**SPOILERS** Latest Manga (on-topic, please..)

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I don't know about the rest of you, but reading those last few chapters (yes, I just caught up with the past five chapters or so) gave me a feeling that Kagome is about to get a badly-needed, much-deserved power upgrade. This feeling doesn't come solely from the fact that I want Kagome to get a power upgrade (although I do). It's a gut feeling that comes from the experience of being an anime/manga fan who watches/reads a lot of shounen. :P

While it would be nice to see Kagome be bold and actually kill someone for a change, at the same time, I can understand her hesitation. Right now, she has an advantage against Naraku in that she is pure and without stain. If she were to kill Hitomiko, she would be with regret, which would make her more vulnerable to Naraku's webs. Which is exactly what Naraku wants, of course. So, in that situation, can you really blame her for not wanting to shoot Hitomiko?

I'm actually kind of looking forward to the next chapter. I sense interesting things in store.

[amoensia]

Chapter 511

Now, we finally see some justification on why Kagome really really really can't do anything but to fire some random arrows.

Somebody or something is sealing Kagome's spiritual power. I don't believe that it was Kikyou.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I do see one way in which the one sealing Kagome's spiritual power could be Kikyou: if, before she died, Kikyou placed a spell on her soul such that, should her soul be reincarnated, its spiritual powers would be sealed.

However, there is a large part of me that thinks that is probably unlikely. I mean, it's possible that Kikyou sealed Kagome's spiritual powers somehow, but there's just as good of a chance that there is another reason her powers have been sealed. But this does explain why Kagome seems to be second to Shippou when it comes to uselessness in battle.

[Ice Chick]

You know, I honestly don't know what to think of this new revelation. It could be possible her powers were sealed because she comes from the future. Where she's from she doesn't need all of her spiritual power. It's difficult to decipher indeed what she means by Kikyo being the one who sealed her powers. Guess we'll find out next week.

[kissthecajun]

How about Kagome's feelings for Inuyasha are the ones sealing her powers?

[Brill]

Well the only things that it could be are the Shikon No Tama or Kikyo. Those are the only two things linked to the future.

*Sigh* And here I thought Kagome had a chance to improve her spirtual powers on her own like Inuyasha but that's not the case. She's gonna get the 1000% upgrade by breaking a mythincal seal through no effort on her own. Makes me wonder if Kagome has any spiritual power at all and it's all just Kikyo from different time periods.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*Sigh* And here I thought Kagome had a chance to improve her spirtual powers on her own like Inuyasha but that's not the case. She's gonna get the 1000% upgrade by breaking a mythincal seal through no effort on her own. Makes me wonder if Kagome has any spiritual power at all and it's all just Kikyo from different time periods.

In a way, Kagome is another Kikyou, but it's for that very reason that she has spiritual power. Kagome's soul is Kikyou's soul reincarnated - in other words, Kagome's soul is Kikyou's soul. The two of them are very different people, but they share a soul; and it's that soul that possesses the spiritual powers.

(I hope that what I just said made sense...)

I believe that Kagome will improve her spiritual powers. But it seems that first she has to unseal them. She can't improve something if it's all sealed away.

[Aya Nakamura]

Yep as i suspected kagome once again used some power she didnt really know how to use to get out of a jam. I was hoping for a kagome upgrade. But theres a new revelation that kagome isnt just completely useless that her powers have been sealed. I'm just hoping they dont try to make it somehow that kikyo sealed her powers cause that seems a little iffy. It makes more sense that since shes from the future where spiritual powers arent needed or really practiced like in the past that her powers are cut off because of that fact

[LinaLoN]

Well, could the person who sealed Kagome's power be the Most Powerful Miko before Kikyo (oh, what's her name) where the Shikon No Tama came from? Perhaps Madori was it... perhaps Madori sealed within the Shikon No Tama; sealed Kagome's powers because she didn't want what happened to her or Kikyo to happen to Kagome? She thought Kagome should grow into power through battle and hard times so she could be able to make clearer decisions when she was up against a wall. If Kikyo has been helping Kagome with the spiritual power through the bow how could she also be the same person sealing her power?

Or maybe it wasn't a Miko at all. I always wandered who Kagome's father was and what happened to him. Maybe it was decided to seal her true powers the day she was born.

I wouldn't like it if Kagome's powers were sealed because of her feelings for Inu Yasha. First she had this problem from the very begining so it wasn't something that developed over time. As a matter of fact in the first few episodes she used the power of the Shikon No Tama within herself to deflect evil otherwise she would've been killed by the centapeide woman. Second, it would mean Kagome and Inu would have to separate for Kagome to gain her ful potential of power. No one would want to see that.

Hmm, I'm dying to know.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Or maybe it wasn't a Miko at all. I always wandered who Kagome's father was and what happened to him. Maybe it was decided to seal her true powers the day she was born.

The mystery of Kagome's father is explained in an InuYasha novel (which was released only in Japan). Kagome's father died in an accident, after which Kagome, Souta, and their mother moved to Grandpa Higurashi's shrine.

[kissthecajun]

Well in that case, couldn't it be her grandfather who sealed her powers? I mean he does run the shrine, he did have all those oger feet and 'odd' gifts for his granddaughter around as well as telling her all the tales and stories, even the shikon no tama one, so why couldn't he have sealed her powers when she was born? He did after all except her time travel thing pretty easily...

[Ketaru]

The grandfather has existed for nothing but comedy since the start of the series, I would find it very ill thought if suddenly he was the one who sealed it.

I'm sure Kikyo never counted on being brought back to life the way that she was. If she counted on being reborn at all as Kagome, perhaps she might've somehow sealed it as some sort of attempt from her reincarnated life having to relive the constant fighting she did as a shrine maiden (though, of course, there would've been little need for it anyway in Kagome's time).

I'm not so sure I buy the whole "seal" thing though, since Kagome has actually used her power several times in the whole series (and she hasn't always needed a bow and arrow to do it). It surprises me she can use it at all since she isn't playing by the rules that Kikyo had to follow to upkeep her own spiritual power (remember it was because Kikyo fell in love with InuYasha that she was not as powerful a priestess as she was before then, while Kagome only seems to be getting better as the series progresses despite the fact she very unpriestesslike).

