Featured Matches - ISML 2013 Amethyst Period
Amethyst 1 — Sunday, 12 May 2013
Chitanda Eru (Hyōka) vs. Kuroyukihime (Accel World)
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The start of the Amethyst Period pits two girls with opposite personalities together. Chitanda Eru, known to be a very ladylike, polite, and cheerful girl, always emits an aura of friendliness. Her warm personality attracts people to her, as she is very sensible and emotive for her age. Many find joy when they associate themselves with her, and she never fails to intrigue the people around her with her curiosity—which some people find annoying, as she won't stop until her curiosity is satisfied. Kuroyukihime, on the other hand, is a calm and patient girl, always able to maintain her poise despite the odds set against her. Though sometimes she can be rude and gets jealous easily, she is also intelligent and willing to sacrifice herself to protect her loved ones. With both girls sporting opposite personalities, which one do you favor? |
Takanashi Rikka (Chūnibyō demo Koi ga Shitai!) vs. Yuzuriha Inori (Guilty Crown)
Would you choose someone who is socially inept but nice, or someone who is loyal to you? This arena features two girls with a starkly different yet similar personality at the same time. Takanashi Rikka was socially inept due to her inability to make friends. Since her condition was so severe, she had many times experienced loneliness because she scared others away. In reality, however, she loves her family and close friends and tries her best to change whatever is wrong in her behavior. Yuzuriha Inori, the girl who doesn’t seem to understand her own feelings, also has the problem of being unable to make friends. Though she doesn't express her emotions much, she is amiable to those whom she values, to the point of extreme loyalty. She tries her best to understand the many different emotions she is experiencing as well as protect what is dear to her. With both of them giving their all for their special ones, whose effort will be recognized by you? |
Aoyama Nanami (Sakura-sō no Pet na Kanojo) vs. Yūki Mikan (To LOVE-Ru)
Being the voices of reason in their casts of whimsy and wackiness, both Aoyama Nanami and Yūki Mikan are seen as the dependable ones. Unflinching in her resolve, Nanami left her home to pursue her dream. With her aid cut off, she had to make sacrifices to enter the high school of her choice. While not naturally blessed in what she strives for, there is no denying her efforts to attain what she desires. Moving to a quirky dormitory might falter others’ drives, but this maiden trudges on in search of her destiny. On the other hand, due to family circumstances, Mikan was forced to do domestic chores since she was little. She caters to the needs of the unique ones who live in the family’s house. From preparing the meals to cleaning the laundry, usually nothing is missed by her pair of eyes. While she does have some qualms on some matters pertaining to her house, together with her brother, Mikan tries her best to give the utmost comfort to those around them. As the dust settles, which dependable maiden will get the nod, Nanami or Mikan? |
Misaka Mikoto (Toaru Majutsu no Index) vs. Gokō Ruri (Kuroneko) (Ore no Imōto)
As I lean backwards, my gaze is fixated towards a pair of girls walking hand-in-hand. It is such an intoxicating vista amidst a backdrop of the settling sun. As the gentle breeze sweeps across my cheeks, it also flutters the long, silky hair of one of the maidens. Noticing some attention is being given to their personal recluse, the short-haired girl seems to smile, and decides to approach me with her mate. Startled by their bespoken beauty, I am caught speechless as the two lovely damsels afford themselves seats beside me. Sporting deep, amethyst-coloured eyes, the long-haired persona introduces herself wittily as Gokō Ruri. While she seems taciturn and well behaved, I am again startled, as she becomes another person when she speaks about her love to a certain type of genre. Then the chestnut-eyed, short-haired maiden introduces herself as Misaka Mikoto. While she looks energetic and fun to be with, again I am shocked to learn that she heralds from a high-class, all-female school. The time seems to move faster than I can imagine, and as we part our ways, my heart is still smitten by them… |
Sengoku Nadeko (Bakemonogatari) vs. Senjōgahara Hitagi (Bakemonogatari)
Which one to choose: a docile and cute, little sister type or a cool and witty beauty? For a certain quarter-vampire, it's a hard decision between the two anomalies: Sengoku Nadeko, a shy and timid girl who used to be entangled by a pair of snake spirits, or Senjōgahara Hitagi, an abusive yet fascinating maiden who was burdened by a mysterious crab. While both are rather reclusive, preferring to avoid contact with others, there are jarring differences between Nadeko and Hitagi. Often seen as meek and weak, Nadeko will usually foster the feeling of wanting to protect her from onlookers. On the other hand, the abrasive nature of Hitagi and her sharp tongue is akin to a rose, thorny yet bewitchingly attractive. The goofy-cap and short hair of Nadeko is like an antithesis to the silky, long hair of Hitagi. As their traits don’t overlap, they command different sets of fans. It is a shrinking violet against a confident tsundere, a little sister-type against a gorgeous beauty. So here begs the question: in which camp are you? |
Last Order (Toaru Majutsu no Index) vs. Victorique de Blois (GOSICK)
As a clone to a well-known Level Five esper in Gakuen Toshi, Last Order is also the cute rendition of the said Electromaster. While her original counterpart is short-tempered and a tsundere, Last Order is nothing of the sort. She has a cheerful personality that lightens the mood of the people surrounding her. Victorique de Blois, on the other hand, is someone who is the complete opposite of Last Order. She possesses a sharp tongue—which is one of the causes of her solitude. She is also curious, and that is followed by her high intelligence that makes daily routines a chore; Victorique always seeks interesting activities to keep herself entertained. Though she is seen as someone who is rather lofty, she is also protective of her loved ones and will do everything she can to prevent them from suffering. Between these two girls, which one do you prefer? Whose action echoes the feelings of your heart? |
Thanks to Eclairs and Jiharo for contributing today's match previews.
