recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Tsuchigumo

**Tsuchigumo** is a spider yokai in the Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles Netflix series.

## History

Usagi briefly mentions Tsuchigumo after Gen asks if there's a butterfly Yokai, which he denies, but notes the Spider Yokai Tsuchigumo.

While down in the Mogura tunnels hoping to convince Chikabuma to help them in their fight against the upcoming war with the Makkine. Members of the Mogura Gang attack Usagi and Gen, but they're stopped by Chikabuma, who apologizes to the group for his comrades' actions as they're all on edge because of a giant spider. Hearing about a giant spider down in the tunnels puts Gen on edge, but Chikabuma downplays it. Down in the Ceremonial Pit, Gen asks Mogura Gang members Koji and Kenji about the Giant Spider's size, and they give him a rough estimate, which unnerves him. Later, the giant spider said to have been crawling around the tunnels is revealed to have been Tsuchigumo, and it catches both Koji and Kenji in its web. Canceling the staring contest, Chikabuma frees his trapped comrades and is soon helped by the scared and reluctant Gen. Eventually; they're helped by Usagi, who snapped out of his dazed meditative state, and thanks to some support from Gen, Usagi manages to defeat Tsuchigumo using his yo-yo Kaikishi weapon.
Oyaneko

Oyaneko was a famous anthropomorphic cat general and magistrate serving under Lord Higashi and Lord Hirone.

## Character History

Oyaneko was famous for his military acumen and unquestionable honour. Amongst his greatest exploits was his single-handed routing of the ogres of the eastern mountains. When Lord Higashi died, his son, Lord Hirone, ignored the advice of his father's advisors and was swayed by sycophants and toadies instead. The new advisors sought the downfall of their older counterparts. Oyaneko was lured into a scandal that ruined his reputation. As a result, he was exiled to govern a small town as magistrate, still accompanied by his lifelong assistant, Monshiro. Oyaneko found it hard to reconcile his new lifestyle and the poor health which resulted from his advancing age with his past life. When the ronin Miyamoto Usagi passed through town, Oyaneko attempted to force him into a duel to the death, so that he could die as a warrior. Usagi called his bluff and encouraged the magistrate to serve his people, who still needed him. Oyaneko died of his illness a week after the construction of a new irrigation canal for his town, which would bring great prosperity to the region.

## Appearances

* "The Way of the Samurai" (collected in Book 5: Lone Goat and Kid).
Ocho

Ocho was a shapeshifting monster that terrorised an unknown town. Her appearance was either that of a human woman or a giant cat-like monster. She was slain by Miyamoto Usagi and Gon.

## Character History

Ocho was a monster that slew and ate the villagers of an anonymous town. For a month, she prevented any from leaving the town. Every night, Ocho would prowl the village and slay another villager, leaving their remains to be discovered in the morning. The villagers attempted to fight back, but of the two dozen men sent to hunt her, only one, Gon, returned alive, though without his sanity.

Shortly thereafter, the wandering ronin Miyamoto Usagi entered the village. He encountered Ocho in her monstrous form on the outskirts of the town and wounded her right paw, driving her off. Ocho (in her human form) invited Usagi to stay at her house, and claimed that her wounded hand was the result of an accident sustained while sharpening chopsticks. However, Usagi caught sight of Ocho's true self in a reflection, and realised that Ocho herself was the monster terrorising the town. Usagi confronted Ocho again, and would have been slain save for the intervention of Gon, who impaled Ocho upon a spear before being slain. Usagi was then able to kill Ocho and end her reign of terror forever.

## Appearances

"Village of Fear" (collected in Book 1: The Ronin).
Spot (Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles)

**Spot** is the loyal pet of Usagi in the Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles Netflix series. He has a keen insight in other people and can recognize allies even before they've shown their friendlier side.

## History

Throughout the series, Spot remains by his master's side.

## Fighting Style

Spot fights in the similar manner as other Tokages by biting and pouncing on his enemies.

## Trivia

* When Spot isn't with Usagi, he is often being held by Kitsune, or wrapped around her neck.
Big Brawl, Part 2

**The Big Brawl, Part 2** is a season 2 episode of the 2003-2009 animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. It originally aired over Foxbox on 18 September 2004. It follows up *Big Brawl, Part 1* and is followed-up by *Big Brawl, Part 3*.

## Plot

At Battle Nexus, Donatello and Miyamoto Usagi must save Leonardo and Daimyo. Also, Gennosuke is competing for money.

## External Links

* Mutant Ooze
* Entry at TurtlePedia
Usagi Yojimbo Book 28: Red Scorpion

The Red Scorpion Gang has been terrorizing the countryside for months, with evidence of their ill deeds appearing everywhere the rabbit ronin turns! Usagi first crosses swords with the Scorpions as the gang extorts protection money from poor farmers, then must defend a temple from their attacks. But when Usagi is accused of being a member of the gang, he has no choice but to take the fight to the Red Scorpion himself! This volume also features the return of wily thief Kitsune and the mysterious Lord of Owls! Collects Usagi Yojimbo #132–#138!

* From world-renowned cartoonist Stan Sakai (47 Ronin, The Rocketeer)!

* Celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of Usagi Yojimbo!

* Also available in a limited edition, signed and numbered hardcover!

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-61655-399-5 (s/n)
* ISBN-10: 1-61655-398-7 (tpb)

## Contents

* "Taiko"
* "Toad Oil"
* "The Return of the Lord of Owls"
* "Those Who Tread on the Scorpion's Tail"
Lady Koriko

Lady Koriko was a cold and proud anthropomorphic cat of the Geishu Clan.

## Character History

Lady Koriko was married to Nagao. However, Nagao was disillusioned by the rigid structures of samurai society. Lady Koriko was cold and emotionless and obsessed with honour and her place in society. As a result, Nagao abandoned his wife and child When he died, Lady Koriko hired Miyamoto Usagi to retrieve his daisho for her, so that it might be passed on to her son. She was not interested in regaining the body of her husband.

