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

[Greek Honeybee]

You can currently see chapters 355-362 at http://www.ear-tweak.com, and all the chapters translated at http://www.wot-club.org.uk/Inuyasha/. Discuss past chapters here too, if you want.


Chapter 362 - "Escapee"
Shonen Sunday Vol 22 - May 26, 2004

Hakudoushi himself tempts Kagura into releasing Goryoumaru against Naraku's orders, pointing out that obeying Naraku at this point won't get her anywhere. Also mentioning that she's protecting Goryoumaru, rather than just holding him captive. She destroys the Rakanzou statues Naraku made that create the barrier holding him.

Meanwhile, Inuyasha and co. come across a village plundered by bandits, but these bandits have somehow gotten their hands on the Gyouja jars that emit powerful youkai blasts. Unfortunately, the night of the new moon is approaching, which will leave Inuyasha weakened in a human form. As Miroku, Sango and Kirara battle the bandits that night, Goryoumaru approaches the shack that Kagome, Shippou and human Inuyasha are hiding. A sinister smirk on his face...


It's about time Miss Takahashi remembered there are new moons now and then. Almost seems like Inuyasha himself forgot for a bit there, too. First the return to Inutaishou's grave, then we find our long-lost Kouga, now the new moon that hasn't been seen for the past three years. I'm half expecting her to bring back Houjou, who's been completely missing from the manga since Kouga was introduced... :P It really does seem like she's wrapping up things bit by bit.

Anyway, if Goryoumaru was really someone Naraku wanted to protect, I doubt he would've left him in Kagura's care. Why would Hakudoushi encourage Kagura to go against orders unless this is part of Naraku's plan? Finally, the only reason I can think of for Gory to come after them in the shack with that look is if he's after Kagome's jewel shard. And I'm glad we found out that Naraku was the one that made those funky statues. That was bugging me something fierce...

Let's see, what else is there... :P

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I need to get my sorry derrière over to Kuro-sama's website and read some of those scanlations, because these are all horrible spoilers for me! (I feel so behind. I had no idea that I was so far behind...) Not to mention I'm horribly confused. Let's click on that pretty link, shall we?

[Greek Honeybee]

Well, I did put a huge spoiler warning in the title... :P You should probably start at Chris' site. His translations go back much farther. Kuro only keeps the last eight or so chapters around to save bandwidth.

[Hankoubou]

Let's not forget that it seems to have ended with Goryoumaru outside of Inuyasha's dwelling, I think some fights are coming up.

[Bakeneko]

Well, now that I look at it, the last new moon was way back in the 21st tankouban. (After all, his transformation at Hakureizan was due to Hakushin's barrier.) Of course, the Shichinin-tai Arc took up a big chunk of the story there and it probably didn't last much longer than a week. It really stretches the imagination to think the events of 158 chapters only took approximately 28 days... I suppose they could've skipped a new moon, but she usually works those into the story. Who knows? She's not that obsessive about time anyway...

I imagine Kouga will be showing up again soon. His return during the haku incident a short ways back was surprisingly short, especially since we hadn't seen him since Hakureizan. His presence is critical for the final battle, so I imagine his return will be a harbinger of the end.

Houjou? I imagine he's suffered the same fate as Toufuu-sensei. He's gone and he probably won't be seen again. Then again, you never know. If I'm not mistaken, the appearance of Kagome's third friend in 34.4 is the first since 3.5 (even though the anime always keeps her with the other two).

I get the feeling that when Hakudoushi killed Goryoumaru, he became a haku puppet like Mouryoumaru. (Those two look freakishly similar. I doubt it's any coincidence.) I imagine that either Hakudoushi or Naraku himself is speaking through his body. (His new ability to absorb bits of youkai is causing some alarms to go off in my head.) Then again, Goryoumaru might still possess his soul and Naraku figures that Kagura will lead him right to the Inuyasha Ikkou. Isseki Nichou, as they say...

I didn't figure the rakanzou were Goryoumaru's handiwork. Of course, what better place to hide something masking its youki than somewhere that's overflowing with the stuff? (Especially since the pursuers are all looking for blind spots for their quarry...)

Raise your hand if you think Inuyasha is going to get hurt something awful in the coming fight. *raises paw* He always manages to get torn up when he's in his human form. It's like he says, "I'm really weak and vulnerable right now. That means I need to push the envelope." <_< Of course, he usually gets rather thoroughly torn up anyway... -_-;

[mikosakura]

*raises hand* Of course he's gonna get torn up. He always does when he's human.
Okay, I don't want to sound stupid, but the bandits are just normal humans aside from having the gyouja jar right?

[Bakeneko]

That's how it looks to me. I wonder if Naraku simply swiped the goryou tsubo from the temple or if Goryoumaru made new ones for them...

[mikosakura]

The former would imply that Naraku intended for Goryoumaru to be released though, correct?

[Bakeneko]

Yes, but that seems to be a given anyway... After all, Naraku and Hakudoushi are basically the same person. The connection between them is much stronger than what Naraku shares with his other bunshin like Kagura and Kanna. The whole prison thing is undoubtably a ruse to screw with Kagura's head. After all, it's not Naraku's style to just kill someone in a direct manner. He has to given them the most miserable death his sadistic little mind can think up. Being born from him, I imagine Kagura is going to suffer more than any of his usual victims. Kawaisou ni...

[Greek Honeybee]

Yeah. It's kind of sad that Naraku plots his schemes around Kagura's betrayals and uses them to his advantage. Like leading Inuyasha-tachi to the ogre's stomach. You'd think she would've learned her lesson back then. But she's just the weak-hearted, easily-manipulated type that he likes toying with best. About the best way she can undermine him now would be to follow orders and not betray him at all.

[Bakeneko]

I'd love to see Naraku get all fidgety with Kagura refusing to let Goryoumaru go. Unfortunately, Goryoumaru's words went right to the quick. (If I'm right about him being Naraku's puppet, it makes it all the more wrong...)

One thing about Naraku... You can't say he doesn't know what he's doing. You may surprise him once, but don't ever expect the same trick to work twice and don't dare to put your cards on the table first. Kikyou learned that the hard way...

[Greek Honeybee]

One thing about Naraku... You can't say he doesn't know what he's doing. You may surprise him once, but don't ever expect the same trick to work twice and don't dare to put your cards on the table first. Kikyou learned that the hard way...
And most of all, DON'T HAND HIM MOST OF THE SHIKON FRAGMENTS!! Okay, I know what she was thinking, it just wasn't her brightest moment. :doh:

Edit: Okay, now I'm getting off-topic... -_-;

[Bakeneko]

No, you're not. Kikyou's faulty plan is largely responsible for us getting to this point. It was less about her lacking intellect than caution and having far too much confidence in her abilities. She thought she could easily take down Naraku with the completed jewel, but she gravely underestimated how resourceful he'd be in finding a way to beat her. Now she can't even stand toe-to-toe with him anymore and she's the one most responsible for it.

[Greek Honeybee]

I guess, at the time, she was still thinking of him as Onigumo, the common bandit, in a youkai body. She hadn't really seen the depths of his scheming abilities and foresight at that point. Still, I wouldn't give the jewel to even the stupidest bandit. -_-; That's kind of a no-brainer.

She really should've just destroyed him when she had the chance back in chapter 174, when she was all but impervious to him. But that wouldn't have given her the closure she needed. She herself had become a lot like Naraku in the desire to make him suffer first. Letting him nearly reach his goal before tearing it out from under him. Putting the world at risk seemed worth it to her at the time. Like you said, that changed after the Mt. Hakurei incident.

[Bakeneko]

In addition to giving herself the greatest sense of vengeance, she also wanted to kill two birds with one stone. I imagine her goal was to blast Naraku once he had incorproated the jewel into his body, thus destroying both in a single fell swoop. She should've killed him when she had the chance, but she thought she was invincible. Then she was proven wrong and now she has to sneak around to avoid getting taken out for good the first chance Naraku gets.

Well, I imagine that someone like Onigumo would probably overcome by the will of the jewel and be reduced to a berserker at best. Naraku, on the other hand, possesses a keenly focused will that can easily subdue the jewel and wield its powers for his ends. Kikyou definitely misjudged him...

[Greek Honeybee]

Can't disagree with anything there. ^_^

So what chances do you think Sango and Miroku have against these bandits? The power in those jars might give them serious trouble.

Do you think Naraku knows about Inuyasha's human night after all and timed Goryoumaru's escape to coincide?

And was that Shippou's word balloon that bapped Inuyasha over the head on page 11?? lol

[Bakeneko]

Ah, I think those two can handle it. It's not the weapon, but the wielder that's the real threat. I doubt a bunch of two-bit bandits can use the goryou tsubo any better than those kids. Given that there are no signs of the Saimyoushou (yet) and that the light of the goryou tsubo are really youkai, Miroku could always resort to the Kazaana to eliminate the threat. If the goryou youkai force Sango to keep her distance, she could always resort to attacking with her poison powder if the wind's favorable. I'm sure it'd kill their will to keep on fighting.

