Lean on my shoulder? My final impression is included.

Summary:

When Miharu approaches Yoite in the church, he is warned to stay away from him. Yoite has been putting the blame on himself for the deaths of Hattori and Raiko, but Miharu states otherwise. Putting such things aside, Miharu reminds Yoite that he is his important friend. If he were to simply die alone, the wishes of those around him would not be fulfilled. When Yoite finally starts to listen to him, Miharu asks what his wish is. To the surprise of the listening Kotaro above, and the Shinrabanshou inside Miharu, Yoite claims that he does not need the Shinrabanshou. Miharu reminds Yoite that he could erase the kira’s existence as well, but Yoite denies because he was able to live until now because of it. With this, Miharu agrees to solve his problems without the use of the power inside of him.

On a latter day, Miharu returns home very actively, only to go out for a bit right after. This surprises some of the people in his family’s shop, but Miharu’s guardian recalls that Miharu was just as active when his parents were still alive. Miharu, Kouichi, and Raimei stop by Kumohira’s house, finding that Gau and Yoite are knitting a scarf there. During a small conversation, Raimei notices that Gau is wearing Raiko’s charm. Gau had presented this charm to Raimei on a previous day, claiming that it was the only thing he could find while searching for Raiko’s body. Raimei allowed Gau to keep it, however, claiming that Raiko would be more happy this way. When Kumohira returns home, he assists Hanabusa with things in the kitchen. As Hanabusa mentions that having so many people over makes it seem like she has many kids, Kumohira realizes that he is indeed happy with this peaceful lifestyle as well.

As everyone continues to spend time with each other later, Miharu notices Shiratama’s appearance outside of the house. He then takes the chance to ask if Kouichi is alright, having heard his secret from Raimei. Kouichi confirms that he is okay, planning on living in the Banten as he is. As for Shijima, he can only wonder what her plans are. Shijima appears before Kotaro somewhere close by, wondering how he felt about the recent turn of events. Kotaro mentions that Miharu’s actions were actually different from those until now, in that the previous Shinrabanshou users died trying to use their power, and that he is happy with watching what will happen from now on. Shijima reminds Kotaro that he is not the same as she or Kouichi, having a mortal life, but Kotaro replies with the mention of his vast source of knowledge in the Fuuma village. As Shijima leaves, she transforms back into Shiratama in search for food.

As Miharu parts ways with Yoite and the others that afternoon, Hanabusa tells Kumohira to accompany him. While Kumohira follows him, Miharu recalls that he was the only one who had retained his memories from the past before recently. Miharu wonders if Kumohira had thought about things like those he lost when he saw him, which Kumohira agrees to. When Miharu wonders if Kumohira had ever wished to forget these things, however, he denies. Kumohira states that he is grateful for the present, crediting Asahi for allowing him to experience it. Stopping by a shop to buy supplies, Miharu reminds Kumohira to keep his mother’s memories precious. Yukimi and Amatatsu meet the two after seeing them in passing, taking the chance to give them Yoite’s usual medicine. Kumohira wonders why Yukimi will not simply see Yoite himself, but he states that he cannot as a Kairoshu. Before leaving, Yukimi leaves Miharu with a slip of paper in hopes of leaving Yoite to him from now on. Inside is a simple recipe for lemonade. As they leave, Amatatsu wonders if Yoite may be saved. However, Yukimi’s expression states the obvious. Not letting this get to them for long though, the two decide to find a place to eat.

One day, Miharu travels with Yoite to see a small house. The owner wonders if the two need anything, but Yoite simply mentions how nice the scenery looks. The two disappear soon afterwards, and Yoite brings up the memories he had about the house. Yoite expresses how glad he is to have met Miharu, before falling onto his shoulder with a bit of exhaustion. On a later day, Yoite wonders to Miharu when the others will be appearing for their usual gathering. As Miharu leaves to make lemonade, however, Yoite beings to disappear. Raimei, Gau, and Kouichi notice the glitter in the sky while on the way to Kumohira’s house, and when Miharu returns to Yoite, he finds that all that remains is his clothing. Clutching onto his scarf, Miharu states that he will never forget Yoite.

ED: The ending sequence brought us through the characters’ now usual activities after peace has finally been brought to their lives. Shijima teases Kouichi at school, Gau has taken up kendo, Raimei frequently visits her brother’s grave, Hanabusa continues her work with the feeling that she has a family around her, and Yukimi and Amatatsu enjoy each day at their shop.

