I dropped 365 Days to the Wedding this week due to time constraints. If I was off all summer I'd watch it. But as-is it's pretty boring and not worth the 20 minutes/week to spend on watching it. There's just something about Japanese "romance" anime that don't go anywhere that try my patience.

Figure 1 Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 Episode 4

Freya abandons her Syr persona after Bell rejected her and resolves to steal him for herself.

Episode 4 of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 begins with Syr insisting she and Bell sleep in the same bed. He refuses, telling her Hestia would be upset if he did. Syr tries to use her powers on Bell, but then is overcome with guilt after her attempt. Bell awakens the next morning and finds that Syr has left. He speaks to Welf, who tells him it'd be cruel not to give Syr a real answer to how she feels. He learns from Hogni that everyone is searching for Syr. Bell manages to find her first. When she tries to kiss him, Hogni attacks Syr and a fight ensues. Ryu and the other waitresses from the tavern join in to defend, and are gravely wounded in the process. They tell Bell to take Syr and flee. Hestia and Syr catch up to Hestia, Aiz, and Hermes. Syr tells Bell she's trying to steal Bell from Freya, and Hestia wonders if she's really a goddess.

Alone, Syr tells Bell to accept her feelings, and Bell recognizes her as a fake—she's wearing the barrette that has a the knight on it, which is his half. He's told Syr is in the south gardens. In a flashback we see Syr, as a child, asking Freya to be her. Syr (Horn) is attacked by the others. She admits to attempting to murder Bell to keep Freya that way she was. Bell arrives in the south gardens and speaks to the real Syr. She tells Bell she loves him. Bell rejects her. As a heavy rain begins to fall, Syr returns to her tower. She orders Ottarl to make preparations to stea Bell. She transforms back into Freya, telling him she's finished with Syr—she should have just stolen him from the start.

Figure 2 Nina the Starry Bride, Episode 3

Prince Azure kisses Nina after he realizes he's like her—a pawn.

Episode 3 of Nina the Starry Bride begins with Nina learning horse-back riding. Nina begins to question if she loves Azure. The court ladies recommend a change of pace for Nina, and Azure agrees to take her on a long horse ride together. Azure, suspecting sabotage, rides with Nina. Indeed, someone working for the Queen sabotaged his saddle, and Nina becomes increasingly upset that Azure isn't taking additional steps to protect his life. Nina leaves and travels to the old King's (Azure's granfather's) villa and asks him to help Azure. The Old King immediately detains Nina after recognizing her as an impostor. She speaks with the Old King again, begging for him to forgive the others. He tells her Alisha can protect Azure himself. Azure arrives and explains the situation. The Old King tells them to stay for the night. Afterwards, Azure tells Nina that he, like her, is a substitute for a dead prince. He tells her he thought he lived only for the nation of Fortna. Now, he's realized he lives for her. Nina tells him she's the only one for her. Azure then kisses her they departs for the night.

Figure 3 The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians, Episode 4

Suzuki-sensei tells Mirai, Maki, and Yuzu she'll soon depart.

Episode 4 of The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians starts with Yuzu asking Mirai and Maki about joining the MRC—they tell her it's not the one she's thinking of. That day, Suzuki-sensei has them pull potatoes to prepare a potato stew. Suzuki tells them they can find magic's source, element M, in plants. Plants are the root of ancient magic. After the class picks their potatoes, Kurumi to attempts to prepare a stew using a fire started from a hand-drawn magic array. She generates sparks, which Suzuki calls a success, then draws one herself, much to the amazement of everyone. Suemil Amatha, a student from the Magumi program, tells them to "beware of Suzuki-sensei". Back at their club, they discuss what Suemil may have meant. Their president tells them it's possible Suzuki belongs to an underground faction of ancient mages that wants to change things from the inside. Yuzu and her friends overhear their conversation, and debate on whether or not they should inform the school. That night Kurumi and Maki continue to search for element M on school grounds. They bump into Yuzu and Suzuki-sensei. Suzuki-sensei tells the she has to leave for a little while, and the three need to watch the school while they're gone. With their knowledge of basic shapes, they should be able to cast ancient magics. She leaves her frog, Daikichi with them, then flies away. The three wonder who Suzuki-sensei really was.

Figure 4 Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 4

Keiren poisons Dolan and Celina with the intent of stealing Celina's skin.

Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 4 begins with Dolan and Celina arriving at Galoa. Keiren treats them to dinner, where she promptly poisons both of them. Gouda warns the Headmistress and Christina that Keiren herself may be a witch intent on stealing Celina's beauty. Dolan resists the poison and confronts Keiren, who confesses to killing "hundreds" of humans and animals to steal their beauty. Celina awakens, and Gouda and Christina arrive to apprehend Keiren. Keiren tells them that they, blessed with beauty, would never understand her struggle. He transforms into a monster and attacks, but Celina uses her cursed eyes to stall her while the others retreat, and Dolan swiftly defeats her. Afterwards, Gouda provides Celina citizenship papers so she can live in Verun Village. While walking around Galoa, many of the civilians still treat Celina with suspicion. Dolan is invited to the magic academy, but he declines. On their way home, Christina tells him joining may help the Verun, and he reconsiders. In the final moments of the episode, we see monsters pouring out of a mysterious portal in the forest.

Figure 5 I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, Episode 4

Alicia saves Rebecca of Roana.

Episode 4 of I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History begins with the King explaining Alicia's responsibilities as Liz's watcher. She agrees, on the condition the King allows Gill of Roana to attend the Magic Academy has her servant. As she's leaving Roana that night she encounters wounded girl along the road. She uses her magic to heal her wounds, but her leg is necrotic and she has to amputate it. Afterwards, she tells Rebecca to work as an informant and gather information on what the villagers need. She escorts Gill out of the forest and, together, they arrive at the Magic Academy. She immediately begins acting disagreeable with other students. Prince Duke asks her why she accepted the King's request. The Prince tells her she's adorable, and she becomes flustered and, like all adults, runs away. She decides to be evil again by confronting Liz on her poorly written essay. She tells her, in front of her peers, it's a disaster—then goes on to explain how it's too idealistic to work. The guys around her rush in to defend her, but Alicia tells them they're all worthless too, then departs.

Figure 6 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 17

Mikari asks Okumura if she wants to see her cosplay.

Episode 17 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction begins with a flashback of Aria's father, a failed manga artist, trying to get his work published. Aria, despite the critics, loved her father's work. She tells the others that she wears cosplays from his old manga in the hopes of finding her father. They plan for a Summer Comiket debut for Aria, but need a fourth to join them. Okumura asks Mikari to be their fourth member. She agrees, and they begin constructing their outfits. Aria struggles to sew the cut fabric pieces together, but Ririsa continues to encourage her. Over the course of several weeks they construct the remaining parts of their outfits. When Aria arrives home, she overhears that her father died years ago.

Figure 7 Acro Trip, Episode 5

Chrome returns Berry's wand.

Episode 5 of Acro Trip begins with Berry Blossom's backstory—she rescued Mashirou from a december snow storm and, afterwards, he turned her into a magical girl. While shopping, they encounter Chrome for the first time and fight. After the opening Chrome prepares more evil deeds with Date, but he's low on magical energy following his previous fight against Berry. Instead, they travel by truck, losing several Kuma Kaijins along the way. He tries to teleport, but again fails due to low magic energy, then returns home. He eventually regains his magic energy, and he and Date hatch a plan to steal Berry's magic wand. They ambush her with kuma kaijins, Chrome steals her wand, then flees. Chrome gets Date her wand. Berry goes home and decides to buy a boatload of new ones online. The next day Date convinces Chrome to return her wand, but Berry attacks with multiple wands at once, instantly incapacitating him. On his day off, Chrome encounters Berry fishing by the river. He tries to act evil, but fails and becomes friendly with Berry... until Mashirou arrives and recognizes him. Afterwards, Berry mistakenly believes he's her fan.

Figure 8 The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, Episode 3

Jill pretends to surrender to Hugo.

Episode 3 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor begins Jill breaking everyone's shackles then planning their next move. They quickly determine this is all a ruse by Marquess Beil to frame Jill, and Lady Sphere tells them all flee, leaving her behind. Jill refuses, and reveals herself to the others. She tells them if they take the port back, then they'll be praised as heroes, not spies. Jill tells Lady Sphere she will need to formally accuse her father of betraying the Emperor for the plan to work. She accepts her plan. They make a break for the church and free the captured Northern Forces being held there. After they're free, they begin clearing out Beil's forces out the port. The leader of Beil's forces, Hugo, arrives and demands they turn over Jill. They pretend to hand over Jill, but Jill quickly captures Hugo and demands their surrender. Hugo surrenders just as Marquess Beil arrives. He orders a dragon to attack her, just has Hadis arrives.

Figure 9 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 38

Komugi hugs her previous owner, Kurihara.

From what I've heard Episode 38 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! is going to be grim. It begins with Ayako Yuuki from "Heartful" Animal Volunteers telling Iroha how they took in Komugi (back then, "Marron") after her previous owners fell ill. A day later, however, she escaped. Komugi, however, doesn't remember her previous family at all. Regardless, Iroha, Komugi, and the others decide to visit her previous owners. They travel to hospice in the country and meet Kurihara, Komugi's previous owner, and they discuss Komugi's past. Torame arrives and spawns a Gaogaon stoat—all the Cures transform to fight it. Komugi uses her Niko rabbit powers to find the real stoat, allowing the other Cures to surround it, purify it, and send it back to Niko Garden. A human-transformed Komugi thanks Kurihara. Kurihara tells Iroha to continue talking good care of Komugi.

Figure 10 The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan, Episode 4

Alma hugs Noel after deciding he is her reason to live.

Episode 4 of The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan begins with Noel speaking to the mayor of Mintz regarding the thieves harassing his town—Noel assures him he'll get rid of all of them. Noel and Alma arrive at the bandit's camp at night. Noel identifies their leader, Gordo the Razor Blade. After Alma kills Gordo, she and Noel clean up the remaining lakies. Back in town, the Mayor serves Alma and Noel dinner. He attempts to serve them poison wine in order to escape paying them. He threatens to murder him until his daughter, Chelsea, intervenes and gives them their family's live savings. Afterwards, he tells Alma that, in one year's time, he'll be part of the regalia: one of the seven clans recognized by the empire. This concerns Alma, who only wants to kill. In a flashback, we see Alma wondering what she's supposed to do with her life given that she's spent the last 21 years of it training to kill.

Figure 11 Magilumiere Co. Ltd., Episode 4

Sakuragi and Koshigaya are given heaps of rewards by the store owners whose shops they saved.

