December 29, 2017

Kono Oto Tomare [Chapter 64 - Blue Symphony]

With his grandpa guiding him, young Atsumu tries to play the koto. Grandpa says that it is obviously his first time to play yet it is quite decent. Atsumu is glum because the sound is totally not the same as grandpa’s.


Grandpa says that if he can play like him by doing it once, he won’t know where to put his face [/he’ll be ashamed]. “And besides, this koto’s STRINGS ARE COMPARATIVELY THICK. It is made especially for me. You have to put in more effort to play it.”

Grandpa stands up and tells him to wait and he’ll look for a koto that would be easier for him to play. Atsumu protests that he doesn’t want it, he wants to play this one.
Grandpa tries to explain but Atsumu shouts, “I want to play the same one like grandpa’s!!” This made grandpa smile. Later on, they are looking at some photo albums.

Looking at a picture of a pretty girl among other women and a man, Atsumu asks if this one is grandma. Grandpa says yes, she’s very beautiful, right! Atsumu exclaims that grandpa is also there! “In this picture, all of you play koto together, right?”

Grandpa says yes, this is their group [pupils of the same master] picture. Atsumu says that there are so many girls. Sparkling grandpa says that it’s not bad, right, this is a harem. “Your grandpa is very popular before!” Atsumu exclaims is that so, no wonder it is grandpa!
Later on, while putting his shoes on, Atsumu says that if it is okay, he would really want to stay here always... Grandpa says then, stay, it doesn’t matter. “Stay as long as you want to stay. *smiles* Grandpa also really likes it when you’re here!” Atsumu smiles back.

Later on, at their apartment, Atsumu says that he’s back. His mother greets him back. She exclaims over how he got injured and his clothes are all covered in mud. Tense Atsumu says that this is because he played soccer with friends...

His mother says, geez, it is okay for him to play happily but he should also think more about his mother who is in charge of washing the clothes. Atsumu says okay. Seeing his mother looking at some clothes, Atsumu asks what she is doing. His mother says that she plans on tidying up his clothes.
Holding up a t-shirt with some animal cartoon characters on it, his mother asks if he doesn’t want this anymore. Atsumu quickly grabs it and exclaims that he still wants it!! Puzzled, his mother asks he still wants it when he hardly even wears it?

Flustered Atsumu says that it is because everyone no longer wears this kind of shirt...and if he wears it, he’ll be treated as an idiot... Scowling, his mother says what, then, he is saying that he still won’t wear it, right so she’ll go put it away.

Atsumu exclaims that he won’t wear it but he really likes it so he’ll hang it in his room!! His mother sighs and says, fine, fine. “Geez, if you really like it, then stick out your chest and wear it. That way, no one will treat you like an idiot.”
Atsumu thinks that it would still be the same since he was already being laughed at and treated like an idiot. Flashback: Laughing at Atsumu who is wearing the cartoon shirt, Bully 1 exclaimed that Atsumu is still wearing that kind of shirt, so lame!!

Bully 2 asked by the way, how old he is that he still wears it. End flashback.  Narration: “At that time, I felt very ashamed, very miserable.” Some water is splashed on Atsumu’s head. Holding a pail, Bully 2 says, ah it seems that there is a huge rain that sudden fell on Atsumu’s head.

Bully 1 asks if he is an idiot. “Don’t do that kind of thing or else, people would see that we are PLAYING him [as a toy].” A teacher calls out to them and asks what they are doing.
Bully 1 says that this is bad. The teacher asks Atsumu what had happened. Bully 1 apologizes and says that they were joking around and Atsumu carelessly tripped. Putting his arm around Atsumu, Bully 1 says, right, Atsumu.

While the two other bullies are looking down at Atsumu, the teacher asks Atsumu if it is like that. Atsumu forced himself to smile and apologize for overdoing it... The teacher says is that so. The two bullies happily do a wrist bump.

Narration:’ “Right now, it is also the same. Each day passes quite miserably. But, it is alright. *clenches fist and runs to grandpa* This place isn’t where I really should be. I have a place that belongs to me so it is alright.”
While the bullies are walking, Bully 1 asks his friends if they think that Atsumu doesn’t look very depressed. Bully 3 says that Atsumu would even properly go to school. Bully 2 laughs and says that he is a masochist.

Bully 1 says that he’s bored and they don’t have a new kind of game. Then, he suggests something to the other two and what they think of it. The next day, after school, Atsumu looks around. He is surprised that those three are unexpectedly not around.

It makes him happy since he can go straight to his grandpa’s house. From the bushes above, the three bullies watch him with a smile. Later on, grandpa praises Atsumu’s playing and says that he is getting better at it. “Perhaps, you’ll be able to surpass me soon!”
Grandpa is surprised when Atsumu says that they play together next time. Moved to tears, grandpa hugs Atsumu and exclaims, “‘Playing koto with my grandson!!’. That is grandpa’s dream that is hidden within my heart! Atsumu, you’re going to help grandpa make it happen!!

...*Atsumu says that it turns out to be a dream!?* I’m really the world’s number one, no, the universe’s number one happiest grandpa!!” Atsumu smiles with pride. He exclaims that if grandpa is so happy, he’ll also be very happy!! Crying grandpa exclaims, angel!!

At the gate, grandpa tells Atsumu to be careful on his way. Atsumu says okay, see him tomorrow. Atsumu happily thinks that grandpa really looks very happy. Someone says, un-expectedly, he has such a happy looking face. “Hey, Atsumu, it suits you
Atsumu looks at the corner to see the three bullies. It startles him. Atsumu asks why... He wonders why they are here. Bully 1 says that he was really shocked that he cannot imagine he’ll see Atsumu so lively... They all start laughing while Bully 2 points at Atsumu.

“Unexpectedly, it is ‘learning to play koto with grandpa’-!!! Ah ha ha ha ha You’re basically a girl! You’re totally a girl!! *Atsumu is shocked, aghast and puzzled* Ah—it’s so funny to death! You’re obviously a boy but you’re playing koto. Is there some mistake~~”

There is a scene of grandpa noticing something that Atsumu left. Bewildered Atsumu wondered if it is like that. “Is it very strange for boys to play koto!? But isn’t grandpa...”
Then, he recalls grandpa’s picture wherein there are many girls and grandpa saying that it isn’t bad. Bully 1 holds Atsumu’s shoulder and says that he is too loyal to his own role, Atsumu-imoutosan [/lil sis]~~ Bully 2 asks if he is going to wear a kimono on January.

“Are you going to hold up your hand while walking like a girl!? In the end, you’re a GAY, right.” “Ah, no way!? Then we shouldn’t let ourselves be stared at, right!?” “Ugh, gross so how come you’re still going to school-!?” Atsumu looks really embarrassed that he is trembling in shame.

Bully 1 says that they once again found an interesting topic so they must quickly tell the other people in class. “In the meantime, it won’t be boring. Thank you, Atsumu-imoutosan♪”
This caused Atsumu to declare it isn’t because he likes it that he plays. “Playing koto...playing that kind of thing. It is because grandpa insists on calling me to play. I cannot disobey, he’ll...” Bully 1 says, ah. Atsumu is surprised by that.

He turns around to see his grandpa holding Atsumu’s pencil case[? I think]. The two look surprised at each other. Grandpa angrily glares at the bullies which made them say that they’re leaving. As the bullies quickly retreat, grandpa angrily shouts that they’re bad kids.

Holding out the pencil case, grandpa smiles and says that Atsumu forgot to bring this. Atsumu starts to cry then he quickly runs away even as grandpa calls out to him. As he runs to his house and into his room, Atsumu is really disappointed with himself.
Seeing the t-shirt ‘Kuman’ cartoon hanged on the wall, he quickly grabs it and sobs. “I’m really the world’s most useless, most coward and most shameless person.” Later on, his mother knocks on the door and tells Atsumu that grandpa called just now.

