Posts tagged madara

“TEAM SEVEN”

OMGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Team 7 ….. IS BACK AGAIN…?!?

And it only took 450 chapters!!! (No, really. Sasuke left Konoha in 181…)

Okay, okay! Let’s take this chapter - which ranks as one of the most momentous chapters in the series - from the beginning because it delivers a whole lot of fandom goodies.

So we rejoin Minato who has just saved the day by transporting the Juubi’s BIJUU DAMA away from the Shinobi Alliance and his arrival is literally announced with a bang as the DAMA’s blast radius rocks the battlefield despite being teleported to the ocean some distance away, which goes to demonstrate just how powerful the Juubi is becoming with each transformation. 

After a quick introduction to Sakura during which she notes Minato’s condition as an Edo Tensei zombie, Minato inquires if Sakura is Naruto’s girlfriend, seeing as she is caring for his son. The fatherly question quickly stirs annoyance in Sakura as Naruto answers that more-or-less he believes she is, which is the same response Jiraiya probably would have probably given in reference to Tsunade, reminding us of the repetition between these two generations. As Sakura head bashes Naruto they have a humorous exchange that reminds Minato of him a his wife Kushina, which effectively stirs the feels for anyone who is a NaruSaku fan (Naruto x Sakura). It’s strange we get this pairing hint after just coming off a touching Naruto and Hinata moment, so it feels as if Kishi is purposefully throwing a bone to fans of this paring as well just to keep stirring the fandom.

EPIC PANEL #1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It’s at this moment that FINALLYYYYY the previous three Hokage catch up to Minato who, as expected, arrived first because he is that much faster than his predecessors, so much so that even Tobirama the inventor of the Flying Thundergod Technique recognizes the superiority of Minato’s speed. No not that kind of speed.

As the Alliance recognizes the shinobi legends that have just arrived, it’s clear Madara has eyes for only one of them.

EPIC PANEL #2!!!

What’s NOT to love about this reunion between these two. xD Here we were expecting a serious encounter but Kishi leaves us laughing instead as he reminds us of these two when they were children. Only Hashirama can cause Madara to make such outrages faces!

As Hashirama announces that the Hokage’s immediate goal is to neutralize the Juubi, Madara humorously comments to himself how only Hashirama can get under his skill even after all these years and it appears he is willing to wait until Hashirama can give him his undivided attention. As the Juubi begins to morph into its final form from the head down, Minato gives Naruto a heads up that “his friend” will arrive soon and proceeds to enter KYUUBI CHAKRA MOOOOODE!!

EPIC PANEL #3!!!

Naturally, at first I thought this was Naruto because he has been the only character to use this technique up to this point, but Minato entering this unique mode serves to remind us that he has half of Kurama’s chakra sealed inside of him and it’s wise of him to use it on himself first to achieve the Hokage’s plan before passing it on to his son and Kurama for a power up.

Confirming that Minato has placed his special kunai around the Juubi, Hashirama gives the signal to begin and Minato instantly transports Tobirama, Hiruzen and himself into position at each kunai and together they erect a large, incredibly powerful red barrier that traps the Juubi. Just to be safe, Hashirama enters his epic MOKUTON Sage Mode and summons 10 sealing gates to suspend the movement of the Juubi’s ten tails, a technique we’ve actually seen Naruto use when he learned to control Kurama’s power, which reminded Kurama of the Sage of Six Paths. The use of these gates seems to suggest that the Hokage plan to seal the Juubi, but overal their exact intent is unclear.

EPIC PANEL #4!!! 

Mr. SAUCE chooses this moment to make his arrival on the battlefield with Jugo at his side, which spurs mixed reactions of shock, disbelief and anger from both Sakura and the rest of the Konoha 11. It’s only Naruto who does not seem surprised at the sudden arrival of his wayward friend and his cool reaction belays just how mature Naruto has become as he has aged.  

As Sakura confronts Sasuke about his suddenly appeared - because we must remember last time they encountered one another Sasuke attempted to kill Sakura - said Uchiha calmly states that he has decided to protect the village and essentially carry out the will of his brother, and further more he has added one more personal goal.

Even Akamaru can’t believe it!!

Of course, these comedic responses of shock are followed by outrage voiced by Kiba, Shikamaru and Shino, but despite their incredulous thoughts Naruto takes Sasuke and the sudden change of heart in his former comrade seriously, even as Sasuke states he does not care what his peers think of him. Sasuke clarifies his intentions in seeking this position of power in order to insure that the mistakes of the past Hokage are never repeated, that issues will not be left to fester that lead to such tragedies like the Uchiha Clan Massacre, the major source of pain in Sasuke’s life. Listening to this, Naruto has an important flashback to the wise words Edo Tensei Itachi shared with him about the nature of the title of Hokage, simply that a person does not become Hokage to be acknowledged, rather it is the person who is acknowledged who becomes Hokage.