[kissthecajun]

Read the latest chapter.
It was to my mind pointless.

[Brill]

It gives a glimmer on how it's going to end. Not pointless at all.

[Ketaru]

Yeah, not a pointless chapter at all. In fact, it addressed some of the problems I had in my last reply.

[luna-kaze]

I'm not so sure I buy the whole "seal" thing though, since Kagome has actually used her power several times in the whole series (and she hasn't always needed a bow and arrow to do it). It surprises me she can use it at all since she isn't playing by the rules that Kikyo had to follow to upkeep her own spiritual power (remember it was because Kikyo fell in love with InuYasha that she was not as powerful a priestess as she was before then, while Kagome only seems to be getting better as the series progresses despite the fact she very unpriestesslike).

That's because Kagome's power is based on love. In other words, Kikyou's weakness is Kagome's greatest strength.
It's really nice to see such old parts of the plot brought up again. I'm interested to see where this goes.

[Ketaru]

That's because Kagome's power is based on love. In other words, Kikyou's weakness is Kagome's greatest strength.

That only sounds pretty. There's no evidence for it whatsoever. The series so far has been operating under the assumption that the religious background of the show is true. For example, Kikyo because less like a priestess (and thus had less power as one) because she began to consider living her life with a man. Other than living at a shrine, Kagome seems to have no such background whatsoever (and, in fact as evident from the beginning of the series at least, had a very secular view of her grandfather's beliefs).

If you're right, you suggest that the series is going to say that some of the religious background is wrong.

[kissthecajun]

I'm sorry, I really didn't get it, but how was this chapter important? By giving us a hint how it would end? I was half asleep when I read the chapter, but I remember it being all about the choice of wish made... that isn't anything new... I did like that the grandfather showed the Shikon-no-Tama trinket again after so long....

Could this mean the manga is close to an end?

[luna-kaze]

That only sounds pretty. There's no evidence for it whatsoever. The series so far has been operating under the assumption that the religious background of the show is true. For example, Kikyo because less like a priestess (and thus had less power as one) because she began to consider living her life with a man. Other than living at a shrine, Kagome seems to have no such background whatsoever (and, in fact as evident from the beginning of the series at least, had a very secular view of her grandfather's beliefs).

If you're right, you suggest that the series is going to say that some of the religious background is wrong.

You can see the evidence as the story goes on. It's just one of those things that you realize while you're reading/watching. And it's a part of the symbolism that Kikyou and Kagome are two different people, similar to the life and death thing. As has been shown, the love for those around her is what really brings out Kagome's strength (specifically when someone is in danger). Obviously her love for Inuyasha hasn't had any negative effects either. That's because she's a life miko whereas Kikyou is a purity miko. Love damaged her powers as a result. RT has also said that Kagome is more powerful, so this could have something to do with it.

[Ketaru]

Kagome isn't a miko at all. That's the problem I have. In fact, she was able to (albeit accidently) use her power even when her ideas were decidedly secular.

[meowchi]

I'm sorry, I really didn't get it, but how was this chapter important? By giving us a hint how it would end? I was half asleep when I read the chapter, but I remember it being all about the choice of wish made... that isn't anything new... I did like that the grandfather showed the Shikon-no-Tama trinket again after so long....

Could this mean the manga is close to an end?
Now wouldn't that really be nice, if it was a hint to the end. But I am still convinced that this manga is never going to end. Not that I don't love it as much as the next person, but part of the love of a series is seeing an end in sight. Which I have not had in a very long time. It just seems like each chapter is a re-do of another one. Sorry for the rant. :)

[kissthecajun]

I actually really enjoyed this latest chapter. I suppose though that this means the end of Kohaku... :(

[Brill]

This arc has some interesting possibilities in it. To think you can turn off Kagome's power like a light switch. Interesting, now if Inuyasha could figure out how it's done... :naughty:

*sigh* and I had just broken the 2000 post mark too.

[Aya Nakamura]

I actually really enjoyed this latest chapter. I suppose though that this means the end of Kohaku... :(
Just when you think that Kohaku is gonna finally die he always somehow get saved ^_^

[kissthecajun]

Give him a chance. He just might die yet!

[Ketaru]

New villain, Magatsuhi...

Maybe it borrowed a bit of Naraku, but it's really the will of the darker side of the Shikon jewel?

[kissthecajun]

New villain, Magatsuhi...

Maybe it borrowed a bit of Naraku, but it's really the will of the darker side of the Shikon jewel?

So it seems... Or maybe it is just one of the demons who was trapped inside the Shikon-no-tama and lacks a body because of that and so Naraku made a detachment for him... In any case, it was a nice twist.

Frankly, my happiest point with this chapter was seeing Sesshomaru go giant-puppy again, it's been how many chapters since that last happened?

And of course, leaving Jaken behind to deal. The scene was amusing ^_^

[Brill]

So Sesshoumaru is either fully whole again or Naraku's new boy-toy. Both have interesting aspects to them. But the best thing., nothing about Kagome for 2 Chapters. I find it interesting that Inuyasha is more concerned about his big brother than Kagome.

[Brill]

So it was the sword that cut Sesshy's arm off and not Inuyasha. It's sounds obvious but the intent is clear. I can now see the climax clearly, All you need is Sesshy and it's all oover. No need for Miroku, Sango, Kagome and possibly Inuyasha now.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Gah, I was so behind (by a whole seven chapters); I really need to do better... But those last three or four chapters really had me on the edge of my seat. And best of all, at last I feel like I can sense the end approaching. It's approaching slowly (very slowly), but it's still approaching.

In other words, I think almost all of the pieces of the puzzle that needed to be solved in roder to defeat Naraku are almost in place, finally. The only piece wer'e missing now is the business of Kagome's sealed powers, and that piece is almost complete.

