tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post2693352439086760031..comments2024-03-25T22:25:50.028+08:00Comments on A Dreamer on Drugs 2: Akatsuki no Yona [Chapter 106]Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-26962381557344102752015-06-24T08:22:28.088+08:002015-06-24T08:22:28.088+08:00In that circumstance it's not about winning Wi...In that circumstance it's not about winning Wind over, IMO because you're right that it isn't going to happen. It's about the political disagreement not being visible to potential outside enemies after coming to power under questionable circumstances. Which is why to me it only makes sense to use Kouka's social customs to your advantage even if Wind will be the first tribe to turn on you. <br /><br /><br />I think it still does raise a question about Il's level of culpability though. Like to what extent Il was to blame for his failure to leave the castle and see what was happening. While I feel like the blame he gets is disproportionate, to an extent I'm not too comfortable with Il not really interacting with the people. What do you think?<br /><br />Haha. Hm. So you're thinking that if Hak had seen the light back then Yona would've been more jealous of Hak than upset at him leaving? Somehow that wouldn't surprise me. :p Oh that's an interesting take as well. I'll have to think about that one.<br /><br />That's true. Since it's clear that he can take the throne with Yona still living, it's a little bit strange for him to have decided Yona was off the table so early. Idk. Think Suwon knew about her feelings more than he let on? Hm. It's a puzzle. Killing Yona would definitely fit with what he was thinking at the end about both Hak and Yona not being at his side after Hak made it clear that he's choosing Yona. But I'm not sure how to figure the questionable behavior with the hairpin in with that as the original plan. I know I said earlier that I thought he'd tweaked his plan after the confession but I'm not convinced anymore in light of what he said to Hak immediately after giving it to her. <br /><br />Think maybe someone else was supposed to kill Yona? The hairpin would've been an obvious clue for soldiers searching for her in the castle. In any case, I think you're on to something. Especially if Suwon sent him to the entrance because he was deliberately trying to separate Hak from Yona. He couldn't have expected to challenge Hak directly and win, but depending on the framing he may have been able to retain that friendship if Yona's dead before he gets back. What do you think?<br /><br />Oh. That makes a lot of sense. I agree that him telling Hak to protect Yona it could hint that his plan was to spare Yona somehow as well. Good point. So then Hak turning Yona and himself into a package deal would've directly led to that. Thanks for your re-translation.<br /><br />Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-21711205089840999182015-06-23T21:42:18.441+08:002015-06-23T21:42:18.441+08:00True but he probably decided not to waste effort o...True but he probably decided not to waste effort on Wind since they probably won't budge after what he tried to do/did. I mean, unlike Yona, I would think that they know that Suwon is the 'boss' who tried to 'kill them off' using Fire to get what he wanted. <br /><br />That's right. <br /><br />Oh, so it was 200 years...that's pretty long. <br /><br />Hehe, sorry, I didn't watch that one. Hm..cannot say for sure but wasn't Suwon kind of showing older son that what Tae Jun has done for that poor tribe is good. Maybe, he had some plans for it but thanks to Yona and others, he doesn't have to since they already/partly did that job. Of course, I'm not sure how long term it is since after some time, they are going to war. ^^; <br /><br />Hm..equal as in position..or brains or having a goal and accomplishing it? =P<br /><br />That's right ^^ Suwon knows Haku's value unlike her =P No problem ^^ It is possible..I'm thinking that it is either that, or he is going to say that Yona is Haku's, something like that. <br /><br />Ya..but basically, Yona is the hindrance for Suwon that he won't get Haku yet marrying her doesn't seem to be part of his options. Good point. Yona is packaged with Haku but he only wants Haku. Both not knowing would still end up with Haku + Yona. Killing Yona would be a possibility but Haku would most likely want to learn who got rid of her that is unless, Suwon can really cover it up = 'perfect crime'. And it helps that Haku is leaving Yona up to him. So, perhaps, that was the original plan which we thought is also the adviser's but Suwon kind of wavered and Yona managed to escape which probably cost him Haku. What do you think? <br /><br />Ah, that's a good point. <br /><br />Hm..I interpret that as feeling that those two will not approve of how he become king though..wait..that might mean that he is going to spare Yona..yet, it can also be that she won't..but why would Haku won't? Is it because he is super devoted to Yona? It is something like: When I become king, I think Yona and Haku would definitely be not at my side. So, he probably has tears that he is going to sacrifice both for his goal. Sorry..if the earlier translation caused confusion. It is the Chinese grammar. ^^; Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-70278506500151738252015-06-23T11:46:29.229+08:002015-06-23T11:46:29.229+08:00He could try a little harder with Wind too. :P
Th...He could try a little harder with Wind too. :P<br /><br />That's a good point. I imagine that Il's knowledge would be limited for this one. Fire has a lot of pride. The older son took responsibility for his father's actions and TaeJun for Yona's death. They were both very very scared but their pride prevented them from outright saying so. Similar deal with ex-Fire's inability to accept defeat. If Fire did try to acquire resources during their meetings I don't think that he would've outright said he needed aid when they were setting the national budget. Cuz yeah, if the generals had gone to Il about their problems, aside from maybe Earth, I don't see Il refusing to send funds or anything like that.<br /><br />I think Yona said that her family had been on the throne for about 200 years? <br /><br />But that's if we buy that he was attempting to use the throne to raise Fire's living standard. I don't recall him mentioning that at all but he did talk about past glory. So I mean, I think he stated his motive fairly clearly. His maniacal behavior there reminded me of Zhao when he killed the moon spirit in Avatar. :/<br /><br />Good to see we agree. <br /><br />True. Well it seems safe to say that Suwon's original plan included killing Il, becoming king, and not marrying Yona :p. I think you're right about protecting her from other things because she's clueless and naive. Suwon, IMO, has never considered Yona his equal.<br /><br />Oh so the Chinese version has Suwon being more serious about poaching Hak. Sheesh. Stuff like this is why I can't make a decision about him. >( I wonder how Yona would've felt about that. She's trying to get Suwon to join her for juice but he's not responding because he's trying to take her bodyguard lol. Thank you for looking that up. Do you know what Suwon was going to say after "ah, in short, I think..."? Do you think he was going to try and persuade Hak one last time?<br /><br />I don't know. He still looks distressed at the thought of having to marry Yona so your interpretation that he won't marry Yona but Yona's part of the package for Hak still makes more sense to me. Although that does certainly suggest that Suwon was aware of the fact that marrying Yona was an option. But IMO if his original plan was for Hak/Yona to not know he killed Il, I don't think he has a reason to try and steal Hak if Yona was still going to be the princess? Which way are you leaning?<br /><br />Well, Suwon's underestimation of Yona;s feelings played a huge role in the collapse of his plan. He just didn't take her seriously IMO. Yeah that's why I think that Suwon is a touch overrated as a strategist. He intricately planned the murder down to Yona's usual habits, but as soon as Yona disrupted him he told the truth instead of coming up with a halfway believable cover story. Though the revenge explanation was for the reader's benefit as opposed to what Suwon would realistically have said in that situation though IMO.<br /><br />Hm. The Chinese translation is very interesting. You think maybe he instinctively felt like his plan wasn't going to go as planned?Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-50780147150161342582015-06-22T19:58:38.035+08:002015-06-22T19:58:38.035+08:00True.
