The Eternal Sweeper is Back (once in a while)!

[Teahouse Keeper]

How ever long I drift away, I never forget here.

Once in a while, I come back, just to look around. Then I go off again. To come back again. It is the one URL I always remember.

This is the only place I sigh to return. The only place that strangely gives comfort. It is a secret past, forgotten by others, always remembered and loved by its creator. Precisely because it is forgotten, it gives comfort, because it is now a private place.

It is here that I met a woman. But that has all ended. Ergo, the sigh. Yet apart from it, I have been happy here, as have many others. I am happy to have made a place that made them happy.

Thank you for giving this place a memory.

[Teahouse Keeper]

I'm now hung up on Saiunkoku Monogatari. Now downloading Second Season like mad. ^__^ Didn't even know there was a second season until I accidentally came across the mention of it while looking up the seiyuus who did the voices in the first season (right after finishing the last episode 39).

This second season has 39 episodes also. At the moment, it's easy finding the downloads. There are enough uploaders and fansubs due to its popularity and "newness" now. Second season is pretty recent, airing in Japan a few months after the first season ended in 2007... lemme see...

I was first checking up on seiyuus at Anime News Network... out of whim, clicked on the Japanese official website. And just clicking around, clicked on what I thought to be episode reviews of the first season... until I realised that the small preview video clips accompanying the reviews didn't match with what I had just finished watching.

And looking at the Japanese reviews closer, realised they were for a second season!! O..O WOW! There is a 2nd season!! Whee! Fabulous. And there I was wishing they did more, because the first season ended with an open conclusion between the Emperor and his beloved Shuurei.

Ok, let's retrace...

In Anime News Network, there is no mention of a second season. Eh, no, now I see... it says there is a TV sequel.

www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=6200

Ok.. anyway, it was 3 am when I did it and things are naturally fuzzy... *sweatdrop*

I was just about to exit the site (missing the top part "related anime" that says there is a TV sequel) when on a whim, clicked this:
NHK's website: www3.nhk.or.jp/anime/saiunkoku/

After checking out the clickable stuff on the left, I clicked the right. And viola! The right side 2nd clickable at Ryuuki's (the Emperor) side.

Those little videos are not in Season 1, certainly not that ep 38 with that strange light and that man whom I've never seen.

Looking at the top menu, there are 2 rows, each categorized until eps 31~39.

Checking the first row 31~39 ... they were what I last watched, just done last night 18 Dec (or rather wee hours of the morning. These things are addictive). Last broadcast was in 2007 Feb 24. According to Anime News Network, the first season was aired from 2006 to 2007. Matches.

Looking at the 2nd row, eps 1~10, broadcast starts (or rather resumes) on 2007 April 7.. and ends in 2008 March 8.

Therefore, there is more and this is the 2nd season!

Hang on... I am now in the midst of downloading the individual episodes...

Actually, haven't been into Anime for a few years now, ever since I drifted from here. Or perhaps, even before drifting. Somehow, hadn't always been a fan. This time was also purely coincidental, and of course, on a whim that I opened the first episode of Saiunkoku Monogatari in my computer (that I downloaded a longg time ago but never watched).

Had some time on my hands, felt a little laid back enough to open it for once. And then found myself in its grasp. Addictive. The songs and music would play in my head when I wasn't watching, made me long to go back to it, to watch more. ^__^ It's really amazing. I have no idea why it has that effect, on me and I am sure on so many fans.

It's been a long while since I felt this way. It makes me come alive again, makes me want to do things back here again.

Watching the downloads, I only hope.. wish that my disk space was more... or rather, hope the episodes will all be able to go in.... ^_^''

And now.. I have to go boil potatoes.. from Japan. It is now 6.25 pm on a Saturday.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Well, let's see... while the steps are still quite fresh in my mind, I had better post it down.

First, easily, as usual, I headed for Animesuki. First choice. They had the second season, but they had it as 2 chunks: eps 1~20 and eps 21~39. BT and uTorent aren't particularly great when downloading such large files. It'd take ages. And my BT... I recall it being somewhat down... perhaps.

Animesuki has some single loose eps in their list, but those are not "alive", no seeders. I have since noticed there is "version 2" for some eps... and have no idea why or what. I downloaded from another site a version 2 for Ep 2 (animea.net link provided down here "FLC-Subs" first link, 02v2), Four-Leaf Clover. Good picture, good subbing. No other difference.

I guess "version 2" simply means there was a version 1 which was replaced by an improved second version.

Seems was right. They did have a version 1 but for some reason, did a second version, perhaps due to the arrival of a new translator. Perhaps, that translator wanted to do a revision. fourleafclover.wordpress.com/2007/09/19/a-gift-from-the-heaven]

Here is Animesuki. Subbed by C1_Animanda which is the popular one being circulated around now. However, the files are MKV, not AVI. I didn't know the difference until after downloading Ep1 from another website. Windows Media Player couldn't play it. animesuki.com/series.php/1021.html

Browsing for answers, someone at a forum said that while MKV files are clearer and better than AVI files, it's no use if the computer is slow as play will be jerky.

Then came upon this site, but read only the top part "Containers, Codecs and Players". Then went off to download a Matroska Codec. www.afterdawn.com/guides/archive/how_to_play_mkv.cfm

Windows Media could play the file but it would just play and the play console couldn't be controlled (it didn't move while playing). I couldn't go forward or back without re-starting the whole thing. The playback was truly very sharp and clear, but I wouldn't say it's superior to AVI since the earlier AVI season 1 files were as good (KissSub & ShadowDreams).

Unable to control the Play console, I browsed for answers. Finding none, I returned to the site to read further, to see if there might be a solution.

That's when I saw the Matroska Pack download under "MKV on DirectShow based players". It's strange it's called Matroska when it's CCCP (Combined Community Codec pack) which I actually already have. This one is of course, the newer 2009 version. Wonder why the older version couldn't play MKV. How old is MKV anyway?

Matroska is pretty new, starting from 2002. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matroska

Mm.. this is interesting: www.matroska.org/technical/guides/faq/index.html (The website itself started in 2005).

Anyway...

Where was I?

Well, after downloading CCCP, Windows Media Player works fine (except need to let it play first, stop it, then play again and play console will work normally). It also takes a few seconds longer for the codec to kick in, I guess.

So.

There are quite a few sites providing downloads of the Second Season. Mostly subbed by C1_Animanda mkv files. There are however, other fansubbers providing AVI files: Four Leaf Clover (not so clear but ok), Saitei (very sharp and clear), SSF (clear), Suck (not good quality and subs).

For comparison, I downloaded the same episode (1 and 2) from different subbers to see which was better or best. Once I decided on the best one, that's the one I would go for, for the rest of the eps.

Saitei is pretty good in terms of picture quality and subbing.

For all these subbers, the subs are all not the same meanings for every scene, which is odd considering the translation of a language should be uniform, right? If those subbers really know Japanese.

It would seem subbers tend to "translate" according to their own interpretation and what they think is right, rather than providing a true accuracy to the original meaning...

While I don't know much Japanese, from listening to the Japanese and comparing with the subs, and matching certain words, I'd say Saitei's or C1_Animanda's subs are pretty close or as close as possible to the original meaning.

Mm.. these 2 links contain both AVI and MKV files:

[Ep1 first link, C1_Animanda; Ep02v2 first link, FLC-Subs]. I didn't download those with "rm"]
www.animea.net/download/1087/Saiunkoku+Monogatari+2.html

[Ep 1 is AVI (think I didn't download this); Ep 2 is Saitei subbed, mkv file]
hsbsitez.com/files/498/Saiunkoku+Monogatari+2nd+Series

For C1_Animanda only: [Just cut and paste the URLs and download separately.]
forum.nihonomaru.com/full-series/142967-saiunkoku-monogatari-2nd-series.html

Then while looking around to solve the Play console problem, I also came upon this interesting site:

Tips on Codec Pack: From the comments, recommendations for codec pack...not good. As mentioned by the first comment, K-Lite Codec "bloated" at 23.6MB. CCCP is just 6~6.53MB.
nyu-anime.blogspot.com/2008/04/recommended-media-player-and-codecs_21.html

"Bypassing Megaupload limit", complex and also not good.
nyu-anime.blogspot.com/2008/04/bypassing-megauplaod-limit.html

C1_Animanda is the only one that subs the Emperor's reference to himself as "I". The others have an annoying habit of using "we".