As for Inuyasha seeming more concerned about his brother than about Kagome... I think the whole point of that was to show just how far the brothers have come in their relationship since the beginning. Inuyasha was fighting for his brother's sake as much as he was fighting to defeat Magatsuhi. He was trying to protect his brother, and given how much they used to hate each other, that says a lot.

Besides, there was nothing Inuyasha could do for Kagome at that point. They'd already figured out why she had fainted. I don't think she was going to wake up as long as Mugatsuhi was there. And she was probably as safe as she could be where she was.

Well, this last chapter should definitely give Sesshy fans something to cheer about: Their favourite inu youkai not only gained a new sword, but he also gained a new left arm. (No doubt having two arms again is going to come in handy.) So now Inuyasha has a super-powered sword and Sesshoumaru has a super-powered sword. Tessaiga and Bakusaiga. Together, that could cause Naraku some damage. Combined with Kagome's no doubt deathly miko powers (once she unseals them), they should be more than enough to send Naraku to the underworld in pieces.

At this rate, I may actually end up looking forward to the Final Confrontation. :D

[Brill]

I think they should have called it Bakasaiga. More appropriate. But the big thing is that Sesshoumaru lost his sword-complexx. Now he can mozy the countryside in peace now.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I think they should have called it Bakasaiga. More appropriate. But the big thing is that Sesshoumaru lost his sword-complexx. Now he can mozy the countryside in peace now.
I think another term for it would be "growing up." Sesshoumaru used to hold a grudge against his father for leaving him with the "wussy" sword, but now he has finally gotten over that. So he is growing up, which is probably what his father wanted.

At first glance, it may seem unfair that Inuyasha got their father's heirloom (and the awesome attacks that came with it) and Sesshoumaru got nothing, but maybe the inu no taishou WANTED his oldest son to surpass him. Maybe he wanted Sesshoumaru to grow up and become a better daiyoukai than he was.

I think that's something that having a sword (one that can actually kill things, that is) would come in handy for, don't you?

[Ketaru]

I just thought I'd say that one thing that actually is sort of disappointing me is how it seems likely that, more and more, Sesshomaru is going to play a major part in the final battle against Naraku.

He had his reasons, but they really seem rather..."ordinary" compared to other characters who had more, shall we say, dramatic or dire reasons to really hate him and want him dead. Kikyo wanted to kill Naraku because of what he did to her in the past (maybe it might've gradually changed to doing it simply because it's for the greater good, as InuYasha's group is). Kagura wanted to kill Naraku because of her desperate situation. Koga wanted to kill Naraku because he killed all of his allies. None of them (at least, Koga not likely) will ever play a very real part of the final battle against him.

Sesshomaru wanted to kill Naraku because he felt used and, for the most part, it seemed like he just wanted to show Naraku who is boss (although, today, it might be more for Kagura's dignity). But really, his reasons for hating Naraku seem so minor compared to the rest of the cast, yet he's one of the more prominent characters lately.

[Brill]

Wow, Kagome finally realizes that she's useless. It's about time. :) Looks like we have a 3-faction fight again but for some reason I don't mind it this time.

[rascalking]

Hey guys. So, what do ya think? Judging from whats happening in the manga right now, does it seem like the end is in sight? I avoid reading it in hopes I won't be spoiled when the anime returns ^_^

[SonRyu]

Hey guys. So, what do ya think? Judging from whats happening in the manga right now, does it seem like the end is in sight? I avoid reading it in hopes I won't be spoiled when the anime returns ^_^Not at all, it'll probably take at least two side story arcs, another manga "filler" arc, one new offspring of Naraku and another Tetsusaiga powerup before Kagome gets her powers back, much less the end of the series :lol:

[Aya Nakamura]

The Manga is never gonna end it will just keep going and going

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Hey guys. So, what do ya think? Judging from whats happening in the manga right now, does it seem like the end is in sight? I avoid reading it in hopes I won't be spoiled when the anime returns ^_^

I say read the manga anyway. If someone ever picks up the anime again, by the time it gets to where the manga is now, you'll have forgotten all the details of what happens (you'll only remember the big stuff), so it'd still be fun to watch.

[Brill]

There's plenty of material but no one is going to animate the ending of this series.

[Brill]

This was an enjoyable divergence from the standard storylines. Inuyasha as cosplaying was pretty funny. However, since Kagome's powers are sealed the overused and abused "sit" jokes shouldn't have worked. That and the fact that it takes Inuyasha saving Kagome's entrance exam seat for her to show Inuyasha any affection. Rather sad.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

However, since Kagome's powers are sealed the overused and abused "sit" jokes shouldn't have worked.
The "osuwari" command has nothing to do with Kagome's powers. The command works because of the spell on the rosary around Inuyasha's neck - a spell which was set up by Kaede, might I remind you. Kaede set the spell that it would work, and only work, when Kagome said the word. Just because Kagome has her powers sealed doesn't mean she still can't use "osuwari."

That and the fact that it takes Inuyasha saving Kagome's entrance exam seat for her to show Inuyasha any affection. Rather sad.

Oh, c'mon, occhan! He found her bag, she gave him a thank-you hug. A totally appropriate time to show him affection. What is so sad about that? (You have to remember, the Japanese aren't as open about public displays of affection as we Westerners are.)

[Brill]

The "osuwari" command has nothing to do with Kagome's powers. The command works because of the spell on the rosary around Inuyasha's neck - a spell which was set up by Kaede, might I remind you. Kaede set the spell that it would work, and only work, when Kagome said the word. Just because Kagome has her powers sealed doesn't mean she still can't use "osuwari."

Yes combined iwth the fact that she has spiritual powers, both are needed for it to work. It doesn't work for just anybody as clearly demonstrated by Sango.

Oh, c'mon, occhan! He found her bag, she gave him a thank-you hug. A totally appropriate time to show him affection. What is so sad about that? (You have to remember, the Japanese aren't as open about public displays of affection as we Westerners are.)

Sure they aren't. But as you have pointed out so many times Kagome doesn't behave as your typical Japanese schoolgirl, even though it is a simple thank-you hug.