“He wanted me to tell you! ‘Don’t worry, I totally don’t mind it! No matter when, if you’re free, come and play here again. I’ll be waiting for you.’ You hear that- What’s up with you?”

Crying in bed with the blanket pulled up to him, Atsumu thinks of grandpa. “I already don’t have the right to go back to that place.” Narration: “—after that, I didn’t go to school for several days.”
Feeling uneasy, grandpa is pacing around the room. “It seems that kid Atsumu doesn’t plan on coming today either. Should I go to his house... No, at this kind of time, shouldn’t I continue to wait--... Hm--... Ah, I cannot calm down!!

...In short, I’ll first buy Atsumu’s favorite snack. Like this, no matter when, he won’t be afraid to come here...!” Grandpa bought a snack at a convenient store. While walking in the street, Grandpa is pleased with himself for buying Atsumu’s favorite snack, Kuman’s streamed bun and Atsumu would definitely be happy when he sees it!

Then, a boy passes by him. Grandpa turns around and calls out to Atsumu. It turns out to be some other boy playing a console game while walking. Grandpa thinks that he was mistaken. He calls out to boy that it is very dangerous to play a game while walking. “Hey, did you hear--” Then, grandpa sees a car speeding towards the boy. Grandpa rushes forward and calls out, Hey!
Atsumu is starting at the ceiling. He wonders how many days has it been since he went to school. “Even if I’m not around, no one in class would care, right. But grandpa... Grandpa is definitely worried about me. I really want to see grandpa... *hears some sound outside* ...ah, mother has come home.”

Atsumu covers his head with a pillow. His mother calls out to Atsumu and tells him to properly listen to what she’ll say. Atsumu shouts that he doesn’t want to go to school!

“I don’t go tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, the next day after that, I don’t go forever!!” After a pause, his mother says that his grandpa had already passed away. Atsumu looks surprised that he sits up and listens.
His mother continues to say that it was a traffic accident. “I heard that he saved a kid. *Atsumu tries to stand up but ends up sitting on the floor* ...it is a boy who is almost as old as you.” Narration: “—what, what did you say, mom? I don’t understand. My mind went blank. What do you mean...”

At the hospital, Atsumu and his parents see a covered body with some offerings at the table. They remove the blanket. Grandpa looks like he is sleeping. Atsumu is stunned.

He starts to tremble as he recalls how his grandpa call out his name and how happy he was that he’ll be playing koto with his grandson which is his dream. Tears start to well up on Atsumu’s eyes as he recalls grandpa shouting that he is the universe’s number one happiest grandpa.
Atsumu starts to wail loudly when he recalls how he told the bullies that he didn’t like to play koto and it was his grandpa who made him play it. Atsumu’s parents are surprised to see crying Atsumu screaming loudly in anguish as he kneels on the floor.

His mother pulls him up. Atsumu starts shouting, “...ry... Sorry, I’m sorry... Grandpa, I am sorry... I AM SORRY...” Narration: “These simple three words. Why didn’t I say it earlier? If I said it earlier, right now, I’ll definitely be with grandpa in that room. *scene of Atsumu happily listening to grandpa playing the koto* Looking at him and smiling.”
Narration: “—After that, some time had passed. I had once again started to go to school. *Atsumu walks alone by the shoe storage area* I totally have no energy. Those three people had also lost interest in me. *the bullies are talking among themselves as Atsumu just sat at his desk*...

...From someone who was bullied, I had become a person who doesn’t exist. In order to retain that negligible pride [/ego], I lost my important person and place. The only thing left was anger towards myself...

...Afterwards, when I’m already at junior high, our family moved to grandpa’s home which became an empty house. But, as year after year had passed, I never once step into that room again where I and grandpa spent a lot of time together.”
At the kitchen, Atsumu’s mother asks him what he plans for high school. “You should more or less fill out your aspiration form.” Atsumu says no problem, anywhere is good or perhaps, he goes to work... This made his mother scold him, stupid.

“Do you think that society is so easy to blend in with!! *sighs at emotionless Atsumu* Do you want to a school that has a KOTO CLUB?” He mutters, koto...club...? His mother tells him that it is a club wherein one can play koto.

“Didn’t you really like it when grandpa plays the koto before? The music instrument is still in the house. *puts a flyer on the table regarding Kanagawa National preliminaries* Look, it is this. It is being held today near here. Want to take a look?”
At the auditorium, Atsumu has just found a seat when it was announced that number 13, Tokize will play Tenkyuu. Atsumu thinks, number 13...it will end soon... “...up to now, I...I’ll even come and listen to koto...what do I want to do...I’ll just listen to one song then I’ll go home—...*looks at the stage*

...eh Eh!!? The gu...guys are so...are so many...!? Is high school like that...!? *looks at the pamphlet* ...no, it isn’t like that. It is all girls’ names. ...these people...won’t...they be ridiculed by others... Or it is said that even if they were ridiculed, they’ll also persevere on--...” Tokize starts to play and Atsumu is mesmerized by their performance.

He is moved to tears as he recalls his grandpa playing. “—I also...I also want to go there...I want to go to that place.” Atsumu enters the room where grandpa used to play and finds the box where grandpa’s picks are kept. He holds the box tight. “If I can be forgiven, I also...” End flashback.
Atsumu calls out to Chika. Chika stops to turn towards him. Catching his breath, Atsumu says, “About, about that...this, this notebook. Thank you.” Chika says ah...okay. Atsumu continues to say, “It is simply that...I *pause* Whether it is Yamata or Ikuda music sheets, I actually totally don’t understand...”

Chika says ah, is that so. Atsumu asks if he is angry. Chika asks why. Atsumu tells him that before, he said that he had played koto and at that time, the president and sis-senpai are so happy... Chika recalls the others saying that Atsumu is amazing and he unexpectedly has strength. Chika realizes why he didn’t say anything at that time.

Chika says, “Let me tell you...if you always think of that kind of thing, you’ll go bald...even if right now, it is still very lush... You also didn’t do anything bad if you don’t understand the music sheet. You have played koto before, right? I’ve seen your PICKS, and they were already used.”
Atsumu explains that it is his grandpa’s belonging [/relic]... “Ah, but, I have played koto before...!” Chika says so, he is saying that his grandpa taught him to play before. Surprised Atsumu says ye, yes. He is surprised when Chika smiles and says, “...is that so. That’s really nice.”

Atsumu recalls the time when the bullies laughed at him because he learns playing the koto with his grandpa. He starts to cry since Chika’s reaction is, ‘that’s really nice’. Confused Chika asks what’s up, what’s going on?

Wiping his tears, Atsumu says, “...Kudou-senpai, thank you.” Chika nervously asks thanks for what!? Atsumu recalls telling Chika that he doesn’t want to be taught to play koto by him. Chika is surprised when Atsumu says, “Before, I said really mean words to you. I’m sorry.”
Comment: The ‘feels’ in this chapter is very strong. Talk about a mistake that one will regret for years and even for a lifetime. It is such a trauma especially for a kid. Apparently, even if the bullies made him shout that outburst, he took the total blame due to his weak personality and cowardice.

He did have a lot of opportunities to tell an adult what’s going on but I guess he feared that it will get worse. Having something and someone to help him go through all that bullying had cause his bullies to find more ways to make him depressed enough to quit school.

That day is indeed a day of high wherein he made his grandpa so happy that his dream will be fulfilled and a day of low when he lied to stop bullies from telling other about it. Grandpa knew the truth and missed him so much which led to that unfortunate accident. That scene at the hospital is really heart-wrenching.

Thinking about it, it seems that only those bullies paid attention to him. That is because before and after what happened, nobody seem to care if he was absent or not. So, afterwards, he became someone who didn’t existed or perhaps, they knew what happened and didn’t bother with him.