For the first season, if possible, find another subber for eps 28~39. "Suck" subbing and picture quality are not good, especially compared to rest of the eps subbed by KissSub and ShadowDreams. At least for second season, there are a few other subbers. So for second season, avoid "Suck".

For Saitei...they don't do 2nd season Ep3 (no season 1 either). Seems they only subbed 2nd season Ep 1 and 2 (Ep 1 is no longer available). Pity. Must have given up after doing 2, too much work. And probably C1_Animanda beat them to it.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Came across comment in Animesuki's forums. First Season already licensed. Removed from Animesuki's list. Luckily, I got it long time back. Hahaha...

Still possible to download from some sites (not sure if really alive). Seems there are still a few seeders around.

While searching for 2nd season downloads, found that BoxTorrents is now BakaBT. Wonder why the change...I signed up but couldn't find the Search function and consequently, didn't find any Saiunkoku there. Where are the anime?

Oh, here it is. Googled it now. First Season: www.bakabt.com/130193-saiunkoku-monogatari-complete.html

Looks alive as of now 19 Dec. 13 peers, 12 seeders. It's going to take a while, but considering it's not as new as 2nd season and licensed, it's already pretty good.

As for streaming online...Downloads for Season 2 are easier to find than workable streaming links. [Update: However, managed to find a few (see 2 posts down). Just the opposite of Season 1 (downloads are rarer than streaming)].

Here's something useless: fourleafclover.wordpress.com/releases

I'm going to watch Ep3, then get the rest as fast as I can while they are still available. At the moment, watching each one after each download.

[Teahouse Keeper]

I've just watched Ep 3 by SSF (Sweet Secret Fansubs). Good. Clear play and good subs. They don't do many eps.

Mm. Checking the animea.net files, SSF does the odd number eps. 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 etc.

[Teahouse Keeper]

I'm also searching for Season 1 eps 28~39 (to replace Suck fansub). Unable to find.

Shadow Dreams has 28~39 but the torrent download is dead. There is a paying option as well, but not sure if that's alive. Most likely dead.

KissSubs seems to have done only 1~20. It's possible they didn't do any further for Season 1 as it seems to be a joint project with the 2 other subbing groups Shadow Dreams (21~27) & Suck (28~39).

Unable to find anything further for KissSubs.

Most likely, stuck with Suck's eps 28~39.

If I had been earlier, there would have been more choices for download. Likely, Shadow Dreams 28~39 torrent would have been alive.

For online streaming, found this. But it's still by Sucks:
www.watchanimeon.com/saiunkoku-monogatari-episode-28/

But still better than other streaming sites whose vids have been deleted.

Season 1 & 2 online streaming (S2_Episode 1 has been deleted; S2 Ep2 is Ok, by FLC Subs. I didn't check the rest): www.watchanimeon.com/anime/saiunkoku-monogatari/

Here's another streaming, also by Sucks: www.anilinkz.com/saiunkoku-monogatari/saiunkoku-monogatari-episode-28/

And another: www.animeshout.com/watch-saiunkoku-monogatari-episode-28-english-subtitles-subbed-dubbed-dub.html

This is also by Sucks, but surprisingly this streaming quality for S2 is better than the download for S1: www.animeseason.com/saiunkoku-monogatari-2nd-series-episode-1/


I'm also trying to bypass MegaUpload's download limit. Without the bypass, I can only download 1 file a day. Same with RapidShare.

Those hacks don't work. "Inserting mgr_dl.php" into the MegaUpload link doesn't work. Removing Cookies doesn't work.

For searching for Season 1 eps 28~39, I think that's about it. Searched 20 Google results pages and nothing. Shadow Dreams torrent would have been perfect but it's dead everywhere. It's a bet the paying options don't have it either (but who knows unless pay and try).

Since even online streaming plays Sucks subbing, it's a good bet there are no other subbers (except for Shadow Dreams) even at that earlier time.

Unfortunately, I can't remember the list of subbers at that time when I first downloaded Season 1 from AnimeSuki. Think I downloaded from AnimeSuki. Season 1 isn't on their list anymore since it's been licensed.

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Dec 20 Sunday 9.30 pm)

WHOO HOOOOOoooOOO!!! I'm in!! It finally worked.

Bypassed MegaUpload's download limit. Was getting worried about not being able to find a hack for it (which means it'd take a month to download all the eps at a rate of 1 a day >..<).

Tried 3 methods with Rapidshare but not working so far. MegaUpload is less strict. Well, at least there's a hole, or maybe 2 that's left unplugged, unlike Rapidshare.

I tried using a proxy to hide my IP (as suggested by Nyu-anime and a few sites) but was still barred by RapidShare. Was detected in fact and warned. Hahaha... ^_^''

Back to MegaUpload... I found this fabulous guy (person) Deekle at this forum, coincidentally, the same animea.net site:
www.animea.net/forums/f15/bypass-megauploads-download-limit-39873/

For FireFox:

2 methods to bypass: I tried the first one but chickened out after entering "about:config" and it prompted me with a warning about whether I knew what I was doing. No, I did not. So, to be safe, I tried method 2.

Method 2 is easier. Just go to that add-on site. Click "+Add to Firefox". Click "Install Now". Click "Restart Firefox".

Then for me, I went to: Tools–>Default User Agent–>User Agent Switcher–>Options. Click: New-> New User Agent.

Description: MEGAUPLOAD

Click "OK"->"OK". Done.

Then go back to clicking on the Megaupload link and viola! I can download more than 1 file now (at the same time) when some minutes ago, I had exceeded my download limit.

In the forum comments, Deekle said he downloaded 10 files at the same time (causing his internet to crash). O..O Well, let's not push it... *sweatdrop*

Incidentally, the source of the method is "Nyu-anime". The very same I encountered earlier but bypassed for its "complexity" and unfavorable comments.
nyu-anime.blogspot.com/2008/04/bypassing-megauplaod-limit.html

Don't know why Deekle at the forum didn't provide the solution for those using IE.

At the moment, I'm feeling like it's too good to be true... 2 files are now downloading simultaneously.

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Dec 22 12.10 pm)

Those 2 files at that time were Eps 6 and 7. They were fine after the simultaneous download.

Unfortunately... I should have downloaded 10 at 1 go, like Deekle did. Or at least 5 at a time.

Yesterday morning, I discovered the bypass method that worked, didn't work anymore. MOOouu... dame yo...

Crap!! I tried all sorts of other ways of bypass. Download HideIP (changed to China, then to Malaysia), no go. Did and re-did the User Switch thing a few times, input the "Alexa toolbar" into the description, cut and pasted the entire description input from Nyu-anime (that I didn't do the first time and yet it worked) and still no go!! >..<

Used Anonymouse, Guardster and other "surf privacy anonymous" sites. All useless!!! Deleted all Cookies: useless!

Even tried that silly Google translate idea. Why would "Translating" the Megaupload URL from English to German have any effect?? Of course, it didn't. It kept getting rejected by Google (after the "translation").

Megaupload just kept reading my IP regardless of what I did. The only thing I didn't do was use Deekle's first method (that I chickened out of the first time and still not doing).

While doing all that, I found I could still download a few files a day, just not simultaneously. And need to either wait a few hours in between each download or shut down the computer and start it again. I have no idea why shutting down the computer can initiate a new download allowance. Cookies? Might be the cleaners at work whenever I shut down. But it didn't work when I deleted all Cookies previously while it was on.

Anyway, to be able to download a few files a day is fine. Better than 1 a day. >..< When the thing worked the first time, I made the mistake of downloading just 4 Eps (6~9). (What the hell was I thinking?!). Even though I had a small suspicion the thing wouldn't work again the next day, I kept to the stubborn faith that it would. I refused to see.

