manga: what you reading brehs....

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Elusive Samurai Volume 3

The man who attacked Kojirou and Ayako was Fubuki whom Shizuku is aware. Fubuki was defending the village from attacks from the former warriors that becomes bandits. Simply due to the location size of the village, Fubuki used his leadership skills to guide the kids so they can effectively help out where they can. But this was a fight they showcased Tokiyuki and his retainers skills. For Koijrou and Ayako despite their relaxed manner with Tokiyuki, they have a difficult task to protect him. Though here you really got to see how strong they are especially when working together. Meanwhile for Fubuki, as a dual wielder his strength becomes very clear. He makes for a great addition to Tokiyuki's retainers. Lastly Fubuki lesson to Tokiyuki is how to use his elusive nature in battle. Obviously the retreat and swing approach will only work 1 on 1. But in the case of his battle it is a deadly long timed strategy. Getting victory here was huge as the village serves as a great vital position going forward.

There is a shroud of mystery surrounding both Suwa and Shizuku. There is so much they know that can be hard to comprehend. What Shizuku showed Tokiyuki is fascinating. Meanwhile, from Takauji's side we see with working with his brother. For every bit as strong as Takauji's intuition was, the same can be said of his brother Tadayoshi and his intellect and wisdom. More and more it's clear that Tokiyuki's journey will be a difficult one.

Spoiler: Elusive Samurai Vol 3

 

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Ranger Reject Volume 10

Damn this series keeps getting better and better

Following D killing Red Keeper, we see a conversation between Green Keeper, Suzukiri and Angelica. The big news Angel leaving the Green Squadron and that civilians are turning on the Ranger Force. But the most interesting what is Suzukiri's intentions. She clearly shows pity for the monsters, but in essence is telling D to back off for now. We actually get some interesting news finally regarding Yellow Squadron. We know they are involved with research and development. Furthermore, we know that the Kaiju if we what she is leading on is true is from the Ranger Force. Daidai whom was a former member of Yellow Squadron clearly is what brought those Kaiju outside the Ranger Force. But the curious perhaps why were they created in the first place?

We get our first look at the Monster Protection society when Angel brings both Hisui and D to their HQ. The leader is Angel's father Yakushi. It's still hard to gauge their true intentions. Again given that Daidai is part of the MPS, it is clear that the less effective artifacts were brought by him. But the thing setting Hisui off is when it is clear that they aren't just fighting for monster rights, but actually allying with them. Though this was more than she can handle and she ends up getting imprisoned.

D's conversation with Yakushi is interesting. At some point siding with the monsters and the MPS would make sense. As he disguises himself, he sees the Dragon Keepers making their appearance. But the biggest thing out of this is that Sousei is alive. However, what really sets things off is that Yakushi calls the current Ranger Force fakes. They aren't the ones he grew up to love. He could be delusional? But Sousei takes the bait and makes the Ranger Force look incredibly bad and tarnishes their image. This is exactly what the monsters and the MPS wanted.

Angel and Hisui's conversation makes two things clear. Green Keeper either has hinted who the one they know who is Hibiki who he actually is and Angel is much more deranged than her appearance. She is the one that lead the monsters during the exam from the beginning of the series. She talks about losing her humanity, which is the main goal of the MPS. They seek to become monsters as they ally with them. Which really shows the holy organization is one giant cult that literally wants to become monsters. They turn civilians into Kaiju and the MPS gets an injection that turns them into monsters without completely losing self-control. Which is even more fukked up because they are turning the civilians into their pawns.

As the real Hibiki and XX meet up, we can see their relationship parallels the situation Hibiki had with his sister at the beginning of the series. XX was saved by Hibiki who unlike the MPS, he wants humans and monsters to coexist. XX knows this and imprisoned him before he could be turned into a monster. It really shows that XX cares for Hibiki and that he would protect him like that. With that being said Hibiki and Hisui's first encounter should be interesting. Beyond this we get to see that the Ranger Force won't back down

But despite all of this I really like how D won't follow either faction. It would make no sense for him to side with the Rangers as they treat monsters like dirt. But clearly the MPS and the Bosses simply don't respect monsters. Also, him throwing his fate in someone else's hand isn't in character of him as he wants to accomplish the goal himself. This very well could lead to him teaming up with Hibiki again as he holds goals that are different from the Rangers and the MPS.

