date stringlengths 10 10 | nb_tokens int64 60 629k | text_size int64 234 1.02M | content stringlengths 234 1.02M |
|---|---|---|---|
2013/08/22 | 2,215 | 7,989 | <issue_start>username_0: In *The World God Only Knows*, games in which you conquer girls are defined as *dating sims*. But in *Oreimo*, it is called *eroge*. Some forums seem to use the term *visual novel* a lot, even though I thought they're all similar.
What is the actual difference between each of these?<issue_comment>username_1: The four are loosely defined as follows:
* A [*visual novel*](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visual_novel) is an interactive game which is primarily a narration that uses still images to convey a scene or character; these two components make up the parts of the name, "novel" and "visual" respectively.
* The word [*eroge*](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eroge) is the Japanese term for any erotic (or, I believe, hentai) game; I believe the name comes from *erochikku* (ero-) and *geimu* (-ge).
* A [*galge*](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bish%C5%8Djo_game) (gal game or bishoujo game) is a game which focuses on relationships or interactions with pretty girls (bishoujo). It need not involve sexual or erotic scenarios.
* Lastly, a [*dating sim*](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dating_sim) is any game, though usually Japanese, which focuses on romance and dating (a simulation of these things, as the name would suggest).
These terms are quite similar but carry distinct differences, as above, and there are times when they are incorrectly substituted for one another (dating sims are often referred to incorrectly as visual novels).
Upvotes: 4 <issue_comment>username_2: All of these are closely related and many games would fall into more than one category. However, which word you choose places the emphasis on different aspects of the game. In any case, when it isn't important to be precise, these terms are often used interchangeably.
* *Eroge* (エロゲ) is a Japanese shortening of "erotic game". These can also be called H-games. Native Japanese speakers sometimes use the term to describe games without any sexual content (e.g. [*Clannad*](http://vndb.org/v4)), but in English this isn't really a correct use of the term. Eroge can be any game with sex scenes (also called H-scenes). This includes some games that are not traditionally included as visual novels or dating sims. For example, [*Kamidori Alchemy Meister*](http://vndb.org/v5652) is an example of a game without a great deal of visual novel content but which still qualifies as an eroge.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/QnKknm.png)
* *Visual Novel* (ビジュアルノベル), often shortened to VN, is a general type of game with a lot of dialogue and minimal gameplay (usually the gameplay is reduced to just making choices at a few plot points to determine what route one enters). It may or may not involve any romance or sexual encounters. For example, [*Danganronpa*](http://vndb.org/v7014) could qualify as a visual novel, but probably not for any of the other categories here. A more canonical example would be [*Higurashi no Naku Koro ni*](http://vndb.org/v67), though purists will sometimes insist on calling it a "Sound Novel" as this is the official description. More on this in the related terms section. Calling something a visual novel emphasizes the "novel" aspect and suggests that there is at least some semblance of a story. It would not usually be used to describe eroge which are solely sex scenes.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/TjPmnm.png)
* Visual novel can also be used in a more technical way to describe games where the text is overlayed over the background as opposed to being presented in dialogue boxes. This distinction is more common among Japanese speakers than English speakers. In English usually people will abbreviate this as NVL, and games where the dialogue is in a box at the bottom of the screen are called ADV. [*Fate/Stay Night*](http://vndb.org/v11) is an example of this style.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/5qaiAm.png)
* *Dating Sims* are a different category of game from Visual Novels. These games do feature gameplay, but the object of the gameplay is to get into a romantic relationship with a character from the game. The most familiar example is probably the [*Tokimeki Memorial*](http://vndb.org/v19) series, though there are many other highly successful examples such as [*Love Plus*](http://vndb.org/v2099). Unlike visual novels, the gameplay here can be fairly complex.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/Rdsy8m.png)
* A *galge* (ギャルゲーム) or *bishoujo game* (美少女ゲーム, lit. "beautiful girl game") can be used to describe any game where a major part of the game is getting into and being in a relationship with one or more of the female characters (usually not at the same time). These are marketed at heterosexual males. It includes a lot of games that would be classified as dating simulators and a lot that would be classified as visual novels. Most games that would fit into this category would also fit into one of the other categories, though there are examples like [Gal\*Gun](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gal*Gun) which probably can only fit as galge.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/EGMJym.png)
---
There are a lot of other closely related terms that could be used to describe these kinds of games. I'll describe these briefly here:
* A *Sound Novel* is a type of visual novel. The term is a trademark by [Chunsoft](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chunsoft) and emphasizes the sound aspects as opposed to visual aspects. Sound novels are actually older than visual novels but because of the trademark the term "visual novel" is the one that's stuck in the long term. For older games the distinction between the two is somewhat notable, but for most modern games there's basically no difference between the meaning of the two terms.
* A *Kinetic Novel* is a type of visual novel without any gameplay at all. That includes things like making decisions for the protagonist. Because of the lack of any player input, the story is entirely preset and the player just reads through it without any input. These are quite close to ordinary novels with added graphics, sound, and typically more focus on dialogue. [Planetarian](http://vndb.org/v34) would be an example of such a game. Kinetic novels are usually shorter than other visual novels, though there are exceptions to this like *Higurashi*.
* An *Otome Game* (乙女ゲーム) is a game marketed to females. It is roughly synonymous with the term *Bishounen game* (美少年ゲーム), which is of course directly analagous to bishoujo game except now the characters are males rather than females. A well-known example is [*Hakuoki*](http://vndb.org/v1715).
* A *nakige* (泣きゲー, literally "crying game") is a type of visual novel where the story is designed to have an emotional impact on the player. Most games by studio [Key](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Key_(company)) are nakige (e.g. *Clannad*). A related but distinct term is *utsuge* (鬱ゲー, literally "depressing game"). Unlike nakige, which usually have happy endings (though they may be only after significant hardships), utsuge are usually not as positive. The distinction is difficult to explain, but after playing a couple of games in each genre you'll definitely know. Some notable examples of utsuge would be [Saya's Song](http://vndb.org/v97) or recent Key work [*Rewrite*](http://vndb.org/v751).
* A *nukige* (抜きゲー, literally "masturbation game") is a type of eroge which is almost solely focused on sexual content. As the name suggests, they're intended as pornographic material. It would be unusual to describe such games as visual novels. These are the large majority of all eroge produced because they're easy to produce and still tend to sell well.
There are other terms but these are the ones that everyone should know when it comes to categorizing these sorts of games.
Upvotes: 7 [selected_answer] |
2013/08/23 | 598 | 2,196 | <issue_start>username_0: In *Sh<NAME>*, there are kiss scenes between two men (Shun and Satoru, I think).
Are that scenes also described in the original novel? Why does it have these scenes since it is unusual for typical anime, and it isn't in the *yaoi* or *shounen ai* genres?<issue_comment>username_1: This behavior is straight from the novel and is described by the Minoshiro in episode 4. The answer will be revealed through the course of the story, but a quick witted watcher and/or reader will have his/her answer at episode 5.
>
> As the Minoshiro explains, necessity dictates that the human society on the brink of destruction must be reformed into a society of love, like the bonobos (<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonobo>). It is assumed that the grafting of bonobo DNA into the human genome causes certain attributes to be transferred. One of the explained behaviors is the relieving of stress through sexual activities (as observed in episode 5, when captured, Saki and Satoru engage in such activities to reduce their axiety and fear).
>
>
>
Combining this information with real-world information can then be extrapolated as:
>
> One of the other observed behaviors in the bonobo, is the bi-sexual nature, which is present in apes (<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homosexual_behavior_in_animals#Bonobo_and_other_apes>). To form a society of love as the intention was, it can be assumed that the effect is already present in the human genome and may have been strengthened by the DNA grafting. Saki and Maria have a similar relationship.
>
>
>
So, why did they include these scenes?
>
> That's the background of the humans and thus a critical part of the story.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: I'm not sure about if the relationship between Satoru and Shun is in the original source material, but an anime/manga does not necessarily have to be a yaoi/shounen ai for it to have a gay couple in it. Yaoi and shonen ai have the relationship at the core of the story, making it a romance anime/manga, while Shinsekai Yori has this relationship in it to supplement the plot, rather than being the focus of the entire story.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/24 | 413 | 1,372 | <issue_start>username_0: A portion of Orochimaru's consciousness was in Anko's curse mark, so he could see what she saw, but is this linked with his other consciousness? So that if the real Orochimaru thinks he learns a jutsu, does the Orochimaru in Anko learn it too? Is there any canon explanation?<issue_comment>username_1: He didn't necessarily know all of the techniques the original had learnt.
But even if he didn't, the moment he absorbed his power back from Kabuto, he relearned everything (since the cells in Kabuto were from the time Sasuke "killed" him).
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Orochimaru can go toe to toe with madara
In the manga he can be killed now
Orochimaru can use all the past hokage
And now that he has all kabuto's memory's
He can use itachi Nagto and 3rd rikage
And all of the dead akasuki and he can
Also go in sage mode and
Orochimaru has sinjuu DNA he can use wood
Style look it up and now that he has sage
Mode genjutsu cant work on him unless madara
Wants to lose a eye I'm sorry and for everyone
That is saying he can just drop a comet well
Than they both die now that madara's dum ass
Made him self living again he would kill him self doing and now Orochimaru can use he's hand with out them he fucking punched the 4 tails
In the face and that was with no jutsu so
But Orochimaru wins
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/08/24 | 941 | 3,757 | <issue_start>username_0: In FMA and FMA: Brotherhood, the Gate of Truth is shown to have an eye and a bunch of arms inside of it. The arms drag people into the gate during human transformation. I know that the creature sitting in front of the Gate is Truth, but what is inside of the gate (i.e. the arms and the eye)?<issue_comment>username_1: In the manga and *Brotherhood*, there are two things within the Gate of Truth: God, and all alchemical knowledge that has ever existed or will ever exist. The [*Fullmetal Alchemist* Wiki](http://fma.wikia.com/wiki/The_Gate) says it best:
>
> It is the source of alchemical knowledge and the entrance to God's domain, where no mortals are meant to tread.
>
>
>
As is stated in [this answer](https://anime.stackexchange.com/a/3209/274), this is where mortals end up when they attempt human transmutation. They pay a toll, and are granted access to all alchemical knowledge within.
While an alchemist is within this realm (the realm of non-reality), they will inevitably learn something about alchemy, and in fact anyone in the series who recalls this information gains the ability to perform transmutation without a circle.
In the 2003 anime, there are some differences. Notably, the realm itself is the source of alchemical energy (rather than knowledge), and the Gate acts as a portal between that energy and the *FMA* universe. You can read more about the differences on [the *FMA* Wiki](http://fma.wikia.com/wiki/The_Gate#In_the_2003_Anime).
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: When truth announces who he is he is one or all or also known as god the universe or truth behind the door is nothing but not nothing it is what you think it is a fragment of your missing mind... Presented in one of the episodes the door leads to many things presented in a cross over of Hitler and the Nazi war <NAME> entered the portal or gate way what ever you wanna call it and entered our world when the Nazi War happened. Regarding the gate way to truth that is truth the gate way takes different forms if you ever followed the story correctly it specifically states that Gate Way is a kinda door or portal to what ever your dreams can imagine. The professor from the Germany side of the door talks among parallel worlds that are connected invisibally and can't be seen and in different dimensions there is another type of you that has it's own personality. Clearly though you can only do this by being in the Full Metal Alchemist world specifically the gate way can lead to many places. ^^' That's why there is no point to the universe because everything is infinite just read the Manga and watch the show and decode what it is trying to say... ALSO An edit even though you have different yous in different dimensions supposedly the real you is in the Full Metal Alchemist World since other dimensions logically don't exist... Who ever you are is not what you are but what you are is in the FMA world... Truthfully the show talks if you play god it back fires but also we already know everything because the answer to everything is clearly NOTHING.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: The Gateway of Truth is the meeting point of infinity, which was theorized when the being inside of it describes himself as God, The Truth, and yourself. Edward comes to discover that the gateway you see is actually your perception of the truth, explaining why Alphonse's and Izumi's gates look different. You can also see all of Edward's memories when he was inside the truth. However in the original Fullmetal Alchemist anime, the gateway is access to all universal knowledge, explaining why you can see <NAME> and moments from World War II.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/24 | 1,425 | 5,595 | <issue_start>username_0: I was wondering if anime are more popular than Western cartoons - **in terms of viewership and revenue** - as I couldn't find any information on this.
I don't think there has been any significantly large survey on this. What about manga vs comics?<issue_comment>username_1: No. Up until now Japanese anime have never been in the popular spotlight compared to works for Western animation. Anime can be described as a ["pulpy" format](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulp_magazine), often cheaply made, heavily-formulated, low critical respect and scrutiny. Though what makes anime unique is it's meta-genre. There are a lot of ideas in it's story templates the that are not typically seen or are non-existent in Western media culture.
Animation in the West
---------------------
A lot of Western animation companies, like Disney for an example, don't just treat their works as a product, but as a brand. The better their brand looks to consumers, the better marketability the company will have with related works and products (they spend a lot on PR, marketing, lawyers, focus groups, etc, to ensure this). There's a lot of oversight involved is western animation, in order to ensure a better quality product, which typically drives up the cost of production. Of course, this all to ensure that their product is a successful as possible, in order to make obscene amounts of cash.
Animation in the East
---------------------
While there is a ever growing community of anime fans out there, who like anime for one reason or another (e.g., characters vs. story), but few people typically care about the specifics of anime. In anime, the stakeholders are more concerned about the overall final product than any given piece of it, the product hits the main selling points of the formula (e.g., fighting, boobs, robot, X-dere character, harem cast, etc.), it's good to go. With anime there's a general lack of oversight, which typically leads to low expectations of the audience and from them as well. However the pulpy aspect of Anime allows authors a much higher level of freedom as they are free to explored new ideas, as long as they meet the initial criteria of the stakeholders.
On Popular Culture
------------------
This pulpiness is the same as what webcomics (modern comic book heroes starred in this pulpy format) and indie games are to us in these modern times. There are tons of these all around, most of it is forgettable, but occasionally there's that polished gem that can really good interesting, funny, charming and/or inventive stuff (e.g. *Azumanga Daioh, Serial Experiments Lain, Baccano!*). There's a lot of opportunities to fail, learn, and innovate, but at the same time the barriers for entry are lower and turnover is usually higher compared to similar works of western animation.
Viewership and revenue are often a by-product of the popularity of a given brand. Just like really popular mainstream movies or games will always make a profit, no matter how good or bad it might be (e.g., the *Call of Duty* series, the new *Transformers* movies). Western animation has built a brand image and following through it's popularity, and in order to sustain it's overwhelming popularity, there's a lot of scrutiny from both the audience and stakeholder to maintain a certain image and status within popular culture. We don't typically see this with anime, so it gives us an idea that anime specifically is not really up there in the mainstream.
Nowadays we see a lot of people on TV and the Internet proclaiming themselves to be "geeks" openly (whether they are or not is another thing), so there's not a whole lot to be said about anime and the otaku subculture. One can say they are a gamer ("I'm a huge gamer") or a TV show/movie ("I'm a big Disney/Pixar/Spongebob/Avatar fan"), but there are very few people come out about anime. This leads us to believe that anime hasn't reach the tipping point where it can be considered acceptable, like the other forms of western animation.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Disney's *Wreck-It Ralph* - $471,222,889 (worldwide revenue)
Ghibli's last two movies (*The Secret World of Arrietty*, *Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea*) - $202,614,288 + $145,570,827 = $348,185,115 (worldwide revenue)
So, based on a very small sample (not statistically valid), I'd say western animated movies make a whole lot more money than Japanese anime.
However, as Logan and Krazer pointed out, it's probably an apples and oranges comparison. Disney spends a whole lot more money on their movies than Ghibli does.
I'm not even going to attempt to do a comparison on Cartoon Network vs ATX or anything like that.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: I don't think no one will understand the hypocrisy in this, we talk about animes being comparatively less popular to American cartoons.
There is a very deep reason for that state of liking, this is because most of the viewers are from the western part of the world (except the anime producing country; Japan). In Asia, it doesn't go alike for both adults and kids. So, comparatively the viewership is high enough in most of the western countries.
This makes the judgment not fair and obviously, it goes in the favour of American cartoons even though there is a huge fanship for animes globally. An anime is a must-watch piece of art, people should go for it, but an American cartoon is given to you when you were kids. It's like some hit channels in most of the countries are highly likely to show American cartoons than many of the animes.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/24 | 1,720 | 4,263 | <issue_start>username_0: In the last episode of Azumanga Daioh, Yomi relates `3661` with `samurai` word.
I know is a mnemonic technique to remember things, so things should be something like:
```
3 ~> sa ~> san
6 ~> mu ~> ??? (maybe shape of hiragana? む )
6 ~> ra ~> ...roku??
1 ~> i ~> ichi
```
But I couldn't guess at all why relates 6 with both `mu` and `ra`. Any idea?<issue_comment>username_1: Six can be written as 六「む (mu), むう, ろく (roku)」 and 陸「おか, りく (riku)」.
So he could have mistaken "roku" or "riku" for "ra".
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: Japanese speakers may remember numbers by taking the prominent syllable from how they read numbers (語呂合わせ goroawase). There are more than one way on how to count: one that descended from Old Japanese (大和言葉 Yamato kotoba) and one borrowed from Chinese (漢語 kango). In the order of Yamato / Kango:
1. ひとつ hitotsu / いち ichi
2. ふたつ futatsu / に ni
3. みっつ mittsu / さん san
4. よっつ yottsu / し shi
5. いつつ itsutsu / ご go
6. むっつ muttsu / ろく roku
7. ななつ nanatsu / しち shichi
8. やっつ yattsu / はち hachi
9. ここのつ kokonotsu / きゅう kyū or く ku
10. とお tō / じゅう jyū
and so forth. Therefore, a syllable that corresponds to 3 can be either み mi, さ sa, or ざ za (the last being the voiced variation of sa).
For 3661,
* 3 = sa from san
* 6 = mu from muttsu
* 1 = i from ichi
The second 6 requires explanation. Notice that in the list above, "ra" does not appear. In fact, most of the syllables do not have a direct corresponding number, given that there are 48 basic syllables (plus 25 voiced variants and 21 digraphs). To force any given syllable into a number, people use various techniques.
* Use English. つ tsu = 2, せ se = 7, え e = 8
* Use modern Chinese. す su = 4 (written sì in pinyin but sounds like su), り ri = liù = 6
* Swap vowels. This is what happened to the second 6 in 3661. Of all the syllables in the ra-line (ra, ri, ru, re, ro), only re (0 from rei) and ro (6 from roku) are defined. The Chinese technique also suggests 6 for ri. Therefore, 6 may be extended to ra and ru also. (The same thing happens in the ko/go-line where 5 fills in for ka/ga and ke/ge; and in the ma-line where 6 fills in for me and mo.)
An example of this extended list can be found at <http://www2u.biglobe.ne.jp/~b-jack/kouza/s-3.html>
With these techniques in play, people might remember the first 30 digits of pi as follows:
```
San ishi ikoku ni mukau. Sango yaku naku,
3 . 1 4 15 9 2 6 5 3 5 8 9 7 9
Obstetrician goes to a foreign country. No misfortune after birth,
sanpu miyashiro ni. Mushi sanzan yami ni naku.
3 6 3 8 4 6 2 6 4 3 3 8 3 2 7 9
the new mother heads to a shrine. Insects chirp in the darkness severely.
```
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_3: The interpretation for the second 6 is probably a special case. The only reasoning that makes sense to me is:
* ら is the 6th note in the [Fixed Do](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solf%C3%A8ge#Fixed_do_solf.C3.A8ge) key notation (C, D, E, F, G, A, B / Do, Re, Mi, Fa, So, La, Ti).
In hiragana, ら, also resembles the "5" or "6" number.
Please note that since it's a play on words, there're [many ways](http://seoi.net/goro/data_2_6.shtml) to make the [numbers work](http://seoi.net/goro/data_1_6.shtml), just like trying to get certain words to fit in an acronym. E.g. C.I.A can mean "Central Intelligence Agency" or "Chinese Igloo Appraisers".
There is really no right or wrong way to do 語呂合わせ【ごろあわせ】 (basically a pun/play on words) with numbers.
Typically when doing word play with numbers 0-9, the [following combinations](http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E8%AA%9E%E5%91%82%E5%90%88%E3%82%8F%E3%81%9B#.E6.95.B0.E5.AD.97.E3.81.AE.E6.9A.97.E8.A8.98) are used:
* 1: ichi, i, hitotsu, hito
* 2: ni, futatsu, futa, fu, tsu ("two"), ji (kan'on reading)
* 3: san, sa, mittsu, mitsu, mi
* 4: yon, yo, yottsu, shi, fo ("four"), ho
* 5: go, ko, i, itsutsu, itsu
* 6: roku, ro, muttsu, mutsu, mu
* 7: shichi, nanatsu, nana, na
* 8: hachi, ha, paa, yattsu, yatsu, ya, yaa
* 9: kyuu, kyu, ku, kokonotsu, kokono, ko
* 0: rei, re, zero, nai, wa (based on shape of the kana, わ), ru (circle, also shape), oo (based on resemblance to the letter "O")
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/08/24 | 1,226 | 4,646 | <issue_start>username_0: Is it ever explained how a Poké Ball works? I know that you throw it a Pokémon, and if it is weak enough, you catch it. But is the process ever explained? Does it work on humans? Do most Pokémon like being held in a Poké Ball?<issue_comment>username_1: A pretty clear answer is given [here](http://pokemon.wikia.com/wiki/Pok%C3%A9_Ball).
To summarize it,
The Pokemon is absorbed into the Poke Ball, and will try to fight back unless it likes the trainer. That is why the Pokemon needs to be weakened: if it is too strong, it will break free. If the Pokemon does break free, the Poke Ball will break and become unusable.
It was programmed to not catch humans, though it sometimes might accidentally catch other things it is thrown at, such as the rice ball Ash throws a Poke Ball at once.
The Pokemon becomes loyal to the trainer once they are caught, and they will generally follow the orders of the trainer.
To quote the page:
>
> The inside of a Poké Ball is "designed to be as comfortable for the Pokémon residing within", although this is not necessarily true. The Pokémon inside may simply be sleeping, or completely unaware of its own existence. Pokémon are, however aware when inside their Poké Ball — by calling their name, the Pokémon will emerge from its Poké Ball almost immediately.
>
>
>
Edit:
Not all Pokemon will stay in their Poke Ball, however. Pikachu refuses to stay in the Poke Ball, and in the game Pokemon Yellow, Pikachu follows behind the player. Pokémon Soul Silver/Heart Gold let the first Pokemon in a party follow the player.
The Pokemon are shown to be transferred on data chips when being moved to the Pokebox, and only one Pokemon can be stored in each Poke Ball.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: The mechanics in *Pokémon Legends: Arceus* give us an explicit explanation for how a Poké Ball works, so a new answer to this question is necessary. In this game, rudimentary Poké Balls are made from only a tumblestone and an apricorn. The [apricorn](https://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Apricorn) is simply a tough fruit that is hollowed out, though what the [tumblestone](https://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/Tumblestone) is and what it does is a bit of a mystery. The tumblestone is presumably used to make the latch, the air hole on top of the ball, and all other mechanical-looking components. As far as I can tell, apricorns have appeared in previous games, but tumblestones have not.
The real wonder of this new game, though, is what it tells us about the Pokémon themselves. Early on in the game, it is stated that Pokémon have the mysterious power of being able to become smaller. Knowing this, we can determine that Poké Balls need not be some kind of wonder technology, because the tough part (the shrinking) is done by the Pokémon! And since presumably humans do not have this ability to shrink, that explains why they can't be caught by Poké Balls.
The quote from Professor Laventon is as follows:
>
> You'll recall, of course, that Pokémon possess the strange power to shrink themselves down. With the Poké Balls we craft, we can make use of that power to catch them!
>
>
>
There's still some question of how it works exactly. Do the Pokémon simply shrink into the ball because they're surprised, or does the tumblestone or apricorn stimulate them to do so somehow? How do the Poké Balls open and close like that?
But even with all these questions, this would seem to be the most complete explanation for how Poké Balls work, as far as I'm aware. There's the capture net thing in the *Adventures* manga, but that doesn't really explain much.
Some fans are kind of partial to the theory that Pokémon get turned into energy or data or something, because of the bright light when Pokémon get hit by Poké Balls (I never liked this theory, to be honest). Under this new explanation, I would presume all the light seen when a Pokémon is hit and captured is due to light and heat being released during the miniaturization transformation.
Another cool thing about this new explanation from *Pokémon Legends: Arceus* is that it can be used to neatly explain why you can't capture a fainted Pokémon. If turning small is a conscious process, then a Pokémon would need to be conscious to be put into a Poké Ball. Alternatively, when knocked out, the Pokémon might turn small so that a trainer is unable to find them. It doesn't seem an incorrect notion, as some Pokémon in *Pokémon Legends: Arceus* such as Chancey run away from the player and eventually disappear, and this is presumably because they're shrinking to get away.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/25 | 283 | 899 | <issue_start>username_0: Kabuto had Orochimaru's DNA and a sacrifice, so why did he not use the Edo Tensei? Or couldn't he have used Anko, like Sasuke did?<issue_comment>username_1: Because Orochimaru was never dead. He was just sealed. Well, maybe "sealed" is not the right term. Every curse mark holds some a part of Orochimaru's chakra. And Sasuke reversed the cursed seal on Anko with the flesh from Kabuto to bring him back -
This is from chapter 593.
PS: Almost same thing happened when Sasuke fought Itachi.
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Kabuto had Anko for a reason. He knew Orochimaru was inside her and he wanted to absorb his remaining chakra into himself. This is why he led Anko to the graveyard to ambush.
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/08/26 | 645 | 2,550 | <issue_start>username_0: There are a lot of blond-haired characters in anime, especially the old ones, like super saiyans, naruto, gundam series, fma, etc.<issue_comment>username_1: It depends on the culture, status of life (family) and the flow of the story. For example, the anime series of "Ikoku Meiro No Croisee" is used to have most character's blonde hair because the main story is that people lived in Paris.
Some of the authors preferred to reflect it in the reality.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: Honestly, Asian people just have a fascination with blond hair.
I once went on group trip that visited China, Japan, and Korea. We had this one blond haired girl in our group and she was basically the center of attention. Everywhere we went, everyone wanted to take pictures with her. Natives of their respective countries would randomly come up and ask for a picture together with her.
It was interesting because they didn't ask to take any pictures with the brunette. And by seeing their lifestyles, one could see that they also try very hard to understand and imitate western culture.
They probably see or even sterotype blond hair people as the best of the western pop culture. This is also probably why dying their hair blond is the second most popular dye (after orange).
Given that Asian people seem to adore blond hair, it would also make sense for blond hair to be common in Anime, as Anime is a reflection on the author's ideal story.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_3: Japanese with albinism actually have blonde hair and blue eyes. Unlike the west where people are considered better looking who have a tan; in Japan whiter skin is considered pretty. Due to this Albino people are considered a rare beauty by most. Because they are such a rarity and the cultural association with the idea of "Karma," it has been suggested that if you are Albino, you must have very good Karma. Anime just takes this concept to a new level. Due some research and you'll find some information on the subject. It is hard though to find good sites in English.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_4: A lot of Japanese find blond hair exotic and attractive. Because of this, many characters will have bleached hair (like the japanese sometimes do) or have fully blonde sets of hair.
(Haikyuu!!)
Blondes however, are usually exchange students, foreigners or imbued with power - much like DBZ. It's usually to make them stand out from the other characters
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/08/26 | 403 | 1,309 | <issue_start>username_0: The start of *Robotech: The Next Generation* explains what happened when the Invid invaded. The Army of the Southern Cross was apparently wiped out, but was Dana Sterling and the 15th Armored Battalion also wiped out?<issue_comment>username_1: Dana appears in the comics *Robotech: Love and War* and *Robotech: Prelude to the Shadow Chronicles* so it would seem that she survived the destruction of the 15th Armored Battalion and may have continued the war against the Invid in some capacity, but after that her fate in unknown.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Now, there is a recently new movie called *Robotech: Love Live Alive* (2013) (adaptation of *Mospeada Love Live Alive* (1983) with some new animation) where you see Dana from the 15th squadron leaving Earth.
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9txrDGHWnc>
Dana heading to a Garfish spaceship to leave Earth.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/ZxL8x.jpg)
In the movie *Robotech The Shadow Chronicles* it's confirmed they actually left with no problems because Louie from the 15th squadron is a secondary character.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/leoqY.jpg)
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/27 | 1,673 | 5,834 | <issue_start>username_0: In *Shingeki no Kyojin*, the soldiers use the 3D maneuver gear to attack the Titans and cut the back of their necks. In the last episodes, I have seen that they use a balloon of gas as the power to release the chains to climb the walls and trees. How does this exactly work? Is the gas the only power supply to release the chains?<issue_comment>username_1: There's several components to the 3D gear that are separate and operate independently. Not all aspects of the mechanics have been revealed in intricate detail, but there is a pretty good idea of the overall operation.
The short answer is that, yes, it is essentially all gas-powered. The trigger causes the gas to shoot the wire out, and a gas compression is also what shortens the wire to pull the device's user forward.
Operating device
================
The operating device is what the user holds (where the triggers are located). The mechanics of this are not known, and are described as being a [black box](http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/BlackBox).[{2}](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/5/5d/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Device_Mechanics_pt2.jpg) Use of this component is what allows the others to function.
Grapple piston
==============
Once the user pulls a trigger, it activates a piston[{4}](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piston) within the main device. This piston uses a quick spurt of compressed gas to fire forward the grapple hook toward its target.{nt.1} No other power source is necessary for this to happen due to the intense compression release from the piston.
Propulsion
==========
The user's grapple hooks fire from a coil[{1}](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/a/a1/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Device_Mechanics_pt1.jpg) which is located in the device itself. When the user wishes to move forward, their gear must quickly pull the cable back into the device. This is done via a fan mechanism[{3}](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/7/71/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Gear_pt3.jpg) that is also gas-powered. Basically, when the user wants to wind back up, the compressed gas blows into the fan, spinning it rapidly and coiling the wire back up, pulling the user forward.
[](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/5/5d/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Device_Mechanics_pt2.jpg)
References and reading
======================
1. [Episode 8, card 1](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/a/a1/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Device_Mechanics_pt1.jpg)
2. [Episode 8, card 2](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/5/5d/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Device_Mechanics_pt2.jpg)
3. [Episode 9, card 1](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/7/71/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Gear_pt3.jpg)
4. [Piston at Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piston)
5. [3D maneuver gear at the *Shingeki no Kyojin* Wiki](http://shingekinokyojin.wikia.com/wiki/Three_Dimensional_Maneuver_Gear)
6. Note 1: Episode 8's second *currently disclosable information* states that the gas is "compressed ... and injected"[{2}](http://images.wikia.com/shingekinokyojin/images/5/5d/Three-Dimensional_Maneuver_Device_Mechanics_pt2.jpg), but this appears to be a grammatical error; see comments below.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: I have a good idea on how the black box works. The top trigger is used for the hook and the bottom trigger is used to activate the gas with the one fan on that side therefore turning the operator. The two switches on the side are used to extend and reel in the operator on the wire that is attached to the hooks. If you have any other ideas please let me know, I saw Levi do this in one of the OVA's that is how I figured it out. If you want the link just let me know. <http://watchsnk.net/2014/09/shingeki-no-kyojin-ova-gaiden-kuinaki-sentaku-no-regret/> This is a simple theory since it was only for aprox. 10 seconds, it starts at 17:47
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: I've been looking into this and I do consider it feasible. The retraction system checks out but some issues I have thought of (and are pretty obvious) are that it would be very heavy with the compressed gas on you, (practical use you wouldn't need the sheath or the blades cause titans don't exist).
To shoot a hook out with just compressed gas you wouldn't get very far especially if it's steel you would have to use something a lot lighter like carbon fiber. (I hadn't thought of pistons till I read one of these answers though). How much gas you can release out of the pressure tanks at once is pretty small with current technology so you couldn't get much of a boost from it but if you found a way to release gas faster without blowing yourself up then that would solve a lot of problems.
That all I really have on the subject, I really want to build some 3DMG but it will be a very drawn out project because it will cost a lot. I don't have and links that really would help describe any of this.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_4: For the Black Box mechanism (grips) the curved trigger (shaped like a brake lever on a bicycle) located on the outside of the grip is used to fire the grappling hooks towards the target. The top trigger within the grip is used to release the grappling hooks or to reel them back towards the user pulling the user towards the target. The bottom trigger within the grip is used to activate the gas propulsion system that helps the user move around with speed on the ground or in the air. The sliders placed near the top of the grip are used to change the angle and position the shooters on the users hips are facing letting them target where to fire a grappling hook.
SOURCES: NO REGRETS OVA- Levi using ODM Gear.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/27 | 616 | 2,137 | <issue_start>username_0: In the Inuyasha series Kagome goes through a portal to get to the Sengoku period of Japan. Is it ever explained how the portal works?<issue_comment>username_1: Yes. It was mentioned briefly in a set of episodes. Though it's not consolidated though.
My take on this:
Kagome is the reincarnated kikiyo carrying the sacred jewel. The Jewel secretly looks for its admirers which was the demons/humans and others in the Sengoku period. So, the jewel opened the portal for Kagome to come to Sengoku period. As long as the Jewel is there with the user, they can travel back and forth Sengoku and modern period.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: For what I have seen/read, it is never clearly explained how the well actually transports people from the modern age to the Feudal Era. However, the Inuyasha Wikia page on it has a consolidation of observations in regards to who can pass through the well in either direction.
>
> * The only human that is able to travel through the well is Kagome.
> * Inuyasha can travel through without any need of the Shikon Jewel; it
> is mostly because of his connection to Kagome that allows him to move
> between the two eras of time.
> * Neither Sōta nor Shippō are able to pass through the well; however,
> Sōta's voice could reach Inuyasha for unknown means while Shippō no
> success what so ever.
> * Mistress Centipede was killed and sent to the present era without any
> need of the jewel; it is suggested that demon's bones can pass
> through the well. In this case, Mistress Centipede was revived
> because she was near the Shikon no Tama (which was still in Kagome's
> body, unbeknownst to her).
> * Yura was able to send her hair to wreak havoc in the future; most
> likely because of the jewel shard she stole.
> * Both Sō'unga and Saya were able to pass through without the need of
> the jewel.
> * It can be presumed that only certain beings may pass through the
> well; a number of objects have the ability to as well.
>
>
>
Kagome is originally pulled through the well/portal into the Feudal Era by Mistress Centipede.