## Appearances

* "Frost and Fire" (collected in Book 5: Lone Goat and Kid).
Space Usagi Death and Honor

Stan Sakai's beloved rabbit ronin's complete classic adventure in space is now presented in color for the first time, along with a bonus issue-long story, in the upcoming Space Usagi: Death and Honor collection. Written and illustrated by Usagi Yojimbo creator Sakai with colors by Emi Fujii, the collection will be presented in both a standard trade paperback edition as well as a Limited-Edition hardcover. The Limited Edition sports a dust jacket and features a tip-in bonus page signed by Sakai. It also contains a cover gallery featuring variant cover artwork by Peach Momoko, Agnes Garbowska, Jennifer L. Meyer, and more.

As the general of Lord Shirohoshi's space fleet, it's Usagi's responsibility to keep the lord and his heir safe. Now tasked with the education and protection of the lord's heir, Usagi must remain vigilant at all times to protect the heir from a murderous plot and an unexpected betrayal.

These editions include the new never-before-collected "Yokai Hunter" one-shot as well!

Collects *Space Usagi: Death and Honor* issues #1-#3 and the Space Usagi: Yokai Hunter one shot.

* Also available in a limited edition, signed hardcover!
* Newly colored interior artwork by Emi Fujii.
* $19.99 trade paperback
* $59.99 signed hardcover

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-50674-094-4 (HC)
* ISBN-10: 1-50674-093-6 (tpb)

## Contents

* Space Usagi: Death and Honor No. 1
* Space Usagi: Death and Honor No. 2
* Space Usagi: Death and Honor No. 3
* Space Usagi: Yokai Hunter
Atsuo

Atsuo was an anthropomorphic cat moneylender.

## Character History

Atsuo's father was an ethical moneylender who was interested in helping his fellow citizens. Upon his death, his business was inherited by Atsuo. Atsuo had been a good-natured child, but his power changed him, and he became greedy and cruel, sending his thug Bunjuro to rough up those owing him money, mistreating his mother, and hiring a troupe of thugs to protect him.

Atsuo's mother, horrified at the change that had come over her beloved son, tricked Atsuo into believing that the ronin Miyamoto Usagi had been hired to kill him. When Atsuo sent his thugs to kill Usagi pre-emptively, Atsuo's mother murdered him, and then asked Usagi to assist her to commit suicide. Usagi, reluctantly, agreed.

## Appearances

"A Mother's Love" (collected in Book 3: The Wanderer's Road)
Toshiko

**Toshiko** is an anthropomorphic rhino and fictional character in the Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles Netflix series.

## History

Gen's family once owned a prominent house in Neo Edo, which is where she and her brother Gen were raised. After their family got run out of town, it was turned into the Cultural Museum. Toshiko and Gen look nearly identical, though can be differentiated in a few ways: Gen uses Kanabo (metal clubs) as weapons while Toshiko uses hammers. Gen's vest has a hexagonal pattern while Toshiko has a fan-like pattern; Toshiko has earrings and longer eyelashes. Also, in the later episodes, Gen has a prosthetic horn. After leaving Neo Edo when they were younger, the Murakami family fell apart.

When Gen asks where she's been since they last saw each other, Toshiko tells him she joined a carnival before ending up on a cactus farm for a while. Toshiko borrowed money from Admiral Nochi of the bat clan to buy their old home back, so is in their debt. Back home, she helps Gen repair the family Ashibasha, a sort of trolley/car.

## Fighting Style

Toshiko fights with a pair of large hammers as well as using her larger size and strength. However, she's not that good at fighting, as even she admits.
Usagi Yojimbo Book 15: Grasscutter II: Journey to Atsuta Shrine

Forged in the clouds by the elemental gods of feudal Japan, the legendary sword *Kusanagi* -- also known as "Grasscutter" -- holds such power that it is sought after by mighty forces of good and evil. Multiple award winner Stan Sakai continues the epic adventures of his signature samurai rabbit, Usagi Yojimbo, in this second book centering on the mystical sword. Starting with a prologue that unveils the history of the sword, *Grasscutter II* rejoins Usagi with his samurai travelling companion, Gen, as they journey to the sacred shrine of Atsuta to return the powerful sword to its final resting place. But two ninja clans will fight the honorable samurai as well as each other in order to capture the sword and gain control of the empire with it.

Book 15: *Grasscutter II: Journey to Atsuta Shrine* reprints Vol. 3 issues 39-45, which comprise the story arc Grasscutter II. It is published by Dark Horse Comics.

The introduction for this volume was written by Greg Rucka.

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-56971-661-7 (s/n)
* ISBN-10: 1-56971-660-9 (tpb)
* ISBN-10: 0-60624-710-6 (Turtleback)
* ISBN-10: 1-43521-523-0 (Paw Prints)

## Contents

* "Prologue"
* "A Whisper of Wings"
* "Scent of the Pines"
* "The Hunger For Death"
* "Visions In The Shadows"
* "The Feel of Salt"
* "In The Realm of Senses"
Marvel's Voices: Identity 2022

THE GREATEST ASIAN SUPER HEROES AND CREATORS RETURN!

Just in time for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, comes a new spotlight on the best Asian super heroes in comics! Ms. Marvel! Shang-Chi! Wong! Mantis! Plus, more surprises to come from an amazing lineup of new and established AAPI creators!

RATED T

* $5.99
* Main Cover A by Creees Lee
* Variant cover B by Stan Sakai, colors by Emi Fujii
* Variant cover C by Jeehyung Lee
* Variant cover D by TBD

Order code: MAR221018

## Release date

~~May 11, 2022~~

May 18, 2022
Geishu clan

The **Geishu clan**is a major clan of samurai in *Usagi Yojimbo* led by Lord Noriyuki (previously by Lord Mataichi) which rules the Geishu province from the White Heron Castle. The clan was involved in a significant amount of Miyamoto Usagi's various adventures.