Impression:

Man, you knit a scarf? …A freaking scarf!? Oh god, why don’t I just start watching full out yaoi now? Putting that aside, this was a pretty good ending for the series. I didn’t feel like it was rushed at all, which is a problem I see far too much in similar anime. So, even if I’ve complained about Nabari’s pacing in the past, I will at least give credit this time around. I really loved the theme of memories and enjoying the present as well. Yoite’s decision to live on without the Shinrabanshou’s help (poor Shinrabanshou) was a pretty clear indicator that he would die soon, especially after all the hints we were given up until this point. I did find it kind of strange that he simply turned to dust in the end, but I suppose that did kind of make his wishes come true. Miharu’s statement that he would never forget Yoite made for perfect words to end the series. Raimei, Gau, and Kumohira revealed similar thoughts about those they lost, while simply keeping their memories precious. I loved the skip to the future, showing everyone live peaceful lives in the Banten and elsewhere. I guess I’m just a sucker for slice of life type stuff like this. I found it pretty funny when they finally revealed that Shijima is Shiratama too. Really, who hasn’t figured this out already?

Final Impression:

I have to admit that Nabari no Ou is not a series that I would usually cover, and that I probably wouldn’t have picked it up two seasons ago if it wasn’t for my scarce amount of shows being covered back then. With that said though, I’ve found that I really enjoyed talking about Nabari each week until the end. As much as I liked to joke that the series had taken the yaoi route, and the problems I had with the pacing in the middle/end of the series, I can really say that I actually liked this show quite a bit. If anything, joking with Aroduc on IRC each week about the Yoite x Miharu pairing got me through what I disliked about the series at times. I will definitely have to say that the series did have its share of problems, but it also had some great potential that would otherwise counter these at other times.

Probably the biggest inconsistencies of this series would be the animation, which went from great to lazy as time went on. Why did the awesome fight scenes from the first few episodes have to turn into a big mess of motion blurs by the end? Sure, the turn to development was nice, but that doesn’t mean the animation team should just go to sleep otherwise. I’ve also heard from readers of the manga, and even read for myself at times, that the anime made quite a few changes from the supposedly more superior manga version. From what I’ve seen, many of these changes were not even necessary. Things like changing characters completely served no specific purpose in the story, only annoying fans of the manga. But not having read the original material consistently, I could be wrong. How different is the manga from the anime? Is the manga even finished, and if it is, did it end like the anime?

I will say that I probably enjoyed Nabari a bit more when it first started airing, as it really caught me off guard as a show that I had originally skipped over until I saw how appealing it was. Judging from the first episode, I would have never guessed that the direction would almost take a complete change though. Heck, even if he was a big focus in the OP, how could I have guessed Yoite would have such a big part by the end? This isn’t a bad thing though, as some of the themes that were played on throughout this series really hit base with me. I loved the focuses on death, friendship, memories, and various other things that I have already discussed in the past. Again, I am glad that I picked up Nabari no Ou for the past two seasons. It certainly fulfilled my fighting deep character development anime quota for both time spans, and JC Staff probably continues to be my second favorite production studio for works that I can have faith in.

lolwut.

Summary:

Unable to believe what he has done to Hattori, Yoite falls into a fit of panic. Raimei calls out for Miharu to help Yoite, but he cannot hear her. When the rest of the ninjas arrive, Yae uses the Izura Shingan in order to enter Miharu’s mind. Yukimi meanwhile confronts a now angry Ichiki, but he is quickly taken down by her and the following Tategami. Miharu tries to hide himself in his mind, when the Shinrabanshou appears to tell him that everyone had deceived him. Miharu claims that the Shinrabanshou isn’t is, and to his surprise, the Shinrabanshou expresses that she exists for his sake. As Miharu and the Shinrabanshou put hand in hand, Yae panics at the explosion created from it. The Shinrabanshou is surprised when she is unable to touch Miharu further, however, when an image of Asahi appears. Asahi tells Miharu to forget, apologizing for putting so much responsibility on him, and wanting him to return to his normal life. The Shinrabanshou is unable to stop Asahi, causing the chaos outside to finally stop as Miharu sheds tears from his eyes.

When Miharu later wakes in a hospital, he is confronted by Kumohira who does not allow him to leave. When Miharu asks about Yoite, he learns that he had disappeared without anyone’s knowledge at some point. Miharu further exclaims that Kumohira does not have the right to tell him anything, having hid the truth from him for so long. He is finally convinced to stay, however, when Raimei appears to reveal that he had been unconscious for quite some time. Raimei and Gau bring food to Miharu later, but he only tells them that they can hate him since it was his fault that Raiko died. This only makes Raimei angry, having not once thought to put blame on Miharu for the things that had happened. Leaving Miharu with a slap in the face, Raimei runs out of the room in tears. Gau leaves shortly after, giving Miharu time to think for himself.

In other places, Kotaro reveals to Kumohira the news about the “earthquake” that had happened recently. Due to the Kairoshu, this news was obviously altered. Kotaro further wonders what Kumohira plans to do from here on, as the Shinrabanshou has not left Miharu’s body. Kumohira only leaves in annoyance afterwards, refusing to tell Kotaro where he plans to go. Kumohira visits Yukimi next, expressing that there are still things for him to do despite his now limited abilities. Kumohira tells Yukimi to find Yoite, even begging him to. Kumohira states that there would be nowhere for him to go at this rate, and that it should be the same in Yukimi’s case. Yukimi only makes Kumohira leave afterwards, falling into stress. Kouichi finds Kumohira outside later, telling him the results of his resent research dealing with Yoite. The two are soon surprised to see Yukimi and Amatatsu show up via car, asking for them to enter. Yukimi hands the two a book recording Yoite’s progress, leaving him in their hands.

