Fushigi Yûgi: The Mysterious Play, Vol. 11: Veteran

ふしぎ遊戯 [Fushigi Yûgi] #11

by Yuu Watase

Miaka est une collégienne insouciante comme les autres. En attendant le grand amour, elle mange beaucoup et travaille dur pour rentrer dans un lycée réputé et faire plaisir à sa mère. Mais sa vie bascule lorsqu'avec son amie Yui, elles se retrouvent propulsées à l'intérieur d'un livre dont elles deviennent malgré elle les principales héroïnes. Miaka en tant que prêtresse du dieu Suzaku, doit l'invoquer pour sauver le pays de Kônan et découvrir le moyen de rentrer chez elle.

Genres: Manga, Fantasy, Romance, Graphic Novels, Shojo, Comics, Young Adult

189 pages, Paperback

First published October 26, 1994

About the author

Yuu Watase (渡瀬悠宇) is a Japanese shoujo manga-ka. She is known for her works Fushigi Yūgi, Alice 19th, Ceres: The Celestial Legend, Fushigi Yūgi Genbu Kaiden and Absolute Boyfriend. She likes all music, except heavy metal and old traditional music.

She received the Shogakukan Manga Award for shōjo for Ceres, Celestial Legend in 1997. Since writing her debut short story "Pajama de Ojama" ("An Intrusion in Pajamas"), Watase has created more than 80 compiled volumes of short stories and continuing series. Because of her frequent use of beautiful male characters in her works, she is widely regarded in circles[which?] as a bishōnen manga artist.[citation needed] In October 2008, Watase began her first shōnen serialization, Arata: The Legend in Weekly Shōnen Sunday.
Her name is romanized as "Yû Watase" in earlier printings of Viz Media's publications of Fushigi Yūgi, Alice 19th, and Ceres, The Celestial Legend, while in Viz Media's Fushigi Yūgi Genbu Kaiden and Absolute Boyfriend her name is romanized as "Yuu Watase". In Chuang Yi's English-language versions of Fushigi Yugi (spelled without a macron or circumflex), her name is romanized as "Yu Watase".

Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The pacing really picked up here, though not in a bad way. I feel like the conflict between Tamahome and Miaka was too easily created and then too easily resolved, though it is a testament to their bond. (Even if I'm not entirely in love with their chemistry, tbh) Also we get to meet some of the Byakko seishi. Oh Tatara, why is your name so fun to say.

Overall, aside from q u e s t i o n a b l e malicious Fushigi Yuugi strips (or at least one of them) this was a pretty solid volume. You can really tell that Yui is hiding something but you kind of hope she isn't. Also I love that it's a tough decision but she feels trapped here while at the same time wanting to go through with it. I also love the introduction/interaction of the Byakko seishi. Finally, as it's been so long since I've touched the anime, I forgot a certain devastating plot point that happens in this volume. (and, reader, it hurt)

That being said, while I respect Watase-sensei's characterization choices, as they are her own, and accept them as canon, I don't have to like them. While for the most part I do, I really kind of lineface at Chriko's characterization-- it's fairly good but through the story there's not enough of it except crammed in right in the very end before he dies and sometimes seems like a plot contrivance. Though I wouldn't mind that if it were a little more developed.

This has always been one of the flaws of Fushigi Yuugi to me, quite honestly. The tail end of the seishi really don't get a whole lot of time for development-- moreover, Miaka cares about them sure but is super narrowly focused on Tamahome. (and Hotohori and Nuriko). Which, I am not saying is bad writing necessarily... but for my own preference, I'd really like to see Miaka getting to know and caring deeply about all her seishi. They are putting their lives on the line for her after all.

At the end of it, however, it's still a really solid volume that carries the plot along.

[Leila Anani · Rating 4 out of 5]

The course of true love never runs smooth but Fushigi Yugi takes this maxim to a whole other level. In this one Tamahome dumps Miaka after learning that once she summons Suzaku she will return home and they can never be together. We meet three of the Byakko warriors including Tamahome's counterpart Tatara left all alone after his beloved priestess went back to her world. As if that weren't bad enough, evil forces still abound and Seriyu warrior monk Miboshi takes control of Chriko's body.

Particularly nice artwork in this one. I love the Buddha like Miboshi and all the main cast look great. Ends on a cliff hanger so have volume 12 on hand....

