getbackers act 12: retrieve the lost time! issues 51...
TRANSCRIPT
GetBackers Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issues 51‐61 (and just a bit of 62)
Translator's Notes
1. Japanese grammatical structure is such that one can very easily mix, match, and delete when composing a sentence. One can choose to state (a) just the verb, leaving out both subject and the object, (b) the subject and the object, leaving out the verb, (c) the subject and the verb, leaving out the object of the verb, or (d) the verb and its object, with no subject. What's left out is usually heavily implied (or used to make the readers think something's being implied, CLAMP‐I'm‐looking‐at‐you), so sentences can be abbreviated in any of the above ways either for convenience or for drama, as one can easily leave the air Rife With Implication. As I'm sure you can imagine, it happens extremely often in anime/manga.
As a translator, this drives me up the wall because when it happens, translating according to what was literally said usually ends up sounding disjointed and nonsensical; translating according to what was meant ends up putting words in the characters' mouths that weren't actually said. I compromise by writing out everything that was meant, but anything that was implied and not stated is put in parentheses.
2. Yes, I know. Fragments abound. Ellipses are everywhere (absolutely everywhere). Use of quotation marks is inconsistent at best. Yohan has an irritating tendency to frequently refer to himself in third person, and he often poses statements as questions.
Don't look at me; I just follow what's in the original.
3. Both Yohan and the Fuuchouin Thirteen Strings bust out with the poetry – tanka, to be specific. You'll know it when you see it, trust me – I did my best to follow both the poetic meaning and the proper syllabic patterns, but I'm only human. I mean, seriously – effing tanka.
4. There's a pun that's referenced when it comes to Kazuki's title(s). The kanji for fear/terror/spine‐chilling, hair‐raising dread (I just went with terror) and the kanji for melody have the same pronunciation – senritsu. So when Juubei talks about "Prince of Terror" vs. "Prince of Melody," in Japanese it sounds exactly the same – "Senritsu No Prince."
5. Lots of talk about karma being thrown around. Only the one word "karma" is used in translation, but there's actually two separate words used in the original Japanese – gou and inga. Gou is the more traditional Buddhist definition of karma – actions committed a long, long time ago/in a past life/by past generations coming back to haunt the current incarnation/generation. Inga is a more straightforward "cause and effect" type thing, AKA what goes around comes around. So when the Fuuchouin karma is being discussed, the word is almost always gou – when Yohan's talking about his and Kazuki's karma, he uses inga.
....I dunno, I thought it was interesting. :P
6. Also some fairly intense discussion on a series of techniques called "Kachoufuugetsu." Leaving aside the techniques themselves, kachoufuugetsu is a four‐kanji idiom composed of the words flower, bird, wind, and moon. The idiom itself is usually referred to as "The Beauties of Nature," and the four composing elements are traditionally considered the most beautiful aspects of nature in Japanese aesthetics. A rather suitable theme for a Fuuchouin technique, no?
7. At one point, Yohan mentions his "sekinen no omoi" towards Kazuki. Sekinen no omoi is one of those wonderfully pithy Japanese phrases that I personally find difficult to translate succinctly. I ended up going with "long years of fervor," but to tell the truth, I'm rather dissatisfied with that (I just couldn't think of anything better at the time). Sekinen no omoi is a term that signifies years and years of waiting with single‐minded focus on your subject – it's not really a positive term (I usually see it used for things like vengeance and/or anticipation of battle/murder), being more all‐encompassing than even obsession. One of the best examples of sekinen no omoi that I can think of in anime/manga is Sasuke's drive to kill his brother Itachi in Naruto.
8. Honorifics were left as‐is.
9. In addition to the honorifics, several other words were left untranslated (titles, mostly). If you've been following anime/manga for any extended length of time, chances are you know most of these. Just in case you don't, here they are:
Omote = public/"light" side of Fuuchouin (literally means surface, e.g., "heads" on a coin) Ura = hidden/"dark" side of Fuuchouin (literally means underside, e.g., "tails" on a coin) Waka‐sama = young master/lord Ojii = grandpa Mugenjou = Infinite Castle Toushu = family head (e.g., Kazuki is nominally the Fuuchouin Toushu) Soushu = head of a group of related clans (e.g., Kazuki's dad was acknowledged leader of not just Fuuchouin, but also East/West/Ura/what‐have‐you AKA the whole Fuuchouin clan enchilada) Ryuu = school/discipline (e.g. Kakei‐ryuu = Kakei School) Ougi = literally means secret/mystery, but usually means some sort of Super Secret Ultimate Technique Aniue = older brother (rather archaic, very respectful/upper class) Hahaue = mother (rather archaic, very respectful/upper class) Chichiue = father (rather archaic, very respectful/upper class) Oyaji = dad (very casual, a little rude)
10. This is a translation done mainly on the fly with minimal proofreading and editing – I did my best to catch any errors, but again, I'm only human. I'm fine with private sharing among fans, but please ask me before posting this translation anywhere public.
Finally, any comments/corrections/questions can be directed to me at [email protected]
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 51
Pg. 1
Juubei: I hear that the 'Arrangement Act' handed down among the West Fuuchouin was originally a forbidden 'Ura' technique. It's a method that suits you who make scheming, betrayal, and deception your way of life.
Maiya: !
Juubei: Even if you change your form, you cannot erase that spiritual malice!
Maiya! Yuuri!!
Kazuki: Juubei!!
Juubei: I'm late, but it looks like I made it here in time.
Kazuki: ....Yeah.
Maiya: ...Hmph. Well, can't be helped if I'm revealed. And after all that effort I put in because I heard that Waka‐sama was weak against this girl, what a waste.
You're a guy who shows up right when it's troublesome, aren't you?
Pg. 2
Maiya: So you've prepared yourself for (the consequences of) that, right?
Samurai‐kun of the Kakei‐ryuu. <3
Pg. 3
Juubei: Disappear immediately, you cowards! I'm not kind like Kazuki.
I will have no mercy!!
Maiya: Aha! Listen to him saying such things, Yuuri~~~?
Yuuri: *laugh*....Your clan was destroyed by us Ura Fuuchouin, and quickly surrendered to us with the 'Omote.'
Got a lot of confidence for a brat from that Kakei‐ryuu, don't you?
Juubei: The Kakei‐ryuu...
Have no memory of surrendering to cowards like you, though?
Yuuri: Gyahahahaha! Too late to be giving me that attitude!!
Do you really not know? The idiots of your clan went so far as to lick this Yuuri‐sama's feet!
Kazuki: Calm down, Juubei! I understand how you feel, but we don't have the time to get involved with small fry like thi–
Juubei: It's too late, Kazuki....
Kazuki: Eh....
Yuuri: What's wrong, what's wrong, Acupuncturist!
You want to lick my feet, too~?
Even that sea urchin‐head couldn't catch me that easily, so this Yuuri‐sama's movements are beyond the likes of you....
Pg. 4
Yuuri: !?
Wha... My body won't mo...
Th‐this can't be!? Why won't my body move...!?
*cough* My feet...
!
Needles!?
Pg. 5
Yuuri: *choked breathing*... Th‐this can't...be... When did those needles...
First...of all.... It didn't...hurt or itch at all...!?
Juubei: I threw the needles into painless points! Not just in your feet, but your entire body....
Move even a little, and all of the needles will get drawn into your insides and run through all of your blood vessels.
They'll tear your innards to pieces.
Pg. 6
Yuuri: !?
Wha‐what the hell is this~~~
Maiya: Yuuri!!
Juubei: Woman....
Maiya: !
Juubei: You will need to take your time and pull them out one by one.
Rush and take them all out at once, and your brother will die.
This is the essence of the Kakei‐ryuu Needle Arts.
It's not something to surrender to the likes of you!
Pg. 7
Kazuki: Juubei!
Juubei: Let's go, Kazuki!
From now on, don't spend your power on unnecessary battles.
Save everything for your fight with Yohan.
I will protect you from any needless dangers!
Kazuki: ....
Okay!
Maiya: You can't.
Kazuki: !
Maiya: You can't.
I won't let you go to where Yohan is.
*heartbeat*
Maiya: If you challenge Yohan, then you'll definitely be killed by Yohan.
But that surely won't be enough. After that, Yohan will kill us as well.
Pg. 8
Yuuri: Ma‐Maiya, wh‐what are you....
