WSR 12-23-13

Disclaimer: These aren’t official translations, merely scanlations. Buy localized or original manga to support the author if at all possible. Know the difference between piracy/theft and sharing without personal profit.

Next week might be the actual week I take off, since we managed to get Weekly Shonen Jump’s issues before they take their official break which is the week of New Year’s. I’m also thinking of adding another series into the lineup (crazy, I know), called Seven Deadly Sins. It’s very new (started about mid-late 2012) and I’m all caught up. If anyone’s read Kongou Banchou, it’s by the same guy and I highly recommend it even if you don’t read that part of the blog posts when I start including it. Here’s to another year of this idea I started in the middle of 2013.

World Trigger 44

The Neighbor invasion starts, Osamu trying to keep things orderly. He directs the teacher to evacuate everyone, the students to help her, along with Chika and her Trigger, while Yuma’s to come with Osamu and stop the Neighbors. Yuma gives Chika a mini Replica (which I believe he’s done before with Osamu), so that he can be contacted if Chika’s in danger. Yuma and Osamu activate their Triggers and move to the scene.

The Trion soldiers have split into 5 groups, so Border separates their major squads into 3 groups, Jin and Amo, our S class level Trigger users, left to the other 2 groups. The areas still have to be protected, so Kinuta and Fuyushima set up some defenses beforehand to stop the Neighbor soldiers. The traps worked, just long enough for the squads to arrive. The other squads are on their way as well, including Arashiyama and Kazama’s squads.

Meanwhile, Osamu talks with Replica and Yuma about the relative balance between the forces. The Neighbor forces have greater numbers, but they’ve split them up. Border has somewhat of an advantage because they knew ahead of time about the attack. But Yuma cautions against overconfidence, since these Neighbors probably are from the nation that sent invaders previously, so they know Border’s numbers. Ultimately, numbers can shift the battle in one side’s favor, which in this case could be the Neighbors’

Azuma’s squad finishes off a soldier, but then its’ revealed that there was a larger and more intimidating solder under its shell as the chapter ends.

Bleach 563

It seemed like Mask de Masculine was defeated last chapter, but it turns out he was merely wounded, which he manages to close by flexing his abs, apparently. He insists it’s not over yet, calling out to James’ corpse, which manages to regenerate into a bunch of smaller James, crying out to further power him up. The cheers power him so much that his muscles rip off his clothes, leaving him in a typical wrestler’s speedo, both that and his mask now black instead of white.

Mask remembers having beaten Renji and compliments him on getting this strong, attacking with Star Lariat, his supposed ultimate technique, which manages to push Renji back. Mask relishes in the new power he has, as Renji flies back. He reveals what I believe is his Vollstandig, similar in general appearance to the others, at least with the wings and halo and uses what is his true ultimate attack, Star Flash Supernova.

But the chapter ends as Renji is virtually unscathed and Hihiou Zabimaru is out, revealing itself from the cloud of dust as it settles. I predict Mask will be fully defeated next chapter. Though I could be wrong and Kubo could make this character like Szayelaporro in the Hueco Mundo arc.

Naruto 660

The Bijuu are being drawn in by Madara, Naruto trying to undo Kurama mode, but unable to because of the hold Madara has on Kurama through the Gedou Mazou’s chains.  Naruto pushes himself away, trying to get distance between himself and Madara. White Zetsu suggests that Madara should assimilate the other Bijuu since acquiring Gyuuki and Kurama is going to take longer. Madara agrees, starting with Shukaku, Gaara fighting back, breaking the chain, which stuns Shukaku.

Shukaku flashes back to when he taunted Gaara, saying he’d destroy all humans once Gaara goes to sleep, Gaara confused at Shukaku’s hatred towards humans, since he thought the Bijuu were meant to protect the village. We flash back further to the Jinchuuriki before Gaara, an old monk (possibly the first one, if I recall correctly), who Shukaku speaks harshly to as well. But the old man insists that it doesn’t matter if people hate him; as long as he has someone who knows of his existence as a human being and not a Jinchuuriki, he is happy.

The priest explains that the human heart has two levels: the inner and the outer, the latter being what most people show, potentially contradicting their true feelings. Shukaku thinks he sounds like the Sage of the Six Paths. The priest says that while Shukaku thinks he’ll never connect with a human, he believes that the Bijuu will, but only if he is willing to be open. He also notes that what is truly important in life is connecting hearts, explaining how the kanji for love that Gaara has on his forehead are the characters for heart and receive.

Back in the present, Shukaku sees Gaara continue to fight, Shukaku seeing Naruto and remembering that Gaara said that while he originally hated Shukaku, he appreciates him for allowing him to become friends with Naruto. White Zetsu observes that Gaara, no longer linked to Shukaku, has no reason to protect him anymore. Madara fires a blast from Susanoo, Shukaku blocking it from hitting Gaara. But Madara slices the two ends of the chains with the blade from Susanoo he fired, reconnecting the shackles. Gaara is knocked away and Shukaku tries to say that Gaara doesn’t have to fight anymore, but Gaara responds that since he’s no longer Shukaku’s Jinchuuriki, he has sought to become his equal and fight alongside him as a friend.

The Tailed Beasts are being drawn in and the chapter ends as Kurama hatches a plan, telling it to Gaara as he’s drawn out of Naruto, potentially leaving the future Hokage in mortal danger.

One Piece 733

We start with Rebecca fighting against a new opponent, Suleiman the Beheader, who also fights with a sword. He says his crimes were done for the sake of his country, mocking Rebecca for being insulted in her own. The other contenders include Orlumbus (who looks a lot like Brownbeard), Cavendish, Mummy and Damask, Rebecca wondering where the Thunder Soldier is.

