*.:~Two Heartbeats AND a Red Sin~ :. *

Well, here it is, the final episode of the first season. I think the series has been an okay adaptation so far. The adapted character design is good but it’s clearly hard to keep up with the quality. I hope that the second season have better budget and better animation to boot. The OP and ED songs are surprisingly good and fit the series really well. They are definitely one of the better elements of the series. I also think that the voice acting, despite some inconsistencies are generally okay. My main concern is where things will go from here. I don’t think that the writers should rush season 2 if the manga is still not complete. I was a bit concerned with the last few minutes of the episode but after thinking about it, I don’t think this will have much impact on the storylines that haven’t been told yet. Episode 13 A flashback reveals how Ichiru first met Shizuka and how the two interact with one another. Ichiru didn’t like it when Shizuka took over Maria’s body because her behaviour and appearance are not Shizuka-like. Ichiru also wondered why Shizuka doesn’t want to turn him into vampire so Shizuka explained that it’s because doing so would make him her servant. This means he can’t say anything that he wants to say. Besides, Shizuka believed that the existence of vampires itself is a sad thing just like the vampire servant who was killed by the Kiryuus. She also explained that the man in question was actually a food for a caged beast that was her. But the man was actually observing her with interest so she had no hesitation to turn him into vampire. Unfortunately for Shizuka, the man was killed by the Kiryuus, who wanted to exact revenge on her. In the present, Ichiru cries as Shizuka lets out her dying breath. She wonders if he really likes her and asks the guy if he’d like to come with her. At the same time, Zero feels a painful sensation as Shizuka disappears into thin air. Ichiru explains that it’s his Level E reacting but now it’s too late since Shizuka is dead. Ichiru is also jealous that even until her death, she still won’t make him into a vampire. Zero thinks that’s because Shizuka knows that being vampire is anything but pleasant but Ichiru doesn’t seem to care. He also has lost interest in being jealous of Zero because he thinks the one standing in front of him now is just a Level E. As Zero lies in pain, he begs Yuuki not to look at him. When Yuuki returns to the room with Kain, however, she finds that Zero is no longer there. Instead, Cross tells him that Yagari has taken him to the council. Meanwhile, Kaname remembers the time when he first met Shizuka. Back then Shizuka felt sorry for Kaname because he’d become the next Kuran leader. Back in the classroom, Yuuki suddenly study hard in her class and when she’s asked about it, she claims that she’s doing it for Zero, who can’t attend class just yet. At the same time, Kain and Aidou reports to Kaname what they saw that night. They also inform him that chairman seems to be protecting Zero. When Kaname pretends that Zero was the one who killed Shizuka, Aidou becomes nervous but he doesn’t have the courage to confront Kaname about what he saw. That night, however, Aidou asks Kain what he knows about Shizuka. Kain explains that from what he’s heard, Shizuka was a vampire that couldn’t be controlled and a danger to both vampires and humans Aidou then reveals what he knows about Shizuka. Shizuka had a vampire fiancee but she had an ex-human vampire by her side. Shizuka loved that servant but the servant’s name was on the liquidated list of the Hunters’ association. It was the hunters from Kiryuu family that killed the servant even though he hadn’t turned into a Level E. This means, normally he wouldn’t be on the liquidated list. In revenge, Shizuka killed Kiryuu family as a revenge. Aidou believes that the senior council are after Hiou Shizuka because she’s a dangerous factor. He continues to tell Kain that Shizuka comes to this school because there’s something that she wants and she’s not the only one who goes after it. At the same time, Kaname finds himself having problem controlling his newfound power and ends up breaking the glass window inadvertently. Meanwhile, Yuuki is in the middle of sitting by the fountain, worrying about Zero. Kaname then comes over to tell Yuuki not to blame herself because that’s the last thing that Zero would want her to do. Meanwhile, Yagari and Cross are at their wits end because no matter what medicine they’ve given Zero, his Level E still goes uncontrolled. When they hear noise coming from outside, they decide to check it out. Unknown to them, Kaname has sneak into the prison to check on Zero. He’s surprised to know that Zero still has his own consciousness. He then tells Zero that inside him is a pure-blood that can cure him. Kaname urges Zero to bite him but reminds him that he’s not doing it for Zero but for Yuuki. Despite his initial resistance, Zero eventually sucks sucks Kaname’s blood, causing the other vampires to be alerted. Impression That BL-like scene comes way earlier than it should have been in the manga but I guess this is a way to attract the BL-lovers? Leaving that aside, the season finale is not that bad but I really miss the time when a season ends in a nice happy note instead of on a cliffhanger like this. I guess the writers in Japan start to take note of US TV Series’ tendencies to end on cliffhanger (ie. Supernatural). At any rate, this episode basically answers part of Shizuka’s past. She turns out to be a human and Level E lover as well. Shame on her, what would the other proud pure-blood think? J/K. In her own crazy ways, I think she actually cares about Ichiru but since Ichiru has low self-confidence, he keeps interpreting her refusal to turn him into vampire as something negative. I kind of want to see him turned into vampire then gets roasted in the sun. Moving along, I still don’t understand why both her and Kaname wants to obtain each other’s power. I also wonder why Shizuka thinks Kaname is one unfortunate person for inheriting the Kuran clan. As for Kaname, I think he was slightly redeemed in this one. I still think he’s dangerous, ambitious bastard but at least he cares about Yuuki to the point that he was willing to give his blood to Zero. I still don’t like the fact that he basically lied with a straight face to his subordinates about who killed Hiou Shizuka. This means that not only he endangers Zero’s fate, he also absolves himself from any kind of responsibility for killing her. I kind of wish that Aidou had confronted him right there and then but I don’t think that guy will have the guts to do it.

This is slightly better than episode 11 mostly because it’s filled with actions and surprising twist. There’s also a good character development for Zero here and the story actually moves forward. At least now Kaname actually has some kind of purpose in the story apart from being a mysterious guy who saved Yuuki a few years ago. Although after watching this episode, I wonder how the writers will conclude the series this season. IIRC, the story that comes after this one is a rather minor story involving the council of ancients. I think that’s a story that can easily be solved in one episode. In that case, I guess the first season will just end like a normal episode. The difference is that instead of waiting for one week for the next episode, the viewers have to wait for one season to watch the next episode. As Shizuka shows Yuuki her real body, she informs the prefect that in order not to become a Level E, all Zero has to do is drink her blood. Shizuka, however, wants to drink Yuuki’s blood first because she needs power to escape from her pursuer. Before Shizuka can do so, however, Zero has arrived and asks her to get away from Yuuki. Despite Yuuki telling Zero that Shizuka can save him, Zero doesn’t want to stop until he sees Yuuki crying. Upon seeing this, Shizuka realizes that Zero has been tamed by Yuuki and becomes unhappy. By using her voice, she instructs Zero to hold Yuuki. Because she was the one who turned Zero, Zero can’t disobey her order. Shizuka then bites Zero’s neck, prompting Yuuki to ask her why she’s being cruel to Zero. In response she tells Yuuki that it’s a punishment because Zero is too close to Yuuki. Before Shizuka can bite Yuuki, however, Zero manages to move his hand on his own and strangles Shizuka. Shizuka tries to restrain Zero again using her voice but Zero shoots his own leg to regain his free will before firing a few bullets into Shizuka’s body. Despite this, Zero can’t kill Shizuka because she manages to deflect her bullet using her own piece of garment. Ichiru then interrupts their fight by throwing his sword at Zero. Shizuka, however, doesn’t like Ichiru’s intervention, telling her slave that it’s not time for him to appear. Before Zero can chase after Shizuka, Ichiru already blocks his way so Zero hits Ichiru’s mask with the sword and tells Yuuki that the man in front of him is his younger brother. While Zero and Ichiru are fighting because Ichiru is being an insecure loser as usual, an injured Shizuka is greeted in the darkness by Kaname. Shizuka wonders why Kaname is Cross High School so Kaname tells her that it’s to return a favor and because this is the place where he can get the appropriate pieces. Back in another room, Ichiru continues to bitch about his inability to get noticed by anyone. As Ichiru loses his sword, Zero realizes that in contrast, Yuuki’s eyes is focused on no one but Zero. At the same time, Shizuka is killed by Kaname when the later punch his hand into her body. Shizuka, however, is not surprised because she wanted to do the same thing to Kaname and turns Yuuki into an assassin. Kaname assures Shizuka that her death won’t be in vain because he’ll kill the pure-blood vampire who ruins the fate of other pure-blood vampires. In her dying breath, Shizuka tells Kaname that he’ll receive a new power for killing her but his future will be shrouded in darkness. At the same time, Aidou arrives at the old mansion and realizes that Kaname has killed Shizuka. In the other room, Zero and Ichiru smells a very strong blood but before Zero can go there, Yuuki has stopped him. She knows that after Zero kills Shizuka, he intends on killing himself. Because of this, she tells him that she doesn’t want him to die. Zero is touched and hugs Yuuki, telling her that he doesn’t understand why she’d go this far for him. However, while he intent on dying before, he has no desire to do so again so he asks her to stay in the room after telling her that he’ll be back. At the same time, Ichiru finally finds Shizuka’s dead body in the other room. Impression I was amused to see Ichijou enjoying the party and giggling with his fangirls while everyone else is on their merry-brood-round. If one doesn’t know better, one would think he’s a very genki human. It’s be nice if half of the cast are as cheerful as him but that’s not going to happen. Moving along, I wish the writers tell us why Shizuka want to cause Zero a lot of pain because at the moment, she comes across as a psycho vampire who’s just hellbent on destroying Zero and his family. I actually don’t like her character design in comparison to Kurenai Maria so I wasn’t sorry to see her killed by Kaname. And while Kaname is not exactly a nice character, I figure that the only person who can kill Shizuka is someone who’s equally cunning and neither Zero nor Yuuki is capable of any kind of backstabbing. I actually like characters who can take care of themselves and can give the villain a taste of their own medicine. If only I like Kaname more, he’d come across as an anti-hero to me. At the moment, however, I just think that what he did was quite clever and useful for Yuuki/Zero. At the same time, I also dread the possibility of him becoming stronger and more dangerous to others. Come to think of it, I still don’t understand why both Kaname and Shizuka want to kill each other. Is this because Shizuka endangers Yuuki or is it because they both want to use her? Or is there another reason like a pure-blood who kills another pure-blood will gain his/her power? If that’s the case, what is Kaname intend to do with this additional power? He was talking about destroying the pure-blood who has ruined the fate of other pure-blood. But then Shizuka was also talking about how Kaname has been looking for it since he was a kid so that kind of threw me off. Moving along, I can’t help but laughing at Ichiru instead of sympathizing with him. I really can’t stand characters who need to be validated by other person to feel whole in his/her life. Plus, I fail to see how his insecurity is the fault of other people (which include his parents, Yagari, and Shizuka). The good thing about that completely pathetic scene is that it brings Zero to his senses. He finally realizes that Yuuki really cares about him that it’s time for him to stop moping around and act like he has no one to look out for.