My advice to anyone who gets it to work the first time: Download everything fast. Don't wait.

I haven't had any luck with RapidShare. I only like the Speedometer (the left one).

Last night, I finished watching Ep 13. Now downloading 14. And I can't get Megaupload to let me have 15 at the same time. So... I wait to see if I can get it right after 14 is done.

I'm looking for the OST.

Checked the 2 links to see if they have OST, but...

Eh? Now I see the hsbsitez link, has only up till Ep 36. Darn.
Animea.net has full Eps it seems.

Thing is, even if I find the OST, they will most likely be Megaupload or Rapidshare. Can't download anything else while I'm downloading an episode.

Rapidshare won't let me download a thing even though I haven't downloaded a thing.

At this very moment, Ep 14 has just done downloading and Megaupload won't let me have Ep 15. Download limit exceeded (after just 1 download).

[Teahouse Keeper]

*sighs* Mmm... after Ep 14 done, I scanned and cleaned, deleted Cookies as well. Then was able to download Ep 15 without shutting down.

Now while 15 is downloading, I can't get it to simultaneously download 16 even after cleaning again.

There's gotta be a way to bypass this (apart from the "about:config" method).

The episodes are all C1_Animanda files. Once I'm done, I'll get those odd numbered eps by SSF for comparison. I think SSF is pretty good.

****
Mm. Ok, I did a little more searching for a bypass...
Didn't see this when Googling yesterday:
txpress.blogspot.com/2006/11/megaupload-tricks-to-download-files.html

Pretty good to put all the methods together in 1 place (finally. These methods are all over the net). 6 methods (although I believe there are more for RapidShare and maybe just 1 or 2 more for MegaUpload somewhere out there. Greedy, aren't I?) '' Well, at least there's 1 (Method 6) for IE now.

And we are back in action!! 2 files now download at the same time! I got 16 to download while 15 was still downloading.

These methods were preciously read. ^__^''

Method 1 didn't yield anything because it seems to be an all paying site. No idea what this freehostia does.

Method 2: Not applicable because mine is about download limit, not country slots.

Method 3: Tried for the 4th time. As Megaupload always for some odd reason loads in Korean for me, I tried "translating" from Korean to English this time. Didn't work.

Method 4: Not applicable.

Method 5: Doesn't work anymore.

Method 5 (update): Ahh. This one. The one I ran away from without even trying.

Type in the address bar this: about:config
Then search for this key: general.useragent.extra.firefox
Double click on it and add this: MEGAUPLOAD 1.0
So at the end it will look like this: Firefox/2.0 MEGAUPLOAD 1.0
Restart Firefox and now you have infinite slots.


I read it carefully this time. Tried it again. Typed "about:config". Got the same message as before: "Changing these advanced settings can be harmful to the stability, security and performance of this application. You should only continue if you are sure of what you are doing.". Under it, the box is already checked for "Show this warning next time".

Click: I'll be careful, I promise.

A list of stuff is displayed. Searched for the key. Double-clicked and added the thing. The original line changed. That was it. Mine has no Ok button. Didn't need to re-start Firefox.

I simply went back to the hsbsitez and started Ep 16 to see if it would work without restarting Firefox. It did. ^__^

And...now it doesn't again. Ep 15 is done but can't get it to do 16 and 17 at the same time.

Well, Deekle did say it didn't always work. But it sometimes did.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Ok, just cleaned off the Cookies and it's downloading 17 now. ^__^

What I did:
Tools->Options->Privacy->Show Cookies. Scroll down for Megaupload. Click on it. Remove cookies button->Close->Ok.
Went back to hsbsitez and started downloading 17.

Now...
While 17 is downloading, remove cookies again. Go back to start downloading another episode (18).

Ah. Download limit exceeded! Nase?!! NASE NASE NASE!?!

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Dec 23 11.58 pm)

Yesterday, after 17, was only able to download 1 file at 1 time. No more miracles.

But I was still able to download a total of 11 episodes yesterday, all the way till 3 am. ^__^ Pretty darn good already.

Checking now to see if "about:config" is still in place... Yes, it's in place. But now it only allows downloads one at a time, not simultaneously.

The User Switcher thing is also in place, which also allowed simultaneous download previously but not now.

At the moment... Ep 25 has finished downloading. To test, I have disabled User Switcher (use Default), and it's not able to download a new episode even with "about:config" in place.

Ok, now I enable it again...

Got it. Ep 26 is now downloading.

Hmm. So, it seems both methods work to enable downloading (even if it's one at a time). One at a time, unlimited downloading. Pretty good already. "about:config" seems to stabilize the User Switcher step.

Now, a new problem is: There's something wrong with the hsbsitez. Google refuses to allow entry into the site unless I go in at my own risk. Suspected malicious activity warning (even it's own diagnostic says the site is not listed as suspicious and has not hosted malicious software over the past 90 days).

So now, episode 26 is now downloading from animea.net. Have no idea what fansubbing I am downloading or the quality since it's not stated. Hoping it's C1_Animanda.

The last time I saw this Google warning and ignored it, my computer got a blue screen for a few days. Couldn't be fixed as didn't know how. Eventually fixed by my bro who certainly wasn't pleased.

Crap. Hoping perhaps tomorrow hsbsitez will be Ok.

Or.. I gotta start searching for C1_Animanda again.

[Teahouse Keeper]

It wasn't much of a search, since the 2nd season is very popular now. Found other download links for C1_Animanda right away.

This is the one I'm getting the rest of the episodes now (from Ep 26. I deleted the one from animea that was downloading, in favor of this 26 that is C1_Animanda):
www.cyber12.com/page-Saiunkoku_Monogatari_2nd.html

They have 1st season as well, but I haven't checked it out. Not sure if really downloadable.

Looks like a pretty fabulous site. Wouldn't mind donating to keep it up. Its URL is strange for an anime site. cyber12.com. Probably intentional to avoid the hounds. If so, it's a smart move.

I'm now downloading Ep 30. And I believe... cyber12 has the OST...

*checking*

Yes, they do. But it seems to be just the first season's soundtrack. Haven't checked up on the OST (whether there's 2 or 1 for the 2 seasons). Have no idea why it's "Soundtrack 2":

Title: Saiunkoku Monogatari Original Soundtrack 2
Street Release Date: January 12, 2007

This second site has very interesting compilation of Megauploads episode links. I found what seems to be Ep 34 of the 1st season, fansubbed by Shadow Dreams! Have no idea if it's downloadable since I'm still stuck with downloading one episode at a time and haven't finished.
megauploadfiles.com/search.php?q=saiunkoku+27&so=2&p=4&t=1

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Dec 25)

Mm... it's easy to forget today is X'mas. ^_^ Merry Christmas.

Last night, finished the last ep of the 2nd season. Ep 39. Very nice. Satisfying. Nice finishing touch. ^__^

It would seem there should be a 3rd Season coming. Not sure, will have to check that up.

Everything was wrapped up nicely, no rush. Just 1 thing, however. And that's Hyou Riou (voiced by Toshihiko Seki). Darn, he only appeared so few times and spoke so little!! Darn, darn. And his role seems unclear. Wasn't expanded on. Seems like a loose end thrown in as a red herring... or tantalizing opening, but closing with nothing to do with it.

Riou began with wanting "something". It was clear he wanted Shuurei. In between, he sent his son, also with the same name Riou, as go-between. But to the end, Hyou Riou never makes another appearance and it is unknown whether things are going according to his plan or...

So, there's likely a 3rd season coming, considering also its popularity. I suspect, the first season ratings were enough to spruce up the work done for 2nd season which has better rendered artwork--the characters' eyes are more luminous, more...glossed, alive like real orbs. There's more CGI. More focus on the eyes, the tears (like real liquid), the scenery ambience and lighting.

Mm.. so, is there a 3rd Season? Seems nothing in the NHK official site... maybe they are making it right now... imagining Tomokazu Seki voicing Ryuuki for season 3 in the studio at the moment. Hahaha...