Because the clan places their loyalty towards the shogun, it harbors a hostile relationship with Lord Hikiji, who wishes to overthrow the shogun. As such, the Geishu clan has had many conflicts with Hikiji's benefactors, including the Neko Ninja, Komori ninja and even traitors within the Geishu clan itself.

## History

Before the events of *Usagi Yojimbo*, a power struggle between Lord Ikeda and Lord Mataichi ensued. Mataichi's forces won the battle and Ikeda's forces were forced to retreat into hiding as peasants.
Usagi Yojimbo: Yokai

*Yokai* are the monsters, demons, and spirits of Japanese folklore, such as the shape-changing *kitsune*, the *obakeneko* demon cats, and the evil *oni* ogres. Usagi faces all these and more when a desperate woman begs for his help in finding her kidnapped daughter. Tracing the abducted girl deep into the forest, Usagi finds it haunted by creatures of Japanese legend and discovers that they are amassing for a great raid on the countryside! Fortunately, Usagi is joined by Sasuke the Demon Queller, who is also fighting to prevent the invasion, but things aren't always as they seem -- especially when dealing with the supernatural!

\* The rabbit ronin turns twenty-five, and Dark Horse celebrates with the first-ever *Usagi Yojimbo* original graphic novel, fully hand-painted, written, and lettered by creator Stan Sakai!

\* Completely self-contained story.

The art is rendered in pen and colored with watercolors.
Usagi Yojimbo Book 34: Bunraku and Other Stories

Follow these all-new full-color adventures of rabbit ronin Miyamoto Usagi as he wanders Edo period Japan on his warrior’s journey.

Presented in color for the first time, the ongoing adventures of Stan Sakai’s seminal and long running series are now being published by IDW. This first volume of all-new material continues the saga of Usagi Yojimbo with the three-part “Bunraku,” as Usagi becomes embroiled in a puppet drama where the players are not quite what they seem! Will the aid of a supernatural ally be enough for Usagi to prevent more death? Then, Usagi goes back to his roots as a yojimbo (bodyguard) when he is hired by Lady Mura, a famous writer, to keep her safe on her perilous journey to her father’s home.

Plus, a 35th anniversary special where Stan Sakai revisits the very first Usagi story, “The Goblin of Adachigahara”, expanding it from 8 to 24 pages and adding new insights into the characters and events, as well as revealing the reason for Usagi’s pilgrimage back home. In the final story, Usagi joins his friend the bounty hunter, Gen, and his partner, Stray Dog, in recovering a stolen sword, an heirloom of the Higashi Clan.

Collects the first seven issues of the new Usagi Yojimbo series published by IDW.

* Also available in a limited edition, signed "Comic Con @ Home" bookplate IDW SDCC Convention exclusive! ($24.99)
* $19.99 (paperback)
* $59.99 (hardcover)

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1684057818 (s/n HC)
* ISBN-10: 1684056578 (TPB)

## Contents

* Bunraku pt. 1
* Bunraku pt. 2
* Bunraku pt. 3
* The Hero pt. 1
* The Hero pt. 2
* The Goblin of Adachigahara
* The Swords of the Higashi
Kong of Skull Island

*Kong of Skull Island* is a six-issue miniseries. King Kong, world-famous and original gargantuan ape, is the progenitor of an entire genre, spawning sequels, remakes, and countless other interpretations. You know Kong. You love Kong!

King Kong was created by Merian C. Cooper, and Kong of Skull Island is grounded in artist/author Joe DeVito's ground-breaking literary property Skull Island. This story is exclusively authorized and endorsed by the Cooper family as their official King Kong/Skull Island prequel and sequel origin story.

Two fractured and combative civilizations are forced to band together as they venture onto Skull Island-their new home.

## Contents

KONG OF SKULL ISLAND #2

* (w) James Asmus (a) Carlos Magno (c/a) Nick Robles
* 1:10 retailer incentive cover by Stan Sakai

* Two rival civilizations and their Kongs must make a home of the horrors that inhabit life on Skull Island. There is no escape!

* 32pgs, FC (2 of 6)

* $3.99

* Published by Boom Studios
Sonic the Hedgehog

### Sonic the Hedgehog: Tails' 30th Anniversary one shot

Join Ian Flynn, Aaron Hammerstrom, and Reggie Graham in celebrating Classic Tails's 30th Anniversary! A comic all about the cutest, smartest, bravest fox around?! Heck yeah! Best buds Sonic and Tails are off to Flicky Island for a much needed vacation! But the relaxing beaches and beautiful mountains have been replaced by railroad tracks and giant crystals--scaring off the Flickies! Tails will have to put on a brave face to defeat the magical villain: Witchcart!

## Contents

• Ian Flynn (w)

• Aaron Hammerstrom (a)

• 48 pages

**Stansakai.com retailer exclusive variant**

* cover by Stan Sakai, colored by Emi Fujii.
* Limited run of ~1000 copies
* $20.00 (unsigned)
* $40.00 (signed)
* $80.00 (Sonic remarque)
* $100.00 (Sonic and Tails remarque, limited to 30 copies)

**Dogu.shop retailer exclusive virgin variant**

* virgin cover
* Limited run of 750 copies
* $30.00 (unsigned)
* $50.00 (signed)
* $90.00 (Sonic remarque)
* $100.00 (Sonic and Tails remarque, limited to 30 copies)
Space Usagi (collection)

Unimaginable future technology alongside an ancient samurai code. A universe populated with bizarre lifeforms divided into warring clans. Space Usagi is the descendent of the 17th-century samurai, Miyamoto Usagi, and is the hero of his clan. Space Usagi collects all three miniseries previously published by Dark Horse and Mirage. Death and Honor tells of the fall of the Shiroshi star sytem, White Star Rising chronicles a band of samurai as they attempt to retake their system, and Warrior has Usagi on the trail of the abductor of his lord. Also featured are two short stories, including an encounter with the original Usagi Yojimbo.

