Reimei no Arcana -Dawn of the Arcana- [Chapter 4]
Saturday, June 13, 2009

The scene starts with Caesar holding Nakaba and saying, “Nakaba..you’re cute, you..” Startled, Nakaba wakes up and she feels sick. Loki comes in with her breakfast. He greets her a good morning and asks what happened to her [because she probably looks pale]. Nakaba goes back to bed and says that she is just a bit tired because of a nightmare. Nakaba thinks that it is definitely because Caesar hugged her before. She wonders what up with that guy [Caesar]. She hears Ceasar saying, “--Hey.” She covers her ears and thinks that she has suddenly, imagined that guy’s voice. She then looks surprised and looks up to see Caesar standing near her by the bed. He asks if she is feeling unwell. He looks closer and says that her face is red. She quickly moves away and covers herself with a blanket. She exclaims that it is nothing, she is okay. She then turns to looks at him. She asks why he came there. Gesturing to the door, Caesar laughs and exclaims that she’ll be so happy that she’ll cry tears of joy. The door opens and some half-human kids bring in some things – a gown, shoes, some jewelry, etc. With folded arms, Caesar happily exclaims that these are his gifts for her. Blushing a bit, Caesar says that the poor her will look good a bit if she wears them. Nakaba is speechless and asks him if he did that specially for her. “Yes.” “All of it? Are they all new?” “Of course.” To Caesar’s surprise, Nakaba shouts, “Take all of those things back!” Turning around, Nakaba says that it’s a waste of money and she doesn’t need this kind of things. To Nakaba’s surprise, Caesar holds the gown then starts ripping it. He tells her that it is just so like her to totally not know the value of things. Caesar looks away with folded arms [like a kid] as Nakaba shouts that he also shouldn’t rip it. “What are you thinking..bringing those things here?” She wonders if he wants her to wear it so that he’ll laugh at her if it doesn’t suit her or he’s giving them to her so that he can make a fool out of her. “He’s such a detestable guy!”

Loki picks up the torn up gown and tells Nakaba not to be that angry. Nakaba tries to protest but Loki tells her that it is normal for a guy to give things to a girl and since it is from the royal family, it is definitely very exquisite. He takes out a needle and starts sewing the town gown. “But, a guy who wants the girl to dress up how he wants to, that is egoism.” Caesar is surprised and says, “What..” Loki finishes sewing and says, “—But, no matter what, Princess Nakaba is Princess Nakaba, [everything] definitely suits her.” He puts the gown on top of Nakaba to make her see that it suits her. Loki smiles and says, “See.” Nakaba blushes and agrees with him. She thinks that Loki is really nice to her. This made Caesar jealous that he grabs her braided hair and says that poor dress [she’s wearing] still suits her best. This made Nakaba angry that she shouts that it hurts and quit pulling her hair. She then gives him a slap on the face. She shouts that she doesn’t need the gown nor the jewelry so take them back. This surprises Caesar that he leaves her room. Belias is waiting for him outside. He asks Caesar what he is doing. Touching his slapped face, Caesar tells him to shut up. Nakaba goes to Loki and hugs him for comfort. She exclaims to him that she hates Caesar and it is quite puzzling and it is definitely because Caesar is childish. At the throne room, King Conan asks someone if he has already investigated where Nakaba grew up. The man says that just as Conan has thought, Nakaba is Senan’s first princess Titania’s illegitimate daughter. [I guessed her name ^^; In Chinese, it is ‘si-tai-ya’] Because Titania had eloped, this has been quite a scandal before so the royal family didn’t let this become publicly known. The man hasn’t finished his report but the king tells him that is enough and there’s no need to tell him more about it. The man is puzzled. Conan says, that she [Titania] has eloped with a man from that ‘tribe’ then gave birth to a girl. “This thing called fate can really trick [make fun of] people.”

Later on, Caesar wearing a cape is pulling Nakaba to come with him. Nakaba asks what is it now and where are they going. Caesar tells him that they are going street shopping. At the town square, Caesar is walking around with Nakaba to different merchant stores. He has put the hood of his cape on his head so that people won’t recognize him but his necklace + medallion is quite visible. Nakaba is surprised when a merchant calls out to her and says that a beautiful red haired girl such as her suits to wear a red embroidered outfit. Caesar asks if she wants to buy it. Nakaba says she doesn’t need it. Soon, they pass by different merchants selling her shoes, necklace, hair accessory, etc but Nakaba just kept on declining by saying that she doesn’t need them. After a while, Nakaba gloomily thinks that street shopping is too tiring. Caesar says that she declined everything so what does she want. This puzzles Nakaba. She is even more puzzled when Caesar told her that she is quite stubborn. With a slightly troubled look, Caesar asks, “Hey, what should I do..” Nakaba turns around and exclaims that she doesn’t want anything and she doesn’t want him to do anything for her. Caesar is a bit sad about this. In the carriage, the two sit a bit apart from each other in silence as they ride the way back to the castle. Nakaba looks out the window then sees something. She asks the driver to stop. She goes down and Caesar shouts from the carriage what it is. Nakaba picks up a bird [pigeon] and tells Caesar that it is injured. Caesar who is now standing behind her says that it must be caused by some animal. She looks at him and asks, “Can I bring it home?” Caesar is speechless as Nakaba looks at him with a pleading look. He looks away, slightly blushing then says, “Let me think about it, why don’t you try calling my name while asking me.” Nakaba says, “..Ha? ..although I don’t understand..then..Caesar, please.” To her surprise, he smiles and says, “Okay, [as] I promised.” Nakaba blushes a bit then bows while thanking him. Then, the pigeon coos. The two are surprised. Nakaba then smiles and thanks him again. With a bit surprised look, Caesar says, “..like that, just because of that, can actually make you happy..” This surprises Nakaba. He then turns around and says that they should go back. As they ride at the carriage, Nakaba wonders if Caesar gave her that weird outfit, and accompanied her to street shopping just to make her happy. “But, why..? I still..don’t get it.”

