May 20, 2014

Skip Beat [Chapter 212]

A couple of women are shock when Kuon swings down from above to the second floor’s porch. He smiles at them and apologizes for startling them. Pointing above, he claims that he carelessly fell down from the rooftop. This made the two women exclaim if he is alright and is he injured. He says that miraculous, he is alright and it is definitely due to the star and stripes flag that protected him like a mother. It is shown that he grabbed the flag pole with the American flag [<- star and stripes flag], twirled around on it and jumped down to the second floor. <- Good kids should not imitate this. As the two women look up to the flagpole, they say that he is truly lucky and he did such an amazing thing. Kuon says no, at that time he is already quite ‘doing it as if his life depended on it’ and he himself is shocked. He asks the women to keep this a secret from the store people since he doesn’t want them to cause trouble to the women. [<- they’ll be asked questions, etc] The women agreed since he is okay with it. Then, Kuon take one last look at the building and recalls Kyouko’s startled expression. Then, he walks away. He takes out his watch from his wallet and put it on his left wrist. “-Rick. – I’m sorry. Rick, I have only one request that I want to ask of you--” Back at the restaurant, Kyouko is shock over the multiple missed calls she got from Jelly. It is because her whole concentration was on Corn and her cellphone in the bag is away from her body so she didn’t feel it vibrating. Mentally apologizing to Jelly, she calls up gloomy Jelly who says, is that so..in the end, she went out. Kyouko profusely apologizes even if she totally doesn’t plan on breaking the agreement but seeing such a beautiful scenery in front of her, her body cannot help but go outside. She also assures Jelly that not only ordinary tourists but also the television drama staff won’t realize who she is since the possibility for that is almost zero and this awareness had made her loosen up some more.. Jelly is wondering that Kyouko as a showbiz person, is that a good or a bad thing. Kyouko apologizes again. Jelly says no, it is alright, it is quite mean to make a young person, who went abroad for the first time, to always stay in the hotel. And, Kyouko goes to blame her weak willpower for this.
While angrily thinking that all of this is Ren’s fault, Jelly assures Kyouko that it isn’t her fault and she shouldn’t mind this. Squirrel Kyouko is unconvinced because she sounds angry. Jelly changes the topic by asking if she is always alone. Since she couldn’t say that she is with a fairy, Kyouko says, yes, she is. Then, she thinks that actually she really wants to say it. Kyouko is puzzled when Jelly says, is that so, then, that’s good. She informs Kyouko that regarding the itinerary, there is a bit of problem so it is possible that there would be a change of time regarding when she’ll pick her up. She advises Kyouko to eat something a bit since she might be hungry at this time. Kyouko says okay. Jelly apologizes and says that she’ll call her again when she’s going to pick her up. Kyouko says okay. Then, she overhears some Chinese tourists praising the quietness and beauty of the place. Kyouko notices that there are suddenly a lot more people around and it seems that business is brisk at nightfall. She decides to quickly go back and take a shower since she perspired a bit. As she leaves, she wonders where she’ll eat a bit of something. At the restaurant, the waiter notices the clock. He winds the clock to its correct time, 6:30pm. At a reserved room of a beauty parlor, Jelly is glaring at gloomy Ren. He darkly apologizes for this is the ugly black star of the never late king. As Ren sincerely apologizes with no explanation, he realizes that he had messed up because of the time of the sunset since he thought it is 530 but actually at that time, it is already 6. Jelly lets him off but asks isn’t he using his watch as a watch since it is always stopped. She says that Ren told her before that he used it as a bracelet but for him not to carry a watch and just head out with no way of knowing the time. She sighs and says forget it, he has to quickly change to Cain. Just when Ren is asking what happened and mentions her name..Jelly quickly glares that he goes to call her by her nickname. Jelly sighs and asks what he is referring to. Ren timidly says no..he thought that he would be strictly scolded if it is the normal her. She pauses and says forget it, it is inevitable and who made her to sometimes be a girl who lives for love rather than beauty. This puzzles Ren that Jelly tells him that it is nothing, they have to quickly get ready for this is an emergency situation.
Pointing at Ren, Jelly exclaims for him not to be shocked for actually, Kyouko is already in Guam. Ren just says, really? Jelly felt furious that he isn’t shock at all that Ren quickly assures her that he is actually very shocked even if he looks like that. Ren thinks that it took a moment for him to reflect on it because he was with Kyouko a while ago. While sitting down on the chair, Ren tells himself to quickly concentrate for he will be ‘Tsuruga Ren’ next. Jelly says that they’ll meet up with Kyouko then eat dinner together. She complains that it is originally at 8pm and right now, they’ll certainly late by an hour. Holding his hands together, Ren apologizes again. Then, Jelly realizes what she felt is out of place, it is his watch which he always wear on his right hand but today, he put it on his left hand. She says that she always felt it strange before because he is obviously right handed so why is he wearing his watch on the right hand. Ren glances at her and Jelly freezes. She recalls Lory telling her that even if he cannot explain to her the details but for Ren to be able to revert to his original form and stroll around outside. This is already a good development but, Ren himself might not be aware of it. Lory had asked Jelly that when she meets up with Ren later on, to please do not be too angry at him. He apologized for the trouble and asked her this favor. End flashback. Jelly drops the topic by saying that sometimes, there are people like that and it isn’t like a rare situation. Ren slightly smiles and thanks her. Meanwhile, sparkling clean Kyouko is looking at two outfits – cutie dress or ordinary shirt-pants outfit. She plans to wear the dress outside of Japan. She was wearing pants when she went through the immigration with Jelly but she didn’t imagine that she would be eating together with her. She imagines what will happen if she wears the dress. Imagination: Jelly exclaims that Kyouko changed to a dress, so cute~~! And it is totally different from a while ago, ah, could it be that she changed for Ren whom she didn’t see for a long time. She calls for Ren to look at Kyouko. Then, she asks Kyouko if she specially bought that dress for today[’s occasion]. End Imagination.
Kyouko viciously throws away the dress and shouts overruled, that’s an extremely dangerous action and very scary for it will expose everything. She is going to hide her feelings for Ren forever in her heart. She mustn’t allow herself to keep on thinking like this or else, her end won’t simply be just going to hell. While wearing the pants, she thinks that for her not to be able to comply with the vow she made and it is just last month. It turns out that she’s already walking the abnormal path and she doesn’t want to become a more shameless person. Pants is enough!! She looks at the mirror and says look, it’s quite cute. She becomes gloomy for it is simply too ordinary. She decides to let it be. She looks at the mirror again. She blushes and thinks that to be able to see Ren is already enough. Later on, a car parks at the parking area. Jelly goes out of the car and tells Ren to wait for a while since his appearance as Cain is quite eye-catching and it would be troublesome if the hotel security got attracted to him. Jelly call on the cellphone Kyouko that they’ve arrived and she learns that Kyouko is already heading down. Ren looks at his watch and thinks that right now it is alright for he is still not Cain Hell. It has been a long time since he meets up with Kyouko as ‘Tsuruga Ren’ and it is too pitiful that in a while, his inner being would switch into Cain. He holds his watch and thinks, “—Rick.. I know that I’ve snatched away your and her future so I don’t have the right to say these words. Whether or not I can request something from you..” Kyouko meets up with Jelly who leads her to Ren. Blushing and surprised, Kyouko bows and exclaims that it has been a long, long time. Jelly exclaims that ‘been a long time’ is fine so why would she change it awkwardly that way. Flustered Kyouko says that it felt like they haven’t seen each other for a year and she’s too nervous. Ren smiles and says, “..it is truly been a long time, Mogami-san.” Narration: “—Rick, please even if how many times I’ve reincarnated and reborn into this world, absolutely do not forgive me.” Next chapter will be out in Japan on June 20th.
Comment: As expected, Kuon used the flagpole for his disappearing act. Since he mentioned that he is also startled, I guess he wasn’t that sure he could pull it off? ^^; That would have been ‘the end’ if something bad happens =P Oh..fairy Corn’s true identity would have been found out = he got sent to the hospital after it caused a ruckus. For him to switch hands, where he wears the watch, I guess he is going to move on. It is one thing to forgive himself but it seems to be a different thing to be forgiven by Rick since he plans to carry that burden of ruining two people’s lives in the afterlife. I’m not too sure if his reincarnated selves would be too happy about that though. ^^; Because it is like asking to place some curse on them = do not forgive/grudge. Before, I’m assuming that he is asking Kyouko about forgiving Shou is more on if she has forgiven Shou so that she can move on and love someone else. Now, I wonder if it also has something to do with Rick. If Kyouko couldn’t forgive Shou for that, what more for Rick and Tina to forgive what Kuon did..or, unintentionally did. For Kyouko, it is more like a temporary ruining of her life but for the other two, it is permanent. So, maybe that is why Kuon believes that Rick should never forgive him for what he did/caused to happen. And, he’ll just make it up to him in the next-nth life. Even if it would be nice if like Tina or there is some evidence that Rick would forgive him later on, but thinking of it make me wonder how many chapters that would take. ^^; And, it turns out that the new reason as to why Kyouko is intent on hiding her feelings for Ren after confessing it to Lory is because of that vow with Shou about not falling in love with Ren. Shou really knows her well on how she’ll act afterwards so he made her promise that. From Gin, a blog reader here, it seems that can be resolved if Ren confesses who he really is because ‘Tsuruga Ren’ doesn’t exist. When Kyouko mentions that it has been a long time she has seen Ren, it seems like Cain doesn’t count nor do Ren-lookalike Corn. ^^; It confused me for a while as to why she is saying that it has been a long time. For those who love to count, if it is around a month, I assume, for Kyouko, how long has it been for us in the real world since ‘Tsuruga Ren’ last appeared? =P Judging from Kyouko’s reaction now, meeting Ren again is greater than recalling whatever kiss that had happened earlier. Hm..maybe later on when she has calmed down a bit? Ren is too busy thinking about Rick so he might have not thought of the kiss he just stole. If there is no time skip or whatever, we ought to have Ren x Kyouko scenes in the next chapter. Would something happen during dinner? Love Confession? Truth Confession? Maybe while Jelly isn’t around? Am I expecting too much? ^^; Anyway, it turns out that Lory’s request is just to let Ren off for strolling around without the means to contact him. For Ren to walk around as Kuon does seem to be good since he is starting to accept/forgive himself and thanks to Kyouko, there is a breakthrough and again, based on his reactions, it seems that he is ready to move on with his life again which makes me wonder and expect that there would be some development in his relationship with Kyouko. Scans by 红莲汉

