for Classique4/26 c44 
1xitrum1902
Ok, finally decided give this a review for your work Zan. As much as I could anyway seeing that I don't usually give reviews to people too often.
You managed to merge two of the controversial arcs into one hell of a story without overwhelming either, expand the personalities of both Azami and Asahi into somewhat sympathetic but still kind of villains, write up the ideas of other academies on par with them, as well giving us one your best OCs ever, Dove Derrin-I meam Dillinger.
She's the anti-Erina, a shadow of what would happen to Erina if Azami had his way even without Senzaemon stepping in. Somehow, you made her work, and her relationship with Asahi too so bravo.
You have the honor few have: having two large AU-arcs of your own of SnK. Hope we can see more from you.
1xitrum1902Ok, finally decided give this a review for your work Zan. As much as I could anyway seeing that I don't usually give reviews to people too often.
You managed to merge two of the controversial arcs into one hell of a story without overwhelming either, expand the personalities of both Azami and Asahi into somewhat sympathetic but still kind of villains, write up the ideas of other academies on par with them, as well giving us one your best OCs ever, Dove Derrin-I meam Dillinger.
She's the anti-Erina, a shadow of what would happen to Erina if Azami had his way even without Senzaemon stepping in. Somehow, you made her work, and her relationship with Asahi too so bravo.
You have the honor few have: having two large AU-arcs of your own of SnK. Hope we can see more from you.
3/6 c18 Guest
I just want to say I very much appreciate this hard work you’re doing to present us a story with much thoughts and research. You’re doing gods work and I can’t even imagine the effort you’ve put through. I hope the weather is nice and your pillows are cold both sides lol GOOD JOB!
I just want to say I very much appreciate this hard work you’re doing to present us a story with much thoughts and research. You’re doing gods work and I can’t even imagine the effort you’ve put through. I hope the weather is nice and your pillows are cold both sides lol GOOD JOB!
2/24 c33 12IceColdSea
A lot of things happening in this chapter, for one it is clearly setting up all the finalists for some more last minute training, but then there’s also Asahi having one more ace up his sleeve (would be boring if not), but of course, the thing that drew me in the most was all the familiar conflict that was tackled in this chapter.
Again, at first everything is already in disarray due to Asahi’s latest move. Though on that note it’s kinda legit funny and almost cute, how Asahi spared Shoji and Daigo the move coverage. Pls.
And as everyone is up in arms, Erina is confronted with her mother. Who finally! Faced ! Consequences for her actions! After getting kicked out of the WGO.
And after Erina has already given Azami a mouthful, it feels good to see that after Mana got just the slightest too blame-y, and is also on the verge to make the grand escape again. And again, it’s vindicating to see Erina be at full power and rightfully countering all of Mana’s whining.
I love her bringing up actual examples of people who were there when Mana wasn’t be, turning a mirror onto her trying to act all helpless, because truly, Mana becomes smaller and smaller with each sentence Erina says. Though, yet again, after all that- she just follows her core instinct to rush out. No apology, just trying “her best to ignore how her daughter was actively holding back tears”.
And while there are feelings in Mama that suggests that it doesn’t leave her cold, still she cannot manage to swallow her pride.
But enter Leonora…!
And for how strong Erina had been one moment, I can see how this would still take a lot out of someone obviously. So I’m not surprised that she broke in tears and directs one very vulnerable question to Erina.
And wow…
Leonora just going down to straight up punch her husband’s sister is certainly badass (her also making sure Alice tends to Erina in the meantime is sweet). The full on anger here, makes the latter flashback all the more sour. Mana and Azami truly allowed for everything to get very warped throughout the years.
But yeah, very good on Leonora to give Mana yet another reality check.
And the conversation between Leonora and Erina is truly sweet. I adore Leonora calling her her daughter and Erina first being nervous to “overstep” but Leonora quickly choosing to warmly talking those thoughts out of her.
The poem and also Erina also finally having the realisation that it’s no use to desperately try and fix what you perceive as “family”, when a true one has been around you all the time is very heartwarming.
And that’s not the only little family bonding time we’re getting (I kinda adore how this whole chapter is just a lot of people, who aren’t exclusively tied by blood, having moments together- first with Erina and Leonora, then Azami, Loren and Dove and lastly Riki, Jou, Soma and Nao…)
But yeah,
Having a little scene of Dove going through her baby pictures of Ruth is so bittersweet.
“So cute, so adorable, so much like her…and that scared her.”
Man…
And as she is getting over her babygirl, baby boy of course enters right after.
And he’s being mature as Dove tells him about her recent breakup, correctly noting that this isn’t what Dove wants. He’s so solemn in this whole scene which we’ve rarely seen of him otherwise and I like how hypersensitive Dove is to that. He truly has grown. And of course, Nao’s fate has ironist importance to him.
When Azami enters the scene, I really loved the full strength of Loren’s and Dove’s bond on display. With Azami just dismissing an immature joke of Dove’s, but Loren firmly standing up to him and telling Azami to not tell Dove to shut up. Hnnnghhhhg- I loved that!
It’s so sweet how much he cares about her and, likewise, in return, we get to see Dove immediately shielding Loren as well.
It’s so clear how much she loves the kid, protecting him from any sort of harm and drawing a clear line between her and Azami on this matter. I love it.
Overall, a great scene which really highlighted just how far Loren has already pivoted away from the eager-to-destroy-kid we’ve originally met him as.
And as also the other two finalists get subjected through some training by Gin (this is neat! I wish that could have gotten a little bit more focus maybe..? And I get it, this chapter already has a ton going on….. maybe I’m judging prematurely and there’s more in the next one?)
But on the other side of the city (I suppose? We don’t know the exact locations lmao), Soma and Nao have finally officially become siblings, woooh.
Nao still ending up as the younger one (you’re lucky she doesn’t have an official birthday, ig…) is of course sweet, since now she can get the earnest baby treatment she was denied in her life.
But just as the patchwork family as had its first formal meeting together, in walks Erina now with short hair. And I like that change a lot - especially with that consistent hair motif you’ve kept throughout most of the story. It’s a good chance: cutting your hair short communicates drastic change, it also makes sense for her to use it as a means to finally differentiate herself from her mother, and her even brining up Alice’s and Hisako’s short hair as an inspiration is all the sweeter!
But before we get to the very cute, adorable SoRina bonding…I was honestly in awe by that whole flashback sequence between the Nakiris.
For one, it’s great that even Lanterby called Mana out.
And then…yeah, the flashback. With all that happened in this chapter specifically with Mana, it’s almost so alien to read about this family which was once much more in-tact and so much less hostile. The whole scene was…almost cute, if the entire rest of the story didn’t exist ahdhdh- instead it read as much more…hmm…almost a little strange, but also tragic for how all of what we saw has probably been destroyed for good.
And I like how, in some other stories, this would have been used to garner sympathy points. You’ve done a perfect job to make clear that it’s on Azami and Mana for destroying what they’ve had in that chapter. As a reader, you understand that yes, of course every family probably has had its little happy moments- but ultimately it can’t remedy everything else we’ve seen.
Again, I think the familiar conflicts are brilliant and one of the best features of the story. It feels very realistic and is so intriguing to follow. And there’s still complexities to both Azami and Mana. They’re awful parents, but they’re still in some ways…interesting!
But okay, enough with the adult angstings- SoRina bonding time…
And it’s just super sweet and charming- with Soma searching for words when Erina asks him for his opinion, some awkwardness arising, but then through compliments and light teases they laugh themselves into comfort.
I adore how much Erina laughs with him, how they give each other so many kisses, the “welcome home”-line…it’s all so heartwarming and sweet.
But of course, training comes upon them as well.
And we get a whole cameo galore, to which I can’t say all that much shdhf. But I still felt that throughout this entire training sequence, the reader can truly see Erina’s and Soma’s slow return to form still. For one their continued couple shenanigans are adorable, but there’s at last some challenging spirit arising back in them. A will to improve can be felt!
But I guess he’s not the only one determined with that one chapter ending we’ve had…
Very curious for how that will go for Hinako.
Anyway, yea, quite the fun and intriguing read!
12IceColdSeaA lot of things happening in this chapter, for one it is clearly setting up all the finalists for some more last minute training, but then there’s also Asahi having one more ace up his sleeve (would be boring if not), but of course, the thing that drew me in the most was all the familiar conflict that was tackled in this chapter.
Again, at first everything is already in disarray due to Asahi’s latest move. Though on that note it’s kinda legit funny and almost cute, how Asahi spared Shoji and Daigo the move coverage. Pls.
And as everyone is up in arms, Erina is confronted with her mother. Who finally! Faced ! Consequences for her actions! After getting kicked out of the WGO.
And after Erina has already given Azami a mouthful, it feels good to see that after Mana got just the slightest too blame-y, and is also on the verge to make the grand escape again. And again, it’s vindicating to see Erina be at full power and rightfully countering all of Mana’s whining.