We shift to the underground port, Usopp almost caught, but the gnomes save him at the last second, showing both their speed in taking off the guard’s clothes and strength in knocking them out with a single blow to their heads. It’s established that the toy soldier will take advantage of the chaos when they defeat Sugar and kill Doflamingo. Usopp manages to get some courage and push forward, the gnomes leading the way to the main HQ, where Sugar is.

A group of grunts take the elevator up, the toy soldier sneaking on and makes to commandeer it with his fighting skills. He flashes back to when he taught Rebecca, who didn’t want to hurt people, but Soldier insisted that she had to learn in case he wasn’t there, and more importantly, because his toy body would eventually rust and break apart. He does fight similar to Rebecca in a way, not using his gun to fire at them, but smack them with the butt of it, knocking them out without excessive violence.

The chapter ends as it seems all the fighters in D Block have fallen unconscious suddenly, as if affected by Emperor’s Haki. But someone has managed to stay up, but their identity is unknown.

Toriko 263

We see Komatsu telling Midora that Toriko will save him and Midora seems to remember his name.

The scene shifts to Toriko, weeks later, looking for Komatsu and he’s still not hungry. Suddenly a huge amount of people remind him of all the ingredients he’s found and how he touched their lives, making them better in some way for them or their loved ones. Toriko is praised as the greatest Bishokuya of the Gourmet Age and he remembers Jirou asking him about his dream, which he recalls: to complete his full course and share it with the world. Suddenly, he becomes hungry and shares a meal with everyone. He’s inspired now to help others as a Bishokuya, as Jirou encouraged him with the claim that Bishokuya remain who they are throughout their lives. He tells everyone that he’ll collect more ingredients for them

The next scene concludes the chapter as Toriko entering Gourmet World. He fires a Fork that goes across a good portion of Gourmet World, showing off various beasts and closing in on the Battle Wolf. The chapter ends as Toriko enters Gourmet World for real this time and we’re told that this is the end of the Human World arc. This means that after this, I would presume the central focus will be on the much more expansive and vast Gourmet World and all the adventures our characters have discovering the secrets it holds. Hard to imagine this series only started 4-5 years ago.

WSR 12-16-13

Disclaimer: These aren’t official translations, merely scanlations. Buy localized or original manga to support the author if at all possible. Know the difference between piracy/theft and sharing without personal profit.

I might’ve jumped the gun on the break for most of the magazines. Only Magi’s magazine, Weekly Shounen Sunday, was on break this week, though Weekly Shounen Jump and Weekly Shounen Magazine, the ones for the rest of the series, may be on break the Xmas week. I may wait a week until updating, since I’d like at least 4-5 series to talk about, not just Magi.

World Trigger 43

Jin’s request to Miwa is revealed: simply put, Osamu will be in danger in this Neighbor invasion and Miwa may be the only person able to keep an eye on him. Miwa thinks other people in Tamakoma or even Yuma might be able to help, but Jin thinks otherwise. Miwa even suggests just hiding Osamu away if he’s going to be in danger. Jin reminds him about the competition to get his Black Trigger, and one of the candidates is Miwa. Jin says he’ll recommend Miwa if he does this favor, but Miwa says it’s not decided by the previous user. He leaves Jin, who says he thinks he’ll save Osamu, especially because his Side Effect tells him so

Meanwhile, Yuma rejects Shinoda’s offer to make him a full agent, saying he’ll do it on his own. Shinoda says he could form a squad with Osamu if he accepted, but Yuma says if he doesn’t follow basic procedure, some people might not accept him as a full agent even if it’s official, since there’d be allegations of favoritism and prejudice, since he’s a Neighbor.

Replica and Yuma discuss whether it was the right decision, Yuma saying if he fights at full power, he’s using his Black Trigger. But Replica observes that, while Kido wasn’t lying, he might be subtly suggesting he won’t be so nice if Yuma breaks Border rules. Yuma says he’ll use it if he thinks it’s necessary, Replica accepting that, since, as the Black Trigger, he can’t really question Yuma.

Back at school, Osamu is popular, as expected. He even gets to leave early because he has defense duty, the teacher praising him as a Border agent.

Later, Osamu and Yuma meet Chika and Izuho, a fellow Sniper trainee. Yuma explains that while the trainees can’t fight directly in the Neighbor invasion, they can help with evacuation/rescue using their Triggers. He further explains that it’ll be about 10 days until Kion and Aftokrator will be out of attack range for Earth.

Suddenly Jin and Chika both sense something, 40 or more gates appearing as the invasion starts, the chapter ending as we establish a rough idea of all the major players on Border’s side in this fight

Bleach 562

As Renji stands ready to fight Mask de Masculine, Rukia comes in as well. Renji tells her to take care of Kensei and Rose, since someone of Mask’s caliber is easy for him. She retreats with them, surprising Mask, since he expected them to double team him like Kensei and Rose did.

Renji taunts him, but Mask almost forgot he destroyed his ability to hear. He calls on James, who still managed to survive being cut in half, to cheer him on, but the applause and encouragement seems to fall on literally deaf ears. But the Superstar power takes the cheers and heals his eardrums to their original state.

Renji insults him, making Mask rush at him with a devastating headbutt. But it does no damage to Renji, who slams him into the ground with the hilt of his Zanpakutou. Mask gets up, saying that Renji just made him angrier, which strengthens the power of the star on the back of his hand. He attacks Renji with a fist said to be an instant kill, but Renji blocks it effortlessly again. This infuriates Mask, who continues pummeling Renji, though he evidently missed as it’s revealed Renji fully killed James.

Mask continues to call Renji a coward, but Renji doesn’t care, saying that he should know, since he used underhanded tactics himself. The chapter ends as Renji seemingly chops Mask in half at the waist.