I don't think Naraku knows Inuyasha time of the month. However, Miroku confronting him about being a hanyou during the Musou incident may have been enough for him to guess that Inuyasha had transformed that night, too. Unless he can read Kagura's mind...

Yes, it does look like the word bubble hit Inuyasha's head. I always say Shippou tells him the cold, hard truth, but still...

[Bakeneko]

It seems that the word bubble thing is a new addition to Takahashi's comedic arsenal. I don't remember encountering it in Ranma and I doubt I'll find it in any of her earlier works. To my knowledge, it's first appearance is in 35.5, when Shima talks about how much she's been waiting for the day Miroku would come back to her.

http://img34.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Bakeneko-ouji/Inuyasha/shima1.jpg

Speaking of which, Miroku managed to snag Koharu three years ago, Shima two years ago and Sango this year. Who wants to bet there's someone from one year ago? (Well, it doesn't seem like Miroku got a "yes" out of the previous two at the time, but the fact that they were still interested counts for something. Miroku's batting average isn't all that great if all he can get is one girl a year, at least one that isn't possessed or a youkai in disguise... -_-; )

[Greek Honeybee]

Makes me wonder just how they plan to animate that effect, if at all. ;) I'm surprised I hadn't noticed the same thing back then.

I'm guessing Shima and Koharu are just the only girls he's run into lately. Sango knows there are likely others.

[Bakeneko]

Oh, Miroku gets rejected fairly often. I like to think his success ratio is only one a year. ^_^ (I imagine three years ago was around the time he first began his travels. He would only have been fifteen at the time, after all.)

As for the effect, I don't imagine it'll find its way into the anime. All the more reason to have the manga handy. ^_^

[ChaoticSerenity]

Could it be possible that Hakudoshi has decided it's time for him to rule the roost, actually? Everyone's talking about how this might be part of Naraku's master plan, but hasn't everyone here been repulsed by the deceitful, cruel nature Hakudoshi possesses? Remember, the heart is what keeps Naraku together, but he's removed that from his body, and in order to kill Naraku, you'd have to off Hakudoshi and the baby as well. Could it be that as the integral parts of Naraku, Hakudoshi could possibly exist as a solitary entity without him? It would be an interesting twist, to say the least.

[Bakeneko]

Wai! Chao-chan ga kaete kita! :cheers: Hisashiburi! Yay! Chao-chan's back! Long time no see.

On to the topic, though you bring up an interesting possibility, I really doubt Hakudoushi is acting on his own. He and Naraku seem like they're on the same wavelength too much for me to believe he'd try to take over. He strikes me as more of an extension of Naraku rather than a separate entity. Yeah, we've seen that he's an individual to a degree, but he simply doesn't seem distant enough to make betrayal a viable option. It'd be more like stabbing yourself in my opinion.

Also, Naraku is nigh-unvulnerable these days. He might have been killed by Kikyou's arrow at the border if he hadn't been drawn back into this world as it struck, but we don't know that. (Even he doesn't know for sure.) Hakudoushi isn't the type to take stupid risks. He knows there's no way to destroy Naraku without putting his own existence on the line.

[Greek Honeybee]

New chapter's scanlated over at Ear-Tweak. ^_^

Chapter 363 - "Goryoumaru's True Nature"


Just as we thought. Kagura's "betrayal" is going exactly the way Naraku wants.

[Bakeneko]

Naturally... Maybe Kuro-dono will have everything up by the time I get back from school... Otanoshimi... ^_^

[Hankoubou]

Looks like it will turn out as you thought Bake.

[mikosakura]

Pretty much. But I don't get the bit at the end. Why did it seem that Goryoumaru was transforming into a lotus or something? What did I miss?

[Hankoubou]

He was transforming into the guy I can't remember his name, Myroumaru or something like that.

[mikosakura]

Oh. okay. Thanks^_^

[Bakeneko]

I had thought something was a little weird before, but the moment I had the 35th tankouban in my hot little hand with Mouryoumaru on the front and Goryoumaru on the back, I was 99% sure there was a connection. BAM! There it is!

Well, we're in a bit of a pickle now. We've seen Kikyou's hama no ya fail to destroy Mouryoumaru before, so I doubt Kagome can do any better. We get the impression that the Kongousouha can do the trick since Hakudoushi took the hit in Mouryoumaru's place back in 34.4. Too bad Inuyasha's still human...

Here's the question. What'll Kagura do right now? Help Goryoumaru/Mouryoumaru, help the Ikkou, or simply stand on the sidelines? I imagine she'd rather choose "C," but I think she's going ot have to make a choice. "Saigo no shigoto" indeed...

[mikosakura]

Well, we're in a bit of a pickle now. We've seen Kikyou's hama no ya fail to destroy Mouryoumaru before, so I doubt Kagome can do any better. We get the impression that the Kongousouha can do the trick since Hakudoushi took the hit in Mouryoumaru's place back in 34.4. Too bad Inuyasha's still human...
But like always, Inuyasha will no doubt proceed to get himself thoroughly bloodied up and then the sun will rise in just the nick of time and he'll be hanyou once more.

[Bakeneko]

Well, that's beside the point... The real kicker is what's going to happen between Point A and Point B with the rest of the characters.

[mikosakura]

Obviously.

[kissthecajun]

Well... It seems that the theory of Goryomaru being a puppet was correct... At least according to the latest manga. As well as to how beaten up Inuyasha is going to be, I believe that the wound he sustained in 363 are far worse then the ones he had gotten so far... The question that is bugging me though, is what is Kagura going to do? Because this seems like the perfect point for her to make her stand rather then stand on the sidelines and be bullied or mind gamed around with.

Personally for a long while I was rather sure that Goryomaru was some how connected to Onigumo because of the odd scaring, because just like the bandit who was burnt this guy also has burn marks, something to do with Naraku and that arm.... ::shudders::

Anyway in case anyone wanted to know what the heck I'm rambling about...




SPOILER FOR 363!!
http://www.furinkan.com/iycompanion/new/index.html

Chapter 363: Goryomaru no shoutai

The bandits attack using the Gyoja's spirit jars, but Miroku simply absorbs the attack into his wind tunnel. Safe inside their hut, Inuyasha and Kagome listen as the noisy battle outside ends, suddenly large tentacles crash through the wall, grabbing Kagome. Inuyasha recognizes the figure outside as Goryomaru, right before a blast from his arm sends the entire structure crumbling down on top of him and Shippo. The bandits prove no match for Miroku's wind tunnel, and a quick interrogation reveals that the men got the spirit jars from a woman, who told them to use them in an attack on the village. At the same time, Goryomaru confesses to Kagome that he knew she and the others would come to the village if they heard about the attacks, when out of the shadows steps Kagura. Shippo watches from the wreckage as Inuyasha lies unconscious. Goryomaru tells Kagome that he survived his decapitation because he is no longer Goryomaru. Goryomaru once fought a demon, and sacrificed his own arm so that the demon would be sealed away inside it, causing his arm to be that of a demon, but for Goryomaru to retain the soul of a human. As he tells his story to Kagome, Inuyasha and Shippo emerge from the rubble to confront Goryomaru. Without wasting any time, Goryomaru tosses Kagome at Inuyasha, and then attacks with one of his tentacles, slicing Inuyasha's back wide open. As Kagome calls out to Inuyasha, Goryomaru seems intrigued, as he learns that this human is actually the half-demon he met previously. As he asks Kagura about this, Miroku and Sango arrive to protect their friends. Shocked by the reappearance of Goryomaru, Miroku asks who he is, as Goryomaru simply laughs and shows them the Shikon shard he has taken from Kagome, his true reason for coming. As everyone looks on, Goryomaru says that he's met all of them even before their encounter at the temple.

[Bakeneko]

Hisashiburi, Cajun! ^_^

So far, Inuyasha has suffered more severe injuies against Tokajin, Kaijinbou and Renkotsu and Jakotsu in his human form, but the battle's just started. He might one-up those previous scrapes before it's all said and done.

As for Kagura, she'll take a stand only if she's sure she can survive it. If the Saimyoushou are keeping an eye out or if she doubts Goryumaru/Mouryoumaru can be defeated, she'll opt to bide her time. Remember that her hopes are riding more on Sesshoumaru than the Ikkou. She wants to live no matter the cost. If it means screwing over our heroes to buy herself some time, she'll do it. However, it seems pretty obvious that Naraku is wise to her schemes and is likely to make his move to finish her off. (One likely scenario is that she'll be coerced into fighting alongshide Goryoumaru/Mouryoumaru and Inuyasha will take them both out with a Kongousouha once his powers return. I don't want to see it end for her that way, but I doubt Naraku's talk about her "saigo no shigoto" was for nothing...)