I love her bringing up actual examples of people who were there when Mana wasn’t be, turning a mirror onto her trying to act all helpless, because truly, Mana becomes smaller and smaller with each sentence Erina says. Though, yet again, after all that- she just follows her core instinct to rush out. No apology, just trying “her best to ignore how her daughter was actively holding back tears”.
And while there are feelings in Mama that suggests that it doesn’t leave her cold, still she cannot manage to swallow her pride.
But enter Leonora…!
And for how strong Erina had been one moment, I can see how this would still take a lot out of someone obviously. So I’m not surprised that she broke in tears and directs one very vulnerable question to Erina.
And wow…
Leonora just going down to straight up punch her husband’s sister is certainly badass (her also making sure Alice tends to Erina in the meantime is sweet). The full on anger here, makes the latter flashback all the more sour. Mana and Azami truly allowed for everything to get very warped throughout the years.
But yeah, very good on Leonora to give Mana yet another reality check.
And the conversation between Leonora and Erina is truly sweet. I adore Leonora calling her her daughter and Erina first being nervous to “overstep” but Leonora quickly choosing to warmly talking those thoughts out of her.
The poem and also Erina also finally having the realisation that it’s no use to desperately try and fix what you perceive as “family”, when a true one has been around you all the time is very heartwarming.
And that’s not the only little family bonding time we’re getting (I kinda adore how this whole chapter is just a lot of people, who aren’t exclusively tied by blood, having moments together- first with Erina and Leonora, then Azami, Loren and Dove and lastly Riki, Jou, Soma and Nao…)
But yeah,
Having a little scene of Dove going through her baby pictures of Ruth is so bittersweet.
“So cute, so adorable, so much like her…and that scared her.”
Man…
And as she is getting over her babygirl, baby boy of course enters right after.
And he’s being mature as Dove tells him about her recent breakup, correctly noting that this isn’t what Dove wants. He’s so solemn in this whole scene which we’ve rarely seen of him otherwise and I like how hypersensitive Dove is to that. He truly has grown. And of course, Nao’s fate has ironist importance to him.
When Azami enters the scene, I really loved the full strength of Loren’s and Dove’s bond on display. With Azami just dismissing an immature joke of Dove’s, but Loren firmly standing up to him and telling Azami to not tell Dove to shut up. Hnnnghhhhg- I loved that!
It’s so sweet how much he cares about her and, likewise, in return, we get to see Dove immediately shielding Loren as well.
It’s so clear how much she loves the kid, protecting him from any sort of harm and drawing a clear line between her and Azami on this matter. I love it.
Overall, a great scene which really highlighted just how far Loren has already pivoted away from the eager-to-destroy-kid we’ve originally met him as.
And as also the other two finalists get subjected through some training by Gin (this is neat! I wish that could have gotten a little bit more focus maybe..? And I get it, this chapter already has a ton going on….. maybe I’m judging prematurely and there’s more in the next one?)
But on the other side of the city (I suppose? We don’t know the exact locations lmao), Soma and Nao have finally officially become siblings, woooh.
Nao still ending up as the younger one (you’re lucky she doesn’t have an official birthday, ig…) is of course sweet, since now she can get the earnest baby treatment she was denied in her life.
But just as the patchwork family as had its first formal meeting together, in walks Erina now with short hair. And I like that change a lot - especially with that consistent hair motif you’ve kept throughout most of the story. It’s a good chance: cutting your hair short communicates drastic change, it also makes sense for her to use it as a means to finally differentiate herself from her mother, and her even brining up Alice’s and Hisako’s short hair as an inspiration is all the sweeter!
But before we get to the very cute, adorable SoRina bonding…I was honestly in awe by that whole flashback sequence between the Nakiris.
For one, it’s great that even Lanterby called Mana out.
And then…yeah, the flashback. With all that happened in this chapter specifically with Mana, it’s almost so alien to read about this family which was once much more in-tact and so much less hostile. The whole scene was…almost cute, if the entire rest of the story didn’t exist ahdhdh- instead it read as much more…hmm…almost a little strange, but also tragic for how all of what we saw has probably been destroyed for good.
And I like how, in some other stories, this would have been used to garner sympathy points. You’ve done a perfect job to make clear that it’s on Azami and Mana for destroying what they’ve had in that chapter. As a reader, you understand that yes, of course every family probably has had its little happy moments- but ultimately it can’t remedy everything else we’ve seen.
Again, I think the familiar conflicts are brilliant and one of the best features of the story. It feels very realistic and is so intriguing to follow. And there’s still complexities to both Azami and Mana. They’re awful parents, but they’re still in some ways…interesting!
But okay, enough with the adult angstings- SoRina bonding time…
And it’s just super sweet and charming- with Soma searching for words when Erina asks him for his opinion, some awkwardness arising, but then through compliments and light teases they laugh themselves into comfort.
I adore how much Erina laughs with him, how they give each other so many kisses, the “welcome home”-line…it’s all so heartwarming and sweet.
But of course, training comes upon them as well.
And we get a whole cameo galore, to which I can’t say all that much shdhf. But I still felt that throughout this entire training sequence, the reader can truly see Erina’s and Soma’s slow return to form still. For one their continued couple shenanigans are adorable, but there’s at last some challenging spirit arising back in them. A will to improve can be felt!
But I guess he’s not the only one determined with that one chapter ending we’ve had…
Very curious for how that will go for Hinako.
Anyway, yea, quite the fun and intriguing read!
2/16 c32 IceColdSea
So, the chapter stars…rather light heartedly with a more literal Food Wars.
But I quite adored the little scene with Ikumi and Hakeem and his family. Aisha first making a joke but then hiding the stain on Ikumi’s dress anyway in such adorable manner was of course, very adorable. And I loved how happy she got when Aisha called her “onee-chan” as well, it was so so cute.
We get some more details on the food fight through Asahi, and of course he had a confrontation with little Loren. Also very cute. Meanwhile Dove got subjected to the one and only Kanon, doing exactly what I would expect Kanon to do.
Thankfully Dove gets a bit of a…shower outdoors after, when her and Asahi are out walking and (“Asahi just looked on, his hands on his pockets, drenched to the bone, but the sight of this girl, as messed up as she was, was still breathtaking.” - I just do adore just how into her he is).
And after a bit of fun banter, Dove already complains about Azami’s reaction to all the chaos…and we get a protective Asahi, rightfully critical of his father and trying to convince Dove of it.
And hmm…hnn…. Him trying to get her to run away with him and pronouncing her own worth…. Because he can’t stand seeing this brilliant girl under the control of a man who, in his point of view, is only strict with her.
He wants them to work together free of all strings so bad- It’s so romantic and I just kinda adore it all the more given that they’re villains shdhf.
But of course, Dove is loyal to Azami and we finally will learn why (not before Dove nervously trying to make a joke, I take…to avoid them feels. Baby.)
And it is haunting how Dove brings up gratitude and how it will hurt all the more towards the end.
Already the “mature for her age”-comment kinda stings, because yes, few who have heard this when young think back to it positively.
But the deep dive into her backstory begins and her culinary journey began….in catering.
And this is where she first meets Reiji.
And it’s heartbreaking to go over some of these scenes again and be like…well, how you would probably expect a fifteen year old girl to react and feel about such flirtations from, what she thinks, is a two year older girl who continues to flatter her and make advances. Of course when you’re young, and inexperienced, feeling, for the first time, “special” to someone, in a romantic way, will make you light-headed with an avalanche of emotion.
“plain, old Dove”….babygirl.
It darkly parallels how this happened when she was only 15, while her arch nemesis Erina found her true love at 15 herself - no wonder Dove was from beginning on extremely sceptical.
“Dove just turned, checking herself out while wearing her brand-new miniskirt on her bedroom mirror. It looked so good on her.”
I’m going to sob- how this contrasts the “plain, old Dove”-comment from before, giving the idea that Reiji’s attraction to her, is also making her see herself in a better light, which is a very natural, real but also saddening thing to happen…
When it’s revealed that he is also the one who bought that skirt, mini skirt, ick- ICK ICK…
And tragically, like a lot of teenagers, she has it in her head that she doesn’t need the parental guidance, as she begins lying to her mom.
My heart continues to break, as she is clearly uncertain and too naive, but under his continuous false promises and advances, tries to gaslight herself because “it’s a couple things” to do. Haunting…very haunting.
It’s chilling to read and see the manipulation so clearly, and you just feel sorry for her…
And then things start to shift…it starts with the lessening calls, but then another fear begins to crawl, the gossips in the background- god, it’s miserable.
And just like that she is isolated and confronted with a situation that must be so frightening for someone so young….
And in an understandable moment of absolute hopelessness she seeks out the culprit himself.
Who tells her off in the most heartless and evil of ways. Because he is absolute rancid!
“as the social butterfly she once was, one second she had all the friends in the world that she looked down upon, and now she was alone, being mocked”- aaaaaAAAAAAAAAAaaAAAHHHH
My heart, my heart…
Everything continues to be miserable, as Milka tries her best to get justice for her daughter and has to lose her job because of it. And things escalated so much further.
