Gravitation: Track 21

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Gravitation Track 21. The chapter starts with Ryuichi and Shuichi meeting up before the show starts and it is SO AWKWARD. Of course Ryuichi just happily tells Shuichi to do his best and...Shuichi immediately forgives him and all the problems between them are over. Well that was anticlimactic. The author even tries to fake us out by having the "Track 21 End" graphic on the second page before K grabs Shuichi and tells him that things can't be solved that easily. He warns him not to get too chummy with Ryuichi since it's a dog eat dog world and Ryuichi already practically has victory in his hands. Nittle Grasper (seriously what does this name even mean?) begins a sound check and everyone turns to watch Ryuichi sing. Once again the audience is shafted as we can't hear Ryuichi sing (but, like always, we are assured that it is very, very good) but Shuichi realizes that Ryuichi was actually holding back so as not to embarrass Shuichi with his skill. Shuichi is PISSED that Ryuichi would do such a thing and refuses to be considered the underdog anymore. The show will begin in five minutes and K thinks it's ridiculous that Shuichi thinks he can beat Ryuichi while Sakano tells him to stop being such a dick about it. K responds that they both know Ryuichi well after being his manager for as long as they have (Sakano when he was with Nittle Grasper and K when he was going solo) and is pushing Shuichi to be the best he can be by pitting him against Ryuichi.

Hit Stage finally begins and the hosts introduce Bad Luck.

                                           Something about Shuichi seems...off in this picture

Before things get truly underway, Shuichi tells Hiro and Suguru to not go easy on Ryuichi tonight because he won't go easy on them. The song they're going to perform is called "No Style". And thus begins what to me is the weakest part of the manga. The music. Sure the characters say that the singing and playing is really good but the readers don't get to experience it at all. It feels like the very heart and soul of the story is missing. Pretty pictures of posing pretty boys does not a good concert make (well, to me anyway). This is probably why the anime is more popular (that and I have a sneaking suspicion it's far more subtle in its Boys Love tones. This series had to get that reputation from SOMEWHERE damn it!). It doesn't help that Shuichi apparently just consistently makes up lyrics as he goes in stressful situations. It's all very muddled and confusing at times. They finish their performance and Ryuichi gushes to Shuichi about how awesome he was and asks for his autograph while Shuichi just stares on in confusion. Noriko drags Ryuichi away so they can perform and Ryuichi declares that he's buddies with Shuichi who is beginning to suspect that Ryuichi never hated him in the first place (which we, the readers, already know is true. Suddenly this whole subplot is feeling very pointless).

Shuichi lashes out at K who had been fueling his worries about Ryuichi hating him in order to get a better performance out of him. Shuichi refuses to believe that someone who is always so gentle could be as rude as he was being the time he told Shuichi to move. Shuichi must live a sheltered life. K is inclined to agree telling him that if he thinks Ryuichi is gentle than he's clueless. Well when you have a character who dresses like a rabbit in public, carries a stuffed animal around, and constantly gushes it's easy to make that mistake. If that's not his true personality it must be exhausting putting a show on like that all the time. I have to wonder why he even bothers. Before Shuichi can argue further Nittle Grasper takes the stage. Ryuichi flashes Shuichi a friendly victory sign before he goes into serious mode.

                                               SUPER serious mode.

And, joy of joys, we have yet another musical performance where everyone says how great and wonderful the band is, how Ryuichi is totally different from before now that he's singing (it's called a stage persona it's not like it's that big of a deal) and Shuichi is of course awe struck by their talent. Shuichi remembers listening to this band every day and watching their videos and wishing he could be Ryuichi. K gently reminds him that he shouldn't change what can't be changed and should just take his personality and strengths and work with them rather than trying to model himself after Ryuichi. He has a point. It's pretty blatantly obvious that Shuichi has been copying Ryuichi's style. Being energetic when he's offstage, then being more "cool" and in control when he's onstage. So now I'm curious how much of Shuichi's personality is his genuine personality and how much of it was just him slavishly copying Ryuichi. Suddenly everyone saying how much Shuichi and Ryuichi are alike is taking on a weirder tone.

K urges Shuichi to go out and sing with Ryuichi and Shuichi is all too happy too do it now that he knows Ryuichi doesn't hate him, only to be intimidated by Ryuichi's stage presence. Sakano panics and tries to rectify the situation while Shuichi panics and tries to do something that won't embarrass himself further since he doesn't have a mike to sing with. So he dances. Very poorly I might add which just seems to piss Ryuichi off. Ryuichi comes over to Shuichi and...

                                  Of course it's a happy ending, what did you think was going to happen?

Everyone practically wets themselves in excitement over how they sound almost the same (is that a good thing? I don't really see how that's a good thing. Isn't it important to be unique in this industry?) and when the song is over everyone is saying how awesome and amazing it was, Ryuichi hugs Shuichi and tells him that was amazing...and Shuichi starts crying. Which is how the chapter ends.

Alright, I'm not sure why Shuichi is crying but my guess is that he's had some kind of epiphany regarding Ryuichi and the way he's been modeling himself after Ryuichi. That, or he's just really overwhelmed by fulfilling his dream and singing with Nittle Grasper onstage which is something he's wanted to do for the better part of his life. I have to admit, I'm not as interested in the band aspects of this series. I'm more interested in learning more about Yuki and his past than I am about whether or not Shuichi is going to be successful. I mean, with all these high end music industry people surrounding him and the audience constantly being reminded of his talent it's kind of expected now that Bad Luck is going to do really well. There's not much conflict there. In fact...there's not much conflict anywhere anymore! Something new better come up, fast, or this whole series is going to be a chore to get through. I would say it's impossible to drag a story on for hundreds of pages with no conflict but I've read Twilight. I know better.

Tomorrow we'll be looking at Gravitation Track 22! See you then.

Gravitation: Track 19

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Track 19. The chapter opens with Seguchi talking to Sakano about his plans to reform Nittle Grasper (Oh God, I know I said I wasn't going to say anything about the band name but now that they're reforming it's going to come up a lot more often now and I CAN'T STAND THE NAME IT'S SO DUMB) while ASK is on hiatus (because of Seguchi committing MURDER) and Sakano thinks it's a smart move. This whole thing was apparently Ryuichi's idea. He proposed it to Seguchi after the whole live television appearance thing that happened a few chapters ago. Seguchi reminds Sakano that he's not Sakano's boss anymore. They are both producers and Seguchi promises that he'll be working his hardest to make Nittle Grasper number one in Japan again. He advises Sakano to do the same with Bad Luck. Oh geez. So not only is Nittle Grasper reforming but now they're going to be direct rivals to Bad Luck. This could get very messy. I'm extremely wary of Seguchi now after what happened last chapter. Everything he does, says, and proposes makes me wonder what his true motives are.

The scene shifts then to K waking Shuichi up.

                                          And I thought getting woken up by my parents was bad.

Shuichi and K get into a fight/argument until Yuki gets completely fed up and runs inside Shuichi's room to yell at them. Of course this is the first time Yuki has actually met K who promptly introduces himself. Yuki asks him where he came from and K tells him not to worry about it. Before K can drag Shuichi off, Yuki asks him when he's going to be back and that he'll wait to eat if Shuichi wants him to. Shuichi is touched by this gesture and before things can get sweet and cute and wonderful, K drags Shuichi away. They talk for a bit and it eventually comes out that Shuichi and Yuki are lovers. The news shocks him so much he rear ends a truck and Shuichi claims that, as an American, he should be more understanding. You don't know a lot about America do you Shuichi? Anyway, Shuichi asks him why he decided to be his manager and K bribes him with an appearance on a TV show called "Hit Stage".