Spoiler: Ranger Reject Vol 10

 

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Sakamoto Days Chapter 167

Holy shyt again god damn

More and more Takamura was so powerful only Uzuki creating a fake personality of him could stop him. This does raise the question of how and why does this work for Uzuki. We can understand that he can create these fake personalities due to trauma. After all since his friends cut down will cause that.

How is his brain so adept to it. I really want to see a Shin vs Uzuki matchup.

Spoiler: Sakamoto Days Ch 167

Mission: Yozakura Family Chapter 227

Great chapter that really amplifies the tension.

Ok Kai betraying both Taiyo and Kyo has me intrigued. Given how Taiyo looked up to him and him being Kyo's friend. The other betrayals sting because each of them are the mentor to each one of the kids. But this one hurts extra hard because he was such an integral part of getting Kyo back pre-timeskip.
Mozu is the easiest betrayal to understand. Ryu we understand from the wedding arc. Hulang is one we don't have too much information to base on. It would be really out of character for Shura to betray Futaba, but I can't imagine she would sit quit. I feel like Giga is out to make an appearance.

Spoiler: Mission: Yozakura Family Ch 227

Akane-Banshi Chapter 111

Honestly Maikeru having a similar style to Afro-kun was a twist I did not see coming. It makes sense why he wants Maikeru to fail. Not with that being said I believe Maikeru will use this style to soothe the air until until the mood improves. Then he will deliver.

Blue Box Chapter 150

Great chapter as they finally let out they are dating out there to their friends and classmates. For Natsu this is her final fireworks and who knows where her life is starting next year. Let her enjoy it with her new boyfriend.

Ayame is on the money, but she is scared because she needs to make the first move if she wants to be with Kyo. Saki was a little thoughtless bringing up her ex though. She clearly doesn't think of Kyo in a romantic sense.

 

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Dandadan Chapter 154

Man Dandadan flashback chapters really be hitting in the feels

Zuma lost everything and damn hitting rock bottom. Feel like the police officer from present is the same as the guardian.

Spoiler: Dandadan Ch. 154

Goze Hotaru

After losing her mother early on, Hotaru, a girl surrounded by warmth and tranquility, finds her life taking a dramatic turn. An unexpected event draws her into the world of "Goze," setting her on a path through unknown lands with music as her guide. Armed with her talent and a heart full of...

myanimelist.net

Been reading this and 10 chapters in, and I really like it. Follows a blind girl and her journey to find her father. See follows the 'Goze', which use music as its guide. Right alongside Centuria, Ghost Fixers and Girl Meets Rock as my favorite new J+ releases.

I loved this chapter. Hopefully this is the start for Sango to have more respect for Hotaru. She stepped up and the art was so well done in this chapter. Sango's backstory hits deep since you know with her condition how much their loved ones worried. Her mom seemed like a good one, but kids can pickup on things rather quickly. Emotion and sound are tied together.

 

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The Elusive Samurai Volume 4

So the mission for the male members of the Elusive Warriors was to get Hoshina Yasaburo to quell their rebellion. Unsurprisingly Tokiyuki couldn't convince them not to fight on the first night and like Kojiro sad they are too heated. Convince to stop their rebellion as they are already committed to die for the cause would be asking for the impossible. I really like the focus on Kojiro in this small arc, but I love the reaction Tokiyuki has when Hoshina declares that Kojiro will die with them. We know how much Tokiyuki cherishes his retainers. To claim they will die with them would be an insult. Of course the heated exchange goes well despite Tokiyuki getting drunk. Essentially a warrior may claim being ready to die may sound nice for them, but what about those that have to pick up the slack? Tokiyuki convincing him after just one day came in clutch.