Kumohira later meets Miharu back at the hospital, telling him that he has probably found Yoite’s whereabouts. Kumohira then describes his belief that he had to protect Miharu, as he had even made the promise to his parents and his own grandfather. Having wanted to let Miharu do things his own way, he had used the Engetsurin on him. When Miharu learns that Kumohira would still prevent him from using the Shinrabanshou, however, he doesn’t believe anything has changed. Before leaving, Miharu asks for one condition from Kumohira. When Raimei sees Miharu leaving, she makes him promise that he would return safely with Yoite. On the train later, Miharu is confronted by a following Kotaro. Kotaro brings up talk of the past, where he had tried to get Asahi to join the Fuuma. However, she was much like Miharu in her refusal. Kotaro again admits that he wants the Shinrabanshou, only different from Hattori in that he simply wishes to watch how the world would change due to its power. Miharu allows Kotaro to do what he wants, getting off the train with the belief that he is still following him. Recalling what Kumohira had told him, that Yoite once went by the name “Sora” in the days he was still involved with his parents, Miharu finds Yoite inside a church.

Preview: Yoite acts tsun towards Miharu….again…

Impression:

-push-. No, Kumohira! -push-! After all the crazy stuff that was happening last week, I wasn’t expecting it all to end before the first half of this episode. Even then, the first half ended up being really silly. Watching a blind woman try to stab someone, and succeeding, is just not something you see everyday. Miharu turing into a giant…something….for no reason was really odd too. And let’s not even try to comprehend Hattori floating up into the air and freaking exploding. Come on, guys. Ninjas, sure. This? I don’t know. I also laughed at how Miharu’s mom popped out of nowhere to deny Miharu’s chance to get involved with hawt 1,000+ year girls. Talk about a cock block! Poor Shinrabanshou…. But after watching Miharu make Raimei run out of a hospital room crying, and his annoyed expression while nurse Juji cared for him, I’m pretty sure we all know what Miharu really wants in the end. It’s going to be bad news when he goes into that church with Yoite. GOD IS WATCHING. NOOOOOOO….

With great power comes great responsibility!

Summary:

Hattori blames Miharu for all of the negative things that are happening around him, forcing the Shinrabanshou’s power out of his body. Everyone in the room quickly leaves due to the obvious danger, including even Raimei who is still panicked about Raiko’s condition. Kouichi and the others finally meet Kumohira, but Raimei quickly becomes angry with him for continuing to run while terrible things have happened to everyone. Shijima also mentions how happy Kouichi should be for the possibility of his wishes to be granted. Although ninjas continue to attack the group, they ignore them while running towards Miharu. Asking for forgiveness from a person named Asahi, Kumohira finally uses the Engetsurin on Miharu.

Under the effects of the Engetsurin, Miharu begins to see visions of the past. Kumohira had been running from the Kairoshu with Miharu’s parents Asahi and Akatsuki, when his grandfather decided to stay behind with Akatsuki who was losing strength. When the Kairoshu found these two, however, they swiftly killed them. Kumohira eventually let Asahi run ahead with Miharu as well, learning of his companion’s state upon his backtracking. Asahi was overpowered by several Kairoshu ninja, which caused the Shinrabanshou to start leaving her body. Kumohira returned to attempt to stop the Shinrabanshou, but it simply attached to Miharu instead. Asahi’s last wish was for Miharu to forget, which certainly happened as he was being taken away by Kumohira.

With this new realization in his mind, Miharu can only be angered with Kumohira for never telling him anything. The Shinrabanshou takes the chance to make Miharu realize that he desires her power, again making him lose his senses. Everyone else regains their memories from 10 years ago, which brings Hattori to express the transferring technique he has regained thanks to the Engetsurin. Despite Kumohira’s attempt to stop him, Hattori easily takes him down. Before he can use his technique on Miharu, however, Yoite uses the kira to stop it. Yoite even goes against Hattori’s predictions by impaling him in the stomach. Afterwards though, Yoite is unable to stop his panic.

Preview: Futari.

Impression:

Um……why was Kouichi a kid in the flashbacks? It was just 10 years. I thought you were a couple hundred years old, gramps. The cat was fine though….since she was like….a cat. Besides that, the cheap blurry animation, and the giant DNA that Aroduc is sure to talk about, this episode was pretty freaking awesome. There’s something about a kid with a flower-shaped design on his pink jacket going SSJ that just gets me excited. It also helps that there was a ton of Shinrabanshou fanservice in this episode. I love the Shinrabanshou. Finally learning about Miharu’s past was pretty satisfying too, even though all the build up and foreshadowing only added up to be about five minutes of a single episode. Miharu’s mom was totally badass, though Miharu unfortunately seemed to get most of his traits from his wimpy dad. With Sunrise style panic in Yoite’s eyes by the end, it looks like there will be a nice mix of drama and action in the next episode. I can’t wait.