Shuichi immediately introduces K as their new manager as soon as he gets to the recording studio. Hiro is skeptical and Shuichi goes about trying to convince him with his usual theatrics. They're looking at 30 minutes of air time here which is nothing to sneeze at. While Shuichi shouts and jumps around Hiro quietly introduces himself to K before Noriko comes in and drops a bit of a bomb on them: They're opening for Nittle Grasper on Hit Stage. K explodes, telling Noriko that the deal was that Bad Luck would be the big guest. K suspects that Seguchi had something to do with this, but Ryuichi arrives at this point to say that it was his idea.

                                       ...What's with the bunny?

Shuichi thinks this is a malicious attack on Ryuichi's part because of what happened during the live show. Shuichi runs off in tears and Hiro asks if Ryuichi hates Shuichi. Ryuichi assure them that he does not. He just wanted to be able to sing with Shuichi. Miserable and upset, Shuichi runs through the halls of the record studio, lamenting that this is the end before it even began and ends up crashing into a young boy in the hall, knocking him clean over.  Shuichi apologizes and it turns out the boy is older than he looks (though how much older is not specified but he is still in school) and when he recognizes Shuichi he introduces himself as Suguru Fujisaki. Shuichi is confused and only gets more confused when Suguru asks to be introduced to the other members of the team. Shuichi finally asks him what he's doing here and Suguru tells him that he's the new keyboardist for Bad Luck.

                              Suguru Fujisaki: Continuing the tradition of incredibly cute men in this manga.

Shuichi talks about his problems with Yuki and they have a little playful banter before Yuki moves in for the kiss. Yuki tells him to have faith in the people who he's working with now and they make out a little before Shuichi asks Yuki if anything is wrong. Yuki tell shim he was comforting him because he asked to be comforted and is insulted that Shuichi would imply he's in a bad mood. They have a minor argument before making up with a round of sex that lasts about three panels and is very coy with its imagery. The chapter ends at a hospital with us finding out that Taki actually survived getting hit by a car (and with nary a bruise on his pretty face, shock shock) and that, of all people, Suguru is visiting him, telling him to leave well enough alone.

Okay, so, my biggest question is how do Suguru and Taki know each other? I'm glad Taki didn't die since I didn't think it was necessary for that kind of turn. It's bad enough that we have GANG RAPE to worry about, we didn't need cold blooded murder. I'm still wary of Seguchi. I also have this feeling that Taki could be redeemed in the manga and I really hope the author doesn't go that route. There are certain lines that characters cannot cross and be redeemed. Orchestrating GANG RAPE is one of those lines. The best I can hope for is Taki to give up and quietly leave the scene, wiser, never to be seen again. He can't even be a good villain anymore. Shuichi stood up to him, Yuki kicked his ass, and Seguchi nearly killed him. He's not a credible threat after all that. I guess I'll just have to keep on reading to find out!

Tune in tomorrow for Gravitation: Track 20! See you then.

Gravitation Track 18

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Gravitation Track 18. The chapter starts out with Taki (oh joy I'm so excited to see what happens already) ditching the recording studio to do something (evil) and his manager telling him he's being selfish for dumping recording because he just doesn't feel like it. He finds...something, some kind of piece of paper and frowns at it before the scene abruptly shifts to Shuichi. I have no idea what that was but we'll probably be finding out about it soon enough. Shuichi is depressed because he's convinced that Ryuichi hates him now and, with him being so popular and influential, he feels like this is the end of his career. And he's 25 minutes late to recording as K is helpful enough to remind him. Wait...what is he doing there?! He tells Shuichi that Sakano, Noriko, and Hiro are all already there and Shuichi asks what HE is doing there. He's there for Ryuichi and says that he's going to be Shuichi's manager from now on. Shuichi brushes him off but Sakano confirms this to be true as he's just heard about it this morning. Shuichi goes ballistic and demands to know what the heck is going on.

K says that he admires Shuichi's bravery and the luck he's had that brought him this far but the way he currently is he'll have no chance of rising in the ranks and reaching the top levels. He scoffs at the idea that Shuichi could actually reach Ryuichi's level. Before Shuichi can respond (and I'm positive he would have given this guy a verbal dressing down) Douche 1 walks in and says he wants to speak to Shuichi. The scene shifts and we see Taki visiting Yuki.

                                       I hate you so much. Just learn to quit.

So it turns out that the paper Taki found was a letter telling him about Yuki's secret. Which is he now gloating over. Taki says that Yuki doesn't know the first thing about who actually knows his secret. I'm sure he thought this was going to make Yuki break down into a nervous wreck over who does and doesn't know but Yuki just shrugs and basically says that Taki is right. He doesn't know. He didn't know until recently thanks to everyone helping him remember. He then questions why Taki should even care and calls him nosy. Bless you Yuki. he then says that Taki is being stupid, digging his own grave by coming here. Taki blows up and demands that Yuki admit that what the letter says is true. So yeah, Taki is still trying (and failing) to ruin Yuki's life. So then Shuichi breaks through the wall and kicks Taki right in the head.

                                                      More badass than words can convey.

Shuichi yells at Taki for daring to raise a hand against Yuki and Taki calls him an idiot. Taki then reveals his master plan: circulate the information about Yuki's crime which will mean the end of his career which in turn will weaken Shuichi since Shuichi is at his weakest when Yuki is in trouble. Do I even need to reiterate how much of a petty asshole this guy is? I love how Shuichi basically says "Well duh he's a killer! So what? Even killers deserve to live sometimes." This is a good point. We don't even know the nature of Yuki's crime. He could have easily killed someone in self defense. Then Shuichi says this.

                                                    Shuichi does not take your bullshit.

I love how Seguchi, Yuki, and now Shuichi just refuse to acknowledge Taki as any kind of real threat. He's just a pathetic excuse for a human being, trying to bring down others rather than try and raise and improve himself. Taki has the oh so wonderful come back of "Shut the fuck up!" and then runs away like a pansy. Douche 1 and 2 run into Taki on the street and Taki rails on them, calling them traitors for telling Shuichi what Taki was doing. Douche 1 just says that it's all over. Taki refuses to give up and Douche 1 just says he's gone too far. Shuichi has already won. Taki listens as well as you'd expect. Meaning that he doesn't listen at all and runs away again. He ends up in a phone booth to call a publisher to release the story of Yuki's past but while he's dialing...

                                                    Commence the pants crapping.

The scene shifts before we can see what Seguchi is planning on doing to Taki, back to Shuichi and Yuki. Shuichi asks him if anything is wrong and Yuki breaks down and CRIES. In front of Shuichi! This freaks Shuichi out who tries to comfort him and Yuki reveals his fears: He can't remember the exact details of the time he killed so what if it WAS all really his fault? He doesn't want to end up betraying Shuichi or going back to killing and he's deeply afraid this might happen. He cries into Shuichi's chest as the scene shifts back to Seguchi. Something he says disturbs me quite a bit: "I wouldn't care if you beat or killed Shindou-san but not for something as stupid as your wrongly directed resentment". So...he's saying he doesn't care if Shuichi gets killed if the person has a good reason for doing it? Bwuh? What kind of person talks like this?! Seguchi, my love for you has fallen with that statement. That's a cruel and dispassionate way of looking at the world. Seguchi says that if Taki is a good boy and behaves then he'll get the future he was promised. The only future I want for him is a shallow grave but it doesn't look like I'll be getting that. Seguchi tells Taki that Yuki and Shuichi wouldn't be the only ones who would be hurt if Taki got his revenge.