Naruto 659

Madara laughs maniacally, enjoying the sensations he continues to feel, especially after replacing one of his Rinnegan. He rubs some of his blood on his hand, scaring Kurama, who Shukaku taunts, thinking Madara isn’t that powerful.

Madara summons the Gedou Mazou statue from Obito’s body, meaning Obito is likely truly dead now, Kakashi trying to stop it with Kamui, only managing to remove an arm, the statue arriving at Madara’s side, preparing to take in the Bijuu

Everyone else starts to realize after Naruto questions how Madara can summon the Gedou Mazou that he’s been resurrected, Naruto connecting the dots to figure out that this was part of Madara’s plan, using his control over Obito’s Hashirama cells, along with Black Zetsu, to force him to use Rinne Tensei on him.

Black Zetsu is moving to take Obito’s eye (possibly the other eye of Nagato?), but Obito manages to freeze his hand by pure willpower. Black Zetsu confirms it is another of Nagato’s eyes, saying that Obito isn’t good enough to possess the true Rinnegan. Obito says he’s hidden his right eye. But Zetsu responds that he already found it and returned it to Madara.  Ultimately, Obito was just a pawn to Madara.

Obito tells Zetsu to release his power over him and then steal the Rinnegan after he dies, but Zetsu says he’s not falling for that, since he knows that Kakashi and Minato would take Obito’s head and keep the Rinnegan from Zetsu that way.

White Zetsu suggests they should buy time, since getting the left eye will take more time, but Madara insists just one eye will be enough. He heals his wounds with the power he has from Hashirama’s chakra and cells, moving to attack with the Gedou Mazou. He uses a technique with his Rinnegan that seems to blow the Bijuu back slightly, Madara explaining that it sort of tamed them, unleashing the chains Obito used before to control the Bijuu. The chapter ends on this cliffhanger, Madara preparing to rip out the Bijuu from Naruto and Killerbee.

One Piece 732

We get a shortened explanation of the Riku Army’s plan, infiltrating the underground factory through a tunnel and targeting Sugar, the Hobby Hobby Fruit user. The tunnel is, predictably, smaller than expected, Robin and Usopp able to squeeze in, but Franky forced to take the Toy House route. The soldier explains that while it’s called a house, it’s just a long tunnel back to the factory, where they’re forced to work until they’re exhausted. Franky says it works in their favor, since he can serve as a distraction while the others find Sugar.

We meet Senor Pink in the flesh this time, his aloof attitude impressing the ladies around him. He deflects their advances, saying he’s into older women. Franky starts his attack as some of the soldiers alert their superiors to his invasion. A single Coup De Vent deals major damage to the factory entrance. Meanwhile, Doflamingo and Fujitora bicker about the attack and whether Doflamingo is really doing his job properly. And Trebol talks with Sugar, saying that even if they get this far, she can still turn them into toys before they really hurt her, suggesting there’s more to her powers than we think.

Back at the tunnel, the group gets word of Franky’s attack, thinking he’ll be okay. But realizing that Diamante’s staff is heading towards it, they think he might have some trouble, since they’re a specialized military division. They’re also dangerous because they’re undefeated in the coliseum, not having shown off their full power. Franky is shown to be having difficulty against Senor Pink, who seems to be able to swim through even solid ground. The amount of overall soldiers in Doflamingo’s army is about 2000 and the three generals in the division each head a specific subdivision, Diamante’s more military in nature. Trebol’s division is the special abilities, like Jora and Violet, along with Sugar, and Pica’s is the special ops, covering Gladius, Baby 5 and Buffalo. Diamante’s division boasts one more general than the others, though it’s Dellinger and he seems weaker by comparison, if only slightly.

Usopp thinks it’s better that they aren’t fighting with the military squad, but Leo cautions him that all of the squads are strong. The army arrives at the factory, the size astonishing Usopp, since it’s way bigger than he imagined. The chapter ends of a two page spread of the factory’s size and its magnitude.

Toriko 262

Starjun apologizes to Midora, who responds that Starjun’s the only one who didn’t fail in his mission. It’s revealed that there are 1000 chefs left behind that were kidnapped. Starjun explains that virtually all the executive chefs are gone (minus some, like Grinpatch), Midora saying they’ll eliminate them eventually. But for now, he commands all the chefs to cook for him, as they are now in a combo with him.

Some protest and Alfaro comes in, saying they don’t have a choice anymore. He further explains that the “traitors” were hypnotized (possibly by Frohze’s technique) and seem to be like Grinpatch is, in a daze. He moves to kill Grinpatch, though it doesn’t appear that he does.

They press the chefs to cook for Midora, the majority of them agreeing with a chef who says that they are expected to be virtuous and will not sell themselves to him. Midora smirks, saying that if any chef can make him say that something is delicious, they’ll be set free. Komatsu volunteers, stunning everyone. Ootake comes in, explaining that they have little food, so Komatsu has little chance of success. The other chefs ask why Komatsu would serve Midora, Komatsu simply saying that it’s his duty to feed someone who’s hungry.

Komatsu prepares a huge feast, amazing everyone, considering that there was such a shortage of quality ingredients. We flashback to Ootake offering to help, Komatsu saying he can manage on his own. But Ootake reminds him that the place is sure to collapse eventually, with all the damage it took from the attack from Neo. Komatsu isn’t fazed, Ootake thinking to himself that he was likely jealous of Komatsu’s natural talent and that he was worried Komatsu would eventually go far beyond his level. He even goes so far as to say Komatsu is a genius at cooking, knowing it since they were trainees.

Midora finishes off all the food in an instant. He seems to react as if it might actually be delicious, but then the headquarters starts to collapse at its base. It looks like it will fall, but it stops suddenly. Starjun concludes Midora somehow stopped it with his will. Midora laughs, shocking Alfaro, since he didn’t even smile slightly when he ate the Century Soup. He asks for Komatsu’s name and he gives it.