Seeing Dove still try so hard to be at least useful and cook, while pregnant, my….
But in the weirdest twists of fates, I am almost relived to see Azami enter the scene, impressed by Dove just following a recipe of course…
And yeah- you feel kinda glad he’s there and begins handling the entire Reiji matter after so much that Dove has gone through…
With all that happened, I can see why she asked for Azami to be there, during what must be a traumatising hospital experience otherwise.
“he had stepped up when the whole world hadn't, so maybe” - yes, of course this would make for utmost gratitude.
“Here Dove learned that Azami's ex-wife was named Mana, and that his daughter was named Erina…
What a nice name, Dove had thought, and what a lucky girl, to have such a strong and kind father.”
Man…..this probably my favorite line in the whole chapter, it’s a sentiment no reader rationally can agree with but one you do really feel from Dove’s place.
And finally we know why she’s here and why she is so determined to defeat Erina.
“I didn't think I could ever enjoy it, you know? Being with someone, falling in love, being intimate. It felt… wrong. And I know I pretended otherwise, because the last thing I needed was to host a pity party for myself at every turn, but somehow, you broke through all that. I genuinely enjoy being with you. I am… genuinely in love with you, Asahi Saiba.”
These lines have broken me upon reread and now that I also know the ending of the chapter.
On the other side of things, while one girl still firmly remains under Azami Nakamura reign, we see Erina finally spreading her rebel wings - starting with a little morning after, leading to her very…rebel-esque sneaking back into her houses and then of course all culminating in her, again, firmly telling her father off and doing so with a face that is as cold and as firm as we’ve come to know from bygone days.
But he isn’t quite defeated just yet, and just like that I hate Azami again…but wait-
Asahi’s flashback is very horrific, and your ability to write children so well becomes almost haunting in this chapter because of how…well, just accurate it feels to a child’s psyche. Asahi’s mother is truly just the worst.
But the awful look into a gloomy past, leads to…a last tender scene between Asahi and Dove in which, he tries to downplay his own trauma a little but Dove having none of that - and rightfully calling out how messed up it is.
But oh, oh, here comes Mr. Nakamura
/cries/
And I liked the twist with him, from beginning on, having his own plan with Asahi and Dove- but man, as I already said on discord it is quite chilling how, even after Azami just confidently laid out how he manipulated and used her, very real, feelings against her too - she still remains loyal. But again, looking at what transpired, I can at least see the “why”.
This whole scene is so good- but also so sad.
Azami is such an ass to berate his own son for “his weakness”. Uh- uh- love has no place in the kitchen. Shut upppp!
And I really felt all of Asahi’s hatred growing back tenfold. Things slipped so far out of his control, the original plan and his original ambitions being hindered by both his real growing care for Erina displayed in the scene but also his love for Dove of course.
While Asahi’s anger feels very real and justified, in sheer rawness of it, he makes one fatal mistake with his comment about what Dove owes and my heart broke again when she responded.
I’m very sad.
And it’s like- as AsaDove truther this is pain, but I can also understand both here. Dove wanting to help Azami, and Asahi not being willing to assist a father who was never there and who weaponised his own son’s feelings against him. He never wanted to be under anyone else’s control, it would have felt off if he agreed, especially when he still holds one trump card against his father….even despite Dove, as much as this pains me.
They’re so very doomed, ahhhh.
So, the chapter stars…rather light heartedly with a more literal Food Wars.
But I quite adored the little scene with Ikumi and Hakeem and his family. Aisha first making a joke but then hiding the stain on Ikumi’s dress anyway in such adorable manner was of course, very adorable. And I loved how happy she got when Aisha called her “onee-chan” as well, it was so so cute.
We get some more details on the food fight through Asahi, and of course he had a confrontation with little Loren. Also very cute. Meanwhile Dove got subjected to the one and only Kanon, doing exactly what I would expect Kanon to do.
Thankfully Dove gets a bit of a…shower outdoors after, when her and Asahi are out walking and (“Asahi just looked on, his hands on his pockets, drenched to the bone, but the sight of this girl, as messed up as she was, was still breathtaking.” - I just do adore just how into her he is).
And after a bit of fun banter, Dove already complains about Azami’s reaction to all the chaos…and we get a protective Asahi, rightfully critical of his father and trying to convince Dove of it.
And hmm…hnn…. Him trying to get her to run away with him and pronouncing her own worth…. Because he can’t stand seeing this brilliant girl under the control of a man who, in his point of view, is only strict with her.
He wants them to work together free of all strings so bad- It’s so romantic and I just kinda adore it all the more given that they’re villains shdhf.
But of course, Dove is loyal to Azami and we finally will learn why (not before Dove nervously trying to make a joke, I take…to avoid them feels. Baby.)
And it is haunting how Dove brings up gratitude and how it will hurt all the more towards the end.
Already the “mature for her age”-comment kinda stings, because yes, few who have heard this when young think back to it positively.
But the deep dive into her backstory begins and her culinary journey began….in catering.
And this is where she first meets Reiji.
And it’s heartbreaking to go over some of these scenes again and be like…well, how you would probably expect a fifteen year old girl to react and feel about such flirtations from, what she thinks, is a two year older girl who continues to flatter her and make advances. Of course when you’re young, and inexperienced, feeling, for the first time, “special” to someone, in a romantic way, will make you light-headed with an avalanche of emotion.
“plain, old Dove”….babygirl.
It darkly parallels how this happened when she was only 15, while her arch nemesis Erina found her true love at 15 herself - no wonder Dove was from beginning on extremely sceptical.
“Dove just turned, checking herself out while wearing her brand-new miniskirt on her bedroom mirror. It looked so good on her.”
I’m going to sob- how this contrasts the “plain, old Dove”-comment from before, giving the idea that Reiji’s attraction to her, is also making her see herself in a better light, which is a very natural, real but also saddening thing to happen…
When it’s revealed that he is also the one who bought that skirt, mini skirt, ick- ICK ICK…
And tragically, like a lot of teenagers, she has it in her head that she doesn’t need the parental guidance, as she begins lying to her mom.
My heart continues to break, as she is clearly uncertain and too naive, but under his continuous false promises and advances, tries to gaslight herself because “it’s a couple things” to do. Haunting…very haunting.
It’s chilling to read and see the manipulation so clearly, and you just feel sorry for her…
And then things start to shift…it starts with the lessening calls, but then another fear begins to crawl, the gossips in the background- god, it’s miserable.
And just like that she is isolated and confronted with a situation that must be so frightening for someone so young….
And in an understandable moment of absolute hopelessness she seeks out the culprit himself.
Who tells her off in the most heartless and evil of ways. Because he is absolute rancid!
“as the social butterfly she once was, one second she had all the friends in the world that she looked down upon, and now she was alone, being mocked”- aaaaaAAAAAAAAAAaaAAAHHHH
My heart, my heart…
Everything continues to be miserable, as Milka tries her best to get justice for her daughter and has to lose her job because of it. And things escalated so much further.
Seeing Dove still try so hard to be at least useful and cook, while pregnant, my….
But in the weirdest twists of fates, I am almost relived to see Azami enter the scene, impressed by Dove just following a recipe of course…
And yeah- you feel kinda glad he’s there and begins handling the entire Reiji matter after so much that Dove has gone through…
With all that happened, I can see why she asked for Azami to be there, during what must be a traumatising hospital experience otherwise.
“he had stepped up when the whole world hadn't, so maybe” - yes, of course this would make for utmost gratitude.
“Here Dove learned that Azami's ex-wife was named Mana, and that his daughter was named Erina…
What a nice name, Dove had thought, and what a lucky girl, to have such a strong and kind father.”
Man…..this probably my favorite line in the whole chapter, it’s a sentiment no reader rationally can agree with but one you do really feel from Dove’s place.
And finally we know why she’s here and why she is so determined to defeat Erina.
“I didn't think I could ever enjoy it, you know? Being with someone, falling in love, being intimate. It felt… wrong. And I know I pretended otherwise, because the last thing I needed was to host a pity party for myself at every turn, but somehow, you broke through all that. I genuinely enjoy being with you. I am… genuinely in love with you, Asahi Saiba.”
These lines have broken me upon reread and now that I also know the ending of the chapter.
On the other side of things, while one girl still firmly remains under Azami Nakamura reign, we see Erina finally spreading her rebel wings - starting with a little morning after, leading to her very…rebel-esque sneaking back into her houses and then of course all culminating in her, again, firmly telling her father off and doing so with a face that is as cold and as firm as we’ve come to know from bygone days.
But he isn’t quite defeated just yet, and just like that I hate Azami again…but wait-
Asahi’s flashback is very horrific, and your ability to write children so well becomes almost haunting in this chapter because of how…well, just accurate it feels to a child’s psyche. Asahi’s mother is truly just the worst.