Maiya: Yohan will be angry, Yuuri.
If I don't do this, (we'll be) killed by Yohan.
Prepare yourself.
Kazuki: Wha...
Yuuri: *scream*.... Guaaaaaaaa!
Juubei: That fool!! To forcibly yank them all out at once, his insides will...
Kazuki: No...
This is....
Maiya: I'm sorry, Yuuri.
But I won't let you go alone, so....
Pg. 9‐10
Maiya: Ura Fuuchouin‐ryuu String Art, Death Ougi – Madara (Demon Snake) Act!!
Pg. 11
Juubei: Wh‐what an evil...!!
Kazuki: This is 'Ura.' This is the 'way of life' known as Ura Fuuchouin...!!
*flashback*
Voices: Surround the West Gate!!
Protect Waka‐sama!
Guaaaaa!
Don't go near the main shrine!!
Kusanosuke: Waka‐sama!! This place will fall soon!! Please run!
Kazuki: Kusanosuke... Ojii is...!!
Kusanosuke: !!
Why, you!
I, Shigen Kusanosuke of the Fuuchouin "Thirteen Strings," will be your opponent!!
!!
Shit! Let me go!
These bastards, even to your allies...!?
Pg. 12
Kusanosuke: This can't....be....
Ura fighter: This is how we do things in the 'Ura.'
We are the clan that dies even as we are born!!
*end flashback*
Pg. 13
Beast: *roars*
Juubei: Kazuki!!
Beast: *roars some more*
Juubei: You damn monster!!
Kakei‐ryuu Needle Art – Gunhou (Bee Swarm)!!
Pg. 14
Juubei: The black needles are useless!?
This is...
Kazuki: Kengyoku no Tate (Shield of the Cocooned Jewel)!!
The clan burdened with the destiny to be living corpses.
The existence of the 'Ura,' which rules the dark side of the Fuuchouin, has survived hundreds of years, and is the reason Fuuchouin has been able to live long past the Warring States era.
Change the viewpoint, and as two sides of the same coin, we of the 'Omote' may be a cursed clan as well.
Pg. 15‐16
Kazuki: Destiny though it may be, you pitiful souls – all that can save you is my "string."
Pg. 17
Juubei: The Prince of Terror –...
Kazuki: Lost ones, return home now!
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 52
Pg. 1
Beast: *roars*
Juubei: Kazuki! Don't get near it carelessly!!
If you get caught in those black strings transformed into whips, it'll be the end!
Kakei‐ryuu Needle Art Secret Ougi, Dance of the Black Needles – Housenka (Phoenix Flower)!!
Juubei: Sh....There're too many black strings!!
This situation is....
No! Kazuki!!
Pg. 2
Juubei: KAZUKIII!!
Kazuki: What....have I been looking at...
Pg. 3
Juubei: Kazuki.
Kazuki: Can you hear them, Juubei....
These voices...
Voice: I don't want to die....
Juubei: !
Voices: I'm scared
I don't want to be killed
I don't want to die
It hurts
It's so painful
Juubei: This...is!?
Kazuki: These are the voices of Fuuchouin's hidden karma.
Out of the Hundred Houses of the Ancient Arts, Fuuchouin was extolled as the most beautiful and the most elegant.
I have also come this far believing that.
However, the true form of Fuuchouin is that of a white swan drunk on its reflection in the surface of the lake, unknowing of the filthy mud on the lake bottom –
Everything was sustained by the sacrifice and devotion of the Kokuchouin.
*flashback*
Kazuki's Mother: Kazuki....
Go to....the Mugenjou....
*end flashback*
Kazuki: I finally understand....
Pg. 4
Kazuki: My mother wanted to show it to me.
The foolish karma of the Fuuchouin main house....
Beast: *roars*
Juubei: KAZUKIII!
!!
Kazuki disappeared!?
Kazuki: Yuuri.... Maiya....
Pg. 5
Kazuki: I will fight once more as Fuuchouin's Toushu.
Kokuchouin Maiya, whose elder twin sister was taken by an arrow that danced in the wind, and survived for that reason.
*heartbeat*
Kazuki: Kokuchouin Yuuri, who was raised from birth with battle as his only child's play.
*heartbeat*
Kazuki: If those sad destinies were truly caused by Fuuchouin's karma, then as Toushu, all of the blame lies with me.
At least allow me to save you with my string.
Pg. 6
Beast: *roars*
Juubei: What a beautiful 'art'...
It's almost as if he's dancing....
Kazuki: Whether you change into a strange form, or whether the 'art' belongs to the 'Ura,' it is of Fuuchouin.
It is nothing more, and nothing less.
That being the case, then the sad melody that I hear from your 'art' also belongs to Fuuchouin...
Pg. 7
Juubei: Melody....
I see.... I remember.
Once, like the melody played from a koto, Kazuki fought in a way that healed even his enemies.
Because of that, he was called the Prince of "Melody."
Beast: !?
Kazuki: In ancient times, people would immerse themselves in waterfalls to cleanse themselves in body and spirit.
Submerged in the pure downpour of a great waterfall, there is no way for any impurity to remain.
Even if the sad destiny of the 'Ura' tries to reject it, the raging cascade from heaven can wash away any sin.
Pg. 8‐9
Kazuki: Fuuchouin‐ryuu String Art, Healing Scroll Twenty‐One, Part Three – "Bakufu" (Waterfall)!!
Pg. 10
Juubei: That's the same as with Saizou....
Kazuki: "Seed of a Black Cocoon."
Once this is embedded in the body, one is forced to become a puppet, and both body and spirit begin to decay....
I could save them because it hadn't budded yet.
With this, there's no fear that can bind these two.
Pg. 11
Juubei: ....I remembered, Kazuki.
Kazuki: !
Juubei: The "Prince of Terror" used to be called the "Prince of Melody."
Like the melody of a koto, you healed people's hearts and achieved victory without fighting.
Kazuki: ....I don't know when it happened, but even I forgot about that.
Always waking to and living in battle, overpowering the enemies who came against me ... day after day of wringing fear out of people birthed a demon in me.
But I realized something while watching the GetBackers fight.
Victory can never be born from hate.... (I realized) that only a new seed of hatred is born....
Juubei: Kazuki....
Kazuki: I'm not fighting for vengeance any longer.
Neither the 'Omote' nor the 'Ura' matter anymore.... in order to bring an end to the sad destiny of the Fuuchouin, I will carry out my first and final duty as Toushu.
Pg. 12
Kazuki: Yohan, that is my answer!!
Pg. 12
Kusanosuke: ....Yohan‐sama! What shall we do about Fuuchouin Kazuki?
If you will only give the order, I could immediately take the troops and exterminate him....
Yohan: Have you heard?
He intends to heal this Yohan.
He says that he will bring light to the darkness of this Kokuchouin Yohan, who has known every kind of blackness.
As if he were the sun, illuminating the cold mass of stone which is the moon, and causing it to shine in the night sky....
*chuckle* He really has become a fine Toushu.
Kusanosuke: ....I can guess at the depths of your anger, Yohan‐sama.
Please, give us your leave (for this matter)!
Yohan: Anger?
I don't feel angry at all.
Kusanosuke: But, Yohan‐sama....
Pg. 13
Yohan: Rather, I can't stand the anticipation....
When he has this Yohan before him, if he's not fearful, what kind of emotion will he show?
Everyone is afraid of me.
I'm tired of that now.
(That which) Toushu‐sama "heals," I will "destroy."
I'm thinking of trying to drive him up to the edge of death's abyss....
That is a purgatory that brings every kind of agony and sorrow.
I want to try and throw every kind of pain and suffering that can be imagined at that beautiful Toushu.
Pg. 14
Yohan: Will he still be able to hold on to his sanity?
Without harboring any fear of this Yohan, will he be able to throw back only compassion?
The endless game of toss, hurling each other's emotions back and forth....
Which side do you think will be the first to miss?
Pg. 15
Kusanosuke: However, what of the Voodoo King's intentions?
It's felt that the Ogre Battle may be just before us.
Yohan: I have no interest in the Ogre Battle.
Nor any in Heaven's Gate.
If I defeat Fuuchouin Kazuki, I will truly be left with nothing.
I could be added to the Ogre Battle, but obtaining the "Title of the Strongest" or whatever and having my wish fulfilled by the Archive ends in the same result.