Quote of the day:
Change has to come for life to struggle forward. ~ Helen Hollick, The Kingmaking

123 comments:

  1. i was checking ur blog after every 5 minutes . thanks for the early release

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  2. Thank you Kat! Can't wait to see what will happen next.

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  3. T-thank yoou T~T I love your summaries and comments, thanks so much! QuQ

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    1. You're welcome and thanks for reading ^-^

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  4. HI again! i made an anonymous comment on the last chapter... this is cool, im on edge for the next 20th!!! i mean... what is Shou gonna do about it, Lory and his plans are for the love of the world after all so no probs with him, i just hope to see Kuu and Kyoko 2gether once again they are really funny as parent and kid... I wonder what might happen at the last shooting for Tragic marker... too much expectations.. what about Kyoko's mother to whom she revealed her whereabouts too... hmmm... cant wait cant wait... Thank you so much KAT!!!

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    1. Indeed so many things to expect but well, the slow pacing and who knows when and if all of that will happen..we can only just wait and hope for the best. ^^

      You're welcome ^-^

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  5. Thanks for ur summary! <3 Tika

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  6. Thanks for the summary Kat. Can't wait till next month about what will happen next :) hopefully it's a good one. I actually really wanna see Kyoko with feminime image and long haired (extension maybe?) so that Ren and Shou fall in love more for her. Kekekeke. -wanna-

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    1. Thanks for reading, wanna ^-^

      Yup. Lol..I think she did that already during the Dark Moon tv interview, right?

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    2. Indeed, i mean in their daily life, not only in the tv interview. ^o^;

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    3. Daily life..well, maybe later on..years later on..maybe in the US. For now, it would mostly be when they are acting/cosplaying.

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    1. Thanks~ and you're welcome, EllasEnigma ^-^

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  8. I agree with you about giving Kuon a hint or at least a sign that they (Rick&Tina) have already forgiven him so that he can look forward and develop his relationship with Kyoukoヾ(@† ▽ †@)ノ That would be great because I honestly didn't like the idea about asking to place a curse on his reincarnated selves (⌒_⌒;) but at the same time it just indicates how much regretful and good he is, and this is enough(♡˙︶˙♡)
    You're just making a lot of people happy with your work, and we all appreciate your effort. Thanks a lot Kat-Sama (⌒▽⌒)☆

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    1. Makes me wonder if Kyoko will meet Tina herself...

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    2. I wonder about that (;´・`)> I can just imagine how touching the situation would be and who knows what Nakamura-Sensei's intending to do ╮(︶︿︶)╭ Let's just wait and see (^ω^)

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    3. Indeed, Lolli..that would be really nice ^^ True...that's really not good = the curse, and ya, it shows how regretful he was that he wanted to be heavily punished for it.

      Thanks for the comment and you're welcome ^-^

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  9. Awwwwww I thought it would have scenes focusing on reaction regarding the kiss. THANKS for the speedy summary and translation.

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    1. Ya..Krazzyme..maybe in the next chapter?

      Thanks for reading ^-^

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  10. Not too much developments (if any at all) in this chapter, it is a bit disappointing but thanks a lot Kat for your efforts. Take a good care of yourself. See you around (or so to speak lol :p ) [Rose(s), one as my signature and the other one for you] Cheers <3 ^_^

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    1. True..not much development.

      Thanks for reading and the comment, Rose ^-^

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  11. thanks for the speed translation!! I was dying to know! May God Bless You

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    1. Thanks for reading and thanks, Irene ^-^

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    2. Dit moi quand est ce que sa sort en scan vf svp

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    3. Wendy, I think the English scanlation was already out.

      Try google ^^

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  12. Thank You I love You ^^ arigatoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
    judy-sama

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    1. You're welcome, judy-sama ^-^

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    2. I'm suddenly currious how many love confessions you get in a day, lol

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    3. Lol, Jeremy. Nah, it rarely happens.

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    4. lol, should I do so again so you don't feel neglected?

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    5. No way! what should I do with the rose... and dinner reservations??? XD
      << Basically the same comment as the one I deleted, but I wanted to edit

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    6. ... I just had an epiphany! Though whether it will be successful hinges completely upon the answer to this surprisingly brilliant question; can you read deleted post???

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    7. Nope, Jeremy, unfortunately not, even if I do wonder at times about those deleted posts by readers.



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    8. Psssh, there goes that plan... so much for secret messages. >.> sorry, I was being weird, lol

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    9. Hehe..so that is what you're plotting. =P

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  13. Hi Kat, actually, if you carefully read the chapter in which Kyouko made her promise to Shou, you'll see that what she actually promised him wasn't that she wouldn't fall in love with Ren, but rather that she wouldn't become a doormat to Ren the way she was with Shou (in this case, it would mean giving up her dream of becoming a world-class actress, in order to cater to Ren's every whim). Of course, Shou thinks that Kyouko falling in love = Kyouko becoming a doormat, so he thinks that he's trapped Kyouko into returning to Kyoto either way, but technically, as long as Kyouko doesn't revert to her old habits (and we've seen, such as in the previous omake with the revealing of the sheep pillow, that's she's trying hard to conquer those old/bad habits of hers), she's free of any promise to return to Kyoto. Of course, I'd like it better if Kyouko just said "Screw it" to any promise she's made to Shou.

    That being said, we have seen that Kyouko has been prone to misinterpreting her promises to other people, the most obvious example being her "vow of chastity" to Ren when what he was actually trying to get her to promise was that she would be more careful about letting other guys steal unwanted kisses from her. I've also seen in the Skip Beat fandom how a lot of fans have misinterpreted Kyouko's promise to Shou, so it's not just Kyouko who's made the same mistake. I guess it's a mark of how good an author Nakamura-sensei is that she can make even her readers make the same interpretation mistake as her characters, when a simple, careful re-read of the chapter in question would solve all misgivings.

    Anyway, we'll just have to see if Kyouko can come to the realization that what she promised Shou wasn't that she wouldn't fall in love with Ren, but that she wouldn't be his doormat. We've seen her reevaluate her "vow of chastity" just a couple of chapters ago, so perhaps that's a foreshadowing that she'll do the same regarding her promise to Shou. :)

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    1. Hi May! My name is also May. Thank you for your insight. I hadn't thought about it that way. But your post somehow lead me to imagine that when Kyouko spills the beans about her feelings for Ren (purposefully/unintentionally), it will be very public. hahaha

      - - - KAT! Thank you SOOO much, again, for what you do. Your work seriously does bring happiness to so many. Be blessed! ~May

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    2. Ever since she made that promise I have been going over and over all the ways that Kyouko might be able to disregard it, lol. Thank you so much for clarifying what the promise actually was! ^_^

      And I have to say that it's so nice having the summaries on this site! Thanks, Kat, for all your hard work! :)

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    3. True, May, though I assumed that it is also implied since earlier that, Shou is asking about her feelings for Ren. And for her to 'become a doormat' is pretty much how Kyouko is when she's in love. She won't be like that if she's not in love, right? Isn't that the theme of 'Love Me' = selflessly doing something for someone?

      Plotwise, I think it would take a longer time for her to get rid of those habits if that is what the promise entails so I think it is easier to just go with 'Ren doesn't really exist' which can be resolved by Ren's truth confession. Hehe, there are so many other things I want/anticipate to happen so I don't want things to be 'stalled' because of this promise thing especially since we are at this point of the story. Also, you're right, it would be better if she just 'screw it' about the promise. Oh well, she wants to keep her word.

