Crashin’ Waves: Anime’s Water Elementals

Soothing to the senses yet with unbearable destructive force.

Water is powerful in both positive and negative ways. It is a force strong enough to match fire but also gentle enough to be used for healing. It is flexible and can be completely harmless, but once in a rage, there can be no way to stop it.

Like fire, water is also one of the most destructive elements. Storms and tsunamis have brought about some of the biggest amount of destruction in a single hit. Fire may not even come close to water’s destructive nature.

Yet water – despite its destroying force – is also life for this planet. The abundance of life in our deepest oceans is proof to that. And as humans, our need for water is immeasurable. The body is composed mostly of substances that come in the form of water. In this world, water is one of the most important elements that we need to survive.

The Chinese believes water to be a constant force; it is silent yet moving. It is mostly likened to human emotions ranging from calm and serene to rage and violence.

Anime is no stranger to the concept of the water’s strong force. It has used the idea of water-related superhuman abilities in most anime about fantasy and battles.

In line with the anime elementals article that started with fire last month, we take a closer look at anime’s most popular water-wielders. They’re calm and still but ready to strike when you least expect it.

8. Kaien Shiba (Bleach)

Rukia played a major role in the demise of this 13th Division lieutenant. Seeking revenge for the death of his wife, he was possessed by a hollow and attacked his own comrade. Rukia’s intention to save herself caused him his life.
Had he lived longer, his abilities would have been showcased more. His zanpakuto, the Nejibana, is a crystalline weapon that looks like a cross between a ji and a trident. Shiba uses this to manipulate water and create shockwaves that instantly kill enemies by splitting them into two.

7. Kiyoshi Mitarai (Yu Yu Hakusho)

A member of the Sensui Seven, Kiyoshi is also known through his codename: Seaman. He is a blonde teenager capable of creating water creatures by fusing his blood with it. He was first shown as having a fondness for the rain and in a fight with Kuwabara, learned his abilities were no match for the new power the spirit detective has obtained. Yet this led to the discovery of Kuwabara’s power and the detective’s kidnapping. Kiyoshi turned his back against his allies and joined Yusuke in saving Kuwabara from Sensui.

6. Shogo Asagi (X1999 / Tsubasa Chronicles)

Although Shogo appears only in the X1999 movie as the water master (a role played by Kakyō in the manga), he had another stint in Tsubasa Chronicles as a water wielder in the Hanshin Republic. In X1999, he could create small whirlpools and strike enemies with water. He could also make the water pour down like short but destructive icicles. In Tsubasa Chronicles, he has the power to summon a ray-like creature that creates powerful water attacks. However, in both anime, Shogo is seen as a brash young man who’s there solely to cause trouble.

5. Kisame Hoshigaki (Naruto)

Often seen working with Itachi Uchiha, Kisame gets along well with the Akatsuki leader. He always looks out for Itachi’s well-being although his looks would probably betray it. Kisame has the entire look of a shark, with his pale skin, gill-like structures in his face, and sharp triangular teeth. Even his attacks are similar to his facial characteristic as he shapes water into the form of sharks.

4. Michiru Kaiou / SailorNeptune (Sailormoon)

As calm as still water, Michiru possess such characteristics. She plays the violin perfectly, making music flow like water and even her flowing hair is a perfect sign of her character. Her Sailorsoldier name is even that of the water-god, Neptune. Her attacks are concentrated in the element of water, however, the truth is, water in its purest form, is not Michiru’s power. It is actually the pressure in the deep waters that she uses to create attacks. Her most popular attack is Deep Submerge.

3. Sloth (Fullmetal Alchemist)

Sloth is capable of turning herself into water, making her indestructible. She could also glide onto water surfaces as in one episode where she traveled rapidly in a body of water. She uses her unique ability in both defense and offense, turning her arms into water and swinging it over her enemies. She could also trap a person inside her body once it has turned fluid. Yet, in her battle with the fullmetal alchemist, Ed was able to defeat her by changing her chemical composition to that of ethanol. Even to the very end though, Sloth remained calm and cool in front of the Elric brothers. It seems her unique ability is also part of her personality.

2. Umi Ryuzaki (Magic Knight Rayearth)

After being thrown into Cephiro by an explosion of light, Umi was destined to become a Magic Knight with the power of water and control of the Mashin, Celes. At first she was reluctant to the journey but as her comrades continue to fight, she had the will to summon her power inside her and in the end earn Celes’ power. Her blue hair and uniform plus her constant tantrum form a strong likeliness to her element. Yet her steadfast determination to help and her strength is as strong as the current she creates with her Water Dragon attack.