The scene shifts back to Yuki and Shuichi and they get into an argument that is completely adorable. Yuki is embarrassed that he's crying in front of Shuichi since he hasn't done it in years and tries to act tough while Shuichi tells him to just accept that Shuichi is trying to make him feel better. The scene shifts back and forth between Seguchi and Taki and Yuki and Shuichi. Seguchi tells Taki that he won't be the one to heal Yuki's wounds. Well, he says "he" so I'm assuming the "he" is Yuki. But does this mean they had a relationship or something in the past? To make matters MORE confusing it turns out SEGUCHI sent Taki the letter! My head hurts. Taki demands to know why Seguchi is going through all this trouble to protect Yuki when he's a killer and Seguchi...pushes him out in front of a car! And says that he loves Yuki the most of anyone in the world! Wait...I...wha...WHAT JUST HAPPENED?! Holy shit Seguchi just straight up KILLED TAKI in cold blood! I know I said I wanted him dead but I wasn't serious! I was expecting a punishment for what he did but seeing it actually happen it's...surprisingly grisly. I'm retracting all my love of Seguchi for now. He seriously is freaking me right the hell out.

The chapter ends with Sakano telling Hiro and Shuichi that, thanks to Shuichi's singing during the live broadcast, Bad Luck's popularity is rising. Noriko uses this moment to tell them that she's officially leaving Bad Luck and rejoining Nittle Grasper.

I admit it, I got shivers reading this chapter. Seguchi is one cold customer. I really don't like that he admits that he loves Yuki. Although it does make his statement about not caring if Shuichi is killed make more sense. He needs him around to keep making him money for N-G records but he's also blocking Yuki from him. It makes me wonder though...what's he going to do to Shuichi? I feel very uneasy. Noriko leaving Bad Luck to rejoin Nittle Grasper also makes me wonder. Are they making a comeback? That would be an interesting development! It's unfortunate that the week is over meaning I'm going to have to wait a whole weekend to find out what happens! Oh well. Perseverance!

On Monday we'll be looking at Gravitation Track 19! Have a great weekend and I'll see you then.

Gravitation: Track 17

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Gravitation Track 17. The chapter opens up with Shuichi trying to wake Yuki up but Yuki is not having it. After annoying Yuki sufficiently Yuki smacks him as he wakes up. Shuichi tells Yuki that today is the day Bad Luck's CD gets released and that Yuki shouldn't eat dinner before he gets back. There's some playful banter between the two (which is refreshing to see) before Shuichi bites Yuki on the ear and runs off. This affects Yuki more than you'd expect, causing him to blush with wide eyed shock. Seguchi suddenly appears and says that he didn't know that was a weak spot on Yuki. Yuki jumps and asks him what he's doing there and Seguchi gives him a bottle of...something as a housewarming gift. Yuki admits to Seguchi that he told Shuichi about his past, expecting Shuichi to want nothing more to do with him. But there's something wrong. Yuki apparently doesn't actually remember the events at all and it causes him to break down. Seguchi comforts him and says (or thinks? Could be either one) that he can't expect Taki to keep his promise (no shock there).

The scene then shifts over to Shuichi happily running to the recording studio. He's thinking to himself and reiterates that he doesn't care that Yuki killed anyone and now that Ayaka is out of the way there's no obstacle that he can't overcome! He rides the elevator up to the recording studio and someone calls out Ryuichi's name causing him to get all worked up before some random guy hugs him, thinking that Shuichi is Ryuichi (easy mistake to make).

                                       This is what happens when you look like a celebrity

Shuichi is barely able to call out to Noriko as he is whisked away by this mysterious man. He's deposited into a car and before he can demand to know what is going on, the man shoves a stuffed rabbit in his face and tells him that he shouldn't have come to Japan and demands an apology. Shuichi tries to explain to him that he's not Ryuichi but the man very scarily tells him to apologize while holding a GUN. Okay, so this guy is probably Ryuichi's bodyguard and Ryuichi has gotten away from him. That would make sense. Otherwise this is a very frightening development. Shuichi apologizes and we find out that the man is actually Ryuichi's manager (eh, close enough) and is finally able to tell him that he's not, in fact, Ryuichi. The man then demands to know where Ryuichi is and Shuichi tells him to keep his eyes on the road. They nearly crash into an oncoming truck, nearly giving Shuichi a heart attack in the process, though the man just laughs it off. I like this guy. The manager tells Shuichi that he was a good double for a prettier Ryuichi. Shuichi doesn't think so, since Ryuichi is too cool (so he's the only one who DOESN'T think he looks like Ryuichi). The manager is in a bit of a pinch. Ryuichi is scheduled for a live broadcast in an hour and he can't find him.

                                        Sure, THIS is the most logical solution...

Then the scene shifts and we see a rather bizarre scene of Tatsuha hanging out at a zoo with Ryuichi and a bunch of kids...only Tatsuha is dressed up like a bear and Ryuichi is dressed up as a bunny. This...it's very, VERY strange. But it's also kind of sweet since Tatsuha's taking time away from his monk duties to take Ryuichi out for a day of fun (though he has his own reasons for doing so, because of his crush on Ryuichi). Tatsuha gets a call from Seguchi asking how they're doing and Tatsuha reveals the reason for the costumes: they're disguises so that Ryuichi can walk around without being mobbed by fans. Okay, that's good enough for me! Seguchi warns Tatsuha to make sure that Ryuichi makes it to the live broadcast on time since things are getting a little frantic around the studio. The manager keeps on with his plan to put Shuichi on in Ryuichi's place even though they found Ryuichi. There's just no time. We also find out, via Noriko, that Ryuichi's manager is American and everyone is calling him K. Which I'm thankful for since saying "the manager" over and over again was getting awkward. Seguchi is confident that since Ryuichi is now so close that Shuichi won't have to go on.

Famous last words of course as K throws Shuichi out in front of the camera to stand in for Ryuichi to the horror of everyone gathered. Shuichi realizes that they're closing the curtain on him and, panicking, he tells them that he's just there to fill time until Ryuichi arrives. He plays some kind of word games with the people on the show who are a bit afraid of how crazy he is. Hiro tells Noriko that this is just what Shuichi does in these situations. While Shuichi keeps trying to fill time, Tastuha arrives at the studio with Ryuichi. Just as they do, Ryuichi hears Shuichi singing his song. This is another one of those moments in the manga where we really need sound to get the full effect of this act. Shuichi is now being heard around the country which is going to give him a lot more exposure. Ryuichi is a bit miffed at Shuichi's taking his spot and he rushes towards the camera, demanding a mike.

                                              Okay, so maybe "pissed" would be a better word.

I feel bad for Shuichi. The poor boy was kidnapped, forced onto camera, and tried to make the most of it only to get brushed aside by Ryuichi. Hey, Ryuichi? You want someone to be mad at, be mad at your manager. Or hey, be mad at yourself! You were messing around dressed like a rabbit when you had a schedule to keep! This isn't the first time we've been told that Ryuichi is a bit of a flake when it comes to his schedule. He really should be mad at himself. Noriko said that it was good Ryuichi made it but Seguchi said he would have been happy even if he hadn't. The chapter ends with Taki pissed off that Shuichi was able to sing even under circumstances like that. He's slowly being forced to realize that Shuichi is not just some upstart but the real deal. Yeah, that's right Taki! You're going to be beaten down and forgotten!