But the awful look into a gloomy past, leads to…a last tender scene between Asahi and Dove in which, he tries to downplay his own trauma a little but Dove having none of that - and rightfully calling out how messed up it is.
But oh, oh, here comes Mr. Nakamura
/cries/
And I liked the twist with him, from beginning on, having his own plan with Asahi and Dove- but man, as I already said on discord it is quite chilling how, even after Azami just confidently laid out how he manipulated and used her, very real, feelings against her too - she still remains loyal. But again, looking at what transpired, I can at least see the “why”.
This whole scene is so good- but also so sad.
Azami is such an ass to berate his own son for “his weakness”. Uh- uh- love has no place in the kitchen. Shut upppp!
And I really felt all of Asahi’s hatred growing back tenfold. Things slipped so far out of his control, the original plan and his original ambitions being hindered by both his real growing care for Erina displayed in the scene but also his love for Dove of course.
While Asahi’s anger feels very real and justified, in sheer rawness of it, he makes one fatal mistake with his comment about what Dove owes and my heart broke again when she responded.
I’m very sad.
And it’s like- as AsaDove truther this is pain, but I can also understand both here. Dove wanting to help Azami, and Asahi not being willing to assist a father who was never there and who weaponised his own son’s feelings against him. He never wanted to be under anyone else’s control, it would have felt off if he agreed, especially when he still holds one trump card against his father….even despite Dove, as much as this pains me.
They’re so very doomed, ahhhh.
2/12 c31 IceColdSea
I really liked how the dance competition came to feel especially…well competitive and heated with SoRina and AsaDove at the beginning getting so much extra narration.
With SoRina, I adored the little extra note for how her laughter is natural as Soma spins and twirls her around. Her starting to sing along to the song too, calling back to the anime (how surprising from you especially)….I mean, you probably didn’t write this with that intention, but seeing that the scene of Erina humming “Spice” and crashing into Soma is what actually got me to legit ship them way, way back…there’s something poetic about that.
But- oh, oh, oh….AsaDove….
“Eyes on me”
“best girl in the world in his arms”
“whispered an apology to his Queen”
“too irresistible for a mere mortal like him”
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH SGSGDGAHSHDHDD
I love them so much!
And yes, it was a nice end touch to have Dove and Erina, have a near “face off” in it too.
With those two scenes, and then LoreNao’s, it is very clear who the star couples of this story are and who you seem to enjoy writing the most as well…
LoreNao winning, is overall, very sweet. Nao just tossing her heels off and doing her thing, being weird but herself, it’s very much what she deserves and it’s heartwarming that everyone just simply cheered for the two of them at the end (save for Dove being an overprotective sister).
I adored how surprised Loren and Nao also were by their win…it’s just very adorable.
And we even get Azami to congratulate Loren…after a lot of silence between them.
And kudos for Nao, to speak so directly to him. Again, it’s nice to see her starting to to get better…
The curtsy is a cute image.
Azami actually praising and patting Loren’s head is…bittersweet. It’s so difficult to tell which of Azami’s actions are genuine and which are calculated here…but this almost becomes extra heartbreaking in his dance with Mana, where he does assure to provide for Loren and Dove, but still send them home? (I’m curious for what exactly “home” actually means for Loren here…? Aside from “America”).
But I liked how the years of distance began to show here between Mana and Azami and how she called him out on some of his plans.
And ultimately they get interrupted by Hisako’s father (I found his mention of finding Takumi nice also very sweet). But I’m very curious for where Mana’s character will go from here. She’s been a bit passive lately, clearly not happy but not doing anything against it either.
But yes, the interview…
And we have one last moment of Erina alone and looking into the mirror and wishing for that perfect family she never had, as she did for most of the story so far. But it seemingly is getting more and more difficult for her to lie to herself.
Also omg, Ai Hoshino. I do know the writer of this story thought much more favourably about *your* story back when this was written ahshd.
And after that moment, she gets to share one last moment with Soma. Which makes sense. And the situation feels much more off…how sad when they were dancing just earlier…
But the real deal, which is probably the best part of this chapter…the interview!
Of course, Azami has everything in control at first with his perfect practiced rhetoric….but stuff slips out of his control when Dove and Erina begin to lightly banter on stage.
But I love, love, love… how it’s Erina standing up for Dove that gets the ball rolling. Her taking her nemesis‘ side against her father, because her being in that place before…it’s so powerful.
And I love how while Dove actually tries to salvage things, Erina cannot stop herself from questioning everything anymore.
I liked that last moment of Azami crouching down to her, trying to fix things - it it being too late, and all this teasing of Erina and what she wants finally culminating in her cathartic explosion of emotions. And finally after fully realising her own emotions unloading all of them. And she sounds both so vulnerable but powerful throughout both, as she‘s fully baring herself but also finally demanding what she has been denied.
And I adored her defensiveness over Soma, and how she can just be “Erina” with him. Because that was always my favorite aspect about there would be romance.
And it ends with a runaway that feels spectacular and victorious. The way they both steal each other away first, is like right out of a romcom, and the ensuing chase and them just distorting all that fancy bravado is both a fun but also beautiful finale (also man, if I didn’t talk to you daily, I would have assumed Shawn is your least favorite character rather than Kanichi).
I love how it’s highlighted that Erina is laughing again, and of course, this all leads to… …a story I’m familiar with.
(Also very curious what Asahi and Yuunosuke are doing)
Anyways, a very beautiful chapter overall. I enjoyed the ball a lot as a whole!
I really liked how the dance competition came to feel especially…well competitive and heated with SoRina and AsaDove at the beginning getting so much extra narration.
With SoRina, I adored the little extra note for how her laughter is natural as Soma spins and twirls her around. Her starting to sing along to the song too, calling back to the anime (how surprising from you especially)….I mean, you probably didn’t write this with that intention, but seeing that the scene of Erina humming “Spice” and crashing into Soma is what actually got me to legit ship them way, way back…there’s something poetic about that.
But- oh, oh, oh….AsaDove….
“Eyes on me”
“best girl in the world in his arms”
“whispered an apology to his Queen”
“too irresistible for a mere mortal like him”
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH SGSGDGAHSHDHDD
I love them so much!
And yes, it was a nice end touch to have Dove and Erina, have a near “face off” in it too.
With those two scenes, and then LoreNao’s, it is very clear who the star couples of this story are and who you seem to enjoy writing the most as well…
LoreNao winning, is overall, very sweet. Nao just tossing her heels off and doing her thing, being weird but herself, it’s very much what she deserves and it’s heartwarming that everyone just simply cheered for the two of them at the end (save for Dove being an overprotective sister).
I adored how surprised Loren and Nao also were by their win…it’s just very adorable.
And we even get Azami to congratulate Loren…after a lot of silence between them.
And kudos for Nao, to speak so directly to him. Again, it’s nice to see her starting to to get better…
The curtsy is a cute image.
Azami actually praising and patting Loren’s head is…bittersweet. It’s so difficult to tell which of Azami’s actions are genuine and which are calculated here…but this almost becomes extra heartbreaking in his dance with Mana, where he does assure to provide for Loren and Dove, but still send them home? (I’m curious for what exactly “home” actually means for Loren here…? Aside from “America”).
But I liked how the years of distance began to show here between Mana and Azami and how she called him out on some of his plans.
And ultimately they get interrupted by Hisako’s father (I found his mention of finding Takumi nice also very sweet). But I’m very curious for where Mana’s character will go from here. She’s been a bit passive lately, clearly not happy but not doing anything against it either.
But yes, the interview…
And we have one last moment of Erina alone and looking into the mirror and wishing for that perfect family she never had, as she did for most of the story so far. But it seemingly is getting more and more difficult for her to lie to herself.
Also omg, Ai Hoshino. I do know the writer of this story thought much more favourably about *your* story back when this was written ahshd.
And after that moment, she gets to share one last moment with Soma. Which makes sense. And the situation feels much more off…how sad when they were dancing just earlier…
But the real deal, which is probably the best part of this chapter…the interview!
Of course, Azami has everything in control at first with his perfect practiced rhetoric….but stuff slips out of his control when Dove and Erina begin to lightly banter on stage.
But I love, love, love… how it’s Erina standing up for Dove that gets the ball rolling. Her taking her nemesis‘ side against her father, because her being in that place before…it’s so powerful.
And I love how while Dove actually tries to salvage things, Erina cannot stop herself from questioning everything anymore.
I liked that last moment of Azami crouching down to her, trying to fix things - it it being too late, and all this teasing of Erina and what she wants finally culminating in her cathartic explosion of emotions. And finally after fully realising her own emotions unloading all of them. And she sounds both so vulnerable but powerful throughout both, as she‘s fully baring herself but also finally demanding what she has been denied.
And I adored her defensiveness over Soma, and how she can just be “Erina” with him. Because that was always my favorite aspect about there would be romance.