He still ended up with no friends in junior high. I guess he was kind of a recluse since then. Somewhat like ‘a living dead’. Of course, it all changed when he went to the preliminaries. In a way, it was like fate that of all the groups to listen to, he got Tokize.

That is when his life has started to move again. Recalling those mistakes probably made him admit to Chika the truth. He probably fears being bullied/laughed at like before. That smile of Chika has really moved Atsumu. Finally, someone didn’t laugh at him. Finally, he can say sorry before it is too late.

That will most probably solve the issue with Atsumu. I think he’ll get to use his grandpa’s koto which has thicker strings. I can imagine him inviting everyone to play koto with him in that room. So, what will be Natsu’s story? Will it be as moving and tragic as this one? Scans by 二次元秘店

Word of the day:
It is only from God that we can receive the grace of forgiveness when our choices have produced painful regrets. And only in Him do we find the wisdom to make better choices. ‘Father of mercies, forgive me for the foolish choices I have made. Please enable me to be wiser in my choices. Teach me the value of resting in Your grace.’ ~ Our Daily Bread.

40 comments:

  1. thank you very much for the summary , i really love how this chapter ended with the three words he wanted to say to his grandpa "I am sorry" , i'm glad he actually saw chika as the nice person he is rather than what people say about chika which i a very amazing progress considering how i would never be mad at atsumu for misunderstanding chika specially when chika (or chika's rumors) resemble thee three bullies, i do hope that from now on as he continues to play koto he can look back at his time with his grandpa as happy rather than painful memory and talk about the ultimate coincidence for him to come when tokiso was playing and there were 5 boys in that club lol hahaha you know when they say ignorance is bliss didn't most of tokiso's boy's realize that koto clubs were mainly girl clubs in the august competition (so basically 4 months after joining the club) hahaha it will be nice to see atsumu's personality progress i mean of course it is hard to stop being an introvert suddenly but i t would be nice to see him having more friends (his club members) , somehow i think natsu's story will have to do with why his mom takes lots of shifts at work and his dad's absence i guess he is just lonely and doesn't care much about what happens since people call him a genius so he adapt the "why bother trying" attitude
    Thank you
    Emmahoshi

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    1. Thanks for reading, Emmahoshi ^-^

      Yup ^^ That was really nice.

      Indeed ^^

      Ya...I actually wonder if he'll get a haircut =P

      Indeed...would it be as heartbreaking as this one? It guess it is harder to deal with 'apathy' than 'heartbroken'.

      =)

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  2. The author really know how to flesh out characters, though here's hoping we move forward with the main plot just a bit before getting into the prodigy Natsu's backstory too, these long waits are always killing me :p

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  3. Thank you very much, Kat. I did like the chapter, but somehow, didn't feel the 'feels' it was supposed to be to. Guess I get triggered when I see bullying and no one doing anything to help/stop, not even the victim, must be why. But the scene in the hospital was emotionally hard to see. Better yet, Chika's healing smile, this one is a keeper, Satowa, you hear me?

    Now all we have left is too see how the other student/teacher relationship comes together to an understanding, though they already are almost there.
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    As for what we were talking, no, I didn't get stressed. Just like, whaaaat? It's gone! But then, just spent another 10m to write again and is all good.
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    Like we said before, it feels like these countries are brothers, and now, not even long lost, lol. It's too much the same in almost every part.

    And yes, yes, yes. Just like you said it is there, it is here. Exactly the same. The thing that differentiate the most is we don't see much people leaving the country either to try another life in another place nor to visit - though most people that have the condition to do it, they often travel to Europe or Miami, hardly any other place.

    Yea, the jokes are real. I myself have a somewhat known/famous surname that one spiritist/religious guru had, so in school they'd always tease me asking if I could talk to the dead too. I always answered yes and no one'd bother me again, lol.
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    Yea, afaik, weed don't have any collateral, unless is mixed up with some other toxins - and ofc they always mix, people even say they're most are horse's dump. But only weed, I don't know if there's any collateral, really.
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    That's kinda sad, I mean, it is sad. I always had this crystal health, but no one'd treat me different 'cause of it. 'Course, I was a lil' demon pest when I was young, so they'd rather scold me to death, than say, ooh, poor thing.

    And yes again, when you reach 20y people already start to have all kind of presumptions and expectations. My late father and gran couldn't see me with a girl they'd thought I was dating her. I couldn't bring them home 'cause they'd always ask those questions or throwing up those kinds of 'hints'. So I stopped bringing them home, even when I got serious with someone - which was rare - nowadays my family just tease and I tell them they have their own lives to look after, and they stop right after, lol.

    That's sad for your cousin. Been in a similar situation before, really sad and unfortunate.

    You know, she has all her dogs and cats, and turtles and fishes and at some point had hamster and bunnies, so she can care about them and forget about me having kids. I don't have the courage to bring someone into this world, so she better expect from my sis or brother, or content herself with the pets and the step daughters my sis boyfriend's have.
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    Yea, I count to 10 to see if the anger subsides a little, lol.
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    Tbh, it doesn't look like it compensates anything. Like, all my friends say I should be a subject of study to NASA 'cause not a single remedy works on me in normal dosages, and the ones that do work, are only side/collateral effects, lol. That's why sometimes I can't eat, the meds mess my stomach or my 'will' to eat and even the appetite; I have to force myself to eat otherwise, I'd get even sicker, weaker with low immunologic defense and that'd bring all sorts of trouble. But yes, I do like me some meat, not too salty nor too raw, but I do like meat above anything else.

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    1. I see, well, at least the wedding didn't get ruined. The hotel room doesn't matter, but I know what you mean, lol. Last time I was in a party I ruined everything that I still can't tell my friend how sorry I am for ruining her party. She says it's okay, all good, the important thing is that I'm better, but come on, no one'd like to have their party ruined, right?
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      Thank you Kat, and happy new year! May this next one be way better than the last! Wish you the best!

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    2. I wrote a wall of text before this one, see if went to spam, it's not showing here. Anyway, all the best for you and your family!

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    3. It's in the spam folder, Fê ^^

      Thanks for reading ^-^ I see. For me, it is doing something he'll 'forever regret' especially how happy his grandpa was earlier then grandpa is gone. And, to finally have a chance to somehow 'fix' the mistakes he did earlier on not saying sorry and fear of saying anything that might anger the other party.

      Yup, don't let that one get away, Satowa ^^

      Hm...aside from that, somehow, I think Natsu has something to do with Chika later on.

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      I see. That's good then, if it's just 10 min ^^

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      Is that so ^^ For those who don't, what's holding them back? Here, it is mostly don't want to be faraway from the family. Though usually, they are forced to. Some would borrow money to apply for recruitment agencies, etc. The problem though, sometimes they want to go for cheaper/didn't know any better, they fall for fake agencies who stole their money.

      Lol. Is that because they would think 'this kid is crazy', stay away from him? =P

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      I see...I'm thinking it is because its herbal? Some tried to pass off carrying a huge amount of it as medicine.

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      Lol, I see. Hehe, that's good, right?

      Haha, that's one reason why my cousin [same one] isn't inclined to bring the girl along especially to parties. He brought that girl to the family gathering to introduce her to us for around 3 times so afterwards, it is a bit embarrassing if they didn't end up together. He never brought a girl ever again since then.

      Cousins would usually bring that person if they are about to/engaged already. Actually, it seems like bring that person to family gathering so that we can do a background check on that person. Lol You know, maybe the other person is head over heels in love and didn't notice that it is a frog prince/troll princess that they are getting hitched with.


      Indeed. So, currently, he is enjoying his single bachelor life.


      Oh, fishes...what type? I have pet fishes throughout my life. Lol, killed a lot of them, too. I would want a dog/cat or any other animal but they are 'dirty and unhealthy' due to allergy/germs that my parents won't let us keep them. Actually, given my health condition, the doctor also said that it is a no-no =(

      With those animals in the house, won't it smell? Or, it isn't all at the same time?

