Great eps. The excellent cinematography combined with the superb use of mechancolic music drew me deep into the many poignant moments. I was particularly saddened by Yoriko's departure in ep 22. It felt like the time just before Mahoro (Mahoromatic) left to fight Ryuuga. The customary last date, the preparation of that final meal to last for days (and ok, they are also both maids :p).... Her departure also parallels Makoto's (fox incarnate in Kanon) which I remembered to be also very touching. That last kiss scene was so poetically portrayed that my heart really ached for Yoriko. Miharu's departure in ep 24 wasn't any easier for me. Somehow it hits you harder when in their 'dying' moments, they continue to speak of everyday, mundane events such as 'wearing your news socks' or 'eating more bananas'. The simple things in life had never seemed so meaningful until filtered through a dying life. Ep 23 was also a gem, depicting Kotori's loss of her ability to read minds. It is as bad as losing all your senses of touch/sight/smell/hearing and more. I compare this loss to that of losing your understanding. Suddenly, you can't read pple anymore and you cannot comprehend their actions/words. It's almost like losing your sanity. Yes, you see 1 + 1 but you just cannot figure out the answer when previously, the answer was somehow whispered to you. It's not exactly similar but i see elements of "Flowers for Algernon" in Kotori's loss of her ability. On another note, I have to give Mr Onii-san here a BIG pat on the back. He actually rejected Kotori! The most popular girl in school.... winsome personality, kind, sensitive, beautiful voice (go go Yuirin!)... in fact... beautiful everything! And...and... you so decisively reject her.... *Audience applause* Yes, Nemu is worth it but I personally would have taken at least 3 months to agonise over the issue and then choose Nemu. Come on, you know Kotori can last that fight, no doubt. Actually, no one should be put through the unspeakable ordeal of having to choose between Nemu and Kotori... it's really inhuman.. Well Kotori, if it's any consolation to you, you made it to my fav anime chars list :p, hang in there yah?