#gitnama

Takasugi: You’ve challenged me to fight six times since I regained consciousness.

Future Kagura after a good bath =w=

Day 27: A Character You Relate the Most

I would I have to say a bit between Shinpachi and Hijikata, because both always end up reluctantly cleaning up other people’s messes.

In my last review, I talked about how Sorachi uses time-skip in a very effective way and why it stands out brilliantly. I thought the war would be enough satisfaction for me to endure before it ends. Never would I thought a time-skip that could have simply be an epilogue would have me so absorbed. This chapter is another case of why this direction is brilliant, pumping up the excitement for one definitive conclusion.

The beginning is plot heavy, but it gives you everything to consider, including the main problem. I will separate my thoughts on the characters and the main plot because the narration uses Takasugi and Katsura to explain the main agenda of Tengenism. As a whole, it does create a gripping tale that set you off with thrills and chills. Undoubtedly, it’s as final as it can get.

Let’s begin with the plot. The chapter does recap the last moment with Takasugi stabbing Oboro’s bones and himself to obtain one more chance, and yet it doesn’t feel like time has been wasted. It still feel powerful as before, only it connects deeply with the next phase in which I thought he was about to go on a killing spree. On the other hand, if that was the case, Tendoshu may not have lived. Sadly, he passed out, only to wake up when everything is done.

I am amazed with Sorachi manages to squeeze in the explanation of using Utsuro’s blood for semi-immortality. I was fine with the simple dose of blood equals immortal, but this is necessary for many reasons. One in which is to explain the reason why Oboro was slowly dying. He kept spilling blood. The more blood he spilled, the less time he has left to live. Once the body dried out, it’s over. In short, stop getting hurt or you will die eventually. As for the other and main reason, I will save it for later, because this is where it becomes plot heavy.

Takasugi recites how Liberation Army became delusional with the thought of resurrection and immortality, hence working together with Tendoshu. It amazes me how important are Enshou’s words about the people cannot be satisfied for what they may have accomplished. Its meaning holds significant value for the plot to move forward. In this case, these people weren’t satisfied with war ending if they lost their loved one. This is why time-skip is effective.

I like how Takasugi points out that it was all done by normal people, which wages on the thought of how anyone can do anything. They weren’t special or anyone from a hidden organization; they’re just normal people that would do anything with any mean necessary. They only become different when they join the religion or cult, Tengenism, but the point is how anyone can become anything in a matter of deep desire. That is actually scary.

While it did go in-depth, the info isn’t new. The main point however is the establishment of Tendoshu now back in control; this time, they’re no longer frail or decayed. It’s a clever rebound to make them credible because Utsuro is immortal, so he can fight for eternity and Tendoshu has used up their body for so long. It’s a convincing way to not undermine their prowess after being defeated. That’s why the intimidation aura didn’t fade away, so when they returned, I felt fear. Takasugi tried to kill them in places and he did in some, but the revival was complete.

Tendoshu convinced people that immortality can be achieved for everyone, especially how they managed to manipulate Utsuro’s blood to recover their body. The goal is to obtain it in its perfected form alas everyone will become like Utsuro. It’s a hell of a compelling plot that has serious background that makes a whole lot sense, including why Edo is still targeted after 2 years. Utsuro’s heart is needed for them to examine and get closer to achieve their goal, which is why Naraku is being used further, unknown to the actual agenda.

Now we go into the characters because this takes the cake. Takasugi has gone into my top 5 favorites and in Gintama, that is mighty difficult to achieve. He’s so good in this chapter and I don’t mean because of his six pack. I mean his personality and character’s development has been stellar. I thought I wouldn’t like him this much, but this chapter did it.

I don’t know if I should classify him as a tragic character, but I would prefer not because he has been so compelling and compassionate. Takasugi gambled to obtain a second chance, but time is running out. I was sadden of how he couldn’t accomplish the one thing to do 2 years ago and as his body slowly dying out, he at least has the chance to be sincere and do what he really wanted to do. It’s sad how he spent so much time on hating the world, but once he got his passion and care, his death clock is ticking rapidly. That’s the main reason why semi-immortal was explained. Gintoki’s reaction strikes me hard. They may have conflicting issues and indifference agenda, but they’re still friends at heart.

I love the last scene with Gintoki and Takasugi’s interaction so much. It’s when they discuss about what should they do with their beloved sensei when they meet him one more time. In a very rare moment, Takasugi shows his true feeling that deeply cares for Gintoki. He won’t stop him from saving Shouyou, but he wants him to know that he and sensei has suffered enough. Isn’t that the truth?