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      I see ^^

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      Lol, why NASA? Ya, in cases like that, one would have to force oneself even if it is hard.

      Oh. Yup, who would want that.

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      You're welcome and Happy New Year, too ^^ Hopefully, this year will be better for you health-wise, financially and everything else.

      Same to you and your family ^^

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    4. When I saw it disappear, I thought it'd go to spam, don't know why though.
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      Yea, I know, like said before, I just didn't feel what I was supposed to feel, you know? Like, it didn't hit right home like the previous chapter, though the hospital scene did, being in this situation way too many times, I'm afraid I've grown used to.

      Maybe, since it's more about Chika's than other chars, he may have known what really happened and that's why he gave no sh**s about his friend warnings against the delinquent Chika.
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      I don't really know. Some may say it's family, others just like to live here 'cause all the non-obligation things, or get used to how it is and learn how to take advantage, those'd be my guesses.
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      Yep, and since I was little I always had this ogre side and build, so, although not really tall or large, I seemed bigger than I really was. This + kid talks to dead people + he might be crazy + the only one who listed to heavy metal = most feared in school, without really doing anything, lol. But once they got to know me, was all good.
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      Yea, but like I said, only if it's pure. And tbh, it doesn't treat anything, people say medical use 'cause it may help dealing with pain and sometimes induce a "nice feeling" that makes you forget, but it's not treating anything, not even the symptoms. Now, I don't know if the pure herbal trait is as good/strong as some painkillers, but it doesn't treat anything, anyone who says it does is lying.
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      People 'till today, in every single reunion, party, get together we have in family, talk about my deeds when I was a kid. 'Till today, there's none who could ever surpass me, lol. An irony that I ended up as a professor and even taught little kids for some time - one of my thesis is how to teach young children foreign languages and other is how to teach young children and adults to create a text.

      My family is quite the crazy one, so there was this my cousin took one girl to spend the christmas, then, a week later, in the new year, he brought another. I even said to her that I woudln't bother knowing her name, since she was with my cousin, lol.

      But things like that are quite common in the whole country, few are the ones that are not like that, used to be different, though.

      Ah, she had a lot. Now I think she only has a carp, but she had a lot of different fishes that I don't even know the species. Now, we have 7 dogs and that's 'cause my lil' baby - almost 6 feet tall - died of old age recently. I think we have 4 cats - and yes, I'm allergic to all of 'em, so I don't keep 'em at home, they stay in the yard. Though, if played with my dogs, I don't get allergic if I take a shower right after, but with cats, we can't even be in the same room that I start to sneeze, having a running nose and all the allergic things I'm sure you know.

      It does smell, but my mom is always cleaning the yard, doing some gardening and etc, so she takes care quite often and quite fast. Only when she's not doing well, then it's like an open bathroom since I can't help anymore, and my siblings and in laws never helped at all, though half the pets are 'theirs'.
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      I don't know, they must think I'm some kind of alien or something to put me under NASA study subject, lol. I only take it 'cause it's worse without it. Even if it doesn't kill the pain nor calms my humor or makes me sleep, they at least make it bearable. Without'em I myself am unbearable to any living being near me. The downside is the collaterals often leave tripping way too high in whatever land I end up and makes my focus and reactions really, really bad.
      -
      Thank you again, Kat. Like I said before, little things like talking to friends, reading nice things help a lot more than people can imagine, it's always a pleasure to be here, read and write these block of texts, lol.

      All good to you too. ^^

      Delete
    5. I see. Must be a system bug of some sort.

      - - -

      Haha, well, it just hits some people and at times, don't. I guess it depends on the person ^^ Like sometimes, in reading a certain series, people are raving about it and I'm not that into it. ^^;

      Yup. It makes me wonder if one of their similarity would be about the 'missing father figure'.

      - - -

      I see. This kind of society does have its advantages. There are people who prefer to live in a 3rd world country compared to the 1st world.

      - - -

      Haha, I see.

      - - -

      Ah, I see. More of a painkiller. Though I guess it is still unproven as a cure for other sickness. I heard of people who have cancer. They decided that 'chemicals' are bad so went for herbal and other alternative medicine...and they were cured.

      - - -

      Wow, your feats must be quite amazing for them ^^ Lol, unless they got nothing else to gossip/talk about.

      Lol, you're exposing your cousin =P Ah, so that means, the cousin has many girls who'll accompany during occasions or girlfriends? I recall my nephew who had so many friends before that they would literally fight for his company. So, my nephew thought of a compromise, on Monday, it is this kid, on Tues, it is that other kid, etc.

      I see. That's a lot. Big sized dogs or medium sized ones? Well, I don't actually sneeze at them. My parents claim that it is bad for me because of asthma which I had when I was a kid. But then, I don't really sneeze or anything.

      Is that so. I recall that there are supposedly hypoallergenic dogs and cats. Have you heard about that?

      Oh...and the neighbors don't complain? Unless they also have a lot of pets. Ah, these pets are bought? I recall that there are people who'll just take in strays.

      - - -

      I see. Lol, if it's alien, then ya, go to NASA =P

      Ah...the side effects. It sometimes remind me of the Little Mermaid's give and take with the witch. You get something but something else will be taken. Haha, basically, there are advantages and disadvantages.

      - - -

      You're welcome and glad that it is a bit of help to you ^^

      Delete
    6. But that it hits home for people, or even if it doens't, but make people feel the emotion, is one helluva achievement. From a writer pov, that is.

      Yea, must be it. Or someone that doesn't have family of sorts, he seems too alone, and the only family Chika has is his aunt - and friends now.
      -
      Yea. Since it's too corrupt here, you can get away with a lot just by putting some "tip" in the hand of the officer. Or, you can buy lot's of alcohol and drinks being underage and no one'll give any attention. In clubs, you only get stopped if you look too young - like my sis case - she's 30, but looks like 13, so she always have these problems in clubs, but never to buy alcohol, and she can pay half the price in movies tickets, since people automatically assume she's under age, lol.
      -
      You know, this topic came up the other day here. My in-law said in the states people treat autism and schizophrenia, afaik, the only real effect is the naturally calming effect and the endorphins that do the "trick", but I confess that I lack the knowledge to actually know if there's any chemical reaction besides those I mentioned that is used and works as a real cure. For cancer, no, it doesn't cure, I'm sorry. It's just the painkiller and calming effect. There's also the effect caused by the endorphins that helps to treat depression and such. And since cancer is autoimmune, it may help the body to fight this cancerous cells, but it's not like the weed you cure you for sure and have something in there that it'd.
      -
      Well, I guess they never again'll see a kid climbing the table and spreading rice all over the place in christmas eve dinner, so yea, quite the feats I had, lol.
      -
      I don't care, he deserved and I was right anyways, he himself said. You're nephew is quite the popular one, huh? Nah, my cousin was/is a manwho**, lol. Quite the player this one.

      Three big sized ones, the others are small. I have asthma too, so it is hell, but never with dogs, only with cats, lol. Honestly no, never heard of. But neighbors have no right to complain, they all have dogs that they leave alone in the streets, or they're always hosting loud parties that goes through out the night all weekends, so yea. I wish some of them'd complain so I could say one or two things, lol.

      I say my mom is trying to build another Noe arch here.
      -
      Yea, and just so you know, Little Mermaid is one of my fav tellings of all time. People make fun of me and such, but I just like what I like, so, lol.

      Unfortunately I see more disadvantages, but when I don't take'em, it gets even worse, so better take'em anyways.
      -
      Yea, like I always saying to other friend in other forum we have, it always helps this old man feel better when he talks about something he likes with people he likes. IRL, I don't have much people to talk about games, manga or anime. Only some cousins of mine, but my health prevents me to visiting or getting many visits, so, yea, it helps a lot. ^^
      -
      Oh, forgot to say, finished Ore Monogatari, it'll still be my fav shoujo for a long time, despite feeling like the manga was axed so the author had to speed things out.