[Kirsten Simkiss · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was okay. Three stars is fair.

Between illogically old people and a character death and a horde of monstrous monks, it was a lot of action but not a lot of actual interesting development.

The love triangle continues with Tamahome, Yui, and Miaka. At this point, I really do think it's obvious that Yui doesn't truly love Tamahome, she just wants to take him away from Miaka to prove a point. They keep saying that Yui's really in love with Miaka, and I think on some level that is the truth. She's trying to take Tamahome away, but really she always just wanted Miaka to put her first, right from the beginning of her arriving in the world of the four gods. But, honestly, the love triangle thing is getting a little old. And the relationship between Miaka and Tamahome is built on really shaky foundations for me. All I can see is physical attraction and a degree of love of their weird habits, plus shared experiences in their travels. Emotionally, they're both way too immature. (Plus she's still fifteen - there's no way she needs to be getting hitched yet.)

[Bibliothecat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review for complete series



I am actually really sad and disappointed. Fushigi Yuugi was that one classic shoujo fantasy that I never got around to reading even though I was convinced I would love it. I love Watase's art - this is an older work and the art is a tad dated, but it's perfectly lovely. It's a portal fantasy quest story with Chinese lore and it's not ridiculously long like many of its peers (I'm looking at you Inu Yasha and Yona of the Dawn). Eighteen volumes seemed like the perfect length and there was just no way I wasn't going to love this. It turns out that this manga has some of the worst pacing I have ever come across.

At its core, the story is pretty straight forward: Miaka is your normal school girl who comes by a magic book, gets pulled into an ancient fantasy world and is sent on a quest to collect items that will help her save the world she's in. For this, she needs to pull together some preordained set of warriors who fight by her side. Of course she falls in love with one of them and there's the big drama or which world she will end up staying in. All of this is pretty standard in this type of portal fantasy but that's exactly what I am here for. So while the premise isn't hugely unique, it's definitely not the problem I had with this story.

The first couple of volumes were insta-everything. I'm not just talking about Miaka and Tamahome falling madly in love from volume one, all other relationships are established in the same way. Yui, Miaka's best friend, is also in love with Tamahome from the moment they meet. The emperor is in love with Miaka from before they meet. All allies join their ranks effortlessly and they become best buddies just because. There's no real effort in recruiting any of the characters nor even finding them. Part of the whole point of this quest was to find these characters yet they just sometimes stumble into a scene, introducing themselves and declaring they're part of the gang and are already set to join them on a quest - no questions asked. It was so extreme that I don't think the last two characters added to the group were given much of a personality and were completely forgettable.

The problem with tossing these characters together like that is that there are no real developments. They say they all love and care for each other but, as far as I am concerned, I can't really believe them. If I see characters get to know each other, grow and form bonds, I will care for them. If they just pop out of the blue and risk limb and life for each other I feel there is something sorely lacking. I can't invest into friendships or romances that just kind of happened without any development whatsoever.

The plot becomes continuously more dark and a lot of deaths and loss occur. I'd normally feel something for these characters by that point but everything feels so over the top dramatic given what it is all based on. The pacing did improve quite a bit halfway through the series and the last couple of volumes were over all well-paced. The problem is that the damage was already done - the characters grew on me to some extent and while their actions and motifs became more believable, it still didn't do away with how wishy-washy their starting point was.

I also need to dedicate a paragraph to Yui - I feel no sympathy for her whatsoever. I don't care if she was manipulated, her actions were shallow and selfish. She blames Miaka for things she didn't do and sets heaven and hell loose just to get an uncalled for revenge. It's such a shame because I liked Yui's character in the second arc but yet again, it was already ruined by how she acted in the first arc. I'm not saying a character can't redeem themselves, Yui did do her part to earn forgiveness. The problem is that her anger and bitterness was completely misplaced and out of proportion.