That's possible ^^ And he'll proba...True. <br /><br />That's possible ^^ And he'll probably think of another way to get Water on to his side. <br /><br />Hm..that makes sense and yes, I kind of buy it since I'm assuming that he is indeed thinking along that line which is somewhat typical for people like him..yet, perhaps, he thought that Suwon is much easier to deal with rather than Iru. So, with that, like I wondered in the other thread, does Iru know that was the effect for Fire tribe? Didn't he mention it to Iru? Or, they are just acting on their own? that rationale is indeed weak..like, how come only now..? It also depends on how long has the sky been the ones on the realm as king. Was it only recently with Yona's grandfather? It is possible that his grandfather/father 'brainwashed' him to take the opportunity to take back the throne since it is rightful theirs. Then, what happened to their tribe, somewhat reinforced it. Was he always like that? Before his demise, it seems that he really lost it. Since when did he start to think solely for himself rather than his people? Ah..so many questions again ^^;<br /><br />That would be indeed interesting. ^^<br /><br />True..so again, what was Suwon's original plan? And, yes, protect Yona from who since obviously, right now, they are not after them at all. Protect her from some other things since she is a 'clueless naive princess'? <br /><br />Most likely so. Suwon must have pretty much decided that this is what he indeed wanted. <br /><br />Okay...I find that weird so I checked the Chinese scans. <br />Suwon: How come I have to marry Yona? [<- so he might not exactly refusing to marry her]<br />Haku: You want me, right?<br />Suwon: Is that your excuse for rejecting me..ah, in short, I think..<br />Haku: Marry Yona and become the next king. I'll belong to you. <br /><br />So, in a way, Haku prioritizes Yona then Suwon. Suwon knows that so, he'll have to give up on Haku. Hm..thinking of it, I wonder how much Suwon knows Yona. Does he know her well enough that she cannot go against him even if he kills her father? Or, he doesn't..because if he knew, he could still at least say, he killed her father in self-defense and she'll believe him rather than bluntly saying that it is for revenge, blah, blah. <br /><br />Hm..it seems that the Chinese translates that Suwon sentence differently..^^;<br />In Chinese, it is: I think..when I become the king, Yona and Haku..would definitely not be at my side. <br /><br />That can mean like what we are thinking or, he has a gut feel/premonition that is what's going to happen..probably because of what he is going to do. Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-3685332439718427862015-06-21T06:46:51.476+08:002015-06-21T06:46:51.476+08:00I tried to avoid that conclusion, but the mangaka ...I tried to avoid that conclusion, but the mangaka writing this by the seat of her pants makes too much sense. :p<br /><br />Right but as it is now, the rift is too obvious. That's also why I thought Suwon should've chastised the Fire Tribe in public while rewarding them under the table for cutting Wind's water supplies. Given Kouka's societal emphasis on rank and appearances in the upper classes, Wind and Water would've had no choice but to reciprocate Suwon's friendly overtures even if they didn't believe his sincerity. But you're right that he probably needed to move quickly once the pretext for war presented itself.<br /><br />Think maybe an excuse to go to war was what Suwon was looking for in Awa as well? His story about coming to acquire evidence against Kumji seems fishy.<br /><br />Idk. IMO even if they were subsidized, life in the village must've gone on. Nobody goes home to harvest during war. You know what I mean? In any case, I got the impression that they got their own produce and were depending on the young men. Hm. The Fire Tribe certainly appears to be the poorest so they definitely would've been more prone to being "spoiled". Wasn't the soil also questionable there?<br /><br />As an aside, I'm surprised that ex-Fire was lusting for power for its own sake. I think that his bid makes sense if he wants the throne because the other tribes had better land, better inter-trade opportunities (the Fire villages are pretty isolated iirc), access to medical care, etc. while the Fire villages had effectively been left to their own fates when the war ended and Il's peace treaties crippled their economy since they likely lived primarily off the spoils of war. Fire was probably importing all its food for its troops and upper classes and that must've taken a toll on the general's finances. To me, Fire acting out of desperation also has the added bonus of someone besides Suwon having a grudge against Il's policy that we can take seriously. What do you think? Do you buy the "rightful place" and "Hiryuu" rationale the Fire general used?<br /><br />I was thinking different areas like Sky to the South, Fire and Wind to the North, etc.but you've made a good point about the various roles each tribe could've played. I agree with you that they were likely at war with all of their neighbors. If they were at least cordial, Suwon wouldn't have had to split his troops. IMO you're right about their "past glory" and that the strength of their soldiers was what allowed them to get away with it. <br /><br />It'd be interesting if perhaps Il had heard about their neighbors putting aside their differences to attack Kouka and if something like that had led to the peace treaties. Then Yu-Hon got upset and threatened to take over with the support of the country so Il killed his brother to save Kouka. <br /><br />I don't see why it can't be both. :p I wonder if Suwon was going to strip Yona of her title and banish them both since it seems like he never intended to have her witness the murder but he didn't plan to have her around either. But then he told Hak to protect Yona which would be impossible if the plan was to kill her. Maybe you're right that it was never his plan to go with the adviser's advice.<br /><br />It seems like Hak might've sealed his own fate with that spiel about not acknowledging Suwon without Yona when he was listing his demands :p. Suwon resting his head on Hak's shoulder while fighting tears seemed kind of like he was giving in to fate. What do you make of it? I don't get the sense that Suwon would've turned Hak down if he'd pledged his allegiance.<br /><br />Also, something I didn't notice before: Suwon answering the question "You want me, right?" with "That's what you mean..." :p That scene you found definitely has me reconsidering a few things. What're your thoughts on it?Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-64523092946772831512015-06-20T20:00:24.958+08:002015-06-20T20:00:24.958+08:00Nope. As I mentioned in the other thread, things m...Nope. As I mentioned in the other thread, things might be deliberately vague so that the mangaka can figure things out later on. <br /><br />True and perhaps, he must strike the iron while its hot = they have an alibi for a battle. With Wind, I think it was done before, they threatened to harm the people of Wind tribe. Suwon did that to make grandpa comply with making him king. With their blessings, the Fire tribe cut Wind tribe's streams. He knew that the Wind will do everything for its people. For Water, they kind of blame them for the trouble with Kai which probably be for ousting the Water general if he doesn't go with them. <br /><br />True. <br /><br />Hehe ^^ <br /><br />Maybe the system wasn't applied and the generals aren't keen on that kind of way of living? Actually, I'm just guessing that they used to be 'great' and now, the war's spoils are gone..they are spoiled and everything so, they hope the king and generals would still give them the 'dole outs' in exchange for the manpower they provided. Not sure if it is indeed like that for all of them. Wind seems to have some way of living. Water should since it is in a port area. Do you think that the Fire tribe is the poorest of them all so they would resort to that kind of thing, aside from the fact that ex-Fire lusts for power. <br /><br />In what way in charge of different areas..like Fire providing manpower, Water providing the supplies/money? Sky probably also provides money since they are a trading town. Hehe, it would really be nice if we really know how things work and what really happened in the past. Wars..is that only with Kai or also the ones below. I think it is towards all since they are on defense against the ones below which shows that they have no alliance or peace treaty something. That must have really put them on a spot to make enemies of all their neighbors but I guess they have strong soldiers so they can pull it off. Is that their 'past glory'?