      Delete
    7. Ah, true. In a way, the basic theme of this series is how music had 'healed' them with the help of finding people who having the same passion. A nice feel good series ^^ Haha, even if unbelievable but winning the Nationals would be icing on the cake ^^

      Yup.

      - - -

      Wait...there's discount for movies if you're underage there? Here, it is more on free for senior citizens on certain days of the week <- when few people are watching. To get discounts, some people have fake senior citizen ids...I guess it is for those who look old for their age.

      - - -

      I see. More like treating the symptoms. Like having anything caused by virus, the medicine are only for treating the symptoms.

      - - -

      Lol, so you're like Calvin in Calvin and Hobbes? ^^

      - - -

      Haha, is that so. Yup, he is popular...the problems a popular kid has. =P

      I see. Are they neutered? I mean, the neighbors dog are in the streets... So, no one complains because they'll say that you're the same, too? ^^

      Lol. How about a mini zoo? ^^

      - - -

      Really...I don't quite like the tragic ending since it seems unfair. Alas, life is like that. Ah, you mean the original story and not the Walt disney version right?

      I see. It seems like a no choice.

      - - -

      Ah, phone calls are expensive? Here, most people are connected...okay these days, it is through the internet like facebook, twitter, texts, cellphone calls. There is this promo stuff like for a certain amount, you can all unlimited for a day.

      - - -

      Oh. So, it was axed. The last chapter I saw was the girl leaving overseas because her father was promoted/transferred. I'm guessing that the ending was a reunion between the two. Am I right? Hm...and I thought the series was doing well since it has a live action and anime.

      Delete
    8. Yea, I love this series 'cause even in a really bad day, if I dare myself to read - which I often don't in bad days in fear of spoiling the fun I'd have - I still feel better after it. Quite the series and quite the achievement for the author, imo. Ah, I think the translation for the title'd be something along the lines of = come hear this, or gather to listen.
      -
      Yes there is, and there's a day when the price is half for everyone. The tickets are only for students and politicians - ofc they'd be in this, btw, for politicians and judges is free entry - the elderly only have "free public transport".
      -
      Honestly, I think I was worse, but we'll never know now, lol.
      -
      How old is your nephew, he sure seems mature for a young kid.
      -
      No, the street dogs are as they come, only the ones Mom Noe takes in, even so, the cat already her kitties so we'll have to wait now.

      If I count myself in, there are too many dogs here, lol.
      -
      I like everything about the tale, really. From disney to original 'dark';
      -
      Yes, they are. But I'm saying in the ways that, pesonally, we don't talk much. We do talk over twitter and email - I don't have the 'line equivalent here' and don't have much other social media, I can't stand it, lol.
      -
      I don't know if it was, but it I sure felt like it was. It was too sudden, you know? Yamato went to Spain, and wasn't doing well 'cause Takeo wasn't there to cheer her on. But Takeo was doing great 'cause he had Suna to cheer him on and help his studies. Then, one time, Yamato confides of him, and Takeo being Takeo, thought that it'd be better to break up 'cause he was causing to much trouble/suffering to her. Suna slaps - literally - some sense in him, he goes to Spain and apologize - ofc, the hilarious way of Takeo doing things. And as we see people back in Japan wondering if everything is ok, they see the flower festival in Spain in tv, with Yamato and Takeo as front couple, lol.

      Delete
    9. Indeed ^^

      - -

      What? Politicians? What's the reason for it? I mean, part of their benefits?

      - - -

      Lol

      - - -

      I think he was around 8-9 at that time when that story was told to me.

      - - -

      I see. Aren't rabies shot and other kind of flea-removing stuff...grooming, bathing, feeding expensive? Lol, I recall reading a book on taking care of a dog and in the end, it seems to be quite a lot of hassle. My mom joke to a pet owner neighbor that it is like being a servant of the pet...gathering its poo, walk it around, feed it, etc.

      Haha, is that so.

      - -

      Oh ^^ Speaking of that, I recall that there was a one-shot I wrote before about the little mermaid's witch. If you're interested, you can read it here:
      https://tatsukida.blogspot.com/2011/06/mermaid-witch-one-shot-chapter.html

      - - -

      Oh, I see.

      - - -

      Thanks for the ending ^^ What's with that 'break up cause he's causing trouble'? ^^; Oh well, I guess to have that kind of climax and ending ^^

      Delete
    10. Yes, one of the many, many, many benefits they have, like travel expanses, gas expanses, cars and such things, all granted to them as part of their service to the country.
      -
      Quite mature for the age.
      -
      Not so much, what's really expansive is good rations that don't spoil their hair or teeth. Those are pretty expansive, but all the rest we do at home so it's not really expansive. Besides, we have a big house/yard, they don't need to be walked due to the space they have here, though I used to walk two of my babies quite often back in the day.
      -
      I'll read it, yea, just sometimes we better prepare ourselves for the tragic drama, which I'm not really handling well these days, lol.
      -
      Yea, quite the stupid break up, but very 'Takeoish'. Like I said, it seemed a bit rushed so it might have gotten axed or be in line for the next series to reach it's end no matter what, lol.

      Delete
    11. I see. I know there are that kind of benefits here...but movies? I also know of their 'forced' benefits like, I want this, don't you know who I am. To avoid trouble, it is usually given whatever they want.

      - - -

      Ah...so, it's not food scraps, right? That's good. ^^

      - - -

      Hehe, it's like a fairy tale with a lesson ^^

      - - -

      True.

      - - -

      Have you read AoT? Hehe, Eren is still the same...^^; Nice action scenes though I thought someone would have long hair. The outfit is too 'bondage' though...not quite flattering...at least a nice silhouette. Hm...so he ran away?

      Delete
    12. Just like the same, here. The movies thing, the excuse for that is they must have access to all kinds of culture, so whatever you imagine, shows, concerts, movies, parks and so on, are free for them. And they have benefits when it comes to eating outside, too, like bars, restaurants and etc.
      -
      No, no, hell no! Food scraps it's hella bad for pets, specially dogs and cats.
      -
      Yea, most are, and most are quite tragic, right? Right now I don't think I can handle, but like I said, bookmarked and going to read soon.
      -
      I did, I was kinda high, so I may have misunderstood things that happened, but I liked seeing new old Mikasa, lol. It seems that the true titan was that sister and he was acting as a proxy, quite clever if you ask me. Now, that girl is smart and where the hell is Zeke? Did he run 'cause he never again wanted to see an Ackerman? lol. By now, he should know his Eren's big bro, right?

      Delete
    13. Haha...I see. It's quite the same.

      - - -

      Oh, I see. I heard people feeding their dogs that, well, the poor. Though, they are mostly strays. I also heard hotdogs/sausages can kill a dog if fed by mistake. For cats, a cat pet owner told us, just give fish.

      - - -

      Hm...not really, well tragic for the 'villain', yes.

      - - -

      Hehe, is that so. I have complaints on how Mikasa is drawn =P With all the belts/bandages, I thought 'bondage' look? ^^;; Yup, pretty clever since it turns out that they have a trump card, too.

      I recall that Zeke left earlier before spitting up with the cart and forgot who fell in the trap hole. I'm not sure about Ackerman. Do you think Levi is also there? Yup, he should already know.

      As I hinted...lol, Eren is still a damsel in distress -_-; Where's the 'finisher'? Mikasa saves him yet again. I think Gabi will be the 'new Eren' with revenge and that sort of thing. Falco would most likely be like 'new Reiner' with regrets.

      From what Mikasa said at the end, does it mean that Eren just went to spy there and that's it? No other plan except perhaps, hoping to kill everyone there? It would be very risky to fight there on enemy's territory. So, go back to the island?