Ok, back to the links.

After finishing downloading and watching C1_Animanda's 2nd season, I am now searching for SSF downloads for comparison. Most links lead to dead ends.

At Animea.net, downloaded Ep 38 SaiMono (Saiunkoku Monogatari subbed by Crystallis). Don't get it. It's bad. MP3 File is damaged (picture scrambled) at one part (Ryuuki & Shuuei in the woods) towards the end and subbing is bad. I am deleting the one I downloaded. Ep 39 should be the same (subbed by Crystallis).

Crystallis also has the annoying and distracting thing with the different colored subbing for each character. And as with other subbers, Emperor's reference to himself is subbed as "We" & "Us", rather than "I" or "me".

Ep 36 no file. Now checking Ep 35.... It's also by Crystallis. It's ok, but I still prefer C1_Animanda which has better quality, clearer play and subs (English is also better, haha).

It's a good bet that Ep 30~35 are also subbed by Crystallis (I didn't download to check). So, that's Ep 30~39.

Ep 29, no file. Ep 28 is Crystallis again.

SSF-FLC subbing only starts from episode 14 and above. Mm. Now it seems Animea.net isn't so good after all with all those Crystallis eps.

Incidentally, hsbsitez is Ok again.

It seems that SSF only subbed till Ep 14.

SSF-FLC were supposed to do it as a joint project. SSF would do the odd numbered eps while FLC did the even numbers. According to that quote in the forum, SSF said they would eventually do all the eps, starting from ep1. It seems they didn't after all.

I haven't found anything above Ep 14 for SSF. From all the torrents lists, they seem to have stopped at 14. And even then, I'm having trouble finding a working download link.

Mm hmm.. found one. sweetynight.blogspot.com/2009/08/saiunkoku-monogatari-ii-anime.html

Now downloading Ep4 to check if it's by SSF....

Yes, checked. It's FLC. Mm.. but the English is not as good as C1_Animanda. But it's Ok.

I've also found this online streaming site. Also subbed by Crystallis. Well, the picture quality is Ok. The subs... bad. www.animepile.net/search/-SSF--Saiunkoku--Monogatari2-07.html

I'm actually wanting SSF for the later eps... because it got a little confusing for one or 2 episodes... (but now, not sure which ^_^'').

Anyway...

For SSF (or SSF-FLC), these are the 2 sites:

animea.net (eps 1~13. Ep 14 download is listed as Ep 13. I checked, it is Ep 13. So, they missed out Ep 14. Picture quality not as good as C1_Animanda, but ok.).

Sweet and Lovely Night (Eps 2~14. Suck did Ep 1 only and stopped)

I've also got OST 1 & 2. ^__^ Download was fast.

OST 2: www.downloadost.com/Ost-2009-10-27-1143-saiunkoku-monogatari-ost-2.html

OST 1: www.downloadost.com/Ost-2009-11-07-3025-saiunkoku-monogatari-ost-1.html

Also, a review for OST 1:
cherylline.wordpress.com/category/anime/anime-ostsoundtrack/

I found the all the music I love in the 2 seasons. ^__^ There's the Hawaiian one... (OST 1 Track 24 Kyoushuu) ^___^ Played at funny moments, perfectly strange, funny and Hawaiian.

Then, the one specially played whenever Sakujun appears. Sakujun's theme it seems (OST 2 Track 8 Sakujun). There's anther Sakujun's theme (Track 24 Sakujun Yabou)... But the one that haunts my mind is Track 8.

And the other one that's strangely haunting... played when Eigetsu painfully recalls the times spent with his foster father Doushuu sama (OST 2 Track 10 Hoshi Kage ni Omou).

The ending theme of the first season is also very nice. Better than second season's. OST 2 Track 29 Saikou no Kataomoi.

I didn't know, so it was a nice surprise when I discovered my Windows Media player listing Tomokazu Seki as singer for one of the last songs that was just starting to play. OST 2 last track Eien no Negai. Pretty good voice. ^__^ Hard to imagine, this is the same guy who did the voice of Shuichi in Gravitation. ^___^

The seiyuu for Shuurei also does a track in OST 1 but it's not nice.

Then there's the sadder, beautiful... OST 2 track 23. Lonely Ryuuki in the palace. People in love separated by circumstances.

OST 2 Track 7; OST 1 Track 14; OST 1 Track 19; OST 1 Track 37 Piano. I guess these are all variations of a theme: Ryuuki.

Sleepy, romantic, bedtime tunes OST 2 Track 26; OST 1 Track 21.

Pipa? OST 1 Track 7.

Hmm...it seems there's a tune that isn't in the OSTs. The music played for Eigetsu when he's tied up in the mine cave. Guitar and keyboard. Can't seem to find in the OSTs.

Actually, watching again... it seems the quality improved (crept up) somewhere in the second season...Or maybe it was simply the picture quality improved by the subbers depending on how they upped it and the original quality actually hasn't changed. Hmm.. but I could swear the quality is better in the later part of the 2nd season. The drawing is also slightly different (I'm thinking Ran Shuuei).

Hmm.. I wonder... while I'm at it, maybe I should download the rest of SSF (SSF-FLC) eps. Once this 2nd season is licensed, getting it is going to be harder, or impossible.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Ahh... no artbooks selling in Amazon JP, no wallpapers online...

Mm.. FLC-SSF ... the picture quality is not as good as C1_Animanda, though sometimes the subbing is as good, or even better translation than C1_Animanda.

By the way... it was never explained what happened to Sakujun's body...

Oh... ^__^ To Eigetsu song: Found it while searching for information about the missing song in the OSTs.

Am I the only one who realizes there is a missing song?

To Eigetsu: Cute voice... a little too girly though...Nice Erhu. www.rakulive.com/video_f4KkFM-NsFE.html

Hahaha... click on the other links on the right of the page. Seiran (Midorikawa Hikaru) singing! ^__^ Same guy who voiced Tamahome in Fushigi Yuugi. www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=uU-VC0mMs-Y

These songs are from the CD episodes. ^__^ Seiran can't sing. Hahaha... ^_____^ It's sweet all the more. It's in tune, but his voice is flat. Untrained, natural. Cute.

To save the files, right click "Download" (video.mp4 - High Quality 480x360). 'Save Link As...', and rename file to video.mp4. The file must be named video.mp4 otherwise it won't download. I've no idea why. The name can be changed after download.

Oh heavens, even Kouyuu (Hiyama Nobuyuki) sings. ^__^ No, no... it's not nice. www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=AwPujskA8dw

Ahh.. this is by Ran Shuuei (Toshiyuki Morikawa) Mmmm... ^_____^ He can sing. Sexy voice. Song title: Kaze Yo (The Wind?) www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=Dl7WMlfLQAw

Mmmm... ^____^ I could listen forever to his singing....I have no idea what he's singing, but he sounds very good...

Hmm.. unfortunately, he sounds better than he looks... ^__^''. Concert (is it really him? The name's his Disappointing music): www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=JHcHCgMf0KE

Mm.. no wonder he sings so well for Saiunkoku CD. He's a singer with his own concert. www.gamecity.ne.jp/2hearts/

Ensei (Kentarou Itou) sings in CD version too. Hahaha! www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=2x_dPUzyYY4

Hmm, a duet. Ryuuki and Shuurei: www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=UnLVUlooN20

Mm.. ^___^ Nice. Nice Nikou (Erhu).

Cute introduction CD3 drama. A lot of fun listening here. Too bad I've no idea what they are saying... OH! There's Shuuichi Ikeda who plays Shouka sama! Their laughter is fun to hear. Eh? Is that...oh, it's Reishin! [Mitsuaki Madono. For a moment, I thought it was Sakujun (Takehito Koyasu) making a guest appearance. Quite similar in the way they sound and speak due to their teeth.. I am thinking.]: www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=yMTc8myCOpI

Listening to the CD drama is very weird....it's like a play, and they are obviously emphasizing their voices much more obviously than in the anime. It's because they have only their voices to create images in listeners' minds. No visuals. It's funny with those... sound effects....including a little Hawaiian soundtrack...
www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=e2OvEzO56e0

Mm hm... online streaming available as well. But.. it's like youtube. Buffering slow and episode divided in parts. There's download available. Oh, it's subbed by Shadow Dreams! This is 1st season! Ep 24 part 1/3. www.rakulive.com/index.php?action=detail&video=z4OlD96ljBU

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Dec 26 12.55pm)

I just woke ~__~ Slept at around 4~5 am this morning.