I am not saying that this is a bad manga. I do think that a lot of people who like this are driven by nostalgia and I think I would have liked it a lot more had it also been one of my first manga. But after years of manga reading, this just doesn't deliver emotionally what I would expect of a good fantasy manga. The art is its strongest point, the characters are nice but they were never given the time they needed to grow. I don't think that eighteen volumes was too short, I just think that Watase priorities the wrong things over proper character and relationship development. I am not even sure what I am going to do with my copies - it's a good chunk of eighteen volumes taking up shelf space and somehow I don't see myself reading it again. Yet there's a part of me that just really wants to like this - but of course, wanting to like something and actually liking it are not the same thing. I think it will ultimately depend on how much I like its prequel Genbu Kaiden - I expect it to be a better work as it was written later and Watase has already proven in other works and in Fushigi Yuugi's second arc that she can write a properly paced story.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Volume ten was, like, peak goodness for Fushigi Yugi, but with volume 11, it returns to a lot of its favorite stomping grounds: the unnecessary and melodramatic forcing apart of Miaka and Tamahome, the sexual assault moments (and occasional assault joke???? what the eff, Watase?), and emotional moments that would be more hard hitting if there wasn't unfunny gag humor stuffed into every quiet panel. Y'know what? Scorch 'em all, Yui, IDGAF. Yui and Chichiri can take over the world. I care more about what Yui is up to than seeing Miaka literally bumble her way through her quest.

[Inah Solacito · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why does everyone close to Tasuki die? Chirico is one of my favorites too! Like Nuriko. This is 💔

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today's post is on Fushigi Yugi: The Mysterious Play, Volume 11: Veteran by Yuu Watase. It is 183 pages long and is published by Shojo Beat. The cover has the two main characters on it facing facing the reader with excitement. The intended reader is someone who likes historical fantasy, high fantasy, romance, and shojo stories. There is mild foul language, mild sexuality, and violence in this story. The story is told from third person close of the main characters. There Be Spoilers Ahead.

From the back of the book- The first Shentso-Pao treasure from the northern country of Bei-Jai was stolen from Miaka, and the only treasure left is in the western country of Xi-Land- and both Miaka and her friend-turned-mortal-enemy Yui are intent on getting the treasure for themselves! But Xi-Lang isn't a frozen wasteland of forgotten dreams and ghost like Bei-Jia. It's a vibrant, living desert country, whose inhabitants are veterans of the last clash of between priestesses and gods.


Review- Plot happens in this volume. Tamahome learns, with the other warriors, that Miaka will have to go back to her home no matter what, that is the one wish that the god cannot give. He tries to pull back from Miaka but in the end that is impossible for both of them. Yui tricks Miaka but somewhere in her heart, Yui still loves Miaka and I think that is going to save her. Yui is being more and more controlled by the general but I am pulling for her warrior, who loves her, to help her see what the general is doing. It ends with Yui starting to summon her god and Miaka trying to get to her to stop it. Things are getting intense and I am very curious if Miaka is going to help Yui and have some kind of a happy ending.

I give this volume a Four out of Five stars. I nothing for my review and I bought this manga with my own money.

[Zennica Bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

This volume dives straight into a swirling vortex of betrayals, love triangles, and plot twists that hit harder than Miaka face-planting into her breakfast (again). Our girl Miaka is as endearingly clueless as ever—bless her heart—still managing to fall into every possible trap, both literal and metaphorical. Her relationship with Tamahome? Let's just say it’s holding on by a thread, which is impressive considering that thread has been shredded, set on fire, and blown away in a dramatic gust of wind multiple times by now.

And then there’s Yui, who continues to oscillate between “tragic victim” and “villain plotting your demise” like she’s auditioning for two roles in one play. Honestly, someone get this girl a therapist—or at least a snack. Hangry decisions aren’t helping anyone.

[Aikazen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Volume 11 of Fushigi Yûgi is an emotional and action-packed installment that pushes Miaka and the Suzaku warriors to their limits. With the final Shinzaho within reach, the battle against the Seiryuu warriors intensifies. Nakago’s manipulations become even more ruthless, and Yui, still blinded by her bitterness, continues to stand against Miaka.

One of the most devastating moments in this volume is the loss of a beloved character, marking a significant turning point in the story. Miaka is forced to confront overwhelming grief while staying focused on her mission to summon Suzaku. Meanwhile, Tamahome’s struggle against Nakago’s influence continues, testing the strength of his love for Miaka.

[Anne Mey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Les amours sont encore contrariés et mis en doute mais à chaque fois les personnages choisissent de se battre malgré tout. Le poids de l'exemple précédent de couple entre prêtresse et étoile pèse sur leurs consciences. Encore des combats difficiles et des pertes. Rien ne va comme il faut dans cette aventure où les héros perdent tout le temps mais ont le courage de continuer à se battre.