As the retreat began we get to see each of the male retainers do their part. In particular Kojiro who has to deal with the enemy general. To put it in respect this was going to be a tough 1 on 1 fight for him. You can see he is outmatched and even when he gets an advantage he can't capitalize on it too much. The series did a great job showcasing the strengths of a mounted warrior and the weaknesses. The speed a warrior gets is huge. But if the horse is immobilized as well the rider then it's over like it was here. Kojiro much similar to Tokiyuki, eluded until the rest of the forces took care of the rest of the enemies' army. Then to prevent reinforcements Fubuki provided some intimidation to the Kokushi. The Kokushi was arrogant before and thought he could come to no harm. But the minute he felt harm he panicked at an alarm rate. It really shows how much of a hindrance that an incompetent leader brings to the table.

The plan next seems to take back Kamakura, which is under the leadership of Takauji's younger brother Ashikaga. The dilemma as mentioned before he is almost as capable as his older brother. With a group of young and strong retainers aiding him, retaking it will be difficult. Curious how they go about doing that. But before then Tokiyuki is under suspicion from Sadamune. His reason for being suspicious of Tokiyuki is well warranted. Now the challenge for Tokiyuki is how will he act in front of Sadamune's questioning. Suwa mentions that Sadamune is both skilled in literary and military arts, so this meeting will be a tough one to escape suspicion.

Spoiler: The Elusive Samurai Vol 4

 

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The Elusive Samurai Volume 5

With the face to face between Sadamune and Tokiyuki, one thing to noticed how composed, but even regarding that Suwa really had things planned out to the bone. Where this really showcased Ayako very well. Unlike the other retainers she is brimming with enthusiasm and personality. Unlike Kojiro she doesn't have a specialty in combat, but she can basically use whatever it is at her disposal. I do like Tokiyuki question if he is worth to be her lord. On another note Sadamune's questioning for Tokiyuki is still there, but the genuine aura that Tokiyuki is something that Sadamune has respect for. Which makes this a big win for Tokiyuki here.

One thing that is interesting is that Takauji and his followers are trying to combine the customs of the Mikado and Kamakura Shogunates. The former for progressively moving forward and latter were ruling realistically. The emperor's son worry of Takauji is warranted. It is clear now that he is greedy. There is a perhaps indication of emotional instability with him.

A Kokushi invasion occurs, which gives Tokiyuki an opportunity to learn from Suwa's Great Three Generals of the Suwa Sect. Yoriano is very disciplined and Kojiro belongs to the same clan as him, so their relationship going forward is interesting. Shigenobi is Ayako's father and has an even more unpredictable personality than her. But through it all his strengths are very clear. Lastly Yukiyashi is probably the strongest of the bunch. Mostly due to his desirable to not succumb to temptations. As the battle wages each show their strengths very well. Tokiyuki as the messenger utilizing his biggest strength that he can provide.

Everything is going well until Shokan made his appearance. Utilizing a gambit strategy to create a surprise attack to reverse the tide of battle. This was a great showcase to Tokiyuki that in war strategy is vital. Which is something Shokan is well versed in. Though it was mentioned at the start this wasn't a battle for Suwa intended to win, and more so meant to minimize the damages and unite the Suwa Sect. Tokiyuki gets admiration more Suwa to keeping Shokan's surprise attack in his expectations. This fulfills the goal Suwa set for Tokiyuki to set a lot and recruit more and more allies for what's to come.

Spoiler: The Elusive Samurai Vol 5

 

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Read through volume 1 of Blood Blade.

BLOOD BLADE

<b>Count Dracula is reborn as a katana-wielding young vampiress in a new, never-seen-before action manga set in a gritty, alternate-history Europe. Fans of cinematic, gory, supernatural alternate histories, like <i>Vampire Hunter D</i>, <i>Hellsing</i>, and <i>Dance in the Vampire Bund</i>, will...

kodansha.us

It was a decent first volume read. Count Vlad Dracula ends up being reborned as a vampireness. Basically the aim of the story is when a girl warns them of a group by Cerberus, which hunt and studies monsters. The girl's name is Clara. The art was solid itself, but the paneling could use a lot of work. Not too much to make of the story, but enough to continue reading.

How the encounter with the Princess and the monster who saved her is intriguing. Will Vlad kill them, or will they be willing to corporate?