[Ketaru]

It's kind of funny seeing somebody like Jaken hanging around Kaede's village like it's just the thing to do. I'm a little disappointed by Sesshomaru, though. I'd expect somebody like him to actually be a little more aware that the Magatsuhi he's fighting is just an illusion...anyway, I can definitely see Kohaku's final moments coming soon.

[Brill]

Yeah I think it's over for Kohaku, but will it be for Miroku?

[Ice Chick]

I don't think it's over for Miroku at all. Now Kohaku...he could be a goner and I think he's going to have to put his own self out of his misery rather than have Sango be forced to kill him.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I think the end is near - very near - for our dear Kohaku. In fact, I'll be surprised if he survives more than five or six chapters after this, granted Takahashi doesn't spend the next five chapters focusing solely on Sesshoumaru's battle with the illusion Magatsuhi (which isn't very likely, given that it shouldn't take Sesshoumaru too long to realize he's fighting a fake).

Well, it has been awhile since Takahashi has killed someone off, I guess...

[kissthecajun]

I feel that Kohaku is a goner....
Probably Miroku too... I didn't like the tone of the last chapter...
Now I just wonder about Sango, if those two are killed off, will Takahashi kill her off too?

[Brill]

Nah, Sango will survive, if anyone from the feudal era survives it will probably be her. I'm just wondering what happened to Kaede during the last attack. IT was her house that got destroyed. So it looks like the shikon no tama will be assembled-which we all knew would happen- but this confirms the demise of Kohaku. Will Sango leave after he dies though. Only if Inuyasha hadn't gone running after Kagome would Kohaku still be safe-maybe.

[Ketaru]

Rumiko Takahashi could always pull a fast one on us and take us slightly off course. Miroku's widened Kazaana could always mean another visit to Mushin or what's-his-name.

[Brill]

And winner of the first kiss goes to Sango! Kagome better get it in gear soon.

[Ice Chick]

Of course it was gonna be Sango, she's fly.:naughty:

[Ketaru]

There is no part of this chapter I didn't like. But even more than Sango finally kissing Miroku, Byakuya's reaction to Sesshomaru's dealing with the low level youkai wins. Interesting the comic relief in all this drama and direness going on comes from the villain who is filling a spot that has traditionally been reserved for the freedom-desiring-spiteful-main-villain's-underling.

"Owned/Instant Annihilation/Overkill."

[Ice Chick]

I'll admit that part when Sess asked if Bya thought those "small fry" could deal with him and Bya saying "that's why I summoned a couple thousand", then Sess slaying those couple thousand of demons and Bya responding by saying "owned", was indeed very hilarious. I saw his face in the raw but when I read the translation that just made it that much more funny.

Oh man I wish Miroku were awake to feel her kiss though. A kiss is still a kiss nonetheless.

[kissthecajun]

Besides the owned, that ruled.
And the kiss, which is so mean that miroku wasn't awake for... *sniffs*
Is anyone else worried about Miroku's fate?

[Ketaru]

Kohaku should make like Kikyo and just die now while he has the dignity of free will. Not that I hate either Kohaku or Kikyo of course. I happen to like them a lot. But Kohaku hasn't exactly been a saint, even when he regained free will, and he has as many crimes to pay as say Kagura or Kikyo (who both at least died in dignity).

On the side, I've always wondered why the Shikon shard is still required to preserve his life. Is it like...connecting a severed spinal cord or something? Or if it was just keeping him alive since his body was torn and battered, wouldn't all of those have healed by now?

[rascalking]

wow, this thread has been quiet lately. Anyway, seems like the next few chapters will be a huge turning point in the manga, as this seems to be a MAJOR battle with Naraku. The main question is, will Kohaku survive?

[Ketaru]

My guess is that every chapter lately has been pretty cut and dry. There honestly isn't much to talk about. I suppose we could talk about how Naraku might be getting a whole lot more restless and sloppy lately, since every time he has appeared in the last couple of chapters, something new catches him off guard.

[Ice Chick]

Lol the next chapter should spark some discussion again. I do like where RT's going with this except for a few tidbits.

[Ketaru]

Not that I'm not wondering what will happen to Kohaku now, but I'm kind of glad we may finally find out if he can live without his shard, rather than the story continuing to dance around the issue by having him, at many instances, "almost" lose it.

Um...whether he can live without it or not, he "did" just get pierced right through the jugular though.

[Ice Chick]

And it looked like it took a piece of flesh with it. Damn what a terrible way to go, especially since he didn't even get to finish his thought. Naraku is like totally rude. Damn wonder what Sango's gonna do because I can see her blindly trying to take out Naraku on her own. We know that ain't gonna work. But I think Naraku's going to make his escape since he got what he came for. It's time for karma to really take control.

[LinaLoN]

Aw come on Takahashi and give Kagome her full powers! I hate the fact that the strength and power she has gained throughout the series has reverted back to the old "Kidnapping weak Kagome" bit! I understand this is all meant to show that Naraku is afraid of Kagome's true powers but we don't even know what they are and I don't like where Kagome is right now! She deserved powers just as strong as everyone else's and I don't want to wait until the end to find out. It sucks that Kohaku was taken out the way he was but I guess that pretty much ends his life. Poor Sango not only has she lost her entire village but lost/gained her brother only to have him killed after finally moving on from his own personal demons and at the same time coming pretty close to losing the love of her life. Man, Sango has it worse out of all the characters... she deserves something GOOD to happen in her life!

[Brill]

Yes, but Kagome has ALWAYS been like this from the begining. She's Takahashi's "wild card". Just when things are about to end Kagome pulls something out of her butt to save the day. Then next chapter she's weak as a cat agian. If Kagome were to get stronger Takahashi would have to explain how miko powers work, but she never did. So-she's stuck. Therefore, Kagome can't have a power upgrade since Takahashi never gives us a point of reference.

As for this chapter, I liked it. You knew it was going to happen. At least he was at peace when it happened.

[Ketaru]

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[Ketaru]

I really thought Kohaku would die, and to many ends, he probably deserves to. Much of the series, he was controlled by Naraku largely because he wouldn't face the truth about what happened. But even after he regained his memories, he, however hesitantly, was going to behead Kikyo to upkeep his act, and allowed rat demon hordes to wipe out many villages. Don't confuse this with dislike of Kohaku since I think characters like Sesshomaru, Kikyo, and Koga had it coming to them for the same reasons.