      True..that is also partly a reason that if it won't be resolved with Ren's truth confession, maybe Ren can help her get out of the promise since Ren is very good at it. Finding loopholes to things and twisting things..hehe, believable enough for Kyouko =P

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    4. Thanks for reading and the comment, May[2] and Anonymous ^-^

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  14. Thanks kat!! You are wonderful for doing so many translations so fast! You are my manga goddess. :')

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  15. Thanks a lot
    I`ve been waiting ever since I saw the raws yesterday then I got busy and only got to read the summary now
    but honestly nakamura-sesei always stops somewhere nerve-wrecking

    Nora

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    1. You're welcome, Nora ^-^

      That's right..she's really good with cliffhangers..'we want more' =P

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  16. Hi Kat! Thank you for doing this translation, and very fast!
    Well I'm so concerned about how is going to end all this... so many questions and situations that nobody knows how much time is going to take the author to resolve. ..
    When I said that Kyouko isn't going to fall in love with Ren (and with that the bet is off) is because I was thinking: what is the purpose to fall in love with a 'role' (very well portrayed by the way) with a person who just shows little glimpses of the real 'he? Are they going to end like lovers or friends once all the truth about Kuon is out? I mean...Kyouko loves Ren in a romantical way... will be the same with Kuon? @.@ maybe we are going to see the answer in another ten years! :P
    My best wishes for you!
    Gin
    P.s. are you going to drop the summaries for Kainushi wa akuma?

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    1. Thanks for reading, Gin ^-^

      That's right..and the slow pacing doesn't help.

      True..and now that you've mentioned it, what would he do with 'Ren' after he revealed who he really is.

      That's right, it might take another decade if her reaction to it isn't good.

      Thanks~

      Ah, Kainushi wa Akuma was dropped. It was too episodic and repetitive. Every chapter is: they are given a mission/job, they do it and ends with the usual, the main couple 'lovey-dovey' thing.

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    2. Hope to see more development in the next chapters!
      Well... the KwA series is being translated to english and released already... but I have to go to another site to read it! Aand I'm sooo lazy! Hehehe... you got every thing here! ;) Thank you so much Kat, you are wonderful!
      Take care!
      Gin

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    3. Yup ^^

      Hehe, is that so ^^

      You're welcome and thanks for the comment, Gin ^-^

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    4. @gin I think you r thinking a bit too much about it
      kuon started acting as tsuruga ren at first but from the start a lot of us can see that he is not exactly acting he is a human being who gets angry and feels pain , only thing is he can`t accept that old angry part in him if he could accept that then it`s just him in the flesh in front of us after this last arc and the previous flashbacks i believe it`s obvious he wasn`t and is not a violent guy to the core .

      because of what happened ren seems to associate any angry reaction within him as a reaction from kuon ( it was obvious in the valentine arc and the later arcs) but the truth is even as tsuruga ren he can lose control and get angry so it`s just him in both cases he is just cheating himself till it`s time and kyoko helps him accept everything and move on

      ..hikari

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    5. You're right, it is weird if Kyoko falls for only 'Tsuruga Ren' (even if he's gorgeous), but you know, she told Lory that she first started falling for him at the time of the acting test. That is, the day before, when he asked her for help. And at that time, he wasn't Ren, he was just himself. Ren wouldn't do things like that, and be so utterly shameless, he's a gentleman. And if you read carefully, each time one the 'locks' break, its generally when Kuon comes to the surface.
      Like on Valentine's day, Ren told Kyouko about the rule of the heart, and he was his smiling scary self. On the other hand, the one who got jealous to the point of kissing her (with that look!), was probably Kuon. Its the same with the maou omurice incident. So the one she falls in love with is actually Kuon...at least that's my interpretation...though i didn't think of the whole Kuon/Ren angle before.
      And Kat, you're the best! I generally wait till the translation comes, because i love reading while seeing the drawings, but whenever it takes too long, you're the one i come to. Thanks! ��

      Anupama

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    6. True, Anupama. There are things that aren't so 'Ren' during their encounters.

      Thanks for reading ^-^

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  17. Thanks Kat for the the summary, excellent work as always.

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    1. Thanks for reading and the comment, Evie ^-^

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  18. thnx a lot for the summary. I think now the whole thing with rick should end leaving ren a free man. May be somehow kyoko will meet tina and then hearing kyoko , tina will forgive ren. Maybe it'll be shown that ren was at no fault, it was an accident caused by other way. Hope after this ren-kyoko relationship will progress a little bit as it has been enough dragged already :(

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    1. Thanks for reading ^-^

      Indeed..hopefully so. Ah, actually, Ren is more like an 'indirect cause'. Iirc, in that flashback, that bully must have made Ren to go berserk then Rick tried to intervene and bully ran him over with the car. So, Tina blamed Ren for it.

      Hopefully so. And if that meet Tina happens..wouldn't Kyouko have to be in the US? Unless Tina went to Japan. I do except both to go to the US in the end..so if it isn't at the end, I wonder if Shou thing would be resolved first then Ren becoming 'free' by meeting Tina, bully or something.

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  19. THANK YOU!!!
    I've been waiting for this! glad I've found you blog :DDD

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  20. I love Skip beat, truely I do, but I really think it's gone on too long. Take note that the timeline since valentine's Day is just ONE month, but in real time, our time, it's like, 4 years ? What year was the Valentine's arc when Kyouko got kissed by Sho ? I 'm afraid I'd be a grandma in one year of Skip Beat.

    Take note too, that Kyouko's dream is to be more famous than Sho.... at least that's the original goal.... I guess it's now to be an actress worthy of Ren . When will that happen ? I guess my grandchildren will continue the legacy coz I'd be gone from this world by then.

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    1. Lol, true, megaworthit..the pacing is slow and now, it is once a month instead of two.

      Hehe..how old would the mangaka be by then? =P I think she can achieve that when she goes to US with Ren and make a name for herself there. So far, there are no new projects for Ren and I think this movie might be his last one in Japan since he will be resolving his past issue and possibly, head back home. Actually, if it is just being famous..she will be since if she is known as 'Ren's girlfriend' and I'm sure Ren is more popular than Shou. =P

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    2. About Ren going to the US..... I've been wondering about that. Is that really his real goal ? His dream? Does it mean he's going to leave Kyouko who's pursuing her dream in Japan, while Ren is in the US ? Will this story come to that ? To be honest, I have never encountered that part where he was supposed to come back to the US, like permanently. I know he did communicate with his parents via the tape, remember, and he did say he would come back to see them sometime.... but not to stay there permanently. ( He's a US citizen, that much I remember. )

      My fear is that after reading hundreds of chapters for so many years, Ren at the end of the story will be going back to the US.... when in fact, he's better off staying in Japan where he's an idol, and the most famous actor..... and hopefully , with Kyouko, also successful, and already his wife.

      It's not realistic that Kyouko will go to the US and become famous there. That's really stretching it. She's better off staying in Japan where she can be famous. There's too much competition in the US, especially for Asian females., especially someone with an accent.

      I hope that's not the goal.

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    3. I thought that was the goal, megaworthit. To be an international actor like his father or even surpass him. Usually, to hit it big like that, one has to be in the US, right? Whether or not the story will come to that..it depends if there will be another project for Ren or Kyouko after their current ones.

      Heck, I just want to see Kyouko's reaction upon knowing that Kuu will be her 'future father-in-law' and for her to meet the 'fairy queen'. And, maybe complete Ren's 'healing', like what the others are saying, meet Tina. Go to the US! =P

      Is that so..I think given their acting, why not dream big and be ambitious to be world famous and not just famous in Japan. Both successful and married.

      Hm..if this is a more realistic shoujo series, I would agree with you but for me, this isn't realistic so I don't apply such realities about competition in the US, etc here. And, since Kyouko is good in acting/perfecting her craft, she can fix that accent.

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  21. Thank you so much for the summary! I like what you say that Kyoko's promise to Shou is that she won't become a doormat but that it doesn't specifically say that she can't fall in love. I had not realized that before!
    If that is the case, I'd be quite happy that she made that promise, since I want Kyoko to go after her own dream (being an internationally acclaimed actress), while being in a good relationship with Ren and not necessarily catering to his every whim. I really hope that you are right about this and she realizes she can still fall in love with Ren without being a doormat/breaking her promise.