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-56971-291-3 (s/n)
* ISBN-10: 1-56971-290-5 (tpb)

Space Usagi limited hardcover

## Contents

* "Death and Honor"
* "White Star Rising"
* "Warrior"
* "Under the Same Sky"
* "Hare Today, Hare Tomorrow"
Donbori Chiaki

Donbori Chiaki was a young anthropomorphic bear ronin.

## Character History

Donbori Chiaki's father, Donbori Matsuo, had been a samurai in service to Lord Mifune, who died at the Battle of Adachigahara. To honour his memory, Chiaki undertook a warrior's pilgrimage to hone his skills. He was an honourable man, and his swordsmanship grew with experience. Little did Chiaki know that Matsuo had actually survived Adachigahara as a cripple, and was following him in secret, living vicariously through his pride for his son. When Chiaki was attacked by robbers, Matsuo saved his life, but had vanished by the time that Chiaki regained consciousness, leaving him to believe that his life had been saved by his father's old friend, Miyamoto Usagi.

## Appearances

* "My Father's Swords" (collected in Book 13: Grey Shadows).
Usagi Yojimbo Book 19: Fathers and Sons

Master storyteller Stan Sakai opens this brand-new collection with a deadly ambush on the fugitive Lone Goat Assassin and his child, Gorogoro. Lone Goat is victorious, but wounded-and his son is too young to help. Unable to seek proper medical attention, Lone Goat collapses in an abandoned house. What he needs is a knowledgeable ronin*,* and soon! Elsewhere, Usagi is in a desperate search for his young companion, Jotaro, who has eluded murderous kidnappers. His is a panic that only rises out of fatherly love, though he has kept the secret of Jotaro's parentage from the boy throughout their travels together. If they are able to continue on to Kitanoji Temple, will the rabbit samurai confess before they part ways? Featuring appearances by readers' favorite characters-including the deadly Neko Ninja.

Book 19: *Fathers and Sons* reprints Vol. 3 issues 69-75. It is published by Dark Horse Comics.

The introduction for this volume was written by Matt Wagner.

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-59307-320-8 (s/n)
* ISBN-10: 1-59307-319-4 (tpb)

## Contents

* "Fathers and Sons"
* "Bells"
* "Kill the Geishu Lord!"
* "The Pride of the Samurai"
* "Hokashi"
Duel at Kitanoji

The story **Duel at Kitanoji** was originally published in *Usagi Yojimbo, Volume III #60*. This issue had a variant inside front cover: one version contained a picture of Katsuichi, the other had a picture of Nakamura Koji. According to Stan Sakai, "The variant was Editor Diana [Schutz]'s idea, and that issue was not advertised as any sort of variant. We just thought it was a fun idea, and appropriate to show the two duelists."

## References

1. ↑ *Issue of Usagi Yojimbo with variant covers...*
Ando

Ando was an anthropomorphic dog headman of a small village in the lands of Lord Hirone.

## Character History

Ando's village was besieged by the Komori ninja after a hunter discovered their base of operations in the area. Ando sent his son with the ronin Miyamoto Usagi to try to warn a nearby gold mine that the Komori ninja intended to steal a gold shipment from them. Ando's son was slain and Usagi was captured by the ninja. After Usagi's escape, he warned Ando that the ninja intended to attack that night to kill all possible witnesses to their crime. Ando organised the villagers to fight back, and the village was saved.

## Appearances

* "Blood Wings" (collected in Book 5: Lone Goat and Kid).
Hana

**Hana** is a former Ninja-in-training in the Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles Netflix series.

## History

Hana first appears when Chizu reports to Lady Fuwa about successfully retrieving the Scroll of Secrets.

She appears again when Chizu and Usagi infiltrate the Neko Ninja HQ. They convince Hana to defect from the Neko Ninja clan and, with the help of her doppelganger friend Kana, escape the HQ unscathed.

Afterward, Usagi takes Hana and Kana to the Kaikishi Temple where Tetsujin informs Usagi that the Ki-stone wants to show him something. What Usagi sees frustrates and depresses him as he learns that his ancestor Miyamoto Usagi did kill the shogun. Morose, Usagi takes Kana and Hana back to his Aunt's farm and introduces Hana to his Aunt. Hana and Usagi's Aunt get along well, and as it so turns out, Kana is actually Karasu-Tengu, and she agrees to become his sensei. Later that evening, Usagi's friends arrive at the farm looking for Usagi, but are soon ambushed by O-dokuro, who seeks to destroy Usagi before he can seal him back in the Ki-stone. The arrival of Hana's friend Kana, who actually was Karasu-Tengu, allows everyone to escape back to Neo Edo.

Upon returning to Neo Edo, the group reach the Kaikishi Temple and is ambushed by Lady Fuwa and her Neko Ninjas. Once they're dealt with, Toshiko, Yuichi's Aunt, and Hana return to Toshiko's Mansion. It's there that Hana befriends the Kasa-Obake there and unbeknownst to the group, Lady Fuwa was also there with her Ninjas and soon ambush them. They're dealt with by the combined efforts of Usagi's aunt, Usagi, and Kasa-Obake.
Kagemaru

**Kagemaru** is the *chunin* (executive officer) and the informal *jonin* (ninja leader) of the Neko Ninja clan. Ambitious and power-hungry, he was able to manipulate Lord Hebi into supporting him to become the new leader of the Neko Ninja.

Kagemaru places clan values above all other values, even when objected by Chizu, the clan leader. On one occasion, he hunted down and captured two Neko ninja who wanted to start a new life and justified his actions by stating "Once a Neko ninja, always a Neko ninja".