But there is something oddly satisfying in knowing that Kikyo, in the end, chose to save Kohaku's life over her own revenge. This woman is just full of surprises, and I love her character for it.

...On the other hand, Kikyo aside, Kagura died to save Kohaku. It would've been pretty lousy if that was in vain.

[rascalking]

question.....what was it that pierced Kohaku's neck? I couldn't really tell. Part of Naraku's flesh or something?

Judging by chapter 529, I think we have maybe 10-15 chapters left until the end of Inuyasha.

[Brill]

One word......WEAK! Miko's can ressurect the dead, makes you wonder how Kikyo died in the first place. Pfft. Once again, Takahashi is going to have the happy little group surivive with no consequences. This means Rin and Miroku aren't going to die. *Sigh* I was hoping for an ending that would have done the beginning justice. It's looks like that isn't going to happen now. Oh well.

[LinaLoN]

Okay I hate to be the one to say this but.... was anyone else looking forward to Kohaku dying? I mean at least it would've put the whole thing to rest. I had a suspicion from the very beginning that if the shard was removed he would still live but every time it looked like Kohaku was going to die I totally looked the other way. I hate being tricked it ticks me off. It goes to show I guess that even in the end Kikyo was a Miko despite wanting to be normal so desperately.

Now that a whole Shikon no tama is here things are bound to get much more hectic... I wonder if anyone will actually die or if the same game will keep on playing. I'm looking forward to one big fight Sesshy/Inu vs. Naraku/Whatever that other Demon is called and hopefully Kagome somewhere in the mix. I hope it becomes a climatic ending. We've been waiting over 250 episodes for a satisfying final battle and ending I hope our wait as been long worth it.

[Ketaru]

Okay I hate to be the one to say this but.... was anyone else looking forward to Kohaku dying? I mean at least it would've put the whole thing to rest. I had a suspicion from the very beginning that if the shard was removed he would still live but every time it looked like Kohaku was going to die I totally looked the other way. I hate being tricked it ticks me off. It goes to show I guess that even in the end Kikyo was a Miko despite wanting to be normal so desperately.

Now that a whole Shikon no tama is here things are bound to get much more hectic... I wonder if anyone will actually die or if the same game will keep on playing. I'm looking forward to one big fight Sesshy/Inu vs. Naraku/Whatever that other Demon is called and hopefully Kagome somewhere in the mix. I hope it becomes a climatic ending. We've been waiting over 250 episodes for a satisfying final battle and ending I hope our wait as been long worth it.

I did want him to die, in the sense, because I wanted to know if Rumiko Takahashi was afraid of having some cruel, not-so-feel-good going ons in her manga. I thought she might actually be taking the series in a darker direction when she let Kagura die.

It's just that finally revealing Kikyo's intentions to me in the end satisfies me. Especially since it runs contrary to a lot of the anti-Kikyo anecdotal stuff that goes around the fandom...It rather annoys me that some people still despise her despite that she continues to prove time and time ago that she wasn't the hateful woman that she was back in....tankouban 5 was it?

[LinaLoN]

It's just that finally revealing Kikyo's intentions to me in the end satisfies me. Especially since it runs contrary to a lot of the anti-Kikyo anecdotal stuff that goes around the fandom...It rather annoys me that some people still despise her despite that she continues to prove time and time ago that she wasn't the hateful woman that she was back in....tankouban 5 was it?
It's not that I hated Kikyo it's just I never knew where she really stood. Good, Bad, Good, Bad, Good, Bad it was very hard for me to connect with her when she kept on turning the table all the time. I especially dislike how one episode she would be nice to Inu Yasha and Kagome... then the next episode she would be trying to kill them. I like alot of the episodes where Kikyo is healing villagers and trying to help people without Inu or Kagome present. She has a beautiful spirit and isn't petty but that is untill she runs into Inu/Kagome again.

I could never understand why she hated being a Miko and why she kept on pushing Inu Yasha to use the Shikon to become human when all he wanted to do was to be with her. In order for herself to be a normal girl the Shikon jewel had to be gone... I get that. But why was Inu becoming human the only option she saw? She was so willing to use Inu Yasha to get her own freedom. Then when she was attacked by Naraku disguised as Inu she didn't doubt anything until it was too late. If she was such a great and powerful Mika then why didn't she believe Inu when he claimed his innocents? Why wasn't she able to see through Naraku? It was her own pride and selfishness. Maybe if she had just kept on fulfilling her duties as a Mika instead of fighting them then things would've have worked out... at least she wouldn't have died that way with hate in her. I'd say the only good things that came from her first death was Kagome and the Shikon being born with her. I get that when she died the second time she was finally able to die in peace and realized what was more important. Her own selfish desires or the life of a young boy who could die? She finally chose the right thing to do and even though it meant Naraku is still alive; Kohaku now hows the freedom Kikyo wanted. It gives Sango something good in life. It could very well change things in how Naraku will be defeated. At least this is what I believe.

[Brill]

My God, it's the climax. It's been so long I thought it would never come. Graduating by abscence of another student. What a way to go. I thought it was interesting that Naraku wanted nothing after the jewel was reformed. All these tasks abd maneuvering-FOR NOTHING. I'm surprised that Rin is now in Naraku's posession now. What will the last demon of the Shikon No Tama do now that he can't enter the jewel anymore. It's finally ending. Yay!

[LinaLoN]

FILLER! That is definately what the latest chapter was. I guess it's onto the final battle against Naraku and find out what happens to all the characters we have journeyed with.

[rascalking]

Wow....can't believe its finally the end. After 11 years, the Inuyasha manga is ending. I don't get how there can only be like 4 or 5 regulars on this forum at this point. Where are all the other Inuyasha manga fans at?

[Brill]

FILLER! That is definately what the latest chapter was. I guess it's onto the final battle against Naraku and find out what happens to all the characters we have journeyed with.