Komatsu has a request: for everyone to eat together. Midora seems to acquiesce to it, saying Komatsu can leave if he wants, but Komatsu says he won’t leave. He insists that Toriko will come to save him as the chapter ends.

Fairy Tail 364

Mirajane voices a concern that Jellal may be targeted by Tartaros, asking whether Erza shouldn’t be protecting him, but Erza says she doesn’t even know where he is and he can take care of himself fine. She insists they should focus on protecting the former magic chairman. They go to his house, where he treats them to some tea. The man inquires how they got his address, Mirajane explaining to Crawford that they had to use their extensive network to do so, even though it was questionable. He accepts, noting that he remembered Erza and Natsu from when she was condemned for a crime I forget exactly what it was.

The pair inquires about Face, the council head saying that while it was something he knew of, he never was told the exact location back in the day, since they didn’t have a need to use it. This suggests the knowledge was privy to someone else, since Tartaros somehow acquired the information that even a former council head didn’t know of. They then decide to ask where the three members that sealed Face are, so they can protect them. But Crawford explains that even they don’t know they’re part of it, since the weapon itself is taboo in the very concept, let alone execution.

Suddenly Tartaros attacks, their movements evident by the shockwaves hitting the house. A group of armored soldiers crash through the wall, Erza and Mira easily knocking them back. The two of them are fired up and continue to defend the area.

Meanwhile, Elfman is struggling to break free of Sayla’s curse, Sayla saying that if he wants her to do something for him, he should offer her his soul

Back at the Magic Council ruins, Doranbolt remembers Cobra telling him about Face and its power, resolving to take on Tartaros himself.

Elsewhere, Cobra relishes in the fresh air after being imprisoned for so long, looking to his other Oracion Seis members, all of them freed as he negotiated with Doranbolt. Brain speaks about the Oracion Seis being reborn, but Cobra attacks. The others comply with Cobra after Midnight says that if Cobra heard that Brain thought of them as nothing but pawns, then it must be true. The group tries to decide what to do, but they’re confronted by Jellal and Meredy, who were assigned by Doranbolt to handle the Oracion Seis while he takes on Tartaros.

Natsu awakens, rushing to Crawford’s house with Happy. Back with Erza and Mirajane, they finish off the last of the attackers, Erza concerned that with such a high priority target, they appear to only send low level grunts.  Natsu speaks to Happy about his concerns of how Tartaros knows these things when even the council doesn’t appear to know.

Mira suddenly falls unconscious, Erza following suit. Natsu thinks someone leaked information to them from within the guilds and his hypothesis is confirmed when we find that Crawford was working for Tartaros, probably having put Erza and Mira to sleep, taking them back to headquarters under Kyouka’s orders as the chapter ends.

WSR 12-9-13

Disclaimer: These aren’t official translations, merely scanlations. Buy localized or original manga to support the author if at all possible. Know the difference between piracy/theft and sharing without personal profit.

Seems like Fairy Tail’s scanlation is late, so I’ll catch up with it next week. Btw, next week may have very little manga, since many magazines do a double issue. Then again, with how I update and where my sources are, we may get one next week or the week after, even though it’ll probably be absent in normal serialization in Japan and America, so it’ll be a bit uncertain until the middle of next week.

Magi 207

Hassan explains to Alibaba that Cassim’s body isn’t at this grave, since the Kou Empire took it. The other Fog Troupe members just decided the place would serve as a memorial.  Some are in Hassan’s position, while others have advanced their social rank slightly. Hassan admits it’s better than it was before, but he still won’t become part of the Kou Empire. He misses the time when they worked under Cassim and Alibaba. It was tough, but they had inspiration, they had goals, they had hopes and dreams. Now he’s stuck conforming to a rigid system, feeling trapped, knowing he could fight for Balbadd. Alibaba asks whether he intends to start a rebellion, but Hassan says he can’t, since he and Zaynab are expecting another child.

Alibaba leaves for his lodgings, remembering what things were like back in the past, his own family life, imperfect as it was. The streets and alleyways are all gone, replaced by the strict and repetitive appearance that the new Balbadd has, redone by the Kou Empire

The next day, as Alibaba and company are heading to where Kouen is, a child was run over by a wagon. Alibaba starts to help him with magoi manipulation. But someone notes that the child is just a slave, elaborating the system we heard about from Hassan. Brown clothes are slaves, below the green clothes, who are former Balbadd citizens. The Kou Empire has legalized slavery, troublingly enough. It’s justified to the Kou conquerors because they are a foundation to the civilization. Soldiers disperse the crowd by threatening to revoke their privileges through taking away their tax “points” and rations, the people moving away in fear.

Alibaba thinks to himself that this is hardly different than how it was before: some people living better because others are treated like animals.The chapter ends as he meets up with Kouen before they leave for the summit

World Trigger 42

Replica explains that the “countries” of the Neighbor world function more like planets or stars, since the “borders” are areas of darkness. They don’t quite revolve around Earth, but their orbits do coincide with Earth’s location, so the plan is to find the “planet state” that is closest to intercepting Earth. The diagram Border has is incomplete, so Replica supplements it, expanding it greatly; nearly triple the original size.

Replica narrows it down to 4 nations that are approaching: a marine nation, a tundra like area, a nation where they ride Trion mounts, and the largest Neighbor military power, called the Holy Land. But Replica explains that there are nations that don’t have a set orbit, so they could attack unexpectedly.

Osamu asks if Jin’s Side Effect can predict who it is, but Jin explains that he can’t know the future of someone he doesn’t know, so all he can predict is that something will happen. Kido says they’ll presume for the moment that either Kion, the tundra nation or Aftokrator, the major military power of the Neighborhood, will attack. They want to know the strategies and general powers they possess, but most importantly, how many Black Triggers they possess. Replica says it might’ve changed since 7 years ago, when the maps were put together, but Kion had 6, but Aftokrator had over double that at 13.