OH…and I didn’t see the Engetsurin being Kumohira’s earpiece coming at all…..Nope, not at all…totally surprised…

What?? This isn’t Nabari no Ou!

Summary:

With Miharu and Yoite captured by Yukimi, Hattori enters the room that they are held in. Recalling Yoite’s past, when he came to the Kairoshu hoping to make it so that he never existed, Hattori states that he had given him the kira for this sake. In exchange, however, Yoite would have had to serve Hattori until the end. In the meantime, two of the Tategami are sent after Yae, Kato, and Saraba. With his regained sword, Raiko meets Ichiki who is seemingly now alone. However, he is confronted by his previous pursuer. Raiko continually questions Hattori’s ideals during his fight, as they are no longer with the heart of the actual Kairoshu members. With his superior skills, Raiko is able to take down his opponent.

Raimei, Kouichi, and Gau are attacked by a single Tategami in other places, but after a small amount of fighting, the three of them are seemingly surrounded. Raiko eventually makes it to the room Hattori is in, but as he is seen as a threat, Yukimi is sent against him. Yukimi is taken down after a short while, but Ichiki doesn’t let Raiko go any further by holding a knife up to Miharu’s neck. Hattori gives Yoite the chance to redeem himself by firing at Raiko, but when he instead points to Ichiki, Hattori finishes Raiko off himself. Those in the room, including Ramei who had arrived to see her brother’s body, panic at this sight. With this, the Shinrabanshou finally takes its chance to surface.

Preview: We’re going back to the emo right? ….right??

Impression:

Is that fighting I see in my plot and character development anime? I don’t believe it. With only three episodes left, it’s finally time for something worthwhile to happen. I almost thought this episode was going to go through yet another capture and drama phase, but when the action started picking up, I couldn’t help but be just as shocked as Miharu and the others at the end of the episode. Raiko was awesome as expected, but this didn’t come without a price. Hattori just cut his freaking sword in half? How exactly is this possible? Surely, Raimei will have to avenge his death in some way. I can’t see his taking care of a few thugs being the end up his purpose. Maybe he’s not even dead. Other awesome parts included Kouichi’s releasing his true powers again, and the reappearance of Shijima. Although the Shinrabansho’s powers are implied to have finally awaken, the episode preview doesn’t give away any hints of it being used. I could easily believe that the action is being hidden from us though. There’s not much to say aside from that, as most of this episode was spend on fights. Oh, and Hattori is still a sick little pervert.

Dead eyes; can’t be cured by Clear eyes.

Summary:

As Miharu and Yoite have escaped, Hattori and Ichiki begin to move. In the meantime, Kato has entered the Kairoshu’s hotel with the help of Saraba. When he finds Yae, he quickly unbinds her. The two meet Raiko shortly after, but he does not interfere with their escape. Yae takes the chance to use the Izura Shingan on Raiko, and after seeing his past, she guesses that he plans to die. She reminds him, however, that Hattori’s ideals are not the same as his. Yae believes that Raiko probably cares for his sister, and that he probably believed that his mother’s past words were certainly true. Raiko later stops Hattori and Ichiki on their way out of the hotel, admitting his guilt and preparing to take punishment. He asks, however, that they would spare Gau who was only moving due to his actions. Raiko soon confirms that Hattori’s beliefs are not the same as his, and when an agent is left to finish him, Raiko refuses to die before taking care of important business of his.

By coincidence, Gau meets Kouichi and Raimei inside the hotel. After relaying their situations to each other, they decide to move. Yae meanwhile exclaims to Saraba and Kato that the Shinrabanshou must never fall into the Kairoshu’s hands. Raiko also runs from his pursuer in hopes of accomplishing something more important at the moment. Kumohira attempts a technique while in the forests elsewhere, but it is ineffective. To his surprise, Kotaro shows up behind him soon after. After learning of the Kairoshu’s plans and Miharu’s situation, Kumohira rushes out of the area. While escaping through the sewers, Yoite decides that Miharu should escape on his own. Miharu refuses to leave Yoite behind, using the shards he has left in his friends as an excuse. With this, however, Yoite finally admits that his dying causing his friends’ deaths was a lie. Miharu instead claims that if Yoite would not escape, he would simply be caught with him. With this, Yoite finally agrees to continue.