I'd like to think that Shuichi will help inspire Ryuichi to be more passionate about is music again. He just seems so ambivalent to everything while Shuichi is still giving it his all to climb the ladder. It's a nice contrast but I felt annoyed at Ryuichi's reaction to seeing Shuichi singing in his place. I wouldn't like it if someone usurped my spot on a TV show either but it really was entirely his own fault. He shouldn't be taking it out on Shuichi, especially since Shuichi is such a big fan of his!

Tune in tomorrow for Track 18 of Gravitation! See you then.

Gravitation: Track 14

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Track 14. Luckily I have had time to cool down after the heinous, reprehensible, completely evil and irredeemable acts that Taki inflicted on poor Shuichi physically and mentally and am ready to move on with a cool head. The chapter opens with Shuichi waking up in Hiro's house, his memory of the night previous fuzzy (after the GANG RAPE) and Shuichi is...surprisingly over it. Ugh. I had hoped this wouldn't happen. The author has used rape as a means of drama but refuses to actually acknowledge any of the long term effects that would be associated with such an act. Shuichi shouldn't be looking back on it so nonchalantly. Frankly I find it disturbing when authors so carelessly use rape for purely dramatic purposes. Rape, in my opinion, should never be used unless you are willing to take it seriously and portray it in a realistic light. To be quite honest unless you have a DAMN good reason for including it you probably shouldn't. Now, to be fair, Shuichi might just still be in shock and there might be ramifications later on stemming from this. We'll just have to wait and see.

While Shuichi ponders his situation (mostly concerned that his relationship with Yuki is now surely over rather than worrying about the GANG RAPE) Hiro travels on his motorcycle to Yuki's house in order to talk to him. Hiro tells Yuki what happened and Yuki, true to his character, shows no reaction outwardly. Hiro asks him if he even cares since he cut all ties with Shuici. He says that Shuichi being talented isn't his fault and he shouldn't be punished for it. I love how they're really just ramming it home how much of a jealous arrogant prick Taki is. I'm really hoping that he gets his just desserts in the end! Hopefully sooner rather than later. Hiro continues berating Yuki, saying that if he didn't want to be in a relationship with him he should have broken it off before Shuichi became so seriously in love with him. Then this happens.

                            Somewhere, Taki is crapping his pants in fear and he has no idea why.

The scene shifts to Shuichi going into work, both Noriko and Sakano looking surprised to see him. He tells them he's feeling better (they were told he had a cold) and asks where Hiro is. Noriko tells him that Hiro has been missing for two hours. She then asks if Shuichi recovered his vocals or if he made up with Yuki. Shuichi answers by offering them farewell gifts. Since he doesn't want Yuki or N-G records to be slandered he's deciding to give up working in Bad Luck. He doesn't tell Noriko and Sakano why exactly but tells them they'll know soon enough (when the photos are published I assume). At that moment Hiro comes in and says that he's refusing to let Shuichi go. After all, he did say he wasn't bad and that's enough for Hiro. True friendship! It's so beautiful. Hiro tells Shuichi that Yuki is actually in the building, in Lounge A and he's ready to kick the piss out of Taki. This gives Shuichi new strength to go on!

The scene then shifts to Yuki being a total badass, beating down Douche 1 until he realizes who Taki is. Rather than let himself get beat up, Taki surrenders the negatives to Yuki. Taki asks him why he went easy on him when he beat Douche 1 so ruthlessly. He remarks that just by looking at Yuki's eyes he knows he's more than just a novelist.

                                                    What demons lie in Yuki's past?

Yuki brushes off the accusation as Shuichi begins to pound on the door, demanding to be let in. Yuki calmly strolls out of the room before yelling at Shuichi to shut up already. Shuichi is...uh...well Shuichi is...I'll just let the picture do all the talking.

                                                     Why Shuichi? Just...why?

Now I'm not stranger to dressing in women's clothing myself but I have to wonder what Shuichi's mindset is. I don't think this is the appropriate time for something like this. Yuki just stares blankly at Shuichi for awhile before turning and walking away leaving a dejected Shuichi behind. Shuichi gives chase and shouts after Yuki, asking him why he's running away. Is it because he's a bad guy? Or just because he's a guy in general? Suddenly, I understand his mindset just a bit. He's dressing like a girl because he loves Yuki and he thinks Yuki hates him because he's a guy so he's dressed up like a girl in order to appeal to him. It's a warped way of thinking but in character for Shuichi. I would also like to mention that Yuki thinks Shuichi has really nice legs. Just because Yuki almost never compliments Shuichi. All of this excitement is too much for Shuichi who promptly pukes and passes out. He expects Yuki to be furious with him but instead he has a gentle look on his face which surprises Shuichi. Yuki tells him he passed out due to lack of rest and orders him to take it easy. Shuichi jumps up and says that since he's a guy he'll be alright and will just leave. Then Yuki shouts at him that he's had enough. Shuichi braces for impact and Yuki tells him that he doesn't care that Shuichi is a guy. That's not why he broke up with him. He's doing it because he's leaving.

That's where the chapter ends. Damn cliffhangers! And on a weekend too! Frustration! Well, at least we got a straight answer out of Yuki for once. He's leaving somewhere. There is no elaboration on what he means (we'll probably find out next chapter) but I'm guessing he's leaving the country and, as such, he didn't want to hurt Shuichi by getting involved with him and then leaving so he broke up with him. This was a STUPID move and he probably ended up hurting Shuichi worse over all but I'm willing to cut him a break if he explains himself well enough. I have to admit I loved seeing Yuki kick ass for Shuichi's sake and while Shuichi dressing in a schoolgirl outfit was bizarre it was completely hilarious and Shuichi does look good in it. I'm also intrigued by the hint to Yuki's past. Has he actually killed someone before? If so what's the story behind that? What were the circumstances? So many questions! Hopefully we'll get some answers.

That's all for this week of Yaoi Zowee! I hope everyone has a great weekend! On Monday we'll be looking at Gravitation: Track 15! See you then.

Gravitation: Track 11

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we're going to be looking at Gravitation: Track 11. The chapter starts off with Shuichi returning to Yuki's home at night (like he said he would in the last chapter) with a bag of groceries in hand, determined to make Yuki dinner. Yuki is skeptical of this and his skepticism is well founded since Shuichi only manages to cut himself while trying to make dinner. Yuki helps him out and the two sit down for a nice meal.

                                           Well, as nice as Yuki gets anyway.

Shuichi notes that it's easy to get good at cooking when you're the only one doing it for yourself and Yuki asks to see the cut on Shuichi's hand. Shuichi wants him to kiss it better but Yuki refuses, being more practical and bandaging it up. He cuts Shuichi's romantic thoughts short by ordering him to do the dishes to earn his keep. Shuichi wants to play the PSX with Yuki while all Yuki wants to do is get some work done. Yuki's patience is slowly being worn thin here and Shuichi is really overstepping his boundaries for only just having come to live with Yuki. All of this is interrupted by Tatsuha storming into the room, demanding to see Shuichi. He's angry that Shuichi got to have a duet with Ryuichi without being invited. While those two argue Mika storms in, angry at Tatsuha for...something. You know, this is the first time all three of these siblings have been in the same room together since the manga started. It's all short lived as Yuki loses his temper and throws all of them out.