The Voodoo King, Kurusu Masaki, Kagami Kyouji, the GetBackers.
Whoever it ends up as, there's no change in the fact that they’ll all be erased.
Pg. 16
Yohan: The thing that I wish for the most is utter destruction, like on the moon....
Because it's a world with nothing.
....Will you stop me?
Kusanosuke: No...that is unthinkable.
Yohan: *chuckle*
I'll have you show me that loyalty.
Take the full force and attack Fuuchouin Kazuki and Kakei Juubei.
Kusanosuke: Yes...
....Is it truly all right?
Pg. 17
Yohan: If they're (so weak as to be) stopped by you guys, then it'll mean that they let me down,
Shigen Kusanosuke of the Fuuchouin "Thirteen Strings"!!
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 53
Pg. 1
Yohan: I'll have you show me whether that loyalty of yours is real or not....
Take the full force and attack Fuuchouin Kazuki and Kakei Juubei.
Show me your power, who were called the Fuuchouin "Thirteen Strings."
Kusanosuke: Yes!
Yohan: It's a good chance to test how far the former Toushu will be able to pass.
Isn't that so, "Thirteen Strings"?
Kusanosuke: Your will (is our command), Yohan‐sama.
Pg. 2
Paul: My back hurts!! Do something (about these guys), Ginji!!
Ginji: I have my hands full over here!!
Ban‐chan, pass!!
Ban: Can't you understand just by looking!! I have my hands full over here, too!!
Maria: Fight, everyone~~~!!
Ban: You do some work, too, shitty hag!!
Maria: Jeez, you really are a bunch of hopeless children.
Magic Arrow!
Ban: What the hell are you doing including your allies!! You shitty hag!
Maria: In the name of the moon, I will punish those who call me a hag. <3
Paul & Ginji: But we didn't call you anything....
Pg. 3
Ginji: But....
Not joking here, the enemy's level has radically gone up.
I was thinking they were just small fry, but one of them landed a hit on me!
Well....doesn't change the fact that they're small fry, though....
!?
! Isn't this....
Maria: Curse embroidery....
Ura Fuuchouin's secret method for absolute control.
The people that have this applied to them will obtain many tens of times the amount of power (they had previously), but in return they can never disobey the practitioner (who applied it).
You know what this means, right, Ban?
Ban: It's the same, isn't it?
The same as the 'Curses' that the Voodooists apply....
Maria: Which means that they've teamed up, the Voodooists and the Ura Fuuchouin....
Pg. 4
Maria: The child prodigy who received the 'Stigma' even as he was born, Kokuchouin Yohan.
He destroyed the Fuuchouin main house, and even though he's originally of the 'Ura,' he currently rules Fuuchouin as its leader.
He studied and absorbed Voodoo techniques, and I've heard his ability has become such that even the Voodoo King cannot outdo him.
Ban: The Voodoo King can't outdo him, you say?
Maria: Yes, not even "monster" that forced us witches into Bohemia to obtain everything that he wanted.
Ginji: He'll....he'll be okay, right? Kazu‐chan.
Ban: It's hopeless.
Ginji: Eh?
Ban: If that story is true, it's hopeless.
I'm not saying this just in terms of their real strength.
It's looking doubtful as to whether that little thread‐spool bitch will even be able to reach this Yohan bastard.
Ginji: It can't be, Kazu‐chan is...!!
Pg. 5
Ban: You don't know the level that the Voodoo King is on.
Ginji: Ban‐chan....
Paul: ....Realistically speaking, is there any chance that Kazuki‐kun can win against that Yohan guy?
Maria: Unfortunately, it's impossible.
Ginji: That can't be!!
Maria: There's the old saying that "a cornered mouse will bite a cat," but what do you suppose happens to the mouse after it bites?
Ginji: ....
Maria: Even in the old fables, there's never any story where the rabbit is able to defeat the lion with "power."
Pg. 6
Maria: As he is now, there is no hope for Kazuki‐kun to win against Kokuchouin Yohan.
Ginji: Sh—
Ban: Hey! Where do you think you're going?
Ginji: I'm going to follow him! I'm going to help him!
In this situation, Kazu‐chan will....!!
Ban: And do you really think that bastard wants you to do that?
Ginji: Th‐that's...true, but....
Paul: Ginji.
Ginji: !
Pg. 7
Paul: There are battles where even when a man knows that he can't win, he still has to go.
Kazuki‐kun is a true warrior, you know?
Even if he can't win by power, there's hope as long as he doesn't lose in soul.
Ginji: Yeah....
I believe, Kazu‐chan!
The road I'm on is connected to the road Kazu‐chan went down, so (I believe) we'll definitely see each other alive and well....!!
Pg. 8
Kazuki: .....
Juubei: What are you thinking, Kazuki?
Kazuki: Eh?
Juubei: For the first time in a while, I can't tell how you're feeling.
Kazuki: ....
....I'm sorry, Juubei.
Even I can't tell what I'm feeling right now.
The Ura Fuuchouin are my enemies.
Yohan killed my parents and massacred my clan, then used his cursed power to reign as the head of Fuuchouin.
That's why I hated him....
I thought that it was natural to hate him....
Juubei: Of course! I also despise him.
He stole Kakei‐ryuu's pride, and then forced us to obey the 'Ura.'
Kazuki: ....Yeah. That's true.
But....
Pg. 9
Kazuki: I find my current self is becoming unable to hate Yohan.
Even while fearing him, there's a part of me that wants to see him.
Juubei: Kazuki....
Kazuki: Why is that?
Why have I started feeling this way....
Juubei: ....
Kusanosuke: That is....admiration, Waka‐sama....
Kazuki: !
Pg. 10
Kusanosuke: Your heart is being attracted by Yohan‐sama's strength.
Kazuki: Kusanosuke....!?
Juubei: ....
Kusanosuke: Yes, Waka‐sama.
I am Shigen Kusanosuke, first of the Fuuchouin "Thirteen Strings."
Kazuki: You're alive!?
I only (knew that) you were killed by the 'Ura' while protecting me....
!
Juubei: !
Pg. 11
Juubei: Kazuki! Look at his chest!!
Kazuki: Eh!?
!?
Curse embroidery....!!
It can't be that you're....!!
Kusanosuke: Yes....I am currently in service to Yohan‐sama as one of the Ura Fuuchouin "Thirteen Strings."
Kazuki: How can this be, on top of being taken, that embroidery....
Kusanosuke: That is incorrect, Waka‐sama.
Pg. 12‐13
13S Member (spiky hair): We admired him,
13S Member (belled ponytails): his unequalled strength.
Kugen (String #9, Ginji look‐alike): And we were rewarded
13S Member (chibi Clayman): with this curse embroidery.
13S Member (twin): With the act of swearing our loyalty to that person, we willingly sought and obtained the power to exceed human limits.
Kusanosuke: Power to surpass even Waka‐sama, the Fuuchouin‐ryuu Master.
Kazuki: The Fuuchouin "Thirteen Strings"!!
Pg. 14
13 Strings: Now, we come!!
Prepare yourself!!
Kazuki: The "Thirteen Strings"....
Beginning with Shigen Kusanosuke, who tried to protect me at the risk of his own life, that all of you who spent your lives protecting the main house could appear before my eyes in such a state....
Kusanosuke: May you rest in peace, Waka‐sama!!
Pg. 15
Juubei: Kakei‐ryuu Needle Art ‐‐ Shingen No Kyoku (Song of Needle & Thread)!!
Juunigen (String #12, bald): Ch'! The Kakei‐ryuu heir!
Kugen: He's clever!!
Kazuki: *groan*....Juubei....!!
Juubei: I don't want you to taste the agony of fighting against those whom you owe a debt of gratitude.
Pg. 16
Juubei: I told you this before! Until the time comes for you to stand before Yohan, walk behind me.
Kazuki: Juubei....!
Juubei: My body has also felt the touch of curse embroidery....even though they're not visible, I can feel the tears of blood that they're shedding.
Kusanosuke: What sort of foolish thing (are you thinking)....
Just what do you think the likes of you can do?
Juubei: Be silent....
Pg. 17
Juubei: I will not allow you, who say that you willingly threw away your honor and degenerated, to have anything more to do with Kazuki.
Come at me....you heroes whose souls have been stolen by the devil.