<br /><br />By the way, while re-checking on Suwon's threat to Wind, I saw this:<br />http://mangafox.me/manga/akatsuki_no_yona/v02/c011/10.html <br /><br />It seems that Yona and Haku was never part of the plan when he becomes king. Or, he is already assuming that they'll know what he'll do to Iru. Or, is it because he won't marry her and Yona is part of the package for Haku? =P Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-26603141774569081552015-06-20T07:32:22.012+08:002015-06-20T07:32:22.012+08:00I had assumed it was the castle itself, but when y...I had assumed it was the castle itself, but when you put it that way...it's not so clear is it? <br /><br />Good point about Suwon not trusting them. I actually thought Suwon played his hand wrong with Water and Wind. I think he should've still gone around to smooth things over but Earth and Sky could've still managed the tasks that required more trust IMO. But that's me though. What do you think of how he managed that?<br /><br />Those generals being forced to send soldiers would make for good drama IMO.<br /><br />Maybe I need to go your route and do the whole low expectations thing lol. :p<br /><br />That's the puzzle. Have we seen any of the villagers say that they were trained in something that would've become unprofitable after the end of the war like sword blacksmiths or something? I'm asking because the generals don't appear to have a profit-share and the Fire Tribe is drafting its soldiers. If the young men were mostly already gone before due to the wars, it seems odd to me, now that you mention war's spoils, that the Fire General could take the young men now and the village wouldn't already have a system in place for adjusting to their absence. <br /><br />That's what I suspect. Because when you compare the claims made by the outraged populace with the facts we're given, the people's perceptions don't add up. Plus it's not unheard of for stuff like that to happen in real life. Hm. Do you think that maybe different generals were in charge of different areas for wars? Someone like Yu-Hon must've won much more than he lost. Same with Earth. I think grandpa may have also done his share of conquering because they said he was on par with Yu-Hon (maybe foreshadowing a Hak v Suwon showdown?), but that he's mellowed with age and raising kids a bit. Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-33478721438901121672015-06-18T16:57:20.553+08:002015-06-18T16:57:20.553+08:00Hm..not too sure..is what protecting them in the c...Hm..not too sure..is what protecting them in the castle, or the castle itself? Since there are priests there before, maybe there is some sort of altar or object? Sword? =P Ah, if it is a sword, maybe they can now move around as long as it is with them. <br /><br />Ah, I see. True, it seems that the tribes tend to mind their own business and just 'work together' if the king wanted them to. Not too sure. Somehow, I think Suwon also doesn't quite trust them so he only brought the ones he 'knows' are loyal to him while the others..somewhat far away from him. They will probably send people if they are forced/threaten to. <br /><br />Indeed, and hopefully, the mangaka would explain things..ah, convincingly ^^ <br /><br />Hehe, ya it seems to be like that. Is it possible that the people do not really know the basic stuff of survival because most are dependent on the war's spoils? True..perhaps, they are not used to be submissive ones since they are always the ones demanding? Which is assuming that they do win in most of the wars/battles that they engage in. <br /><br />Ah..that's exactly what I'm thinking. So, maybe that is why they kind of approve of what Suwon is doing? Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-68227708525388068092015-06-18T16:01:19.581+08:002015-06-18T16:01:19.581+08:00Yes I think you're right.
Oh! That's an i...Yes I think you're right.<br /><br />Oh! That's an interesting possibility. I think there's going to be a lot of rebuilding needed after the big war takes place and maybe it'll be the first step in Kouka's citizens wanting to take control of their own destinies in an aftermath that'll require them to start over? That'd be really satisfying. Do you think that the dragons will die if something happens to the castle?<br /><br />I think the simple fact that we have several more or less autonomous regions means that Kouka's always had some regional divisions that align with tribal boundaries. In terms of effect, I think that the distinction between the upper class and the lower class is probably the most profound fracture to be seen in that society. The Fire Tribe's second son sought to differentiate himself from Hak based on class rather than tribe and although the Fire Tribe general brought up Hiryuu in his coup attempt, we still generally see the tribes intermingling for trade and travel with little trouble IMO. So there does appear to be national unity in that sense.But yeah I agree in general that Suwon appears to be uniting them for war. Do you think Wind and Water will eventually be forced to send bodies?<br /><br />I think that's how it was too though come to think of it Hak may just be the oldest of grandpa's adopted kids. I'm not sure if the new Wind general was adopted but I think so.<br /><br />Precisely. See that's the mystery that I hope to get answers to simply because people don't generally do things the hard way without a reason. And Suwon's hatred of Il doesn't appear to extend to Yona so I just don't know what to make of it. One theory contradicts the other, etc. There's probably a mix of factors there.<br /><br />Lol at hopefully. But yeah. I hope that the mangaka doesn't leave us hanging on these issues.<br /><br />Good question. We see Yu-Hon going on military campaigns as recently as when Suwon and the others were children so there may have been conquest happening right up until Il was chosen for the throne. I think that the grandfather maybe was tired of the wars as well because in a sense choosing Il, whose "claim to infamy" was his pacifism in a warmongering nation was kind of implicitly endorsing his views. When many of the people who hated Il talk about Kouka's former glory it seems like the cultural memory is tied very closely to war and conquest so I think so. Honestly, I'm not actually seeing the bullying per say because it's not like Kouka gave up its own borders in the peace treaties. I think they're just mad because they had to quit being imperialists.<br /><br />As for Kouka's economic situation...it's hard to tell. The country appears to have port cities as well as other nations it can trade with but we don't really see any exports or national crops until Suwon arranges that deal with Kai for tea as well as the polishing of the rocks from the Earth mines. That suggests to me that there may be a lot underutilized natural resources. Maybe it's undeveloped like that because the country was warmongering rather than making trade agreements. The Fire Tribe looked like it boosted its economy primarily through the military so it's possible that the spoils of war was their source of national income for a long time. What do you think?<br />Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-60356296889350284532015-06-16T20:19:42.642+08:002015-06-16T20:19:42.642+08:00True. Haku, more or less, knows how things work bu...True. Haku, more or less, knows how things work but of course, doesn't mean that he likes how it is. Ya..<br /><br />Indeed. <br /><br />Ah, I'm thinking more on they'll vote on who they want to be their ruler rather than it being 'inherited' but yes, for now they seem to be quite dependent on their rulers which will also happen if they are in a democracy. Hoping the 'ruler' will solve their problems and they don't have to do anything. <br /><br />I see. <br /><br />Indeed..but was Kouka not united before? Currently, it seems more like uniting them together so that they can engage into war to take some lands back. <br /><br />Ah, I see. I thought his grandpa tends to pick up abandoned kids and take them in..and it just so happened that Haku fits the 'position'. Wasn't the new Wind general also adopted by the grandpa? <br /><br />I see. I do think it is possible to do both, and Haku would even wish them happiness. Everything would have gone smoothly but too bad, Suwon didn't put a guard in front of the door before he pull that off, in order to prevent someone from accidentally seeing it.<br /><br />Indeed...ah, one of those, we'll know probably later on/at the end...hopefully.<br /><br />Probably..Kai but definitely want to conquer. Ah, but were they in war at that time? Aside from banishing the priest theory as a reason for 'disinheriting Yuhon', perhaps, the grandfather is sick of wars and its toll so decided to let Iru rule the country instead. I mean what is 'Kouka's former glory' = being a warmonger? Currently, it is deemed as 'weak' because they let the country being bullied by the other countries. Did the country become 'poor' because of that? Or, was it always like that and with war, they'll just take the spoils of the other countries? <br /><br />Indeed. Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-2248161727882477832015-06-16T10:22:09.033+08:002015-06-16T10:22:09.033+08:00I don’t think so no. I think because of how quickl...I don’t think so no. I think because of how quickly everything happened, there just wasn’t much emphasis put on it. I imagine that Suwon would’ve arranged a discreet burial. Yona isn’t bothered with a lot of things we think she should care about. :p Agreed as to the conspiracy angle. I think there is an element of conspiracy in the sense of general planning things and the like, but yeah. I agree that it’s not that type of story.<br /><br />I think so. It just seems to me that Il may not have realized Suwon was a threat until later on. It’s true. Too bad we don’t know if Suwon’s treacherousness was ever applied to anyone else. Although I suppose it could also have been as simple as Il feeling that Suwon wouldn’t treasure Yona like Hak does. But then the vehemence seems to paint another story…<br /><br />That would also be interesting. Do you think that maybe Yu-Hon had a specific country he hoped to conquer and all the priests he asked told him it was a bad idea? Although to get rid of them over a power struggle, it would probably have been more the priests telling the king not to approve of Yu-Hon’s plan. Maybe Suwon knew about a plan that’s more specific than “restore Kouka to her former glory” and that’s what he’s after? It looks to me like it’s the king’s prerogative because the generals didn’t react to royalty going through Yona like it was this outrageous thing. Suwon being the closest male heir made his coronation more palatable for them but I think they were fine either way.<br />Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-58064307081307284352015-06-16T10:21:14.349+08:002015-06-16T10:21:14.349+08:00True. That’s why I think he’ll be instrumental in ...True. That’s why I think he’ll be instrumental in persuading Earth. True but unfortunately, it makes me worry for Kouka’s future. Hm. I don’t think Hak’s an isolationist who can’t politick. For instance, he was aware of the Fire Tribe’s troop movements. Even if he did isolate himself somewhat like with the Fire Tribe’s second son, once he became a general the other generals in a normal world would’ve started paying attention because you can’t politick in a circle of 5 without knowing at least the basics. That they didn’t to the point of not noticing the red flags is questionable IMO.<br /><br />Interesting. I think that he probably does think she still likes Suwon because of the hairpin. That’s true. There does appear to be a gap between the dragons gathering in a fairly standard good versus evil set-up and Suwon’s portrayal as a gray character. What else would Yona be able to do? :p She’ll want to help the people, but if she can’t strategize, perhaps a more cerebral adviser is in order. It would definitely seem rushed IMO but I’d rather read an info-dump than finish the story and be left wondering about important details. I suspect that we’re going to end up with some portions being rushed anyway as is.<br /><br />I think that’s what the mangaka will use to justify Yona sitting on the throne. I suspect so. That’s true. Maybe Suwon dies in the war and Yona returns. Sky felt sorry for her so the pieces are there. I’m pretty sure all of the surrounding countries have been war opportunists. Splitting the troops would've only made sense. On paper I’d be on board with a democracy, but in practice I just don’t know how it would work. The Fire Tribe villagers never thought to innovate with their crops like Kai, or to teach the women and children martial arts or hunting. If they can’t make changes to feed and protect themselves, expecting the citizens to give up their dependency on the Generals is a tall order IMO.<br /><br />Good point. Yeah, but I just figured that since so many people were travelling in for the party, it would’ve been expected. Yona’s lack of growth hasn’t stopped the mangaka from having the other characters praise her. So I just don’t expect her lack of growth to disqualify her when all is said and done.<br /><br /><br />Hm. He seemed pretty clear in his coronation speech that he wanted to unite Kouka and restore it to its former glory. That requires both long term and short term work. It could also be the case that Suwon has no intentions of dying and was merely acknowledging Yona’s right to be furious with him. Hm. Suwon’s underestimation of Yona’s feelings did, in a way, lead to this current situation. Eh…his expression was too off IMO. I think he was scheming but it’s possible that he underestimated the extent to which she’d be attached to it. lol. True.:D<br /><br />Oh really? I figured it was like some of the traditions I’ve heard about where the chief or the person in charge will adopt a kid who has no parents or relatives. Hak appears to be sure that he’s an orphan, adopted, and that Fuuga’s his hometown. Hak having doubts about whether grandpa loves him makes more sense to me if his parents died when he was a little older –like say 5ish. Though Hak’s brother, otoh, might be a baby at the doorstep.<br /> <br />I don’t see why it can’t be both? Suwon has a very strong emotional attachment to Yona and he planned the murder around her schedule. Not now because too much has happened lol. I meant Suwon’s handling of Yona if she hadn’t seen the murder. She wouldn’t have known, but he would’ve. So I thought that maybe he’d marry her for the political advantage but also to take care of her because he knows how it feels to lose a parent while young.<br />Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-70324704567616748722015-06-14T21:50:48.985+08:002015-06-14T21:50:48.985+08:00That's right. And, do you think it is possible...That's right. And, do you think it is possible that Iru is actually still alive? I do wonder about it..what did they do with the corpse? Feed the fish with it? Yona doesn't seem to be bothered with it. I think in most cultures, they would want the body for a proper burial. Though, it would be kind of messy or wth if it is like that...I mean, what if Iru and Suwon agreed to fake that. And, they have some other motive? I would then shake my head, nah, nah, things would be too complicated and this series isn't that type of story. <br /><br />True..and maybe Iru is thinking of keeping enemies close...which is I think stupid if he cannot pull it off. Ya..any theory would contradict the other. ^^;; <br /><br />Yup..something like that. Or, it is a vision that is unfavorable to a certain group..well, Yuhon like perhaps, their god said do not go to war anymore or else, the country will be wiped out. Or something about his family? Indeed...there are a lot of secrets and everyone is tight lipped. Indeed..and is okay with it since Suwon would be the next in heir..again, if they are on a tradition of only male heir = blood relative. Not too sure since Iru is going to get someone else so is that breaking the tradition or it is allowed? Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-49697299821158282912015-06-14T21:49:48.844+08:002015-06-14T21:49:48.844+08:00Hehe, we'll never know. Earth seems to highly ...Hehe, we'll never know. Earth seems to highly regard Haku for being good at fighting. The rest..no idea. But then, wasn't it mentioned early on that Haku is wary of them 'politicians' so perhaps, he doesn't hang out too much with them because of their ulterior motives. <- I forgot where I read this ^^; We cannot really say what is the generals like when Iru is still alive. Earth would most probably love teasing Sky like before. Fire and Water would be overly serious. Wind..with Haku as general is unknown. <br /><br />Before, I would think that Suwon would still have a chance hence the love triangle. Lately, the mangaka is only drawing those two together so Suwon probably has no chance anymore still...maybe it is one among the other things that might make Haku think that Yona is still into Suwon? Not really sure what the mangaka is planning. Perhaps, she doesn't plan on making Suwon as the major antagonist? That's right..unless, she just listens then some adviser just lead the meetings. Something like a 'puppet queen' if she will still be like that when they put her on the throne. True..but then, it would seem rushed, don't you think so? If it is info dump in the end and yes, that is better than none at all.