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer] |
2013/08/28 | 841 | 3,256 | <issue_start>username_0: It's been a long time since I have read Crows, but from what I understand, Bouya Harumichi pretty much did the exact same thing as Hana Tsukishima, and arguably even better than Hana.
Hana's team lost to Manji and Hana lost to the strongest Manji guy, Bisuko. Whereas Bouya was able to defeat his Manji counterpart. Sure, Bouya was sort of the lone wolf at Suzuran, but when push came to shove, he was able to rally the entire school to follow him. I'm just kind of confused why despite his legendary status, Bouya wasn't given credit for also uniting Suzuran.<issue_comment>username_1: I think it's mainly because Bouya never claimed the title of Boss or even fought for the title, whereas Hana fought to become the Boss.
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_2: The differences between them did not lie in their strength as a fighter. Most agree that both of them were strong, some would even argue that Harumachi was stronger.
The differences were all about what they did outside of fighting itself. Where even their intent of fighting have a nuanced difference.
* This would be a recurring theme and an important point, Harumachi's attitude was to care for a group of friends (which he didn't really admit to either). Tsukishima's was to care for everyone (which basically is the crux of everything). To do that, he set out to be the boss of Suzuran.
* One of the most important differences was that Tsukishima set out to be Suzuran's boss, but Harumachi didn't, in fact the opposite, in that he knew that he was the strongest there but steadfastly refused to be called a boss. While that may seem trivial, it is the very essence of the question you posed - that Hana wanted to be a boss and became one while Harumachi rejected the title.
* Another difference was the makeup of the school while they were considered to be "boss" (Using it loosely as Harumachi wasn't a "boss"). While Harumachi was there, there were many competing factions ("gumi") that were there and they had their issues with each other, fights, etc. They weren't united. They might fight together for a common cause, like the time Harumachi managed to mobilise the school, but when they came back, it went back to normal.
* Compare this to when it was the Hana-Gumi. All "Gumi"s were either absorbed or "beaten" such that they were following the Hana-Gumi. Consider the FBI, were even though they didn't merge, they formed a shadow force that followed the Hana-Gumi's will.
* Tsukishima probably had more charisma, in the way he carried himself and was some sort of moral compass for everyone. He naturally was well liked and drew people to him, and he welcomed them and always helped everyone out, even strangers. Compare this to Harumachi just trying to get his way with his fist. No doubt both succeeded, but perhaps, the way it was done was one of those differences people look for in a leader, a boss, in the self declared hell-hole of the area.
Perhaps there are many more differences, but I think I tried to cover the most major points that would shed light on why. Technically, there was no explicit reason given by the author, but that was because I think he was trying to **show** the difference and have you make up your own mind.
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/08/28 | 1,532 | 4,159 | <issue_start>username_0: In *Joshiraku*, Marii enters the room dressed as a [Yankee](http://yanki.urbanup.com/2909634), proclaiming that she's gonna break a load of windows since it's a full moon. Tetora responds with:
What's the significance of the 15th and why would she break a load of windows?<issue_comment>username_1: This is conjecture on my part, but it probably has to do with the differences in the Western and Eastern Calendars. The western Gregorian calendar is solar based, whereas the eastern calendar is lunar based.
This is important, and answers your question because the lunar calendar is based on the phases of the moon. The 15th of the lunar calendar is when the moon is full.
So based on that, she was probably saying that the moon is full, but going by the western calendar, its not the 15th.
Its either that, or they *are* going by the lunar calendar, and so going by the calendar, the moon is not completely full, yet. Another explanation would be there is something significant about the 15th in the anime, but I have no idea what that might be.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_2: The dialogue here goes:
>
> で、窓硝子はどこだい？
>
> So, where are the windows?
>
>
> なぜ？
>
> Why do you ask?
>
>
> 壊して回るんだよ。
>
> I'm going to go around breaking them.
>
>
> 魔梨威さん、十五夜と十五の夜は違うから。
>
> Marii, it might be a full moon night, but it's not the fifteenth.
>
>
>
The last quoted line is the one depicted in your screenshot. There's a difficult-to-capture joke in this sequence, which I will nonetheless try to capture below.
Here, 十五夜【じゅうごや】 (character-by-character "fifteen-night") is translated as "full moon night". It literally just means "full moon". This originated as a reference to the lunar calendar, but now is just an ordinary synonym for "full moon".
十五【じゅうご】の夜【よる】 (the same thing with the genitive particle の interposed) is translated as "the fifteenth". A more direct interpretation of this, however, would be "a night at the age of fifteen" (an age when people are prone to ["Yankee"](http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/JapaneseDelinquents) antics).1 The joke, then, originates from the fact that 十五の夜 (*Juugo no Yoru*) is also the name of [an 80s song](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pshjQzqGynE), the debut single of popular singer OZAKI Yutaka, and one that has great affection for the Yankee ideology/ethos. The song's chorus reads:
>
> 盗んだバイクで走り出す 行き先も解らぬまま
>
> 暗い夜の帳りの中へ
>
> 誰にも縛られたくないと 逃げ込んだこの夜に
>
> 自由になれた気がした 15の夜
>
>
>
Translated loosely as prose:
>
> Riding the bike I stole, I dash off into the curtains of the dark night, knowing not where I'm headed. I don't want anyone to chain me down as I run off into the night, feeling free at last - the night of the fifteenth.
>
>
>
This is why Tetora's backdrop changes from a full moon (十五夜) to a guy riding a bike when she says 十五の夜.
---
Alternate possibility (and probably a more likely one): Marii's lines could be a reference to a *different* Ozaki Yutaka song: 卒業【そつぎょう】 (*sotsugyou*, "Graduation"; [lyrics](http://j-lyric.net/artist/a000ee6/l004f70.html)), which contains the following line:
>
> 夜の校舎 窓ガラス壊してまわった
>
> I went around the school building, breaking all the windows.
>
>
>
---
Note also that Gankyou's line a few seconds later may be related:
>
> つまらない大人にはなりたくないね。
>
> I don't want to become a boring adult.
>
>
>
This is an almost-direct quotation of the penultimate line from the song ガラスのジェネレーション ("Glass Generation"), by [<NAME>](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motoharu_Sano), on his album "Heart Beat" ([lyrics](https://www.moto.co.jp/works/songs/HeartBeat.html)).
>
> つまらない大人には なりたくない
>
> (same as above, but without the concluding interjectory particle ね)
>
>
>
---
Notes
=====
For more information about Joshiraku obscurata, see [vale's translation notes](http://notredrevie.ws/2012/08/09/joshiraku-04-notes-and-the-like/).
1 This is probably an elision of the construction 十五歳【じゅうごさい】の夜【よる】, and is literary or poetic in nature.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer] |
2013/08/28 | 777 | 2,936 | <issue_start>username_0: In the beginning of *Avatar: The Legend of Korra*, we see Korra, as a child, bending water, earth and fire, without training to do that. She was born in the Water Tribe, so isn't she supposed to know only how to bend water? Like Aang, who knew only wind and trained a lot to master the other three elements?<issue_comment>username_1: The key I think is 'to master'. Both Aang and Korra knew how to bend all four basic elements from since they were born, but required training to get control over such powers (that's why they are avatars; they know how to bend all elements).
>
> She was born in the water tribe, so, isn't she supposed to know only how to bend water?
>
>
>
So, I would answer no to that. She, just like Aang knows how to bend all the four basic elements.
One possible 'proof' is that Aang used his water bending skills (although never being trained by any water bender) when he got lost in the storm and that was how he got into the iceberg in episode 1 in the first place.
As for why Korra has greater mastery over bending than Aang, there was no specific reason mentioned as far as I remember, but I would say that it's just a talent, just like it can be a talent for someone to know how to play piano without actually getting someone teach them while one can say that other people need a push so they can develop certain skills.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Korra was designed to be Aangs polar opposite. He is calm, peaceful, and prefers to solve things without a fight, he prefers to avoid the enemy rather than counter or bide.
Korra on the other hand, is hot-headed, a fighter, prefers to pulverize an enemy rather than avoid a battle.
Airbending is considered to be a very "spiritual" type of bending, it requires one to be connected to his inner spirit. All airbenders were monks, meditated a lot, etc.
The rest of the bendings are more "physical" bendings.
As part of Aang being the exact opposite of Korra, he was familiar with airbending at the beginning of the series, and she was familiar with everything *but* airbending.
As to ***why*** she was able to bend 3 elements at the age of 4-5, that wasn't explained, but we can assume it has to do with pure talent. (She is very good with the "physical" world, but has no talent with the "spiritual" world. An avatar needs both to be "complete".
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: It is possible that she had some masters over at the South Pole to teach her. After all, Katara commands quite some respect.
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_4: I just think they didn't want a montage of Korra learning each individual element so they essentially push the skip button. We, as an audience who seen ATLA, seen fire water and earth training in the show. But we never fully seen what air training is. So I think the writers just gave the other elements so we go straight to AIRbending
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/08/28 | 863 | 2,778 | <issue_start>username_0: From my understanding, there are three SDFs:
* The SDF-1 which was the major focus of the first season.
* The SDF-3 which is the flagship of the Robotech Expeditionary Force (REF), where <NAME> is.
* The SDF-2 I wasn't too sure about, as at first I thought it was a separate ship built, but it was apparently destroyed with the SDF-1 in the final episode of the first season. (Not entirely sure if it's a separate ship or the repaired SDF-1.)
However, in Episode 78 ("Ghost Town"), the communications from the REF were coming from the SDF-4, so I'm wondering: How many SDF-#'s are there, and are they all the same as the SDF-1 (minus the aircraft carriers which were just a patch job)?<issue_comment>username_1: The [Robotech Wikia](http://robotech.wikia.com/wiki/SDF) has a list for SDF-1, SDF-2, SDF-3, SDF-4 and SDF-7. It includes a listing for SDF-M, but I don't think that was in the TV series (it's mentioned in the Robotech comics). Wikipedia also has a list of [Robotech vehicles](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Robotech_vehicles) that has a lot of detailed information of 1-4.
* **SDF-1**: Robotech TV series
* **SDF-2 Megalord**: Robotech TV series (starting from episode 26)
* **SDF-3 Pioneer**: First appeared in ["Crystal Dreams" promo](http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120820223908/robotech/images/f/f6/Incomplete_SDF3.jpg) and in the Robotech II: The Sentinels series
* **SDF-4 Izumo/Liberator**: Last episode of the original series
* **SDF-7**: Robotech II: The Sentinels novels
* **SDF-M**: Invid War: Aftermath comics
The SDF-7 was a Horizon Class T ship, so it's not like SDF-1.
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: What is canon and what is non canon in Robotech is a mess, but basically the Robotech series, and the Robotech Shadow Chronicles and Robotech Love Live Alive movies are canon and the rest of movies (Robotech The Sentinels and Robotech the Untold Story) and novels and most comics are not
**There are 4 canon SDF that you could count as "real". There are more in novels and such but they are non canon versions.**
The canon SDFs are SDF-1 and SDF2 which appears in the canon Robotech series (well sort of, the SDF-2 is mentioned but never seen in the series) . The SDF-3 appears in the non canon Robotech The Sentinels movie so because of this it shouldnt count, but it also appears in the canon SDF-3 Shadow Chronicles movie, so you could count it as "real" because of this. The SDF-4 appears in the canon Robotech series and in the canon Robotech Shadow Chronicles movie.
Also what is canon might change over the years, the first 2 Robotech movies when they were made were meant to be canon (and they had its creator involved) but they were de-canonized later.
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/08/28 | 633 | 2,131 | <issue_start>username_0: At the end of the anime where Homura is in a wasteland, she grows wings. The texture is almost the same as the art style that is used for witches and their lairs, so I'm wondering - at the end of the anime, was Homura becoming something of a witch/magical girl hybrid?
Pictures of Homura's wings:
<issue_comment>username_1: There is no definitive answer as to what exactly Homura's wings are, at this time. It is possible that the third movie will reveal new information about the nature of her wings, but for now, there is no real answer to this question.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: If the 3rd movie is anything to go by, these are demon wings. When Madoka is grasped and pulled in by Homura at the end of Rebellion, Homura rewrites the universe once again. Here, she dons a pair of black wings. When Kyubey asks who she is, Homura replies she is a demon. Thus, it is probably safe to conclude these are demon wings.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: The Rebellion movie seems to hint that
>
> Homura's wings in this scene were indeed witch wings, or rather, the beginning of Homura's transformation into a witch.
>
>
>
The biggest clue is the landscape. The last time we see Homura in the series she is about to confront a bunch of wraiths in a desert landscape. The Rebellion movie reveals
>
> that the Incubators tried to trap Homura and interrupt her witch transformation in order to draw out Madoka. When the Incubators' barrier is broken, Homura is still in the desert.
>
>
>
If you assume the two deserted landscapes are one and the same,
>
> you would conclude that Homura was about to turn into a witch at the end of the series. Presumably, that's where her transformation began before it was interrupted, setting the events of the Rebellion movie in motion.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer] |
2013/08/28 | 1,968 | 7,009 | <issue_start>username_0: Since witches are actually magical girls who, when their soul gems are fully tainted, become witches, that means that Walpurgisnacht was a magical girl. Since Madoka in two realities became a witch that could destroy the world/universe, that would mean there was a magical girl who was, at the time, much stronger than Madoka (before Homura's trips to the past compiling Madoka's fate and power).
Which magical girl became Walpurgisnacht? Were they like Madoka, and had their fate compiled from overlapping timelines?<issue_comment>username_1: There is no information about who it was that became Walpurgisnacht. All we really know is that Walpurgisnacht is, in some sense, a fusion of multiple witches (or magical girls, I guess).
Official description from July 2011 Megami interview with Urobuchi:
>
> *In the last episode we saw the "Walpurgisnacht", but what kind of witch is it specifically?*
>
>
> It has the destructive power to bring about natural disasters powerful enough to blow away an entire town, but originally it was a single witch. It's a witch that has grown from the combination of countless other witches. Walpurgisnacht combines with other witches in the same way two powerful tornadoes are able to combine and become larger. It's essentially a "conglomeration"-type witch. Because it's so powerful, it rarely shows itself.
>
>
>
See the Madoka wiki for [more details](http://wiki.puella-magi.net/Walpurgis_Night).
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: I'd assume it was someone who had a lot of ties of fate, maybe one of the queens of England, since her outfit would fit their attire. I'd also assume it could have been the same situation that Madoka and Homura had, or she could have wished to be the most powerful magical girl of all time, and turned to Walpurgisnacht.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: I did a bit of research, and found that Walpurgisnacht is the conglomeration of many witches into one. <NAME> may be a key element in Walpurgisnacht since Walpurgisnacht appears out of nowhere. This could possibly be time travel, and the witch that Homura turns into could have eaten/absorbed other witches until she became Walpurgisnacht.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_4: All of the imagery associated with Walpurgisnacht is the same imagery associated with Homura specifically.
* When Homura turns into a witch and fights Kyubey, the images of her upside-down smiling is exactly the same as Walpurgisnacht's entrance.
* Walpurgis is a fusion of two gears with two magical concentric circles surrounding her. Homura is always surrounded by gears, clocks, etc. because she is a machinist and a time traveler.
* Walpurgisnacht appears in every timeline at the exact moment that Homura gives up on her quest to save Madoka. Bearing in mind that Sayaka's imagery was the same as a magical girl and witch (trains, music, swords, capes, mermaid transformation sequence, etc.), it would be logical that Walpurgis is either Homura **or** that Homura contributes the vast majority of Walpurgis' power with the inverse of her wish to change fate.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_5: Witch form of Homura (Homulilly) was presented in the PSP game and it looks nothing like her witch form from Rebellion. One can say that this means that depending on the circumstances witch form can change. Plus, Madoka's witch form (Kriemhild Gretchen) also looks slightly different in different timelines.
Nutcracker Homulilly lacks top of the head and on the concept art for Walpurgis Night you can see that Walpurgis also does not have a top of the head. Nutcracker Homulilly also has oldee-european style dress similar to dress that Walpurgis has. Gears/clock theme that Walpurgis and Homura share, similar conical silhouette, two streak hair (braid on PSP Homililly, just streaks on Nutcracker and two-hat thing on Walpurgis), plus production notes that say that "Walpurgisnacht's and Kriemhild Gretchen's silhouettes are supposed to make a pair and they are meant to look like an hourglass". All this pretty much cements Homura as Walpurgis. Regular designs of Homura and Madoka are also make pair, with Homura being black and purple and Madoka white and pink (purple being basically pink with a lot black and gray added to it).
Also, facts aside, thematically there is no reason for Walpurgis to be anyone else beside Homura. If Walpurgis is Homura it creates dramatic irony of Homura fighting with herself and more she grows stronger the stronger her enemy becomes. And trying to save Madoka from her dark side Homura more and more corners Madoka into basically suicide. From the literary stance Homura being Walpurgis makes perfect sense, especially after "Akumura" is created. "Trying to fix everything you only make it worse and probably things would be better if you leave them alone" seems to be a theme with the series in general and especially Homura.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_6: Basically, Walpurgisnacht is a Witch that is to be blunt like a Cluster of Witches and it came to be from a single witch that was just either left to its own devices until no solitary Magical Girl could handle it.
That is to say she appears and at that point she also attracts Magical Girls to kill her as she is a reference to the gathering of witches. She is never really explained but we know she isn't Homura nor has she been seen as a Magical Girl. We do know that she could be like Madoka and have made a wish so selfless it made a wish with a curse equally as big as her wish. For example, a queen wishing for her countries prosperity and then she is hung or beheaded by the very people she made a wish for.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_7: An interesting question... a late answer...
I strongly disagree with the interpretation of *<NAME>* herself being the Walpurgisnacht witch. The circumstances during her wish themselves prove that *Homura's* not the witch.
*Homura* wished to re-live the time period when she met *Madoka* for the first time and protect her, instead of it being the other way around. She wished for this, **only after** *Madoka* (in the original timeline) died fighting the Walpurgisnacht witch. So, it is evident that *Homura* was **not even a magical girl** at that point, so forget the possibility of her being the Walpurgisnacht witch.
Also note that the Walpurgisnacht witch cannot be *Homura* from the *"future"* either, because each of the altered timeline universes created by virtue of *Homura's* wish are independent of each other.
>
> In actuality, the Walpurgisnacht witch is an amalgamation/(coalesced
> form) of multiple witches/familiars. *This can be supported by the
> scene where the witch disintegrates after Madoka's wish. It seems to
> suggest that it had resulted from 32 individual magical
> girls/witches...*
>
>
>
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/eV43U.jpg)
Upvotes: 3 |
2013/08/29 | 354 | 966 | <issue_start>username_0: 
I have been wondering for a long time which anime this is from.<issue_comment>username_1: (All below links are possibly NSFW.)
A larger version of this image can be [found on Danbooru](http://danbooru.donmai.us/posts/1450053?tags=hayami_shizuku). Apparently, this image is just a drawing by [an artist named Naomi](http://naomi703703703.blog112.fc2.com/) as part of her 世界の果ての喫茶店 (Cafe at the End of the World) series.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: This isn't from an anime. It's original art by [this Pixiv user](http://www.pixiv.net/member.php?id=970058) (warning, may be a bit NSFW) for her [FC2 blog](http://naomi703703703.blog112.fc2.com/) (also maybe not safe for work).
The characters in the image are:
* <NAME> (white hair, green eyes)
* <NAME> (blonde hair, red eyes)
* Hutaba Aoi (blonde hair, blue eyes)
* Neko (brown hair)
Upvotes: 3 |
2013/08/30 | 402 | 1,260 | <issue_start>username_0: I think the animals are supposed to represent some kind of virtue, but I'm not sure what.
Is there any explanation on why those specific animals were chosen?
<issue_comment>username_1: I stumbled across this on a [forum](http://narutobase.net/forums/showthread.php?t=353407).. I could find no other references but for the most part, it makes sense somewhat.
>
> 1. Gaara is the young buffalo with keen instincts and promise.
> 2. Tsunade is the rampant moose that charges without hesitation.
> 3. Raikage is the bear that holds dominance and power on top of everyone.
> 4. Mei is the whale that protects the sea (her village)
> 5. Tsuchikage is the ancient scripture, the scripture that possesses much knowledge and experience.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Haven't you been thinking that this could be a random thing? Because on the first answer, the animals doesn't seem to reflect much of the person even if they make some sense. But in this case, why isn't Tuschikage's picture here, too?
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/30 | 957 | 3,391 | <issue_start>username_0: I'm just curious whether if only Madara possesses the Rinnegan and if not how many are there?
What are the chances that Sasuke can awaken his Rinnegan?<issue_comment>username_1: So far as the manga goes, only Madara was seen to activate the Rinnegan. Even Nagato's rinnegan was given to him by Madara before his death.
And so all the rinnegan shown belongs to Madara.
Sasuke will only be able to activate rinnegan if he has Hashirama's cells with him. And i guess he currently don't have it.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: I just realized that the correct answer may be potentially wrong.
As we have seen thus far, Madara and Obito are the only 2 Uchiha to have used the Rinnegan. Aside from them, Sasuke is the only other Uchiha clan member that is still alive, whom hasn't awaken the Rinnegan yet.
With that said, Sasuke is potentially capable of awakening the Rinnegan any second now. Sasuke has bitten Karin many times. Karin is an Uzumaki, which is a distant relative of the Senju. That means Sasuke has Senju cells inside of him!
With the DNA requirements fulfilled, Sasuke can pull a quick one and activate Rinnegan stunning Madara, the Shinobi alliance, and all of us readers :)
**Updated with known Rinnegan users:
Madara,
Obito,
Sasuke,
Sage of 6 Paths,
Kaguya**
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_3: As an updated answer, It turns out it was not as simple as we thought, though it took the Sage himself to explain it.
Based on the Musings of Hagoromo (the Sage of Six paths) He inherited His rinnegan from his mother, which was then split to each of his children, Indra and Ashura. It is the combination of their chakras that result in the rinnegan (Indra + Asura = Hagoromo). The brothers however had a Feud, which somehow caused their Unique chakras to reincarnate into their decedents. Coincidentally, they happen to be Uchiha and Senju respectively, which is where the initial confusion happened with only need Uchiha and Senju DNA. This is shown best with Danzo, who had Uchiha and Senju DNA for Years, possibly around the time of Narutos birth, but does not have any Rinnegan eyes in that collection.
Eventually, the Chakras reincarnated into Madara and Hashirama. Madara obtained the Rinnegan because he was Indras reincarnation and therefor had Indras charkra, and then he took on Asuras chakra from Hashirama, who was Asuras Reincarnation. This mix (Asura and Indra) becomes the Sage of Six paths, with the Rinnegan.
Madara then gave both of his eyes to Nagato, since Nagato could not naturally obtain them. Rinnegan appear to work like all other Dojutsu in that the eyes themselves retain their form even after transplanting, as Nagato could never undo them, they were permanently rinnegan. After Nagatos death, Obito took his eyes. Obito is unable to awaken the Rinnegan naturally because he is not Indras reincarnation, and so is still missing Indras chakra despite having Uchiha and Asura's charkas. he had to implant the Rinnegan, which he could only implant one of due to their power.
This boils down to meaning that Only Madara and Hashirama could obtain the Rinnegan from the older characters, And the current generation of Reincarnations, Naruto and Sasuke as well. Of course, if someone could implant Sasukes eyes and implement Narutos DNA, they could also obtain the rinnegan eventually.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/30 | 1,566 | 5,322 | <issue_start>username_0: Since Rinnegan is an "upgrade" of Sharingan, then it should be possible that all the techniques of Sharingan will be carried away to Rinnegan like the Mangekyou.
If not, then why?<issue_comment>username_1: It is, since during Madara and 5 kages fight, Madara is able to cast genjutsu to raikage after looking into his eyes, though his eyes is seen as a sharinggan.
And he can still use Susanoo which is a Mangekyo ability.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: A Rinnegan user can use the Mangekyō Sharingan abilities, if the user
1. Has one eye with a *Mangekyō Sharingan* and one with a *Rinnegan* (as seen with Tobi).
2. Naturally awakened the Rinnegan after awakening the *Mangekyō Sharingan*. (as seen with Madara).
If you look at the wiki page of [Rinnegan](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Rinnegan)(emphasis mine, not originally there in the wiki).
>
> When Madara was reincarnated by <NAME> to fight the Allied
> Shinobi Forces, Madara once again gained access to the dōjutsu **(Rinnegan)**; his
> Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan was able to transform into the Rinnegan at
> will **(Madara awakened Rinnegan during the last days of his life)**. Based on data collected over the years, Kabuto Yakushi and
> Orochimaru theorised that because the Sharingan originated from the
> Rinnegan, it was possible for the dōjutsu to change into the Rinnegan
> as part of a "natural evolution". This is supported by the fact he
> maintains his Susanoo while having his Rinnegan activated. Upon
> reincarnation, Nagato also retained the Rinnegan.
>
>
>
Since Madara had awakened both the *Mangekyō* and *Rinnegan* in his life, he could switch between the two and use the abilities of both the *dōjutsu's*. But in the case of Nagato, as he was implanted with the *Rinnegan* itself, he could not switch between them and hence, was never able to use those abilities. This wiki excerpt should confirm it.
>
> While the powers of the Rinnegan remain intact upon implanting them in a new person, like Nagato and Obito Uchiha, only one who "naturally" manifests the Rinnegan, as in Madara Uchiha's case, is able to switch between the Rinnegan and Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan; otherwise, the Rinnegan is always activated.
>
>
>
Tobi had 2 different eyes, one with the *Mangekyō* (his own eye) and the other with the *Rinnegan* (which he took it from Nagato's body after his death), and that's the reason why he could use the abilities of both but only with one eye for each of it.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: While the powers of the Rinnegan remain intact upon implanting them in a new person, like Nagato and Obito Uchiha, only one who "naturally" manifests the Rinnegan, as in Madara Uchiha's case, is able to switch between the Rinnegan and Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan; otherwise, the Rinnegan is always activated.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_4: To put it bluntly, no, the rinnegan cannot use mangekyou abilities. As you can watch in the anime, Madara can switch between Rinnegan and Sharingan because he awakened both.
Nagato only had the Rinnegan.
Basically, the Rinnegan isn't an upgraded Sharingan, it's what comes next, but it's a completely different eye.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_5: The Rinnegan and Mangekyo Sharingan are two different eyes. Completely different. The Sage of Six Paths had the Rinnegan and divided his power to create the Senju and the Uchiha. The Uchiha got the Sharingan and the Senju got really strong chakra and life force (chakra basically). The only reason why Madara got the Rinnegan was because he put some of Hashirama Senju's cells in himself. Thus bringing together the power that the sage had divided. He then would attain the sage's eyes (Rinnegan). He is able to switch between them. The Rinnegan cannot use Mangekyo techniques and vice versa.
The reason why Nagato cannot switch between the different eyes is that they were transplanted into him in the Rinnegan form, and since they aren't his natural eyes, his control over them is limited. A good example of this is Kakashi: he cannot change the Sharingan Obito gave him into a normal eye. That is why he covers it up when he isn't using it. The one absolute thing I can tell you is that the Rinnegan and the Mangekyo Sharingan are two different eyes.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_6: Given that the Rinnengan is the pen-ultimate version of the Sharigan, they can use its power without the need for the eye form itself.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_7: Yes, it is possible ***however*** only if the rinnegan is with the original person for whom it is awakened. But for him too he has to revert back to Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan to use its abilities, and if he wants to use abilities of sharingan then he has to revert back to sharingan.
An uchiha who has awakened his rinnegan has 5 types of eyes..
* normal Black pupils
* sharingan
* Mangekyou Sharingan
* Eternal mangekyo Sharingan
* Rinnegan
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_8: The Rinnengan User Can Use The Mangekyo Techniques.. But Only If its the user who has awakened the Rinnengan .. As You see in **Madara's** And **Sasuke's** Case.. As Sasuke Awakened his Rinnengan (In Left Eye) By taking chakra from Hogoromo he could use his Amateratsu from his left eye ..
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/08/30 | 841 | 2,810 | <issue_start>username_0: When Naruto was asked by <NAME>: "What is the sealing technique use to contain the Nine-Tails?", Naruto said that it is the "Four Element Seal". In return, Killer Bee said that the sealing technique used to contain the Eight-Tails is the "Iron Fist Seal". Now I want to know what are the other sealing techniques to contain the other Tailed Beast.
So far we have the following:
```
Nine-Tails: Four Element
Eight-Tails: Iron Fist
```<issue_comment>username_1: There is no specific sealing technique for each tailed beast. In the battle with killer B, B stated that the Iron Fist seal is of a lower quality that the Four Element seal. B was simply questioning the quality of Naruto's seal. B also stated that Naruto's seal was a lot more durable when compared to the Iron Fist seal.
B's seal is of a lower quality and is therefor easier to break. In the anime it appeared that the Five Element Unseal was strong enough to break B's seal. Naruto's seal is of a higher quality so it is harder to break but it is also much harder to create.
It does not really matter which seal you use as long as it is strong enough to seal the Tailed Beast.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: This answer is based upon events up to Chapter 644.
Following techniques have been used for sealing Tailed Beasts.
* **Hakke no Fūin Shiki (Eight Trigrams Sealing Style)** used by Namikaze Minato to seal yang-Kurama (Kyuubi) into infant Naruto (and yin-Kurama into himself).
* **Tekkō Fūin (Iron Armour Seal)** used to seal Gyūki (Hachibi) into Bee (and Fukai, the previous Hachibi jinchuriki).
* **Fūinjutsu: Genryū Kyūfūjin (Sealing Technique: Phantom Dragons Nine Consuming Seals)** used by Akatsuki members to (extract and) seal their captured bijū into the Gedō Mazō.
* ***Unnamed Fūinjutsu*** used by Chiyo to attach Shukaku (Ichibi) to Gaara's unborn body. The same technique was presumably used to attach Shukaku to the previous two jinchuriki.
* **Ten-tails sealing technique** used by Uchiha Obito to seal the Juubi into himself.
* ***Undisclosed Fūinjutsu*** used by Uchiha Obito to reseal various bijū into their resurrected former jinchuriki.
* **Kohaku no Jōhei bijū fūin (Amber Purifying Pot Tailed-beast sealing)** used by the Third Raikage to seal Hachibi into the Kohaku no Jōhei.
Other jinchurikis probably got their bijūs through one of the above techniques, or other as yet undisclosed techniques.
There is not much evidence, direct or circumstantial, to suggest any kind of "compatibility requirement" between a bijū and its sealing technique, or in other words, it sounds plausible that a bijū could be sealed using more than one technique, and the same sealing technique could be used to seal various bijū (as seen in the above examples).
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer] |
2013/08/30 | 2,683 | 9,983 | <issue_start>username_0: Is it intentionally ambiguous as in they didn't want to commit to a true ending or are they both alive?<issue_comment>username_1: Well, Hei is alive, that's for certain; however, what happens to Yin isn't entirely mentioned.
One thing that could prove that Yin is dead is because on near the end of the anime, Yin appears (the one in the white suit) and asks Hei to kill her, in which he agrees. In the OVA, she also says her final goodbye and confesses her feeling for Hei.
However, in the OVA, Izanagi does say that he'll grant Yin's wish which would be to be with Hei, and Izanagi did grant July's wish to be with Suou.
Also, Bai's power allows for molecular manipulation. It is how Hei is a Contractor since she fused with him near the end of Heaven's War and how the plan to destroy all Contractors by destroying Hell's Gate failed and how Heaven's Gate cannot be touched.
At the end, Bai's star which disappeared because Bai was trapped in the Meteor Core began to shine again because she was released. If Hei got Bai's power back, then he could have fused with Yin as well and (if a third season is made) is now trying to find a way to reverse the fusion so that Yin can return to her body (maybe also to allow Bai to come back). However, that is speculation, one thing I've read that while Hei is holding her body, it's glowing, which could mean she's alive, though I didn't actually notice.
I should point out that what we see is a light growing brighter when he puts his hand on Yin at the end. While he could be killing her here, the light could be the same that Hei emitted when he made Anti-Gate Particles nonexistent at the end of the first season.
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Hei is alive, and so is Bai, who is fused with him.
Now there are two explanations:
1. The first and the best one is Hei was not able to use his powers as Bai fused with the core, and not only that but at the end, the core is destroyed, bringing Bai back to Hei. Bai had a matter-changing power that could allow Hei to remove Izanami from Yin, as she glows, there is also the answer by username_1 talking about the Anti-Gate Particles, but I don't believe it. His star also shines brightly, which happens when the false star is in action, so *Darker than Black* is uncovered.
2. Another thing is, he could be shocking the spirit or whatever, and as he is doing it, Yin is dying. He is carrying the body at the end to her grave and Shion must've tried to satisfy all by making the boy at the end, as you know, when he was trying to make himself it became, Suou. No Suue or Suo, or just Shion's sister, male to female, so when he tried to make Yin, the reverse process took place, and it was touched with Izanagi. So it tried to kill everyone, emotionless, it was like a doll. She can die like Huang.
So at the end, Shion must've made a clone of Yin which is Izanagi and Yin herself is Izanami, the white one, so when those dudes are gone and their glowing hair and they become Yin and the mysterious boy, Hei will try to kill him in the third season, or Yin is alive and became into the heartless doll, or just became into two.
Well, just wait for *Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor*.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: I think Hei did kill Yin, and I believe Izanagi was never revealed in the Anime. If he didn't kill Yin, then he's hiding her somewhere. Izanami is an anti-contractor weapon with Yin inside, and Izanagi is never truly revealed except for that little extra bit at the end of the episode.
We do not know for sure if Hei did or did not kill Yin, and if that boy is in fact, Izanagi, I'm assuming Hei will come back, or the new "Syndicate" will try and kill him. He's probably and Anti-contractor weapon as well from what I see. But anyway, I think Hei killed Yin, and if he didn't, she's probably more human than a doll now, since she changed a lot in the OVA's.
But since nothing is proven yet, all we have is this picture:
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_4: Another explanation could be that during the OVA, Yin told Hei that one way they could be together is when they become one, while she hugged him in the white form, which could be referred to his particle manipulation ability which could be used to fuse them together just like Bai and Hei did.
Regarding Izanagi's words where he said (in last OVA's last 10 minutes) that he would grant Yin a wish when Hei arrives, I suspect it could be that he makes Yin's body human so that one day Hei could reverse the process of the above-mentioned fusion and bring Yin to her now converted Human body,
--or--
he granted a wish by giving a human body to Yin but instead, it turned out to be a boy (which is due to Shion's ability's flaw that the copy he creates has one major difference) and now Yin is forever fused with Hei as the bright light of Hei's particle manipulating power indicated at the end of season 2.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_5: Hei didn't kill Yin, he used his power to separate Izanami and Yin. In the picture where Hei is carrying Yin, she just faints.