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    1. Think of all the people Kyouko has in her life right now: Lory, Jelly, Maria, Kuu, Momo-chan, Chiori, the Darumaya couple, the guys from Bridge Rock, Yashiro, Hiou, Sawara, even Reino and Shou, and most importantly Ren/Kuon/Corn...She doesn't exactly surround herself with people who would just quietly watch her throw away all her dreams to roll over and become someone's doormat (like even Ren alone would let her get away with that, hahaha). I suppose since Shou did that himself he assumed that others were capable of doing the same to Kyouko, but she's a strong woman who attracts equally strong people to her. If she messes up, they tell her. If she loses faith, they scold her. It's part of the reason why she likes them, because they don't hold back and she appreciates their honest advice and support. :)

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    2. Thanks for reading, Claudia ^-^

      Well, whether it is become doormat or can't fall in love, hopefully, things won't stall/drag because of that since we are at this point of the story.

      In the end, I'm sure that Kyouko will fulfill her dream and get her prince..after all, that is the best ending for a girl who believes in fairy tales - live happily ever after ^^

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  22. I wonder what if Rick getting hit by a car wasn't an accident? What if it was a hit and run. That man that looks seemed to bully Kuon for years doesn't look like from a poor family. Could he have hired someone to kill Rick or at least hit him badly, knowing Kuon will blame himself. I mean Rick was the one to encourage Kuon to stick up for himself. That car looked like it came out of no where and was the only car on the street. So what if that guy had something against Rick too. There could be a chance that Tina and Kyoko could meet. And Tina who accepted Rick won't blame Kuon anymore.

    Brittany

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    1. Brittany, well, it does seem to be a hit and run. I think it was the bully who ran him over. Iirc, from the flashbacks, Kuon was on a rampage. They told him to stop but he said, he doesn't understand English. They try to ran away but he goes after them. Rick is trying to stop him or intervene. I think the bully guy got away first and well, hit Rick. Tina saw it. She blame Kuon for knowing Rick and getting Rick involved which resulted into his death.

      It's possible.

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    2. True, hopefully when he reveals his identity he'll explain what happened that day. It will also help if we heard Tina's side of the story. The way they all met.

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    3. Yup, Britanny ^^ And we might be in for a very long flashback due to the slow pace of the series. =P

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  23. I mean Tina accepted Rick's death will forgive Kuon.

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  24. If they would move it to a weekly magazine, that would sedate our hunger if not solve the pacing issues. But I wonder... does anyone know Skip Beat's ranking? Because at this pace I foresee another one, two, perhaps three years left to get this couple together, and I cant help but to wonder if the popularity will hold out. I mean, there's got to be a reason they moved it back to a bi monthly magazine, right? I would say most manga are cut somewhere on the first 10 chapters, then half of the survivors around 50, and from there only a third make it to 100... its pretty fierce combat to make it to 200, but at that point you pretty much in legendary waters, with a vast fan base and a track record of profit editors cant say no to. But there's also factors such as the authors age, and the ever evolving interest group. Just because it has made it this far, we cant assume that it will stand the test of time.

    But then again, we cant say 'speed up the pacing either' because it wouldn't feel natural at all. Skip Beats key feature is that its very detailed, expressing thoughts and emotions... and it is for that very reason, that its pacing is slow. If they were to speed events up, we would no longer be able to dive into the realm of insanity, that is Kyouko's head, and that would indeed take away much of what I enjoy about the story.

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    1. On a side note, I very much want to see a chapter, or better yet, a small arc, dedicated to the incident between Kuon and Rick, so that we can finally get an understanding of what happened between them, what has turned Kuon into the programmed perfect Ren with no real emotions that we see every day.

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    2. True..Jeremy. Actually, it used to be twice a month until a few years ago. I'm assuming there was a reason for this..mangaka slowing down, health issues, etc? Well, based on ANN here, I think the latest volume is doing well for a shoujo..of course, Kimi ni Todoke seems to be the top favorite shoujo in Japan based on the overall sales.
      http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-04-09/japanese-comic-ranking-march-31-april-6

      I think the popularity would hold up especially if the mangaka continues to focus on this part - Ren's past, Ren and Kyouko's development..go to US? =P What everyone is waiting for. Huh, it has always been in a bi-monthly magazine, Hana to Yume. Indeed, to reach chapter 200, it is already quite legendary = classic? That it is still popular until now even if the pacing is slow, among other things. I think it is an amazing feat to keep readers hooked until now. Sometimes, I think that she's fishing = drop the line to us readers..we pick at it and think that it is safe..nothing is going to happen then wham, she catches us with something really surprising like that kiss scene or whatever sudden exciting scene/cliffhanger. Then, repeat the process. =P

      That's right..it has always been like this which I've noticed after catching up to it up to the Dark Moon arc when Kyouko is figuring out her Mio role. At that time, people are saying that this series is better read in volumes than chapters. True..it is subtle but I do notice the mangaka really think things through here = not shallow. I think the slow pacing helps in that area.

      I think we will have that. Maybe a flashback when Ren starts to tell Kyouko about Rick and his past? Hm..wasn't it to hide his true identity and start all over again? No real emotions = do not want to get too attached with anyone especially girls because of his 'I don't deserve happiness' thing. Hehe, maybe opposite of himself since Ren is a perfect gentleman type? ^^

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    3. Ah, I stand corrected, I thought I remembered reading about it switching magazines at one point, to a sister magazine with fewer release dates, but now that i'm looking it up, I cant find that anywhere, so I guess it has always been bimonthly. And i'm glad to hear its ratings remain high. Haha, I think in regards to the life of lengthy manga such as Skip Beat and One Piece, I'm a bit paranoid. Lol, what with Japan being plagued by earth quakes and tsunamis, the land mass reportedly sinking, and high tension conflict with China and North Korean, I sometimes harbor the delusion that if a manga doesn't finish soon, it may never. My reservations aside...

      I agree that the popularity should hold out, considering the mangaka is very talented, and is currently leading us in a good direction. The locks are finally clicking, the pieces of the puzzle aligned; it wouldn't be a stretch to say we're narrowing down on a conclusion here. However, I wager three more things must occur for their relationship to blossom, all of which could be achieved through a simple conversation, but will more than likely take an entire arc each; Ren forgiveness, the explanation of his past/confession that he is Kuon, to Kyouko, and a confession of love from either of the two parties involved, likely in that order even. As many have said, the best way to do this, may very well be a group trip to America, for if one does not cut open wounds to let out the puss, they will never heal.

      I most definitely think the mangaka is a fisherman by nature, or better yet a genius commander of guerrilla warfare posing as a gardener. She has created what appears to be a gentle path for us to tread upon, yet has layered the ground with trip wires and pit falls, or sudden turns and hills that cannot be seen around the corner, behind the tree line. A pacing that makes it appear as if nothing monumental will occur, and then out of nowhere we have a game changer.

      Right, we know that he is changing his persona/hiding his emotions as to not get attached, because he feels he doesn't deserve this happiness, but they have not made the details clear as to what exactly happened and why he blames himself to such a degree that he feels this way. I agree that a flashback either with Ren, his father, or Brittney talking, would be the best way. My preference is Ren, its more personal... and due to events of late, it doesn't seem that far fetched. Haha, from what we've seen of his natural transition from Cain to Kuon, as if they were the same person, that also seems likely... but only as one facet of Kuon, for we also know him to be a gentleman (at least around Kyouko) when he was visiting her as a kid... though then again, I believe that was before he was warped.

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    4. Hehe, Jeremy, I do have such thoughts, too. Aside from that, it is also from my side like will I live to see the ending since our country, like Japan, has its own share of calamities every year and we also have tension with China. =P Anyway, it's better not to have such negative thoughts. ^^

      Indeed..we are at the good part of the story since it is already established that the two are already really amazing in terms of their acting skills ^^ Ya..and maybe, a 'feel good' moment in making Shou regret and other reactions when the 'secrets' are exposed =P

      Indeed..really amazing. In a way, she seems to be a Sadist..so we are Ms for wanting more? ^^;

      I think he was already slightly warped during the time he met Kyouko. Reino mentioned that to Kyouko that Corn the stone has darkness from its owner. So, I presumed, he is already having difficulties with the bully. When he returned, things keep on piling up and finally, he snapped. And, that happened. By the way, who is Brittney? ^^; Hm..was he a gentleman, there? I assumed he is not for he is more of a 'fairy'-friend..and being a 'gentleman' is more like aloof + overly polite that there is some distance of not wanting to let one's guard down which is what I presumed, 'Ren' is. But of course, I think there are times when things overlap and it isn't really 'acting as Ren'.

      From this series, I get the impression that in acting, one can somewhat merge the role with one's own personality or 'attack' on it like Kyouko's Mio..she changed it into something different from the original or Ren's Katsuki. So, with Kuon's 'Ren'..surely, there are some parts that are Kuon. Speaking of Dark Moon, that, Box'R and Tragic Marker are interesting stories by their own ^^

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    5. Lol, I don't know about the calamities part; I mean, unless you live in the south east or tornado alley, you don't really have to worry about any natural disasters... that being said, our relationship with China, North Korea, and Russia, leaves something to be desired... world war three anyone? (shudder) I agree, lets stay positive, lol.