While outside, Miharu attempts to convince Yoite to stay in the Banten village. Yoite does not seem to believe this is a bad idea, but before having much time to think about it, he and Miharu are confronted by Yukimi. Clearly annoyed, Yukimi quickly reminds the two that it was him who taught Yoite everything. The Wakachi soon interfere, however, wanting to confront Miharu and Yoite right away. Raimei, Kouichi, and Gau appear as well, starting an immediate fight. Miharu and Yoite are easily overtaken, but Yukimi declares that he will take them back while threatening the others around him. The Wakachi and Banten fight for a bit longer after being left alone with each other, but the Wakachi are soon called back by the Kairoshu. In the meantime, Raiko reclaims his white sword with his mother’s words in his mind once again.

Preview: Raimei says, “OH MY GOD WHAT ARE YOU DOING.”

Impression:

Man, I hate dead eyes. I’m sure this isn’t what it’s really called, but when the character’s eyes aren’t animated with the rest of the scene, it always kills me. There was quite a bit of action in this episode, but with motion blurs galore, these just aren’t as exciting as they used to be. It feels like most of this episode was spent stalling again, with only a few select scenes showing any vital importance. This would probably include Yoite’s finally telling Miharu the truth about their original promise. Raiko’s taking up his sword again was probably the best part of this episode, and I feel like all sorts of awesome will come out of it. With so many people leaving the Kairoshu though, it makes me wonder if all they will have left is plumbers to do their dirty work. Jokes aside, I do feel like they’re finally getting somewhere after running in circles for the last few episodes. Hopefully we’ll start moving more towards the finale next week.

Yoite, the ninja turtle!

Summary:

With Yoite, Miharu, and Yae captured, Hattori questions Ichiki of the Banten’s movement. Though Kumohira’s whereabouts are still unknown, they have learned that the other members have approached the Fuuma. At the Fuuma village, Kotaro teaches Kouichi and Raimei what has happened to Miharu and Yoite. In exchange, Raimei reveals Miharu’s plan to save Yoite with the Shinrabanshou. Kotaro expresses his wish to help the Banten, but further states that making a move on his part would start a war. Not wanting to cause him any more trouble, Kouichi and Raimei leave on their own. When a captured Yae sees Hattori approach her, she is shocked to learn that he is the leader of the Kairoshu. Although she is obviously unwilling to help due to what the Kairoshu have done to her village, Hattori reminds Yae of her desperate actions from the past. Attempting to receive her cooperation, he states that the Shinrabanshou is the only thing that can save humanity.

Although unwilling to directly go up against the Kairoshu, Kotaro implies to Saraba and Kato can make their own movements against the village. Gau meanwhile plans to save Yoite, using a drugged drink to make his way past Yoite’s guard. Yoite is still weak from being drugged himself, however, and Gau is unable to defend himself from newly arrived Kairoshu. To Gau’s surprise, Raiko appears to save him from this. Though Gau attempts to help Yoite get away, he begins to move on his own with his wish to save Miharu. When Gau attempts to get help from Raiko, Yoite only leaves with his thanks. Yukimi approaches Ichiki about Yoite’s condition, but she only replies by stating that their area is more of a battlefield than a hospital.

Yae is given the opportunity to read Hattori’s heart, but he is more than willing to share his story with her. In the past, Hattori was a photographer in the war. After seeing a large amount of bloodshed due to human’s hateful desires, he finally decided to take action. After taking out several of the soldiers close to him during a slaughter, he saved the nurse Ichiki who had then become blind from the chaos. Yae contradicts Hattori’s current beliefs, stating that his ideals would not bring people happiness, but she is made unconscious before she can say any more. The Banten and Fuuma begin to make their move towards the hotel Miharu is trapped in, but unknown to them, Miharu is already able to escape with the help of Yoite, Gau, and Raiko. Miharu and Yoite are given a path to escape afterwards, while Gau and Raiko stay behind to fight.

Preview: More sick bondage games.

Impression:

I think we all know where this show got its influences from now. This episode, on the other hand, might have been inspired by a child porn video. All I have to say is, the two short scenes Miharu had were just disturbing. Watching Yoite being freed honestly wasn’t that exciting either, and I just roll my eyes while watching all these kids escape from throw away ninjas so easily. It feels like the second half of this series has just started going in circles while Miharu tries to save Yoite. This could be great and all, but there is a difference between having good development and just camping around. Yoite adding another boy to his harem doesn’t even count as getting anywhere. Hattori and Ichiki’s backstory seemed kind of forced too, and I really didn’t feel like it added the impact it was suppose to. I suppose it does serve its purpose in trying to make us feel as if the Kairoshu aren’t completely heartless bad guys though. Next week looks to be more of the same, and after learning of the differences between the manga and the anime from some people, I think I’m going to start feeling even more disappointed towards the task force of “plumbers” that are showing up again.

Oh god the Shinrabanshou is hot. *fap* *fap* *fap*

Summary:

When Miharu and Yoite arrive at the Fog Blue, they find that Yae is no longer there. However, with his usual charm, Miharu is able to learn her current location. Raimei meanwhile receives a call from Raiko, who asks if Miharu is with them. When Kouichi guesses that this call meant that Miharu is no longer with the Kairoshu, he reminds Raimei that Raiko’s position as a Wakachi may force him to hunt him. With this, the two attempt to find Miharu before the Kairoshu do. Kumohira visits the location where he originally separated from Miharu several years ago, as several visions from the past come back to his mind.