[Greek Honeybee]

I'm starting to think the baby, Mouryoumaru and Goryoumaru are now all one in the same. Perhaps Kanna put the soul of the baby into Mouryoumaru. Goryoumaru was a real man who tried to exterminate Baby/Moury, but sucked him up as a replacement arm. But with Goryoumaru's death, Baby/Moury's consciousness took over as he was brought back to life. Kanna and the baby are now decoys, since everyone still believes Naraku's heart is within it.

Or something like that... If you look at page 13, the youkai Gory is sucking up kinda does look like something Naraku would come up with, if not Moury himself.

[Bakeneko]

If Naraku's heart was in Goryoumaru/Mouryoumaru, then I doubt Naraku would risk putting him on the front lines like that. Then again, there had to be a reason Hakudoushi used his own body to protect Mouryoumaru in 34.4... You might be on to something, Honeybee...

I didn't doubt that Goryoumaru was once a normal human and I imagine that Hakudoushi decapitating him stripped out his soul to allow the haku-driven Mouryoumaru to become dominant.

As for the absorbing bits of other youkai, remember that Mouryoumaru was made from a collection of other youkai, so it stands to reason that he'd have that ability. (However, since it happened while he was still in the guise of Goryoumaru, the event strongly backed the suspicion of a connection to Naraku.)

Since Kikyou has already encoutered Kanna and the baby, I suppose it's reasonable to assume Naraku wouldn't leave his heart in the same place. A decoy along the lines you suggested sounds like his thinking all right...

[Greek Honeybee]

It seems obvious to me that Hakudoushi was experimenting with creating haku-based youkai for the specific purpose of making a near-indestructible new body for Naraku's heart. He tested it out against Inuyasha and the others before implanting the heart, where we saw that only parts of Mouryoumaru can be destroyed with Kagome's arrows. (And that the baby knew about the Fuyouheki-detecting crystals right from the start.) Kagome doesn't normally seem powerful enough to take him out completely. (If she got sufficiently angry, on the other hand...) So that's when Kanna promised to give Mouryoumaru a soul. Kikyou's arrows are probably more effective, but he seems able to just morph around them. (When Kikyou fired her arrow at him, did you notice the slight change in expression on Mouryoumaru? ch.356,p.5) I suppose Kazaana is still something of a threat, unless Saimyoushou are present. And Kongousouha is certainly something they're cautious about, which is probably why they chose this night to attack Inuyasha. I wouldn't be surprised if Naraku, Hakudoushi and Goryoumaru already know about his time of the month, and Gory was just tormenting Kagura. The same way Naraku and Hakudoushi were asking her how Inuyasha's group knew about the ogre's head.

Anyway, yeah. Those are my current disconnected thoughts. :P

[Bakeneko]

This brings up a point that I had made in passing earlier which may prove greatly significant now. We're pretty confident that Kagura kept Inuyasha's time of the month a secret. Well, don't you think that it's reasonable to assume that Naraku's bunshin display properties that he could wield himself under the right circumstances (particularly with the degree of mastery he develops with the Shikon Jewel)? Goshinki could read minds as we all know. Given that Naraku has a physical connection to Kagura through her heart, wouldn't it be a reasonable guess that she can't keep any secrets from her, no matter how hard she tries? (Of course, my previous hypothesis of simple reasoning also carries enough water.)

At any rate, it looks like Naraku has them where he wants them. Yeah, the Saimyoushou didn't stop Miroku from finishing off the goryou tsubo-wielding bandits, but the whole thing was surely a delaying tactic. Will Miroku and Sango get back in time to make a difference? Even if they do manage to get back to the others, what traps does naraku have in store for them? (As long as Goryoumaru/Mouryoumaru holds the fragment, Miroku won't use the Kazaana, so the Saimyoushou wouldn't even be necessary.)

Bugger, Goryoumaru/Mouryoumaru would do just fine retreating with the last fragment and then it'd just be a matter of hunting down Kouga, sure to be no difficult matter. However, I know Naraku will try to reduce the number of his pursuers if he can.

I congratulate you on bringing up Kanna's pledge to give Mouryoumaru a soul. That was a good bit of foreshadowing to the Goryoumaru connection. Erai zo. ^_^

[kissthecajun]

http://www.inu-papa.com/random/364_nise.jpg

^_^ I thought that was all too cute.... Though in all seriousness, it makes the most sense for Goryoumaru to be Mouryoumaru, however, would it really be that easy? Frankly, I would expect something more... Surprising and unexpected. :unsure:

[Bakeneko]

While the catfish's revenge would be incredibly funny, I don't think that quite fits Naraku's master plan. (Besides, the second he made the slightest move toward Sango, Miroku'd give him another sound thrashing. ^_^ )

Don't feel bad that you were able to call a plot develoment. It just means that you've gotten into the author's groove. You should be proud. ^_^

[kissthecajun]

And I quote my beloved Inu.... "Feh."

Still, it would be nice to be served a curve ball on this one, even though him actually being Mouryoumaru is actually a kind of curve ball I suppose...

Still... Go Catfish!

[Bakeneko]

Oh, things aren't all said and done yet. Takahashi might have some real whoppers in store for us. ^_^

[kissthecajun]

-_-; I know... That's what worries me...

And thrills me at the same time :devil: :teehee:

[Bakeneko]

Aren't dichotomies great? ^_^

[Kagura Hakubi]

Dichotomies? Sounds nasty.. is it contagious?

[Bakeneko]

Only if you're unprotected. ^_^

[LinaLoN]

Naraku obviously left Kagura with that Goramaru guy (sorry for spelling) knowing full well that she'd break him out of the jail cell. When he came after Kagome he showed no intentions of hurting either Kagome or Inu. He probably would've left them unhurt if Inu hadn't opened his big mouth and pissed him off. So, Naraku must be somewhere waiting for something to reveal itself so that he can step in and make things Hell. (ironic names here).

[Bakeneko]

You get one bonus point for verbal irony.

[kissthecajun]

Awww... Come on, add another one for throwing in a cute twist... Which I like and sounds highly possible, or simply having Naraku busting in and shutting Gory... Mory... Dude-With-Funny-Arm-Man up before he says something that may ruin his plans. Can't have him giving the team any clues right?

The real question here, I believe, is... Not so much who he is. Okay, it's one of them. But the second question is, will they manage to get the shard back or will it be up to our favorite mini-skirt guy, Kouga to be the one keeping Naraku from the full jewel?

Kohaku doesn't even fit into the equation here... Although, here's an interesting idea. If Naraku removes the shard, will it matter? I'm sure Kohaku is healed enough by now, to be able to live without the jewel's power... Hmm... Maybe he'll remove it himself as an act of good will and to screw Naraku over and give it to the group?

Ouch... Brain hurting from over thinking... Must... Go... Not... Think... There can be 101 twists for this tale and I can't wait! ^_^

[Bakeneko]

Well, the group bats about .500 when it comes to getting stolen fragments back. No, I haven't bothered to get the actual figure, but there have been almost as many times that they get them back as they lose them.

As for Kohaku, I think Takahashi has been deliberately ambiguous as to his true state. If he died before being implanted with the fragment, then removing it will kill him just like the Shichinintai. However, if it was implanted while even the faintest vital signs remained, there's a good probability that he won't die from it's removal. I honestly can't say for sure which way it is, but Naraku has been known to give the Ikkou the wrong impression about things. Take the incident fifty years ago, for instance (even though the anime drops this revelation).

[Greek Honeybee]

Chapter 364 - "Transformation" is up!

Now THAT was an eventful chapter! :w00t: Now it seems we know for sure where Naraku's heart is. (unless there's some technicality we're unaware of) Don't bother with the spoilers because you won't believe it anyway, so go read it already! (http://www.ear-tweak.com/iy_manga/364)




Goryoumaru transforms, of course, into Mouryoumaru, but this is a completely new enemy for them. He's been given a soul. More importantly, however, he's absorbing the fragment he stole from Kagome. Much to Kagura's surprise, it seems. She begins to wonder if Hakudoushi is plotting against Naraku as well. Kagome stands up and fires an arrow at Mouryoumaru to hit the Shikon fragment, but his attack along with Sango's attempt to save her cause her to miss. Miroku then tries to use Kazaana, but Saimyoushou spout from Mouryoumaru's mouth and poison him. Sango has to save him also. (Go Sango!) Just as Mouryoumaru attacks Kagome again, a weakened Inuyasha defends her with a weakened Tessaiga, but is slammed to the ground for the effort. Just as Mouryoumaru is about to kill human Inuyasha, who should show up to save his life than... SESSHOUMARU!! With Jaken at his heels holding the youki crystal, stating that Mouryoumaru has no youki...

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*falls out of chair twitching* The miracles!