      I too, am very interested in seeing how Shou will respond; he certainly wont go down quietly. At some point his taking her kindness for granted became a sense of entitlement... I wouldn't say he loves her by any means, but after all that has occurred, he has built somewhat of an obsession sparked by this delusion of ownership. He was more than willing to let her go, but only so long as she still wanted/needed him, now that she is going her own way, when in his mind, she should be eternally chasing his coat tails, now he is interested in her. I just hope the mangaka doesn't put too much focus on him, and stir up the ShouXKyouko camp again. For even if he does turn out to have feelings for her, I cannot forgive him for hurting her so deeply. Lol, Ren and Kyouko are meant to be together, it is the fairy prince and the pure maiden after all ;P

      Is that so? ...I guess I'll have to become an 'S' then to keep you satisfied ;P

      Ah, Brittney... that's... forget about it, lol. I must have been exhausted that night, because I thought I read a conversation calling Rick's girlfriend Brittney (been so long since I read that capture, so I don't remember such details)... when really, Brittney was one of the posters. Ah, well I would consider a gentlemen to be kind and considerate, and the gentle regard in which he held young Kyouko's heart was just that. In my mind Gentlemen ~> Prince... a fairy is a prince with wings and sparkles, right??? LOL

      He has been acting of Ren, but then again, he uses life experiences and knowledge to create his roles right? And after acting Ren for so long, I'm sure Ren has been deeply ingrained in his soul, has become a part of him. I cant see the two as separate entities, but rather, as two sides of the same coin.

      They could be, would be nice if we got a spin off that took place within world of Dark Moon... but I think its unlikely.

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    6. I do live in the Southeast, Jeremy. The Philippines where typhoons drop by every year and well, they say we are due for a big one = earthquake. And, well, China is claiming parts of the country = illegal fishing/poaching so far, our country is more passive than the other Southeast country. I'm not sure if there would be war due to that one and amusingly enough, big as they are, they claim we are the bullies =P Indeed..thinking of all that can make one go crazy and paranoid.

      Indeed, it seems to be like that with Shou. I really hope he gets what he deserves. True..so I do wonder why there are people who are for Shou x Kyouko. Well, there are other series that are like that..after getting hurt and everything, it is okay because 'I love him/her'. Hehe..actually, there are those who are like that in real life so I guess I shouldn't be wondering why. ^^;;

      Lol...ah, I actually don't know if I would like to have an S.

      I see..I was wondering if you just made a wrong mention of name..her name is Tina, Rick's girlfriend. Ah, I see. In my mind, gentleman is more like a butler in shoujo series. =P Overly formal and stiff..not revealing too much feelings.

      Ah..possible, it is like that. It somewhat overlap..whether he is conscious of it or not.

      True..and ya, it is unlikely.

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    7. Forgive me, I assumed you lived in the US, as the regions I was refering to depicted. but certainly being on an island you have far more reason for concern than I. just know I'm here supporting you... even if that doesn't really mean anything ;3

      Eh, I hate endings where the girl choses out of pitty at the cost of her own happiness, or enters a painful relationship out of blind love. Sure, its alright to feel bad for the guy, or even help him stand back up on his own two feet, but that should never be the source or center of a relationship; its not healthy.

      XD to be honest, I'm not really into S&M myself; just using any opertunity to flirt ;P

      That is the case. eh, not quite, for butlers serve gentlemen. A gentlemen is to be chivilrous, which all really goes back to the concept of nobles and knights. I guess that still entails a great deal of regalness or formality but its also very dedicated to how one should serve/treat/woe a women. well, at least, that how modern people view it, I believe the original concept had a far darker undertone. ie, we treat women exceptionally well, for in everything else they are our slaves.

      I agree completely.

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    8. No problem, Jeremy. Nevertheless, thanks~

      True..I also don't like such endings and *shrug* I assume that it is somehow a depiction of again, 'happens in real life' wherein emotion takes over thinking. I just hope the younger readers don't treat such as 'how it should be'.

      Hehe, I assumed so. ^^

      Ah..that's right. I was thinking of 'ladies first' concept and well, reading those butler shoujo series, made me think of that. Oh, is that so. Hm..slaves in terms of household work?

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    9. Well as you said, some people are like that in real life... and as I have seen posters supporting the kyoukoXShou camp... I think its an unfortunate reality.

      Ah, I supppose it depends on whether we're talking of proper butler conduct or not. in many butler shoujos the butler falls in love with and eventually romances his master, but that's not exactly how one should behaive. I would have to say the differnce between a butler an a gentlemen would be one treats a lady formally as his duty, whereas the other gently to romance. but maybe I'm over thinking things. I mean, you can't really divide up the world into a butler and gentlemen class, certainly some can be both, or nothing of the sort ;P

      Back in the time of knights marraige didn't have so much to do with love as it did money land and titles; in essense, power... with prehaps the most important duty being child birth. And for the longest time sense women were not viewed as equals, not permitted to take jobs, their place was in the kitchen, in the home, their duty raising kids, pleasing their husband... oh and they were always to be agreeable. So I feel like this concept of treating women exceptionally well was to make up for, or ballance out all the crap we put them through. Which, if truly is the case, is by no means okay.

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    10. Well, that's just my theory... and theories aside, it is still double standard/sexism to do things for ladies you would not do for men, ie; opening the door for them, letting them go first, exctra. So the idea of treating them special in itself, goes against their movement for equality. Lol, it would be a contradiction to say, "For us to be equals, you have to let me do everything you do... and still revere me as a goddess." And yet... despite saying all this, I'd probably still open the door for you ;P Standards or not, its a true man's desire to bring happiness to his lover, though perhaps not to the extent of god hood... I feel its best to meet in the middle. Though, that may be no more than opinionated dribble that only adheres to me.

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    11. I see...Jeremy. True..hm..though I thought gentlemen do it for 'all ladies' and not just for 'one's lover' like you've mentioned, opening the doors for them, etc. It seems more like etiquette to me. Of course, one can use 'gentleman acts' to woo the girl =P

      Ah, true..I think such is still the same in this current times but more on the rich..or old rich people wherein breeding, power, money and position are of prime importance rather than love. Ah, I think this is more common in Asian traditional families. Is it still the same in the US? Well, aside from royal families and such since, as of late, love is to be given more priority.

      In a couple of shoujo, I have encountered such a theme in modern setting that the parents even suggest that their children take on the ones they love as 'mistress' for love whereas the 'formal wife' is for position, money, breeding, etc. There is also 'miai'[/arranged marriage dates] in their country so I'm sure they do some comparing using such criteria before 'love'. In a way, maybe after the initial interest, just cross the fingers and hope there would be love later on? Well, for the desperate ones. So, I'm saying that isn't exactly limited to the time of knights. And, this is based in Japan wherein I think the gender equality is quite low. Though, the compensation of being treated exceptionally well is a good thing in those days. Hm..I wonder if they are willing to or it is just 'how society works so I'll do it, too'.

      Ah, I have heard of that argument. I recall reading some feminists do not want to be accord such acts. Hm..in a way, it can be some 'factor' on deciding on how well a guy would treat a girl? I mean between a suitor who does such things and another who doesn't, doesn't the suitor who does have an edge? Something like this guy would treat one well since he does this already even before marriage? Of course, that can be a ploy of a guy to win the girl's heart, and all that is thrown away in the garbage after the marriage. ^^;

      Actually, not only in 'love situations', I think it is applicable in others..here, if someone is really nice and treat you well, it is very hard to decline a favor since one will be viewed as an 'ingrate'. Something like as you've mentioned, 'make up for' or 'doing this in exchange of something'. Does that also commonly happen there?

      True..ideally, it should be so - somewhere in the middle..well, above average would be nice =P

