Blade of the Immortal (1996) comic books

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The Gathering: Part 9 of 15 - Story and art by Hiroaki Samura. Immortal samurai Manji has freed himself from Uruma's barbed chains by cutting off his own arm! His survivor's instincts tell him that, in this case, the better part of valor is to run for it, and hope he can turn the tide and make a stand deeper in the forest. But as his cunning pursuers, Uruma and Hanada, follow him, Manji has nothing to rely on other than his injured, tired body. Will Manji be able to match his skills with his desire for an eye for an eye...and an arm for an arm?! 32 pages, B&W. Mature Readers Cover price $2.99.

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The Gathering: Part 10 of 15 - Story and art by Hiroaki Samura. With two enemies down, an exhausted, one-armed Manji faces his most dangerous enemy yet: the two-bladed juggernaut, Higa. There are only three things that Higa wants to do with Manji: carve out his heart and eat it, wring the blood from his body and drink it, and crack his skull to consume his brain. Higa desires an immortal body like Manji's, and he'll do anything to get one of his own. Masterful samurai action in one of the best series ever from Japan...or anywhere in the world! 32 pages, B&W. Mature Readers Cover price $2.99.

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The Gathering: Part 11 of 15 - Story and art by Hiroaki Samura. The immortal ronin Manji is in bad shape, thanks to the master swordsman Higa, who will stop at nothing to learn Manji's secret to eternal life! Even if Manji's allies, the beautiful and deadly Hyakurin and her assistant Shinriji, can arrive in time to save him, will they be able to save themselves from this seemingly unstoppable foe? Plus, the return of an old friend or is he a friend?? The Gathering gears up towards its big finale don't miss out on a single chapter of one of Japan's and the world's best comics series! Eisner Award winner for Best U.S. Edition of Foreign Material 32 pages, B&W. Mature Readers Cover price $2.99.

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The Gathering: Part 12 of 15 - Story and art by Hiroaki Samura. Manji, the immortal ronin warrior, is down for the count! Hyakurin and Shinriji are off to get help for Manji...or what's left of him! Manji would be even more frustrated if he knew that, not too many miles away, Rin is preparing to test the scrutiny of the Kobotoke checkpoint to hunt down her parents' murderer. She wouldn't stand a chance in hell getting through the checkpoint on her own, but she may just have an unexpected ally... 32 pages, B&W. Mature Readers Cover price $2.99.

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The Gathering: Part 13 of 15 - Story and art by Hiroaki Samura. In a moment of truth, Rin and Nakaya, the innkeeper, venture at last into the Kobotoke checkpoint, where Rin hopes to gain safe passage into the neighboring region by posing as Nakaya's niece. The guards greet Nakaya like an old friend, but the checkpoint officials are the ones they need to convince...and they're the same people that sentenced Nakaya's last "long-lost relative" to a horrible death! Will Rin be able to continue her journey of revenge? 32 pages, B&W. Mature Readers Cover price $2.99.

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The Gathering: Part 14 of 15 - Story and art by Hiroaki Samura. Just a few questions. That's all the top official of the checkpoint wants to ask Rin before letting her continue on the road to Kaga. But Rin's pretending to be someone else to get through the checkpoint, and if she answers even one question wrong, her disguise will be destroyed, and an executioner's sword will slice through her neck! Can she fake out the head of the Kobotoke sekisho checkpoint when he has an inch-thick secret file about the innkeeper's family at his side...? 32 pages, B&W. Mature Readers Cover price $2.99.

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The Gathering: Part 15 of 15 - Story and art by Hiroaki Samura. "The Gathering" concludes with this powerful, gripping chapter! Rin has almost won her way through the checkpoint with her tear-filled story of the death of the parents of the mother she's pretending to be. But as she and Nakaya prepare to leave, the head of the checkpoint has one last question: how could a young woman like herself really have given birth to two children? Before he'll believe her, he wants her to show him the proof, written on her body! If she's caught, it's death for the both of them. How can Rin prove that she's given birth with such a child-like body? Be ready to ride the edge of your seat in the latest issue of this Eisner Award-winning series! 32 pages, B&W. Mature Readers Cover price $2.99.