This has to be one of the worst ever episode for the series when it comes to character design. My analysis back in the first episode about how the character design can easily turns ugly in the hands of lazy animators turns out to be correct. When I see an episode like this, I wonder if it’s because the budget is so small that the animators refuse to labor on their craft more than necessary or if they just lose interest in what they do. It’s probably hard for animators to be excited about each series that they do so I wonder at what point does the hobby turns into nothing more than a job that needs to be completed. Anyway, for some reason Ichiru sounds a lot like Zero in this episode so does this mean Miyano Mamoru voices both characters? That would be weird but kind of amusing as well since both are supposed to be twins. Ichiru sounds more like Tamaki from Ouran High School Host Club though, albeit an evil one. Episode 11 Zero wakes up only to find that Ichiru is still alive. In addition to this, he finds out that Ichiru is actually delighted when he and his parents got slaughtered by Shizuka. Ichiru explains that he feels put down in that family since their parents often think that he’s useless. When he was a kid, Ichiru encountered Shizuka, who was crying on top of a Sakura tree. It was then that the two felt immediate bond. In the present time, Ichiru tells Zero that eventually he feels nothing for his parents and realizes that the love he feels for Zero is actually hatred. Although he wants to kill Zero, Ichiru feels that it’d be better to let Zero suffer as the later degrades into a Level-E. Before Ichiru gets out of the room, however, Yagari storms in. Ichiru tries to attack his former teacher but Zero stops him, causing the blade to almost stab Ichiru. Before that can happen, however, Yagari uses his own body to shield Ichiru. Although the injury is not serious, Zero has no choice but to carry Yagari back to Cross so he can get treatment. Zero then leaves again to look for Ichiru. Instead finding him, Zero encounters Yuuki, who offers him to drink her blood so Zero roughly press her body to the wall before sucking her neck from behind. Yeah, it’s not sexual at all. Afterwards, Yuuki remembers how Maria told her that if she wants Maria to save Zero, she’d either have to give herself or deliver the corpse of Kaname. Meanwhile, Zero has finally calmed down thanks to Yuuki’s blood. Before he can go off to confront Maria and Ichiru, however, Cross finds him and asks him to guard the student party. At the same time, Yuuki is informed by Yori that she has a present. It’s a white gown from Kaname. Meanwhile, Cross tells Zero to enjoy the night and to not be bound by his future. Their conversation comes to a halt when Yuuki comes by, dressing in the white gown. Upon seeing Yuuki looking excited, Zero wonders why she’s always smiling. Yuuki tells him that it’s because she wants to see him smiling too. Inside the party, Yuuki asks Kain if he knows Kaname’s whereabouts to Kain tells her that Kaname is at the balcony. When Yuuki finds Kaname in the balcony, he asks her to dance with him as a thanks for the dress so Yuuki complies. Instead of listening to the beat of the song, however, he just dance slowly because he wants to remember of the time when the two of them used to dance. Gross. She was a little girl back then you creep. Yuuki is embarrassed about this so she tells him that back then she was just started to learn Waltz so she wonders until when he’s going to treat her like a child. Kaname claims that’s not his intention so Yuuki brings up the fact that Kaname was the one who tempered with her memory the other night. Kaname tells her that he’s not treating her like a child. He just wants to protect her. While this happens, Yuuki remembers how Maria asked her to kill Kaname but Yuuki decides not to do this and instead run away from the guy. At the same time, Kain and Aidou finds a place where Shizuka’s real body is stored. Before they can do anything however, Seiren arrives to tell them not to do anything. Kain, realising that Kaname has a plan of his own suggests to Aidou that they don’t do anything for now since they can’t fight a pure-blood like Shizuka. Impression The part where Ichiru claims that he was willing to kill his family because he felt unappreciated still feels unnatural. It’s not like anyone in the family was abusing him. It’s not their fault that he has such a low self-esteem. Even if he can’t become a hunter, he can still get other jobs. I highly doubt that he’d be looked down by others just because he can’t be a vampire hunter. After all, it’s not like he lives in a middle-age period where vampire hunting is the only respectable job in the country. In fact, most people do not even know about the existence of Vampires. What I’m trying to say is that should Ichiru gets impaled with a stake one of these days, I doubt that anyone will feel sorry for him. He decided to betray his own family and kill them for no good reason other than a pathetic insecurity. I guess one can claim that he’s been manipulated by Shizuka to go against his family but until we see the flashback which suggests this, there’s no excuse for what he’s done. At least Shizuka has a reason for wanting a revenge while Ichiru has none whatsoever. I’m glad that Yuuki finally decides to confront Kaname about his creepy, controlling behavior. I’d have bought him claiming that he just wanted her to be safe if all that he did that night was putting Yuuki to sleep so she won’t be in danger. However, he did more than that. He modified her memory so that she won’t remember not only the incident but also Zero. That’s a violation of her right to decide what she want or does not want to remember. I also didn’t like the way he ordered Zero around like he’s some kind of personal slave who is still alive because of he still has some kind of function for Yuuki. On the other hand, Zero is also not faring better this episode. After taking Yuuki’s blood, he was being quite rude towards her instead of thanking her. I guess he’s embarrassed about the whole thing but the whole pissy act gets a bit tiring after a while. Both Yuuki and Cross have tried their best to make him happy. The least he can do is to be nice to these two people who have been nothing but good to him. I really hope that in the future, the series will develop him beyond his moody personality traits.

Since it’s near exam, the usual batch of fangirls who usually wait for the night class students are not around. Yuuki realizes that she too needs to study otherwise her mark will bring the class mark down. The problem is that the class with the lowest mark won’t be able to attend the school dance party and has to work backstage. This means Yuuki will incur the wrath of the class Iinchou since he has specifically warned her that he’d like to go to the school dance. Despite her attempt to study, however, Yuuki can’t concentrate and wonders why Zero hates Maria. While helping tutoring Yuuki, Zero tells her that the area in his neck that got bitten by Shizuka aches. He is angry because Shizuka ruined his relationship with his brother.

Kaname, however, already knows that there’s more to Maria than meets the eye. He confronts her, asking why she changed her name and identity. He thinks she has a bad taste and just want to play. Maria scoffs at this and asks Kaname since when he becomes conscientious since he’s the same as her. Meanwhile, Zero tells Yuuki that it’s because she was there that he was able to live on. Yuuki who thinks that Zero behaves strangely ever since Maria came to the school. Because she wants to know the relationship between the two, she decides to follow the guy. Meanwhile, Zero has find Maria, who thinks that Zero is drawn to her due to their bond. Zero attempts to shoot the girl but finds himself unable to do so.