Episode 4 of Magilumiere Co. Ltd. begins with Kouji and Kazuo creating new magic for Sakuragi and Koshigaya to allow a direct attack on the kaii's through the sewer system. Sakuragi and Koshigaya survey the area to ensure none of the kaii escape in the interim. Kouji and Kazuo develop their spell and Sakuragi determines the optimal target—a slightly larger manhole cover than the rest. Koshigaya executes the spell—a large range magic circle pathed through the sewers, cleansing the entire shopping district of all remaining kaii. Afterwards, the shop keepers thank them for saving their district without significant damage. In a post credits scene, Midorikawa asks Sakuragi and Koshigaya to spy on their boss, Kouji. They find him ironing his magical girls clothes and preparing his hair.

Figure 12 Let This Grieving Soul Retire!, Episode 4

Liz yells at Tino for failing defeat the enemies in White Wolf's Den.

Episode 4 of Let This Grieving Soul Retire! begins with Krai tring to navigate his way out of White Wolf's Den, only to learn he's been walking the wrong way with the rest of his party too afraid to say anything. By accident, they find the party they were tasked to rescue. Their leader warns them of a single dangerous phantom, the lingering curse of the Silver Moon, prowling the den. Krai orders Tino to take the lead and escort everyone safely out of the den. On their way out they encounter the phantom, which is instantly defeated by Liz, another member of Grieving Souls. Liz yells at Tino, her apprentice, for failing to complete the mission herself. She continues to ridicule Tino while defeating the remaining enemies, eventually making her cry.

Figure 13 My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student, Episodes 4

Moriya and Takae have dinner together.

Episode 4 of My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student begins with Mai worrying about a difficult client, Aikawa-san. On her parents advice, she tries speaking with Aikawa naturally and learns more about him. While shopping, Moriya bumps into Takae and invites her over for dinner. Over dinner, she tells Takae she hasn't had positive experiences with men in the past, but has had positive experiences with Keisuke (at work). Mai agrees to show Aikawa around Tokyo prior a post-wedding party he's attending for a friend. At the end, he asks her out on a real deito. Takae's biological mother, Chika, introduces Takae to her boyfriend, Hiroki. She tells her she's planning to move in with him... out of the prefecture. Hiroki tells her not to be too hard on her mother and goes on to explain her previous family troubles.

Figure 14 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Episode 5

Gras tells Oczy that his fate is death, and that he must contine on.

Episode 5 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins with Inquisitor Novak preventing Oczy and Gras from stealing the wagon transporting the heretic by killing the lead horse. Novak tries to execute Oczy, but the heretic saves him. Together, Ocyz and Gras flee while Novak decides it isn't worth it to pursue them. Together, they follow the heretics final instructions and find the cache of research on geocentrism left by Rafal that he further expanded upon. Neither them can read Latin, however, so they decide to take the cache of research to the monk Badeni. Ocyz tells Gras he's afraid to observe the stars—Gras tells Ocyz he's lost hope for this world. Ocyz tells him the only hope is in heaven. The next day Gras gives Oczy to continue the research—that's how they can overcome the loss of this world. He sacrifices himself as a bridge they're sharing collapses, telling Oczy that this is his fate. He arrives in a nearby village and asks to speak with Badeni.

Figure 15 Ranma 1/2, Episode 4

Akane shortly after getting heir hair chopped off by Ryoga's ribbons.

Episode 4 of Ranma 1/2 begins with Ryoga Hibiki arriving at Furinkan High School after a long journey searching for Ranma. He finds him on the way out of school and immediately attacks. Many years ago Ryoga promised to fight, but due to his poor sense of direction got lost on the way there. He's here to finish it. He hands Ranma a formal challenge then departs. Ranma recalls stealing food from Ryoga multiple times back in school, upsetting him. Hence his rage and desire to fight. A few days later they meet on school grounds to fight. Ryoga tells him it's not about the food, and Akane warns him he's much stronger than he looks. During the fight he tears Ranma's shirt, and Ranma, of course, gets wet afterwards. As a woman he rescues Akane and leaves to search for hot water, but Ryoga pursues. Ranma tells Akane not to worry about him, greatly upsetting her. As she leaves, one of Ryoga's ribbons hits Akane, cutting her hair.

Figure 16 You Are Ms. Servant, Episode 4

Nitta asks Hitoyoshi to sit on one of the beds in the clinic.

Episode 4 of You Are Ms. Servant begins with Yuki attending Hitoyoshi's school, masquerading as his cousin—all part of his sister Riko's plan, of course. At lunch Yuki sets her sight on getting rare Katsuda bread, and rushes to the school store to get it. She ends up sharing it with Hitoyoshi. Riko tells Hitoyoshi she thinks Yuki loves him—Yuki tells her she loves him dearly, but isn't familiar with the idea of marriage. At school Hitoyoshi gets chalk in his eye and has to visit the nurse, Nitta. She immediately asks about Yuki, then tells Hitoyoshi she's his type. She locks the door to the infirmary, and begins undressing him. Yuki busts into the room, ending the encounter. Yuki tells Nitta to stay away from Hitoyoshi. Afterwards, Yuki warns Hitoyoshi that Nitta, too, is an assassin. As the show ends, Nitta resolves to crush Yuki's pretend family.

The best episode of this show so far, to be honest.

Figure 17 The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest, Episode 4

Laust awakens and swiftly defeats the empowered Hydra.

Episode 4 of The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest begins with Laust and Narsena discussing over lunch how Armia and the others could potentially defeat the hydra if they work together. Afterwards, Narsena asks Laust if they can go to the wetlands together. Meanwhile, Margulus and his party still struggles to defeat the hydra, and Armia gets gravely wounded during the fight. The hydra absorbs mana from the surrounding area, greatly empowering itself. Laust and Narsena arrive to help. Together with Shig (Sieg), they're able to begin cutting off several of its heads, but the Narsena takes Narsena hostage and demands a one-on-one fight against Laust. During his fight, Laust awakens and swiftly defeats the hydra before collapsing. Afterwards, Margulus insists they cut the others out of their reward for not doing enough. The others refuse. Shig reveals himself as Sieg, an esteemed adventurer form the royal capital. He explains he's investigating Margulus and Saberia for mistreating other adventurers. On Laust's requests, be banishes them from town. Sieg stays in town to continue investigating the local guild branch.

Other Remarks

Today's schedule was completely krangled because I had to get my oil and brake fluid changed right in the middle of the day... when all the anime were beginning to air. Also my hvac system is current down because the board on the furance failed (it's only a three year old unit). Thanks guys. Quality engineering. Retards. Still working on Decretum from Madoka Magica. Still playing the Nord everyday at school.

DanMachi season 5 is still going strong, although if /a/ is to be believed it will soon get worse. Do-Over Damsel is still pretty fun, at least until the novelty wears off. I really like The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians! It's far more fun than I would have first expected.

Figure 1 Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 Episode 3

Bell speaks with Syr in St. Fulland's Cathedral.

Episode 3 of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? begins with Aiz and Hestia searching for Bell and Syr. Bell and Syr dawn an invisibility cloak and escape the multiple teams observation them. They visit St. Fulland's Cathedral—built in honor of the hero Fulland, who fought with and fell in love with a spirit. Or so the story goes. They stay at the cathedral until dinner then leave for Spoon Aqua, a restaurant boat. Aboard the boat, although he has eluded the Freya Familia, Bell is watched by Hestia, Aiz, and all of Syr's friends. Bell inquires has to Syr's real identity: is she really just a waitress? The Freya Famalia attacks the ship and boards it, searching for Syr, demanding Bell's capture. Aiz, Ryu, and Syr's friends jump to help as Syr and Bell jump into the water and swim ashore and flee. Syr tells Bell this is the most fun she's ever had as they both run through the town at night. Arriving at Heroes Bridge, Syr tells Bell the world is longing for another hero. Syr tells him she wants another hero who will help her and make her wishes come true. Syr takes Bell to "hide" in an inn with a single bedroom.

Figure 2 The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, Episode 2

Hadis feeds Jill the croissants he made for her.

Episode 2 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor begins with Hadis accepting Jill's (second) proposal, and Rave gives her his blessing: the Dragon Consort's Ring. Their ship gets attacked and Jill uses her magical powers to throw the ship to the harbor to escape. She bumps into Sphere, her rival love interest for Hadis. In Jill's original timeline, Shere would kill all her rival love interests causing a spiral of events that lead to the war. Later, Hadis bakes croissants for Jill—believing Jill will never leave him if he makes delicious food. Jill asks Hadies if he's truly cursed. Hadis explains how every prince in the line of succession before him died, one-by-one, leading to him being next in line for the throne. Following the mysterious deaths, the Emperor fled and his mother committed suicide. Hadis tells him that his brother, Vissel, is helping keep everything in check. But Jill knows, in her original timeline, Vissel will betray Hadis by providing information to Kratos.

Jill believes the ship attack may have been at Marquess Beil's hand, and proposes he begin gathering intelligence on his many enemies. The next day Jill disguises herself and begins looking around town for information. She witnesses a group of soldiers kidnapping Lady Sphere. When she tries to intervene, she gets captured as well. Marquess Beil has staged a false-flag attack framing Jill as a spy. A group of private soldiers pretending to be from Kratos takes over the port, purporting to be acting under the direct order of Jill. While captive, Sphere explains how, as a child, she spoke with dragons, and protected her from her father's abuse. When she confessed her love to him, he turned her down because she was over the age of 14. Zeke and Camila also get captured—two people she recognizes from her previous timeline. Jill tells herself "she won't lose" as the credits roll. In a post credits scene, we see Hadies learning how to cook for Jill.

Figure 3 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Episode 4

Gras and Oczy question the heretic.

Episode 4 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins following a timeskip. Oczy tells Gras he doesn't like looking at the stars. Hired as a champion on behalf of a noble, he murders another man in a duel. He tells Gras he wants to die and go to heaven to release himself from the corruption of this world. Gras tells him there is hope, and he presents his observation for the motion of Mars—it moves in a circular path. The world may be corrupt, he says, but the stars are perfect. A noble overhears their conversion and tells them he's mistaken. That night, during observation Mars enters retrograde, greatly upsetting Gras. He later tells Oczy that, perhaps, the heavens too are imperfect. The receive a job to guard a heretic during transport. During transport the heretic talks about stargazing, and tells them to question if heaven exists. He goes on to say they fear heretics not because they don't understand them, but because they do. Because they question the heavens themselves. He tells them the world, not the heavens, is a wonderful place to live. The heretic tells them of a stone chest hidden in the mountains containing research. Gras frees the heretic and orders Oczy to go with him.