After quite a bit of traveling, Miharu and Yoite finally meet Yae. Her current location was the previous Togakushi village, but now only a shrine of her child Alisa remains. After explaining that he is taking actions on his own, not as a Banten or Kairoshu, Miharu gets to the point by asking Yae to use the Izura Shingan. Yae is very hesitant on using this, as she had already separated herself from the ability and the World of Nabari, but she is convinced when she sees Miharu’s determined eyes. These were the same eyes she had in the days she attempted to save Alisa.

While wondering about Yoite and Miharu’s actions, Gau overhears the Wakachi task force’s conversation about the two traitors. He quickly learns that they are after Yoite, but when he attempts to convince Hattori to decide otherwise, he is simply told that Yoite’s role has already ended. Gau is further shocked when even Raiko is unable to refuse Hattori’s orders. Several Fog Blue members gather in their main office, believing to have received a mail from their chairman. They find that she hasn’t arrived yet, however, and the room quickly explodes due to the Wakachi’s plans.

When Yae meets Miharu in his mind for the second time, it doesn’t take long before the Shinrabanshou appears again. Yae attempts to help Miharu realize what he truly wants to do, but the Shinrabanshou explains that she will not simply grant his wishes because it is boring. The Shiinrabanshou reminds Miharu that he is still not ready to use his power, as he and Yae are overwhelmed and brought back to consciousness. The Wakachi soon break into the room, capturing the three inside and showing Yae what they have done to the rest of the Togakushi. Miharu prevents them from killing Yoite, claiming that he would die as well if they did so, and this is reported to Hattori back at the Kairoshu village.

Preview: Bondage play.

Impression:

So who else thinks Miharu drinks too much Red Bull? I know he wants wings and all, but energy drinks are really bad for his health. They contain far more than anyone would ever need in a day to operate, and if he really wants energy, he should go exercise regularly instead. I mean, Kumohira is on the right track. He’s totally been disappearing into a secluded forest to start training and gain power levels. But yea, it is pretty interesting that they have finally started revealing a bit more about Kumohira’s connection to Miharu and his past. This is just adding to the several obvious pieces of foreshadowing they’ve been throwing at us since episode one though. It also seems like it’s been awhile since anything besides Miharu and Yoite’s little adventure has been taking place.

It was really nice to see Yae again too, and she was really cute sitting on all fours in front of Miharu. Too bad he doesn’t want it, especially with Yoite putting on a worrying wife’s face while waiting for him. I think we all know who wears the pants in that relationship. Besides, it’s all about the Shinrabanshou in this episode. Who says Yukari Tamura can only play Nanoha loli roles? The end of the episode was kind of disappointing, but I guess I should have known they were going to hold off the Shinrabanshou fanservice for even longer. I still don’t think I can take the new Wakachi task force very seriously. They like blowing up people and putting others in weird bondage. That’s just gross.

Shouta and male tsundere.

Summary:

Miharu and Yoite return to the hospital, and they are soon alerted about Gau’s awakened state. In his room, Gau explains that he had attempted to follow his mother in the afterlife. However, he could not reach her because his life was so tainted with blood. Gau had heard a voice in the darkness, and with the help of Yoite’s pull, he was able to come back to consciousness. When Gau suggests that he would like to continue to be by Raiko’s side, Raiko is surprised yet relieved. Yoite, on the other hand, simply explains the kira’s other possibilities to Miharu before leaving the room. When this group arrives at Yukimi’s home later, Gau enthusiastically gets things done in hopes of making up for his lost time. He also expresses his excitement towards Miharu’s joining the Kairoshu. While looking through Kumohira’s records, Yukimi is surprised to find that Miharu has no idea where Kumohira could be. Gau presents Yoite with a gift of cake in the meantime, thanking him for saving him.

After discussing Yoite’s situation with Yukimi that night, Amatatsu brings up his recent change of behavior to him. The two easily suspect that Miharu plans on using the Shinrabanshou for Yoite’s sake, making Yukimi wonder what he can do without such a power. Amatatsu simply begs Yukimi not to think about leaving the Kairoshu in response, as this was the place they found for each other after so long. While walking with Raiko, Gau describes the feelings he could sense when Yoite saved him. He expresses his wish that Raiko would save Yoite, though Raiko is not sure how he could. When Yukimi returns to the apartment, he finds that Yoite has a fever. He provides him with some hot lemonade, and he expresses a bit of shock when he sees how much Yoite has changed. Looking back through Yoite’s records, Yukimi recalls that there is actually very little information on him. Hattori had brought Yoite to Yukimi when he was a young boy, but all of the time he was with him, Yoite would say nothing to Yukimi. Yoite did appreciate the food that Amatatsu made for him, and Yukimi eventually gave Yoite his current name.