Now healed, Naruto steps up beside his long absent friend and announces his intent to still become Hokage, and as we view these two shinobi standing together, Kishi presents us with their new rivalry, with each representing the different paths Itachi outlined. 

What does the mean for the NARUTO vs SASUKE fight we have all been waiting for?? Will it be over the title of Hokage now? Over different visions of the future? Or will Sasuke possibly be swayed by Madara’s ideals? Sasuke has been an avenger so long over the course of this series it’s taking awhile to get used to his sudden changes in motivation. We will just have to see if Hashirama’s Talk no Jutsu will stick!

Now united in their shared dream of becoming Hokage and goal to protect the Alliance, Naruto informs Sakura that she can rest up while he and Sasuke move to the front lines, but in a welcome show of confidence Sakura declares she is not being left behind and asserts herself as a fellow disciple of the Sannin and in doing so suggests that she has a lot to offer to a battle once her chakra is fully recovered. This demonstration of female confidence is very refreshing in this battlefield full of OP men, and after this speech I am actually very pumped to see what Sakura will bring to the battle. It’s about time her character got a moment to shine.

EPIC PANEL #OH I FORGET

Overall, this chapter was chalk full of reunions that we the readers have been anxiously awaiting, yet instead of being serious affairs, Minato & Naruto, Hashirama & Madara, and Sasuke & the Konoha 11’s meet ups are quite humorous with outrages reactions. It is only Naruto’s reaction to Sasuke that remains cool and measured, which serves to emphasize how in control Naruto is of himself emotionally. The excitement of these reunions is balanced out by the immediate action the Hokage begin to take against the threat of the Juubi, but what their plan is exactly we will have to wait to learn, and hopefully it will be revealed in the next chapter. In all seriousness I don’t believe their actions will be fruitful in the end because from a storytelling perspective getting rid of the Juubi now, the entity that has been so hyped up to this point, would be extremely disappointing for fans especially it being so close to achieving its final form. If the Hokage do succeed in doing something to it, there is little doubt it will be a temporary fix.

Sasuke’s sudden declaration to become Hokage is the most WTF moment of this chapter, mainly because these sudden shifts in his character and goals are happening in such quick succession it’s leaving us feeling a little off balance. But Hokage!Sasuke has been a running theory for awhile now so kudos to those who believed in it because it is now officially canon! And as I mentioned, now that Sasuke has “seen the light,” will the title of Hokage be the foundation for Sasuke and Naruto’s foreshadowed epic battle??

It’s important to note though that Naruto is the only one who takes Sasuke’s new found dream to become Hokage seriously, despite the mocking and disbelief the Uchiha immediately received from him peers, and this makes since because those negative reactions are what Naruto has suffered his entire life. It speaks once again to his growing maturity and to the nobility of his character that he completely believes in Sasuke’s dream and stands up next to him in support.

It was also very nice to see Minato strut his stuff in this chapter through his quick actions to removed the BIJUU DAMA, set up his kunai around the Juubi and enter into Kyuubi Chakra Mode, after his humility earlier about not living up to the expectations of the title Hokage. 

I give this chapter a RATING of:

Honestly, how could I NOT give 5 Tobi’s? TEAM SEVEN IS BACK BITCHES. Just for that epic moment, which has been years in the coming, this chapter warrants a high grade. But this chapter is also rich in reunions, comedy and decisive action, which resulted in more epic panels in one chapter than I have seen in a LONG TIME. Even the NaruSaku, SasuNaru, HashiMada & SasuHina OTP pairings got some material to swoon over. Overall, this chapter is a real treat.

PREDICTIONS:

Even if the Hokage succeed in doing something to the Juubi it will only be temporary.

Hashirama and crew ran into Tsunade and the fallen Kage, which would explain why Hashirama went from being excited to “see his buddy” to being angry and impatient with him. Madara didn’t even buy Tsunade a drink first!

Obito and Kakashi are currently trying to poke each other’s sharingan out, but being fans of the Three Stooges neither are getting very far.

As always, let me know what you guys thought of this chapter!! And thanks so much for the support!! :D

Till next week!!

Le Vlog Review:

“WHAT WE BURY”

MINATOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!111

Alright alright alright - I’m getting ahead of myself!! Let’s take this exciting chapter from the top!

As we return to the dramatic panel of Kakashi staring through the hole in Obtio’s chest, we see the drama continue to unfold between these former comrades. Watching Kakashi deactivate his RAIKIRI, Obito explains why he has forgone his heart, both figuratively and literally, in an effort to remove emotional pain. Obito begins to comment on Kakashi’s pain due to the loss of his teammates and explains that it is no longer necessary for him to suffer. 

