#tendoshuu

MY 6 FAVORITE MOMENTS IN EPISODE 27 (manga chaps 42, 43 and 44):

The Rengokukan arc was important in that it introduced us to the Tendoshuu old farts (and the fact that Otsuu apparently likes to moonlight as MMA-like fighter) but after all this time, when it comes down to it, for me, it’s really become all about the GinHiji and OkiKagu interactions. Sure, the story about Kidomaru and his orphans was sad, I cried when I read the chaps and probably teared up the first time I watched ep, but at the end of the day, I’m a simpleton at heart, so it’s all about my two OTPs.

1) Actually, Kagura’s cuteness factor went beyond the max in this episode, starting with her manhandling of Sougo and demanding him to take responsibility if she lost sleep over a little violence (as if).

2) Okita was pretty cute too. Not that he’s not ALWAYS cute, but he was just especially in this ep.

3) Okita was on Kagura’s mind like the ENTIRE time. It was too adorable.

4) Her wtfness is what makes her so precious.

5) I mean, I’m suppose to not take that out of context? I’m only human.

6) The usual Yorozuya fam cuteness. They always know how to make an entrance.

SHIPS TALLY:

Gintoki x Hijikata: I loved Gintoki’s speech to him about his soul and how Toshi seemed genuinely concerned for his well-being. SO SWEET.

Okita x Kagura: Kagura took Sougo’s threat of decapitating her sloppily as a confession of love. And people wonder why we shippers ship them so hard. She ships them herself, ffs!

Hijikata x Okita: Hijikata was also obviously concerned for Sougo since he was trailing him to see what he was up to.

Gintoki x Kidomaru: it’s a pretty pointless ship considering what happened to him, but he did have his fingers deep inside Gin-chan’s ass so I figured I should probably acknowledge them.

Disclaimer: Gintama is not only about shipping. Gintama is hilarious, clever, exciting, poignant, heart-breaking, loving, brilliant, and just completely unbelievably amazing.  It is only due to Sorachi-sama’s immense generosity that I am able enjoy Gintama on an extra another level, the shippy level, and I am forever grateful for that. GINTAMA IS LIFE AND LOVE.

Hello Anon and thanks, I am! I hope you are too. :) 

was it ever shown what happened to the liberation army on earth? 

Yep…

Utsuro and the Naraku killed what was left of them once it was clear they wouldn’t be able to beat Gintoki and everyone. 

do you have any reasoning for why the naraku would follow utsuro? 

Well, it’s been a while since I specifically read or watched that part, but from what I remember of when they were first introduced (courtesan of a nation arc) + of Utsuro’s backstory (rakuyo arc), he’s the one who founded the Tenshoin Naraku looong ago.

Over the centuries, the organization survived, taking in orphans and the like (Oboro, Nobume), and training them into assassins working for the government.

At some point, they were dismissed and replaced by the Oniwabanshuu iirc but, when the Amanto arrived, the Oniwabanshuu were disbanded and the Naraku were chosen to work under the Tendoshuu (and for Tokugawa Sadasada). 

And then Utsuro was chosen to join the Tendoshuu, sometimes after Shoyo was killed and he was reborn. 

The reason why the Naraku would follow Utsuro till the end in the last arc is because he gave them his blood, just like for the Tendoshuu. Remember Oboro? It happened years earlier, but he was semi-immortal thanks to Utsuro’s blood fueled by Altana (altho’ in Oboro’s case, his real master was Shoyo and not Utsuro). 

In the end the Naraku was as much Utsuro’s puppets as the Tendoshuu. And so he used them during the Silver soul arc. 

Robozaki makes a glorious return

Gintama manga chap 695

Dear Gintama gods and Sorachi-sama,

I knew it, the gorillas DO save the day...though with plenty of help from Sakamoto of course. It was great seeing him in functional form again and more importantly, reunited with Mutsu. I must say also, I actually quite like the scruff around his chin, I think it makes him look older and slightly wiser. In fact, he should just go for it and grow it out even more so that he has a proper, trimmed beard. And even though his efforts were not enough to neutralize the Tendoshuu’s ship, he definitely made a difference in the battle by holding them in place long enough for Kondou’s Hail Mary save. At first, I did find it odd that Shijaku was the one to enlist Sakamoto’s help and that Zura didn’t even think about him and his airships at all. Since Sakamoto was back with his crew, I can only assume that their falling out was just for show, and it would have made sense if Zura set it up to be that way as well. I know Shijaku met and worked with Sakamoto briefly during the war, but I would think that he’d would recruit off-world folks to help out, such as the remnants of the Liberation Army who might be Earth-friendly, or better yet, the Harusame or Renho, whom I hope we’d get to see again before the end, especially the Harusame since that means we would see Kagura’s idiotic big brother and his husband long-suffering vice captain again. Then again, Old Legolas is more acquainted with Sakamoto so I guess it is more reasonable he would ask for aid for someone who actually is of Earth and could be found more easily. I am definitely glad that Sakamoto got to lend an important hand in saving Earth and his precious comrades...even though he was up in space and the other three were on Earth, it was like having a Joui 4 reunion once again.  