How can it be filler if it was written by Takahashi? :rolleyes: Kids these days. Don't even know the meaning of filler.

[Aya Nakamura]

I always disliked the part when kagome goes home they are boring and this did seem fillerish i mean there were parts of showing naraku and stuff but the rest was just blah

[amoensia]

I am really crossing my fingers about the ending. Because at the back of my mind, I can somehow feel that there'll be some sword upgrades for the brothers while Kagome sort herself out about her sealed powers. I don't know why, but I just remembered something about Totousai saying something about the final Dragon scaled Tessaiga (is that what is called? I forgot) But I am really hoping that I'm wrong.

And if the final battle is really close (not another 100+ chapters more close) I am really hoping for a climatic one. It's not too much to ask since we've been all waiting for this for over a decade.

[Brill]

So the qurstion is.. will Sango have weddding bells or funeral chimes in her future?

[Ketaru]

This last chapter was just as bizarre and creepy looking as I could've hoped it would be.

[LinaLoN]

It looks like it's all up to Shesshy for the moment until he gets rid of that Shikon Demon (what's his name M something) I hope he does it so Kagome can get her powers back in time to be of some help because they are all in for a big, nasty battle ahead of them.

I wish Miroku wouldn't bring up a wedding if he's not sure he's going to make it. Unless it's to assure us veiwers that he'll survive somehow. Either way, Miroku shouldn't get Sango's hopes up like that if there's a chance it'll be dashed away. Or do you see it as him giving himself something to live longer for?

Of all the final battle destinations I pictured the gang fighting Naraku in... his stomach was the last place I figured. Didn't they all ready fight him in his stomach before? Or are they in a different place in Naraku's body?

[amoensia]

No one is bothering to discuss the final (or so they say) battle? lol.

[Aya Nakamura]

Sad to say but i cant even get into the latest chapters for some reason i dont even read the scans i just read the recaps. It seems like since the end is coming its starting to get kinda predictably dull i dunno what it is....

[Tidusauron12]

Sad to say but i cant even get into the latest chapters for some reason i dont even read the scans i just read the recaps. It seems like since the end is coming its starting to get kinda predictably dull i dunno what it is....

To tell the truth, that's how I am. I've been following the manga through this thread. :lol:

[Brill]

:rolleyes: I don't know what to make of Takahashi. She's being schitzo. She has Miroku who is just about to die, then switches to the two most useless characters of the entire seres-and these two idiots are going to charge-in and save the day. I'm so glad stupid people can't follow directions. A serious ending or a campy ending, I wish she would just make up her mind. It's been 10+ years and she can't even finish her ending. :P

[Aya Nakamura]

Hmm gotta say i was bored again i just dont understand whats going on lately....i was gonna read it then i was just like no i'll read the summary and i was right. i was hoping id get something to make me excited to read it but unfortunately yet again its a swing and a miss for me

[Blue Thunder]

It'll finish one way or another I'm sure...

The real question is, will the revered Rumiko Takahashi be doing anything after Inu Yasha? I can never get enough of her stuff...

[LinaLoN]

I wonder now that Kagome has the Tetseiga can she somehow do something for once! Now that Mag-whatever that demon's name is has possessed Inu Yasha and the seal on Kagome's power is because of that demon it will be tricky to try and keep Sesshy from killing Inu Yasha unless Kagome can somehow get the demon to retreat from Inu's body.

Personally I'm exhausted from all of this. It seems to me like takashi is stalling things for some reason or trying to pull us in different directions so we can't tell how the series is going to end.

[Aya Nakamura]

I wonder now that Kagome has the Tetseiga can she somehow do something for once! Now that Mag-whatever that demon's name is has possessed Inu Yasha and the seal on Kagome's power is because of that demon it will be tricky to try and keep Sesshy from killing Inu Yasha unless Kagome can somehow get the demon to retreat from Inu's body.

Personally I'm exhausted from all of this. It seems to me like takashi is stalling things for some reason or trying to pull us in different directions so we can't tell how the series is going to end.

I agree thats why ive been so bored its just stall tactic after stall tactic....i love inuyasha but come onnnnn!

[LinaLoN]

BINGO! Just as I thought would happen! I'm so glad to see how Sesshy was able to hold back killing Inu and didn't want Kagome to be harmed. He's a big fluffy softy no matter what he denies ^-* Now that Mag is dust it'll be interesting to see what Kagome might be capable of. I'm completely satisfied with that chapter and I hope it will lead to better things. Now to take down Naraku once and for all. My predictions? It will be Inu, Sesshy and Kagome in that final battle with the final blows.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

After not having read InuYasha for a few months and finally getting the chance to catch up, the first thing I have to say is:

IT'S ABOUT TIME WE GOT TO THE FINAL CONFRONTATION! IT ONLY TOOK YOU ELEVEN YEARS, TAKAHASHI-SAN!

Just had to get that out. :P

Anyway, now that the ball is finally rolling for good, things are definitely getting more interesting. I just hope Takahashi doesn't kill off Miroku - I know many fans who will blow fuses if he dies (me included). Though to be honest, the future isn't looking too good for him unless someone kills Naraku within the next ten chapters.

Anyone want to hazard a guess as to how many more chapters this series is going to last?

[Tidusauron12]

^ I really don't know... it's hard to tell. Based from past experiences with Rumiko's pacing of things... I think it's safe to say the ending won't come up very fast... but at the same time, you don't really know how long it will be either. I have a feeling it may be fleshed out a bit though.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

^ I really don't know... it's hard to tell. Based from past experiences with Rumiko's pacing of things... I think it's safe to say the ending won't come up very fast... but at the same time, you don't really know how long it will be either. I have a feeling it may be fleshed out a bit though.
Well, unless Takahashi decides to do an epilogue of what happens to the characters after Naraku is defated, I think it's safe to say that this is the last piece of plotline we'll be seeing in this series. (Of course, Takahashi could always pull a fast one on us and do what the anime did - give an ending without a defeated Naraku - but I think she knows what the fans will do to her if she does that. :devil: )

[Brill]

I doubt it. It's been foreshadowed way too much that the jewel's destruction and Naraku's are tied. I'm afraid to say we're going to get the happy-go-lucky ending here. I was hoping for some tragedy-not alot, but SOME. For example Miroku's been a 1-more Kazana away from death now for 100 chapters. But wait, there's just one more kazana-wait, there's another one. Either kill him or don't. Now that all the lemmings are heading for the light, maybe one of them might get lucky and die.

