Goeman and Mamezo are kidnapped to force Usagi into making a poison for the leader of the Kanbutsu Clan. Surprises are to be had all around when Hanzo's sister shows up as the wife of the opposing clan's second son and Goeman's secret history with the blonde ninja Hikaru is revealed.

This was an interesting volume where once again we are treated to reasons why Usagi would be better off with Goeman than Hanzo despite the fact that this will probably never happen. Hanzo once again goes off being a total jerk and I felt like cheering when great-grandfather came and dropped the bomb that if Hanzo insists on requiring Usagi become a ninja to be his wife that the engagement will be broken off entirely (yeah, old man!)

I'm still enjoying the manga quite a bit more than it might appear. I do believe that once Hanzo gets his comeuppance that he will be good enough for Usagi. For her part Usagi has more gifts and backbone than she really ever gets credit for and her only weakness seems to be her determination to live to impress Hanzo. I've ordered the next volume from the library and am looking forward to seeing how the story and the varied characters progress. ( )