Of course, it’s ultimately all thanks to the gorillas and their King of Gorillas for their (accidental???) sacrifice of their ship and well-being. That was definitely a risky move, crashing their banana ship into the Tendoshuu, since both could have spontaneously combusted. I was quite relieved that Kondou was able to get dressed in his Shinsengumi uniform during such an ordeal and step out of the wreckage virtually unscathed. I know it’s nothing short of a miracle but it’s a miracle I will gladly accept and not question the logic of it, especially since it brought our gorilla back to his Shinsengumi family and Tae-chan's orbit. Just when I was resigning myself to accept the Kondou/Bubbles final fantasy, I am so grateful that my KonTae dream can still live to fight another day. I know there’s not much time left and you still have more pressing issues to cover next—after all, if Kondou and the gorillas were able to easily survive the crash, obviously so did the Tendoshuu and their many minions—but oh how lovely it would be if we were able to get just one real moment between Kondou and Otae where their feelings for each other can finally be properly addressed and resolved.  If after all that he has gone through and all that he has done is not enough to win her heart, really nothing else would, but I just want them to come to terms with that so that Kondou could move on, even though such an outcome would simply break my heart. At the same time, knowing you, I am also aware that there is always a chance you would leave their relationship unresolved, especially you have indicated many times in this last stretch that you don’t want to turn Gintama into a shoujo series where the romance outweighs all else. Frankly, considering what has happened with past series that I used to love, I would also be fine with that. The lack of a resolution is equivalent to hope since we could then use our imaginations to color in the rest of their lives for them. Either way, ultimately, I just want them to share one final serious moment together, that doesn’t involve Otae beating Kondou or him craping his pants. Just one...before we never get any more moments with them ever again.  

I’m still trying to come to terms with the fact that we truly have only five chapters left at this point...I think it wouldn’t be a wild guess that you would probably spend at least two or three of them resolving the conflict with Tendoshuu and settling the problem that is Baby Utsuro. That leaves really only at most the remaining two chapters for wrap up once all the dust is settled. I wouldn’t even be surprised if the very last chapter is actually yet another timeskip. I’m both excited and scared and sad about that prospect because I would like to see how the gang and their world are five, maybe ten or even twenty years from now, even though I’m a little worried about what I MIGHT be seeing as well. Hopefully the terminal will once again be rebuilt and explosion-proof in the future. I’m actually starting to feel bad for that thing since it seems to take the brunt of battles: Earth winning the war made no difference to its safety whatsover.    

I just revisited the first chapter that started this final arc tonight and out of curiosity, I also revisited the letter I wrote to you at the time when that chapter, Lesson 596, came out. I had asked if you would be so kind as to take a year or two to actually reach the end of the series despite the Silver Soul arc being the last. Chapter 596 was published on July 26th, 2016, so it has now been actually a little over two years since then and we’re only finally counting down to the end. In other words, you once again did grant my wish, Sorachi-sama. Of course, now I regret just saying one or two years, I should have said five at least, but that’s just me being greedy as usual. I was reminded again of just how much you have given me, nay, have given all of us Gintama fans, so even though I am of course completely sad that the end is finally near, I am still very, very grateful to you that we had so many years with Gintama. I will continue to say this until the end: thank you from the bottom of my heart, Sorachi-sama. Thank you to you and the generous Gintama gods as well.  