<br /><br />True..if she wanted to do that in a grander scale, she would have to sit on the throne. So, perhaps, the story is about Robin Hood missions + some grand war/opponent? Aside from Kai, iirc, there are two other countries below which seems to be against them since Suwon split his troops as defense. Still, if that is it, after the war, what then? What are the chances that they'll go from royalty to democracy? =P <br /><br />Oh..I thought he meant that there are soldiers that he do not recognize. I didn't think of guests since I don't see any of them =P Indeed, things are going smoothly for Suwon. Well, I did thought that is the direction of the series..but as of now, not too sure since based on my impression, Yona didn't seem to 'grow much' after she found all the dragons. <br /><br />Ya, but what is his goal..I'm thinking if it is a very long term goal and he can finish it when he's old and gray..or, it is just something short term goal so, he is okay with dying after it's done. Maybe, it wasn't really to manipulate Yona? But unexpectedly have that kind of effect on Yona? I'm not sure of the extent Suwon can imagine that Yona would be that possessive and protective of a hairpin from someone who killed her father =P I think Suwon shouldn't be able to relate since he did something about his father's murder. <br /><br />Ah..I thought grandpa just picked up Haku without knowing his parents or anything? Something like crying baby on the road, or left on his door. ^^;; <br /><br />No, I don't think so. I still think it is something like for 'old time's sake' kind of thing. Hm..making amends..later on? Marrying her...if she agrees...can you imagine the reaction of Haku and the dragons? Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-77128784798327238842015-06-14T12:28:29.421+08:002015-06-14T12:28:29.421+08:00Good point. The networking and the use of his netw...Good point. The networking and the use of his network at that age didn’t strike me as normal, but at the same time it does seem rather off. Good point. I suspect though that the truth will likely be in the middle compared to Suwon’s memories. What complicates the idea of Il’s persona being entirely false to me is that Il was known as a pacifist even when before he was chosen.<br /><br />See that’s what makes it so fuzzy for me. If you’re right about Suwon not being a sinister character until after Il killed Yu-Hon then I’m not sure why Il would’ve gotten that way. So I can definitely understand the temptation of the sibling theory in the absence of a reason for Il to have concluded that Suwon was a questionable person. Another possibility is that Suwon witnessed the killing himself and Il refused to kill Suwon but then feared for his life as Suwon got older. Except he doesn’t appear to think that Suwon will kill him…Idk.<br /><br />Oh! So maybe they believed the visions were fake and that the priests had too much sway with the king? I think that would make the most sense. Maybe the old king knew that there would be blowback if he named Il as his heir sooner. :p Well, as you said, Kouka is very dependent on its hierarchy. The king might’ve told someone but the advisers who knew played the reason close to their chest. It seems like the government is surprisingly good at keeping certain secrets from the public like Hak’s grandfather knowing where the last priest lived. Yeah. Disinherited makes a lot of sense to me. Maybe Yu-Hon knew the reason why he’d been passed over and that’s why he was okay with it.<br /><br />That’s also very true.<br />Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-23599523909458677632015-06-14T12:27:27.978+08:002015-06-14T12:27:27.978+08:00When you put it that way…that’s a really good poin...When you put it that way…that’s a really good point. That’s true. <br /><br />Tbh, I think the passiveness of the generals would’ve worked for me if there’d been a private meeting where we could see that they aren’t fooled. They’ve got reasons to go along and Suwon is smart, but they’re supposed to be seasoned, battle-hardened men who’ve spent years in politics. Hak’s grandfather being requested for a meeting Hak knew nothing about was shaky. The strongest, youngest, and most loyal general vanishes with the princess when the king is killed…and the logical conclusion is that Hak killed Il without a motive and ran? New faces aligned with Suwon appear out of nowhere…and Hak is still the likely culprit? Suwon rushes the coronation instead of trying to find the princess who may be alive…and Wind’s the only one who catches on. Was Hak’s status as their peer a talking point for his biography or a fact with real-story implications? :/<br /><br />That’s true. Suwon’s doing well as Yona’s foil there tbh. Do you think there’s an advantage to the love triangle at this point where the story’s concerned? Hm. That’s true. Yona doesn’t seem able to do separate fact from fiction with either her father or Suwon unfortunately. Her naivety kind of concerns me if the story takes them back to the palace. If she lacks curiosity and only understands superficially, how exactly will she hold her own in political meetings? Compassion is good, but that can only take her so far. An info dump’s better than nothing. :p<br /><br />That’s my impression. You know, I’m not sure what more Robin Hood missions will accomplish story-wise. Maybe Yona will think about relieving suffering on a grander scale? Pretty much the only place left to go would be Sky territory which is where I presume the royal capital is. Touche! :p <br /><br />I’d read a manga from Hak’s point of view. :p The action certainly helps! That’s true, but strange people wouldn’t have been so unusual because there were a ton of guests visiting for the party. I think it’d be interesting to see Suwon realize that it’s not easy being king. Right now he’s trying to be hands-on while cleaning out corruption, being more caring for the people, and so on, but he’s been late and forced to rely on the goodwill of strangers to get results. Too bad everything’s going his way! >( Wind for Yona. Earth for Hak IMO. I think the manga will play up the Hiryuu=King; Yona=Queen connection towards the end. :p <br /><br />True. I suppose it’s possible that Suwon sensed Hak’s feelings for Yona. Hm. What he said to Yona at Awa means that he may be open to his death once he’s accomplished his goal. But then that still wouldn’t explain his attempt to manipulate Yona with the hairpin. Because IMO you can love someone while knowing you can’t be with them and that would show in your actions. It really is a puzzle. Maybe a combo?<br /><br />I’m hoping that’s explained. It’d be disappointing if Hiryuu reincarnated as Yona against the rules. :p Now that you mention it, more family background would’ve been nice. They’re travelling all over the place so I don’t get why they haven’t visited Yona’s maternal grandparents or why Hak didn’t visit his bio parents’ place before he left Fuuga.<br /><br />Good point. I think the adviser respects power. That’s true lol. You think that maybe Suwon is nice to Yona because he understands how it feels to lose a father to murder for largely political reasons? Maybe marrying her and making her happy would’ve been his way of making amends.<br />Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-32589493593678209372015-06-13T20:08:35.484+08:002015-06-13T20:08:35.484+08:00Ah, iirc, Yona's mother died when she is young...Ah, iirc, Yona's mother died when she is young so Suwon would still be too young to pull that off. Unless, he is already at that kind of mental state at that age. Ya, it is likely for him to want to be king when that happened..and probably, his father hinted or put an idea on his mind about it to win back the land that was given away..which is enforced when his father died. = enforced that Iru is a 'bad person' who made his father's life miserable. That is based on the 'male heir' thing. <br /><br />That's a nice theory. After all, Iru is always protective of her and well, that is one of the suspicion/theory that he doesn't want her to marry him - he knows Suwon's true nature..but probably, as you mentioned, it was just a suspicion. <br /><br />True. <br /><br />Ah, perhaps, the priests are giving 'visions' that they do not like? In a way, that would be more than annoyance. Do not really believe in 'god' but feared enough to just banish and not kill them? Maybe but I think it happen later on. They mentioned that everyone thought that it would be Yuhon. Perhaps, Yuhon himself also thought so. Somehow, I imagine that it is only when the king is about to die when he suddenly said that it will be Iru so everyone is shock and didn't know why..maybe the king had already died/too weak to explain why. In a way, it makes me think that Yuhon did something really bad for this to happen. Can I say that it is like being disinherited? <br /><br />Maybe..it is either that or, Yuhon told him about his plans/dreams for the country. Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-37287981107790117452015-06-13T20:08:26.078+08:002015-06-13T20:08:26.078+08:00I think Sky is a bit of a political type..he suppo...I think Sky is a bit of a political type..he supported Suwon and iirc, doesn't approve of Iru's rule. He mentioned that after Suwon just stood there when Haku is going to snap his head off. Aside from Sky and Fire, the rest aren't that concerned over who is ruling them..well, at least to do something about it when they don't approve of it. <br /><br />That's right. In a way, that is one thing that Suwon is 'better' than Yona = love for the father. I'm not sure. She seems to be like that too with Suwon. One minute, she is glaring at him/hate him..then later on, she is looking at the hairpin and being nostalgic about..what if this didn't happen. Is she confused or the mangaka is forcing some sort of love triangle or both are being indecisive on something? And, if it isn't still in denial, perhaps, Yona isn't too curious about it, believed that story about what happened, or let things be for Suwon seems to be doing a fine job as king. Actually, maybe the mangaka would just give us the info dump at the near end to clear things up on what had happened, rather than going the approach of sprinkling the revelation around the series. <br /><br />I see...ya, more on plot per chapter than character development. Overall, plot..it is still unknown if she'll be Robin Hood or, do that for a while before going back to the palace. Ah..depends on what part we are in the series. If this is ending, it would be the former. =P <br /><br />Indeed and when Haku is in the scene, it is always fun to read. It is rare to have cool action scenes in shoujo ^^ True..most likely, it is like that. Too bad Haku was a bit laid back there. Possible..and so far, there are no complaints. Well, it is too early to tell but as long as Suwon is doing what he promised them or what they like...everything will be okay. Wind is of course wary of him. If Yona wants to be queen, that tribe will definitely support her. <br /><br />Well, the other one is what I told you before, because she is the daughter of the one who killed his father. So far, she doesn't seem to hate her because of that or rather, doesn't tie in that reason to want to kill/hate her. So, maybe he doesn't like her at all..or he actually believed that Yona is Haku's. Unless, he has some death wish of some sort/dying..then that is another reason. <br /><br />We don't know. Nothing much is mentioned about her except being killed by rebels. In a way, where is she from..her parents/relatives..nothing has been revealed from what I recall. <br /><br />True but then, what the adviser wants tend not to be what Suwon wants. Actually, it seems that the adviser says the things that Suwon won't do/say. As you mentioned, the guy is pragmatic yet kind of cold-hearted which can be bad in politics if you are doing that to the wrong person. They would have wanted it but I'm not too sure Suwon wanted it. I mean, he got that chance at the end of getting Green arc, yet he protected her. He could have done it when they are at Water tribe. Hehe, well, in a way, maybe the mangaka doesn't want to do it at that time or it would be the end of the series since Haku and the dragons would have ripped Suwon to shreds..the end. Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-6962948466161038582015-06-13T09:21:33.389+08:002015-06-13T09:21:33.389+08:00I think there's conflicting information there....I think there's conflicting information there. Suwon knew at like 15 that he wasn't going to have Hak and Yona with him (I think because he knew he couldn't have Hak without Yona) which makes me think he was going to kill or exile them. But after Yona's confession, it looks like he might've tweaked his plan until Yona walked in on the murder. The adviser wanted Yona dead immediately, and it seems like maybe they had wanted that from the beginning.<br /><br />Interesting. I can read that scene in two different ways. What he didn't say in that scene and his behavior afterwards is what keeps me flipflopping although I'm fairly certain that Suwon had a strong platonic attachment to Yona. That's true. That part is actually eyebrow-raising for me. Suwon is very quick to tell Hak that he's had "the wrong idea" when Hak leaps to that conclusion...right before asking Hak to use his first name. Smh. Yes! That's the word! Like with winning over Earth, I think he's being manipulative when he gives her the hairpin. Well I don't know if Suwon's technical truth-telling is an outright lie in the sense of directly saying stuff that isn't true. Lying by omission maybe? What do you think?<br /><br />Speaking of which, I think I might stick to my new theory that Suwon had planned on becoming king as soon as Il gave back Yu-Hon's conquered lands in those peace treaties. The murder of Yu-Hon (if Il did it) was the justification for parts of the decision I think. Also, what do you think about the idea of Suwon also being involved with the queen's death? It seems to me that the rebels who would've been around when Il ascended would've been pro-Yu-Hon forces and Suwon was a little too knowledgeable about the royal capital's underworld. It'd be interesting if you were right about the rebels being involved with Yu-Hon which prompted Il to kill Yu-Hon thinking he was responsible, only to find out later that Suwon may have played a larger role than he got credit for. In which case I wonder if Il might've actually been concerned about Yona being killed by pro-Yu-Hon forces if Suwon were to become king but he just didn't want to tell her about it because it was a vague suspicion. His concerns about royal family deaths rang true to me IMO and it would also explain Il's referring to himself as cowardly -because he didn't have the heart to eliminate a threat when he had the chance to and instead tried to ban the use of weapons and have Hak around more often in order to keep Yona safe. Thoughts? I'm still thinking it over.<br /><br />Well he was pretty young when they got kicked out. If he stays in, then Yu-Hon merely has to send him to work with the poor or the sick and then step back and let the depression sink in for Ik-Soo. In many respects Yun's practicality was essential to Ik-Soo's survival. :p<br /><br />Hm. I think you're right that there's likely a combination of opportunism and deception involved. I agree that there's too many unknown variables. I think you raise a good point with Il not getting the priests back. That would suggest then that it was the grandfather who relied extensively on the priests. But, like you said, if they're just an annoying group, then you don't go to the trouble of banishing them. Do you think maybe that the old king had intended to put Il on the throne even before that? In any case, that move suggests to me that Yu-Hon may have had a vision for how he had planned to run the country after he ascended. Maybe Suwon stumbled across his plans? What do you think?Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-12392386239870386802015-06-13T08:03:27.492+08:002015-06-13T08:03:27.492+08:00I think you're right that they don't beli...I think you're right that they don't believe the rumors. It's a little bit strange since Earth and Sky seem to be two of the more dominant tribes of Kouka, but their generals don't seem to be political types. But I guess love (for war) is blind. :p I think maybe Wind and Water are more pragmatic because they spread their resources more and unlike Sky, the ruler of the country doesn't come from their tribe. That's true. I suspect that the allies Yona and co. have made will come into play like that. Honestly, I would've liked to see Yona think about her father more. I mean, in light of the conflicting information, I can understand not rushing the castle. But not even trying to make inquiries about Yu-Hon's death is beyond the pale. Like you, I can't blame the generals for not fussing over Il when they're getting the war they want and nobody else seems to be raising an issue. Do you think Yona's still in denial or what's going on with her?<br /><br />Lol. I wouldn't go that far either but I think what happens is she has a list of plot points that she wants to hit in each chapter but then in the execution, the plot takes precedence over the characters themselves. Good point. I guess the thing for me is that although I agree that the male-dominated society isn't equitable, I can't side with Yona for that because she doesn't have the qualities needed to rule. She's also very passive when it comes to the big picture. It could be the case that Yona really does want to Robin Hood for the rest of her life, but I have a feeling that the plot will find a way to put Yona on the throne.