During the course of a battle with Nao, Mia uncovers the truth behing the attack on Yuuichi's "little sister" Shiho. And Yuuichi learns more about his own as yet untapped power. Later, Mikoto is attacked by a stranger, and even though she prevails, there are unexpected circumstances. A HiME battle is announced, and to insure Mai's participation, poor Mikoto is the bait. The consequence of losing this grudge match? Nothing less than being forced to leave the Academy!
Re-read 2023 for the first 3 volumes: Had a bit of travel today to visit my dad (long story) and decided I could use some good manga in my life so why not do another re-read this one (and other volumes). These volumes are so good and I just love how different it from the anime, it is a whole different story. Struggled a bit with Natsuki again because she is such a stuck-up bitch. I do love all the monsters, the battles, the moments with the "keys", the excitement that is building up, and I don't mind it being ecchi. I also love that each volume has interviews with VA and other bits of extra information + extra illustrations at the end.
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Re-read 2021: I am getting a bit tired of the rivalries, the battles for stupid things, and some other things. I mean really, aren't you all here to fight Orphans and such? Get on to it then instead of doing stupid crap like here. Still, I enjoyed the battles, despite the stupidity, they were well-drawn and flowed very well. I also liked seeing new characters appear, couples be formed, and Mikoto kick some serious butt (well, until she is hungry/sleepy). I love how Tate is picking up slack and becoming more awesome. I am definitely getting in the mood to watch the anime.
-------------------------------------- Oh my, that was quite an interesting volume. Filled with action, ecchi and comedy. :)