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BLADE OF THE IMMORTAL #58: SECRETS PART 1 (OF 4) by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS A new story arc begins for the Eisner Award-winning series! Anotsu Kagehisa's long journey has brought him to the wooded hills of autumn, to the gates of the Ibane dojo of the Shingyoto-ryu sword school, and to a world of doubts. First there's the beautiful young woman in the woods who seems to speak in riddles. And then the man he's come to see, Ibane himself, is nowhere to be found. What the head of Itto-ryu does find, though, is a dojo full of angry sword students who don't want to take orders from an upstart from Edo, and demand that he prove himself worthy to lead them. At the point of a sword! FOR MATURE READERS On sale July 11 b&w, 32pg (1 of 4) Cover price $2.99.

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BLADE OF THE IMMORTAL #59: SECRETS PART 2 (OF 4) by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Anotsu Kagehisa came to Kaga to bring another sword school under his wing. But now the shoe is on the other foot ? instead of finding a welcome, he's found a dojo full of angry young men who don't want to take orders from an upstart, unless he can prove he's tougher than the best of them! Anotsu's long road to Kaga ends in an unexpected battle to the death, with a furious swordfighter who moves as fast as lightning! Nominated for a 2001 Harvey Award for "Best Presentation of Foreign Material"! FOR MATURE READERS On sale August 8 b&w, 32pg (2 of 4) Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS High in the mountains of Kaga, Ibane of the Shingyoto School has been training his students for war. That sits just fine with Anotsu Kagehisa, who has dedicated his life to putting the killing back into Japan's formalized sword schools. But there has to be more at stake than philosophy for Ibane to be willing to disband the Shingyoto founded by his forebearers and turn it over lock, stock, and barrel to Anotsu's Itto-ryu school. Is Anotsu willing to meet his conditions? FOR MATURE READERS On sale September 12 b&w, 32pg (3 of 4) Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS It could be any peaceful morning in Edo. The beautiful Hyakurin's taking care of her hair in the bath; her assistant Shinriji's trying to sneak a peek. But this isn't a casual visit the pair is preparing for. They're off to see Master Sori the painter and his special houseguest ? the horribly mutilated immortal samurai, Manji. So far, he hasn't regained consciousness. But will Hyakurin be ready for his first words when he does...? FOR MATURE READERS On sale October 10 b&w, 32pg (4 of 4) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Hyakurin's gone, and that's perfect for the recovering Manji. He's been waiting for a chance to ask Master Sori an important question ? where did Sori, a spy for the Shogunate, meet the blonde killer in the first place? And what's the real story about Hyakurin's Mugai-ryu assassins? Some curious light is shed at last on this mystery lady... FOR MATURE READERS On sale November 14 b&w, 32pg (one-shot) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Anotsu's trip to Kaga has taken an unexpected and unpleasant turn. Ibane, the head of the Shingyoto-ryu sword school, may be a master martial artist ? but it's becoming increasingly clear that he has some trouble with telling the truth. Anotsu can't deny that Ibane's men are worth adding to his Itto-ryu gang, and that Ibane's daughter Hisoka holds a strange, seductive attraction... FOR MATURE READERS On sale December 12 b&w, 32pg (one-shot) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS The recovering Manji isn't what you'd call a good houseguest. Master Sori wouldn't even keep him in his house if he wasn't Rin's bodyguard and protector. But things could get much worse when another guest arrives ? the young, wandering swordsman named Magatsu! Can anything stop Manji and Magatsu from chopping each other to bits?! Find out as the multiple-award-nominated samurai action-drama continues! MATURE READERS On sale January 9 b&w, 32pg (1 of 2) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Having made it through the stressful Sekisho, Rin must decide how to proceed. Should she follow Anotsu to Kaga? And where in Kaga? And so, hoarding her money, she strikes out across Japan alone, a dangerous prospect. Can she trust the "kindness" of others? Meanwhile, Manji is making shifty deals on his own with the fabulous Magatsu, if he can restrain himself from getting in a duel with the estranged Ittö-ryü bad boy. Each divergent path has a drama of its own in the continuing, award-winning saga that is Blade of the Immortal. FOR MATURE READERS On sale February 13 b&w, 40pg (2 of 2) . . . $3.50 Cover price $3.50.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS As you sow, so shall you reap. Hyakurin has put a lot of Itto-ryu swordsmen under the dirt, but when her sadistic partner, Shira, reappears out of the blue with an enigmatic warning, it's time to pay the piper. Hyakurin and Shinriji prepare to flee, but the enemy's already at the gates ? a band of Itto-ryu killers, hot for revenge. Backed into a corner, how will the two escape the vengeful swords of the enemy? Chances are, they won't! FOR MATURE READERS On sale March 13 b&w, 32pg (1 of 7) Cover price $2.99.