Now checked Rakulive for 1st season ep 28 onwards (by Shadow Dreams). They don't have.

OHHhh...now, I notice the CD3 drama clip is actually transferring from youtube! No wonder there's buffering etc. It is from youtube. I checked it out: www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2OvEzO56e0

Fabulous, this person Kagami719 has uploaded the CD dramas. Not sure if it's all the CDs.

Listening to CD3 clip at Rakulive again, I think I know what they are laughing about. The joke is about Reishin (Shuurei's uncle) having hentai inclinations towards his niece in this CD. ^__^ Each of the characters' seiyuus introduce themselves and talk a little about what's the CD drama about. The seiyuus joke about hentai uncle Reishin right at the start, beginning with the female seiyuu (Kuwashima Houko) who voices Shuurei.

When it's Reishin's seiyuu's turn, he says, (laughter from his fellow seiyuus in the background) "This is Kou Hentai Madono speaking. Ah, Kou Reishin Madono speaking.".

Reishin (Mitsuaki Madono) has a very nice, sexy proud voice. Perfect for his role as the proud and efficient Minister of Civil Affairs & Personnel. Prime Minister Yuu shun calls him Minister of Ice Ep 20. (Yes, I went back looking for that scene. ^_^''). Absolutely sexy and cute when he moans so sexily in secret while watching his niece. Very handsome, sexy proud man whom on first sight, I thought was gay. Hahaha...

He's only in love with his niece. Completely melts.


Mm... *listening to Ran Shuuei singing* If only there was a video of him singing this song... Hmm.. should it be Ran Shuuei character singing in anime? ^___^ Think it would be sexier, better... ^__________^ Imagining him stretching out his robed arm... with sakura blossoms above him while singing, camera angle below. Mm... ^___^ *listens again*

[Teahouse Keeper]

Ahh... there's Chinese subs... so I was able to understand this introduction to the DVD 1st set. Shuurei and Ryuuki seiyuus: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qTYkUG5Jcc&feature=related

They have these 2 baskets in front of them. Tomokazu says he'll pick from her basket and she can pick from his basket. A question for each of them to answer.

Before that, they talk about Ryuuki. Tomokazu says his character actually only looks handsome and nothing else (pretty much saying he's useless). Kuwashima agrees that he is beautiful.

I disagree with Tomokazu because Ryuuki is handsome, kind, intelligent and honest with his feelings for the people around him. He doesn't lie or hide his feelings for the people he loves. He tells them what he feels and thinks. This is something not many people do. For instance, when Ran Shuuei asks if the Emperor will miss him if he goes away, Ryuuki replies with conviction: Of course.

Another instance is when Ryuuki hides behind a tree because he's upset with Shuurei for leaving soon. Out of frustration, he says he hates her. But after that, clarifies that it isn't true, kisses her hand and tells her he'll be waiting.

Then Tomokazu picks the question slip from a red ball from Kuwashima's side and reads: In the world of Saiunkoku, what would you like to experience?

Her reply: For everyone to come together and happily enjoy a nice meal. What about you Seki san?

His reply: Well... isn't everyone very handsome? I would like to research on their physical and behavioral conditions. In that country, it seems if not beautiful, it's impossible to go on living.

Her reply: But there are ordinary looking people there as well.

His reply: Is there?

Her reply: Theoretically, there should be. My voice seems to have become softer...

His reply: Based on age, it's true there are different types of people, but for young people, they are all beautiful. Actually, everyone is so super beautiful, it's quite meaningless, isn't it?

Her reply: That's true. This is actually a question of "What really is the most important.".

His reply: That's it. I believe "inner beauty" will be the winner.

She then picks a purple ball from his side.

Question for him: If you are Shuurei, who will you choose (out of all the guys)?

She laughs reading the question to him: Does Seki have to answer this too?

His reply: Yes, I will answer.

Her reply: Don't joke around.

His reply: What if I were Shuurei, right? Often, I will think of trying out being a woman.

Her reply: Then, what if you were Shuurei, who would you choose?

He thinks: Well, boku wa (I)...

She says: You shouldn't be using "Boku (the male form of I)"...

He replies: Well... Ensei.

She replies: OHhh! I like him too!

He replies: Although he doesn't appear in Ep1. I just feel that he's got a very masculine (manly) air and he's got a beard.

She replies: A character that appears very late in the show.

He replies: It's Ok. Everyone will be able to see him later.

She agrees, looking forward to it.

He adds: Want to experience what it feels like to be hugged by a wilderness type of man. Tightly, tightly. Then again... if kissing a bearded man, might accidentally get hurt .

She replies: That's true, but if he shaves it off...

He replies: Well, after shaving, then hugs me...

She replies: Yes, who to choose...it seems any of them will make me happy...

He replies: So, which one will you ultimately choose?

She replies: Anyone is Ok.

He replies: Anyone?! They will go "EHHH??" when they see this.

She replies: Aw, don't say that. (he replies: they will surely say it). Well then... then...then who to choose... Well then.. Ryuuki.

He replies: "Well then, Ryuuki?!". He is after all the Emperor!

She replies: Emperor...If it's the Emperor, can happiness be achieved?

(Switching to HQ, youtube words are much clearer, bigger. Picture quality also better.).

He replies: There isn't such a thing (there isn't such a complication). If Saiunkoku is yours.

She agrees: If there is love supporting the whole Saiunkoku... (he replies: yes, a wonderful country can be built)... enabling it to attain prosperous abundance to full potential... how will it be?

They end with his comment that making a choice among the many types of characters is difficult.

She replies that "Anyone is good".

He closes with "Let's watch how the story unfolds from here, who Shuurei will choose in the end, or not choose anyone. This is something we also don't know. "

She says: Let's say something to our DVD viewers: the first set has already been launched. The 2nd and 3rd sets will also have these discussions. Look forward to when you might see your fav characters' seiyuus (he adds: there are different groups).

[Teahouse Keeper]

Hmm...from the youtube list on the right, found Tomokazu Seki (Shuuichi) & Kazuhiko Inoue (Yuki Eiri) presenting an introduction for Gravitation CD drama. www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWe8qhGQ5e4

And then, found this... ^_____^ Toshiyuki Morikawa singing Elvis Presley's Love me Tender. Ran Shuuei singing Love me Tender!! Oh my god. ^________^ Mmmm... so sexy. www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhw8PaFq9ug&feature=related

There isn't a video of Morikawa singing it, however. *thinking of Ran Shuuei singing it* ^________________^ All the women will swoon... As it is, the women already love him for his sexy handsomeness.

Found an even clearer and better clip of Love Me Tender:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFkZZ_bj60k&feature=related

Who is Conrad?
Kyou Kara Maou Character Song Series Vol.2 Conrad Weller
「Love Me Tender／Conrad Weller(Morikawa Toshiyuki)」

Yes, I'm yours, Ran Shuuei. ^__^''

At the moment, searching for more songs by him. Most are too loud and noisy music.

This one is quite nice: www.youtube.com/watch?v=yS_QZneoiGY

That's it.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Mm... I like Ran Shuuei's long black hair... ^_____^ I like it when his hair is down. He's handsome when it's tied up. But he's very sexy when his long dark hair is let down.

Oh yes, Ryuuki is also very good at embroidery... he's even better at it than a woman (Shusui). ^____^

[Teahouse Keeper]

Eh..? It seems there's another song missing from the OSTs. In Ep 7, the song that starts right after the first interlude theme picture (about slightly less than half episode). From Kourin looking out the window to Eigetsu riding on his horse, thinking back to how Doushuu sama was saved back then. Zither?