[Kagura Hakubi]

Sesshoumaru cho kakkoi! *looks around for a moment, grabs Chao-chan's Sesshoumaru plushie and practically kills it in her hug*

[Bakeneko]

Well, I was right about Mouryoumaru, but most people were guessing that. I congratulatethe few who were expecting a fashionably late appearance by Sesshoumaru. Yoku yatta na. ^_^

Well, no youki means that Mouryoumaru's absorbed the Fuyouheki. I wonder what else he's got in there... (Let's just say that I've got a good guess...)

More comments to come...

[kissthecajun]

Wow.

Is all that I had to say until I digest that.

Wouldn't it be funny if all of the sudden he shred off his skin and it turned out to be Naraku? Yeah, I figured that would be only me laughing... Hmm... I don't know, on the one hand killing him would solve a lot... On the other... There is some very cloud twist ahead.

I think however, the thoughtful good point maker in this one was Kagura. It would be interesting if Hakudoshi were trying to rid of Naraku as well...

[nerfer]

Wouldn't surprise me either, he seems just as creepy and ambitious as Naraku. Wouldn't put it past him to want to usurp him.

[Kagura Hakubi]

Actually, I always thought that creating Hakudoushi may have been Naraku's biggest mistake.... Kagura wants to off him. Hakudoushi is to Naraku what Darth Vader was to Emperor Palpatine.

[Bakeneko]

We'll see... I can't deny that it's a possibility, but I still doubt that Hakudoushi is playing against Naraku... I guess if Mini-Me can betray Dr. Evil, then anything's possible... lol

[Kagura Hakubi]

That would be the perfect way to solve things, though. Just lock Hakudoushi and Naraku in the same room, with a tea-cosy. They'll just keep trying to kill eachother over who gets to try it on first, and keep regenerating, giving us all the time in the world to solve the other problems related to them.

[Hankoubou]

Actually, I always thought that creating Hakudoushi may have been Naraku's biggest mistake.... Kagura wants to off him. Hakudoushi is to Naraku what Darth Vader was to Emperor Palpatine.

Well Hakudoushi also doesn't have a son that will be having force lightning used on him, he is also not cybernetically enhanced and is going to throw Naraku down a reactor core upon his death.

[Kagura Hakubi]

Ah. He has none of the disadvantages.

And that makes it better for Naraku... how?

Hakudoushi is evil. He'll try and take over at the first opportunity, seeing as he's the combatant half of Naraku.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Aie, and you know what the scariest part of this is?

Hakudoushi, while he may have the mind of an adult, looks like nothing more than an innocent young boy. So...deceiving!

[Kagura Hakubi]

young, yes, innocent? He looks about as innocent as Ryu with water dripping from his paws. (Ryu's a friend's cat..)

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I didn't say he WAS innocent. I said he LOOKED innocent--relatively. There is something about his eyes that screams EEEVIIIL!!, and there is always the pink hair; but how easy is it to see nothing but the innocence and ignorance that most children his age possess? So many people out there underestimate children...it is quite easy for someone to be fooled by his apparent age, alone.

[Kagura Hakubi]

ah, maybe I'm just too connected with him, he always looks evil as heck to these crimson eyes, no youthful innocence in him...

[Hankoubou]

Pink hair.....what are you talking about his hair is white.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Pink hair.....what are you talking about his hair is white.
His name may mean "the white boy" (so I've heard), but his hair is not white. Take a look here (http://www.inuyashaworld.com/screen_show.cfm?maxi=30&image=22&ep=142) at a picture of Hakudoushi, take a careful look at his hair, then look here (http://www.inuyashaworld.com/screen_show.cfm?maxi=30&image=10&ep=142) at picture of Inuyasha, whose hair is most definitely white (call it silver if you will, or silvery-white).

[mikosakura]

Okay, so he has really grungy looking gray.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Actually, no, that's a pale pinkish-white, almost like he had white hair and stained it the color of really pale roses, a color that has faded over time, leaving that pale pinkish-white behind. If one stares at him long enough, one will realize that his eyes bring out some of the pink in his hair. It probably would not be as noticable if he did not have pink eyes.

[Hankoubou]

No, his hair is definately a greyish color.

[mikosakura]

Okay, in the picture you linked to, his hair is unmistakably gray. His eyes are sort of mauvish though.

[Kagura Hakubi]

I admit, I've always thought of his hair as grey, but it is a little pinkish in some lights...

Anyway, Inuyasha's hair is silver :p

Inuyasha's sexiest villain, the black-haired Sailor Saturn, says so herself. (Sorry. I can't help but point out Yura's hairstyle like that...)

[mikosakura]

For a female, you're right. Male goes to Bankotsu.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Okay, in the picture you linked to, his hair is unmistakably gray. His eyes are sort of mauvish though.
Pink shadow. Pink-gray shadow. I said look CLOSELY.

[mikosakura]

I did. It's still gray.

[Hankoubou]

For a female, you're right. Male goes to Bankotsu.

More like best side villain goes to Bankotsu.

Pink shadow. Pink-gray shadow. I said look CLOSELY.

As did I and I am not seeing it at all.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I see it, why doesn't anyone else? And don't say I'm seeing things.

[mikosakura]

Because you're color blind? Or because you love pink so much you're projecting it where it isn't really?

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Because you're color blind? Or because you love pink so much you're projecting it where it isn't really?
I'm nowhere near color blind, I know that much; I have very, very good eyesight, thank you very much. I hate the color pink. Perhaps this is from years of training to pick out the tiniest hint of color in anything? I see slight shadows of pink brought out by the color of his eyes. And this is not the only picture in which I see pale pink highlights in his hair.

But you know what? I don't even know why I bother to continue arguing. What's the point? No one is going to agree with me, no matter what I do, I know that much. *starts chewing on bottom lip*

[mikosakura]

If anything, his hair is silghtly lilac.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*relaxes* Lilac is pinkish. Pinkish-purple. Pale pinkish-purple. Pale purple-pinkish?

[Kagura Hakubi]

Koryu-ane, I'd hate to think you were ignoring me...

I said it looked pink in some lights, didn't I?

[mikosakura]

You're right though, this is a pointly agruement. Please stop chewing your lip though, it's bad for you. *hands Tacchan a pot of lip gloss*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Koryu-ane, I'd hate to think you were ignoring me...

I said it looked pink in some lights, didn't I?
Of course I was not ignoring you! How could you ever think that I would? :D

You're right though, this is a pointly agruement. Please stop chewing your lip though, it's bad for you. *hands Tacchan a pot of lip gloss*
*takes lip gloss, then hands it back* I would hate to use yours. I will use my own. But thank you.

[mikosakura]

*Wrinkles nose* Ew. No, it's a new pot. I have this thing about sharing makeup. But okay, if you already have some that works.^_^

[Hankoubou]

Alright this is getting a little to far off shore, *looks to title of thread.*

I think we ought to show our respect and move back on course now.

[Kagura Hakubi]

not much more to say until the next chapter is released.

[Hankoubou]

Well no need to make so many posts until then.

[Greek Honeybee]

Yes. Discussing Hakudoushi's hair color (http://jurai-no-kishi.virtue.nu/inu/haku30.gif) is okay. Exchanging lip gloss is pushing things. lol

[mikosakura]

My bad.-_-;

[Hankoubou]

Yes. Discussing Hakudoushi's hair color (http://jurai-no-kishi.virtue.nu/inu/haku30.gif) is okay. Exchanging lip gloss is pushing things. lol

He seems to still have the greyish white hair in that picture, but I am seeing bloches of purple as if someone spilled something on him instead of a shading done by an artist.

[Greek Honeybee]

My bad. -_-;
S'okay. ^_^

And that's the way Miss Takahashi painted his hair on the cover of manga Volume 30, so that's what color it is. *shrug* Since this is a thread discussing manga stuffs and all, I went for the manga reference.

Edit: Ooh! I almost forgot these!
ch352-01 (http://jurai-no-kishi.virtue.nu/inu/haku352_01.jpg)
ch352-02 (http://jurai-no-kishi.virtue.nu/inu/haku352_02.jpg)
ch352-03 (http://jurai-no-kishi.virtue.nu/inu/haku352_03.jpg)
His hair color does seem to change. I guess it's irridescent or something.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I KNEW HIS HAIR WAS PURPLISH-PINKISH!! *hugs Honeybee-sama*

[Hankoubou]

Funny because it changes in all 4 of those.

The first link was that purple color.

The last post.

#1-Purple
#2-Pink
#3-Blue

I don't think it matters anymore.

[Bakeneko]

Nobody's going to talk about linebacker Sango? She was really on the ball this week. Seeing her dive in to save Miroku was a particularly nice touch when you compare it to the time he did the same to her in the battle with Juuroumaru and Kageroumaru. ^_^

Those blasts from Toukijin that heralded Sesshoumaru's arrival on the scene... Am I the only one thinking that someone learned a new attack? I'd laugh if the attack's name is "Sesshoumaru." lol (That is, of course, presuming that it is in fact a new attack...)

