The Mido Antiques store has been burned down, and after that devastating attack, Kouhei realizes that he will have to get stronger to protect the Day Walker vampire Hazuki from harm. He goes to the mountains for training and it is harsh. But unbeknownst to any of them, while Kouhei lies injured, new vampires move in to claim Luna, but they first find the injured and helpless Kouhei! Racing to his side, Hazuki might be too late as she faces her half-sister and a juggernaut bodyguard named Vargas. But the worst is yet to come when Hikaru is abducted, one of the Mido’s own is turned into a spy, and Kouhei’s long buried psychic talent finally reveals itself! The last should be a blessing that is much needed, but his powerful gift can be equally a curse as it can drive the possessor of it mad. Kept separated while he struggles to control his gift, Hazuki goes to see him. When they come face to face, the true nightmare begins!

This penultimate volume starts off slowly with physical training by Kouhei under Yayoi in the mountains, mixed with the comedic fights and hooliganism at the Mido compound amongst the various girls. The show quickly starts to gain speed with the arrival of Arte, Vargas and the enigmatic Jeda. Arte makes her hatred for Hazuki clear and Vargas seems a formidable foe, while Jeda lurks in the shadows, acting more on his own volition. The surprise of Kouhei’s talents is short lived as the curse of his abilities are revealed by the end of the volume and could well drive him and Hazuki apart forever. Can he fight the madness threatening to consume him in order not to lose Hazuki?

Moon Phase is a delightful mix of supernatural suspense, romance, and irreverent, even exuberant comedy. It balances the strange mix of hijinks with tense action and drama exceedingly well and smoothly. Combined with the gorgeous animation, it all makes for an intoxicating blend.

EXTRAS:
Bonus features include character profiles, clean opening and closing animation as well as previews of other FUNimation anime titles. It also contains a 12 page booklet in a nice black matte finish with the lovely Hazuki and Arte on the cover. It holds episode descriptions, interviews with Japanese voice actors Miyu Matsuki (Kaoru Mido), and Sawa Ishige (Arte). There is also an interview with the Japanese Director Assistant, Toshimasu Suzuki, and the book is replete with screen captures, character line art, and original sketches. The release also includes for a limited time four full color postcards while quantities last.

IN SUMMARY:
Moon Phase has the cutest vampire in anime. This penultimate volume holds training, comedy, an ambush, a spy, betrayal, a kidnapping and the awakening of Kouhei’s frightening psychic ability! Talk about jam-packed!

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