They don’t have to worry much, since Black Triggers are rare and are mostly used for defensive purposes, not offensive attacks on Earth. So mostly, they’ll be dealing with Trion soldiers that can be mass produced and shipped in a portable form, so the ships sent to invade won’t consume much Trion. Osamu was summoned because he’s faced both the scouts and the bombers and Yuma is providing the info as a Neighbor soldier.

Elsewhere Chika is encouraging a lower ranked trainee who thinks they couldn’t make B rank, explaining that snipers get better the more they practice.

Osamu and Yuma are approached by Shinoda, who compliments Yuma especially, commenting that the map was worth 30 Border missions to the Neighbor world.  Shinoda also explains he knew Yuma’s father, so he’s happy that his son is helping them. Kido knew Yugo the longest and Shinoda says that he might be willing to promote Yuma to A rank. I imagine Yuma will wait until Osamu and Chika become A rank as well, trusting in their talent.

The chapter ends as Jin meets up with Miwa and asks a favor of him, which we’re left wondering what it is.

Bleach 561

Kensei recovers from the attack last chapter and rockets towards Mask de Masculine, but he’s too fast and kicks Kensei, headbutting him. But Kensei counterattacks, seemingly doing some damage. But James’ cheers power up Mask further and he elbows Kensei on the ground, finishing him off with a knee attack, concluding that he doesn’t need to continue.

However, James is now cut in half by Rose, enraging Mask. Rose doesn’t care much, knowing he had to take the opening Kensei gave him. He unleashes his Bankai, explaining that it’s a group of dancers, their payment Mask’s life as they begin their first attack.

The group surrounds Rose, engulfing him in what appears to be water and then lighting him on fire, suggesting it was actually oil. But then Rose explains that they’re illusions of fire and water, able to affect his mind. His Zanpakutou controls sound and using the reverberations, he creates the influence on his mind.

The final dance is meant to kill, but Mask de Masculine plugs his ears. Rose is shocked to see that Mask has destroyed his own eardrums, nullifying Rose’s Bankai power. Mask shoots a star shaped beam through Rose, defeating him. Rose tries to get back up and as Mask fires a second beam to finish him off but it’s deflected by Renji who appears in a new form as the chapter ends.

Naruto 658

The majority of the Ninja Alliance retreats, leaving the Bijuu and Gaara to confront Madara. Madara moves to attack, Gaara and Shukaku counterattack with a barrage of sand bullets. Madara shrugs it off, but Gaara reveals that he’s manipulating the sand in the wounds to freeze him in place. Matatabi smacks Madara down, the other Bijuu following suit in bouncing him around like a pinball. It looks like Gaara has succeeded in sealing Madara, but Madara unleashes Perfect Susanoo to break out.

Naruto and Killerbee attack Madara’s new form, keeping him occupied. All the Bijuu attack Madara with their tails, seemingly dealing a strong blow, but he manages to escape almost unscathed, merely losing one of his arms. Zetsu appears, giving Madara Obito’s eye and one of his arms, Madara fixing his injuries and gaining one of his eyes, increasing the potential power he has as the chapter ends.

It occurs to me that Madara somehow used Perfect Susanoo without either of his eyes and that might seem to be a contradiction. I’m guessing that Madara doesn’t need the eye to perform it or it wasn’t Susanoo, but something resulting from Hashirama’s sage chakra. Fans have observed that one doesn’t have to have the eye activated to use this technique, so in that case, it means that Susanoo is innate to the user, even if they don’t have their Mangekyou Sharingan anymore, unlike Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi

One Piece 731

We return to Bellamy and Dellinger’s fight, interrupted by Bartolomeo, who’s protecting Bellamy from further attacks by Dellinger. Turns out Dellinger was ordered by Diamante to go protect the factory with Lao G, so he gives up and leaves, vowing revenge against Bartolomeo. Bellamy is still in shock that Doflamingo ordered his death, remembering what he said when they agreed on him becoming a member of the family if he killed Luffy.

Bartolomeo moves to help him, but he pushes him away, saying he doesn’t want to live anymore. He’s also confused as to why Bartolomeo’s being so nice to him, since they were fighting in the ring a while ago, but Bartolomeo responds that since they fought in the ring, they’re like friends now and he won’t let his friends die.

Back at the Flower Fields, Rebecca’s father explains their plan, going to the underground factory through a tunnel that the Tontatta dug over a year, destroy the equipment and take Doflamingo from power. He admits that this plan depends on defeating the Hobi Hobi user, who turned everyone into toys, nullifying their ability. With that, the sheer chaos that will ensue makes the plan a gambit as to what will happen and how the enemy will react.

Usopp inquires about the user of the Hobi Hobi fruit, and the soldier explains that she’s under Trebol, codename Sugar. She looks young, but it’s because she stopped aging when she ate her Devil Fruit.  The group is inspired, Usopp encouraging them, Franky changing his hairstyle

Luffy, still looking for an exit, meets up with Bellamy and Bartolomeo, the latter of which nearly faints at Luffy’s proximity. Bellamy explains that there isn’t really an exit, since the fighters aren’t intended to leave. Luffy inquires whether he knows an exit, Bellamy saying that he’s leaving. So by coincidence, Luffy would find the exit: but Bellamy emphasizes that he won’t betray Doflamingo, even after he had him targeted for assassination.

Bartolomeo reminds Luffy that the Mera Mera Fruit is still up for grabs, but Luffy insists his friends are more important than losing the fruit. Bartolomeo then offers to get it and give it to Luffy, since he respects him so much. But someone appears, saying that they can’t let Luffy have the Mera Mera fruit.