Spoiler: Blood Blade Vol 1

 

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The Elusive Samurai Volume 6

So this chapter introduced Yoritsugu, whom is Yorishige's grandfather and next in line in the Suwa line. As Tokiyuki has grown fondness and thinking Yorishige as a father like figure, he hasn't seen his grandfather in forever. Luckily the squabble didn't take too long and they ended up on good terms. A bigger concern was Genba running into the Tengu, and they were a big crucial piece to Takauji's uprising. The best example to call them is spies, and they have a great amount of technique that could make Genba look silly.

With Tokiyuki reunited with his silly Uncle, the next step for now was are cast to travel to Kyo. This uncle is quite a character, but is very craft in order to be there for Tokiyuki. Although you could question his strength as a warrior. Tokiyuki being able to experience more places and see how the situation is very crucial. Tokiyuki's biggest quality is his charisma so mixing this with his training is important. During their tour of the city they see Genba lost everything to a girl named Mima. Here we get a close focus on Shizuku. Like Shizuku, Mima has blessings of the gods on her side, which attributed to her luck. Which even surpasses Shizuku's own. Though Shizuku personality is a stone-cold killer, she causes Mima to lose her edge as she kisses Tokiyuki while she plays. It gave them the victory and this is more puts in perspective who is Shizuku and where does she get her confidence. Whether or not her feelings for Tokiyuki are real or not, her loyalty can never be questioned.

As Mima gets friendly with the gang and takes them on a tour and gets attacked by Nitta Yoshisada, whom was responsibility for the attack on Kamakura alongside the Tengu and Takauji. We get a big showcase of Tokiyuki's charisma as he draws out Yoshisada as Ayako and Kojiro deliver massive blows to him. Which you can tell causes Mima's fondness for Tokiyuki to grow. There is a brief mention where we see Takauji trying to comfort Kiyohara, but we see the demons of Takauji, which we have seen from time to time. Which gives a disturbing looking final page.

Spoiler: The Elusive Samurai Vol 6

 

[Genos]

I'm re reading JoJo's bizarre adventure as I haven't read it since 2012 and only got to part 6. Goddamn I forgot how crack part 3 is

I just started part 4

 

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Gokurakugai Chapters 16+17

Utsu is def the part Maga that is killing people. Curious if she is even aware of it and drives her yandere personality.

 

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The Elusive Samurai Volume 7

Tokiyuki meeting up and gaining an ally in Kusunoki wasn't something I was expecting, but it was a great connection for him. Essentially much like Tokiyuki, Kusunoki specializes in fleeing. But what is interesting that he is known as the War God. Honestly his advice for Tokiyuki is probably the best advice he could get. He doesn't have the strength that you normally would see of a Samurai. His meaning of fleeing the restrictions that bind you. Fundamentally Tokiyuki won't get far, but how creative he gets is what will set him apart. This was an import connection he made here that ensure his time spent in Kyo was well spent.

Alongside Tokiyuki's uncle's plan to kill the Makido, an opportunity presents itself for the Elusive Warriors to take down Takauji by surprise. Or that is what they thought. The most cruel thing is when Takauji doesn't recognize Tokiyuki at all. We had weird feelings about Takauji, but this is the most puzzling. Since the man that torn apart the people Tokiyuki held dear, and he wanted to know why Takauji betrayed the Shogunate. But to find out he doesn't even recognize you is cruel. It's clear that Kusunoki had grown a fondness for Tokiyuki was nice. It really showcases his charisma. Despite that mental damage to Shogunate, the fact that people found out that technically Takauji was attacked was enough to caused ruckus. As expected the plan to kill the Makido failed. Yorishige's point that Shogunate grew in his journey to Kyo is important. The connections to Kusunoki and Mima could be proved to be vital.

The next step is to finally retake Kamakura. We see the growth from Tokiyuki for wanting to take the long path and thinking long term. Showcases more and more skills of a leader. The issue is that Sadamune is following their trails, and they need to take care of him. Handling him is in the cards for Yorishige, but the real challenge is Shokan. Which he leaves in Tokiyuki's hands. How he will figure out a plan to do that is interesting. Though we do see that since we last saw him, Shokan has changed. He was a man who was basically a strong bandit, but is now doing good. The conversation with the little girl who admires him is a great strength. That girl telling the good he has done as of late really highlights all the sins he has committed.