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Beasts: Part 2 of 7 - By Hiroaki Samura. Produced by Studio Proteus. The name of the game is vengeance, and the first rule assassin Hyakurin should've learned is never to leave an enemy alive and able to hunt you down! Captured by a pair of swordsmen, one of whom she left half-blinded and paralyzed with her poisonous arrows, this lesson looks to be Hyakurin's last. That is, unless her lovesick and inept sidekick Shinriji can pull it together enough to save her. Unfortunately, love doesn't always conquer all. Samurai action with a razor edge! 32 pages, B&W. Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Oh, the horror! We don't want to reveal storylines or dead characters before an issue prints, so let's just briefly go over what horrible things are in store for Blade of the Immortal readers. One surprise, no one dies. But someone wishes she was dead, considering the torture she's being subjected to: bondage, hot water, hanging from the rafters, bamboo beneath the fingernails, hot spikes being driven into legs, and then there's the standard beatings and humiliation. One wouldn't guess that these elements might be sales points, but then again, this is Blade of the Immortal, and these aren't your regular comic-book readers. FOR MATURE READERS On sale May 8 b&w, 32pg (3 of 7) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS The torture of Hyakurin continues. It's amazing that anyone could live through the brutality subjected to Hyakurin by these merciless Itto-ryü monsters, but she's holding her tongue like a pro. But sheesh, the girl's in trouble. How will she get out of this painfully dire situation? Fortunately, the agony of so much pain allows Hyakurin to slip deep into her mind, thinking of poor, dead Shinriji, and how they ended up on this path together. Slowly, teasingly, information about the Mugai-Ryü is bubbling up, and the ferocious Giichi, with a weapon like an oversized, razor sharp handcuff, will soon pay another visit. MATURE READERS On sale June 12 b&w, 32pg (one-shot) (4 of 7) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS The Itto-ryu have had their day with Hyakurin, and she hasn't broken. Now it's time to off her for good. Except their days and nights of torture have given Giichi time to track them down. The bespectacled killer with the decapitating head-cuff is hot on their trail, and hungry to take out a few more Itto-ryu bad guys. They don't know it yet, but there' s going to be hell to pay. Lot's of "killer" characters are coming back to Blade, as grudge matches galore line up for continuous bloody swordplay. FOR MATURE READERS On sale July 10 b&w, 32pg (5 of 7) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Ah, revenge. It's funny how the path to revenge only leads to another of the same. It never seems to end. And this time it's Hyakurin's turn. The victim of cruel torture, thinly veiled as a ploy for extracting information, Hyakurin endured days of the worst kinds of pain imaginable. But the sadistic Itto-ryü killers are about to learn a lesson in inefficiency, and it just may be their last. You see, the time these guys took to subject Hyakurin to terrible torture and humiliation was all Giichi needed to find our blonde anti- heroine, and now the man with the killer head-cuff and John Lennon-style spectacles is not only on the scene, he's feeling mean! FOR MATURE READERS On sale August 14 b&w, 32pg (6 of 7) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS From the dark recesses of her memory comes the story of Hyakurin, full of tragedy, blood, and mystery. Learn how Hyakurin came to be the killer she is today. Reel with the knowledge of why she killed her husband. And gasp as you find out. . .who she works for...Maybe! But what's important is that she's been rescued from the torturous grasp of those Ittö-ryu outlaws. Now she's resting with Giichi by her side and wandering through the past, darkly. It's another issue of mysteries revealed and brutalities uncovered. Strong characters, slowly revealing their true nature, and a setting that takes its time showing you the gritty back alleys. More of what you've come to expect from award-winning, long running series, Blade of the Immortal. FOR MATURE READERS On sale September 11 b&w, 32pg (7 of 7) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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Fall Frost: Part 1 of 6 - By Hiroaki Samura. Produced by Studio Proteus. Phew! Now that the torturous chapter of Hyakurin is over and at rest, are you ready to move onward to the super action stage? Well, I hope you are, because we're heading into some of the toughest sword battles in the history of Blade of the Immortal. Manji and Magatsu are on the road together, hunting for the vicious Shira in what will surely be a nasty battle, when they all finally come together. But first, we'll join our traveling duo in a short and funny trip to the very recent past and find out exactly how Magatsu came to discover Manji recovering in Master Sori's house. But the light-hearted journey doesn't last very long. Shira's on the prowl, and he's looking meaner than ever. Let the pains begin! 32 pages, B&W. Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Nastier opponents and meaner battles are the two things that come to mind when trying to describe this story arc. You'd think by now Manji would have sliced his way through the most sinister personalities of feudal Japan. But instead of thinning out the vicious herd, removing the worst and most depraved, he's only shaken loose the meanest characters. And it looks like Manji and Magatsu are in for a killer collision with one of the baddest. They've been hunting down Shira, but they're not the only ones on the prowl. The hunters have become the hunted and Shira has nothing but dishonorable intentions for his prey. The fuse is burning fast on this confrontation and it's anyone's guess who will be left standing after it explodes. FOR MATURE READERS On sale December 11 b&w, 32pg (2 of 6) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS The title page alone is worth the cover price on this one. It screams "poster!!" But, of course we're not going to print only the title page. That would be ridiculous. So instead, we're going to give you more and more of that signature Blade of the Immortal fighting action. This time, we're in the middle of a battle featuring two of the coolest characters, Manji and Magatsu, and one of the most fearsome guys, Shira, as well as three lowly kenshi trying to make a dollar on the side, and adding some comic relief to this consistently tense title. These guys read like an homage to the three stooges. Hiroaki Samura is reputed by many to be the master of manga, his art unrivaled, his characters complex and emotional. Remember, manga is NOT just big eyes and speed lines, it's tension, it's character, it's kinetic art, and when it's Blade of the Immortal, it's fan- freakin'-tastic! MATURE READERS On sale January 8 b&w, 32pg (3 of 6) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Well, those of you who waited through issue after issue of travel drama, Manji's recovery, and Hyakurin's torture are awarded with yet another fantastic sword battle. This time it's the long awaited revenge match between Magatsu and