Seriwaza Kamo's Rurouni Kenshin : Eba Onawado Joutei FAQ
(Rurouni Kenshin Journey Onwards)
[email protected]
========================================================
Last Updated February 3rd 2001
- Added HUGE coverage of Rurouni Kenshin Seijiwata Otacon Festival!
- Added new characters "Billy the Gun", "Katsura Sogetsu", "De Silver",
"Eiji Hajime"
- Finished all #18 chapters of Jump Book 2. Anxiously awaiting book 3!
- Major update to character files; now includes all the new moves and
techniques they performed (thanks to [email protected])
Update January 2nd 2001
- Students of Onijin Sanjyou and Emerald added to bios page
- Added chapters #10 - #12 from book 2 "Fateful meeting at Sumiyoshi
Temple" which officially begins the Osaka Arc. Su-ba-ra-shi! ^_~
- More comments on the RKJO animation, including confirm release dates
Update November 14th 2000
- Added chapters #7 - #9 from book 1 "Journey Onwards". I smell an
Osaka Arc!
- Added Watsuki's free talk for book 1.
- Added gods of swords "Basaragi Shimabuya", "Sogetsu Gen'ai" and
"Onijin Sanjyou" to the bios page
- FAQ section updated
Update September 29th 2000
- Added chapters #4 - #6 from book 1 Journey Onwards"
- New FAQ section
Update September 10th 2000
- An internet first! The start of this FAQ on the sequel to legendary
Ruroken, Journey Onwards. Currently, like before, Shonen Jump! is
publishing the series chapter-by-chapter, with a manga out every
nine chapters; that is, every two months. I've received the first
book entitled "Journey Onwards", and did a plot summary for them.
*Personal Note*
Here we are at the beginning a new era of Kenshin. After four years
of break from his work, Nobuhiro Watsuki returns to what he should
be rightfully doing, giving us more Kenshin! The sequel project,
Rurouni Kenshin Journey Onwards (RKJO) manga began early January
2000, and featured Kenshin and gang and they entire the late meiji
era, where modern guns and soldiers have more or less made samurai
a thing of the past. But there's still plenty of adventures to be
had for our gang!
Good news Ruroken fans! The newest issue of Shonen Jump has announced
the production Rurouni Kenshin Journey Onwards Project; an anime
adaptation of the current run RKJO manga. It's tentative TV release is
10th March 2002 on Channel 25 NHK at 9:00am just like RK before. But
it's going be a long time before we can see it over here. Gak-kari! ;_;
As we speak, the manga moves into it's fourth J-Book. Arc-wise, here
is the order at which the general events will take place (info from
the Kenshin Seijiwata Festival) :-
1) Osaka Arc - General character introduction, villains are the anti-
foreigner group. Kenshin, Yahiko and gang gets caught up in the mess
when the "villians" seize the British Embassy and hold the whole
family there hostage (based on a true historical event, apparently).
In a little twist of history, Kenji and Naru gets caught inside, and
the gang leader Sanjyou's good friend Seijyurou gets called in as a
negotiator of sorts. Ends when a psychotic gunslinger Billy the Gun
rushes in and kills almost everybody, leaving only Kenji, Naru and
Emerald (the ambassidor's daughter) alive. Just when they are about
to reach an agreement too. That bastard!
2) Seven Wells Arc - A short six chapter arc. Basically a historical
recount of the eight ninja clans story. The main protagonist here is
Aoshi, who has to settle a dispute between the ninja clans during
their annual meeting in the Seven Wells City in Osaka. Introduces
Gen'ai and Katsura Sogetsu as new characters.
3) Okinawa Arc - Due to an arguement with Kenshin, Kenji runs away from
home with Naru. Ends up in Okinawa, and soon the WHOLE Ruroken cast
(yes, everybody) congregates there for one big beach reunion party.
Spanish pirates pick this time to attack (bad for them) and in the
confusion Kenji and Naru gets captured and sent to the wild wild
west as slaves.
4) Frontier Arc - Kenshin and gang pursue their captive kids all the
way to the new world. Don't ask me what happens here, even Watsuki
isn't here yet!
*Bios*
*******Returing from RK*******
Himura Kenshin
- Kenshin is actually no longer the hero of RKJO, since he lost his
use of his Hiten-Mitsurugi-Ryu in his fight with Enishi. But he still
retains use of his god-like speed, and used it to defeat Yahiko in
the first chapter. He looks generally the same, except for that few
streaks of white hair that appeared when he thought Enishi killed
Kaoru. He rejoins the group midway through the Osaka Arc. His main
weapon now is yet another unbreakable wooden stick, by the way. Like
father like son. ^_^
New Moves :-
1) Kaze Ryu Sen - A weaker version of his old move Ryu Tsui Sen.
Just like before, minus the spinning.
2) Kuzu Kaze Ryu - A weaker version of his Kuzu Ryu Sen. Still hits
nine points, but each blow paralyzes that particular spot, does
not kill.
3) Kaizou Mei Sen - A weaker version of his Ryu Mei Sen. Creates only
one huge soundwave, but that's enough, isn't it?
Kamiya Kaoru
- Kaoru is now staying with Kenshin in the outskirts of Kyoto (where he
and Tomoe used to stay, say didn't he burn it down?). She's also a
happy mother of one, and enjoys bullying Kenshin and Kenji into doing
all the house chores - so what else is new?
Sagara Sanosuke
- Sano has tamed down with his age. He now appears in a traditional giri
wear. Most of the start of RKJO he's just there to bail his daughter
Naru out of trouble when she starts a fight. He's still a mean fighter,
though nowhere near the level he was when he fought Inui Banjin. I've
not seen it yet, but reports show that he has successfully enhanced his
arsenal of moves. Hanging around with Anji so much has it's advantages,
apparently! ^_-
New Moves :-
1) Futae no Kiwami - Now he can do it with both hands, and, get this,
his head! But against the tougher enemies it's quite useless.
2) Juumanken no Sano - Translated as "Sano's thousand punches", this
move is the "deadliest martial arts move ever created" according
to Sanosuke. Unfortunately it's a joke move since he never seems
to pull it off for one reason of another.