Shuichi, Tatsuha, and Mika all meet up with Noriko and they all go to meet Ryuichi at the bar. Seguchi is there as well as Ryuichi and Tatsuha finally gets to meet him. We learn that Ryuichi only came back to Japan from Los Angeles because Noriko asked him too. Tatsuha pretends to be ill so that Ryuichi will help him and they'll get to spend some time together. Seguchi finds the whole thing pretty amusing, unlike Mika, who is just annoyed. For some reason, Seguchi gets really worked up when he discovers that Shuichi and Yuki are now living together.

                                              Woah...Settle down there Seguchi.

Mika takes responsibility for really being the one, along with Tatsuha, to get Shuichi kicked out. However, she also says point blank that Shuichi really doesn't know anything about Yuki which is very true. The scene shifts to Yuki and Mizuki. He was asked to read a manuscript (for editing purposes I would assume) and he's handing it back to her while she thanks him. She asks how things are going with Shuichi and Yuki denies having got into a fight with him. She's not buying it and tells him that if there's a misunderstanding they should work it out. After all, it takes two people to be in a good relationship. She leaves and Yuki thinks to himself about the situation. He's simply not used to living like this. Before he can have any more time to himself, Shuichi returns. Yuki apologizes for throwing him out and Shuichi tells him he didn't want to be an annoyance. Even though he doesn't know anything about Yuki he wants to hear about him from Yuki himself. Yuki reiterates that Shuichi can stay with him for one week, staring tomorrow. So I guess today was just going to be considered a practice day. Before Yuki can give Shuichi a kiss, he falls asleep, exhausted from the work he had to do.

The next day, Shuichi meets with Hiro, Noriko, and Sakano again, telling Hiro about his plans with Yuki. Noriko tells them to stop fooling around since they're going to be going on the game show soon. Sakano, obviously still nervous over what happened during the live show, asks them to please just stick to what they did in rehearsal. We also learn that Seguchi is going to be at the studio since ASK is also performing on a different program and since Seguchi is their producer, he's going to watch. A stage hand then tells them to get ready to be announced and they make their way to the studio. On the way there, they run into two guys from ASK.

                                            And they're total douchebags. Lovely.

 Hiro tries to get Shuichi to stay calm, but Shuichi doesn't even know who these two are and says as much. This causes one of them (they don't have names right now so let's just call them...Douche 1 and Douche 2. It'll be like Dr. Suess, only less whimsical) to get angry and man handle Shuichi. Shuichi is not having any of this nonsense and belts him one, right across the face. So much love Shuichi. So much love. Douche 2 jumps in to help his friend, grabbing Shuichi in a headlock but the whole thing is stopped by Noriko. The third member of the band comes in to further break the matter up, telling Shuichi he better watch himself. Shuichi takes offense at being treated like a kid and the third member responds that if he doesn't like it he can just get out. Shuichi is understandably angry at these jerks. He hates to be underestimated and that's exactly what these three are doing. I really, REALLY hope they get theirs in the end. I guess Bad Luck has made their first rival band!


As the game show gets under way, Sakano is freaking out. He had a bad feeling that something is going to go wrong, given Shuichi's track record and the fact that the broadcast is live. Noriko tells him to settle down, saying she's looking forward to the live music broadcast they'll be giving after the game show. Shuichi and Hiro whisper about what just happened and Shuichi is too annoyed to just let it go like Hiro suggests. As soon as the first question is asked, Shuichi buzzes in and says that they don't need the 1 million yen prize. If they win, he wants to sing a song.


So ends Track 11! I love this development. Shuichi has never been one to just do as he's told and take hits. He knows what he wants and he's working towards getting it in any way he can. I'm not sure if this is going to be allowed (though I don't see why anyone would object necessarily either) but if it is, then Bad Luck is taking a major step in their development. Maybe if they get more viewership than ASK they'll establish themselves as an actual threat.


Tune in next time for Gravitation Track 12! See you then.

Gravitation: Track 10

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! I trust you all had a fantastic weekend and are ready to jump back into Gravitation! Track 10 starts off with Shuichi freaking out about being inches away from his idol Ryuichi Sakuma. Shuichi has idolized Ryuichci since he was in elementary school when he borrowed a Nittle Grasper CD from Hiroshi. Now that he's finally meeting him, Shuichi asks for his autograph right there on stage. In the middle of his concert. Ryuichi, being similar to Shuichi as we all know, happily signs one for him. Luckily Noriko is able to keep her head and draws their attention back to the task at hand. The audience is excited to see Ryuichi but are confused about what Shuichi said. Ryuichi thinks fast and explains that this is all part of a dare that Shuichi had to participate in. He explains that Yuki is a little rabbit puppet and audience buys it, thinking the whole thing is adorable. Yuki himself...is not amused. But really, it all too hilarious to feel sorry for him. This is the first time Yuki's been in a position like this and I can't stop laughing. And yet, even though Yuki seems angry about what happened, he gives himself away in a single panel.

                                             A genuine smile from Yuki. It's a rare thing.

Ryuichi gets Noriko to play a new song and everyone wings it, making up an impromptu song on the spot. Shuichi can't quite believe his luck, getting to perform with Ryuichi. It's a dream come true for him. Not everyone is happy however as Sakano's carefully planned concert, the live show meant to debut Bad Luck, has been shattered beyond repair. Sakano is worried about being fired and, even worse for him, Seguchi has come back from vacation to see the concert. Sakano apologizes for his shortcomings and Seguchi is quick to comfort him, telling him that this turn of events wasn't his fault. Ryuichi, who was meant to only take the stage during the encore, has always done things his own way and Shuichi and Hiro have gained valuable experience in how to handle unexpected events. Sakano thanks Seguchi for his kindness and I find that I really like Seguchi. He always seems to have a nice thing to say and is always encouraging everyone. He's a really amazing guy!
 
Ryuichi gets some applause and decides to leave the rest of the concert up to Bad Luck, where they will be singing their new single. However, before he leaves he decides to sing a song for them as a token of good luck. What comes next is two pages of Ryuichi singing but since we can't actually hear him singing all we see is him in various poses while everyone looks on in awe.

                                                   He's...awesome? I guess?
Yeah, I'm sure this would be a heck of a lot more effective in the anime. Either way, Shuichi is made painfully aware of the gap between Ryuichi and himself. With the concert over, Noriko rails Shuichi and Ryuichi for their idiocy while they both desperately try to apologize. Shuichi feels especially bad about it. A stage hand comes back stage to tell Shuichi that a girl is here to see him and, of course, it's Ayaka. Shuichi asks what she wants and she apologizes for being so rude to him last time. I knew it! I knew Ayaka wasn't a bad person! Hooray validation! She says that she doesn't want Shuichi to hold a grudge against her because they are the same. No matter if Yuki is a boy or a girl or if Ayaka is his fiance or Shuichi is his lover. They both love Yuki as a person and that's what matters. Of course, that being said, Ayaka is not going to just take the back seat and let Shuichi take Yuki away from her! And just like that, this situation was turned into awkward and uncomfortable to romantic comedy hilarity. I am completely on board with this. If nothing else, it's going to keep Shuichi actively pursuing Yuki.

The next day Shuichi goes to see Yuki, with all his luggage strangely enough, and almost immediately clings to him and says he doesn't want to go home. He desperately begs Yuki to allow him to stay at his house. Yuki is, obviously, resistant to this sudden and violent request demanding to know why Shuichi wants to stay with him and Shuichi tells him he doesn't want anyone else to be near him besides Shuichi. Yuki finally tells Shuichi what makes him so special to him, namely that he's not looking for sex, money, or fame. This makes Shuichi happy and Yuki comes to a decision.