Shira, and the funny thing is...Shira only wanted to get back at Manji. How foolish. Oh well, maybe he'll pay for his hard-headedness. But you won't find out until you cut through at least a couple of issues of pure, bloody sword fighting. On the side, you get a little slapstick thanks to the chumps Shira hired as distractions. It's back to the way things used to be in Blade of the Immortal, so feel free to breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy another blood bath. FOR MATURE READERS On sale February 12 b&w, 32pg (4 of 6) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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(Fall Frost Part 5 of 6) by HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS Damn! The sword battle between Shira and Magatsu continues, and refuses to end or wane. And it's not like swords are the only weapons here, there are plenty of mental games being played, and some odd stabbing tools to use as well. This makes for a fantastic issue, because not only does the reader get a full issue of fantastic Blade of the Immortal sword fight action, but also lots of spicy, telling dialogue. And neither of these guys is going to go down easy. But, mind you, be prepared, because this issue is really going to finish up with a cliff hanger. On sale March 12. MATURE READERS b&w, 32pg (5 of 6) . . . $2.99 Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA; produced by STUDIO PROTEUS On sale April 9, b&w, 32pg, (6 of 6), $2.99 Yaaaargh! Cliff hanger indeed. And so we return to the cliff and let the hanging begin. Hiroaki Samura has never been one to let a tense moment pass too quickly, and this issue is a testament to the art of hanging by a thread, for a little while longer. But rest assured, there will be a break to this tension, on of our dueling swordsmen will fall victim to a cruel fate, and then we'll even rejoin sad, lost little Rin on her grueling solo adventure in the woods of Kaga. Still seeking vengeance, poor samurai girl Rin is at wit's end, and only a surprise can save her from death by exposure. Another exciting and fantastically rendered samurai comic from the heavy metal sensei, Hiroaki Samura. FOR MATURE READERS Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA On sale June ll, b&w, 32pg, (one-shot), $2.99 And now we return to romance. Ah, the wind in the trees, the white heron of love flitting through the branches, the...setup for what's looking to be a deadly trap! It's back to Anotsu and Hisoka, fresh from their romantic walk in the woods, and back into the lion's den that is the Shingyötö ryü. Anotsu might still have to compete for control of the ryü, but now there's a surprise element that could change the game for good. MATURE READERS Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA On sale July 9, b&w, 32pg, (one-shot), $2.99?MATURE READERS Hiroaki Samura's Blade of the Immortal has gained world-wide recognition for its rough yet graceful art, its modern attitude coupled with a detailed, archaic setting, and uncertain innocence mixed with brutal bloodletting. This issue brings the reader into the midst of something out of the ordinary for Blade of the Immortal?a highly detailed traditional Japanese ceremony. These hidden politics, this tentative romance, age-old traditions, surprises, heartbreak, anger, fear?so much emotion packed into a single issue! And not a single sword is drawn. But that doesn't mean the tension and action are not present; rather they are hidden, gestating behind thin veils and quiet patience. This issue, as well as #79, are the crux of a long, mysterious story?a winding path that will soon begin its descent into the complex chaos you've come to expect from Blade of the Immortal! Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA FOR MATURE READERS On sale August 13, b&w, 32pg, (one-shot), $2.99 Those lucky enough to read Blade of the Immortal regularly are aware of creator Hiroaki Samura's penchant for a good plot twist. This issue is no exception. Fresh from a dramatic wedding that brought another sword school under his command, anti-villain Anotsu Kagehisa is on his way back to Edo. Accustomed to surprises on the road, Anotsu won't be fazed to encounter a strange combination of people in his path, all trying to stop him from moving forward, and all in big trouble when they face him. But the important thing about this issue is that Rin is back in the picture! Let's see how long she'll last this time. Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA FOR MATURE READERS On sale September 10, b&w, 32pg, (one-shot), $2.99 When Anotsu Kagehisa says "Feel the weight of my Blade. Scatter like leaves in the wind," it's probably a good idea to do just that. But these secretive assassins who have closed in on him in the forest apparently don't know better. Either that, or they have a death wish. Speaking of which, Rin seems to wish for the same, having hunted him down all the way to Kaga by herself. Well, now that she's found him, she's about to find out why her quest to kill him is so pointless. Bear witness as Anotsu takes his crazy ax weapon and destroys his enemies. Find out who these mysterious assassins are, and then get ready for more drama and blood. This is a fantastic issue, and will lead into political intrigue that will flip your lid! ? Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. ? Ten volumes of fantastic translated works in the Dark Horse backlist! Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA FOR MATURE READERS On sale October 8, b&w, 32pg, (one-shot), $2.99 Anotsu Kagehisa and Asano Rin have followed separate paths in search of revenge. Now they find themselves travelling the same path together. Each of them will come to learn that they have been walking in circles. And because of another's quest for vengeance, Anotsu will lose someone who is very dear to him and one of the fiercest warriors to ever spill blood between the pages of Blade of the Immortal will die. Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA MATURE READERS On sale November 12, b&w, 32pg, one-shot, $2.99 Rin Asano has traveled a long and difficult path on a quest for revenge. Now that she finds herself allied with Anotsu Kagehisa, the one responsible for the murders of her parents, her path is about to become decidedly more treacherous. Assassins are on their trail, and there's no telling where or when they will catch up to them. Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA FOR MATURE READERS On sale December 10, b&w, 32pg, (1 of 3), It's the return of Makie! The fan favorite female killer is back. It may not be a happy moment, in fact, it's quite sad, but what do you expect from Hiraoki Samura? Once again, two of the most deadly people in Japan, a man and a woman, will be face to face. Sound exciting? Well, if they didn't love each other, it might be. But this meeting could be a bit morose instead. This is a story of beauty and pain, of suffering and love and tortured souls. But don't forget, these two could cut you to ribbons and smash your skull to oblivion, and you'd never understand how, such frail and beautiful people. Rejoice, Makie's back! And that means Blade of the Immortal is moving into a period of intense action! Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Eisner Award. Cover price $2.99.