He chose to save Yin instead of killing her, so the person who we saw in the "coffin" is who will bring destruction according to the documents written by Amber.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_6: My opinion is simpler. The main topic of the second season is "copies" or, better, "clones". Copies of sex and character opposed to the original, but with the same power and memories.
Yin is the most striking example. Yang is inside her. She represents Ying and Yang, the two opposite eternal and primary, without which world wouldn't exist. The last scene shows Hei carrying Yin's body, that body which is now an empty shell. Hei looks at a star falling from the sky. A contractor is dead. I believe the dead contractor is Hei. He lost his power, those he loved, and if we exclude Yin's research, he is forced to work for others without being motivated. In the end, he must also kill Yin, the woman he loves. Why should he still be around? I think he dies together with Yin.
In my opinion, copies of Yin and Hei were created with same powers. Basically, in the end, we witness the birth of a new syndicate, with "old" faces. So, for me, it makes sense there are clones of Hei and Yin. Mao also has a new body.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_7: *If you want, skip to the **Conclusion** below.*
---
So it was the prophecy to which if Izanami and Izanagi met, they will give birth to a new being, a one which represents the two gates: hell and heaven. That creature at the end is the same being I was talking about.
Through the series, it is known that Yin had become Izanagi (which the OVA was about). So at the end of the OVAs, Yin fulfils her job and transform into Izanagi. Thus, the organization Hei works for (a.k.a "syndicate") is doing all it can to prevent Izanami meeting Izanagi and simultaneously trying to find another solution in case they meet: that solution is the brother in the wheelchair (Sue's brother) which he can basically copy-paste anything he wants; he is a contractor. So, he is producing more beings like him so they could copy Earth faster.
However, there is one problem, the ME which is a device meant to erase or adapt memories into beings can only "tape" a memory that will stay within the being for 3 days at its maximum. Therefore, they use a meteor fragment (found at season 1 in one of the episodes which Hei took under the syndicate's orders. I believe it was used in season 2) which can contain the being's memories until the fragment is cracked or broken. To test their theory, they create Sue (the girl in season 2) which was the sister of the wheelchair contractor and creates memories for her into the meteor fragment, which is believed he will make sure her memories will bond to her till it cracked. Near the end of season 2, it seems the theory is correct that the meteor fragment will contain the memories.
So by multiplying the wheelchair contractor, they recreate Earth: a new world without any contractors or dolls, and save all the humans' memories in a big fragment (that orange thing you see in the end, that thing has at the same room all the wheelchair copies). So, in case something will happen to the real world, they make sure humankind will survive.
With that all discussed, what happened with Hei? In case you didn't know, Hei lost his power, and with the meteor fragment of Sue, he basically delivered his contract power to her (that's why she became a contractor). Hei doesn't have his power until the end when he meets Yin as Izanami which returns Hei's powers (the scene where Sue dies) and Yin gave Hei two option:
1. To kill Yin and prevent the birth of the alien which might erase all humans and contractors as one; saving the earth, or
2. To use his power once again to separate Yin from Izanagi; by doing so he makes sure Izanami and Izanagi will meet and will bring birth to the demonic child we see in the end, the one sucking souls from anyone; using Hei's power, he will be able to get Yin and to live with her till death will be shown upon them, which might happen in the next future.
Hei chooses the second option, he gets Yin and the real Earth isn't safe anymore. So when you see Hei holding Yin and going with her, you should know she is alive and he is as well. Meanwhile, the demonic child is on earth, Americans conquer Japan, the syndicate continues his affords to prevent from everyone dying and there is another planet earth with humans only on it.
**Conclusion:** Hei uses his power to separate Yin from Izanagi and by that, he gets Yin alive. Earth is being duplicated but without all this messed crap. Syndicate continues to save humanity on the fucked up Earth - the policewoman is working for the syndicate.
Btw, Sue was only an experiment tool to see if the fragment can hold the dull's memory.
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/08/30 | 1,042 | 3,661 | <issue_start>username_0: If all Devil Fruit users in *One Piece* anime are not capable of swimming, what about a Devil Fruit user whose ability is to control water? Can such a person able to swim or evade the Devil Fruit's curse?<issue_comment>username_1: Most of this answer is speculation as there is currently no answer to this question.
I think that the possibility of the "Mizu Mizu no Mi" existing somewhere in the One Piece universe is highly possible, since we have already seen multiple states of water being Devil Fruits:
* [Moku Moku no Mi](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Moku_Moku_no_Mi) (Smoke - Gas state)\*
* [Hie Hie no Mi](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Hie_Hie_no_Mi) (Ice - Solid state)
* [Yuki Yuki no Mi](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Yuki_Yuki_no_Mi) (Snow - Solid state)
\* I know this one is disputable
The only problem with the "Mizu Mizu no Mi" is that it will create a paradox.
Since Devil Fruit users are weak to water, if a Devil Fruit user transforms into water, he would be rendered powerless and transform back to his normal form.
But all in all, I don't think the person using this Devil Fruit will be able to circumvent the "curse" Devil Fruit users get from eating them.
Upvotes: 4 <issue_comment>username_2: No. The second he touched water or became wet, he would lose the ability to control it, allowing him to drown and die. If he controlled water from a distance without touching it, then he could retain his devil fruit powers.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: The Devil Fruit Users are weak to the sea energy (think seastone), because the sea hates them. If a "Mizu Mizu no Mi" exists, then it would most likely be fresh water ability. This would allow them to use water, without being weakened.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_4: The thing is that the Devil Fruit users only lose their powers through SEA water. drinking water, fresh water and any other type of water would have no effect. So it would be possible to have the ability and swim, if you are not in Sea water. This was displayed in the Crocodile ARC. Luffy dowses himself with regular water to fight Crocodile for the fact that the Sand gets clumpy and is not able to disperse.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_5: TL;DR **YES, they can swim**
Assuming the fruit eater cannot control the sea water (which otherwise would clearly goes against all the plot), he'd have to use tricks to enable him swimming.
>
> [Devil Fruit](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Devil_Fruit) users are susceptible to all types of water, not just seawater
>
>
>
I'll assume this Devil Fruit will not be susceptible to fresh water. This can be possible since the wiki always states the word "sea" as the weakness. It has nothing to do with water. For example, it's "seastone", not "waterstone". We can say susceptibility of fresh water is a side effect which can be neutralized with the power of the fruit.
>
> Logia Devil Fruits allow a person to **create**, control, and transform
> into a natural element or force of nature, depending on the fruit.
>
>
>
Let us also assume the fruit is [Logia](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Logia) type. If the fruit has the ability to create water, the fruit user could surround themself with newly created fresh water which is not their own body. This way, there will be no direct interaction with the sea water and the Devil Fruit user.
With these assumptions, yes, a fruit user with such power will have the ability to swim in salty water.
Check [this](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/23344/why-can-devil-fruit-users-use-their-abilities-while-wet/23369#23369) answer for further details.
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/08/30 | 1,369 | 3,305 | <issue_start>username_0: In episode 19 of *Toaru Kagaku no Railgun S*, Saten is shown reading a book to Febri, presumably as a bedtime story.
Transcribed:
>
> 国の中央部には、立派すぎる建物が並んでいました。
>
>
> 豪華な化粧石をふんだんに使った、どっしりとした石の建築物です。必ず尖った屋根や、装飾でついている変な生き物の石像が目立ちます。整った区画の中に、それらは丁寧に並んでいました。
>
>
> 道路は車なら十台ほどが並んで走れそうな幅で、きれいに十字に交差しています。薄い土埃を上げながら走るモトラドがとても小さく見える、壮大な都市部でした。
>
>
> そして、そこには誰もいません。車も走っていません。
>
>
> エルメスを止めて交差点の中央に立ったキノが、視線と体をぐるりと回します。
>
>
> 「…………」
>
>
> 建物は音もなく磧へと流れていき、また別の建物が現れ、また流れていきます。その向こうには、変わらない蒼い空があるだけなのでした。
>
>
>
Loosely translated:
>
> In the heart of a certain country, there stood buildings altogether too splendid.
>
>
> They were built from solid stone, much of which was beautifully decorated. They invariably had peaked roofs and stone figures of strange animals that drew the eye. They stood side-by-side in an orderly manner, within their orderly city blocks.
>
>
> The roads were so wide that ten cars could drive in parallel, and they intersected at perfect right angles. Vehicles would kick up a thin cloud of dust as they drove. They were tiny by comparison with the grandeur of the city.
>
>
> And there was nobody there. Neither people nor vehicles.
>
>
> Kino stopped his Hermes in the middle of an intersection and looked all around.
>
>
> "..."
>
>
> The buildings silently flowed towards the waterfront as new buildings emerged to take their place, and then those new buildings too flowed away. Beyond them was nothing but the unchanging blue sky.
>
>
>
The first line does not appear anywhere on the internet, so it doesn't look like this is pre-existing Japanese fiction. It *could* be pre-existing non-Japanese fiction that has been translated into Japanese for the first time (or differently) by somebody involved in the production of *Railgun S*. Alternatively, it could be original Japanese fiction.<issue_comment>username_1: From the text alone, it would seem that this is an orignal short story, titled "何を忘れたか覚えてますか？ ―Don't Forget to Forget!―", from the first [Kino's Journey Artbook](http://dengekibunko.dengeki.com/newreleases/978-4-8402-2525-0/), *Country of Memories -Their Memories-* (*記憶の国 -Their Memories- Kioku no Kuni -Their Memories-*).
You can read the full version [here](http://pastebin.com/nsK8p8nx).
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: The pages shown in the picture are exactly pages 12 and 13 of the *Kino's
Journey* picture book mentioned in [the other answer](/a/6450). Here are
some photos of my own copy:
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/gO0Ox.jpg)
*[キノの旅 -the Beautiful World- 「記憶の国」 -Their Memories-](http://dengekibunko.dengeki.com/newreleases/978-4-8402-2525-0/)*,
Pages 12-13
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/pE8JU.jpg)
Cover and *[obi](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obi_(publishing))*
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/OHtHQ.jpg)
Pages 0-1
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/5dVuP.jpg)
Pages 2-3
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/yP3Ku.jpg)
Pages 4-5
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer] |
2013/09/01 | 862 | 2,834 | <issue_start>username_0: When Nagato reanimated everyone who died in the village, Katsuyu was with him.
Couldn't Naruto use Katsuyu to help Nagato, or is it for some other reason?<issue_comment>username_1: >
> When Naruto returned to Konoha, Tsunade ordered one of its smaller
> clones to stay in Naruto's pocket and keep him informed of Pain's
> abilities. [naruto wikia](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Katsuyu)
>
>
>
First and foremost, Tsunade didn't intend to heal Pain from the start but just wanted to located naruto instead. Even if Katsuyu implied to do, I think smaller clone are smaller in ability like healing and other. Probably, the Katsuyu in Naruto's pocket can't have enough chakra to heal Pain.
>
> Furthermore, Katsuyu's clones are extremely resistant to high amounts
> of damage, as seen during Invasion of Pain Arc. Katsuyu is also able
> to absorb people into its body, thus protecting them from physical
> impacts like the large-scale Shinra Tensei using its own high
> durability. [naruto wikia](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Katsuyu)
>
>
>
Aside from that , Katsuyu seem to absorb physical impacts only and it can't do nothing to chakra overexertion from as far as I watched.
Upvotes: 2 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: As revealed by later chapters, *Gedo: Rinne Tensei* is a **Tensei Ninjutsu**, meaning, it transfers the life-force of the user onto another (or others).
>
> This was confirmed by Obito by saying that to revive Madara, he would need to throw his life away.
>
>
>
No amount of chakra in the world could have saved Nagato, just like Naruto's chakra didn't save Chiyo back then (only helped her complete the technique).
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: 1st, Chakra IS Life Force
2nd Nagato didn't have enough chakra at the time to revive the whole village as stated in Chapter 449
While Nagato died, it should be noted that it was when he revived a whole bunch of people, and when Obito said he die if used it on Madara (chapter 614) who was dead for over 17 yrs, both were extreme cases..... it can be assumed that if you don't have enough chakra, then you'd die if you used Rinne Tensei and the more extreme the case but you could survive if you had enough chakra....
going there, that could mean that the longer the person is dead, the more chakra it'll take to revive them, so if he took time to rest, then it'd have taken even more chakra to revive each person
then Nagato did his jutsu before Naruto knew what was going on so once the jutsu was done and all, then Naruto couldn't help him
while Naruto was able to help Chiyo, Pein's revival jutsu seemed to be even shorter than Chiyo's and Naruto didn't have much of Katsuya and Tsunade used up almost all her chakra so she couldn't transfer chakra to Nagato even if she wanted to...
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/02 | 701 | 2,592 | <issue_start>username_0: In the parts of FMA when they are at Fort Briggs, they say that Fort Briggs defends against the country of Drachma. As far as I remember, though, that is the only time that Drachma is mentioned. Is it relevant to any other parts of the series, or is it only important as a reason for Fort Briggs to exist?<issue_comment>username_1: In-universe, Fort Briggs exists because of Drachma; they are the only line of defense keeping the Drachmans from breaking the non-aggression pact.
Out-of-universe, it's the exact opposite: Drachma was added so that Fort Briggs had a reason to exist and to house one the toughest army around. Considering the allusion to Russia (Drachma shares many similarities), it is likely that it was to be seen as a powerful force. In order to have a powerful Amestrian army which was still isolated from Central, they had to be given their power from an outside, independent source: Drachma.
Drachma does play a further role, though. Starting at the end of episode 42 (*Brotherhood*), they launch an attack against Fort Briggs.
>
> Kimblee, doing what he does best, leads the Drachman army into a trap, claiming that Fort Briggs is weakened by the absence of General Armstrong and that he has men inside who will bring down the army from within.
>
> The latter is a lie and the former is not a weakness, and Kimblee knows this; Kimblee, assisting Father indirectly, is creating a blood seal as one of the main components of the Nationwide Transmutation Circle. In this way, Drachma is necessary; the soldiers that die here are crucial for creating the blood seal, just as they were in the other major wartime conflicts that Falman explains to Ed.
>
>
>
Aside from justifying the Briggs fortress and army, and creating this wartime conflict, Drachma has no direct role in the events of *Fullmetal Alchemist*.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: well drachma is said to be the largest country in FMAB (Bigger than xing if you extended the map.) The only way they would have expanded so far is if they had a strong military. The Non aggression pact wouldn't exist if father felt they were no match for Amestris. BUT, it since father is the true leader of Amestris he must have felt Drachma would have been a threat to the Amestrian military. so it can be believed they are one of if not the strongest nation in the FMAB Universe. However no the only major part they play in the Anime or manga was to forge the blood crest in the north.
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/09/03 | 2,014 | 7,410 | <issue_start>username_0: In the first Shingeki no Kyojin opening, I've seen some scenes with lower contrast or brightness, something like this:
And later, in the same sequence, a scene appears without that contrast change:
I've seen this kind of contrast change in the HxH remake as well, and the first thing that comes to my mind is that legendary Pokemon episode where a lot of kids suffered of photosensitive epilepsy attacks in Japan thanks to Pikachu and Co.
Does it has some relationship with that or there is another reason? Maybe a new law in Japan related to these flashy images on TV?
It seems this change appears only in new anime (I don't remember seeing something like this before last year). Any clue around that time?
**===UPDATED===**
It's not just in the opening; here are more examples:
One of many scenes where the image is normal:
Then comes the darker scenes. Maybe it cannot be appreciated in the snapshots, but all are a full sequence of images appearing quickly with a bright background:
And then it returns to normal:
This is from the last HxH episode. At first, the image looks fine:
Then comes an attack and the image looks darker. Maybe the effect is not so intense as in Shingeki no Kyojin, but it is still there. Look, all these bright flashes coming from the hits seem not as bright as they should be:
And then the image looks normal again - compare the smoke color before and after:
As @JonLin notes, maybe it could be some kind of TV censorship, despite that there's nothing to censor besides all these flashy lights. Is it just me being paranoid or is there something more behind all this?
**==UPDATE 2==**
I've found a Blu-ray rip of the Shingeki no Kyojin opening (no subtitles, no credits) and I took some shots of the same frames that I already put. To the left, the TV version and to the right, the BDRip version (click for more detail):
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/lalI7.png)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/M9foy.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/tEJhY.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/8vl5y.jpg)
So it is not an effect to make things more dramatic, but rather an effect included only on TV. I suppose the same applies to the other shots (at least in SnK).
So my question comes again, why, lately, are there some anime with darkened scenes? My conspiracy theory is that it is related to those bright changes and possible photosensitive attacks. If that's true, why is this being applied lately? And why doesn't it appear on DVD/BD?
If not, what else it could be?<issue_comment>username_1: IMO, this is simply the artist accounting for or playing with the lighting. In the first image, the character is silhouetted against the sun. This is pretty much how it would look in real life if somebody were to come directly between you and the sun.
The second image is a sunrise/sunset twilight shot.
The rest are a mixture of cloudy, smoky, and sunny backgrounds. The flashy lights are the sun peeping through clouds, reflecting off stuff, and so on. Where there's sun, there's shadow too.
I don't see any censorship or anything else similarly irregular.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: Upon thinking about this again, I decided to do some research into this phenomenon. You correctly identify that there is some unusual darkening of scenes in TV broadcast anime that is not present in Blu-Ray releases. It looks like you are also correct that this has something to do with laws1 requiring broadcasters to avoid airing content that may cause seizures in people who suffer from photosensitive epilepsy (though I don't think you could reasonably construe this as "censorship").
As you probably know, the issue of photosensitive epilepsy became prominent following the airing of the Pokemon episode Electric Soldier Porygon back in 1997. For more about this, see this article on Bulbagarden: [Japanese Episode 038](http://dogasu.bulbagarden.net/comparisons/kanto/ep038.html).
That was then; nowadays, all major broadcasting companies impose restrictions on broadcast television as a sort of countermeasure to epilepsy.2 For example, [a page on TV Tokyo's website](http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/main/yoriyoi/eizoukouka.html) says the following:
>
> **Guidelines for the production of anime/etc. with regard to the effects of video**
>
>
> As part of TV Tokyo's efforts to do everything possible to avoid exposing viewers to dangerous stimuli, we have developed the following guidelines. By producing and broadcasting anime in accordance with these guidelines, risk associated with viewing television can be almost entirely eliminated.
>
>
> 1. Avoid displaying more than one flash of light per one-third of a second (8 frames on film, 10 frames on TV).
> 2. Since abrupt scene changes and rapid motion produce the same effects [as in (1.)], avoid using these techniques more than once per one-third of a second.
> 3. Flashes of light and scene changes mostly or entirely in red are dangerous. Scenes of equal brightness using colors other than red are acceptable.
> 4. Patterns with regions of differing brightness (e.g. stripes, spirals) should, in general, be avoided.
>
>
>
It seems to be the case that, rather than producing anime that meets these guidelines, anime is produced however the production studio wants it, and then post-processed for TV broadcast by darkening bright scenes and (temporally) smearing out flashing.
As to why you don't see the same alterations on Blu-ray: Blu-ray is not a broadcast medium, and so the laws pertaining to the nature of broadcast television do not apply. If you think about it, that makes sense - it isn't really possible to inadvertently view a Blu-Ray, whereas it certainly is possible to inadvertently watch broadcast television, and so the government steps in to protect viewers in the latter case but not the former.
---
1 I am not actually sure whether the practices I have described here are backed by force of law, or whether they are just voluntarily undertaken by broadcasting corporations.
2 These restrictions are most commonly relevant for animated television, since live-action television typically won't contain the sort of flashing patterns that trigger seizures (since the real world itself typically doesn't either).
Upvotes: 6 [selected_answer] |
2013/09/05 | 599 | 2,056 | <issue_start>username_0: I remember when I was a kid watched an anime about a wizard cat. I think he was yellow and fat and each episode he made wishes come true hmmm... maybe for a bunch of kids?
He also has a weakness, the water, he hated it and I remember in one episode he touched the water and felt really sick and start to bleed by one of his mustache hairs.
That's all I remember,oh well, and it was a really funny animation. Anyone knows?
**==UPDATE==**
I remember some other stuff too: He has a pointed hat, as a magician. Maybe black or blue, maybe has some stars? (I'm not so sure about that last point) and each time he started his magic, he dances and spins around with a lot of effects, kind of like any magical anime girl power.
I live in Chile, South America and it was not very popular between my friends (at least I've asked a few times and nobody remembers), but it must have been broadcasted in the '90.
And the last thing "I think" it was anime, I mean, I remember kind of anime drawing style and the ending with credits writing and song language unknown for me at that age.<issue_comment>username_1: From what you explain I just remember Rocky Rackat(Pokonyan) !
When I was a kid I watched it from TV and know it as Mio Mio! ^\_^
This picture is that cat?
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: At last I found it! Actually it was not a cat, but the rest of my description fits. The name is "Please! Psammea-don" (おねがい!サミアどん Onegai! Samia-don?)
It seems that it only was broadcast in Latin America, France, Quebec and the Arab World [as noted by Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onegai!_Samia-don) and [it was also never released in English](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Children_and_It#Adaptations), so maybe that's the reason why nobody here knew this animation.
PS: I really loved [the ending](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCpMA2C4SjE)
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer] |
2013/09/06 | 1,051 | 3,775 | <issue_start>username_0: In Fate Zero, Saber doesn't exactly meet Illyasviel, but she does see her, which is hard to forget because she looks pretty much exactly as her mother Irisviel, who was a good friend of Saber's.
In Fate Stay Night, Saber runs into Illyasviel multiple times, and eventually Illyasviel ends up living with her in Shirou's house. But, as far as I'm concerned, Saber doesn't seem to "react" at all. By this I mean something like:
* *"Oh boy, that's Illyasviel, damned Kiritusugu's daughter"*
* *"Whoa, she looks exactly like my good old friend Irisviel"*
* *"von Einzbern? That rings a bell"*
But it doesn't seem (to me) that Saber actually realizes this.
Does Saber recognize Illyasviel? If yes, why doesn't she bring it up?<issue_comment>username_1: Yes, Saber's (Arthuria) situation as a Servant is unique. She is not a true heroic spirit, but rather an incomplete one (See: [Fate/Zero novel, Vol. 2, Act 5, Part 1](http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Fate/Zero%3aAct_5_Part_1)):
>
> As Saber - that is, Arturia - is an incomplete Heroic Spirit, she would not possess the knowledge that surpasses time and space one gains when one has reached the Throne of Heroes.
>
>
>
According to the [Type Moon](http://typemoon.wikia.com/wiki/Saber_%28Fate/stay_night%29#Contract) Wiki:
>
> Heroic Spirits are those who have been removed from the time axis and placed on the Throne of Heroes, while Saber can still be considered living. The hero known as <NAME> is not currently classified as a Heroic Spirit, so she cannot be called a complete Servant. She made a pact with the World as she was on the verge of death after the Battle of Camlann that will require her to become a Counter Guardian, a subcategory of a Heroic Spirit at the service of the World, after her death. These pacts are normally done by those requiring the power beyond ordinary humans to become heroes during their lifetimes, but her wish instead came at the time of her death because King Arthur did not require support to become a hero.
>
>
>
Having technically not died yet, Saber cannot take on Spirit Form like most other servants because she's technically still considered alive. This allows her to keep all memories of her search for the Grail, unlike Heroic Spirits don't keep their memories in order to prevent inconsistencies.
With that being said she most likely realizes the positions she is in and the recurring characters, but does not act upon it would complicate matters (singling her out as an irregularity, raise unnecessarily questions that may distract her master).
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Saber recognized that Illya was a homunculus created by the Einzberns like Irisviel however Saber was never told Illya's name and assumed that Illya would grow normally during the ten years between Holy Grail War's so when Illya introduced herself Saber thought Illya was too young to be Irisviel's daughter.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: If you pay close attention to *Fate/stay night: UBW*, you may be able to tell that Saber recognizes Illyasviel.
When Illya first introduces herself, she says "<NAME>. Sounds familiar, Rin?" After she says that, Saber tilts her head down and sighs as if she is remembering something she doesn't want to think about. Though this evidence still leaves much to be desired, Saber has never been one to submit to her feelings and often keeps them concealed within. Therefore, she wouldn't likely say, "Oh my god. You're Irisviel's daughter." even if they were alone together especially because I'd imagine that Illya reminds Saber too much of Irisviel, who is dead.
Honestly, if I were saber, I'd be acting the same way if I were in such a situation.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/08 | 846 | 3,009 | <issue_start>username_0: There is great contrast: Aizen managed to insert it without Rukia knowing. later, he stated that extraction would be fatal (but it did not actually kill Rukia).
How did Aizen insert it into Rukia? And what are the plans he did so that she will be in a dangerous situation with Ichigo?<issue_comment>username_1: Aizen does not insert the Hōgyoku into Rukia's body. The deed was actually done by Urahara Kisuke when he makes a deal with a powerless Rukia for a human gigai into which he places the Hōgyoku for safety and secrecy.
Rukia by coincidence happens to patrol Karakura town on the day the hollow attacks Kurosaki family, the Hōgyoku belonging to Kisuke is hidden in the gigai which he gives after she transfers her powers to Ichigo; until then she can sense reiatsu and it was because of sensing Ichigo's reiatsu that she initially entered the Kurosaki residence as a shinigami. However after using the (Kisuke provided) Hōgyoku contained gigai to stay in human world, she realizes that her shinigami powers are not recovering fast enough.
Aizen likely orchestrates the hollow attack on the Kurosaki family believing this would cause Kisuke, who until then hid in the shadows, would make a move for the safekeeping of the Hōgyoku. And rightly Kisuke makes an appearance offering Rukia a deal on the gigai to use for the stay in human world.
>
> Also to be noted that the entire birth of Ichigo is a causality of Aizen's earlier experimentation and he mentions that he has been monitoring Ichigo for a long time
>
>
>
As for the extraction, Aizen merely assumes/contemplates that it would be of fatal consequence and expresses surprise when that is not the case. In general Aizen's knowledge on Hōgyoku and even that of Kisuke is not complete as they only succeed in creating an incomplete one at best both of which Aizen would later merge and use.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Did anyone listen to Aizen's speech? The Hogyoku was inside Rukia before she even met Ichigo. In fact, according to his concept, it has been inside of her since she was a child. The question is, when the heck did Urahara met Rukia when she was a child?
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_3: I just watched the episode and Aizen does indeed say that Urahara hid the Hogyoku in a soul and that by the time Aizen realised it was in Rukia, she had already escaped to the human world. So, [username_2's answer](https://anime.stackexchange.com/a/10045/2516) was right and [username_1's answer](https://anime.stackexchange.com/a/5123/2516) is wrong.
The rest is true though, he did give Rukia the Gigai that drained her powers and he did 'manipulate' and help the crew to save Rukia because he knew Aizen was after her.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_4: I've just rewatched the anime for like 4th time and yes, Aizen said that he realized the Hogyoku was with Rukia after she had left for Karakura town back then.
Bleach has so many holes in its plot.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/10 | 355 | 1,189 | <issue_start>username_0: In the fourth episode of *Heroes of Cosplay*, the winners at Anime Matsuri were cosplaying Zeno (or maybe Xeno) Brothers. When I Google for this all I find is a reference to Zatch Bell. Whatever they were cosplaying did not look like Zatch Bell. Can anyone point me in the right direction?<issue_comment>username_1: According to the label of the episode:
The character's name is "Bonds" and it's from "Xeno Bros", which doesn't appear to be from any anime or manga. Strangely, google doesn't bring up anything for those search terms. The MC also mentions "vampires" during the performance part of the competition while they did some sword fighting.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: The characters are from the game "The Last Story" for the Wii. It's an RPG made by Hironobu Sakaguchi.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: The character depicted (from the photo in @Jon-Lin 's answer) is Zael/エルザ from *[The Last Story](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Story)* video game, directed by Hironobu Sakaguchi.
Upvotes: 2 [selected_answer] |
2013/09/10 | 474 | 1,570 | <issue_start>username_0: I was watching [this video](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YeTs5oHAwg) which shows the similarities between both characters. I suppose it must be a kind of tribute, or maybe is just a vile copy (I don't think so). Anyone knows the reason?<issue_comment>username_1: [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K9999#NESTS_Team) says
>
> and K9999 (pronounced K Four-Nine), a clone from Kyo entirely based on Tetsuo Shima from Akira, able to transform his arm into a long tentacle like Tetsuo's. Due to copyright issues, for the King of Fighters 2002 remake he was replaced with a similar character.
>
>
>
but gives no sources.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: K9999 won't appear in any future games because
1. SNK hates the character
2. He is a liable lawsuit in which the creators of *Akira* could sue SNK Playmore
3. Elioth, a Korean company helped co-create *King of Fighters 2001* and owns the rights to him
4. He was replaced in *KoF 2002 Unlimited Match* with a character called "nameless" who looks like Black Jack from the anime.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: I think K9999 is the 9999th android of "K" because it disappeared, looking for the nests hideout and destroy it because they killed the original "K" who's real name is Kryzalid.
<NAME> is just a kid who grew up poor and turned into a mutant by Akira and put into an Akira Institute, and he escaped not knowing that his infected arm must be kept stable and that's why he ended up transformed into a huge mutated ugly monster and just died.
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/09/10 | 1,056 | 3,756 | <issue_start>username_0: As far as I know, pokémon can evolve when they gain enough experience or while using a specific item.
There are also some rare cases that involve specific emotions/weather.
However, I'm sure none of these was the case.
So in episode 22 in season 1, how was it possible for Abra to evolve within the match, when he didn't even gain any EXP from it?<issue_comment>username_1: In the anime, evolution is a bit different to evolution in the games. For example, Pokémon do not evolve when traded and can refuse to evolve.
If you look at the [list of evolution in the anime](http://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/List_of_anime_Pok%C3%A9mon_by_evolution), you'll find many Pokémon that did not evolve after a battle. It's more like they constantly gain experience and can sometime decide that they want to evolve now, mostly when it's needed. Also, the idea of "levels" aren't very much used in the anime, so I don't think it really matters. It's just a mixture of emotions and experience.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Sabrina, the Gym Leader of Saffron City is a Psychic and a powerful one at that, her pokemon Abra/Kadabra is psychically-linked to her, it wouldn't be too much of a stretch to think that Sabrina could force her pokemon to evolve with her powers, also in the anime she only had Abra/Kadabra and Ash won thanks to Haunter causing her to laugh, the psychic link to Kadabra caused him to laugh unable to fight making Ash the victor
in the original Red/Blue/Green, she had 4 pokemon and Alakazam was her strongest, in the original Yellow she had 3 which was Abra, Kadabra and Alakazam, all level 50 however Alakazam is most likely the strongest because the only move it has different is Reflect which doubles defense over Kadabra's Kinesis which decreases accuracy on the target, none of this is shown in either battle Ash has with her so there is a clear difference between the anime and game
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: Once I rewatched the episode I had in mind the simple answer - she **timed** the evolution of Abra exactly at the start of the battle, she knew, whether with Abra's experience or knew with her psychic power he will evolve.
For the **first option**, it's not very far to say that trainer can know when his Pokemon will evolve in the anime, I don't remember now which episode, but in one of the episodes in the Advanced series, there was one who his Pokemon just evolved and said "I knew it is about time he will evolve", showing that trainers might know when their Pokemon is about to evolve.
Another example of that is in Blak and White series, where Ash had a rematch with Lenora, she had evolved her Lillipup to Herdier saying just for the rematch with Ash, the first match and the rematch was only 1-2 days from each other, it is clear that Lenora knew that with a little more training her Lillipup will evolve or she won't say that she evolved Lillipup just for the rematch.
But the **second option** she knew with her psychic power Abra will evolve during the battle even have an evidence in the episode:
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/pQOnE.png)[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/zxpsr.png)[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/N6u3q.png)[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/qHKhe.png)
We see that as soon Sabrina is "glowing blue" with her psychic power, Abra is glowing too and evolving. it might even imply she *used* her psychic to make it evolve (which is like username_2 answer).
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/10 | 1,048 | 3,886 | <issue_start>username_0: Since Chapter 646 is currently the latest chapter, the question will be in spoilers.
>
> My question specifically pertains to whether or not all shinobi descended from the Sage of Six Paths. Is this what Madara is implying in the last panel of this picture: "[...] in effect, taught us all chakra..."?
>
>
>
> 
>
>
>
> I think there are multiple ways to interpret this. One is that all shinobi are related to Kaguya, meaning everyone related knows how to use chakra.
>
>
>
> And the second way is that if one knows how to use chakra, then all their offspring will be born into the world able to use chakra. Therefore the Sage of Six Paths can simply teach others how to use chakra and then everyone else knows.
>
>
>
> There were probably some words lost in translation, so I am just confused now.
>
>
>
> Did all shinobi descend from the Sage of Six Paths or did the Sage simply just teach others how to use chakra?
>
>
><issue_comment>username_1: At the moment there might not be a definite answer for this question, so here's mine based on my own interpretation of the chapter (with little or no evidence to back up) which might likely become obsolete owing to any twist in plot later on
>
> Chakra was initially an entity unrelated to humans or their physique until Otsutsuki Kaguya ate the Shinju's fruit and caused the inception of a generation where it would be a part of the human body (as a chakra system).
>
>
> Secondly, <NAME> aka the Sage of Six Paths, the immediate successor inherited Kaguya's chakra and was likely the root from which the generation of shinobi branched out.
>
> Further his likely mastery over the Juubi and becoming the first Bijuu could likely be attributed to the real beginning of shinobi who further learn to mix physical energy with chakra to create elemental energy (something perhaps, the Sage might have practised first and preached on to the subsequent generations).
>
>
> At many points it is also mentioned that the Sage had two sons who later on branched out into Senju and Uchiha.
>
> However though the Sage might be essentially the first to truly realize the power of chakra, it is very much possible that Otsutsuki Kaguya could have other children who might have inherited the gift of chakra and could have possibly been the root of other shinobi clans.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: I believe that this brings up a minor plot hole in the series.
It is known that anyone can become a ninja because everyone has chakra. It is also said that if one runs out of chakra, they die. However, Kaguya was said to have rated the fruit and obtained the chakra, while the Sage of Six Paths was said to be, along with his brother, the first to be born with chakra. This then raises the question of how the people that lived during and before the Sage and Kaguya survived.
Later in the manga, it was said that the Sage spread his teachings to the people and used his chakra to connect all people in the world so that they could understand each other. However, eventually, they used his chakra to blend their own spiritual and physical energies together to form their own chakra, which they used as weapons for war.