This Kakei Juubei....will slaughter you all with the secret arts!!
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 54
Pg. 1
Kusanosuke: Slaughter us, you say?
You, a Kakei‐ryuu brat who doesn't even know his place?
(To think you could) slaughter us, the Thirteen Strings, is the height of absurdity!!
Kazuki: Juubei...!!
Juubei: There's no use in talking (any further).
Pg. 2
13S Member (spiky hair): *exhale*....Seems as though he's serious.
13S Member (chibi Clayman): The Kakei‐ryuu Needle Arts developed out of the acupuncture of the court physicians.
Originally, they were never a martial art meant to be used in battle.
However, as physicians, they had to study the human body, so consequently, when it came to destroying the human body, following other arts was not permitted.
13S Member (belled ponytails): Interesting.
In that case, let's see how far he can get with the Thirteen Strings as his opponents.
13S Members (twins): I see.
He's good at dodging.
Fuuchouin‐ryuu String Art, Thirteen Strings Battle Style Twenty, Part Three – "Futaba Mebuki" (Budding of Twin Leaves)!!
Pg. 3
Juubei: Kakei‐ryuu Needle Art, Koushingou (Great Needle Strength) Attack Style – Koushinha (Great Rending Needles)!!
Kazuki: Amazing!! After he used the Koushingou to form an impenetrable iron defense, he can immediately shift to attacking with those transformed iron arms!!
Kusanosuke: ....
You're soft, Kakei Juubei.
13 Strings: Caught you!!
Pg. 4
Kazuki: JUUBEI!!
Kusanosuke: You were magnificent, Kakei Juubei.
There's just the fact that you said that you were going to slaughter us....
However, we are transcendent, having not only studied under the main house, but due to the curse embroidery, having also absorbed the techniques of the 'Ura.'
Even for you, there's no chance!!
There's no way for you to escape the hands of the Thirteen Strings!!
Kazuki: No!! Juubei, run!!
Kusanosuke: Have you resigned yourself?
That's good spirit!
Juubei: I have no intention of running.
Kugen: Are you saying you accept your death?
Juubei: I have no intention of doing that, either.
Juunigen: Giving us a riddle at this point?
Hachigen (String #8, elder): How useless.
Pg. 5
13 Strings: a brilliant garden of ancient times
in which chrysanthemums bloom
gazing upon it
are warrior spirits fallen
in defiance of worldly transience
Fuuchouin‐ryuu String Art Musical Suite Style Twenty, Part One – Kikka No En (Chrysanthemum Banquet)!!
Kazuki: JUUBEEEI!!
Pg. 6
*flashback*
Kazuki: Ouch!
Juubei: What's wrong, Kazuki?
Kazuki: I'm fine; it was just a wind blade.
At the beginning of spring, the wind that blows down from the mountains curls up and causes cutting winds.
Juubei: ...Lend me some string, Kazuki.
Kazuki: Eh? Ah ‐‐ okay.
Juubei: This is called "Kesshin (Needle's Eye)." If you pass the string through like this....
Kazuki: Amazing! The wound disappeared.
This is the Kakei‐ryuu healing art...
Pg. 7
Kazuki: I'm surprised, Juubei.
It may be that it's really men like you who can truly be called strong.
Juubei: ...Don't say such stupid things.
*end flashback*
Kazuki: ...Juubei.
Are you trying to tell me?
What exactly true "strength" is....
Are you trying to make me remember, when I've lost my way....
Kusanosuke: Scatter!
As (the petals of) a chrysanthemum....!!
Pg. 8
Kusanosuke: *exhale*... Such a trifle....
!
Pg. 9
Kusanosuke: Wha!
Kugen: This is....!!
Kazuki: The strings passed through the needles....have reversed and are going after the Thirteen Strings!!
Juubei: Kakei‐ryuu Needle Art – Kokukesshin (Black Needle's Eye)!!
Pg. 10‐11
Juubei: Housenka (Phoenix Flower)!!
Juunigen: This can't be!!
Without the Taikyokuseki (Great Stone), (there's no way) for him to manipulate the Black Needles....
Kusanosuke: Ch'!
Juubei: Heroes whose souls have been stolen by the devil, awaken!!
13S Member (belled ponytails): *groan*...! *tearing sounds*
The curse embroidery is....
*tearing sounds*
Pg. 12
Kazuki: The Kakei‐ryuu were taken into the 'Ura' without fighting.
But if they had fought, they would have been able to lay it on the 'Ura' with a single stroke.
Even so, he's too strong.
This Juubei, whose movements greatly resemble those of Midou Ban or Akabane Kuroudo....far surpasses my inner image of Juubei's strength.
Pg. 13
Hachigen: Waka‐sama....
Kazuki: !
Hachigen....
Kugen: You've grown up....
Juunigen: And you've grown beautiful, like your mother.
Kazuki: Kugen... Juunigen....
13S Member (veil): Kakei‐dono... all of us Thirteen Strings wish to extend our gratitude.
In the end, you have given us back our pride as the Fuuchouin Thirteen Strings.
We thank you.
Juubei: So their bodies were already destroyed fighting against the 'Ura.'
Yohan's curse captured their souls.
Kazuki: Yeah....
Pg. 14
Kazuki: JUUBEI!!
Juubei: Stay back!
Kazuki: The fact that you used the Black Needles without the Taikyokuseki, don't tell me....!!
!?
A Taikyokuseki made from Kokujikou (Black Magnetic Ore).... you embedded it in your body!?
Pg. 15
Juubei: *exhale*.... Thanks to this, I can control the Black Needles using my body itself....
And not just that, it's granted me the ability to awaken a power similar to your Stigma, using S3 magnetic force that passes through my navel and circulates throughout my entire body.
Kazuki: It's too much, Juubei... If you do that, you'll.....
Juubei: Stop, Kazuki! Don't come near me.
It's not gravity or electromagnetism....the so‐called S3 magnetism produced by the Kokujikou bears a property similar to toxic radioactivity.
If you get any closer to me, you'll also be exposed to the radiation....
Kazuki: Like I care about that!
With a friend like you, sharing your destiny has always been my desire!
Juubei: Don't be a child!
Kazuki: !
Pg. 16
Juubei: You want to stop Yohan, don't you?
Until your battle with him, try and save even a little of your energy.
Right now, all you should be doing is walking behind me!
Kazuki: Juubei....
Juubei: Let's go, Kazuki....
Kazuki: ....
Okay....
Pg. 17
Kusanosuke: Fuhahaha!!
I can't believe you went and embedded it in your body....!
Juubei: !
Kazuki: Kusanosuke!!
Kusanosuke: What waits ahead of you are master hands of the Ura Fuuchouin with ten...no, twenty times the fighting potential of the Thirteen Strings!
It's absolutely impossible for you to reach as far as Yohan‐sama!
Absolutely!!
Juubei: I'll try and take you that far!
I, Kakei Juubei, will!
Pg. 18
Yohan: Kakei Juubei, hm?
He's very heroic.
It makes me want to break him.
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 55
Pg. 1
Kazuki: Juubei!!
Juubei: Kakei‐ryuu Needle Art – Gunhou (Bee Swarm)!!
Kazuki: It's no good, Juubei!!
This situation (can't continue)!
Juubei: Just watch, Kazuki!!
Kakei‐ryuu Needle Art – "Tsuchigumo" (Earth Spider)!!
Pg. 2
Juubei: How many times do I have to say it until you understand!
All you have to do is walk behind me and not do anything!
Kazuki: ....
Juubei: Preserve your strength until your battle with Kokuchouin Yohan!
Let's go!
Kazuki: ....
Juubei... Are you saying that you'll carry everything?
For my sake, (you'll carry) even the bloody destiny that the Ura Fuuchouin bore for the sake of Fuuchouin's prosperity...
Your retreating figure looks so large....
And...a little too heroic....
Pg. 3
Pg. 4
Makubex: !
Kagenuma Sarai....
Will Teshimine Takeru stay by his side?
On top of knowing who he is?
Or...
Pg. 5
Archive: Makubex....
Makubex: !
Archive: Do you understand where this is?
As well as who you really are....
Makubex: ...I understand just about everything.
The fact that this is where I was born, who I really am, 'who' it was that gave birth to me.
All of it is streaming inside my head.
Archive: That is good.
As your 'mother,' that is a joyful thing (to hear).
