Nabari no Ou

[Aiia]

Since I couldn't find a thread for this upcoming spring anime yet, I'm starting one. This is a show with relatively little buzz about it.

Story
(very roughly translated)
The story seems to be about modern ninjas, who have adapted to moder times, and fight for a hidden technique that may be used to control the world. The forbidden technique is hidden in the body of Miharu Rokujou, and while some ninja fight to protect him, many others want to use the powers themselves. "Nabari no yo" is the world of the ninja (I think it means "The hidden world")

Official Homepagte (http://www.nabari.tv/)
GFantasy's homepage for the manga (http://www.square-enix.co.jp/magazine/gfantasy/story/nabari/)
TV Tokyo's page for Nabari no Oh (http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/nabari/)

The manga that it is based on was put on the recommended reading manga list (http://plaza.bunka.go.jp/english/festival/2005/recommend/magazine.php) for the Japanese Media Arts Festival 2005. Here (http://www.square-enix.co.jp/magazine/gfantasy/story/nabari/wp_01.html) and here (http://www.square-enix.co.jp/magazine/gfantasy/gallery/dl/wall07_800.jpg) is examples of the manga art as well, for comparison. There is 7 volumes of manga released so far, and it's ongoing in GFantasy.

There's an article here (http://anime.goo.ne.jp/contents/news/NAN20080208_81/index.html), that displays screen shots from what I suppose is a preview of the first episode or a trailer. From what I can see, it looks really pretty (and I love the suits or school uniforms or whatever they are).

Director: Kunihisa Sugishima
Series Composition: Michiko Yokote
Music: Michiru Oshima
Original creator: Yuhki Kamatani
Character Design: Kazunori Iwakura

Animation Production: J.C. Staff
Broadcaster: TV Tokyo etc

Rie Kugimiya as Miharu Rokujou (main character)
Mitsuki Saiga as Yoite
Daisuke Namikawa as Durandal Tobari Kumohira
Ayumi Fujimura as Raimei Fujimura
Kenjiro Tsuda as Kazuhiko Yukimi
Satoshi Hino as Kouichi Aizawa

[Westlo]

I was wondering what J.C staff were going to be doing this Spring season. Still 3 ongoing shows for the Winter season and only 1 show for Spring seems a bit weird.

Anyway after this show was first announced sometime in December I acquired some scans of the manga and just forgot to read them. I'll go read them sometime in the next few hours.

Also nice to see Rie Kugimiya in a non tsundere role once again since she's voicing a male.

[Suwako Moriya]

*Checks* A girl with blond twintails. Would it be shallow of me to say that makes me partially curious?

[Westlo]

Just finished reading the first 3 chapters and it was enjoyable enough. *adds to Spring Hitlist*

[Lego]

Haruhi is that you?

It looks interesting character design wise, and it's J.C. Staff, so its worth a look.

[Pastachan]

Looks like it's worth checking out. Actually, it's #4 on my Spring anime list, so I really hope it turns out to be a great series (being on a recommended reading list and all). I like the concept, and it seems like it will be a short series anyway.

[Aiia]

J.C. Staff seems to have good reputation here. Do they generally keep an even quality during the whole series?

[Ty]

J.C. Staff seems to have good reputation here. Do they generally keep an even quality during the whole series?
Yes, for the most part. I personally think they're a little too infamous for "rushed last episode wrap-ups" and not allowing a show to build to a conclusion naturally during the last 3-4 episodes, but the production quality stays pretty even unlike studios such as Gonzo.

JC Staff is like your favorite microwave dinner. They're not amazing and rarely turn out memorable all time favorites, but they're always reliably satisfying.

[Pastachan]

JC Staff is like your favorite microwave dinner. They're not amazing and rarely turn out memorable all time favorites, but they're always reliably satisfying.
I think that was put very well, as I do appreciate the occasional microwaveable dinner. (Well, not so much occasional as the microwave is my main source for food at the moment.) But anyway, I agree with the point that while J.C. Staff may not be the most memorable studio, they are a fairly satisfactory when it comes to consistency and generally good quality.

[Shsway]

The involvement of this company, coupled with the fact that the gifted Yokote Michiko is handling story-writing duties, quickly gets my attention. I would hope that gets picked up by a favored R1 licensor - one who could provide a good English dub (not a real big fan of anyone in the Japanese cast, at this time).

[Westlo]

What's the deal with J.C Staff producing two high budget shows in a row with Shigofumi and now this? I'll like to see them keep it up but I'm sure Znt3 will be a return to form...

Anyway the OP is pretty good
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgbLUeOv8PE

And I'm looking forward to the introduction of the blonde haired samurai girl enxt episode, because Shimuzi Raimei is awesome!

[angelx03]

Man, is it just me or the atmosphere is seriously giving me Loveless vibes?!

[BluWacky]

Man, is it just me or the atmosphere is seriously giving me Loveless vibes?!

It has the same character designer - unfortunately I'm at work and can't check the rest of the credits (no Japanese character support!) but I wouldn't be surprised if the animation director was the same, or at least whoever's in charge of the CG effects.

[Lego]

This is where the Kimikiss budget went...

Aside from that, it looks nice.

[Suwako Moriya]

And I'm looking forward to the introduction of the blonde haired samurai girl enxt episode, because Shimuzi Raimei is awesome!

Hmm sounds like I should give this about two episodes then. Although I still need to watch the first episode. Hopefully by the episode 3s, I'll have a good idea as to which shows to continue, which to put on hold, and which to drop. We'll see which one this is.

[Suwako Moriya]

All right I finished watching the first episode. Over all it was decent, but I'm not sure what to think of it yet. Although it looks like there will be some action in this. *Watches preview* Okay I definitely have to watch episode 2 to see Blond Twintails Sword Girl in action.

[Aiia]

I watched the first episode and I really liked what I saw. A cheeky lead character, a handsome teacher, ninja fights (nicely animated) and "watercolour" background art, etc. Very pleasant voice acting as well. I want more shows like this one. :)

[Suwako Moriya]

All right then truth be told the first episode left me uncertain, but the second episode has (nearly) confirmed things for me. I say nearly due to needing to re-watch later. In any case what it confirms is that I should stick with this longer. Yeah I experienced this incarnation of Blond Twin Tails and she does interest me. Not just her, but it feels like this series has potential to work. So I'm going to stick with it so long as it remains so.

[HitokiriShadow]

Hmmm... I'm not quite sure what to think of this one. It certainly looks nice and the fights were nicely animated. The characters are okay though the lead annoyed me a bit in the latter half. This one has some potential but I'll need to see a bit more to figure out if its something I'll want to keep watching.

[untoldsorrow]

Great opening but anyone think it was a little too long? I could have swear they sang 2 verses plus the chorus, lol. The animation was good and interesting concept and characters. I hope the action is is good or better than what was shown in episode 1.

[TheGreenMan]

Miharu is ****ing adorable. Definitely one of the cutest boys I've seen in anime. And voiced by Rie Kugimiya? Hmmmm. I'll have to watch this.


*Goes off to make avatar of Miharu*

[SnowfairyX]

Miharu is ****ing adorable. Definitely one of the cutest boys I've seen in anime. And voiced by Rie Kugimiya?
Those would be the only 2 reasons why I'll be watching this show for the time being. I've only seen the first episode so far but despite the storyline seeming extremely cliche and dumb at this point, I'm going to check out at least the 2nd episode due to this character and for the amusing shounen-ai moments that were present in the first episode.