Still under the influence of his genjutsu, Obito conjures the images of Rin and his younger self to Kakashi in a demonstration similar to the one Madara gave him to explain how the Moon’s Eye Plan works. 

Look at how sweet and innocent that face looks Kakashi - how can you say no??

But Kakashi does say NO as he quickly activates his RAIKIRI once more and cuts through the images of little Rin and Obito. Turning to Obito, he confronts his former friend’s belief that filling in the holes of his heart with illusions is not the solution, in fact by doing so Obito actually disgraces Rin’s memory and sacrifice for Konoha. Obito’s reaction to these words suggests he might have honestly believed he could begin to sway Kakashi to his side, knowing that Kakashi has suffered the same pain as himself. By offering the ideas that make him feel better, Obito looks deeply affronted at having them immediately criticized and thrown back in his face. 

The chapter transitions to the battlefield where we see the Juubi opening its mouth in what looks to be a yawn, perhaps in response to how boring and sorry the Shinobi Alliance has become, but its mouth continues to open as a gigantic ball of its slimy innards appears. 

As the Alliance watches the strange ball form begin to peal away from itself, Gyuki comments to Bee that up until this point the Juubi has been in its “attack form” and is now entering a phase that is only one step away from its final form, at which point it will be the end of the road for the Alliance. Knowing that Kurama is resting in order to rebuild chakra, Gyuki get’s Bee energized to strike while they have a chance to counter the Juubi.

Looking back at his giant new pokemon, Madara regrets the impending demise of the Alliance as a loss of amusement for him and wonders if the Juubi’s strong attack is a reaction to sensing the souls of the Bijuu and will of the Sage of Six Paths within Naruto.  The fact Madara can recognize that Naruto possess these things suggests it is because of the Rinnegan, as Obito was also able to see something similar earlier in the war, though he chose to ignore its meaning. 

As the BIJUU DAMA in front of the Juubi’s new flower-mouth growths and strengthens, the scene focuses in on Sakura and she listens to the doubt and despair being voiced by her comrades. Though they are essentially powerless to protect themselves from the massive BIJUU DAMA looming before them without the help of Naruto’s Chakra Cloaks, Sakura speaks up to quell the dread and “sniveling” around her. With her hands busy healing Naruto, she compels everyone to remember Naruto’s words and what every member of the Alliance means to him.

Her speech encourages everyone to have faith, do their part, and if push come to shove go down fighting. Smirking and inspired, the glint in Shikamaru’s eye suggests he has come up with a plan and wasting no time asks for Ino to telepathically connect him to  Kitsuchi, the Tsuchikage’s son. Shikamaru’s quick wits and talent for strategy shines again as he relays his plan to Kitsuchi to teach every single member of the Alliance the hand seals to erect an earth wall with the idea that numerous weak walls may be able to successfully slow down or counter the impending BIJUU DAMA. Focusing on Ino once more, Shikamaru asks if she has the ability to patch him into the mind of every Alliance member, to which she impatiently replies that she is doing it whether she can or can’t.

As the Juubi releases its BIJUU DAMA, the scene returns to the box dimension as Obito  questions Kakashi why he would turn away from a perfect, happy illusion when reality is so harsh and cruel. Beginning to anger, Obito shouts how anyone can fill a void left by pain wrought from the real world; How can anyone move past the hash nature of the world and the regrets from the past. Taking a moment to reflect on those who have touched his life, Kakashi answers that he may be trash among shinobi for the mistakes in his past, but running away from them can never make someone whole again. It is by allowing people back into your life that regenerates one’s heart and fills the void left by pain. 

The scene switches back to the battlefield as the BIJUU DAMA plows through the walls the Alliance members are summoning to slows its progress, but it is clear the attack is too powerful to be stopped by this means. Recognizing this Bee and Gyuki jump in front of the DAMA and using Gyuki’s tails try to hold back the bomb on their own.

In another quick transition the scene returns to Obito as he rebuttals Kakashi’s argument with his own, stating that only by letting go and forgetting your comrades can you free truly yourself from pain. Looking straight at his former friend, Kakashi begins to recite the words young Obito once told him before tragedy tore them apart, that those who breaks the rules are trash, but those who abandon their comrades are even worse than trash. However, he concludes with his own amendment to this quote, that those who don’t respect the memory and sacrifice of their friends are the WORST TRASH OF ALL.

OH SNAP.

We see Gyuki and Bee again in their struggle to contain the BIJUU DAMA only to find that it suddenly disappears! As confusion reigns on the battlefield, it is clear Kakashi’s mind is focused as he activates RAIKIRI once more, stating that he cherishes his fond memories of young Obito and will never let them fade. He honors the friend he once knew, and whether Obito likes it or not, as long as Kakashi is around the memories of that Obito will always exist.