From this, I have formulated a speculation: From the first generation who learned to weaponize their own chakra, their descendants were then born with chakra. However, that raises the question as to what about those that did not receive the Sage's teachings. As it was stated that everyone has chakra to some degree, I would assume that either those that did not learn directly from the Sage learned from others and later formed their own jutsu, **or** that those who did not develop chakra were killed off, much like animals which do not evolve in the wild.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/09/11 | 1,232 | 4,484 | <issue_start>username_0: Since the beginning, we see Yoroichi does not wield a Zanpakuto, but isn't it strange? Isn't she a Shinigami and the Zanpakuto is so important for them?
It's true that she has her own fighting style, but like Soi Fon, she has the same fighting style, but uses a Zanpakuto.
There was some flashback moments when we saw younger Yoroichi wielding a Zanpakuto:
I imagine she had Shikai/Bankai to become a Captain, so she should be stronger if she uses it in a fight. Maybe she has lost it or something?<issue_comment>username_1: There are many THEORIES as to what happened to her Zanpakuto. I'm not sure if I can ANSWER your question as definitely as you'd like, but I can list some possible answers. It's up to you to find the one that you believe most plausible. Or we can wait til old Tite Kubo gives us the answer.
1. She gave it up when she left the Soul Society.
* Yoruichi is a part of a very honorable family, so it's almost possible that she would leave her Zanpakuto to symbolize the fact that she's leaving the Seireitei.
* **However**, a Zanpakuto is a partnership. It's doubtful that somebody could just leave their partner, especially if their Zanpakuto is an animate object. Also, why would she have to give up something that important?
2. It was stolen.
* It's not impossible to believe that after a particularly long bout with some Hollow, or another Soul Reaper, it was taken as a trophy. Or even destroyed?
* **However**, Yoruichi is an extremely amazing fighter. She couldn't have lost unless she fought something on the level of the Espada.
3. She keeps it with her, but sees no point in using it.
* This is what I believe. That she just has it set aside and is waiting for an opportune moment to use it.
* **However**, why wouldn't she have used it by now??? You would think, with all the amazing enemies that have been introduced, she would've pulled it out by now.
* **Also**, the only reasons she wouldn't use it is if
+ It is too weak to make a difference in battle and she sees no point in using it
+ Or, it is too STRONG and she cannot properly control it
+ Or, she had a falling out with it, and she's not allowed to use it.
Those are just some theories. I believe she wouldn't have gotten rid of it. I think she would've done what Kisuke did. Personally, I think we'll see it one day, along with her Bankai. Sorry that I couldn't answer your question.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: In the Zanpaktou Rebellion Arc, it is told by Suzumebachi or Soifon's zanpaktou that she used to belong to Yorouichi. I just saw this recently, but if you see around the 4:30 minute mark of this video, Suzumebachi states this. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DgCe9wM_0k>.
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_3: 1. In her fight with soi fon she throws a kunai.
2. She merged with it.
3. She is really the physical manifestation of urahara's zanpakto which is why he doesnt use it past shikai.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_4: While there is no definitive answer at this point many of the theories out there are plausible. I however, personally think that one of the most overlooked and underestimated answers is that she simply doesn't like/want to use it. Much to the same affect as to why Sui Feng does not like using her Bankai. (Said reason being that it does not conform to the style of combat the leader of the Stealth Force conforms to.) One may also note that most of the unnamed members of the Stealth Force are typically shown with no Zanpakuto. One must also take into account that Yoruichi is well regarded as one of the finest hand to hand combatants in Soul Society as well as one of the fastest and most proficient users of Shunpo. Keeping these things in mind, perhaps her Zanpakuto would provide no benefit or even hinder her fighting style.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_5: The story of Yoruichi's departure from Soul Society and her back story and Soifon's initiation state that Suzumebachi is the Zanpakuto given to all the reigning leader of the Onmitsukidō or Stealth Force. Yoruichi doesn't have her Zanpakuto because it is inherent to the current leader of the Stealth Force, which she is not.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_6: I believe it's more like I<NAME>'s case. It's probable that it's a family something and so she had to give it up for the next in her family to wield it
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/12 | 397 | 1,240 | <issue_start>username_0: It's supernatural and the main protagonist has white hair. He's a guy, wearing traditional clothes, and the setting is old. He solves mysteries in towns - mostly spirits. In one episode they went to a doll maker's house.
What anime is this?<issue_comment>username_1: I think the anime is [Inuyasha](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/InuYasha). Here's the blurb from [MAL](http://myanimelist.net/anime/249/InuYasha).
>
> <NAME>, after being pulled down a well by a demon, finds herself in Feudal Japan, where she learns that a powerful jewel has been reborn inside her body. After the jewel shatters in an attempt to retrieve it from one of the many demons who was after its power, Kagome must join forces with the half-demon Inu Yasha (also after the jewel's power) to track down the shards of the jewel before its power falls into the wrong hands.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: I think you are talking about Ginko from Mushishi.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: I believe it's *Tactics*. Episode 5 features a doll-maker, and seems to fit your description perfectly.
Upvotes: 3 |
2013/09/14 | 1,015 | 3,633 | <issue_start>username_0: <NAME> seems to know about the sisters before the Sister's-arc, as she says both in the prologue of the first LN and the Railgun-manga:
>
> Have you heard how my DNA map was supposedly analyzed and military Sisters were created based on it?
>
>
>
How did Mikoto know about the Sisters back then? She found out during the Sisters Arc (which happened later) that the Sisters exist and the rumor just spread then, too (at least it seems to me). How could she tell Touma about them?<issue_comment>username_1: Railgun S starts shortly before Index and continues through the different arcs just from Misaka's point of view. Railgun however is the prelude to Index and most of it takes place way before Index. Later on it catches up and things start happening at similar moments in time. Because both Railgun and Railgun S happen at similar points in time and move at a similar pace in stands to reason that they are happening at the same time. Events will happen in Railgun, than the sister's arc in Railgun S, and than back to some of the other events in Railgun and so on and so forth.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_2: After Mikoto meets <NAME>, she [starts investigating](http://toarumajutsunoindex.wikia.com/wiki/Sisters_Arc#The_First_Production_Plan) her and finds her connection with the 7th Medical Research Center, who were researching her DNA map to create an army of level 5 clones.
This is covered in the *Railgun* manga and *Railgun S* anime.
Initially she thought the Sisters project was abandoned because the clones would only be Level 3 (thus not realizing the plan for an army of Level 5 clones), but it's not until later that she realizes the Sisters were utilized for the Level 6 Shift project.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_3: The quote you have provided comes from the first of the light novels, which take place on July 19.
>
> It was July 19th.
> The fault lay in that date. Because summer vacation would start the next day...
>
>
>
The Railgun version of the Sisters arc extends from August 10 to August 22, according to the [wiki](http://toarumajutsunoindex.wikia.com/wiki/Story_Timeline#August_10).
So Misaka had heard rumours about the Sisters for weeks, at least, before coming face-to-face with one.
The full version of your quote goes:
>
> “Hah. Don’t make me laugh. What is all this about the ‘brain of god’? Have you heard about the supposed military Sisters created based on an analysis of my DNA map? It seems to me these lucrative side effects are more important than that objective.”
>
>
>
If you read the Railgun manga version of that encounter, you will see that Misaka has an expression on her face like 'Really? People actually believe that?'
Given how distressed she was when she found out the Sisters were real, I think it is safe to assume this was a rumour that she heard but dismissed as ridiculous.
Considering that the Sisters had been operating outside for some time, it is hardly inconceivable that rumours of their existence had sprouted.
EDIT: Rereading the third novel led me to this quote:
>
> However, recently there had been a rumor spreading throughout Academy City that her DNA map had been used to create military Sisters. It wasn’t that rare an occurrence. Mikoto was one of the seven Level 5s and a scholarship student at the prestigious powers development school of
> Tokiwadai Middle School. There had been countless baseless rumors like that about her. That was why she had not believed the rumor.
>
>
> Or perhaps she had simply not wanted to believe it.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/09/14 | 1,288 | 4,803 | <issue_start>username_0: In a similar spirit to my [previous question](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/343/how-did-the-sweatdrop-originate), I wonder who was the first artist to feature a nose-bleed when thinking, shall we say, "provocative thoughts"? Did it become popularized in anime/manga because of the popularity of the artist's work or because it is a common belief in japanese folklore?<issue_comment>username_1: I have no idea when, or by whom, the nosebleeding started to depicted in Japanese visual arts, but the nosebleeding as a sign of excitement is traditionally held to have developed during the feudal times when men and women (of the upper classes) were supposed to live their lives apart—but of course they needed some way to woo each other! And so, the men, while walking on the other side of the street mentally forced their noses to bleed when they saw someone “hot” being walked along, and the courting could begin on opposite sides of drawn curtains. Some consider this an accurate history while others consider it a myth, probably the truth lies somewhere in between, as usual.
If this is true, then this form of specialised nosebleed might have been depicted in art for quite awhile. But of that I have no knowledge.
An interesting thing, I just realised, is that if this is the true history of the sexually ritualistic nosebleed, then
(a) women had no need to develop such “skills”, and
(b) homosexual men also had no such need.
Thus much of the anime and manga today—especially in the boys’ love scene—are not true to the real history! :P (Male homosexual acts were in these times—again, in the upper classes—something considered pure and good, as females were “worth” less and not something you might not have easy “access” to when you felt certain urges.)
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: As [Beska](https://anime.stackexchange.com/users/36/beska) notes in useful comments at the related question [Does the “bloody nose” trope necessarily imply a sexual situation?](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/39/does-the-bloody-nose-trope-necessarily-imply-a-sexual-situation),
>
> I think it steps around the question: whether there is a difference between what is understood in normal Japanese society vs anime.
>
>
>
and
>
> However, when I mentioned this to a Japanese person (someone who was not a big anime viewer), she was confused, and adamant that a bloody nose would normally just mean that the person was excited in general, and it would not necessarily have anything to do with sexual excitement.
> That's the problem I have. I mean everyone seems to "know" this...I did as well. And yet, when I asked someone Japanese about it (far more likely to know about the cultural norms than me), they had no idea what I was talking about (and were very adamant that it was not the case that it was sexual.)
>
>
>
This seems to be correct: that outside of the subculture of anime and manga, associating nosebleeds with arousal, or portraying it as a visual euphemism of sorts for such, is not common knowledge among the general Japanese population. As such, we can deduct that it **does not originate in well-known folklore** and thereby became a common belief. It most likely originated in manga or anime. Although the concept has now become recognized enough among otaku that *[Punchline](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punch_Line_(anime))* features it in every episode, I discussed this with a Japanese female college student who is heavily involved in subculture (has manned a booth at Comiket, member of the university's Manga Research Society, practices drawing manga, reads manga and watches *4-koma* gag anime, enjoys *doujin* visual novels, vocaloid fan) and even she had never heard of this trope, since it is not customary to come across it within the genres that she likes. Though by no means conclusive, she said that if you mention that a character gets a nosebleed, the average Japanese person will imagine that the character got punched by someone.
Apparently, [NicoNico News interviewed an Ear/Nose/Throat doctor in Yamaguchi prefecture, Dr. <NAME>](http://en.rocketnews24.com/2012/10/23/bloodbath-why-do-so-many-anime-characters-have-nosebleeds-when-theyre-aroused/), on the topic of nosebleeds in anime/manga, but the video is no longer available online. His **personal theory as to an origin is sports such as pro wrestling**:
>
> In the past, people like pro wrestlers would intentionally give themselves small cuts on their forehead in order to build tension and atmosphere in a match. I can only imagine that the idea of extreme stimulation and an excess of energy was portrayed in the same way with nosebleeds, and it’s come to be the accepted method of representing that feeling.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 3 |
2013/09/15 | 673 | 2,272 | <issue_start>username_0: After she killed the Levi squad, Eren transformed to fight the Female Titan. In Chapter 29, *Hammer*, it looked like Eren was having the upper hand, but then the Female Titan turned around, and with one horizontal motion, cut Eren's titan form's head in half.
How did that happen? That part wasn't clear in the anime nor the manga. Did she take a tree and smacked him? Did she harden her hand and hit him?
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/cWvhb.jpg)<issue_comment>username_1: As I recall there was an reaction of fist movement (in the anime).
Probably harden her hand and got the tree *on the way* when cutting his head off.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: See page 33, Chapter 32, "Compassion" from the manga.
The previous page followed discussion over Annie as a suspect in being the Female Titan. Mikasa asks Eren, having fought the Female Titan, if anything reminded him of Annie at all. Eren then remembers Annie's stance as a parallel to the Female Titan moving from that same stance into her kick.
The [stance](https://i.stack.imgur.com/f9mrC.jpg) resembles [Annie's style](https://i.stack.imgur.com/BP2tt.jpg) demonstrated in [Chapter 17: Illusions of Force](https://i.stack.imgur.com/k3ahV.png)
The text is spoken by Mikasa to convince Eren that deep down he knows first hand how close to the similarities are.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_3: **Warning This might contain spoilers.**
The move she used to finish Eren was a direct [reference](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj_lGVqETbE&feature=player_detailpage#t=74) to a earlier scene in the anime (this has not been done in th manga as far as I know). At this point in time the viewer does not know Annie is the titan. The fight move used there resembles her fighting moves used during the training. this is one of the clue's beside the face resemblance of the titan to Annie. Some deeper information on this, the move she used is a karate move from the original Kata's. As stated in the video linked she has been trained in martial arts by her father.
Upvotes: 3 |
2013/09/18 | 638 | 2,396 | <issue_start>username_0: In the case of many anime where the manga came first, things that are included in the anime but not the manga (such as filler arcs) seem to be not considered totally canon to the series, indicating that manga is generally what is considered to set canon. One example of this is the Quincy arc in Bleach. For series where the anime came first, such as Code Geass, is the anime then considered to set canon?<issue_comment>username_1: What is considered canon is generally decided by the author(s) or license holder. I think you need to get a better idea of the definition of canon.
>
> the original work from which the fan fiction author borrows
>
>
>
or
>
> a descriptor of specific incidents, relationships, or story arcs that take place within the overall canon
>
>
>
* [Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_(fiction)) ([Original revision](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Canon_(fiction)&oldid=573082785#cite_note-4) where definitions came from)
So, to directly answer your question, if there was *only* a manga and anime, and the manga came first, then the manga is canon. I say only, because many manga and anime are based off of light novels or visual novels. In that case, the light novel or visual novel would be canon.
If the anime came first, then it will probably be whatever the license holder decides is canon. This is an assumption, because I think anime writers give up the rights to their work.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: When a series is presented in several media, most of the versions will usually be said to be "based on" some other version, and whichever version is not "based on" anything of the others is canon. Under normal circumstances, that one is the one that came first.
But this is only a general guideline. Sometimes things get strange. Consider *Revolutionary Girl Utena*, which has no fewer than four presentations: the manga, the TV series, the movie, and the manga of the movie. The movie-manga is based on the movie, of course, but the other three are considered separate canons. Sort of. Like I said, Utena is strange.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_3: Canon is whatever the rights holder (people who own the IP) says it is. Canon is always changing. Just look at the American comic industry, DC and Marvel are always retconning and reinventing the canon.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/09/18 | 2,886 | 11,221 | <issue_start>username_0: Pretty much as my question states itself. **Why are the seven deadly sins used so often**?
In a lot of anime I have watched/re-watched, lately I notice either a reference to the 7 deadly sins or their use. For example, in anime like *Full Metal Alchemist* and *Soul Eater*, these 7 sins are referenced as an obstacle to bypass or enemies to overcome.
Is there a specific reason for this? Or is this a reference of them being beyond sin?<issue_comment>username_1: From my English composition class - its easier to write a story around a theme.
I don't think stories that use the seven deadly sins are more prevalant in Anime, its just that we are talking about eastern entertainment using western themes, which naturally calls more attention to itself.
As far as there being any significant message in the theme of the seven deadly sins. To me, the works just use the seven deadly sins because they are universally recognizable.
>
> The most common contemporary understanding of theme is an idea or point that is central to a story, which can often be summed in a single word (e.g. love, death, betrayal). Typical examples of themes of this type are conflict between the individual and society; coming of age; humans in conflict with technology; nostalgia; and the dangers of unchecked ambition. A theme may be exemplified by the actions, utterances, or thoughts of a character in a novel. An example of this would be the theme loneliness in <NAME>'s Of Mice and Men, wherein many of the characters seem to be lonely. It may differ from the thesis—the text's or author's implied worldview.
>
>
> A story may have several themes. Themes often explore historically common or cross-culturally recognizable ideas, such as ethical questions, and are usually implied rather than stated explicitly. An example of this would be whether one should live a seemingly better life, at the price of giving up parts of one's humanity, which is a theme in Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World. Along with plot, character, setting, and style, theme is considered one of the components of fiction. - [Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theme_%28narrative%29)
>
>
>
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: First, this question begs the question of **“*Are* the Seven Deadly Sins often used in anime?”** *Full Metal Alchemist* and *Soul Eater* are provided as examples. Both series deal with the concepts of souls, taboos, and consequences of breaking said taboos. It makes sense that in such a storyline, like stories featuring shinigami, you might come across inclusion of the Seven Deadly Sins (a.k.a. capital vices or cardinal sins).
However, a lot of anime which contain the Seven Deadly Sins as a plot element or even as a reference do not immediately come to mind… Whereas if you asked why the Five Elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, Void) are in so many anime, or why Romeo and Juliet, Cinderella, The Four Symbols (Azure Dragon of the East, Vermilion Bird of the South, White Tiger of the West, Black Turtle of the North), the Chinese Zodiac, Journey to the West (Sun Wukong, a.k.a. the Monkey King), vampires, or such themes are in so many anime, I could more easily and quickly form a list of series that contain these recurring themes. So **in contrast, the Seven Deadly Sins are not a major, frequently-occuring theme in the corpus of anime and manga**.
The second question asked was **“Is there a specific reason for this?”** Of course it is easier to write a story around a borrowed theme, or to incorporate one to give support to the story you already want to write, or to simply insert one that has a built-in fan base in order to pull in an audience already primed to find it interesting.
However, to answer whether there is a **specific** reason in regard to its use in anime (as compared to, say, use of it as a literary device in American comic books), we should consider by what means a Japanese mangaka or anime director could have even heard of the concept of Seven Deadly Sins in the first place.
**Basic Japanese education does not include mention of anything that touches on religion virtually at all, even in courses such as History or Literature**; it is safe to say that over 90% of Japanese university students have not even heard of the Apostle Paul, who remains one of the most famous figures in world history even from the perspective of non-Christians. They do not have a basic literacy regarding the Bible or other religious texts (including Buddhist and Shinto texts). Unless they attended a Catholic high school, they cannot likely name the main strands of Christianity (Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, Protestantism), name the Ten Commandments, name the Beatitudes, or so on. So the chance that they would have received any mention of the Seven Deadly Sins (which is [a much later product of Christianity](http://www.orthodoxchristianity.net/forum/index.php?topic=22364.0) than the New Testament) within their educational career is very low. **Academic writing, writing skills, and creative writing are not generally taught in Japanese schools, and Japanese education does not generally highlight recognizing, analyzing, or making use of literary themes**, also rendering the chance of exposure to the Seven as simply a literary reference inside of an academic class low.
Since we cannot look to educational institutions as a likely source of knowledge of the Seven, we should consider other possible sources. **Christians in Japan make up less than 1% of the population**, and of those, some are "in the closet" and do not mention that they are secretly Christian to any of their friends. Thus, it is not likely for a mangaka or anime director to run into the concept of the Seven Deadly Sins or other Christian-related topics of conversation in regular day-to-day life interactions.
It makes more sense for those Japanese who could recite to you a list of what the Seven Deadly Sins are (and I guarantee you, this would be a meager percentage of the population! I cannot even think of a single one of my Japanese friends here in Japan who I imagine could do it [even though I teach in the English department of a high-ranked Japanese national university and am a doctoral candidate in the Religion department at another]), to have heard of it, most likely, from either 1) coming across it in a prior manga or anime or light novel, or 2) reading of it within the sort of Japanese novels considered to be decent, respectable literature by most Japanese (something like Akutagawa Ryuunosuke or Murakami Haruki). If the Seven Deadly Sins are found in modern Japanese literature, that is a prime source that could have spread the concept.
Since most average Japanese adults do not read manga and do not watch anime, if it was primarily spread through either of these two mediums, we’re looking at the demographics who would know of the Seven Deadly Sins as 1) young children and 2) otaku, neither of whom are a majority in an aging society.
Realistically, what we are looking at is that some author or mangaka in recent history found out about the Seven Deadly Sins and thought it would make a nice trope; then, readers of said novel or manga heard of it, then one of them gave it a different spin in his manga, then someone else saw it there and adopted it, and so on.
One **specific reason** that a Japanese author or mangaka originally latched onto the idea of Seven Deadly Sins might be precisely because **it is not common knowledge in Japanese society: it is novel, foreign, and niche**. The Bible originates from the Middle East (which still bears the sense of an exotic, far-away place to the Japanese), though, perhaps unfortunately, most of the Japanese conceive of Christianity as “Western.” While the Seven Deadly Sins are most well-known within Roman Catholicism, their origin is not actually Western. The origin [dates from before the East/West schism in Christianity and involves Eastern church fathers](http://www.orthodoxchristianity.net/forum/index.php?topic=22364.0). Also, there is wide variation among the strains of Christianity (Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, Protestantism’s many branches, indigenous Christianities), [not all of which recognize a set of Seven Deadly Sins](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_views_on_sin#Eastern_Christian_views) (some Eastern ones do, some Western ones do not).
To put it simply, the Seven Deadly Sins has **a curious, intriguing, "Other" aspect to it from the Japanese perspective**. Precisely because it is not familiar or easy to understand gives it a juicy hook. This means *the reason for its use in anime is **different in nature** from the reason/s for its use in works produced in countries that have a history of Christendom* where it is commonplace for the average Joe to have at least heard of the Seven Deadly Sins.
The third question asked was **“Or is this a reference of them being beyond sin?”** I am not clear on what is being asked in this question (What does “them” refer to?), but an additional factor which should be considered is that, in Japanese language, the word used to translate the Greek word for "sin" is 「罪」(*tsumi*), which commonly refers to crimes. The average Japanese person does not have a conceptualization of any sin that is not criminal/against the law/severe (such as murder or theft). Thus, the more globally-recognized definition of "sin" as something that one could do which is either 1) mild in its effects (laziness, tell a 'white lie,' shove your brother) or 2) internal/an attitude (lust, greed, pride) is not understood as fitting the definition of 「罪」 to the Japanese. (This means that every missionary and pastor in Japan must go to some pains to re-explain the word “sin” to their would-be converts, because most Japanese do not think they have ever committed a sin at all, since they have never done anything that would warrant getting arrested). The Seven are, therefore, not the easiest things for Japanese to conceive of as fitting the definition of what 「罪」 is, since none of them are illegal: wrath, greed, pride, lust, and envy are things you can keep to yourself without affecting others, and sloth and gluttony are looked down upon as personality flaws but not the sort of things you’d need a Savior to rescue you over. Japan is a rather don’t-ask-don’t-tell, do-whatever-you-want-in-the-privacy-of-your-own-home-and-just-don’t-bother-anyone-else-about-it society, so **the Seven Deadly Sins are not necessarily things that the average Japanese even considers make a person evil, bad, or guilty**: if you lust over your *bishoujo* dating sim video game or porn, even on your lab computer at university right in front of everybody, or mention that you’re going out to feel up a stranger's breasts for a fee at the hostess club afterward, your labmates don’t think you need to be punished or forgiven.
So we come back to the fact that **the content of the Seven Deadly Sins themselves would be viewed as unexpected and even somewhat bizarre,** whereby it could become a theme that **sticks in subcultures in which having niche knowledge is valued**.
Upvotes: 4 |
2013/09/19 | 448 | 1,680 | <issue_start>username_0: In *Shinsekai Yori* (*From the New World*), the Robber Fly colony uses the Akki (Fiend) to disarm the Giant Hornet soldiers.
However, in the 18th episode of the anime, it is also revealed that the Giant Hornet soldiers were reduced to nothing but lumps of flesh.
How is that possible? I understand that the Akki is immune to the death feedback when considering humans, but the Akki couldn't have possibly done that to the Giant Hornets, the Akki could have at most disarmed the soldiers.
That being said, how did the Giant Hornets die? Or is this something that is lost in translation? (I was watching the Japanese version with English subtitles).<issue_comment>username_1: I don't think it was ever stated how exactly they were wiped out, but we do know that it wasn't a WMD (no damage to the surrounding land), it wasn't the fiend that killed them (death feedback), and that the fiend stopped their arrows and disarmed them. It's also possible the fiend prevented the Giant Hornet soldiers from attacking any of the Robber Fly and that's why none of them were killed. Being unable to fight back, all the Robber Fly soldiers had to do was slaughter them all.
That could also be the reason Kiroumaru was the sole survivor of the battle, in order to bring suspicion onto him from the humans. The Robber Fly could have purposely let him live.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: It’s not explained. But the most lore friendly explanation I think is that Squealer recruited a human sympathizer. He’s done it before. Twice even.
And both times it was Satoru. Come to think of it, wasn’t he the one who reported the results of the battle?
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/19 | 497 | 1,804 | <issue_start>username_0: Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" is an important song in Evangelion.
The song is also important to the Read Or Die OVA.
And in the 13th episode of Gunslinger Girl, the girls start watching a meteor shower and want to listen to this particular as background music.
Why is this particular song so prevalent in anime? It may be a well-known piece, but there are lots of other well-known pieces of classical music.
According to [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_No._9_%28Beethoven%29#New_Year.27s_tradition_in_Japan), the song is played during Japanese New Year's celebrations. That would explain something, but in none of the above examples was there a New Year's celebration.
So, why does anime feature this particular song more heavily than other classical pieces?<issue_comment>username_1: I don't think it was ever stated how exactly they were wiped out, but we do know that it wasn't a WMD (no damage to the surrounding land), it wasn't the fiend that killed them (death feedback), and that the fiend stopped their arrows and disarmed them. It's also possible the fiend prevented the Giant Hornet soldiers from attacking any of the Robber Fly and that's why none of them were killed. Being unable to fight back, all the Robber Fly soldiers had to do was slaughter them all.
That could also be the reason Kiroumaru was the sole survivor of the battle, in order to bring suspicion onto him from the humans. The Robber Fly could have purposely let him live.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: It’s not explained. But the most lore friendly explanation I think is that Squealer recruited a human sympathizer. He’s done it before. Twice even.
And both times it was Satoru. Come to think of it, wasn’t he the one who reported the results of the battle?
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/19 | 448 | 1,811 | <issue_start>username_0: A lot of Quincy objects look crosses, and a number of their attacks reference holy things. For example, there is an attack called "Quincy Vollstandig" which, at least according to the translation I was reading, translated to "Complete Holy Form". Are Quincy as a group Christian (or some other religion) or are these names because they sound cool rather than having any particular meaning?<issue_comment>username_1: [Religion](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion) is an organized collection of beliefs, cultural systems, and world views that relate humanity to the supernatural, and to spirituality.
While it would a stretch to say combating Hollows might be an extension of Quincy culture, it doesn't hold through with a belief system. Religion by definition requires belief, a viewpoint with intangible evidence. When evidence becomes tangible, it holds at least some quantifiable fact.
For Quincy, harnessing spiritual particles to shoot projectiles of energy and the dangers of Hollows interacting with the real world are both instances of fact.
There has been no mention of religion or specifically Christianity in Bleach, but despite either existing, the Quincy are more of a clan of warriors or hunters. I understand the suggestive designs that seem Religion-based but I believe it's to appeal to an exorcist fanbase as a supernatural character option in this story about ghosts, good or bad, and their governors.
Source(s): [Wiki](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion)
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: No such thing has been specified by the author. Think of it as a cult or clan if you like, but all we know is that their clothes, weapons and name of attacks are due to the their traditions and history (which we don't completely know about just yet).
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/19 | 2,934 | 9,411 | <issue_start>username_0: I discovered some other titles in the Puella Magi series today, Kazumi Magica and Oriko Magica:
 
Are these completely separate stories, or is there some overlap with Puella Magi Madoka Magica?<issue_comment>username_1: [***Madoka Magica***](https://wiki.puella-magi.net/Madoka_Magica_(manga)) (art by [hanokage](http://myanimelist.net/people/12433/Hanokage); story by Magica Quartet1) is an almost shot-for-shot manga adaptation of the anime. There are a couple minor differences (e.g. it's made more explicit that Sayaka kills the two guys on the train just before she turns into a witch; Kyuubey does [these freaky open-mouthed smiles](https://i.stack.imgur.com/kQT04.png)), but other than those, it's pretty much the same as the anime.
*Madoka Magica* was published as three volumes (covers: [1](https://i.stack.imgur.com/i0wOv.jpg), [2](https://i.stack.imgur.com/ELuAH.jpg), [3](https://i.stack.imgur.com/rDvU4.jpg)).
---
[***Kazumi Magica: The Innocent Malice***](http://wiki.puella-magi.net/Kazumi_Magica) (art by [TENSUGI Takashi](http://myanimelist.net/people/11856/Takashi_Tensugi); story by [<NAME>](http://myanimelist.net/people/11857/Masaki_Hiramatsu)) is set in the same universe as the anime and shares mechanics with it (such as Grief Seeds, Soul Gems, and so forth), but has very little in common with the anime in terms of plot. The city of Mitakihara is mentioned and Kyuubey shows up from time to time, but there's nothing to suggest that the characters of *Kazumi Magica* ever interact with the characters of *Madoka Magica*. (Kyuubey excluded, because he seems to be sort of a hive-mind thing without real individual identity.)
*Kazumi Magica* is compatible with the plot as depicted in the anime, given that there are basically no points of overlap between the casts. *Kazumi Magica* is generally considered to be low on the canonicity scale.
*Kazumi Magica* was originally serialized in *Kirara Magica*, and was later collected into five volumes (covers: [1](https://i.stack.imgur.com/ECkRQ.jpg), [2](https://i.stack.imgur.com/RQycC.jpg), [3](https://i.stack.imgur.com/5Zw1T.jpg), [4](https://i.stack.imgur.com/kBgbt.jpg), [5](https://i.stack.imgur.com/uNhZz.jpg)).
---
[***Oriko Magica***](http://wiki.puella-magi.net/Oriko_Magica) (art by [MURA Kuroe](http://myanimelist.net/people/24891/Kuroe_Mura); story by Magica Quartet1) depicts a possible timeline that occurs prior to the main anime timeline. All the major characters of the anime appear, with a particular focus on Kyouko and Mami, as well as some original characters such as Yuma and Oriko. Judging from the way Homura is depicted in *Oriko Magica*, it is suspected that it takes place in one of the timelines between timelines 3 and 4 of episode 10 of the anime.
*Oriko Magica* is generally compatible with the plot as depicted in the anime, though it leaves behind nagging questions like "Where was Oriko in the anime timeline?" and so forth. *Oriko Magica* is generally considered to be slightly higher than Kazumi Magica on the canonicity scale.
In addition to the two original volumes of the story (covers: [1](https://i.stack.imgur.com/jPSXy.jpg), [2](https://i.stack.imgur.com/BbKoS.jpg)), there was "Another Story" (別編, [cover](https://i.stack.imgur.com/97TJ9.jpg)), consisting of the stories *Noisy Citrine* and *Symmetry Diamond*, originally serialized in *Kirara Magica*. A longer continuation, titled "New Contract: Oriko Magica ~sadness prayer~" ([新約] 魔法少女おりこ☆マギカ ～sadness prayer～, covers not yet available), begins serialization in November 2013.
---
[***The Different Story***](http://wiki.puella-magi.net/Puella_Magi_Madoka_Magica:_The_Different_Story) (art by [hanokage](http://myanimelist.net/people/12433/Hanokage); story by <NAME>) depicts a possible timeline that occurs prior to the main anime timeline (presumably between timelines 4 and 5 of episode 10). All of the major characters of the anime appear, again with a heavy focus on Kyouko and Mami. There are no (significant) original characters in The Different Story.
Noteworthily, *The Different Story* begins chronologically prior to Episode 1 of the anime. In fact, Volume 1 of *The Different Story* begins shortly after Mami contracts with Kyuubey, and then follows her life through her meeting and subsequent partnership with Kyouko. Volumes 2 and 3 bring us forward to the timeframe in which all the timelines depicted in the anime occur.
*The Different Story* is generally considered to be very high on the canonicity scale, because
* It began as an adaptation of Drama CD #3 "Farewell Story", generally considered to be highly canonical.
* Its creation involved more input from Magica Quartet than did the creation of either *Oriko Magica* or *Kazumi Magica*
* The artist for *The Different Story* was [hanokage](http://wiki.puella-magi.net/Hanokage), who was also the artist for *Madoka Magica* and *Madoka Magica –Rebellion–*, the two "most-official" adaptations
* There are no known incompatibilities between the plot of *The Different Story* and the plot of the anime.
In light of these facts, it is generally agreed that *The Different Story* can reasonably be viewed as essentially canonical in the context of the anime, and so may fairly be interpreted as a direct extension to the anime. This is important because, if *The Different Story* is canonical, it gives us *lots* of knowledge about Mami and Kyouko prior to the events of the anime. All of this knowledge is necessarily valid in all timelines, because it occurs prior to Homura waking up in the hospital. As such, it would do much to inform Mami and Kyouko's motivations throughout the anime.
*The Different Story* was published as three volumes (covers: [1](https://i.stack.imgur.com/NyqHq.jpg), [2](https://i.stack.imgur.com/6FOvp.jpg), [3](https://i.stack.imgur.com/9aV17.jpg)).
---
[***Madoka Magica –Rebellion–***](https://wiki.puella-magi.net/Rebellion_Manga) (劇場版 魔法少女まどか☆マギカ [新編]叛逆の物語; art by [hanokage](http://myanimelist.net/people/12433/Hanokage); story by Magica Quartet1) is a closely-hewing adaptation of the third movie, just like *Madoka Magica* was a closely-hewing adaptation of the series (corresponding to the first two movies, I suppose). All signs point to the story being plotwise identical to the third movie, but with some stylistic differences, both minor and substantial. With the third volume yet to come, though, anything could happen.
*Madoka Magica –Rebellion–* will be published as three volumes (covers: [1](https://i.stack.imgur.com/n4u5A.jpg); 2, 3 not yet available).
---
[***Suzune Magica***](https://wiki.puella-magi.net/Suzune_Magica) (art and story by [GAN](http://myanimelist.net/people/25221/GAN), I think) is another spinoff that has just begun. At a glance, it looks like it has nothing to do with the main storyline (though Kyuubey shows up, unsurprisingly), but as with all things Madoka, looks can be deceiving. More details as they come.