[Helschadenfreude]

"Could it be sensei you're targeting me?"
"Kyaaa, sensei you're hurt me"


Ftw! :noodle:

[Suwako Moriya]

Miharu is ****ing adorable. Definitely one of the cutest boys I've seen in anime. And voiced by Rie Kugimiya? Hmmmm. I'll have to watch this.

Speaking of which I just finished re-watching episode 02 and all I can say is the guy is going to be awesome. I have to admit, I find it kind of cute and fun when they show him with those devil wing things. His personality is so wrong it's right.

[HitokiriShadow]

I wasn't sure how I felt about the first epsiode, but after watching the second, I definitely like this series.

Miharu's personality is fun and makes for an entertaining lead. He's generally apathetic but not without a bit of devilishness. He neither accepts his power and runs with it nor becomes a reluctant hero; he just doesn't really give a damn. It's an interesting change from the typical Rie Kugiyama role and the typical shonen hero roles.

Raimei is a solid addition to the cast, which is good as she's the only female.

The other two guys are decent and I like them both well enough. At this point, I don't dislike any of the characters, which is a very good thing. I'm so used to having to just try to ignore some or many of the characters to enjoy the few that I do like.

The storyline is still nothing special, but the show actually has a budget and I'm not worried about multiple episode fights at the moment, but the little bit of fighting we've seen so far was actually entertaining to watch, so more fighting shouldn't be a bad thing.

[Nagato-san]

Having seen the first three episodes, I must say that this series has become the highlight of my week. Raimei is great, and the rest of the cast are fun to watch also.

As for ep.3, a very good episode with some nice fight scenes. I really like how Raimei is actually able to put up a fight and make herself useful unlike most other shonen/fighting anime.

As for Kotaro, is this the same Fuuma Kotaro from the Sengoku Jidai, or just a descendent?

[Pastachan]

Great opening but anyone think it was a little too long?
I thought the same thing. But it doesn't matter because I love the song and would rather hear more of it. <3

The storyline is still nothing special, but the show actually has a budget and I'm not worried about multiple episode fights at the moment, but the little bit of fighting we've seen so far was actually entertaining to watch, so more fighting shouldn't be a bad thing.
Even if it that's all the show ended up being, at least the fights would look great animated. =)

I pretty much agree with everything you said about the characters. Haven't seen ep. 3 yet, so I can't add anything new as far as what I think of the new guy. But anyway, this series has surprised me so far because of how much I like it and I have no real reasons why I like it. Gotta love Miharu's devil wings, though.

[HitokiriShadow]

The storyline is still nothing special, but the show actually has a budget and I'm not worried about multiple episode fights at the moment, but the little bit of fighting we've seen so far was actually entertaining to watch, so more fighting shouldn't be a bad thing.
Even if it that's all the show ended up being, at least the fights would look great animated. =)

I pretty much agree with everything you said about the characters. Haven't seen ep. 3 yet, so I can't add anything new as far as what I think of the new guy. But anyway, this series has surprised me so far because of how much I like it and I have no real reasons why I like it. Gotta love Miharu's devil wings, though.

And, incidentally, episode 3 is mostly fighting. Both Raimei and Kouichi get their chance to shine a bit before getting beaten down by the "monster" ninja. I love how modern ninjas are actually using modern special ops-ish gear and one even uses a gun.

[Ty]

Raimei is a solid addition to the cast, which is good as she's the only female.


This is what kept the show on my list. If she had been annoying I would've dropped this, but thankfully it didn't turn out that way. She's actually pretty amusing.

[Suwako Moriya]

Allowing Raimei and the others to decently against everyone, but Yoite was good since it made things more interesting. Hmm Yoite seems to be quite uber with the classic "I can blink and win" power. Okay I know it involve chi and stuff like that, but honestly it does come off that way to me. So I have to be curious how they're going to defeat him in the long run. Then again since his power uses his own life force, maybe he'll end up killing himself. Oh that would be funny to see.

[Suwako Moriya]

I love how modern ninjas are actually using modern special ops-ish gear and one even uses a gun.

And in some ways it kind of makes sense. It would be silly for any group to completely avoid the present and future. If they did their entire strategy would boil down to throwing rocks.

[Aiia]

If I wasn't totally in love with Nabari no Oh before, I'm now definitely considering it the best show of the season so far, after watching the third episode. It reminds me about Mirage of Blaze, but without the gay vibes of that one (unless you count Miharu using his cute looks to make fun of the other guys). The similarities is the plot about ancient ninja/samurai clans who are still around today, only nowadays adapting to modern society and hiding their true appearance (I'm also pretty sure that the Fuuma clan appeared in both shows).

The animation so far has been really good as well, and especially in this episode. The fight coordination impressed me. I hope the quality will keep being this good... I'm also really impressed with the voice acting so far, and that Raimei has been nothing but kickass since she first appared. I love the intelligent look in her eyes (same reason I love Yuuko in Holic).

I'm really looking forward to what's coming next.

[Suwako Moriya]

I'm really looking forward to what's coming next.

In terms of what may or may not come next I'm really hoping in one of the episode we get to see Yoite literally kill himself due to over using his power. He really strikes me as the type of character too reliant on an uber ability that will ultimately back fire on him.

[something]

Episode 1:

- Oh, nice. Between that first bit and the OP, this show just made a really, really good first impression.
- And... oh god. Ahahahah. Miharu is Kugimiya Rie! XD And I totally love him. He's so amusing.
- Wow, he definitely knows how to control Tobari with his cuteness :sd:
- He's being tempted by Tamura Yukari! I don't blame him, she's very tempting. Yum. The fighting so far is brief, but pretty fluid. I like.
- And there was a bunch more, and even better. Awesome.

Damn. That was easily one of the better ep 1's so far. And without Raimei even making an appearance! Slick fights and fantastic production values, Kugimiya Rie and Tamura Yukari, and a really interesting lead (love when he turns on "cutesy mode").

I'm definitely plowing straight through 2 and 3 tonight.

[something]

Episode 2:

- RAIIIMEIIII!!! She has neither said nor done anything yet and I already know she's awesome. And so is the OP. I didn't feel like it was any longer than usual, though I suppose it is, slightly.
- Shimizu Raimei, a samurai ninja! Voiced by Fujimura Ayumi. I thought she sounded familiar as Kyouka, and I still think she sounds familiar here, but none of her other credited roles seem to be ringing a bell in connection to this voice. Hmm.
- HAH! Devil Miharu for the win! I love when he's like that. I also love how Raimei is totally overestimating him :sd:
- Watching her try to draw out his "real" power is hilarious. And for a ninja, she's really bad at keeping track of people.
- Heh, oh Raimei. She just crushes Tobari's self esteem and drags Miharu off to her village. Miharu, who has interesting fashion sense...
- A bit of bonding time on the train, and Kouichi is rejected alrady :sd: Poor Kouichi. And confirmation that Tobari (or Thobari, officially - any explanation on the basis of the odd name?) was the one we saw with Miharu in the red rainy flashback. And it sounds like he killed family members or something shortly before, either because they were going to try and abuse the new container of Shinrabanshou, or maybe one of them was the old container, and started to abuse their own power, and he killed them and it migrated to Miharu or... well something.
- Oh noes, the Fuma have already been attacked (and stuff).

Raimi is just as awesome as I'd hoped, now on to ep 3.