And it ends with a runaway that feels spectacular and victorious. The way they both steal each other away first, is like right out of a romcom, and the ensuing chase and them just distorting all that fancy bravado is both a fun but also beautiful finale (also man, if I didn’t talk to you daily, I would have assumed Shawn is your least favorite character rather than Kanichi).
I love how it’s highlighted that Erina is laughing again, and of course, this all leads to… …a story I’m familiar with.
(Also very curious what Asahi and Yuunosuke are doing)
Anyways, a very beautiful chapter overall. I enjoyed the ball a lot as a whole!
2/11 c30 IceColdSea
Erina having “her eyes on the mirror, the image she saw reflected looking worse every single time she took a glance at it”…..aaaaAAAAAAH…..it feels wrong to say but the angst she has in this story is so good and well delivered.
I found it fun how, way before the ball even starts, a part of her already wants to steal away from it (which is what happens later down the line after all).
Her mind wandering, of course to Soma and the escapism and fun he represents is a cute note.
Now, you told me long before what the inspiration for Nao’s dress is and I love the image of that a lot! It’s very cute to picture. I also adored Riko fussing over her while she is struggling with her heels, poor girl….but of course, all the sweeter, is Loren being drawn in by her… "Careful there, little princess of darkness,"- AWWWW
Very, very cute…
But my favorite scene of the chapter was probably the one shared by the Nakiris all together.
I really like the few father/son moments between Azami and Asahi, usually characterised by Asahi’s mistrust while Azami of course has it in his head that he has it in him to shape the perfect family that he has envisioned for himself- so I liked the interaction through Azami helping him with his tie. A brief glimpse into what maybe could have been normalcy but ultimately, with Azami, it almost always feels too much like charade and you can also sense that what Asahi has been through is not the stuff he can just forget about.
BUT THEN OH OH- AsaDove sceneeeede
Had me kicking my legs.
“yet even such an expensive piece seemed to outright dull when compared to the shine the girl's sapphire eyes seemed to generate the moment she and Asahi saw one another. "...Hey."”- AHHHHH
Asahi literally SQUEAKING when he first lays eyes on her,
“And Dove, his father's student, protégée and the master chef he most needed to ensure didn't get in his way, his number one enemy in all sense of that phrase, just sheepishly smiled, and Asahi forgot how even breathe or act or just be alive, it would seem. He short-circuited, basically, and if it wasn't for a flash that seemed to come out of nowhere the boy in question would have likely kept staring at the doll his girlfriend was all night long.” - this THIS whole paragraph /punches wall/, he’s so INTO her, but the underlying forbidden nature you could say, but HES SO INTI HER-
I love them so much.
I adored how Leonora, who was just overall being the sweetest in this scene, also complimented Dove despite her being the enemy in a sense. Dove deserves the occasional nice words.
Also Erina coming down…and Dove deciding to not let her have her “princess descend down the stairs”, Asahi genuinely starting to feel brotherly adoration…and of course, Leonora immediately complimenting her, instead of Mana. I adored the whole picture taking saison that Leonora also ignited.
Alice getting a genuine laugh out of Erina for the picture is, of course, an adorable touch. Hisako getting pushed to the picture too by Soe, acknowledged as part of the family…also very cute. And of course, Asahi and Dove, despite having been a bit of “outsiders” (they only came into this household recently), being invited into the picture….Erina and Hisako’s playfulness….it was overall a super charming and sweet scene.
Though specifically through Azami’s and Mana’s presence, the drama was still somewhat looming.
I like how this almost familiar peace was then later contrasted by their arrival to the ball, where they immediately get drowned out by the flashes of the cameras. And also the pronunciation of the narration for all this “being practised” of “studied”, again unlike the former scene which was more characterised by spontaneity and surprise.
From the moment on in which the Nakiris survive, the chapters break off into a but more of a “vibes chapter”…I I’d say? Everyone gets a little tiny scene, which is sweet- though, of course, towards the end we get set up for the Dance competition and also a plot to finally expose Decora is going on in the background.
I still adore Hisako and Takumi’s relationship, they’re very fun!
Loren and Dove having to deal with seeing the other having a date is of course both fun and kinda cute for their sibling bond.
Dove being upset that Loren has grown taller as her is adorable (honestly even for me, who has only ever seen him as a Chibi, it’s kinda difficult to picture shdhf)- but there was something so sweet about Loren’s earnest praise for her too.
But…
"I'm dating your precious baby brother, aren't I? So whatever you do to him," she added, signaling to Asahi, before he pointed to a very perplexed Loren, "I may just do to him."
While humorous, there is something nice about Nao seemingly having regained some of her confidence to just be her unhinged self after she has spent many many chapters in distress.
It was even kinda cute how Erina then fist-bumped Nao, for having achieved to make Dove speechless.
Another, incredibly adorable scene was the whole SoRina-banter about her accidentally letting slip that she likes to be held by him, and having him tease a re-admission out of her. Very playful but also very cute and very them.
And I loved how the tone got more earnest…
"You somehow found a way to make me fall for you in ways I only thought possible in fiction, and somehow managed to walk the minefield that is Erina Nakiri and remain by my side despite my every effort, both purposely and accidentally, to push you away. So, thank you, for loving me… as I am, and know, that while I know I do not express it as often as I should, I too… love you." - This is also incredibly romantic…and moving. Erina acknowleding and thanking him for always being with her through her actual worsts and highs….its so powerful.
“, so ice-cold at times, yet so utterly warm as well, he simply decided against thinking and pulled her closer, taking hold of her hips the way he knew she liked to be held, while taking claim of her lips the way they both enjoyed it” (omg me mention)
Ahhhh…I really do love how time and space always seems to stop for their love scenes specifically. I have high admiration for just how detailed you can make all these shared kisses between them.
But time for the little baby SoRina couple…
And I think it was a cute touch for how Erina sort-off “mentored” Kanon through the whole ordeal. Her complimenting her dress and all is also very cute. But yes, when she got nervous upon seeing Aisha in his tuxedo…that was ADORABLE! And again, Erina just helping her out is so heartwarming and sweet.
Aisha actually achieved his goal of getting Kanon to admit something before Soma, RIP. But I also thought it was super adorable how he called her a princess.
And as I said, it proceeds to give everyone a little moment… Ikumi and Hakeem is also very enjoyable, he really treats her like she deserves. Hakeem is so very charmingly worthy….his dialogue was very swoon-worthy ahdhfh.
Also I liked Bridgette having a little Cinderella escape. She also deserves good things.
But, right towards the end again we’re with AsaDove and I loved how Asahi initially expected to join in on him in calling the dance competition “dumb”, but then immediately offering his hand to her when he realised just by looking at her that she wanted to dance as well…awwww…
Tho…
"At what point is it going to be too much for when we're forced to…?"
Ouch… ouch…..ouch..
Ahhhh
But also LoreNao’s asking out scene was very cute. I adored how she tried to warn him about how weird she dances, considering the next chapter. And of course, their continuous banter is very enjoyable.
But of course, we gotta end with Soma and Erina. And as Soma notices that Erina wants to join in too, without voicing it, he asks “What do you want”, with you italicised, which I’m sure won’t be relevant to the events of the next chapter…
But seriously I do love how slow but palpable the build up to the upcoming crash out is…which I will talk about tomorrow.
I like it ending with a little challenge between AsaDove and SoRina of course….very fun!
Erina having “her eyes on the mirror, the image she saw reflected looking worse every single time she took a glance at it”…..aaaaAAAAAAH…..it feels wrong to say but the angst she has in this story is so good and well delivered.
I found it fun how, way before the ball even starts, a part of her already wants to steal away from it (which is what happens later down the line after all).
Her mind wandering, of course to Soma and the escapism and fun he represents is a cute note.
Now, you told me long before what the inspiration for Nao’s dress is and I love the image of that a lot! It’s very cute to picture. I also adored Riko fussing over her while she is struggling with her heels, poor girl….but of course, all the sweeter, is Loren being drawn in by her… "Careful there, little princess of darkness,"- AWWWW
Very, very cute…
But my favorite scene of the chapter was probably the one shared by the Nakiris all together.
I really like the few father/son moments between Azami and Asahi, usually characterised by Asahi’s mistrust while Azami of course has it in his head that he has it in him to shape the perfect family that he has envisioned for himself- so I liked the interaction through Azami helping him with his tie. A brief glimpse into what maybe could have been normalcy but ultimately, with Azami, it almost always feels too much like charade and you can also sense that what Asahi has been through is not the stuff he can just forget about.
BUT THEN OH OH- AsaDove sceneeeede
Had me kicking my legs.
“yet even such an expensive piece seemed to outright dull when compared to the shine the girl's sapphire eyes seemed to generate the moment she and Asahi saw one another. "...Hey."”- AHHHHH
Asahi literally SQUEAKING when he first lays eyes on her,
“And Dove, his father's student, protégée and the master chef he most needed to ensure didn't get in his way, his number one enemy in all sense of that phrase, just sheepishly smiled, and Asahi forgot how even breathe or act or just be alive, it would seem. He short-circuited, basically, and if it wasn't for a flash that seemed to come out of nowhere the boy in question would have likely kept staring at the doll his girlfriend was all night long.” - this THIS whole paragraph /punches wall/, he’s so INTO her, but the underlying forbidden nature you could say, but HES SO INTI HER-
I love them so much.