## History

### The First Tenet

Kagemaru attempted to sneak up on a meditating Lord Hebi, and though about how simple it would be to assassinate him. Before he tried to, however, Lord Hebi noticed him. Kagemaru handed over a conspiracy agreement against the shogun taken from Lord Hikiji's messenger. Assuming he stole it, Lord Hebi pinned Kagemaru to the wall and furiously dubbed him as a traitor. Kagemaru quickly denied the accusation and reported that Chizu was behind the theft. He added that Chizu gave it to him for safe-keeping, but felt he needed to bring the news to Lord Hikiji. Despite the paper being worthless as it did not have the signatures of the lords who joined the agreement, Hebi announced that he would arrange an audience to expose Chizu and that if she were killed, Kagemaru would become the new clan leader. After leaving, he revealed (while thinking to himself) that he kept the rest of the document for his own use. To further gain Lord Hebi's trust, Kagemaru hired assassins to kill him while he was travelling. Just after Hebi's entourage was caught off-guard, Kagemaru and a group of ninja appeared to "rescue" him. After that, Lord Hebi offered full support for Kagemaru becoming the Neko Ninja leader and assured that Chizu would be taken care of.

### Grasscutter II

Kagemaru and Chizu were tasked with obtaining the legendary sword Kusanagi in order to give Lord Hikiji a political advantage. Kagemaru, however, did not attempt to retrieve the sword until Miyamoto Usagi's party was near Atsuta shrine, where he briefly fought with the rabbit ronin. Kagemaru had Usagi as his mercy, but reatreated, realizing that the sword was already returned. It was not a total loss for Kagemaru though, because this would give him the perfect window to usurp the Neko Ninja leadership from Chizu.

### Becoming Jonin

During a meeting between Lord Hebi and Chizu, Kagemaru suddenly appeared to accuse Chizu of working with Usagi. Immediately after Chizu denied the accusation, Kagemaru declared her unfit to lead the Neko ninja and signaled large numbers of ninja to capture her. While Chizu was busy evading at least half of the clan, Lord Hebi congratulated Kagemaru on becoming *jonin*, but noted that he will never truly become leader if Chizu remained alive.
The Christmas Aliens

**The Christmas Aliens** is a season 3 episode of the 2003-2009 animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. It originally aired over Foxbox on 25 December 2004. Usagi and Gen last appeared in *Big Brawl, Part 4*, and next appear in *The Real World, Part 1*.

## Plot

It's Christmas on the Ninja Turtles' Earth, and Michelangelo fights the Purple Dragons, who try to steal toys from an orphanage. When the Ninja Turtles have a Christmas party in their sewer hideout, Miyamoto Usagi and Murakami Gennosuke are among the guests invited.

This shares the same name and general story with the Michelangelo one-issue micro series printed in December 1985, though the comic doesn't feature Usagi and Gen visiting for dinner.

## External Links

* Mutant Ooze
* Entry at TurtlePedia
Betty & Veronica

IT’S BETTY VS. VERONICA! The most highly-anticipated debut in comics history is here! Betty and Veronica are America’s sweethearts… until they turn on each other! “Pops’ Chocklit Shoppe is being taken over by a huge coffee company. When Betty and Veronica go head-to-head over the issue, all bets are off! Friendships will shatter. Cities will burn. Nails will be broken. Betty and Veronica are back in this ALL-NEW #1 from comics legend Adam Hughes (Wonder Woman, Catwoman)!

The Stan Sakai cover is an Atlantis Fantasyworld exclusive and features the Atlantis staff on the cover.

## Contents

* (w) Adam Hughes (a) Adam Hughes, José Villarrubia, Jack Morelli

* Cover: Adam Hughes

* Variant Covers: Mahmud Asrar, Tom Bancroft, Stephanie Buscema, Cliff Chiang, Colleen Coover, Bilquis Evely, Veronica Fish, Francesco Francavilla, Genevieve F.T., Rian Gonzales, Robert Hack with Steve Downer, Erica Henderson, Rebekah Isaacs with Kelly Fitzpatrick, Tula Lotay, Alitha Martinez with Kelly Fitzpatrick, Audrey Mok, Ramon K. Perez, Andy Price, Ryan Sook, Jenn St. Onge, Chip Zdarsky, Chrissie Zullo

* Blank Sketch Cover Also Available

* On Sale Date: 7/20

* 32-page, full color comic

* $3.99 U.S.

## External Links

Archie Comics announcement

Archie Comics first look
Albedo No. 2

*Albedo* Vol. 1 No. 2, published by Thoughts and Images in November 1984, is the first publication to include a *Usagi Yojimbo* story. Copies of this issue are rare today, which makes this issue a highly sought-after collector's item.

## Contents

This comic contains the following stories:

* "The Goblin of Adachigahara"

## External Links

* UY Dojo Page
* Albedo NR 2 Web Page
Space Usagi: Death and Honor No. 3

Death and Honor 3 of 3

The rabbit ronin's classic adventure in space-now in color! After narrowly escaping the Kajitori, Usagi and Kiyoshi find themselves crashing onto a planet in the Mino system. In a fortuitous turn of events, the duo makes contact with Princess Masaya of the Mino clan and her entourage. With more fighters-but twice the royalty to protect-Usagi will need to be on the top of his game if the Shirohoshi and Mino clans have a chance to rebuild.

* $4.99
* Cover A by Sweeney Boo
* Colored by Emi Fujii
* DISTRIBUTOR CODE: OCT231234

## Variant Covers

**Cover B 1:10 retailer incentive - Meyer**

* Jennifer L. Meyer (CA)
* $4.99
* DISTRIBUTOR CODE: OCT231235

## Characters

Space Usagi

Prince Kiyoshi

Jiro

Lord Hideaki

Ryoko

Lord Matabe

Admiral Niiro

Princess Masayo

Minister Hodo
Gon

Gon was a villager in an unknown town terrorised by the shape-shifting monster, Ocho. He has the appearance of an anthropomorphic bear.

## Character History

Gon lived in an unknown village. For a month the town was attacked by Ocho, a shape-shifting monster which lived amongst townsfolk by day and murdered and devoured them at night. None were able to leave the village. A group of two dozen able bodied men was organised to hunt the monster, but all were slain by Ocho except for Gon. The results of that night left Gon insane, and he spent his time talking to himself as he made memorials for his slain companions.