[something]

Episode 3:

- Oops, almost halfway through and no comments. Well, it's all been action, and pretty decent at that, so not a lot to say. Fuma definitely got their asses kicked. Whimps. But man what's up with Yoite? He can point and your heart explodes. That shit's so broken.
- Woah. Shit yeah, Raimei. She kills two of them like it's nothing, when nobody else in the village could scratch em. But the preview indicates she gets her ass kicked in this ep, and I'm guessing it's gun guy who does it. I'm just glad this isn't shounen jump, because she would then be made useless within the next ep or two. Hopefully that won't happen here, and she'll remain a top level fighter to the end. My only worry is that this episode made it clear she's guided by some sort of revenge or rivalry against another "samurai" ninja, so her significance in the plot will probably evolve 90% around that.
- Sweet, even Kouichi takes one out. Of course, it's only the gun guy and instakill hax who matter in the end, but still.
- Man, fuck Yoite, he's entirely overpowered. They better develop a counter to that ASAP. But he just fuuuucked everyone up. Damn.

Oh shit, awesome entrance for Kotarou. Finally someone lands a hit on that Yoite bastard.

And just as I thought I'd gotten through most of the awesome Spring shows, this one blows me away. Really fantastic show, a potential #5 or 6 on the season so far.

[something]

I love how modern ninjas are actually using modern special ops-ish gear and one even uses a gun.
Yeah, I was going to point that out but got lazy. Since you mentioned it though, I'll post my agreement. It definitely fits well. They're ninja, but it's also the 21st century. Really neat to see.

[HitokiriShadow]

And just as I thought I'd gotten through most of the awesome Spring shows, this one blows me away. Really fantastic show, a potential #5 or 6 on the season so far.

Yeah, Nabari no Ou surprisingly good. I honestly wasn't expecting much from it from the little I knew about it beforehand but its been really good. It's somewhere in the 4-6 range myself, though I still have another 3-4 titles to check out at some point.

[Suwako Moriya]

Really fantastic show, a potential #5 or 6 on the season so far.

Right now it's definitely in the top five for me. Although I have not decided if it's closer to number 5 or number 1. As I have not yet 100% arranged my feelings on the said five.

[Suwako Moriya]

Yeah, Nabari no Ou surprisingly good. I honestly wasn't expecting much from it from the little I knew about it beforehand but its been really good.

Is it bad that part of the reason I checked it was because Raimei made me curious? Well she is a blond twin tail. See the lesson here is sometimes being shallow is beneficial.

It's somewhere in the 4-6 range myself, though I still have another 3-4 titles to check out at some point.

I'm not sure how many titles I have left to check right now. As I'm still undecided if I'll bother with certain ones. Granted that's probably a subject for a different thread.

[Suwako Moriya]

It's nice to know Raimei wants Kouichi to train even when he's injured. Heh it looks like speculation of Yoite figuratively killing himself will come true in the long run. Apparently he doesn't like being called a cute boy... Oh yes apparently the enemy makes use of the internet. Wow they really are into adapting to the modern times.

You also get a lot of talk about the Shinrabanshou. Apparently it leaps from person to person apon death. What's funny if Kotaro's talk and the enemy's leader talk were quite similar in several regards even with the differences. Kind of scary when you think about it that way

[something]

Episode 4:

- Juuji... SUPER CUTE! Need more!
- And yeah, wow, the Villetta voice (Watanabe Akeno) works very well for the sexy shoulders and cleavage ninja (Saraba) erving under Kotarou.
- Heh, I love how Kotarou makes no effort at all to hide his desire to use the power of the Hijutsu.
- Sweet, the Kairoushuu communicate via the internet. And Nakata Jouji (voicing Toujuurou) is awesome as always.
- Then lotsa talking as we get all the background on the Hijutsu and get set for the coming battles...

Pretty good episode, though understandably much more subdued than the others. Not a lot to say overall.

[Suwako Moriya]

So in this episode we get to learn a bit more about Raimei's situation. Yeah her brother is a jerk. Thobari gets into an argument with Kotarou who challenges his ideals. Also hack err I mean Yoite is back. Pretty nice episode overall.

[Aiia]

Everybody might not like this episode as much as I did, but I personally thought it was the best episode so far. I sort of had a feeling the relationship between Yoite and Miharu would turn out this way. The intrigues of this show just got a lot more interesting, and I wouldn't hesitate to say that this is my favourite show at the moment. If it keeps being this good, it'll probably get a spot on my top 20, perhaps even better.

[Pastachan]

Everybody might not like this episode as much as I did, but I personally thought it was the best episode so far. I sort of had a feeling the relationship between Yoite and Miharu would turn out this way.
Well I certainly enjoyed it just as much as you did. And now I'm really liking Yoite's character a lot more. Most people prefer recognition, but it's really sad that he would easily choose for his entire existence to disappear. I hope Miharu helps in out (in a more positive way)!

And I just realized that Raikou is that pink-haired guy in the OP.

[Butter]

I don't know. I like the animation, and the style, but this show just isn't clicking. I will have to see how it goes. I just don't have any attachment or investment in it at all.

I yawned at that whole burst of emotions by Tobari. It felt out of place.

[something]

Episode 5:

- Mmmm. "Raikou", almost certainly the samurai-ninja Raimei is looking for. And then all this talk about being a girl of solitude. Again, I fear she's being shoved into a corner of the plot where she'll largely be involved in her vengeance backstory and not get equal treatment in the main plot, but we shall see.
- Yeaaaaah... Raimei's backstory is as cliche as I'd feared. An older brother who killed his (and thus her) parents and other clansmen and joined the enemy. Yawn.
- I do, however, like the bit between Miharu and Raimei after that. Awww.
- Juuji is cute! And eww, Thobari is one of those 'I will never kill!' types. I hate those ;_; Thankfully Kotarou puts him in his place.
- Whahahhaa! The ending bit was hilarious. Oh Yoite, you overpowered jackass.

[something]

Episode 6:

- SHALALA~~ I so love this OP. And I really, really love the shot of Raimei's face during her SHALALA. She looks fantastic.
- Oh, wow. Talk about an unexpected and INCREDIBLY interesting turn of events. Seriously, I never would have guessed Yoite would play his cards this way. Heck, I didn't know they could be played this way. Suddenly Yoite and Miharu have a very, very interesting relationship. I am really impressed and while I liked the show from episode one, I'm especially intrigued now.
- Haha, and they find Miharu contentedly cooking like nothing happened.
- Hmm Yukimi and Yoite as well are more interested a pair than I expected.

This ep really gets me thinking Nabari no Ou has the chance of becoming more than just another enjoyable show. We shall see if it delivers.

[HitokiriShadow]

- Yeaaaaah... Raimei's backstory is as cliche as I'd feared. An older brother who killed his (and thus her) parents and other clansmen and joined the enemy. Yawn.

Eh, not sure how I feel about this. It's a little annoying they had to do that to justify her being there, but I'll wait and see what they do with it.

- Juuji is cute! And eww, Thobari is one of those 'I will never kill!' types. I hate those ;_; Thankfully Toujuurou puts him in his place.


Yeah, I'm terribly fond of that, but fortunately he's not the main character and Raimei and Kouichi have shown no such problems.

[Suwako Moriya]

This episode was nice because it developed Yoite beyond simply being a "hack" character. Still I have to wonder why he wants his existence removed so badly.