[Ketaru]

I'm beginning to find it interesting that Sango is always the one Naraku uses when giving the choice whether or not to betray the group.

Prediction for next chapter however, Sango realizes she is being watched by Byakuya and attacks him, disrupting all the illusions going on within Naraku, including the one Miroku sees. That would the happy-go-lucky way out of what's going on...

[Ice Chick]

Sango's easy to manipulate (especially in desperate situations), that's why Naraku can always get away with using her. All Naraku has to do is feed her with part of the truth, compounded with lies, and he can get her to do what he wants. We saw this when she was first introduced, with Kohaku, and now here, like 300 chapters later from the last time.

I happen to believe someone will intervene, possibly Sess or even Kohaku. However, she'll have to come to a realization herself.

[amoensia]

But I do think Sango's character is the one closest to reality. I mean, you know, not being all too good and all.

[Brill]

Well I have to really respect Sango for taklng responsibility for what she did.

Kagome :rolleyes: once again she invokes her magical-girl charm of "Pkease hit the target"-and suprisingly it works-again. This has to be the weakest aspect of the entire series. The powerful miko in Japan at the climatic battle and she stil has no clue what she's doing.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Kagome :rolleyes: once again she invokes her magical-girl charm of "Pkease hit the target"-and suprisingly it works-again. This has to be the weakest aspect of the entire series. The powerful miko in Japan at the climatic battle and she stil has no clue what she's doing.
In my circle, we call that "shoujo power." :P

But really, I can't help but wonder if it's that very ability to hit her target even if her target isn't in immediate sight that makes Kagome such a powerful miko. Just think about it: Your enemy can hit you even if she can't see you, as long as she focuses on you. That's pretty dang powerful.

We're talking about a priestess of a religion with which the West is not very familiar. Who are we to know what legendary figures colour the pages of Shinto folklore? Perhaps this ability of Kagome's is grounded in an actual Shinto legend - we don't know for sure.

Or it can just be shoujo power. There's already been plenty of shounen spirit. Shoujo power is totally allowed.

[Ketaru]

Not excusing the whole "Please hit the target!" thing. It's way too convenient. But Kagome isn't really the first character to ever exhibit this kind of ability. If we sat down and thought a little, I'm sure we can come up with plenty of anime characters who basically are able to attack an unseen enemy just by sensing where they are.

Another variation I can think of is where an enemy is moving so fast the protagonist can't keep up with them. Said protagonist concentrates for a moment, and is suddenly magically able to predict the fast opponent's next move.

It's a tiresome cliche really, so it's nice on the few occasions when it is played for laughs.

[Brill]

Wow, what a way for Sango and Miroku to go out. If I didn't know they will be saved I would have been truly moved by this chapter.

Totosai,unless you get your a$$ up there I doubt Inuyasha will hear you. I don't see why Takahashi is bringing him into the picture at this point. It's silly.

[Ice Chick]

It was a very touching scene between Miroku and Sango, but we know the Tessaiga is going to save the day yet again. I still see Sango getting revived by the Tensaiga because she really took in a lot of shouki, and she is pretty much near death I'd assume. That stuff packs a powerful kick, damn.

[Ketaru]

It feels really weak. Takahashi has just given an underlying motive to all of Naraku's actions that differ from simply being power hungry, even giving him what might even be a semblance of humanity. All that power hungry sadism, manipulating and torturing all the people around him, might be just be a mask for anger and lashing out at the world, and finally absorbing the Shikon Jewel to become a full youkai is really his giving in to despair himself.

We're 50-something books in. It's much too late to be turning him into a tragic figure. Take a purifying arrow and just put him out of everybody's misery already.

[Ice Chick]

I agree. No amount of compassion these characters shed for him will ever make him forgivable. He will always be a complete douche bag. Yea there is probably a reason for his sadistic nature but the truth of the matter is he didn't have to go that route and make other people suffer because of it. I like Naraku and all, but please RT don't attempt any guilt trips. Let him take his punishments just this once.

[LinaLoN]

Well it looks like we're finally gonna get that Inu, Kagome, Sesshy fight against Naraku once and for all I knew would happen. Hopefully this means things will finally come to an end. With Naraku's little "the Shikon can never be destroyed even if you kill me," comment doesn't change the fact that Naraku has to be killed for good. Then they can worry about destroying the Shikon after. In my head either that means; (going back to Kikyo's original idea) Inu Yasha wishes to be a full human (or makes an even more heartful wish that comes true) and the jewel disappears, the jewel goes back inside Kagome's body, there is some other way to destroy it, or Takashi will keep it like this so Kagome and Inu will have to stay being with each other.

[Ketaru]

I'd comment on the next chapter, but the "translated" version of it that I got on the site I usually go to capitalized on April Fools day so it was very...awkward.

In other news, Kagome doesn't know that Jesus, in spanish, is pronounced differently, Naraku is atheist, and InuYasha is Christian.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

(And once again, I fall many weeks behind. I need to do better.)

Well, it seems that Rumiko Takahashi has decided that 12 years and over 550 chapters is long enough for a series, and that it's about time the tale of everyone's favourite hanyou began to draw to a close. A few more chapters and Naraku will be no more, there will be no one else dying from his curses, and all will be well in the feudal era.

And I think this time, we can be pretty certain that this will be the end.

[Tidusauron12]

Dude, I'm not even reading anymore. When this thread gets updated I come and check to see if the manga is done yet.