Makubex: 'Mother'....?
That's a lie. The one who gave birth to me isn't 'you.'
Archive: No, it's the same thing....
Pg. 6
Archive: I hate the fact that I am perfect.
I took in a 'foreign body,' yourself.
Is that not the role of a 'mother'?
After all, a 'mother' is a perfect being who gives birth to a child through the act of receiving a 'foreign body' from a father.
Makubex: Are you saying that the father you accepted was 'Makubex'?
Archive: Exactly.
Makubex: ....
What....do you plan to do with me?
Archive: As you are of like 'kind,' you will eventually become my very self, Makubex.
You have grown up magnificently... More than enough to fill your role as one of 'kind.'
If I absorb you as you are now, I should be able to evolve immeasurably.
Makubex: ....
Do you understand why, even knowing everything, I returned 'here'?
Archive: *laugh*....There shouldn't be anywhere else you can go.
Because you've discovered that your very existence brings death and ruin to the Mugenjou.
Makubex: ....
Unfortunately, that's not the case.
Pg. 7
Makubex: The reason I came back is to fight you.
Archive: Fight me?
Makubex: Yes.
Archive: How amusing... but what are you saying you're going to do?
Here, where you are a mere grouping of numbers....
Makubex: I have no intention of doing anything.
Pg. 8
Makubex: Because even just being here and talking to you like this becomes my fight against you.
Archive: And why would that be?
There is a light of hope in your eyes....
You are expecting something from 'them,' aren't you?
That is why you can say such things.
Please give up....from this point, all that any of you can do is live according to the 'history' I have created.
Even a slight straying from the path will cause an immediate return to the main thread.
And in the end, no one can (escape)…
Makubex: Then I'll ask you, what happens to Kazuki and Juubei?
Archive: Kakei Juubei will die.
Unable to carry out his duty, he will die in anger and frustration.
Pg. 9
Archive: Shigen Kusanosuke... he is without doubt the strongest member of the Fuuchouin Thirteen Strings.
Revived by curse embroidery, he has become the highest commander of the 'Ura,' and Kakei Juubei can never win against him.
That is 'history.' That is 'destiny.'
The timeline of the future has already been determined.
Pg. 10
Kusanosuke: Even while vomiting blood, you still won't stop moving forward, eh?
But I can't allow you to pass any further.
Juubei: I promised my friend.
I will pass.
Kusanosuke: Ridiculous.
I will crush you!!
Pg. 11
Juubei: Does he intend to attack with his whole body!?
Pg. 12
Kazuki: Juu...bei.
Makubex: ....
Archive: See? It's already over...
The face of Kazuki of the Strings expresses the appropriate sadness to paint this conclusion.
This is 'history.' This is 'destiny.'
Makubex: ....
Pg. 13
Makubex: If that's so, then 'they' will definitely be able to fulfill my wish.
Archive: What?
Makubex: Look.
At that brave warrior....at his heroic figure.
Pg. 14‐15
Pg. 16
Juubei: Forgive me, Shigen‐dono.
Kusanosuke: No, I thank you, Kakei‐dono. You freed me from the curse embroidery.
Kazuki: Kusanosuke....
Kusanosuke: Waka‐sama....
Because of the curse embroidery, I was forced to live as a puppet, but I have returned to myself. Here at the end, I am honored to be able to gaze upon your beautiful features.
Kazuki: I'm sorry, Kusanosuke.
(This is) my fault.
Kusanosuke: Never think it, Waka‐sama.
This Kusanosuke is only relieved to have been stopped before Waka‐sama could be hurt.
I believe (in you).
If it's Waka‐sama, then without fail, that Yohan (will be defeated)...
Pg. 17
Kazuki: Kusanosuke....
Let's go, Juubei! To where Yohan is...!
Pg. 18
Makubex: ....Kakei Juubei survived.
That is a conclusion that deviates from the 'history' you created.
It's the same as that time with Ginji‐san.
There is no one left still being toyed with by your 'history.'
The GetBackers' 'bond' will create a new 'era,' Archive!
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 56
Pg. 1
Juubei: Kazuki....
Kazuki: ....I know, Juubei.
Let's go.
Kazuki: JUUBEI!!
Juubei: Stay back!
Yohan is behind this castle gate.
The battle you need (to fight) lies on the other side.
Kazuki: ....
Juubei....
Pg. 2‐3
Makubex: ....
Juubei....
Archive: It's too late for Kakei Juubei.
Even so, can you still see hope ahead, Makubex?
Makubex: ....Yeah.
Of course.
'History' will change.
No....the GetBackers' "bond" will change 'history.'
This is the opening of a new 'era'!
Pg. 4
Kazuki: Wha.....this is Yohan's castle!?
Isn't this....the main shrine of the Fuuchouin main house!?
Juubei: This is....what does this mean?
Kazuki: I don't know. The only thing I can say is....
"Something's" powerful image is causing the main house's main shrine to be realized here in the Beltline!
Don't let your guard down, Juubei!
Juubei: I know. You, too, should take care and get behind....
*heartbeat....*
Pg. 5
Yohan: How is it, Waka‐sama?
An appropriate place to end your life, is it not?
*heartbeat*
Juubei: Kazuki....I finally understand what you've been telling me.
*heartbeat*
Juubei: That is not anything that can be called human.
Pg. 6‐7
Juubei: That is a demon....!!
Pg. 8
Ban: What's wrong, Ginji!
Ginji: I don't know...what is this!?
It's like an aura that I've never felt before is filling up the entire Beltline!!
Maria: The battle between Kokuchouin Yohan and Kazuki‐kun has begun.
Ginji: This is...Kokuchouin Yohan...!?
Ne, Ban‐chan...Kazu‐chan really can't win against Yohan?
Is this Yohan guy really that strong?
Ban: You're feeling a part of his strength, so do you understand now?
Earlier, that bastard Yohan was said to rival the Voodoo King....
Maria: He definitely rivals him, yes.
If not, then he would have been killed by the Voodoo King a long time ago.
The fact that he hasn't been means that Yohan and the Voodoo King have currently become very close to equals.
Ginji: But Kazu‐chan is also different from how he was before!
Somehow...I get the feeling that he's burdened with something that we can't even imagine.
Ban: You're too soft...no matter what he's carrying, a strong guy is strong, and a weak guy is weak.
Ginji: Is that really true...?
Ban: !
Pg. 9
Ginji: In the end, isn't the person who fights with a burden really the strongest one of all?
Having returned to the Mugenjou, having fought a lot of people and shed a lot of blood, somehow I just feel that way!
Even Ban‐chan really understands this, ri—....
Ban: ....
Even if that's true, there are such things as unbeatable opponents.
Ginji: Then why did you let Kazu‐chan go!?
Maria: The reason for that, Gin‐chan...
Is that if it's him, he just might be able to rescue that monster known as Yohan from the very depths of hell.
Pg. 10
Ginji: Eh?
Paul: It means that if Kazuki‐kun goes into battle prepared to deal with and bear that boy Yohan's karma, something just might change.
Isn't that so, Ban?
Ban: Who knows? It's got nothing to do with me.
I don't care what the thread spool tries to carry, and whatever happens isn't my concern. Only....
If the thread spool gets killed, it just means that I'll have to go myself.
Ginji: Ban‐chan....
Paul: ....
I see; so this is how Ban shows his "bonds."
(Can't say it isn't) like him, as it's definitely like him, but....
Ban: So that's how it is! If you got it, then let's go.
Ginji: You're wrong, Ban‐chan.
Ban: Huh?
Pg. 11
Ginji: Ban‐chan and everyone else, none of you understand.
The fact that Kazuki of the Strings is so much more amazing than any of you think he is!
Ban, Paul, & Maria: Ginji....
Paul: Haha! Looks like he got the last word on that one, Ban!
Ginji's right.
Ginji: Kazu‐chan is strong! Kazu‐chan is strong! Kazu‐chan is strong!
Ban: Shut up! Don't say it over and over!!
Ginji: Ooooooow.
Paul: Haha! The GetBackers never give up hope, is that it?
Maria: ...Yes.
You can't ever give up hope...
Ne....
Pg. 12‐13
Pg. 14
Kazuki: JUUBEEEI!!
Juubei: I...I failed....
Forget dodging, I couldn't even move at all....
Kazuki: Don't talk, Juubei!
We‐we'll get you treated right away...