---
[***<NAME>: The Legend of "Jeanne d'Arc"***](https://wiki.puella-magi.net/Tart_Magica) (art and story by the group [Golden Pe Done](http://goldenpedone1.web.fc2.com/ "website in Japanese")) is yet another spinoff, and began serialization in volume 10 of *Kirara Magica* (the Nov 2013 issue). As the title suggests, the main character is Joan of Arc, who is a magical girl. In keeping with the prevalence of suffering in the Madoka Magica world, it appears that the story starts with a shot of her burning at the stake, and then flashes back to how, exactly, she came unto such suffering.
Note: "Tart" is, supposedly, an alternate spelling of Joan of Arc's last name.
---
Notes
=====
1 "<NAME>" is the collective name for SHINBO Akiyuki, IWAKAMI Atsuhiro, AOKI Ume, and UROBUCHI Gen, who are the director, producer, character designer, and writer for *Madoka Magica*, respectively.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: [<NAME>](http://wiki.puella-magi.net/Puella_Magi_Homura_Tamura) -Parallel Worlds Do Not Remain Parellel Forever- (Comic by Afro) is a 4Koma style comedy parody of the Puella Magi Madoka Magica series. It takes place during many of Homura Akemi's alternate timelines. It is established that there are many Homuras all traveling through time all trying (and failing spectacularly) to find some way to Madoka. The main character is <NAME>emi (but implied to be a Homura from an alternate timeline) with the rest of the Madoka Magica cast making appearances. There also several other Homuras who make appearances from time to time. Typically in the manga, Homura arrives in a new timeline and finds some wildly exaggerated change from the regular story (like a world where Magical Girls are all motorcycle riders, or one where <NAME> has taken over the world), and Homura tries to save Madoka in the middle of all the chaos, while trying to understand how the world has changed each time.
So far, there are only two volumes to the manga. They are published in the U.S. by Yen Press. The first volume came out August 2015, and the second in February 2016. According to Amazon, [Vol. 3](http://rads.stackoverflow.com/amzn/click/0316439827) is scheduled to come out September 19, 2017.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/09/19 | 564 | 2,198 | <issue_start>username_0: At the second season of Sword Art Online we can see Kirito and his sister practicing Kendo:
In this scene, he used a similar fighting style that he used in the game. Is it possible to say that practicing Kendo or other fighting sports could help people in Sword Art Online?
I mean, being strong or fast in real life, Did it have some influence in the gameplay at SAO?
If so, people like Kirito could have some advantage?<issue_comment>username_1: The style he uses is from the game, and is atypical of normal kendo, so the different postures and techinques mightn't have given him much of an advantage, as battle works differently in SAO.
But as a reactive sport, Kendo probably gave Kirito very fast reflexes, which would have definetly served as a distinct advantage over the average person. Especially since the nervegear simulated your character's limbs from nerve endings, that would usually work your own limbs.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: Haven't seen the anime, but at least according to the Light Novels, it is implied that Suguha was better than most other players in Alfheim due to her expertise in Kendo. So answer to your first question would be a yes. It also goes in the other way around, in that skills learnt virtually can be applied to the real world, though there will be limits based on one's physical attributes naturally.
In Kirito's case though he given up on Kendo a long time ago, as kids. His prowess probably came from his inborn reflexes and his belief that both the gaming and the real world are 'real'.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_3: The training in SAO might have given him a advantage but it might have put him at a disadvantage. In SAO you had sword skills and you could alter your weapons how you pleased. In kendo, however, there are no sword skills and you can't alter your weapon. Most likely he would be at a level that would suggest average, but he's not going to be a complete master at kendo. also in the game, you can upgrade your reflexes and strength and so on. So, it might give him an edge and it might not.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/19 | 3,971 | 13,210 | <issue_start>username_0: *Rurouni Kenshin* is an anime based on several historical facts. How accurately are the events in the series portrayed?
I don't mean just historical events used in the series, such as the Shinsengumi, but how accurate is their real life portrayal of the art of swordsmanship. Is it really possible to obtain such power with dedication to daily training portrayed in the series?<issue_comment>username_1: This question is tricky, since the author (I believe) masterfully incorporated real-life events/characters (Imperialists, Shinsengumi, etc.), while basing some of the fictional characters on real life people (Kenshin), and mixing in some pure fiction. Also the response would be too long for this thread. I would read the [Kenshin Wikia](http://kenshin.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page) which usually has trivia under each characters about who they are based on or influenced by.
It should be noted that he did some clever things like rework Saito/Aoshi to be more like Hijikata Toshizō, and Seta Sojiro is heavily influenced by Okita Soji (even has Okita's named katana).
Fighting style wise, in the manga/TV series, while some of the styles like Gatotsu were based on real moves various factions used, they were exaggerated or made up and completely unrealistic in real life. However, it's worth noting that in the OVAs and the new movies, the fighting is realistic (which means the fight scenes are **a lot** shorter but the higher animation quality definitely makes it more fun to watch).
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Since your question is remarkably broad (historical facts, events, the art of the sword, the base for all of the characters & plot points), and since some aspects of *<NAME>shin*'s historicity have already been answered in other questions on this SE [here](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/541/who-is-kenshin-based-on), [here](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/18547/why-does-okita-souji-did-not-appear), and [here](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/19525/are-guns-in-kenshin-historically-accurate), and there are useful fan websites like [this](http://hanyaiseng2.blogspot.jp/2012/03/hitokiri-battousai-really-there.html), [this](https://shinsengumisadaptations.wordpress.com/), [this](http://spressivo.com/isa/TenThings2009/1428.htm), and [this](http://www.oocities.org/rainforestwind/meiji2.htm), I will collect here some of the *mangaka* Nobuhiro Watsuki's own comments in a number of interviews about how historically-accurate the series is.
Interview at AnimeExpo 2002 convention in 2 different fan translations (he was speaking in Japanese):
[#1](https://rozzychan.wordpress.com/2012/04/15/interview-with-watsuki-nobuhiro-at-anime-expo-2002/):
>
> Hmmmmmmm, *Rurouni Kenshin* started as a short story, so I didn’t do much research on it, but in the year and a half between the story and the start of the series, I spent a lot of time reading [books about Meiji]. I did the manga because I wanted to draw kimono and swords, so don’t count on all of the details to be completely accurate. . . . Also, I am a big fan of the Shinsengumi. . . . The model for Kenshin was one of the old *hitokiri* of the Bakumatsu. This man was an assassin and slayed … He had a tough life, and in his last years he started to repent for all of the killings, but he kept his will and was executed by the government. So he is not very well respected in Japan. . . . Some moves are based on actual moves. Sanosuke’s *fuwai no kuwami* is just an exaggerated double punch. The other half of the moves are created by him swinging his sword around in the privacy of his own room. A third category pays homage to his favorite shows like *Sunrise Showdown*. Shishio’s final move is just a big-ass *homoro dama*.
>
>
>
and
>
> I have practiced Kendo, but I am very weak. That is where my love of sports comes from, but I am very weak. If I were good at Kendo, I wouldn’t be drawing manga.
>
>
>
[#2](http://www.crunchyroll.com/forumtopic-65909/interview-with-nobuhiro-watsuki-about-rurouni-kenshin):
>
> *Kenshin* started as a shot story without much research. In the year and half, he had between when the series started he read a LOT of books. He wanted to draw kimonos and swords, so its not very accurate to the Meiji period. . . . He is also a big fan of the Shinsengumi, but he couldn't do the actual revolution since he wanted to do more human drama. . . . There was a *hitokiri* of the revolution [name missed], who had his own mind, and never really bent to the government. He did end up repenting for his killing, however he DID get executed for never submitting to the government. . . . A lot of the moves are based on real martial arts moves, just over-exaggerated. The other half are created by him flinging a sword around in the privacy of his room. Others are homages to favorite games, like *Samurai Spirits* . . .
>
>
>
and
>
> Watsuki has practiced Kendo and his love of sword comes from that. He's very weak thought, and if he was a good kendo practitioner he wouldn't be drawing manga.
>
>
>
Interview from *Kenshin Kaden* guidebook in 2 different fan translations:
[#1](http://users.skynet.be/aoshihomepage/Kenshin/Author.htm)
>
> The *sakabatou* is something original that I came up with. The reason for it is very simple: I didn’t want my main character killing anyone. But a bamboo sword or wooden sword isn’t intimidating enough, so I came up with the idea of a sword that has its sharp and blunt edges on reversed sides. That way the main character is able to fight the way he always does, and still be able to refrain from killing anyone. [laughs]
>
>
>
[#2](http://users.skynet.be/aoshihomepage/Kenshin/Author.htm)
>
> It's an original idea, a weapon like that didn't exist at that time. Right before the beginning of the series, I told myself that it wasn't a good idea to have a main character who killed his opponent in every fight, but I also didn't want to give him a *bokuto* (wooden sword), or a *takemitsu* (sword with a normal hilt but a wooden blade). Then I got the idea to create a sword with a sharp back, so that it could be used effectively against opponent, but it wouldn't be lethal. And that's how the *sakabatou* was born!
>
>
>
Interview from [*K<NAME>*](http://kenkaku.free.fr/interview.html) guidebook:
>
> I practiced [kendo] in jr. high but only to an elementary level. Then I stopped practicing during high school, since I was devoted to drawing manga by then. I didn’t want my time limited by extracurricular activities. . . . It started when I read the new *Moeyo, Ken* by <NAME> (another very famous and popular history in Japan). I loved the book and decided to use the end of the Bakufu era as a historical background. Later, the story spread to the Meiji era, which is due to another book I read in that same period: *Shuugata Sanshirou* by <NAME>. Designing a story set at the end of the Bakufu perid is quite a complicated job, and therefore the short history presented is inadequate. The end of the Bakufu and the beginning of Meiji is filled with chaos and instabilities, so I chose Meiji years 10 to 20, a more stable era for the background of a short story. Due to various limitations, I couldn’t draw real historical figures. So I created my own characters. . . . This is because of the Satsuma Rebellion. Before the end of the Satsuma Rebellion in the tenth year of Meiji, there was always a lot of turmoil and rioting in Japan. Most people are familiar with the end of the Bakufu and the Meiji Restoration, not recognizing that the end of the Bakufu as the exact beginning of the Meiji era. Instead, the Meiji truly began in Meiji year 10, after the Satsuma Rebellion ended. For the same reason, I chose Meiji year 11 for the background story of *Rurouni Kenshin*. . . . No, I didn’t take [Ookubo Toshimichi’s assassination] into consideration at that time. Initially, *Rurouni Kenshin* was only intended to be pubished for 30 weeks. Though I hadn’t thought of it beforehand, I thought it'd be very interesting to add this into the plot. . . . No, I wasn’t very confident [laughs], especially when the series was first published, I was really worried. . . . My interest in history began with the start of the *Kenshin* series. I learned all of this history along with my readers. I had to look for references at the same time as I was drawing the series; I knew very little about the Shinsengumi. I like the Shinsengumi since I created *Sengoku no Mikazuki* in the year that I finished *Rurouni* and started *Rurouni Kenshin*, the only book that I read was about the Shinsengumi [laughs]. . . . My favorites are <NAME>, <NAME>, <NAME>, <NAME>, <NAME>, in fact each of the units. I also like <NAME> and <NAME>. I always want to somehow arrange an appearance of Nagakura Shinpachi in the manga. . . . Yes, I also like Ookubo Toshimichi. Things related to Katsura Kogorou have an interesting feel as well. Apart from the Ishinshishi, it's boring to study the life of Enomoto Takeai after the Battle of Hakodate. I like that. There was also a swordsman appointed in the late Bakufu period, <NAME>. He was a master of the martial arts school established by the Bakufu government. His title required being the strongest swordsman of the Bakufu. He insisted on wearing a cape to his death; he was really a stubborn person. I also considered adding him into the manga. I’m interested in Sakamoto Ryoma recently, but I don’t intend to add him into the manga [laughs]. . . . Although I don’t have time to read these days, I read a lot in the beginning. The writers that I like include <NAME>, <NAME>, <NAME>, and more. Covering the Shinsengumi, <NAME>iro (a writer of novels chronicling the Shinsengumi) is very famous. His writing is interesting and serves well as references and historical novels.
>
>
>
[Interview at Made in Asia 3 convention](http://www.manga-news.com/index.php/actus/2011/03/28/Nobuhiro-Watsuki-Conference-et-Interview) (I'm translating from the French, since it took place in Brussels):
>
> It’s true that at the beginning of *Kenshin*, I wasn’t a specialist in this period, even though I liked a lot of aspects, especially the Bakufu. It’s really as I was drawing the story that I became more knowledgeable. At that time, the internet was not at developed as it is now, so I had to deepen my knowledge by finding out through old books.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_3: Yes, sort of. A lot of the characters were based (albeit modified) on Actual characters in history.
* <NAME>: <NAME>. He was responsible for the suppression of the Satsuma rebellion in 1877 (Seinan wars). In real life, Ōkubo was murdered by six discontented clansmen on his way to Tokyo. In the Anime; <NAME> assassinated him and the clansmen took responsibility for the murder for political reasons.
[enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/zKWCK.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/HN4RQ.jpg)
* <NAME> aka <NAME>: Was another character with liberties taken to the real life man. In 1852, Katsura learned swordsmanship, and in the 1850's oversaw the development of Japan's first Western style warship. Though historically well known throughout history as a ruthless radical leader. In the anime OVA, he's portayed more fairly as a calm, calculating statesman; with heavy regrets of sending a Child to perform the bloody work of Hitokiri.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/f8Exp.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/IkhwL.jpg)
* <NAME>: By far liberties were taken with him. In terms of appearance, No one has relevant or photographic evidence of his appearance. Depicted very youthfully thou he was in his 20's. In the anime/ova he's depicted in the battle of fighting during the Ikedaya Attack. But in both the Anime and OVA, he participate the Battle of Toba Fushimi when he confronted Kenshin. Historically he was never present in said battle battle due to being forced to recuperate from Tuberculosis.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/Axozs.png)
* <NAME>: The anime takes liberties with his death. In real life Sōzō and his lieutenants were arrested and decapitated when he reported to the commanding general and his head was placed on a platform in a cage for all to see. In the anime he died saving Sanosuke from gunfire
The show Also more or less depicts various western introductions that were often comedic-ally or simply curiously seen by the main cast.
* Photography, first introduced in 1856.
* Badminton and Billiards
* Beer
* Clover (flower)
* Coffee
* The Piano (1823)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/5hMaN.jpg)
* Cabbage and Tomatoes: Introduced by the dutch
* Chocolate
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/09/20 | 386 | 1,516 | <issue_start>username_0: Madara said that finding out the history of shinobi is the reason he felt hopeless and left the village. And he learned it from the Uchiha's stone tablet.
But it was said before that the Rinnegan is also needed to read what is written on the Uchiha's stone tablet. So, if Madara only awakened the Rinnegan after he left the village and his final battle with Hashirama, how was he able to read the stone tablet without the Rinnegan?<issue_comment>username_1: It's not a stretch to think that he managed to sneak back inside the village and read it in his spare time.
Somewhere before he connected himself to the Gedo Mazo and after he awakened the Rinnegan.
It is not explained however, so any answer you'll get here would be speculative.
EDIT: Now I understood your question, however, nothing told you that the part about the God Tree is only readable by the Rinnegan, maybe it was a part of the tablet that could be read using a Mangekyo.
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: It's not a stretch to think that he managed to sneak back inside the village and read it in his spare time. I mean granted, he was stuck because he was attached to the statue to drain chakra from it, but that doesn't mean he forgot how to use shadow clones. That was the main point why shadow clones was invented is for recon. What the clone learned came back to the original body once the clone is canceled, no matter where the original body is, right? That's what I am thinking.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/20 | 600 | 2,044 | <issue_start>username_0: I wonder why Minato is categorized as a Jinchuuriki, considering the following:
1. Madara couldn't be Ten-Tails' host because he's re-animated, and he has to force Obito to revive him
2. Minato is re-animated, just like Madara, and yet he has half the Kurama inside
1. It's possible that he sealed in him half of Kurama before he died, and yet why on earth Kurama wasn't reincarnated
2. Or Kurama was sealed in unusual manner that Minato's case defied the norm on sealing tailed beast<issue_comment>username_1: Let's make things straight:
* The former Jinchuuriki, reanimated and reinfused with their respective Bijuu, had the Yin-element rod channel the chakra back from the Gedo Mazo. Once removed, Tobi had to quickly re-seal them inside of the statue, or risk them being freed.
The seal wasn't a permanent seal, like Naruto's or Killer Bee's, it was a temporary seal used for battling and then removing easily.
* Minato's case is a bit different. Minato used the Shiki Fuujin to seal Kurama's Yin half inside of himself, but then, **he himself** got sealed, along with Kurama's half, into the Death God. That's why the Yin half of Kurama never revived (As it was still sealed), and that's why when Minato got reanimated with Edo Tensei, Kurama was already part of the deal.
* Madara, however, cannot be a Jinchuuriki because when he died, he wasn't. The Edo Tensei revives people at certain states of their lives (usually the time of their deaths, but not always), Madara was not a Jinchuuriki anytime in his life.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: Minato (4th hokage) even said it that he sealed half the nine tails into Naruto he sealed the **yang** half of the nine tails in Naruto while sealing the **yin** half in him self...meaning that right now both Naruto and Minato are jinchuriki's of the nine tails.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: No, Minato was not a Jinchuuriki. He used reaper death seal to control the excess amount of chakra to contain the tailed beast inside his body.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/20 | 620 | 2,132 | <issue_start>username_0: Deciphering the Uchiha's stone tablet, located in the Naka Shrine, requires the Mangekyou Sharingan or Rinnegan. However does the creation of the tablet require a Mangekyou and Rinnegan?
Rikudou Sennin had the Rinnegan and one of his sons who inherited his eye-techniques as the Mangekyou Sharingan.
What type of person was capable of creating this tablet?<issue_comment>username_1: Kishi never explicitly stated in the manga that Rikudou Sennin created the tablet, however we can make an educated guess that he did.
Let's take a look at the facts.
1. To read the entire Uchiha tablet, the Rinnegan is required.
2. Madara is stated to be the second Sage of the Six Paths. (This should mean no one else had the Rinnegan inbetween Rikudou Sennin and Madara.)
3. The tablet had an extensive list of things, like the Moon Eye plan, how to obtain Mangekyou Sharingan, how to obtain the Rinnegan, and the history of the God Tree with Kaguya.
Kaguya could not have written the tablet because most of the tablet's info pertain to Rikudou Sennin's era, where he had the Rinnegan and was the Juubi Jinchuriki. And since Kaguya isn't considered to be a Sage of Six paths, we can assume she doesn't have the Rinnegan either. We can also assume that a Rinnegan user must have written the tablet.
With that said, Rikudou and Madara are the only two candidates left, but Madara uses the tablet to learn about the history of Shinobi, so Rikudou is the only one who could have written the tablet.
EDIT: Additionally, Tobi stated the Sage of Six paths created the tablet here (bottom panels).
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: Now, in manga version of naruto ([Chapter 671 Page 6](http://www.mangareader.net/naruto/671/6)), The Sage of Six Path mention that he left the stone monument so that people could reconsider. This is a concrete evidence that the Sage really created that stone monument. See image below (**Spoiler alert**):
>
> 
>
>
>
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer] |
2013/09/20 | 1,325 | 4,394 | <issue_start>username_0: Each of Akatsuki's members wear unique rings.
I guess Itachi's one can use genjutsu.
But how about others? Can it be used as ninjutsu or genjutsu abilities?
And why does Zetsu always collect those rings after each one of the members died.<issue_comment>username_1: Akatsuki thinks that the rings are very valuable for some reason. You point out how Zetsu insists on collecting the rings of dead members. It's also telling that when Orochimaru actually managed to take a ring away from Akatsuki, they didn't make a new ring *and they didn't replace Orochimaru*. It's almost like the ring is more important than the person in that position.
But as of now, we don't know why Akatsuki places so much importance on the rings. They might have some kind of abilities, but if they do, we haven't seen them.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: The rings do not have abilities.
They are simply used for the Akatsuki membership, which is why Sasuke's group Taka was never really considered Akatsuki. They might have had the cloaks, but they didn't have the rings and the rings signify a true Akatsuki member.
Also, Orochimaru's ring was never replaced when he left the Akatsuki. There have been 10 Akatsuki rings total as well as 10 members of the group.
Taken from Naruto wikia
>
> Right thumb: "zero" (零, rei); worn by Pain. Its colour is purplish-grey.
>
>
> Right index finger: "blue," "green" (青, ao, shō); worn by Deidara. Its colour is teal.
>
>
> Right middle finger: "white" (白, bya); worn by Konan. Its colour is white.
>
>
> Right ring finger: "vermilion," "scarlet" (朱, shu); worn by Itachi Uchiha. Its colour is >red.
>
>
> Right little finger: "sign of the boar" (亥, gai); worn by Zetsu. Its colour is green.
>
>
> Left little finger: "sky," "void" (空, kū); worn by Orochimaru. Its colour is slate blue.
>
>
> Left ring finger: "south" (南, nan); worn by Kisame Hoshigaki. Its colour is yellow.
>
>
> Left middle finger: "north" (北, hoku); worn by Kakuzu. Its colour is dark green.
>
>
> Left index finger: "three" (三, san); worn by Hidan. Its colour is orange.
>
>
> Left thumb: "jewel," "ball," also the black king in shogi (玉, gyoku); worn by Sasori and >later by Tobi. Its colour is purple.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: Maybe the rings are to connect with the Gedo statue. May be their seat on the statues fingers in also where their ring should be. For example I think that Sasori's ring was in his thumb and he sat on the Gedo's thumb. Another example Orochimaru's ring was still with him and the statues had a missing spot. So Zetsu must have collected them in case of more member to make the extraction of the tailed beast quicker( if they were able to find a new member whom was willing to join) ps people are way to into Hidan being a new member and having a past
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_4: **Potential Spoilers!!!!**
--------------------------
*Read at your own risk...*
---
My theory is that the rings are what allow Pain to talk to them telepathically and for them to astral project onto the fingers of the statue. When they preform the ceremony, there are at most two-four members physically present. (often the team that captured the jinchuuriki) My guess is that the black Kanji in the rings is the same as the rods used to control the six paths of Pain telepathically, which when the members concentrate chakra into the ring they connect to Nagato. Also, it's probably time consuming to forge the rings and Nagato isn't exactly in the best of health at the point that members start dying.
I do not believe that the rings have special "powers", beyond my theory they are what help them connect to Nagato telepathically. As for Itachi's comment about other ways to cast genjutsu, you don't have to have a sharingan to cast genjutsu. Take Kurenai for instance, she's a genjutsu mistress. I don't believe Itachi relied just on his eyes and considering his failing eyesight and health, it stands to reason that he couldn't always use his eyes in excess. Likely the whole pointing the finger thing is likely a distraction for a half seal he is using on his other hand or is the half seal in and of it's self.
---
I hope this helps,
<NAME>
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/09/21 | 379 | 1,390 | <issue_start>username_0: Well, I picked this manga when I saw that its publication ended, but after few chapters I noticed that Chrona gender changed! (No, not the litteral) So, is this intended of the author, or I just missed some translator note somewhere?<issue_comment>username_1: Chrona's gender was never revealed in the Japanese Soul Eater manga. There is evidence for both genders but not enough for either to make any conclusive statement. The creator has been asked what Chrona's gender is, but never answered.
In Japanese, this isn't hard to do. Most pronouns aren't gender-specific. While Chrona does use *boku* (僕) to refer to him/herself, which is a fairly masculine pronoun, it is sometimes used by females as well. However, in English (and many other languages), it's awkward to try to avoid using any gender-specific pronouns. The various different versions of Soul Eater in English use different pronouns, but all of these were added by translators and not present in the original version.
The [official Japanese Soul Eater site](http://www.souleater.tv/character/index.html) confirms that this is not known:
>
> 性別は不詳。
>
>
>
which literally translates to "Gender is unknown".
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: In the anime Crona is exclusively referred to as a "he." However, in the manga "his" gender is purposefully kept unsaid.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/22 | 928 | 3,582 | <issue_start>username_0: Kamisama no Inai Nichiyoubi (神さまのいない日曜日) ended with more questions than answers:
* If Alice died instead of Dee, then why was Dee the one as a ghost in the real world?
Furthermore, Dee has her body (in the outside world) in the final scene.
* How does Ai managed to "save" Alice? Yet at the same time she's standing in front of his grave.
Running through the forums and it seems like I'm not the only one who's confused.
---
What in the world happened? (no pun intended)
The biggest and undeniable contradiction is Dee going from ghost to normal human.
Does this mean that some sort of change of history caused Dee and Alice to "switch places"?<issue_comment>username_1: For Alice ai was somehow able to save him before 3-4 disappeared and brought him to the real world and the scene with them at Alice's grave showed Alice's original body which was buried 14 years before the series
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_2: My interpretation was that:
>
> This was a world where people frequently get special powers by wishing intensely. Intense wishes can cause perfect aim with Buzzer Beater, special power to eat normally inedible objects, and even a giant time loop when 17 people wish all at once. The fact that Dee appeared to be the ghost was probably part of the wish of those 17 people. They wished for a world that would never be disturbed by reality, and their wish made Dee appear as a ghost outside, because that made their world less likely to be disturbed by reality.
>
>
>
> In this story, God makes rules that are more like loose guidelines, and God breaks His own guidelines frequently. The gravekeeper Scar wasn't supposed to be able to cry, but apparently she wished to be more normal and God transformed her - apparently into a normal woman.
>
>
>
> At the end of the story, just before Ai was pushed out of the room, she was wishing with all her heart that she could find some way to save everyone. I presume God granted her wish by breaking His own rules, as He had done many times before.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: * Dee appeared as a ghost because her physical body was still stuck in class 3-4, while Alice had a physical body outside because he was already buried by a proper gravekeeper. Therefore, his body wasn't in class 3-4 like Dee, and could appear normally since he was part of the world outside.
* Dee has a physical body later on, because the world class 3-4 created had been destroyed. Her physical body was released.
* Ai saved Alice by wishing intensely. In *Sunday Without God*, by wishing for something really badly it somehow would be granted, like how <NAME> wished to die happily besides his family, or how Alice got the ability Buzzer Beater. When Ai wished for Alice to be saved, God granted that wish, and so Alice could have a physical body outside class 3-4's world and continue to live his life.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_4: The reason for the scene where Ai was in front of Alice's grave with Alice standing beside her...
The original Alice had already died. Then after class 3-4 wished for the incident to never happen (causing a time-loop to occur), Alice's soul was probably revived while his body was buried. Alice of course had no idea he died. So while he kept searching for a way to break the time-loop, he started to change and then he met Ai. Ai probably wished for the Alice she knew to come back to life. Thus the original Alice was still buried and the Alice whom Ai knew revived.
[This is just my theory though.]
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/22 | 1,744 | 5,963 | <issue_start>username_0: It is shown that the Sage of the Six paths was the first to have the Rinnegan.
Now for an Uchiha these are the stages of their eyes:
1. Normal eyes
2. Sharingan (activated after facing life threatening situation)
3. Mangekyo Sharingan (activated after a very close person dies)
4. Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan (activated after replacing the
existing Mangekyo Sharingan with another mangekyo sharingan)
5. Rinnegan (conditions for activation have not yet been mentioned)
All these stages have covered by Madara Uchiha, he took his brother's Mangekyo Sharingan to activate the Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan.
Now if the same logic was to be applied to the Sage of the Six Paths, then whose Mangekyo Sharingan did he take for his own?
He being the first shinobi should not have anyone to take a Sharingan from.<issue_comment>username_1: Awakening the Rinnegan
======================
I think you have misunderstood something here.
[The Rinnegan](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Rinnegan) was the **original form.** It required **no activation and was permanent** to the [Sage of the Six Paths](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Hagoromo_%C5%8Ctsutsuki).
His children, the Uchiha and the Senju inherited the two different feats:
* The life force and physical energy went to the Senju
* The visual prowess and strength of chakra went to the Uchiha clan.
***This visual prowess manifested in [the Sharingan](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Uchiha_clan) as a visible component of the Rinnegan. The Senju had some second components to the Rinnegan embedded in their DNA.***
When one brings the DNA of an Uchiha and a Senju together, one can awaken the Rinnegan.
The problem now is that the possibility to awaken the Rinnegan (when they also have Senju DNA) is in every Sharingan user, but only "under the radar". To activate *the Rinnegan*, it seems one must go through different stages:
The *Mangekyou Sharingan* and the *[Eien]{Eternal} no Mangekyou Sharingan*
Madara accomplished this. By implanting Hashirama's DNA to his cells when he was close to death, he finally awakened the Rinnegan.
It may also be possible to awaken the Rinnegan without undergoing the two higher stages of the Sharingan, but that is only speculative. As of chapter 674 of the manga, the DNA of Hashirama (or moreover, Senju DNA) is not required to awaken the Rinnegan.
>
> Sasuke awakens the Rinnegan, even though there is no actual explanation as to why. It probably has to do with the fact that Sasuke is possessed by the reincarnated spirit of Rikudo's son.
>
>
>
Origin of the Rinnegan
======================
If you read Chapter 646 of the Naruto manga, you can see
>
> the Ten-Tails' awakening. And when he opens his eyes, you should be able to notice that they have a similar pattern to the Rinnegan. Actually, the eyes look like a Rinnegan with some [Tomoe 巴](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Tomoe) scattered in the circles of the Rinnegan.
>
>
>
> We also witness the Ten-Tails' awakened form (the Tree of God), which uses a more complex form of the [Preta Path](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Preta_Path) when he absorbs the chakra of people he caught.
>
>
>
> From this information, we can conclude that the Tree of God/Ten Tails was the original "wielder" of the "perfect Rinnegan" (well, it hasn't got a name yet), and that most probably, the chakra was not the only thing the Sage got at birth.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: This question seems to be pretty complicated and is asking a lot of things, so I'm going to break this down piece by piece.
**How did the Sage of Six Paths obtain his Rinnegan?**
Well, we really don't know whether he was born with it or obtained it after birth. What's important to know is that he was the first one that had it.
**The stages/evolution of an Uchiha's eyes**
Regular -> Sharingan (1->2->3 Tomoe) -> Mangekyou Sharingan -> Eternal MS -> Rinnegan
You are right about the progression, however you are mistaken when you ask
**Now if the same logic was to be applied to the Sage of the Six Paths, then whose Mangekyo Sharingan did he take for his own?**
The Sage of Six Paths did not have the Mangekyou Sharingan nor did he take the Mangekyou Sharingan from someone. He had the strongest and final form of the eye : Rinnegan.
When the Sage of Six Paths had two sons, his powers were split between them. One was Senju and inherited the Sage of Six Path's body strength. The other son was Uchiha and received the Sage of Six Path's ocular powers.
Keep in mind that both sons only received a fraction of what the Sage of Six Paths had. This is why all Uchiha always bore the Sharingan, which is a younger eye form for an Uchiha and has a fraction of the power of the Rinnegan.
Thus when a person wants to awake the Rinnegan, the requirements are both body and eye. An example of this is Uchiha Madara with the Sharingan and acquiring Senju Hashirama's DNA. With both DNA from Uchiha and Senju, he can finally become a Sage of the Six Paths and obtain the Rinnegan. And even while using the Rinnegan, Uchiha Madara is still able to use Mangekyou techniques like Susanoo, which confirms that Rinnegan is the final evolutionary state of the eyes.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: I believe your grasp of the dojutsu is flawed. Sharingan and Rinnegan are two separate jutsu, though one descended from the other. The final stage that an Uchiha can hope to achieve naturally of their Sharingan is the Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan. To achieve the Rinnegan, one needs to be born with the chakra of both the Senju and Uchiha as the Sage once did. However, this can be bypassed by acquiring the DNA of one and introducing it into another.
In short, the Sage of Six Paths was born with the Rinnegan. Seeing that it manifested itself naturally, he did not need to steal DNA (Senju) or eyes (Uchiha), as neither clans were present during his lifetime.
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/09/22 | 1,143 | 4,342 | <issue_start>username_0: In *Hunter x Hunter*, episode 97, Feitan activates his nen ability.
What language is the vertical text on the right?
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/BNZGT.png)[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/5v8vF.png)[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/q82Oy.png)<issue_comment>username_1: According to [the *Hunter x Hunter* Wiki](http://hunterxhunter.wikia.com/wiki/Feitan):
>
> Feitan's first language is Chinese; he speaks in sentence fragments in Japanese while switching to his native tongue when angered.
>
>
>
Given this, and the text is written in either Japanese kanji or Chinese (as [@kuwaly](https://anime.stackexchange.com/users/93/kuwaly) beat me to pointing out), and the fact that there is a Japanese translation provided, I'm going to conclude that the text is written in Chinese. (There may be some fragments of Japanese, but I somewhat doubt that.)
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: I believe he is speaking inverted Japanese, and the text on the right is Japanese kanji. I'm Chinese, and I can read Chinese characters, so hopefully, my brain isn't exploding and I'm right. :)
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_3: Preface: I don't know anything about *Hunter x Hunter*, so I have no idea what language Feitan is "actually" speaking in the context of the show. It is entirely possible (as far as I know) that Feitan speaks Chinese, and that the captions are supposed to represent some variant of Chinese that exists in-show or whatnot.
That said: the captions that accompany Feitan's speech are most likely **not a real language**. I know Japanese well enough to tell you it's not Japanese; a bit of gruntwork in Chinese and Vietnamese character dictionaries suggests it isn't either of those; and if it isn't Chinese, it can't be Korean hanja either, since hanja are mostly identical to Chinese hanzi. It's *possible* that the script there is a more esoteric derivative of hanzi, e.g. Sawndip, but I doubt that's the case.
As evidence of this, we observe that the captions contain the character 々, found only in Japanese, as well as a number of other probably-untypeable characters, which are not found in Japanese. Since the language must be 1.) Japanese; and 2.) not Japanese, we are forced to conclude that language is not a language at all.