                                            What have you gotten yourself into Yuki?

 
Shuichi runs off, saying he'll be back later that night and goes to meet with Hiro. He's in a super good mood and Hiro asks if something happened with Yuki and Shuichi isn't telling. Sakano then comes in with some good news. Their single is doing well AND they have a TV appearance coming up. Shuichi and Hiro are extremely excited about this news but there's a catch. They're not going on TV to sing, they're going on a game show. Apparently the producer of the show saw their live show and thought they were interesting and invited them to be on the show. Shuichi and Hiro are still up for it, since, even if it is just for a game show, it will still be Bad Luck's first TV appearance.

And that brings Track 10 to a close! Three important things happened in this chapter after the culmination of the concert. One, Ayaka officially acknowledges Shuichi as her rival in love and is looking forward to seeing how hard he fights for Yuki. Two, Shuichi is moving in with Yuki for a trial period of a week. Three, Bad Luck is going to appear on a TV game show. We also got the hint of something that I think will come up again later, namely Shuichi realizing how big of a gap there is between him and Ryuichi. At least I hope that becomes a point. It'll probably show up after we deal some more with Shuichi's personal life. It seems to alternate between Shuichi's personal life issues and his professional issues.

That's it for Yaoi Zowee this weeks! Tune in tomorrow for Gravitation: Track 11! See you then.

Gravitation: Track 9

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Gravitation: Track 9. The chapter opens with Tatsuha calling Ayaka's mother in Kyoto to let her know that her daughter is okay. Maiko appears with Ayaka who is wearing one of Maiko's shirts, since Ayaka came down from Kyoto with only the clothes on her back. Shuichi had to tell Maiko that Ayaka was looking for her long lost brother since if he had mentioned Yuki's name both her and their mother would have wanted to tag along to meet him. In payment for giving Ayaka one of her shirts, Shuichi gives Maiko a clipping of Yuki's hair and one of his cigarette butts. That...is creepy and gross but Maiko's happy reaction is pretty hilarious so I'm not all that bothered by it. Shuichi mentions that there are a lot of girls like Maiko out there who dream of Yuki, including himself but Ayaka is the only one who is in a position to have everything he has to offer.

Shuichi goes to confront Yuki about it but, like most things, he's completely dismissive of her and the situation in general. This annoys Shuichi who tells him it's rude to not see her after she came all this way to see him. Yuki asks a very obvious question: Why is Shuichi, Yuki's lover, helping out Ayaka, Yuki's fiance? Shuichi deflects the question by demanding to know where he ranks in Yuki's affection since his beeper is going off constantly and he always smells like perfume. Yuki says that Shuichi ranks number one which, as expected, makes him practically melt with happiness. They argue some more about the amount of lovers Yuki may or may not have (I believe that Yuki has no other relationships but it is possible he has a lot of one night stands. It's hard to say and Yuki is usually frustratingly coy about these things) until Tatsuha ushers Ayaka in to reunite with Yuki. Ayaka is incredibly nervous and embarrassed meeting with Yuki and I can't say I blame her. He is rather intimidating. Ayaka, however, already has an idea of what Yuki is going to be like and has her rose tinted glasses firmly in place.

                                                           You poor, sweet fool

Yuki acts like a perfect gentleman, greeting her with a smile before putting his arm around her shoulder and leading her away deeper into the house as Shuichi watches on. He admits to himself that he had hoped Yuki would have acted a bit more cold with her. This is Shuichi's downfall. He's a really nice guy and he wants to do what's right. It's just unfortunate that, in this instance, doing what was right is in direct contrast to what he himself wants for himself. Shuichi is going to have to learn that, in regards to Yuki, he has to act in the best interest of the relationship in order to make it work. Tatsuha tells him to stop being so depressed. He knows Yuki and it was clear to him that he was just trying to torment Shuichi. Tatsuha asks Shuichi why he thinks Yuki would do that. Shuichi knows that Yuki likes to act this way and that he knows even as a number one lover he can't really compete with a fiance. Tatsuha is quick to let Shuichi know that he's not the only one who loves Yuki for Yuki and not because of his fame, money, or plain sex. Ayaka is the same way. That makes her even MORE of an interesting obstacle to the relationship! We're going to find out exactly where Yuki's love interests truly lie.

The next day Noriko is one more pressing hard for Shuichi and Hiro to practice. They are going to make their live debut in a week (which means their CD has already been released...and we haven't heard a single word about how successful or not it was) and she wants to make sure they're ready. Shuichi and Hiro are kind of slow to get going but all Noriko has to say is that Ryuichi might be there to kick Shuichi's ass into high gear. She already knows exactly how to motivate Shuichi. It's a wonderful thing. Before they can get back to practicing, Ayaka shows up again to see Shuichi. Yuki told her everything about Shuichi. She says that two men doing what they're doing is "low classed" and she told Shuichi not to see Yuki ever again. I'm inclined to let loose an emotional tirade and defame her but lets look at this from her point of view. How would you feel if your fiance was seeing some random person behind your back? You'd want to make sure he was scarce too. This is also exactly the kind of catalyst that Shuichi needs. If he truly does love Yuki he won't let this stand in his way.

Immediately after Shuichi gets done talking with Ayaka, he races to talk to Yuki. He demands to know if tormenting him is really this fun and Yuki responds that, yes, of course it is. Oh Yuki. It's amazing how you have the same attitude and yet I love you so much more than I did when this thing started out. Yuki, ever the voice of reason, tells Shuichi that the only reason Ayaka is here is because he brought her here. Shuichi tries to resist Yuki's charms but is ultimately unable to. And then BAM! Sex. Poor Shuichi just can't stay mad at Yuki. It's too cute for words. Shuichi asks Yuki if he really likes Ayaka and he responds that he's not sure. In this situation, it doesn't matter if Yuki likes her or not. He's annoyed that the marriage was arranged by his father for the sake of the temple without consulting Yuki's opinion on the matter. He is expected to just do it because it's his duty. Yuki wants to know why he has to answer this questions which annoys Shuichi.

                                     Now if you could actually SAY that to him, you'd be golden

The scene shifts to the day of the live show and Shuichi addresses the gathered crowd, telling them about their new CD which is going to be released including their debut song "No Style". As Bad Luck performs, Shuichi notices Ayaka in the crowd with Yuki and gets nervous, forgetting the lyrics. He manages to get a hold of himself deciding that it doesn't matter if Ayaka is Yuki's fiance. They're both the same in that they love him. Halfway through the song, as Ryuichi is approaching the stage to help Shuichi out since Sakano thinks he looks nervous, Shuichi suddenly stops and asks the audience if he can say something. The single greatest thing to happen yet in this manga then happens.

                                                                Hell. Yeah.

There is so much to like about this scene. Yuki's expression is priceless. You just know that he never in his wildest dreams expected something like this. I love that Shuichi is actually standing up for himself and what he loves and he's willing to fight for Yuki even if he gets annoyed with him and fights a lot. Lastly, and this is a more subtle detail, I like Ayaka's expression. It's not outrage or anger or mortification at what Shuichi's saying. It's more bemused, like she's realizing that Yuki will never be hers and she should step down. This is probably not the optimal situation for her either.  She's in the same position as Yuki after all, part of an arranged marriage that she has no control over with a man she hardly knows. I have this feeling that people are quick to demonize her character simply because she's the "woman in the way" and that makes me sad because Ayaka seems like such a kind and gentle person. It's disheartening to know that there are probably "fans" out there who label her as a bitch and a whore (which is especially ironic considering that Yuki himself is a bit of a manwhore but that's okay apparently because he's a cute guy. Ugly, ugly double standards). Rant/. Anyway Ryuichi gets up onstage in order to help salvage the show so Sakano doesn't go ballistic over what Shuichi did and the chapter ends there.