Yohan: How?
I just tore out his heart?
Kazuki: Yohan...
Yohan: But don't worry, Waka‐sama.
As you can see, it's still beating just fine.
Pg. 15
Yohan: This is the highest part of the Mugenjou's inner sanctuary, called the Beltline.
He won't die that easily.
However, in exchange, I left a heart created from my black strings.
Once the cocoon begins to activate and the black strings are spread throughout his body, Kakei Juubei will be gone forever...like the Thirteen Strings, he will serve me as my puppet.
Waka‐sama....should you be victorious against me and regain his heart, I'm sure the 'god' of Mugenjou will revive Kakei Juubei.
Kazuki: Yohan....
Yohan, Yohan, Yohan!
Juubei: Kazuki....
Kazuki: YOHAN!!
Pg. 16‐17
Kazuki: How much must you take from me before you're satisfied!!
Yohan: ...I see.
So it's the face of vengeance you show me, after all....
Kazuki: Juubei, wait here.
Juubei: Y‐you can't, Kazuki!!
(Don't let him) provoke you into attacking him in anger...
Kazuki!!
Yohan: We should make this fast.
If it goes on too long, you won't be able to save him, even here in the Mugenjou.
The god of death will carry your dearest friend away?
Kazuki: Yohan.
I really can't forgive you, after all.
Juubei: Don't, Kazuki.
Not in anger....
Pg. 18
Kazuki: Go to hell, Yohan!!
Yohan: I've always been waiting for this "time"....
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 57
Pg. 1
Ban: What is this!?
Ginji: It's started....!
Ban: Huh!?
Ginji: It's started!
Kazu‐chan's battle, in the wrong form....!!
Ban: "Wrong"? What the hell does that mean?
Ginji: I don't know.
But there's no 'future' in this kind of battle!
Ban: ....Do you really know something?
Ginji: ....?
Something?
Ban: ....
Maria: Something is beginning to change inside Gin‐chan....
Witch Queen... Der Kaiser....
What on earth is the Ogre Battle?
Pg. 2‐3
Maria: It can't be...that it's really—....
Juubei: Y‐you can't, Kazuki...!
(You can't) face Yohan in a state of anger.
Kazuki: I really can't forgive you, after all.
Go to hell, Yohan!!
Pg. 4‐5
Pg. 6
Kazuki: Fuuchouin‐ryuu String Art Attack Scroll Ninety‐Nine, Part "One" – Maika (Flower Dance)!
Juubei: The strings draw willfully random tracks, then close in and attack from all sides, just like flower petals dancing on the wind!!
Pg. 7
Yohan: second‐month flowers
blossoming out of season
sky filled with petals
is this vision depicting
the end of the world
Kazuki: Ninety‐Nine, Part "Two" – Raichou (Thunderbird)!!
Juubei: Raichou is to be feared!
It speeds down from heaven, and if you're struck by the descending coils of strings, your instant shattering is inevitable!!
Yohan: *chuckle*
Pg. 8
Yohan: harmonizing with
the sorrowful vocals of
a singing bird are
the resounding distant peals
of dark thunderclouds
Juubei: Wha....!?
Kazuki: Sh....Ninety‐Nine, Part "Three"!!
Pg. 9
Kazuki: "Tsumujikaze" (Whirlwind)!!
Juubei: If you get caught in the whirlwind of spiraling strings, you'll be shredded to pieces, just as if you were being attacked by wind blades!!
Yohan: spiraling whirlwind
can it be that passing through
are the blades of wind
that cut across the evening's
lengthening shadows
Juubei: He countered it (with a whirlwind) revolving in the opposite direction!?
Pg. 10
Kazuki: Ninety‐Nine, Part "Four" – Kuugetsu (Empty Moon)!!
Pg. 11
Juubei: It's quiet....but the moon definitely exists within the empty blackness of space.
How will you dodge this, Yohan! This ultimate ougi!
Yohan: ....
Juubei: It's definitely getting closer....
Using the visible light spectrum and a surge of reverse‐phase energy, leaving no audible or spiritual indication, countless strings invisible to the human eye creep up—...
If he can avoid this, he can't be human!
A demon god, perhaps, or....
Kazuki: Prepare yourself!!
Pg. 12‐13
Yohan: the moon in the sky
in the empty dark of night
where it makes its home
as it gazes down on me
what is it thinking
Kazuki: !?
Yohan: I don't (need to) go so far as to dodge this.
Pg. 14
Juubei: Wh‐what a guy!!
Black strings carrying a surge opposite of Kazuki's strings...when did he manage to hide them in the darkness!?
*heartbeat*
Yohan: Handed down only among the Fuuchouin main house, and only when an heir is born who bears the capability and the talent.
I heard that a series of secret ougi techniques was granted along with the title, but....
Is this really the Secret Ougi "Kachoufuugetsu (Beauty of Nature)"?
If so, I'm a little disappointed.
Pg. 15
*heartbeat...*
*heartbeat...*
Juubei: Kokuchouin Yohan‐‐....
He is feared as the greatest sin the Kokuchouin blood has ever given birth to.
On top of his extraordinary talent, once he's seen a technique, the man can understand, absorb, and even apply it.
This is....
Pg. 16‐17
Juubei: This is—....
Kokuchouin Yohan!!
Yohan: I can't accept this as the end?
Waka‐sama....
Juubei: It's not working....
You really can't defeat him using Fuuchouin techniques!!
Then what will you do? How are you going to "kill" him, Kazuki?
Yohan: Yes, that's it.
Hatred, fear, despair.... one by one, pile up all of the 'negative' emotions that you carry as a human.
Pg. 18
Yohan: At the end, I will completely devour them all, along with the flame of your life.
I, Kokuchouin Yohan, will....
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 58
Pg. 1
Juubei: This large....
Is the difference in power between (Kazuki and) Kokuchouin Yohan really this large!?
Not a single one of Kazuki's techniques...has gotten through...
Yohan: Well, what's next, Waka‐sama....
Let me just say that it's too early to give up.
That's something to save until the very, very end.
More and more... a great deal more pain needs to be carved into that heart of yours.
Otherwise, there was no worth in my having waited.
That blinding hatred that you originally directed at me – ...(there must be) more and more for this Yohan, who has fallen in love with it...
You must expel everything, and then gather each despair one by one.
Pg. 2
Yohan: Because for you – ...to do so is "inevitable."
Kazuki: In...evitable?
What am I so afraid of?
Isn't this something I already knew?
That I wouldn't be able to defeat Yohan at this level....
I acknowledged that before I came here,
I acknowledged that before I gambled everything on my first attack....
All for what?
Pg. 3
Yohan: What will you do for me next?
Waka‐sama....
Kazuki: I've come this far, what need is there to think!?
After all, if I don't defeat Yohan, I won't be able to save Juubei!!
Yohan: This reminds me; it seems that Waka‐sama is extremely skilled at arranging flowers.
I've heard that you arrange them more vividly and beautifully than anyone else.
I'm terrible at it. When I arrange flowers, they quickly wither.
They die.
However, just once, I arranged a beautifully blooming lily, which stood firm even in the moment of death.
Kazuki: !?
Pg. 4
Yohan: Waka‐sama's mother.... She was truly beautiful.
She soon became just a cold body, but...there has been no other flower that scattered (its petals) so beautifully.
It's very unfortunate....
Now that I think about it, I should have revived at least her head for a little while.
Kazuki: ....
Yo...han.
Juubei: Do‐don't...Ka...zuki!!
Don't...hate him, don't...fear him!!
....A‐and...above...all, don't...ever...give...up!!
Pg. 5
Yohan: Will you also become a beautiful flower like your mother?
Kazuki: YOHANNNN!!
Pg. 6
Juubei: You can't, Kazuki!! Don't lose yourself in rage...
That is not the way the 'Prince of Terror' should be!!
Pg. 7
Yohan: I'm disappointed, Waka‐sama.
So fear is followed by derangement, is it?
This is really too boring....
You can finish now....
Juubei: KAZUKIIIIII!!
Pg. 8‐9
Kazuki: You were arrogant...Kokuchouin Yohan!!
Yohan: !
Kazuki: In both power and technique, you are far superior.
However, I realized that there's just one area where I surpass you.
I am never arrogant! And I never disdain my opponent!
I am going to view you not as my vengeance, but as an individual human.