Figure 4 The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians, Episode 3

The Magic Research Club arrives to look into M-source magic from the music room.

Episode 3 of The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians starts with Maki, over breakfast, telling Kurumi the club fair is today. She recommends Kurumi join the Mystic Research Council. But when she applies she's told the Council is only admits Magumi students. Instead, members of the Magic Research Club ask her to join their club. They tell her that they're actively researching the Seven Wonders of Rettoran. She joins. Her roomate, Maki, reluctantly joins too. Meanwhile, Yuzu tries to research Suzuki-sensei. That night the club meets in the old music room where they've detected traces of M ("Magic"). While investigating the room the piano begins to play a cursed melody and they lose consciousness. Suzuki-sensei arrives and saves them by purifying the piano. Kurumi and Maki learn that Suzuki is the club's advisor. She tells them she'll have to make magicians out of them sooner rather than later.

Figure 5 I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, Episode 3

Alicia and Liz sharing their magic powers.

Episode 3 of I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History begins with Alica infiltrating the Magical Academy to investigate the game's heroine: Liz Cather. She immediately bumps into her and his to hide from her and Prince Duke. At home, Alicia continues train her magic. Henry, the Prince, Liz, and hte others arrive to discuss ideas for an upcoming school fair. Alica proposes Liz display her magical abilities on stage. She accepts, then counters Alica by asking her to be on stage with her. She declines, but the others tell Alica to spend more time with Liz. Alicia shows Liz some of her magic and gets labeled a "divergent" for being able to use magic prior to the age of 13. She speaks with Gill, the child she saved in Episode 2, and he offers to help her in the future. Her father speaks with the other nobles, and dismiss the idea that Alicia is divergent—she's of noble blood, so her using magic isn't unheard of. They warn Alicia, however, to practice her magic carefully to ensure it doesn't go out of control. The King suggests Alicia's accelerated placement into the Magic Academy. She meets with the King three years later. The King orders her to watch Liz.

Figure 6 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 37

Satoru and Iroha on their first deito!

Episode 37 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! begins Iroha and Satoru preparing for her first deito together. Everyone (including Mey Mey) tries to but in, but Mayu ensures that doesn't happen. The moment they're alone together Iroha becomes nervous, and Mey Mey becomes jealous. Yuki and Mayu take Komugi shopping as Iroha and Satoru go to an aquarium. While there, Iroha apologizes for acting "weird" all day. Satoru tells her whether she's her normal-self or nervous-self, he still likes her. Torame appears outside the aquarium and spawns a Gaogaon giraffe. Mayu tells the others they need to defeat it without them, lest they interrupt their deito. Withour Iroha they struggle, but Mey Mey jumps in to help. Despite their best efforts, Iroha hears the commotion outside and transforms. Together, they quickly purify it and send it back to Niko Garden. They decide to finish their deito together, with everyone. At the end of the episode, Iroha and Satoru call each other by their first names.

Figure 7 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 16

Aria feels Ririsa's breasts through her cosplay.

Episode 16 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction begins with Aria showing the others her cosplay outfit for Princess Pearl—which is woefully inaccurate. Ririsa offers to help her make a better one. Back in the club room, Ririsa begins showing Aria various anime to inspire her. They show her Liliel's anime, which she enjoys. They then move on to a mix of old classics and currently airing anime. She eventually decides to cosplay as Ariel from Liliel's show. Later, Okmura and the others learn that Aria first cosplayed as Melia from Valkyrie Battle, an old obscure manga predating the internet that got canceled after 10 chapters. Aria tells them her father was its author.

Figure 8 Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 3

Christina shortly after winning a milk drinking contest.

Episode 3 of Goodbye, Dragon Life begins shortly after Celina moves into Verun Village. That night Dolan using his astral form to fly to the heavens and thank Goddess Myrale for intervening on behalf of Celina. Celina invites the knight Christina to her new house to show her around. The next day Captain Balan challenges Christina to a milk drinking contest, and Christina wins. She later writes back the Magic Academy regarding her newfound friendship with the people of Verun Village, along with her friendship with a lamia. The capital decides to send an envoy to investigate. Gouda, Commissioner of the Northern Frontier, arrives and detains Dolan and Celina. They plan to bring her to the government-general to verify whether or not she is evil. She and Dolan are taken away. Christina, wanting to plead on their behalf, returns to the capital to speak to Olivia. Olivia tells her Keiren, a high ranking mage, sees her as a threat.

Figure 9 Magilumiere Co. Ltd., Episode 3

Kana and Hitomi arrive at a job site swarmed with multiple small Kaii.

Episode 3 of Magilumiere Co. Ltd. begins with Kana receiving her first paycheck for a completed job. Kana and Hitomi receive another request—a Kaii has appeared on Fifth street and they fly to intercept. When they arrive, another magical girl fromt AST Corporation swiftly defeats it for them. This aggravates Koshigaya, who later tells Sakuragi that AST is the biggest corporation in Japan. They receive another extermination request for many small Kaii's taking over a shopping center. Sakuragi proposes a wide range magic circle to eliminate them. After they survey the area, however, they realize the buildings in the area too old weak to take a direct hit from a wide range magic circle. Instead, Kana tells them to focus their magic through the sewers where the Kaii are multiplying.

Figure 10 Nina the Starry Bride, Episode 2

Nina and Prince Azure prepare for the upcoming Star Festival.

Episode 2 of Nina the Starry Bride begins at the start of Fortna's Star Festival. Nina ("Princess Alisha") decides to sneak out of her room and bumps into the first prince, Muhulum, who is younger than she expected and, together, they tour the grounds. Muhulum and Nina accidentally fall into a well. While waiting for rescue, Muhulum complains about his brother, Azure, but Nina assures him that they love each other. A rumor arrives at the palice that Princess Alisha is dead, and that Nina is a fraud (she is). Muhulum tells Nina that he wishes she would never get married—Prince Galgada is "scary". One of the king's retainers tells her of a way to sneak out of the castle the day of the Star Festival. She does and tries to find her brothers, but can't. Her old home is empty. In a flashback, we learn that Azure had a similar experience. They get ambushed by the king's retainer, who confirms Nina is a fraud, but he's swiftly killed by Azure ("The Usurper"). Azure tells Nina she's free to flee. Nina refuses. As the lanterns rise for the festival, Nina makes her wish.

Figure 11 Acro Trip, Episode 4

Date becomes evil Fossa Magna general mastermind!

Episode 4 of Acro Trip begins with Chrome officially moving into Date's house after Berry Blossom destroyed his home—a bridge he was living under. A news report claims that Fossa Magna is withdrawing from town, and Date finds Chome is no longer living in her crawl space. With an enemy, Berry Blossom turns to collecting garbage around town as an act of community service. Chome finds Date and tells her Fossa Magna cannot continue without a General. She agrees to join him. While Berry is walking along the beach picking up trash Chrome ambushes her. Berry, smiling the entire time, fights back, while Date cries with joy. Chrome is defeated and has to carry Date away after she's hit with a stray attack from Blossom.

Figure 12 Let This Grieving Soul Retire!, Episode 3

Tino defeats one of the bosses in White Wolf's Den.

Episode 3 of the incredibly bizarre show that is Let This Grieving Soul Retire! begins with Tino and her party encountering significantly stronger monsters than anticipated outside of White Wolf's Den. They consider retreating, but Tino insists they press on. Working together they eventually enter the Den and slowly make progress. The Den eventually opens up and Tino warns them they will soon encounter a boss—all according to her master's plans, of course. Tino is able to defeat the boss, but the other members of her party are spent. They soon learn, however, that it wasn't just one boss. Four additional ones appear and block their retreat. Tino tells them to stand and fight just as Krai flies in smashing into the four bosses. He then uses relics to incapacitate them and orders a retreat. As Krai leaves, he wonders where the exit even is.

Figure 13 365 Days to the Wedding, Episode 3

Princess Claudia at a batting cage in Tokyo.

Episode 3 of 365 Days to the Wedding begins with Takuya arriving at the cafe. Privately, Honjoji brings him up to speed. He agrees to come back to Aso to and come clean regarding his fake marriage. Back at work, Ohara is asked to be an attendant for Princess Claudia of Liechtbourg who visiting Japan. Claudia meets with him and they begin their tour around Tokyo. She enjoys the tour, calling Tokyo a "jewel". At the end of the day she asks Takuya to take her back to his apartment. Honjoji returns to Ohara's apartment and overhears Takuya and Claudia together. She enters his apartment and tells him to stop letting other women in his apartment. Takuya explains the princess wanted to meet her. Claudia explains she's considering leaving the royal family to be with her lover, Marie. She dropped by Ohara's apartment to see how "regular" married people live. She thanks them and leaves.

Figure 14 The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan, Episode 3

Noel speaks with Alma shortly after recruiting her.

Episode 3 of The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan begins with Noel looking for a new party. He's approached by Alma, a C-Rank scout, whose grandfather was Alcor Judikhali, an infamous assassin. Noel hires her on the spot. She later tells Noel she applied to be in the assassins guild, but she was rejected due to her violent temperament. Noel and Alma practice working together by catching monsters in a nearby forest using his buff skills. She excels, and Noel decides to undertake their first job: eliminating bandits in a nearby village of Mintz. Their carriage stops overnight in the town of Eudora, where the find every inn full. Eventually they find single room together. Alma tells him it's a shame he's so much weaker than his grandfather.

Figure 15 Ranma 1/2, Episode 3

Akane and (female) Ranma get confronted by a mob of guys at school in the morning.

Episode 3 of Ranma 1/2 begins with Ranma and Akane arriving at school the next day following Tatewaki's confession. Ranma tells Tatewaki he'll never see the "red-haired pigtail girl" again, leading to another fight between them. After he defeats Tatewaki, he calls Akane unsexy, leading to another fight between he and Akane. He gets injured and has to drop by Dr. Kuno's practice after school for treatment. After the visit, his legs give out and Akane has to carry him home. The next morning Akane and Ranma rush to school, with Ranma transformed as a woman. The mob of guys who ambushes her tell her they're withdrawing—they'll respect her engagement following Ranma's defeat of Tatewaki a day earlier. On their way home Akane asks Ranma not to talk about her crush on Dr. Tofu—Dr. Tofu likes her older sister, Kasumi. When Kasumi drops by, Dr. Tofu's brain turns to applesauce.

Figure 16 You Are Ms. Servant, Episode 3

Yuki and Riko meet for the first time.