Back at the arena, Rebecca’s joined forces with another gladiator’s group and they’re defeating more and more opponents. Rebecca is respected enough to have others help her, though I wonder if they’re going to throw the match for her or not

Bartolomeo is furious at the person who’s trying to stop Luffy, who is stunned to see them, taking up an entire page with his face. Luffy is overly emotional because he’s inspired to protect his friends, though who it is isn’t clear until a bit later. The group moves out, disguised as toys by hiding inside various corpses of animals: a fish, a cat and a frog.

A member of the Revolutionary Army contacts someone, who asks them to keep in touch about the situation underground. The chapter ends as Luffy seems to imply that he met someone who he thought was dead. The most likely candidate, with the context of the chapter, is Sabo, since he’s theorized to be associated with the Revolutionaries. We know Ace and Whitebeard are confirmed dead, especially with the emphasis on their graves, so Sabo is the logical conclusion, particularly because we see 3 sake cups, symbolizing the bond between the three of them. We never saw Sabo die, it was just an explosion and Dragon supposedly picked him up, so the pieces are all coming together.

Toriko 261

Ootake is looking over Komatsu from the end of last chapter, but collapses, Komatsu helping him. He explains about Neo’s headhunting talent from the other organizations, implying that he was targeted, but he’s more loyal to the Bishokukai. Ootake starts to writhe in pain from his injuries, Komatsu going to get ingredients. This confuses Ootake, since he shouldn’t know where they are, but Komatsu explains that he hears the ingredients’ voices.

He prepares something simple, but Ootake accepts it, knowing that most of the good ingredients were taken away already. Komatsu asks why Ootake didn’t accept Neo’s offer, Take explaining that he hasn’t absorbed anything from the Bishokukai. Komatsu flashes back to when himself, Take and Ume were all still low level chefs, seeking to be accepted by a high class restaurant. He tells Take that he remembers his dream and that they wanted to make the best food they could, even if they only had cheap ingredients. Ootake hardly remembers saying that. He says that dream was more of a stepping stone, always moving to higher and higher ambitions. He used everything as a means to that end, even his past of being an orphan, which he later states was also what Komatsu and Ume were.

But an incident changed him: a mass food poisoning at the orphanage Komatsu grew up in. The quality of the ingredients and the lack of skill to detoxify the ingredients frustrated him further. His past was something that he only felt shame at, leaving it behind so he could seek further dreams and greater goals. He realized that the orphans still looked up to him even though he didn’t even glance in their direction, respecting him for what he was to them: a senpai. They even brought up one of his first times in a newspaper, being torn down by a food critic. He felt like he was shameful to them for not being a great chef like he aspired to be and that they looked up to him as. So he abandoned any reservations, doing everything he could to be the best, so that those kids that no longer lived could still be proud of him in the afterlife. It’s the reason he started his Fairy Tale Cooking restaurant, themed indirectly after the orphanage, called the Fairy Tale Palace.

Ootake knows that, while he doesn’t have any more stepping stones, he still has to do his best to gain as much info from the Bishokukai before moving on. He notes that Midora never had that attitude to want to please the customer, to prepare the most delicious food for them and as he says this, Midora appears, the chapter ending as he tells Take to summon the other chefs.

  

WSR 12-2-13

Disclaimer: These aren’t official translations, merely scanlations. Buy localized or original manga to support the author if at all possible. Know the difference between piracy/theft and sharing without personal profit.

Magi 206

Alibaba and his group enter Balbadd and Morgiana is stunned at the view before her. It looks much more like the Kou Empire and less like the previously more Middle Eastern appearance.

Alibaba’s not entirely surprised, and Toto confirms it by saying she went here before. She had heard rumors about countries conquered by the Kou Empire: any country conquered by Kou becomes part of Kou. The people have basically been assimilated

Alibaba is welcomed and told that he should mind his manners, since he was previously dethroned. He asks one favor, going to the slums to meet Cassim’s allies, Hassan and Zaynab, who’ve had a child together. They reminisce for a time and wonder whether Alibaba has a woman now, but he brushes it off, saying he doesn’t have time with his swordsmanship practice.

Later that night, Zaynab explains that the empire takes care of them now, providing them with everything they could need. She further elaborates, noting that after Alibaba left, the empire rebuilt the city from the ground up. They distributed the wealth evenly, everyone was given new clothes and everything was changed so rapidly that the people didn’t even have the time to decide whether it was good or bad. But she comments that if they follow the rules the Kou Empire set, they can advance to a higher position from where they are in the slums, so she feels like it’s okay, especially with her ambitions.

Even later, Hassan explains that there’s a system of clothes, commoners limited to green, while nobility can wear white. White was previously a color associated with Balbadd’s general populace, from the Fog Troupe to everyday people. He’s concerned that they’re growing more and more dependent on Kou and that eventually Balbadd itself may disappear as a culture. The question is posed as to whether it’s better to have food, but lose your identity as a nation or to starve and maintain your integrity.

Alibaba explains that he knew about it indirectly, since Reim has similar functions, though its government is obviously different from the Kou Empire’s in its own way.

The chapter ends as Hassan offers to take Alibaba to Cassim’s grave.

World Trigger 41

Jin’s presence from last chapter impresses people, though he has to qualify he’s not S Rank anymore. Midorikawa, who seems to idolize him, says he wants to have a Rank War with him. Shun then apologizes to Osamu, saying he brought the spectators on purposes to embarrass him, since he got into Tamakoma, where Jin is. Osamu manages to explain that his record with Kazama was 24 losses, one tie.