[kissthecajun]

::giggles::

Nice way to throw everyone back on course... Linebacker Sango? Well... I guess... Some of those moves however did remind me of League of Their Own anyway, Sango is for sure the hero of this chapter, saving everyone the way she did... With those dives... No wonder Miroku loves her butt.

Anyway, yeah, Hakudoshi thought... Mini-Me-Maybe-Pink-Maybe-Alabaster-Haired-Boy isn't Naraku's spawn, he is the same thing as Naraku, a piece of him, isn't he? After all, he was created from half of Naraku's baby, which held his heart, meaning a slice of him, and in one of the anime episodes (not sure if this goes for the manga as well) you see the spider scar on his back, something non of the others, as far as we know, have... So what does that say? Plus, he already stated to Kagura when she tried to off him, not to try because he and Naraku are connected... Thus Naraku promptly squeezed her heart... Once again, there is a difference between the "spawn" and the "other half".

Which leads me to think... That Hakudoshi, the oh so NOT innocent looking little boy.. Wouldn't betray Naraku. This is all some other plan in the works here.

Silly thought I had as I woke up to discover my cat sleeping on my face (i think he is trying to kill me, but never mind that) since Mory is using Gory's body, wouldn't Sesshy be able to use his sword to revive Gory's body, meaning revive his soul as well and thus push out Mory and Baby Naraku take 2?

I made no sense there.... -_-;

[Kagura Hakubi]

All the Bunshin have the scar. Look, I'll show you.

*turns round and lets her top slip off her shoulders: warning, slight nudity (http://img34.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Bakeneko-ouji/Inuyasha/kagura11.jpg)*

How about the others? Kanna, we're not sure about, Kageromaru doesn't have enough of a back to have a scar there, Juroumaru we don't know about, and little brother Goshinki... http://img34.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Bakeneko-ouji/Inuyasha/goshin2.jpg

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Just like Naraku can't get rid of the spider scar on his back, so his bushin all have it, too; so it would be of little surprise if Hakudoushi also has it.

[mikosakura]

Those blasts from Toukijin that heralded Sesshoumaru's arrival on the scene... Am I the only one thinking that someone learned a new attack? I'd laugh if the attack's name is "Sesshoumaru." lol (That is, of course, presuming that it is in fact a new attack...)It really didn't seem that much different from the previous times he's used Toukijin. He did look slightly angry though, which for Sesshoumaru is unusual. Prehaps the anger add to the strength of the attack.

[Kagura Hakubi]

Actually, I was under the impression that the ball of energy attack was his energy form...

Oh, wait, that's an invention of the anime -_-;

[kissthecajun]

My mistake with the scar... heh... heh... -_-;

I just figured so because of the surprise on Kagura's face when she saw the scar in the anime...

[Bakeneko]

Since Tacchan seems to only believe Hakudoushi has the scar by means of logical conclusion, I'm providing photgraphic evidence to dispell any doubt.

http://img34.photobucket.com/albums/v104/Bakeneko-ouji/Inuyasha/haku1.jpg

This comes from 31.7, where and arrow from Hijiri-sama tears through Hakudoushi's barrier and Inuyasha blasts both the brat and his pet pony with a good Kaze no Kizu. He's almost completely regenerated his body at this point.

Sakura-kun, whenever Sesshoumaru has used Toukijin before, the effect has always been a slash-arc along the sweep of the blade. Before, the only ranged aspect was the sheer ken'atsu exuded by the sword. Unless my eyes deceive me, those orbs were focused energy shot from the sword, something we've never seen before.

Nobody laughed at my clever pun... Chi...

Kagura, I'd think a lady would have a little more modesty. *remembers 350-351...* Never mind... -_-;

For those of you that read my "changes" thread, remember how I point out that the anime makes Kohaku's eyes all dull and inexpressive when he's being possessed but Takahashi doesn't? I've noticed something. Look at Mouryoumaru from the flashback and then compare it to Gouryoumaru now. Notice that Takahashi did employ the technique, but for her it's meant to indicate the absence of a soul. (One of the big clues that Kohaku wasn't just some puppet way back when.) Omoshiroi ne?

Well, Cajun, there's a small problem to your reviving Goryoumaru theory. There's already another soul inside the body for one. Second, it's probably be too late to revive him. I think the servants of the netherworld work relatively quickly acting within a day after death is finalized. (I say "finalized" because a lot of mostly dead youkai can still regenerate themselves in a matter of days under the right conditions.)

My hunch is that Naraku's heart is in Mouryoumaru (which is why he absorbed the Fuyoheki), which means that things are about to get very hairy. I doubt Naraku and Hakudoushi are going to sit idly by if there's a risk to the heart. Of course, all the magnitude of the youki that'll come with Naraku's appearance plus his scent multiplied by three (Naraku, Hakudoushi and Kagura) could easily lead to the appearance of the last two members on the guest list for the final battle. ^_^

[Bakeneko]

Kagura's surprise isn't from the scar, but rather the fact that Hakudoushi doesn't have a heart. This, of course, means that Naraku's heart is somewhere else. (She figures it all out by 32.6, but that hasn't made her job any easier...)

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Since Tacchan seems to only believe Hakudoushi has the scar by means of logical conclusion, I'm providing photgraphic evidence to dispell any doubt.
Oi, ousama...What's that supposed to mean? *eyes warily* I said I thought he had the scar because all the rest of Naraku's bushin had the scar, because Naraku had the scar.

[Bakeneko]

By the way you were talking, it seemed that you believed Hakudoushi had the scar but had never seen it yourself. I was simply providing solid confirmation for your conclusion. Wakatta kai?

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Oh. Arigatou.

[Kagura Hakubi]

Modesty? oh... that... uhm... yeah... sorry. I have a tendency of thinking of clothes as something to keep you warm or make you look better... eheheh...

Ok, so I'm a "barbarian"... so? -_-;

[mikosakura]

Sakura-kun, whenever Sesshoumaru has used Toukijin before, the effect has always been a slash-arc along the sweep of the blade. Before, the only ranged aspect was the sheer ken'atsu exuded by the sword. Unless my eyes deceive me, those orbs were focused energy shot from the sword, something we've never seen before. Oh well. My mistake. I suppose I ought to pay a little more attention to the details.-_-;

[Bakeneko]

*possessed by spirit of drill sergeant*

What is your major malfunction, pri'ate!? Attention to detail! You will learn it before you leave here! Attention to detail makes the difference between life and death on the battlefield. If you're backing me up, can I trust you to keep your weapon on safety and pointed down-range or is my wife gonna pick up a $250,000 check because you're a ****in' dumb***!? Shut up. Did I give you permission to speak? Beat your face, pri'ate, and don't stop 'til my arms get tired. Attention to detail, pri'ate. You will learn it.

*spirit leaves Bakeneko*

:blink: Osoroshikatta...

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I think your past is coming back to haunt you, my lord. Here, care for a drink? Perhaps it will clear your head. *hands Bakeneko a glass of red juice* It has not been drugged, there is no alcohol of any sorts in it--it's just a glass of juice, I promise.

[Bakeneko]

Kekkou da zo... Chotto onore o ushinatta... I'm fine... Just lost myself for a bit...

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Spirits possessing the body of the almighty cat demon lord of the west? Pft! Here, take it anyway. Even if you think you do not need it, just humor me, would you?

[Hankoubou]

Or if you need something stronger than that juice, don't forget my wine cellar.

[Bakeneko]

Hai, hai, nomu zo. Ho~ntou ni hen na mon ga nee ka ne? Alright, alright, I'll drink it. Are you sure there's nothing wierd in it?

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Hai, hai, nomu zo. Ho~ntou ni hen na mon ga nee ka ne? Alright, alright, I'll drink it. Are you sure there's nothing wierd in it?
*bottom lip trembles* My lord? Don't you trust me?

[Bakeneko]

Sonna kao shitenee zo! Nomu to itta kara ore ga nomu. Don't make that face! I said I'm gonna drink it, so I'm gonna drink it.

*laps up contents of glass very quickly... Bakeneko apparently has a very fast tongue... -_-;*

Chotto hen na aji kedo... ii ka...

[Hankoubou]

I won't even mention how bad that could be taken, or what came to my mind at the time.

[Bakeneko]

Ore wa neko dakara. Ushi no you ni gabugabu nomu nanka dekinee zo. Shita igai dougu wa nee n da. I'm a cat, after all. I can't guzzle things down like a cow. All I've got is my tongue.

[Kagura Hakubi]

And arms. Foxes drink in the same way as cats, normally, but I use a glass normally when I go foxy :p

And she isn't wierd. She's showing concern. Unless you were using "Hen" as a low scots word, I suggest you take that back.

[Bakeneko]

I said it tasted funny, the weird red juice she gave me. Besides, I'm not familiar with Low Scots...