Amethyst 2 — Tuesday, 14 May 2013
Kotegawa Yui (To LOVE-Ru) vs. Nyarlathotep (Haiyore! Nyaruko-san)
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This particular match is a lighthearted take on the classic struggle of order versus chaos. Kotegawa Yui is the head of her school's public morals committee, whose main job is to maintain discipline within the student body and ensure that they do not engage in shameless behavior. Her disciplinarian personality can feel a bit restrictive to students who want a fun-filled school life, but her dedication to maintaining order keeps her going, even if she must hide her personal desires. On the opposite side of the coin, Nyarlathotep is the personification of chaos, whose unpredictable yet fun-loving nature can prove exhausting to those used to a quiet, normal life. Despite ironically being a planetary defense agent, Nyaruko makes no effort to hide her desires to get her hands on Earth's entertainment goods and pursue love. When the upright meets the shameless, perhaps a little hilarity will ensue in this match-up... |
Kirigaya Suguha (Sword Art Online) vs. Honma Meiko (AnoHana)
This arena contains two girls of rather interesting backgrounds. First we have Kirigaya Suguha, a cousin of the famous Black Swordsman of Aincrad, who believes that everything will turn out well. Her positive outlook in life is, however, somewhat shadowed by her inability to control her emotions whenever her loved ones are around. This is the same for cute Honma Meiko. Due to Honma Meiko being a child, she has a very cheerful personality that would light up anyone's world. She always puts others before herself. Since only the person she loved can see her, she often feels lonely and gets depressed easily when she finds out that she no longer belongs anywhere—especially in the case where her friends start to fight with one another. With both girls very delicate and fragile, to whom will your support go? |
Yūki Mikan (To LOVE-Ru) vs. Hasegawa Kobato (Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai)
As one of the premier voice actresses, Hanazawa Kana voices a lot of roles. In one of the fixtures served in the second round of the Amethyst Period, two of her characters are in direct confrontation with each other. While both Yūki Mikan and Hasegawa Kobato are the little sisters of the main protagonists in their respective shows, their traits are different. Dependable and self-reliant, Mikan belies her tender age; she is able to do house chores perfectly and balance her social life splendidly. Even though she finds herself surrounded by surreal people, she is able to act and behave rationally, putting her at odds with the other members of her show due to their oddities. Kobato, on the other hand, acts like a normal little sister. While she is not in the same school as her brother, she ends up joining the same club. With her brother complex, she gets jealous and clingy when she feels not enough attention is given to her. Peculiarly having a penchant for darkness, she falsely claims herself to be an ancient vampire. As the two little sisters square off against each other, which one will emerge triumphant? |
Tōwa Erio (Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko) vs. Yūki Asuna (Sword Art Online)
This arena features two very distinguished people. Introducing Yūki Asuna: a girl who seems to be good at almost everything she does. But despite that seeming ease in skill, Asuna tries just as hard as anyone else, plus a whole lot more. Through her grace on the battlefield and finesse in the kitchen, she has become a legend all on her own. Asuna also holds a lot of trust in her partner, Kazuto, and in this aspect, Tōwa Erio is the same as her. Holding a lot of trust in Makoto, Erio believes in him even if it means that she has to get hurt by the truth. She is also very shy to the extent that she blocks out all forms of interactions when it comes to someone she doesn't know. This personality makes her unable to form any friendships, which results in everyone ignoring her. She tries to overcome that part of her though by slowly allowing herself to experience the many things that "normal" people experience. Will you help Erio in her quest to overcome her shyness? Or will you be mesmerised by the capabilities of Asuna? |
Shiina Mashiro (Sakura-sō no Pet na Kanojo) vs. Natsume Rin (Little Busters!)
Both girls share the same fate: they find it hard to make new friends, but are able to communicate very well with the friends they already have. Presenting these two girls here, we have Shiina Mashiro, someone who lacks common sense but is compensated with her extraordinary abilities to succeed wherever she goes. On the other hand, we have Natsume Rin, a demure girl who is somewhat socially inept; she can't do anything much unless she's with her group of childhood friends. Both have friends who are constantly helping them to overcome their flaws. Between the two, whom will you choose to help? |
Aisaka Taiga (Toradora!) vs. Nagato Yuki (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu)
One of the main fixtures in the second round of the period pits two veteran maidens against each other. Voiced by Kugimiya Rie, Aisaka Taiga is her staple voice cast member: a petite, flat-chested, high-class tsundere. While blessed with doll-like features, there is far more to her than her pretty face and long, dreamy hair. Woe betide any who dare to trample her path, as she will easily snap back at her aggressors. But underneath her tiger-like ferocity is a core shattered by the shortcomings of her family, and she is just trying to find respite elsewhere. Nagato Yuki is also a staple of her voice actress, Chihara Minori—a silent, kūdere-type girl who gives off an aura of mystery around her. Preferring to observe her surroundings before acting to restore the order, the humanoid interface often gives short answers when questioned. While she seems apathetic to her surroundings, she actually values her given task above all, be it watching the whimsical ‘god’ or the key person for that ‘god’. There are even hints that she’s starting to develop something resembling normal human emotions. As the two veterans clash, which maiden will the Goddess of Victory smile upon? |
Izumi Konata (Lucky ☆ Star) vs. Louise Vallière (Zero no Tsukaima)
Now this is an interesting match-up we have here! On one side, we have a lazy student, while on the other side, we have a hardworking student. These students might be in the bottom of their class, but they do have a certain charm to them. Take Izumi Konata for example. She is what you'd call a full blown otaku, with anime, manga and games having more priority than studying. But, even though she might be lazy, when she concentrates on studying, she could get a grade similar to those who studied for a week. But let's not forget Louise Vallière. She has been dubbed "Zero" by her peers, for she can't do as well as her classmates could. Every time she tries casting a spell, it doesn't end very well. That is why she keeps working hard, to prove to her classmates that she isn't "Zero". So to whom will your votes go: to the Lazy Otaku, or to the Hardworking Magician? |
Yui-nyan (Angel Beats!) vs. Suzumiya Haruhi (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu)
As day two begins, a new match also begins. And this one might be decided by a guitar battle, as both of them have played the guitar before. First off, we have Yui-nyan, who has been the replacement of her school band's guitarist. She's very energetic, sometimes hyperactive, talking way too fast and she has a wilder side hidden from everyone. Not only that, she's also quite intelligent, sometimes calling out the mistakes of her fellow students. And then there's Haruhi Suzumiya. Although only acting as a substitute for her school band, she has shown her skills in playing the guitar. And let's not forget that she excels in her academic and physical skills. Little does she know that she has made friends with an alien, an esper, and a time-traveler and that if she wants to, she could change the world in a blink of an eye. So to whom will your votes go: to the Energetic one, or the God-like one? |
Thanks to Eclairs, Elvinsky, Jiharo, and M4st3rK1m for contributing today's match previews.