Nakaba returns and is greet by Loki who was worried about her since he suddenly can’t find her. He had asked the soldiers and they told him that she went out with Prince Caesar for street shopping. “Did anything happen?” Still holding the pigeon, she says that she is alright. When he asked about the bird, Nakaba tells him that it is injured so she brought it back. He left to get some medical kit just as Nakaba ordered. She goes to the table where Caesar’s gifts are left. She is surprised to notice that the gown has red embroidery. The stones on the rings are red. The color of the shoes is red. The hat is red. She felt like crying. Loki goes back in and says that he has brought the medical kit. He is surprised when Nakaba suddenly hugs him. He asks her why she is crying. Nakaba says, “Because I..it’s the first time..I received this kind of gifts.” [I think] Loki says that it should be suitable for her because those things are made just for her. Narration: “At this time, perhaps I was a bit excited [happy], so I start to forget..forget that this is the enemy’s country. Not long after, something will happen. If only I can foresee it even for a little bit..” At the hallway, Nakaba carries the bandaged pigeon and calls out Caesar’s name. Caesar is walking ahead while Loki is following behind Nakaba. Nakaba shows the bird to Caesar and tells him that it is goint to be well soon. Caesar smiles and says, “Really, that’s good.” Nakaba smiles back and says, “Yes.” Narration: “then, I won’t be doing any kind of smiling towards this person.” Nakaba is surprised when someone calls out her name. Belias is shouting to someone. It is a half-human [sheep?] kid who calls out her name. Nakaba exclaims, “Leith” [Haha, sorry, it is another guesswork name. In Chinese, it is ‘Li-te’. I checked around it is used for calling ‘lite usb’ or ‘leet’ of Fleet. Since ‘Light’ isn’t a usual name, I look at names close to ‘leet’ so it’s Leith for now. ^^;] Nakaba tries to ask why he is there. Before Leith can answer, Caesar holds him up and asks what’s with this little one. Waving his arms, Leith exclaims for him to let go. Belias tells Caesar that half-human will become Nakaba’s attendant and he was brought there from Senan. Caesar drops Leith and says, “Attedant?” Nakaba and Leith call out each other’s name. Leith says that it is because he did his very best. Narration: “This child, is going to turn the gears of fate, a link [chain]...”

I find it amusing that she considers Caesar calling her cute as a nightmare. A very good start for a chapter on how her perception of Caesar changed by the end of the chapter. I think this chapter is just the set-up of what is yet to come since that kid is now introduced = the main cast is complete. The kid is shown in the cover of the magazine before. This chapter is also a set-up of Nakaba letting her guard down and as she mentioned, she forgot that she is in enemy territory so probably what will happen in the future would take her by surprise and from the way she hinted, it seems that she will come to dislike Caesar again or maybe his family or everything about that country. It does seem that Nakaba isn’t used to people being nice to her other than Loki so she thinks that what is Caesar doing has an ulterior motive. She can’t help it since before that hugging scene, he has been teasing her and looking down on her. She didn’t realize that he has already somewhat changed because of her. It seems that she lived a secluded life because she isn’t used to shopping. Well, she isn’t into material things so declining those things one after another can be tiring. Just as Caesar thought, it seems she is hard to please but it really takes simple things to make her happy. A pet bird is enough to make her happy and it doesn’t cost Caesar a single cent. I wonder if that bird pigeon will be their means of communicating later on. =P I think his feelings for her shows through the extent that he would go out of his way just for her to shop in town after she declines his gifts. I think it somewhat shows his perseverance if he wants to achieve or do something. Just as Nakaba mentioned, he does seem to be a bit childish and I think a bit arrogant that is why Nakaba thought he is just trying to pick a fight with her. ^^; I think Caesar needs to get some tips from Loki on how to treat a girl. Loki is also a sweet talker. It seems that he is an all-around man – can fight and even do housework. Those are all his good points and his only ‘bad’ point would be probably just his race. In the last chapter, Nakaba has a change of clothes, then in this chapter, it is Caesar, who looks good in black, by the way. I hope that in the next chapter, Loki will also get a change of clothes ^^ Loki’s true feelings for Nakaba is a bit of a puzzle. Is he supporting her to be with Caesar or not? Nakaba seems to think of him as a ‘brother’ or someone whom she can cry on or tell her feelings. I still think that whom Nakaba will end up with will be the same as Boku wa Kiss de Uso wo Tsuku. This is like a continuation but a different setting. =P Then, the king has finally confirmed his theory about Nakaba. I think it isn’t good for Nakaba since not only she is somewhat whom Conan wanted to eradicate but it turns out, she is just some illegitimate daughter of the princess who eloped. It’s like Senan just gave an ‘unwanted’ princess for their truce. I guess Conan is going to think of some reason for him to kill off Nakaba and maybe, Leith is going to be use for that. It is too much of a coincidence that he is going to be sent there from the enemy country and he knows Nakaba. Also, it turns out that it is Nakaba’s father is from that tribe. It seems that his bloodline is stronger so she inherited the ‘power’ and the hair color. I guess Titania’s family didn’t care that she got killed by the enemy soldiers because she is a disgrace. I wonder if Nakaba’s father is still alive and how did she ends up in the palace if he is still alive. Anyway, if Conan starts to plot some evil machinations against Nakaba, will Caesar side with her or his family? That will be something to look forward to. ^^