Episode 3 of You Are Ms. Servant begins with Hitoyoshi asking Yuki to help him pierce his ears, but she refuses, not wanting to hurt her master. Hitoyoshi's little sister, Riko, arrives, and she's left speechless by Yuki's beauty. After learning she's an assassin, Riko asks for her autograph. Riko decides to make Yuki the subject of her summer research project. Yuki shows Riko her knives and assassination techniques. The three go to the summer festival together—Yuki enjoys the food and fireworks. On their way home Yuki saves Riko from being hit by a moped. Hitoyoshi offhandedly says the driver should be punished. Yuki immediately chases and captures them. At the end of the episode, Yuki tells Hitoyoshi she'd like to go to school. At the end of the episode, Yuki transfers in to Hitoyoshi's class.

Figure 17 The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest, Episode 3

Armia apologizes to Laust for how he was treated in his previous party.

Episode 3 of The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest begins their guild clerk recommending Laust and Narsena recruit a new party member. Laust learns his old party, Blades of Lightning, failed defeat the hydra again, even with a new healer, Lyria. Blade's leader, Margulus, begs Laust to rejoin his party. He refuses. Instead, Margulus recuirts a masked warrior, Shig ("Sieg"), who offers his services. Armia, Blade's mage, goes to Laust to apologize. Lyra, who goes along with her, tells her Margulus is going to get someone killed if he doesn't help them fell the Hydra. Narsena dismisses her for mistreating Laust, and Armia tells her she didn't know what to do—she was a new adventurer and Margulus was manipulating her. Laust accepts her apology, but tells her he has no intention of rejoining Blades. Back at their clan house, Lyra recognizes Shig ("Sieg"). Regardless, Blades of Lightning departs for the hydra for a third time.

Figures 18 and 19 My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student, Episodes 2 and 3

(top) Keisuke, Mai, and Takae on their way home from a family outing. (bottom) Takae meets Moriya, one of Keisuke's coworkers.

I guess this was a double episode last week and I missed it. Now I'm stuck with watching two episodes of this snoozefest today. Episode 2 and My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student begins with Takae being treated poorly by her biological (reincarnated) mother who believes she's lying about how she spends her time and money. Learning that her mother will be out-of-town following a divorce, she sets a date to meet with Keisuke and Mai to tell them she can't meet with them anymore. Following a day-trip with them, they celebrate her (old) birthday. She excuses herself and breaks down crying hallway. And decides to say nothing.

Episode 3 of My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student begins with Mai getting a new job where she trains people to use computers. She soon meets with a client, Renji, and it doesn't go as well as she planned. Takae decides to invite Mai to see the fireworks at an upcoming festival. Keisuke bumps into his coworker, Moriya and her friend, Kikuchi, and they both decide to watch the fireworks together, too. Takae arrives early and watches the fireworks with Keiseuki as they start. Moriya arrives with food, and Takae introduces herself as a relative of Keisuke. Mai arrives late and sees Keisuke and Moriya together, upsetting her. Back at home Mai tells Keisuke he can't be friends with a woman that young—it's disgusting. Keisuke tells them he's still married to Takae, even if the world doesn't recognize it that way.

Other Remarks

I accomplished my fall break goals. It's getting colder, now. My hands are freezing after my morning walks. I'm still reading The Guermants Way. I think I'm at (or around) page 360? Or maybe a bit later? I've lost track as I've been stuck in a pretty long lunch party between all the important characters of the novels.

It's Fall Break, and I had a few goals set out at the start that I was able to, more or less, accomplish. The first, was that I wanted to finish memorizing all the major scales (in parallel and contrary motion) in the Brown Scale Book. The second, was I wanted to start Volume 2 of Adult Piano Adventures after a long delay since finishing Volume 1. Third and finally, I wanted to start sewing with my sewing machine.

Figure 1 My piano setup

Visible is The Brown Scale Book, Adult Piano Adventures Vol. 2, and Decretum, the current "side" piece I'm working on. I also usually have a laptop to my right when I want to take breaks.
Samsung Galaxy Ultra S22.

It will likely take me much longer to finish volume 2 of Adult Piano Adventures because I no longer have entire summer days to work on it. At my current rates, I imagine, I'd likely finish a single song a weak, if I'm lucky. Alas, I shouldn't despair too much. That's life.

My current daily piano schedule involves playing through all the major scales in parallel in contrary motion, from memory, then playing several of my favorite songs from memory. Right now, that list contains I See The Light, The Promise of the World, The Waltz of Chihiro ("Reprise"), A Town With an Ocean View, and Bygone Days. I hope to eventually add Decretum from Madoka Magica too it, but that song is by far and away the most difficult one I've ever worked on so far. But I'm still nevertheless making progress on it, and learning a lot as I do.

Figure 1 My Brother sewing machine

I bought this when I bought my current house. The reason why I went with this instead of alternatives completely escapes me. I think it was because I had, at the time, a Brother printer. Which I've since thrown out because the heat future broke!
Samsung Galaxy Ultra S22.

I also tried my hand at sewing... sort of. I've used my sewing machine for basic alterations and repairs before, but I want to actually get better with it. So I tried making a simple bag, and that attempt completely imploded. I didn't have a rotary cutter, so cutting the fabric was a pain. I was cutting from a bolt of lightweight muslin, which also doesn't sew very well because it's too lightweight. Nevertheless, I did learn a lot. And I plan to get better cutting materials, better fabric, and a serging machine at a later date. No time is wasted as long as we got valuable experience!

Other Remarks

This has been a pretty sedate fall break, to say the least. I accomplished what few goals I had, but spent most of my time alone, as one would have wanted.

Despite being pretty early in the season, it seems pretty clear there isn't going to be any masterworks this Fall. There are, however, some outlier shows that, while nevertheless are not perfect, are still pretty fun (so far). DanMachi Season 5 is fun (so far). I like Bell and Syr's interactions, although I'm certain we're likely going to go downhill from here. The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians and The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor definitely had fun first episodes. And I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, like Tearmoon, is interesting for now (let's hope unlike Tearmoon it eventually goes somewhere).

Figure 1 Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 Episode 2

Syr tells Aiz that she and Bell are on a date together!

Episode 2 of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 begins with Bell, following his kidnapping, speaking with Hedin of the Freya Familia in a nearby cafe. Hedin demands Bell accept Syr's invitation and bring her eternal happiness. He begins training Bell day-and-night in preparation for the festival. Ryuu remains despondent that she's losing Bell to Syr. The day of the goddess festival Bell meets Syr early and immediately puts Hedin's teaching into practice. Syr's coworkers call in the Hestia familia in as tempts at Mia's restaurant so they can take the day off and observe Syr's deito with Bell... along with the rest of the Freya familia. Syr eventually figure out Bell is acting differently... perhaps too perfectly. They bump into Aiz Wallenstein, and Syr tells her about their deito. Hestia finds Aiz and tells her they have to find Bell. Bell accidentally spills the beans about Hedin, and Syr tells him he'll forgive them both if Bell kidnaps her. She asks Bell to be her white knight and rescue her from the Freya Familia.

Figure 1 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 15

Ririsa hugs Nonoa during their photoshoot with Okumura.

Episode 2 of Ranma 1/2 begins Akane and Ranma walking to school together, with Akane making it clear that, at school, they're complete strangers. On their way to school they meet Dr. Tofu, a famous chiropractor in town—one of the few men Akane likes. At school Akane is surrounded by men who want to fight her—they plan to ask her on a date if they can defeat her in combat. She defeats all of them. Kuno-senpai approaches and challenges Ranma after he learns he's living under the save roof as Akane. As they fight it begins to rain and Genma rushes in change Ranma back into a boy. The entire school learns Ranma and Akane are engaged, and Kuno begins to fight Ramna again to determine who will marry Akane. They both end up in the school pool, and Ramna, as a woman, flees. Kuno catches up to Ranma, as a woman, and swiftly gets defeated. Kuno sends girl Ranma a challenge letter to meet him on Sunday, where he hands him flowers and professes his lover for him.

Figure 1 Ranma 1/2, Episode 2

Akane standing over all the boys she defeated outside of school.

Episode 3 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins with Potocki noticing Rafal has been burning documents related to the heliocentric model. He revises his calculations, then tells him he saw nothing. Inquisitor Novak asks Rafal to swear to God he knows nothing of Hubert's research—he does. Novak arrives and questions Potocki regarding his previous act of heresy regarding heliocentrism. He tells him that was long ago. He accuses his ward, Rafal, of conducting blasphemous research. Conflicted, that evening Potocki asks Rafal if he can prove heliocentrism. He says he believes he can, and the next day he turns him in to Inquisitor Novak. Novak tells him he can avoid torture if he recants, burns his materials, and devotes his life to theology. The next day at trial, he rips up the churches demands and publicly announces heliocentrism is the correct model. Back in his cell, Rafal tells Novak he opposes truth itself. He tells Novak he's intentionally poisoned himself—and tells him neither of them understand death. He asks Novak to leave as the poison takes hold. At the end of the episode, his body is burned beneath the stars. Ten years later, walking through the mountains finds his resarch, along with Rafal's final note.

Figure 1 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Episode 3

Rafal denounces the Church's order and proclaims his belief in heliocentrism.

Episode 15 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction begins with Nagomi speaking with Nonoa after the event, telling her to hate her instead of Ririsa (she doesn't hate Ririsa or her). Ririsa appears and tells her the full story, and Nagomi feels like an idiot. Nonoa and Ririsa both talk about their shared love of Liliel. Another upstart cosplayer, Aria Kisaki, also appears at the end of the event. Okumura, Ririsa, and Nonoa go to a photography studio to stage professional shots between Ririsa and Nonoa. Aria ("hyper-gyaru") busts into the and asks to be Ririsa's friend. Nonoa becomes distraught at Aria's upbeat and outgoing personality, but Aria's insistence eventually wins her over and the three agree to take photos together.

Figure 1 The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor, Episode 1

Hadis accepts Jill's marriage proposal.

The prologue of Episode 1 of The Do-Over Damsel Conquers the Dragon Emperor begins with Jill being executed by Gerald, her fiance, pursuant to fall allegations from his sister, Faris. As she dies, clock's time turns back and she is, again, a child, arriving at the royal capital to meet Prince Gerald for the first time. Knowing the rist, she immediately flees the ball room and tries to find Princess Farris—in the previous timeline Jill's engagement to Gerald was cover to hide the fact that he was having an affair with this sister. Gerald tries to propose to her but she flees and instead proposes to Hadis, the Dragon Emperor, first. In her previous timeline, he was their greatest enemy. He accepts her proposal. Afterwards, she passes out.