That said, the characters in the caption are very *evocative* of hanzi (particularly insofar as they appear to be built from standard Chinese radicals), and were probably consciously designed to appear Chinese while not actually being Chinese. Note that some of the characters that appear *are* real characters in Chinese - in particular, 了, 下, and 乃. The rest don't seem to be, though.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_4: The characters on the right are gibberish that is written to look like Chinese. As many have said, some characters used are viable in Japanese, some viable in Modern Chinese, possibly some viable as obscure ancient Chinese not sure, but mostly it's constructed from legitimate parts to form gibberish. It's the equivalent of writing "angsk ville ast, arg be yous being may kis dangeroust stranger ous" Kind of looks like English with some viable parts to anyone who doesn't know English, but is generally gibberish.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_5: He speaks normal Japanese.. But backwards. You can see this clearly at 17:12 where the Japanese subtitles say "どうした" (do u shi ta) and he says "tashiudo" (ta shi u do) which is what you would get if you read the hiragana backwards.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_6: It's 100% Feitan talking backwards. If you don't believe, you can watch the English dub aswell if you do not understand japanese at all. I can clearly tell you it's not Chinese because I'm Chinese myself. In the English dub version, you can clearly hear them talking backwards.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_7: Yeah, it's definitely not purely Chinese, Chinese is my mother tongue and I've never even seen some of these characters before. They do have the characteristics of kanji and Chinese characters but I'm pretty sure the creator wanted to make an entirely new language.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/25 | 938 | 3,730 | <issue_start>username_0: The man with the village chief's voice is only seen twice in both seasons. In the first instance, he was protecting Arakawa by stopping Rec's father's plan to develop the area by influencing a senator. The second time is when he sneaked up on Shimazaki while she was digging up info on Nino, where he threatened to kill her if she continued.
Given how he was able to influence a senator to stop the Arakawa Development Project even with Rec's Father's influence with his own company (which was seen when the contractor that Rec hired pulled out as he learned who Rec's competitor company was), **just what is the village chief's real position in society?** (By the way, that was one of the rare moments when he was seen outside his kappa suit. He seemed to be wearing more traditional Japanese robes and not a business suit).<issue_comment>username_1: This is purely a prediction on my part. I did not read the books nor comic if the true identity was revealed, though I believe many of the mysteries in the series is best to be left unexplained.
First, an analysis.
Village Chief is someone of great influence, able to influence the Minister of Development against the biggest developing firm, Ichinomiya. He has access to high quality and bizarre items (his fanned suit) and great wealth (enough to compensate for whatever the Ichinomiya group was chipping in for the minister), but he somehow chose to seclude himself from the society.
He does not have a particular tone besides random kappa related statements, seems not to have been raised in a particular way, and is well accustomed to the society when required to. He is well respected in the under bridge and regarded by everyone, especially sister, as a dependable person. The two times we've seen him in his usual self, however, he seemed particularly skillful in infiltration (coming in behind Shimazaki in a supposedly off limit office without her realising) and intimidation (threatened to kill). Threaten to kill is a peculiar trait as it is vastly different from Ichinomiya's way of intimidation via social and financial impact. It shows that he does things differently from politicians and businessmen. At final speech of Minister of Development, when asked by his subordinate who is he, he answered, "It's better for you not to know". Of both the time he appears, he wears a kimono. During season 2, we also gain insight that he is about the same age group (middle age) as Shiro (discussion about health and argument) and he is bad with group work (refuse to stay a week with the team, not a team player, more of leader or someone who simply gives orders rather than receiving them).
So there, Village Chief is/was a wealthy, influential person. He has great leadership, is mostly a lone wolf and does not shy away from intimidation by death. He also does not have speech traits, is well accustomed to society and wears mostly a kimono.
Remember Jacqueline when Billy did not come for their anniversary? She changed into a kimono when decided to head back and kill the head of the bird gang leader if something were to come to Billy. Kimono is something that Japanese mafia are obsessed with.
If I am to guess, he is/was the head of a big, dangerous mafia gang which has lots of financial background and ties on different background. Its influence and financial ground is at least on par with Ichinomiya group. I couldn't predict why he left, there is just too many possibilities without any ground to go on. He could be retired, betrayed, still on a relatively hands-off business with the gang, mafia dissolved, etc etc....
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: Spoiler:
>
> he is the leader of the Yakuza.
>
>
>
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/09/26 | 683 | 2,687 | <issue_start>username_0: I stumbled over this question on Facebook. I was wondering how <NAME> got out of the academy and why did they let him leave?<issue_comment>username_1: One does not need to use Henge no Jutsu in order to graduate the ninja academy. Promotion throughout the entire series is never dependent upon a certain technique, but rather the capabilities of that shinobi determined by the Hokage and village elders.
Take a look at the Chuunin selection exam. Shikamaru received the only promotion yet there was no way he could have won the entire tournament.
While Lee could never use ninjutsu nor genjutsu, he was able to have very good technique with taijutsu and that allowed him to graduate. Lee just uses his chakra in a different way, but that doesn't make him any less of a ninja.
Same with Shino for that matter. Shino lets his bugs eat his chakra and then he can command them. So instead of making a kage bunshin, Shino uses a lot of bugs to form a clone.
Because every shinobi specializes in different areas, there is no set requirements in order to be promoted. The decision comes from the Hokage and the elders for Chuunin and above. For the academy, the instructor decides when the child is ready to be a Genin.
Upvotes: 4 <issue_comment>username_2: Although the final exams of the Ninja Academy do include a demonstration of Henge no Jutsu, that is almost certainly not the whole test. There should at least be demonstrations of Ninjutsu and Taijutsu, and probably a written exam and some sparring matches (not unlike what appear in the Chunin Exam, but scaled down). Rock Lee couldn't have gotten much more than a zero on his Genjutsu and Ninjutsu demonstrations, to be sure. But depending on the Ninja Academy's grading rubrics, he might have done well enough on the other parts of the exam to pass *even with* those zeroes.
It is also possible that Guy got these sections of the exam waived for him, due to special circumstances. But from a literary standpoint, it makes more sense for <NAME> -a character who stands for achievement through ludicrously hard work- to have passed the exam even with the zeroes in place. Indeed, I'd argue that the most likely scenario is that Guy probably tried to get those parts waived, but Rock insisted on taking them anyway.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: not all students had to be able to make shadow clones in order to graduate. Naruto was failed for not being able to make a shadow clone simply because he was worst in his class and had no skill in order to become a genin. Rock lee being exceptionally skilled in taijutsu had no reason to be failed while he had many skills in taijutsu
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/27 | 3,566 | 11,549 | <issue_start>username_0: In Bakemonogatari, it often happens that suddenly, a red screen with "Red Scene (Aka)" or a black screen with "Black Scene (Kuro)" appears for a short time. (At least these are written in my sub.)
What do they mean? Is there any difference between "Red Scene" and "Black Scene" and why are they used?<issue_comment>username_1: Overview
========
Ah, the Monogatari **[color] Scenes**. Before we talk about what they mean, let's look at some of them.
First, you've got the two classics: **Red Scene**...
...and **Black Scene**.
But wait, there's more! You've got various kinds of **White Scene**...
...different kinds of **Yellow Scene** (the second of which is kind of abnormal, with vertical text and a non-[color] background)...
...**Lilac Scene**...
...**Blue Scene**...
...**Peach Scene**...
...**Light Green Scene**...
...and even **Purple Scene**.
Note: this collection is not exhaustive - I haven't gotten around to taking screencaps for most of Bake, or for any of Neko Black or Neko White.
---
So, what do they mean? They aren't present in the light novel series (which isn't surprising - this wouldn't really make sense in running text), so we can't turn to that for information. And unlike all of the text-heavy 2~3-frame screens that Monogatari is so fond of (cf. [1](https://i.stack.imgur.com/yZyPO.jpg "Bakemonogatari BD ep01 00:17"), [2](https://i.stack.imgur.com/MkBHn.jpg "Bakemonogatari BD ep01 01:06"), [3](https://i.stack.imgur.com/5T8XW.png "Nisemonogatari TV ep08 02:25")), these screens aren't really being used to compress a lot of information into a small amount of time, either.
Instead, I think it behooves us to examine what is going through Araragi's head (at least for arcs in which he is the narrator) to understand why these scenes appear.
---
Red and Black Scenes
====================
Let's look at **Red Scenes** first. The first one is at Bakemonogatari ep01 at 01:49, when Araragi, late for school, is rushing up that huge spiral staircase, right as he first glimpses Senjougahara falling. That's the only one in this episode.
We find a lot more in Nisemonogatari ep11 - when Araragi talks about how he'd die over and over for his sisters; when he first tries to attack Kagenui (while yelling about how having an non-blood-related sister is super-moe); an four times when Kagenui hits him.
In Second Season ep09 (Kabuki ep03), we get another **Red Scene** when Araragi yells at Oshino (not present) for having given jiangshi-timeline him a different talisman. There's also one when Araragi realizes he must have been killed by Black Hanekawa in that timeline. At the end of the episode, when the realize they're surrounded by jiangshi, there's one more **Red Scene**. In Second Season ep10 (Kabuki ep03), there's a **Red Scene** when jiangshi-timeline Kiss-shot appears, and one shortly after that when Araragi is terrified by the way Kiss-shot laughs.
---
Now, let's look at **Black Scenes**.
The first appearance of **Black Scene** occurs at 02:02 of Bakemonogatari ep01, when Araragi notices Senjougahara falling, stops in his tracks, and *blinks*. We see another **Black Scene** at 02:05, and again at 02:06 (this time accompanied by that "shutter" sound). After that, we don't see too many **Black Scenes** in that episode - one when Senjougahara staples him, one a bit after he tells Senjougahara to give him her stationery, and one right after they walk into the ruined cram school.
In general, you see **Black Scenes** fairly often, typically accompanied by a change in "gaze" - that is, Araragi's focus shifts to a different part of a given scene. It is worth noting that (to the best of my recollection), **Black Scenes** never separate different scenes.
---
Based on this evidence, a common inference is that **Red** or **Black Scenes** correspond to Araragi blinking. Since the Monogatari series is largely told in the first person (albeit that person is not always Araragi), the idea is that we see what he sees - when he blinks, we see nothing but darkness, since *he* sees nothing but darkness. This isn't strictly the case (because, of course, Araragi's eyes aren't *always* the camera), but it generally seems like a good perspective to adopt.
In this framework, then, **Black Scenes** are just what happens when Araragi blinks (sometimes). What about the **Red Scenes**, then? Well, pay attention to the fact that they seem to appear when Araragi is excited or under stress or in danger or angry, or whatnot. In other words, we see **Red Scene** when Araragi blinks while he is under the influence of some strong emotion. So, in that sense, **Red Scene** is just a particular type of **Black Scene**.
---
**Red** and **Black Scenes** seem to serve the same purpose even in parts not narrated by Araragi. In Second Season ep12 (Otori ep01), narrated by Nadeko, we see **Black Scenes** in the first five minutes mostly corresponding to Araragi blinking (with an especially nice one at 04:29). Once we move back to the "present" from the initial flash-forward, we get a number of **Black Scenes** corresponding to Nadeko blinking.
We also get a **Red Scene** at 12:04 when she first sees the medusa, startling her, and again at 19:35 when the medusa presents her with an exaggerated version of the horrific things she did to the snakes at the shrine. There doesn't seem to be much of a difference between **Red Scenes** for Nadeko vs. for Araragi.
---
Other [color] Scenes
====================
What about the other **[color] Scenes**? It's difficult to generalize about these since they're so rare. Let me just identify a few examples (from Nise and Kabuki, since those are the only parts I have a full screencap collection of) and put up a few hypotheses.
There are two **Yellow Scenes** in Nisemonogatari - one in ep10 at 17:32, when Shinobu says something, and one in ep11 at 12:05 while Kagenui is talking (at the beginning of her fight with Araragi). There's also one in Second Season ep08 (Kabuki ep02) during a narration about Hachikuji by Araragi. I'm not seeing any common features here.
There are three **White Scenes** in Nisemonogatari - one in ep03 at 22:37, when Senjougahara says that Hanekawa called her (this one has cat ears in it); one in ep09 at 22:37 during some throwaway line to Hachikuji; and one in ep11 at 06:00 during a conversation between Koyomi and Tsukihi (right before she says "platinum mad"). In Second Season ep08 (Kabuki ep02), there's one at 16:20, right when Araragi is molesting still-alive Hachikuji in the past. There's also a **White Scene** in Second Season ep12 (Otori ep01) right after a shot of the medusa.
Here, we do have Hanekawa being "white" (as we learn much about in Neko White), "platinum" being generally "white", and the medusa is "white", too, I guess. I'm not sure how the Hachikuji ones fits in, though.
* There are **Peach Scenes** at 01:53 in Second Season ep08 (Kabuki ep02), when Shinobu is excited to see mini-Araragi; and another one at 21:52 in Second Season ep12 (Otori ep01), when Nadeko agrees to do the medusa a favor.
* There are **Lilac Scenes** at 12:41 in Second Season ep08 (Kabuki ep02), when Araragi responds to Shinobu's question about whether or not he understands what saving Hachikuji means for her; and at 11:05 in Second Season ep12 (Otori ep01), during Nadeko's conversation with Ougi. No idea what the deal is with these two.
* We get a **Light Green Scene** (*moegi*1 - it's a sort of yellowish-green, sort of like some kinds of freshly-sprouted plants, apparently) at 03:15 in Second Season ep17 (Oni ep01), during a conversation between Hachikuji and Araragi, when Araragi points out that Hachikuji stands out less without her backpack. There's another one at 06:44 in Second Season ep19 (Oni ep03), while Hachikuji is telling Araragi how she was surprised that Araragi didn't abandon her when the darkness came upon them the first time. This might be because the color *moegi* is associated with youthfulness (mostly of plants, albeit), and Hachikuji is the youngest character in the cast (past-Hanekawa/etc. notwithstanding)
* There's a **Purple Scene** at 02:03 in Second Season ep19 (Oni ep03) shortly after Ononoki walks in on Araragi and Shinobu's conversation. There's another one (accompanied by a "popping" sound) at 11:40 in Second Season ep19 (Oni ep03) just before Araragi starts feeling Hachikuji up while she's asleep. Why are they there? Beats me.
Summary: aside from **Red** and **Black**, the other **[color] Scenes** don't really seem to have much in the way of consistency. They see very little use, especially in Bakemonogatari.
---
Notes
=====
1 The *moe* in *moegi* is the same word as the *moe* that serves as the origin of [the otaku-jargon word "moe" meaning cute/etc](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/894/what-does-moe-mean).
Upvotes: 7 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Basically this anime heavily focuses on the so called character lenses. This term means in general that the whole story is viewed from the eye of one single character.
Now, the Studio Shaft took this to another level, making us literally viewing it from their eyes. In real life, when we see our environment, we start blinking. During the blinking, we see a "black frame" or "red frame" depending on the light.
The focus on the character lenses is shown in some specific scenes:
* The scene when Kanbaru beats with the devils arm the crap out of Araragi. The background and blood color constantly changes, showing us the pain and surrealism the MC (main character) has to deal with. Notice it all disappears when Gahara suddenly enters the room, forcibly pulling his attention back to reality.
* The scene when he phones to Hanekawa (I think also in Suruga monkey arc). The thing here is, that he only hears her voices. If you are wondering how suddenly she got surrounded by cars, well it is simply because she was walking down a street with lots of cars passing by.
* The reason why every single car, every single bike looks exactly the same.
To understand this, let's take another look at Araragi's personal bike. For him this one bike is special, therefore it has its own design, unique in the whole anime (you won't see any other mountain bike in the whole anime). He doesn't care about things which don't belong to him. This is why everything not special to him, like other bikes, other cars, other houses, Kanbaru's ero books, looks all the same to him (though the last item might be a different reason).
* The focus on some female body parts it is because Araragi as the character whom we see is a teenager. All teenage boys are somewhat affected by female body parts.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/27 | 436 | 1,574 | <issue_start>username_0: At the end of the last episode:
>
> She called her mother to tell her that no matter what happens, "I'm just me". Then after the credits, Hajime was tapping her chest and was having a conversation with someone with another voice. Who was she talking to? Was that supposed to be Katze?
>
>
><issue_comment>username_1: Yes, that's Katze.
Most of the time, Katze talks with a high pitch, especially when bullying people. However, when Katze is not in control of the situation, his/her voice drops. This can be heard several times in the battle between O.D. and Katze that starts at 6:05 in the same episode. It's the same voice.
Besides, at the end of the series everybody else likes Hajime; who except Katze would claim to be sickened by her? :-)
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: She isn't actually tapping her chest. She is gesturing/playing with the new red ribbon she is wearing. Given how she is talking to Katze, and he seems to be with her, and she has just gotten the red ribbon, and how Katze's signature color is red/pink, I think the logical conclusion is that he has been sealed inside the ribbon.
That said, a lot of loose ends are still around, and many people have speculated that an extended ending will be on the blu-ray detailing what happened at the end of the series
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: Everything surrounding the ending was clarified in an extended cut of the final episode called [Gatchaman Crowds: Embrace](http://myanimelist.net/anime/23703/Gatchaman_Crowds:_Embrace).
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/09/28 | 1,985 | 7,417 | <issue_start>username_0: Oreki is a usually lazy and energy-saving kind of guy. After meeting Chitanda, Oreki is unable to refuse her requests. Why can't he refuse it? Is this because he is in love with her or is it a form of hypnosis?
<issue_comment>username_1: First things first - no, it is not a form of hypnosis. Hyouka is entirely devoid of supernatural elements. The notion is absurd on its face.
Anyway, why can't Houtarou refuse Chitanda? There are a few reasons for this, and they change over the course of the show.
---
Chitanda's force of personality
-------------------------------
Let's take a look at episode **1**. When Chitanda asks Houtarou to help her find out why she got locked in the room, we get that scene where Chitanda's hair captures Houtarou. This is, of course, a representation of how Houtarou views the situation at hand, and suggests that there was something very persuasive about the way Chitanda asked him. If we turn to the novel's version of this scene, we find that:
>
> 千反田のその眼差《まなざ》しには、いい加減な返事は許さないというような一種異様な力があった。それに圧倒されて、俺の声は間抜けになった。
>
>
> Chitanda's eyes held some sort of strange power, one that forbade me from giving her an offhand response. Her gaze overwhelmed me, and left me sounding like a fool.
>
>
>
As this suggests, at the very beginning of the story, Houtarou is spurred to action not out of love for Chitanda or anything, but rather by Chitanda's immense force of personality.
In episode **15**, we see that Chitanda has more or less the same effect on Masashi Tohgaito when she's trying to get him to include the Classics Club in the next issue of the wall newspaper. (Irisu suggested that she use her feminine wiles, but Chitanda didn't really manage to pull that off.)
Houtarou is a pragmatic person
------------------------------
In the second half of episode **1**, Houtarou has Satoshi help him fabricate the story of the secret club. Why? Because, as he himself notes, if he hadn't, Chitanda would have dragged him off to the music room to investigate the so-called ghost that supposedly appeared there. In a sense, he chose the better of two bad options.
While they wait for the librarian in episode **2**, Chitanda becomes curious about why the
school history book gets loaned out every day. At first, he tries to get Chitanda to stop pestering him, but soon realizes that refusing her any more would actually be *more costly* than just acceding to her demands.
Houtarou, being a very pragmatic sort of person, will sometimes do a small amount of work in order to avoid having to do even more work.
Chitanda is pretty pushy
------------------------
In episode **2**, Chitanda actually grabs Houtarou and drags him to the library to search for the club's archived anthologies, thus justifying his fear in the second half of episode **1** of being forced to go all the way to the music room. Later in the episode, with the mystery of the frequently-returned book, Chitanda shoves the book in Houtarou's face until he finally gives in.
Point here is, Chitanda can be a pushy kind of person.
Sometimes, Houtarou just doesn't have anything better to do
-----------------------------------------------------------
As his sister notes in her letter from Varanasi, Houtarou should join the Classics Club because (if for no other reason) he isn't doing anything better with his time. In episode **3**, when Houtarou agrees to help Chitanda out (to a certain degree) with the matter of her uncle, he thinks back to his sister's letter and figures that indeed, there's not really any good reason for him to say no - as long as it doesn't involve going too far out of his way.
In episode **20**, when Chitanda invites Houtarou to visit the Arekusu shrine on New Years', he again agrees, mostly because he doesn't have anything better to do. (His thought process is elucidated upon a bit more in the novels, making it clear that this was mostly why he agreed to go.)
---
These are more or less the reasons why Houtarou does anything towards the beginning of the show. As Houtarou develops, though, he starts developing other motivations.
---
Houtarou actually starts wanting to do things
---------------------------------------------
In episode **18**, Houtarou decides he wants to look into Mr. Ogi and why he was struck by lightning thrice, and hence goes out of his way (all the way to the public library) to learn more about the matter.
This is presumably a result of Chitanda's influence on him over the preceding months (not that Satoshi, Ibara, and others didn't play a part either). He's different now than he was at the beginning, when he was wholly devoted to his tenets of energy conservation.
Houtarou probably develops feelings for Chitanda
------------------------------------------------
In episode **21**, we see Houtarou flustered when when Chitanda tells him that, in her family, it is customary not to give gifts to people who they are truly close to. Later in the same episode, Houtarou's anger with Satoshi over the stolen chocolate incident by and large is due to the fact that Chitanda was hurt by the incident.
And, of course, in episode **22**, Houtarou imagines telling Chitanda that he'd be willing to take on the business side of things to help her out. He then realizes that the way he felt as he thought about that might have been how Satoshi felt when he chose to break Ibara's chocolate in the previous episode. This can be interpreted in various ways; one possible (and common) interpretation is that he realizes he's fallen for Chitanda.
---
So yes, towards the end of the story, it's possible that Houtarou is motivated by love for Chitanda, but towards the beginning, he's more pragmatically-motivated than anything.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Chitanda possesses a pure and almost childlike curiosity which helps to unlock Oreki's, which he suppresses.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_3: Senshin's answer is great and covers all the basics very well, but I think there is a more subtle element in Oreki's mind that doesn't allow him to refuse Chitanda's adventurous nature.
*Note: I haven't read the novel, and my point of view is based solely on the anime adaptation.*
Throughout the series we see how Oreki starts out as a passive chill guy who seemingly doesn't waste his talents on anything bothersome, although he actually often does some things that are evidence to the opposite.
Whenever Chitanda says she's interested in something, it looks like she is voicing Oreki's own thoughts. She does it so avidly, in fact, that he is unable to resist his own will boosted by Chitanda's personality.
At the beginning, Oreki doesn't try to do anything, and suppresses his inner voice calling out for him to go on an interesting investigation. But as the series progresses, he learns to listen to that voice (or rather through listening to Chitanda's voice, he learns to listen to his own).
In my opinion, Oreki never was that much opposed to interesting things. Look at him read stuff all the time. And he's pretty knowledgeable, too. How could a person disinterested in everything know that much? And with Chitanda's help he could finally unshackle from his chains of passivity, become who he was truly meant to be − a detective. Of course he couldn't resist Chitanda after she helped him through all that.
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/09/30 | 666 | 1,740 | <issue_start>username_0: Where do you think she is at? The place there had an orange gang chair and gray vending machine. The background scene is like a mountain view.
<issue_comment>username_1: That's from Episode 15 of the second season of Hayate no Gotoku where Hayate, Maria and Nagi all make a trip to the [Shimoda Onsen](http://www.japan-ryokan.net/wp/izu-shimoda-onsen). When they arrive at "Nai" station, somewhere before Shimoda station, Nagi gets off the train to get food, thinking that she'd be able to get back on because of the ticket, but the train leaves.
No idea where "Nai" station is or if it's real. Google maps doesn't appear to list any stations called "ない" anywhere near the vicinity.
---
Just to clarify, the station's entire name that's listed is simply "Nai". Though
as [senshin](https://anime.stackexchange.com/users/1908/senshin) suggested, it may be related to one of the two existing stations on the Shimoda line.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: 名胃駅 (Nai Station) is located in the city of Odawara, in the Kanagawa Prefecture and part of the Tokaido Main Line of JR East.
It would seem you can get to it by taking the 東海道線 (Tokaido Line) [High Speed Acty](http://wiki.chakuriki.net/index.php/%E5%BF%AB%E9%80%9F%E3%82%A2%E3%82%AF%E3%83%86%E3%82%A3%E3%83%BC). It's between Hayakawa (早川駅) Station and Nebukawa (根府川駅) Station, and is apparently one of those [stations few people use](http://ja.uncyclopedia.info/wiki/%E6%9D%B1%E6%B5%B7%E9%81%93%E6%9C%AC%E7%B7%9A#.E5.B0.8F.E7.94.B0.E5.8E.9F.E9.A7.85.EF.BD.9E.E7.86.B1.E6.B5.B7.E9.A7.85).
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/01 | 355 | 1,338 | <issue_start>username_0: In the manga/anime, it appears as if teleportation is very rare. The few we know that gets a little bit explained are, for example, Minato (4th Hokage) and Obito (Tobi).
Despite of this, a lot of characters (mainly in the anime) "disappear" with a flashy exit when they wish. Orochimaru does this a couple of times, including others. Often with a phrase such as "I don't have time to play around with you any more" and then *poof*, gone!
Is there some explanation to this? Do they use a clone and then run off while the clone says goodbye to the opponent? If that is the case, when do they create the clone?<issue_comment>username_1: They're ninjas! They're so sneaky that they can sneak away and leave a log or some object behind and it only looks like they've teleported.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: From what I understand, there are only actually a few ways to teleport. Those include Tobirama/Minato's Flying Thunder God technique, reverse summoning, and Obito's space/time Sharingan based technique.
Most of the time, when shinobi just poof, that means it was either a clone or they travel at a high speed such that one can not detect their movements. If it was a clone, then it was always a clone to begin and the person did not just substitute himself for a clone.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer] |
2013/10/01 | 915 | 3,277 | <issue_start>username_0: In a lot of production drawings for anime (and I've also seen them in plots), particularly of characters as opposed to backgrounds, the detailed sketches/drawings have lines in different colors. Is there a purpose for this other than maybe to differentiate between lines? Are they used for color boundaries? Is there a production reason why the specific lines have to be different colors?
---
Edit:
Just to be a bit more clear, I was wondering specifically with the colors used in these particular style line drawings, where the lines seemed to be color coded. For example, given this animatic, the first sketch has color used in shading and hue, but the middle picture shows the color coded line art, where the tears are red and the eyes are blue.
<issue_comment>username_1: The use of colored pencils and related mediums vary depending on the artist or production that does them.
The yellow is typically seen being used to highlight shadows or break up object in the background (like clouds), because shading with a regular pencil might drown out the details especially in a elaborate or darkly lit scene. Take this storyboard from *Arrietty*:
Compare it to this uncolored storyboard from *Evangelion 2.0*:
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/kvM9Z.jpg)
And the *Steamboy*:
Other times the yellow can be used to highlight an active foreground object like a person, take a look at this example from *Mushishi*:
The color blue is typically used as a secondary color, do add more detail and depth to the storyboards. Here is an example from *5 Centimeters Per Second*:
Notice the blue is being used to highlight additional shadows for a better sense of the atmosphere of the shots. Here's an example of how it's used to separate objects in *Gundam UC*.
None of these guidelines are set an stone and can vary greatly depending the budget and needs of the production and/or director(s).
The opening storyboards for *Ponyo* are in watercolor:
The main scenes too:
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: A typical Japanese animation can have up to 3 levels of shadows plus a highlight. Different colored lines specifies boundaries of different shadows and the highlight. Traditionally, these are traced in the front of the cel and then the cel is flipped and using these traced lines as a guide, the appropriate color is applied at the back. - I used to work in traditional animation and that is how we use those lines
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/03 | 490 | 1,718 | <issue_start>username_0: In the first season at episode 8, before Grand-Fisher leaves for the world of the living one of the rocks casts a large shadows before 4 other shadows shoot out and take form on rocks around Grand-Fisher, they apparently speak to him as he replies that he'll go and deal with Ichigo himself
I am wondering who these shadows are and if they are related to Aizen or are they a separate faction that don't support Aizen
EDIT: got some screenshots, there are 4 shadows but we only ever see 2 close up<issue_comment>username_1: It's never specified exactly who they are other than than the fact that they're hollows but based on the fact that they appeared to be more humanoid than most hollows it's safe to assume they were Vasto Lorde (strongest form of natural hollow). They also could be some of the Espada pre-arrancar since Harribel (#3) was revield to have been a Vasto Lorde it would make sense for other high level Espada to Vasto Lorde as well.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: I'm pretty sure the Arrancar were created using Aizen's Hogyoku, a long time before the series started. I think the two that we see there are <NAME> and <NAME>. Harribel is the one that looks like Sheik, wrapped up in bandages, though her hollow hole being on the outside of her body rather than in her womb leads me to believe that it was an initial design.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/03 | 606 | 2,415 | <issue_start>username_0: When Ichigo is being trained by Kisuke his second lesson involves Ichigo's Chain of Fate being cut, and in order for him to avoid becoming a Hollow he has to become a Soul Reaper.
After he gets out of the pit he was stuck in now with his own Soul Reaper Powers, Kisuke then begins his third lesson which is a fight. Between the start of the second lesson and the end of the third lesson there doesn't seem to be a point where they repair Ichigo's Chain of Fate (if it's even possible).
So is Ichigo technically dead because his Chain of Fate was cut?<issue_comment>username_1: I personally feel that these are just certain events in the manga which make the reader feel that its happened.
But mangaka's are such beings that they can create their own logic and make dead people alive!
Logically if you think, then Killing the main person of a story which is going so great, can have a highly positive or negative impact on the sales of a manga.
The writer is just creating such events that generate these kind of thoughts in the readers mind!
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: I would say yes.
It does not interfere with the "not letting the main character die" rule, because the main part of the story plays in the world of the dead (soul society).
So I ask if the concept of "death and alive" even does apply to bleach? He might be dead ever since he first became a Shinigami or, as you described, as soon as his chain got destroyed.
As for the time he is in his body and interacts with the world of the living, he might just go back into his body or as other Shinigami enter a Gigai (artificial body).
I sadly have no prove for this claim, it is my theory.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: Looking at it in the most basic way: the answer should be no. Remember, many people can see Ichigo (not just the special ones who can see the dead). They don't show Ichigo getting into a fake body for his day to day life at any point. Only leaving it for Kon in the earlier parts of the series.
Recall the 17 months after Ichigo did not have powers (around the Fullbringer Arc) that everyone could see and interact with him. If that could happen, he should not be viewed as dead.
Take it with a grain of salt, remember that the author/creator <NAME> has been inconsistent with some things in the past and gets sloppy with his writing from time to time.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/05 | 842 | 3,158 | <issue_start>username_0: We could see plenty of times in both Fullmetal Alchemist anime series (at least twice in the 2003 series and at least once in the 2009 series, according to my memories) that connecting the automails seriously hurts for Ed. What's the reason?
My theory is that during connecting, it "turns on" and sends an electric wave to the brain to provide right functionality.<issue_comment>username_1: Its the shock to the nerves. The connection activates a lot of nerves at once; causing a quick shock of pain to the user
>
> Linked directly to the nervous system, an automail prosthesis does not usually require an external energy source, and can be moved at will like a natural appendage, taking electrical pulses from the nerves to power and regulate the various electric motors and pneumatic actuators inside
>
>
>
[Source (Second Paragraph)](http://fma.wikia.com/wiki/Automail)
The reason people can feel things (like pain) physically is due to nerves. When the automail is connected; the nerves "turn on" all at once.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: Essentially, after the completion of the loss of an arm or other limb, there is a raw set of nerves poking out (not literally, but you know what I mean). These are [what connect to the automail's circuits](https://anime.stackexchange.com/q/3839/274). As stated by username_1, *all* of these nerves are stimulated simultaneously, causing a severe, severe shock to the person.
This pain is shown to be more obvious in the 2003 anime, lasting for quite some time after the connection. In the 2009 anime (*Brotherhood*), the repercussions of the event are significantly tamer.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/zqTXy.jpg)
Unfortunately, it's hard to pin this down exactly to something you might feel in real life. One common example would be hitting your "funny bone" which is actually a group of nerves in the elbow. However, this still does not do justice, as the nerves are not exposed and there are not *that* many of them.
The only thing biologically similar in our world is that of an exposed nerve under a tooth. If you've ever lost a tooth, and touched or injured the exposed nerve, you'll know that this pain pretty much brings you to your knees. And that's a tooth-area worth of nerves; expand that to your entire shoulder and you've got a HUGE amount of pain.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/pxTbH.jpg)
Given that the pain is akin to something few humans can ever even experience, it is no surprise that even the characters in the show (like Armstrong, shown above) cannot comprehend the pain behind the process.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_3: It's stated in both the animes and the manga. You're connecting STEEL WIRES to every nerve one a time. Then sending huge amount of electric charges and heat in order to have those already damaged nerves function to control the prostatic. Add that to the fact you might have to add further amputation to the damage in order to even fit the automail.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/06 | 315 | 949 | <issue_start>username_0: In episode 269 of Naruto, while fighting Kinkaku and Ginkaku, Daru got sucked into the Benihisago. I thought you could only be sucked in if you said your most said word or if you remained silent. Darui did neither, but was sucked in after he said "I'm the Boss' right arm. I'm no imitation!" Does this sound like his most said word, "dull," in Japanese?<issue_comment>username_1: Taken from the [Naruto wiki](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Darui), 'he inadvertently uttered the word when he admonished the brothers and stated, "Ore wa Bosu no migiude **da. Ru**ijihin janē! (「オレはボスの右腕だ。類似品じゃねェ!」, I'm the Boss' right arm. I'm no imitation!)"'. "Daru" sounds like his most said word, "darui."
This is why he was sealed.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: In the English version he says " I am not a timid rabbit", his word was "Drab". Thus when he utters timi**D RAB**bit, the word drab is said.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/07 | 600 | 2,393 | <issue_start>username_0: In Fairy Tail chapter 269 during the Grand Magic Games arc, there is an event called *Hidden*.
The participants are transported to different locations inside a giant city.
They have to find an attack each other using either a physical or magical attack.
The participant who successfully lands an attack earns a point, which gets deducted from the attacked participant.
Now comes the tricky part: The city gets filled with clones of the participants, and they will now have to hide between the clones and try to find the original ones. Because if a participant attacks a clone, he or she loses a point.
I find this very similar to multiplayer games such as Assassin's Creed where you have a target hiding between NPCs and you have to guess which one it is based on its behavior (e.g. if he acts in a strange suspicious way).
So is there some origin to this game concept?<issue_comment>username_1: As far as the origin of the concept is concerned, I think only <NAME> can tell!
Not only Assassins Creed but many other games have this kind of concept. It's actually a very simple concept where you picture yourself as a wanted person and try to hide in the crowd around you.
<NAME> just made it more exciting by cloning the contestants and making it way more difficult to find the right person.
So what I can answer is that he must have combined the concept of Hiding and the concept of Shadow Clones from Naruto!
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: The origin is literally impossible to trace. At best, we'll see who implemented this idea first but it could have been thought of a long time ago or done in many things that we don't have knowledge of. <NAME> (the manga-ka) might be able to say where he got this or why he decided on this but its not exactly a rare idea to do this. Its pretty much a simple twist on a "zero sum" kind of game. I'm almost certain that Assassin's Creed was not the first to do this.