Maria explains that he can’t kill her because she’s the vampire who has given him a life as a vampire. As a servant, he can’t possibly kill her. Despite this, Zero pushes her away and points his gun at her. Maria is impressed to see this, telling him that he’s the first who makes an attempt to defy her. At the same time, Yuuki arrives in the mansion as well, in time to hear Zero recognizing Maria as Hiou Shizuka. Yuuki is shocked to hear this and hears Shizuka telling that Zero that this body she’s using is not hers so she doesn’t want Zero to be violent. As soon as she says this, her helper drops a katana from above which Shizuka uses to attack Zero. Zero, however, manages to block the attack with her gun. Yuuki herself is shocked to see this and tries to run to Zero but Kaname has covered up her mouth with his hand and stops her from leaving.

Much to Zero and Shizuka’s surprise, Zero manages to fire a round of bullet into Maria’s body. Shizuka realizes that she can’t fight effectively in her borrowed body and needs a rest. She also suggests that Zero does the same since he’s also injured by her katana slash. As Zero passed out, Shizuka’s helper asks her if they’re leaving him alive but Shizuka doesn’t answer him, upsetting the guy in the process. Meanwhile, Kaname is seen wiping Yuuki’s memory while saying that if Zero is going to die now, there’s no point in letting him live in the beginning. Having said that, he can’t lose Yuuki now. The next day, Yuuki finds herself waking up in her room, feeling that something is missing but she can’t pinpoint what that this is supposed. Because Yuuki continues to space out throughout the day, Yori asks her to take a rest.

In the afternoon, however, Yuuki gets a visit from Kaname, who asks her to go to the dance party with him. As it turns out, however, Kaname is just there to check if Yuuki has really forgotten about Zero. When Ichijou asks him about this, Kaname tells him that sometimes forgetting is a form of happiness. Meanwhile, Yagari asks Cross why he let Maria to enroll in this school knowing who she really is. Cross claims because Kaname allows it and he has to trust their decision since vampires should deal with vampire world. Meanwhile, Yuuki is confronted by Maria, who thinks Yuuki is cruel since she has forgotten about someone even though that someone always thinks about her. Yuuki wonders if Maria is talking about Zero, causing the cat that she hugs to jumps out and scratches her hand before fleeing out of sight.

Thanks to her bleeding hand, Yuuki remembers the time when Zero holds her hand the night before and his subsequent fight with Maria. Because of this, she asks her what will happen to Zero. Maria tells her that for now he’s okay but soon he’ll turn into a Level E who won’t hear whatever Yuuki says. Meanwhile Zero who’s laying unconscious in a bedroom, remembers his past as a kid. Back then he found out that his twin brother, Ichiru, pretended to be sick so he didn’t have to bid goodbye to their teacher. Ichiru felt that their teacher doesn’t like him but he didn’t care as long as Zero likes him. At that time, the two saw a woman appearing in the midst of a Sakura petals even though it was winter time. Ichiru wanted to approach the woman but Zero, who knows that she’s a vampire, suggested that they better go home.

That night, Ichiru had a fever, causing Zero to be concerned about him. Zero wanted to go out to look for ice but Ichiru wants him to stay near him so their mother decided to look for the ice herself. While on the bed, Ichiru told Zero that since he has such a weak body that he can’t possibly become a hunter. He also wanted to know if the vampire they met today will be killed by someone someday. Zero believed that if she’s on the list then she’d definitely be killed. Later on, Ichiru for some reason decided to go outside so Zero decided to go look for him. As soon as he opened the door, however, he saw Shizuka, who grabbed him. In the end, the entire family except Ichiru got killed by Shizuka. In the present time, Zero wakes up in cold sweat and finds himself face to face with Ichiru, whom he thought was already dead.

Impression

I thought it was nice of Zero to help Yuuki studying so she can go to the dance party…and dance with Kaname. Sometimes I wonder if she doesn’t realize that Zero likes her. I guess all of those protective act can fool anyone into thinking that he sees her as nothing more than his sister. Having said that, I don’t know a guy who holds a girl’s hand out of nowhere and hugs her from behind if he just sees her as a friend/sister, etc. This episode moves thing a bit in regards to their relationship. I think it’s thanks to her feelings for Zero that she managed to regain her memory of him despite having been mind-wiped by Kaname. Speaking of the later, I’m kind of confused about him again.

I was starting to think that maybe he’s just a possessive but a generally good guy. However, Shizuka seems to see him differently. I am sure she’s a lot of things but I don’t think being a liar is one of them. Moreover, what he did to Yuuki, regardless of the reason, was repulsive. It’s true that he probably just want to keep her safe but he robbed her of her memory without her consent. I think it’s not up to him what Yuuki should remember or not remember. She’s old enough to make her choices and if he really wants to protect her, he should have done it in a way that does not involve taking away her choices and her memory. He could have confronted Shizuka right away and helped Zero, for example, even if he doesn’t like him. If he had done this, I’m sure that Yuuki would have like him a lot more for sure.

I know a lot of people dislike Maria but I personally thought her character design is pretty good and was happy to know that she’s just being possessed by Hiou Shizuka instead of being her new form. This means should the author decides to involve her in a new storyline, Maria can come back into the series again. Plus, her role as Hiou Shizuka was part of the reason why Yuuki regains her memory of Zero. While her intention wasn’t exactly noble, at least she gives Yuuki a choice whether to come after Zero or to forget about him. Plus, she’s not spiteful enough to tell Yuuki that Kaname is probably the one who mindwiped Yuuki. As for Ichiru, it’s hard to believe that he has such a low self-esteem and feels disconnection from his family to the point that he was willing to work with their enemy to kill the rest of his family.

A flashback shows a woman telling a young Zero to make hatred his nourishment and to grow up quickly. The woman also tells the boy that they are bound by a bond that can never be broken. In the present, Zero wakes up in terror while his teacher, Yagari, informs Cross that it seems a particular woman is still alive. The next day at school, Yuuki gets overwhelmed by the screaming fangirls and end up getting pushed around until Aidou pulls her into the Night dormitory. She, however, is quickly pulled back out of the place by Zero, who doesn’t like the fact that she’s being abducted by the vampires. As it turns out, the reason the students are over-excited is because there will be school ball very soon. Later on, Yuuki confronts Cross about him using Zero to hunt other vampires but Cross points out that it’s Zero who chooses to live like a human. Cross also wants Yuuki to show a transfer student around the campus.

The girl was supposed to come earlier but because she has poor health, she’s been staying at the mountain. The girl then appears and introduces herself as Kurenai Maria. Maria immediately makes a remark about how Yuuki is a delicious kid, which earns her a scold from Cross. Later on, she tells Yuuki that she’s afraid of not fitting in because she’s a weak vampire so Yuuki assures her that she can rely on her and Cross. The other vampires, on the other hand, are suspicious of her motivations and are not happy when they see her, especially after she rubs her face against his hand. Meanwhile, Yuuki is trying to cheer up Zero by saying that the girl that he saved from a Level-E the other day is now okay. Zero, however, can’t care less, causing Yuuki to realize that Zero only sees the whole thing as a job. Because of this, she tells Zero that she’s afraid that one day he’ll leave to avenge his parents and not telling her about it.

Yuuki reminds him that she has the obligation to kill him and she intends on fulfilling that promise. Their conversation comes to a halt when a floaty Maria comes over. Zero suddenly pulls out her gun and points it at the young vampire. Yuuki, however, stops him by putting herself in front of Maria. Zero apologizes and realizes that Maria is not the person that he thought she was. Maria thanks Yuuki by saying that her blood is probably tasty. Later on, Maria tells Kaname that she doesn’t want to disturb the other vampires so she’d like to live separately in the old dormitory. Not having any reason to reject her request, Kaname grants it. Meanwhile, Kain and Aidou are going through Maria’s background but finds nothing extraordinary about it. Aidou, however, wonders if Kain has heard about the woman who has the same blood as Kaname, Hiou Shizuka. Kain only knows that she’s gone missing after the incident with the Kiryuu family.

The next day, Ichijou can be seen walking into the day school in an attempt to find Maria. It seems the girl has gone out to take a look at the day class’ cafetaria so Ichijou has no choice but to look after her. Much to Yuuki’s surprise, Zero doesn’t want her to get close to Maria and assures her that Ichijou will do something about it. Aidou then comes over and hugs Yuuki from behind telling her that now the other girls are going to be jealous about it. The surprise, however, is keep coming with Zero wanting to talk privately with Aidou. As for Yuuki, she has to face the wrath of angry fangirls. Yuuki decides to jump into a balcony and ends up meeting Ichijou, who’s also on the run from the crazy fangirls. However, because he was too busy running away from the fangirls, he lost sight of Maria. Yuuki feels sorry for Ichijou for having to do annoying task like this but Ichijou tells her that he and the other vampires don’t mind doing things for Kaname.