With the whisk of a particular kunai planting itself in the ground before Naruto and Sakura, the chapter wraps up as it returns to the battlefield one more to welcome its newest arrival…

With a confident smile, Naruto greets his father stating he’s right on time, and his lack of surprise suggests that Naruto probably sensed the approach of Minato and the rest of the Hokage when he was in his Kyuubi Chakra Mode. It’s no wonder now why he didn’t seem worried during Juubi’s attack!

Yay, so it appears that FINALLY the Hokage have arrived to turn the tide of the war in the Alliance’s favor! Unless for some reason Minato arrived ahead of the others… The only explanation I can give for that is if for some reason one or more Hokage strayed behind to help the current Kage return to the battlefield. Boy wouldn’t that be EPIC!!

Overall this chapter was very dynamic due to the multiple perspectives we got from a variety of different characters, ranging from Obito and Kakashi, Madara, Bee and Gyuki, Sakura, Shikamaru, Kitsuchi, Ino and of course Naruto. Yet despite all the transitions, the chapter read smoothly and the abrupt cuts between Obito’s box dimension and the battlefield served to successfully built tension and drama. 

It was nice to see Sakura get a chance to rally the troops while putting her skills as a medic to use, and it was equally nice to see Ino get a moment to shine and demonstrate the high quality and strength of her skills. There has been very little panel time for girls in this war so I’m glad Kishi finally made some room to shine the spot light on these two. The sudden focus on them may purposefully coincide with the arrival of Sasuke, their shared crush, for their reactions will certainly be featured when said Uchiha makes his presence known. 

If I had to name a theme in this chapter it would be WALLS, Both the ones you build in your heart to keep out emotion and pain, and the physical ones to protect and defend the people you are about, as both were present in the chapter. But as the walls of support become stronger for the Alliance with the arrival of the Hokage, the walls around Obito’s heart are being put to the test by Kakashi as he confronts the pain inside his former comrade. Will Kakashi be able to break through to Obito emotionally? Or will their confrontation end in blood and death? I believe next chapter we will begin to see them fighting in ernest as their ideals and weapons clash.

I give the chapter a RATING of:

Kishimoto sure knows how to build up tension and leave us hanging with an epic ending panel! This is a well orchestrated chapter and ties many exciting elements together to create dynamic storytelling, from emotionally driven scenes to an outrageously powerful attack, quick wits and guts from the underdogs and a dramatic entrance by a beloved character. I can’t wait to see who shows up next week!! :D

As always, what did YOU GUYS think of this chapter?? Did you fly out of your chair when Minato arrived or were you expecting it like Naruto? What do you think of Juubi’s temporary new flower form? Who’s going to show up on the battlefield next??

PREDICTIONS:

The missing flames on Minato’s jacket will finally catch up and reattach themselves, he was just going too fast for them to stay on!

Minato will seal the rest of Kurama’s chakra into Naruto next chapter resulting in an instant power boost and recovery for our hero.

Juubi’s final form will actually just be a huge, flying brain that attempts to brainwash everyone into stupidity, except it doesn’t work on Fry - I mean Naruto.

Till next time!!

Le Blog Review:

“WIND HOLE”

I’ve heard of being heartless…. BUT DAMN! Leave it to Obito to take it to the next level!

So, after a break for both publisher and translators, this eagerly awaited chapter opens up to the raging chaos of earth and sky unleashed by the Juubi at the end of chapter 628. We can only assume this power is the TENBEN CHII that Kurama warned Naruto of as the tempest around them swells violently, driving bolts of lightning towards the Juubi’s form that illuminate the massive boulders and raging currents of water suddenly amassing towards it as well. With the force of an Atomic Bomb the pressure of the storm releases, casting itself across the land and forming a large mushroom cloud above the Juubi as the clouds around it continue to thunder and roll.

As the dust settles we see that Madara has thrown up his Susanoo to protect himself from the blast, and looking at the newly formed crater around him, he assumes that the explosion has finally done in the Alliance. But despite the strewn debris and torrents of water rushing to fill in the crater, the Alliance is scattered but alive thanks to the Chakra Cloaks Naruto continued to surround them with. Once again, everyone recognizes that they would have perished it it wasn’t for Naruto’s protection, but even Juubi seems to be getting tired of this old trick. 

The scene focuses on Naruto and it’s clear from his hunch stance, bleeding arm and torn clothes that he took the biggest hit from the blast. But despite his ragged breath and beading sweat, the passion to fight continues to burn in his eyes as a confidant smirk lights his face.

Naruto may have finally reached the limit of his chakra, but as Juubi’s gaze locks onto its only standing opponent, we get a view of what it sees in Naruto.

