to help protect her ships from pirates in return. She tells him she'll agree if he marries her daughter. At that moment, Redbeard pirates attack the port, but flee just as Ike arrives to assist. Privately, Yuria tells Ike she'd like to marry him. Satie gets mistaken for Yuria and kidnapped by pirates. She awakens on the pirates boat.

Figure 9 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 8

Nagomi confronts Ririsa regarding who really loves cosplay more.

Episode 8 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction begins with Okumura and Ririsa telling Hanyuu-sensei they don't want to lie to the school—they want to participate in a real cosplay event and submit a that in their report. Hanyuu-sensei tells them it's a mistake to assume people will take cosplay seriously just because they take cosplay seriously. After some convincing, Hanyuu-sensei decides to support them, telling them if they want to keep the clubroom they'll have to win. Okumura and Ririsa arrive at the event and bump into Magino and Ogino. Ririsa meets a professional cosplayer, 753 Nagomi, who praises her Liliel cosplay. Nagomi tells Ririsa she cosplays to be the most perfect 2D woman for her 2D husband, Kai-sama, then proceeds to start drama with Ririsa. Afterwards, Ririsa and Magino arrive at the changing room and begin changing. While she does, she's mildly upset by Nagomi's earlier comment asking who "who loves cosplay more?". Outside, Ogino tells Okumura their plan is to take photos after Nagomi's fans begin leaving.

Figure 10 Narenare: Cheer for You!, Episode 7

The PomPoms cheer at a baseball game.

Episode 7 of Narenare: Cheer for You! begins with Anna informing everyone they've gotten their first cheer request. Banka Rara of the Omaebashi High School Cheer Committee wants them to join their own cheerleaders in cheering for their baseball team (which made regionals). They learn that Takanozaki's cheerleaders will also be cheering for the opposing baseball team, and Kanata enthusiastically accepts. Nodoka expresses a general concern with the amount of responsibilities she has, and questions the point of cheer. At the game they immediately start exchanging cheers with Takanozaki. Hana-senpai sees Kanata cheering for the other team and becomes mildly jealous. Eventually, the score is tied and Chigo decides to respond to Kanata PomPom's directly, and Takanozaki pulls ahead 10-to-5. Banka tells them to fight till the end, and Kanata and PomPoms continue to cheer, eventually bringing the score to 10-to-9. They cheer for the final batter, Tanaka, but he hits a flyball that's caught, ending the game.

Figure 11 Spice & Wolf, Episode 20

Lawrence speaks with Elsa, asking for directions to Diendran Abbey.

Episode 20 of Spice & Wolf begins with Holo and Lawrence traveling to Enberch to get further directions to Tereo. When they arrive they found Enberch has an abundance of flour and can't make a sale. Nevertheless, he gets further directions to Tereo and they depart immediately. While on the way, they encounter a miller, Evan, who warns them of a fight between Enberch and Tereo. When they arrive in Terreo they're treated with suspicion by the townsfolk. They meet with the head of the church, Elsa, and ask for direction to Diendran Abbey, explaining they plan to speak with Louis Schtinghilt. But Elsa refuses to help them. Lawrence speaks to the elder of the village, Sem, and asks for the location of Diedran Abbey. Their meeting is interrupted as the Elder receives an urgent message and Lawrence returns to the inn. That night, Lawrence sees the miller arrive at the church to greet Elsa. Lawrence tells Holo both Elsa and Sem know about the abbey, and they need to develop a plan to determine why they're hiding it.

Figure 12 Midnight Punch, Episode 7

The Mayonakas watching their subcount rise after their most recent bathtub video.

Episode 7 of Midnight Punch begins with Masaki telling the Mayonaka's it will take a miracle to get from 40,000 to one million subs in six months. Step one is to upload a stream of YouTube shorts to increase view count. Step two is to analyze the highest view count videos and to make more of that content. This fails, and Masaki begins to create, edit, and upload, two upload two videos a day before she eventually collapses from exhaustion. Live offers to help, but Masaki refuses. Masaki ups the count to three a day, but they nevertheless fail to gain subscribers. After speaking with Fuu, Masaki decides to restructure their videos to introduce more candid moments between the Mayonakas. She tells them people subscribe to their channel their personalities and friendly interactions, not for the clickbait scripted garbage she's been producing. All the Mayonakas agree to help edit and produce their next video, and tell her to rely on them a bit more. They produce an unscripted video of them talking things out which games a huge amount of views and subscribers for their channel, eventually reaching 100,000 subscribers. Masaki plans to enter phase three: collaborating with bigger channels. At the end of the episode, their YouTube rep contacts them and asks them to attend an upcoming content creator festival.

Figure 13 Dahlia in Bloom, Episode 8

An Orlando trading company representative apologizes to Dahlia.

Episode 8 of Dahlia in Bloom begins with the soldiers talking about... foot fungus, and how Dahlia's... socks were able to "banish" it. Wolfred immediately tells Dahlia to begin producing more to help start her new trading company. The next day they travel to the trading guild to complete the founding paperwork for The Rossetti Trading Company. Madam Gabriella helps her increase production for her magic socks by delegating different parts of the production to other companies. Ivano resigns his position at the trading guild and asks Wolfred if he could join Dahlia's new company. Wolfred accepts his offer. The Orlando company meets with Dahlia and gives her 12 gold coins as further apology for Tobias's actions. He hands her a unicorn that was supposed to be her wedding gift. At the end of the episode, Wolfred's brother Guido arrives.

Figure 14 A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero, Episode 9

The party begins exploring with Bellia.

Episode 9 of A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero begins with Takagi giving Bellia a tungsten rod as a weapon (although he asks for a sword). They experiment with Bellia's weak healing magic, and afterwards Takagi's entire party works together to defeat more monsters in the dungeon. They also try out Sylphy's new ability, Song of the Valkyrie, which increases the stats of their party members, but not their summons. He decides to buy Bellia a real sword. On Saturday they drop by Airi's place to study, and find that it's a huge traditional manor. Takagi studies with Airi, which makes Haruka jealous. After a brief study session they decide to do waterfall training. Back at the dungeon they decide to venture to the tenth floor. Hikarin, however, is sick. She nevertheless tells the party she wants to become a hero. When the party arrives at the entrance to the tenth floor Hikarin collapses.

Figure 15 My Wife Has No Emotion, Episode 9

Mina's final memories of her previous master, the creator of the Mina series, Otani Tomikazu.

Episode 9 of My Wife Has No Emotion begins with the Super Mina model having a nightmare of a previos master, and realizing that her nightmare was onset by Mina's residual memories. She meets with Takuma and Mina to inform them of the error, and Mina also tells that her memories are krangled. They begin to share their memories and work out which memories belong to who. Super Mina calls Takuma with information about her previous owner, Otani Tomikazu. When he looked into him, however, he found no record of him ever existing. Takuma wonders how Mina could have memories of a person that never existed. Super Mina further examines Mina's memory and finds it significantly larger than any Mina series should normally have. She looks for her oldest memory, and finds one of her waking up and meeting Otani, who was a robotics developer. Mina was a prototype.

Otani attempted to program Mina to be a wife from the start, but other developers told him she's a kitchen appliance, nothing more. During her development, she watches Otani age and die. Otani rewrites her memory data to believe he was a bad master who threw who out. He tells her to love someone has he loved her. Super Mina realizes Mina's previous owner was the creator of the Mina series.

Figure 16 Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?, Episode 7

Kai, Reiren, Jeanne, and Rinne fight against Alfreya.

Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World? Episode 7 starts with Kai, Reiren, and Jeanne confronting Alfreya. Kai is able to deflect Alfreya's first attack with The Code Holder, and Jeanne immediately follows up with an attack that pierces his defenses. Kai tells Reiren they need to free the Great Elder prior to defeating Alfreya, but Reiren can't break crystal she's frozen in. Alfreya summons The Last Riser to aid his fight. Vicius and Will both lose their fights, allowing the other humans to join Kai and the others, but their attacks against The Last Riser are ineffective. Kai asks if Alfreya if he's heard of The Prophet, Sid, but as he regains memories of Sid The Last Riser execute him, as she did Vanessa, then vanishes. Alfreya reappears with black wings claiming his personality has been overwritten (Kai also has memories of his world being overwritten). His first attack incapacitates everyone but Kai. Kai tells him he's no hero, but an imitation.

Figure 17 ATRI: My Dear Moments, Episode 7

Atri and Natsuki kiss underwater.

ATRI: My Dear Moments Episode 7 begins Natsuki in disbelief that the Atri was the girl who saved him as a child. Atri tells him she has vague memories of a child near a cliff the song she sang, and Natsuki s ofrced to admit that it was, indeed, Atri, who saved his life. Hana-sensei tells him there's a very real possibility Atri has real emotions, warning him that, if she does, she may, like humans, act irrationally. He tries to confirm if she does, Hana-sensei explains she may lack the knowledge to properly respond. Atri invites Natsuki on a weekend outing pursuant to a "date plan" she hatched with Catherine and the others. While on their "date" they're followed by two men. When Natsuki eats a homemade lunch prepared by Atri, he tells her he can taste the heart she put into a meal, later directly telling her he believes she has a heart. Atri believes she does too. While on their way home they fall into the water at high tide and kiss.

Figure 18 Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian, Episode 8

Alya debates Taniyama in front of the entire student body.

Episode 8 of Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian continues the misery inducing student-council drama arc. Kuze and Alya propose a student congress debate to the president following Taniyama's challenge. The president accepts the proposal, and Kuze and Alya begin preparing. Kuze warns that she's not competing against Taniyama, but instead the idealized version of herself that she has in her head. At the debate, Taniyama argues that teachers should play a deciding role in selecting council members. Alya argues the opposite: that it would strip authority from the student council by allowing teachers to decide what students hitherto had a say in. Taniyama's running mate, Miyamae, has plants in the audience deride Alya, and Kuze steps in to explain students already made up their mind when they elected the current president, who would never have gotten teacher's approval.

Taniyama accepts defeat and walks off the stage. Alya follows her. Afterwards, Taniyama explains that Kuze and Yuki were special, telling her she felt betrayed to see their separated by her. Kuze asks why Alya is interesting in running at all, and she responds, in Russian, "Because of you."

Other Remarks

I ordered some piano scale books on Amazon. I've heard those are good for practice, so I think I'll give them a shot. I also am considering either getting a Gitzo Tripod (I already have one, but I want a right angle arm) or a Nord Grand 2 Piano for my next big purchase. I don't really need either... but it'd be fun to have both! The Tripod is probably more useful given that I already have two pianos, though.

I officially dropped Tasuuketsu: The Fate of the Majority this week. I will continue making threads on /a/ for it because I know no one else will, but after a two week hiatus coupled with the fact I still really haven't understood any of the episodes hitherto I figure it's just waste of my time. I was sort of kicking the can down the road on this decision because I know so few people are watching it I almost felt obligated to continue, but if it's not fun, why bother? Also, Nier was delayed, too. Oh well.

Figure 1 Bye Bye, Earth, Episode 6

Adonis stabs Tiziano during the third and final act.

Episode 6 of Bye Bye, Earth begins with the composer ordering three acts. The first act is an isolated fight on a bridge where they're able to quickly counter an ambush. In an ensuing Bennett is blinded in one eye by an enemy strike causing Belle to redouble her efforts. Bennett then changes her gender from female to male. The conductor orders the composer to write the second act. His goal is to send her into a rage, forcing her to appear for the third and final act. They charge deeper into the cave and begin to divert the waterways reduce Tiziano's power. They arrive at Skyway Cemetery. As waves of undead begin to approach they hear the sound of water—Tiziano has diverted the water towards then and attacks the conductor, Gin. But this is a ploy, and Kitty is able to incinerate all of the undead at once, trapping Tiziano shortly after her attack on Gin. They enter act three and make their final stand against Tiziano. She swiftly kills down many of their forces, and their priest sacrifices himself to break her illusion, allowing Adonis to fight Tiziano directly. Tiziano lets Adonis land multiple lethal blows, then absorbs him, Kitty, and Belle, in a puddle of her own blood. Belle shatters Tiziano's "cancerous" sword and Tiziano embraces Adonis as she fades away.

Figure 2 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 7

Hanyuu-sensei arrives back at the manga club.

2.5 Dimensional Seduction Episode 7 starts with Okumura and Ririsa hatching a plan to save the manga club room. Okumura decides to make the club official, and looks to find a teacher to be their club advisor. He eventually asks Hanyuu-sensei, a new teacher, to advise his club. When he does, he recognizes her as a former cosplayer, Mayura. Despite her interest, she explains that, as a teacher, she can't continue or support the hobby. Instead, she decided to ghost all her friends and start anew as a public school teacher. After some prodding, she tentatively agrees to hear him out.

When Hanyuu-sensei drops by the club room she sees Ririsa in her cosplay Lilliel outfit. Ririsa tells her Mayura is her favorite cosplayer in the entire world. Hanyuu-sensei warns them that, even if she becomes their advisor, they still may lose their club. Regardless, she decides to advise the club on the condition she gets to see more of Ririsa's cosplays. However, they can't officially report their cosplaying to the student council, and Hanyuu-sensei advises them to read Lilliel's manga to children (while Ririsa is cosplaying) as an "official" club activity. Eri calls Hanyuu and asks her if she's going to Summer Comiket, but she again tells her she can't—she's a teacher.

Figure 3 Wistoria: Wand and Sword, Episode 5

Sion betrays Will shortly after he's ambushed by Julius.

Episode 5 of Wistoria: Wand and Sword begins with the opening of The Grand Magic Festival. Colette asks Sion to work along side her and Will to form a Crown Attack team in order to face Julius. Teams start outside the stadium and must fight there way back to the center to reach a crown, with the first team reaching the crown being declared the winner. Working with Colette's magic Will is able to quickly defeat the first wave of golems his team encounters while advances back to the center (much to he amazement of all the spectators). In the next zone Colette is able to conjure magic weapons for Will to fight with, and their team is again able to quickly clear the stage. Julius, upset at Will's progress, decides to confront his team directly in the final stage: the dark forest. Sion betrays Will and attacks him just as Julius ambushes him. He demands Will fight him and continues his attack.

Figure 4 Narenare: Cheer for You!, Episode 6

All the girls randomly cheer for people around town.

Episode 6 of Narenare: Cheer for You! starts on summer break (with Kanata complaining about all the homework that comes with it). Anna proposes making a new channel for themselves, not for Stout Records. She then wins a hot spring visit from a raffle ticket and takes everyone there. When they arrive, they dress up in their PomPom cheer leading outfits and practice cheering for strangers (and try to make a new video out of it). They arrive at the hot spring and run into several members of the Takanosaki Cheer Club training for the upcoming All Japan tournament. Hana asks Kanata for advice on completing a aerial triple and attempts to practice it in front of everyone. Megumi learns Kanata's talent came from her desire to cheer with her, and Megumi explains she plans to join Hawkwings herself. Anna completes her cheer video late that evening and uploads it. She asks people in the comments if there's anyone they can cheer for, creating a "cheer delivery service". In a post credits scene, Suzuha asks Shion if they can call each other by their first names.

Figure 5 Midnight Punch, Episode 6

The girls play Auld Lang Syne on bells in order to convince Mother not to demolish Banpai Manor.