Yours truly,

A silly fangirl with yaoi dreams

Gintama manga chap 696

~

Dear Gintama gods and Sorachi-sama,

I must confess: if the reason the Tendoshuu old farts want Earth’s Altana is so that they can grant it to all living creatures in the universe, then I kind of want them to succeed in their plan. I’ve always been of the mind that immortality was a good thing; I wouldn’t mind living forever. I mean, if one could avoid having one’s body chopped up or killed again and again, it couldn’t be that bad. I’d love to have all the time in the world to enjoy doing all the things I want to do. I know the downside of it is that it’s an eternal commitment: I literally couldn’t end my life even if I wanted to, much like Deadpool, but considering how fragile we humans are, I don’t think I would mind taking the chance with it.  But seriously, when did the Tendoshuu, or whatever the heck they’re calling themselves these days, become so generous? All this time I thought they wanted immortality for themselves, so I was honestly quite surprised when that old dude said that has been their deepest wish all this time. They sure didn’t seem like they were motivated by such a seemingly noble cause, considering all the horrible things they have done over the years. Was this some change of heart as the result of the war? Now I kind of wish we had time to delve more into exploring what led the Tendoshuu to decide on this plan because I am definitely intrigued.  If Gintoki and the others were to discover this ultimate goal of theirs, would they reconsider their course of action? I’m guessing most likely not because I doubt Gin-chan and co, for the most part, are the types to crave immortality, but I would still love to see them at least grapple with the idea a little. I can easily imagine that certain people would be ok with it, for example Kamui. Heck, Takasugi already has a touch of immortality running through his body so he must already know it’s not that bad an option since it affords him speedy recovery from any wounds. The more I think about it, the more I wish we could actually see how each of them would consider the idea. Oh my gods, just that notion is enough fodder for a whole new arc on its own; the fact that we will never have the time to explore that scenario in length is just another thing that saddens me as we head definitively into the endgame.

In consideration of where we are in the series, I was also surprised that this chapter was mostly focused on Madao. I can’t say that I’m unhappy about it; after all this time, I guess Hasegawa does deserve such a treatment. He was the first to hire the Yorozuya and he appeared even before Kagura joined up with the team. So for such a veteran character, it is only right that he would be afforded a moment in the sun one last time…such as it was. Actually, his whole sequence with Hanano Ana reminded me of the time when poor Ketsuno Ana (when she was only reporter Ketsuno Ana) had to follow Zura all over town while he was being chased down by the Shinsengumi, which made me enjoy the scenes even more. I’m still kind of disappointed in Madao in that he took full advantage of his celebrity after the war by completely skipping out on Hatsu and enjoying himself with other women, so I was glad he was a Madao all the way until the end since his cowardice was on prominent display and he definitely will not be getting any credit for getting all those enemies blown up. He deserves this fall from grace. I don’t think Hatsu should take him back, but at least he will soon be reunited with his drinking buddy. Of course I thought it was completely touching that he missed Gintoki that much, even attributing his newfound “power” to his prayer about his dear friend being answered. Considering their history, I guess it’s sweet on an extra level since they’re technically exes (a fact I really try not to think about too much because I just can’t jump on that ship even though it’s completely canon).  But even on just a strictly friendship level, the fact that he attributes his debauchery to Gintoki being gone from his life really speaks volumes about how important Gin-chan is to him. Even though they spend most of their time together giving into their shared vices, it is obvious that Gintoki still made a huge positive impact in his life since his absence from it has caused Hasegawa to transform into someone who, despite his popularity and fortune, was essentially empty and soulless. I do look forward to their reunion as well since at least Hasegawa isn’t the type to hold back on his emotions; I have no doubt that he would easily give his friend a hearty hug to welcome him back.  

Speaking about love and hugs: can I get serious with you for a second, Sorachi-sama? Come on, admit it, Hijikata is totally in love with Gintoki, isn’t he? At this point, I really don’t even think it’s just a figment of my imagination anymore. Any time Gintoki is mentioned or when he’s talking about him, his expression softens completely. Every time he referred to the Yorozuya, even in the plural, it was plainly obvious he actually meant Gintoki. That moment when he mentioned how the sight of Kagura and Shinpachi’s backs were nostalgic was also a reference to Gintoki because every time they were running like that, they were usually following behind Gintoki, so it was yet another indirect way by which Hijikata was inferring how much he missed the other man. I even love that as Sakamoto was talking about friends sharing the same fight, you created the two frames in such a way that Gintoki and Hijikata were on the same axis. I refuse to believe that was a coincidence. And yet, still, I am trying very hard not to build my hopes up too much because as I’ve reminded myself time and again, Gintama is a shonen series so the probability of a GinHiji final fantasy is in the negatives—Hijikata’s love may very well be unrequited—but the fact you are still granting these small gifts to me is more than enough. I will continue to be optimistic that nothing would end up invalidating these gifts, but just know that my gratitude for them will never be invalidated no matter what happens.  

And lastly, please forgive me: I know Prince Hata and the old man have also earned having a moment in the shining spotlight since they are also Gintama veterans like Hasegawa, but in my selfishness, I must say that I hope their moment will be an extremely brief one because…well, with only four chapters left, time is precious and I would really rather spend these last moments of the manga with those we truly love.  I know you probably have a soft spot for Hata, so I hope you won’t be upset with my request; please know it comes from a very loving place and I don’t mean any offense.

