Different strokes for different folks. I think Asami has become more aware of his feelings for Aki, but that Aki's emotional growth is the focus of the story. We do get some reveals about Asami's past and some hints as to how he go to be who he is, but he is already strong and at the top of his game. I don't find Asami boring, because I wonder about how he was when he was Aki's age, what draws him to Aki, and what makes people so loyal to him. Sometimes I admit I think Aki is stupid (no offense to those of you who will tell me why he isn't--I still see what I see), but I do like his spirit. Aki's is independent, he is just all heart and no head. It's a yin/yang attraction of light and dark, exuberance of youth and experience of maturity, and of good intentions and bad business.
Sadly, I agree in some points...A mysterious character is fair enough, but after such a long time I feel like I'd need some kind of variation, in some shape or form. Asami may be at the top of his game, but he's by no means perfect and could develop and learn a thing or two. He's a little too mysterious for my taste, as in, we don't really know much about him but there's not enough hints at anything beyond the surface of what we know to keep me interested. And yes, he is pretty much the epitome of a seme, and that also means he combines a lot of tropes and cliches you see often. But well, he's still hot so at least we get some eye candy. xD
As for his and Akihito's relationship, I wouldn't necessarily call it awful, as there are parts of it that I love and at times I ship the hell out of them, but then there are things about it that I really don't like, so I'm pretty torn.
I like psychological stories too, so maybe that's why I enjoyed the Hong Kong arc most, as anything having to do with Feilong sorta slips into the psychological department. ^^
Akihito doesn't have the messed up background like Nirasawa in Bi no Isu. I think Bi no Isu is more similar to Saezuru Tori ha Habatakanai where the character's messed up pasts manifests in current behavior. The psychological problems the characters have are actual characters in those stories. I mean Nirasawa begs for Kabu's attention and makes life decisions (joining the yakuza) based on his love for Kabu, whereas Akihito doesn't. Akihito usually does not base his decisions on wanting to please Asami. I like both stories but I think they are different. I like Asami because he shows that he can be a ruthless businessman (he doesn't seem to run a yakuza clan) but still places Akihito high in his life. Just my opinion.
Agree with Anoni Girl (except maybe I'd say Akihito is less stupid than he is reckless and thinks after he acts. Okay, maybe that's just another way of saying he's stupid but I adore him anyway. Nobody has a heart as big as Akihito.) But wanted to add that I think this is a very psychological story, perhaps more subtle than others and not on Fei Long's operatic level.
This is a relationship that is still developing and psychology definitely comes into play. See the thread above "Okay, why is Asami so angry here?"
We talked a few days ago about the light and dark concept in this relationship. That creates the tension that drives the story. On the surface, the bulk of power seems to be in Asami's column. But if you look at scenes like the one discussed above, you see that Asami is not all-powerful. He can be easily hurt--hurt by the one he loves. And Akihito has yet to fully understand the power that he holds in this relationship. That is what keeps me glued to the page.
LOL okay, I'll say Aki is impulsive. That's less judgmental. But he is also a lousy investigator. :)
I agree about his heart.
I have one moment when I find Asami's... "style" is getting a bit dated - and that's when he comes home in his three-piece suit, carrying a briefcase...
http://www.mangago.me/read-manga/you_re_my_loveprize_in_viewfinder/mh/v07/c041/1/
That one always makes me think: "Asami, you like a bloody accountant!" :D
Am i the only one who didnt like this story? dont get me wrong yamano is queen of yaoi <3, but the pairing (asami&takaba) is aweful in my opinion. i used to frickin luv asami cuz he is so fukin hot. but after like the 30th chapter his personallity got old. hes kinda like ur adverage seme. and for the uke, takaba ruined the story for me. the story might have been better if takaba wasnt as childish or was more mysterious and independant. but these are just my opinions. i am not hating on this i love love love the author but i think a better yazuka story is bi no isu and its sequel. i perfer more phycological stories.