[Kagura Hakubi]

*panicks* That's an embarrasing misunderstanding! I didn't mean it like that... forget I said anything about low scots, if you use the low scots "hen" (meaning a female) then that turns into some kind of wierd perverted...

*much hand-talking and panicked babbling ensues*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

My lord, it tasted funny? It shouldn't have. *stares at empty glass* It was just a glass of juice that one would drink at the table for dinner. I think it was cran-apple...or was it cranberry? I'll have to ask Aki-chan.

[Bakeneko]

:| Kagura, omae na...

Kuranberi~ ka... Are na no ka? Iya, nigai a~mondo no you... *ぎく* Yabee!

Cranberries... Was that it? No, more like bitter almonds... *urk* Oh crud!

*falls face-down on the floor, motionless*

[Hankoubou]

Yeah, I agree cranberries aren't the best tasting thing, next time I come I shall bring some drinks myself, it might be fun to see their effect on Tacchan.

[Greek Honeybee]

Ack! Bake-sama! :O Here, try eating this. *hands him a jar of honey*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

:| Kagura, omae na...

Kuranberi~ ka... Are na no ka? Iya, nigai a~mondo no you... *ぎく* Yabee!

Cranberries... Was that it? No, more like bitter almonds... *urk* Oh crud!

*falls face-down on the floor, motionless*
Forgive me, ousama, for doing this, but it is the only way I can think of to help you.

*grabs giant bucket of icy cold water and dumps it on Bakeneko*

Yeah, I agree cranberries aren't the best tasting thing, next time I come I shall bring some drinks myself, it might be fun to see their effect on Tacchan.
I'm glad you think that is so amusing, oshou-sama. But I should warn you that I don't do too well with alcohol in my system. Last time someone tried that on me, I burnt half the north wall of the dining hall. No one was too happy about that.

[Hankoubou]

That is why I will do it when I come back west, that way it isn't my property that it being destroyed.:shifty:

[mikosakura]

Do you really want to deal with a drunken dragon though? It may not be your property she destroys, but you'l be close enough that she may decide to burn you.

[Hankoubou]

I'm not worried about it, if worse comes to worse, I will just have to slay the beast.

[mikosakura]

Spike! That "beast" is Tacchan! You can't slay her!

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Oshou-sama...you were thinking of slaying me?

*collapses into a chair* First I get reprimanded by Bake-heika because I sounded like a stuck-up brat, then I find out oshou-sama is plotting to stuff me with alcohol and make me sick, and then slay me if I cause too much trouble...

Why do I feel like the entire world is against me today?

[mikosakura]

*zen pats Tacchans shoulder* Don't worry, he won't slay you. *glares at Spike*

[Kagura Hakubi]

If he tries, he'll feel my wind-blades. Don't worry, JKoryu-ane, I'm on your side.

[mikosakura]

Just try not to kill him, okay Kagura?

[Hankoubou]

Please, no puny wind blade scares me, seeings how no one wants the Tessaiga I stole I have just held onto it and have acquired most skills.

[mikosakura]

On second thought, he could use a good humbling. Let him have it Kagura.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Please, no puny wind blade scares me, seeings how no one wants the Tessaiga I stole I have just held onto it and have acquired most skills.
How about we NOT fight here, people! There is no reason for anyone to have to draw out any weapons. We are supposed to be getting along here, not finding ways to start a war!

[mikosakura]

You're right. *eyes Spike nervously* I really don't want to be stuck between the North and West if there's a war.

[Kagura Hakubi]

*flips her fan open and uses it to hide her face, only her eyes showing*

He hasn't tried anything yet, koryu-ane... I'll not do anything unless you are threatened, don't worry...

And you, oh great oushou, should be more wary of my power. I'm no small fry, you know... While Naraku still controls my heart, I have only limited power, but soon... soon I'll be more dangerous than you can ever imagine...

*eyes glow briefly as voice trails off into the ensuing silence*

[Hankoubou]

That must be one big wind if it will make it this far. If I need to slay anyone there will be no threats, just action.

[Kagura Hakubi]

That sword of yours will take long enough to reach Koryu-ane that I'll easily be able to match the speed. And I am youkaze. My wind could reach around the world and hit me in the back if I so chose to direct it.

[mikosakura]

Guys, please stop fighting. Please? *Turns to Spike tries to look as pleading and innocent as possible*

[Hankoubou]

Your tricks don't work on me. *Tries not to look.*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*grabs Kagura-san's fan and snaps it shut* I said no fighting! There is no need to fight over this matter; oshou-sama is not going to slay me, if he knows what's good for him, and that is that! *faces the north, toward oshou-sama* You hear me, priest? There is no reason to get into any sort of argument, and all this is going to do is hurt many people, including your beloved! So both of you! Stop it! Now!

[mikosakura]

What do you mean "tricks"? *gazes at Spike sadly*

[Kagura Hakubi]

*opens the fan again*

will you leave the fan? It's hot in here. And I'm not fighting. If I was fighting, well... the property damage would be through the roof. *smiles, waving the fan lazily beside her face*

[Hankoubou]

No, I am not going to fall for this. *Turns away.*

[mikosakura]

Oh...*lowers head and saddly walks off to guest room*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*opens the fan again*

will you leave the fan? It's hot in here. And I'm not fighting. If I was fighting, well... the property damage would be through the roof. *smiles, waving the fan lazily beside her face*
If you say so. Just don't think o fusing that fan on anyone, or I'm taking it away again. And I mean it.

Oh...*lowers head and saddly walks off to guest room*
Sakura-sama? Are you going to be all right?

At this moment I am quite tempted to bash out the brains of a certain half-demon priest, but I know better. I am mature and I realize that this is an argument that I should not be getting myself into. However, because I am the cause of the argument, I feel it is my duty to attempt to keep the peace around here. Of course, in order to do so, I require the cooperation of others. And since not everyone is willing to cooperate it seems, keeping the peace is going to be quite the challenge.

*zen glares at oshou-sama*

[mikosakura]

I'm fine, it's not your fault. And don't be mad at Spike. It's not his fault that he can't trust me. *Buries face in a pillow*

[Kagura Hakubi]

As you wish, master...

*lowers her eyes subserviently... then shakes herself off, suddenly irritated at something*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Since when am I your master? I am merely one of your fellows, nothing more.

Sakura-sama, don't cry. Please?

Oshou-sama, where are you?!

[Hankoubou]

I'm in my cellar making avatars and ingesting many a drinks.

[mikosakura]

I..I'm not crying. *quickly wipes eyes*

[Kagura Hakubi]

Ingrained reaction... I hate it when that triggers... Often happens when someone gives me an order like that... pay it no heed, really.

And if that priest doesn't trust you... I'm worried about your relationship, Sakura.

[mikosakura]

*releases pillow and sits up* It's oaky, really. Thank you for being concerned though. *zen hugs Kagura*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Why would we not be concerned? I consider you one of my friends, Sakura-sama, and I'm always concerned when my friends are upset. This argument started because of me. You're close to tears because of me. Your relationship... Never mind. Let's not go there. I wish I could hand you a teddy bear or something to cuddle. Perhaps a stuffed Inuyasha? Or a stuffed Miroku?

Oshou-sama, get out of the cellar and comfort your beloved like most lovers do! And I don't care if you are not "most lovers"--so don't use that excuse! Don't act like nothing is happening! At least go TALK to her!

[Hankoubou]

Hmmmm....been there done that.

*Finishes work and drinks.*

See, at least she had her own room to go to, guest room wasn't a bad idea.

[mikosakura]

Rude, arrogent selfish hanyou...*grabs bow and quiver of arrows off floor and storms off to go practice*

[Kagura Hakubi]

*closes the fan. looks at it.*

Let me hit him with it. Just once. Please?

[mikosakura]

*sighs* No, I can't do that. It would result in war. Besides, for some unknown reason I would actually feel horrible if anything happened to the jerk. *notches arrow and fires at tree*

[Kagura Hakubi]

War? Why? I'm not affiliated with any of the political factions beyond my, let's face it, devotion to koryu-ane.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*sighs* No, I can't do that. It would result in war. Besides, for some unknown reason I would actually feel horrible if anything happened to the jerk. *notches arrow and fires at tree*
That's because he is your beloved and you care deeply for him, even if he IS a jerk.

Hmmmm....been there done that.

*Finishes work and drinks.*

See, at least she had her own room to go to, guest room wasn't a bad idea.
"Been there, done that", eh? WELL BE THERE AND DO THAT AGAIN! BA~~~~KA~~~~~~~!!

[Kagura Hakubi]

Those two are as bad as me and Naraku just before he pulled his trick ¬_¬

[mikosakura]

Yes, and due to your alliance with Tacchan, you spend what seems to be the majority of your time in the West. Spike is Lord of the North. If something were to happen it could easily lead to altercations between the West and North. *fires second arrow, but without as much conviction*

[Hankoubou]

That's because he is your beloved and you care deeply for him, even if he IS a jerk.