He informs Yuuki that the truth is, Kaname has the ability to make other vampires do things for him but he’d rather not use it. At the same time, Zero is informed by Aidou that Maria is nothing more than an old relative of Hiou. Zero, however, doesn’t believe this and thinks that the reason Shizuka hasn’t been found is because she can change her appearance. Aidou thinks the only one who can know is Zero since he’s the only one who has a bond with her. Right at this moment, Zero has a weird sensation and realizes it’s because Maria has been watching them from behind the building. Later on that night, Maria tells her mysterious helper that Zero is cute, causing the helper to be jealous. Maria then pretends that she wants to bite the helper but at the last minute she withdraws her intention. This seems to disappoint the helper but she simply lets out a giggle and moves away from him. The episode ends with Maria telling herself that she’s having fun.

Impression

There wasn’t much plot development in this one apart from Maria causing problem for everyone at the school. I think the only remotely interesting part was Ichijou telling Yuuki that Kaname actually has the power to control lower-being vampires but chooses not to use this power. As for Maria, I find her character to be interesting because she looks so much like one of those European dolls that it’s creepy. When she first appeared in the series, I was intrigued with the possibilities that vampires (or just pure-blood vampires) might be able to change their appearance. However, as the series went on, it becomes obvious that the author changed her minds. I don’t really mind the change but sometimes I wonder what the series would have been if it still retains this particular plot point. Would it complicate situations if vampires can alter his/her appearance? After all, if they had this ability, vampires would be able to hide effectively.

Come to think of it, I wonder if this is the reason that Kaname looks the same age as Yuuki and Zero now even though when we first met him, he clearly looks older than the other two? I remember reading from somewhere that he’s only a few years older but the flashback seems to suggest that he’s a lot older than that. Moving along, during the part where Ichijou was being chased around by the fangirls, I realized that it’d be fun to see the series from Ichijou’s POV, which seems less angsty than the three main characters’ POV. Ditto with the idea of watching what Rima and Shiki do in their professional life. Having said that, I remember that some people once said that the anime inserts too many comedic situations as it is now so I’m not sure if having side stories for the side characters is a popular opinion or not. I think if it’s just a one-off thing and is clearly separated from the main story, it won’t affect the atmosphere of the main story.

Ichijou visits Kaname and finds the guy looking depressed so he decides to leave Kaname to get some sleep. The other vampires are also concerned about this but Ichijou suggests that they go to sleep as well. The group is then interrupted a maid who’s about to deliver a visit permission to Kaname. Ichijou decides to approve it since Kaname is not in good mood. Upon seeing the document, however, he becomes horrified because the person who’s coming to visit is none other than his grandfather, a person who’s very famous in the business world that there’s no business which does not involve Ichijou Group. Even in the world of vampires, this person is a force to be reckoned with. His name is Ichijou Asatou, also known "Ichi-ou". In the council of ancients, Ichi-ou continues to be one of the most senior vampires. Ruka adds that the council of ancients is the highest body of command in their world but it doesn’t really have a hold over them. Despite this, Ichijou doesn’t want to disturb the peace of their dorm for Kaname’s sake.

Later on that day, every single vampire students gathered at the dorm waiting for Ichi-ou. Ruka is amused with how afraid everyone seems to be. Shiki admits that he too is afraid but he wonders which one is more scary: this guy or Kaname? Aidou thinks that is yet to be seen. If things is not bad enough, Kaname also comes down to see Ichi-ou, claiming he hasn’t seen the guy for a long time. When Ichi-ou arrives, he’s amused to see the lively reception considering the fact that he’s just there to see his ‘cute’ grandson. Tension clearly exists between Kaname and Ichi-ou because apparently Kaname once rejected Ichi-ou from becoming his guardian. Ichi-ou then bravely grabs Kaname’s hand, hoping that one day he’ll be able to share the later’s blood. Ruka and Aidou immediately snap and push Ichi-ou’s hand away from Kaname. Aidou asks Ichi-ou if he knows that drawing blood from pureblood is a vampire’s greatest taboo. He promptly gets a slap from Kaname for saying this. I hope he keeps a counter for this.

Later on that night, Ruka comes to Kaname’s room so he beckons her to come in. She wonders why he still hasn’t punished her. Kaname finds it weird that she wants to be punished. Ruka then comes closer, saying how lately Kaname doesn’t look happy. She offers her blood to him but he refuses, assuring her that he’s okay. Ruka looks upset when she comes out of the room so Cain decides to console her. She explains how the only time Kaname wanted her blood was when she first arrived at the school. Cain narrates how when they drink the blood of one of their kind, they usually develops feelings. Ruka explains how despite her feelings, she’s just a fool to Kaname. Meanwhile, Ichi-ou orders Ichijou to keep an eye on Kaname but Ichijou tells his grandfather that he has no intention of harming his friend. Ichi-ou argues that Ichijou doesn’t understand a thing. He believes that a friendship forged on the basis of hypocritical peace….but he doesn’t get to finish his sentence because Yuuki, who waits outside, tells him that

Cross

Academy

is peaceful.

It turns out Yuuki and Zero have been asked by Cross to ask Ichi-ou to come and see him. Despite his disapproval, Ichi-ou agrees to come with the two to Cross’ office. Later on, Yuuki look happy because Kaname had just praised her hard work. When she goes to the bathroom, however, she finds Zero already in it. He wonders what Kaname could possibly want with Yuuki. In her defence, Yuuki claims that she has no intention on giving Kaname her blood. She points out that she intends on giving her blood to Zero therefore, she can’t possible giving it out so easily to others. She wants a confirmation from Zero that they have indeed made up their mind. Upon hearing this, Zero push Yuuki against the wall, looking like he’s going to draw her blood again. After staring at her for a while, however, Zero stops and tells her that she’s a fool because she’s the one who hasn’t made up her mind. Yuuki becomes angry to hear this and proceeds to leave the guy alone. After she left, Cross comes into the bathroom and wonders why Yuuki is angry.

Regardless of what happened between the two, Cross is happy that Zero is alone because he has something to discuss with him. Apparently hunters association has sent them a profile of a Level E vampire and they want Zero to hunt said vampire. Zero has no choice in this. The next day, Yuuki notices Zero sneaking out of the school so she decides to follow him and end up seeing him entering an abandoned building in the city. At the same time, Shiki and Rima have arrived in the same place. Rima reminds Shiki that he’s forgotten to carry an umbrella to protect himself from the sun. Their agent tells them to do whatever they need to do quickly or else they’ll be late for shooting. She also urges Shiki to share Rima’s umbrella since he gets sunburned easily. Moreover, she wants them to act more like the professional models that they are. After the agent left, Shiki wonders why they have to hunt an ex-human on a daytime. Rima explains because the Senior members don’t want the vampire hunters to catch the guy before they do.

In the garden, the two bump into Yuuki, who’s still lurking outside the mansion. Meanwhile, Zero has found the guy in question but before Zero can shoot him, the guy already bolts out. Yuuki, Shiki and Rima hear the gunshot so they decide to go in to investigate. Yuuki ends up facing the vampire but Shiki asks her to step aside. He then bites his own finger, causing it to bleed. The blood, however, defies gravity and looks more like a whip as it pours out of the small wound. He then uses his blood whip to attack the Level E in question. After a while, the guy decides to flee again so Yuuki uses the opportunity to find Zero. Unfortunately for her, the Level E shows up again and drags her feet. Before he can do anything else, however, Zero appears and kills the vampire. Yuuki thanks Zero, unaware that a crow has been watching them, relaying the vision to a mysterious girl who’s glad to know that Zero has grown up to be such a good-looking guy. She then decides that she would like to attend Cross school as well.

Impression

I always think Ichi-ou looks kind of unusual for a grandfather. He looks like a young, silver-haired guy who simply has grown a beard, or an older version of Dante (front right) from Devil May Cry. I think the weirdness also comes from the fact that this seemingly young guy is supposed to be Ichijou’s grandfather. Does this mean that not only vampires live longer than normal humans, their aging process is also comparatively slower to normal humans? If this is the case, is it also applicable to humans who are turned into vampires? It’s also interesting to hear what Cain said about how feelings tend to develop after vampire drinks the blood of another vampire. On the one hand, this can sound like a weird love potion kind of effect. Having said that, it looks like the author wanted the act of drinking blood to be an allusion to exual intercourse. Although sexual intercourse usually starts out as a response to lust, sometimes feelings emerged afterwards. As a result, people become jealous when their sexual partner, or in this case, blood-sucking partner, doesn’t seem to be interested in them anymore.

This is why the discussion between Zero and Yuuki in the bathroom sounds very amusing because Yuuki tells Zero that she can’t possibly give her blood freely to others since she intends on consistently giving hers to Zero. I know the literal meaning of the sentence is that she can’t possibly giving blood to every vampires since she’ll then run out of blood herself. But it can also be interpreted as Yuuki not willing to give herself around to every vampire out there and only will do it with Zero. Speaking of which, I wasn’t impressed with Zero’s rudeness in that scene. I know he’s jealous but what he said was pretty rude considering that Yuuki does give her blood without asking for anything in return. The least that he can do is to be nice to her. Moving along, I have no idea why Aidou puts up with Kaname’s antics. It seems no matter what he does, he always gets slapped by Kaname and yet he takes it over and over again. Slapping is also far more humiliating than a punch because it implies that the person who gets slapped is far beneath the one who struck against him that he doesn’t even deserve a punch.