Track 9 wasn't as exciting as Track 8 but it still nicely progressed Shuichi and Yuki's relationship. I feel that Shuichi, as he gets used to Yuki, is more willing to call him out for his cold and rough behavior while Yuki is helping Shuichi to grow a pair. No matter what happens between Yuki and Ayaka there is going to be some major fallout. Shuichi better watch himself.

This brings the second week of Yaoi Zowee to a close! I hope everyone is enjoying reading the blog and has a nice weekend. Monday we'll be picking up again with Gravitation: Track 10! See you then. 

Gravitation: Track 8

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Track 8, which is also the last chapter in the second volume! Let's keep the ball rolling shall we? The chapter opens with Noriko reminiscing about the she was in Nittle Grasper (nope, never going to like that name but I will stop mentioning it). Ryuichi Sakuma was on vocals, Tohma Seguchi and Noriko Ukai were on keyboards. Ryuichi is currently pursuing a solo career, Seguchi is a record executive, and Noriko is now joining up with Bad Luck. When Noriko mentioned that Shuichi's vocals were similar to Ryuichi's, it made what was already quite clear even more obvious. For awhile now Seguchi and Noriko have noted how similar Ryuichi and Shuichi are (and their names are even similar now that I look at them side by side like that). Bad Luck is pretty much a second generation Nittle Grasper. I'm a little worried that they might follow in the same footsteps, breaking apart after awhile. Hopefully that won't happen.

                                                         They even look the same!

 Noriko is...less than enthused about Shuichi's vocals. She outright tells him that he's ruining her song while Hiro and Sakano look on. Noriko seems to be a perfectionist and she's not letting Shuichi go until he gets it right. Shuichi tries to sing it again but his voice gives out and they decide to take a break. Shuichi complains about being worked so hard but Sakano says that the reason Noriko is pushing him so hard is because he reminds her of Ryuichi. This excites Shuichi and causes Noriko to whip a can of soda at Sakano. She clarifies that the only way Shuichi reminds her of Ryuichi is how foolish they both are. True to Shuichi's personality, this still excites him. He's just happy that any part of him is like Ryuichi. Hiro says that he's exhausted and decides to go home and Shuichi asks to go home with him. Through this conversation we discover that Shuichi is living on his own and wants to go home with Hiro tonight. Hiro asks how things are going with Yuki and Shuichi and we discover that Shuichi hasn't really talked much to Hiro about his relationship. Hiro wants to meet Yuki and Shuichi warns him to keep his hands off Yuki. Hiro says he has no interest in him and they walk home together.

Back in the recording studio, Noriko and Sakano discuss Shuichi. She likes his singing voice but thinks his personality could use some work. They discuss Shuichi's and Hiro's first single and say that it's going to be released on the 10th of next month. Their live debut would be soon after that. Noriko doesn't think their live debut will be any good as it is, saying that ASK will not be outdone by them. So she has a plan to hire an arranger and because it's coming as an order from the producer, the people organizing it will have no choice but to obey. The scene shifts back to Shuichi and Hiro traveling to Yuki's place so that Hiro can meet Yuki. We also learn that Shuichi moved into an apartment closer to Yuki's place so that they would be closer together though he doesn't admit this to Hiro even though he already figured it out. While they're searching, they see a woman getting accosted by two men. She's just looking for directions but the two insist on taking her out somewhere.

                                                                 A new face

Shuichi and Hiro drive away the two in their own special way (namely, acting completely ridiculous, Shuichi forcibly signing his name on one of their faces, and then beating the crap out of them which is completely awesome. I love you Shuichi!) which causes the girl to faint. They take her to get something to eat in a place less crowded and she thanks them. We discover that her name is Ayaka, she's a high school student, and that she was wandering around that place so late at night because she was looking for someone.
Worried for her, Hiro suggests that she go home but she says she can't because she lives in Kyoto and it's too late to take the train. Hiro then offers her a place to stay at his home for a few days. Ayaka refuses to go home until she meets the person she's looking for. Shuichi decides to leave on his own to visit Yuki and is happy to see that the lights are on in Yuki's house. He rings the bell and Yuki is taking too long for him so he gets annoyed and hammers on the door until Yuki comes to answer it. Just hearing his voice is enough to make his anger go away and he's determined to take the initiative tonight. However, someone unexpected answers the door.

                                           Okay, so I was off by one chapter, give me a break!

Yes, Tatsuha Uesugi has finally made his appearance. Why the different last name I hear you ask (and no, I don't care if you didn't actually ask)? Lest we forget, Yuki Eiri is a pen name. This is the first time Shuichi learns of this. Shuichi suddenly remembers that he still has the Nittle Grasper tape that belongs to Tatsuha and hands it back over to him. Tatsuha is ecstatic to have it back and even kisses the cover. He REALLY likes Ryuichi. Shuichi is super excited about finding another big Ryuichi fan. Tatsuha notices what about three other characters have already discovered: Shuichi is a lot like Ryuichi. This...takes a bit of a darker turn as Tatsuha gets a bit touchy feely with Shuichi. Saying he smells like Ryuichi (which is true since Shuichi is imitating him, using the same shampoo and emulating his hairstyle) and that Ryuichi probably feels like Shuichi does too. Tatsuha suggest they have sex and they can pretend they're other people (Shuichi is to Ryuichi as Tatsuha is to Yuki) but Shuichi adamantly refuses.

Luckily Yuki arrives in time to save the day. Yuki and Tatsuha talk for awhile about various things while Shuichi comments that Yuki and Tatsuha are incredibly alike. Seriously, look at Tatsuha's picture up there. He's pretty much just a black haired Yuki. They have a pretty good relationship despite the fact that, when they were kids, Yuki would always be mistaken for a foreigner thanks to his pale eyes and hair while Tatsuha never had to worry about that. Shuichi asks Tatsuha how old he is and Tatsuha responds that he's a sixteen year old monk. So he's two years younger than Shuichi despite looking like Yuki. Yuki finally gets fed up with Tatsuha and asks why he came there. He admits that he's looking for someone, a young girl with long hair from Kyoto. Ayaka Usami. This, of course, shocks Shuichi.

The next day at the recording studio, Shuichi brings Tatsuha along with him so that he can see Ayaka and yells at Hiro who didn't answer any of his calls the previous night. Luckily, Hiro brought Ayaka along too since she wanted to see them record. Tatsuha tells her it's time for her to go home since she's causing an uproar there by her absence and she continues to refuse to return until she meets with the person she's looking for. Turns out that she's not looking for Tatsuha but instead Yuki. And then the bomb is dropped on Shuichi.