(Okay, even if Disco is dead, if you don’t understand this Sister Sledge reference, for goodness sake get some culture and listen: http://youtu.be/eBpYgpF1bqQ)

As the Rinnegan eyes of the Sage of Six Paths stare down Juubi through Naruto’s equally determined gaze, it is made clear to us that our hero truly embodies the second coming of this shinobi god. Though Madara, Nagato and Obito eventually evolved to posses the powers of the Sage through combining Senju and Uchiha DNA, it is Naruto who has been entrusted with the name and thus souls of the Bijuu. In this way Naruto possess the true will of the Sage, and if it’s one thing we’ve learned from this series so far, it’s that will is ultimately stronger than physical power. 

The fact that Juubi focuses on Naruto and is able to recognizes the will of the Sage with in him lead us to believe that it is becoming more sapient and aware of its surrounds, for if it can respond to a threat then surely it is becoming more intelligent. With a mighty roar that is finally something other than “GIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!”, Juubi’s muscles begin to bulk up as it enters what may be the transformation into its final form. 

With a curse, Naruto drops to one knee as his body gives out in exhaustion and with this the Chakra Cloaks protecting the Alliance flicker and snuff out like the flame of a candle. Not sounding unimpressed, Madara notes that this appears to be the limit of Naruto’s strength, but because something else *coughHASHIRAMAcough* has caught his attention now, he will make Naruto and his comrades’ death mercifully quick and painless then move on. 

I found this statement by Madara to be very insightful to his character because it shows he does not seek pleasure in killing as a pain “evil villain” in a story might. This illustrates Kishimoto’s great ability at placing his antagonists in a gray moral ground; Madara may be our “bad guy” and though his actions are questionable his ultimate goal is peace, something we all wish. This makes Madara’s character dynamic and sympathetic to us and speaks to Kishi’s ability as a good storyteller as he has applied this rule to virtually every villain in his series.

Despite Madara’s suggestion of victory, he is taken by surprise as Naruto’s equally tired comrades come to stand in a protective formation in front of their hero. With Hinata in the front, she gives a spirited shout for her fellows to show Madara their continued solidarity to the war and as a cry of assent goes up Naruto can’t help but smile as Sakura begins to heal his wounds.

It’s at this point the chapter turns its focus to Obito and Kakashi as they spiral out of KAMUI and into Obito’s box dimension, and despite being the person who uses KAMUI the most to transport himself, Obito lands on his ass while Kakashi immediately springs from his fall into an attack. But before Kakashi can deliver a finishing move with RAIKIRI, he jerks to a stop mere inches from Obito’s surprised face, and to Obito the reason for this is clear for Kakashi has had several opportunities to kill him up to this point. In choosing not to, Obito begins to question Kakashi’s motives, asking if the guilt of breaking his promise to Obito still keeps him up at night, and if Kakashi still harbors hope that Obito could have a change of heart.

The latter statement, I believe, is directed specifically towards us the reader because up to this point the majority of boss characters in NARUTO underwent a change of heart, notable examples being Zabuza and Nagato. Redemption is a running theme in this series and as fans we have come to expect it, and Obito having once been so similar to Naruto in will and dreams, begs us to wonder if he will “see the light” as well. From Kakashi’s reaction, it’s clear he holds on to the hope that his former comrade and friend can return, that the old Obito still resides within the scared man before him, but Obito only laughs and mocks Kakashi for the pain and guilt he has suffered over the years.

Activating his sharingan, Obito freezes Kakashi to the spot and begins to walk into his former comrade’s arm, allowing RAIKIRI to piece into his chest the same way it did into Rin’s. In a sick twist Obito turns this scene into the actual event it mimics and in this way forces Kakashi to relive one of his most painful memories. It is here Obito reveals that he actually knew the reason behind Rin’s death, and FINALLY, FINALLY we learn that Kakashi DIDN’T willingly kill Rin against her will, she actually chose to die by Kakashi’s hand.

To explain the reason behind her decision, the chapter enters into a mini flashback during which Obito explains that Rin had been kidnapped by Kirigakure where she was forcibly MADE INTO A JINJUURIKI.

HKJHSJKhdjkasdahsdkjhdjkSAHKJHSADAsdhsdhdghghghjdhfjhfdfdfkkjfkk

Now, I have to take a moment as a reviewer to say…. I SO F**KING CALLED THIS!!!

Let’s take a trip back to my review of chapter 608 in October:

Now granted, as we learn the truth, my exact reasoning for why Rin became a jinuuriki does not stand up, but every fan has to enjoy these moments when they predict something even partly correct. :) Except Tobi=Obito fans - because some still won’t shut up.