I thought I had it in the OSTs... but now realize don't have. The song ends with Eigetsu riding away into the mountains.

Very surprised it isn't in the soundtrack. It's a pretty long song and very nice. Maybe they will have a season 3 and include this song in the OST?

The other missing song mentioned earlier, is in the middle of Ep 13, right after Ryuuren comes on horseback to the campfire. In the mine cave, guitar starts playing while Eigetsu argues with Yougetsu who wishes to be called out of Eigetsu's body.

The song plays again later towards the end of the episode, and again in Ep 14 (slightly more than half episode) when Sakujun's form visits Eigetsu in the cave. And also in Ep 3 towards the end, when Yougetsu reveals himself to Kourin.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Ep 3 in the middle, is where Reishin moans... while watching his niece Shuurei sweeping the ground... ^_________^ So sexy his moan, like sexual satisfaction. It's a very cute Reishin scene.

Shuurei never knew he was her uncle, right up to the end of the 2nd season. So, that's also a loose end to tie up in a 3rd season if there is one.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Wow, just checked Ran Shuuei's seiyuu (Toshiyuki Morikawa), wondering what other anime he appears in so I might find and watch. I did that earlier but didn't really go into it.

Along the list (anime news network), saw he did Please Save My Earth as Jinpachi. I watched the DVD of it years ago and never forgot that kiss between the 2 boys. ^___^ I had to refresh my memory of which boy it was...

Google images. Ah ha... so that's him. Don't recall either of the boys having Ran Shuuei's deep voice.

Went to youtube for a clip of the kissing scene. Coincidentally, found it easily at random. Ep 4 part 2/3: www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxmBaLDS198&feature=related

Jinpachi's voice (light brown hair), doesn't sound anything like Ran Shuuei. Even the other boy Issei (voiced by Ryotaro Okiayu) is so different, a boy's voice, not a man's. Both very young voices.

Checked the date of Please Save My Earth (anime news network). www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=195

Wow, this anime is vintage 1993-12-17 to 1994-09-23.

According to Toshiyuki Morikawa's bio, his year of birth is 1967: www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=692

Which means... he was only 1993-1967= 26! when he voiced Jinpachi. And now... Saiunokoku Monogatari's first season started in 2006. www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=6200

Which means... he was 2006-1967= 39! when he voiced Ran Shuuei! Wow!

What a difference in years. No wonder. The maturity of his voice.

(It is now 2.10 am. I better get to bed...)

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Dec 28 Monday 6.35 pm)

Actually, right after checking, I've considered that since 2006 is the first season's broadcast year, and production would have started at least a year or more earlier... Toshiyuki Morikawa would have been 36~38. ^__^ With Please Save My Earth, he would have been around 23~25. It actually makes no difference. It's still more than 10 years between these 2 times. ^___^ Accounting for the change in his voice.

But still... a man's voice can change so much? Wow. His voice has deepened a lot. It's like 2 different persons.

Mm... ^____^ I still smile thinking of Ran Shuuei singing in that CD Kaze Yo. And Ran Shuuei singing Love Me Tender. Hahaha!! ^___^ I can't believe it. Imagine him singing to Ryuuki, his beloved Emperor. ^_______^ Ryuuki would be soo touched. Ryuuki is that sort of person who will just melt with that sort of affection shown to him ^_____^

Hmm.. then have also considered Tomokazu Seki's comments in the DVD Special with co-seiyuu for Shuurei.

It's odd that he should say it's meaningless for all the young people to look so beautiful. Well, he should know that if they were drawn less beautiful in such an anime, would anyone want to watch? ^___^ Of course, they have to be beautiful, especially all the handsome sexy guys. So that the ladies (and some men) will fall hopelessly in love with them. Like me for Ran Shuuei. ^___^

Ran Shuuei actually teases the guys with some naughty suggestive comments sometimes, which seem to suggest he may be gay. Hehehe... But then, actually, he fell in love with a woman.

There's no actual adoration from other women over him, but it's shown that he's popular with the ladies in Hanamachi (flower street/town = red light district ep12) and when he wins first place in the Imperial Martial Arts tournament. He claims he knows every lady's face and name in a particular classy brothel (Kougarou) that he frequents. ^__^''

In the DVD Special, Shuurei's seiyuu disagreed politely by saying there are ordinary people there as well. It's a good thing she was so jovial and polite. If she had disagreed the way I did (of course they have to be beautiful, if not who would want to watch?)... it would've ruined the DVD special. Hahaha...I imagine an awkward silence. I wonder how Tomokazu san would respond.

Then, there was that question for Shuurei's seiyuu, about what would she like to experience in Saiunkoku.

I've shortened the replies between them for that part, but actually.. I suspect Tomokazu san was being naughty at that point. Hentai suggestive.

He asks according to the question: In the world of Saiunkoku, what would you like to experience or do?

She (innocently): In Saiunokou...Enjoy delicious food with everybody. Everyone gathers together.

He: Gather together for what?

She: Well, isn't everyone very cool there? Happily...

He: Happily doing what?

She: Eating!

He: Oh, eating!

She giggles: Yes, eating. What about you, Seki san?

Now, isn't Tomokazu san being naughty? ^___^ She had already said right at the start that it's food with everyone. A feast. And he still asks why gathering these handsome guys...

Look at his beady eyes... so hentai. ^__^ He is quite opinionated. Easy to get into argument with him, I'd reckon. Unless... the other speaker is a lady like Shuurei's seiyuu. She sure is gentle to chat with.

I'm still downloading the early eps of season 2 from SSF-FLC from animea.net. At the moment, got Ep 7. After downloading, I watch again to check if the play is Ok and to compare with my memory of the same episode subbed by C1_Animanda.

Watching again is nice. ^__^ But.. in truth, I think Season 1 is better, even though the artwork is more polished in Season 2. There's more of the cool, sexy palace guys in the first season. ^___^ The 2nd season focuses on Shuurei and other things. Ryuuki, Kouyuu or Ran Shuuei appear less often (a pity).

[Teahouse Keeper]

Oh, found this: The ending theme of first season. MTV of the singer. Saikou no Kataomoi by Sachi Tainaka. Very clear the sound. Wow. Even clearer than the OST.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HlmzUkXnwc&feature=related

Eh? Cantonese version of the opening theme:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTrKjBX61Yk&feature=related

I don't know the singer: 鍾嘉欣 (Linda Chung). But it's still nice. Just not as nice as the Japanese version. ^__^ This Cantonese version is weak. Weak vocals and music. It's like candy, lollipop version. The Erhu is also not quite there...no impact, no feelings in the music.

This is the original opening theme "Hajimari no kaze" by Ayaka Hirahara. But not MTV. Listen to the Erhu sing. Wow. www.youtube.com/watch?v=hy-Fvu2XG6M&feature=related

A clearer version. That's Ryuuki, the Emperor with a giant Manjuu (bun) ^__^: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YM_XruO8SQk&feature=related

Concert: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkU-18pCyVc
Why has the speed increased? Rushing through the song? And no Erhu.

Eh? Hmm... found this very nice song by Ayaka Hirahara & Joe Hisaishi from Spirited Away. "Name of Life (Inochi no namae)". I didn't know there was this song in words: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCXVlyX5yTs

Seems to be no MTV for Ayaka Hirahara singing the opening theme for Saiunkoku.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Here's a clip CD 1 drama cast, saying a few words about the storyline. Unfortunately, I have no idea what they are saying exactly... www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHmpTnJ_qg8&feature=related

Oohh.. I love Reishin's voice (Madono). ^__^ Ran Shuuei (Morikawa) laughs nicely. ^__^ He laughs quite a lot, quite jovial.

OH! There's Kou Kijin! ^______^ CUTE CUTE! Right after Reishin completes his intro to his character in the drama. *Checking* Mm. Kazuhiro Nakata. Handsome man, surprisingly deep voice. www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=2327

Oh.. To Eigetsu speaks too. How come they know the word "Borderline"? ^__^

And Kourin is also in there! ^__^ She sounds so different.