Come to think of it, in earlier chapters of Fairy Tail, Mashima used to scribble "Mashima's ramblings" in the gaps or sides of the page. From these "ramblings", we know <NAME> does play video games (and at the very least, owns a PS3). So even if Assasin's Creed multiplayer was not the first to implement this system, there is some offchance that Mashima got the idea from playing that game.
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer] |
2013/10/07 | 708 | 2,594 | <issue_start>username_0: Before the time skip, characters like Garp and the Priest of Sky Island, used Haki to deal damage to Luffy via a blunt attack, which would have been impossible otherwise. Also, Haki was used by both sides during the Summit War. None of these people turned black.
But after the time skip, when Luffy used Haki against Hordy, he partially turned black. And during his fight with Z, they both turned partially black. Is this a special type of Haki? Is there any reason why they change colors and if so why black?<issue_comment>username_1: The physical strength attribute of haki works as an "invisible armor" called [Busoshoku Haki](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Haki/Busoshoku_Haki).
The raise in density & thus, black coloring of a body part is in this haki category called **Busoshoku: Koka**. The sky priests aren't listed as users of either forms of this haki, but they did demonstrate haki abilities such as [Kenbunshoku Haki](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Haki/Kenbunshoku_Haki) which they called Mantra.
So yes, it is a special type of haki.
But reasons for not using it pre-timeskip span from it not being a fleshed out idea yet to something saved for the new world or it's just a serious assault that people inexperienced can't reach without proper training (since Enel never had too many challenges to increase his potential) to people who could do it were just holding back (because Garp wanted to raise Luffy... not kill him).
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Luffy's Haki ability is called Busoshoku: Koka. Koka means hardening. Luffy's body is made of rubber. Oda is quite clearly referring to hardened rubber, or vulcanized rubber, which is black. (Compare images below)
Upvotes: 4 <issue_comment>username_3: It depends on how dense the haki (invisible armor) they use. When garp use haki to hurt luffy, he applied just a small amount so that it doesn't really hurt or can cause serious injury. That explains alot right? When you applied a vast amount of haki on your body .. it will turn black.. because of the density of the haki you applied on it. if it is a small amount.. then it's like invisible..
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_4: In the pre-timeskip, use of Busoshoku Haki as "invisible armor" was shown as a swift percussion forming a light-blue beam, similar to lightning, while in the manga, it is shown simply as an amplified impact, nothing else visible is shown... from wiki :v
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/10/07 | 1,184 | 4,073 | <issue_start>username_0: Considering the three types of Devil Fruits that have been explained are:
1. Paramecia Type - where the user can get superhuman abilities and change their body parts into weapons, etc.
2. Zoan type - where the user can turn into a particular animal and inherit its abilities
3. Logia Type - where the user's body inherits a particular element and the body becomes like air which cannot be touched or damaged by non-Haki users.
So what exactly is the type of Gomu Gomu no Mi?
It cannot be Zoan or Logia. It's very close to a Paramecia but still doesn't have a logical explanation to be of Paramecia type. So is it some special type of Devil Fruit?<issue_comment>username_1: From the [wiki](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Gomu_Gomu_no_Mi).
>
> The Gomu Gomu no Mi is a ***Paramecia-type*** Devil Fruit that enables the user's body to stretch like rubber, making the user a Rubber Human.
>
>
>
You further ask..
>
> It's very close to a Paramecia but still doesn't have a logical explanation to be of Paramecia type!
>
>
>
Again from the [wiki](http://onepiece.wikia.com/wiki/Paramecia).
>
> Paramecia is one of the three Devil Fruit types. ***These fruits give the users a power that can affect their body***, manipulate the environment, or produce substances. In general, Paramecia Devil Fruits are fruits that give their users powers other than transforming into elements, like Logias, or transforming into animals, like Zoans.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: I see the classifications as this:
* Logia: Turns your body into some sort of energy
* Zoan: Transforms you into an animal/legendary thing
* Paramecia: **THE REST**
So is it Logia? NO. Is it Zoan? NO. Then it is a Paramecia.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: It is mentioned on other websites then the wiki that it could be considered Logia. One of these examples is that Paramecia types can turn on and off, allowing changes of a person. The Gomu Gomu no Mi is a Devil Fruit which makes one like a rubber, permanently. You can not stop being rubber after congesting it. Meaning, it has traits of a Logia. It also comes along with the benefits that rubber has which is stretching, no blunt damage (without Haki), and no damage from electricity, and you could consider rubber an element.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_4: Luffy is a special Paramecia like Katakuri, or he is a special Logia like Black Beard.
Reasons: for special Paramecia, Luffy is permanently rubber, Katakuri is permanently mochi, they both have abilities uncannily similar to a Logia and a Paramecia. Also, I'm pretty sure it was stated that gomu is a weaker version of mochi. The only reason Luffy won is because Luffy is in his prime and Katakuri isn't, and Luffy was more creative. But if that wasn't stated, gomu might actually be the superior version because he hasn't awakened gomu and still beat Katakuri.
Reasons: for special Logia like Black Beard, because rubber is a natural element but Luffy can't go intangible with it like Black Beard can't with yami, and gomu's awakening might be giving him the intangibility of rubber tree sap.
But also, if it is like that, it could still be a special Paramecia because Katakuri is, but maybe before his awakening, he was like tangible stretchy dough, but who knows.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_5: Luffy is a special paramecia that is half logia, half paramecia. The only reason that he is classified paramecia is due to one fact, rubber isn't a natural element.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_6: Spoilers for a twist 1000+ chapters into the series
>
> First of all, it's not Gomu Gomu no Mi at all. It's actually the Hito Hito no Mi Model:Nika. The World Government has been trying to hide its existence for 800 years, thus they changed its name to Gomu Gomu no Mi, so everybody would think its related to rubber. From this point of view, it is a Paramecia type Devil Fruit.
>
>
>
>
> If we think about its original name, then it's a mythical Zoan type Devil Fruit.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/07 | 604 | 1,901 | <issue_start>username_0: We see a flashback to when Kagami lived in the US in episode 1 of season 2 (26Q).
Judging from all the palm trees, I'd hazard a guess that he was probably in California. California also seems like the most likely option on a demographic basis (i.e. where are Japanese temporary immigrants most likely to end up?).
Is it ever explicitly stated where he lived? And if it is California, is it ever stated whether he's in SoCal or NorCal (or somewhere else)?<issue_comment>username_1: The only indication offhand gets kinda spoilery but
**Character Spoiler:**
>
> Unrevealed yet in the anime as of episode 1 of Kuroko no Basket S2, [<NAME>](http://kurokonobasuke.wikia.com/wiki/Alexandra_Garcia), was a college champion in the NCAA from UCLA. In her retirement, she frequented betting courts on the streets (which could technically be anywhere) and eventually runs into Taiga & Himuro.
>
>
>
**Event Spoiler:**
>
> Alexandra trains Taiga & Himuro as kids. Later on Taiga decides to receive training once more from his old master by returning to Los Angeles, so it's pretty suggested that everything took place in SoCal. Here's a pic of an announced airline destination: [Chapter 111, page 19](https://i.stack.imgur.com/Sutvx.png) from [Batoto.net](http://www.batoto.net/read/_/46765/kuroko-no-basuke_v13_ch111_by_imangascans/19)
>
>
>
I tried to minimize unnecessary spoiling information. Overall, a bit circumstantial, but still enough for me to presume that they're in Southern California.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: It was explicitly stated in the manga by Seirin's coach in Chap 112. He used to live in LA.
Note this page may spoil events that have yet to come in the Anime
>
> 
>
>
>
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer] |
2013/10/08 | 815 | 2,784 | <issue_start>username_0: In most closing credits sequences of Danganronpa, a picture of some characters in a classroom appears.
These pictures always feature Naegi, along with the characters that die along the show.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/78Yqw.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/0vDm5.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/CjVBK.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/GP9GN.jpg)
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/8EUwk.jpg)
Closing credits for episodes 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 (left to right, top to bottom)
Except for the last one, which shows all 15 students, these feature the characters that died either on that episode or on the previous one (which had no ending sequence). However, Naegi seems to always be featured in these photos.
Is there any particular reason for this? Or is it simply because he is the main character?<issue_comment>username_1: I was wondering this myself. I think there's a theory that Naegi is actually dead and this is his purgatory. We never find out what the most despair inducing event in history is because Naegi died before he could find out. He's the one who has a pretty generic high school ability. Hopes peak academy could actually be the test whether he makes it to heaven or hell in the afterlife. When they all leave we just see a shining light but no sense of the outside world.
If you think about it, the school is perfectly looked after and the fridges are all restocked daily. But who could do that? If instead we picture it as a purgatory scenario it just sets the stage for Naegi to show he can overcome despair.
I think he shows up in the ending credits along the dead characters to show that he's actually dead and when they all appear at the end it means they were all dead. But they made it to the afterlife.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: I think it is because of them being his classmates because if you look in the game, near chapter 6 it showed them being students before the killing game.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: It is shown in Danganronpa 3 Future that Makoto blames himself for all their deaths and feels he should die when he watches the despair video. That’s probably why
Upvotes: 1 |
2013/10/09 | 644 | 2,257 | <issue_start>username_0: In 2012, there was [an anime titled **K**](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K_%28anime%29) (or sometimes **K Project**). Does the title mean anything in the context of the anime?
(cf. [**C**](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C_%28anime%29), which was titled for the word "Control", and [**X**](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/X_%28manga%29), which was supposedly titled after the use of the letter "x" as a variable).<issue_comment>username_1: There are two possibilities for what the "K" refers to.
The first is <NAME>, who is the original person that became Yashiro Isana, the main character of the show.
The second is "King". The leader of each clan is its King, who controls the members of the clan. Weismann is a King.
KINGS is also the first opening theme of the show.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: I'll put together @poop's and @username_1's answers.
The two possibilities are are "K" for "King" or for Adolf "K" Weismann. However, the second for Weismann is incorrect. Wiki: <http://k-project.wikia.com/wiki/Yashiro_Isana>
After a bit of research as well as a search through the K-Project wiki, I found that Adolf's middle name isn't actually revealed in either the anime or any sources. Due to his middle name not being known, we can see that it is of little importance to the anime.
Now let's jump to the title of the last episode title, "King." We can piece the title of the anime together with the title of the final episode as the anime was leading up to the final episode, uniquely named, "King." "King," is the most likely of the two options since the plot line, use of the word "King" and the name of the final episode all relate to the one word, "King."
So the title of the anime would be, "King-Project," or "King."
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: I've watched a talkshow. In that talkshow, the creator told that K means "Kizuna" or bonds. So, it means every character has a complex bond that bind 'em each other.
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_4: The K in K project stands for **König** which is aprecciated to be engraved on the slate. This is for König project, the main project carried in the second war by <NAME> which translated into english is King project.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/11 | 543 | 2,004 | <issue_start>username_0: Throughout the opening theme, various text moves across the screen.
Is this an extract from something, or just placeholder text?
<issue_comment>username_1: It seems to be a blurb of some sorts
>
> Once upon a time, in New York City in 1941... at this club open to all comers to play, night after night, at a club named "Minston's Play House" in Harlem, they play jazz sessions competing with each other. Young jazz men with a new sense are gathering. At last they created a new genre itself. They are sick and tired of the conventional fixed style jazz. They're eager to play jazz more freely as they wish then... in 2071 in the universe... The bounty hunters, who are gathering in the spaceship "BEBOP", will play freely without fear of risky things. They must create new dreams and films by breaking traditional styles. The work, which becomes a new genre itself, will be called... COWBOY BEBOP
>
>
>
it's suggested [here](http://www.artofthetitle.com/title/cowboy-bebop/), that it may be a manifesto - a "verbal declaration of the intentions, motives, or views" of what the show will entail
It's also clear that it's playing off the theme of jazz within the text to fit the opening theme.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: The text is actually merging the definition of "Bebop Jazz," a genre of jazz, with made up text.
The first section talking about musicians gathering at Harlem is talking about bebop jazz, which was controversial at first because of it breaking many conventional rules of jazz.
The second part talks about the spaceship name "BEBOP," which is fitting because the bounty hunters have to break conventional rules, like bebop musicians had to, for more freedom.
The text basically explains why the anime is called "Cowboy Bebop," since the show revolves around these bounty hunters that have to break rules like the musicians back in the day.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/11 | 1,608 | 6,212 | <issue_start>username_0: During the Cell games, Goku knew he wouldn't be able to defeat Cell. But it's unlike a Saiyan to ever give up. Goku didn't give up when he fought Vegeta, or Freiza, or anyone else for that matter. But why does he give up against Cell? This isn't consistent with Goku's character.<issue_comment>username_1: Because he knew someone who could defeat Cell - his son, Gohan.
He knew for certain that his son Gohan would be able to defeat Cell, and so the fate of the world wouldn't 100% depend on Goku. And so, after tiring Cell for a bit, he gave up to allow Gohan to battle.
Upvotes: 4 <issue_comment>username_2: It is true that Saiyans would not give up. But Goku had lots of characteristics which doesn't go with saiyan race.
The reason for this will be obvious if you carefully look at the childhood history of Goku. Even as a child Goku was very much a saiyan when <NAME> found him. He was very aggressive and short tempered and uncooperative. But after an accident where Goku falls from a ravine and gets hit on his head, he changes completely. He became a cheerful, loving regular boy. This incident attributes to many of the Goku's personality traits which are uncharacteristics of a saiyan, like sparing the defeated enemies, giving up when situation demands etc.,
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: The main purpose of Goku entering the Room of Spirit and Time was to train Gohan. Goku was cognizant of Gohan's abilities - Gohan's ability to take his current level to another level when provoked. Gohan did this against Raditz, and Frieza (remember who when crazy on Frieza's 3rd form? Not Piccolo). Goku's idea what that if Gohan got to Goku's level, then that classic +1 ability would push Gohan past Cell. The purpose of Goku's fight was to show Gohan Cell's fighting style. That's all. Goku was confident. They had him (Goku), Gohan would could likely go into a higer berzerk level and a whole bunch of Senzu. Incidentally, Dragonball Z was a transition of the show being about Goku, to it being about Gohan. (dragonball was about Goku)
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_4: He greatly believed in Gohan and further his abilities. Goku realized he couldn't monitor the world for the rest of his life and wanted to give his son the opportunity to take over as guardian of the universe. Gohan needed a push to go to the next level.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_5: When Goku was fighting Cell, he wasn't trying to win the fight. He wasn't even trying to tire out Cell to make the fight easier for Gohan. He was just trying to draw out all of his techniques so everyone watching could understand the opponent that was otherwise so mysterious. This was his plan from the very beginning of their training, but unlike Picollo he didn't pressure Gohan with this, he kept it a secret.
Goku knew that he couldn't win the fight against Cell, but he didn't give up because he was afraid to die, he gave up because he wanted to send a message to all of his friends who relied on him that he won't always be able to protect them, and that they have the power to protect themselves as well. Goku does a great job explaining this mentality at the very end of Dragonball Z when he says goodbye to his friends to train Uub. Goku knows that if the whole world relies on him everytime, then it will never truly be at peace. the people need a way to protect themselves, and the fight against Cell was the first time he really went forward to push this idea.
It is incredibly unlikely for a Saiyan of any temperment to give up in a tough fight, ESPECIALLY against a very strong opponent. This was no doubt really difficult for Goku to do, but he knew if he had just died, then gohan would never have had the confidence, or the composure to fight at his true potential. He needed his dad to tell him he can do it.
So, **Why does Goku give up against Cell?**
Because he needed to show Gohan that he had surpassed even his own father in strength and speed.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_6: Goku had a fair idea about Cell's level after he attained his perfect form. Goku was looking for answers for how can he surpass the level of a super saiyan, or if it's really possible. Luckily, they had something called the time chamber to their disposal which gave Goku plenty of time to figure it out.
Goku managed to come up with an ingenious idea to increase his stamina and increase his power whenever required by using up his reserves of energy which he could increase by improving his stamina. He understood the flaw in Vegeta and Trunks' techniques.
Now, if you recall: Goku didn't use the time chamber twice trying to push his new found powers further, which BTW was very unlike Goku who uses every opportunity when he faces such crises (remember before facing Frieza how he goes all out till 100G in his training). The reason for that was, Goku already found that Gohan had hidden powers sleeping, coming out in a training session. And Goku understood, if anybody had a chance against Cell, it was his son!
Now, coming to your question. Goku didn't need to fight in the first place, because he knew Cell will beat him to the ground when the battle is over. But he still fights for 2 reasons:
1. As a Saiyan warrior, challenges in combat like these are what they live for.
2. He wanted to show Gohan Cell's technique up close and personal watching his dads battle with him.
Goku knew all along he won't win, so when he thought his purpose of showing Gohan a good glimpse of Cell's fighting style, it was time to call the battle off and make way for his son to finish things off.
So that's the reason behind Goku's giving up, which Goku will die as a warrior before doing. But it was a teaching in disguise for his son.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_7: That is partly true. Goku was stronger than Cell but he wanted Gohan to defeat him. Simple as that. Later in the otherworld, Pikkon defeated Super Perfect Cell like he was nothing, and Goku and Pikkon were evenly matched when they were fighting in the otherworld tournament. So from that, Goku was able to defeat Cell.
Even if Pikkon was slightly stronger than Goku, Cell was still no match for him.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/14 | 1,111 | 3,491 | <issue_start>username_0: I was always confused with something in the original (2003) Fullmetal Alchemist anime.
When Elric brothers have helped the Hughes' when Alicia was born, that happened around the same time when Edward have become a State Alchemist. If I know well, he was 12 in that time. It was in episode 6.
Most of the following episodes (Barry incident, the Chimaera, etc.) seems to cover a relatively short time. However, later it was mentioned that Ed is 14-15 years old. And also, I'm absolutely sure that it was true at the time when Hughes was murdered.
Which is the exact timeline order of the event in the episodes? First episode is obviously an introducing one, and second is the beginning of everything, and then?
Also, how is it possible that Edward looks totally the same in Episode 6 (where he was 12) and in Episode 50, for example (where he was 15)?<issue_comment>username_1: The series starts three years after Ed became state alchemist. That means he was twelve when he became state alchemist and was around 15 or 16 when the manga/anime starts. At the end of the main story, he was 18 and twenty in the epilogue (when they start traveling around).
Here is a timeline for the 2003-anime: <http://64supernintendo.deviantart.com/art/Fullmetal-Alchemist-anime-timeline-321323200>
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: **Please note: Much of this information does not apply to *Brotherhood*.**
---
The order of episodes goes something like this:
* Episode 1 flashback
+ Transmutation of Trisha
* Episode 28 flashbacks
+ Initial alchemy training under Izumi
+ Pre-automail for Edward
* Episodes 3 through 9
+ Barry the Chopper
+ Shou Tucker and Nina
+ Etc.
* Episodes 1, 2, and 10 through 51 (not counting flashbacks)
+ Main story
* *The Conqueror of Shamballa*
I have missed a few brief flashbacks here, but this is the general idea. You can use Edward's age, somewhat, as a marker of time passing. He is ~11 in the flashbacks of their mother, 12 during his State Alchemist qualification, and turns 15 prior to the main story (the incident in Lior, etc.). He is 18 during *The Conqueror of Shamballa*. (This is shown by 14-year-old Al reverting to being 10 years old, then aging to 13 when Eckhart starts breaking into Amestris. Since he is one year younger, and would be 17, Ed is about 18.)
Here is a handy chart for a full comprehensive view of the series (click to enlarge, or click [here](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=<KEY>&usp=sharing) for the spreadsheet). *Note that Edward does have a birthday in the main timeline, when he turns 16.*
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/TtOMG.png)
*(Orange = pre-anime; yellow = flashbacks; green = anime series; blue = post-anime)*
---
To address your point about Ed's appearance: Edward doesn't actually look the same at 12 as he does at 15. At 12, his eyes are slightly larger and his face is a bit rounder, save for his chin, giving him an overall slightly younger and more innocent look. It's not generally noticeable in the more zoomed-out shots, but it's there. (Also remember that, to perpetuate the "shorty"/"chibi" jokes, he couldn't grow much, so all the changes are facially.)
*(Left: 12-year-old Ed, episode 4, 6:45; Right: 15-year-old Ed, episode 10, 13:50)*
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer] |
2013/10/14 | 754 | 2,699 | <issue_start>username_0: I've noticed that in the opening sequence, and the big climactic moment at the very end of the season, Lucy has her hands on the figure's back with the ring/middle fingers together and the other two fingers separated in a 'w' sort of shape.
Is this a symbol of love, a reference to <NAME> (like the paintings) or something else?
I've also noticed it on the cover of the 3rd Vampire Bund Omnibus.
<issue_comment>username_1: It's likely to be a homage to the work of [El Greco](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Greco), who used this hand symbol in his [various works](http://www.darkfiber.com/pz/chapter1.html).
Like this one titled *The Gentleman with His Hand at His Breast*
or *Christ Carrying the Cross*
The meaning of this gesture is subject to much debate...
Some hypothesis [indicate](http://www.darkfiber.com/pz/chapter1.html) that:
>
> 1. The hand gesture is a secret sign indicating that the gentleman is a Marrano -- a crypto-Jew who accepted Christian baptism in order to remain in Spain after the Catholic Kings' order of 1492 that all Jews leave Spain;
> 2. The gesture indicates a Loyolan/Jesuit spirituality that calls for the sinner to place his/her hand on their chest after committing a sin as a sign of moral pain. Both of these theories have been discussed at length in academic circles without, however, formal acceptance of either, though at least one academic allows that the hand "assumes the function of an important communication, a personal avowal."
>
>
>
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: The hand gesture Lucy makes in official art and during the opening is prevalent in Loyolan/Jesuit spirituality, wherein those who commit sins are to place their hands on their chest with the middle and ring fingers joined to show moral pain and/or remorse for their actions.
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_3: It has been suggested the M symbol of the fingers refers to <NAME> and the theory that they had a child. Knights Templar order and all that. Famous portrait (posthumous) of Christopher Columbus shows his fingers in this arrangement, various statues and paintings also show hands arranged this way. It's rather curious as it's not a natural way to hold your fingers. Some people say the Statue of Liberty, the hand holding the tablet also shows this arrangement. The Freemasons were involved in many of these things and it's said they are what remains of the Templars.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/14 | 354 | 1,056 | <issue_start>username_0: I only watched *Crows Zero* and *Crows Zero 2* (both are live-action) and I found there are the related manga *Crows* and *Worst*.
I want to know which of these manga takes place first, and what the chronological order of these three is.<issue_comment>username_1: As far as story progression goes (in chronological order), it is *Crows Zero*, *Crows*, *Worst*.
However, *Crows* was the first series that was published (1990-1998) and then *Worst* was the second to be published (2001-2013). *Crows Zero* began after *Worst* (2008-).
There are also other manga series too:
* *Crows Gaiden* (1995-1998)
* *Sono Go no Crows* (2001)
* *Crows Zero 2* (2012-)
Each different series follows a different set of characters.
Keep in mind that *Crows* and *Worst* are the main stories. The other series are all series based on the side characters of the main story.
Upvotes: 2 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: The chronological order would be:
* *Crows Zero*
* *Crows Zero 2*
* *Crows* (manga)
* *Crows Gaiden*
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/16 | 975 | 2,689 | <issue_start>username_0: I've been thinking about whether or not I should start getting the Spice and Wolf manga, or to wait to see if there is a season 3 to the anime. So I am wondering, does the anime closely follow the events in the manga or does it diverge at some point and become more original?
EDIT: Logan M has stated that the anime is sourced from the light novels rather than the manga, so now the initial question is slightly different, I want to know how much difference there is between the manga and the anime.<issue_comment>username_1: Both manga and anime generally follow the novels well, but there are differences between them:
* The two seasons of the anime adapt volumes 1,2,3 and 5 of the novels, skipping volume 4.
* The manga does not skip volume 4, but has yet to catch up with the anime.
Personally, I would suggest you to take a look at everything, it's all awesome :P
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: [username_1's answer](https://anime.stackexchange.com/a/5507/2516) has covered the relation between anime and light novel: **volume 1-3 & 5, skipping 4**. For the detail, according to [Japanese Wikipedia](https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E7%8B%BC%E3%81%A8%E9%A6%99%E8%BE%9B%E6%96%99#%E3%83%86%E3%83%AC%E3%83%93%E3%82%A2%E3%83%8B%E3%83%A1):
* Season 1 adapts volume 1 & 2 of the light novel almost faithfully (+ volume 7's "The Red of the Apple, the Blue of the Sky" on the DVD-exclusive episode 7)
* Season 2 adapts volume 3 & 5, skipping 4 (+ volume 7's "The Wolf and the Amber Melancholy" on the [OVA episode 0](https://myanimelist.net/anime/6007/Ookami_to_Koushinryou_II__Ookami_to_Kohakuiro_no_Yuuutsu))
Given the above fact, **the anime covers volume 1-8 of the manga *with quite heavy modification***. According to [Japanese Wikipedia](https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E7%8B%BC%E3%81%A8%E9%A6%99%E8%BE%9B%E6%96%99#%E6%BC%AB%E7%94%BB):
>
> 1. Beginning of light novel (LN) 1
> 2. Middle of LN 1
> 3. End of LN 1 - Beginning of LN 2
> 4. Beginning - mid of LN 2
> 5. Middle - end of LN 2
> 6. End of LN 2 + LN 7's "The Wolf and the Amber Melancholy" (anime season 2's OVA episode 0)
>
>
>
>
> ---
>
>
> 7. Part of LN 3 + Beginning - mid of LN 4
> 8. End of LN 4 - **Beginning of LN 8 (LN 5-6 are simplified**)
>
>
>
For the manga, you might start from volume 7 instead, for the skipped volume 4 of the light novel.
---
Note: as of [July 2017](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Spice_and_Wolf_chapters), the manga is still on-going and consists of more than 8 volumes. The above list ends at volume 8 which covers volume 5 of the light novel because that's the last volume that got adapted into the anime.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/16 | 1,775 | 6,269 | <issue_start>username_0: This anime is about a world inhabited by apes and there are two kinds of them : the civilized apes living by the sacred sea/lake and uncivilized apes living in the mountain.
The apes cannot travel to the distant city at the other side of the lake/sea since their God will get angry if they get in the water. They'll find at the end that this is lie and they can go wherever they want to.
The civilized apes wear hats all the time, because they're not supposed to show their ears in public.
There are no humans in the anime, so the main character is an ape who fell by accident from the mountain, home of the uncivilized apes, to the city, home of civilized apes. This ape (I forgot his name) came out to be a very clever and intelligent. I don't remember what he did, but I think he started to learn and became a brilliant savant, but I am not sure.
I watched the movie 3 or 5 years ago on TV and I think it was new at the time, but again, I am not sure.
The "style" and the atmosphere of the movie resembles to that of Spirited Away of Miyazaki. Though, it's not a Miyazaki movie.
Anyone knows this great movie ?
Thanks.<issue_comment>username_1: I think this is what u need as per the question.
The story is pretty much similar but this is not a movie, its a proper anime series.
Name : <NAME>
When Specter gets a hold of a Pipo Helmet, he becomes intelligent and starts using monkeys to spread chaos around the world. Using their teleporter and gadgets, Kakeru, Hiroki, Natsumi and the Professor work to capture the monkeys and stop Specter's plans, later joined by virtual girl Charu and mech genius Haruka. It is revealed that Specter's true identity is Natsumi's pet monkey, Kuuta, who was transformed into Specter by a group called the Pipotrons. They host a game in virtual space, challenging Kakeru and his friends for Specter's freedom, but Specter escapes before they get there. The Pipotrons then challenge Kakeru and co to a tournament. Specter eventually learned about the kind things humans have done for monkeys, protects Kakeru and returns to being Kuuta
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: The only thing I could find remotely similar was called "monkey magic", but it's an anime series and I could only find episode clips to see what it was like. Watch out though, there is a live version of the show that is... well it's old and kinda weird.
History (from [Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monkey_Magic_%28TV_series%29)):
>
> Monkey Magic was an anime series that aired in the 1990s based on Journey to the West. To avoid religious implications, the Buddha was named "The Guardian". The show did not perform well and only one season of 13 episodes was made; the pilgrimage had only begun, with the dragon-horse joining the small group and the priest's two other disciples not appearing. Sunsoft produced a PlayStation video game based on the cartoon. Monkey Magic is an incarnation of the famous ancient Chinese novel, Journey to the West, in which it follows the novel's story to a high extent. It had aired in the USA first in 1998, while Japan got it at the end of 1999 of December 25.
>
>
>
Synopsis (from ???):
>
> A very wise but immature and foolish monkey named Kongo, magically blasted out to life from a stone. He was obsessed with learning and a needed to be great so Kongo leaves his "family" on Flower Fruit Mountain in search of ancient knowledge and arcane wisdom. Kong didn't want to just study and learn the mystical arts, but to master the magic Jet Cloud, the first of his great weapons. Kongo later gains mastery of the air and returns to his adopted home just in time. Humans are laying claim to the monkeys` ancestral home. With his Jet Cloud and his newly-learned magical wisdom, Kongo defeats the humans and proclaims himself King of Flower Fruit Mountain. But in the Celestial Heavens, the gods are uneasy. A monkey defeating humans and declaring himself king? That cannot be allowed! They decide the monkeys must be taught a lesson and so they launch an attack on Kongo and all the monkeys of Flower Fruit Mountain.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: I believe that the movie you are looking for is **A Monkey's Tale**.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/xXixS.jpg)
* It's a French Animated Cartoon.
* It's better known as **Le Château Des Singes**.
* It was released in 1999.
* The protagonist is Kom.
>
> Kom- the protagonist, a rebellious, cheeky, but brave young Wonkoo monkey.
>
>
>
* It's story is -
>
> Kom is a member of the Woonkos, a tribe of monkeys who live in a canopy and they live in obsessive fear of falling into a nearby pit, which is inhabited by other monkeys they believe to be demons. Kom refuses to believe these superstitions and claims bravery and is rude to the elder of the Woonkos. However, on the way home, he accidentally falls from the trees into the land below. When there, he meets the Lankoo tribe and finds they are in fact very similar to his own tribe. He befriends Gina, a young maid and Master Martin, the librarian and they help teach him to behave like a Lankoo. The Lankoo king is impressed by his actions, although Gina doesn't like it when he tries too hard for popularity, and briefly forgets her. However, there is also evil afoot. The chancellor Sebastian, the governess and their dim-witted side-kick, <NAME>, are up to evil plans: they will find a way for the King to die and they are poisoning his already sick daughter, <NAME>. The King, along with most of his army, die drowning while attempting to reach the "promised land" on the other side of the poisonous lake when it was frozen. Sebastian believes his plan has worked, but the governess (who was giving the princess the poison) is given it herself by Gina and the one remaining soldier, however it is believed she is tough enough not to die, but will remain a "sleeping ugly". The film ends with Sebastian and Gerard in cages, <NAME> as the new queen and Kom and Gina returning to the land of the Woonkos, while it is clear that the two tribes will unite. It features the song "We Are One" by Westlife.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer] |
2013/10/17 | 1,542 | 5,408 | <issue_start>username_0: I have a few questions regarding this sword recently seen in Naruto manga (Chapter 651).
1st: How was this sword formed? I can see that it doesn't belong to the *[Treasured Tools of the Sage of the Six Paths](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Treasured_Tools_of_the_Sage_of_the_Six_Paths)*. Is this forged or just formed from a special Chakra?
2nd: Does it have special abilities like the *[Sword of Totsuka](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Sword_of_Totsuka)* wielded by Uchiha Itachi?
3rd: Does it have any connections to real-life history? Like the Treasured Tools of the Sage of the Six Paths related to the Chinese classic *[Journey to the West](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Journey_to_the_West)*?
I have done an extensive research, but have not found anything useful. The [wiki](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Sword_of_Nunoboko) contains only its appearance and description from the recent chapter.<issue_comment>username_1: Check out this excellent post from [Amaterasu's Son](http://www.narutoforums.com/showthread.php?t=947456)
>
> Madara once said will cannot be passed down.
>
>
> I propose that he was right to a degree. Obito never met the Rikudo
> Sennin, he never saw him with his own eyes, he never heard his voice
> or touched his heart. Rikudo Sennin couldn't pass down his will to
> him.
>
>
> "His passion and intensity, permeate throughout the blade...you could
> say this blade carries his very essence."
>
>
> Therein lies the problem.
>
>
> Obito has no passion. He has no intensity. He has purpose, he has
> desire, and he has determination. But emotionally? He's an empty husk
> scratching to reclaim his own life as he envisions it.
>
>
> But Obito cannot use that sword. You can't borrow Rikudo Sennin's will
> and passion and subvert it for your own use. If what Obito said was
> absolutely true then that sword breaking was absolutely foreseeable.
> Lest Obito forgets Hagoromo chose his younger son to lead the way to
> the future. Of the little we know about Rikudo Sennin we know that he
> has already rejected Obito and Madara's past thousands of years before
> they were even born. So if it is his essence in that blade, then
> clearly it broke on purpose because it wants Obito to lose.
>
>
> If Obito was simply speaking metaphorically then it broke because he
> does not have the will and emotional vivacity to use such a weapon.
> For a man with no heart and no identity, using a sword that was
> supposedly comprised of passion is completely impossible.
>
>
> Peace.
>
>
>
In other words, the Sage used his sword to create the world, life, friendship, etc. Obito is trying to use the sword to destroy all of that, but the sword simply cannot be used for those purposes. This is why the sword broke.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/1zY2n.png)
UPDATE: I realized this answer isn't entirely answering your question and that is partially because there are no definitive answers to your first 2 questions. Unfortunately, I don't know about Japanese/Chinese history to answer the third.
To answer the first, I believe anyone who has similar powers to the Sage of Six Paths can create one. So far, we have seen Obito wielding Rikudou Sennin's, Madara with his own, and this might be a stretch, but Naruto+Sasuke with their mighty sword.
Basically, the sword is a materialized version of the creator's will. By this, I mean that one of the requirements to make this type of sword is a very powerful will from its owner. I believe the sword Naruto had defeated Obito's sword was only because Naruto's will was stronger than Obito. Similar to what Amaterasu's Son was saying, I think Obito and his sword was not as powerful because the user himself did not have the will of fire.
Now let's talk about the abilities of this sword. All we know is that Obito said the Sage of Six Paths created the world with this sword. Madara's version for Obito also had his will in the sword. So despite not knowing exactly what the abilities are, we know that the sword's abilities will help accomplish their goals / will. <NAME>'s sword was to create the world of peace, so that is what his sword abilities will complement. Although we don't know what exactly Madara's goal is yet, we do know he has some sort of evil plot to control the world. His sword will help him accomplish that goal, which is why he also passed it on to Obito.
