I figure there are enough warnings by other reviewers, but i guess i *should* preface this with the thought that this is not for people that like to read sweet -if unrealistic- lovey dovey stories.

This story was disturbingly profound. Not one you will easily forget. I was crying by the end! Awesome read! And I do mean AWE-SOME.

This story is fascinating. It makes me happy to see that someone is brave enough to explore the darker elements of what is and always has been within human nature. Brave, because a writer of such stories will definitely evoke strong responses of indignation, disgust (or for the more 'enlightened:' squick) and judgement of extremes.

I have no problem with the sweet, lovely, bright stories that deal with overcoming 'acceptable' problems. In fact, I enjoy them immensely from time-to-time. But then why is this 'dark' part of humanity blocked? That is when society gets the TRUE problems: People that become a threat to the respect and well-being of other individuals because they have turned all that repression, pain, guilt and hatred into something that makes them no longer redeemable.

Why or how do people get to the point that society labels them freaks or monsters? Why does someone love another? Is the definition of love so narrow as society defines it?

See what I mean about this story making one think? The characters, with only a few powerfully placed words and illustrations, have depth and background that make their current behaviour understandable. The Baron refusing to believe in love; the two young boy's loyalty to him; the doctor's ruthless desire to get out of his 'poor' life; Godo's lonely and harsh life; even Seiji's love.

I second Yuri21's 'only regret!'

... Last updated on June 17th, 2008, 12:07pm

It isn't often that you'll a find BL mangaka willing to delve into such dark and intriguing topics, without compromising the plot. A mixture of sadism, blood play, etc. and a varied and unique cast makes this a very interesting manga. Granted, it isn't as dark as some stuff I've read but those with a weak stomach or heart should stay away.

My only regret is that there weren't any further volumes to this title.

... Last updated on June 16th, 2008, 5:23am

Sometimes I wonder.. Why do I do this to myself?
Maybe because I really love yaoi...
I really hate seeing people being hurt...
And those sorts of S&M manga creep me out~.~
This really is not for me...

Should have listened to grumble_cakes's warning X3

... Last updated on October 22nd, 2008, 5:25am

With artwork by Mizukami Shin, you're guaranteed a pretty picture. However, the story itself is very dark, and the Baron (nor his servant Goto) isn't a kind man. The poor character Seiji is made to go through many hardships to prove his love to the Baron. While the main story does end well, the process of getting to that ending might chase off a few people. Plus the side story deals with Japan in WWII and those nationalistic/suicidal themes. Definitely not for the faint of heart, but it is addictive in its own way. I didn't think I would be able to finish it, but I did. The ending (almost) makes it worth it.

Although it says rape and sadism is not bad at all, perhaps because i saw worst before. I really enjoyed the story which i was not expecting and the art is good.

I really should have paid more attention to the creepy cover and warning about "rape, sadism" (there's also some necrophilia and shota). I suspect fans of Tori Maia's Hoshi no Yakata will like this title but people who don't enjoy such dark violent themes should probably stay away. Seriously. Stay away.