When she awakens, Hadis asks her to propose to him again so he can be certain this isn't a dream. Gerald enters the room and demands answers—his father would never allow his marriage to Jill, and the nobility has already decided Jill will marry Gerald instead. He picks up Jill and departs for the Rave Empire. She asks Hadis how serious he has about their marriage, and he tells her she's the "ideal" age. He plans to make a happy family with her. Jill tells her their marriage was a farce, and the Dragon God Rave appears and laughs at him. Hadis says she'll return her to Kratos, but realizes that Hadis doesn't seem like a bad man. She changes her mind, and proposes to him (for real) this time.

Figure 1 I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, Episode 2

Alicia begins learning magic.

Episode 2 of I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History begins with Alicia traveling to the impoverished village of Loana. Will, a blind man, immediately identifies her as a noble, and tells her he was banished from the castle many years ago. She tells Will about her life, then returns to the castle. Over the course of the year she continues her studies, learning swordsmanship, and visiting Will. Alicia insists on taking a swordsmanship test, but her father and brother refuses the request—her skills are too strong, and her father doesn't want her to draw unwanted attention. She visits Loana during the day and finds bandits attacking the villagers, gravely injuring a child in the process. Alicia buys medicinal herbs and treats him. She finds a hidden section of her family's library on magic and begins learning and practicing basic spells. The king arrives to speak with Alicia. She attempts to sound like a villainess by denigrating nobles and praising commoners, but again makes another positive impression. Alicia collapses and Prince Duke carries her to her room, then gives her medicine by kissing her.

Figure 1 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 36

Iroha tells Satoru she feels "wonderful" when she's with him.

Wonderful Pretty Cure! Episode 36 begins Satoru telling Iroha he's in love with her, causing her to become flustered and run away. Back at Iroha's house, Mayu tells her Satoru has liked her for a long time. She asks both Mayu and her mother for advice, but still remains confused by her feelings. At school, Iroha doesn't know how to act around Satoru, and he tells her to forget what he said yesterday—they should just remain friends like always. Zakuro spawns a Gaogaon black kite and all the Cures transform to fight it. Zakuro decides she likes Satoru, kidnaps him, and flies away. Cure Friendly realizes she wants to be with Satoru forever, and pursues. She rescues Satoru while the others purify the Gaogaon, sending it back to Niko Garden. As the sun sets, she tells him she feels "wonderful" when she's with him.

Figure 1 Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 2

Dolan welcomes Celina to the village.

Episode 2 of Goodbye, Dragon Life begins with Dolan and Airi working on creating potions with Maguru. That night Dolan leaves the town to try to find a monster he sensed earlier—it's Celina. She tells Dolan how she greeted several other humans earlier, but they fled in fear because she's a lamia. Dolan asks Celina if she'd like to live with him. She accepts. Dolan tells Celina she can earn the village's trust by providing nightly offerings of defeated monsters for food, but instead this causes the villages to fear Celina instead. Maguru tries to convince them Celina isn't a threat. During a village training session a large armored bear attacks the village and Celina gravely injures herself saving a child. She uses her cursed eyes to convince the bear to retreat. She begs the villagers to let her live with them. Leticia, the town's priest, receives a divine message from Goddess Myrale: Celina isn't evil. They take her to the village to treat her wounds. Afterwards, they give her a house to live in.

Figure 1 The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians, Episode 2

Suzuki-sensei teaches students how to construct spell arrays using geometric figures.

Episode 2 of The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians begins with Kurumi's classmates warning her Suzuki-sensei must be joking—she's not going to make any of them magicians. Kumiiru, who saw Suzuki's magic along with Kurumi, however, believes her. She might have a plan. The next day Suzuki-sensei starts her first magic lesson. She tells them they can learn to draw spell arrays using a pen and paper. She starts by explaining the basic principles of constructable geometry, and tells them that those principles can be used to represent everything in nature. The class, however, becomes increasingly bored drawing various shapes. During a treasure hunt, Suzuki-sensei tells everyone to construct their own map using the shapes they've learned. During the hunt several of the classmates get attacked by an evil plant, and Kurumi uses her geometry training construct a simple spell array, but it fizzles out. Suzuki-sensei arrives and saves them.

Figure 1 Acro Trip, Episode 3

Mashirou helps Date call Berry Blossom to inform her about his kidnapping.

Episode 3 of Acro Trip begins with Chrome formally notifying the town he will commit an "evil" deed tomorrow at 3:00 PM. Adverse weather the next day causes Chrome to second guess his plans, but Berry Blossom nevertheless shows up regardless, getting injured by flying debris. Date takes her back to her place so she can recover, and tells Chrome to hide in the interim. Mashirou, Blossom's talking cat, tells Date she was up all night studying for tests. He goes on to explain he's the one whose been filming Blossom's fights. Chrome enters the room while Blossom is still unconscious, causing Mashirou to flee with Blossom. The next day Mashirou returns to thank Date and Chrome immediately takes him hostage. Chrome tries to call Berry but collapses from the stress of trying to talk to Berry. Date picks up the phone and tells her they have Mashirou, then too collapses. Mashirou leaves as they both lie on the ground.

Figure 1 Magilumiere Co. Ltd., Episode 2

Sakuragi uses magic for the first time against a Kaii.

Episode 2 of Magilumiere Co. Ltd. begins with Sakuragi meeting the team members of Magilumiere Co. Ltd. They tell her that, as a start-up, they don't have years to train her. She can begin being a magical girl today—and they hand her a broom. She immediately crashes, and instead goes back to reading books on brooms instead. Koshigaya and Sakuragi get an extermination request, and Nikoyama prepares a new magical girl outfit for Sakuragi. She and Koshigaya depart for the extermination site: the upper floor of an office building. After rescuing the sole captive office worker from the floor Koshigaya's broom begins to fail. Sakuragi, remembering her books, recalls that Brooms can be modified to fire a single magical shot, and requests permission to use hers against the Kaii. Her boss grants permission, and Sakuragi fires a single shot as Koshigaya retreats, defeating the Kaii.

Figure 1 The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest, Episode 2

Narsena and Laust leave for breakfast together.

Episode 2 of The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest with a dream of Laust's previous party struggling to defeat a hydra due to his weak and ineffective healing magic. As a consequence, they publicly denounce and banish him from their party. While leaving the labyrinth, he saves a girl whose carriage is being attacked by goblins. The girl he saved inspired him to continue training and become an adventurer. He and Narsena go back to the labyrinth, venturing to lower floors using a teleportation circle and begin to clear more powerful monsters. They return to the guild to sell their magic stones. That evening Narsena asks Laust why there are strange monoliths being built around town. Laust says he doesn't know. No one does. A new healer, Lyra, joins Laust's old party, and they plan to reattempt the Hydra.

Figure 1 You Are Ms. Servant, Episode 2

Hitoyoshi and Yuki bring Agemochitarou to the vet for a check-up.

You Are Ms. Servant Episode 2 begins with Yuki confused about her feelings for Hitoyoshi. After the opening, a dog is placed on Hitoyoshi's front porch with a note: please adopt me. He decides to adopt it, and quickly learns that Yuki is afraid of dogs due to her training as a child. They bring the doggu to the vet for a check-up, and buy food and a leash. Yuki becomes uneasy after seeing how kind Hitoyoshi is, and wonders if she's worthy of such kindness. Hitoyoshi tells her not to worry—she can just stop being an assassin and be normal girl. Hitoyoshi decides to name the dog Agemochitarou. Hitoyoshi asks Yuki if she knows her birthday. She responds she's unsure, but knows she was born in the winter. As such, Hitoyoshi names her "Yuki" for snow. She thanks him for the name.

Figure 1 My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student, Episode 1

Keisuke speaks to his wife, Takae, at a public a park after school.

My Wife Will Become an Elementary School Student Episode 1 begins with a montage of how Keisuke and Takae got married and raised their daughter, Mai, together. His wife, Take, past away ten years ago. Over dinner with his daughter, who remote works from home, a child arrives at his house and tells him she's his wife: Takae Niijima. Takae tells them she was reincarnated after the accident ten years ago, and proceeds to give them exact details about them. She gives them life advice then tells them she has to return to her other family. At work, Keisuke's mood improves now that he's eating his wife's bentos again. A coworker decides to become "bento buddies" with him. Mai begins looking for a better job. At work, his bento-buddy Moriya makes him a bento. Takae learns that Keisuke is socializing with a younger (female) coworker, but doesn't become too concerned. Keisuke tells Takae he wants to treasure the time he has with her.

Figure 1 365 Days to the Wedding, Episode 2

Honjoji meets with Takuya's dad who discusses wedding plans.

Episode 2 of 365 Days to the Wedding begins with Takuya turning over his "fake" deito with Rika in his head. He gets an anonymous phone call telling confronting him on his fake marriage, but can't identity the source or even the gender of the caller. A coworker, Gonda, asks to drop by his place that evening. Honjoji arrives at Takuya's apartment early, and together they begin working on their cover story to convince their coworkers they are, in fact, getting married. Three of their coworkers arrive, and Gonda asks for Takuya's help getting hitched. He tells him he likes Komiya, but Takuya can't provide much advice. He rhetorically asks his coworkers if marriage is that special, and they reply (seriously) that it is. Takuya's father arrives looking for his son—he heard Takuya is getting married, but Takuya hasn't said a word to him. Honjoji feigns ignorance, and Takuya's father leaves. Honjoji decides to follow him with the intent of telling the truth. His father explains there's a significant amount of preparation that needs to be done for an Aso-style wedding.

Figure 1 Nina the Starry Bride, Episode 1

Prince Azure trains Nina to be a princess.

Episode 1 of Nina the Starry Bride begins in the Castle Town of Dayah. Nina, an orphan who lost her parents due to the plague, is forced to steal for her and her brothers to get by. The princess Dayah, Alisha, dies in an accident and Nina's brother sells Nina to be her "replacement". Back in the palace, Nina dawns Alisha's clothes and Second Prince, Azure, tells her she is now the princess-priestess of the of Fortna. Azure begins training her to act like a princess—in three days she'll have an audience with the king. While the king is convinced by the ruse, the Queen demands additional proof: they ask her to reproduce a dance she's unfamiliar with. Azure manages to step in and bail her out. Later, the Queen tries to discipline both Nina and Azure, but they again manage to finesse their way out of it.

Figure 1 The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan, Episode 2

Noel speaks with Lloyd and Tanya regarding their punishment for stealing the party's money.