Yuma and Midorikawa make up, establishing a sort of rivalry. Midorikawa even asks Jin if he can join Tamakoma if he beats Yuma next time. The group leaves to meet Kido, people impressed at Yuma, since he beat Midorikawa’s record and calls Osamu captain even though he appears weaker. But they also say Osamu is a bit mysterious, since he’s being called by the head of Border who knows S rank members.

Jin asks Yuma and Osamu about their fights with Shun, Osamu saying he couldn’t read him at all, Yuma noting that he treated him more like an animal. Compared to humans, who can be predictable in their behavior, an animal is more erratic. Even Yosuke compared Midorikawa to a dog last chapter.

Yuma explains that he let Midorikawa win the first 2 times so Shun would underestimate him and then started to beat him, so he became upset and lost his edge. That tactic was something he used in the wars as well, a deceptive but effective strategy.

Osamu feels like he’s falling behind, so he has to work much harder to get to the level of the A Rank members he’s met

They enter the meeting room, where Shiori is preparing a presentation. The meeting begins with the explanation that Border scouts have found that there’s a large scale Neighbor invasion in the works, but even with the away teams doing reconnaissance in the various countries of the Neighborhood, they don’t know which one is attacking or what their means of attack are. Therefore they’re asking Yuma as a Neighbor for his opinion and input on what to do. Yuma then summons Replica to explain things.

Replica explains that he is a Trion soldier, which is interesting. Black Triggers appear to be Triggers that can function in a way as thinking beings as well. Inside Replica are memories of Yuma and Yugo’s journeys to various countries, so he can most likely give them the information they desire. But Replica observes that there are those in Border who are prejudiced against Neighbors, so he negotiates with Kido to guarantee Yuma’s safety in exchange for the intel they require. Kido agrees, Yuma’s Side Effect not reacting to a lie. The chapter ends as Replica starts to explain about Neighbors.

Bleach 560

Mask de Masculine is encouraged by James to go see about these people that made such a “flashy” entrance. But he’s stopped by Shuuhei, fighting with the last bit of strength he has. Mask then moves to stomp on him, but is stopped by Kensei, who comments how pathetic Shuuhei is to have lost before even showing off the results of his training (Bankai?) Mask says that while he’d usually want to fight a captain, he’s off to stop someone who made an entrance that’s too extravagant for his taste.

But then Roujurou/Rose appears, saying that he’d be stupid to throw away the opportunity to fight against 2 captains. Kensei immediately releases his Bankai, Mask attacking him. But it does nothing, Kensei frustrated as he punches Mask with huge force. His Shikai made things implode and the Bankai focuses that into the gauntlets, so that every punch, any contact with his fists, continues to exert that force. He slams Mask de Masculine into a building, seemingly defeating him. James cries at his defeat, saying he can’t lose, Kensei feeling like it was too one sided.

Shuuhei warns him that they have to stop James, who starts to encourage Mask de Masculine. This makes him get up and with immense newfound power, sends Rose and Kensei flying. It’s revealed that Mask’s Schrift, S, stands for Superstar and that applause and such from an audience increases his strength, the chapter ending on this revelation.

Naruto 657

It’s revealed that Madara’s resurrection has destroyed his Rinnegan, so in a way, he’s at a disadvantage. Sasuke attacks him with Amaterasu, though it’s revealed he can still absorb ninjutsu.

Madara speaks to Hashirama about what he said before he died in battle decades ago: that two opposing forces must learn to live in harmony, applying to differing opinions like his and Hashirama’s. But he says there’s an alternate explanation, connecting to uniting both the Senju and Uchiha clan’s powers in one body. He reveals that he’s had Hashirama’s cells in his body for a while, Hashirama a bit confused. Madara reveals that this was done by another: presumably Kabuto if I had to guess. Madara did plan to be resurrected, though, stunning everyone. He then manipulates the Senju blood he has to paralyze Hashirama. Madara then pushes aside Sai and Naruto, draining Hashirama’s sage energy that he has left, which disappoints him at the level of power it has, since he thought it’d be greater.

Sasuke attacks Madara from behind, saying that now that Madara’s corporeal, he can be killed, which will finish this battle once and for all. Madara blocks the sword by taking it through his arm. He comments on the form of Sasuke’s Mangekyou, indicating that there are somewhat determined shape categories, and says that he’ll try to take Sasuke’s for now until he gets his Rinnegan back.

Back where Obito is, Black Zetsu says that Obito is finished now that he’s used Rinne Tensei and that the only thing left is for Obito to give up his left eye. Kakashi and Minato try to stop him, but he fuses with Obito again, revealing that as long as they don’t break their symbiosis, Obito will continue to live even after using Rinne Tensei.

He explains to Minato and Kakashi that he’s Madara’s will, which Madara phrased as using Yin manipulation. They underestimated Madara’s level of planning, a flashback showing that while it seemed Zetsu was defeated, he simply shed the black half and waited until Madara ordered him again after Madara was finished fighting the Kage. Black Zetsu says Obito was useless, acting behind Madara’s back and that now he’ll use him until he expires to stop Kakashi and Minato.

Back where Madara is, he offers Sasuke a chance to join him, Sasuke declining. Naruto and Sai attack, but Madara blows them away with a fire element jutsu.

Hashirama comments that Madara’s back to full power and that his next target is the Bijuu. We see Madara moving to capture them as the chapter ends.

One Piece 730

Everyone besides Luffy, Zoro and Kinemon are confused, since they’re just hearing the sounds from Doflamingo attacking and shooting Law. Doflamingo explains (deceptively) to the people that Law was responsible for  spreading the rumor that he abandoned the throne, but that he’s taken care of now. The people are calmed by this, but Luffy is still enraged, asking why he did that to Law. Doflamingo responds that Luffy has no place to lecture him, since Law was originally one of his underlings, so the “king” of Dressrosa has the authority to punish him as he sees fit.