Once Gon had finished making memorials for his companions, he took up a spear and went to hunt Ocho that night. He encountered Ocho fighting the ronin Miyamoto Usagi, who had discovered her true identity. Gon attacked Ocho by surprise and drove his spear through her throat. Ocho then slew the madman, but as a result of his action, Usagi was able to kill Ocho.

The next morning, Usagi created a memorial to the fallen Gon, which he placed amongst the memorials which Gon had made. Usagi praised Gon as a hero before departing the village. However, the surviving villagers did not hear what he said... "Something about 'Gon with the wind'."

## Appearances

"Village of Fear" (collected in Book 1: The Ronin).
Matsutaro

Matsutaro was an anthropomorphic bear who worked as a yojimbo for Merchant Kaiko.

## Character History

Matsutaro was a blustering samurai who was actually a great coward. Through his attitude, he managed to intimidate many people in the town where the Kaiko Silk Works were located. He asked only for a pittance as a salary, which ensured his popularity with his employer, who was a notorious miser.

When Miyamoto Usagi arrived in the town, he quickly saw through Matsutaro's facade. By telling Matsutaro that he would soon have to fight the brigands who were threatening the annual Silk Fair, he revealed Matsutaro's true nature. The yojimbo fled town rather than stay and fight, and was never seen again.

## Appearances

"Silk Fair" (collected in Book 2: Samurai).
Star Wars

*Star Wars* celebrated their new launch at Marvel Comics with an incredible 68 different covers. Stan provided two covers (black & white and a color version) to Beach Ball/Corner Store Comics. 2000 copies were made in black and white, and 3000 in color.

## Contents

(W) Jason Aaron (A/CA) John Cassaday

THE GREATEST SPACE ADVENTURE OF ALL TIME RETURNS TO MARVEL!

Luke Skywalker and the ragtag band of rebels fighting against the Galactic Empire are fresh off their biggest victory yet-the destruction of the massive battle station known as the Death Star. But the Empire's not toppled yet! Join Luke along with Princess Leia, smugglers Han Solo and Chewbacca, droids C-3PO and R2-D2 and the rest of the Rebel Alliance as they strike out for freedom against the evil forces of Darth Vader and his master, the Emperor. Written by Jason Aaron (Original Sin, Thor: God of Thunder) and with art by John Cassaday (Astonishing X-Men, Uncanny Avengers), this is the Star Wars saga as only Marvel Comics could make it!

* $12.00 color
* $18.00 black and white

## External Links

Bleeding Cool News All 68 Star Wars Covers preview
Usagi Yojimbo Book 18: Travels with Jotaro

Throughout his journeys across feudal Japan, rabbit *ronin* Usagi has faced many dangers, crossed paths with some who have become his sworn enemies, and forged bonds of friendship stronger than any threat that might cross his path—but now he does it with young Jotaro at his side! This 18th volume of internationally acclaimed *Usagi Yojimbo* collects issues #61-68 of the multi-award winning ongoing series, and continues the adventures as “Uncle” Usagi struggles with keeping a secret from Jotaro that everyone else seems to know. Not only do their travels bring the perils of the Neko Ninja (in hot pursuit of Chizu, ex-leader of their clan and friend to Usagi), they also have a close encounter with a new and deadly organization—the Koroshi League of Assassins. The beautiful thief Kitsune is up to her old tricks, and Usagi relates a story from his youth about a goblin swordmaster. Finally, an evil artist targets Jotaro with a possessed ink set in the three-part “Sumi-E” story, which features the return of Sasuké the Demon Queller!

Book 18: *Travels With Jotaro* reprints Vol. 3 issues 61-68. It is published by Dark Horse Comics.

The introduction for this volume was written by Peter Laird.

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-59307-221-X (s/n)
* ISBN-10: 1-59307-220-1 (tpb)
* ISBN-10: 1-41765-837-1 (Sagebrush)
* ISBN-10: 1-43521-560-5 (Paw Prints)

## Contents

* "Out of the Shadows"
* "Ghost Warriors"
* "Komainu"
* "Tamago"
* "Usagi and the Tengu"
* "Sumi-E"
Admiral Nochi

**Admiral Nochi** is the leader of the Bat Squadron in the Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles Netflix series.

## History

Admiral Nochi and his squadron catch Chikabuma trespassing on his territory, with Usagi, Kitsune, and Chizu. Usagi manages to bluff his way through most of the situation to allow Chikabuma to escape by making him forfeit his sword under the pretense of selling it to him. However, Admiral Nochi still wants to turn Usagi into the Keisatsu, and they briefly fight until Gen arrives and mediates the situation.

Once Usagi returns to Neo Edo after completing his training with Karasu-Tengu, he's confronted by Admiral Nochi and his squadron. Despite Usagi trying to reason with Admiral Nochi in wanting to figure out what's wrong with the Ki-stone, his opponent likes the city engulfed in darkness and seeks to keep it that way. So, Usagi faces off against Admiral Nochi and his squadron, and with the help of Chikabuma acting as his eyes, he manages to do it.
Karasu-Tengu

**Karasu-Tengu** is a Crow-Tengu Yokai in the Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles Netflix series.

## History

After Lord Kogane arrests Usagi and his friends, Karasu-Tengu appears and at first mistakes Usagi for his ancestor Miyamoto Usagi. She promptly deals with the Keisatsu and aims her attention at the Shogun Lord Kogane, but Usagi stops her from killing her. Usagi recites the words of his Aunt who said that he must protect those who need to be protected. Retrieving his sword from Lord Kogane, Usagi fights against Karasu-Tengu and receives some help from his companions. Despite this and being able to free himself from his shackles, Usagi is not strong enough to seriously face off against Karasu-Tengu, who loathes Lord Kogane simply for ruling the city. The city itself was created by sacrificing a whole forest of trees, and before Karasu-Tengu could strike down Lord Kogane, Usagi used his Yo-yo to steal Karasu-Tengu's sword and free his friends. Armed with their weapons, Karasu-Tengu retrieves her sword from Usagi and flees the scene.