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by HIROAKI SAMURA FOR MATURE READERS Manji's fiercest and sexiest combatant returns! When they fought in the "Dreamsong" storyline, Makie Otono-Tachibana, as swordswoman of the Ittö-ryü, left our near- immortal hero lying helpless in bloody dirt. Now, Anotsu finds her in a small town as he flees Kaga, and she's a run-down husk of the warrior she once was. What brutal and unfortunate circumstances drove her to hate...and hunt...her own father? When she finally found him, something happened to turn her into a quivering, suicidal wreck. Will Anotsu's love for both Makie the woman and Makie the warrior still hold true after he sees the physical scars of her despair? ? Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Eisner Award. ? Ten volumes of fantastic translated works in the Dark Horse backlist! Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) MATURE READERS On sale February 11, b&w, 32pg (3 of 3), $2.99 MIRROR OF THE SOUL: Part 3 (of 3)?The "Mirror of the Soul" storyline concludes, as Makie, wayward swordswoman of the Ittö-ryü, lies emotionally wasted and ready to die. Will her precarious relationship with Anotsu lead her back into the land of the living? The fate of her hated father is revealed, as Makie questions her own future and faces a crippling vice. With the surviving members of Kensui's Shingyötö-ryü clan on his heels as he flees to Edo, Anotsu doesn't have much time to spare...but he makes time to possibly save the woman he truly loves and respects. The fan-fave female warrior is back! Questions are answered and heartaches abound, as major players in this torrent of action begin to converge yet again. Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS On sale April 14, b&w, 32pg, $2.99 Hunted by the surviving members of the Shingyötö-ryü clan, Rin continues her flight towards Edo. She travels in a strange alliance with Anotsu, her sworn enemy who is suffering from a mysterious ailment. Will Rin have her chance to finally take him out...or will she find herself fighting alongside him? Done in Hiroaki Samura's kinetically masterful fashion, the thrilling action sequence in this one-shot issue is on par with Rin's "Flight of the Golden Wasps" move. With Manji also hot on Rin's trail, several major players in this revenge epic begin to move closer to an inevitably bloody reunion! Cover price $2.99.