I adored how Leonora, who was just overall being the sweetest in this scene, also complimented Dove despite her being the enemy in a sense. Dove deserves the occasional nice words.
Also Erina coming down…and Dove deciding to not let her have her “princess descend down the stairs”, Asahi genuinely starting to feel brotherly adoration…and of course, Leonora immediately complimenting her, instead of Mana. I adored the whole picture taking saison that Leonora also ignited.
Alice getting a genuine laugh out of Erina for the picture is, of course, an adorable touch. Hisako getting pushed to the picture too by Soe, acknowledged as part of the family…also very cute. And of course, Asahi and Dove, despite having been a bit of “outsiders” (they only came into this household recently), being invited into the picture….Erina and Hisako’s playfulness….it was overall a super charming and sweet scene.
Though specifically through Azami’s and Mana’s presence, the drama was still somewhat looming.
I like how this almost familiar peace was then later contrasted by their arrival to the ball, where they immediately get drowned out by the flashes of the cameras. And also the pronunciation of the narration for all this “being practised” of “studied”, again unlike the former scene which was more characterised by spontaneity and surprise.
From the moment on in which the Nakiris survive, the chapters break off into a but more of a “vibes chapter”…I I’d say? Everyone gets a little tiny scene, which is sweet- though, of course, towards the end we get set up for the Dance competition and also a plot to finally expose Decora is going on in the background.
I still adore Hisako and Takumi’s relationship, they’re very fun!
Loren and Dove having to deal with seeing the other having a date is of course both fun and kinda cute for their sibling bond.
Dove being upset that Loren has grown taller as her is adorable (honestly even for me, who has only ever seen him as a Chibi, it’s kinda difficult to picture shdhf)- but there was something so sweet about Loren’s earnest praise for her too.
But…
"I'm dating your precious baby brother, aren't I? So whatever you do to him," she added, signaling to Asahi, before he pointed to a very perplexed Loren, "I may just do to him."
While humorous, there is something nice about Nao seemingly having regained some of her confidence to just be her unhinged self after she has spent many many chapters in distress.
It was even kinda cute how Erina then fist-bumped Nao, for having achieved to make Dove speechless.
Another, incredibly adorable scene was the whole SoRina-banter about her accidentally letting slip that she likes to be held by him, and having him tease a re-admission out of her. Very playful but also very cute and very them.
And I loved how the tone got more earnest…
"You somehow found a way to make me fall for you in ways I only thought possible in fiction, and somehow managed to walk the minefield that is Erina Nakiri and remain by my side despite my every effort, both purposely and accidentally, to push you away. So, thank you, for loving me… as I am, and know, that while I know I do not express it as often as I should, I too… love you." - This is also incredibly romantic…and moving. Erina acknowleding and thanking him for always being with her through her actual worsts and highs….its so powerful.
“, so ice-cold at times, yet so utterly warm as well, he simply decided against thinking and pulled her closer, taking hold of her hips the way he knew she liked to be held, while taking claim of her lips the way they both enjoyed it” (omg me mention)
Ahhhh…I really do love how time and space always seems to stop for their love scenes specifically. I have high admiration for just how detailed you can make all these shared kisses between them.
But time for the little baby SoRina couple…
And I think it was a cute touch for how Erina sort-off “mentored” Kanon through the whole ordeal. Her complimenting her dress and all is also very cute. But yes, when she got nervous upon seeing Aisha in his tuxedo…that was ADORABLE! And again, Erina just helping her out is so heartwarming and sweet.
Aisha actually achieved his goal of getting Kanon to admit something before Soma, RIP. But I also thought it was super adorable how he called her a princess.
And as I said, it proceeds to give everyone a little moment… Ikumi and Hakeem is also very enjoyable, he really treats her like she deserves. Hakeem is so very charmingly worthy….his dialogue was very swoon-worthy ahdhfh.
Also I liked Bridgette having a little Cinderella escape. She also deserves good things.
But, right towards the end again we’re with AsaDove and I loved how Asahi initially expected to join in on him in calling the dance competition “dumb”, but then immediately offering his hand to her when he realised just by looking at her that she wanted to dance as well…awwww…
Tho…
"At what point is it going to be too much for when we're forced to…?"
Ouch… ouch…..ouch..
Ahhhh
But also LoreNao’s asking out scene was very cute. I adored how she tried to warn him about how weird she dances, considering the next chapter. And of course, their continuous banter is very enjoyable.
But of course, we gotta end with Soma and Erina. And as Soma notices that Erina wants to join in too, without voicing it, he asks “What do you want”, with you italicised, which I’m sure won’t be relevant to the events of the next chapter…
But seriously I do love how slow but palpable the build up to the upcoming crash out is…which I will talk about tomorrow.
I like it ending with a little challenge between AsaDove and SoRina of course….very fun!
1/28 c29 IceColdSea
Very surprised to start with a rather lengthy scene featuring Daigo and Shoji from you, but I‘m honestly glad they got their due with both this and their Shokugeki (which was one of the bests of the many fights to me). I feel sorry for what you make poor Mayumi go through.
The Shinomiya and Azami fight was also quite fun and interesting, and I genuinely didn’t saw the draw coming (I thought Shinomiya would have it in the bag). But the contrast of their individuals, some of the employed strategies from Azami. It was a really fun read. And of course, Hinako was very much adorable throughout. Both with her fussing for the young ones but also the moments between him and her man, and I loved all the little flashbacks for them - especially the mention of the late night dance was super romantic… but also your take on describing their Shokugeki from Shinomiya’s manga spin-off was a nice addition.
But also Shinomiya‘s callbacks to Soma and Megumi were very sweet. And I loved the characteristic “strict” but still caring way he talked to them later. He will always be one of my favorite mentor figures of the series.
The fact that, had Akari’s vote counted, even despite all of Azami’s big promises to her, Shinomiya would have won, is also a cute little detail. The truth of children is the most untainted and pure one after all. On that note, I kinda adored how Azami was legit a little impressed when he heard about what Asahi did at The Undertaking? I don’t know another sweet but nice detail.
The most romantic scene of the chapter overall goes to Takumi and Hisako though. That one was truly swoon-inducing. It’s adorable just how flattered but also near overwhelmed Hisako was. The gesture with the bracelet is also very cute…! Hisako is right to say that this guy is “too much” ahdhd- but yeah all of his behaviour to me fits the inherent gentleness but also the charm he has. And please the speech? The end of it? “The prettiest, most beautiful girl in all of Totsuki is right here, in my hands, and all I want now is to have her in my arms, now, and always.” That’s to squeal for! Ahhdhdf- and also the kiss? Him asking permission first? So sweet and romantic ahhhh.
I know this is not a much talked about point, but for Hisako seemingly being canonically into classic Hollywood, I’m happy for her to get a guy with so much class. I can perfectly picture that all of this would get her to melt and would fit her type very well!
Very sweet and romantic scene.
Some of the bonding in PSD was also very fun. I loved Isshiki praising all the juniors, Alice praising the twins and getting excited for their dates, Shun apologising to everyone, and also Nao and Soma having a comedic, silly moment cheering for both of their defeats was honestly adorable. And while I already know that you’re going for a sibling bond with those two, the same kind off feels true for Soma and Loren to me, with all the good and well meaning advice Loren keeps giving him. I really enjoy the mentorship-relationship between these two also.
But also the note of Soma “soaking in” the sight of Erina. “Not under the stress of the competition. Not faking herself for her crowds, for the cameras, or for even her own family.” It’s an adorable picture painting her as so jolly and so carefree and it’s so romantic for Soma to just…be so enjoying of the sight. That “staring when the other is not looking trope” is always hitting, especially when the other is just being so happy in the moment…hnnn, it’s so sweet and so full of love!
Though you can still sense the clouds on the horizons with the promised interview of the ball, and Soma being once again worried for Erina and her being seemingly content with this. She still wants to fix things huh…? But great on Soma to try to tell her to prioritise herself. A very moving moment honestly. Because I can imagine just how much weight this seemingly simple question would have to Erina.
Another thing I didn’t quite expect was the interaction between Azami and Dove.
(First off, eating the AsaDove crumbs even if it was more minor here. I miss them)
It was a very surprising but still nice change of pace, that even though Dove panicked initially, Azami was simply there to give her some praise….
Azami sounding like in a legitimate rough spot with how he complained…like he almost sounded somewhat…troubled or even scared for the ball? Certainly exhausted himself after this entire endeavour…again I really didn’t expect that. Him highlighting Dove as the one who has always been loyal to him…ouch my heart. Her hugging him…ouch my heart.
She‘s such a fascinating character in every sense. I really enjoy her journey, despite how pained it is.