<br /><br />For sure. I think it's just that Hak is one of the more well-developed characters in this manga. He's only been out of character once IMO and the mangaka often gets more realistic dynamics out of him because of it. Yeah. I agree that there's also an element of teasing the love interest. :p I know that during the party Suwon was able to sneak a lot of his people in because Hak didn't recognize a lot of the guards who were there and ready to kill Yona. It seems like most of the people who would've been on the king's side were displaced beforehand or turned by Suwon. Good point. I wonder if there isn't also an element of grass looks greener on the other side at work right now too. This is the honeymoon period after all.<br /><br />I'm still not really sold because of the age difference and the sheer level of conspiracy. After 3 years, people in the palace would've known Suwon since Il wouldn't have ascended. I don't see how later on, when Yona's born, they hide the switch from someone as earnest as Joo-doh...for instance. Although it does explain why Suwon knew from a young age that he couldn't marry Yona/Il wouldn't allow it, I just don't see the evidence for it. Yu-Hon as Hak's father, otoh, might work for the reasons you listed and because they both have that straightforward demeanor. Hak being able to intimidate grown men as a child also reminds me of Yu-Hon's scariness in the sick room. Idk. I can see it. Aside from the sibling theory, why do you think Suwon said he couldn't marry Yona?<br /><br />Hm. The rest of the dragon incarnations have been bound by tribe so I don't see why Hiryuu would be any different. Do we know if her mother was Fire Tribe? If Yona's mother is Sky or something, that's a huge plot hole unless she's adopted. What do you think?<br /><br /><br />Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-89707611678170885362015-06-12T13:43:34.791+08:002015-06-12T13:43:34.791+08:00Hm..perhaps they are involved with it a bit. I’m c...Hm..perhaps they are involved with it a bit. I’m curious what is the real plan if Yona didn’t see the murder. It will help us gauge more or less what they are really thinking/what Suwon planned to do with his ‘friends’ afterwards. <br /><br />If what he is saying in that scene is the truth..highly possible. Haku is even presenting himself as their cupid. Ah, I see. True, it is most likely that…repressed irritation. Ah, I see…but it is still lying, right? For his own purposes. Something like, being manipulative? Like how he won Earth, he is acting stupid yet when Earth lower his guard..he got him. True..marrying her would have sealed his old and he’ll get to have Haku as extra ^^ <br /><br />Indeed but he’s the only one left now, right? Depends. Maybe the father is sickly and weak at that time or went on a country-wide journey/tour. Yuhon is put in charge and then learns what happened so no, the throne goes to the younger brother. But then, it must be done secretly because iirc, they all don’t know why Iru got the throne instead. Maybe, Yuhon framed the priests so that they’ll be banished, and it is only later on the father realized that he got duped. If he values the priests, he would. Though based on the current situation, no one really believes in that dragon legend and the dragon god. Iru didn’t bother getting them back either. So, maybe the priests are indeed just a bother like what you mentioned and banishing them is very easy since their power and influence had diminished that much. But then..if it is so, why bother banishing them..when they are probably just an annoyance. Ah..too many unknown factors to make up a proper theory. ^^; Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-74781310129491692182015-06-12T13:43:18.830+08:002015-06-12T13:43:18.830+08:00I think they don’t believe the rumors since Sky an...I think they don’t believe the rumors since Sky and Earth saw her with Haku and some unknown people. She doesn’t seem kidnapped or asking to be rescued..unless they think that she has a Stockholm syndrome but still, they didn’t bother rescuing her either. So, those two are just okay with Suwon even if the guy is a ‘backstabber’ and can betray them if he wanted as long as they get what they want from him. Wind already knows the truth but is keeping a low profile for the sake of the people. Water through Lili should know the truth but probably don’t bother much since he got enough things to handle. Fire..well, his bro might inform him but he’s too busy pleasing Suwon as gratitude for sparing them and letting them keep their position. In short, I think everyone knows. And, they know that Yona isn’t doing anything against Suwon because of what happened to her father. So, as some say, why would others care for giving justice/revenge for her father when the daughter doesn’t? <br /><br />True. Ah..l also get that feeling though not sure if it is to the point of making things up per arc. ^^; So far, not yet. Perhaps, there is a bit of idea on where the story should head…more on, how to properly lead it that way? True..most probably so since there is no intention to take back the throne and well, perhaps, she never thought that she is suitable to be a ruler. Again, I’m not sure if it is a gender thing like she thinks it is impossible since she is a girl and all the others are male rulers. <br /><br />Hm..good point on that, perhaps it is what Haku is doing though I don’t think it is deliberate on the mangaka’s part =P For me, it seems to be more on the usual teasing with a love interest. Yes, the meetings would be in the capital. I see. Possible..and where did Iru’s people go? It is indeed strange or unbelievable there within the palace, there is no group who are angry over what happened or something like they love Iru. It is like everyone was okay with what happened..as if Iru is some tyrant despot that everyone is happy that he’s gone. Maybe, they all just go with the flow to keep their lives and positions? <br /><br />Hehe, ah..a flaw on that theory..so maybe it wasn’t a deliberate trade but a switch and he only learned of it later on? Maybe, he thought that Yuhon would be the king and would need a male heir? But when I mentioned about Haku being Yuhon’s father..aside from the hair, it seems that Yuhon is a great warrior which reminds me of Haku. That is what Earth mentioned so I thought of that. There was also a theory about Yona being adopted since the Fire tribe is supposedly Hiryuu’s tribe..but somehow, the current ruler is from Sky. True, it does cause more questions and is quite soap opera-ish. ^^; <br /><br />Hehe, I see ^^ Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-41279019722536279472015-06-12T07:43:15.742+08:002015-06-12T07:43:15.742+08:00Good point. I think that's an oversight in the...Good point. I think that's an oversight in the writing. The generals are supposed to believe that Hak kidnapped Yona after killing Il. IMO either they don't believe the rumors, in which case they should be more suspicious of Suwon/the new staff who benefited from Il's death; or they do and they're failing to ask themselves why Suwon's shielding and protecting the criminal.<br /><br />That's true. The party in Awa reminded me a lot of One Piece. :p Yes, well, my suspicion is that this mangaka makes plans and just takes it from point to point without considering the motives and goals of the characters. That's true. We don't really see people reflecting on what's happening and the actions the characters take (Jae-ha and Hak's breakdown) often don't make sense within the stated dialogue. IMO that's why a guy like Hak is a well-defined personality compared to some of the others. It's also why I think Yona's stated goal of helping and protecting is going to be her actual goal. <br /><br />Well I read somewhere about how satire's often the only tool the powerless can use against the powerful. Throw in Yona's awful behavior and I thought there might be a similar dynamic with Hak because he often protects himself with sarcasm. Now that she's being nicer, he's not insulting her as much as he was to start IMO. That's true. I think you're right about his grandfather being the caretaker with Hak perhaps making the big decisions. I think the Five Tribe meetings would've been in the royal capital so there's that. He was already in line to become the next general when Il asked him to be Yona's bodyguard. That's true. Il appears to have had an eye for people. Think that's why Suwon was forced to bring in his own people?<br /><br />Hm. We don't know if Hak knew both of his parents or if it was his mother who died while his father was unknown and presumed dead. But that's a possibility I think. Suwon OTOH probably has his mother's look plus his mother was alive when they were sick while Yona's mother had black hair and had passed away at that point. Il's biggest concern seemed to be Kouka and I can't think why Il would trade a 3 year old male heir for a daughter? Anything seems possible and it wouldn't shock me to see such shenanigans, but I think the sibling theory creates more questions than it answers. What do you think?