And as an individual human, I am going to pour all of my power into fighting you.
That is possible solely due to my studies in the Fuuchouin main house!
And that is the only fighting style that can defeat you!!
Pg. 10
Yohan: The Fuuchouin main house...is that so....
!
*flashback*
Pg. 11
Mother: Ah...Yohan....
Yohan: You are my mother, aren't you?
Your voice sounds like the one I heard while in the womb.
You're the retainers, right? That's what Hahaue called you.
You all seem worthy. You'll become my retainers. Right, Hahaue?
Mother: Yohan....why did things have to be like this...
Yohan: Why are you making that expression?
Is there something on my face?
Father: Has (the baby) been born?
Kusanosuke: Yes!
Yohan: This voice is Chichiue...?
Father: And how is the state of my second son?
Kusanosuke: Well....Yohan‐sama's eyes have already opened.
Father: Oho!! That's very promising! One can sense some "wisdom" (in him).
Let's see...
Pg. 12
Father: Th‐this is...
Kusanosuke: 'Stigma'...is what it's called.
It's said that once, three hundred years ago, there was a person who was born bearing the 'Stigma.'
That person was a prodigy who mastered Fuuchouin‐ryuu at the age of seven, however... the first month of their tenth year, when sparring with the 19‐year‐old heir before the Soushu of the time –
Whether it was a mistake or intentional, it ended in death. The result was confinement, and while imprisoned, death from insanity.
Father: Such an...ill omen....
Mother: Soushu‐sama...this child is....
Pg. 13
Yohan: Haha...u...e....
Hachigen: What, he just spoke!
Kugen: Un‐unbelievable! But he was just born.
13S Member (belled ponytails): A divine child...
Kusanosuke: Or else...
Father: Or else?
Kusanosuke: No...that is....
Yohan: Chichi....ue....
Mother: Soushu‐sama...
Pg. 14
Father: List him in the register of the dead.
13S Member (belled ponytails): Eh....
13S Members: ....
Kusanosuke: So...kill him?
Father: Yes.
If it's done now, it's not too late.
Before he rises against his brother...
Yohan: Aniue?
Mother: ....Soushu‐sama, that is too cruel to Yohan.
Father: ....
Pg. 15
Mother: How about...giving Yohan for adoption into the Kokuchouin?
If he's with them, I know that even the 'inauspicious destiny' this child bears can be made use of.
Father: ....
Mother: Soushu‐sama!
Kazuki: Chichiue! Hahaue! Has the baby been born!?
Father: !
....
Mother: Soushu‐sama!
Pg. 16
Father: Kusanosuke...take Yohan and depart immediately for the Kokuchouin!
All of you are never to disclose what happened tonight in this place.
The child was stillborn.
Is that clear!
Kazuki: Hahaue! Is it a little brother or a little sister?
Father: Kazuki...
I'm sorry, but the child was born dead.
Pg. 17
Kazuki: Oh, I...see.
Yohan: Kazuki....
So that is my Aniue—...
*end flashback*
Pg. 18
Yohan: That was a curious night.
Kazuki: !
Yohan: There was a beautiful moon shining from between the clouds...
Sometimes, as if to split the night sky, a bolt of lightning would flash across.
A single child became stillborn...
Do you remember that night?
Mother: Kazuki....
Go to....the Mugenjou....
Yohan: Aniue....
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 59
Pg. 1
Kazuki: Your older brother...?
I am...?
Yohan: There was a beautiful moon shining from between the clouds, and sometimes, as if to split the night sky, a bolt of lightning would flash across....
A single child became stillborn...
Do you remember that night?
Aniue....
*flashback*
Father: Kazuki....
I'm sorry, but the child was born dead.
You are the sole successor to the Fuuchouin main house.
*end flashback*
Kazuki: You are...(the baby) from that time...?
That child...wasn't stillborn?
Pg. 2‐3
Yohan: I don't want you to think that I bore any grudge, because it isn't that simple.
No...rather, I think you can say it's even simpler.
Yes...if I dare to express it in a word,
I 'thirst.'
Ever since that day, that night, that moment,
I have been 'thirsty'....!!
Pg. 4
Kazuki: Th‐this is...from that night!!
Yohan: The Archive's doing....
How unnecessary....
Well, if it means that this is what the god of Mugenjou desires, then that's fine, too.
These chains of destiny that bind me and Aniue could be called the karma of that night – let's break them...
Juubei: This is the garden of the Fuuchouin main house!
This is Yohan's true birthplace...
As well as the place of destiny....that divided two brothers!!
Pg. 5
Archive: *laugh*...It's beginning.
The battle that you staked 'history' on....
Makubex...if you are right and the GetBackers create history out of their own free will, then the conclusion of this battle should also deviate greatly from my 'history.'
But will it really?
Makubex: ....
Archive: Do you think that Fuuchouin Kazuki can defeat that genius, whom even the Voodoo King avoids?
You should already understand that the power of the 'Stigma' will not be effective against Yohan....
Makubex: ....
None of that matters.
Archive: *giggle* Then let us wager.
If Kazuki of the Strings should be unable to defeat Yohan, then you will allow me to re‐birth you as the strongest warrior, and I will have you use that power to obstruct the GetBackers.
Makubex: It seems that you're really terrified of the GetBackers...
Very well...in exchange, if Kazuki should win,
I have only one wish....
Pg. 6‐7
Kazuki: *cough* !
Juubei: I...I couldn't see it.
Not only could I not feel his aura at all, but I can't see his movements.
After being blind, I thought I had improved my other senses so as to not rely on my sight, but even I can't tell at all what Yohan's attacks are like or how Kazuki is getting sliced up....!
Pg. 8
Juubei: With this man against him, I can't find even a slight chance of victory for Kazuki....
Kazuki: *harsh breaths*
Yohan: ....
Without any resistance (from you), there really seems to be no satisfaction (in this) for me...
Weren't you going to view me as just an individual human?
I can't accept it if this ends without you doing anything?
You do understand that this battle is no longer between just me and Aniue anymore, right?
Kazuki: So this means...
That you killed your own father and mother with those hands?
Yohan: It's not even worth thinking about things like that.
Pg. 9
Yohan: Could it be that you're afraid to die?
Kazuki: When did he get behind me...!?
Yohan: You're scared, aren't you?
Because it seems that the more a human is familiar with that thing known as happiness, the greater their fear of death.
Kazuki: Yohan....
You....
Yohan: *chuckle* ...
Pg. 10
Yohan: I've never felt afraid of dying.
Rather, for a long time, I've even longed to die.
"Suffering," "regret," "despair," "jealousy," "envy," "hatred," and all the rest, as long as this troublesome thing known as life continues, they will never leave people's hearts.
If one truly desires a world in which none of those things exists, one must first start by causing the extinction of humanity.
I have spent my life feeling this way.
Kazuki: When you say extinction, do you mean to include yourself in that?
Or....
Yohan: Including myself...of course...
Pg. 11
Yohan: After confirming that this world has become a pile of cold sandstone like the moon, I too will quietly go to sleep.
I have always harbored this dream, ever since that curious night when I was born.
Pg. 12‐13
Yohan: Ura Fuuchouin‐ryuu String Art Secret Ougi ‐‐ Senba Kokkaku No Mai (Dance of a Thousand Black Cranes)!!
I folded these thousand cranes in anticipation of this day. They are the very embodiment of my "long years of fervor."
Created in secret by the Ura, who use black strings to convey their "spirit," (this is) my only technique, (which is) undefeated.
Juubei: Get out of the way, Kazuki!!
Yohan: Is that expression "resolution"?
Pg. 14‐15
Yohan: It's unfortunate, Aniue.
You, too, were unable to satisfy my 'thirst.'
This is a final farewell tribute from your younger brother.
Juubei: KAZUKIIII!!
Yohan: Goodbye, Aniue....
Pg. 16‐17
Kazuki: Juu...
JUUBEEEI!!
Yohan: How pathetic.
He resigned himself to death, and chose to make of himself a shield.
Juubei: You're...wrong.
Pg. 18
Juubei: I...stopped...you....
GetBackers Volume 36, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 60
Pg. 1
Kazuki: Juu....
Yohan: He resigned himself to death, and chose to make of himself a shield.
Juubei: ....
You're...wrong.
I...stopped...you....
I, Kakei Juubei, did...!