Overall, I really enjoyed the episode. I love how the writers gave more screentime to show that fight between Shiki vs Level E vampire. IIRC, their fight in the manga is very brief. It’s interesting to know that Shiki and Rima work as a model because it means they have to actually work during daytime. Their scene together also confirms what I suspected last week: vampires in this series can walk around in daytime. The catch is that they have to wear protective gear to protect themselves. Next week looks to be more fun because my favorite character, Kurenai Maria will make her first appearance. To be honest, I didn’t actually expect her voice to be that girly so that’s a bit disappointing. I thought she should sound more mysterious just like Rima’s voice. I was thinking someone like Noto Mamiko as her VA. Also, what’s with the purple hair? I thought she’d be blonde. Oh well, I just hope the character design still looks nice even though they’re not exactly what I had in mind. Moreover, we’ll get to see a new character who actually is closely related to one of the existing character in the series.

Yuki comes to visit Zero who is busy training at shooting range. Yuki tells Zero that she’s worried about him but Zero is back to being his sarcastic self. After a couple of rounds, he notices Yuki’s neck bandage so he suggests that she removes it since it’s very noticeable. Yuki, however, points out its necessity to prevent the bitemark from being known until it disappears. Zero looks upset about this and believes that Yuki won’t mind if she was bitten by another vampire, like Kaname, pointing out that he’s always known that Yuki likes Kaname. Yuki is upset upon hearing this and runs back to her room. As she sleeps on the coach, she dreams of standing on top of a web of blood while a little girl circles her, saying that she’s afraid and the voice of a woman asks her to wake up. A flashback shows that after taking Yuuki to Chairman Cross’ house, Yuuki was given a pudding but doesn’t seem to know that she can eat it. When Kaname tried to spoonfed her, however, Yuuki became transfixed at his fangs and reaches out her hand, trying to touch them.

Yuuki believed that Kaname is not like other vampires and Cross agreed saying that some vampires lives peacefully with humans. At one point, Yuuki even went to the city to greet Kaname. Although she was afraid of being attacked by a vampire, Yuuki told Kaname if she’s with him, she won’t be scared. However, her faith was shattered when one night Cross came home with Zero and told her that his family were killed by evil vampires. One night, Yuuki found Zero trying to claw his own neck. In the present day, Zero has just finished his gun training and starts to touch the tattoo on his neck. He remembers how back then he told Yuuki that feels disgusted because he can still feel the stench of ‘that woman’. Yuuki was horrified to see this and tried to stop him, assuring the guy that she’ll look out for him. One day, however, Kaname came to Cross’ house again. Yuuki tries to introduce the two but Zero looks horrified the minute he saw Kaname, as if he can sense the vampire in Kaname. Zero immediately grabbed a butter knife and tried to attack Kaname but the older guy easily blocked him off. Back then Zero claimed that Kaname smells exactly like ‘that woman’.

Having said that, he told her that she needs to go back. When Ichijou was not paying attention, however, Yuuki managed to sneak into the dormitory and waited for Kaname at the stairs. In the process, she saw Aidou, Cain, Ruka, and the others walking on the top floor. Although they wonder why a human child is inside the dorm, they decide to ignore her since they didn’t want to create trouble before entering the school. Because Yuuki was tired, she ended up sleeping on the stairs and almost became a pray for one unknown student. Kaname, however, scold the guy, reminding him that the school has specific rule. When he put his coat on Yuuki, Kaname almost unable to resist the temptation to bite her neck. Despite this, he managed to stop himself and took Yuuki back to his room. When Yuuki woke up, she saw Kaname sucking Ruka’s neck until the girl passed out. She immediately ran away, unaware that Kaname intentionally wanted her to see this. Outside the house, a disturbed Yuuki met Zero, who’s been asked by Cross to look for her. Upon seeing other vampires looking at them from the dorm, Zero decided to take Yuuki away from them.

It was then that Zero told her that vampires are just beasts in the shape of humans. This includes Kaname. Yuuki, however, refused to believe this, claiming that Kaname saved her life. Because of this, she thinks Kaname is different from other vampires. In the present time, Zero finds Yuuki sleeping on the couch when he hears her asking for Kaname. When he puts a blanket on Yuuki, however, he notices her neck and upon touching it, his bloodlust starts to run out of control again. Zero manages to control his lust but Kaname then appears in front of the door, wanting to talk to him. Because Zero leaves the room earlier than Kaname, Yuuki only sees Kaname’s figure, assuming that Kaname was the one who put the blanket on her. Kaname appears and tells Zero that the reason Zero is still around is because he wants Zero to be of service to Yuuki as her ’shield’. The episode ends with Yuuki saying that something in her changed that day but there’s one thing that remains unchanged: the part of her that likes Kaname.

Impression

After seeing this episode, I can’t help but wonder if there’s more to the vampire/humans alliance that Cross had in mind. I think if one sees it from Zero’s POV, the alliance seems like a dangerous idea. To begin with, vampires are hard to control. We have seen how difficult it was for them to restrain their bloodlust. On top of this, the entire alliance relies on trusting Kaname. Since Kaname is a pure-blood, it’s hard not to be suspicious of his motives and the possibility that he might have a hidden agenda. Judging from the way the other vampires follow him faithfully, it won’t be too difficult for Kaname to kill all of the students in the school if he wants to do so. In addition to this, the restraint that the other vampires have shown thus far is pretty conditional in that they seem to do it not because they like it but because they have a lot of respect for Kaname. Even if Kaname is sincere, what would happen if he’s dead? Would the other vampires respect the treaty or would they go on killing spree? After watching last week’s episode, I realized that the vampire hunters association does not seem to be that keen on the alliance either. It makes me wonder if Cross has other plan with the alliance apart from ensuring that both humans and vampires will co-exist with each other peacefully.