1. Ami Mizuno / SailorMercury (Sailormoon)

This Sailorsoldier is enormously intelligent. Yet she maintains a simple, lovely disposition. She will never resort to dispute and violence. If Ami was an ocean, she’d be a gentle-waving one.
Her last name is a direct reference to the source of her power. She resides as the princess of planet Mercury and has the ability to manipulate water. Unlike Sailor Neptune, her power is that of the ocean surface or the moving water. In the series, she is also able to create attacks that involves water in other states – ice (solid) and vapor (gas).

Water has two faces: a calm, gentle-flowing blanket, and an angry, menacing tsunami. These anime water wielders are able to tame these characteristics of the one element that, though scarce in comparison, could be the one force that is even worse than fire.

*****JHAJR*****

I’m Too Sexy…

There is an interesting difference between a man and a woman’s view of the word “sexy.” For guys (or some of them), a sexy woman appears not without the image of a lovely scantily-clad babe. To a woman (or most of them), however, a scantily-clad hunk may not put out the same definition for the word. Just look at the ratio of sexy male and female images over the net or the magazines out there catering to men and women’s feel for some hot stuff.

Anime is no stranger to this point of view. There is no comparing between the number of sexy images of guys and girls over the internet. The babes far outnumber the hunks.

Yet perhaps this is because the hunks need not undress to show off their appeal to the girls? We seem to think so and thus we jutted down a list of the Hottest (Clothed) Guys in Anime.

Hey, it’s no fair for the girls to let only the guys be lavished with sheer sexiness during summer. So this becomes their share of the treat.

Anime dudes, listen up! After much deliberation and debate, only a handful made it to our list. The blessed ones. Those created to whoo the girls and heat up the room for them without even taking off their clothes.

Not a lot of guys are blessed with the right combination of looks and wits to match the anime dudes that would follow. So, lest you want to feel lower and more depressed than you already are with yourself, I suggest you steer away and forget you ever chanced upon this article.

: Treize Khushrenada of Gundam Wing

The antagonist of one of the Gundam series has the look and charm of royalty. His sharp stare is enough to drag the ladies to his side. And don’t say you didn’t notice the eyebrows. Treize has both the strength and cunning trait of a soldier in battle and the warmth and kindness of a Samaritan. He’s determined to fight for his belief but as much  ready to let go of those ideals when the situation calls for it. Treize is a man of a few words and much action.

: Kaji Ryouji of Neon Genesis Evangelion

Notice how his hair seem unruly and his looks seem to linger to the rough side. Kaji had lived a very tough life, yet his kind demeanor in front of those around him seems to throw out any hint of what he had gone through. Or is it mere acting on his side? After all, Kaji is a double agent. Only one woman probably knows his real side which makes knowing him quite a challenge. But don’t fret. Kaji seems to be a flirt and may easily give in to a woman. Just make sure not to get burned when this double agent gets to hot to handle. Kaji is as mysterious as he can be rough and wild.

: Ken Hidaka of Weiss Kreuz

Yes, yes, all the boys of Weiss Kreuz are hot. But Ken seems to exude something different. His mild nature seems to come out more than Aya; he can be as funny but cuter than Yoji; and with more of a touch of maturity compared to Omi. Ken, who uses his fist to fight (with his bagh nakh or tiger claws of course) which makes a fight for him tougher because of the close range against his enemy. But Ken easily disposes them all with the agility he earned being a member of the J-League. Working in a flower shop in the morning and teaching kids soccer however, makes him look very sweet and caring. Ken is as sharp and dangerous as a tiger claw but as one saying goes: A lion (or a tiger) is just a giant pussycat.

: Son Gohan of DragonBall Z

We’ve known Son Gohan ever since he was cute kid. He grew up to be a cute lad with spiked hair almost like his father’s. Then he became older, sported short spikes, and at times wore eyeglasses. With many of the cast of Dragon Ball Z looking strong and suprisingly muscular, Son Gohan swayed a little from the stereotypes and drew his own path. He became known as the intellectual. He was more in touch with being a human than being a Saiyan. His power may have lessened because of this yet he stood out of the many muscular guys in the series. You can’t deny a good-looking young man with a healthy brain and body, wouldn’t you? Son Gohan is not your typical Saiyan.