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(W & P) Hiroaki Samura; Known for its cast of vibrand punk rock characters, Blade of the Immortal promises a future chock full of new color with the chapter. We're introduced to bizarre, new members of the Ittoryu and thier odd hairstyles, costumes, and weapons, as players in the secret, outcast Mugairyu crew conspire in the background. Also, with their flight towards Edo interrupted by Anotsu's illness, will Rin finally take this opportunity to end his life...or will she wind up defending it? Hiroaki Samura is about to turn his Samurai epic in a strange, new direction! Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS On sale June 9, b&w, 32pg, (1 of 5), $2.99 It's the reunion we've all been waiting for! Sporting one of the most heart-wrenching covers Blade fans will ever see, this issue delivers both the emotional impact of Manji and Rin's much-anticipated reunion and the harrowing beginning of another Samura-style sword fight. The surviving members of the Shingyötö-ryü clan have also caught up with Rin and her strange companion, Anotsu. Will Rin finally turn against Anotsu, giving him up to Iriya? The only certainty is that, if he has to, Manji will cut his way through these revenge-hungry swordsmen to get to his dear "little sister!" ? Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. ? Ten volumes of fantastic translated works in the Dark Horse backlist! ? Look for our Essential Manga reading list on page 27. Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) On sale July 14, b&w, 40pg, $3.50 FOR MATURE READERS After last issue's jaw-dropping reunion, the surviving members of the Shingyötö-ryü clan, led by the vindictive Iriya, face off against Rin and the weakened Anotsu. Manji is back on the scene, confused by Rin's strange alliance, but willing to fight the Shingyötö- ryü swordsmen in order to be with his dear "little sister" again. Another classic, frenetic Samura-style fight begins, as two fan-favorite warriors, Magatsu and Makie, also return to Blades' pages, providing further complications and unavoidably twisted bloodshed! ? Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. ? Ten volumes of fantastic translated works in the Dark Horse backlist! Cover price $3.50.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS On sale August 11, b&w, 32pg, $2.99 The Shingyötö-ryü swordsmen, on a quest to avenge the strange death of their schoolmaster, are split into three groups and fighting the three classiest swordfighters in the Blade universe! The stuttering, vindictive Iriya is determined to kill Anotsu, his now- decrepit target, but must first face Makie, the beautiful-yet-vicious angel of death. The young, swaggering Magatsu is locked in close combat with one of the Shingyötö-ryü clan's most honorable students, and a confident Manji, almost finally reunited with Rin, begins to dispatch his share of bloodthirsty opponents to the netherworld. Join us as Hiroaki Samura continues to reinvent the bushido grudge match by mixing elements of classic samurai tales and epic Western films with modern punk rock sensibilities. Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. TWELVE volumes of this modern classic available in the Dark Horse backlist! Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS On sale September 8, b&w, 32pg, $2.99 Stunned by conflicting emotions and indecision, Rin watches as the revenge-mad Iriya confronts Makie, the skilled angel of death. Iriya's seen what Makie can do, but with Anotsu finally within his sights, a bloody battle is unavoidable. Nearby, Magatsu and Manji cross swords with the remaining Shingyötö-ryü swordsmen. Magatsu, still recovering from his last terrible fight, tries to hold his ground against one of the Shingyötö-ryü clan's most honorable students, while Manji, eager to finally be reunited with Rin, hopes to send a few more opponents to the afterlife. As his latest dogfight gets messier, Hiroaki Samura continues to reinvent the bushidö grudge match by mixing elements of classic samurai tales and epic Western films with modern punk rock sensibilities. ? Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Eisner Award. ? TWELVE volumes of this modern classic available in the Dark Horse backlist! Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) On sale October 13, b&w, 32pg, $2.99 Hiroaki Samura's Last Blood story line comes to its conclusion! With revenge-lust hanging thick in the air, our main event is the deadly showdown between the starving and weakened Anotsu and his crazed, quick Shingyötö-ryü opponent, Iriya. Makie has evened out the playing field in a bloody flurry that puts Kill Bill Vol. 1 to shame, while Manji and Magatsu try to survive separate dogfights with Shingyötö-ryü swordsmen on the sidelines. Manji battles in order to be reunited with his beloved Rin, Magatsu engages his opponent in order to defend Anotsu, and any survivors of these gory encounters will face each other and their own shifting, uneasy alliances! This issue's dramatic cover mirrors the intensity inside, as Samura continues to reinvent the bushidö grudge match with a sharp, modern edge. FOR MATURE READERS Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A). b&w, 32pg, $2.99 Magatsu, licking his wounds after last issue's bloody showdown, plays samurai detective after he journeys to the site of an Ittö-ryu massacre. In a weird turnaround, it's a batch of new Ittö-ryu warriors who are massacred! Crossbow expert Hyakurin is also convalescing, under Giichi's protection while she slowly becomes battle-ready. A heartbreaking conversation provides some insight into Giichi's character, and the ever- present Blade cliffhanger leaves us wondering about Hyakurin's future. Gracing this issue are two stellar pinups by rising comic book stars Jonathan and Joshua Luna! FOR MATURE AUDIENCES Cover price $2.99.