In the morning Yukimi finds that Miharu and Yoite have already left. Yoite and Miharu shock Amatatsu in her office by threatening her and demanding for the alternate way of obtaining the Shinrabanshou’s power. Miharu had suspected her of hiding this from him when they last spoke. Amatatsu is forced to give in, providing Miharu with a book and making him remember the Izura Shingan. With the ability to read into one’s heart, the possibility of contacting the Shinrabanshou was possible. However, the research for this was not complete. With this information, the two boys travel to find Yae once again. Elsewhere, a team of Kairoshu meet with Ichiki for a new mission.

Preview: Stuff happens.

Impression:

It would be totally moe…..if I was a girl. So, at this point, I can really only see the plot as being really campy. Sure, you could say there was a lot of development between Gau and Yoite among others, but it really feels like it’s been awhile since we’ve actually gotten anywhere. Still, I can’t say I really disliked this episode either. I don’t think Gau’s earlier description of being saved by Yoite was presented as well as it could have, but I did think it served its purpose in showing Yoite’s true intentions. It was pretty funny with Yoite just up and took Miharu’s cake too. Yukimi’s actual attachment to Yoite was made apparent as well, and it really wasn’t unexpected that he was the one to give him his current name.

Although a somewhat minor part of this episode, I loved learning just a bit more about Yukimi and Amatatsu’s sibling relationship. It seems like they didn’t join the Kairoshu with any ill intention at all, even though this is how it seems with several of the members we’ve seen so far. The later parts of the episode seemed to suggest that Yoite is starting to lose some of his other senses as well, just continuing to advance the timer on his time limit. It should be fun to see Yae in the next episode, especially with some suggestion of action. I’m not sure what to think of the Kairoshu’s newly revealed task force though. They seem kind of cheesy despite the type of work they do.

Sad Yoite in the snow. Uguu~

Summary:

As Kumohira has seemed to disappear, Raimei and Kouichi are only left alone at the Banten village to wonder about his actions. Yoite and Miharu search the city for any clue of Kumohira’s location, and Yoite is frustrated when Miharu does not have any idea of where he could be. Miharu attempts to help Yoite when he seems to weaken, and worries when he does not seem to have many options left. Yukimi expresses his apology for being unable to keep track of the now missing Kumohira to Hattori, but Hattori seems more worried about the status of Yoite who is now at the hospital. While Yoite is treated by Amatatsu, Miharu wonders if there are any other options to quickly gain access to the Shinranbanshou. Despite his attempt to suggest otherwise, Amatatsu easily sees that Miharu is trying hard for Yoite’s sake. Yoite wakes from a frightening nightmare of the past, and when he gets up to search for Miharu, he only passes to hear Amatatsu’s worry that there is no time left for him.

Yoite soon runs into Raiko, who has been watching over Gau. Raiko expresses his surprise that Yoite is not with Miharu, as it has started to seem like they are always together. Raiko also believes that he is jealous of Yoite’s relationship with Miharu, since it was brought together in a much different way than his and Gau’s. Annoyed with Raiko’s way of thinking, Yoite wonders why he will not simply uses means such as the Dia to wake Gau. When Raiko denies to do this, Yoite tells him to then give up. The two quickly become angered with each other, and Yoite eventually pushes Raiko back while entering Gau’s room. With a single blow from his kira into Gau, Yoite then leaves the hospital to the snowy city outside. When Miharu sees that Yoite is missing, and hearing about the events that just occurred from Amatatsu, he quickly guesses that Yoite must have heard their conversation from earlier. With this, he leaves the hospital in search for him.

When Raiko wakes, he quickly searches for Gau in his room. To his shock, Gau has wakened from the effects of Yoite’s kira. Calling out to the Shinrabanshou, Miharu desperately looks for ways to find Yoite in the city. After finding traces of blood on the ground, he quickly follows the trail to Yoite on top of a bridge. His words do not seem to reach Yoite, however, as he shouts in panic about not having a name for the several years he had been alive. Yoite expresses his belief that no one is looking at him for what he really is, then letting the name “Sora” slip from his mouth. Putting his arms around Yoite, Miharu simply assures him that he is there for him. He expresses that they are both there, finally making Yoite regain his consciousness. Yoite again states that he does not want to die, and would rather disappear, but Miharu still wishes to save him in another way.

Preview: Sad Yoite in a blanket.

Impression:

You know, it really is a nice jacket. It could have easily been designed by one of the fashion designers in the city the boys were frolicking around in this episode. I mean, not that I’m implying anything about the fashion designers in their area. I’m sure they’re great, you know?