We learn that Kirigakure intended for Rin to be rescued and returned to Konoha where they then planned to (somehow) unleash the Sanbi within her thus causing chaos and destruction on their enemy village. However, I find it odd that Kirigakure honestly believed Rin would not recognize their plan and try to take her own life by some means to prevent it. Perhaps she hammed up the “I’m a dumb, scared girl” act, but even if she allowed herself into Konoha and the Sanbi was released, Kirigakure risked Konoha gaining control of Sanbi and keeping it for themselves. Was the temporary destruction of Konoha worth that loss? Perhaps only if they were planning to follow it up with a war while Konoha was weak? Hard to say, but it was a very risky move so they shouldn’t have been surprised it didn’t work.

As we see young Kakashi aiming his RAIKIRI at a Kiri shinobi, Obito explains how Rin perfectly timed her death by dropping in from above to fall into Kakashi’s unwavering blow. It’s made clear Kakashi knew Rin wanted to die by his hand but he refused, due to his promise to Obito, so she resorted to the Yahiko approach. The question that comes to my mind though, is was Rin acting selfishly in this moment or not? Though dying by the man you love’s hand is romanic, forcing Kakashi to unwillingly aid in her death forced him to both kill his last teammate and break his promise with Obito. Granted, one could argue that by being a martyr for her village Rin was preforming the most selfless of acts and could be excused this one selfish wish. But really, she could have taken care of business on her own without the romance. I would prefer to wonder if she knew that Kakashi killing her would evolve Obito’s sharingan and thus make him stronger because of the act, which would give her character even more depth in foresight and selflessness. But for now, it seems more evident that Kishi wanted her character to be romantic just because she is a girl. SIGH, Kishi, sigh.

After expressing his knowledge of the truth and imparting it to us, Obito concludes the flashback by stating that because Kakashi failed to protect Rin he is an “impostor” of the friend who made that promise. If the world was not governed by an “eye-for-an-eye” philosophy, Rin would not have needed sacrifice herself, and as Obito steps away from Kakashi’s hand, he states that he views the Rin who lay dead that day as an “impostor” because people are only themselves when they are alive, naturally. Obito concludes by clarifying his character’s resolve: That it wasn’t Rin’s death but the fact that she had to die at all that broke his heart and shattered his faith in the Shinobi World and allowed him to see it for all its faults.

Still frozen in place, Kakashi returns to the fact that Naruto’s words embody the passion Obito once felt because Kakashi passed this will onto his pupil, and he believes that something of it must still exist inside his former comrade. But Obito is having none of this TALK NO JUTSU and instead indicates to the dramatic, freshly made hole in his chest.

The chapter concludes with a dramatic view of Kakashi through the other side of the hole in Obito’s chest who states that Kakashi need to feel guilty about the past, that his former friend’s actions were merely apart of the sh!t storm that is the Shinobi World. And really, I think that should have been the title of this chapter, “Shit Storm” but I can see how that wouldn’t fly with the parents.

Overall, this chapter serves to clarify what drives Obito to complete the Moon’s Eye Plan, revealing that is it not just because the girl he loved died, but that rather her death brought to light his disgust with the whole Shinobi system that would allow such an act to occur. Uncoincidentally, the questions Sasuke posed to Hashirama help us gain more incite into Obito’s hatred because we as readers now posses a clearer knowledge of the Shinobi World through its founding. Sasuke has every right to be as disenfranchised with the world as Obito, but where Sasuke rampaged in pursuit of truth that lead to Hashirama, Obito rampaged and received a different idea of truth from Madara that resulted in the nurturing of his pain, rather than the healing of it. 

Obito will be a tough nut to crack in terms of returning him to the light, but the fact remains that there is a good chance he eventually could because it would be a RETURN to the light, not a TURN. The evil Emperor of Star Wars could not be turned to the light because he had never been good to begin with, but Darth Vader RETURNed because he had once be young Anakin before pain and suffering broke his body and heart. So there is a chance Obito could return to his old beliefs but I’m not sure Kakashi has the TALK NO JUTSU chops to do it alone. 

This chapter also serves to indicate that the Hokage’s arrival may be close at hand because Naruto is in desperate need of a power up and we know that Minato has the other half of Kurama’s chakra which would do the trick beautifully! The question is, will Kishi let things become more desperate first? Then at the last possible and most dramatic moment let the Hokage (and possibly other Kage) arrive to save the day? 

I have a feel the next chapter will continue to focus on Kakashi and Obito as they come to an impasse in philosophy and perhaps will have a good fight finally. If the experience of Obito walking into Kakashi’s arm was not entirely a genjutsu, it suggests that more of his body than just half is made up of Zetsu/Hashirama cells, which would explain why his left arm fell of during his fight with Minato when it was only right side of his body that was crushed beneath the boulder. This makes him a very difficult opponent to kill because his body can sustain great damage without incurring death, except for headshot of course. We’ll just have to see how it all goes down!!