      Delete
    14. Most people do that 'cause, like I said, the good rations are expensive. But, if you're gonna feed them, it must be raw meat/fish. Only raw, otherwise, it'll be bad for the pets. I heard that sausages can kill, but it's only in tales. My damned dog once took out the entire package when I was unpacking after being at the store. He ate it all, only had a slight diarrhea. If it's raw, it's mostly 'okayish'.
      -
      That's good to know, improve the chances of the sooner better than later, lol.
      -
      Really? I didn't quite get that impression. Only her hair is shorter and it seems like the scarf is way too big now, even bigger when she was a child - how come that thing is still intact? Yea, I can see that if the author's goal is the same old story'll always repeat itself 'cause humans are normally dumb and greedy for any kind of power, so no matter what, it'll always be war and injustice and the old mistakes'll be the new ones.

      Which, I'd be okay, tbh. I don't know what I expect from this series, lol.

      Yea, the moment you said it I got what you hinted at, but this time around I think it was fine. I mean, it seemed like it was premeditated, the only thing Eren didn't know was that the whole gang came too, but he was at least expecting Mikasa and I gather Armin.

      I think it's more in the lines like, Eren, you're dying, come home, stop fighting. You fought enough already, something like this, you know?

      Delete
    15. I see. I know cats are carnivores since they eat birds, mice, etc. Dogs are supposedly omnivore? So, I was told that they can eat rice. I heard about sausages killing dogs from 2-3 dog owners. They ate hot dog, I assume local ones. I'm not sure but perhaps, the ones here are high in MSG, food coloring and other chemicals so that caused the death. ^^;

      Here's what it looks like:
      http://2016.mb.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/1015.jpg

      Lol, but then, isn't it bad if it can kill a dog yet people eats it? ^^;;

      - - -

      Hehe, I see. Lol, I didn't pay attention to the scarf ^^;

      True, kind of repeating history especially if they didn't learn from it. I mean, didn't Eren think of the accidental deaths he'll cause by rampaging there?

      Ya...but it came out to be as if it wasn't really well-thought out. I mean, what's the purpose or was he just tricked due to his rashness? Lol, it actually made me think that it is something that Eren can think of.

      Like, does he actually think that he can just finish that guy and it's all over? Was it to lure out the real Warhammer? So, was Mikasa saving him part of the plan if he failed to defeat Warhammer? Was all of this just a declaration of war?

      Well, I hope it is to lure them to the island and defeat them there. ^^; As I mentioned, it is very risky and bordering stupid to attack at the enemy territory without at least getting rid of like half or more of the enemy.

      If they leave now, won't that give the enemy time to regroup and think of how to finish Eren and others? Oh well, basically, I hope that there's something more to this than what was shown.

      Hehe, possible but then, I don't think Eren will listen. Come home and die there?

      Delete
    16. Must've been the temperature, the oil, the w/e people put into a hotdog and the spices. They can't eat our spices, well, most of them. But seeing the image, I gather it was definitely the oil and temperature. They can't eat hot food either. It must be a lil' warm or raw.

      Well, they say dogs do have less bacteria in their mouths then humans, so less resistance too?
      -
      That's why I said I didn't know what to expect 'cause I honestly don't know what's going on, lol. For all I can tell, Eren did have a plan to lure out the WarHammer and have Mikasa finish it while it was distracted.

      But like you said, it kinda looks stupid, unless he's there to get rid of all titans, including him and Armin. That was he's aim all along the series, if that's so, I don't think the matured at all, lol.

      Yea, I can see why Mikasa'd say that. Like, take a break, spend time with the ones you love before leaving, you know? Especially Mikasa, she wants to be there for him, so...

      Delete
    17. Ah...found your comment in the spam folder again ^^;

      Is that so. So, dogs cannot eat oil? Ah...'can't eat hot food'...if it's hot, won't they wait for it to be cool?

      Oh...

      - - -

      It would be nice if it was like that but she suddenly say, 'go home' so...that wasn't the plan? She seems against it.

      But it also won't make sense since time is ticking and it isn't mission accomplished yet so how can he just take a break. Lol, unless she can like tie him up and take him somewhere where he won't hurt himself =P

      Delete
    18. Don't know why it keeps happening, but thanks for checking out.
      -
      Yea, they can't handle. Their tongues are quite sensitive, so if it's hot, it might hurt the pet. Even milk, better wait and then feed it. Dogs don't tend to be patient to wait themselves, and if they're hungry or the smell is good, they'll have it even if it hurts.
      -
      Yea, that's what's getting to me. I don't what's happening, lol. I mean, I know what, but don't know why or even how - given Eren's reactions when he saw the others.

      I think Mikasa was always opposed to this plan, but Eren won her over by, 'I'll hate you forever if'... We all know the second worst thing to Mikasa is if Eren hates her, the first, his death, so... Yea, I'll think like that. It kinda makes sense, sort of...

      Delete
    19. No problem ^^ It is indeed weird. I hope it didn't tag you as a spammer ^^;;

      - - -

      Milk...for cats? I heard that it is a no-no. It's not true that cats drink milk = diarrhea, iirc. You have to do something first...make it sour first, I think.

      Oh, I see. Hm...there was a saying about people having cat tongues = can eat hot food. So it's not true?

      - -

      True. It was like it's all in the plan when Mikasa appeared. Then, she says that. So, what...she doesn't approve of it. ^^;

      Haha, ya.

      - -

      We have a lot of crazy political stuff here lately. It got me thinking about there. You mention about having the choice for 'none of the above'. So, how come people still vote/the corrupt still wins? Are the people stupid, bought or there is election cheating? All of the above?

      Delete
    20. I hope too, maybe it's 'cause I write too much?
      -
      They drink milk here, why'd be a no-no? They don't have diarrhea either, they're just fine, but I don't let'em drink every day.

      Cat tongue, irrc, it's about your tongue is so rough that you can't sense anything so all is good to go, lol. Cats shower themselves with their tongues, so I guess it's too, lol.
      -
      Speaking of SnK, check this out: https://damedesuyo.com

      Annie spin-off won an anime adaptation. Haven't watched yet, though.
      -
      All of the above, believe me. My own mother is one those, even when I already told everything I know about politics - which is not little - and have shown all the fake news about them and about those she won't vote. There're cousins of mine like this, too. They know, but believe it's right way, somehow and then we're all screwed.

      Delete
    21. Hm...it was okay before, right? ^^;

      - - -

      Lactose intolerance.

      As mentioned here:
      https://www.cat-world.com.au/can-cats-drink-milk.html

      Among other sites.

      - - -

      Oh...is that so. Speaking of shower, does your mom bathe them dogs and cats? I heard cats don't like water = so lick themselves clean. Use special shampoos, too?

      - - -

      Thanks for the info ^-^ Will check it out ^^

      - - -

      Oh. I see. I guess its the same here. So, the people there also easily 'forgive and forget'? I mean, the Lola guy, does he have a high chance of winning again? Here, after a 'dirty politician' was caught, just wait it out for some time then they can look 'clean' again to the people with the help of PR people which includes trolls and social media influencers these days.

      So at times, people envy when Japanese officials quickly resign if they got in a corruption case because here, they're so thick-faced that they'll cling to their post and won't let go. At times, they are let go if the public clamor is loud...then, just quietly reassign them somewhere else in government.

      Do they do that there, too? I mean for appointed government officials.

      Delete
    22. It was, don't know if I'm replying fastest, though, lol.
      -
      I didn't know, I mean, my cats have no problem whatsoever, never had and they all drink milk like it's normal. The one who actually has lactose intolerance is me, lol.
      -
      The dogs, yea. Special shampoo and soaps. Cats are normally clean and can handle themselves. I had only one that would play in the mud, the crazy bit, then we'd have to shower him and he'd scratch us all over. but normally, they clean after themselves.
      -
      Here is more like, he robs, but does it. Or everyone is the same, so whatever. And ofc, the ones who truly believe their candidates did nothing wrong. Yea, if Lula runs, I bet he wins, again, even with all the prosecutions and sues and process he's currently right now. They're trying to see if he can run 'cause he hasn't been convicted yet, and only 'clean' people can take public positions. Even I myself had to go to police and request my criminal record so they could see I haven't done anything.