Hmm.. there's no other CD 1 drama after this... Would like to hear this drama but seems youtube don't have.

There's CD 2 drama intro. Sounds fun. Seiran's voice is very unique and nice to hear ^__^. UNfortunately, again, I don't know what they are saying. There's Ensei. www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VHy1wCqOtk&NR=1

[Teahouse Keeper]

CD bonus track cast: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AvI-AE9JaM&NR=1

Who is whistling??! ^_______^ Tomokazu...yowling like a puppy (laughter of a fellow guy seiyuu in the background... Is it Ran Shuuei?).. O..O Tomokazu playing a puppy (to the cheers of fellow seiyuus)? The puppy on the cover of the CD?

The dark haired guy on the cover... is that Ensei? So handsome? ^__^ Looking like Fuuron. Is he wearing glasses? Ensei doesn't wear glasses...Ohh... that's not glasses... it's his cross-shaped scar. ^__^

Hmm.. for this CD, there's chapter 1. Not sure if this is CD 1 drama (should be not since cover different from the CD 1 drama cover: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q74Ppzy0ZyA&NR=1

Second chapter: ironteahouse.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=introduction&thread=266&page=1

Uhh...actually, not being able to understand what they are saying...and no visuals, kinda spoil it. The sound effects are all there is to aid the imagination of what's going on. That's the disadvantage of audio only.

Chapter 3: www.youtube.com/watch?v=17QU4VTDxMM&NR=1
Mm...the more I listen to these chapters, the more I feel like watching the anime. Hahaha... Hmm.. this chapter don't have Ran Shuuei.

Oh, CD 2 drama Chapter 1 (Shouka narrates): www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSZMEh2ABO8&feature=related

Seiran's voice is really... more vocal than in the anime. And I keep hearing "Sakujun" being mentioned. Wonder what's up. And I'm thinking... Seiran is an angel in front of his "oujo-sama" but actually a devil when she's not looking...Tan Tan kun in the anime raised awareness of it very well.

*staring at the cover* Actually, Seiran looks like he has an ear sticking out of his hair... wouldn't it be cute if he had ears the color of his hair? ^____^

Part 2. Seiran Daisukisukisuki? He laughs so cutely. ^__^ www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVDqSXv73NU&NR=1

CD 3 part 1. Oh... Ran Shuuei. ^__^ www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2OvEzO56e0&feature=related

Reishin being funny.. singing his...love for his niece. ^__^ Mm...can an uncle marry his niece? It was never said the brothers are from different parents.

Part 2: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGS8VUZiiqk&NR=1

It seems there are different parts in each CD. Example, CD2 has Shuuei & Kouyuu part. And another part that's Reishin and Shouka. Another part has Seiran and Ryuuki.

[Teahouse Keeper]

Hmm.. actually, there's something that's been bugging me...

In Ep4 of first season, when General Sou challenged Seiran as a test, Seiran said he was 21 years old. 13 years ago, Seiran was exiled and adopted by Shouka. Which would make him just 8 when he was exiled. But.. in the flashbacks of young Seiran, he looked to be about 11 or 12, especially when compared to young Ryuuki who looked only about 4 or 5 at that time (current time, Ryuuki is only 19).

Current time: 21-19 = 2 years difference between them. So if Seiran was 8 (13 years ago), then Ryuuki was only 6. Seiran was tall enough to pick Ryuuki up and swirl him around.

But... when Seiran was exiled.. and picked up by Shouka's family, he looked much older than 8. At least 12 or 13 (especially with little Shuurei beside him). Definitely, he couldn't be 8 years old.

Hmm.. in Ep 4 of first season, when the 2 young brothers stand opposite each other... Seiran still looks older than 8 (about 12 or 14) while Ryuuki...6 or 7 is possible.

Mm.. it would seem that before Seiran got picked up by Shouka, he was in Sashuu (a province)... getting to know Ensei... So, it's possible he was 13 or 14 when he was picked up by Shouka.

But still... in the palace before his exile... he couldn't have been 8. His appearance and behavior are that of an older boy.

So, I am kinda confused about that part. Unless Seiran is the sort with a body that matures sooner than his actual age... (mature behavior beyond his years is possible given the palace environment and circumstances).

Or... rather, it's simply the inconsistency of the drawings... ^_^''.

Noticeably, the quality of the drawings drop when they draw the characters from a distance. Close-ups are consistently better drawn. Often, the characters' faces will appear slightly off when it's not close-up. Wonder why it happens. The age difference is likely due to this inconsistency. Possibly, they draw the 8-yr-old Seiran older than he looks to suit the scenes. ^__^

The other part that is a little confusing was when Tan Tan kun was arrested and his possessions were removed (his ring, brooch and golden racoon). It wasn't clearly subbed why the undercover agent Seiga sold him those "expensive" items as "indemnity".

[Teahouse Keeper]

Jan 1 2010 Friday 5.23 pm.

*thinking of putting up young ryuuki's pics against his adult pic* ^__^ Happy New Year.

I actually did that yesterday. Put Ryuuki's pic beside his little self pic. The comparison was so cute and wow. ^___^ They made the resemblance amazingly alike.

Little Ryuuki has such a cute adorable face. Aww... how could anyone bully him? Very bad, cruel brothers he had.

Take a look:

Cuty Ryuuki who chanced upon his 2nd brother Prince Seien (Seiran) in a hallway. Look at that face! ^___^ How not to love him??! Awww... HUGGIESS!! *squash against my chest, huggy tightly* MMMM....! ^____^





Little Ryuuki (6 years old), smiles upon seeing Seien:





Prince Seien (8 years old), himself a sad, isolated prince, looking upon his little youngest brother who always has bruises after being bullied by his older brothers.





Don't know how they do it so well... but little Ryuuki looks so much like his adult self. Little Ryuuki as a man. ^__^ The resemblance is there... Look at little Ryuuki then at adult Ryuuki... those double eyelids, the eyebrows, his nose, the way he smiles. His hair. ^_______^ Soo Kawaii!! The gentleness and kindness in his eyes (and the intelligence).




Hmm.. The other thing is... I found a few more Ran Shuuei's (Toshiyuki Morikawa) songs.

A live concert: Eternal Ring (the Conrad anime):
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHcHCgMf0KE&feature=related

And then something that I have no idea about whatsoever. Monologue. Poem?
www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Bdjtn0X_uw&feature=related

This is pretty nice. Never knew there's this anime.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzjxHeVKgig&feature=related

The video shows what it's about. At first, I thought it was about this pair of yaoi samurai men. But, they seem to appear differently in different times.

Samurai at first, then futuristic (?) and towards modern times. The same 2 men, same end result. I didn't realize it's the same end result until I realized, they always end up beneath the same (?) tree, one of them always with a blade about to kill himself.

So. It's actually a cycle they repeat over and over, death and rebirth, a loop of ill fate they are unable to break out of, no matter the time.

During Samurai times, it's understandable it was societal pressure against their love (secret meetings, making love in the grass). I thought in modern times, they would finally be able to be happy, but turns out, still cannot.

According to the uploader's introduction, it says: During Shogun restoration, due to their different classes, their love was unable to last. Finally, choosing to slumber like the winter cicada, waiting for their time to come.

Whatever is it... my gripe has always been against the romantic notion of suicide. It's not romantic. It's silly. Whatever the era. Rules are made by people. They can be broken. What's important is the love between the 2 persons. How true is that love? Where there's a will, there is a way.


Mm.. I've finished downloading the rest of SSF-FLC early eps for 2nd season. Now, every night re-watching the 1st season, from ep 1. ^___^ It's still nice. ^___^

That's the result of wanting more, but having none, and making do by watching again. Hopefully, they make a 3rd season.

So many points not yet covered: Sakujun's missing body [Is he coming back? Did someone (Hyou Riou's sister) rescue him?]; What about Santa, Shuurei's childhood friend who left for Sashuu and promised to come back with improved ability to marry her?; Reishin's Oji-san status... when will he tell her, or will it be exposed? And most importantly... Will Hyou Riou get what he came for (Shuurei)?