Pg. 2
Yohan: ....
Kazuki: Juubei, a man like you....
JUUBEI—!!
Juubei: Kazuki—...
This...is strength...right?
Kazuki: ....
(You did this) in order to...tell me that....
Juubei: ....
Listen....Kazuki.
Kazuki: Juu....
Pg. 3
Yohan: How...foolish....
Pg. 4
Kazuki: Yohan....
As your brother, I have something I want to ask you.
Yohan: ....
What is it, Aniue?
Kazuki: What is your wish?
Though it cost me my life, I will try to grant it.
For your pitiful sake, your older brother will (grant it).
Yohan: ....
Pitiful?
Kazuki: If it is my death you desire, then even that will I grant.
Pg. 5
Kazuki: If it is our clan that you hate, then let us end the Fuuchouin history here and now.
Yohan: ....
Kazuki: If it is me you hate, then rend me limb from limb and amuse yourself with the pieces.
What do you wish for?
Yohan: !
Kazuki: What do you want to obtain?
Pg. 6
Kazuki: I will stake both body and soul to grant your wish....
Pg. 7
Yohan: ....Was that meant to display your resolve?
Kazuki: ....
Yohan: If what I want is Aniue's death, then you will grant even that?
How very foolish, to abandon the 'Stigma' and relinquish what infinitesimal chance of victory you had.
Enough, Aniue.
I'm disillusioned with you now.
This is goodbye.
Pg. 8‐9
Kazuki: Say it, Yohan.
What is it you really want....
Pg. 10
Yohan: Then, please kill me, Aniue.
That is what I want.
Juubei: Kazuki.... Yohan....
Kazuki: I understand....
If that...is your wish....
Pg. 11
Kazuki: Fuuchouin‐ryuu String Art Gaiden (Supplement) –
Pg. 12
*flashback*
Kazuki: Hahaue! Hahaue!
Mother: !
Kazuki: So this is where you were, Hahaue!
Mother: Kazuki...
What's the matter, Kazuki?
Look at you...you're all torn up....
Kazuki: Please listen, Hahaue!
I was finally able to master Kachoufuugetsu!
Mother: !
Kazuki: It's a splendid "art"! Now I understand why Fuuchouin is the most outstanding of the Hundred Houses of the Ancient Arts!
It's just an amazing "art"!
Mother: ....
Kazuki...do you enjoy studying "arts"?
Kazuki: Yes! All of Fuuchouin's "arts" are beautiful and magnificent!
Pg. 13
Mother: ....
Kazuki: !
Mother: Kazuki, there is an "art" that I wish to teach you.
I can only show it to you once.
This is an "art" that you must not tell your father about.
Kazuki: Why not?
Mother: This "art" that I am about to teach you not only surpasses even Kachoufuugetsu, but due to its special characteristics, it is a technique forbidden even to those who know the Fuuchouin secret ougi.
For generations, it has been passed down among those who marry into Fuuchouin.
That is why your father does not know it exists...it is an "art" that he cannot know about.
Kazuki: Why (are you going to teach) me an "art" for those who marry (into the clan)?
Pg. 14
Mother: Because I believe that you will be able to use it without straying from your path.
Kazuki: Hahaue...?
Mother: Kazuki, you do not require any power for this "art."
What you need is a compassionate heart, and the resolve to burn out the flame of your life—...
When those things are present, the 'Houou (Phoenix)' will descend from heaven.
Kazuki: 'Houou'....
Mother: Yes...
Kachoufuugetsu is the foundation of Fuuchouin...however, the essence of it lies in the 'bird.'
Pg. 15
Mother: Flowers are beautiful, but they can only abide in one place.
The wind is nimble, but it has no will.
The moon gleams from on high, but is has no warmth.
However, birds not only shine beautifully, but have freedom and agility...
They fly freely of their own will, and because of their warm wings, they can soar as high as they want.
Kazuki: This is—...
*end flashback*
Kazuki: Houou Hishou (Soaring Phoenix)!!
Yohan: This is—...
GetBackers Volume 37, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 61
Pg. 1
*flashback*
Mother: Flowers are beautiful, but they can only abide in one place.
The wind is nimble, but it has no will.
The moon gleams from on high, but it has no warmth.
However, birds not only shine beautifully, but have freedom and agility...
They fly freely of their own will, and because of their warm wings, they can soar as high as they want.
This is one such "art."
This is the Fuuchouin‐ryuu Jokei Gaiden (Matrilineal Supplement)—
*end flashback*
Kazuki: "Houou Hishou" (Soaring Phoenix)!!
Pg. 2‐3
Kazuki: Say it, Yohan.
What is it you really want....
Yohan: No matter how many times you ask, (the answer is) the same.
My wish is “destruction”...!
Voice: Yohan….
Yohan: !
Voice: Yohan….
Yohan: A warm light–…
Pg. 4
*flashback*
Fuuchouin retainer: Prepare yourself!!
Pg. 5
Mother: So you came after all, Yohan.
Yohan: Please don’t misunderstand, Hahaue.
This is not any foolish kind of act such as revenge.
Fuuchouin has ruled from the height of the Hundred Houses of the Ancient Arts in glory, but it's time to return its long‐held karma.
Mother: Pure sophistry.
What is it that you truly desire?
*flashback*
Kusanosuke: 'Stigma'....
Father: List him in the register of the dead....
*end flashback*
Yohan: Please choose.
Pg. 6
Yohan: Either "love" me, or "death"....
Father: 'Death'....
Mother: Yohan....
Pg. 7
Mother: My...poor child....
Father: ...Back then, we should have sent you to Yomi....
Pg. 8‐9
*end flashback*
Voice: What ...do you wish for....
Yohan: My wish....
My wish...is 'death.'
This is...
'Death'...
Pg. 10
Kazuki: That's wrong, isn't it?
Your wish!
Your wish isn't death, is it?
I lost sight of something when I was marked with the 'Stigma' and accepted the release of my power—...
But the words of my friends have given it back to me!
Juubei: Kazuki...forgive...Yohan.
Saizou: Don't think you have to defeat Yohan. (You have to) forgive Yohan.
Kazuki: They taught me...
That's why I gouged out the 'Stigma' and tried to grant your wish.
Hahaue and Chichiue, as well – no one wishes for 'death'!
Pg. 11
Voices: Yohan....
Yohan....
Yohan: This...is....
Father: Yohan, take a rest now.
You haven't slept at all since that day, have you?
Mother: Sleep in peace, my adorable Yohan.
Yohan: Chichiue.... Hahaue....
Kazuki: Unplug your ears and listen, Yohan.
The Houou spun from the strings resonates with the pulse of the world beyond, delivering truth.
You've suffered enough.
Sleep in peace, my little brother....
Pg. 12
Kazuki: Because you've already been forgiven.
Pg. 13
Yohan: Every...one....
I'm so...sorry....
Pg. 14
*flashback*
Mother: Kazuki....
Go to...the Mugenjou....
*end flashback*
Kazuki: Hahaue....
I finally understand.
The true meaning of those words....
What waited for me here was not 'strife,' but 'reconciliation,' wasn't it....
Pg. 15‐16
Juubei: *groan*....
Hou...ou....
The karma of the Fuuchouin has been undone....
Pg. 17
Ban: What's wrong, Ginji?
Ginji: What's...this feeling....
For some reason...the tears...just won't stop....
GetBackers Volume 37, Act 12: Retrieve the Lost Time! Issue 62
Pg. 1
Yohan: The 'Stigma' has disappeared.
Have I been freed from the destiny of the 'Stigma'?
....
You are....
I see....
'Time'...has begun to awaken....
Pg. 2
Ginji: What's this feeling....
My heart feels really peaceful, but there's something sad....
Paul: !
It seems that Kazuki‐kun and Yohan's 'Stigmas' have somehow disappeared....
Maria: ....
Ginji: Did Kazu‐chan win?
Paul: That much I don't know...wouldn't you actually know more?
Ginji: ....
Maria: ...In any case, let's hurry to where the Voodoo King is.
Ban: Yeah....
Pg. 3
Ban: Oyaji...that 'time' of destiny is really getting closer.
Let's go, Ginji!
Ginji: Yeah....
Ban: Little by little, I'm starting to understand...
The 'destiny' that's waiting for us....
And what exactly the 'future' that we have to retrieve is....