      Yea, there they'd often commit suicide too, but here it's worse than where you live. Here, they simply don't care at all. And they normally don't tend to listen to the public clamor, if the majority over there isn't against, then it's done.

      Delete
    23. Haha...maybe. ^^

      - - -

      Haha, is that so. So just take calcium supplements? Hm...but you're fine when eating cake with cream? My bro has it and he has to drink a pill to be able to eat anything dairy related.

      - - -

      I see. I recall about a tip on cutting gloves' tips then putting it on paws so that it would prevent/lessen scratch injuries when they take a bath.

      - - -

      And, they believe their candidates due to fake news/propaganda? Something like, there is a justification for all of it and there isn't exactly a 'concrete' proof to convict? Lol, that is what's happening here. If you won't support or cooperate, you are unpatriotic/want to pull the country down, etc. Haha, of course, that's mostly in social media.

      In real life, people are working hard to make ends meet. Most likely not protest, etc. There is a general sense of apathy as long as they are not affected by what's going on. Perhaps, something will happen soon since they increased the taxes this year.

      Lol, speaking of that, people are making comparisons on a lot of requirements just to apply for a job or even janitor especially in a big company like police clearance, medical clearance, etc. But to be elected/appointed, you just need connections and minimal requirement. You don't even have to be a college graduate.

      So, during elections especially for president, there are a lot of clowns coming out for their five minute of fame on TV. They promise like they will make us a state of the USA. He has a lot of money and if he wins, he'll give each citizen 1 million.

      Haha, lately, it's the same here. The Speaker of the congress is a bully wherein if you don't vote according to their wishes/is against them, they won't give you money to help your constituents or remove you from committee positions.

      He is even thinking of all sorts of new laws that will favor his own interest like protect the 'ugly and rich people' from staying married with someone who is after their money. <- he is the 'ugly and rich person'. That is because he wanted to divorce his wife and marry his lover. He wants divorce but that won't happen soon. The story is, after he became speaker, he left his wife.

      These days, they want to change the constitution/new form of government. I think it is just an alibi for what they really want. Since they mentioned about wanting a four year term with unlimited times of running in office since they want to be a politician for life. Remove the part of government that investigates corruption and other bad practices of the government. ^^;

      And, recently, he had a huge birthday bash which lasted for a week but it was in the guise of a 'political party meeting'.

      Lol, it's like we're bragging/in a contest on who got the worst thick-faced politicians. ^^;

      Delete
    24. Yea, gotta take my calcium for other sources, but I do have coffee and milk - milk HAS to be skimmed though. The only thing I can have without problems is the ice cream I told you before, and that cake Black Forest that I love and is mostly choco and cherries. Almost no milk, 'cause I know I'd be screwed with creams and other stuff, lucky me that I'm not fond of'em anyways, lol.
      -
      More or less, over here there're a lot of fake news and propaganda, but they do show the dishonesty of most. It's just people turning a blind eye to it, I can't really understand how their mind works.

      There was a subway strike this week, it took my brother and in-law almost 4h to arrive at where they work. Hellish in traffic, ofc, 'cause they uplifted the car rotation, so it was pure chaos. There are no protest there?

      Yea, you'd think that'd apply especially to those that have public jobs and are supposed to be required to be honesty and clean.

      Wow. We have clowns here, but not like that.

      Lol, yea, I know the type. At least, it's not like in Bolivia - there, they made a new law that prohibits you from speaking your religion. You can't publicly talk about Jesus or Christ. But you can walk with 5kg of cocaine without a problem. Police'll only stop you if you're trying to go to the church - and this is true, as absolute horror that it sounds, it's that unfortunately truth. Marxism and communism is what their president tried to implement there, the same thing in Venezuela and most part of your politicians here approve these. Lula even 'fought' side by side with them both presidents and called'em brothers. You see why abhor the notion of him winning again, not only 'cause he put this country in the lowest of low, but more so 'cause of his beliefs.

      If they can get pass this corruption investigation, then is all over. They're trying to do the something similar here, putting limits in what can be investigated and what not.

      Such sad truth. The one and only politician here that 'seems' to be honest and have some good plans here is being clouded with all kinds of attack and fake news. I fear what'll happen if he wins...

      Delete
    25. And, yes, you got into the spam folder again. ^^;

      - - -

      Oh, that's good ^^ Hm...still, doesn't Black Forest have cream before the chocolate and cherries are put on them? Or, you remove a bit of the cream?

      - - -

      Okay. Is there a pride thing to it? That is one explanation for the behavior here. They voted for this person but because of pride, they will be blind to all his/her wrongdoing and refuse to accept that they voted for the wrong person.

      - - -

      Almost 4 hours...and the usual trip is? If it is on strike, what would they ride? Taxi? Here, we don't have strikes. It is the train itself that kept on going on strike like, door suddenly opening while the train is moving, it suddenly won't run so people would have to be offloaded and walk to the next station.

      Some people are making a gamble out of it. Do you think it is working today or not? Bet some money. ^^; Oh...interesting, you also have car rotation. How is it done there?

      Here, on mondays, car license that ends with 1-2 are off the road. Tuesdays are 3-4. Wed 5-6. Thur 7-8. Fru 9-0. Better off people get away with it by buying another car so they will always be on the road.

      There are protests here in the transpo but usually by the jeepneys. Those are kind of mini buses but from the WW2 era wherein people made jeeps into a transpo vehicle. The government wants to replace them. That would be okay if the new ones are cheaper. From the news, you can buy a sedan car with the cost...so why not just be an uber driver.

      Other protests by the same group are due to transport price hike. As for political protests, there are a few here and there usually by the communists people talking about imperialism. They shut up a bit during this administration since they have a bit of an on and off alliance.

      Nope, they have a 'different standard'.

      Haha

      Wow, messed up morals. So, religion is more evil than drugs for them.

      Same here. And, what's worse is, gullible people actually believe all those lies. Would think that they are no better than the current ones...or even worse so let's vote/support the current corrupt ones.

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    26. I don't know why that's happening all the time, now.
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      No, the one I like has only cherries and chocos. There's no cream, the lil' thing to make the cake smooth and "wet" is cherry syrup - but not the ones highly sweet. Just a normal syrup so cake isn't too dry.
      -
      I honestly don't know and I fail miserably when I try to understand'em. It's in my nature trying to understand human behavior and etc, as a professor and someone who studied psychology and is normally curious overall, but I admit defeat in this front. I simply can't understand.
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      From where I live, 2h. We have taxis, and uber too, I prefer uber, cheaper and faster. But with the suspended rotation 'cause of the strike, everyone is going by car now. I don't remember anymore each day and which plaque, it's been a while since a I last drove, but it functions the exactly same way you described. Those better off, have more cars and normally don't ever use other way of transport.
      -
      Wow. They're still around and functioning? There were some protests here over the transport price too. I'd have to pay to go to work, not get paid 'cause I work, lol. You have commies there, too, huh? Weird they'd be quiet when your president tries to get close to Trump, which is the horror of all commies, lol.
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      I hope they haven't sanctioned that law yet, and if not yet, never do.
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      Yea, I know some people that say that, everybody is corrupt, so whatever... Like I said before, this is one front I gave up trying to understand, lol.

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    27. It's a conspiracy...=P

      - - -

      Oh, I see. What does it look like?

      Here, it is usually like this:
      http://redribbonbakeshop.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/BlackForrest.png

      - -

      Is that so.