: Spike Spiegel of Cowboy Bebop

If the way he dons his suit doesn’t get your attention, perhaps his Jet Kune Do moves will? Or maybe his cool, red space ride. Or his hair. Whatever it may be, you can’t get it wrong with Spike. He’s one of the best dressed anime guys. His personality is a good combination of seriousness and wit. And he perfectly understands how to love a woman. He is known for his cool demeanor, taking things lightly. Perhaps this is because of the way he has lived with Jet as a bounty hunter. Yup, he doesn’t have the most stable of jobs. But he manages to live free as a bird. Wouldn’t anyone like that? Spike sure knows the ways of the word “cool.”

: Tamahome of Fushigi Yuugi

Okay, so he’s been undressed in a number of episodes in his series, but admit it, it’s not just that which makes him endearing. In case you haven’t noticed, he is a man easily able to express his deep affection for Miaka. How many guys can do that? He lives, breathes to protect his Miko and the love that they feel for each other. He also understands that he musn’t do “it” with the priestess lest they face the terrible consequence of losing to the Seiryuu country. Oh, if only all men can do that and wait for the right time… Tamahome is also funny and can be clumsy at times, making him imperfect and more loveable. Tamahome is as detemined and true as a love arrow piercing through a woman’s heart.

…and the Hottest (Clothed) Guy in Anime is…

: Sol Zagato of Magic Knight Rayearth

He was introduced as the antagonist of his show only for the situation to tumble the other way around, making him a victim of a world’s cruel law. He was steadfast in his honesty and love to the pillar of Cephiro. He was ready to face and battle the harsh consequences of taking the pillar of Cephiro to himself. Selfish? Perhaps. But who could deny a man of loving a woman. In front of him, the pillar cried for mercy, for keeping her would mean the destruction of everything. Yet Sol Zagato stayed true to his intentions, and in the end proving his heart to be as pure as that of the pillar’s. He was more than ready to die for love. Sol Zagato have loved way more than any man has.

*****JHAJR*****

Summer Sexy Anime Delight

Sweet Summer

The boats adrift in the harbour
As thoughts in a calm mind
A liquid sun beaming today and forever
We hoard happiness a smile at a time

As thoughts in a calm mind
Finding respite in cool shade
A liquid sun beaming today and forever
Butterflies flutter in a golden haze

Finding respite in cool shade
In this pastel world of light and shadows
Butterflies flutter in a golden haze
And crickets sing in motionless meadows

Oh sweet summer stay and sleep
A liquid sun beaming today and forever
Lingering dreams and afternoons of heat
The boats adrift in the harbour.

by Wayne Jarus

Heatin’ up for more anime summer pictures?

Click on the link to my Multiply account and find more!

*****JHAJR*****

Riding along a field of clover: Yuuta Takemoto

Anime: Honey and Clover

Age: 19

Status: 2nd year Architecture Student

Residence: Apartment Room 202; Annaka City, Gunma-Ken

Hair: Gray/Ash Brown

Eyes: Dark Gray

Seiyuu: Hiroshi Kamiya

*****

taken from an informal autobiographical essay by Takemoto Yuuta…

“When I was still young, wherever I went, it was always the same as I rode my blue bicycle. Then one day I wondered… how far could I ride without looking back?”

When I was young, I used to ride the bicycle with my father. I admire him very much. He loved my mother unconditionally. He taught me everything that made me who I am.

Even though my father spent only a short amount of time with my mother and me, no one could ever replace him. When I was younger I understood that clearly after my mother remarried. Kazuo Aida, a friendly and loud man, became my stepfather.

At first I found it hard to accept him. He’s the complete opposite of my father. But after seeing how much he loves my mother, and with my mother getting stressed at work, I began to acknowledge his efforts and now thinks my mother is better off with him than live alone since I go to college and live in an apartment.

My current residence is everything but normal. Morita-sempai is a firecracker that always manages to catch us off-guard. He’s definitely a source of comical relief. Though most of the time, he really scares me. Mayama-sempai is probably the only sane one in the apartment. He’s very responsible and that inspires me a lot.

Outside the apartment, I am considered a friend by Yamada-sempai who holds an unrequited love for Mayama-sempai. Then there’s Hanamoto-sensei who’s like a father to us.

And then there’s Hagumi or Hagu-chan as we call her. She’s probably the cutest person I’ve seen. She’s Hanamoto-sensei’s niece. I’ve become close to her and she’s a part of our group. She gets scared of Morita-sempai and I always like to look at her reactions. I feel very sorry for her.

“It feels strange. Until a few years ago we didn’t even know each other, but now we spend time together saying things like, ‘The sunset is so pretty,’ without even thinking about it. Thinking about things like that… actually, the sunset I see standing next to you is so pretty it hurts.”

We’ve spent a lot of time together and has gotten very close. Even after Mayama-sempai and Yamada-sempai have graduated, they still come to meet us every now and then. Mayama still chooses to live with us in the apartment despite his small success at work.