Yours truly,

A silly fangirl with yaoi dreams

(^3^)

PS: SO SOFT. Thank you again, Sorachi-sama!

MY 16 FAVORITE MOMENTS IN LESSON 541:

1) I remember thinking how screwed up yet darkly funny it would have been if Shimaru was killed right there and that was like the end of his character in the series. But besides that, he took cannon fire for Kondou, so he’s a hero in my books.

2) So so sad. And yet I kept on thinking the whole time, wait, you have Nobume! I know she technically never returns his email but he DOES have someone to email to.

3) And that’s when I understood completely why he would work so well with Takasugi: they both have the same grievance against the country and the world.

4) Ok, I loved how this was set up: three guys trying to surprise attack Gintoki, which is of course totally nerve-wracking...

5) ...but then he not only totally blows them away with one strike...

6)...he then instantly turns around to block Oboro’s strike with HIS WRIST. Holy shit this man is amazing. If I had a dick it would’ve been totally hard.

7) ...and then it would’ve completely wilted at the sight of this monster. I think as soon as he appeared, I had a sinking feeling who he might be, even though I couldn’t figure out for the life of me why or how. 

8) Kagura the Wise Queen.

9) I just loved everything that Kagura was saying in this chapter. I worship her.

10) I still thought Nobume had actually murdered his entire family; I’m sure everyone did at this point, so given that...

11)...Isaburo was practically near sainthood for me since he still took her in and raised her.

12) Ugh, she’s so sweet. We’re so not worthy of such an angel!

13) I don’t know if I teared up the first time I saw this, but I definitely teared up this time around.

14) Guh...the man is not even real. Went from villain to saint completely. Sorachi-sama is amazing.

15) Nobume blocking the strike that was meant for Kagura. Loved her for that!

16) Yep, pretty much freaked out when I realized that Okita, Kagura and Nobume was about to face off against this monster. 

SHIPS TALLY:

Okita x Kagura: I am totally counting this moment because Sougo’s angry reaction was not because Nobume threw that Jon Snow line at him, but because she was holding her sword to Kagura’s throat. Okita looked ready to murder Nobume; bless him.

Kagura x Nobume: I could totally board this ship. They’d make a super cute couple. Plus, Nobume IS kinda similar to Okita so really, why the hell not?

Isaburo x Nobume: again, from Nobume’s point of view, I can totally see how she could grow to love him as a woman once she is an adult. Feelings are complex sometimes.

Disclaimer: Gintama is not only about shipping. Gintama is hilarious, clever, exciting, poignant, heart-breaking, loving, brilliant, and just so freaking amazing.  It is only due to Sorachi-sama’s generosity that I can enjoy Gintama on yet another level, the shippy level, and I am forever grateful for that. GINTAMA IS LIFE AND LOVE.

7/1/2018

Loved the bonus color image that started the chapter:

MY 6 FAVORITE MOMENTS IN LESSON 554:

This chapter was rife with exposition and Star Wars references. Lol.

1) Actually, I did appreciate all the exposition: we really needed all knowledge drop regarding Utsuro and the Altana. It was frankly relieved we were learning something.

2) Their expressions...damn I wished we had time to really delve into what they were thinking as they learned about their sensei.

3) Ok, this was definitely NOT a favorite moment; I just thought it was harsh to show him like this. Like rubbing salt in our wounds.

4) This monstrous phoenix.

5) When I first saw this, of course I had no idea if Shouyou was ever real or just a mask created by Utsuro, so I was literally filled with dread at the possibility that he has always been a lie: that Gintoki and the others were raised by what was essentially a monster, and that Shoka Sonjuku was part of his greater scheme to take over the world or something. It was kind of horrifying not really knowing the truth. And I’m sure both Gin-chan and Zura felt the same horror as Nobume told them about their beloved teacher’s true form.

6) Gotta say though, kinda happy he blew up those Harusame old farts. That definitely was one part I did like.

SHIPS TALLY:

Too much knowledge dropping, no time for ships.

Disclaimer: Gintama is not only about shipping. Gintama is hilarious, clever, exciting, poignant, heart-breaking, loving, brilliant, and just so freaking amazing.  It is only due to Sorachi-sama’s generosity that I can enjoy Gintama on yet another level, the shippy level, and I am forever grateful for that. GINTAMA IS LIFE AND LOVE.