      - - -

      I see. Uber and similar services are getting more popular here. It isn't exactly cheaper. There was a time when I checked in between a few minutes for the same place, they had a price surge which kept on going higher every time I checked. ^^;;

      Here, it is because it is more convenient. You see, taxis here are very picky. If the place where you want to go is near or not 'their type', maybe, they'll refuse you. For example, we hailed a taxi near our place. The driver asked where we are going. We said, to this place. Then he'll say, sorry, I'm off duty now. ^^;; Or, they'll ask for extra from the price on the meter.

      They are also infamous for being rude, stinky and all sort of bad stuff like, put some perfume to knock you out and steal from you or drive you around then meet up with another person who'll mug you. Before, there is even rapes.

      Of course, since uber and others are becoming 'famous' and those taxis and other transpo are 'owned' by politicians, they want to cash in on it or make things difficult for them. There was a case last year about them being deliberately slow in giving license and uber letting 'unlicensed' go on the road. They were fined for 190 million for it.

      People of course believe that it goes to their pockets. Why focus on uber when other modes of transpo are doing much worse. It was rumored that the government want to have their own 'uber type of transpo. Right now, they are talking about limiting the number of uber-etc cars.

      - - -

      Well, let's just say the design/model is the same but it isn't exactly from WW2.

      Yup. Well, you know, it's all about the money and not the 'principle'. The president is actually chummy chummy with the commies. He is more of a 'closet commie' or rather, he has commie friends. A love-hate relationship with the commies...depends which commies.

      The money I'm talking about is he gave positions to these commies. So, they cannot exactly protest against the government where they work/get money. There are some whom he duped by making his men reject the appointments so when these commies complain about the government, they no longer have influence since they 'slept with the enemy'.

      Their leader is in Netherlands. Earlier, they were very chummy chummy since the leader was the president's teacher. Now, since the 'peace talks' are crumbling, perhaps partially because he is scared that the military might oust him if he continues to accommodate the commies, they are trading barbs and the president is threatening to slap him if they met. Haha

      Getting close to Trump is more on they have the same personality of looking down on women, calling media who call them out as fake news, etc. The president used to say all sorts of bad words about the US when it is under Obama whom he hates. Now, since it is Trump, he is a 'good boy'.

      I guess it helps for him and his cohorts that Trump is the US president since currently, we have 'troubles' about the president 'selling out' our islands to the Chinese = commies.

      - - -

      Indeed.

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    28. It must be, didn't use to have such problems before.
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      Oh, this one is the 'original', the one I like, take off all the whipped cream and instead, just use the cherry syrup and choco. Not much fan of creams myself, like I said before.
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      Yea, here they first tried to stop all uber services, now they're making them pay huge taxes for their services - and this reflects back at us, who pay uber - still, cheaper than most taxis.

      I see, it happens over here too, especially in violent cities or depending of the hour. Can't blame them, really.

      Wow! Really?! Those are some pretty creepy/scary stories about drivers you have there. Not that it doesn't happen here, but they way you put, it makes look like it was a common thing, while here it's very rare to see/hear/know something like that happened. Usually, when it does, it's way back in the country side in violent areas.
      -
      I see, it's better than what I had in mind - 'cause here we do have cars and other transport from that era that still roam around.

      HAhahaha, close commie, lol. I see, he plays both sides like a champ, them?

      From all I've seen, commie politics just brought misery to people, instead of equality. Sure, misery equality if you're not up there with them leaders. While I myself don't mind commies, I do get triggered every now and then when I see one talking bs like they know what's better for me, but all they do is exactly the opposite of what they say. Besides, like I said, all political parties from here are mostly commies and pro-commies, Lula helped Evo Morales, Nicolás Maduro, Fidel Castro and even North Korea, not to say some dictators in Africa. Just by these we can see we're not in for a very good future if theses people stay in power.

      Speaking of which, Lula was prosecuted and finally found guilty, doubt he'll spend a single day in prison. Bet he's going to Cuba - he already had a 'trip' scheduled.

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    29. Indeed...

      - - -

      Choco...as in icing or shaved chocolate stuck on the cake with cherry syrup?

      - - -

      Oh...is that so.

      Ya, so as much as possible, most people especially women alone avoid riding taxis. The other thing that is good with uber and other services is that one can send the info about the driver and route to someone else. Though, there are some bad stories about uber drivers but those are rare.

      - - -

      Ah, are those the vintage cars? I recall there are owners of those cars here complaining when the government want to remove them from the streets like I forgot how many years old car. They say that they maintain those vintage cars.

      Yup. The guy is a known liar so I cannot say if it might be 'pretend'. Like say, I hate oligarchs and corrupt, etc...but actually, he is with them. He just hates those people if they are his enemies. ^^;

      Indeed. There are actually two types of commies here. The ones that protest about almost everything and the ones that is into banditry to get money using communism as their cause. Banditry = they ask business to pay revolutionary tax or else, they'll burn and destroy your property. Do you have the latter one there?

      Wow...so no more presidency for him? And, the court will allow him to go? Here, VIP prisoners get to ask the court to let them have doctor check-ups, go home for his birthday party or Christmas party, etc. Those out on bail get to go abroad. But, if you're the enemy of the government or poor, sorry, you stay put in jail.

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    30. Shaved/choco flakes. The syrup is only there so the cake doesn't get too dry.
      -
      Wow. Fortunately we don't hear much of these around here. I mean, we still say to be careful and remember some story, but it's been some good time since the last crime, thank God. It's always a risk tbh, right? Fortunately those are getting less likely to happen.
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      No, old cars, old bus old everything without proper maintenance, even the public transport ones. There are those well off enough that have those vintage cars and take proper care of them, but those are truly rare.
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      It's kinda funny 'cause he's playin' both sides and it seems no one's noticing, lol.

      Actually, here there are only 'left', the ones that know what being a commie is, and the ones that don't know. I think there's only one politician that's truly from the right and he's being labeled as fascist, dictator, opresor and all things people from the left commie actually are, they're just putting the label on him. Kinda sad to see and see most of people so lost and without any hint of proper instruction to know what's happening. The ones that know, aren't that open like there, but it's all well known that small groups do those, label on the right, and get away as victims of the system.

      Well, they're trying to pull off a Mandela on him. Unjusticed and convicted and so on, hopefully they don't get the approval and he's unable to get elected. And hopefully they don't let him get out of the country, not that it's hard to if he really wants, but if the system let him go is another thing altogether.

      Here's the same. As long you have money/influence.
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      I've seen the new KoT, haven't read yet. Will do when I'm not so jaded high, lol.

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    31. I see.

      - - -

      Yup.

      - - -

      I see.

      - - -

      Lol, actually, they know but for their own interests/survival, they kinda 'pretend' that they don't know or stay low until the next admin. There is a usual saying here, sometimes you're up and sometimes you're down. there are no permanent friends or permanent enemies, only permanent interests. If you supported the right president, you'll reap its benefits. If not, stay low until that admin is over. Is it the same there?

      Speaking of that, in your country, are the ones appointed in positions are also due to connections and 'owe'? That is the way of doing things here. They put in their friends, sponsors in elections, allies, etc and most of the time, they're not qualified.

      I see. So how does the people usually vote there? Since they don't quite know what's happening, is it appeal to emotions? Here, it is like that. It is like courting someone and promising everything. So, being charming/having charisma does help. There are also those who vote based on how much was paid to him/her in exchange of the vote. Haha, those politicians tend to do their job and help the people only during elections.

      I see. The victim card...appealing to sympathy? That is usually effective here. They're bullying me. I'm the victim. I'm sick now. And people will feel sorry for him/her so it would be okay if he gets out on bail/out of the country/acquitted.

      Ah, I see.

      - - -

      Take your time ^^

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  4. Happy New Year and thanks for the summary! I hope some manga translator sees your summary so they can translate the manga as well. As always, your insights add to the story. And you're so nice for answering everyone's comments 😊

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    Replies
    1. Happy New Year, Anon0o0 and thanks for reading ^-^

      =)

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  5. un millon de gracias por la traduccion

    ReplyDelete