It’s truly so bittersweet. But you get a sense that these two kinds of “need” each other and have a trust in one another that is difficult to change. There’s a form of co-dependency there, for the lack of a better word, which I find interesting- but really I’m just starting to throw out words because I really want to highlight how drawn in by Dove’s character I am…but struggling to really put it into the best terms.
Very surprised to start with a rather lengthy scene featuring Daigo and Shoji from you, but I‘m honestly glad they got their due with both this and their Shokugeki (which was one of the bests of the many fights to me). I feel sorry for what you make poor Mayumi go through.
The Shinomiya and Azami fight was also quite fun and interesting, and I genuinely didn’t saw the draw coming (I thought Shinomiya would have it in the bag). But the contrast of their individuals, some of the employed strategies from Azami. It was a really fun read. And of course, Hinako was very much adorable throughout. Both with her fussing for the young ones but also the moments between him and her man, and I loved all the little flashbacks for them - especially the mention of the late night dance was super romantic… but also your take on describing their Shokugeki from Shinomiya’s manga spin-off was a nice addition.
But also Shinomiya‘s callbacks to Soma and Megumi were very sweet. And I loved the characteristic “strict” but still caring way he talked to them later. He will always be one of my favorite mentor figures of the series.
The fact that, had Akari’s vote counted, even despite all of Azami’s big promises to her, Shinomiya would have won, is also a cute little detail. The truth of children is the most untainted and pure one after all. On that note, I kinda adored how Azami was legit a little impressed when he heard about what Asahi did at The Undertaking? I don’t know another sweet but nice detail.
The most romantic scene of the chapter overall goes to Takumi and Hisako though. That one was truly swoon-inducing. It’s adorable just how flattered but also near overwhelmed Hisako was. The gesture with the bracelet is also very cute…! Hisako is right to say that this guy is “too much” ahdhd- but yeah all of his behaviour to me fits the inherent gentleness but also the charm he has. And please the speech? The end of it? “The prettiest, most beautiful girl in all of Totsuki is right here, in my hands, and all I want now is to have her in my arms, now, and always.” That’s to squeal for! Ahhdhdf- and also the kiss? Him asking permission first? So sweet and romantic ahhhh.
I know this is not a much talked about point, but for Hisako seemingly being canonically into classic Hollywood, I’m happy for her to get a guy with so much class. I can perfectly picture that all of this would get her to melt and would fit her type very well!
Very sweet and romantic scene.
Some of the bonding in PSD was also very fun. I loved Isshiki praising all the juniors, Alice praising the twins and getting excited for their dates, Shun apologising to everyone, and also Nao and Soma having a comedic, silly moment cheering for both of their defeats was honestly adorable. And while I already know that you’re going for a sibling bond with those two, the same kind off feels true for Soma and Loren to me, with all the good and well meaning advice Loren keeps giving him. I really enjoy the mentorship-relationship between these two also.
But also the note of Soma “soaking in” the sight of Erina. “Not under the stress of the competition. Not faking herself for her crowds, for the cameras, or for even her own family.” It’s an adorable picture painting her as so jolly and so carefree and it’s so romantic for Soma to just…be so enjoying of the sight. That “staring when the other is not looking trope” is always hitting, especially when the other is just being so happy in the moment…hnnn, it’s so sweet and so full of love!
Though you can still sense the clouds on the horizons with the promised interview of the ball, and Soma being once again worried for Erina and her being seemingly content with this. She still wants to fix things huh…? But great on Soma to try to tell her to prioritise herself. A very moving moment honestly. Because I can imagine just how much weight this seemingly simple question would have to Erina.
Another thing I didn’t quite expect was the interaction between Azami and Dove.
(First off, eating the AsaDove crumbs even if it was more minor here. I miss them)
It was a very surprising but still nice change of pace, that even though Dove panicked initially, Azami was simply there to give her some praise….
Azami sounding like in a legitimate rough spot with how he complained…like he almost sounded somewhat…troubled or even scared for the ball? Certainly exhausted himself after this entire endeavour…again I really didn’t expect that. Him highlighting Dove as the one who has always been loyal to him…ouch my heart. Her hugging him…ouch my heart.
She‘s such a fascinating character in every sense. I really enjoy her journey, despite how pained it is.
It’s truly so bittersweet. But you get a sense that these two kinds of “need” each other and have a trust in one another that is difficult to change. There’s a form of co-dependency there, for the lack of a better word, which I find interesting- but really I’m just starting to throw out words because I really want to highlight how drawn in by Dove’s character I am…but struggling to really put it into the best terms.
1/19 c28 IceColdSea
So, I’m back at last and I arrive to….an extremely cooking-heavy chapter…. (My speciality to review). As always a lot of what I can say is just that the dishes sound delicious.
Well, also, being started off with some more truly terrifying build up for Ashitaro definitely helped the fight later down in the chapter and it’s what I waited for (after my long break of reading).
I liked the little detail of Asahi of all people handing Erina a neckerchief. It was a kinda cute sibling moment. As opposed to the horrific stuff Ashitaro kept subjecting HIS sister too…
Loren being by Nao’s side from beginning to end was of course adorable. Loved the line about him “getting used to the stench” because it read as if having a double meaning huh huh. But also I really enjoyed the displays of Loren’s and Dove’s relationship here. With Dove immediately catching onto Loren making a mistake but then being dumbstruck to watch him realise on his own and correct himself.
Having her own little brother just so wordlessly challenge the perspective Azami drilled in to her head is very moving….I look forward to how this will affect their relationship from there..!
The detail of him taking over mannerisms of his mentor Sōma is also of course very cute.
Nao smiling back when Loren brought her the correct fish….Super adorable.
Going back to Azami. Wow, was he evil as always taunting Soma into an extremely hopeless fight. And I don’t know if I should admire him or call him idiotic for going through with this. No, but, it is very loving just how very intense you always describe his love for Erina. I am always left with zero doubt that he would follow her to the end of the world, holding her hand in the process, it always comes across as so powerful.
But I also felt so sorry for him, when he was right at the verge of a panic attack. Because truly, not even we the readers have ever seen Azami cook in canon. He is an adult alumni and a notable one at that, this match seems fated to go nowhere.
(Granted, I kinda…knew Megumi was gonna call Shinomiya on. Since you have already talked a lot about how you’d have liked to see Kojiro and Azami fight…so, part of me was waiting for him to just arrive I have to say)
Back with Nao and Loren, Ashitaro is still also being…the worst! The way he talks to Nao is truly chilling. But that’s what made Loren messing with him all the greater.
Also gotta love Dove experiencing older sister panic on the sidelines.
The scene of Nao and Loren both mixing the cauldron together was also really sweet. Nao being genuinely nervous is adorable in its own right, but it was also nice for her to experience something sweet and tender and normal in this fight against someone who terrified her so. Loren being so protective of her too, it gives of a feeling of her being less alone now.
Now both Ashitaro and Azami, despite both being equally assured in their sweep victory from the get go, both get an equal harsh punch to the gut through the dishes of their opponents.
Azami being reminded of his school days, seems like a fitting memory to be brought up by Soma‘s dishes. And I loved how you phrased the feeling he had towards tasting an “attempt”. A flicker of sheer determination despite the hopelessness of the situation.
Meanwhile Nao wanting to cook like her mother and sounding so genuinely bright and happy when achieving it. Ouch…baby girl :((
Her describing how she watched all those movies…and put in the work to try and connect with her mother…that’s so bittersweet. And it makes Ashitaro come across all the more cruel.
But of course, our boy Loren has got to step in.
And Loren’s as well as Soma’s shared declaration is of course very moving and romantic. Love that, as well as the overall parallel way this match was structured.
Dove giving a vote for Loren is also incredibly sweet- but Ashitaro of course continues to be horrible and I really do just approve how no one else on his team likes him either.
Loren taking the slap in Nao’s stead is of course a classic romantic trope, but it’s an impactful one. It’s truly moving how much he is doing for her. Dove then breaking glass across his face Ashitaro’s face because Loren got hurt is badass. Love seeing her protectiveness make her be her deadliest. I love that so much!
Asahi then also starting a fight with him when he was close to insulting Dove back….huhuhuhu
Gonna be real, I’m just here for a thorough Ashitaro beating, I feel?
But for what an intense scene that was, at least Loren and Nao at last got to kiss! Woooh. I love how Loren‘s thoughts were with her safety is so sweet. And I adored how they giggled and smiled throughout it- AWWW, that’s so soft! There was so much tenderness and sweetness in their motions here. I adored it so much.
Now again, back to Soma…as I said I saw Shinomiya‘s entrance coming. But still the bait and switch with Joichiro was a lot of fun still and despite his words being directed at the wrong person lmao, I liked the fierce he showed here as opposed to canon where he just…stood by.
But yes, let’s see how the clash of the titans will go…
So, I’m back at last and I arrive to….an extremely cooking-heavy chapter…. (My speciality to review). As always a lot of what I can say is just that the dishes sound delicious.