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Jan 4 2010 Monday 11.55 am)

Ahh.. damn. Checked up on Saiunkoku's publication in Newtype mag that I remember seeing earlier somewhere online... I know it was featured on front cover some time in 2007. Was thinking of buying it off Amazon... so was checking up information regarding the issue this morning...

Read a blog about it being in the September 2007 issue.
www.mangamaniaccafe.com/?p=2207

Clicked on the Newtype website link at the end and page couldn't load. Googled for the official link to see if they offered old issues for sale... and instead saw news that said Newtype USA is gone!!

Damn!

Gone?! www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-01-09/newtype-usa-to-cease-publication

As of early 2008. Gone. OWARI. Crap!! >..< It's like some amazing, alternate universe bad dream.

NASE??!

I'm not a reader of Newtype, but... isn't it the leading anime mag in the US?? How come?

I bought just 1 issue *checks*... in Jan 2005. Unopened, wrapped as new. I suppose it's worth a lot of money now then?

Crap. I suppose anyone who has the August 2007 issue or any issue, could be selling it for higher now...

It's become... valued commodity... simply because they have stopped publishing. What remains is precious, particularly when stuff they did before isn't featured again and will never be featured again.

Thinking back to last night... no wonder I didn't see an issue at Kinokuniya. I saw the Japanese version and thought perhaps the store didn't carry it since it was a smaller outlet than the main big store.

Ahh... now I know the store didn't have it because it was gone since 2008.

The new mag is PiQ...
www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-01-10/a.d-vision-to-replace-newtype-usa-with-piq-in-march

Has a 70% male demographic? Why? www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-01-20/a.d-visions-piq-mag-to-cover-more-than-anime-manga

Pity. This doesn't sound good: www.bellaonline.com/articles/art9843.asp


Unno... it seems even the new mag failed?
www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=2917

Aww... look at that beautiful cover... Newtype Sept issue (I actually thought there were 2 issues, but seems there's just this one, the same one in the earlier link, Sept issue):
www.nt2099.com/J-ENT/news/anime-related-news/pr-newtype-usa-goes-gaga-for-the-story-of-saiunkoku/

Oh, this is interesting. Before this, there was a comment in Amazon forums from a buyer who said there were no free DVDs and won't be buying another issue. www.mania.com/piq-magazine-anime-fans-reactions_article_57928.html

www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2008-03-13/piq-entertainment-magazine-hits-newsstands

Wahh.. ahaha... no refunds for subscriptions.
pwbeat.publishersweekly.com/blog/2008/06/16/piq-magazine-bites-the-dust/

"one group of fans organized monthly gatherings to burn their copies in effigy".
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PiQ

Another site said it focused too much on Sci-fi, which isn't what anime fans wanted or liked (obviously).

MOuuu... Can't find the Newtype issue in Amazon or ebay.

By chance, reminded of a local forum... where I can post ad for it. Maybe someone has it.

Then found this: Am in ... heaven. ^_____________^ Looking at the pics, I sound like Reishin sama. Hentai chuckle and lusty intake of breath. Mmmmm....AHHuuhh.... gallery.minitokyo.net/view/428990

Look at Ryuuki... ohhh.. my god.
gallery.minitokyo.net/view/286488

Look at all these wonderful wonderful scans!! I need to check up on where these pics came from. Newtype Romance and... Artbook?
browse.minitokyo.net/gallery?tid=1443&index=3

Pages and pages! *swoons* Chibi versions! Calendars! OHhhh... it's so good to be in Japan....

Last night, I saw an artbook by the artist (I think).. in Japanese... cost $58.20. My god. I put it back, because I can't read Japanese (I was able to understand from the Kanji writing that there's an interview between the artist and the anime director?) and ... I'm sure it's just some static pics... I prefer the anime. Just so I could put it back.... MOuuu... does that book contain these wonderful wonderful pics??

It was wrapped tightly except for a some split in the plastic wrapping at the bottom, through which I could see nothing of the inside. Was it worth $58.20? MOuuu... if only it were cheaper. >..<

[Teahouse Keeper]

Incidentally... I was in Japan just last year April 2009. >..< Damn. At that time, I had Saiunkoku 1st season in my computer, but didn't watch for a long time since I got it. If only I had watched it, fell in love with it then... I would've hunted for it in Japan's bookstores!! >..< MOuuuu Osoi!!! I'm sure they would've had it since it's only been 2 years... de sho?

Newtype Romance, as mentioned in that minitokyo link. The Summer edition (Like a Flower 彩雲国物語). Now, how do I get it?:
pc.webnt.jp/newrerease/ro_0607.html

Ahh.. there's also other Newtype Romance editions about Saiunkoku. (Newtype Romance Winter 2007 & Autumn 2006): namika.tabulas.com

Ehh... 2007 Spring edition also. And Summer!! And Autumn!! And 2008 Winter (plus interview with Morikawa about a new TV show?)!

Arghhh... I need all issues of Newtype Romance!!!! >..< I've checked Kadokawa web. They are out of first issue (Summer 2006). Amazon jp has 3 used issues. Haven't checked the other issues. Now checking...

Wow.. expensive for 2006 autumn edition. 1000 yen.

[Teahouse Keeper]

(Jan 5 Tuesday 10.38 pm)

Hmm.. reading the end of the post above... Amazon jp had 3 used issues for Summer 2006?

Went through Amazon jp and ebay properly today. Amazon jp had 4 used issues for Summer 2006 edition (I just bought 1 and now there are 3 left). Did another seller just pop in today?

Ebay only one issue (2007 Spring issue US$39.99 >..<). Amazing. It's just this one out of the entire ebay.com.

Ahh... unfortunately, those at Amazon jp... the sellers don't ship overseas. At checkout, was informed that the mags I put into cart couldn't be purchased. Had to delete almost everything in the cart (except Summer 2006) as sellers won't ship them outside Japan.

The yen for each book goes higher and higher with each seller down the list. In the end, I was only "allowed" to buy the 2006 Summer edition...

Oops... I fooled around with the clicking (continue button)... and have just bought it without being quite ready. Hahaha... oh well. (I had wanted to find a few more to buy before checking out, to consolidate under 1 shipping and handling charge if possible).

All the issues are used. Only very few issues are brand new... which of course, cost a hell lot more.

I have no idea how the magazine is going to be like when it reaches me. Ran the condition description into google translation but it's close to gibberish. From that gibberish, it seems the condition should be Ok. Amazon labels the condition as "acceptable".

At 955 yen, it's the cheapest at the top of the list. Down the list, it gets more and more expensive, and they won't even ship outside Japan. This edition is the only one I could get. Haven't fully tested the other editions down their lists of sellers, although have tested some (those up in the lists) to know I can't buy due to their not shipping outside Japan. Those below the lists are too expensive anyway, even if they do ship overseas.

At ebay, found some interesting stuff: DVD sets & metallic trading cards. 1 trading card has Kouyuu, Ryuuren and Shuuei with his shirt partly open to reveal his muscled chest. Hehehe! ^___^. This metallic mint trading card is just US$4.50 (add $3 shipping). Someone already bid for it.

The other trading card, metallic mint, has Shuurei standing beside Ryuuki, her hand in his, against a Sakura and palace background. Quite nice.

Then there's a 63 card set. Pretty nice as well.

Artbooks are very very few and expensive in ebay. Nobody is selling what I saw at Kinokuniya. Mm... wondering if I should buy it, but not really hungering for it because it's $58.20 and I can't read Japanese. I'd be paying for some pictures (artwork) for more than half of a hundred bucks.

These are times I wish I could read Japanese. *sighs*

Oh. There's only 1 seller at ebay selling USA Newtype Magazine Sept 2007 vol 6 #9. But selling it as a whole lot of... many issues @ US$135. So I e-mailed to ask if I could just buy that 1 issue... wonder if I'll get a reply.

(Thursday July 18 3.05 pm)