[something]

Episode 7:

- Some lady hired to so something for someone. Yay!
- And more sexual tension... I mean, tension between Miharu and Kumohira. Miharu only will tell them that he's safe from Kairoushuu for now, and that it's Yoite who reassured him of this.
- Oda Yae is the woman's name. President of an employment agency, Fog Blue. Togakushi village's leader. And a mind reader. That last will be a lot of fun.
- She comes with a job for them. An assassination. This is where Kumohira's self-righteousness is going to really annoy me.
- Yae basically blackmails them by holding their deepest secrets hostage. But when she tries to look into Miharu, Shinrabanshou makes her regret it. But Kumohira stops Raimei and Kouichi from taking advantage of it and taking her out, and accepts the deal.
- Using the Izunashingan apparently saps energy from her just like the Kira does for Yoite. Probably not as dramatically, but I suppose all kinjutsu are dangerous like that. She's also got very personal reasons for wanting this assassination mission to be successful.
- Ahahaha. Miharu is awesome. The day of the mission, Raimei gets a call that there's information on Raikou. She wonders if she should leave. Miharu tells her to do so, saying that her happiness is his happiness - which results in adorable blushing, but then his evil side comes out and he goes back to teasing :sd: Either way, off she goes.
- ...Oh god, engrish. We find out that Izunashingan has a 3 meter radius. And the Kairoushuu sent to protect Mr. Frosty (what a hilarious name for a corporate villain) are Yoite and Yukimi.

Oh, ep is over. Kumohira says he'll do the job himself... which means he's going to screw something up, hesitating at the last second about killing someone and blah blah.

That'll be annoying, and my fear about Raimei being pushed into the background for her revenge story seems to be starting to come true already. But Yae is an interesting addition, even if I'm not sure she'll really stick around.

[Aiia]

Another enjoyable episode. I really liked how pretty much all the characters grew in this episode, both in depth and in how scary they can be when they need to. Especially Kouichi. Wow! And the next episode will finally introduce Ranmaru's older brother in something else than a flashback it seems.

[something]

Episode 8:

Oh man, so much going on here, I forgot to note down thoughts until almost 17 minutes in. Multiple times it seemed like Kumohira was finally overcoming his naive feelings about not killing, only to stop or be stopped at the last second. We also get the backstory on Oda's daughter, and Yoite going nuts with his Kira as Oda reads his mind.

Oh Mr. Frosty. Yoite almost kills you, then Oda almost kills you, then Kumohira almost kills you and goddamnit I was waiting for you to just DIE... but thank god for Kouichi! Hah! It was so awesome when he comes out of the elevator and blows Frosty's brains out. AND DOES IT WITH A SMILE! Thank god he's there to make up for Kumohira's irritating hangups. What did Kumohira think being a ninja meant? Getting kittens down from trees? Yeah yeah you killed Miharu's mom or something, get over it =P

So was the recap of what I watched, but as I went back to finish it up, Kouichi just got even more awesome. He completes the mission like a real ninja, using his illusion/hypnosis skills to make the Japanese CEO dude tell everyone he's the culprit. And Oda, a bit out of her mind, looks on, "JUST AS PLANNED!"

Just as planned by Kotarou, that is. Katou was his agent all along, well suited to the job because he's able to block the Izunashingan. And so the scroll is now in possession of Fuuma.

If Raimei keeps getting shunted into side stories, Kouichi may become my favorite or close to it, at least short term. I don't know how well it'll hold up when we find out about his past or whatever.

[Pastachan]

If Raimei keeps getting shunted into side stories, Kouichi may become my favorite or close to it, at least short term. I don't know how well it'll hold up when we find out about his past or whatever.
I'm really wondering what Kouchi's hiding. It seems much more dangerous than that Oda lady seemed interested in, though it's really obvious that his smiley self is a façade.

Episode 8 was great, though I really hated Oda and her eye technique. It really bothered me. I guess Yoite kinda gave her what she deserved, almost, or rather Katou did.

I'm looking forward to Raimei's brother in the next episode.

[something]

Episode 9:

- Raikou and Gau get introduced, and apparently they're the enforcers who take care of any Kairoushuu who betray the clan or go astray. Also, lol at me, I never made the connection that the pinkish haired dude in the OP was Raikou :sd:
- Reimei hears news of the attack the next day, and knows it's Raikou. Also, Raimei is hot, oh yes she is indeed. And the guys can't get in touch with her.
- I love when Kouichi gets a bit evil. He says he'll go find Raimei, and Kumohira that his hesitation about killing is just going to wind up getting him and everyone around him killed. And he has this totally devious look on his face when he says it.
- Now for the Kairoushuu comedy hour! Gau is a little brat. Blond chick who works for Toujuurou is hot. And Yoite estimates he has a few months left to live at most.
- So, what are the odds that Raikou is actually evil, and killed the Shimizu clan out of true malice? I'd say somewhere between 0.001% and 0.0013%. Because, seriously, when mysterious older siblings kill their people and run off, they always have some silly ass reason that makes them less than evil and makes their younger sibling seeking revenge hesitate. This show will be no exception.
- Since Miharu's aunt is gone on vacation, Kumohira brings him to his place to be safe. Miharu finally confronts him about what it is he's hiding, and about the Shinrabanshou 10 years ago. He says that in return he'll tell him everything he told Yoite. Interesting, I wasn't expecting this to happen so soon.
- Ah, well, it doesn't. Miharu is more suspicious than before, but Kumohira avoids the subject.

But Miharu is sick of that. In a rare display of intense emotion he tells Kumohira exactly what he plans to do with the Shinrabanshou. And Kumohira's housemate finds Yoite collapsed on the street. Aaaaand Raimei finds Raikou and they start fighting.

Interesting to see Miharu confess his plans already, as well as to see Raimei confront Raikou already. This is 26 eps, right? =P Not that I think it could end properly in 13, but it's paced a bit quicker for 26 than I was expecting.

[Aiia]

Episode 9:

But Miharu is sick of that. In a rare display of intense emotion he tells Kumohira exactly what he plans to do with the Shinrabanshou.

I really liked this scene. Miharu has been surpressing his real emotions for most of the series, so I sort of figured that meant once he started showing his feelings, they'd be very strong. I'm looking forward to seing how he will evolve as a character, as the story progresses.

[Aiia]

Nabari no Ou continues to impress me. This episode had a beautiful duel between Raikou and Raimei, although it was a bit shorter than I had expected. Still, really beautiful, and Raimei's voice actor was really impressive in this scene!

The episode also had a lot of touching and bittersweet moments, and took time to flesh out the character of Raikous partner/friend/boyfriend (not sure yet if it's just admiration on his part played for laughs).

But my favouite part must have been the meeting between Kumihira-sensei's girlfriend and Miharu and Yoite. Yoite must be one of the most broken characters I've seen in anime since X TV or something. He seemed really ruthless in the beginning of the show, but I really feel for him now.

Edit: Still don't understand how to make a post for a new episode that doesn't follow directly from the last one. At least I tried.