                                                                     Oh crap

 And so ends Track 8. All I can say is thank God this isn't Friday. Because I could not stand waiting a whole weekend to see what happens next. This was a fantastic chapter. I love what Noriko brings to the group even if she wasn't featured as much in the chapter. She's a professional who has experience working in a band which is going to be incredibly helpful to Hiro and Shuichi who have absolutely no experience whatsoever in the professional world. Ayaka brings the first major obstacle in Yuki and Shuichi's relationship. We've known that Yuki had a fiance for awhile now, thanks to conversations other characters have had with and about Yuki. Shuichi, on the other hand, had no idea. This is a major blow to his confidence since he doesn't know that Yuki wants nothing to do with her. I'm not passing any kind of judgment on Ayaka just yet since we have no idea what her stakes in this situation are. I've got to say though, this was a fantastic chapter.

Tune in tomorrow for Gravitation: Track 9 which starts off volume 3! See you then.

Gravitation: Track 7

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Yaoi Zowee! Today we'll be looking at Gravitation: Track 7. We left off with Shuichi and Hiro meeting with Sakano after the they performed at the graduation ceremony. Shuichi is wondering where exactly this guy came from with such an offer and Sakano explains that when he arrived at the airport, Mika was there holding his luggage hostage until he saw "something interesting", forcing him to watch Shuichi and Hiro perform. I knew there was a reason I liked Mika! She is all kinds of awesome! Apparently, since the live show, Sakano was promoted from manager of Seguchi's band Nittle Grasper (subtitled N-G...what does Nittle Grasper even mean? I can't take something seriously when it's name is that ridiculous) to head manager. If I'm reading this right, Nittle Grasper broke up awhile ago (this is according to Shuichi who is a N-G fanboy) and now Seguchi has his own record label called N-G records. Okay, I understand their place in the story much better now. Shuichi is ridiculously excited about this opportunity but Sakano is quick to let them know that, even though they have promise, N-G records has millions of hits. Nothing in the professional world is a guarantee. The biggest issue that Sakano and Seguchi has with Bad Luck is Shuichi's skills relating to the synthesizer. He's not very good. So now they have a new mission! Get a keyboard player!

Hiro and Shuichi drive away (on Hiro's motorcycle no less!) with Shuichi angry about his keyboard skills being called into question. Shuichi is insistent that his synthesizer skills are good enough and Hiro half agrees with him. Shuichi still doesn't want to get a new keyboardist and the conversation turns to Shuichi's singing. Hiro encourages him to sing more during their songs (as this is a manga, I have no idea what any of their songs sound like. Another reason to see the anime!) and Shuichi agrees.

The scene shifts and Shuichi is telling Yuki about what happened. Yuki is less than impressed, calling N-G's judgment into question while Shuichi yells at Yuki for being a bully.

                                                      The voice of reason

Shuichi suddenly notices a Nittle Grasper (seriously, I keep wanting to type "little" since that would at least make SOME sense) video tape. It's apparently of an ultra rare live show that isn't sold anywhere and it's something that Shuichi has been trying to find for ages. Yuki carelessly mentions that it belongs to his brother Tatsuha (any bets we'll be seeing him this chapter? Anyone? Anyone?) who left it there. Shuichi thinks that Tatsuha is really lucky to have it and Yuki says that he can watch it if he likes. Shuichi wastes no time in popping it in. Shuichi is an extremely big fan of Ryuichi Sakuma who played the keyboards in Nittle Grasper before they broke up. Yuki, forced to watch with Shuichi, says he thought Shuichi was a big fan of Seguchi. Shuichi says that he wanted to become more than just a fan of Seguchi. He wanted to become a man like Seguchi. Yuki warns him that though he's nice on the outside, he's brutal on the inside. Yuki still thinks that Shuichi is too naive (and I have to agree with him. I'm a little worried about Shuichi stepping into a world like this) and Shuichi says that he'll settle down. Yuki rewards him for this.

                                                         Squeeeeeeeeeee

Yuki starts getting more intimate with Shuichi who initially starts freaking out. Why is he freaking out? Because he doesn't want to get involved with Yuki until he's sure that Yuki actually, truly, wants to be involved with him. He asks if Yuki will take responsibility and he pretty much answers "Duh. Of course! You're my lover". Hooray! Yuki admits it! We have an official couple at last! So Yuki lays him down on the floor and Shuichi suddenly sees Seguchi singing on the tape. He tells Yuki that even though he's not at Seguchi's level now he intends to surpass him one day. Yuki, a bit too sexed up to really listen, starts having his way with Shuichi though, in the tradition of most yaoi manga, it's all more implied rather than actually shown. Shuichi finishes way too early for Yuki, due to his inexperience, and strips off his shirt, moving in for round two. Shuichi says this isn't what he wants, confusing Yuki. Here is the fundamental difference between Shuichi and Yuki. Shuichi is young and wants something from Yuki. Yuki immediately assumes it's sexual gratification. But Shuichi wants something more than that.  The manga doesn't explicitly say what it is, but sex doesn't make a deep relationship and I think that's more of what Shuichi wants. This makes me think, even more now, that something happened in Yuki's past that somehow screwed with his perception of relationships, like he some kind of bad experience.

The next day, Seguchi is waiting around in an airport for the arrival of Sakano and a woman that we haven't yet seen named Noriko. She is impressed at how far Seguchi has come since his days in Nittle Grasper. Apparently he's had the most success out of his former band mates. Talk turns to Ryuichi and we learn that Ryuichi was the first one to call Seguchi "Genius Tohma" (The word genius in Japanese doesn't always mean "incredibly intelligent" but is used in a more general sense, relating to someone who is incredibly skilled at their profession or pursuits) which is apparently some kind of nickname that people use since Shuichi called him that too.

                                         Maybe I should call myself a Genius Blogger? ...Nah

The scene shifts back to Yuki and Shuichi post coitus and Shuichi is acting like a kicked dog since he said he didn't want to have sex but Yuki still had sex with him at least three times. Now normally this would be creepy and rapey and no one wants that. But Yuki says that he actually DID stop and Shuichi had cried. So Shuichi keeps saying he doesn't want it...but he totally does. You're killing me here Shuichi. Yuki tells Shuichi that he hates seeing him cry and asks him what he can do to make Shuichi happy. This, of course, is what makes Shuichi happy. Yuki showing that he cares, admitting that Shuichi is his love, and asking how he can make him happy. Awww. They're turning out to be such a cute couple.

The next day, Hiro and Shuichi meet with Seguchi and he tells them that while he admits Shuichi is good with vocals, Bad Luck needs a new keyboardist. Someone he calls "unique". Feeling apprehensive, Hiro asks what he means by that and Seguchi responds that he had to persuade her to drop her work in northern Japan to work where they are so they should treat her nicely. And of course it doesn't take a genius (of any kind) to figure out who this new keyboardist is. Noriko happily introduces herself to the shock of Hiro and Shuichi and the chapter comes to a close.

This chapter introduced what I think is a fundamental aspect of Shuichi and Yuki's relationship. Shuichi is energetic, boisterous, and a dreamer while Yuki is more calm, collected, and down to earth. They balance each other, Yuki keeping Shuichi in check and Shuichi, likewise, warming Yuki's coldness. In these later chapters Yuki seems like less of a dick and more just plain snarky, poking fun at Shuichi so that he doesn't get a big head or do something reckless. It's amazing how the same nasty things he says no longer seem nasty in the context of their relationship. It helps that we have had 7 chapters to get to know Yuki as he is. Noriko is obviously going to remain as a major character and I'm interested to see how she interacts with Hiro and Shuichi and how the band dynamic is going to be affected. I have no opinion on her personality right now since I haven't really seen much of her. And Tatsuha didn't show up. So much for my prediction.

Tomorrow we'll be looking at Gravitation: Track 8! See you then.