Reimei no Arcana -Dawn of the Arcana- [Chapter 3]
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

As Caesar leaves for his duel, Nakaba looks at her hands and wonders why she became so uneasy because of him that she tried to stop him. Caesar is quite pleased as he holds his cape where Nakaba grabbed hold it. He thinks that uneasy expression and look of hers is not bad. “I'll make you watch a Belquat's battle of the knights.” He duels with his brother, Cain. The people are awed by the fight and think it is because it is they are Lord Caesar and Cain. Nakaba is really nervous. Then, Caesar manages to injure Cain's left shoulder. Cain comments that Caesar is quite enthusiastic. “Is it because the red haired princess is watching?” Caesar is a bit puzzled but he just tells his brother to concentrate on the fight. Cain taunts Caesar that there could be something more between that princess and her half-human servant. “They are so close to each other..and both are young. Ha..I empathize with you, I never thought that your princess is committing adultery with a half-human..” This made Caesar angry that he charges at Cain while shouting, “Brother..!” Caesar defeats Cain who has fallen off his horse. Cain can only curse. Caesar tells him, “So, I've told you that you should just concentrate on the fight.” Cain is frustrated.

Nakaba looks out of the tent to see Belias. She asks him if that has determined that guy is the winner. Belias is a bit surprised and says that she doesn't seem to understand but it is Caesar who won. Nakaba says is that so. Caesar is then shouting his challenge to everyone there who would fight against him. Nakaba asks Belias that wasn't Caesar the champion already. “So isn't it finished yet?” Belias says that it is over but that is just for formality but the truth is no one would challenge him. Someone then shouts, “Prince Caesar!” Everyone looks at the commotion to see Loki riding on a horse. Loki shouts for Caesar to have a duel with him to know who is the winner. Nakaba and Belias are surprised to see Loki. A soldier asks the king if he should arrest Loki. Conan tells him to wait. He asks Loki what does he want. Loki says that if he defeats Prince Caesar, he asks to be forgiven of his crime of brandishing his sword in front of His majesty. “And also, let me serve and be at Princess Nakaba's side once again.” After thinking for a while, the king grants his request. A soldier gives Loki a spear. Caesar shouts for them to give Loki an armor. Loki tells him that there is no need for that because if he lost, in the end, he forfeits his life. Nakaba shouts for him to stop for he is still wounded. Loki smiles at her and tells her that it is okay for this duel will end swiftly. This irks Caesar as he shouts for Loki not to be too arrogant. Caesar attacks. During the duel as Loki outmatches Caesar, Caesar thinks, “Sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. A half-human is superior in all of these aspects. I've given it my best in order to get those things yet he easily becomes superior at it. So I hate half-humans..!” In the end, Caesar has fallen off his horse. A solider is surprised that the duel is over. Caesar is looking depressed as the people are saying that lord Caesar is defeated. They wonder what kind of person is that half-human.

Flashback: Cute, little Caesar is holding a heavy sword. Belias told him that it is dangerous to use that big sword. Caesar shouted for Belias to shut up. He swung the sword on a pole wrapped with rope. His back got hurt and the pole didn't get cut. Caesar dropped the sword and shouted that a kid can't play this kind of game and he doesn't want to play anymore. While walking on the hallway with Belias, Caesar saw a kid half-human easily cutting down the pole with his weapon. Rabbit girl and another cat boy shouted that Robin, dog boy, is really great for cutting it. Robin said that it is so easy that it doesn't seem like training. Caesar then looked at the three kids as they are shouting and having fun. That night, Caesar tried again but when he hit the post, he lost his balance then fell. He cut his right knee. Then he noticed that right palm is also wounded from the sword. He is in tears upon seeing that the pole has no damage on it. His mother called him, together with Belias. His mother told Caesar that she heard that he has been sword training lately. Caesar admitted that he is. She said that his hand is even bandaged. “You do not have to do that.” Caesar tried to say that the half-humans can easily do it but his mother shouted what he is talking about, he really doesn't have any prospect. This outburst surprised Caesar. She shouted at him that he is royalty so there is no need for him to do his best nor emulate half-humans or even commoners. “If the half-humans can do it, then we'll just use them! Royalty has the authority to do so! Royalty can dominate all of them!” Caesar wondered why is this so. “Is it because royalty are nobility? Why do weak people stand [rule] over strong people? Half-humans are obviously very strong. I obviously cannot compete against them.” End Flashback.

In a garden-like place behind the castle, Nakaba, who has changed her clothes to what she normaly wears, runs towards Loki. Nakaba says that it is great that he is alright. She asks him about his wound. Loki says that it is alright. He apologizes for making her worry. Nakaba says that Loki is very strong. Loki says that Caesar is also very strong and Caesar had deliberately lost to him in order to keep his 'promise' with her. Loki then bends down and says, “Oh yes, Princess Nakaba. Can you please give me a kiss?” Nakaba is surprised then she blushes. Loki says that even if he had intruded in the competition and stirred things up but the champion should get her kiss. “Princess Nakaba, I've attained the championship. Please kiss me.” Nakaba is a bit surprised then tells him that is right. “Then, stand up..Loki...” Ceasar is walking around near the place as he wonders out loud where Nakaba went. He is stunned to see Loki and Nakaba kissing. He thinks that in the end, women are like that for they are attracted to stronger men. “In front of different men, they act differently. They are really hard to deal with. That redhead is also that kind of woman.” After they finish the kiss, Nakaba laughs-smile at Loki then she notices Caesar leaving. She goes after Caesar and tells him to wait. Since Caesar is curious as to what kind of alibi she will say, he quickly turns around and asks what is it. Nakaba innocently tells him that he has lost deliberately. This shocks Caesar that he exclaims in disbelief. Nakaba says, “In order for Loki to return to my side...thank you for keeping your word. Caesar.” Caesar is surprised that she called his name. Seeing his expression, Nakaba asks if she was mistaken for Loki was the one who told her. The two look at Loki who tells Caesar, “Please don't have such a depressing look on your face. Just now, I just received Princess Nakaba's 'lucky kiss'.” Thinking that he can't win against Loki, Caesar asks if Loki is just consoling him. “..I've lost and that is all there is to it. It has nothing to do with the promise! I've been fighting seriously!” Nakaba is surprised then says, “Is that so..then, it will be alright if you win next time.” Caesar is surprised and just says, “..next time?” Nakaba is puzzled that she asks, “If you do your best, it's possible that next time, you'll win, right?” Caesar blushes a bit and thinks, “Honestly..I wanted to hear those words. At that time..when my mother told me that I shouldn't do my best, it's because I can't compete against half-humans so my mother wants me give up. But this girl..wants me to do my best.” Looking at her, Caesar asks, “Do you think that I will win?” Nakaba slightly smiles and says, “Who knows.” Caesar is moved by this that he quickly hugs surprised Nakaba. “It isn't Yes and it isn't No. In this vast world, what should I do, in order for this girl to stay at my side?”

Hehe..and Caesar has fallen for her. =P This chapter really changed my opinion on Caesar..he's so cute and he isn't that cocky-arrogant like his father nor his brother. Not only he didn't react violently upon seeing the two kiss, he also showed his vulnerability to Nakaba and Loki. I think as royalty, it will be hard to admit that Loki defeated him fair and square and also Loki seems to be making a move at his 'wife'. Since he isn't interested to be king, I guess that is why he isn't too 'obsess' with his status about being a 'master' to commoners and half-humans whom he is jealous off. I guess being 'jealous' is better than 'belittling' them. ^^;; There's a thin line between admire and jealous, right? Well, I guess Caesar finally has a dream or a goal that he wants to achieve. As for Loki, I wonder if getting the kiss is just an alibi. Is it really just a friendly kiss? Maybe he is thinking that he isn't worthy of Nakaba because of her status as royalty. I'm curious why he lied to Nakaba about Caesar deliberate losing for the sake of the promise. Is it just to protect Caesar's pride or perhaps, he is grateful to Caesar for all he has done? I highly doubt that he actually thought that Caesar will kindly lose just because of the promise. Hehe, I guess now both leading guys got a kiss from the leading lady. =P Anyway, I'm curious where the story will be headed because obviously, Nakaba now has a new ally and that is Caesar. I'm sure the two guys will protect her at all cost against the king who might want to kill her if he knows of her lineage. I'm still hoping for my theory, that these three is going to 'change' the status quo/world, to come true. ^^ Oh ya, what happened with Nakaba's premonition? Maybe Caesar isn't going to be hurt in this duel but later on because I'm sure he will be doing a lot of 'disobeying' later on. Scans by tongyanen for iieye.

Reimei no Arcana -Dawn of the Arcana- [Chapter 2]
Monday, April 20, 2009

Holding his sword on Caesar's throat, Loki tells Nakaba to order him to kill Caesar. Nakaba is surprised to see him. Loki is angry that Caesar dare touch Nakaba with his filthy hands. “Prince of Belquat, don't you think that being killed by a dog is interesting?” Loki swings his sword as Nakaba shouts for Loki. To Loki's surprise, Nakaba dives in between them and pushes Caesar away. Her hair is slightly cut while Caesar just looks surprised. Flustered, Loki says how could she do such a dangerous thing. Nakaba notices the blood on Loki's chest then she shouts for him to stop for she doesn't want to see blood again. Loki is surprised by this. Caesar is speechless as he touches his chest where Nakaba had pushed him away. Then a soldier comes in and says that he has heard some noise inside. He quickly takes out his spear upon seeing Loki there. The soldier charges in then find a sword pointing at him. Holding his sword at the soldier, Caesar tells him to stand still and not move. “You didn't see any person in here. You are not to report this to others.” The soldier looks scared and he says yes. After Caesar dismisses the soldier, Caesar looks at Nakaba and tells her that is their agreement. He sheaths his sword and tells her that he is keeping his word that if she wins the bet, he will pardon that guy's crime. Caesar sits down on the sofa and tells Nakaba that his authority cannot totally pardon that guy so it is better for him to hide for the meantime. Loki seems to be in pain as Nakaba goes to him. To Loki's surprise, Nakaba tells Caesar to let Loki hide out in Caesar's room for if she is the one who hides Loki, she cannot evade [has no alibi] if he is discovered. “If it is you..” Caesar says, “..Ha? Is it okay for you to leave your important dog to me?” Nakaba replies, “I believe in you because you fulfilled your word on the agreement.” She looks at him and Caesar just looks back at her. Then, Nakaba says, “..but, if you dare do something to Loki, I will definitely kill you.” Caesar exclaims, “Ha?! What a dangerous wife. Just relax, I don't find it interesting in bullying a wounded animal. Just quickly get that wound treated.” The two just look at Caesar.

The next day, with a somewhat bored look, Caesar is holding a bowl of water/medicine. He lamely says, “Hey..although I said it that way, but why am I..” [helping out] While treating Loki, Belias tells Caesar to quit standing there and quickly bring that to him. Caesar sweatdrops and shouts, “Okay!” Caesar gives him the bowl and complains why a half-human is lying on his bed. Looking weak, Loki is lying on Caesar's bed. Belias takes the bowl and asks Caesar what of it for half-humans are flexible and with them around, they don't need to suffer great losses/hardships. [= they do the dirty work] Caesar exclaims that he doesn't need the half-humans' help. Then, Belias says that he just remembered that Caesar was bitten by a dog before and even cried out loud so maybe it is because of that trauma. Caesar sweatdrops as he protests that it isn't the reason and it isn't because of the dog, he..[looks down on Loki] Loki just has this cute surprised look. Nakaba opens the door and asks how Loki is doing. Loki calls out her name. Nakaba asks if his wound is okay. Loki says it is okay. Caesar asks if she is ignoring him. [Obviously yes =P] Loki touches Nakaba's face and tells her not to have that kind of expression because half-humans' wounds heal quickly and soon, he will be okay. Nakaba happily touches his hand and smiles. Loki smiles back. Caesar looks at them in surprise. [Jealous?] He quickly turns around and tells Belias that he will leave the rest to him. Caesar walks out of the room and into the hallway. An older man tells him that his wife frequently goes to his room and it seems their feelings for each other are good. Looking a little flustered, Caesar says that it isn't so. Then, he meets a long black-haired lady. Caesar asks Louise what does she want. Louise didn't reply so Caesar says that if she has nothing to say then he is leaving. Louise shouts his name then hugs him from behind. Caesar tells her to let him go because she is already his brother's fiancée. She asks him if he doesn't care if she marries his brother, Cain. “If you don't have the backing of my father's commanding army [or her father is the commander of an army], you cannot ascend to the throne..!” Caesar removes her hands off him and tells her that he doesn't aspire for the throne because he is only the second prince. Louise tells him that if it is about one's bloodline, Caesar is more qualified for the high position because Cain's mother is a commoner. “What are you concerned about..” Caesar tells her to shut up for he doesn't want to fight with his brother.

His mother arrives and asks Caesar what nonsense he is talking about. “You should aspire for the throne, Caesar. You are suitable to become king.” Caesar starts walking away and says, “I have told you many times that brother will become king.” While his mother shouts for him, Caesar left the two women. Irritated, Caesar thinks what was that about him being suitable to become king. He shouts out loud, “What do they know? What do they care? They are the ones who want the throne!” He takes out his sword and waves it in the air. “I do not want the throne!” He then puts down his sword. “Then, I..in the end, what do I want? Why..do I feel so empty..?” Later on, Nakaba brings in some food and water for Loki in Caesar's room. Caesar informs her that there will be a jousting competition soon as a game in celebration of their marriage. “You better dress up and become beautiful to your utmost ability. The champion will get a reward from His Majesty the King and the new bride's..your congratulatory kiss.” Blushing a bit, Nakaba exclaims her surprise about it. Loki looks sad but didn't say anything. [Jealous, too?] Nakaba notices this and asks Loki what the matter is. While holding his bandaged wound, Loki looks away and says that it is nothing. Outside, Cain is tending to his horse. Caesar calls out to his brother. Cain tells him that he might have to fight against him in the competition. Caesar says that he won't lose. Cain says that Caesar's quite strong [willed?]. Cain then says that he won't lose because the champion gets to kiss Caesar's princess. Looking bored, Caesar says that he isn't interested in that. Cain laughs and says that lately, Caesar's relationship with his wife is quite good. Caesar tells him that it isn't true and it is just a rumor. Cain says, “That dull woman..dresses really strange, I won't even thought of having her. Ah, that's right, she's so childish.” Ceasar isn't happy about what he said. Ceasar replies, “..Brother. Did you already have Louise? Then, that should be very soft/gentle.” Cain looks surprised as Ceasar shows his arrogant look again. “Ah, then, quickly marry her...I'll anticipate the competition.” Caesar leaves and Cain looks really angry as he shouts Caesar's name.

On the day of the competition, accompanied by a couple of soldiers, Caesar walks with his horse when an older man happily exclaims to him that his wife has already prepared. He also exclaims that his wife is really beautiful. Caesar scoffs off what he said as he says, “Ha? That red hair? Stop kidding me. That woman doesn't have any single bit of sex appeal so you don't need to flatter me.” The older man tries to tell him that he wasn't flattering him. Caesar opens the door of the tent and calls out to Nakaba to ride on his horse. He is then stunned to see how beautiful Nakaba is. Nakaba's hair is down and she is wearing a dress. Nakaba says that in order for him not to say that she's ugly, she did her best to become like that. She complains that it isn't easy to walk in that dress. Caesar exclaims that it is just so-so. Nakaba tells him not to say it out loud since she can also hear it. During the competition, Nakaba and Caesar sit in the center tent. Commoners and half-humans are cheering. They watch along with the royal couple as Cain is fighting with some guy. Noticing that Nakaba is looking away, Caesar tells her to watch the competition because she will give the champion a kiss. Nakaba says that it is boring for if they have excess money to prepare for such a grand event, they should just have spent the money on other important things. Caesar exclaims that she doesn't know anything for this national sport is a must. “Because of the long year fighting, the country is feeling fatigued. In order for them to be active, this sport is a must.” Caesar explains that the decorations of the nobles in that place are done by the town's artisans. The jewelers sell their goods there and if the royal family uses them, then that store's reputation will improve thus the business will become more prosperous. Also, those who are in the food and drinks business will earn more money there. This way, the money will continuously circulated around. He says that one time help is really nothing to them. [I might got this part wrong but I think he is saying that during these events, there is business for the commoners and it will help them since the nobles buy their stuff – the wealth is distributed among everyone though it is only once in a while so it doesn't really help the commoners' situation.]

Caesar looks at Nakaba and says, “For someone who punched me to rebuke me, it seems that you don't know much about politics. Could it be that there is no such sport in your country because it is very poor?” Nakaba tells him that they also have that sport. Looking a bit sad, Nakaba says, “But..I'm not allowed to watch.” A scene of Nakaba looking out the window. “A red haired princess isn't allowed for other people to see because she is the royal family's shame. Yes..that is how it is. But I also don't like it, the horses are too pitiful.” Nakaba watches the jousting again while Caesar looks away as if he doesn't want Nakaba to remember those sad memories. While watching the jousting, Nakaba then 'sees' Caesar being stabbed at the back by a spear. She is then surprised when Caesar is pulling her hair and asks if she was sleeping. “I'm going to fight against my brother next, you better watch intently.” Caesar walks away but Nakaba quickly calls for him to wait and not to go. She grabs his cape to stop him as she wonders what she is doing but still, she has that bad premonition. Caesar is a bit surprised. Then, he smiles and blushes a bit. He says, “Don't worry, I will let you, a red-haired princess, watch this Belquat sport.” Caesar walks away. Nakaba just holds on to the chair while watching him leave. King Conan is watching them/her.

This chapter changed my opinion on Caesar. I now think him as a 'cute' person. Actually, he reminds me of Shinobu in Boku wa Kiss de Uso wo Tsuku. =P As expected, the author already 'punish' him for his arrogance. I really like the part wherein he has to help in Loki's recovery. Aw..his poor pride. Belias even embarrassed him that he hates dogs that is why he is treating Loki that way. =P Of all the royal family, he is the most easy person to change as in he isn't that bad after all. I think it is really commendable that he kept his part of the agreement. He even agreed to let Loki stay at his room. Wow. His jealousy of Loki has already started to build up upon seeing how close Loki is with Nakaba. Actually, the three are like the three main characters in the author's previous series. Caesar isn't ambitious for the throne though there seems to be a rivalry between him and his brother. The rivalry is more about Louise rather than the throne. Since Caesar is bored and stuff, I think this is the reason why he isn't stirring things up with his brother. I think he only made Cain angry because he is bad-mouthing Nakaba. I think his emptiness can easily be filled up by Nakaba and Loki. Actually, I'm now thinking of the lines of King Arthur. And also, I find some similarities with the characters to the characters of Vampire Knight. I think with Louise, the love triangle is somewhat 'solved' and she is in the tarot cards and first color spread so she could become part of the 'main' cast. There is still one other character who haven't appeared yet who was shown in the cover before – a blond-sheep kid. I would totally love it if the three are going to change the country for the better or even unite it. The charismatic future? king [royalty], the fortuneteller queen [commoner] and the strong knight [half-human]. ^^ Scans by Tongyanen for iieye

Reimei no Arcana -Dawn of the Arcana- [Chapter 1]
Thursday, April 2, 2009

In a balcony which faces a lot of people, the man takes off a lady's hat. The lady says that today, she becomes the enemy's posession. Everyone is shock that she has red hair because the royalty should have black hair. The man waves at the people to be quiet. He grabs the lady's braid and kisses it. He says that red is okay for it is like the passionate love he has for his country. The people cheers their congratulations to Prince Ceasar. The lady thinks that no one realized that he just grabbed her hair forcefully nor do they know that this is just so that peace will continue and she isn't really welcome there. She is like a sacrificial lamb..when will her blood be spilled. A small country is divided into two. On the north is Senan while on the south is Belquat. The calamity started ever since that small island has become two countries and the fighting continued on for 200 years. Curiously enough, the two countries have the same distortion wherein all black hair are deemed to become the royalty and they all belong to the ruling class. Red, yellow and brown hair are commoners. Half-humans who have ears and tails are inferior people who are designated as servants. Then, those people [monster-type] whose five senses are quite superior become the soldiers who are made to fight each other. Belquat has nice weather and fertile land so it is rich and wealthy whereas Senan's weather is cold because of the snow season that the country is poor and its military is weak. There is a river flowing downstream between the countries so the people of Senan would sometimes block the river or even put poison so that it will be cause a setback on the people of Belquat. In every war, the two countries will sometimes have some dialogue in order to have some peace though this usually doesn't last for more than five years but, they never learn, they still keep on doing it and yet, there is no lasting peace. So, as proof of peace [this time?], Senan's first princess Nakaba is given to marriage to Belquat's second prince Caesar. Early on, the royal people already have this discussion among themselves, when would the red-haired princess who was sent to Belquat be killed?

After the introduction, the two newly weds head back inside. Caesar grabs her hair again and says that he was given such an unexpected thing. Nakaba looks straight at him and asks him if grabbing a lady's hair is his style. Caesar tells her not to misunderstand things for she is just his posession. A half-human shouts for Caesar to let her go. Nakaba calls him, Loki. Loki tells her that she looks good in her wedding gown. Caesar did let go of her hair and calls Loki, an inferior . He says that Nakaba just pretends to be important when her companion is just an inferior. He taunts them by saying that it seems that Loki is a 'dog' based on his ears and he is a good match with the red haired princess. Loki draws his knife at Caesar. Suddenly, solders come out and point their swords at Loki. A long haired man calls Loki stupid for if he killed Caesar there, he would be sentenced to death..no, tortured to death. Loki is unfazed as he tells Caesar that he is being rude and he would not let it pass for Caesar to insult his master whether he is Belquat's prince nor Princess Nakaba's husband. Caesar calls him an untrained dog and it seems he is looking for his death. Nakaba looks at the long haired guy then she calls Loki. She gives Loki a slap on the face and tells him to apologize for being rude. Loki obeys that he bows down on the floor and apologizes. Caesar laughs that he is surprised by that and he didn't think that she knows royal etiquette since she is a red-haired. His happiness is cut short when Nakaba gives him a punch in the face. Nakaba tells Loki that it is her responsibility to rebuke her husband. Nakaba tells shocked Caesar that he is looking down on Loki and she thinks that the kind of discrimination by the whole country is a joke. Pissed off, Caesar stands up and strangles Nakaba. He tells her to be careful since it is easy for him to send her head back to her homeland. Nakaba tells him to do what he wants for he should know what kind of treatment she has endured because of her hair which he also dislikes. “This whole country and that other country..for me, it's just the same. And, it's only the place where I die is different.” Caesar let her go. Her eyes seem to dilate then she holds her head. Loki shouts for her then catches her as she faints. Caesar just says that she is really quite an unpredictable princess for hitting him then fainting. He doesn't like to see her red hair so he orders for her to be taken to her room.

Caesar and his men walk away silently then the long haired guy suddenly laughs. Caesar calls out Berias' name. Berias laughs and says that Caesar was just punched and he is willing to just sit this one down. He apologizes and says that princess is quite interesting. Caesar just says yes though essentially, the two of them [he and Nakaba] are just the country's instruments. In the room, Nakaba wakes up and finds herself on the bed. Loki is holding a tray of food and drink and says that she is awake. Nakaba says that she has fainted and it seems she had a dream. Nakaba laments why she is so weak when normally, she is okay. Loki tells her that she is definitely just tired from just recently coming to a strange country. He says that he brought something nice. He shows her a small candy. Nakaba is really happy to see that kernel candy that she quickly eats it and says that it is sweet. Loki asks if it is delicious. Nakaba says that it is. Loki smiles and says that's good. Nakaba then touches his face and apologizes for hitting him. She hugs him and says that it is great that he is there with her because in the whole country, she only has Loki. Loki slightly smiles and pats her head. He tells her that there is a banquet where the king will participate in so she should go change her clothes. Nakaba tells him that she doesn't want to wear the clothes from that place because it is uncomfortable. She says that she wants to wear her own clothes. Loki obliges. At the banquet, a short haired man asks Caesar that his princess hasn't arrive yet. Caesar tells his brother that she isn't a princess but a hostage. While wearing their own clothes, Nakaba, together with Loki, enters. A woman shouts at Nakaba for wearing those poor clothes when his majesty is coming.

Caesar tells his mother to let it pass for it is just a small matter because Nakaba has just arrived in this country and she is uneasy at such an unfamiliar place. He laughs that her country is so poor that what she is wearing is already their best formal clothes. Loki sits Nakaba in her seat. She thinks that she is already used to this being look at with scorn, ridicule, etc yet she will be strong, at least for herself. Then, the king arrives. He looks at Nakaba and says 'Red hair'. He is surprised upon seeing her clothes and asks what is with that. Loki tells King Conan that it was he who prepared it for her. Nakaba is surprised by this. Conan suddenly unsheathes his sword and slashes Loki. Everyone is shock by what happened. Holding his bleeding chest, Loki asks why he is so agitated by it. Conan is angry over what he said. Nakaba goes to Loki and shouts to the king that she was the one who wanted to wear that. The king orders for his soldiers to take Loki out and chop him into pieces. Nakaba is scared for Loki. He whispers to her to forgive him for momentarily leaving her side. Loki takes out his two swords and attacks a soldier. Taking one of the soldiers hostage, Loki disappears in the dark. The king calls Loki a beast for being able to move like that even after getting that kind of injury. Nakaba is shaking upon seeing Loki's blood on the floor. It seems that she has seen it before. This blood on the snow ground. Then, her eyes dilates. Caesar asks her what is the matter. Nakaba sees Conan saying that clan will bring disaster so kill them all. To Caesar's surprise, Nakaba faints. She wonders what is that scene she just saw.

Flashback: Young Nakaba called out to a long black haired woman as Mama and asked where Loki is. Her mother complained that Nakaba is looking for Loki again and not her. She said that Nakaba really likes Loki. Her mother calls out to Loki that Nakaba is looking for him. Young Loki entered with a bowl of something. Nakaba happily wants to touch his soft ears. To Loki's surprise, Nakaba's mother is also touching his ear saying that she also wants to touch it. Then, some kids enter telling Loki to teach them. Loki read some books to the kids. Nakaba is clinging on him while her mother happily watched over them. Elsewhere, Conan ordered his men to destroy a clan because they will cause a calamity. One of his men tried to protest because that power [can be of use] but Conan told him to be quiet and weeds should be exterminated. Back at the village, Loki is carrying Nakaba and said that they are heading out. Nakaba's mother told them to wait and put on a thick blanket on Nakaba. She said that it is cold so Nakaba shouldn't catch cold. She then put a scarf on Loki. Loki thanked her. Nakaba's mother happily told the two to have fun. Loki is playing with the kids as they build a snowman. Pointing to the village, one of the kids told Loki that a lot of horses are heading towards their village. Loki carried Nakaba back to the village. He is shock to see the people are being massacred by the soldiers. Looking ill, one of the soldiers, who is ready to kill Loki, apologized and said that it is the orders of the Belquat king. Nakaba's mother jumped between them that she ended up being slashed. Her blood splattered on Loki and Nakaba's faces. She told Loki to quickly escape and bring Nakaba to the capital and find her father. She gave Loki a necklace before she fell down. The soldier lamented about rarely seeing a beautiful woman and now, she got killed. He commented that in such a remote village, it is rare to see a precious item. Loki quickly took out his knife and stabs the soldier. He is in tears. A soldier shouted that there is someone there. Loki quickly ran off with Nakaba. He then saw the other kids dead in the snow. He just kept on running until they arrive in some cave in the mountains. Inside, Nakaba asked him where is her mother. Loki wiped her face and said that there is blood. Nakaba also pointed out that his face also has blood. Loki started crying as he hugged Nakaba. End flashback.

Nakaba wakes up crying and she wonders if it is a dream or the past. She says no matter what it is, her heart is aching so much that it hurts. Elsewhere, Loki is holding his chest. He then laughs out loud and thinks, “So that was Belquat's king.” He says that it seems that the king is totally shock upon seeing the clothes of the clan whose 'power' he fears. “That 'power' is awakened because of you--!!” 'Time's Arcana' is the ancient secret power that transversing time and space which can enable one to see the past, future and the truth. Walking at the hallway, Nakaba looks out the window. She is surprised when Caesar asks her what she is looking at. Nakaba says that it is nothing. Caesar asks if she is waiting for her dog. He tells her that he won't be coming back since he is already hacked into pieces as his punishment. Walking away while he is following her, Nakaba says that Loki will come back. Caesar asks her how about they have a bet and that is, if Loki didn't return tonight, he is going to kill her. Caesar tells her it is easy to kill her and he doesn't welcome a red haired bride. He walks away and tells her to wait in his room until dawn and she should pray that her dog returns. Later that night, sitting on a bench in his room, Caesar tells her that she is too slow [in coming] and asks if she is afraid. Nakaba tells him that she forgot to ask if Caesar will die if she wins the bet. Caesar says that he won't die but if that guy dare come back then he'll forgive him of his crime of rebellion and perhaps allow Loki to come back into the city. Nakaba says that she is relieved to hear that. She takes out a [dog] whistle and blows on it. Caesar asks what she just did since he didn't hear a sound. Nakaba smiles and says that he won't understand.

Then, Caesar pulls her hair and said that he is displeased since he is his wife and yet she depends on some other guy. Nakaba just looks at him and asks him what he is saying since earlier, he was taunting her red hair. Caesar tells her that it is because everyone is shouting that. To her shock, Caesar suddenly kisses her. He tells her that this is the first wedding night for the two countries that had good relations. He kisses her again but she tells him to stop. He tells her that he is that country's prince and there is nothing that he cannot attain. He is about to kiss her neck when Nakaba grabs her knife and slashes his face. Holding out her knife, she tells him, “So what if you are a prince. There are also things that you cannot attain. I will become that thing that you cannot attain no matter how you think of wanting it.” Caesar touches his small wound and says that she is really not cute. He asks her if she knows how stupid she is for pointing a knife at him. The two stare at each other. He then notices that her hand that is holding the knife is shaking. He then bends down to her and says that she does have a side of her that's cute since her hand is shaking. She attacks him but he quickly grabs the sword on the table to block it. Nakaba is quite emotional that she just charges and swings her sword at Caesar but Caesar can easily evade her attacks. Caesar laughs that she is strong even if she is a woman. Caesar grabs her wrist that holds the knife then kisses her. He then kisses her again that she tries to push him away. He holds her face towards him but now, he gives her a french kiss. This made Nakaba drop her knife and bend down on the floor. She looks flustered. Then, Caesar finds a knife at his throat. It is Yoki who says, “Princess Nakaba, may I beseech thee. Let the next order be..for me to kill him.”

Nice ^^ Thankfully, the story isn't that difficult to summarize as I expected. If it weren't for the fantasy, medieval setting, this would be like a love triangle of guy-girl-childhood friend + forced marriage. Someone in BW said that the story is like a game. It made me think so from dating sim, the author now goes into rpg. =P I think it is quite rare to see a first chapter of a series to be composed of 100 pages, usually it's around 50 pages. ^^; I would really want Nakaba to end up with Loki but then, in shoujo, usually the guy who gets to kiss the girl first is the winner. Anyway, because of her previous series showed how the lead guy is made to suffer a bit for his stolen kiss and playfulness, I'm rest assured that Caesar is going to get his 'punishment' no matter what. ^^ I think it would be interesting for them to kidnap him and made him suffer so that it will temper his arrogant personality. I guess his pride took a blow when Nakaba sincerely believes that Loki will come for her that is why he suddenly kisses her and stuff especially since Loki is thought to be inferior. I actually wanted what Nakaba said to come true – she will be something that he really wants but he cannot have her.

I really like Nakaba because she is really strong. It's rare to see girls punching arrogant guys though she has succumbed to his torrent kissing. ^^; It would be nice though if she can really fight later on and not just some girl who has a weapon but always ends up being a damsel in distress like in the other series. It seems that they still do not know of her power. I think she is the daughter of a royalty and a commoner. I do think that peace marriage is just a farce for they aren't really sincere since the Senan country sent a half-commoner princess while Belquat just let the second prince to marry her..why not the first one, unless of course, he is already married. I also like Loki though he seems a bit too reckless because he keeps on agitating people that I fear that he might really end up dead. Good thing that he is strong, though. About that flashback, for some reason, it reminded me of Vampire Knight when Yuuki's parents are murdered ^^;; Lastly, about the premise of the story, it reminds me of the caste system in India wherein one is 'segregated' to a group based on one's lineage and here, people discriminates based on their hair color and features. It's like a childish way of discriminating people though. ^^; I can actually already guess the ending and that is somehow, Nakaba is going to unite the country using her powers and probably the help of those two. =P Scans by tongyanen for iieye.