As always, what did YOU guys think of this chapter?? Were you let down because you expected more after a long break? Was everything Obito did all a genjutsu? Were you surprised about the truth of Rin’s death? Do you think the Juubi is finally regaining intelligence? 

I give this chapter a RATING of:

It finally revealed the mystery of Rin’s death, featured some dramatic back-and-forth between Kakashi and Obito, reestablished the connection between Naruto and the Sage, and Juubi blew more stuff up. Not too bad.

PREDICTIONS:

Juubi will continue to improve its vocabulary from “Giiiiiii” to include “Gaaauhhhgh,” “Huuuuuughhh,” and “Uuuuuuughimhungy.”

Hashirama and group will run into Tsunade and Kage and lend a hand so they can all arrive together on the battlefield together. 

Hinata will finally propose to Naruto before Sasuke get’s a chance.

Till next time!!

Le Blog Review:

“HERE AND FROM NOW ON”

WE KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENIN’ THERE MADARA.

So, as expected, this chapter brings us back to the battlefield as we see Madara and Obito standing alongside the Juubi attacking the Shinobi Alliance in unison with massive KATON jutsu. As the humongous waves of fire begin to roll over the scattered shinobi, Naruto is quick to increase the strengthen of the Chakra Cloaks protecting each individual in the Alliance and we see as the Cloaks expand in size to counter the intense heat. 

Without pause M & O follow up this attack with a joint assault of physical weaponry as Madara summons his Susanoo and launches several large magatama while Obito expels many large kunai using KAMUI. The Alliance barely has time to catch their breath before the weapons are upon them and it’s clear by their slow reaction time that everyone is tired and flat footed, but Naruto remains focused and employs the Chakra Cloaks  to sprout tails that whack the kunai and magatama away from his comrades.

Taking an exhausted crouch, Sakura contemplates whether Naruto can keep the Cloaks going and what the effects of having done so up to this point might be having on her teammate, and in the next panel we see just how strained Naruto is as he leans forward, panting and wiping his brow. The expressions of the others on the battlefield seem to reflect Sakura’s concern but before anyone else can react Kakashi shouts a warning as he spots Obito suddenly appearing above Naruto. Of course, Naruto is quick to dodge in his Kyuubi Chakra Mode as Obito comes land on the spot he was standing just seconds before. 

As Obito settles from his landing he questions Naruto about what exactly he plans to accomplish by straining himself in this way to protect his comrades. It’s at this point Kurama steps in to warn Naruto that he is in danger of burning himself out at the pace he’s going, and to keep an eye on Juubi as it appears to be gather strength for something, most likely a power up.

Obito continues by smugly suggesting Naruto’s efforts are in vain as the Alliance will not succeed, but despite being tired it’s clear Naruto’s spirit is still as bright as the golden light emitting from his Chakra Mode.

Despite his efforts at being a wet blanket, Obito continues to question Naruto after easily dodging an attack from said Uzumaki and surrounding shinobi. It’s clear this is meant to be a psychological attack on Naruto to shake his resolve, but Obito’s presence appears to have the opposite effect as our young hero declares that holding on to the feelings and connections you make with friends is what makes the fighting worth it.

As Obito takes in Naruto’s stirring words we see the positive effect they have on his comrades as smiles and bright eyes reveal the Alliance’s confidence to continue the fight despite the odds. Kakashi wonders to himself what Obito’s aim is by cornering Naruto and it’s clear that curiosity is at least one factor. Naruto and Obito are essentially two sides of the same coin in terms of character and Obito definitely sees himself in the young jinjuuriki for they have similar pasts and have faced the same pain wrought by loss and loneliness, but Naruto continues to stick by the philosophy Obito abandoned long ago and the reasons for why must interest him. Also, Naruto is the only reason the Alliance is still standing as he is the linchpin  for both its morale and defense, so attempting to get under his skin could shake the Alliance apart.

Now that Obito has taken a moment to mingle, Madara maintains a stoic pose from his position on a boulder, but as he stares out across the field of battle before him, it’s clear his mind is on something else, or SOMEONE else as he picks up on a unique and exciting chakra.

DAT FACE.

OH GOD DAT FACE. xD

Uchiha are really good a rape faces, aren’t they?

Must be genetics, man, or some kind of Uchiha initiation right.

It’s at this time the Juubi decides to get pumped up as well, literally, as it’s appendages begin to swell in size and strength (woah, hi there mind gutter) and it unleashes a mighty roar that causes the shinobi around it to clasp their ears against the noise. Among these ninja are the Tsuchikage’s son and granddaughter and from their interaction we learn that Naruto’s Chakra Cloak is actually inhibiting their Sand Jutsu, which is an interesting side effect, illustrating that this protection must be a temporary thing if the Alliance plans to ever lead another offensive. 