Myojin Yahiko
- Yahiko is arguebly the main hero of RKJO, at least from what I've read
so far. His fighting technique Yahiko Ganryuu (Yahiko self taught) is
perhaps the deadliest style so far, having the advantage of altering
his maneuvers in mid-combat to suit the battle situation. He wields
Kenshin's Sakaba as his weapon (see chapter #1 to find out why). He
is 21 years old at the start of RKJO. He's got tons of new moves, but
none of them have a name yet (he keeps refining them as he fights!).
He has his own group, the Yahiko Gumi, which consists of Tsubame,
Ayame, Suzume, Soujirou and Katsura.
Takani Megumi
- Megumi still operates the clinic after the death of Doctor Genzai,
assisted by Suzume. She has a bizarre affection for her daughter Naru,
wanting Naru to be her "little doll". Obviously, she gets real mad
when she finds out what a tomboy Naru can be. Like Kaoru, she bullies
hubby Sano into doing all the house chores.
Hajime Saitou
- Saitou is now the chief superintendant of the police. Other than the
fact that he's grown an ugly mustache, he's the same old Saitou. His
age has weakened his gatotsu though, as shown when he gets trashed by
Kenji in chapter #3. Even though his rank is much higher, he still
goes off snooping by himself a whole lot. No new moves.
Hajime Eiji
- Saitou's adopted son and the inheritor of the Gatotsu. He makes an
appearance in the Okinawa Arc. He'll probably play a bigger role later.
Sawagejo Chou
- Saitou's second in command finally makes an appearance. Now much of
a difference here after ten years, but he's dressed up much better
now. Still likes to keep one of his eyes closed at all times. Does not
appear to do much fighting this time round.
Ayame & Suzume
- Those two adorable granddaughters of Dr. Genzai are all grown up now,
though they still look pretty much the same. Suzume stays in the
clinic to help Megumi while Ayame takes care of Kamiya dojo with Yahiko.
Somewhere along the missing years, Ayame learns the Kamiya technique,
while Suzume turns into a carbon copy of Misao! So far neither of them
have showed any original moves. They have a weird habit of daring each
other into doing stupid things, for some reason.
Sanjou Tsubame
- Older and even prettier, she operates Tae's restaurant as always. Still
Yahiko's girl. She is always annoyed that Yahiko would travel around
very often and not visit her for weeks. Eventually, Tsubame decides to
go travelling with Yahiko since she decided she won't be much of a burden.
Yeah right - shades of Kenshin and Kaoru?
Shinomori Misao
- Misao and Aoshi are hitched at the start of RKJO, though no kids yet.
She's taking care of the Oniwabanshu dojo. She looks vastly different
though, having a long braid hair and wearing a kimono.
Shinomori Aoshi
- Like Misao, he stays in the Oniwabanshu dojo. He's much more sedated
as he was before, wearing a modernized business suit when he first
appears in chapter #1. He now works for the government, investigating
anti-government movements.
Okina
- Would you believe this old hack is still alive? He appears briefly in
chapter #1. Bugs the ladies around Kyoto, but not much of a use otherwise.
Seijyuro Hiko
- All the Hiko's of the past have always been one of the four hiryuutenkens.
The current Hiko is a close friend to Sanjyou, and he travels to Osaka
to talk him out of going against the government's foreigner stance. He
makes his grand return in J-Book #3 (heck, he's even the coverguy).
Seta Soujirou
- A much older Soujirou returns to Tokyo to kick-start the events leading
to the Osaka arc. Still looking pretty much the same, he is almost dead
by the time he reaches Megumi's clinic. Soon you find out he was ambushed
by a mysterious fighter that uses the same moves that his former master
Shishio uses. During the battle, he was given a poison that only the
Takani family knows how to cure. He eventually goes travelling with Yahiko.
New Moves :-
1) Shin Shukuchi - Just like his old Shukuchi, but he moves sideways as
well as forwards, confusing the hell out of his enemies.
2) Ishin Tenbu - Gee, everybody is going the way of the non-lethal attacks!
This move is basically a non-lethal Shukuchi - he goes into his god-like
speed then delivers a stunning shoulder block.
3) Kaihou Shukuchi - His coolest move yet. He uses does his Shukuchi move
except he travels in circles around his enemy, making it impossible to
predict which direction he will attack from. Usually follows it with his
Shun Ten Satsu for an instant kill.
Yukyuzan Anji
- He appears briefly in chapter #1 as Sano's drinking buddy. Naru looks up to
him. Now wears a traditional buddhist gown, though he is still huge. He
freely walks in and out of his jail cell where he has spent the last ten
years. A rather unusual reunion occurs with him and Soujirou which is
hilarious, by the way (read J-Book #4).
Tsukayama Yutarou
- Makes an appearance in #1. Thanks to the influence of Otowa, he wields
a rapier now. He gets defeated by Yahiko in a friendly match when the
pair meets on the road to Tokyo. He's actually more of a guest appearance
than anything.
Tsunan Tsukioka
- Still a reporter and pro-bomb expert. He now wears a business suit and
glasses, and makes an appearance in chapter #8.
Yukishiro Enishi
- Our very own nerves of insanity returns, not quite as insane though. He
guess-stars (sort of) in the upcoming Okinawa Arc. He's quite harmless
now though. And yes, he still carries Tomoe diary with him. Eventually
gets recaptured by Saitou.
Inui Banjin
- Also returns briefly in the Okinawa Arc. You can imagine what happens
when he and Sano bump into each other again! Inui suffers yet another
embarassing defeat.
*******New to RKJO*******
Personal note : The following information is translated from the bios given
by Shonen Jump #3024 and #3025. For more images go to Shonen Jump's website
at http://www.jump.ne.jp/. Newer characters are obtained from the Jump
Festival pamphlets.
Himura Kenji
- Kenshin's son, a super-deformed Kenshin if you may. Inherits most of his
father's traits (right down to the ORO~!) and looks, minus the long hair.
But for some reason he has a strange mental problem as shown in chapter #2
where he suddenly sees dead animals all over the field (I see dead animals
^_~). His style is the Tenkyu Hitomane, or the Heaven Copy. It is an inborn
ability to study and reproduce any fighting style. He first exhibits this
ability when in a battle with Saitou, when he suddenly switches to using
the gatotsu in mid-fight. He seems to know, or least can mimic the
Hiten-Mitsurugi-Ryu, since he can attack with the Do-Ryu-Sen. His weapon is
a seemingly unbreakable wooden stick. His moves are all copies of other
people's move, though not quite 100%.
Takani Naru
- Daughter of Sanosuke and Megumi. Wild and extremely tomboyish, she best
resembles Uru from Saber Marionette. For a young girl, she is impossibly
strong and fast. Combined with a double pistols that she uses, she's
probably the most dangerous character in RKJO. When she first meets Kenji
in Kyoto (chapter #7) she calls him "Sudou-chan" (short boy) but is
instantly struck in awe when she finds out his speed and strength surpasses
hers. She gets her guns from Emerald, by the way.
New Moves :-
1) Naru Kyaku - A silly kick that makes people laugh, but has a surprising
strength to it. If she misses she falls flat on her face.
2) Choten Naru - When she gets her trademark silver pistols from Emerald
near the end of the Osaka Arc this is her first pistol-related move.
She jumps and fires her pistols to the ground simultaneously to give an
added height to her jump. In mid-air she starts shooting like crazy at
anything on the ground.
Emerald Davids
- A young English girl, Emerald first meets Kenji at the beginning of book 2 or
chapter #10. She seems to be a typical naive English royalty type. She takes
on a liking for Kenji immediately, much to Naru's chagrin. She is a arc
character i.e. only appears within one arc.
Basaragi Shimabuya
- Seen only in brief flashback, he is one of the four legendary Hiryuutenken
(God of Swords). Like Kenji, he uses Tenkyu Hitomane. He wields three swords
around his waist, since he knows how to use the Uru Senin (whirlwind dance
technique) and the Usenken (Piercing longsword technique). He is also huge!
Has not appeared yet, except in Kenji's nightmares.
Sogetsu Gen'ai
- An old ninja master who is one of the four Hiryuutenken. His used to be the
head trainer for eight ninja schools (including the Oniwabanshu) and the
Shinsengumi. His Usenken (piercing longsword technique) was observed by
Saitou as a young man, who then developed it into the gatotsu. He is known
to have speed surpassing god-like speed. These days he is a simple fisherman
living in the Osaka outskirts. Has a grandson who is unfortunately a
girl-freak. He is the main villain of the Seven Wells mini-arc, but soon
becomes a good guy.
Sogetsu Katsura
- Gen'ai's spoilt brat of a grandson. He's 20 years old, and has learnt a good
chunk of his grandfather's ninjitsu techniques. In fact, he has his own
variation to the Usenken, the Usenken Nari. But when he's not fighting, he's
quite busy going after girls. Soon to be a new member of Yahiko Gumi. Both he
and his grandpa appear in the Seven wells mini-arc.
New Moves :-
1) Usenken Nari - He wields a VERY long and thin katana called the Usentou.
Because of it's length, he must rest the halfway point of the blade on his
finger, resembling the gatotsu pose. Because of that finger, he can guide
his katana to any pinpoint location on the body very quickly, giving him
increased accuracy. That's really the basis of the Usenken Nari.
2) Kan Ninjitsu - A series of ninja maneuvers.
Onijin Sanjyou
- Another one of the four Hiryuutenken, Onijin Sanjyou mixes sorcery with sword
to produce a unique style called the Shiyotsu-Kami-Tai, the Four Gods Element
Attack. He has four students whom he teaches one element style to each. His
student of Okibi-Kami-Tai or blazing fire element attack is Shishio, whom
he saved after he was burnt alive. Shishio then tried, and though he did,
kill Sanjyou. Afterwards Sanjyou trained another samurai to use the
Okibi-Kami-Tai, Fuuma. Together this gang forms a resistance group called the
Shohatsu Sen against foreigners. After his plans are messed up by Kenshin
and gang, in desperation he seizes the British Embassy and holds the
ambassidor's family hostage.
- Hanamaru-Shiyotsu-Kami-Tai - A powerful combination move. He performs
Raissen-Geki-Yotenkou, Tsun Hayo, Tsushin Kaze then Kaze no Okibi one
after the other. So far no one, not even Billy, can dodge all four moves.
- Togematsu-Shiyoutsu-Kami-Tai - A stationary elemental combination. He
fires Jutamou Geyser, Tsun Tatsumi, Resshin Tetsu and Susano no Hurricane
one after the other in no particular order. Devastating to any enemy near
him.
Yagami Fuuma
- A punkish rocker look-a-like. He is the student of Sanjyou and member of the
Shohatsu Sen, and knows how to use the Blazing Fire Sword techniqu,
Okibi-Kami-Tai. He is proud and cocky.
Moves :-
- Jutamou Hakimi - Sets his blade on fire then does a spinning slash upwards
creating a spiral of flame. Shishio also knows this move, but he calls it
something else.
- Jutamou Geyser - Bashes his sword to his ground, creating a large geyser
wave in front him. Yes, he yells "GEYSER!" in English even! A first for
Watsuki, I guess. ^_-
- Kaze no Okibi - His most powerful and coolest move. Resembles the Ryu
Kan Sen, but it comes downwards like a meteor, he merges it with the
Jutamou Hakimi to create a falling spiral of flame. Mega-stylish! ^_^
Daibotsu
- A huge hulking brute that carries two zanbatou (weapon used by Sanosuke
when he first appears). He is a second student of Sanjyou, and uses the
Resshin-Kami-Tai, or the Mighty Earthquake technique. He is the quiet type.
Moves :-
- Raissen-Geki-Yotenkou - A wierd concentration move. He uses his ki or
internal energy to make the ground around him quake. A ground-based
swordsman (i.e. all swordsman!) will have his move disrupted.
- Houten-Yami-Yoke - Swings his zanbatou's like a pair of giant scissors
over and over. Looks kinda silly!
- Resshin Tetsu - Downright silly. He stabs his sword to the ground, lifts
up a big chunk of rock, then bats it at the enemy. Slow and pretty
useless.
Yuhara Inna
- A female student of Sanjyou. She uses a strange weapon - a katana with no
blade, but she puts slivers of ice on it to act as a blade, but it must
be replaced with every blow. Her technique is the Hyuoga-Kami-Tai, or the
Wild Ice Blade Technique. She is cold (no pun intended) and calculating.
Moves :-
- Tsun Hayo - She slashes several times real quick, and her last blow
detaches her ice blade, sending it flying at the enemy's face. Ouch.
- Tsun Tatsumi - She slashes several times real quick, then for her last
blow she smashes her ice blade onto the ground, sending shards of ice
flying upwards onto the enemy. Double ouch!
Takane Ushin
- A tiny little ninja man who is the fourth and final student of Sanjyou.
He uses two curved daggers called the wakisashi that are hollowed on one
edge to produce a force of wind with each slash. His technique is the
Gyakufu-Kami-Tai, or Cutting Wind Technique. He gleeful and evil.
Moves :-
- Tsushin Kaze - Throws blades of wind at the enemy. Pretty hard to dodge,
apparently.
- Susano no Hurricane - What's with all the English? He basically spins
round and round, creating a whirlwind. Quite devastating.
Billy the Gun
- Davids (Emerald's father) knew of the anti-foreigner group Shohatsu Sen
in Osaka. So he secretly hires a master gunslinger to handle them. But
he gets more than his money's worth with Billy the Gun. Billy is pretty
much the hitokiri of the west. He's got a past of mass murdering, and
is psychotic too. He wields his guns with god-like speed, and can kill
entire brigades within seconds. He kills a major character of Rurouni
Kenshin as well. That bastard! He is the strongest villain ever in
Ruroken history, surviving beyond THREE arcs.
Moves (yes, his moves are in English. Has Watsuki been taking lessons?):-
- Viper Trail - His strongest move, with the most variations. Basically
he fires all six bullets out of his one pistol almost simultaneously,
creating a trail of six bullets back to back. Upon contact the first
bullet gains six times penetrative power. He can change the angle of
each bullet shot slightly to make a curved Viper Trail. He can also
produce a Viper Trail out of his other pistol for a Double Viper Trail.
He can fire two viper trails that intersect and cause the bullets to
scatter unpredictably. Finally, the strongest variation is the Twelve
Bullet Viper Trail which utilizes both pistols; the front bullet
gains twelve times penetrative power.
- Exploding Fist - This impossible move has him lighting a bomb in his
fist, holding it then punching the enemy the moment it explodes in
his hand. Somehow his hand is unscathed during the attack!
- Bullet Scatter - Fires twelve bullets simultaneously in twelve
directions in front of him, creating a large field of bullets.
Practically impossible to dodge.
Captain De'Silver
- The overly moronic leader of a band of Spanish pirates who attempt to
pillage Okinawa when the entire Kenshin cast is there. How unlucky can
this band of pirates get?
* Special! Coverage of the Kenshin Seijiwata Otacon Festival! *
On January 31st 2001 in the Mekuri Masse Convention Hall, Shonen Jump
held it's sixth annual Kenshin Seijiwata Otacon Festival! Like before,
the Shonen Team and Watsuki was on hand both days of the festival. Last
year we got a glimpse of RKJO for the manga. So guess what? We get a
glimpse of RKJO for the anime this time round! There's also a pretty
nice preview of the further adventures of Kenshin and Yahiko Gumi after
the completion of the Osaka Arc (which is still running in Shonen as we
speak). Special thanks to [email protected] and [email protected]
for the news coverage! Here are the details of the show.
Day 1 :-
There are previews of the newly announced Okinawa Arc and the Frontier
Arc. Awesome! From the story point of view (spoiler!), after the Osaka
Arc, Kenji has an arguement with Kenshin and runs away from home. The
ever-loyal Naru tags along and somehow ends up in Okinawa, where they
bump into Chou and Saitou on assignment there. Saitou contacts the
kids worried parents, and they all go to Okinawa to fetch them. Also,
Yahiko Gumi somehow ends up in Okinawa, as well as the Oniwa Banshu
household. All that sets the stage for the largest Kenshin reunion
EVER. Spanish pirates just have to pick this time to pillage Okinawa
(just when pretty much the strongest fighters in all of Japan are
gathered in Okinawa ^_^). Eventually, Kenji and Naru gets captured
and sent as slave labor to the New World. Then Kenshin and Yahiko Gumi
go off to rescue them, hits the frontier, fights cowboys and Indians,
then finally meet Billy the Gun for the final showdown. Sugoi! ^_^
More highlights from the story :-
- Watsuki mentioned that the entire Okinawa Arc is pretty much made
due to fan demand. And it's going to be a treat for fans, that's
for sure. God bless Watsuki! ^_^
- The gang visits a bikini store! After a trademarked Ayame and Suzume
dare gone horribly wrong, all the girls of Kenshin and Yahiko gumi
try to out-dress each other in tiny little bikinis. Expect plenty of
nosebleeds on the part of Kenshin and Yahiko and gang (as well as from
the male readers). At the end of it all the winner is Tsubame (a
Red-faced Yahiko trying to cover her up didn't help, apparently).
- Us girls aren't left out either! The boys get to wear little swimming
trunks too! Yahiko, Sano, Soujirou, Katsura and Aoshi (^_^) wears as
little as possible, causing plenty of red-faced girls in the gang, as
well as from the female readers. No winners here, but I'm banging on my
Aoshi to pick up the gold! Kenshin and Saitou were actually the only
ones that were conservatively dressed for the beach.
- A beachside budoken tornament! After Kenshin "accidentally" joins the
tornament (ORO? ^o^), male ego requires that everyone else who knows
how to use a sword trades it for a wooden boken! The age-old question
may finally be answered here! Saitou Vs. Kenshin! Soujirou Vs. Aoshi!
Who will win and claim the prize? Ahh... I wanna see this! ^_^
- Kenji and Kenshin gets into a major fight. Who will win? Err... kinda
obvious if you ask me.
- The villain of the Okinawa arc is Captain De'Silver and his limb-replaced
gang of pirates. But with so many fighters gathered in Okinawa, how are
they going to survive, let alone pillage Okinawa? He appears to be there
for comic relief rather than being an actual villain.
- The situation with Tomoe's diary finally gets resolved here with the
appearance of Banjin and Enishi.
Watsuki gives a nice speech about the future of Rurouni Kenshin. From this
speech the following is gleamed :-
- He plans to have Kenshin and gang travelling around the globe. After the
Frontier Arc he's most likely going to move the gang to Europe.
- The conclusion of RKJO is most likely going to be a battle between Basaragi
and Kenji, using almost all the moves from the entire series. It would most
likely be set in a British castle. Talk about a long fight!
- RKJO will be the last Rurouni Kenshin work that he's going to do (sob sob!).
- He says it may be fun to track down Kenshin's descendants all the way to the
modern time at the end of the series as a true conclusion.
- He plugs his new comic series coming soon from Shonen Jump - Akumajo Hunters
(The Devil Hunters) - a group of high-school students that moonlight as
demon hunters. There will be elements of supernatural, swordmanship (cool)
and martial arts involved. Could they be decendants of Kenshin? Well, one
can dream a little...
Day 2:-
The decond day of the festival is dedicated to the anime series based on Rurouni
Kenshin Journey Onwards. Plenty of great stuff occurred during the day. The
highlights include :-
- Watsuki is once again doing the storyboard. Good to know.
- Now the bad news. Due to production problems, RKJO the anime will not start
in March as originally planned, but will start sometime during June or July
of this year. Argh!
- Seiyuu (voice actors) for the upcoming series all made an appearance, and
performed some vocal skits. Appearances include Mayo Suzukase (Kenshin), Miki
Fujitani (Kaoru), Ueda Yuji (Sanosuke), Hirotaka Suzuoki (Saitou), Noriko
Hadaka (Soujirou), Nozomu Sasaki (Enishi), Sakurai Tomoe (Misao).
- As far as my informants can tell me, almost everyone from the original cast
is back to reprise their voices. The only characters with vocal changes are
Myojin Yahiko, Ayame and Suzume. They will be played by Midorikawa Hikaru
(Tamahome of Fushigi Yuugi, Rukawa of Slam Dunk, Schuldig of Wei B. Kreutz),
Iwao Junko (Tomoyo of Card Captor Sakura, Tomou Yukishiro of Rurouni Kenshin)
and Neya Michiko (Cutey Honey of Cutey Honey, Chie Sagaimiono of You're Under
Arrest) respectively. New characters will also get some nice voices too :-
Katsura Sogetsu will be played by Hayashi Yobushiro (Parn of Lodoss War,
Tasuki of Fushigi Yuugi, Gattsu of Berserk), Billy the Gun by Ishida Akira
(Renhou of Fushigi Yuugi, Kaoru of Evangelion) and Megumi Hayashibara (Rei
of Evangelion, Lina of Slayers, Lime of Saber Marionette J) will guess star
as Emerald Davids.
- L'Arc En Ciel was on hand to perform their two ending songs Fourth Avenue
Cafe and Memories of You. Then it is announced that they will perform the
ending song for Rurouni Kenshin Journey Onwards!
- At the end of the day, we are given with the ultimate treat - a three and a
half minute preview of Rurouni Kenshin Journey Onwards anime! Using the
remixed version of Kawamoto Makoto's 1/2, and they even cheekily put it in
the same format as that of the second opening! To give a general idea how
the preview looks like, [email protected] gives us a full scene-by-scene
description, along with comparisons to the original opening. Note - This is
not the official opening of RKJO, at least that's what I think.
Original New
-------- ---
- Kenshin walking in the snow, Kenji by on a bridge, image of Kenshin
back turned and Kaoru's face in the background
- Shot of Kenshin's sword, then Naru leaning on a tree, image of Megumi
face and Sano's face in the background
- Scenes with Kaoru Soujirou walking, then Ayame and Suzume
behind him
- Young Yahiko praticing Old Yahiko practicing, image of Tsubame
in the background
- Arc character shot Arc character shot - Daibotsu and Ushin,
Fuuma and Inna, Sanjyou, Emerald, Billy
the Gun, in that order
- Sanosuke with fist raised Aoshi and Misao leaning on each other
- Saitou adjusts his glove Mustached Saitou adjusts his gloves,
Chou and three girls(?) are seen behind
- Aoshi walking alone, then Shots of Kenshin, Kaoru, Sanosuke, Megumi,
Misao and gang in a group shot. Kenshin smiles
- Bridge scene; Kenshin meets Bridge scene; Kenji, Naru, Ayame, Suzume,
Seijyurou Yahiko and Soujirou walking, then Naru
points forward. Kenji looks ahead and sees
a man in a familiar cloak. It's Kenshin
wearing the Mitsurugi cloak!?
The rest of the song features clips from the new series. Notable scenes include
Kenji turning into his Hitomane self, Soujirou fight Fuuma, Sanosuke in a
Zanbatou battle, Kenshin and Kenji tag teaming against some enemy, Sanjyou drinks
with Seijyurou and Yahiko battling Billy the Gun injured.
- And with the debut of that preview, the show ends. See you all next year!
*Manga Summaries*
*******Book 1 : Journey Onwards*******
Chapter #1 - End of a Journey
This chapter is basically a repeat of the famous Kaden chapter, except
for the addition of the bombing of Kyoto scene. It tells you how the
rest rest of the gang fares ten years or so after Kenshin's battle with
Enishi. You first see Sanosuke and Anji having a some sake at the bar
when he finds from a passerby that his daughter is causing trouble. Sano
and Anji then stops Naru from beating five men who teased her. Anji then
leaves, saying that's he's going back to prison. Naru and Sano then both
goes back to the clinic where Megumi clobbers Sano for messing with her
"little doll". Next you see Saitou who is given information about some
uprising occuring in Kyoto. Then it moves to Kyoto where there's some
uprising against a foreign ship returing to Kyoto harbor. Yutarou steps
out of the ship. Next you see the Oniwabanshu dojo where Misao attempts
to cook something and fails (why can't any girls cook in this manga?!).
Then you see Aoshi return in a sickening business suit (what have they
done to my precious Aoshi!). He mentions about an uprising at work. Next
scene shows Okina (yes, still alive) at a temple meditating when he sees
a giant kite fly by the hill towards Kyoto with the words "Death to the
foreigners" on it. Bombs then start dropping from it and demolishes
Kyoto! Finally we go to Kyoto outskirts where Kenshin and Kenji are
getting chewed by Kaoru for not doing their chores. Yahiko comes for a
visit and then boasts that he has mastered the ultimate art. He then
challenges Kenshin to a duel. Kenshin uses his speed to defeat him.
After the battle, Kenshin gives Yahiko his sakaba for safekeeping, and
promises that one day, Kenji will reclaim his sword.
Chapter #2 - Old Gods of Sword
This entire chapter is devoted to explaining the four old gods of sword,
the Hiryuutenken. Yahiko is taking to Kenshin (with Kenji listening in)
when this conversation takes place. Kenshin talks about the four
Hiryuutenken - Seijyuro Hiko, Basaragi Shimabuya, Sogetsu Gen'ai and
Onijin Sanjyou. Kenji falls asleep in the middle of the conversation,
and when he wakes up he suddenly sees dead animals all about him. He
screams.
Chapter #3 - A dark power. Tenkyu Hitomane!
A few days have passed and Yahiko is seen going back to Tokyo. Kenji
spots a figure eyeing the house, and goes to take a closer look. It
turns out to be Saitou. Thinking he is an enemy, he attacks Saitou.
Saitou easily parries Kenji's weapon, a wooden stick. Then Saitou
gets shocked when Kenji unleased the Do-Ryu-Sen on him! He evades,
smiles and takes out his sword, still in his sheath and runs forward.
Meanwhile Kaoru asks Kenshin to go look for Kenji. Moves back to
the fight where Kenji is sorely beaten by Saitou's sheathed sword.
He then picks up his stick again, and you see his eyes change (like
the Kenshin-Battousai change) and he switches to the gatotsu pose,
shocking the life out of Saitou. He then does the angle-change
gatotsu and knocks down Saitou. Before he attacks again, Kenshin
grabs him and knocks him out. Next you see a bruised Saitou talking
to Kenshin. He tells him about the bombing at Kyoto, asks for his
help. Kenshin refuses. He warns that the rebels are seen around here.
He then talks to Kenshin about Kenji, and Kenshin mentions that Kenji
has exhibited this strange ability that resembles Basaragi Shimabuya's
Tenkyu Hitomane. Saitou then asks Kenshin to let Kenji stay with him
a few days. Kenshin refuses again.
Chapter #4 - Beginning of a Journey
A bomb explodes at Kenshin's house. Kaoru is badly injured! Kenshin
almost loses it, and changes his mind after all. He says that staying
here is not safe, and asks Kenji to go look for Saitou at Kyoto. Off
goes Kenji to the big city. Here he befriends Yutarou, who is here to
investigate a anti-foreigner rebel group. When he mentions them Kenji's
blood gets boiling, and blames them for hurting his mother. Both go
looking for Saitou. Turns out Saitou has gone off to Tokyo to consult
a bomb specialist (hmm...). So off they go to Tokyo. On the way they
meet Yahiko, who duels with Yutarou for a short bit, trashing him. Then
Kenji decides to fight for his father's sword, but it ends with a draw
when he can't mimic Yahiko's technique. Kenji again sees dead animals
here.
Chapter #5 - Ambush! The mysterious wind!
The trio travels along a forest when they are attacked by a band of
swordsmen. The three easily dispatch them. Suddenly they feel a strong
gust of wind and a small ninja jumps out. They hold their ground after
a long battle against his relentless attacks. Then, Yutarou is separated
from Kenji and Yahiko, who both get thrown into a river. After drifting
a while, both of them get fished out of the river by none other than
Sanosuke.
Chapter #7 - A reunion
You see Yahiko and Kenji at Megumi's clinic. Megumi and Sanosuke
is surprised when Yahiko mentioned that Kenji is Kenshin's son
(can't they tell?). Naru comes in and takes one look at Kenji
(who is shorter than she is) and calls him "sudou-chan" (short
kid). Kenji just goes oro? Yahiko mentions what a pretty girl
Naru has become and gets clobbered by her for his efforts. Next
they all go for dinner at Tae's restaurant. Here Yahiko flirts
around with Tsubame, while Ayame and Suzume make their first
appearance as adults. Naru attempts to irritate Kenji and fails,
and gets frustrated. She then does all kinds of tricks on him
during dinner, and he avoids them all, showing his super-human
speed and strength. She is awed, but Kenji just goes oro?
Chapter #8 - Trouble at Osaka
Saitou is talking to Tsunan (remember him?) about a bomb seen on
the table. Tsunan mentioned it uses a high strength gunpowder
imported from England. He says that the powder is imported only
into Osaka. Saitou then heads off to Osaka. Meanwhile, Kenji and
Yahiko retire at the Kamiya dojo. Yahiko remembers some of the
things that happened here and tells them to Kenji. Next, you see
Sanosuke burst in and tells Yahiko that something has happened
in the clinic. All three rush to the clinic. At the clinic Megumi
is seen treating a young man. It's Soujirou! Megumi says that
Soujirou is suffering from a poison only his family recipe can
cure. Next morning Soujirou has woken up, and tells them what
happened. Soujirou has settled down in Osaka and is some sort of
local hero. When he uncovers some anti-foreigner movement, he
investigates it. His clues lead him to an old temple but he gets
attacked by a strange young man. After Soujirou knocks him down,
the man's sword bursts into flames and he attacks with almost
double speed! Soujirou is in shock at seeing this familiar
fighting style when a woman appears behind and throws a dart at
him. She then calls him a fake tenken and tells him to leave
Osaka and seek treatment from Takani family doctor Megumi, and
never come back. Hearing all this, the gang decide to go off to
Osaka to investigate. Kenji, Yahiko, Ayame, Suzume and Soujirou
all go off to Osaka. Naru outwits her mother and father and
joins them later on the road.
Chapter #9 - Shukuchi vs. Tenkyu Hitomane!
Along the journey, the girls stop to take bath by the river and
drives the boys away. Yahiko then tells Soujirou's story to
Kenji. Interested, Kenji asks if he could fight Soujirou. Soujirou
agrees. During the battle, Soujirou uses an advanced form of his
Shukuchi, Shin Shukuchi. Kenji tries to mimic the skill but he
is not fast enough! The battle ends with a draw when Soujirou stops
his sword an inch from Kenji's neck, then realizes that Kenji has
his stick pointing at Soujirou's stomach. They knock each other's
weapons away and brawl, then Soujirou uses a new move, the Ishin
Tenbu, high speed shoulder tackle that sends Kenji flying into
the river. Kenji gets out from the water and sees Naru, Ayame and
Suzume all undressed. All three take turns giving him slaps all
night. Poor guy!
FREE TALK
Ah, thanks to all my supporters who have followed Kenshin to the
new millenium. I had previously taken an extended rest following
the conclusion of the Jinnchu arc, and many thought that would be
the end of Rurouni Kenshin. Never fear! After these restful years,
I have grown to miss our scarred friend, and became anxious to
continue the story as our heroes enter their new century. No, as
you may wonder - it is not money, nor pressure, nor fan support,
that made me continue Himura-chan's journey. Rather, it is my
renewed interest in the new era our heroes are entering, the time
of turbulance they face, and adventures much more exciting that
what they had faced before!
During these years I had many ideas for what would happen to Kenshin
and Kenji, especially after the Kaden issue. But ultimately I cheesed
it and went for a nice sappy reunion before taking on some more really
tough enemies. I apologize for the creation of the strange god above
god master swordsman, the just wasn't much I can do in the case of
villains, especially after creating Enishi. You can probably tell,
Fuuma is a flashback of Enishi, others seem to be vaguely familiar
images of Samurai Spirits. I was, and am still tempted to add the
third generation fight between Kenji Myoujin Shin-ya, son of Yahiko.
But that has to come later, of course. For now, let us walk into
Meiji the 16th, onwards...
*******Book 2 : Fateful Meeting a Sumiyoshi Temple*******
Chapter #10 - Emerald
The group chance upon a group of swordsmen attacking a carriage.
They go to the rescue and dispatch all the swordsmen easily. A
scared young girl who introduces herself as Emerald appears from
the carriage. She asks them to escort her to Osaka, and they will
be paid well. Kenji mentions that he'll do it even if he wouldn't
get paid anyway, and Emerald straight away falls for him (he's
ten years old! Why are all the girls going after him?). Naru looks
annoyed. After a lot of travelling and talking, you find out more
about what happened to Soujirou after he left for his travels.
Finally, they reach Osaka! They bump into a surprised Saitou, who
reached Osaka a few days ago. Soujirou offers him to join their
little group. Saitou is surprised to see Soujirou, but turns him
down.
Chapter #11 - The Temple
They all stay at a huge palace belonging to Emerald. They find out
that Emerald's parents are diplomats, and they have gone missing.
Emerald tries to impress the group with a large dinner and this
further irritates Naru. That night, Soujirou sneaks off, then bumps
into Yahiko and Kenji. They all are thinking of the same thing -
investigate the old temple Soujirou found a few weeks earlier.
Along the way you see Saitou following them. They reach the temple,
but gets ambushed by a giant samurai carrying two zanbatou's, Daibotsu.
Daibotsu uses a move called Raissen-Geki-Yotenkou, which causes the
earth surrounding him to shake non-stop, disrupting all their attacks.
Ultimately all three are defeated. Saitou walks in nonchalantly during
the battle.
Chapter #12 - The four masters of Shiyotsu-Kami-Tai
Kenji, Yahiko and Soujirou are strung up on the ceiling. They see that
the temple is nothing more than a store house of explosives. Below,
Saitou is poking around when he is exposed by the four masters Fuuma,
Inna, Daibotsu and Ushin. He gets defeated badly when all four masters
show of some impressive moves. During the battle Ushin's wind blade
cuts Kenji free and he drops down, staring at them as they fight. Then
Soujirou calls him to escape and he reluctantly does. On the way out
he gets ambushed by some twenty or so soldiers. He goes berserk and
takes them all out with magic-less versions of the four master's moves.
One soldier gets killed by accident, and the others flee. Kenji stumbles
out of the temple in a daze. He says that he suddenly gets the urge to
kill, and starts seeing dead animals again. He walks around in a daze
for a while until he collapses, and figure is seen picking him up.
Chapter #12 - Deadly Trap
Kenji wakes up and sees Naru looking down at him. He looks around and
sees a lot of soldiers. The soldiers prepare to assault the temple.
Kenji quickly tells Naru (and Ayame and Suzume behind her) that Yahiko
and Soujirou are still inside! Meanwhile, a large old man cuts down
Yahiko and Soujirou, and tells them to take the battered and bruised
Saitou and leave. Before they do leave, he warns them not to meddle
with his business, then throws them out. The soldiers march in and
gets blown away when the explosives all go off. Everybody just gets
out in time! Phew. Sanjyou (the old man) and his four pupils look
down at the carnage from above. He mentioned that the first plan of
the Shohatsu Sen is complete.
Chapter #13 - Scarred Swordsman returns
Oh, you know what this means! About a week has passed after the fiasco
at the Sumiyoshi Temple. You see the Osaka station, and a train stops.
Out steps Kenshin, and he helps Kaoru, who is in crutches (she was
injured in chapter #4. Behind him is Sanosuke and Megumi, and Tsubame.
Tsubame mentioned that he hopes that Yahiko and the others are all
right. You see Yahiko, Soujirou and Kenji in a hospital. Saitou appears
and informs them of Kenshin's arrival. It cuts to the members of
Shohatsu Sen. Ushin appears, saying that he has confirmed that the
battousai has arrived in Osaka. Sanjyou mentioned that he would be a
good ally, and he should understand how they all feel. Cuts to Kenji
in bed, with Naru bedside. Kenshin walks in with Kaoru. Kaoru, drops
here crutches and falls onto Kenji, weeping and sobbing, while Kenshin
just looks on and smiles. Saitou informs Kenshin of what's going on.
Kenshin mentions that he just wants to protect his family. End of the
chapter. Kinda short and nothing happened, but at least Kenshin is
back in action.
Chapter #14 - Kenshin meets Shohatsu Sen
Kenshin and Sanosuke are at the site checking the damages. Saitou
tells them that there's a leak in their troops, and they were lured
into this trap. Suddenly they hear a soldier nearby cry out. It's
Sanjyou and the others! Sanjyou says that he's pleased to meet the
battousai. Kenshin says the battousai is dead, and he is just plain
old Kenshin. He warns them to leave his family alone. Sanjyou said
that the bomb at his house was a mistake by one of his men, and that
person is punished (Fumma scowls), and gives a bow. He tells him
that he is a good friend of his master when they were both young
men. He again tries to coax Kenshin to join him, but Kenshin says
that he has lost the ability to use the Hiten-Mitsurugi-Ryu. Other
soldiers come running, and Saitou attacks. The Shohatsu Sen beats
them all and escapes.
Chapter #15 - Remembrance; Tale of Onijin Sanjyou
Kenshin and gang are all sitting in the embassy. Kenshin relates
the story of Onijin Sanjyou, as told to him by his master Seijyurou.
It flashes back to the Tokugawa era. You see a two young samurais
struggling out of a field of dead bodies. It's Sanjyou and another
samurai, Seianji. A younger Sanjyou says that he's tired of all
this war. He's badly injured. They struggle around an eventually
reach an abandoned temple. Seianji is apparently Sanjyou's younger
brother. Seianji soon dies from his injuries, and Sanjyou goes
berserk. He find some sort of idol in the back of the temple, and
prays to it and asks for power to end the war. A day passes, and
after burying his brother, Sanjyou leaves the temple. He is
contemplating suicide. He tries jumps off a cliff, but survives
even after purposely staying underwater. He tries bashing his head
on a rock (duh!) and the rock turns to dust on impact. Finally he
tries to harakiri himself, but then he notices his sword blow
produces a slice of wind. He then realizes that the idol has
answered his prayers! He promises to use his power to end the war.
Chapter #16 - Power; Tale of Onijin Sanjyou Part II
This whole chapter recounts Sanjyou's rise to power. With his
new technique the Shiyotsu-Kami-Tai, he rises to the rank of
general, and is nicknamed the Magic General. He defeats a
number of armies and has a number of strong samurais under him.
This chapter also has him meeting a young girl orphaned by the
war, Seimaru Yukiwa, who eventually becomes his wife.
Chapter #17 - Greed; Tale of Onijin Sanjyou Part III
In this chapter Sanjyou becomes a daimyo. His castle has a
number of children orphaned during the war. You can recognize
Fuuma and Inna. Here he hires a young samurai to become his
battousai, Shishio Makoto. Shishio wants to learn from him,
but he says that his techniques cannot be taught to anyone
because it is a gift from god. In the second part, he makes
a deal with a foreigner, who promises to provide him ammunition
and guns if he gains access to a port in his district. Sanjyou
agrees.
Chapter #18 - Betrayal; Tale of Onijin Sanjyou Part IV
The final chapter of Sanjyou's past. Here he gets betrayed by
the foreigner, who slaughters his whole family. He escapes
with Shishio and some kids,but his wife is shot to death.
He becomes some sort of hermit. Next scene you see Shishio
getting burnt by Sanjyou's enemies. Sanjyou saves him, and
teaches him the Okibi-Kami-Tai. In return he tries to kill
him by burning him to death, but he unknown to Shishio,
Onijin survives. He finds out Shishio had dealings with the
foreigner, and then goes really nuts. He begins training
the two surviving children Fuuma and Inna. He burns Fuuma's
hands, and destroys Inna's hands be freezing them. Poor kids.
FREE TALK
Many people have asked me the same question over and over
lately - why doesn't Kenji use the Hiten-Mitsurugi-Ryu?
We'll, I was thinking about it myself before the start of
Eba Onawada Joutei. I've come to this conclusion - in this
time of peace, why would Kenshin teach his only son such a
deadly sword art? Besides, Kenshin can't teach it to him
completely anyway, since he himself has lost the art. So
is the style dead? Well, I guess so. Perhaps one day I may
let Kenji copy it from Seijyuro.
Which brings me to the Tenkyu Hitomane. Initially, I
planned to have Kenji become a gifted swordsman from birth,
but then that would limit him to one technique alone. I was
planning to make Kenji a jack of all trades, master of none
type of character to begin with, and so I came up with the
Tenkyu Hitmane. I know it seems a little, well, convenient,
but then, I can't think of another way for little Kenji to
surpass his dad (which he has to, considering what I'm
about to send his way even at a tender age of ten). When I
came up with that style I wanted another master to teach
it to him instead of him inheriting it from birth, and came
up with Basaragi Shimabuya. I liked the character too much
to make him just a support character, so I changed the
story quite a fair bit. But you have to trust me when I tell
you that the Tenkyu Hitomane isn't just a style of copying.
I've got big plans for the technique, and believe it or
not, it will surpass the Hiten-Mitsurugi-Ryu in terms of
power, style, and just plain coolness!
End of Book 2
*FAQ*
These are questions I most frequently get in the mail concerning RKJO.
Please don't ask anymore of these questions, 'kay? Pretty please? ^_~
Q. Where can I find RKJO anime?
A. You can't. It's not out yet, and it won't be out for a while since
they are still finishing up the Jinnchu arc on TV.
Q. Where can I find RKJO manga?
A. This is tough. If you're in Japan, you can simply subscribe to Shonen
Jump to read it every week, or alternately buy the manga book that
comes out compiling every nine chapters or so. If you're in the US
like me, you'll need to order them (I got mine at http://www.jlist.com
for $19.99 a book).
Q. What kind of changes are then between the manga and anime?
A. I don't know, it's not out yet! But since it's the same group producing
it expect it to have the same amount of differences as with the original
Ruroken.
Q. Whatever happened to character xxxx ?
A. I don't know, since I've only read the first two books. They may come
back (most of them have) unless they're dead, and I doubt they will
rise from the grave, but stranger things have happened in Ruroken.
Q. Why does Kenshin only appear for such a short time?
A. Kenshin will return to play an active part apparently, but he's not
going to be quite as influential as before.
Q. Whatever happened to the events in the Shimabara or Devil's Arc?
A. It never happened. The Devil's Arc was not made by Watsuki (as a matter
of fact, Watsuki disliked it immensely). It was released while Watsuki
was still halfway through the Jinnchu Arc because there was a demand
for more Ruroken anime at the time. It's similar to the situation of
Dragonball GT - a fictional "side" story that was never part of the
original universe. True Ruroken fans should enjoy, but disregard the
existence of the Devil's Arc.
Q. Will the Devil's Arc affect RKJO the anime?
A. No it won't. The first episode of the true Jinchuu Arc in released in
Jan 2000, "Do you still have the scar", covered up the events of the
Devil's Arc quite effectively.
==========
Thanks for reading! As you should know, this is a non-public document, and
should not be circulated as such. For more info on Ruroken the original,
please visit my website at http://members.fortunecity.com/seriwaza
or e-mail me at [email protected] - gonbawa-naruzen! ^_^