Episode 2 of The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan begins with Lloyd using their party's funds to pay off his own personal debt, then fleeing the town with Tanya. Noel and Walter offer a reward of two million fil to any seeker than can capture and bring them back alive. Another seeker offers information: they're heading for Carnot Village. Noel and Walter pursue on horse, and eventually catch up and capture them. Noel and Tanya both admit to gambling away their party's funds. He sells Lloyd and Tanya to a slave trader then returns to town. Walter, upset with Noel's cruelty, leaves his party and quits being a Seeker. As the episode ends, Noel begins his search for a new party.

Figure 1 Let This Grieving Soul Retire!, Episodes 1 and 2

(top) Krai at a clan recruitment drive. (bottom) Krai departing with magical items to save the others from the phantom at White Wolf's Den.

Apparently this aired last week and I missed it, so I'm a week late. I'll just watch Episodes 1 and 2 now. Episode 1 of Let This Grieving Soul Retire! begins with Krai explaining how treasure hunters fight phantoms for fame and fortune. Krai and another hunter, Rhuda, apply to be in a clan. Rumor has it Grieving Souls ("Grievers"), a clan composed of Krai's childhood friends, may soon be be open to recruitment. A fight breaks out in the recruitment hall and Krai and Rhuda try to leave. When they do, Krai is recognized: he is the leader of the Grievers, the strongest clan in the world. Seven years ago Krai began adventuring with this friends, but felt like he was holding them back and left their party. They ignore him and decide to make him their leader. Krai throws a ring into crowd tells anyone who can get can join Ark Brave, causing a fight to break out. In the ensuing chaos, he departs. He later apologizes, and the explorer's association gives him a difficult low paying job as a punishment: a complex rescue mission. He orders Tino to form a party with Rhuda, Gilbert, and Greg and complete it.

Episode 2 of Let This Grieving Soul Retire! begins with a flashback of Krai forming "Greiving Souls", an intentionally ridiculous name to prevent anyone from ever wanting to join it. Gilbert challenges Krai to a duel, but Krai has Tino fight on his behalf, and she completely obliterates him. Gilbert relents and formally recognizes Krai's strength, and their party departs for the White Wolf's Den. Krai receives word a powerful wolf phantom was spotted near the den and becomes concerned. He learns the party their rescuing is level 5, and realizes they're lives are in danger. Tino's party, however, believes everything was premeditated and that they can complete the mission. They get ambushed by a powerful phantom while Krai gathers powerful relics from his vault to help them.

Other Remarks

After hemming those Atelier Tuffery pants myself (I'm so proud!) I'm considering looking into more DIY tailor projects. It's something I've been interested in the past, and even bought a sewing machine for it when I bought my current house, but for whatever reason my interest in it fizzled out. At this point, really, there's only so much daily practice I can do, though. The anime, calligraphy, and piano practice more or less take up my entire day! However, DIY tailoring and alteration projects don't have to be a daily practice thing. If I just worked through it on the weekend when I have free time it would, I would argue, be more than enough to get some hands on experience. Ideally, I'd just buy some cheap clothes at good will and start with some basic alterations. I could buy a book online, or perhaps start with YouTube videos? Eh, I've always been partial to book learning. I may start there.

Today is the first week of Fall Break for me. I get all of next week off, so that's fun. My piano goal is to (finally) finish parallel and contrary motion in all the major scales (and by "finish" I mean memorize). Then, I'll move on (for real this time) to Volume 2 of Adult Piano Adventures. While working through that, I will continue my work on Decretum from Madoka Magica. This song is proving for more difficult that I originally anticipated. But that's okay. I like a challenge. And, to be completely honest, there's not another song I'm super interesting in learning right now. And, to be completely honest, I sort of like the challenge. I'm certain once I begin Piano Adventures my urge for less complex pieces will likely be satiated.

The current national and local political environment(s) are still inspiring in me a general sense of melancholy or, more grimly, hopelessness. While I wouldn't say I'm gripped with crippling feelings of despair (I'm not that dramatic), I would argue I often find turning on the news to be a generally upsetting or, more properly, helpless venture. I say "helpless" because there is nothing I can do about the current political environment, at either the local, state, or national level, and as such constantly being force-fed a stream of negative stories is, to say the least, growing off-putting.

I'll begin by giving a concrete local example (although, when I begin this post I thought I would be discussing the national election). Our current school board, along with the superintendent they hired, a disaster. Following the pandemic our town elected a clutch of far-right wing lunatics who fired the previous superintendent then pulled an old fat white guy out of retirement to be the new one (as an aside, when I think if how many of my problems, of the world's problems, are coming from old white guys all I can say is that's the last type of person I'd trust to lead anything). As a consequence, all of my colleagues just complain non-stop about school politics which, while I know it affects me, I've just begun to ignore. And honestly it's been great. By ignoring the workplace politics (it helps that I'm not really friends with anyone at school) I don't find myself often leaving work feeling bad. That model, I think, can be used at the nation level, too. Perhaps?

Figure 1 An AI generated anime girl with white hair playing the piano. Adobe Firefly, Gen 3.

The current national election, obviously, inspires a general sense of melancholy within me every time I turn on the news. Unlike workplace politics, which for whatever reason I can largely avoid, I haven't been able to avoid the national election. This is quite simple to explain. I like to listen (radio) to the news (NPR and BBC World Service) and both of those overwhelmingly cover US Politics to a degree that I find excessive. The fact that the election is even close is terrifying—Trump is a 34-count-convicted felon, civilly liable rapist, twice impeached megalomaniacal retard with no policy positions. Harris is a normal person with normal policy positions. And the polling itself is on a knife edge... which is bad, because Trump often outperforms the polls.

One thing I liked about Biden (besides his totally reasonably policy positions), was that he was... boring. I don't like turning on the news and constantly hearing about what the president has done. Trump, even we're willing to ignore his direct attacks on American democracy, dominated the news cycle for four years while doing irreputable damage to our country that will take decades to undo. Any reasonable fair-minded person who was grounded in... reality... would have realized that Trump is grossly incompetent and always has been. Yet here we are. Less than a month out from the election. And the race is tied in the polling and betting markets.

Figure 1 An AI generated anime girl with white hair writing at a desk. Adobe Firefly, Gen 3.

My general strategy, I suppose, should the outcome be less than favorable (and by that I mean Trump wins) would be just to ignore the news for the next four years. I know that seems like a very very long time, but I've been largely ignoring workplace politics for even longer and that's been going great for me. The one challenge I would have, I suppose, is that I really do enjoy listening to the news. If only there was a way to block American politics on NPR and BBC World Service, my life would vastly improve. I would also have to cut out overtly political YouTube content (like The David Pakman show) which, at the moment, I watch everyone morning. It would also be difficult because everyone time I wash my face I listen to NPR, and I fall asleep to BBC World Service. Ugh. When I think about it like that I realize it may not at all be possible. Perhaps there would be a way to listen to it all and just laugh through my tears? To be numb to it all? Or would simply engaging, even passively, be insufficient? Do I really need to find a way to step away from it all if I get frustrated?

Figure 1 An AI generated anime girl with white hair looking out the window. Adobe Firefly, Gen 3..

To be clear, it's not all doom and gloom. No matter what the outcome of the election is, my life is great. My house is paid off. My car is paid off. I have no debts. I have hundreds of thousands of dollars in a stock portfolio with a YTD of 17.14% as of my typing this out right now. Come what may, I am materially absent, no, almost completely insulated from whatever happens. At the end of the day I will get home, watch anime, play the piano, practice calligraphy, and maybe play some mild games in the process. And perhaps this is how I should view things? With the knowledge that I am not at risk. The people up top risk nothing. The people down low lose everything. And, at the end of the day, I'm not one of the people down low.

Yeah, who am I kidding I'm a millionaire. As I type this I'm wearing a $45,000 watch. I think I'll be fine in this election cycle.

Other Remarks

Fall Break is next week! I have, of course, no major plans, but that's exactly what's fun. As an ``indoor enthusiast'' that's exactly what I want to see. I'm still making progress through The Guermantes Way. After over 340 pages the narrator finally spoke to Mme de Guermantes. Quite the build-up. I like my French "lounging" clothes, too. Honestly I want to buy more. Two more pairs of pants and two more Breton shirts should do it. I'll wait a bit and see if I can't fleece some of them from my father, though.

The Nord Grand 2 arrived last week, but I haven't really been able to play it because it obviously needs a stand. I considered the K&M 18820 Omega Pro Table stand, and still may order that one at a later date, but for now I went with the much more expensive Nord Wooden Stand which matches the piano. The Nord stand isn't portable (very much the opposite), but it's not like I'm traveling anyways. I mean really, I bought the Yamaha YC61 with an expensive case for that, too, and it hasn't moved from behind my desk at work ever. Still, I may eventually get the Nord Grand case and bring the Grand to school at a later date (I can make space). It's not a terrible idea given that I spend a lot of time practicing at school in the morning.

Figure 1 The Nord Grand 2 on top of the Nord Wooden Stand

I still need to buy a better stool! The one I'm using now is the one that cost... $11 and it came with the cheapest stand I could find when I bought the Yamaha YC61 a few months ago.
Samsung Galaxy Ultra S22.

Anyways, Figure 1 shows the setup. It's behind my computer, playing through my UR22C audio interface to my Yamaha HS5 Studio Monitors. It's a bit of a snug fit behind my computer desk. I had to move a monitor screen for my home security system to a different room, which wasn't ideal for me. I could, I think, move it back, because I'm strongly considering bringing the Nord Grand 2 to school. At the moment, I spend probably an hour every day at school practicing piano pieces. This means if I bring it school it will undoubtedly get far more use than it does now at home.

As for the piano itself, so far I find it a bit... weird. The action does feel a bit better than the semi-weighted on the YC61, but the hammers have a bounce to them that I find strange, and it's overall much heavier than the Yamaha Grand I have now. Still, I'm sure if I play it more I'll get used to it. I had the same aversion to the YC61 when I first got it, and now I'm totally fine with it. If I just bring it to school and play it more it should be fine.

Other Remarks

Decretum from Madoka Magica is proving to be a bit difficult. But I'm not too worried. I like practicing it. As for the major scales, I think I may be able to all the major scales in the Brown Scale Book over Fall Break (if I'm dedicated) then, finally, move on to Volume 2 of Adult Piano Adventurers. I know I've said that one before, but this time I may actually mean it!

Whelp. We're here. We finished the Summer season and now it's time for Fall! We had our first big round of shows starting this week, and I believe there are a few more we should see next week. Let's get to it!

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

Bell recieves a letter from Syr asking him on a deito to the Goddess Festival.