Amethyst 3 — Thursday, 16 May 2013
Kotegawa Yui (To LOVE-Ru) vs. Yūki Mikan (To LOVE-Ru)
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Being attached to the same person is customary for harem-themed anime, and it is no different for both Kotegawa Yui and Yūki Mikan. Acting as a member of the discipline committee at her school, Yui abhors indecencies. Yet for all that she preaches, her heart still flutters when she is in the company of the boy she labeled as shameless. Unable to discern her true feelings towards him, the maiden often hurls abuses at him. But she still fantasizes of being closer to her love interest. Mikan on the other hand is a younger sister, so her relationship towards her brother is more straightforward. While he struggles to come to terms with the extraterrestrial beings surrounding him, Mikan plays a significant role in dampening the awkwardness surrounding her brother. Subtle over attachments towards her brother are also monitored. She even manages to befriend a well-known assassin who is tasked to end his life. While the two maidens make their ways towards the main characters’ lives, which one of them will be able to make further inroads, the stern class representative Yui, or the caring little sister Mikan? |
Chitanda Eru (Hyōka) vs. Momo Belia Deviluke (To LOVE-Ru)
What we have here is an interesting showdown between two lively girls. Chitanda Eru, the ever-lively girl whose curiosity is rivaled by none, has an aura that drags people into whatever she's into—to the annoyance of some. Momo Belia Deviluke is the same, too. She always pulls people into her plans, much to the annoyance of those who are involved—but never once have the side characters become angry with them for doing so. Both girls do care for the people they like and generally make others around them happy. The one notable difference between them is that Chitanda Eru is pretty naive as she believes in her friends and never once holds doubts about them. She is also seen wearing a smile almost every single day. Momo, on the other hand, is someone who is very cunning as she always tries to plot something in her head. She embraces two personalities that are complete opposites of each other. With these two lively characters facing a showdown, with whom will you prefer to hang out? |
Sengoku Nadeko (Bakemonogatari) vs. Eucliwood Hellscythe (Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?)
There are striking similarities between Sengoku Nadeko and Eucliwood Hellcythe. They are both often viewed as the little sister type by their respective shows’ main protagonists. Even though neither of them is related to the main character, their sisterly charm manages to pull those men towards them and foster a feeling of protectiveness. Their shy demeanors and cutesy appearances further enhance the little sister vibes they give. Both of the maidens are also damsels in distress due to the extraordinary circumstances that befell them. Chestnut-eyed, short haired Nadeko’s life was endangered due to two spirits grappling over her, which were sent by two resentful classmates. If it was not by some chance that a quarter-vampire stumbled upon her plight, as she writhed alone in her pain, her fate could have been sealed. Sapphire-eyed, long haired Eucliwood is also burdened by her state as a deity. Forever alone, as those around her are ultimately caught by Father Time, the fact that the one zombie close to her treasures her despite who she is endears him to her. While “onii-chan”s of the maidens have their preferences, which little sister will be favoured by the voters? |
Yuzuriha Inori (Guilty Crown) vs. Shirakiin Ririchiyo (Inu × Boku SS)
Both girls are quiet and do not make friends easily. They are also girls who are very protective of the people they love, though their personalities are far from the same. Yuzuriha Inori, the kūdere who gives her best in whatever she is assigned to, is extremely loyal to those for whom she cares. She will go all out, even risking her life to save the person she loves. The same aspect can be applied to Shirakiin Ririchiyo. She sports a tsunshun personality, but to the person she loves, she becomes a dandere. Her sharp tongue might offend some, but she doesn’t often mean what she says. She, like Inori, can be extremely protective of the person she loves and often hurts herself while doing so. Ririchiyo is also very intelligent to the extent that she aced all the exams to become the top student in her school. In the end, both girls are dedicated to improve for the sake of their loved ones. Will you lend your support to Inori? Or will your support go to Ririchiyo? |
Konjiki no Yami (To LOVE-Ru) vs. Tachibana Kanade (Angel Beats!)
Being seen as the enemy by others is not usually an enviable first impression. This is especially true for both Konjiki no Yami and Tachibana Kanade. Due to circumstances, the golden-haired assassin was tasked to eliminate a certain human. Because of the skewed information given to her, Golden Darkness stalked and was ready to finish off her prey. Even after the misunderstandings were cleared, she still targeted that same person—but for different reasons. As she became closer to her target, subtle changes started to develop and she no longer had the urge to complete her mission. Acting as ‘God’s’ right hand, Kanade was viewed as an enemy by the underground movement hell-bent on toppling the ‘unfair’ endings to those who arrived in the afterworld. Calling herself the student council president instead of Angel, she oversaw the processes of the afterlife. After she became acquainted with her rivals, they slowly learned to accept her into their circle. And as one of her previous rivals said, he and Kanade could have been friends if they had met under different circumstances. As the Trans powers of Konjiki no Yami clashes with the Guard skills of Kanade, which one will emerge triumphant? |
Shiina Mashiro (Sakura-sō no Pet na Kanojo) vs. Aoyama Nanami (Sakura-sō no Pet na Kanojo)
Sakuraou is said to be a house of weirdos, and is where both Shiina Mashiro and Aoyama Nanami reside. With the determination to pursue her dreams, Aoyama Nanami left home at an early age and supported herself by juggling part-time jobs with school. She is very hardworking as she strives to always raise her performance so that her efforts will be recognized. She always gives her best—sometimes harming herself in the process. Despite all of that, she tries to learn how to depend on others and not carry the entire burden by herself. Shiina Mashiro, a girl who is blessed with the ability to succeed wherever she goes, is terrible at doing anything that is deemed to be "second nature" due to her lack of common sense. Mashiro is idealistic and naive at the same time, easily placing her faith in others and always striving for perfection. That being said, she is the same as Nanami as she is very diligent, to the extent of skipping her meals and sleep in order to complete her projects. Regardless, she does her best to learn how to be less dependent and to understand the emotions of the world. With these two girls trying their best, whose action touches your heart the most? Whose effort will be recognized by you? |
Aisaka Taiga (Toradora!) vs. Suzumiya Haruhi (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu)
The third day of matches brings us an exciting match you don't want to miss: two girls from two well-known anime clash on the stage known as ISML! On the left, we have Aisaka Taiga, and from that name, you should be scared. In her school, she is known as the "Palmtop Tiger". She might be small, but she does pack a punch. Oh, and did I mention that she's a tsundere, and that she's voiced by Kugumiya Rie? That must be what gives her her popularity. But on the other side, we have Suzumiya Haruhi. Armed with intelligence, physical strength and a hidden power unknown to her, she is one dangerous girl to be friends with. Voiced by Hirano Aya, she's gained so much popularity that one of the contestants here in ISML is her fan. Now, to whom will your bets go: to the Wild Tiger, or the God-like beauty? |
Iwasawa Masami (Angel Beats!) vs. Akiyama Mio (K-ON!)