[LinaLoN]

The question now will be... will Kagome or Inu Yasha "die"? How will the Shikon no Tama be gone for good? I think one will lead to the other. Will Kagome return to her own time, stay in Inu Yasha's time, or will Inu Yasha go to stay with her in her time? I feel the end will happen within 2-3 more episodes.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I don't know how many people are actually still reading this manga (I have a feeling a lot of people have given up), but the last couple of chapters opened the doors to another sleuth of endings for this series. The latest chapter seems to be a glimpse of what life would have been like for Kagome had the jewel been gotten rid of 500 years ago. In other words, defeating Naraku and getting rid of the jewel in the past changed the future, and thus Kagome's life in the modern era, and that's what we just saw.

Which opens up the possibility of, once the jewel is gone, Kagome will return to her old life in the modern era and forget all about what happened in the feudal era. It would be kind of sad if it ended that way, but that's definitely one possibility.

[LinaLoN]

I still stand by my dream that Kagome will return to her time but Inu Yasha will arrive at her High School and join it to be with her. I think he'll go through time to meet up with her not to mention I think he would adapt to her time pretty well.... I think he already likes TV. Either that or she will stay with Inu Yasha in his time because she never really "existed" in her time. Yes she had her family and fan group there but I don't think she fits there anymore. I don't know I'm torn between the two. All I do know is that Kagome, Kikyo and the Shikon Priestess will be freed from the Shikon's power because of Inu Yasha making the right wish instead of Kagome making the wrong one.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Maybe it's because the series is obviously drawing to close to an end, but I've realized that my expectations for this series have changed recently - though I can't say if the change has been higher or lower.

This chapter didn't really propel the story too much further, but then again, I didn't really expect it to. Basically, this chapter served to explain why Kagome is stuck in a black void, and why no one in the modern era seemed to notice her presence when she was "standing" right behind them.

You know, Inuyasha, I know of why to get Kagome's attention. Try screaming, "I love you, Kagome!" at the top of your lungs. Not only will that make her happy and give her strength to not give into the darkness (ouch, that was clichéd), but it will make the fans really happy, too.

[Brill]

If he can't do it for Kikyo you think he'll do it for Kagome? Bzzt!

[Ice Chick]

Just read the script....I'm just ready for her to make that goddamn wish already! I'm just sick of these cliffhangers, if I could call them that anymore. It seems these cliffhangers have let me down recently, rather than maintain my interest.

About Inuyasha's speech....now the next step, saying those words when Kagome's around. It's cool that he is able to express his feelings in this way but he needs to express them to her face. So I'm not going all "googly eyed" over his speech, as you can probably tell. Then again, it might not be a big deal to me because I've lost interest in their relationship for a good time now.

Oh and that Sess/Sango issue better be resolved at the end of this. That was pretty serious and I'll be very disappointed if she just writes it off as if it never happened and lets the two forget that it ever happened.

[Brill]

Wow, I have to say that was totally weak. What a way to end it and they have all those loose ends to tie up and only 1 chapter to do it. What a waste.

[Meson]

Anime New Netowrk is reporting that teh Inuyasha manga ends next Wednesday.

http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-06-10/inuyasha-confirmed-to-end-next-wednesday-in-japan

I haven't kept track of the manga. I wonder if this means a new anime series is possible.

[Ice Chick]

Yep it is ending. Next week's chapter will be the final chapter, sort of an epilogue chapter.

I'll keep my mouth shut about that until I read how she ties up the loose ends next week.

[J Dude]

For someone who stopped reading the manga a long time ago and doesn't care to read the rest, how did they finally... kill Naraku?

[Magami No ER]

Yippee, maybe I'll start buying it again (stopped at volume 27). I refuse to go back and reread that many scans...
Also, according to the ANN forums (taken from the Shounen Sunday site?), the ending is an epilogue that takes place three years later. That's only 2000-2001 in its continuety, lol.
As for Naraku, no idea how he was offed, I think I'll read about it myself when i get to that point, if I'm not too tempted...*runs from thread*

[Brill]

Well it was a rather touching conclusion with all the cast. Several issues were left unresolved including the issue between Sango and Sesshoumaru. I really don't see the reason why the well magically reconnects after 3 years when it happened as easily as it did. If Kagome wanted to see Inuyasha why did it wait til she graduated high school? I wonder if she can come back?

But the real question is this-where did Sesshoumaru buy the kimono?

It's been a long ride but it's finally over. :cheers:

[J Dude]

Several issues were left unresolved including the issue between Sango and Sesshoumaru.

Care to enlighten us on this issue between the two for those who haven't been reading please?

[Kali-chan]

I cried when I read the final chapter...

[Brill]

Care to enlighten us on this issue between the two for those who haven't been reading please?

It's only like 5 chapters ago. Just don't forget to ADd INUYASHA to your .com..

[Ice Chick]

Well party done. Been following the anime since 2002, the manga since summer of 2006, so it's kinda surreal at the moment.

That doesn't excuse the fact that she could've wrapped this up a little more slowly, say 2 or 3 more chapters. But hey she got the point across, and all the characters are happy. Still pissed that some things were left out, or left unresolved. There's nothing I can do about that.

It's been a ride with quite a few bumps in it but we got to our destination.;)

[LinaLoN]

Aww... I liked the ending. I always thought it would go the other way around with Inu Yasha in her world but the end result was just the same. I'm glad they're together. It would've been too sad to have an Escaflowne TV ending. I didn't understand the well thing either but I think that was just an excuse to explain ahead of time what happened to certain characters so the only couple we have to speculate things over are Kagome and Inu Yasha.

Three kids?! Holy matramony Sango and Miroku worked FAST! At first I thought the "third baby" and "the father" were assoiciated with Inu Yasha until I thought about it.

I think Takashi ended it in a good way because she closed it but not too much where fans won't be able to think "what will happen" with Inu Yash and Kagome (fanfiction lives on...!) but it closed the story enough. Bye everyone! Thanks for all the fun times!

[chibiyume]

i hope i'm right topic but has rumiko made any plans for a new manga? i'm dying to know what her next work is.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

i hope i'm right topic but has rumiko made any plans for a new manga? i'm dying to know what her next work is.

I haven't heard anything about any plans for a new manga, although unless she plans on retiring, I don't doubt that she is going to come out with a new series, maybe sooner than later.