The episode begins with Haruhi leaving her house in a hurry, telling her father that she’s not having breakfast. Later on inside the Salon, Kyoya is in the middle of serving Eclair, who recognises him as the son of the Ootori family. She thinks it’s unfortunate that Kyouya won’t inherit the family’s business regardless of his hard work. She also asks Kyouya how much debt Haruhi still has with the Host Club. Kyouya calls Haruhi over, telling her that Eclair wants her company. Eclair tells Haruhi that she notices that Tamaki is fond of her. This makes Haruhi wonder if Eclair is jealous. Eclair doesn’t answer Haruhi’s question and instead tells Haruhi that she ordered Tamaki not to come to the Host Club again. Elsewhere in the Salon, the twins are in the middle of talking about Tamaki’s decision. Kyouya who sees this asks them not to stand around because they have customers here. He believes that making the customer happy is the best that they can do right now. Kyouya then approaches Haruhi and tells her that Eclair has paid off all of her debts. Because of this, if she wants to, she can stop being a Host. Haruhi is surprised to hear this and finds herself unable to say anything. At the same time, Kyouya’s father comes over and tells his son that although young people often believe that time is limitless, in reality this is not correct. He believes that it’s useless to waste time on worthless activity like this. Haruhi snaps upon hearing this and tells Kyouya’s father that Kyouya and the Host Club work hard so that other people can enjoy themselves. She believes that by doing this, they enrich their own feelings. Because of this, she asks Kyouya’s father if he thinks making other people happy is a worthless effort. In addition to this, she believes that Kyouya is a fine person. Kyouya’s father does not answer Haruhi. However, as he left the area, he realises that Haruhi is the scholarship student that Kyouya told him. Inside the chairman’s office, Tamaki’s father and Tamaki’s grandmother are discussing the threat that is Grand Tonnere Company. Old hag believes that Suoh family will prosper more and more if they make the Tonnere their relatives. Tamaki’s father reminds the old hag that Tamaki has no desire to become a part of the Suoh family and wonders how she managed to persuade Tamaki. Old hag reveals that if Tamaki is engaged to Eclair, she’ll allow Tamaki to see his mother again. In other words, old hag wants Tamaki to pay for his father’s mistake. Meanwhile, Tamaki is in the music room while Eclair is taking shower with her precious opera glass. Once Eclair finishes her shower, the two hear a phone call and realises that it comes from Tamaki’s cell phone. Upon grabbing the phone, Eclair realises that there is a picture of Tamaki and Haruhi on the phone. A flashback reveals that during their conversation in the Salon, Eclair asked Haruhi if she’s Tamaki’s lover. Eclair was relieved when Haruhi denied this, thinking that Haruhi has no relation to Tamaki. Haruhi, however, told Eclair that just because she’s not Tamaki’s lover it doesn’t mean that she has no relation with him. In the present time, Eclair decides not to answer the phone and instead drops it into a fish tank. She tells Tamaki that it’ll be better if he’s not in contact with the Host Club members again because then he can leave without regrets. All of a sudden, there is a knock on the door and a butler comes in saying that a guest has come to visit them. Tamaki is surprised upon seeing Kyouya’s father entering the room and vice versa. Tamaki immediately apologises to Kyouya’s father, explaining that he’s the one who invites Kyouya to join the Host Club. He also wonders why Kyouya’s father is in here. Kyouya’s father explains that the Tonnere family will purchase his medical equipment company soon. Because of this, Kyouya won’t get the company. Eclair suddenly tells Kyouya’s father that there is something that she’d like to ask from him. Back to Haruhi, she’s now dressed up in the special dress for the party, wondering why she gets to do this. Hikari explains that the reason is because there will be a special parade but Haruhi tells him what she meant was why she’s the only one who has to dress up as a girl. Hikaru assures her it’s going to be okay saying that it’s just ‘cosplay’. Haruhi doesn’t believe him and accuses Hikaru of lying. Meanwhile, Kyouya tries to contact Tamaki but can’t seem to reach him. Because of this, he decides to call the 2nd house where Tamaki usually lives and finds out from Tamaki’s maid, Shima, that Tamaki is on his way to Paris. She explains that Suoh family decides to pardon Tamaki’s mother. In addition to this, Tamaki feels guilty for burdening the others. These are why Tamaki made the decision. Kyouya relays the news to the rest of the group much to their surprise. Shima then tells Kyouya that in her opinion, Tamaki’s mother won’t be happy if Tamaki leaves Ouran like this. Kyouya then notices that Tamaki is in a sports car with Eclair so the Host Club decides to go after him. When they try to use Kyouya’s car, however, the Ootori secret police try to stop them from leaving the area. Thankfully Mori then appears with a carriage, shocking the police. He, Hunny, and Kyouya stays behind to fight the police while the twins and Haruhi hop on to catch Tamaki before he can get to the airport. Kyouya tells Haruhi that he entrusts ‘that idiot’ to her. The police try to stop the carriage but they are in fear when they realise that they are against Hunny and Mori. Hunny, Mori, and Kyouya then beat up the secret police senseless. At the same time, Hikaru is rushing through the woods using the carriage so Kaoru tries to warn him about the danger. Hikaru argues that he has to do this because he wants Tamaki back. Hikaru points out that they can meet Haruhi and get along well with everyone else because of the Host Club. Because of this, he doesn’t want the club to end so suddenly like this. Unfortunately, because Hikaru is in a rush, the carriage hits a road bump and turns over, throwing Hikaru to a Pumpkin field. Hikaru realises that he’s injured and can’t control the carriage again so he wonders if things are really going to end like this. Upon hearing Hikaru’s words, Haruhi remembers what her father said before she left to school that day: when she has to do her best, it’s not good for her to hesitate. With this in her mind, Haruhi takes off her wig, throws off her costume and rides on the carriage on her own. Meanwhile inside the car, Eclair points out that Tamaki has been silent. She thinks that as a host, Tamaki should be livelier. In return Tamaki asks Eclair if she’s really okay getting herself engaged to someone she recently knew.

Before Eclair can answer, the two of them hear the sound of horse steps approaching them. They are shocked when they see Haruhi coming with the carriage. Tamaki asks Haruhi to stop right away because it’s dangerous. In return, Haruhi asks Tamaki to return because everyone in the Host Club doesn’t want him to leave. Tamaki tells Haruhi that he’s bothering everyone in the Host Club. Upon hearing this Haruhi tells Tamaki that he really is dumb. She can’t believe that after all of the times he is together with them, he still can’t tell the difference between people joking around and people being serious. She then points out that everyone like the Host Club and admits that she also feels the same way about it. Haruhi then offers her hand to Tamaki, asking him to jump into the carriage. However, before Tamaki can jump, Eclair tries to stop him. Meanwhile, because Haruhi is not paying attention to the horse/carriage, they veer off and hit the bridge.

Haruhi falls off the carriage and plunges into the river on her left hand side. Eclair immediately releases her hand on Tamaki upon seeing this. Tamaki thanks her and gives her a smile before jumping off into the river to save Haruhi. Tamaki then manages to catch Haruhi’s hand mid air and pulls her into his embrace as they fall together into the river. Not long after this, the rest of the Host Club arrive to save the two. Eclair who sees this asks her driver to move along. The driver tells her that he remembers how Eclair often heard from her maid about the maid’s son, who can play piano so well. Eclair remembers how she once asked the maid about the boy, which was Tamaki. She thinks Tamaki is stupid for passing up the opportunity to meet his mother again. Having said that, she’s happy that he actually smiled just for her. As Eclair left the area, the camera lingers on the Opera glasses that she always has with her. Eclair has left it on the bridge.

That night, there’s a dance party for everyone. Haruhi gets dizzy after Hunny spins her far too often but Mori was there to catch her. Inside the chairman’s office, Kyouya’s father tells Tamaki’s father that someone else ended up purchasing the Ootori medical equipment company before the Tonnerre can get their hands on it. All management rights have been returned to Kyouya’s father. When Kyouya’s father investigated this, he found out that the buyer is a student investor who calls himself "K.O". It doesn’t take him long to figure out that "K.O" is Kyouya Ootori, his own son. Tamaki’s father thinks the entire story sounds fearsome but he kind of expecting it from Kyouya who he thinks is an excellent student. In exchange, Kyouya’s father praises Tamaki. He knew all along that Kyouya is better than his brothers. However, after seeing Kyouya doing a takeover on his own and returning the company back, Kyouya’s father realises that Kyouya probably finds something more valuable thanks to Tamaki.

Outside the school, Haruhi dances with Kaoru, hits Hikaru’s hand and apologises for it. Haruhi then moves to dance with Tamaki but Kyouya appears and takes the lead. Tamaki goes berserk as usual so eventually Kyouya returns Haruhi to Tamaki. Back in the office, Tamaki’s father thinks he and Kyouya’s father should be friends just like their sons. Kyouya’s father agrees but he has one condition: he wants Haruhi to be Kyouya’s future wife. Tamaki’s father immediately changes his mind, saying that he knew it’s impossible to be friends with Kyouya’s father. While everyone watches the firework, Tamaki explains that Ouran High prioritises prestige and money before anything else. Since rich people have a lot of time, Ouran Host Club is about guys profiting from rich female students with their good looks while entertaining them. The episode then ends with a shot of the 3rd music room being opened, Haruhi then asks the visitors to come in and play if they feel like it because everyone in the Host Club is sincerely waiting for them to come.

It’s the 43rd Ouran Festival so everyone is busy preparing for the opening ceremony. After hearing Hikaru ordering workers to place table into the Salon, Haruhi tells Kyouya that in school festivals, students normally everything themselves. Kyouya, however, tells her that is for normal school but in Ouran, school festival is more about planning and leadership. That’s because most of the students here are future leaders of their respective family business. Tamaki, Mori, and Hunny then arrive with a carriage, asking her to join them in the special parade. While inside the carriage, Kaoru makes a comment about Hikaru’s ability to handle the carriage. Hikaru tells him that Kaoru should have practiced with him. Tamaki tells the not-impressed Haruhi that tomorrow’s parade will involve medieval French outfit. There is even a costume specifically made for Haruhi. Once the clock tower chimes, several supporting characters can be seen all around the school. Inside the Salon, the Host Club opens a special event for the general public. This time around, everyone is on their best behaviour so that they’ll impress the students’ parents. Tamaki manages to charm the pants off a disgruntled older lady by telling her that the purpose of the Host Club is to spend time with beautiful lady like herself. Meanwhile, some parents assume that Mori and Hunny are siblings when the former asks the later to button his shirt. The twins, on the other hand, try to attract sympathy by pretending that they’re lonely because they’ve been neglected by their parents. Kyouya, on the other hand, is busy explaining to a parent that everyday they cosplay in each country/race’s costume in order to learn the social culture of said country/race. Haruhi, however, thinks that the entire thing is an overpriced event, causing Tamaki to rush to her side, claiming that this is a campaign to appeal to a wide group of people. Kyouya, however, agrees with Haruhi, explaining that they’ve gone over budget this time around. Apparently the carriage that Tamaki wants had to be imported from France. He points out that Tamaki’ selfishness causes them a lot of problem. Tamaki protests this, asking Haruhi if wanting to make everyone happy is a selfishness. Haruhi ignores him and approaches a girl, asking her if there is something she’d like to order. The girl, however, simply asks Haruhi if she’s a Host Club member. Tamaki’s father, the Chairman, then arrives at the Salon. When Tamaki calls the Chairman, "Father", however, the Chairman asks Tamaki to call him "Chairman" while they’re at school. Tamaki’s father then apologises to Kyouya for the problem that Tamaki has caused. Kyouya denies that it was any problem and asks the Chairman if he has any order. Tamaki, who tries to listen to the conversation, falls down when he hears his father asking for Haruhi.