Well, also, being started off with some more truly terrifying build up for Ashitaro definitely helped the fight later down in the chapter and it’s what I waited for (after my long break of reading).
I liked the little detail of Asahi of all people handing Erina a neckerchief. It was a kinda cute sibling moment. As opposed to the horrific stuff Ashitaro kept subjecting HIS sister too…
Loren being by Nao’s side from beginning to end was of course adorable. Loved the line about him “getting used to the stench” because it read as if having a double meaning huh huh. But also I really enjoyed the displays of Loren’s and Dove’s relationship here. With Dove immediately catching onto Loren making a mistake but then being dumbstruck to watch him realise on his own and correct himself.
Having her own little brother just so wordlessly challenge the perspective Azami drilled in to her head is very moving….I look forward to how this will affect their relationship from there..!
The detail of him taking over mannerisms of his mentor Sōma is also of course very cute.
Nao smiling back when Loren brought her the correct fish….Super adorable.
Going back to Azami. Wow, was he evil as always taunting Soma into an extremely hopeless fight. And I don’t know if I should admire him or call him idiotic for going through with this. No, but, it is very loving just how very intense you always describe his love for Erina. I am always left with zero doubt that he would follow her to the end of the world, holding her hand in the process, it always comes across as so powerful.
But I also felt so sorry for him, when he was right at the verge of a panic attack. Because truly, not even we the readers have ever seen Azami cook in canon. He is an adult alumni and a notable one at that, this match seems fated to go nowhere.
(Granted, I kinda…knew Megumi was gonna call Shinomiya on. Since you have already talked a lot about how you’d have liked to see Kojiro and Azami fight…so, part of me was waiting for him to just arrive I have to say)
Back with Nao and Loren, Ashitaro is still also being…the worst! The way he talks to Nao is truly chilling. But that’s what made Loren messing with him all the greater.
Also gotta love Dove experiencing older sister panic on the sidelines.
The scene of Nao and Loren both mixing the cauldron together was also really sweet. Nao being genuinely nervous is adorable in its own right, but it was also nice for her to experience something sweet and tender and normal in this fight against someone who terrified her so. Loren being so protective of her too, it gives of a feeling of her being less alone now.
Now both Ashitaro and Azami, despite both being equally assured in their sweep victory from the get go, both get an equal harsh punch to the gut through the dishes of their opponents.
Azami being reminded of his school days, seems like a fitting memory to be brought up by Soma‘s dishes. And I loved how you phrased the feeling he had towards tasting an “attempt”. A flicker of sheer determination despite the hopelessness of the situation.
Meanwhile Nao wanting to cook like her mother and sounding so genuinely bright and happy when achieving it. Ouch…baby girl :((
Her describing how she watched all those movies…and put in the work to try and connect with her mother…that’s so bittersweet. And it makes Ashitaro come across all the more cruel.
But of course, our boy Loren has got to step in.
And Loren’s as well as Soma’s shared declaration is of course very moving and romantic. Love that, as well as the overall parallel way this match was structured.
Dove giving a vote for Loren is also incredibly sweet- but Ashitaro of course continues to be horrible and I really do just approve how no one else on his team likes him either.
Loren taking the slap in Nao’s stead is of course a classic romantic trope, but it’s an impactful one. It’s truly moving how much he is doing for her. Dove then breaking glass across his face Ashitaro’s face because Loren got hurt is badass. Love seeing her protectiveness make her be her deadliest. I love that so much!
Asahi then also starting a fight with him when he was close to insulting Dove back….huhuhuhu
Gonna be real, I’m just here for a thorough Ashitaro beating, I feel?
But for what an intense scene that was, at least Loren and Nao at last got to kiss! Woooh. I love how Loren‘s thoughts were with her safety is so sweet. And I adored how they giggled and smiled throughout it- AWWW, that’s so soft! There was so much tenderness and sweetness in their motions here. I adored it so much.
Now again, back to Soma…as I said I saw Shinomiya‘s entrance coming. But still the bait and switch with Joichiro was a lot of fun still and despite his words being directed at the wrong person lmao, I liked the fierce he showed here as opposed to canon where he just…stood by.
But yes, let’s see how the clash of the titans will go…
1/8 c1 19RoyaldragonSevgisi15
BRUUUUH! Suzuki... As in THAT teacher? Noooo waaaay! Right from the get go, really?
I can't believe it's been that long since I've read anything from this Fandom! But you got me! This already feels like it's gonna be one hell of a ride! I can't wait to read more! I seriously have no idea where this is going but involving multiple schools seems like a cool concept! It's what the Canon could've been!
As always, your writing style is incredible! And your characters are phenomenal! Just... don't make my baby boy Soma suffer TOO much okay? I'm begging ya! I can already tell it's gonna be dramatic! Shit, I'm not ready!
Amazing as always! I swear, I love being your fan! Maşallah!
19RoyaldragonSevgisi15BRUUUUH! Suzuki... As in THAT teacher? Noooo waaaay! Right from the get go, really?
I can't believe it's been that long since I've read anything from this Fandom! But you got me! This already feels like it's gonna be one hell of a ride! I can't wait to read more! I seriously have no idea where this is going but involving multiple schools seems like a cool concept! It's what the Canon could've been!
As always, your writing style is incredible! And your characters are phenomenal! Just... don't make my baby boy Soma suffer TOO much okay? I'm begging ya! I can already tell it's gonna be dramatic! Shit, I'm not ready!
Amazing as always! I swear, I love being your fan! Maşallah!
12/30/2024 c42 CrazyTroodon
Ruthie is the star of the show for me. Azami popping up and making this reunion even more wonderful than I ever thought it would be. He deserved a second chance and I'm glad he got it. The highlight of the moment? Ruthie calling Erina her aunty. So adorable! And the way Erina was happy to be her aunt, that was another cute and wholesome moment. Really look forward to when Ruthie is older and how Erina deals with her in her teens. And Soma prepping himself for the proposal was a cool way to end the chapter. This chapter comes in my top 10 favorite chapters in Classique. Period.
Ruthie is the star of the show for me. Azami popping up and making this reunion even more wonderful than I ever thought it would be. He deserved a second chance and I'm glad he got it. The highlight of the moment? Ruthie calling Erina her aunty. So adorable! And the way Erina was happy to be her aunt, that was another cute and wholesome moment. Really look forward to when Ruthie is older and how Erina deals with her in her teens. And Soma prepping himself for the proposal was a cool way to end the chapter. This chapter comes in my top 10 favorite chapters in Classique. Period.
12/30/2024 c40 CrazyTroodon
The chapter ending with the funny siblings banter between Soma and Asahi is just perfect. Something the show should've had. Dove also being one of the most well written characters I've ever read is an understatement of the century and I really wish that she had been an actual canon character. Erina being the supportive little sister is another cherry on top. This is one of the most wholesome moments in the fic for me.
The chapter ending with the funny siblings banter between Soma and Asahi is just perfect. Something the show should've had. Dove also being one of the most well written characters I've ever read is an understatement of the century and I really wish that she had been an actual canon character. Erina being the supportive little sister is another cherry on top. This is one of the most wholesome moments in the fic for me.
12/30/2024 c45 CrazyTroodon
Gonna start reading Something Blue today. I really look forward to it. Can't wait for more.
Gonna start reading Something Blue today. I really look forward to it. Can't wait for more.
12/30/2024 c44 CrazyTroodon
Loved this chapter. The story came full circle. And the scene with Erina posing with her ring was probably the most wholesome moment about it. Her admitting the food is delicious is something I wanted to see in the show. Not just her telling herself in her head, but telling Soma that she loves his food. And this fic made it a reality. Absolute banger of a fic. I don't remember how many times I've read it by now.
Loved this chapter. The story came full circle. And the scene with Erina posing with her ring was probably the most wholesome moment about it. Her admitting the food is delicious is something I wanted to see in the show. Not just her telling herself in her head, but telling Soma that she loves his food. And this fic made it a reality. Absolute banger of a fic. I don't remember how many times I've read it by now.
12/25/2024 c44 3radbutsafe
omg the end! kind of? there is one more chapter after this it seems maybe it’s just a note to the audience but congratulations for doing this fic series for 10 years! good job! the note your grandmother at the end was so sweet.
3radbutsafeomg the end! kind of? there is one more chapter after this it seems maybe it’s just a note to the audience but congratulations for doing this fic series for 10 years! good job! the note your grandmother at the end was so sweet.
12/25/2024 c43 radbutsafe
I forgot to mention, saying hi to lea and asking her abt 2025 in the last chapter was hilarious. poor van…but hey he got his gf! it was fun to see the different school ocs again. and lmao while it makes sense for them to get engaged, so early ! but they are set for life.
I forgot to mention, saying hi to lea and asking her abt 2025 in the last chapter was hilarious. poor van…but hey he got his gf! it was fun to see the different school ocs again. and lmao while it makes sense for them to get engaged, so early ! but they are set for life.