Eventually, Usagi reaches out to Karasu-Tengu and begs her to become his sensei, but she flatly refuses until she becomes intrigued by his Kaikishi Yo-yo. She then agrees to become Usagi's sensei if he's able to accomplish sealing away the following Yokai: Sakuran, Hakai, and Giman. Furthermore, Karasu-Tengu advises him to use his Kaikishi weapon as a dowser to track them, and Usagi does so.

Eventually, Karasu-Tengu is revealed to be Hana's friend in disguise and decides that Usagi is worthy of being her understudy. At a magical mountain area, Karasu-Tengu trains Usagi until he's ready and later revisits his Aunt's farm to rescue his friends from O-dokuro.

## Fighting Style

She uses a shapeshifting fiery weapon that can change between a giant sword, a staff, and many golden knives. She is a master of martial arts.

## Trivia

* She shares the same voice actress as Usagi's Auntie, Sumalee Montano.
Usagi Yojimbo Book 14: Demon Mask

The close of 16th century Japan was a violent age, as rival feudal lords fought for land and power. Miyamoto Usagi braved many a battle only to lose his lord and find himself a masterless samurai, or *ronin.* While many *ronin* became bandits or mercenaries, Usagi chose the warrior pilgrimage: wandering the land, fighting injustice, seeking enlightenment. Eisner Award winner Stan Sakai has crafted a truly original and delightful work, an all-ages adventure epic that creates a world of excitement, mystery, and imagination, while building each story on painstaking research of Japan's history, culture, and mythology. *Demon Mask* is a collection of diverse Usagi stories, featuring a graveyard encounter with creatures from Japanese folktales, a whodunit clash with a mysterious masked assassin, a young adventure-lover insistent on receiving Usagi's sword training, a peasant village terrorized by a ravaging Spider Woman, and more. Few works of graphic fiction offer -- or deliver -- as much action, depth, and sheer fun as Stan Sakai's *Usagi Yojimbo.*Book 14: *Demon Mask* reprints Vol. 3 issues 31-38 and stories from the following publications: issue 140 of Dark Horse Presents, the Dark Horse Presents Annual 1999, issue 97 of Wizard Magazine (Gareb Shamus Enterprises), issue 10 of Oni Double Feature (Oni Press), and issues 20-23 of Dark Horse Extra. It is published by Dark Horse Comics.

The introduction for this volume was written by Paul Dini.

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-56971-524-6 (s/n)
* ISBN-10: 1-56971-523-8 (tpb)
* ISBN-10: 1-43521-514-1 (Sagebrush)
* ISBN-10: 1-43521-522-2 (Paw Prints)

## Contents

* "The Inn on Moon Shadow Hill"
* "A Life of Mush"
* "Deserters"
* "A Potter’s Tale"
* "The Missive"
* "Mystery of Demon Mask"
* "Kumo"
* "Reunion"
* "Death and Taxes"
* "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Tournament"
* "Netsuke"
* "The Leaping Ninja"
* "Tsuru"
Lord Kogane

**Lord Kogane Kunihiko** is a fictional character and arrogant shogun in the *Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles* Netflix series.

## History

Not much is known about the Shogun, save that he repossessed the Murakami House and turned it into a cultural museum, with an entire wing dedicated to himself, including animatronic replicas of him.

## Personality

Lord Kogane is an arrogant and self-centered Shogun, who primarily cares about making good publicity for himself so he can be reelected as Shogun. He appears to be somewhat cowardly, being constantly accompanied by several Keisatsu and using them as shields and servants.
Garfield Homecoming

*Garfield Homecoming* is a four-issue miniseries where Garfield leaves his house to join a circus. Stan provided the retailer incentive variant cover for issue #1.

## Contents

* (W) Scott Nickel (A) Antonio Alfaro (CA) Andy Hirsch (A/CA) Sara Talmadge
* The Fat Cat returns in this all-new four issue limited series, where Garfield explores what life's like outside of the friendly confines of Jon's house. Feeling mistreated and unappreciated by Jon, Garfield embarks on a journey for a new home. Along the way, Garfield meets up with a clown who works in an old-timey travelling circus. Convinced that this is the place for him, Garfield becomes part of the act. Wait. What is that cannon for?
* Writer Scott Nickel (Garfield: His 9 Lives) will pair with a different artist each issue, and Sara Talmadge (Steven Universe) takes us through this wild ride in the circus!
Usagi Yojimbo (episode)

**Usagi Yojimbo** is a season 3 episode (S03E32 - though it's also been shown as episode 25 on certain lists) of the 1987-1996 animated *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles* series. It is followed up by the episode *Usagi Come Home*.

This episode aired November 14, 1989.

## Plot

On a human-dominated Earth, Shredder's teleportation cannon knocks Donatello's pan-dimensional portal off track and he discovers an alternate Earth, one where animals have evolved into the dominant species. Miyamoto Usagi appears through the portal and, after a brief stint working at a restaurant, helps the turtles defeat a dragon.

## External links

* Mutant Ooze
* Turtlepedia
The Usagi Yojimbo Saga Volume 4

Ltd. hardcover

Miyamoto Usagi's past returns as he fights alongside his former teacher and struggles with the knowledge that his traveling companion Jotaro is his son! The Neko ninja and fan-favorite character Sasuké the Demon Queller reappear, and a manga classic is paid tribute in Lone Goat and Kid! Collects Usagi Yojimbo Volume Three #53-#75!

* Over 600 pages of Stan Sakai's enduring samurai masterpiece!

* Full-color cover gallery!

* Also available in a signed and numbered hardcover edition, limited to 1500 copies!

The book art for the softcover edition.

## ISBN

* Hardcover:ISBN 1616556749
* Softcover:ISBN 1616556129

## 2nd printing

The 2nd printing features all new cover art and is only being produced as a softcover.