Analysis / discussion link to Madara's materialized will [here](http://www.narutoforums.com/showthread.php?t=947534)
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: The answer to your first question is that it was made by pulling the truth-seeking orbs surrounding Obito into the sword form it takes. This makes it formed from special chakra.
Second, all its special abilities come from it being made of the truth-seeking orbs, so see that page for special attributes.
Judging from the lore and legend behind it, and its name, I think it is supposed to be the Naruto equivalent to the Amenonuhoko (literally: heavenly jeweled spear), the weapon Izanagi used to make the world. All Obito's talk about the sword is grandstanding. It's just an awesome sword made from truth-seeking orbs. Naruto and Sasuke broke it by being just that strong and having lots of sage chakra to make that strength effective.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/17 | 701 | 2,260 | <issue_start>username_0: Oda-sensei likes to create important characters that are based off real-life people and/or folklore. The three old Admirals are based off characters from [tale of Momotaro](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Momotar%C5%8D).
I'm curious to know if there is any in Japanese folklore on the two new Admirals:
- Issho (or Isshou) is aka Fujitora (purple tiger)
- "Green Bull," which Doflamingo talks about in Chapter 713.
I tried googling but I got nothing except for [Metamorphic Force](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metamorphic_Force).
Does anyone have a clue or something about what animals (and story) these two new admirals are based off of?<issue_comment>username_1: The story of Momotaro may be related to the old believes of the onmyodo 陰陽道 Yin-Yang Worldview. The direction of bad influence, kimon, is in the ushi-tora (bull tiger) direction. So one of the demons Momotaro is fighting has horns and the other wears a tiger skin.
And the Monkey, Dog and Pheasant are animals in the zodiac, in the opposite heavenly direction from the kimon 鬼門 .
Another source for the oni's image is a concept from China and Onmyōdō. The northeast direction was once termed the kimon (鬼門, "demon gate"), and was considered an unlucky direction through which evil spirits passed. Based on the assignment of the twelve zodiac animals to the cardinal directions, the kimon was also known as the ushitora (丑寅), or "Ox Tiger" direction, and the oni's bovine horns and cat-like fangs, claws, and tiger-skin loincloth developed as a visual depiction of this term.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_2: Fujitora is clearly based off of [Zatoichi](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zatoichi).
>
> Zatoichi at first seems a harmless blind anma (masseur) and bakuto (gambler) who roams around the country, making his living by chō-han (playing dice) as well as giving massages, performing acupuncture and on occasion, singing and playing music; however, secretly, he is also very highly skilled in swordsmanship, specifically Muraku-school kenjutsu and iaido and is equally skilled in the more general sword skills of Japan, as well as Sumo wrestling and kyujutsu
>
>
>
Nothing has been revealed about "Ryokugyu" as of this post.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer] |
2013/10/18 | 1,556 | 6,157 | <issue_start>username_0: According to [this](https://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/4143/what-are-archers-twin-swords-based-off-of), Archer's weapon is based from a real weapon.
In the Holy Grail War, Shiro Emiya saw the servant Archer use those weapons. Then he traced them and used them himself. In the future, he will become the servant Archer and will be using those blades as his weapons.
Isn't it an example of bootstrap paradox? Where did he get the idea to use those weapons in the first place? Did the VN explain this?<issue_comment>username_1: The Archer-EMIYA summoned by Rin is different from Shirou coming from a different timeline where the results of the Holy Grail war were different; the visual novel notes 3 key differences between them:
1. Archer believed that he could Kill Shirou, thus erasing him from ever becoming a Counter Guardian. If Archer and Shirou were the same he would have known well that he would lose.
2. Shirou learns Unlimited Blade Works from Archer during the war (in the Unlimited Blade Works route it's helped by a contract with Rin, while in Heaven's Feel it's helped by Archer's own arm). Archer, however, took ten years of training to set the foundations for Unlimited Blade Works and another ten years to reach to the point of being able to use it.
3. The Shadow caused an undisclosed amount of destruction during the 5th War Archer was involved in. When he first saw it in Heaven's Feel, he put aside his grudge against Shirou and focused on destroying the Shadow as his duty as a Counter Guardian and also in a belief that he could prevent the same destruction again. It's unknown if Archer knew if the Shadow was Sakura or if his twisted life and Counter Guardian ideals (kill one to save many) made him no longer care if destroying The Shadow would result in Sakura's death.
Now, as for Kanshou and Bakuya, they do exist before Archer and Shirou, and their legend remained. However, what they look like was practically lost with the only known description being that Kanshou had a black tortoise shell pattern and Bakuya had a white wave pattern. Their actual shape was derived by Archer himself based on an assumption that they were cast swords common to the time period.
Now, the Projections Archer and Shirou use are inferior to the actual items. With weapons, they need to emulate the experience of that weapon's legends and its history. Shirou just copying "two swords that he admired from a guy he disliked" would make the swords weak, so given time he would probably research the swords and come to the same assumptions as what Archer did, and Archer would have researched the swords as a means to build up his arsenal in Unlimited Blade Works.
Since the true description on their appearance is somewhat lost, Kanshou and Bakuya would be the perfect test weapons on the concept of creating "existing weapons with a new form". This way, even though emulating the experience for the weapons would still make them weaker, being able to improve on them by changing their form and fixing their inherent weaknesses may help them become just as powerful as the originals. I can back this up as I've read somewhere that Archer has modified the design of Kanshou and Bakuya to suit his style so they are more customized.
Upvotes: 3 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Ultimately I think username_1 has the right answer, but I think there are some other relevant details that are worth remembering.
The Throne of Heroes exists outside of time and space, and the "EMIYA" in the throne has access to all events he has experienced during his summonings in all timelines, worlds, and realities. But normally a summoned Servant has more restricted access, coming only with those memorizes that the hero has internalized (and the knowledge the nature of the summoning has granted him, such as the Greater Grail System in Fuyuki). The "memories" of all summonings contained in the throne are likened to books: they're not internal to his spirit, but can be accessed much like you can just take a book off of a shelf and read it to learn what's inside it.
Now, there's something very special about Archer that interacts differently from all of this: he has a Reality Marble. These exist essentially outside the Throne, and is attached to the heroic spirit *as he exists within the Throne*. All summoned versions of him access this exact same reality marble. And his reality marble stores all weapons (and potentially other things, like Rho Aias) he encounters. So in order for FSN Archer to be able to project Kanshou and Byakuya (or Rho Aias, etc.) he needs only for some version of himself in some world's timeline to encounter it, and now they all have access to it, regardless of apparent chronology.
In reality things happen more like username_1 says: rather than witnessing K&B in some fight, Archer is specifically said to have learned of these weapons which were said to be of Noble Phantasm quality but yet no hero was associated with them. These "fit" him better, as the best projections require you to project the skills and abilities of their wielders. The lack of such made K&B easier and simpler to create, as well as sort of fit the theme that EMIYA was "nobody", making them feel more natural and like they were "his".
As an aside, this reality marble is also essential to EMIYA's perspective and spirit warping, leading him to come up with the idea to try to kill (an earlier version of) himself in order to end his own existence. A Reality Marble is the user's inner world made manifest, and the experiences of his summonings impacted his reality marble and effectively carried on their memories to all versions, including the "true" version enshrined in the throne. You can see this by noting how there are significant differences between Shirou's and Archer's uses of Unlimited Blade Works. Archer's looks more apocalyptic and miserable, with a cloudy, ashen sky and large gears. Shirou's tends to have a more hopeful, brighter, bluer sky and far fewer (to no) gears.
[](https://i.stack.imgur.com/t5kFY.jpg)
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/19 | 410 | 1,504 | <issue_start>username_0: I'm looking for an anime that involves a teenage boy who enters a virtual reality world, like the rest of Tokyo. The virtual realty world entered did not have pain, so players could be hurt and not feel anything.
In the story, first he is on a bike that gets into a car accident and the bike is beyond repair. Later, he finds a credit card that uses all three types of currencies in the world. The card has no owner and seems to "hack" the systems. A girl is on a roof and sees the boy "steal" her card. The boy finds a hungry girl and buys her food with the card. A police officer sees the boy purchasing food with a lot of money and sees the card. The police officer attacks the boy.
Does anyone know what this anime is?<issue_comment>username_1: 
I've never seen the show myself, but it sounds a lot like the show [Megazone 23](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megazone_23), which is about a virtual world run by a supercomputer that exists as a modern day (to us, the story is set in the future) Tokyo.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: I think you are looking for "OZ" where the world is faced with problems in reality so sleep capsules were created that enter people into a virtual reality so society can keep moving. (Action Comedy Drama Sci-fi Seinen). OZ (TOKIYA Seigo) is prob what you are looking for since he gits hit by a car while on a bike ad complains about having to buy another.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/21 | 391 | 1,422 | <issue_start>username_0: I know Minato (the fourth Hokage) is of the Namikaze clan, but I have never heard of anyone other than him belonging to the same clan. What is the Namikaze clan's history? Is it part of the Senju clan?<issue_comment>username_1: Namikaze isn't a descendant of Senju. I think it would have been mentioned in the past if it was, just like how it was stated Uzumaki is related to Senju. The past references has been brought up so many times with Kushina having Senju DNA, and therefore Naruto has it too.
As for all the members, we only know of Minato. No other Namikaze member was revealed in the manga. I haven't watched all the fillers, but there might have been another Namikaze person in there.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: >
> The Namikaze clan is well know for their speed, as seen by the most well known Namikaze's Minato. Despite his extensive use of the Flying Thunder God Technique, his speed came natural. Members of the Namikaze Clan are gifted with high level of intelligence. Due to their speed and ability to master any or almost all ninjustu, they became a nearly invincible clan. They were even capable of standing up against the Uchiha and Senju to a certain extent. Prior to Minato becoming the Hokage however, this clan gained no recognition.
>
>
>
There are some other members mentioned in [this page](http://narutofanon.wikia.com/wiki/Namikaze_Clan).
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/21 | 1,051 | 3,748 | <issue_start>username_0: The majority of characters in Attack on Titan have German names. Does this mean they are Europeans? We know Mikasa Ackerman is Oriental. Did the writers avoid describing her as Asian because in the universe they have created, Asia doesn't exist? (The use of word Oriental may be a direct translation, but I'm not sure.)
Obviously the anime is in Japanese, but this surely doesn't mean the characters speak Japanese?
Are characters in Attack on Titan (or any anime) self-aware about the language they speak, or their own race?
How do anime/manga creators explain race and language in their art? Is this a detail that is left out because it has no explanation, or is it an answer of "It's just that way"? Maybe anime are created in a fictional bubble with their own set of rules, and viewers are supposed to suspend disbelief.
I know this maybe a silly and or odd question, but I simply can't wrap my ahead around it.<issue_comment>username_1: The Germanic names (Jaeger, Armin, and so on) lead me to believe that the remaining humans, that we've seen so far, [are descendants of Germans](https://anime.stackexchange.com/a/4620/274) or at least close enough to them to receive a great Germanic influence.
As for Mikasa, her mother was the next-to-last of their Oriental clan, and her father was of a more Western heritage (having the German name Ackerman). The name "Mikasa" has origins in both [Malagasy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malagasy_language) (of Madagascar) and Japanese (the [Mikasa battleship](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_battleship_Mikasa), [Mount Mikasa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Mikasa), or the Mikasa-no-miya[nt. 1][[ref]](http://shingekinokyojin.wikia.com/wiki/Mikasa_Ackerman#Trivia)). Given that she is simply said to be "Oriental"[nt. 2], we can assume the latter, and she is actually Japanese.
As for the language, it's not uncommon for countries and people who would speak little or no Japanese to be native Japanese speakers in fiction (same with English for Western movies and shows). This is generally labelled (in trope-ville) as [Aliens Speaking English](http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/AliensSpeakingEnglish) (which can also be true for human foreigners) or [Common Tongue](http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/CommonTongue), essentially saying, "It's easier for the target audience to understand it if everyone is natively speaking the same language." It explains why Russians exclusively speak English in video games, for example.
**To make it succinct and clear:** It appears that the vast majority of characters are descendants of Germans or similar races, and that they speak Japanese simply because that's the language in which the writer/creator spoke and wished to market it.
>
> **Footnotes**
>
>
> * *Note 1*: Part of the [Imperial House](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperial_House_of_Japan)
> * *Note 2*: 東洋人【とう.よう.じん】 *tōyōjin*, lit. "Asian people, Orientals"
>
>
>
Upvotes: 4 <issue_comment>username_2: If you listen closely to the second opening of the anime (which by the way sounds a lot like an Anthem) most of the singing is done in German. With that in mind, we can say that they're mother tong is German. You can also note the presence of a river running through the city from south to north, this river is most likely the Rhine (but the city must be far away from the sea since they have forgotten about it). This place is also very resourceful in both iron and coal.
With all these elements, I can make a safe (-ish) guess to answer you question: 70% German, 20% French, 10% of other...
I don't know why, but to me, Pixis looks French (and not *only* because he's always got wine with him...)
Hope I helped.
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/21 | 1,083 | 3,972 | <issue_start>username_0: I watched Naruto's fight with Pain the other day, and I don't quite understand how Naruto managed to land a Rasengan on the Deva Path in that sequence of attacks which started with 2 Rasenshurikens.
This is what I have understood so far: Pain deflected first shuriken, then he jumped to dodge the second one flying towards his blind spot. As he landed, he was attacked by numerous Naruto clones, who were camouflaging as rocks with Henge no Jutsu (Transformation Technique), and he deflected all of them with Shinra Tensei yet again. After that, I completely lost track of what was going on and how he managed to land that Rasengan eventually.
Can anyone explain what happened with respect to the five-second interval and how Naruto managed to beat Pain?<issue_comment>username_1: The answer is simple. Naruto is in Sage Mode. When you are in Sage Mode which taught and learned by the toads, the advantages afforded include:
* The user's physical strength, **speed**, stamina, **reflexes**, **perception**
and durability dramatically increase.
* The user's ninjutsu, genjutsu, and taijutsu become more powerful.
* The user can harness the natural energy surrounding them, turning it
into an extension of their body, which increases the reach of their
attacks.
* The user gains the ability to sense Chakra around them.
As I emphasized the speed and reflexes, Naruto can react in a split seconds and took advantage the 5 secs interval and make it work.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_2: What happened is as follows:
* Naruto throws first shuriken, Shinra Tensei deflects it.
* Naruto throws second shuriken, Pain dodged.
* Naruto's Multiple Shadow Clone Technique attempts to attack Pain with all the clones, Shinra Tensei deflects them all.
* Naruto, taking advantage of the 5 seconds it takes him to recharge, flings himself with the aid of 2 clones, and lands the Rasengan straight at him before he can use Shinra Tensei again.
Still not clear? Tell me in the comments :)
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_3: After coming out of Pain's Chibaku Tensei, Naruto first snatched a chakra receiver from the Deva Path, and stabbed himself momentarily to track down Nagato's location using his Sage Mode.
He then created two shadow clones and then a Rasenshuriken using these clones. He also used two smoke bombs for deception. He had already used this trick previously during the battle, when he had first sent a real Rasenshuriken and then his real self disguised as a Rasenshuriken.
Pain began anticipating the same thing to happen. As expected, Naruto sent the first real Rasenshuriken, which pain promptly deflected using Shinra Tensei. However, this time, the second Rasenshuriken was a real one, hidden under the first one as a shadow shuriken. Naruto's two shadow clones also emerged, but Pain was prepared having already seen this trick before (or so he thought). He stabbed the two clones with his chakra receivers, and also dodged the Rasenshuriken.
The purpose of this part of Naruto's plan was to force Pain to use Shinra Tensei, to take advantage of the five second interval during the next part of his plan. It is now revealed that Naruto had previously used the Mass Shadow Clone technique, and then transformed those multiple clones into boulders. Naruto undoes the transformation, aiming to attack Pain with these shadow clones.
However, this doesn't work as expected since Pain's ability returns at the last moment, and he uses the Shinra Tensei to push away Naruto's shadow clones before he can land a direct hit on Pain.
Now Naruto switches to a backup plan, wherein he uses the mass shadow clones as a support for the main body to oppose Shinra Tensei's push. Having used the Shinra Tensei, Pain's five second interval kicks in *again*, during which Naruto finally lands a direct hit on Pain using his Rasengan. Having defeated the Deva Path, he proceeds to meet the original Nagato.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/22 | 661 | 1,703 | <issue_start>username_0: I have been searching for the (Japanese) release date of the Kaze Tachinu (The Wind Rises) Blu-ray.
As U.S. cinema release is in February 2014, so me being in the Netherlands means it might arrive in 2016.
So, when is the Japanese Blu-ray release?<issue_comment>username_1: As near as I can tell, there is (as of 22 Oct 2013) no announced release date for the Blu-ray/DVD version of *The Wind Rises*. However, the recent history of Ghibli films suggests a pattern.
```
FILM IN THEATERS HOME VIDEO RELEASE
Arrietty July 2010 June 2011
From Up on Poppy Hill July 2011 June 2012
The Wind Rises July 2013 _________
```
As the astute reader will infer, this suggests that *The Wind Rises* will probably be released (on home video) in June 2014 or thereabouts.
---
**UPDATE:** *The Wind Rises* will be available on home video (Blu-ray and DVD) in Japan [on **June 18, 2014**](http://www.amazon.co.jp/%E9%A2%A8%E7%AB%8B%E3%81%A1%E3%81%AC-Blu-ray-%E5%AE%AE%E5%B4%8E%E9%A7%BF/dp/B00J2NX8NW/ref=sr_1_1?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1396295586&sr=1-1&keywords=%E9%A2%A8%E7%AB%8B%E3%81%A1%E3%81%AC), just as I surmised.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: You should know that the Netherlands does have a theatrical release before username_1's predicted DVD/Bluray release (and long before 2016). [IMDB](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2013293/releaseinfo?ref_=tt_ql_9) says that you should be able to view *Kaze Tachinu* on May 1, 2014.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: can buy here and get it shipped <http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/VWBS-1529>
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/23 | 303 | 979 | <issue_start>username_0: I've been arguing with my friend for a while about this.
But is Beedrill classified as a wasp or a bee Pokemon?
Its name is indeed "Bee"drill, but its shape is one of a wasps'.
<issue_comment>username_1: Beedrill is a bee. It's classified as such in the Pokedex and its in the name as well.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: Beedrill is a dual-type Bug/Poison Pokemon. In your form of question of if he is a Bee or a Wasp, he is indeed a Bee.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: Beedrill is called Poison Bee Pokemon, but Kingdra is called Dragon Pokemon when it's clearly a seahorse. I'd say it's based off a wasp, due to the fact that its main feature is a sting. Bees sting once then die, but wasps can sting as many times as they want, just like Beedrill. Hence the 3 stingers.
Upvotes: 3 |
2013/10/23 | 947 | 3,112 | <issue_start>username_0: At the end of *Sword Art Online* (episode 25, ~21:40), Kirito says something in the presence of Leafa, Yui, and Asuna.
 
Despite being shown his lips moving, there is no sound and so the only hint is how his lips move. Since my knowledge of Japanese is far from extensive, I don't have the ability to read what his lips are saying.
What is it that Kirito said to the others in this final episode?<issue_comment>username_1: From the corresponding scene in the light novel (volume 4, chapter 9; p. 308):
>
> キリトは透き【すき】通った視線で一瞬【いっしゅん】アインクラッドを見つめ、しばしうつむいた。その唇【くちびる】が動き、かすかな声で誰かの名前を呼んだようだったが、聞き取れなかった。
>
>
>
Translated,
>
> With his penetrating gaze, Kirito glanced at Aincrad for a moment, and then cast his eyes downward. His lips moved. It seemed as though he had said somebody's name in a faint voice - but [Yui] couldn't hear him.
>
>
>
In light of this, it is clear that Kirito said **somebody's name**. It seems, however, that the author chose to leave the identity of the person ambiguous.
I believe that the standard inference among the SAO fanbase is that Kirito said either **Sachi**'s name or **Kayaba Akihiko**'s name. This seems like a reasonable guess to me, though I'm not sure if there's any other evidence supporting it.
Upvotes: 6 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: If I had to guess it would probably be
カヤバ明彦ありがとう
Which translated means "Thank you <NAME>" I've played it over and over again and that's all I can get put of it.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_3: Three answers that may be what Kirito said in the season finale
1. Something about Sachi's death and the guild
2. From the creator of the game <NAME>kihiko
3. Said something from his friends
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_4: In addition to the other answers I would add some thoughts specifically on the anime.
**Foundation**
While I am not sure if it's the case, I would think that the animation was created in conformity with the authors ideas (i.e. they have decided jointly on this important scene). This means we can take those reactions as according to the canon, thus we can conclude more from them in addition to what is known from the manga.
**Facts**
* Kiritos eyes are not directed at the girls (they are floating slightly above), his head is tilted even or slightly downwards.
* The girls are paying attention to him once he speaks up
* They both had a (positively) surprised look on their face which did not change during the scene.
* Yui also seemd slightly surprised, but immediately became content and pleased.
* There was no blushing or other signs.
* Kirito ended the scene by speaking "Alright, here we go!" and attention was no longer on him (they were flying towards Aincrad)
**Interpretation**
Judging from Yui's behavior earlier, one could guess that he made a positive remark about (the relationship with) Asuna (pleasing Yui), while at the same time original enough to surprise both girls.
Upvotes: 2 |
2013/10/23 | 582 | 2,031 | <issue_start>username_0: In the first arc of *Sword Art Online* (episode 14, ~9:40), the boss whom Kirito fights activates something in a system console, and then a notice is displayed: "Chaged[sic] into Immortal Object".
However, this message does not seem to make sense. Despite Kirito's request,
>
> Asuna is slain by a one-hit KO as she attempts to defend him, and Kirito is consequently killed as well. His remaining consciousness then gives one more blow to Heathcliff, who dies. Thus, it is clear that none of these three characters was given immortal status.
>
>
>
Was this an error, in that the message was supposed to refer to this boss *removing* his own immortality? If not, what exactly did this message signify?<issue_comment>username_1: As you say yourself:
>
> Was this an error, in that the message was supposed to refer to this boss removing his own immortality? If not, what exactly did this message signify?
>
>
>
While googling, I came across some posts on [a forum](http://forums.animesuki.com/showthread.php?t=115261&page=3) which seems to say that it is a wrongly translated message and that it should say something like: "*immortality status changed*".
I'm not sure if it's accurate but it seems to tell the exact same thing.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: That picture is false. I just rewatched that episode (episode 14 "The End of the World") and Akihiko Kayaba, or Heathcliff, is already immortal. He changed into a MORTAL object, so he and Kirito could have a fair battle. So, to answer your question, nothing was changed into an immortal object, and Heathcliff did, in fact, get rid of his own immortality. I believe the site you watched this on is a false source.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_3: It was supposed to be "Changed into immortal object" also notice the ui is RED this time.When immortal object effect was on,it was PURPLE.Thus this means something like the immortal effect is disabled.
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/24 | 267 | 906 | <issue_start>username_0: I'm on episode 5. So they avoid her to not run into bad luck and stuff... but that means they see her (even though Misaki said they couldn't) so does that mean she's alive? Or is she dead?<issue_comment>username_1: Can't post this as a comment, since spoilers. Big spoilers.
>
> No, she is not dead. She's labelled as the classroom's "one that doesn't exist" student in order to make up for the extra, but she isn't the one that's dead. She happens to have the ability to see the one that's dead, and tries to tell Kouichi who it is before being interrupted.
>
>
>
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: >
> Death is not kind. It's dark, black as far as you can see, and you're all alone.
> - <NAME>
>
>
>
Her status is alive, so she isn't dead, but she was labeled by her classmates as "The one who does not exist". So what I'm saying is, she is alive
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/24 | 734 | 2,534 | <issue_start>username_0: **Alert: This post contains spoilers. If you are not up-to-date to Naruto's manga, don't read it.**
At chapter 651 of Naruto's manga, during the fight against Obito, Naruto called Shikamaru, Lee, Ino, Kiba and the others to join the fight and help him:
But what kind of jutsu did Naruto use to call them? Is he using the abilities of Yamanaka's clan or his own Kyuubi's chakra has this kind of power too?<issue_comment>username_1: Recall when Naruto's feelings were relayed to everyone that he was sharing chakra with? That is his method of communication. Sharing the kyuubi chakra and transferring it to other shinobi establishes a link that lets them share thoughts with each other.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: I think the answer *can be* the combination of the two:
* [Mind Body Transmission Technique](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Mind_Body_Transmission_Technique) from [Yamanaka](http://naruto.wikia.com/wiki/Yamanaka)
* And Naruto's Chakra present to them.
My theory is that Ino consistently connecting them using her Mind Body Transmission Technique from the start. And since they have Naruto's chakra, they even share the feeling not just the picture (or the message) they want to convey to everyone. Also I remember on Chapter 645, Naruto is in combined Sage and Kyubbi mode. Naruto's *Biju mode* is so powerful that he can sense the "dark feeling/hatred" from something or someone.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_3: This part of the manga shows Sakura's thought's being relayed over to Ino. So if I were to draw an analogy, then I could safely say that the same is happening to Naruto and the others, like they are in a large broadcast room.
This part shows Shikamaru's thoughts being relayed over to the Second Hokage.
And finally this part shows Naruto and others conversing in their minds.
However it has been previously shown that the Yamanaka Clan's Mind Body Techinque can be used for a two way communication via thoughts, so this must be using Ino's technique and not Naruto's chakra.
Finally, Ino herself mentions that Naruto's thoughts and feeling's are being relayed over using her jutsu.
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer] |
2013/10/25 | 712 | 2,552 | <issue_start>username_0: At 15:27 in episode 4 of Golden Time, is that Nana the same as one of the mains in NANA?
The girl was decked out in a punk rock outfit, lugged around a guitar and gave the characters tickets to a show she's performing at. She called herself Nana. I was wondering if it's supposed to be the same Nana as one of the mains in the NANA series?
<issue_comment>username_1: Either inspired by or the same character, it seems. Nothing I'm seeing online gives her a name besides "NANA-sempai" in all capitals like the NANA manga.
Note: Romi Park voices the original Nana. The Nana in Golden Time is voiced by Satomi Satou.
Upvotes: 3 <issue_comment>username_2: it seems like the character from Golden Time is copying NANA, because on wiki (Russian) it is said that Tada Banri read the NANA manga while hospitalized.
Upvotes: 1 <issue_comment>username_3: I would imagine it's a parody of the character, they look very similar (ignoring style differences) and share the same names (also in capitals like the manga/anime's title as mentioned in another answer) and are both punk/rock musicians.
Otherwise it's a large coincidence, but I would imagine it was intentional, as Nana is a very well known series.
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_4: It's meant as an Easter Egg and inside joke similar to Khoto Hirano in High School of the Dead having the name of the creator of Hellsing and the character acting and looking somewhat like Alucard in moments of extreme violence.
Within anime and other visual media there are references like these everywhere if you look for them.
Upvotes: 0 <issue_comment>username_5: I always thought some of the characters were parodies in themselves. She is no exception.
Another example, which strikes resemblance in my opinion is "2D-Kun", who resembles <NAME> from "The World God Only Knows". Both only like fictional 2D characters and have similar appearances.
Upvotes: -1 <issue_comment>username_6: I also think it's interesting how Linda-Sempai's real name can be nicknamed Nana. That's what her brothers fiancé called her. And on some wiki pages, they actually refer to her as Nana.. not even Linda! Also Linda and Nana are close friends and are always in the apartment together. Another funny coincidence as well!!
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/25 | 404 | 1,569 | <issue_start>username_0: In Episode 24 and 25 of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Ed, Ling Yao and Envy are trapped in a sub-dimension that was created for storing everything that Gluttony has ever swallowed.
Envy told that there's no escape, but Ed has found out something. What did he do exactly?
As far as I can get, he did human transmutation to open the Gate of Truth and by this, he can escape. But how is it possible? Since the sub-dimension is separated from the actual world.
Also, why Ed didn't lose anything when he opened the Gate again? Why Envy and Ling neither?<issue_comment>username_1: Gluttony was created to be a second Gate of Truth but is only a failed copy. Ed had the idea that because they came there through the failed gate, they must be able to get back trough the real gate. It's just like creating a door back to Gluttony.
To open the Gate of Truth, he used Envys Philisopher's Stone and the old parts of the Xerxes mural to make this special human transmutation. The sacrifice for opening the gate was a soul of the Philisopher's Stone, which thanked him afterwards (because he freed the soul).
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: They didn't lose anything because Ed used the philosopher's stone. To create copies of themselves in the real world and transfer their souls to the copy of bodies he created.
So, he had to pass through the gate of truth for deleting his old self from gluttony.
Envy and Lin must also have passed through the original gate.
Ed could have brought back his limbs that moment.
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/25 | 291 | 1,151 | <issue_start>username_0: Whitebeard had a clear medical condition and it seemingly wasn't just old age. What was it, and why does he have it?
What did it impact?<issue_comment>username_1: Gluttony was created to be a second Gate of Truth but is only a failed copy. Ed had the idea that because they came there through the failed gate, they must be able to get back trough the real gate. It's just like creating a door back to Gluttony.
To open the Gate of Truth, he used Envys Philisopher's Stone and the old parts of the Xerxes mural to make this special human transmutation. The sacrifice for opening the gate was a soul of the Philisopher's Stone, which thanked him afterwards (because he freed the soul).
Upvotes: 4 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: They didn't lose anything because Ed used the philosopher's stone. To create copies of themselves in the real world and transfer their souls to the copy of bodies he created.
So, he had to pass through the gate of truth for deleting his old self from gluttony.
Envy and Lin must also have passed through the original gate.
Ed could have brought back his limbs that moment.
Upvotes: -1 |
2013/10/26 | 1,236 | 4,860 | <issue_start>username_0: This is the final scene of the first episode of Cowboy Bebop. Right before this gif starts, Spike was gazing into space from the window.
The following events depicted in this gif are contradicting:
* *First, Jet rather slowly floats down from the ladder to stand on the floor steadily*. It's because they are in space that he was floating, but his approaching footsteps can be heard, which means he's wearing some magnetic boots which let him stick to the floor.
* *Jet is holding a cigarette, from which the smoke goes off vertically upwards, away from the floor* (like it would on Earth).
* *Jet has a pair of sunglasses hanging downwards from his apron*. So there's either artificial gravity on the ship, or the glasses are being held really tight in this position.
* *Jet then throws the cigarette to Spike, and it floats in the air like it would in space, smoke still going towards the ceiling*. Maybe the ventilation is designed so that the air flows from the floor towards ceiling.
* *Spike then catches the cigarette and its smoke continues going upwards, whilst the smoke cloud that Spike exhales just floats onwards without changing its general direction* This means it's not the ventilation that makes smoke go where it goes.
This is really confusing. I get that such stuff can be easily overlooked in anime, but the cigarette was clearly floating just now, flying in a straight line, so I'm not buying all of it. What is known about the gravity on Bebop?<issue_comment>username_1: The Bebop uses centrifugal force to generate "gravity". It has a rotating cylinder which is where the crew spend much of their time when in space. It is shown from both inside the ship and outside the ship, and in a few episodes, it is shown that when the cylinder stops spinning, the people inside that portion of the ship suddenly start to float.
Presumably, there would be no apparent gravity in the portions of the ship which do not rotate when the ship is not thrusting. When the ship is thrusting (accelerating), then the entire ship would experience a force similar to gravity along the axis of thrust.
Upvotes: 5 [selected_answer]<issue_comment>username_2: The gravity on the ship is somewhat inconsistent. However, it is useful to keep in mind that there are actually two systems used on the Bebop for attachment to hard surfaces; gravity and magnets (Such as seen in "Honky-Tonk Woman").
The Bebop, at least in theory, generates apparent gravity by rotating, at least part of the ship (see "Toys in the Attic"). How this fits in with the stationary appearance of the Bebop in orbit, I couldn't really say.
Gravity on the command deck, as you alluded to, is somewhat inconsistent in the show. In the opening episodes, only Spike and Jet appear to have gravity. As the show went on however, more objects on the bridge appear to experience gravity - shogi pieces, and Ein being prime examples. However, looking at the Bebop, the command deck is actually in the *opposite* orientation to be experiencing apparent gravity due to centripetal force - if this was the cause of the gravity in it, Spike/Jet would be walking upside down, and there would have to be two control consoles; one on the ceiling and one on the floor, for when landing on a planet.
Here's my rather generous theory:
The Bebop has artificial gravity in the living quarters of the ship, which it accomplishes by rotating its interior fore-deck independently of the rest of the ship, explaining the lack of apparent rotation of the Bebop itself. In the rear of the rear of the ship however, "gravity" is generated by magnetism. This explains how Jet's tendency to fix the ships in 0-g conditions in the hanger deck (if not Faye's ability to jump and land on her ship, and Ein); it also means that during "Toys in the Attic", Spike was disabling a magnetic system of artificial gravity in the rear, as well as the rotation of the front living quarters, to float the fridge out of the airlock.
Fun Fact: Based on this, the nuclear reactor powering the Bebop is either in the (rotating) foredeck; or Jet does 0-G Bonzai. Personally, I'm hoping for the latter.
*This has clearly bugged me more than I thought. :P*
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_3: The gravity is generated by a centrifugal force. The floor pulls objects to its surface. The smoke from the cigarette is drawn to the center of the centrifuge.
But when the cigarette is thrown, it becomes free of the simulated gravity, and begins to act as if it was in micro gravity. This is also why when he jumps to the floor from the ladder, he appears to be in micro gravity. Until he makes contact with the floor and thus the centrifuge, he is in a micro gravity environment.
The smoke rising from his cigarette is an indication of him spinning.
Upvotes: 0 |
2013/10/26 | 270 | 980 | <issue_start>username_0: I have heard different theories like her mother was a cat demon, she has a kudo no one else has, or the cat is a really advanced gigai. I would really like to know if any of these are true and if not what is the real explanation for it?<issue_comment>username_1: There is no definitive answer to this and any attempts at an to answer this would be speculative at most. It was never explained in neither the manga nor the anime.
From the [wiki](http://bleach.wikia.com/wiki/Yoruichi_Shih%C5%8Din):
>
> ...While it is ***unknown*** how she obtained her cat transformation, she appears to prefer spending most of her time in it....
>
>
>
Upvotes: 2 <issue_comment>username_2: It is never told why she can do this. But it has something to do with her leaving the Soul Society. It might have been the only way she was able to get out. She was the form of a cat for 100 years. She is the only known one to be able to do this.
Hope this helped!
Upvotes: 1 |