Spoiler: The Elusive Samurai Vol 7

 

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The Elusive Samurai Volume 8

They slowly build up for the story which lead to the announcement of Tokiyuki's true identity. Was fantastically executed. Really, really good so far.

Being able to capture this whole battle in one volume was well executed by Matsui-sensei. To avoid a repeat of the previous mistake when the surprise attack by Shokan turned into the deciding factor in the big fight. As Tokiyuki has gained experience in his encounters so far, the big moment was first he trapped Shokan. Narrowing where Shokan would try to attack Yorishege's men was great. Then following that it was up to Tokiyuki to take down Shokan. Like Kusunoki mentions in the last volume, Tokiyuki must expand on what is thought of as conventional. Here it was using Fubuki. The idea to bait Shokan against an alluding Tokiyuki and have Fubuki attack Tokiyuki with the intent to miss. This is one way to land a decisive blow on Shokan. But this carried great risks, but it is very much in Tokiyuki's character to not fully trust Fubuki, but all of his retainers. As Shokan goes do he goes down in honor. He was a great antagonist to Tokiyuki. He forced him to develop and grow. At the same time the impact of facing Tokiyuki has him actually wishing his life could go on longer. Which I doubt he would have cared for previous. Sadamune deserves some credit as he offered an opportunity for Shokan to live the right way with honor.

The encounter between Yorishige and Sadamune plays very much as we expected. He is not as skilled as Sadamune, but with his ability to foresee events that should have given him the precision to outdo Sadmune. I do like how it isn't beyond ridiculous like his ability to see the future doesn't create scenarios that he is way beyond his capabilities. Meanwhile, we see Tokitsugu and Genba facing against what seems to be the leader of the Tengu. Genba by himself wouldn't stand a chance, but with Tokitsugu it is a different story. His divine power more so makes him a great swordsman, but the key here is fleeing. Having both Tokitsugu and Genba hidden it allowed Genba to use his trickery on the Tengu. Big moment for Genba here.

The last big priority in this fight was defeat the Kokushi. With the aid of Sasaki Doyo, he built a battle monster that seems indestructible, but it shows you it lacks humanity. The simple of using slaves to reload the crossbows and even more so use them to protect the outside, so fire couldn't be used is absolutely sickening. The plan to defeat morale was the same as with Shokan and that is to take the Kokushi's head. First having Tokiyuki hit a shot to get the Kokushi is range where he can be headed with Hoshina delivering the honors.

Now with this being Tokiyuki's first big victory, and now they are able to launch an assault on Kamakura, this was the perfect opportunity to boost morale. A great moment as you can Tokiyuki attracts the crowd and you can see their motivation skyrocketing. However, Sadamune is still around and this announcement also has him coming out to try to kill Tokiyuki even if it is a suicide attempt. I have a feeling that this is within Yorishige's expectations.

Spoiler: The Elusive Samurai Vol 8

 

[T-K-G]

I am a few chapters behind on DG (haven't read touch MangaDex stuff in a minute). But with Witch & the Beast & Frieren both on hiatus, DG might be the best thing I am reading that is ongoing. Top tier art, great characters, great mystery and terrific implemented horror, shyt has it all. Honestly if the series wasn't horror it would be a lot bigger because horror apparently turns people off.

Regarding CSM, one thing I realized that Part 2 lacks something when Nayuta isn't in the picture. She is BY FAR the best character right now. (Fami is good too, but she is scheming and keeping her lips shut.) I was having hope that when Asa & Denji met up the pacing would improve, but it still feels slow. Plus I feel Asa's IQ has dropped to Denji's level. I feel like with a CSM it takes 2 chapters to get the content you expect out of a typical weekly chapter.

While this is something that obviously isn't an issue on a binge, but it is really, really noticeable reading chapter by chapter.

I had no idea Dark Gathering came back shyt was crack for a while then they went on long hiatuses and feel outta the rotation, this must have happened before they got into the horror realm