Juubi’s sudden change prompts Kurama to warn Naruto that the massive beast is about to preform the TENBEN CHII, a power that Kurama does not elaborate on but which we can assume is going to be epic and destructive as hell. Looking over at his former charge, Obito comments that it would not be misbehaving if he were still in control of the Juubi and that it is the Alliance’s fault for severing his connection with it thus making it a wild, unknown third party in the war. With this in mind, Obito contemplates sealing it within himself to become the jinjuuriki after all, thus eliminating the unstable threat it poses and moving the Moon’s Eye Plan forward, but this decision speaks directly against Madara’s wish for Obito to sacrifice himself using Rinnen Tensei to properly revive the former so that Madara can become the Juubi’s  jinjuuriki. The fact that Obito can easily plan against his “boss” speaks to a fundamental fault in their ability to work together, despite the excellent teamwork they displayed at the beginning of the chapter. Obito has carried and nurtured the Moon’s Eye Plan for so long it is natural that he should feel obligated to see it through and form plans based on his ideas, but Madara is equally as passionate about the Plan for it is originally his. I’ve mentioned it before, but this clash in direction is not going to serve either party well and may eventually lead to a fall out between these two Uchiha allies, or perhaps Madara will have to agree as his battle with Hashirama will require him to remain an Edo Tensei zombie. 

As the Juubi continues to roar the sky begins to fill with dark, angry clouds that release streaks of lightning, the chaos of which continues to fuel Madara’s good mood and excitement for the “fun to begin.” Sensing that the Juubi is about to go ballistic with no one to control it, Kakashi decides to take it upon himself to finally KAMUI it away for good, but Obito is quick to predict his former comrades move and says as much as he suddenly appears in front of Kakashi. Naruto can only watch in alarm as Obito grasps his sensei on either shoulder and begins to KAMUI him away, but before he is spirited off Kakashi tell Naruto that he leaves the situation on the battlefield to him, demonstrating the faith he has in his student.

As the camera angle pans back we see the Juubi begin to glow with power as it releases a mighty blast of energy that violently pushes the earth around it away. The chapter wraps up with the scene of apocalyptic destruction being wrought as the Juubi’s power summons and strengthens the mighty tempest surrounding it, giving birth to dancing cyclones and  a crater as the earth itself moves to accommodate the sheer power of this god among beasts.

It sure is a good thing the alliance is being shielded by Naruto or else ALL their gooses would be cooked by the blast radius from what I assume is the beginning of the TENBEN CHII. 

JUUBI MAKIN IT RAIN - NO REALLY.

Overall this chapter was about catching us up on what is happening on the battlefield and setting the stage for the epic stuff that is going to happen. Whenever a writer needs to tend to his or her story this way it tends to make for uninspiring scenes, so I have to hand it to Kishi for providing some epic imagery to spice things up - though the only thing people are going to take away form this chapter is DAT FACE.

It terms of what has been set up for the following chapters, it seems clear that 629 is going to focus on Obito and Kakashi because this is the perfect time in the war (before Juubi REALLY goes apeshit) to have these two confront each other and work out their sorted history. Maybe we will FINALLY find out why Rin had to die!! I wouldn’t doubt that the next two chapter focus solely on Obito and Kakashi with scenes of Juubi’s epicness thrown in to keep us up to speed, and I’m sure flashbacks will be involved, LIKE USUAL. This chapter also made it clear that Hashirama and Madara will get to have their reunion battle (which we already assumed) and that when Minato gives Naruto the other half of Kurama’s chakra he may not be so weary anymore. Dun dun duuuun!

I give this chapter a RATING of:

It was an important chapter storytelling-wise because it got us up to speed and set story land-mines for later, and it did have a lot of dramatic shots of destruction and certain people’s faces, but overall it came off as just okay compared to other past chapters that were more dynamic in terms of revelations and battles. I’m looking forward to the big stuff this chapter is setting us up for!!! 

As always, what did you guys think?? Did you like this chapter at all? Will Kakashi be able to TALK NO JUTSU Obito back to the light? Or at least get him thinking? What will Juubi’s TENBEN CHII result in?

Public Service Announcement: THERE WILL BE A CHAPTER NEXT WEEK. :)

(It will just be a little late still!)

PREDICTIONS:

Naruto won’t be as tired after he takes 6 shots of expresso and receives the other half of Kurama’s chakra from his dear Pa.

Obito and Madara will seek counseling to improve their working relationship and communication.

Madara will release EVERYONE from Orochimaru’s control so they can REALLY have some FUN. 

Till next week!!

Le Blog Review: