An update.....

[freeradical9]

Ah, it's been ages since I've posted anything here. I have hopes, now that summer is approaching, that I'll have more time for playing in LJ and can prevent things from gathering too much dust. We'll see. ^^

I did want to post this, however, while it was on my mind.



Concerning the mysterious youkai guy from chapter 5 of Saiyuki Blast....

As most fans know, this particular youkai with the bandanna and sunglasses has actually appeared in the Saiyuki storyline before--briefly in volume 2 of the Reload manga as an observer, and also in a more significant way in Saiyuki Offroad. I'd read a translation of the latter a while ago, and thought I'd remembered that he had a pretty interesting role. So, in case anyone's interested and hasn't seen it already:

Here's a link to ninefly's translation of Minekura-sensei's work in Saiyuki Offroad

Since Offroad seems to be 'unofficial Saiyuki' for the most part, it will be veeeerry interesting to see if mysterious youkai guy winds up playing that type of part (i.e. with some kind of connection to Earth???) in the current series. :D

Comments

[7veilsphaedra.livejournal.com]

I love that character! Minekura gave him a title when she was interviewed about Blast, didn't she? — Something mysterious like "The Illusionist." I think she also mentioned that he had shown up at some point during Gunlock, just to keep an eye on the ikkou's progress, that he hadn't taken part in any attacks on Sanzo. I like that he asks questions and listens and keeps his cards close to his chest, which is more than the other youkkai seem to do.

Thanks for linking ninefly's translation.

[freeradical9.livejournal.com]

Minekura gave him a title when she was interviewed about Blast, didn't she? — Something mysterious like "The Illusionist."

Oh! I hadn't heard that! That would be very fitting. The images Goku's meeting with him in Saiyuki Offroad are really surreal.

I've always liked his character design, and agree that he's much more intriguing than the average run-of-the-mill youkai. It will be very interesting to find out what type of role he'll play in the new storyline!

[whymzycal.livejournal.com]

Oh, sweeeet! Things for being thinky over -- thank you!

[freeradical9.livejournal.com]

Sure thing! It's definitely some food for thought. :)

[qwaynt.livejournal.com]

Since Offroad seems to be 'unofficial Saiyuki' for the most part, it will be veeeerry interesting to see if mysterious youkai guy winds up playing that type of part (i.e. with some kind of connection to Earth???) in the current series.

Hm...like a guardian of Goku? That would prove interesting. I'm wondering if these two characters are going to be the bridge for past and present.

[freeradical9.livejournal.com]

In the translation, it certainly seems as if he would fit that role. ...And he certainly hasn't made any aggressive moves towards the ikkou in the series, even though it seems he's had the opportunity to do so. It will be interesting to see if he turns out to be a friend or a foe.

I wonder if these two guys are going to be a bridge of past and present, as well. It's already being talked about that Gaiden is going to tie into BLAST, but maybe these two characters will be the way that Saiyuki Ibun ties in as well. I guess we'll have to wait and see!