Episode 6 of Midnight Punch begins with Fuu showing off their deserted island video, which has gotten 200,000 views, to her classmates. After the OP all the Mayonakas arrive at an old office building, their homebase, concerning an earlier incident at Banpai Manor. Yuki tells them that, because they're drawing too much attention, Banpai Manor will be demolished pursuant to Mother's orders. Ichiko tries to hatch a plan to stop the Manor from being demolished, and tells Misaki of how she came to live at the Manor with everyone else. Ichiko shares her idea, and together all the Mayonakas begin practicing. Over a Zoom call with Mother (and Yuki) they play Auld Lang Syne using hand bells, and tell her they have no problem living together. After Yuki calls them all idiots, Ichiko tells her (and Mother) how much they all mean to her and begins to cry. Masaki plays a video of everyone eating together, and Mother tells them to teach 1,000,000 subs in six months and they won't have to demolish the manor.

Figure 6 No Longer Allowed in Another World, Episode 6

Tama ("Matilda") tells her father she was traveling voluntarily with Sensei and Annette.

Episode 6 of No Longer Allowed in Another World begins with Sensei, Annette, and Nir being brought before the king who explains they will be executed for kidnapping their kingdom's princess, Tama ("Matilda"). Tama enters and tells her father the king she wasn't kidnapped, but then adds that this is where her journey with them will end. Sensei, Annette, and Nir meet an old servant of Matilda, and Sensei inquires about her past. That night, Kaibara, one of the heroes that defeated the Dark Lord, arrives in Grun to eat consume the "soft flesh of a demi human woman". The king attempts to fight Kaibara, and Matilda tries to assist, but the king warns him not to die like her twin brother, Leon. In a flashback, we see Matilda cutting her hair and taking on the role of her bother following his death. The King is gravely injured when he saves Matilda from Kaibara's first strike. Lord Briyard and escapes with Matilda and informs the others of the ongoing fight. Kaibara captures the king and informs the people of Grun he plants to eat all the woman and children (and men, should they resist).

Sensei continues to write his story, and believes he has found it's ending: she wakes up and defeats Kaibara. Matilda awakens and, after learning of Kaibara's plans, goes off to fight him, but Annette tells her they can handle it without her risking her life. Sensei, Annette, and Nir leave fight Kaibara together. In a post credits scene, Tama arrives too.

Figure 7 I Parry Everything, Episode 7

Noor fights against Deadman Zadu.

Episode 7 I Parry Everything begins with a masked man arriving to "bring back" Rolo. He attempts to kill Rolo, and Noor parries his initial onslaught. The masked man begins to fight Noor directly, and becomes increasingly annoying that his attacks aren't landing. Ines warns Lynne that Noor is fighting The "Deadman", Zadu, an S-Rank adventurer that has killed numerous innocent people. Noor is able to break Zadu's weapons, and Zadu is forced to his his ultimate weapon, the Silver Cross. Noor is unable to parry every part of the attack, and Ines arrives to help with her Divine Shield. Ines tells her she'll defend Rolo, but he will have to defeat Zadu himself. Zadu, annoying his weapons are broken, decides to leave for the day, telling Noor he's a strange one. As Zadu departs, he tells them there's going to be a "celebration" at the capital, and Rolo warns them the "biggest one" is going to the capital. Realizing the urgency, Noor, Lynne, Ines, and Rolo begin to head back to the capital. Back at the capital, the Prince has defeated the first wave of enemies and wonders where the second wave will come from. In the sky, he notices illusion magic and shatters the illusion to reveal a Dragon of Calamity.

Figure 8 Spice & Wolf, Episode 19

Holo and Lawrence sell their share of pyrite, crashing the market.

Episode 19 Spice & Wolf begins at market open, with the price of pyrite continuing to climb. Lawrence scrambles to find Diana's pyrite seller, while Amatai scrambles to find Holo. In a panic, Lawrence sells what pyrite he has causing a slight drop in the price, but it's not not enough to punish Amati's short. Another buyer appears driving the price higher, and Amati quickly sells his share in order to avoid being left with the contract. Diana's representative arrives informing him the negotiations failed—she won't be able to sell him any pyrite. He tells Lants to inform Marc than plan has failed, but Lants tells him not to give up. He sells what he has, and Holo approaches to sell Diana's share—she was Diana's other buyer. A panic ensues and the price begins to collapse as everyone panic sells and Amati's short collapses.

That evening, Holo and Lawrence sit together in an Inn and she demands he apologizes he apologizes for not trusting her. She says that's not the reason—instead, she was with Diana when he asked inquired about humans having relationships with gods. Lawrence tells him he'd like to continue her travels with her. Holo again asks what she is to him, and he tells her "no words can describe it". Holo asks Lawrence if he knew Diana wasn't human. She too is a pagan god that fell in love with a traveling monk. Holo tells Lawrence she'd still like to return to her hometown, even if it no longer exists.

Figure 9 The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human, Episode 8

Ike tells the Alliance of Kings if they retreat their lives will be spared.

Episode 8 of The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human begins with the second charge of the Alliance of Kings into the breach in Ivalias's walls. Jiron orders the first musket volleys forcing a temporary retreat, and they begin to use magic to fix some of the holes in the walls. Another wave of demons lead by Beio appears and forces another temporary retreat. Ike's plan is for the demons to defend in shifts in order to reduce attrition. As the humans attempt to reform their ranks, Ike orders the flying fanged-beasts to destroy the catapults and siege weapons that they have moved forward during the attack, and orders Cefiro to delay their reinforcements. The King, frusutrated with his lack of progress, orders all reserve forces forward, and Ike springs his final trap: a large rift opens in the ground consuming many of the Alliance's forces. Ike confronts the Alliance's commander directly, and tell him to retreat, and they do. Gunther, king of the dwarfs, warns Ike the Alliance will return, and he will regret allowing them to live. The demons celebrate their victory.

Figure 10 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 28

The girls debate on how to fight the acid spitting alpaca.

Episode 28 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! begins at Ohkuma's (a classmate's family's) Farm. Mey Mey arrives to join in on the fun, but is forced to act like a regular sheep when Ohkuma sees him standing on two legs. At lunch Niko-sama's egg begin to glow. A Garugaru alpaca hatches and all the Cures transform to fight it. Because the Garugaru spits acid the Cures have trouble getting close to it. Using their barrier's to bounce the alpaca's attack, they're able to confuse the alpca for just long enough for Friendly and Wonderful to purify it and send it back to Niko Garden.

Figure 11 Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian, Episode 7

Alya overhears Kuze and her friends talking about her.

Episode 7 of Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian begins with Ayano telling Kuze that his father is displeased that he's planning to run against Yuki. He tells her if he's got a problem to "say it to his face". Ayano tells Yuki of Kuze's response, and Yuki believes he and Alya don't have a chance to win. Ayano later explains at the student council welcome meeting her grandparents taught her that a skilled servant must never make a sound, and as such she sneaks around like a ninja. Kuze and Masha leave to get extra drinks for the party, and tells him that she only acts like a ditz to further encourage Alya. Taniyama Sayaka tells Alya she must have tricked Kuze to run with her, and she's only running to spite Yuki. Kuze arrives and tells her this simply isn't true. Sayaka challenges him to a student congress, telling Kuze a slacker like him has no place on the student council.

Figure 12 A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero, Episode 8

Luceria activates her Beauty of Gluttony skill to level up and defeat Bellia.

Episode 8 of A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero starts with Takagi apologizing to Sylphy and Luceria for taking the day off with Airi and her friends. The encounter another rare slime that gives him a set of rare gloves that allows him to attack at range. They meet up with Airi and venture further into the dungeon. They encounter and Orthos which is highly resistant to their attacks. But through a strong joint effort between all party members they're able to defeat it. Afterwards, a devil appears and immediately attacks them. Both Sylphy and Luceria can't damage the devil. Takagi is able to sneak up behind him and land a non-lethal strike, but his allies are quickly defeated. Luceria tells them to flee, but Takagi refuses to abandon her. Instead, he activates Luceria's "Beauty of Gluttony" skill, consuming Takagi's life to increase her own strength. She's able to quickly defeat the devil and everyone levels up.

Takagi recovers the devil's servant card, who he summons and finds to be a much lower level than before. He decides to keep the lower-level Bellia summon. Takagi sells the Orthos's core for a large sum of money (split between all party members).

Figure 13 My Wife Has No Emotion, Episode 8

Mina gets mildly jealous that Takagi is giving Mamoru attention.

Episode 8 of My Wife Has No Emotion starts with Mina teaching their child, Mamoru, about the weather and temperature. When Takuma arrives home Mina tells him of all the features Mamoru has. Mina gets a wireless charging mat allowing her to sleep in the same bed as him. Mina gets increasingly jealous of Takuma spending time with Mamoru instead of her. When Mina attempts to do other chores besides cooking, she begins broadcasting and error message telling Takumi to buy the "chores plugin" program. Takuma brings Mamoru to a service to determine its Class, and finds that while he's a Class 1 robot capable of learning quickly.

Figure 14 Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?, Episode 6

Reiren escort the humans to Alfreya's palace.

Episode 6 of the wild ride that is Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World? begins with Kai and his team continue to search through the forest for Dante and the others. Rinne leads them to a gate that teleports them to an eleven village where they find Qubirey, an eleven spy. Qubirey asks for help fighting against the angels, explaining that the angels betrayed the other celestial races. They speak with Reiren, the Shrine Maiden of the village, who offers to return Dante and the others if they can rescue their Elder from Lord Alfreya. They offer to help if Reiren accompanies them. The next day travel to the Angel's Palace and find many of the angels have already been incapacitated. They're attacked War Angel Vicious, who informs them angels who refused to follow Alfreya's orders we struck down. The humans begin fight Vicious while Kai, Rinne, Jeanne, and Reiren press on ahead. Rinne encounters Raphaelo and tells the remaining three to continue take a final teleporter to Alfreya's domain.

Figure 15 ATRI: My Dear Moments, Episode 6

Atri greeting Natsuki after they both partially regain their memories.

Episode 6 of ATRI: My Dear Moments begins with Natsuki teaching a class of students at school. With Natsuki and Catherine teaching, more students begin to attend. Natsuki begins to salvaging service using his submarine, and his first client pays him in vegetables. Ryuuji tries to convince Minamo asks Natsuki out before another girl does. Natsuki tells Minamo that he believes Atri may have a heart like an actual human. That evening he finds Atri writing a diary, and further wonders how real her emotions are. Meanwhile, his friends wonder if Natsuki is interested in romance at all, and Catherine tells Yoko to try to seduce him. Yoko and Catherine approaches Natsuki and ask who he likes, and he responds it's an "older girl", but he forgets precisely who it is—he only remembers her description, which loosely matches the physical appearance of Atri. When Atri hears Natsuki playing the piano at school, she again has vague memories of her past, and Minamo asks Natsuki if her first love was actually Atri in the past. He dismisses the idea, saying the women he met back then was nothing like Atri is now.

In a flashback, Nastsuki contemplates suicide following the accident that lost him his leg. Atri approaches him and begins singing. In the present, Atri regains her memories of the same song and sings it to him again, telling him "It's been a while".

Figure 16 Dahlia in Bloom, Episode 7

Dahlia works with Wolfred to enchant a sword.

Dahlia in Bloom Episode 7 begins with Wolf and his fellow knights fighting a group of goblins. Afterwards, he brings Dahlia a fish, meat, and cheese, which she stores in a prototype refrigerator. After they make and each lunch together at Dahlia's tower they both work together to make a magic blade. During the enchantment they find it difficult to reassemble the blade and hilt, and Dahlia decides to use black slime during the reassembly. It works, but the slime eats through Wolfred's gloves as he holds it. Later, Wolfred speaks with Lady Althea, and tells her about Dahlia. When Wolfred leaves on his next campaign Dahlia gives him magic socks and insoles. When other memebers of his expedition see them, they ask immediately asks where they can purchase more.

Other Remarks

I got a new computer following the failure of my AIO in my old one. It was another prebuilt, but this time from iBUYPOWER instead of Falcon Northwest. The fact that my previous two Falcon Northwest PCs failed, and that their prebuilts cost literally double the iBUYPOWER. Perhaps the construction is better with the Falcon, but previous failures coupled with the astronomical cost just made me hard-pass this time.

The Olympics delayed several anime this week, so if something is missing it's likely that. School officially stared this week, so it's now unfortunately much harder for me to watch all this anime a week. I think I'm back to watching it during school, which is always a bit krangled. Oh, and I dropped Too Many Losing Heroines!. That show is terrible. The characters are terrible. And I can tell the plot is going nowhere. In other words, it is a Japanese romance anime. But not a funny one.

Figure 2 Bye Bye, Earth, Episode 5

Belle, Benedictine, and others flee further into Tiziano's cave system.

Episode 5 of Bye Bye, Earth begins with the assault on Tiziano's cave system. The immediately get swarmed by weaker bugs that break up their defensive line while Tiziano advances and kills the conductor, sending the attacking army into disarray. Belle and several others are forced to retreat deeper into the cave. Gordan appears and attacks Belle and Benedictine, and Belle is able to cut him, killing him in the process. Kitty arrives as Benedictine breaks down over the death of Gordan. Belle learns that Tiziano is able to rise dead allies and force them to fight again. They meet up with Adonis and advance further into the cave system and find Tiziano who summons hordes of fallen enemies to attack them. They again flee further into the cave system and meet up with Gin Buck, the Underdog conductor. Gin Buck tells them Tiziano only went off the deep end when she saw Adonis because he broke the news that the one she loved was dead. They team up with Gin and the other Underdogs, divy out roles, and plan to defeat Tiziano together.

Figure 3 Failure Frame, Episode 6

One of Vicius's servants licks her feet in a post-credit scene.

Failure Frame Episode 6 begins with Civit, humanity's strongest hero, arriving to confront Mimori and Seras, along with three other Black Dragon Knights. They tell her Emperor Ortola wants her, telling her the Emperor can't die in peace as long as she's alive. Civit is interested in Mimori, who stands before them unafraid and ready to attack. Mimori reveals himself as one of the Goddess's (Vicius's) Heroes acting independently at her behest. Civit tells Mimori he'd like to see his growth and, one die, fight to the death, and releases both he and Seras. Civit and the other knights depart, just as he paralyzes and poisons all of them. As Civit writhes in agony from the poison he signals for help and additional black dragon knights arrive, but they too are quickly paralyzed and poisoned by Mimori. He levels up gaining additional abilities. Afterwards, he and Seras depart.

Figure 4 Narenare: Cheer for You!, Episode 5

Anna celebrating with YJ after he agrees to keep the store open.

Narenare: Cheer for You! Episode 5 begins with the girls planning a promotional performance for Stout Records for an upcoming festival. Together, they create a cheer-based Bon dance that the townsfolk can participate in. They day of the festival they complete their performance to a packed crowd. Meanwhile, tons of people show up to Stout Records following a post on social media from several of Anna's family members who are famous musicians. Afterwards, YJ agrees keep the store open, start a cafe on the first floor, and open an online shop.

Figure 5 I Parry Everything, Episode 6

Noor speaking with Lynne and Ines after saving Rolo.

Episode 6 of I Parry Everything begins with an account of the abuse suffered by the "cursed" children ("demon folk") who can control magical beasts. Eventually, one of them is granted freedom to leave if they lead a magical beast to a nearby nation.

The fight between Noor and the Black Death Dragon continues. Noor uses all his healing magic to protect the child from being poisoned before he himself collapses from it. In a flashback Noor, as a child, ingested various poisonous plants and animals in order to acquire a new skill. Instead of a new skill, however, he acquired a general resistance to poison. As a consequence, he's able to continue to fight through the poison and parries the Black Death Dragon's final attack, killing it in the process. Noor mistakenly believes the child was trying to deliver the frog for dinner, and apologizes for destroying his food supply. The child identifies himself as a demon folk, and Noor praises him for his ability to control animals. Lynne and Ines are shocked to see Noor was able to resistance the poison, and believe he has "Sacred Spirit", a spell that heals and purifies all poison. Noor offers to take the child, Rolo, to a nearby city. As the episode ends, an identified man arrives and tells them he's surprised the child isn't dead yet.

Figure 6 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 6

Ririsa walking in on Mikari cosplaying as Lilliel.

Episode 6 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction begins with Mikari asking Ririsa about the cosplay event, and she responds that she really loves Okumura "as a photographer and a friend". Ririsa gets called to turing and bumps into a teacher which she finds pretty. Okumura arrives late to the club room and finds Mikari cosplaying as Lilliel (using Ririsa's clothes) and Mikari immediately tries to seduce him, but fails. Ririsa returns from tutoring and praises her cosplay. Okumura meets with Ogino to receive additional photography training by taking pictures of Magino. Ogino tells him Mayura retired, and perhaps Ririsa, if she continues her cosplaying, can replace her among the "Four Heavenly Cosplayers". Okumura finally realizes what it means to be Ririsa's partner, and decides they can make it to the top together. He buys Ririsa many Lilliel doujins for reference material, and begins taking more photos of Lilliel. Ririsa tells him she'd like to go to more cosplay events and be seen by more people. At the end of the episode, the student informs them the manga club is hereby demoted to a "meeting group" and the aquarium club will take their room.

Figure 7 NieR:Automata Ver1.1a 2nd Season, Episode 18

A2 awakens in Machine Village and is greeted by Pascal.

Episode 18 of NieR:Automata Ver1.1a 2nd Season begins with A2 awakening in Pascal's village. 2B's support Pod, now A2's, informs A2 she is in a pacifist machine village in the shadow of a large white structure that appear following the death of 2B. Her pod informs her the bunker is lost and Project YoRHa has failed. Shortly thereafter, A2 collapses due to a lack of maintenance. 9S awakens in the Resistance camp and is greeted by Devola and Popola. He remembers 2B's death and loses consciousness. When Devola and Popola arrive to treat him, they find his bed empty. Lily, an old ally of A2, arrives at the machine village and brings A2 to Devola and Popola who repair her. 9S, after wondering, aimlessly through City Ruins, vows to kill A2 and all machines.

Figure 8 No Longer Allowed in Another World, Episode 5

Sensei arrives in a new town and meets Nir.

Episode 5 of No Longer Allowed in Another World begins with Ysha and other regional bishops meeting with the Cardinal to share information and introduce themselves to Annette's replacement, Bishop Aria. The Cardinal explains that, due to the death of the Dark Lord, they plan to seal all portals and prevent additional Other Worlders from arriving. The 7 Other Worlders who defeated the Dark Lord are planning to reshape this world. It will be their job to prevent these Other Worlers from upsetting the balance of power. Ysha tells the Bishop of Sensei's power to send Other Worlders back. The Pope arrives and asks for more information about Sensei. Meanwhile, in the Dark Lord's castle, we catch a glimpse of Sacchan singing to herself. Annette and Tama drage Sensei to a small town outside Grun where they meet Nir, a small boy who scams them and flees. The Innkeeper explains he's an orphan who makes money swindling visitors. Nir gets kidnapped and robbed by Other Worlders. When they threaten to kill him, Sensei's level rapidly increases causing them to flee in fear. They next day as Annette and Sensei drag Sensei out of down, Nir asks to join their party. In a post credits scene they arrive at Grun, Tama's homeland, where they are all immediately placed under arrest.

Figure 9 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 27

Cure Nyammy fighting the Tsuchinoko alone after the other Cures are turned to stone.

Episode 27 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! begins with Mayu and Satoru dropping by Mayu's house to invite her to the Tsuchinoko (fictional "flat fat snake") tracking competition. The whole town joins in, with Satoru taking it as seriously as Yuki doesn't. Mey Mey tells them they exist in Niko Garden, but while talking they lose Niko-sama's egg and a Garugaru Tsuchinoko hatches. The Cures are forced to shrink themselves down to fight it in the tunnels its dug underground. The Garugaru turns Friendly, Lilian, and Wonderful to stone, forcing Cure Nyammy to fight it herself (with her eyes closed). Satoru is able to free the other Cures, allowing Nyammy and Lillian to purify it, sending it back to Niko Garden.

Figure 10 Midnight Punch, Episode 5

Live and the other vampires arrive on a deserted island alone for a week.

Episode 5 of Midnight Punch begins with Masaki telling Live to go on a one-week survival challenge on a desert island (for YouTube content, of course). After the OP, we learn that Live has dragged all vampires (Ichiko, Fuu, and Tokage) to the island. Live begins scavenging for beached supplies, construct and tent, and start a fire. Live has to constantly remind Ichiko, Tokage, and Fuu, not to use their vampire powers. They forget, however, to bring a supply of blood, and a typhoon passes by the island their on, preventing them from leaving or calling for help. By the fifth day many of the girls have collapsed due to a lack of blood and reverted back into bats. On the seventh day, Live tries to finish the video then collapses. Back at the mansion, Masaki realizes they accidentally left their blood supply at home and rushes to the island to save them. Live awakens to Masaki feeding her blood. Live apologizes for not filming a proper video, but Misaki tells her they can still use most of the footage.

Figure 11 Wistoria: Wand and Sword, Episode 4

Julius challenges Will to a duel at the Grand Magic Festival.

Episode 4 of Wistoria: Wand and Sword begins with Colette telling Will that, despite the low number of credits he's earned, he can still get scouted at the Grand Magic Festival and ascend the tower. After lunch, Colette and Kiki find an break a barrier in school leading to a hidden stairway. At the bottom, they fight an underground gambling ring where students are betting on who will win the upcoming Festival. That evening while Will is working at his part-time job in Gina's Tarvern, Julius and his friends arrive and complain about the presence of dwarves, and Will. After flinging multiple insults towards the patrons, Will approaches them and demands they apologize. When they refuse Will attacks them. Julius demands to duel Will at The Grand Magic Festival, and he accepts.

Figure 12 The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human, Episode 7

Ike creates a barrier to block incoming projectiles.

Episode 7 of The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human begins with Ike's army training on muskets in preparation for the upcoming attack. Additional demons arrive and are placed under Ike's command. Ike plans to fight the Alliance of Kings directly at the gates of Ivalias. When the Alliance of Kings arrives Ike is able to nullify all of their projectiles and siege weaponry with a magic barrier, but their mages are able to counter the barrier allowing the humans to break through. The first wave of humans is defeated using standard weaponry—Ike orders his musketeers to stay back. The King orders the catapults to fire to while the first wave is still attacking, injuring their own men in the process, but breaking through the wall. The episode ends as the second wave begins their advance.

Figure 13 Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian, Episode 6

Alya feeds Kuze part of her parfait for an indirect kissu!

Episode 6 of Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian begins with Alya telling Yuki she plans to run for student council president with Kuze as her VP. Yuki tells Alya that she loves Kuze more than anything in the world, then asks her how she feels. Alya tells Yuki she won't let her have him. After school Alya asks Kuze if he's dating Yuki, and he warns her Yuki is just messing with her. They talk about the upcoming election against Yuki at a restaurant, and Alya becomes increasingly annoyed he's not treating it as a deito. She then forces him into an indirect kissu by feeding him with a spoon she already used. The next day Yuki announces Kimishima Ayano is joining the student council.

Figure 14 Dahlia in Bloom, Episode 6

Dahlia constructing glasses for Wolfred that can hide his identity.

Episode 6 of Dahlia in Bloom begins with Wolfred and Dahlia eating lunch together. When Dahlia leaves to get drinks she accosted by another man and uses a magical device to defend herself. Wolfred tells her it may be possible to infuse a sword with that same type of magic. Back at her tower, Wolfred says that he's had issues with women making unwanted advances towards him and it's ruined previous relationships he's had. He further explains he's unhappy with his eye color and Dahlia tells him she may be able to make glasses to address the issue. Using fairy crystals, she creates a pair of glasses that changes his eye color from gold to green. With them, he's able to walk around the capital without wearing a cloak to hide his identity.

Figure 15 ATRI: My Dear Moments, Episode 5

Natsuki and his friends standing in a lit classroom after building a tidal turbine.

ATRI: My Dear Moments Episode 5 begins with Natsuki reflecting on how Atri isn't a "real" humanoid, and has another nightmare where he's saved by her. Natsuki finds Catherine after she fell in the ocean drunk. A group of masked men arrive and begin shooting at that boat in order to either kidnap or, if all else fails, destroy Atri. Catherine is able to knock one of them off the docks while Natsuki uses his submariner to flood the docks and knock out the other. When Atri tries to "rocket punch" one of them she has a vague memory of someone else being hurt and hesitates. One of the men was the junk shop owner who agrees to clear Catherine's debt in return for his life. Natsuki also gets several batteries and electric supplies from him and Catherine apologizes for all the trouble. Natsuki asks Catherine if she'd like to stay as a teacher, and they both drop by the school as Minamo is about to start class. The few remaining students recognize Catherine, or "Hana-chan"-sensei, and ask her to return to school to teach.

Natsuki and Ryuuji begin constructing the tidal generator using their newly acquired supplies. Over dinner, Natsuki realizes Atri is displaying human emotions like jealously and loneliness, and wonders if that's why her model was discontinued. That night, Atri tells Natsuki that it made her happy when he hugged him, and he again wonders about the depths of her human-like emotions. After several days the finish the turbine and, as the tide rolls in, they're able to turn on all the lights in the school.

Figure 16 A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero, Episode 7

Airi, Miku, and Hikarin exchanging phone numbers with Takagi and his friends outside Ouka Academy.

A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero got a new OP and ED this week? Not sure why, but they're cool. Anyways, Episode 7 begins with Haruka and Takagi going to the open compass event at Ouka Academy together. They arrive and greet Airi, and Takagi is forced to explain to Haruka that he met Airi in the dungeon. While walking around Ouka they're impressed by its lavish facilities. They bump into Miku and Hikarin, and Takagi is again forced to explain to Haruka that he met them in the dungeon, too. Airi arrives and they all have lunch together, and Haruka wonders (out loud) why everyone goes to the dungeon. After lunch they drop by Airi's dojo and watch her train (much to their amazement) and they all exchange phone numbers at the end of the day. As they walk home, Haruka asks Takagi what is "type" is and he dodges the question.

Figure 17 My Wife Has No Emotion, Episode 7

Takuma holds the "child" he had with Mina.

Episode 7 of My Wife Has No Emotion begins with Takuma eating instants noodles alone in his apartment because Mina is still out for upgrades. A mysterious package arrives from Ichijo Robotics: a small robot that Mina can control remotely in her absence. After the robot charges and connects remotely to Mina, she reminds him to eat properly and stay healthy, then talks him through how to cook food using ingredients she ordered online. The small robot begins acting and talking strangely, worrying Takuma, just as Mina arrives home. She explains she got internal upgrades, and Iida and Senju provide the paperwork. Senju examines the small robot and finds it has learned from he and Mina how to act, and Takuma decides he'll keep it as a child, which he names Mamoru. Takuma sees Mina grow larger while cooking, and he realizes she received internal upgrades to make it easier for her to reach the counter while cooking. Takuma tells Mina he likes the taller size, but Mina warns him it reduces her water rating.

Figure 18 Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?, Episode 5

Kai, Rinne, Jeanne, and other members of the Urza Federation arrive in the Io Federation.

I doesn't feel like we're on Episode 5 of Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?. It feels like we're on Episode 10 for how much "plot" they're slamming into every episode. Anyways, it begins with Kai, Rinne, Jeanne, and the others traveling to the Io Federation. Vanessa's sister, Hinemarill, tells Kai the demons will let humans keep the Royal Capital on the condition demons retain all other current territories. She then warns Kai that Alfreya, the Lord of Heaven, has been erratic recently. The convoy is ambushed by a dragon and is forced to stop for the night. The next morning they cross borders into the Io Federation where they are given a hero's welcome for defeating the demons. However, the leader of the Io Federation, Dante, treats Jeanne with suspicion, and Rinne treats his assistant, Qubirey, with suspicion. Jeanne asks for Io army soldiers to assist in her search for the leader of the Celestials and begin to map out the nearby Elven Forest. Qubirey convinces the Emperor of the Io Empire to venture into the Elven Forest himself. At the end of the episode, Rinne warns Kai and the others that Qubirey is a celestial. As the credits roll, Alfreya betrays the other Celestial Races.

Other Remarks

I'm still working on A Town With a Seaside View from Kiki's Delivery Service on the piano. My practice time has been greatly reduced thanks to school starting (ugh!). I still haven't started Volume 2 of Adult Piano Adventures, either. But perhaps that's for the best. Starting that when the school year is just starting as well may make things a bit too hectic.

There was no Tasuuketsu: The Fate of the Majority this week (or next, I think, it looks like there's big delays—production related issues, I imagine). So too with Wistoria: Wand and Sword. No episode, but I think it was delayed due to the Olympics? Perhaps it's for the best, too, because that show is stunningly weak, all things considered. I still think Bye, Bye Earth is, so far, the best anime this season, but it's hard to know how good it will be until we get to the end. Can such a show stick the landing?

Figure 1 NieR:Automata Ver1.1a 2nd Season, Episode 17

YoRHa and The Resistance working together.

Episode 17 of NieR:Automata begins with A2 attempting to reboot. However, there are errors in her memory and attempts data recovery, triggering a flashback. In it, we see new YoRHa models attempting to land on Earth but being destroyed by the machines in the upper atmosphere. Of the initial attack group, seven units are able to crash land on Earth. Unit A2 ("Attacker 2") becomes the new actual following the death of A1. While attempting to rescue the wounded they're attacked by machines and forced to retreat. They encounter a group of resistance fighters who agree to help them complete their mission: destroy a top-secret machine server on Earth. The YoRHa members spend months together working with the resistance. During the assault on the server, almost all of the resistance and along with the project YoRHa are killed by the machines.

When A2 arrives at the the machines taught her with the bodies of her fallen comrades. The machines tell her the truth: all her suffering was intentional. Command wanted her to witness the death of her allies to improve future YoRHa model's resilience and combat effectiveness. Before Rose is taken over by the logic virus, she names all of the YoRHa models, telling them their "family", the commits suicide. The three remaining YoRHa members destroy their black boxes, leaving A2 alone. At the end of the episode A2 reactives, and we see her telling Rose that the meaning her life is to project everyone, so that they can live happily together.

Figure 2 Bye Bye, Earth, Episode 4

Belle speaking with Adonis as they travel to fight against Tiziano.

Episode 4 of Bye Bye, Earth begins with Belle being rewarded for saving the townsfolk from bandits. While leaving the castle she sees Adonis getting assaulted up for taking a sword from a fallen soloist, and wonders why he doesn't grow his own. The next day she encounters group of soloists who murdered several small defenseless animals and attacks them in retaliation. She again meets Adonis, who refers to her as "The Girl of Reason". Over lunch, she asks what that means, and he responds he's unsure—perhaps she has a "special destiny". He goes on to explain he's taking swords to answer the question why we must fight. Later, The King dispatches Belle, Adonis, Gaf, and other soloists to fight against Tiziano who is leading The Underdogs at Katakombe. Kitty speaks with Sian who explains 'Reason' must question the purpose of this land to escape it, and the God's will attempt to stop it. When the soloists arrive at Katakombe they find that the first wave was completely wiped out. Adonis tells Belle all they can do is attempt to survive the upcoming battle.

Figure 3 Failure Frame, Episode 5

Seras examines the Blue Dragon Gem Touka gave her as payment.

Episode 5 of Failure Frame begins with Touka and Seras venturing further in the ruins and encountering a skeleton king which he immediately paralyzes, poisons, and kills. Afterwards, they find an egg that Touka takes back to the surface with him, while giving Seras the Dragon Eye Chalice. That evening, Touka asks Seras to be his bodyguard, telling her his plans to find the Witch of Taboos in The Land of Golden-Eyed Monsters. She accepts. The next morning Seras leaves to get her reward. A mage attempts to verify that chalice, but in doing so dispells the illusion protecting Seras's identity. She flees back to The Dark Forest and is pursued by Black Dragon Knights. Touka appears to save her, and Seras explains that if they travel together they'll both be pursued by The Black Dragon Knights. He tells her it'd be harder to find a better bodyguard than it would be dealing with them.

Figure 4 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 5

All the cosplayers taking a photo together after the convention.

Episode 5 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction begins right where Episode 4 left off, with Ririsa arriving dressed as Lilliel. A crowd, amazed by her cosplay, immediately swarms her for photos. They ask for her social media info, but she has none and leaves. Afterwards, she and several other cosplayers share cosplay "horror" stories, and they all tell her they hope to see her again at Summer Comiket. She meets with Okumura at the train station, and finds the "elf lady" who loaned her some cosplay supplies and returns them. She learns Mayura, and old cosplayer that inspired her, is no longer into the hobby. On the train home, she tells Okumura she wants to go to Summer Comiket. At the end of the episode, Ririsa tells Okumura she loves him... as a cosplaying partner.

Figure 5 Narenare: Cheer for You!, Episode 4

All the customers at Stout Recorders cheering for the record Anna is playing.

Episode 4 of Narenare: Cheer for You! begins at Stout Records where Anna speaks to the shop's owner about some of the new music they've acquired (and are now selling). The next morning Anna tells Kanata they can use her favorite vinyls to make music for their videos. Later, Anna learns Stout Records is closing—a music shop Tokyo is willing to buy their entire collection, which greatly upsets her. Stout Records played an important part of her childhood by letting her play music that reminded her of her father, and the owner helped her make friends. All the girls drop by the shop to try and cheer Anna up, and instead they decide to cheer for Stout Records.

Figure 6 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 26

All the Cures outside on a hot summer day.

Wonderful Pretty Cure! Episode 26 begins in the grip of summer, with all the Cures stopping by Satoru's house to cool off. While there, they talk about how animals are sensitive to the summer heat. They decide to ask Mey Mey if they can take walks in Niko Garden, but he tells them it's not that hot in Animal Town. Shortly thereafter, he collapses from the heat. A Garugaru camel hatches, but the Cures struggle to fight it in the intense heat. Cure Lillian us able to use her Niko penguin power to lower the temperature, and Cure Friendly and Wonderful send it back to Niko Garden.

Figure 7 No Longer Allowed in Another World, Episode 4

Sensei sends Suzuki back to Japan.

Episode 4 of No Longer Allowed in Another World begins with Annette and Tama being hypnotized and turned into Suzuki's slaves. When Ysha denounces Suzuki he attacks the entire town and takes her Church to be his castle. When Sensei learns of Suzuki's betrayal he tells Ysha he'll "finally be able to write his masterpiece". He (and Ysha) arrives at the Church and tell Suzuki he'd like to write a novel about a man who gains to much power than falls to greed. When Suzuki pets attack Melos, Sensei's familiar, is able to reflect them back. And when one of the pets bites Sensei it immediately dies to poison. A mind controlled Annette appears to fight, but Sensei is able to break Suzuki's mind control. As Suzuki tries to commit suicide Sensei stops him, telling him he's not finished with this book.

Suzuki tells Sensei of this past—being bullied before taking the isekai truck to Zauberberg where he gains the strength he lacked, but the power corrupted him. Sensei tells him the story is pefect. A miserable man who could become neither a hero nor a villain in either world due to his own weakness. He thanks Suzuki for finally giving him the inspiration to write again, but it's not a masterpiece until he's sent back. Sensei uses his power to banish Suzuki and send him back to Japan. He acquires the gift of "Story Telling" and grants him the power to fight other worlders. At the end of the episode, Ysha tells Annette to support Sensei, and Sensei tells Ysha that Suzuki can write whatever story he wants—whether or not it's a masterpiece is up to him.

Figure 8 Midnight Punch, Episode 4

Fuu informing everyone that her old bandmate, Aya, passed away long ago.

Episode 4 of Midnight Punch begins Aya asking Fuu if she'd like to become a professional musician with her. After the OP, Misaki completes her move-in and asks the other girls to complete a survey to determine their interests. Misaki learns Fuu is a good singer and decides to make her the star of their next video, but Fuu refuses to sing for them. IN a flashback, Yuki discourages Yuu from singing, telling her not to cling to a dream that will never come true and she abandons Aya as she walks on stage. Misaki learns of Fuu's past and begins looking for Aya and learns that she's singing in America. Masaki gives Fuu a plane ticket and tells her to visit her. When she arrives, she leaves that she passed away. Her father gives her Aya's old guitar. In her guitar case she finds an old DVD of Aya praising Fuu, hoping she's still out there singing. Afterwards, all the girls work together to create a studio for Fuu. As the credits roll, Fuu sings a song to the memory of Aya.

Figure 9 The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human, Episode 6

Ike brings Gunther, the King of Dwarves, back to his comrades.

Episode 6 of The Strongest Magician in the Demon Lord's Army was a Human begins with a recap of Ike telling The Demon Lord Dairokuten that he plans to make Ivalias the first town where humans and demons can co-exist. After the OP Ike introduces... crop rotation (ugh) to Ivalias, and Jiron warns Ike that the Alliance of Kings is marching towards Ivalias. Ike plans to use muskets to defeat them. He plans to free the dwarf king (from the humans), unite the wayward dwarves, and have them build muskets to fight. Lilith and Jiron free the King, Gunther, from prison, and Ike asks him if he can make muskets and, after showing him humans and demons living side-by-side in Ivalias, and on the condition he'll rebuild the dwarf kingdom, he agrees. As the episode ends the Alliance of Kings prepares to march on Ivalias.

Figure 10 Spice & Wolf, Episode 18

Lawrence speaking with Diana, asking to buy her Pyrite supply.

Spice & Wolf Episode 18 begins Lawrence asking Batos for suppliers of pyrite, and he confirms Diana and the other alchemists have supply to spare. He speaks with Diana and learns Amati also dropped by earlier asking for pyrite, but she's already sold it. On credit. She's willing to back out of the deal and sell to him tomorrow. When Lawrence departs, he asks her if there are any stories of pagan gods having relationships with humans, and she tells him there are many. Marc also has a change of heart—he'll help Lawrence protect Holo too. The next morning when the market opens Lawrence sees Holo with Amati. Amati approaches him with the payment for the Pyrite future and Lawrence, in return, hands him the future.