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On sale December 8, b&w, 32pg, $2.99 HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) Trying to recover from a Mugai-ryü ambush, Anotsu assembles a colorful group, his finest surviving Itto-ryü warriors, to re-affirm loyalties and focus their anger. Once again, revenge-lust hangs heavy in the air, as Anotsu sets his followers against the man he feels is responsible for crippling his sword school. Reunited and recovering from their last ferocious battle, Manji and Rin rest at an idyllic cabin. Rin hones her swordfighting skills and drops a huge surprise on Manji. Their break from the fray may be short-lived, however, as the bald, spectacled Giichi arrives with an unsettling proposition. ? Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. ? TWELVE volumes of this modern classic available in the Dark Horse backlist! FOR MATURE READERS Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS On sale January 12, b&w, 32pg,$2.99 Giichi, a top Mugai-ryü assassin with a penchant for head collecting, has given the near- invincible warrior Manji an ultimatum: join the Mugai-ryü or die. Never one to be bossed around, Manji chooses the path of "mouthing off and fighting" with gusto. Armed with an arsenal of strange weapons and confidently relying on his mystical healing powers, Manji may be getting a little too cocky, especially since he's never had to recover from a beheading before! Within a moonlit forest, another stylish Samura skirmish begins, and two bloodthirsty fan-favorites clash! Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS On sale February 9, b&w, 32pg, $2.99 The moonlit forest battle between Manji and Giichi concludes. A bit too confident in his mystical healing powers, Manji has survived several sloppy sword fights and recovered from severe injuries ... but never from a beheading! Giichi's fighting style and unique weapon of choice may be just what's needed to take the near-immortal warrior down. Rin, recently reunited with her beloved Manji, watches the fight from the shadows, while a strange figure lurks in the forest behind her with evil intentions. A cliffhanger ending?? You betcha! Two bloodthirsty fan-favorites clash in another stylish Samurai showdown! Cover price $2.99.