I waded through all of Season 4 of DanMachi just so I could prepare myself for Season 5. Freya's arc better be worth it. Freya has, is, and continues to be one of my favorite characters, so I have high hopes.

Episode 1 of Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?, Season 5 begins with an account of Syr realizing she's in love with Bell. After the opening, we learn Lili and Haruhime are both level 2. Bell likely can level up, but Hestia wants to wait. That evening they celebrate their rank ups in Mia's tavern. While there, Ryuu avoids Bell out of embarrassment. Syr asks her if she's falling for Bell—telling her she'd like to invite him on a deito to the Goddess Festival. Ryuu relents. A messenger from the Freya familia, Horn, hands Bell a letter (with her utmost contempt): Syr asks Bell on a deito. Hestia freaks out. Bell wonders why Syr is associated with the Freya familia. Hestia comments on how she's never met Syr personally. Ottarl, Freya's champion, calls an emergency meeting: Syr is going on a romantic deito with Bell Cranel! Allen agrees to guard Syr for the duration of the festival, while the others plan out their positions. When Bell goes to deliver his response he's attacked the kidnapped by Hedin. After the ED, Syr asks Freya if she can go on a deito with Bell. Freya tells her Bell learns the truth, then she'll never see Bell again.

Figure 1 The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians, Episode 1

Kurumi and Maki go to class on their first day of school.

Episode 1 of The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians begins with unnamed magician giving Kurumi Mirai a notebook, telling her she'll be waiting for her. Later, Kurumi fails to gain admission to The Rettoran Academy of Magic. Instead, she's admitted to the standard program, despite placing first on the mock exam. A fellow classmate, Yuzu, congratulates her even getting in to the standard program attending a prep school like the rest of her classmates. During orientation, they learn the standard program doesn't even have an assigned teacher yet. Kurumi learns only Magumi students get the type of notebook she was given as a child. During a demonstration another student's spell becomes corrupted summoning a spirit dragon, and a magician arrives to defeat it. At the end of the episode the standard class gets a teacher: Minami Suzuki. Suzuki-sensei hands out standard notebooks, and tells them she'll make magicians out of all of them.

Figure 1 Acro Trip, Episodes 1 and 2

(Top) Date meets Chrome. (Bottom) Berry Blossom saves Date from a robber.

We have a double feature for Acro Trip. I'm going in blind, knowing nothing about the source material. Episode 1 begins Date Chizuko spending a week at her grandfather's place due to her mom's work schedule. While at the mall the next day, Chizuko helps another girl, Berry, find her cat. On her way home she hers an alarm and finds herself in the middle of a fight between Berry and Fossa Magna's leader, Chrome. Excited by the fact that she saw a real magical girl, she decides to move in with her grandfather, and becomes one of Berry Blossom's many fans. Several weeks later she runs into Chrome, who expresses his love for Berry, too. He tells her he loves getting beaten up by Berry Blossom, and she tells him she loves seeing her fight. Chrome asks Date to join Fossa Magna council. In fear, she flees—she wants to admire Berry Blossom, not go down the path of evil!

Episode 2 begins with Date refusing Chrome's offer, just as a robber appears. As he steals money from the register, Chrome tells them to hold he and Date hostage for a greater reward. Berry, who is also in the store, transforms and punches the robber in the face and calls the police. She flees before the police arrive. Chrome tells her Berry cannot use magic unless it's against other magical people, and again asks her to join him. She refuses. At home, she finds Chrome (Kuroma) talking to her grandfather. She learns Fossa Magna's base, Chrome's house, is directly below her grandfather's house. Chrome tells her his magic depletes and gets renewed at the end of the month, and they end up getting stuck in his hideout, unable to teleport away. She signs a contract to become a magical girl, only to learn that no magic was necessary—her grandfather shows her how to leave the basement. In a post credits scene, Date helps Chrome train his Kuma Kaijins.

Figure 1 2.5 Dimensional Seduction, Episode 14

Nonoa asks Ririsa to be her friend after the event.

Episode 14 of 2.5 Dimensional Seduction Nonoa working up the courage to respond to Okumura, thanking him for helping her speak. Ririsa still feels bad, however, incorrectly believing Nonoa sees her as a rival. Nagomi and Hanyuu-sensei both tells her to accept that not everyone may like her—what matters is what she thinks about herself. Regardless, Ririsa still wants to be her friend, and leaves to find her. They both return to the event and try to find each other, but get waylaid by photographers. Eventually, they find each other. Ririsa asks if they can poise for photos together, and Nonoa accepts. After the event Nonoa still struggles to speak to Ririsa, but eventually overcomes her own self-doubt and asks Ririsa to be her friend. She accepts. At the end of the episode, Mikari believes she'll have to go with the "cosplay plan" to seduce Okumura.

Figure 1 I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History, Episode 1

Alicia after a timeskip attempting to become the vest villian she can be.

Episode 1 of I'll Become a Villainess Who Goes Down in History begins with the main character explaining why she hates the heroine of her favorite otome game and, instead, wants to be the villainess. Just then, she's reincarnated as the villainess, Alicia. She immediately approaches her three brothers and asks them to train her to use a sword. She spends the rest of the day reading books in her family library and begins physical training. Out of character, her family asks what's wrong—she tells them she's fine. She meets the other "conquerable" princesses and tries to to act like a villainess, but instead leaves a positive impression, particularly on Duke Seeker, the king's only son. She continues her sword training in order to become the perfect villainess, further drawing the interest of Prince Duke.

Alicia is invited to Finn's house where he meets the other princes, along with the King. She again attempts to be evil, but makes another positive impression by proposing a viable to plan to address the kingdom's wealth inequality. Later, the King is informed the "Golden Rose" has been found, indicating the birth of a saint: the VNs main protagonist. Duke has the blue rose, and is destined to marry the Saint. Prince Duke, becoming increasingly obsessed with Alicia, gives her a diamond necklace for her birthday. At the end of the episode, the King is warned that when a Saint is united with the royal family they will face create challenges.

Figure 1 Wonderful Pretty Cure!, Episode 35

Mayu and Satour incorrectly believe Iroha is taking to her boyfriend (she's actually talking to a dog).

Episode 35 of Wonderful Pretty Cure! begins with Satoru turning down a girl at school who asks him out because he likes Iroha. Iroha tells the others she's happy Keiji is coming over, and invites them over to meet him. When they do, they see an older man they mistake for Keiji calling Iroha "dear". In reality, Keiji is the man's dog—a commissioned police dog. Mayu encourages Satoru to confess, twisting the knife by asking him if he'd be okay with her dating someone else. Niko-sama encourages Satoru to ask Mey Mey for help, and he shows him how the animals in Niko Garden show their affection. There, he explains how he first met Iroha.

Satoru begins to plan his confession. Meanwhile, Torame forces a Gaogaon kangaroo to hatch, and everyone (including Satoru, Niko-sama, and Mey Mey) arrive to fight it. Cure Friendly gets injured when it break through her ribbon barrier. Satoru tells Friendly that Gaogaon can't easily go backwards. With this knowledge, she lures it onto a bridge and the other Cures capture it. At the end of the episode, Satoru tries to confess but fails. Instead, Mey Mey does it by accident and the credits roll.

Figure 1 Goodbye, Dragon Life, Episode 1

Dolan makes dinner for Celina.

Episode 1 of Goodbye, Dragon Life begins with humans slaying the ancient dragon, Dolan, who is then reincarnated as a human in the provincial village of Verun. Christina, a noblewoman, moves into the village as winter begins to approach. Dolan departs for a nearby swam to investigate missing lizards. Celina, a lamia (snake woman), approaches him and awkwardly attempts to seduce him. They both get attacked by a mad earth elemental and work together to defeat it. The evening Celina tells Dolan she's on a journey to find a husband. The next morning they part ways.

Figure 1 Magilumiere Co. Ltd., Episode 1

Koshigaya and Kana fight against a Kaii.

Episode 1 of Magilumiere Co. Ltd. begins an explanation of how magical girls exterminate supernatural creatures called "Kaii". Over 500 private companies facilitate their extermination. After the OP, Koshigaya complains that her broom destroyed by a Kaii, and learns their company is hiring a new magical girl. At another company, Kana Sakuragi bombs a job interview. While Kana interviews for another job, a Kaii attacks. They call Magilumiere Co. Ltd. and Koshigaya immediately dispatches to exterminate it. When she arrives she finds that it's huge—a two magical girl job. Kana agrees to help. She switches Koshigaya's ammunition and reloads, allowing her to defeat the it. After the ED, Koshigaya brings Kana back to Magilumiere as their brand new hire.

Figure 1 365 Days to the Wedding, Episode 1

Ohara and Honjoji propose a fake marriage to avoid being sent to Alaska.

Episode 1 of 365 Days to the Wedding begins at Japan Tourist Co. (JTC), with Ohara getting yelled at by his boss, and glared at by his coworker, Honjoji. The next day, Honjoji laments her permanent angry face, wishing that others knew that she was, in fact, a nice person. At home, Honjoji has fun reading maps. The next day they announce someone form their branch is going to Alaska—anyone who is unmarried may be selected. Ohara bumps into Honjoji on his day off and tells her he plans to quit lest he get sent to Alaska and be forced to abandon his cat. Honjoji asks if he'd like to get (pretend) married to save both of them from being sent. The plan? To pretend to be married until after the Alaska branch opens in a year. Ohara accepts the plan. They tell their supervisor, Kurokawa, who expresses overwhelming joy, and throws a surprise party for them that evening. Together, they hatch a plan to explain how they met, and she buys cheap wedding rings for both of them to further perpetuate the lie. At the end of the episode, Honjoji tells him to think about what is (fake) proposal should be.

Figure 1 The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan, Episode 1

Noel's party fight against several monsters.

Episode 1 of The Most Notorious "Talker" Runs the World's Greatest Clan begins with Noel's grandfather sacrificing himself to save her from a horde of demons that attack his hometown. He promises his grandfather he'll become a Seeker like him—two years later he, a "Talker" support class, works with his party slay demons. His support skill lets him shout orders to increase his party's strength. Back at Etrai, the capital of the Velnant Empire, Noel and Walter get in a fight over money, and Walter further complains all Noel does is shout orders without fighting. Their party further discusses the challenges they face because they're not in a formal clan. So Noel proposes they start one. Their leader, Lloyd, agrees and they plan to meet up tomorrow to formalize their plans. They next day, Walter tells Noel that Lloyd and Tanya "screwed them".

Figure 1 Ranma 1/2, Episode 1

The opening title card of Ranma 1/2 (2024).