Actually, each of my friends are talented and successful. Even Hanamoto-sensei who have started writing a book. This makes me start to wonder if I could ever be just like them.

“…But I’ve realized why I’m lost. It’s not because I don’t have a map, it’s because I don’t have a destination.”

One day, I decided to ride my bike. I went to the northernmost part of the country and felt the importance of the life I left behind. After that journey, I think I’ve grown a little braver, a whole lot tougher. In fact, I think I’m sure I could tell now… just how much I feel… for her.

That’s right. I’m going to confess my feelings to her even if I understand that it could be nothing but an unrequited affection.

“While looking at everyone’s smiles, I remembered the blue sky I saw earlier from the embankment. A day when everything is perfect and when everthing will turn into memories will eventually come, but I’ll probably remember over and over again… you were there, and everyone else was there, the day when we all searched for just one thing. The blue sky, the smell of the wind, and a field of…”

*****JHAJR*****

She’s Unknowingly Sexy

In a vast sea of sexy anime babes images on the internet, there are actually only a handful who are exploding in voluptuousness.

If asked who among the girls has the sexiest bikini pic, most otaku guys (and some girls) would probably answer, without even thinking twice, the names of Rei Ayanami (NGEvangelion), Belldandy or Urd (Ah My Goddess!), Mizuho Kazami (Onegai Sensei), even Haruhi Suzumiya and Mikuru Asahina (TMOHaruhi Suzumiya) or the girls of SailorMoon. And of course, topping the list would definitely be Faye Valentine (Cowboy Bebop).

However, this is not about the crème de la crème of sexiness in anime. You see, in that same vast sea of sexy anime babes images, there are those who stand out not because they are sexier than other girls, but because seeing them sexy is something new and even surprising.

These girls – mostly supporting characters -  may have been overlooked or completely not favored by otakus but once they have shown some skin, the table makes a complete turn. They become recognizable. They are remembered.

Sadly though, they don’t gain as much sun exposure as the main or the secondary characters. Yet, it’s unavoidable. What would happen to the main characters if these girls outshine them? One has to have the spotlight after all. Otakus ought to just feel lucky for chancing upon these Surprisingly Sexy Anime Babes in Bikini:

Mizuki Kaho
“Card Captor Sakura”

She looks fragile and sweet. Look at her arched brows and weak smile paired with pale, smooth skin. She may not be as hot as Mizuho Kazami but knowing Mizuki is a teacher and seeing her like this is enough to make us want to go back to school. We always see her covered up in her uniform so this is definitely a welcome change.

Ryoko Asakura
“The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya”

Since the beginning people have looked up to this outstanding student like she was the most popular girl. Her appearance in the series was very short and so no one knew she could be so hot until this picture came out. Too bad, Yuki had to destroy her. Still, this sexy image will be etched in our minds forever…or at least until Yuki erases it from our memory.

Miyuki Takara
“Lucky Star”

It’s already a given that Miyuki is a fine lady but she definitely drives the phrase crashing into sheer sexiness with her pic here. Innocent and delicate, doesn’t she remind us of Mikuru Asahina?

Lucia / Lucia Nanami
“Mermaid Melody Pichi Pichi”

She’s the star of her show, so what make her different? Well, just when we thought all the other girls have outshone her when it comes to “the curves,” she struts her stuff and gained our respect. Look at that waistline! It’s enough to drive us into some lovely melody.

Yuki Nagato
“The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya”

Whadoyouknow…the humanoid girl has some curves to show. Her body is as smooth as baby’s skin but as tough as the hardest metal. She may not be as curvaceous as Haruhi or Mikuru but she sure makes up for the sexiness factor the same way as Rei Ayanami – well, almost.

Cornelia Li Britannia
“Code Geass”

She brings hell to anyone who dare comes up against her and her will. She’s strong, scary and…oozing with sexiness? Whoa! The Britannian Commander does have a soft side and we’re not talking about her feeling for her family and subordinates.

Kikyo
“InuYasha”

Even as a living dead Kikyo manages to be beautiful and way sexier than her future incarnation. She would definitely win Inuyasha over Kagome if she comes up to the dog demon looking like this. But better not show it to Naraku…

Cecile Croomy
“Code Geass”

The Britannian scientist can sure fire up chemicals inside our bodies. There’ve always been something sexy about Cecile – perhaps her smarts. But this time, there’s far more to this often overlooked character.