<br /><br />Ha ha really? Hak's my favorite character too (if it's not obvious). White shares my fear of bugs but I like Blue. :p<br /><br />Fair enough. I agree about the wavering. It reminds me of the flashback where Suwon called marrying Yona and becoming king that way a lovely dream. Think his advisers were involved with that strategy? <br /><br />Yeah, that scene is why I flipflop sooo much about Suwon. Do you think he might've eventually fallen for her if he hadn't been a scheming murderer? Repressed irritation that she was making an advance he didn't want (because he was going to kill her father). He ignored her and tried to change the subject before the slap. <br /> <br />Hm. I don't think he was lying exactly. He prefers to deflect and omit rather than lie directly. But the thing is, Suwon uses goods and emotions to make people happy so that they'll do what he wants. Also, notice how he's not blushing after telling her he loves her hair? That, IMO, is Suwon using Yona's feelings for his own purposes. My guess is marriage after killing the king.<br /><br />You're right. Although Ik-Soo could probably be bullied out of the profession, the others might've had more backbone :p. That's true. Yu-Hon is a fierce fighter but he doesn't appear to be a good negotiator. Oh I like that theory! I'd like to know how Yu-Hon managed to drive out the priests without his father knowing until too late. Think maybe he had help?<br /><br />That's true. :D Ah, the benefit of hindsight.Hollynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-2811551002910622412015-06-11T22:31:27.745+08:002015-06-11T22:31:27.745+08:00True.
That's right though based on how the ot...True.<br /><br />That's right though based on how the others are acting..I mean the generals..it seems that they don't really consider a threat either and they know she is alive. Well, for the generals who are sided with Suwon.<br /><br />Indeed. Perhaps...or rather, she seems to like them to continue on being like that for the jokes. ^^; After any serious arc, there is the light-hearted ones and as if any development that happened earlier, it was never discussed or they act as if it didn't happen. For example, after that war/battle that Suwon initiated and Yona seems to be bothered that the people are caught in between, there was no follow up on what to do based on that. They are just going to continue traveling around.<br /><br />I agree and in a way, it does seem that Yona was/is taking Haku for granted. You know, I think Haku being a bodyguard and a general is quite a unique position in a way, how can he still be a proper general if he isn't always at the wind tribe. Maybe, his grandfather is the caretaker and he just ask Haku if they have any big problems/decisions to make? Did he become a general first then a bodyguard or vice-versa? But, it does show how much trust Iru has for Haku. By the way, do you think that it is remotely possible that Haku is actually Yuhon's son? The other possible twist is that, Suwon is actually Iru's son but 'got adopted' to Yuhon or there is some sort of exchange or someone's wife had an affair..so, Iru doesn't want Yona to marry Suwon because they are siblings. Something like that ^^; Well, if things are vague, anything seems possible =P <br /><br />Actually..no. ^^; If I have to choose, it would be Green, I guess. I read this for Haku =P<br /><br />Possible though when I first read it, it makes me think that he did that because he is about to do that deed so kind of like, don't touch me, I'm dirty? Hehe..or maybe, she'll make him waver from what he is about to do? I cannot say, looking at that scene, he is also blushing and stuff..was that just pretend or an unconscious thing? If he ever had some sort of feelings for her, he no longer thinks it is possible because of what he is going to do. So ya, it does seem to be maintaining distance. Not sure about repressed irritation..depends if he is lying about what he is telling her.<br /><br />Nope, don't think so. I would guess he is flat-chested if he is ever a girl..based on that purifying thing before the coronation. I don't think so. She is too emotional at that time to notice anything..but the sword, I guess and listen to what he has to say. ^^;<br /><br />I see..true, unless the priests are really difficult to corrupt. That is indeed possible or Yuhon isn't good at doing things slowly and want to immediately 'solve' the problem. But then, it is possible that it cost him the throne if his father considers the priests as important to him.<br /><br />Taking of the throne would be like what you mentioned before, to somehow probably fulfill his father's role/dream-whatever. True..he is probably keeping that side a secret from Haku. Well, it worked for Haku is totally unaware of it. Kathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05625412560484783992noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5891049529945268328.post-83404738061942328912015-06-11T11:16:40.141+08:002015-06-11T11:16:40.141+08:00That's true. Well, the adviser is very pragmat...That's true. Well, the adviser is very pragmatic. He consistently gives advice that would be effective if it wasn't for Suwon's sentimentality lol.<br /><br />True. I think you're right that Suwon probably is thinking that way and I think in the pirate arc he takes her under his cloak because he doesn't consider her a threat. I think he's wrong because the danger of the girl, IMO, isn't from her abilities but from her position. If Yona's alive and marries someone, that person will have a legitimate claim to the throne. And now that the dragons are together, it'll be too late for him because of a hole he failed to patch up in the beginning. Tch. It's too obvious.<br /><br />I agree. It seems like the manga can't decide whether it's a serious epic of love and betrayal or if it's a romantic comedy in a serious setting. A little bit of humor can work to break up the pace, but I worry that the chapters spent goofing off will rush the ending. But like you said, Yona's lost right now and the manga's becoming aimless as a result. Tbh, I'm not sure how Yona can grow as a character when everyone's fawning over her. Do you think the mangaka's getting too attached to her character?<br /><br />See that was my thought as well. I do remember that part. I think Hak was bothered about being an orphan when he was a kid but he wasn't so focused on status before he became Yona's bodyguard. I think you're right. Not to mention Yona throwing things at him. I understand that Il wanted Yona to be happy, but I do think he should've taught her how to treat people with respect. It just feels so one-sided you know?<br /><br />The idea the Chinese readers had would've been awesome. It would've been interesting to see Yona learn how to negotiate with Hak for things like when she wanted to learn the sword. I hear you. That whole misunderstanding was funny from start to finish. Got a preferred dragon btw?<br /><br />I suspect that denial is how her love for Suwon survives. At times she seems aware that her feelings aren't returned and that Suwon's a questionable guy, but then she makes excuses for him. Btw, what do you make of Suwon slapping Yona's hand? I know from the head patting and the fact that he didn't reciprocate with a confession of his own that he was letting her down gently, but that was rather sudden. His way of maintaining distance? Repressed irritation at her advances?<br /><br />Ah well shucks. I don't think we've seen Suwon topless after all...:p Do you think Yona would've noticed anything amiss when Suwon was hiding her inside his cloak though? I want this plot twist to happen so badly now.<br /> <br />Well, co-opting the priests seems like an easy way to maintain power through a shared national mythology. The generals can force people to send their sons like the Fire Tribe, but getting folks to believe in you by attaching your cause to that of the dragon gods? You need the priests for that IMO. To get rid of them rather than corrupt them, I thought perhaps they were influencing the king in a direction that Yu-Hon really didn't agree with. What do you think? That's true. :p <br /><br />Good point. Right. But then if that's the case it feels to me like it's possible that he wanted the throne earlier. If it was pure revenge, I think Suwon would've killed the king and left it at that rather than taking the throne too. Also, I don't think that he would've felt the need to not tell Hak unless he knew that it was a side of him he didn't want Hak to see. He told Hak about sleeping beside Yona easily enough I mean.Hollynoreply@blogger.com