Uh…..but yea, when did this show become a hospital drama?? The whole time I was watching this episode, Hantsuki’s OP kept playing through my head (love that OP…I really do.). It was pretty hilarious when Yoite showed Miharu that he didn’t have any pills left in the beginning, since the animators seem to conveniently use them when they need some dramatic focus. And with Yoite firing kira at everyone at the end, I almost though he had his sights on that little girl. Gau’s awakening towards the end was very predictable, even if it introduced some new possibility with the kira’s potential. With the only couples being shown in this show are Raiko x Gau and Miharu x Yoite though, I’m really starting to get worried. It was pretty cute for Yoite to leave a trail of blood for Miharu to follow towards the end too. Bread crumbs must just not cut it these days.

On a slightly more serious note, I think I finally figured out Yoite’s reasoning for wanting to disappear rather than die. After this episode, I guess it would be pretty obvious that he simply doesn’t wish to live a life that his parents(?) wished would have ended shortly after his birth. By using the Shinrabanshou to erase his existence from ever having started, he wouldn’t have to suffer from such memories. I think that’s kind of like running in circles though, since the end result is the same except for Yoite’s desperate reasoning. I’m certain that Miharu will make Yoite change his thoughts by the end though. With all these time limits they seem to be placing, I’m sure it would have to happen soon.

Yukimi is not a lolicon, apparently.

Summary:

When Yoite and Miharu realize that Yukimi has stopped at Kumohira’s household to retrieve the Banten’s scroll, they quickly take the chance to escape. Yukimi is meanwhile confused at the fact that Hanabusa really doesn’t know anything of the scroll, and when she goes in to the house to treat him, he takes the chance to disappear as well. In other places that night, Shiratama begins to move. In the morning, Raimei meets Kouichi to tell him that Miharu may be in town. When she also reveals that she was to retrieve the scroll for Miharu, Raimei is surprised that Kouichi had already expected this. Miharu had come to the village while expressing his worry that many other people would become involved because of his wish to save Yoite, but Raimei still wanted to help him. Miharu’s wish for her to cut him down as a member of the Shimizu clan, however, wasn’t one she believed she could keep. Raimei believes her actions may be silly, but Kouichi assures her that they are not. With his hopes for her to continue doing what she has, Raimei thanks Kouichi.

Kouichi and Raimei are soon forced to run, realizing that Yukimi is after them. When he catches the two, he questions them of the location of Kumohira or the scroll. Raimei accidentally reveals that only Kumohira knows the scroll’s location, but she further confuses Kouichi by agreeing to take Yukimi to his location. Shiratama leads Kouichi to Yoite and Miharu’s secret train car, and when the two see him, they are shocked that he knew the location. Yoite soon expresses the need to search for Yukimi, leaving to do this alone. Miharu, on the other hand, believes they must find Kumohira as well. Raimei leads Yukimi to the school, believing to have deceived him, then engaging combat with him. Unknown to the two, Kumohira is actually there.

Yukimi gains the upper hand against Raimei, but Kumohira’s appearance quickly separates them. When Kumohira refuses to clearly tell Yukimi where the Banten scroll is, he is taken down as well. The two are surprised when Yoite appears to stop Yukimi, however, as he attempts to have Yukimi leave. Yukimi subdues Yoite, but when Yoite continues to resist, Yukimi is shocked at the determination in his eyes. Watching all of this, Kumohira begins to question the actions Yoite and Miharu are taking. When Miharu shows up with Kouichi, he asks for Kumohira to give him the hidden scroll. Seeing that Kumohira denies this, he refuses to speak with him. When everyone reaches the school rooftop to find Yukimi and Yoite, Yukimi is forced to run.

Hanabusa cares for Yoite later, but this brings back frightening images to him. When he wakes, he finds Miharu by his side. Bringing up Yoite’s not wanting to die, Miharu questions then why he wishes to disappear. Yoite believes it would be better if he did not know anything, but Miharu expresses that Yoite is similar to him in several ways. Yoite finally states his belief that it would be better if the “troublesome shinigami” did not exist, but Miharu again contradicts this by believing that Yoite is his other self. Going over his troubled thoughts that night, Kumohira decides that there is only one thing he can do. The next morning, he is no where to be found. Hattori and Ichiki also begin to take action elsewhere, and Yoite and Miharu set off once again in the morning.

Preview: Yoite is still emo.

Impression:

I knew something was up when Raimei started stalking Kouichi at the beginning of this episode! I love Raimei as much as everyone else does, but we can’t have Hino Satoshi cheating on Kugimiya Rei now. Wait…wouldn’t that make that yaoi in this show…? Crap… So, this episode just continued developing the arc that started last week. I found it very strange that Yukimi was pretty much able to own everyone that went up against him. I mean, the only reason Yoite was able to stand a chance was probably his fear of emo kids. Speaking of emo kids, I laughed really hard at Yoite’s falling into the hole of despair. I was seriously waiting for that the whole time. To top it off, Yoite even facepalmed afterwards. A cat is fine too, and I’m getting impatient waiting to see what Shiratama’s true role is. I also wonder where the banten scroll is. No seriously. I really do. Wait…did that just sparkle? No….no, let’s get another shot on that earring. Now.