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    12. Ah, that is the case, a gentlemen is to act kindly to all women, not just his lover. That being said… I can’t entirely agree with the feminist claim, that this is ‘double standards’. I mean, it’s only natural for men to want to please woman, and in turn garner their favor. If anything, it would be double standard for women to not return the effort. But if done only because it is what is socially expected, or because you wish to appease women after treating them as slaves(as if flattery could make up for such acts), then it is wrong.
      Personally I won't do something for girls that I wouldn’t do for guys, but I would do things for one girl, that I would do for no one else. So I don't exactly meet the standards of chivalry or gentry. Which, isn't to say I don't open doors for ladies; I just do it for guys too. ;P
      But we seem to have derailed at some point. I believe we were discussing whether or not young Kuon could be considered a gentlemen in the way he treated Kyouko as a little girl. I feel it is so, that he was kind and gentle, yet reserved... which seems to fit the definition for me at least. I certainly don't think he acted that way to garner her favor, for if he was in love with her at the time, he did not know it.
      Eh, not really, no... I think America is where the concept of marrying for love really derived from. At the very least, we certainly encourage it the most. I suppose some of our largest or oldest companies might marry for the sake of mergers, but you don't really hear about it; more often than not, the news displays the opposite. I mean, I know in the entertainment industry they often marry other entertainers, but I think that’s natural; something along the lines of, ‘she understands me, and our relationship doesn't feel like a competition’; such as would occur if we paired a rock star and the local drug store clerk... obviously there will be jealousy and a feeling of inadequacy or unworthiness on the part of the drug store clerk.
      Hmmmm, I would almost say a miai is an attempt on the part of the older generation to meet us half way; to merge an arranged marriage with one for love. As while the parents do narrow down the candidates, you are still free to choose the one you will pursue. Though, this is still an issue if you happen to fall in love outside of the miai selection. I agree, Japan still has a ways to go in the realm of equality.
      I suppose that depends entirely on the girl, as we know many modern girls aren’t interested in old school romance, not to mention feminist... others even prefer to be abused. 0.0 But I would agree that it should give him edge. And while I can't speak for all men in general, I feel it should be our pride duty and joy to treat our women well, and not merely as line and fishing bait. People just don't seem to care anymore, which is why we have such a lovely climb in divorce rates ;(
      Yes, I think that occurs everywhere, and not just people feeling that they should return the favor, but with the giver handing out with the intent that the recipient feel that way. In essence, people doing things for others, in order to raise their own standing. Well, I guess a bit of that is in everyone, for even if you donate to charity, you do it because it makes you feel good, better about yourself, and not necessarily simply because you want to help. To an extent, it’s not entirely a bad thing... I mean, what's wrong with feeling good about yourself... but when it becomes a matter of expecting tangible returns, desiring them, then that's a bit of a problem.

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    13. Hehe, is that so, Jeremy. True..well, maybe at least, not make the intent obvious? =P So, it is more like 'be nice to everyone' even if it is 'more nice to people we care/love' ^^ True..this is getting a bit off topic. I see..true, he wasn't expecting anything in return but yes, he got more from that..so does she ^^

      Oh..is that so. True, difference in position, etc can cause friction and problems, among other things. Of course, it depends on the couple to make it work as in any other relationships.

      Indeed..that is where the problem starts..'falling in love outside of miai' or even 'after the miai', perhaps.

      True..and things are 'fast' these days including romance or even married life. ^^;

      I agree. In a way, from what you've mentioned, it is needed. And yes, expecting something from it can be quite a problem.

      Thanks for your insight ^^

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    14. Haha, once again, sorry for typing so much, I hope I didn't overwhelm or bore you. Also, it may seem like I'm always contradicting myself, but I just like to examine things from all perspectives and angles.

      I agree, that would be the best policy. Although, I'm a little too straight forward to appear inconspicuous, @.@ life's too short not to grasp the important things with all your might. Lol, I'd say… if finding the love of your life isn't considered a return, I don't know what is.

      Indeed, if you are already a couple you can work out the differences… but, I think it’s still harder on those in the initial 'hook up' stage. I mean, if you have nothing in common, if you don't understand what the other person goes through, then it’s a lot harder to bond I think. And while discrediting that whole ‘we’re from two different worlds’ concept appears easy in manga, real life is never so simple.

      Lol, so don't go to any miai meetings, I won't be satisfied playing the role of lover. ;P

      Hmmm... on one hand the negative regard for divorce did force people to reconsolidate, work out their problems, find their love once more, and bind themselves anew, emerging stronger than ever; on the other, it left those who really had no love or weren't right for each other, with no escape, and in effect, destroyed their lives. I’ve heard stories of men who would live in their attic because they couldn't stand their wives, but since divorce was not socially acceptable were unable to separate. That being said, I agree completely, relationships move too fast. But that's not limited to 'these days', the only difference is that in the past you couldn't do anything about it, once you made that jump you were stuck. Though... rather than divorce, people need to slow down, take their time to see if they’re right for each other, if they are truly in love, and then get married. That seems a far better choice than establishing a home and family, just to find out it’s no good 10 years down the road.

      And thanks for always giggling. ;3 …I wonder if that’s a true representation of your personality, or if you just like to act as such when writing? Lol, that didn’t come off rude, right? Haha, just reading your compositions, always make you appear so cute. >.> I wouldn’t mind if that were the case. ;P

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    15. Not really, Jeremy. I actually feel hm..bad for not answering an equally lengthy reply. ^^; Ah, no problem..I tend to do that at times especially if the discussion has become quite lengthy. Lol, got confused.

      Indeed ^^

      Yup..though, I think sometimes, it is also more on 'attraction' during the initial stage. Of course, the good looking guys easily has an edge on that. Of course, whether that continues on depends on more interaction between each other which in turn, can create more understanding = might want to progress relationship. Ah..of course, as you've mentioned, that is the somewhat old fashion way. I assume that the process is more faster these days in well, more 'modern' societies.

      Lol.

      Ah..'slow down, take time, etc' so more on counseling? Actually, our country is one of those few countries left that don't have divorce. So, ya, pretty much stuck with the other person. That is because of the influence of the Catholic church. Their reason is well, aside from religion beliefs is that divorce will 'destroy families' because it makes it easier to separate. So, I guess, since the opposite is somewhat true in your country, that it actually makes people want to re-think and make the relationship work. I actually had the impression that divorce does make it easier to separate with news about celebrities getting married then after a few years..days, get divorce. Or are they exception to that?

      True, it is a no escape if there is no divorce...stuck in a bad relationship and if really unfortunate, stuck with an abusive partner...or horrors, closet gay/lesbian. There is such a thing as annulment though in our country = marriage didn't happen though only the rich can afford that because our justice system is really slow and everything that the ones who get rich are the lawyers and at times, the judges. So, if able, it is usually live separately and probably have lovers/live in partner. Though, for women, it seems to be more on ending up as single parent.

      Well, more or less, it is a true representation. =P

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    16. Haha, is that so? Lol, I've always been worried that when you don't add a lengthy reply to match mine, it is an inclination of your lack of interest. I'm glad that's not the case... but now that we have that clear, there is no need for you to feel duty bound or any such nonsense, write as you like; that is, after all, the best writing to read. ;3

      Yes, lol, damn those good lookers. Hopefully old fashion does not mean archaic, or I’ll be in a little trouble here. For while I may be up to date in technology and such, my ideas regarding love remain pure. Foolish or not, I want to believe that there is a true passion out there waiting for us, that it sweeps through us, consumes us, and colors our world in vibrant passion. For what else do we struggle through life for?

      Ah, no, my ‘slow down’, ‘take your time’, referred to the ‘getting to know each other’ stage, to assure that you are truly in love before marriage, the ‘let’s make sure we’re right for each other before we make ‘the jump’’, kind of thing. But that is also a good point; the relationship shouldn't be rushed in the connecting or the disconnecting phases. I agree that a couple should try counseling before breaking up.

      No, I think you misunderstood me; I was referring to the generations prior to the 60's, when divorce was frowned upon in the US; a rarity at best. In the US today however, it occurs as you stated, very frequently. Which is not to say it’s more frequent among celebrities, it might just be -that as they are famous- because it’s printed in papers, blasted on the web, and relayed over the radio, that we hear of it so often. Whereas if some random guy two blocks down the street gets a divorce, we may never know. Then again, they do say there is a relationship between culture and media; the media reflects the culture, and the culture is influenced by the media. So perhaps they do get divorces more often than the common man, after all, one could say they cheat each time they’re on the screen.

      I would say in most cases the ‘we don’t want to break up the family’, does make them rethink the decision, but a lot of times it only results in their setting back the date, such as waiting until the kids leave home. Then again, a lot of things can happen in that time.

      That really is unfortunate, still, I guess as long as you make sure you have the right person you should be fine. I mean, no relationship is perfect, and there will be times you struggle, but if you can make it through the hardships together, and still say you love each other, then you can make it through anything. That’s the kind of love I want.

      Oh? Is that so? I’ll start booking a plane ticket then ^^ lol

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    17. Glad to hear that, Jeremy ^^

      Hopefully not. Indeed..I tend to be the same in regards to love and values, etc. Hehe, so I can pretty much understand that. Of course, being older now, it is somewhat tempered by 'reality' that ideals aren't exactly..sigh..you know.

      I see. I think that most of the time, those who immediately 'make the jump' are the ones who were very passionately in love = love is blind. After marriage, they realize what they got in for especially when the 'feeling' is gone. Ah..how fast they realize = how fast the divorce would be? That's the impression I have including in 'going steady' stage.

      Oh..is that so. Ah, true, celebrities do get their private lives being preyed upon on for money = news. Of course, it depends on them if they want that whether positive or negative in order to remain in people's consciousness. True, I think that has always been a problem between actor/actresses in such love scenes. Ah..you were talking about that, right? ^^;

      Indeed, a lot of things can happen during that time and there are people who opt for it especially if they cannot stand each other more if the kids are gone.