Episode 1 of Ranma 1/2 Tendo's Dojo: Ranma is coming. Tendo tells his three daughters that if one of them marries Ranma the future of their dojo will be secured. After a storm, Ranma (as a woman), fights his daughter (as a panda) in the middle the street. Ranma tells him he can't decide who he can and can't marry. Genma drags Ranma kicking and screaming to the dojo. They wonder why a panda dragged a girl here. Tendo realizes the girl is Ranma and passes out. Akane shows him around the dojo they they spar. Akane can't land a single hit on Ranma, and tells him he never wants to be beaten by a boy. Ranma and his father take a hot bath and turn back into human men. They introduce themselves again, and explain how water can turn them back-and-forth between a woman (for Ranma) and a panda (for his father, Genma) after they fell into cursed hot springs while training in China.

The family picks Akane to be Ranma's fiance because she hates men, and Ranma is half women. They both hate the idea and begin fighting. At the end of the episode, Ranma says that there's nothing cute about her.

Figure 1 The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest, Episode 1

Narsena asks Raust to form a party with her.

Oh boy. Just by the title The Healer Who Was Banished From His Party, Is, in Fact, the Strongest I can tell this is going to be some slop. Episode 1 begins with an unnamed hero saving an unnamed girl from a goblin attack. After the opening, Narsena asking Raust to form a party with her. A guild clerk warns her that Raust is a garbage healer, but she ignores her warnings, telling the clerk she decided on Raust "long ago". They head directly to Mardat Labyrinth and begin clearing monsters. They encounter an Ork which almost defeats Narsena, but Raust is able to defeat it in a single strike. They sell their magic stones back to the guild and go to nearby Inn to rest for the night. That evening Narsena recalls getting saved by an unnamed adventurer in the opening—Raust. After she's saved, she tells him she wants to one day become an adventurer and join his party. But Raust doesn't recognize or remember her.

Figure 1 Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, Episode 1 and 2

(top) Hubert proposes a heliocentric model for the universe to Rafal. (bottom) Rafal reconstructs the model after he returns home.

Episode 1 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins in the Kingdom of P, with an unnamed scholar being tortured by a member of the church for hiding blasphemous material. In school, Rafal espouses the geocentric view of the universe, shortly before he he attends university to study theology. Rafal has the steadfast belief that that which is rationale is beautiful. After school his teacher tells him to stop studying astronomy and focus on theology, which deeply unsettles him. That night he accepts the decision, telling himself no human can reach the stars. The next day Rafal hoes to pick up Hubert, a tortured heretic. He witnesses the public execution of several heretics who didn't recant, further unsettling him.

As he escorts Hubert home, he encourages him to continue his study of astronomy. Like him, he was a former astronomer who lied about recanting. He threatens to kill Rafal if he doesn't work with him. In fear, Rafal accepts. That night he meets with Hubert and observes the stars. Rafal records the positions of several stars, and Hubert tells him his observations, along with previous ones he made, contradict a geocentric model. Rafal tells Hubert the model isn't beautiful—retrograde motion, epicycles, and deferents are too complex to lead to a beautiful solution. Hubert tells him the Earth itself is moving, and proposes a model of heliocentrism ("sun centered").

Episode 2 of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth begins with Rafal countering Hubert's proposed model of geocentrism with several simple thought experiments. On his way home he considers the idea of parallax, and considers the possibility that the observer (Earth) is moving any the stars are stationary. When he arrives home realizes a heliocentric model is, in fact, the simplest and most elegant explanation to the motion of the stars. Hubert tells Rafal to continue his observations on his own and departs. On his home he encounters Inquisitor Novak who has found his blasphemous notes on heliocentrism. Hubert takes the fall, and is executed for heresy.

Rafal returns to his observation site and fights supplies and a note left by Hubert. It contains a lifetime of Hubert's notes, research, and observation, on heliocentrism. The letter tells Rafal to burn it. Rafal refuses, and plans to continue Hubert's research into the heliocentric model. He tells his class he no longer plans to study theology. Instead, he'll study astronomy. Novak, a former mercenary, was hired by the bishop to conduct his inquisition. Potocki encourages Rafal to switch back to theology, so he lies and tells him he'll never study it again. "Lying is rationale", he tells himself. He wonders why Potocki has so many books on astronomy in his house if he detests it.

Figure 1 You Are Ms. Servant, Episode 1

Yuki looks back to Hitoyoshi who followed her out of his house.

Episode 1 of You Are Ms. Servant Yuki arriving at Hitoyoshi's house asking to be his maid. Yuki tells her her previous master referred her to his house—she previously worked as an assassin. Hitoyoshi tells her he has no need for an assassin maid, and she departs. When he tries to return a bell she dropped he's almost hit by a truck and Yuki saves him. He relents, and decides "hire" her to complete menial housework. They eat dinner together, and Yuki enjoys Hitoyoshi's hospitality. Hitoyoshi wakes up early the next morning and finds Yuki in the kitchen eating leftovers. She tells him hitherto all she's ever thought about was killing, and she's happy to be thinking something else. She then talks Hitoyoshi into using her lap as a pillow just as the credits roll.

Summer Overflow

Figure 1 Wistoria: Wand and Sword, Episode 12

Will's party after being rescued by Aaron Masterias Oldking.

Episode 12 of Wistoria: Wand and Sword begins with Will's sword consuming Sion's magic and landing a single decisive strike on the Evil Grand Duke, killing it. Immediately afterwards they're ambushed by hordes of weaker monsters, and Aaron Masterias Oldking, the Light Sovereign, arrives to save them, telling them they fought well. The praxis ends. Eleven professors died. There were no leads on the perpetrators. Lihanna thanks Will for his bravery, and Sion asks Will how he was able to steal his imbue a sword with his magic. He tells him he's not sure. Finn asks the academy head about Will, telling her he'll be watching Will from here on out. Sion challenges Will (again) to a duel and accepts. The episode ends with the students beginning their final exam.

Figure 1 ATRI: My Dear Moments, Episode 13

Everyone throws Atri a birthday party before she leaves for Eden.

Episode 13, and the finale of ATRI: My Dear Moments, begins with everyone leaving Nonko's artificial island, Eden. He plans to take a boat to the mainland with Catherine to look for solutions, but Atri tells him she'd like to follow Nonko's orders to become the administrator of Eden. If she does, she believes she can be useful to the world—to all of them. Natsuki accepts her wish. Before she leaves, everyone throws her a birthday party. Atri asks Minamo to take care of Natsuki in her when she's gone. Atri gives Natsuki a prosthetic leg the others saved up to buy him. Natsuki and Atri travel back to Eden. Atri tells her she'll be in his heart forever, kisses him, then enters the control unit. In despair, Natsuki considers committing suicide shortly before seeing the electric restored to his island. Nastuki tells Atri he'll return for her.

In a 70 year time skip, we see Minamo's granddaughter celebrating the retirement of Atri's Eden platform. Natsuki and Atri live forever in data space. Prety weak show. Not a good ending. Would not recommend.

Other Remarks

My french lenin pants from Atelier Tuffery we delivered today, and I hemmed them myself! They shrank a bit in the wash, but that's okay. I like them. I may order more from the company at a later time. I think I have another pair from a different that my father bought also on the way in? We'll see!

My Nord Grand 2 arrived just as I got home yesterday. I arranged an evening delivery with FedEx, but they arrived early—just as I got home. Fortunately, it all worked out and I was able to sign for it. Good thing, too. It was so heavy I would have been unlikely able to move it myself!

Figure 1 The Nord Grand 2, right out of the box.

This was so difficult to get out of the box and just put on a table. It's much heavier than expected, and there's no handles on it. So you're having to grab this big heavy thing with smooth sides!
Samsung Galaxy Ultra S22

I'll play with it a bit more this weekend and give a more full impression of it later. The preliminary impression is reasonably positive, though. The action is much better than the Yamaha YC61 (at the cost of being almost 5 times the weight!). I don't have a stand for it, though. I'll buy the Nord one next week, I imagine, from B&H Photo when they open next week after Rosh Hashanah.

Other Remarks

I got reasonably smooth playthroughs of the arpeggios after the key change in Decretum from Madoka Magica last night! It took all week, but we are making progress! I'll probably have to spend all of next week getting them to be at or near performance speed.

My Breton shirts came in! And it looks like my pants may come in soon, too. I am excited!

For a long time my "around the house" clothes have been pretty basic. Far lower quality than what I normally way. This is to be somewhat expected for everyone, but something felt a bit off about sitting in front of my piano playing away dressed effectively, if we were to put it in unflattering terms, in homeless elf-attire. Additionally in the winter, despite obviously having centralized heating, it still gets a bit cold indoors and, coupled with my general proclivity towards long sleeved everything (even in the summer), I decided to order several long-sleeved Breton shirts from The Breton Shirt Co.

Figure 1 The Submariner from The Breton Shirt Co.

I was originally sent one of these by my father to forward to my sister, which I of course didn't do because she wasn't interested (and it didn't fit her). So I kept it. At least the shirt was nice.

Another company, Saint James, seemed to have really nice Breton shirts, but the one I wanted wasn't in stock, and I only learned about them after I placed my order from The Breton Shirt Co. anyways. Regardless, the ones I ordered I'm sure will be fine. Although I will most definitely try the Saint James once they get the color/size combination I want back in stock!

I also bought some pants from Atelier Tuffery. They're made out of 100% French linen. I know nothing about the brand (other than that they're expensive, which is required for me to consider them) and that the pants were made in France. I wanted comfortable pants, but I didn't want sweat pants or anything that seemed ugly. Well, actually my main requirement was that the pants were made in France.

Figure 2 Ernest, straight fitted chinos 100% French linen from Atelier Tuffery

Atelier Tuffery warned me the pants may be a bit long, so I'll have to fold them up and, eventually, get them hemmed, I imagine. Alternatively I can hem them myself. I do have black thread and a sewing machine.

If they pants work out I may buy more from Atelier Tuffery. They seem like a reasonably good company. And perhaps I am less picky about the pants that the shirts. My overall preference for pants at work are slim bootcut pants. Actually, those have been my preference for the last 15 years. But they seem pretty rare these days. Actually they've seemed pretty rare for the last 15 years, too. We'll see. I'm not too picky, overall. Again, I would consider and call these "at home piano pants" or "at home computer pants", and they're really just supposed to be an improvement of what I currently have.

Other Remarks

As I type this, my Nord Grand 2 has shipped. Although when it arrives I will probably make a separate post about it. I did not expect it to ship so quickly. I haven't even bought a stand or case for it. When it arrives I'll probably just have to put it on a table downstairs until next month when I order a stand.