Well, what do we have here? Another battle of musicians, I see? Today on ISML, we have a match-up that should be very entertaining! First up, we have Iwasawa Masami, the rhythm guitarist, vocalist, and the leader of the band Girls Dead Monster. She is one amazing girl, having written most, if not all, of the songs her band plays. But let's not forget Akiyama Mio, the bass guitarist, vocalist, and the most matured member of the band After School Tea Time. Though she might act mature most of the time, she's actually quite the scaredy-cat, and that feeling was strengthened after a certain stage incident. She previously won the tiara in 2010 and she's looking to win her second one this year. In this musical battle, to whom will your ears listen to: the Guitarist Leader, or the Moe Bassist? |
Thanks to Eclairs, Jiharo, and M4st3rK1m for contributing today's match previews.
Amethyst 4 — Sunday, 19 May 2013
Shirakiin Ririchiyo (Inu × Boku SS) vs. Araragi Karen (Bakemonogatari)
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Today’s challengers have different methods of protecting themselves from despair or harm, and both will defend their respective methods without hesitation. Shirakiin Ririchiyo believed that everyone she had met or would meet, including her own family, had a motive for being nice to her. In addition, she was unable to express her true feelings without facing opposition. To avoid further despair, she decided to put up her own barrier and act distant to everyone she met. Her servant embarrassed himself in public to convince her that his kindness was sincere. In contrast, her opponent, Araragi Karen, prefers offense over defense, and will openly say what’s on her mind. Accordingly, she uses her strength to defend herself and others, while fighting evil alone for the sake of justice. Her own brother had to fight and win against her to prove that she didn’t have to fight alone and could ask him for help. Both are spending their first year in ISML, although Karen has tournament experience from reaching the Top 32 of KBM last year. Will Karen sting her opponent and win her first Regular Season match, or will Ririchiyo use her demon powers to dispose of her opponent? |
Hasegawa Kobato (Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai)
vs.
Roromiya Karuta (Inu × Boku SS)
Who would you rather have? A sister who is obsessed with anime and cosplay, or a secret agent that protects you from danger? Hasegawa Kobato is your average young girl who yearns for her brother's affection—almost to the point of developing a brother complex. In front of strangers, she is shy and avoids interaction. Due to her personality, she doesn’t want to make friends, even though she is popular in her school. She gets jealous easily if her brother pays attention to girls other than her, and often throws tantrums so he will take notice of her. This is all due to her being afraid of losing him, as he's the only one she can rely on. Moving on, Roromiya Karuta is a kindhearted girl who likes to eat a lot. She is also one who will always render her help if others need it. Despite being helpful and someone who is cheerful and carefree, she has trouble making friends and yearns for them. She is also very intelligent and observant as she knows all the minute details about the situation she and the people around her are in. It's time to ask yourself a question: who would you rather have by your side? |
Momo Belia Deviluke (To LOVE-Ru) vs. Yui (Sword Art Online)
The cunning girl who always has tricks up her sleeves, or the girl who was created out of virtual reality? We present to you Momo Belia Deviluke and Yui-MHCP001. Momo Belia Deviluke has a side she never shows to anyone except the person she loves. A rather lively girl, she drags others into her plans, and often is the one who lightens up the atmosphere. However, she is extremely protective of her loved ones. She would do anything so long as it gets them out of danger. Besides that, she is very considerate, as she spares a thought for others and wants them to experience the feelings of joy and happiness of being with the person they love. Next, we have Yui, a kindhearted girl who is bad at dealing with negative emotions due to her always experiencing it through others. After being with her "parents,” she became more cheerful and often tried to lessen the mood whenever it felt heavy. She is also extremely protective of the people she loves, and would do anything—even if it means sacrificing herself to save them from harm. With them facing each other, upon whom will victory smile? |
Ayano Keiko (Silica) (Sword Art Online)
vs.
Akemi Homura (Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica)
After their brief meeting back in the Preliminaries, the time has come for these two girls to meet each other officially on the stage of the Regular Season, to show each other how much they have changed. Currently the lowest ranked Sword Art Online character in the overall standings, Silica, just like all her comrades from the same series, has been unable to keep up with her outstanding performance during the Preliminary Phase. The skillful Beast Tamer needs nothing else but to win as much as she can to cheer on her friends. Over on the other side, Akemi Homura is not any better. With several anti- Madoka ☆ Magica voters doing all they can to drag her down, the lonely mahō shōjo can do nothing else but clutch onto the hope of another upcoming film and try her best. They are not strong and powerful, nor have the strength to punch out their opponents, but both of them are giving all they have. |
Katsura Hinagiku (Hayate no Gotoku!) vs. Akiyama Mio (K-ON!)
Round four of the Amethyst Period brings two former champions of ISML together in one arena. Katsura Hinagiku, President of the Hakuō Academy Student Council, will face her toughest opponent, Akiyama Mio, the bassist from Hōkago Tea Time. Hinagiku, who sees herself as weaker than before, can only hope for some strength left in her to surprise her opponent, though it will still be an uphill struggle. Her status as champion of ISML 2009 will be at stake here. Meanwhile, Mio is still in a comfortable situation, but must do something to assert her power. Her charms as a bassist and champion of ISML 2010 are alluring to a lot of people, making her struggles feel brief and mild, and culminating in results that are quite satisfactory. But she should not be one bit off guard, and fall into an abyss of her own making. When these two champions face off against each other, who can prove that she is the true one? |
Kuroyukihime (Accel World) vs. Honma Meiko (AnoHana)
This round of the Amethyst Period brings together two girls who are complete opposites of each other. Introducing the first girl, we have Kuroyukihime. Kuroyukihime is an intelligent girl with a sharp tongue. She gets jealous easily and often tries to distance others from her loved ones. Though she might not seem like it, she can manipulate others to get them to do something she wants, or rather, to annoy them. She is also a calm person, able to keep her poise when the odds are stacked against her. On the other hand, we have Honma Meiko, or in short: Menma. A girl who is naive and an airhead, she is always cheerful and likes to hang out with her friends, though she often experiences loneliness and gets depressed easily. She always tries her best to lighten up the atmosphere; however, many a time her efforts do not pay off. She is determined, however, to accomplish the promise she made even if it means she has to sacrifice her life. The time has come for you to decide whose personality you like. |
Yui-nyan (Angel Beats!) vs. Louise Vallière (Zero no Tsukaima)
On this round of matches, the sky suddenly turns... pink for some unknown reason. On one side of the field, we have Louise Vallière, a magician well-known for her other name, "Zero". And that is only because every single time she casts a spell, it fails, usually leading to an explosion. That must be what gives her that extra "bang" in her tsundere personality. On the other side of the field, we have Yui-nyan, at least that's what she calls herself. She used to just be a big fan of her favourite band, but when the lead guitarist suddenly disappeared, she stepped up to the plate and took that position. She's also quite intelligent and hyperactive. Now in this battle of Pink, where will your votes go? |
Izumi Konata (Lucky ☆ Star) vs. Hirasawa Yui (K-ON!)
If this was a battle of laziness, then these two would definitely be on top, even though they might be at the bottom of their respective classes. Hirasawa Yui is a girl who, when focused on doing one thing, does it extremely well. At first she knew nothing about music, but when she entered the Light Music Club, everything changed. She transformed into an excellent guitarist, although she still makes a few mistakes from time to time. But then again, let's not forget Izumi Konata, a 100% otaku to the bone. Her priorities are her manga, anime, games, and definitely not studying. Though when she does study, she can get amazing scores, like the people who study days prior to an exam. It's time to vote now, so to which girl will your precious (or lazy) votes go: to the Guitarist, or to the Otaku? |
C.C. (Code Geass) vs. Tachibana Kanade (Angel Beats!)
The sky suddenly darkens with the arrival of these two girls on the battlefield. Both possessing extraordinary powers, which one will prevail? C.C. is a girl who holds the "Power of the Kings," a power only given to those whom she deems worthy. That's only one side of her. The other side of her is all about pizza. Yes, pizza. She loves pizza so much that she can't stop eating it. Speaking of addiction to food, Tachibana Kanade also has one: mapo tofu. And not only that, she has a power called "Guard Skills," which gives her a blade on her hand, the ability to evade bullets, and many more. Although she may have that power, she has a gentler side to her that none of her friends knew about. So to which foodie will your votes go to: Pizza or Tofu? |
Thanks to Jiharo, hinakabklyn, chan12, 10ZHAbin, and M4st3rK1m for contributing today's match previews.
Amethyst 5 — Tuesday, 21 May 2013
Aisaka Taiga (Toradora!) vs. Charlotte Dunois (IS <Infinite Stratos>)
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One of the two double headers between Kugimiya Rie’s voiced characters and Hanazawa Kana’s characters pits Aisaka Taiga against Charlotte Dunois. While both of them sport long, dreamy hair, their characters can’t be any more different. Taiga lives alone in a high-class apartment, trying in vain to mend her broken heart and leave her crumbling household. Inside her fearsome façade, there lies dormant a person yearning for care and affection from those close to her. She snaps at those who dare cross paths with her, and no one would guess that underneath it all lies a broken husk of a girl searching for salvation and solace. Charlotte, on the other hand, moved to Japan under the instruction of her father, whom she never really knew. Obediently overseeing the plan hatched by her father’s firm, she tries her best to shroud her real identity from the other students of the academy, lest a big fracas starts brewing. It hurts her the most to keep this secret from her own roommate, who thought of her as someone else. As the two maidens steeped in trials and tribulations clash, who will be vanquished by her opponent? |
Tōwa Erio (Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko) vs. Yūki Mikan (To LOVE-Ru)
Both girls have come far and suffered a lot. Shouldered with the responsibility as the caretaker of the house, Yūki Mikan shows maturity past her age. She has proven to be reliable as she does all the household chores and takes care of her older brother despite just being an elementary school kid. She does this all willingly, though she cares for her brother deeply. She is also highly perceptive, as she seems to be able to read people's minds and emotions. Tōwa Erio withdrew from society and hid in her futon after disappearing for six months; she has no recollection of that period, even to the extent of asking her mother to ignore her existence as she probably went through some hardship during the time when Erio went missing. Her friends also started to shun her after she began acting eccentric. She doesn't seem to be bothered by it, but in fact, she actually desires for people to treat her normally and cannot bring herself to say it due to her shy nature. To who will your sympathy go? The girl who lost her memories, or the one taking care of the house since she was young? |
Last Order (Toaru Majutsu no Index)
vs.
Suzumiya Haruhi (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu)
Keeping tabs on Last Order and Suzumiya Haruhi can be tiring. With a seeming boundless reservoir of energy emanating from them, those around them are hard pressed to appease their whimsy and general ‘genki’-ness. The gloomiest atmosphere can suddenly brighten up when any one of them is present. Far detached from the gloomy girls related to her, Last Order is like a beacon of hope. Managing to become attached to a particular esper many others detest and fear, this little one in turn is able to make him open up to others’ warmth and care. Even when she is in absolute danger, she never doubts that there will be a silver lining behind the shrouded situation. Unbeknownst to herself, Haruhi possesses the ability to subconsciously alter reality at her bidding. Due to this, she is under constant surveillance by differing factions, with different agendas. Dire ramifications can occur if she is not kept satisfied, and her brigade members are usually exasperated in keeping her in check. Will the odd clone of a certain project be able to subdue the playful god with her charm, or vice versa? |
Misaki Mei (Another) vs. Yūki Asuna (Sword Art Online)
Isolation by classmates and friends is never good. Misaki Mei was shunned after her classmates accused her of all the terrible things that befell the class. Having nowhere else to go, she lived with her grandmother and did not seem to interact with anyone, as she had given up trying to clear her name. She likes drawing and is a member of the art club. Besides that, she seems to take fancy in the dolls that are created by her grandmother. Though her classmates avoided her, she never gave up on them and tried her best to save them. Yūki Asuna, a girl who can just do about doing anything and excel in it—such as cooking—suffered a lot through the practice she put in. She used to be someone who gave up easily in times of trouble, but now, she does her best in everything. As such, her perseverance and achievement are things to be respected. Nevertheless, she is very humble about her success and enjoys simple pleasures with her loved ones. Would you accompany the one who is misunderstood, or will you leave her alone? |
Kuroyukihime (Accel World) vs. Momo Belia Deviluke (To LOVE-Ru)
The time has come for these two cunning girls to see who can outwit the other. Kuroyukihime is an intelligent and calm person. She can assess her situation even in the midst of chaos. She has the gift of gab, as she's able to manipulate people into doing the things she wants them to. She is also very analytical as she can gather information from the smallest piece of data. Not only that, Kuroyukihime also gets jealous easily, and it can be attributed to the fact that she's very protective of her loved ones. That could be the same for Momo Belia Deviluke, too, as she is protective of the person she loves. Though Momo doesn't possess the gift of gab, she is considerate of the people around her and wants them to feel loved and not suffer. Besides that, she is skilled at almost everything, from household chores to school. With the both of them facing each other, the one who emerges victorious will be the wittiest of them all. |
Thanks to Eclairs and Jiharo for contributing today's match previews.
Amethyst 6 — Thursday, 23 May 2013
Takanashi Tōka (Chūnibyō demo Koi ga Shitai!)
vs.
Momo Belia Deviluke (To LOVE-Ru)
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Both Takanashi Tōka and Momo Belia Deviluke are loitering near the cutoff line for the Postseason spots in the Nova Division. With seven and six wins apiece, they are in danger of missing the season-ending fireworks if they fail to improve their performances during the Regular Season. After ending the Aquamarine Period with four wins and three losses, their performances in the current phase have left much to be desired. While dark-haired Tōka’s performance is not shabby by any means, her performance pales in comparison to the other two participants heralding from the same series. Momo also is not doing particularly well compared to another of her show's ensemble. With the other entrants either in the Stella division or rooted near the bottom of the leaderboard, the task to enter the Postseason falls to Momo. Statistically, there is little between them, hence every vote counts for this match. As the dust settles, will the chef and older sister of the Takanashi household cook her way to victory, or will the gadgets and summoned plants across the world aid Momo to triumph? |
Yuzuriha Inori (Guilty Crown) vs. Chitanda Eru (Hyōka)
Once again, we have a match up of characters sporting completely different personalities: the ever quiet Yuzuriha Inori and the ever lively Chitanda Eru. Inori suffered a lot in the past and withdrew to the people she knew. She rarely spoke and was always seen with her loved ones. She doesn't understand the emotions that people feel, but knows that her loved ones are precious and will do anything to protect them. She is also very loyal and never once doubts them. Eru grew up in a much more comfortable environment, so she is always cheerful as she has never experienced hardship. Sometimes she ends up offending people without knowing it by pulling them into wherever her curiosity takes her. She is also a great cook, and is especially talented in making dishes out of rice. Due to her environment, she is rather naive and gets hurt easily when she stumbles across sad stories. With these two girls coming this far, who will succeed in climbing the ladder towards a better tomorrow? Will it be Inori, or will it be Eru? |
Takanashi Rikka (Chūnibyō demo Koi ga Shitai!) vs. Kotegawa Yui (To LOVE-Ru)
The two girls in this arena are runners from reality. Takanashi Rikka came down with "8th grade syndrome" after being unable to accept her father's death, and as such, began acting eccentric and scared away everyone. Due to her eccentricity, she lives with her older sister, who has a hard time taking care of her. Despite her childish attitude, she is your average girl who desires care and affection. Kotegawa Yui is a short-tempered girl who jumps to conclusions without thinking or taking any consideration of the circumstances that happened. She also sports a tsundere personality, as she runs away from her feelings a lot and hides them through aggression and anger. She is also shy and gets nervous easily, especially since she is inexperienced dealing with boys her age. Nevertheless, she tries to understand them. The one who is able to emerge victorious is the one who can accept reality and adapt to it. |
Tachibana Kanade (Angel Beats!) vs. Izumi Konata (Lucky ☆ Star)
Round Six of the Amethyst Period brings two girls together, Tachibana Kanade and Izumi Konata, in one arena whose fates contrast greatly. In this Regular Season, Tachibana Kanade is still unbeatable, just like a year ago. She wants to repeat the record that she made and try to defend her title as queen of ISML. Her supremacy and status as the winner of ISML 2012 intimidates many opponents down to their knees. Meanwhile, repeated situations full of misfortune have happened to Izumi Konata. She has not yet won this year, making it hard to keep up her spirits. Only a small miracle can reverse her situation to where she can show everyone her true worth. In a battle like heaven and earth, who can win? Will Tachibana Kanade prove her supremacy, or will Izumi Konata try to get back to her winning ways? |
Kōsaka Kirino (Ore no Imōto) vs. Misaka Mikoto (Toaru Majutsu no Index)
How the tables have turned. The last meeting between Kōsaka Kirino and Misaka Mikoto had been won convincingly by the Electromaster during the 2011 Regular Season, en route to her Tiara in the same year. With the new format introduced with the segregation between the Nova and Stella entrants from 2012 onwards, this will be the first meeting between the maidens in ISML since then. Ending the previous season in 20th place, Kirino wasn't able to reach the Postseason of 2011. But the landscape is totally different in this year’s tournament. With both of the girls having the boost of airing anime to keep them relevant, Mikoto seems to have taken a nosedive in her popularity, whilst Kirino on the other hand seems to be boosted enough to make this encounter not completely a sure win for the former Tiara winner. The model student’s show seems to elevate her into the same rank as the Railgun, as shown by their identical scores until this fixture. Will Mikoto zap her opponent again, or will Kirino run away with the victory this time around? |
Yui-nyan (Angel Beats!) vs. Akiyama Mio (K-ON!)
The sixth day of the Amethyst Period brings us yet another battle that should be interesting for music and anime fans alike. Both girls are in the top ten in the current rankings, but that might change after this match. Substituting for her senpai this round, Yui-nyan is certainly no push-over. An intelligent girl with "cool" guitar skills, you wouldn't want her to call you a "moron". She really wants to win this round, but then again, she might have a hard time with that. Her opponent is Akiyama Mio, winner of the Tiara three years ago. She is the bassist and most mature member of her band. This girl, although being very shy, would really like to try and win the Tiara once more, but she might have to settle with a Necklace. All of that aside, to which girl will your votes go? |
Thanks to Eclairs, Jiharo, chan12, and M4st3rK1m for contributing today's match previews.
Amethyst 7 — Sunday, 26 May 2013
Saber (Fate/stay night) vs. Shana (Shakugan no Shana)
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Swords clash and flickers spark, lighting a night bathed in blood. As carnage ensues, so too do the curses spouted by the red-haired maiden clad in a robust jacket. Her majestic, fiery wings span the horizon, and the temperature soars to an unfathomable level. With the cocytus on her neck giving her due assistance, the longhaired maiden continues her relentless assault on the maiden clad in blue armour. Screaming loudly, the crimson-eyed girl slashes her enemy with zeal unbeknownst to mere mortals. Repelling the vicious attacks using her invisible blade, the shorthaired knight in turn steadies herself. A bright, glorious beam seems to emanate from her clenched fist, making her invisible blade seem to be unsheathed from a mysterious scabbard. Lunging into the thick of battle head-on, the heroic spirit seems unfazed as her opponent finally deduces her real identity. “Saber, I will not bow down to you,” are the redhead's last words as she welcomes the challenge laid before her. "Shana, I will prevail here," is the knight’s reply as the stench of death and destruction deepens… |
Eucliwood Hellscythe (Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?) vs. Yui (Angel Beats!)
Eucliwood Hellscythe and Yui in a lot of ways are the antitheses to one another. Both cute and petite maidens are somewhat related to the Underworld, but their similarities end there. The long and silvery-haired Eucliwood is the Necromancer of the Underworld. Housing a prominent power within herself, she is clad in full body armour just to suppress it. As the leaves wither and the sands of time trickle, she knows that Father Time will eventually overcome most of her loved ones. Living for eternity, Eucliwood knows the pain of being alone and yearns for the one thing most people find to be the most trivial thing in the world—the word "happiness". The pink and shorthaired Yui is a member of the band Girls Dead Monster. Blessed with a beautiful voice and the ability to play guitar, she became the leader of the band after the previous leader disappeared. But she still had one lingering wish while alive that went unfulfilled until after she entered the afterworld. As the two ghastly maidens from the realm of the dead clash, which one will be able to strike the fatal blow to her adversary? |
Shiina Mashiro (Sakura-sō no Pet na Kanojo) vs. Yūki Asuna (Sword Art Online)
The round has finally come where two powerhouses meet each other. Yūki Asuna and Shiina Mashiro are currently unbeaten in the Amethyst Period. Shiina Mashiro, who has not lost a match so far, knows that she needs to win this decisive match in order to have a chance at the necklace again. She failed once before, but she isn’t calling it quits as she continues to steamroll anyone who blocks her path. Yūki Asuna knows that this match is a must win too, for she must exact revenge for being so close, yet so far, from grabbing the rights to fight for the Aquamarine necklace. All hopes are now pinned on Asuna, as SAO fans want that necklace for their glory. However, they do have to acknowledge the fearsome power that Mashiro holds. Shiina Mashiro shows no signs of backing away either and is keen on inflicting a second loss to Yūki Asuna. With both girls desiring the necklace, who will prevail in the battle for the right to fight for what is hers? |
Chitanda Eru (Hyōka) vs. Aoyama Nanami (Sakura-sō no Pet na Kanojo)
Both girls are standing almost side-by-side, with Aoyama Nanami being slightly ahead. As they fight for a placing in the Postseason, they all know that this is a match they mustn’t lose. After losing to Inori, Chitanda Eru knows that she definitely has to win over her rival in order to stand shoulder to shoulder and compete for a chance to win the Tiara. As she has never been in this tourney before, she is curious as to how necklace and Tiara winners feel. The same can be said for Nanami as she fights in order for a shot for the Tiara. She is determined to win so that she can be one step closer to her partner, who currently holds an outstanding record. Being unable to stomach how much of a gap there was between her and her partner, she worked hard in order to prove that she was capable of challenging for the Tiara, too. Between Eru and Nanami, who will falter first and whose efforts will pay off? |
Honma Meiko (AnoHana) vs. Sanka Rea (Sankarea)
Both girls have had bad starts, but they are determined to change. Sanka Rea and Honma Meiko know that they will have to improve their standings in order to not disappoint their loved ones. While they lost their lives to tragedies, they know that isn’t an excuse for them to fare this badly. Sanka Rea, who desires to experience what normal girls do, wonders what it's like to stand at the top. Honma Meiko wants to do better for the sake of her friends and loved ones, who are always standing by her and rooting for her success. They know that they will have to win this match in order to further their hopes and dreams. With the both of them currently struggling, who will hope smile upon as they quest to do better than where they stand right now? |
Aisaka Taiga (Toradora!) vs. Tachibana Kanade (Angel Beats!)