Zoro and Kinemon move to attack Doflamingo, Kinemon ordered by Zoro to get Law out of there. The Marines move to attack, but are stopped by who I presume is Fujitora.  Doflamingo recognizes the two attacking him, concluding that Momonosuke was on the ship before.

Suddenly, Fujitora stops Zoro and uses his Devil Fruit power to send him through a hole, while Doflamingo slashes Kinemon. Luffy tries to move to help them, but the bars blocking his way are made of Seastone.  Zoro counterattacks at Fujitora, Kinemon managing to get up from the attack. It’s revealed to everyone (though the audience knew for a while) that the old blind gambler they thought was harmless before is actually a marine admiral, one of the highest ranks in the World Government. Robin observes that this changes the situation, since that means Doflamingo has Marines as his allies as well.

Doflamingo takes Law and Fujitora levitates them away with his Devil Fruit. Doflamingo promises that he’ll give Law and the others to Fujitora in exchange for his help, Fujitora saying he’ll consider it.

Zoro and Kinemon go to Luffy, saying they’ll distract the Marines until Luffy can get out. But then a scream is heard from Brook’s group at the Sunny Go; it turns out that Big Mom’s ship, massive in comparison to the Sunny Go, is moving to capture Caesar. Caesar explains that he stole from Big Mom to fund his research, so they’re trying to kill him, unlike Doflamingo. The ship fires on the Sunny, the group concluding they have to keep Big Mom away, since her presence at Dressrosa would make everything much more difficult.

Nami then explains to Luffy and everyone that there are 3 cards that are being competed for here: Caesar, the SMILE factory and Momonosuke (though we don’t know exactly why). Doflamingo has the factory, but the Straw Hats have the other 2 in one location, so they have to protect them so that Luffy and the others can take the factory back, gaining all 3 and having leverage against Doflamingo. Law made a sacrifice so that Luffy and the others could have an opportunity to get the factory back. His sacrifice would be in vain if they don’t move to keep Doflamingo away from the other 2 cards.

Luffy agrees, saying they’ll get Law back, the Sunny group moving towards Zou, the next island. Sanji decides to attack Big Mom’s ship so the Sunny can get away. Franky’s group is going to destroy the factory, while Luffy’s group will go to Dressrosa palace to rescue Law. The chapter ends as this is established, the conflict rising to a boil.

Toriko 260

Jirou offers Toriko a drink as the chapter starts. He tries to make things a bit easygoing by commenting on the stars, but Toriko’s still depressed. Rin explained to him before that Toriko hasn’t eaten or drank in days, yet thanks to his Food Immersion, he’s still overflowing with energy. Jirou knows that that’s not how Toriko really feels, offering him the only liquor Ichiryuu drank, since he couldn’t hold his alcohol very well. Toriko asks why he brought it and Jirou reveals that Ichiryuu died in Gourmet World, which shocks Toriko further than he already is. Jirou says it wasn’t unreasonable to think Ichiryuu could lose, the two sharing a drink, which Toriko comments is like Ichiryuu in its own way.

Jirou explains that Ichiryuu was powerful, and his kindness was reflective of it, treating Jirou and Midora so much like they were his own brothers, since he was the oldest sibling. He even let them win to stop them from crying, since he knew it would make them feel better. Toriko notes that he never let Toriko win, but Jirou says that’s because he sensed that Toriko had great potential and would’ve beat him naturally over time.  But Toriko says he failed as a Bishokuya in not protecting Komatsu, hating his weakness.

Jirou then notes about how Toriko fights like an animal, not bearing resentment towards his opponent, just fighting to prove who’s stronger. He says Toriko shouldn’t hate himself so, but move on and stand up after his defeat. He also reminds Toriko that while Ichiryuu isn’t coming back, Komatsu still lives. That encouragement lifts Toriko’s spirits and he moves to prepare for what’s happening next. Before he leaves, Jirou asks Toriko what his dream is, saying that will help him move towards the future he seeks with much more resolve. He emphasizes that they’re Bishokuya through and through.

Meanwhile, back at Bishokukai headquarters, Starjun is dumbfounded at the destruction. He realizes from one of the survivors that they were betrayed from inside, Neo having reached this far (though he had already somewhat seen through that)

The chapter ends as Komatsu awakes with Ootake before him, revealing that he too has defected from the Bishokukai. This doesn’t leave a lot of members, so in a way, the Bishokukai may actually become allies to Toriko’s group instead of their enemies.

Fairy Tail 363

We start this chapter with Gray and Juvia communicating with Makarov through Lacryma, explaining that Org, their target to protect, is already dead. The scene seems like someone slashed everything, the marks across buildings and the ground.

Gajeel’s group failed as well, the only 2 left the ones Natsu and Elfman’s groups went to respectively. Elfman’s group finds their target already dead as well, not a scratch on him. But he wakes up suddenly, destroying the lacryma Elfman and Lisanna were using. It’s revealed he was being used as a corpse doll ofsorts by Sayla, the “goat” demon of Tartaros. Elfman and Lisanna move to fight, but Elfman is controlled by her as she did with the corpse of the Magic Council member, choking Lisanna.

Lucy and company contact Makarov, explaining they managed to beat one of the members, though not without some damage to the city. Michello is shaken up, traumatized by the attack, speaking only a few words, “White Legacy” and “face” Face is revealed to be one of the weapons the council has, similar to the Etherion we saw back in the Tower of Paradise arc.

Face is of higher level than even Etherion, which was able to destroy a continent: Face is able to nullify magic across a vast scale. Face was sealed by organic link magic by three members and only the former chairman knows who they are. Their goal now is to find the former chairman. The other guilds helped out and found all 16 of the former member’s addresses, so now it’s just a matter of finding the chairman, which is already nearly discovered. Erza and Mirajane have been sent and that ends the chapter