Figure 11 I Parry Everything, Episode 5

Noor parries a frog (actually, a Black Death Dragon).

Episode 5 of I Parry Everything begins with the prince suspecting the Magical Empire planning to attack and steal their dungeon resources. The Prince asks Noor and Lynne to depart tomorrow morning with Lynne to investigate. Ines (Lynne's body guard) travels with them with secret orders from the Prince: flee to The Holy Theocracy of Mithra in the even the capital falls. Ines shows Noor her power: a shield that can block any attack. The Magical Empire, as expected, lunches an attack on the capital, while Noor, Lynne, and Ines encounter a young boy (demonfolk) and a black death dragon along the road. Lynne and Ines believe the boy was trying to bring the dragon to the capital, but Noor rushes in to help him, getting poisoned in the process. As he collapses, Lynne tries to rush in by Ines stops her, telling her that she must survive for the sake of the kingdom. Noor continues to fight through the poison but eventually collapses.

Figure 12 Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?, Episode 4

Kai strikes down Vanessa, Queen of Demons.

Episode 4 of Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World? begins with Rinne attempting imprison Vanessa while telling Kai to flee, but fails, and Kai is hit by a lethal attack. Rinne transforms into a combination of all five races and attempts to avenge him. She curses Vanessa so that they'll both die together, but fails again. When Vanessa attempts to execute Rinne, Kai appears to block the attack. She tells him he managed to survive Vanessa's earlier attack using Sid's sword to counter her magic. Vanessa tells Kai humans are weak, they have no hero. Kai tells her he'll show him not humanity's hero, but its spirit. Ashran cuts the power and Rinne feints Vanessa, allowing Kai to land a killing blow. As Vanessa lies dying, she recalls memories of Sid, The Prophet, and of World Reincarnation. She tells Kai that Sid's sword is the key to correcting the world, and to find "the zero code". The word of humanity's victory against the demons spreads far and wide.

Afterwards, Jeanne tells Kai humans can now move to the surface and see the sky. The plan to rebuild the royal capital. Jeanne plans to work with other members of the resistance to defeat the other races, and asks Kai and Rinne for assistance. They agree to help. Privately, Kai tells Rinne he'll set the world right, and Rinne has faint memories of Sid.

Figure 13 A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero, Episode 6

Miku and Hikarin meet Sylphy and Luceria.

Episode 6 of A Nobody's Way Up to an Exploration Hero begins with Sylphy and Luceria learning of Takagi's plans to form a party with several other girls, telling them he needs to improve himself lest they his summons leave him in the dust. He calls Jinguuji and agrees to join their party, and next Sunday they begin clearing the eighth floor. Takagi, using a a combination of magic and his sword, collapses after exhausting all his mana. When he awakens, he and their entire party are ambushed by an aquatic dinosaur and attempt to retreat, but get trapped following a partial cave-in. They attempt to fight it, but their attacks are ineffective, and Takagi is forced to summon Sylphy and Luceria, who promptly defeat it. Miku and Hikarin (and later Jinguuji) find Sylphy and Luceria profoundly cute. Afterwards, Jinguuji invites Takagi to an open campus event at her college, Ouka Academy. Through an unfortunate twist of fate, Takagi invites Haruka to it with him.

Figure 14 My Wife Has No Emotion, Episode 6

Senju attempts to examine Mina's brain.

Episode 6 of My Wife Has No Emotion begins with Takuma taking photos of Mina prior to sending her out for two weeks for upgrades. Representatives from the company, Ichiko Robotics Inc., arrive and are surprised to learn of Mina's 'personal' behavior telling Takuma she's not programmed to act in such a way. When they open Mina's head to examine it Takuma demands they stop. The company representatives register Mina as family member of Takuma and agree not to alter or reset her Mina's memories. At the end of the episode, Takuma kisses Mina goodbye and tells her to come back as soon as possible.

Figure 15 Dahlia in Bloom, Episode 5

Dahlia arrives back at her tower with Wolfred.

Episode 5 of Dahlia in Bloom (very sadly) begins with Dahlia taking off her glasses after the Church fixed her eyesight. Wolfred approaches Dahlia in a restaurant, recognizing her despite her lack of disguise, and they have lunch together. Carlo and his mistress Emilia approach Dahlia to apologize shortly before she and Wolfred leave the restaurant. Dahlia postulates that she could enchant a sword's scabbard instead of the sword itself. The next day Dahli and Wolfred visit a magical device store: The Right Eye of the Goddess. The owner, Oswald, speaks kindly of her father, and gives her a card that will allow her to return to the shop whenever she pleases. As the episode ends, Dahlia tells her father it's no fair to show his good side only after he's gone.

Figure 16 ATRI: My Dear Moments, Episode 4

Catherine holds Minamo hostage and demands Atri.

ATRI: My Dear Moments Episode 4 begins with Natsuki taking everyone on his houseboat to scavenge for supplies to build a tidal turbine. The manage to recover the supplies (along with some crabs for lunch) and return to land. Atri again asks to attend school, but is overcome with an uneasy feeling. Natsuki and Ryuuji argue over how to design the turbine, but eventually come to a consensus. That evening, Catherine arrives at Natsuki's boat and takes Minamo hostage and demands Atri, but Atri "rocket punches" her, causing her to flee. While they're both happy that Atri saved Minamo, Natsuki and Minamo are shocked to see that Atri attacked a human, something robots are programmed not to do. Minamo learns Catherine was formerly a grade school teacher, and her real name is Hanako Osada.

The next day they continue working on the turbine. They can make all the parts except the main motor and the batteries for storage, and search the ocean again, but find nothing. Natsuki learns a collector is searching for Atri and is willing to pay "anything" to have her. Atri tells them they can sell her to buy batteries, that way she'll be "useful" for him, but upon further reflection realizes she doesn't want to leave his side. Natsuki tells her he won't sell her, and wonders why his grandmother kept her.

Figure 17 Too Many Losing Heroines!, Episode 4

Komari makes ammends with Koto.

Perhaps the least boring anime of the season, Episode 4 of Too Many Losing Heroines! begins with Shintaro telling Komari he'll "have to think about it". Koto slaps him, telling him they're just childhood friends, too, right? Shintaro speaks with Koto, who tells him she's been waiting for him all this time. Shintaro then formally turns Komari down and begins to cry. The next day Komari makes ammends with Koto and Shintaro and tells them she'll keep coming to the literature club regardless. Back at school, Nukumizu overhears several other girls bad-mouthing Anna. At lunch, Nukumizu tells Anna her debt is repaid and that to prevent any rumors they should stop eating lunch together. Afterwards, they ignore each other at school. Hakamada (the guy Anna likes) speaks with both of them leading to an even greater misunderstanding that Anna has to straighten out. At the end of the episode everyone leaves for summer vocation. Anna, Komari, and Lemon all agree to stay in the literature club, and Nukumizu asks Anna to be his friend.

Figure 18 Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian, Episode 5

Kuze shortly after formally joining the student council.

Episode 5 of Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian begins with Kuze largely dismissing Alya's confession of love as a joke. Back at his apartment, Kuze tells Yuki he's planning to join the student council and help Anya become student council president (which upsets Yuki). The next day at school both Kuze and Alya feel nervous around each other (a trend which, I imagine, will continue). Alya eventually concludes her confession meant nothing and that she's not actually in love with him. At the end of the episode Kuze introduces himself to the student council.

Other Remarks

I spent the last two days making attempts at Nausicaa's Requiem from Nausicaa and The Valley of the Wind, but I think it's beyond my current skill level. Late today I switched (back) to an easier version of A Town With a Seaside View from Kiki's Delivery Service and I think that may be more manageable at my current skill level.