[Lau · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

Quiero la historia de Suzuno ahora.
Espero que Chiriko sobreviva, estamos a tiempo no?... No??

Yui se va a sentir como una imbécil cuando se de cuenta de todo, y me gusta la solución que encontró Tamahome.

Con ese final necesito seguir con el siguiente.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Man the Miaka/Tamahome gets old fast. Some things age well. Some things age just as well as you might expect. I also don't think they have much chemistry, but eh. I'm here more for nostalgia at this point.

[Bee (BacchusVines) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Its nice to see some of the warriors of Byakko, but man!! The miscommunications between Yui & Miaka is killing me.

[✨Sky✨ ♏ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 stars

[Bradley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series took a long time to get enjoyable. This was the turning point for me. =)

[fawkes · Rating 3 out of 5]

El nivel de culebrón aumenta cada vez más, es que no me acordaba de ver el anime pero es que es muy heavy.

[Lindsey Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sad

[Pixie 🍜 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was actually pretty good

[ⓘⓣⓐ · Rating 4 out of 5]

2024 goal 167/150

[Jolly Ann Paciencia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am very thrilled to the some scenes.

[Veronica Ika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fateful Encounter
Miaka and Yui's paths converge once again as they confront each other in a decisive showdown over the activation of the shentso-pao, a key artifact stolen by Nakago. With Yui now able to summon Seiryu, Miaka realizes the urgency of stopping her former friend before it's too late.

The Cost of War
Despite their efforts, Miaka's team has already suffered losses. The loss of Nuriko weighs heavily on Miaka's heart, and she knows that another sacrifice may be inevitable as they face off against their enemies.

Heartbreaking Sacrifice
As the battle intensifies and the stakes grow higher, Miaka must confront the harsh reality of war and the sacrifices it demands. With the fate of their world hanging in the balance, Miaka's team braces themselves for another heartbreaking loss as they fight to protect their beliefs and secure a future of peace.

[Lexie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Welcome to another Fushigi Yugi recap! In this volume Miaka loses her voice, Yui wavers, the Byakko warriors prove they are the BEST EVER (tho Genbu ain't so bad), we learn a bit more about the Universe and someone dies for love of Miaka.

Over in Hong-nan I'm pretty sure Hotohori is having the easiest time of it all, he just has to brush his hair and look into a mirror.

Suboshi, that poor kid, does the right thing for Amiboshi (I forget if it's the manga or anime Amiboshi shows up AGAIN in tho) and Soi gets to watch Nakago more or less tell Yui the truth but in the most manipulative misleading way possible. Oh and Tomo is no longer with us.

Nor is Miboshi!

So Miaka has: Tasuki, Chichiri, Mitsukake, Tamahome and Hotohori left and Yui has: Nakago, Soi, and Suboshi left.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was my first Yuu Watase, hard to say that now cuzs i own alot more then 50! :p

love everything about review Fushigi Yûgi, and watched the boxset and was on my knees crying all the way to the end.

your are my hero Yuu Watase! plzs bring alice 19th here to the usa on dvd!
i keep telling everyone about it and no one knows about it and it makes me wanna cry cuzs its my fav story in the world!

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one has the Byakko celestial warriors in it. There is no way she's going to be able to spin a happy ending on that one! I liked that there was inter-Celestial Warriors love and not just everyone in love with the priestess. I hope Watase does write it, even if it's sad!

[Indah Threez Lestari · Rating 4 out of 5]

#Program BUBU

Pertama kali dibeli dan dibaca pada tanggal 25 oktober 2002.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the English translation unflipped (Japanese right to left) very good! I couldn't stop reading these books. Just finished the last volume!

[Danyka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I watched and loved the Anime version of this since I was a kid. It also landed on my favorites.

For now, I got no plans for buying a copy.

[Raechel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yui is one step closer to summoning the god of Seiryu. Can Miaka and the other celestial warriors stop the summoning?

[Rei · Rating 4 out of 5]

TT.TT everyone is dying! it's not fair, by the way, it was delightful to see Byakko stars

[Mel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good god, how hard is it to get to 'happily ever after'?