Haruhi is surprised to meet the Chairman, thinking that he’s not like Tamaki at all. She, however, changes her mind when he tries to charm her, asking her to call him "Oji-sama" (Uncle) instead of "Chairman". She also asks Haruhi to come to ‘Uncle’ if she encounters any problem. Tamaki is jealous to see this and asks his father to move that hand away from Haruhi. Their conversation, however, comes to abrupt end when all of a sudden they hear a loud slapping noise. It turns out Kyouya’s father has slapped his own son. He’s not happy with his son’s involvement in the Host Club, asking Kyouya if this is Kyouya’s attempt to embarass him. He then approaches Tamaki’s father, apologising for the unsightly scene. Tamaki’s father, however, tells Kyouya’s father that he’s being harsh on Kyouya even though he’s a good kid. He believes Kyouya’s father is in trouble and it’s only a matter of time before mass communication starts to make a fuss about it.

Meanwhile, the other members are concerned about Kyouya. Haruhi wonders if the reason Kyouya got hit is because of the Host Club. Kyouya, however, tells the other that he’s okay and kind of expected it. After Kyouya left, Tamaki feels bad about the incident, wondering if it’s all the Host Club’s fault. Tamaki’s father then tells his son that this is the price of his selfishness. He wants to know what Tamaki will do from now on, if he wants to become the successor to the Suoh family. The chairman then walks over and lectures him about the price of his selfishness. When he sees Tamaki looking at Haruhi talking to customers, the Chairman asks Tamaki what he plans to do now, asking Tamaki if he wants to succeed the Suou family. The Chairman believes that this is a difficult choice and even he himself still doesn’t know the answer. Because of this, he asks Tamaki if he really knows what he wants before pointing out that Tamaki’s grandmother has arrived.

Haruhi is surprised to see Tamaki’s grandmother making an appearance and even more so when Hunny tells her that he hates that old woman. Hunny doesn’t need to explain this because when Tamaki greets his grandma, the old hag asks him not to touch her, even goes as far as calling Tamaki ‘filthy’. She then calls out for Eclair, the girl that Haruhi saw before. Old hag basically wants Tamaki to escort Eclair to see the school festival today and tomorrow. Tamaki at first hesitates but eventually agree to her request. A few hours later, Tamaki has not returned to the Salon, causing everyone else to wonder where he could be. When the twins wonder who Eclair could be, Renge admits that she knows her. Eclair Tonnerre is the 3rd daughter of distinguished family with successful business in France. Kyoya confirms this, saying that the Tonnerre family have recently been buying Japanese companies. However, he has no idea why Eclair comes to see Tamaki.

Meanwhile, Tamaki and Eclair are in the middle of riding a Gondola in the middle of a Venice imitation created by the Art club. Eclair doesn’t seem to enjoy this and instead wants Tamaki to play piano for her. The two goes to the music room and Tamaki starts to play for her. Haruhi, who’s in the middle of changing her clothes hear this and presses her back against the door, alarming Eclair to her presence. While Tamaki plays the piano, Eclair asks him if this is the room that Tamaki and the Host Club normally use and points out how everyone seems to get along well with each other. Tamaki points out how they, the Host Club, are like family. In response, Eclair points out that Tamaki’s real family is not in Japan and that he’s just playing ‘house’ with the Host Club members. She then starts to guilt-trip Tamaki, claiming that his selfishness causes everyone to be miserable. She points out that Kyouya got hit by his father because of this.

This statement stops Tamaki and makes him remembers what Kyouya said beforehand. Tamaki starts to wonder if all Host Club members sacrifice their own life to be in the Host Club. For example, he wonders if Haruhi sacrifices her study time to become lawyer to come to the Club. Haruhi then barges in and explains that she just changed her clothes. She also points out that everyone else is unhappy that Tamaki left the Salon. Eclair apologises but Tamaki right now belongs to her and wonders why Haruhi looks jealous. Tamaki becomes excited to hear this, setting off the lightbulb inside Eclair’s head (she realises that Haruhi is a girl). Haruhi denies that she’s jealous and excuses herself for interfering. Tamaki wants to chase Haruhi but Eclair stops him, asking him if he likes that Mamedanuki (Dilligent Racoon). Tamaki is offended that Eclair calls his ‘daughter’ that way but Eclair pushes him off to a couch and tells him that she can give what he wants the most.

A dejected Haruhi returns to the Salon to the cheer of everyone. When they wonder where Tamaki could be, however, Haruhi tells them that Tamaki is in the 3rd music room with Eclair. Her acid tone makes everyone thinks that she’s jealous. Haruhi denies this and simply tells them that Tamaki is being irresponsible. Kyouya believes that this is because of the order from Tamaki’s grandma, causing Haruhi to remember the way the old hag gave Tamaki the cold shoulder. Because of this, she asks the other members why she behaves like this. Everyone looks around and eventually decides to tell Haruhi the background of Tamaki’s family. Apparently around 20 years ago, the head of the Suoh family died young. Because of this, Tamaki’s grandma married her son (Tamaki’s father) off to a girl for business purpose, turning him into the Suoh successor. However, a few years later, Tamaki’s father fell in love with another woman when he was in France.

From their union, Tamaki was born. Tamaki’s father wanted to divorce his legal wife and married the woman he met in France. However, his mother opposed the idea. Since Tamaki’s mother’s health was poor and could not live in Japan, Tamaki was raised in France until he was 14. Unfortunately, Tamaki’s mother’s family experienced a business failure and accumulated large debt. At the same time, the Suoh has no heir in the family. Tamaki’s grandma offered to give money to Tamaki’s mother so she can live comfortably. In exchange, Tamaki must come to Japan. Moreover, he and his mother are not allowed to see each other again. Kyouya explains that although the Chairman is the head of the Suoh family, the one who’s really in charge is old hag. Since Tamaki’s mother had a weak body, she wouldn’t be able to survive without the aid of the Suoh family. Because of this, Tamaki told his devastated mother that he’d go to Japan alone.

After the incident, either because she was sad or because she regretted accepting money in exchange for Tamaki, Tamaki’s mother moved away and disappeared. Even now, her whereabouts is still not known. Upon hearing the story, haruhi remembers how during cremation, she once asked his father if she would never see her mother again. Haruhi is surprised about the whole thing because Tamaki is always happy so she didn’t expect that his past is that harrowing. She wonders if she’d be able not to hold a grudge against the grandma if she were Tamaki. Kyouya tells Haruhi that although it’s easy to feel sorry for Tamaki, he’s glad that Tamaki is the way he is now. He thinks Tamaki will be okay. All of a sudden, however, Tamaki appears in the Salon with Eclair. He tells them that he has an important news to tell everyone: he’s getting engaged to Eclair Tonerru. In addition to this, he will dismantle the Host Club after the Ouran Festival is over.

The episode begins with the Host Club having a Kotatsu-themed party, surprising some of the guests because this is the first time they saw a Kotatsu. Tamaki points out that Kotatsu is normally required in Winter but they decide to have it in advanced for their visitors. Because of this, he welcomes everyone to the Host Club’s Kotatsu "happy circle" service. Haruhi is not impressed by this. She wonders if Kotatsu really is that interesting and if this ‘Kotatsu service’ was Tamaki’s idea. Kyouya confirms Haruhi’s guess and asks her what is it that bothers her. Haruhi tells Kyouya that she knew Tamaki and Kyouya set up this Host Club but she wonders why someone as cool as Kyouya wants to be in this crazy club. Much to Haruhi’s surprise, Kyouya tells her that the reason is because the club is crazy. The story started 2 years ago, when he was a middle school student. Back then, Kyouya was approached by another student while he was walking alone.

The student then told Kyouya that his father attended the party to commemorate the completion of Ootori’s hospital yesterday and got to meet some distinguished people. He thanked Kyouya because of this. Kyouya introduced the student as the son of a major electrical maker. Another student then appeared and asked Kyouya if he became a student president again. Kyouya pointed out that this boy is the son of a major department store owner. More and more students then came and sucked up to Kyouya. Kyouya himself was no different from them. When a student asked if Kyouya wants to come to his villa in the mountain to do star-gazing, Kyouya immediately agreed because he had interest in establishing business with the boy’s father. Kyouya’s older sister, Fuyumi was surprised that Kyouya would go to a mountain just for that reason. Kyouya pointed out that his host also expects him to come. He believed that this is a pure ‘give’ and ‘take’ situation.

Fuyumi argued that the motivation is anything but pure and believed that maybe those who invited Kyouya really wants Kyouya to see some stars. She thought it’s romantic to deepen friendship under the starlit sky. While saying this, Fuyumi tried to tidy up Kyouya’s closet but ended up making a mess of it. Because of this, Kyouya asked his sister not to mess with his closet. Fuyumi, however, argued that she feels like sorting Kyouya’s clothes. Cue in more mess on the floor. Fuyumi knew that their father is strict and therefore Kyouya probably feels a heavy pressure from the old man. Having said that, because he’s different from his elder brother, she believed he can take things easy. In response, Kyouya told his sister that he knows that he is not the successor to Ootori’s business. He is not the one who can get on the route that will easily take him up to the top just like his brothers. He has expectations to respond to and can’t just stand up ahead of his brothers.