      Indeed..I think that is what most people want ^^

      Hehe...^^

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    18. Lol, employing terms such as ‘reality’ make you sound like an old lady. ;P Well, it’s not as if I don’t understand where you’re coming from. Through my 21 years, I have seen much through the eyes of far older a man. And yet… no, maybe it’s because of that, that I'm this way. I can be a bit childish and eccentric at times, but I think that's one of my good points, as my high spirits always keep those around me amused. And even if it is a bit of a lie, if you put up a smile, you don’t feel so bad. Ah, am I talking nonsense?

      At least, those who 'think' they are passionately in love. What I think it comes down to, is how do you know if you're really in love? As someone who's always wanted to be loved, wanted to be in love, and to love another; I've been in a number of relationship where I measured and calculated the reasons I loved her… and yet, were those reasons real, or was I simply trying to convince myself? Because I wanted to find happiness, because I wanted to give 'her' happiness; to believe and chase the dream?

      I don't know if I've ever been in love, or even if the whole concept is but a figment of our imaginations; desire's manifesto unbound. If it is real, how do you know? Will it be like a cannon ball ripping a hole through you; your breath instantly torn astray? Your life suddenly and unequivocally changed? Or is it simple things, the simple warmth of their touch, the simple curl of their smile, the heat of their breath tingling the soft of your flesh; just, simple happiness? I don't know, yet I want to believe. Is that foolish, should I stop dreaming? I suppose it’s something along the lines of: Despite the darkness of night, we are still enamored by the moon; for all the vastness in space, yet still, do we reach for the stars; humans are such fools.

      I can see that, though even if they are reported for good deeds it can be construed as bad. Such as a donation to charity, one could ask: are they really a good person, or did they simply wish to appear so? That and the fact that the media prefers to pick up on the dark juicy secrets rather than that which highlights high moral fiber. No, I meant just that. Love scenes, kisses... I'm not sure how I'd feel with an actress as a wife; I'd want to support her, but I don't know if I could stand watching her kiss another guy.

      Indeed; it is so.

      I'm glad you share my sentiments.

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    19. Lol, Jeremy..well, I am kind of old..age-wise. =P Is that so. Not really..I can understand that since I'm like that, too, at times. In a way, it is really difficult to just 'categorize/view' people in a fixed way since each person can be quite complex and, well, there are the moods which can be influenced by situations. Ah..though, there is probably a 'core personality' ^^

      Ah..that is a difficult question. I think the person him/herself can only answer. Maybe, it depends on how the relationship is going: reasons real = relationship going well, or convince myself = relationship not going well. And, based on my observation, I think that at times, it takes more than just love to make a relationship or well, a marriage to work.

      Ah..nice monologue ^^ Canon ripping through = probably attraction. Life changing = probably love and that takes time. Actually, I think it depends on the other party, too as to how you'll feel. Each different person gives one a different reaction/experience. I don't know but sometimes, when time is ticking..it would be like, ah..this person will do. That is if the purpose is to settle down. So, at that time..maybe stop dreaming. =P Of course, one can be stubborn and keep on looking and looking...

      That's right. It does seem that such 'negative' things 'sells'...to make one feel better that others are worse? Of course, again, I think it is better to have moderation. If it is only 'good things'..it might be more on propaganda stuff. Ah..true, understanding might not be able to cut it even if one would want to.

      ^^


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    20. Oh? Really?I thought you were in your late 20's at the most... you have a youthful intrigue in the way you see things, and the spirit with which you color the world around you. Eh, not that age really matters... I suppose this is just my first time being attracted to an older lady, Ah? Do my romantic advances bother you?

      I suppose that comes back to the 'don't rush it' principal; if you take your time and see if the relationship will progress positively, then you know whether the love is real, or just a passing fancy. But then that would discount the 'love at first sight' theory, as it suggest love is built and cemented over time, trial and error. Or perhaps it entirely depends upon the couple. I don't really think you can put laws rules or guidelines on love, it is not a song bird that can be captured, in cage or photograph, it cannot be meticulously studied, and to do so would only leave one, well... as we are now, rambling on without the slightest hope of arriving at a conclusion; only more questions.

      Thank you, I thought you would like it ;3 Lol, but we no longer have a need to look, right? <3 On a serious note, we have many more conversations ahead of us, and regardless of the conclusion, I want to spend that time getting to know you. Lol, as they say, 'lets start off as friends.' ;P Would that be an inconvenience?

      Well, I believe negative things sell better than positive for a number of reasons; perhaps the foremost being, that something positive happening to someone else, really has no impact on, or importance to you. 'He got a raise, that's good for him, but why should I care?' Moreover, its probably further agitated by the fact that these 'good things' are happening to people who already have it all. 'Oh? A millionaire got married to a beautiful wife...' at this point jealousy sets in. Then in comparison when something bad happens to someone who 'has it all', you suddenly feel that you're in a better position, makes you feel better about yourself. 'Oh, I may be poor, but at least my wife never cheats on me.' Then if you move on to the moral aspect, if someone does something good, there's nothing praiseworthy, its simply how it should be, expected, anticipated, only proper; but if they commit a dirty act, suddenly there's call for scorn. Then I suppose there is the fact that while someone else positive news may mean nothing to you, their negative certainly can. 'What, my neighbor came down with a highly contagious terminal disease,' 'The CEO of McDonald's gambled away all the company's assets... b-but, I work for McDonald's'... and with that your own life is brought into play. And when you add propaganda to that, we are stuck with nothing but negativity. Indeed.

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    21. Hehe, is that so, Jeremy. Well, I was always mistaken to be around that age =P Thanks for the comment ^^ Hm..not really though I'm not actually sure how to handle them.^^; Am I doing okay so far? =P

      Indeed. In a way, 'progress slowly and positively' is well, less risky..probably less chance of separation or divorce. Patience and understanding or even compromise are also needed. True, it cannot really be 'defined' and for everyone, it is different.

      Ah...just friends would be okay ^^

      Good point. And yes, negative things can be intriguing..especially the seemingly 'not normal ones' or at least, a really sensitive/debatable issue. Ah..the same with gossip, right?

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    22. Haha, I suppose you're not going to tell me how old you actually are then? Lol, don't worry about it, I'm not proposing here, or even asking you on a date, so there is no need to feel that you have to 'give an answer' or the like... if anything, I feel that I have a 'connection' with you -that we think in much the same way, and enjoy many of the same things- and, I would like to explore that connection. Despite my quirks I wouldn't say 'I love you'... but then again, I don't discount the possibility, Which is why, I simply want to continue as we are now, enjoying random tangents together. At the very least, I have fun talking to you ;3

      I agree ;P

      For now ;P

      Its exactly the same thing, news papers exist to sell themselves, and they do so by writing what people would naturally converse, or gossip about, and thus enjoy reading. Its rather sad in retrospective; that the common man has fallen so low. Even paparazzi, such as those that killed princess Diana, are the product of our obsessive greed.

      On a completely unrelated note, this ;P, is my favorite emote; for whatever reason it triggers the visual of french kissing in my head. <.<

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    23. Hehe, Jeremy, actually, I'm in my very late 30s. Approaching middle age as they say. I tend not to tell my age unless asked, since I don't know if that would give someone a good or bad impression. =P Well, it is also fun talking with you. ^^

      Ya...those are sad..all for money..even invading privacy.

      Really...first time I heard someone thought of it that way. ^^;



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    24. A bad impression you say? But one cant really blame you for aging, its not as if you had a choice. Lol, how dare you! ;P Still, late 30s, that's almost as old as my mother @.@ Honestly I would not have known this talking to you, and admit i'm a bit disappointing ...well, I'm not really sure how I feel, but I've decided that it doesn't really matter; the facts are what they are, and that does not change my interest in getting to know you, even if that is only as a friend. Well, the future has its own plans I imagine, lets journey along to find out whats hidden around the corner.

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    25. No, that's not what I meant, Jeremy. It is more like..what you're old already and you're still doing this 'childish' stuff. And, well, I don't really 'act/think' my age as evident that you've thought I'm younger. =P

      Hehe..is that so. ^^

      True ^-^

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    26. Eh, I don't think enjoying manga is childish, and even if it were, is there something wrong with keeping a youthful heart? I'm sure everyone has something from their childhood that they regard as important to them, and continue to love til their death. I would be very sad for them if that were not the case. And I think its good that you are still full of live and energy at your age... too many people forget how important that is, to enjoy the 'simple' and the 'little' things. The demands and constraints of the adult world is of society's crafting, and while it is impossible to fight the stream, we must still be able to step back and consider what is truly important. It cant be helped that we need money to obtain the vital necessities required to survive in today's world, that we need jobs to sustain that cash flow, and that we need education to support that job. However one must not forget that work money and education, is not what life is really all about. Its refreshing to see that you have not. So that I see you as younger, is by no means a 'bad' thing.

      So... do I get a kiss now? ;P

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    27. True, Jeremy especially in a very 'urban, modern' world. ^^

      Ah..yes, but then, if life is hard, one couldn't really 'see what life is really about' since they are busy with survival. I think it applies more to those who are well-to-do or probably really rich.