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HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS On sale March 9, b&w, 32pg, $2.99 Kidnapped and bound by three Itto-ryü warriors, Rin is unable to warn Manji that he's heading into a trap. To make matters worse, the Itto-ryü possess a large dose of kessen- satsu, the only poison known to damage Manji's immortal blood and severely cripple his regenerative abilities. After last month's odd resolution, is Giichi following Manji in order to help rescue Rin...or will he just stick around long enough to finish off any survivors? This first chapter of Samura's "Trickster" slugfest leads into next month's double-sized 100th issue! ? Winner of Japan's prestigious Media Arts Award and America's own Will Eisner Award. ? Thirteen volumes of this modern classic are available in the Dark Horse backlist! Cover price $2.99.

HIROAKI SAMURA (W/A) FOR MATURE READERS. b&w, 64 page giant issue, $5.99. A double-sized dose of Samurai suspense and violence, as Blade of the Immortal reaches its one-hundredth issue! Armed with kessen-satsu, the only poison known to damage Manji's immortal blood, three Itto-ryü warriors target Manji and Giichi. Crippled and sightless, will Manji be able to fend off a vicious, new Itto-ryü foe? Giichi, still reeling from the events in the "Twilight" storyline, finds himself trading swings with Magatsu, another fan favorite! This issue also features pinups by Francisco Paronzini and Andy Tong, along with a Blade of the Immortal parody strip, "Rumble to Kaga," by Jhomar Soriano. ? Francisco Paronzini's previous works include Dark Horse's Dead To Rights and Star Wars Tales and DC Comics' Cinnamon: El Ciclo. ? Andie Tong's previous works include Noble Causes and Masters Of The Universe. He is also a fantasy illustrator for White Wolf RPG books. Cover price $5.99.