We finally see Hikaru dressed as a girl, as she mourns the passing of her brother Raikou. Incidentally, ol’ Usui gets a short glimpse of her and is naturally swept away without realizing that she’s his “general”. Hikaru seeks solace on the rooftops of Rashou Gate, playing her brother’s flute amidst the ruined landscapes, and her sorrowful music draws the attention of the famed Mansairaku, who is moved by the feelings behind her song. He’s quite the bishie, and luvu-luvu sparks fly between him and Hikaru. He’s also pretty badass, as he demonstrates when he defends Hikaru against the city guards, who have been misled to believe that a demon stalks Rashou Gate in human form, and have been firing arrows at anything that moves. He even pwn3s Tsuna, who had been looking for Hikaru fearing that the “demon” had sacked her. Incidentally, the demon rumor was started by court ministers seeking to further their own devious ends…
We later find out that the officials of the empire have commanded the Minamoto clan to recover the OTHER magatamas. As in, more than one. Many more, in fact. Yeah, they sorta left out this important detail when they send Raikou/Hikaru traipsing through enemy territory. This time, they decide to send a guide (or spy?) to help the crew out; much to Usui’s delight, it’s a woman!
Interesting follow-up to the first magatama arc; we find out more about Hikaru’s brother, and receive hints about a potential romance between her and the resident bishie. Fangirls rejoice! Anyhoo, the unique oil-painting style is truly evident in this episode, especially the domestic scenes. This effect, while a bit distracting in pure action scenes, certainly enhances the period piece feel of the series.
Also, as many folks have noticed, there’s a bunch of Hikaru no Go cosprayers running around in this series. Seeing as how Sai was a Go master from the Heian period, and that’s the time period this series takes place in…well, you can go to Ten’s site for oodles of commentary concerning the mysterious Hikaru link, ManSAIraku’s name, and other oddities.
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One Comment
Someone needs to tell that old hag narrating this series to STOP SPOILING THE NEXT EPISODE!