Welcome to the showdown of two legendary powerhouses as they try to mow down everyone they face. Currently holding on to the second highest period SDO in the Stella division, Aisaka Taiga knows that this is a match she must win to inflict the first loss to Kanade since Kanade's defeat in the 2011 Elimination period. She also needs the win in order to compete with Gokō Ruri as she tries to stop her from repeating the feat that Kanade once accomplished, as well as to win the necklace for herself. Tachibana Kanade is no pushover, though, as she has proven that her Tiara win last year was no fluke. She continues to mow everyone down and currently stands unbeaten with no Regular Season losses since her debut in 2011. Though Kanade knows that she can’t participate in the necklace match after having won the Aquamarine necklace, she is determined to keep her unbeaten record intact and head straight to defending her Tiara. With both girls being no pushovers, who will succeed in her plan? |
Kuroyukihime (Accel World)
vs.
Hasegawa Kobato (Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai)
Our next two challengers have already faced each other earlier this year in the battle for the Aquamarine necklace. It is now Amethyst 7, and both challengers are once again fighting to advance to the necklace round. Kuroyukihime has previously battled opponents before in her attempt to become the strongest in Virtual Reality. Eventually, she decided that power was more important than meeting friends. That hasn’t stopped her from making new friends and allies, including previous allies who still want to be her friend. Hasegawa Kobato also wants to become strong and act like a leader when she is at home. Most of the time she prefers to watch TV and cosplay as her favorite anime character. With a little help, she ventures out to find friends to have fun with when her brother is not around. While both challengers have either reached or surpassed the top 16 of KBM last year, Kobato already has a one-year head start in ISML. Which challenger’s dark powers will be strong enough to win today's match and remain unbeaten; will it be Kobato with her ability to convince others to support her, or Kuroyukihime with her battle experience as a “King” to earn support? |
Gokō Ruri (Kuroneko) (Ore no Imōto) vs. Nakano Azusa (K-ON!)
Looks can be deceiving. Our next two challengers may look cute on the outside when they’re wearing cat ears and acting like felines. The minute they show their passion for their hobbies, it’s as if they are unleashing their claws ready to attack anyone who doesn’t take them seriously. Gokō Ruri will not settle with cosplaying at home and in secret. Even if her society does not openly accept her otaku lifestyle, she wears gothic lolita clothes and acts the part of her favorite anime character out in the open. In addition, she actively looks to meet other friends who share similar interests. Nakano Azusa is also serious about her hobby as a musician and looks forward to practicing music daily. Accordingly, she also looks to meet other friends and musicians who share her interest. However, her Light Music Club group members end up convincing her to relax, have fun, and not take music too seriously. Ruri has already won two necklaces, including Amethyst last year, while Azusa won AST in 2010. Both want what the other already has, and more. Which challenger will win today’s catfight and advance to the Amethyst necklace match? |
Thanks to Eclairs, hinakatbklyn, and Jiharo for contributing today's match previews.
Amethyst Necklace Showdown — Thursday, 30 May 2013
Gokō Ruri (Kuroneko) (Ore no Imōto) vs.
Shiina Mashiro (Sakura-sō no Pet na Kanojo) vs.
Eucliwood Hellscythe (Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?) vs.
Kuroyukihime (Accel World) vs.
Misaka Mikoto (Toaru Majutsu no Index) vs.
Takanashi Rikka (Chūnibyō demo Koi ga Shitai!) vs.
Shana (Shakugan no Shana)
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The ability to not only overcome one's weakness, but also accept it, as a part of the “self”—that is what it means to hold the Amethyst Necklace. Gokō Ruri has proven before that she has what it takes to bear the necklace by becoming more humble and accepting of her relationships with her friends and classmates. Once more, she must prove she is capable of retaining this necklace as six others equally prove their worth for it. Shiina Mashiro used to be far away from everyone's reach, but she is slowing starting to understand how to react in certain situations, as well as realize her own growing emotions. Eucliwood Hellscythe is reminded that she is to never bear all the burdens on her shoulders and to instead rely a bit more on her friends. Kuroyukihime learned to open up more to others whenever she is in pain or doubt. Misaka Mikoto remembered that strength alone is not enough to bring justice to others. Takanashi Rikka reconciled with herself, not only accepting reality, but also realizing that her fantasies are what make her unique. Shana used to be alone to deal with her problems, but now she has people with whom she can talk to answer the questions within her heart. Of the seven contenders, on whom will the moon graciously shine its spotlight? |
Fujibayashi Kyō (CLANNAD) vs.
Araragi Tsukihi (Bakemonogatari) vs.
Kirishima Shōko (Baka to Test to Shōkanjū) vs.
Holo (Spice and Wolf) vs.
Kurasaki Fūko (Sky Raker) (Accel World) vs.
Izumi Konata (Lucky ☆ Star) vs.
Kanzaki H. Aria (Hidan no Aria)
The everyday smiles that we are accustomed to seeing them with overshadow the insecurities weighing down their minds. Fujibayashi Kyō has always put her sister's happiness above her own, yet she wonders how long she will be able to help her sister out from the shadows. Araragi Tsukihi tags along with her sister’s game of justice, yet questions whether or not she is as passionate at facing evil as her sister. Kirishima Shōko has doubted her capabilities of becoming the ideal girlfriend for the person she loves dearly. Forgotten by those who once worshiped her, Holo has trouble figuring out what her role is in a world that does not need her anymore. Kurasaki Fūko questions whether or not she can truly reach up to the sky to overcome her disability. While carefree, Konata is still looking for people who will accept her as a friend with unusual tastes and philosophies. Kanzaki H. Aria continues forward with the mindset of relieving her mother from her jail time, no matter what the cost. Will any of these girls reveal genuine smiles straight from their hearts? Let the votes decide... |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.