What got me emotional struck is Takasugi’s encouragement; thought I would never say that in a lifetime. Hell, it’s probably why Gintoki is awestruck by his words; I mean look at his reaction. Takasugi will work together to save sensei because after series of development, they can do it. He has become so sincere that it’s pretty touching; I almost want to cry. Development is a wonderful thing. So not only we have a subplot with Tengenism but we also have one on whether those two can save sensei or not. This arc or part is seriously amazing.

The problem arise when Takasugi announces their destination. It is Edo. I’m scared yet happy. Scared because that would mean another war at Edo, only this time is more concentrated on a personal level. The objective is to take the Altana, which is another reason why Edo is involved. It makes sense since it is technically part of Utsuro, which would evaluate their research further. Happy because Yorozuya reunion is happening earlier than expected and I cannot wait. This is one family that never disappoint.

Speaking of family, another one that hasn’t disappointed me is Shouyo’s disciples. With Takasugi becoming a gentleman, the family is filled with lovable characters. Katsura is not going to be left behind, even as a Prime Minister. That’s very reassuring. I’m not amazed on how much info he has learned in his position because when he gets serious, he gets the job done. Shijaku may channeled some fans’ reaction on his intellect, but for me, it’s Katsura being Katsura. Once again, I was struck by his wisdom for going so far to learn about Utsuro; reminding everyone that he kept his word about helping Gintoki. The reunion is going to be amazing.

That said I am worried about the way Takasugi and Katsura raise their death flags. While the former seems inevitable though fingers cross on miracle, the latter can prevent it. Still, it’s heartwarming of how Katsura prepare for his life to be on the line, goes as far as giving a farewell message to Shijaku. He even thought about how it would feel to be buried with Shoguns. I believe it’s his way of saying that he will achieve peace for Edo. You can say he’s carrying them on his back, metaphorically speaking, so this holds a lot of weight for him to do so.

I was relieved that the guys that are chasing those two are Sougo and others. After the heartfelt and depression tone, this was a great change-up for a good humor. I laughed at Shijaku’s reaction after building up the fear for their true enemy yet they ruined the momentum. What’s funnier is most of them are after him instead of their prime target, Katsura. Sougo just wants bodies hit the floor, so it’s all good. It’s a funny red herring, though it’s only matter of time when the actual enemy arrive.

The deepest thought that reminded me on why I love this series is the end scene with Kagura and Shinpachi. I love the fact they can pinpoint and understand what Gintoki is trying to accomplish all this time, so no need to ask questions. It connects to their reaction towards his undertone sadness after he chased after Utsuro before falling into the Altana. I love how those small details mean so much in the long run. The one question is asked that I was floored and stunned to hear: what should Gintoki do?

I joked about the meme, “the coolest guy ever” because of how Shounen tend to give a villain a slap on the wrist despite the damage they caused. But not Gintama. They made it into a serious discussion, hence why I was stunned. This series isn’t going to sugar coat anything. Gintoki has two choices and it depends on the outcome of Utsuro’s being. If he kills him, there is no going back. He love his sensei, so killing him again will break him as evident throughout the series. If he let him live, the people around him will hate him, deem him as a villain. It’s him or them. That’s deep; is this Shounen?

I love the end with Kagura and Shinpachi thinking on what to do if they were in his place. It’s a hard-hitting question and with this in mind, it can deliver a powerful message for everyone in the end. As long as there is no copout involved. The one message that is great is whether you are stuck in a question, keep going towards your path because your answer will appear. They’re growing up so fast. Gintoki and Takasugi are back in Edo. My hype is through the roof.

This was my present to my Gintama Secreat Santa 2016.

I´m proud with the final result, because, i´m by so far, a talented person about drawing.

I liked the most, design santa suits, and of course thenew X-mas kimono for Gintoki xD

I think the look cool....from far, if you get closer they are in very low quality xdd

And this is the making of.

I needed references for composition, and don´t get any extrange body, like other times (once, drawed a 6 fingered Gaara from Naruto, my sister keeps remembering me T-T). Searching references, i found takasugi´s figure....and that give me the final idea. And tha´t why they are seated xd Despite Katsura, this f***ing men has no figure seated!!!

For Kamui was a special moment....to realize....that....if I rotate his pose...seems like he is resting!! *perfect* 

After, i tough several times, if Gin has to wear a santa suit or his kimono...finally I designed other version x3 with candies!! and just-a-ways!!

The last one, my dear hijikata....there are many photos of that figure of toushi, seated....in other angles....but, wathing him from bottom....makes me more happy, I don´t know how to say it, he looks great xD

I wanted to explain this composition to all xD Because i know...it´s no very usual.