"Been there, done that", eh? WELL BE THERE AND DO THAT AGAIN! BA~~~~KA~~~~~~~!!

I would, but perhaps she is practicing her sealing skills, and I don't feel like being outside then, plus this is all too fun.

[Kagura Hakubi]

There is only one word that econpasses all of your attitude at the moment, and it's four letters long, beginning with "e".

[mikosakura]

Coward.*struggles to control purifying aura*

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I would, but perhaps she is practicing her sealing skills, and I don't feel like being outside then, plus this is all too fun.
No, she is taking her frustration out on a tree. Don't you trust her enough not to seal you on the spot? Sakura-sama is not the cruel-hearted, nor do I think she is capable of it; she is a gentle soul with a kind, compassionate heart. She said herself she would feel bad if you were hurt, despite the fact that you are being a jerk.

This is fun? It may be fun to you, but sometimes what is fun for the criminal is not fun for the victim. She does not find this very amusing, so why not just put aside your laughter and talk to her?

[mikosakura]

I'm fine. Really. If he wishes to be a drunkard, that is entirely up to him. But could someone please tell me what four letter word starts with "e"?

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I think the only person around here who knows it is Kagura-san, because I don't know either. I can think of other words right now that would describe his attitude, but not one begins with "e."

[Kagura Hakubi]

It's obvious. The word is "Evil".

[Hankoubou]

Hey I will have you know that I can hold my alcohol well, so I request you relinquish the drunkard statement.

I too am at loss for this e word.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*suddenly starts banging head on wall*

You know, we should probably get back to the topic. I do not think Honeybee-sama would be too pleased to find her thread has gone so out of whack, when she specificlly requested that we stay on topic. But of course, that's hard to do until the next manga chapter comes out.

Unless we start discussing other aspects of the manga, which I think would count; but is anyone else in the mood for that?

[mikosakura]

Oh. Okay, not the kind of four letter word I was thinking of. Thank you for explaining.

[mikosakura]

Hey I will have you know that I can hold my alcohol well, so I request you relinquish the drunkard statement.

Yeah, right. Jaken could probably drink circles around you.

[Kagura Hakubi]

Jakken would probably absorb the alchohol through his skin... or is that frogs?

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Jaken drink circles around oshou-sama? My apologies, but that brought forth quite the amusing image in my mind. *snicker*

[Kagura Hakubi]

I reckon THAT should be a chapter in the manga. The all-characters drinking contest... I reckon it'll be Miroku and Sesshoumaru vying for first place. (Sessh has demonic constitution, Miroku likes his Sake...)

[mikosakura]

No need to apologize, it is a rather amusing image. But seriously, we should probably either get back on topic or start a new thread specifically for the off topic ramblings.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I reckon THAT should be a chapter in the manga. The all-characters drinking contest... I reckon it'll be Miroku and Sesshoumaru vying for first place. (Sessh has demonic constitution, Miroku likes his Sake...)
*falls out of chair roaring with laughter*

[mikosakura]

But could either of them have beat Mushin?

[Kagura Hakubi]

Probably, he'd START the match half-dead with drink...

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

No, I think not!

[mikosakura]

Probably, he'd START the match half-dead with drink...
Yeah, but he's the one that taught Miroku.

[Kagura Hakubi]

hm, he probably has a normal tolerance for alchohol then. Starting off drunk for Mushin is like being sober for most humans ;)

[Hankoubou]

Mushin is who corrupted Miroku into the Womanizer he is as well.

(Good thing we went back on topic, now I don't have to deal with a certain someone.)

[Kagura Hakubi]

(PM him.)

True, but is that relevant to his capacity for drink?

[mikosakura]

So he's like superman gone wrong.^_^

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

So he's like superman gone wrong.^_^
Superman gone horribly wrong--not to mention fat and bald, with a constant flush on his cheeks from always being drunk.

[Hankoubou]

(PM him.)

True, but is that relevant to his capacity for drink?

I am just defending Miroku. I could careless who drinks more, probably Kagome.

(Him? I was talking about Sakura.)

[mikosakura]

lol Now picture that in tights.
Oh, and Spike, bite me.

[Kagura Hakubi]

And devout. Mushin probably IS a devout buddhist. He has the powers to show he beleives in it, even if he's too fixed on the pleasures of the flesh to deal.

[Bakeneko]

*pops up*

Nanchatte! ^_^ ... ... ... :| ... ... ... Eeto... Nanka... Kono fun'iki wa... Kuuki ga omoi... >_<

Gotcha! ... ... ... ... ... ... Um... Ah... The atmosphere is kinda... Air's a bit heavy...

[Kagura Hakubi]

*absently* Anticyclone building over the area, causing high-pressure to build up.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*holds hands out in front of her* Anatasama wa au, ousama.You're right, my lord. I can feel the heaviness in the air, almost. No wonder my shoulders feel so heavy.

[Kagura Hakubi]

ah, I'm not so sensitive to emtional auras.. I thought you were talking about the weather.

[Bakeneko]

I kinda thought you were gonna rampage there for a bit, Tacchan, me playin' dead and all, pretendin' Aki spiked the juice with cyanide... I guess Spike's behavior has distracted all attention away from me... -_-;

[Kagura Hakubi]

You would really cast suspicion apon poor, sweet Aki-chan?

*seems personally offended at the idea*

[Greek Honeybee]

I kinda thought you were gonna rampage there for a bit, Tacchan, me playin' dead and all, pretendin' Aki spiked the juice with cyanide... I guess Spike's behavior has distracted all attention away from me... -_-;
Yeah, they were too busy turning this whole thread into a cyclone. :D

[Bakeneko]

I suppose Tacchan could've poisoned me just as easily. -_-;

Anyway, we're going to upset Honeybee if we go off topic any more. Speaking of you, Honeybee, I've been lurking around the Quad 9 Dyne forums lately and let me tell you how glad I am that certain... subjects of discussion from the latest chapter haven't come up here... -_-;

[Greek Honeybee]

Oh, I'm not that upset. I know you guys are just having fun. And I can't exactly stop you, even if it did bother me.

And, d00d, I don't know how that got passed me the first time! :censored:

[Bakeneko]

Well, I'm thankful I didn't notice it... You've got to wonder where some people's minds are... -_-;

[Greek Honeybee]

Makes me wonder where Miss Takahashi's mind is. lol

[Hankoubou]

This sounds like something that would interest my mind.

[Bakeneko]

Not unless you've been keeping secrets from us... :P

[Kuro]

Dude, I had to totally pore over that chapter, and even I didn't notice it until... yeah.

XD

[Bakeneko]

Hey, it wasn't you who pointed it out, Kuro-dono. The blame rests squarely on the shoulders of your pals SaraInuyasha for catching it and Deedala for putting it on display for everyone. So wrong... Ore no me ga... Me ga... >_<

[Hankoubou]

All you do is cause curiosity in all of us who have no clue what you are talking about.

[Greek Honeybee]

He's right. We are going to wind up bringing the conversation here, aren't we? I don't know if Tacchan can handle it... Or Spike, for that matter.

[Bakeneko]

Dakara himitsu o mamore. Nandemo attemo zettai ni mamoru n da. So we keep it a secret. No matter what happens, we keep it secret.

[Kagura Hakubi]

tell me. PM if you have to.. but secrets make me feel ill.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Oi, what are you all talking about? This dragon is very confused and has a feeling that no one is going to explain it to her. This dragon is also starting to feel left out. What do you think I can't handle, huh?

[Bakeneko]

Ore wa ien. Iwanu-beshi koto da. I won't say. It's something that musn't be said.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Demo...Nande?

[kissthecajun]

::sits on the side sucking thumb and watching::

[Greek Honeybee]

It's just a couple people over at Quad 9 Dyne (Kuro's boards) being perverted and pointing out a *ahem* small detail in the last chapter that most people would miss. But it is rather disturbing, so you're better off. Just know this: Remember that imaginary skit I recently came up with about the Inu group fighting some freaky tentacle youkai? This is scarier. -_-;

[Hankoubou]

Spike already did some work and went to those forums and I now know what they are talking about, and I would just assume that it is from another youkai, but those kids can go on seeing it as they like.

[kissthecajun]

::is lost::

I'm dim witted for today, due to heat I presume. But whatever the case may be, would someone mind just spelling it out please? :blink:

Or... Feh... Dunno. ^_^

[Bakeneko]

Well, Spike, I hope you're right...

Cajun, Tacchan, you're better off not knowing. Trust me on this.

[Hankoubou]

I'm so tempted to post it and point it.

