However, “づき” is a problem because while it is pronounced exactly like “zuki” by most Japanese, it is still written differntly from the normal “zuki” that is “ずき”. So to differentiate between the two, the Nihon-shiki (and closely related Kunrei-shiki) as well as Japanese IME typing systems call づ either “du” or “dzu”. Hence, Akiduki (you see this on Japanese sites) or Akidzuki. Of course it is not pronoucned “du”, “du” is because of the phonetic arrangement. But “dzu” is a compromise between differentiating it from “ず” and retaining some of its pronounciation.

Since it’s pronoucned the same as “zu”, however, in Hepburn romanization it is simply left as “zu”, hence “Akizuki”.

I prefer using “Akizuki” because while it’s confusing to people who learn Japanese and think it’s spelt as あきずき and not あきづき, it looks and sounds nicer than Akidzuki which could be mistakenly pronounced as “a-kid-zuki”.

Being stabbed in the back also makes a bit more sense, yeah. I originally thought it was in the leg, as the animation seemed to suggest it. (At least, from what I remember while watching it). Also, Vivacioussky, when you see the episode, you’ll probably understand why he didn’t dodge. Most came from the element of surprise. Whether Akizuki is badly hurt, we don’t know yet. He fell off the ship as soon as he was hit. I’m suspecting that he’ll end up badly injured, though it isn’t time for him to die yet, being the main character and all. :P

If you want to read about what Shouten-sama was saying check out this post.

Still, with the release of episode 13, people will probably start talking a bit more. That’s going to be the first major climax of the series. ^_^