* ISBN-10: ISBN 1506724949

* 2nd printing
* $29.99 (softcover)
* Release date: March 23, 2022

## Contents

Contains the following collections:

* Usagi Yojimbo Book 17: Duel at Kitanoji
* Usagi Yojimbo Book 18: Travels With Jotaro
* Usagi Yojimbo Book 19: Fathers and Sons
Usagi Yojimbo Book 22: Tomoe's Story

Learn why Tomoe is the most valuable retainer of Lord Noriuki of the Geishu Province, then plunge into a terrifying ghost story where a string of mysterious murders points to a woman dead for ten years. Finally, experience the mesmerizing beauty of a formal tea ceremony, as Usagi and Tomoe share this spiritual event to mark the rabbit ronin's departure from the province to resume his travels.

\* Collects *Usagi Yojimbo Color Special #1-3* (originally published by Fantagraphics) and Usagi Yojimbo #90-93.

\* Introduction by Heidi MacDonald of *Publishers Weekly* and features the newly redrawn "Tomoe's Story" introductory tale!

\* Listed as one of the Young Adult Library Services Association's (YALSA) Great Graphic Novels for Teens.

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-59307-948-6 (s/n)
* ISBN-10: 1-59307-947-8 (tpb)
* ISBN 1-59307-948-2 (hardcover)

## Contents

* "Tomoe's Story"
* "The Doors"
* "Foxfire"
* "The Ghost In The Well"
* "The Thief And The Lotus Scroll"
* "Chanoyu"
O-Dokuro

**O-dokuro** is a great and powerful Yokai in the Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles Netflix series.

## History

Usagi reads a comic book featuring his ancestor Miyamoto Usagi fighting against the O-dokuro. For a brief period of time, Usagi pretends to be Miyamoto and fights against his Aunt's Farmbotto he pretends is O-dokuro.

After Usagi releases all of the Yokai from the Ki-Stone, O-dokuro is later revealed to be one of them. He uses his finger to spy on Usagi's group, who discovers that they've been sealing Yokai back into the Ki-stone. To prevent this from happening to him, O-dokuro decides to stop them before they do. He tails them back to his Aunt's farm and tries to destroy them, but is stopped by Kana, who is really Karasu-Tengu. The two then fight against each other while Usagi's group escapes to Neo Edo.

He returns in season 2 when Usagi puts his body in the Ki-stone but leaves his skull, so he won't hurt anyone. He moves into Gen's house and Usagi tries to get him and his Sensei to reconcile their friendship.
Lord Okii Ashiyubi

**Lord Okii Ashiyubi** is the chief counsellor of the Shogun. He is an anthropomorphic cat.

## Character History

Lord Okii Ashiyubi serves the Shogun as his primary advisor. His loyalties are secretly towards Lord Hikiji. Lord Okii met with Lord Noriyuki when the Geishu Clan received a confession from Lord Nerai implicating Lord Hikiji as responsible for the assassination attempts against Lord Noriyuki. Lord Okii blocked Lord Noriyuki's access to the Shogun, and then arranged for the confession to be handed over to him instead. Once he had the confession in his possession, Lord Okii replaced the confession with a crude forgery on the orders of Lord Hebi (and through him, Lord Hikiji). As a result, Lord Hikiji avoided being identified as the mastermind behind the plot.

## Appearances

"The Confession" (collected in Book 1: The Ronin).
Toto

Toto is an anthropomorphic monkey and runs the Sakana-Shogun (Fish Shogun) restaurant.

## Character History

Toto was serving Usagi and the newly orphaned Yuki some fish while waiting for Inspector Ishida to return to town. Usagi is attacked by gangsters and in the ensuing melee was about to be stabbed in the back. Toto slaps the gangster with a fish to the face (a tribute to Scott Shaw!).

Stan Sakai reveals that Toto is based on his father-in-law, who owns Fish King Seafood and Poultry, a restuarant in Glendale, CA.

## Appearances

Usagi Yojmbo issue #159 "The Hatamoto's Daughter"
Usagi Yojimbo Book 23: Bridge of Tears

The wandering life of a ronin is often a lonely one, and Usagi has been on that path a long time. A temporary peace, staying with the merchant Endo and his daughter Hanaka, is interrupted by the deadly League of Assassins, setting Usagi back on the road, but with the uncomfortable sensation that he is being followed.

Book 23: *Bridge Of Tears* reprints Usagi Yojimbo issues 94 to 102 published by Dark Horse Comics. It includes milestone issue #100, set as a celebratory roast of Stan Sakai.

The introduction for this volume was written by Brian K. Vaughan.

## Editions

* ISBN-10: 1-59582-298-4 (TPB)
* ISBN-10: 1-59582-297-6 (Limited Edition HC)

## Contents

* "Remnants of the Dead"
* "Shizukiri"
* "Boss Hamanaka's Fortune"
* "Rain and Thunder" (formerly titled "The Return of the Black Soul")
* "Bridge of Tears"
Lord Nerai

Lord Nerai was a counsellor to Lord Hikiji.

## Character History

When Lord Mataichi of the Geishu Clan died, Lord Nerai was ordered by Lord Hikiji to arrange for the death of his successor, Lord Noriyuki, on the road to Edo. Lord Nerai's assassins slew all of Lord Noriyuki's escort save for his chief yojimbo, Tomoe Ame. However, due to the ronin Miyamoto Usagi, Lord Noriyuki reached the capital successfully.

As a result of Lord Nerai's failure, he was commanded to commit seppuku by Lord Hikiji, who then confiscated his family's wealth. Before his death, Lord Nerai wrote a full confession of his crimes to atone for his misdeeds. He gave the confession to the samurai Nekohana to deliver to the Shogun, which would implicate Lord Hikiji in the attempts to assassinate Lord Noriyuki. However, despite the efforts of Miyamoto Usagi and Tomoe Ame, the confession was replaced with a crude forgery, foiling Lord Nerai's plans.

## Appearances

* "Lone Rabbit and Child" (collected in Book 1: The Ronin).
* "The Confession" (collected in Book 1: The Ronin).