[kissthecajun]

But... But... Curiosity killed the cat and I say 'meow!'

that and... Well... See, now it's just gonna make me wonder... that will lead to too much thinking... which will lead to friends beating me up and being asked what i am on, which will therefore go on to lead to thought filled nights, thus sleepless, which will cause me not to be able to stay awake at work (yeah. shame. not.) and then get into trouble.... It's a whirl wind. Eventually I may lose my place, family will disown me, i will be a social out cast, then get kicked out on the street, penniless and battered...

All because I didn't know!

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Cajun, Tacchan, you're better off not knowing. Trust me on this.
*sticks out tongue*

Someone give me the link to that forum! I'm going to go check this out for myself! *marches off*

[Bakeneko]

I'm so tempted to post it and point it.

Dame!

Cajun, the consequences of knowing are much worse.

Tacchan, if you're that bent on finding out, go to Kuro-dono's site. A link to the forums are buried somewhere. I'm not going to lead you to the rabbit hole, though.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Tacchan, if you're that bent on finding out, go to Kuro-dono's site. A link to the forums are buried somewhere. I'm not going to lead you to the rabbit hole, though.
Prft. What annoys me is that I get this impression that you're thinking I can't handle it, or something. Perhaps this is the time to say that I'm willing to bet I have seen FAR worse than what you are talking about. And don't get me started! I have seen things in fanfiction alone that would make some diehard fans weep! (You want me to get into details? You want me to go search for all the nasty things I have found?)

I'm not as innocent as I may appear. It's all an illusion. *eyes glow*

[Greek Honeybee]

I'm not as innocent as I appear either, and still..

Well, at least we've sufficiently warned them. ^_^

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Even so, that does not keep me from getting frustrated to the point where I'm tempted to PM Kuro-sama and ask her herself where the link to those damned forums are! But you know what? Forget it. If you are just going to keep secrets from me, it's not I have any power to stop you or force you to confess. I'm just not going to bother pressing it. If I manage to find it on Kuro-sama's site, then I find it. If I'm squicked by it, so be it. (Though I seriously doubt you all can scare me like you think I can.) You want to talk over my head as I'm a little girl? Then do so. I have better things to do than pester people to tell me something they're not going to tell me.

I should get back to my research.

[Greek Honeybee]

*sigh* Okay, if you say so. Just go to page 3 of the chapter on Kuro's site and gaze in wonder at Mouryoumaru's monumental appendage. It's there. Enjoy! ^_^

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Page three of what chapter?

[Greek Honeybee]

The latest chapter. 364.

[Bakeneko]

Uragirimono!

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Thank you so much, Honeybee-sama. *goes off to look at said chapter* *sees what she thinks is the "monumental appendage"*

*starts roaring uncontrollably with laughter, and falls out of chair to continue laughing so hard that her sides ache and tears fill her eyes*

You were so secretive over something like THAT?!

*continues LMAO*

[Greek Honeybee]

What! She was throwing a fit! If she wants to be ecchi and gawk at it so badly, that's her choice. Besides, I'm sure we've taken the shock value out of it with all our warnings anyway. :rolleyes:

Oh, and you're welcome. ^_^

[Bakeneko]

Temee... <_<

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

I don't see what the big deal is over that. It's nothing. I've seen, and read, a lot worse than that. *is still shaking with laughter*

Bake-heika, daijoubu? You're not mad at me, are you? *goes up to Bakeneko and gives him her cutest, most innocent look* Were you worried that your innocent vassal would be corrupted?

[Greek Honeybee]

I don't see what the big deal is over that. It's nothing. I've seen, and read, a lot worse than that. *is still shaking with laughter*
We'll just remember that the next time you give us the innocent act to get Spike into trouble. :shifty: :D

[Bakeneko]

Ke, omae wa mou kizumo-- Iya, shou ga nee ja nee ka... Feh, looks like you're already-- Uh, it can't be helped, can it?

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Ke, omae wa mou kizumo-- Iya, shou ga nee ja nee ka... Feh, looks like you're already-- Uh, it can't be helped, can it?
I'm already what? Oi, what is on that mind of yours? What did you think I meant when I said I had seen and read worse?

We'll just remember that the next time you give us the innocent act to get Spike into trouble.
What? Oh...drat it! *snaps fingers* Well, it can't be helped.

[Bakeneko]

Nandemonee yo. Iminashi shabeteta dake dei... Nothin'. Just talkin' nonsense.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

*taps fingers on desk* If you say so, my lord. (I'm trying really hard not to think of that picture, or else I know I'm going to collapse laughing and probably bang my head against the wall.)

[Bakeneko]

Hentai musume...

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Hentai musume...
*eyes glow red* NA~~~NI~~~!?!?! Watashi wa hentai musume arimasu, ousama? Nande anatasama iu? DATTE WATASHI WA OMOIMASEN!!WHAAAAAAAT?! I'm a perverted girl, my lord? What do you say that? BECAUSE I THINK NOT!

[Greek Honeybee]

lol You brought this on yourself, Tacchan!

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Yeah, but that does not give him the right to call me perverted, when he is one of the ones who is a part of this forum discussion in the first place. If he has the right to call me perverted, then don't I have the right to call him the same, since he is accusing me of something that he is also perhaps guilty of? It seems very...what's the word I'm looking for? Contradictory?

[Bakeneko]

Kankei nee daro. Does it matter?

In other news, your Japanese has improved substantially, but it still needs some tweaks. Remember that "aru" is for inanimate objects only. Last time I looked, you seemed rather animate to me. (Besides, in honorific speech, you'd use "gozaru.") When equating yourself with something, you use the copula "da" for the verb, which we'd upscope to "de gozaru." If you were talking to someone closer to your rank, I'd have a more typical construction, but as things are, I'll have to recommend that you settle for the interogative particle "ka." The end product is "Watashi wa hentai musume de gozaimasu ka, ousama?"

Next, "naze" is more polite than "nande" and you want to use "ossharu" instead of "iu." (These are all simple propriety issues. You'd otherwise be correct.) Don't forget your particles. "Wa" will suffice for "anatasama." Lastly, we have to put in the "that." The two best options are "sonna koto" ("such a thing," a direct object) and "sou" ("that way," and adverb). Let's use "sou," shall we? "Naze anatasama wa sou osshaimasu ka?" (The interrogative particle helps put emphasis on your stream of questions.)

You're last sentence is almost perfect, but we need to do just a couple things. "Datte" is too informal, so we'll use "kara" at the end. (This is one of those other meanings I was telling you about. "Kara" means because when used after a verb, adjective or the copula.) Because we want to specify how you're not thinking, we'll use "sou" again. Normally, I'd consider this kind of thing redundant, but the repetition works well with your mood. "Watashi wa sou omoimasen kara!" Congratulations on correctly conjugating "omou" into the polite, by the way.

Yes, yes, you're moving along swimmingly. ^_^

[Greek Honeybee]

Yeah, but that does not give him the right to call me perverted, when he is one of the ones who is a part of this forum discussion in the first place. If he has the right to call me perverted, then don't I have the right to call him the same, since he is accusing me of something that he is also perhaps guilty of? It seems very...what's the word I'm looking for? Contradictory?
The thing is, he was highly disturbed by that image. He tried to protect you from that same reaction, since you've always given the impression that you're sensitive, and he's defended you before. The more we talked about how wrong it was, the more intrigued you became, until you outright insisted. The image merely amused you and you brushed it off, stating that you've sought out worse things than that. That would make you more hentai than him, by comparison. :naughty:

[Bakeneko]

lol You brought this on yourself, Tacchan!

Sou iu koto da. Tonikaku, semeru no wa shihaisha no kenri da zo. ^_^ That's right. Anyway, accusation is a ruler's right.

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

Does it matter? No, I guess not.

*suddenly starts giggling madly*

Thank you. Of course, it helps that I have such a great teacher. :D ;)

[Mikadzuki Tatsu]

The thing is, he was highly disturbed by that image. He tried to protect you from that same reaction, since you've always given the impression that you're sensitive, and he's defended you before. The more we talked about how wrong it was, the more intrigued you became, until you outright insisted. The image merely amused you and you brushed it off, stating that you've sought out worse things than that. That would make you more hentai than him, by comparison. :naughty:
The only reason I was not totally disturbed by that image is because, as I have said once before, I know some people who are "sicker" than I am, and it is kind of hard to keep their "sickness" from rubbing off on me, even a little. Besides, due to those people, I hear sick jokes like that all the time. I know that, if a friend of mine were reading that, she would have cried out, "OH MY GOD! LOOK AT THAT! IT LOOKS LIKE--"

Does that make me more hentai than anyone else? It's not my fault that some people I know have sick minds.

It is nice of him, though, to want to shelter me from that. Arigatou gozaimasu, tennouheika. :redface: *wraps arms around Bakeneko's neck in a hug* That's so sweet of you. *scratches him between the ears*

[Bakeneko]

*suddenly starts giggling madly*

Thank you. Of course, it helps that I have such a great teacher. :D ;)


Aa? Nan no imi dei? Huh? What's that supposed to mean?