▪	RELEASED BY:		TOKYOPOP
		▪	AUTHOR / ART:		NATSUKI TAKAYA
		▪	FORMAT:		JAPANESE / B&W
		▪	PAGES:		216
		▪	RATING:		T
		▪	RELEASE DATE:		11/13/2007
		▪	REVIEW DATE:		11/09/2007
		▪	REVIEWED BY:		HOLLY ELLINGWOOD

As the story builds towards the climax, the latest volume of Fruits Basket is especially dramatic heartrending.

It begins with a deeper look into Machi’s life. A terrible rumor that she tried to kill her baby brother has her fellow student council members asking questions. It is to Yuki that she confesses the truth and he discovers something about Machi that he understands and sympathizes with. It creates a change in them both and leads to a poignant moment between the two that is done with an emotional subtlety that is exclusive to Natsuki Takaya’s incredible storytelling. It is not the only heartwarming moment in this volume. Motoko, formerly president of the Prince Yuki Fan Club, feels the weight of approaching graduation. She takes this time to reflect and make a touching confession to Yuki. In a surprise turnaround, Nao has something to say to her.

The real drama builds when the continued disappearance of Rin concerns her fellow Zodiac members. A search for her leads to the awful circumstances of her disappearance and what has befallen her. A rescue attempt is made by Haru, but it will be another who shows strength in defying the increasingly insane Akito. Upon learning what had happened to Rin, Haru becomes Black Haru and storms in the Sohma residence to confront Akito alone! Emotionally powerful, moving and intense, Haru and Rin’s tale will show an affecting reunion between the two. It is a moment that will no doubt warm fans’ hearts and bring a tear to the eye.

With the reasons for her disappearance revealed, Shigure tells something shocking about the curse to a recovering Ren, and when Tohru overhears it, she is desperate as the curse still exists even as it is crumbling, but it is falling apart too slowly to save Kyo, the one who truly holds Tohru’s heart. His resignation at his fate tears at Tohru and feeds her fearful need to save him before time runs out. But how can she do it?

The subtle emotional impact of this story is constant throughout the series. It is even more so now that the story is building towards its final volumes. With about five volumes roughly left to the series, there is still so much that can happen and so much that is hoped for with these amazing characters written so beautifully and with such wondrous poignancy. It’s an astonishingly moving tale, one that is not to be missed.

IN SUMMARY:
The latest volume of Fruits Basket shows Rin’s fate, uncovers Ren’s wickedness, Akito’s deepening madness, and Tohru’s growing desperation. It also reveals a shocking secret about the Zodiac Curse.