[something]

Episode 10:

- Ahaha. the opening bit is awesome. Hana arrives with Yoite, then Kumohira and Yoite start fighting instantly. But quickly Hana and Miharu step in, and say "You'll disturb the neighbors!" :sd:
- Raikou and Raimei continue their fight with completely inappropriate music. And Gau is totally gay for Raikou.
- Not that I trust Toujuurou's explanation, but this show may prove me wrong about Raikou being a typical "I killed everyone to save you!" character. The way Toujuurou explains it, he killed them simply because he didn't like what they were doing with the Hijutsu or kinjutsu or whichever it was.
- But then to hear Raikouu talk, maybe not. Either way, Raimei sucks and gets her ass kicked.
- Oh, and Hana is hot.
- Yoite and Miharu casually plotting is really, really hilarious. Yoite thinks through their schedule of action with as much eagerness in his voice as a corpse. He even jokes that as laid back as they're being, it's about ten times more "rushed" than they usually do things :sd:
- Hana is awesome. She gets so frustrated at their slow movement that she intervenes XD
- Back at the hospital, Raimei will survive, of course, but she had her Gamon sword stolen, which is pretty much like dying for her.
- And during a cleanup mission, Raikou go crazy. Man, didn't this show have decently animated fights early on? What happened?

Still, Raikou might be a bit more interesting than I anticipated. Maybe. The Yoite-Miharu stuff continues to be awesome, Raimei continues to be useless, and Hana is awesome. Good ep overall.

[Suwako Moriya]

Hmm so we get a "Let's assassinate some corrupt person" sub plot. Even so it's nice to see more of the devil wings. Plus the brief return of mystery girl (the one connected to Miharu) reminds me that I missed her and want to see her get a full fledged role. Sooner rather than later.

[Suwako Moriya]

Awesome episode thanks to Kouichi near the end. Also I'm starting to feel more sorry for Yoite. Poor guy definitely needs help. Also sometimes I wonder if Fuma is the ones that Miharu and crew should actually be concerned about.

[Suwako Moriya]

Wow Miharu's declaration was one of the best moments of not just the episode, but the entire series.

[something]

Episode 11:

- A glimpse into Raikou's past, then some teary eyed GayGuyGau.
- Raimei gets out of the hospital already, but she's singleminded in her determination to find and kill Raikou. But then they run into... haha, Gau?
- Gau comes to Raimei et al and starts telling them everything about Raikou. In short, Raikou and Raimei's uncle, Iroku disagrees with their mother and father about the policy of non-intervention in the real world. The clash gets bloody, their parents die, everyone starts killing each other, and Raimei steps in just in time to see Raikou kill their uncle. Raikou leaves, telling Raimei he's joining Kairoushuu.
- ...Makes sense until the last bit. I guess Raikou is drawn to Toujuurou as someone who deals so closely with both Nabari and the real world. Not much explanation yet though.
- PLOT AT WARP SPEED. Seriously wtf? Raimei already has come to terms with what she heard, and confronts Raikou.
- Okay, what's up with the BLATANT CENSORSHIP in this episode. Did we get any of this before? Gau steps in front of Raimei to protect her from a killing blow, and half the screen is simply blacked out. Come on, it's not like this has been a gory show, and I doubt anything horrifying is being shown now.
- Gau isn't dead, but he might be stuck in the hospital awhile. Raikou gives up white Gamon, but stays with Kairoushuu.

Gah. The pacing in this episode was just downright bad. If it ends the "Raimei serves no plot purpose other than to get revenge" stuff then I guess it's worth it, but as a whole this episode really rushed things. I mean, I seriously couldn't care less about Raikou right now. I just did not connect to him AT ALL. At least Yoite makes up for it I guess.

Also, what hospitals do they all go to where nobody asks awkward questions about why they're being admitted with severe katana wounds? =P

Weakest episode of the entire series so far.

[Aiia]

Episode 11:
- Okay, what's up with the BLATANT CENSORSHIP in this episode.

Gah. The pacing in this episode was just downright bad.

Weakest episode of the entire series so far.

Three quotes that I agree with wholeheartedly. Maybe they recieved critique for showing too much blood? If so, I hope it'll be restored to the DVDs. And the story... *sigh* The second meeting of Raimei and Raikou could have been done much better, but now it was like watching it fastforward and timeskip again and again. They really wasted a potentially good episode. I personally think it would have been easier to sympathize with Raikou if the pacing hadn't been so off. And the actors, who are usually so great, must have been really stressed while recording this episode. They certainly must have been very badly affected by the weird pace and the time skips.

[something]

They really wasted a potentially good episode. I personally think it would have been easier to sympathize with Raikou if the pacing hadn't been so off. And the actors, who are usually so great, must have been really stressed while recording this episode. They certainly must have been very badly affected by the weird pace and the time skips.
Here's hoping it's just a one-off thing, because production values and pacing in this show have otherwise been pretty good. I definitely don't want to see the show start going downhill.

[Suwako Moriya]

Raikou's words to Raimei during the battle were definitely curious. Also note to Raimei "blind anger" only works in select series where being angry makes you uber just for the heck of it. In this case apparently it makes you easier to beat. Still the Yoite and Miharu dynamic remains interesting. Hopefully the latter can indeed eventually help the former.

[something]

Episode 12:

- Ah... what the heck was this show up to last I watched? Miharu revealed his true intentions and Raimei settled with Raikou (for now), or something. Now Miharu is off to meet with Yoite and get their plan underway, and he even gets Raimei to offer to help.
- Then Koutarou basically gives Miharu the Izunashingan viz Katou?
- Which Miharu turns over to Toujuurou, as a token of good will. He says he wants to join Kairoushuu. Heh.
- Then stuff and things and so on while they prepare for a Nabari meeting in Kouga. Lots of emo Yoite moments too.
- And next episode looks like it'll be... weird :sd:

I just want to see how Raimei et all reach when Miharu shows up appearing to be teamed with Kairoushuu.

P.S., Raikou is a bad driver.

[something]

Episode 13:

- Can't really say I have any fucking clue where this turn of events came from, but there's some sort of... competition at a ninja school, and each clan brings three students and... stuff? Kouichi, Raimei and <3 Juuji <3.
- Hana totally makes out with Kumohira before they part for a few days, and the look on Juuji's and Raimei's faces is awesome. Also, Hana is 40 o_O
- Kairoushuu's schoolboys are Yoite, Miharu and... Raikou? lol.
- Kouga has the two girls we met in the beginning of the ep plus this Shijima girl who arrives to lead Kairoushuu to Kouga.
- Also, Shijima is AWESOME. XD She also walks with her back hunched and arms hanging like she's constantly tired, or carrying a large burden. The other two are Katarina and Subaru.
- Hahah, Kumohira and Yukimi only now realize the other is there. And the meeting where they find out Miharu joined Kairoushuu... Shijima is amused. :sd:
- Shijima is amazing! Juuji is amazing! Get those two their own show, NOW.
- Kouichi seems to be more than willing to kill Miharu if it comes to that... I love when he gets evil looking.
- Miharu clearly plans on BL-ing all of Yoite's emotional walls to dust :sd:
- Bwhaha. The teacher who wants the headmaster's position (and the scroll) has students attack our two groups. This misunderstanding leads to Shijima et all fighting. Subaru used an exploding sling shot. Katarina just... I dunno, hits things. Shijima has an awesome cloak and claws XD

Hrm, I should go to sleep but I need more Shijima, asap. She's practically the best character in this show already. 14 it is.

[something]

Episode 14:

- The Kouga girls find out Yoite is a Kira user...
- Oh god fuck yes Shijima. She kicks Yoite's ass! They do manage to escape, barely. God I love Shijima.
- Kumohira and Yukimi together is great too, especially with Kouichi and Raikou in the background being silly.
- Subaru and Katarina take down Raimei and Juuji, and I think they're going to eat them o_O Or at least, use them as ingredients to save the headmaster.
- SHIJIMA! Miharu realizes why she seems familiar - she looks like the Shinrabanshou. at any rate she's fucking creepy and awesome. Oh god she has fangs! Sorta. But Yoite manages to hit her with a kira =(
- Damn these girls are hardcore. Nobody so far has been able to take Yoite down, but Yoite can do little more than run away from them. Granted, he's not in the best of shape.
- Near death, Yoite finally realizes that he doesn't want to die. He wants Miharu to save him. And Miharu wants to, but even the power of BL cannot bring forth the Shinrabanshou in time, and SHIJIMA! puts him out cold.
- Oh and the dude with the golden guns has Kouichi as a hostage. We also confirm that for the Daya kinjutsu, a main ingredient is the bodies of young ninjas. Ewww.
- Heh, Yukimi manages to distract the golden gun guy and Kouichi starts beating the ever living shit out of em. And then Kumohira FUCKING FAILS HARDCORE YET AGAIN, stopping Kouichi and distracting him... just enough for golden gun guy to shoot Kouichi right through the chest. Arrrgh, I hate Kumohira so much. Screw you and your goddamn wussy ass "thou shalt not kill" attitude. God he's so annoying.
- And meanwhile, Miharu goes all Shinrabanshou... Cliffhanger!

God DAMN it I love Shijima. I bet Shijima could take the Shinrabanshou!

[Aiia]

- Miharu clearly plans on BL-ing all of Yoite's emotional walls to dust

- Near death, Yoite finally realizes that he doesn't want to die. He wants Miharu to save him. And Miharu wants to, but even the power of BL cannot bring forth the Shinrabanshou in time, and SHIJIMA! puts him out cold.


Quoted, just because they had me laughing out loud. ;) I have to admit, I really loved these episodes. Miharu's feelings for Yoite (BL or not doesn't really matter) are just so incredibly touching, and makes me care for these two guys in a way that anime seldom manages to do. But the fact that not just this, but everything else also works for me in this anime is what makes me like it so much!

Other stuff that I enjoyed watching: Yoite realizing he doesn't really want to die was great. And Shijima is creepy! She's like one of those really creepy monsters that come after you in a nightmare and always finds you, no matter where you hide. And Kumohira-sensei's unwillingness to use lethal violence is annoying, but I find Kouichi's willingness to kill in any situation a lot more creepy. He's seriously disturbed (or perhaps just more of a ninja than Kumohira-sensei). If he actually dies now, he'll probably come back just to haunt Kumohira-sensei. ;)

[something]

And Shijima is creepy!
Don't call my wife creepy!

And Kumohira-sensei's unwillingness to use lethal violence is annoying, but I find Kouichi's willingness to kill in any situation a lot more creepy.
Well, not *any* situation. Every time he's been ready to kill so far was totally justified by the circumstances, and this case in particular was doubly so. However...

He's seriously disturbed (or perhaps just more of a ninja than Kumohira-sensei).
Definitely both =P As much as I like him (or rather, it's the reason why I like him), he's got some pretty massive issues we haven't even begun to delve into yet.

[Suwako Moriya]

The general truth involving Raikou was kind of expected, but at least it's nice to get the exact details. Now hopefully Raimei can do something else besides think of revenge.

[Suwako Moriya]

Miharu's dedication to Yoite remains strong, but he definitely has his work cut out for him. Still interesting choice to "join" them. Even if it means dealing with Raikou's driving! Now that's a way to end an episode. On a side note, dress up is fun.

In any case it's kind of nice how they're giving a human face to Kairoushuu rather than just have them as the faceless evil. Actually speaking of which I'm still confident that Fuuma-dono has a good chance of being the final boss. He gives off a certain aura and is just general suspicious if you ask me.

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah yes nothing like the fun of our two groups meeting each other. Also wow Shijima is awesome in a creepy evil looking sort of way that's kind of hard to describe.

[Suwako Moriya]

Interesting so Shijima reminds Miharu of the girl that represents the Shinrabanshou. I wonder if this has any deeper meaning than a coincidence. If not it's still an indirect way of seeing "her" again. Yeah Shijima-chan will just have to be a stand-in for Shinrabanshou-chan for now. Shinrabanshou-chan needs more screen time. Heck maybe she can get into a cat-fight with Shijima.

Either way hopefully Miharu will be able to save Yoite. On a side note I'm starting to wonder if Kumohira has a secret desire to make sure his own group fails. That might be the only explanation I can think of that moment.:relief:

[Suwako Moriya]

And Shijima is creepy!Don't call my wife creepy!

Just make sure your wife doesn't harm my Shinrabanshou-chan. Darn it, she needs it to do more than randomly talk to Miharu on rare occasions. She needs to become a full-fledged living breathing character that truly interacts with everyone. Hey that would be a nice to end the series. Then I could think about... wait maybe I shouldn't even be saying this.

[something]

Episode 15:

- Shinrabanshou~~ OP.
- Shijima seems to know a lot more of what's going on than she should. She even refers to the Shinrabanshou as a woman, so she knows something of its true appearance. I really, really wouldn't mind Shijima being more than just a character for this arc. <3
- Kumohira tries to stop Miharu but without luck. Well, until he just tries smacking him across the face, which seems oddly effective. :sd:
- And as everyone is arguing about Daya, Kannuki locks them all in the library. They don't seem to notice there are lots of windows on the roof. Cmon, silly ninja.
- SWEET! As Kannuki is threatening the headmaster and promising to kill students one by one until he gets the scroll... Kouichi comes in and starts killing everyone. His eyes are all crazy red and he, uh, he's imortal. YES!
- Oh shit, it all makes sense now. Headmaster says "White hair... immortal... you're her-" Fuck yes, this must mean that Shijima is the same as Kouichi. And they're related?
- And just to add to the evidence, Shijima isn't at all surprised to see Kouichi come save them. I also bet she's the one the headmaster entrusted the kinjutsu scroll to.
- Second part.
- Don't you just love how anime characters die right on cue? Headmaster bites it after making Subaru see the error of her ways, and stuff. Ok, not get on with the Shijima and Kouichi stuff!
- Ah, I was right, Shijima has the scroll. She also is given the responsibility for deciding who gets it, and she hands it to Miharu.

And we're totally going to see more of her. Kouga is gone as a clan in Nabari, but she was always more than just a Kouga ninja. Like she herself says, she's a "spectator". She's above so much of what is going on. Now what I want to know is, is Kouichi the same? How much does he knows? Shihima knows more about the Shinrabanshou than Miharu does, but I never *quite* got that impression from Kouichi, or not to the same extent anyway.

But damnit, those two are the most interesting characters right now, and I demand more info!

[Suwako Moriya]

This episode makes me hope we'll get plenty of Shijima Kurookano in the future. Also with her referring to Shinrabanshou-chan as a woman, it increases my hopes of a certain thing possibly happening. As it means it's not just Miharu seeing her that way. Oh yeah fun moment with Miharu covering his ears like that.

[Aiia]

The new ending is totally sweet and fuzzy and romantic. :) Good episode as well, which helped fill in a few details on the characters and hint about interesting things to come.

What I love about Nabari no Oh is that it's managed to have a pretty big story, despite not being epic or anything, that takes place all over Japan, but it still doesn't feel out of place when it decides to focus on the main characters. It really keeps a great balance. If it was only angst and drama, it might feel a bit too much, but there's enough plot twists and turns to keep my interest on top all the time. The feelings between pretty much all characters feel like they're natural and totally unforced. Why can't anime be as good as this all the time?

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah so the new ending is definitely Miharu/Yoite focused. Pretty interesting episode over all and fun how Yoite seems to be sligtly less jumpy now. Also it's quite noticeable how the Kouichi's talk about his past focused on him and a cat, along with scenes of Miharu's cat. Makes you wonder...

[Aiia]

Ah so the new ending is definitely Miharu/Yoite focused. Pretty interesting episode over all and fun how Yoite seems to be sligtly less jumpy now. Also it's quite noticeable how the Kouichi's talk about his past focused on him and a cat, along with scenes of Miharu's cat. Makes you wonder...

I think the cat thing has been set up for a while now. He/she has been in the focus of the picture right after several important scenes etc far too often to be just a normal cat, so I personally saw this as a confirmation of my suspicions.

I loved the scene in this episode where Yoite quickly takes off the muffler he got from Hanbusa and puts it on Miharu. Although its actually rather sad that he can't even receive her kindness directly, much less Miharu's. Still, he seems to be enjoying life just a tiny bit more than when he first confronted Miharu, and I really hope that he'll continue to change as the show progresses.

[Aiia]

Lots of episode 17 spoilers ahead, so I'll just put spoiler space over most of it.

This episode had a lot of fighting scenes and unexpected characters facing off in battle. Mm. Yoite challenging Yukimi was unexpected to say the least. I first thought he did that in order to get the engetsuri before Hattori, but then he said something to Miharu about it being part of their deal. That made me remember that Yoite promised to make sure that Miharu's friends survive if Miharu succeds in erasing Yoite. I guess that promise included more than releasing them from Yoites Kira.

Also, Miharu is definitely having even more doubts about erasing Yoite. It's heartwrenching to see him trying to hide that from Yoite (who'd probably not appriciate Miharu's concerns much seing how motivated he is to erase his existence).

And Tobari-sensei is finally onto Yoite and Miharu's secret. Sure took him a while considering all that stuff Miharu shouted when he got angry that time at Hanabusa's house...

I also really liked the interaction between Raimei and Koichi in this episode. They'd be a really good looking couple if they actually got together and they were well syncronised when they were fighting Yukimi together. I'd definitely support them as a couple. At first I thought Raimei might end up with Miharu, but his feelings took off in a completely different direction. ;)

The story is leaning towards a big clash between Miharu and Tobari-sensei, which should be interesting.

It looks like we might get some more information about Yoite's past in the next episode. I'd really like to know more about his past and why he ended up as the angel of death for such a cold man like Hattori.

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah yes got to love the Kouichi x Raimei hints or maybe I'm reading too much into things. Still something about the episode made Raimei even more love-able. Probably because her role has changed to something more interesting than before. Regardless I have to wonder just what it will take for Miharu to get the final scroll. He's definitely got his work cut out for him. In any case I shall dub this the everybody gangs up on Yukimi episode because I can! Okay maybe not gang up per se, but well...

[something]

Episode 16:

- Kinda forgot Kairoushuu had all but one scroll already. And interestingly, from the conversation between Kouichi and Kumohira, the Banten scroll is in Kumohira's earring. :sd:
- Also wasn't expecting Kouichi to tell Kumohira and Raimei everything about his immortality, but I guess there was no use hiding it. And why is Shijima a cat in the flashbacks?
- Finally some significant friction between Miharu and Toujuurou, as things get closer to the revival of the Shinrabanshou.
- And I had almost forgotten about Raimei's promise to help Miharu get the scrolls... "called some friends in Banten" indeed.
- Lots of Hana in this episode, though I have a hard time believing she's really as separate from the world of Nabari as she says. Then again, maybe I just want her to start ninjaing people's asses left and right.

Also, lol to the new ED. Yoite smiling? What the hell?

[something]

Episode 17:

- Impending Yukimi backstory? "Yukimi, you're doing the thing you hate the most"
- Which, I assume, is getting someone from the real world involved in Nabari. When he realizes that's what he's doing, he seems to leave? Interesting.
- And a completely not random scene of Miharu's cat waking up and walking off somewhere.
- Bwhahah! Stalker Raimei is awesome. And that hat looks great on her. It's almost Horo-like, and I love how she looks with her hair down. Also, super fucking adorable moment between her and Kouichi!
- That was the cutest "betrayal" ever. Oh god I love Raimei, and I'm so glad all that crappily handled Raikou revenge shit is out of the way. She's so much better like this.
- Haha, Raimei leading Yukimi around is great. Except she accidentally leads him straight to Kumohira instead. :sd: And then Kumohira is saved by Yoite.
- Know what I love? How nobody has any goddamn clue who is on whose side anymore. XD

So Toujuurou is ready to speed up his plans, Kumohira disappears, Yoite is getting worse and worse...

AND I WANT MORE SHIJIMA. But this episode was good anyway because Raimei looked amazing.

[Aiia]

Unlike the last episode which was pretty plot heavy, this episode was more focused on the characters and their relationships. Apparently Yoite has only one month left to live, which shocks both him and Miharu when they find out that there's not enough time for their plan to work out.

I had hoped to find out more about Yoite in this episode, but at least we get to know a few things about him. Like the fact that he got his name from Yukimi and claims he didn't have a name until he was 16 years old. Could he be the son of Hattori and his companion perhaps? Or perhaps Hattori being a relative of Yoite's parents would be more likely? From the flashback it seems Yoite's parents really hated him, so maybe Hattori took Yoite in as a favour (or for his own means more likely)? But did his parents hate him because he carried the Kira, or did he take on the Kira as a favour to Hattori? I'm not sure if I have missed something here.

I can't shake the feeling that this show will end with Miharu either being totally heartbroken or giving his life to save Yoite. I hope they'll get a more happy ending though...


Edit: A lot of things and details became clearer on a second viewing. I'll wait with commenting though.

[Aiia]

- That was the cutest "betrayal" ever. Oh god I love Raimei, and I'm so glad all that crappily handled Raikou revenge shit is out of the way. She's so much better like this.


I like that she was able to deal with her past and even interacts with her brother from time to time now. But it's kind of bugging me that she totally got pushed to the side in the story after her revenge failed. I liked that it felt like her being in the story had more of a purpose before. On the other hand, the same thing pretty much happened to Koichi as well, so I guess the story is just focused on other things than the original quartet now.

[something]

Episode 18:

- Way tired so keeping the comments short... ...Yoite's parents threw him out the window of a highrise? Haha, oh man.
- Ooh, purdy snow. And Yoite's kira can be used to heal people too (btw one month to live, or less)?
- What the hell, that's a lot of blood. And people just stroll on by it like it's not there. You'd think they'd be kinda disturbed. :sd:
- Jeeze, I can tell it's been over a month since I last watched this. I can't remember what the hell "Sora" is. Either that or it's new and Yoite is going a bit bonkers.

[something]

Episode 19:

- Oh man Gau is awkward. Watching him try to get friendly with Yoite makes me cringe.
- What the hell Yoite can eat entire pieces of cake much larger than his mouth in one bite.
- Steaming hot lemonade? Whaaaat? So now everyone is joining the "save Yoite" bandwagon - Gau, Raikou, Yukimi. Kazuho seems to want to, but she's terrified of doing anything that'll get them kicked out of Kairoushuu
- ::blinks:: That was weird. Yukimi remembers back to when he met Yoite, and Yoite was a little kid at the time. But then over a period of three days he, er, stretched to become his current size? o_O
- Kazuho was hiding info on the Shinrabanshou research from Miharu, and now he and Yoite are there to force the info out of her.
- And then we meet four new ninja, Kairoushuu's "dispatch" team Tategami. While Miharu and Yoite head to Togakushi to meet Oda and ask about her Izunashingan - the only way to "force" the Shinrabanshou, not that there's any guarantee Miharu will be able to control it.

I guess they'll be the enemies that the new Save Yoite team will go up against.

[something]

Episode 20:

- Oda isn't at the company but Miharu gets her address using his devilish ways. Raimei gets a call from Raikou asking about Miharu, and Kouichi points out to her that it's Raikou's job to kill deserters and traitors to Kairoushuu, which means Miharu is probably his current target. Or I guess he's helping out that cleanup squad we met in 19.
- Lots of Miharu/Yoite stuff as they travel to Oda's town. They find her and Miharu begs for help and she relents.
- Oda starts with the Izunashingan on Miharu, while the Tategami cleanup squad blows up all her subordinates back at their office. Yikes.
- The Izunashingan fails, Tategami break in and easily overpower the three of them, and only by threatening to kill himself is Miharu able to get them to spare Yoite and Oda (for now).

Next ep looks like a lot of not-fun for these three.

[Suwako Moriya]

The condition of Yoite's hands and feet are rather symbolic as to how crappy his life is. Everything is just falling apart for him. In any case that Fairy needs to help Miharu help Yoite as soon as possible. Too bad the Fairy can't be bribed with cookies...

[Suwako Moriya]

Well that was certainly an interesting episode with the fun moment being "Scolding" Gau telling Yukimi off.

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah so we get more interaction with the Fairy and she's awesomely evil. Quite the creepy girl too. I'm going to fear the worst happening if/when she fully awakens. If only there was a way to tame her.

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah yes the most logical thing to a follow a captured episode is an escape episode involving multiple characters. Heh the next episode is called Chaos which I get the feeling will be a rather appropriate name.

[something]

Episode 21:

- Just as I was about to mention that Koutarou, leader of Fuuma, hadn't done anything lately...
- Oda is not looking good. Poor woman.
- Dude, Gau is a wuss.
- Blah blah war blah.
- Heh, so many people trying to save Miharu. Kouichi/Raimei, Yoite, Raikou/Gau, those Fuuma ninja.

Episode ended at an odd spot.

[Suwako Moriya]

-Dude, Gau is a wuss.

True, but at least he's a dedicated person.

[Suwako Moriya]

I'm too tired to describe the episode or anything like that. I'll just say this much, both Raimei and to a (much) lesser extent Kouichii really need to gain a level up.:sweat: Still the final scene with Raikou is rather telling, we'll see what if anything he can do.

[Suwako Moriya]

All right lots of fighting in this episode. The main thing of interest was the battles involving Raikou. Too bad for him, the leader that's he betraying was able to cut Raikou's sword with his hand. Oh yes there was a little bit of Shijima in the episode. So Yeah I'm in the process of wrapping this series up now. Thus I'm commenting in order to provide proper sub threads.

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah yes thanks to the magic earpiece aka Engetsurin, we get a partial flashback episode and the indication that the thing is a good memory refresher. The leader of Kairoushuu wants to use a transfer jutsu to steal the Shinrabanshou. However don't worry because Yoite hits the guy for massive damage. There's a way to end the episode.

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah yes the Shinrabanshou stuff starts getting hectic, but well the good news is that Mommy appears to talk to Miharu and the magical Fairy realm. Yeah I'm not sure what to think about all this. In any case after all that hectic stuff we get what feels like an epilogue with various characters interacting with each other.

The end result is after all this, Miharu finds where Yoite currently is. Also he learns the difference between the ambition of the late leader of Kairoushuu and Fuuma. One wanted to use Shinrabanshou to change the world, the other wants to see how the world would change because of it. Make of that what you will.

[Suwako Moriya]

So the final decision that Yoite makes it is to accept the past and live his remaining days the best he can. Meanwhile Miharu decides ultimately against using the Shinrabanshou. Scenes involving various characters happen. In the end Yoite passes away, but instead of dying in despair, it's a more peaceful death.

In any case as a whole the series was pretty decent. Truth be told I do think some of the characters could have been let's just say a bit stronger, and things got a bit too hectic sometimes. However even so it definitely had some pretty nice moments.

So the end result is we got a series with part of the second to last episode and the final episode dedicated to an epilogue. Which is definitely quite a bit compared to the generic five minute epilogue. Thank to that we got what was a pretty decent ending over all.

[something]

Oh good, the ep subthreads already exist. Finally getting around to finishing this, and couldn't remember if anyone else had done so yet. Trying to get through this relatively quickly, so I'll only have short comments.

Episode 22:
This was a decent episode, though I agree that Kouichi and Raikou need to "level up". It's especially weird for Kouichi, since we've already seen him as a super strong, murderous immortal. He should have been able to take out the Tategami by himself.

Yoite and Miharu captured yet again, though the Tategami are pretty naive to trust Yukimi, if you ask me. It's also amusing that his little pistol held everyone at bay when they've gone head to head with him multiple times already, and the gun was no major obstacle. :sd:

[something]

Episode 23:

Hm, more Yoite backstory. So it's Whatshername McBlindchick that suggested the Kira method. Sometimes I think she's even darker than Toujuurou.

Also, finally some more goddamn Shijima! She's the best character in this show (since they seriously gimped Raikou) and she hardly appears at all =(

Lots of fighting, as mentioned. Raikou's first fight was really lame, but the clash with Yukimi was pretty damn nice. The problem is that this show animates intense battled very strangely, with a sort of motion blur effect that 1) is murder on video encodes apparently... and 2) kinda takes away from the speed of the battle. I guess it's their way of getting through a battle animating way less frames or something.

Either way, he's now dead[?] thanks to some hax by Toujuurou. Lol at snapping a sword with his bare hands. Gau screams, Raimei screams, and now Shinrabanshou time~~

Most hilarious part of the episode is where, with everyone else gone, Kouichi just says "screw this" and uses his true powers and one hit kills the Tatagami. :sd:

[something]

Episode 24:

It's sort of silly how everyone of note just happened to be there when the Shinrabanshou transferred from Miharu's mother to him. Not just Toujuurou, but also Fuuma guy, Kouichi, and Shijima (in cat form...) :sd:

But yeah, Toujuurou does your typical villain thing of telling the protagonists his whole plan. Then, uh, Yoite kills him, just like that? Haha that would be a pretty strange way for him to go, though I have a feeling he's not dead yet. Still two eps left.

[something]

Episode 25:

Ahahahah! Oh wow, was I ever wrong about Toujuurou not being dead. He totally exploded! XD

Anyway, I know all sorts of important stuff happened but really the thing I care about most is... Nurse Juuji, I came!

[something]

Episode 26:

Raikou in the sky! I laughed at that part. :sd:

But on the whole, I'm pretty satisfied with the direction they went at the end. The action stuff until the middle of 25 was, well, not all that great. It was good enough to watch but I wasn't super interested. They picked things up at the end though, keeping it nice and calm. Definitely better to have a full epilogue (even one where things are resolved a bit too easily) than to rush everything into 5 minutes while the credits play or something.

And the very last scene was surprising - didn't think they'd go for such a low key farewell, but kudos to them for doing it.

Overall it was a pretty decent show. Nothing I'll watch again, or really remember this time next year, but I'm positive about it when all is said and done. Good stuff.

So where's our Shijima/Juuji spinoff?