Kyouya compared his responsibility within the family to drawing a perfect picture on a canvass within a splendid frame. When Fuyumi asks Kyouya if he’s enjoying it, Kyouya pointed out that it has nothing to do with enjoying it or not enjoying it. Kyouya pointed out how after graduating from the medical school, his eldest brother ended up working at the hospital just like his father. His second brother acquired MBA after graduated from the medical school and ended up lending support to his older brother. And then there was Kyouya…who one day was asked by his father to be a good friend of the Suoh family’s son who just moved in to the school. Kyouya revealed that Tamaki is the child that the chairman had when he was overseas. After divorcing his real wife, the chairman had no other child so he decided to make the son of his lover into his successor. Fast forward a few days later, Kyouya and the vice president met the newly arrived Tamaki.

Tamaki immediately charmed the vice-president after he praised her straight, beautiful hair. He told her that just like her hair, her heart must be beautiful as well. After a light introduction, Kyouya decided to show Tamaki the rest of the school. He, however, was caught off-guard when Tamaki wanted to know if he has a Kotatsu inside his house. Tamaki is of the opinion that sitting on the floor is a charming culture so he promised himself to try it once he arrived in Japan. Unfortunately, his house is western-styled. Upon hearing this, Kyouya immediately likened Tamaki to one of those foreigners who are obsessed with Japanese culture. He then apologised to Tamaki, claiming that his family doesn’t have a Kotatsu either. Tamaki immediately became depressed upon hearing this, asking Kyouya if Kotatsu is not the symbol of a family’s ‘happy circle’. This involves putting your leg inside the kotatsu and engage in a little argument with family members.

In order to stop Tamaki from being upset, Kyouya told the guy that he will build a Kotatsu in his Japanese-styled room. Tamaki suddenly cheered up again, calling Kyouya his best friend. Because of this he asked if they can call each other by first name from now on. Kyouya tried to say "No" but his objection was drowned out by Tamaki yelling out "Bravo, Kyouya!! Mon Ami, Mon Ami". Fuyumi was surprised when she found out that Kyouya becomes Tamaki’s best friend after only one day. Kyouya told Fuyumi that maybe Tamaki does not understand the meaning of ‘best friend’. He also wanted Fuyumi not to mess his closet anymore. The day after, Tamaki came to Kyouya to ask for his help: he wants to go to Kyoto. He admitted that he got sidetracked Kotatsu. However, the first thing he actually wanted to do after he comes to Japan is to go to Kyouto. Tamaki basically wanted to go and see: The Great Buddha in Nara, Goryokaku, Shiisaa and Namahage.

Kyouya pointed out that all of those are not located in Kyoto. Tamaki is shocked by this revelation and becomes depressed again. Because of this, Kyouya offered to take Tamaki to all of those places one by one. He pointed out that they can go to Kyoto next week, then on the next holiday, they can go to Okinawa. Tamaki becomes happy once again, this time proclaiming Kyouya as "God" and "The Great Buddha". Kyouya is amused by the fact that after only knowing Tamaki for 2 days, his status has been promoted to ‘God’. Because of this, one week later Kyouya and Tamaki visited Kinkakuji (The Golden Pavillion) in Kyoto. While Tamaki takes a lot of portraits of the temple, Kyouya made an observation that Tamaki somehow managed to adapt himself into the class. At one point, Fuyumi realised that Kyouya is still awake at night and was surprised when she found out that Kyouya was reading Hokkaido sightseeing guide.

When Fuyumi asked why Kyouya didn’t just get a driver, Kyouya told her that it’s because Tamaki didn’t want to use driver. He then complained about Tamaki, claiming that when they were in Kyoto, Tamaki insisted on seeing Daimonji even though it’s still Spring. And in another instance, while they were eating Okinawa Soba, Tamaki suddenly wanted to compare the soba to Shinshuu Soba. And when Tamaki didn’t get what he wants, he’d apologises for being selfish but did it with that kicked puppy look. Despite this, Kyouya felt that the preparation for the next trip is perfect. Unfortunately for Kyouya, Tamaki refused to go to Hokkaido that week. Tamaki believed they should be studying for their upcoming exam. He, however, agreed to go with Kyouya once the exam is over and advised Kyouya to study a little bit as well. Kyouya was livid to hear this but he managed to calm down by reminding himself that Tamaki is the son of Suoh chairman.

After noticing Kyouya’s messy room, however, Fuyumi thought to herself that this is the first time she saw Kyouya having ‘fun’. Kyouya didn’t see Tamaki after this but during a weekend, Fuyumi told him that she’s finally met his friend. Inside the house, Kyouya realised that Tamaki is in the middle of playing piano for his family. Fuyumi claimed that hearing the song makes her want to cry. Kyouya admitted to being surprised when he first heard Tamaki’s piano performance. He even shed some tears while listening to the song that Tamaki plays. After Tamaki finished his performance, he apologised to Kyouya for coming in without warning. Kyouya told himself that in that case, Tamaki should go home right away. Instead of saying that, however, Kyouya asked Tamaki about his preparation for exam. Tamaki didn’t answer the question and instead made a comment about the spacious nature of Kyouya’s house. He wondered if it’s bigger than his house in France.

Kyouya told Tamaki that he doesn’t know about Tamaki’s house in France but he believes Suoh main mansion is very big. Much to Kyouya’s surprise, however, Tamaki admitted that he doesn’t know because he lives in a smaller 2nd mansion. Tamaki then changed the conversation by asking Kyouya if he’s the future successor to Ootori’s business. Kyouya is annoyed by this questions and wondered if Tamaki is looking for a fight. Despite this, Kyouya honestly told Tamaki that he can’t possibly be one since as Tamaki saw before, he has two older brothers. Kyouya believed that he’ll most likely end up working for his brother. Tamaki admitted to being surprised after hearing this because he thought that Kyouya will be a much greedier person than this. He also guessed that Kyouya is not happy with his current status quo. Tamaki wondered if it’s okay for Kyouya to give up like this. Kyouya replied by saying that the problem is not whether he gives up or not.

As he clenched his hand, Kyouya told Tamaki that the reason is because it’s been decided that way. He then rudely told Tamaki that surely someone who inherited a house by default should understand this. Kyouya immediately shocked upon hearing his own words because he just revealed his true nature to Tamaki. Tamaki, however, informed Kyouya that it has not been decided that he’ll be the one who’ll become Suoh successor. He explained that he’s hated by his grandma. Because of this, he’s not their heir at all right now. And although he has no interest in his father’s job, Tamaki believed that he has good looks which he can use. Failing that, he can use his intelligence to become a scholar or else, he can build an animal kingdom. Kyouya was annoyed upon hearing Tamaki’s light-hearted response and finally snapped at Tamaki. Kyouya threw the cofee table and gripped Tamaki’s shirt, asking the other guy how he managed to give up so easily.

Kyouya told Tamaki that he and Tamaki are different. Kyouya believed that as long as one tries hard, one possesses the chance to go upwards. Because of this, he wondered why Tamaki doesn’t try harder or use Tamaki’s own advantageous position. Kyouya believed that if he has power, he won’t lose to his brother. However, because he’s just the 3rd son, he’s not allowed to go ‘beyond the frame’. In retaliation, Tamaki told Kyouya that the one who’s not trying hard is Kyouya. If Kyouya wants to exceed his brother, he should just go and do it. Tamaki believed that the one who decided to give up is actually Kyouya. Kyouya was stunned to hear this because he realised that this is the truth. An imaginary brush was suddenly seen outside the picture frame, painting a bright red colour. Tamaki then changed the topic conversation and asked Kyouya where the Kotatsu is. Kyouya laughed after hearing this and told Tamaki that Kotatsu is for Winter use.

The camera then shows a shot of an imaginary painting inside Kyouya. This time around, however, the paint has gone out of the frame and creates a large red flowers on the wall/ceiling. 4 months later, Tamaki came to Kyouya’s house to tell him a great idea: he wanted them to set up a club as soon as they enter high school. He believed they can harness their good looks and the name of the club will be the Host Club. At first Kyouya rejected the idea and told Tamaki that if he’s sleepy, he should go to sleep. Tamaki, however, didn’t give up and started to list the other members that he wants: Hunny, Mori, and the twins. Kyouya told himself that the more he heard the plan, the more trivial it sounded. However, when he shares Tamaki’s world, Kyouya felt that he too will be able to see a painting/scenery that is different from the one that was in front of him. The episode ends with Kyouya smiling towards the green tea in front of him just like his sister, Fuyumi.