Forte Stollen
“Galaxy Angel”

Can you even tell that this sexy woman is the tomboyish, always-donning-military-suit-style, crazy member of the Angel Brigade? Having always  been seen her in thick outfits, this image finally declares her way hotter than any of her colleagues. Wait until she takes off the sarong on her waist.

Finally, the most surprisingly sexy anime babe in a bikini is…

Mihoshi Kuramitsu
“Tenchi Muyo”

This ditzy blonde space cop seen in a bikini could probably cause a planet-wide commotion. Her looks added to her carefree personality will blow any man (and some women) away. We would gladly commit crimes if she volunteers to escort us to prison and then discipline us.

In a sea of bikini-clad anime babes, only a handful gets to the top of the list. These girls may not be steaming hot, but they’re hot enough to gain your attention.

____________________

Babes on the Run

Alas! Despite the variety of anime babes images available for otakus to drool at there are still those babes who came and went without ever having any picture showing off some skin. Needless to say, it has poked a hole in our hearts; created a void in our being; and made us overly dramatic.

Here are some of the anime babes we may never see in a sexy bikini:

Hitomi Kanzaki
“The Vision of Escaflowne”

Hitomi, who usually travels to Gaea never got the chance to catchup with a photographer. She once took a photographer friend to Gaea but he fell in love with the place that he wandered and got lost. Last they heard, he was seen in Asturia taking photos of the ocean.

Megumi Takani
“Rurouni Kenshin”

Despite the flirtatous character, Megumi didn’t find it interesting to pose without her kimono. She had to protect her reputation as a doctor, she explained. And she certainly didn’t want some “spike-haired dog” to drool over her picture.

Yui Hongo
“Fushigi Yuugi”

After admitting defeat over Tamahome’s affection, Yui fell into depression and locked herself inside the Book of the Four Gods. No one has heard from her since.

Yomiko Readman
“Read Or Die”

She had once agreed to do a pictorial but as soon as the camera moved its shutter, Yomiko fired up red in embarrassment and, at last, accidentally manipulated all the photo papers, exposing them all under the hot sun, to cover herself. The photographer quit.

Yuuko Ichihara
“xxxHolic”

What could be the consequence of Yuuko undressing for eager otakus? Ain’t it inevitable that she grace the covers of sexy anime magazines soon? Lots of questions and the Dimension Witch most probably knows the answer. Unfortunately, she’s not telling.

*****JHAJR*****

Not Your Average Human: Yuki Nagato

Anime: The Melancholy/ Vanishment of Haruhi Suzumiya

Race: Humanoid interface

Age: 3 years old (Appears about 17)

Hair: Purplish brown

Eyes: Golden-brown

Status: Student, data entity, member of the S.O.S. Brigade

Occupation: SOS Brigade fifth seat / North High student (second year)
Deposed Literature Club Captain (still in this position de facto)

Voiced by: Minori Chihara

*****

Alone in the Literary Club (not that Yuki complains about it), Haruhi took her in as the last member of the SOS Brigade. Yuki did not show any resentment. Yet, despite being a member of a lively group of individuals (perhaps with the exception of Kyon – though he’s not as stoic as Yuki), it seems the energy of even Haruhi never rubs on her.

So how does one make life interesting for an artificial human like Yuki Nagato? She seems completely devoid of any emotion, she isolates herself from everyone, and she speaks only when spoken to.

Perhaps these simple actions could pull out a more human side to Yuki:

1. Put her in a baseball game

She seems interested in a game of strength and talent. Let her use her ability to precisely hit the ball and drown her opponents with never-ending homeruns. Let her use the entire SOS Brigade to win the game, no matter how professional the opponents are.

2. Star her in a movie

Put her in a costume, give her some lines and make Yuki a movie star! She may want to play the role of the enemy, putting the protagonist in numerous dangers. She may even be able to showcase her hidden power.

3. Let her play a video game

A computer club may want to challenge Yuki to a computer game. Introduce her to computer games and she might find herself enjoying. Bet on the game for something that the SOS Brigade can use in their club. Laptops, perhaps?

4. A little duel might do her good

Yuki may get bored with nothing to do but read and put up with Haruhi’s madness, so let her do some extra-curricular activities. It might be exciting to see her in a fight. Someone in Kyon’s class could be a worthy opponent for her. A little exercise will definitely pump this humanoid up.

5. Tell her she’s cuter without the eyeglasses.

No drastic actions needed. Just a some simple words might give Yuki something to live with every single day. There’s no denying it, she is cuter when her eyes aren’t blocked by her eyeglasses. Telling her that might poke a little area in her system and make her face blush at the very least. A small step to making her more human-like but a step nonetheless.

*****JHAJR*****