      Well, that's good. Of course, as I've mentioned earlier, I don't know how people would react to it - good or bad.

      =P

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    28. Sorry I didn't reply yesterday, my family has been busy scrambling to pack up with a 72h notice just lurking behind the corner... life is hard indeed ;3

      Ah, but rich people are only rich because they were consumed by the battle for survival, they get so caught up in their job and money, that they forget that money was no more than a means to an end, and end up lusting for it. In comparison, Buddhist priest, who have nothing, are far more at peace than those who have everything. So if anything, I think the middle class can enjoy life far more than the rich, for while life is a struggle regardless, we can still come home to our families.

      Ah, I guess I cant really ask for anymore than that... I mean, unless you can jump through a computer screen... maybe that's hopping for too much? <,< lol, I find it cute that you respond with that emote after I stated how its perceived; you're such a tease, XD

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    29. No problem, Jeremy. Take your time. ^^

      There are those..and there are those who merely inherited it. ^^ But then, of course, I don't want to generalize since there are rich people who aren't like that. True..in a way, I guess, it is more on being 'content'. ^^

      Hehe..ya.

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  25. I melted when Kuon did the gentlemen smile to the.restranut ladies.so cute! A random question, am I the only one who sometimes wonders what skip beat would be like in another setting?

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    1. ^^

      Hm..in what setting were you imagining it? So far, I have not.

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  26. I am wondering about how would nakamura-sensei would end skip beat, tbh the ending of tokyo crazy paradise is a bit disappointing because I didnt see the marriage and the babies and all so I am hoping how would it end because crazy tokyo paradise was amazing , you can read it over and over and you never get bored like how I am with skip beat right now. Anywayyyy, i want to thnk you for these summaries it has been wonderfully filling in my thirst for new updates. I really appriciate it. :)

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    1. Hm..I read before that TCP got cancelled or something so the ending was like that. True, it is something that can be read over and over again like Skip Beat.

      Thanks for reading ^-^

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  27. Well, I've been avoiding reading ongoing manga for some time and then got caught up with Technicolor Paradise arc. I had previously read Tokyo Crazy Paradise so of course Mrs. Nakamura's style won my affection. I actually want to express my lament for not reading Skip Beat before it culminated like that. Yeah, sorry for missing out a drug shot. :/
    What comes after this may be a bit sad, I think. Imagine Kyoko's reaction when she finds out she was deceived, shame and anger, sadness also, because he's not a fairy :D , but I think she knows all this and she may realise it on her own when she stops denying/acting. After all, there is always a dark feeling in the background in Nakamura's works. Her fairytale nature could be crushed by others but more likely, she would mature and deal with all the confusion regarding Kuon/Corn/Ren. Or, on the other, third, hand, this proceeds in a comical manner and Kyoko silly believes in magic until someone bursts the bubble. I root for my second assumption, she simply knows, and that kiss they shared, oooh, it's a real deal proof there's no magic, only man she loves and who keeps blurring her reasoning since only recently she came out clear she loved him a long way since. Now, actually, this would be problematic for the story if she would use this method twice: facing herself/being incited by the center of the matter (all those physical contacts they made... God, she's so green. :D How much she's aware of contact and truly values both Ren/Kuon-his-existence-whatever-his-name-personality-or-aura-is and love in general. I see in this moment how primal their relationship can be. But we're talking about manga anyway, we reflect our inner world through this and may be overrating true value of its fragments. But since it's a world created by person or people, offered to people, of course there are other worlds, meanings and values spanning from the origin. Okay, I've done it now. -_- If anyone's reading this, I am sorry for shamelessly presenting my views although I cannot make myself delete it. ;) )

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    1. Hehe, Giselle..is that so. True, her style well for TCP and SB..can be quite addictive.

      Hm..I'm not sure about the negative reaction since that can drag on for a long time and make me groan..oh no, so it would take more years in our time to finally see them together. Comical...light-hearted..possibly. Whichever it is I have enough faith on this mangaka to believe that whatever will happen is something that we cannot predict = not cliche/typical. ^^

      I think that even if revealed that there are no real fairies and such, with acting, I'm sure Ren can later on give her as much 'fairy tale fun stuff' she wants...with her also acting. Actually, not just fairy tales..they can be pretty much whoever they want to be ^^

      Hehe ^^

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    2. Actually, what I like the most about her style is how obviously ridiculous things turn out to be intensively meaningful, so much we are warped in her reality (I mean, they met like old friends and talked about things they couldn't while having a relationship as their everyday personas). And also, how psychological turmoils are depicted in, lately, darker tones (e.g. falling off a cliff = falling in love against own aspirations). It is not rare to encounter such methods of storytelling but sensing a dash of the kind in a manga which has, for majority of readers, been a pleasant journey and successfully combined numerous clichés and strong characters into unique and enjoyable story. Addictive, it is... ^^
      Regarding easter eggs, definitely, only after you're surprised you can confidently say: "Somehow, it could have turned out like that, I just didn't think it would. It was the last thing on my mind!" (I have another idea, maybe their meeting is a closed chapter for some time and will later serve on as a flashback. XD And interest will plummet for some.) But I also believe another ride awaits us.
      Lastly, it's amusing to think how Kyoko could act along Ren, finally showering him with royal and other fantasy attributes while receiving the same or similar treatment. :D Since we are left with infinite amount of outcomes and anecdotes so far, how can we not let our thoughts wander? XD

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    3. I see..well, for me, I like how she can combine a lot of elements into it like comedy, romance, drama and even action. Indeed, it is..and it doesn't help that it is slow-paced..or rather, currently, once a month.

      Ah..anything is possible with this series. Just some chapters ago, going abroad was hinted..and next, they are in Guam and Ren is in his 'Kuon form'.

      Indeed and how he plays along with it...well, in their acting, it is quite good how they can follow things up with each others' intention/actions and even surprising themselves/the other.

      True ^^

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  28. Hi! I'm really surprise to see how fast this chapter was released! You realy did a good works! If I could thanks you a thousand times I would so ;) In this chapter there is no evolution in the relation of Kyouko and Ren. And I'm affraid that this manga will end like that : Kyouko and Ren will be together and that we'll never see her in the peak of her career ^^'
    In the end thanks you for you job, you did it quickly that's greeeaat ;D
    It's the third time I throw a glance to your website and it would be inadmissible to not write a comment : now it's done ;))

    PS: I'm sorry if my english is simple and not correct but I'm a desesperate french girl who search a quick and a good translation and you're the only one who do it ( 'cause nobody translate Skip Beat in french quickly T.T )

    Bye and gook luck! ;D

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    1. Thanks for reading, Doodie-chan ^-^

      Ya..no development in their relationship here. Hm..probably but it is already hinted that with her acting, she can go places. Because of the slow pace of the series, I don't think focusing on how she gets to the 'peak of her career' can hold the readers interest. It is just a little bit more than a year in their time and we are already at chapter 200+. At most, maybe a time skip of what happens to them later on.

      Thanks for the comment ^-^

      No problem, I can understand you.

      Thanks~

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  29. Hello, I've been relying on your site for my SB fix for some time now. Thanks so much for the work you do! I look forward to the 213 summary. : ) ~Ria

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    1. Thanks for reading and the comment, Ria ^-^

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  30. Hey Kat I found a scene that I've never seen before of Skip Beat. I'm not sure if you've seen it. But I was wondering if you have time can you translate it?

    It's where Ren and Yashiro notice Kyoko talking on the phone.

    http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1890045139?lp=5028&is_bakan=0&mo_device=1

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    1. I have seen it before, Brittany but unfortunately, it is in Japanese so I didn't summarize it.

      I recall before someone mentioning what happened there. After answering the phone, Kyouko happily says hello then there is no sound from the other party so I think she realizes it is Shou. Then, it seems that Shou is making her buy pudding or something. Ah..not sure if I'm recalling it right ^^; Nevertheless, she freaks out upon seeing Ren. I'm not sure what they talked about after she admits that it is Shou. She probably mentioned that she answers it because it is 'caller unknown'. Ren asks why not ignore it and she says that she thought that it might be Ren who also calls as 'caller unknown'. This made Ren request Lory to make his number known to Kyouko so Kyouko won't answer Shou's 'caller unknown'. And, so, whenever Ren calls now, his name appears on her phone. ^-^

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    2. Oh okay... why the heck would she buy him anything? Isn't Shouko, supposed to get what he wants? Lol. Although he is a selfish jerk, as I read the manga for the first time and kept going I began to hate him less. But that doesn't mean I want Kyouko and him back together. I mean as friends sure but not anymore than that. I wonder if Shou and Mimori will get together? She was similar to how Kyouko was back then.

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    3. Hehe, Brittany..random ordering her around as an excuse for calling?

      It seems that they are being paired up though I'm not sure if Shou is interested in her or just using her. =P

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  31. Oh wait is this scene located in volume 31?

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    1. I think so, Brittany since that is the one in the picture.

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