[Dormamu]

Personally, I'm glad it wasn't a recycled "feels" Christmas episode. I don't require that level of fan filler. The Kinji/Kyuuemon fight was actually really well played out, considering how many times Kinji has been duped by that fox. And since less than 10 episodes ago Kyuuemon was kicking everyone's butt with that special attack, and now Kinji has gone up a few power levels makes it a more even playing field.

Mangetsu is growing on me with each episode. He's smart, powerful, and wicked devious. Considering Ninniger has been all about Kasumi of late, he is in effect the Moriarty to her Holmes. Because let's face it, she and Takaharu are truly the top ninjas. He's got the brawn and she has the brains. It's been far too easy for her. (and if you're doing a count, Yakkun has his lawnmower fetish, Kinji just wants burgers and photos, Fuuka is the comic relief, and Nagi is kind of happy to sit in the back)

Kyuuemon's half reveal is significant enough to make one wonder if he's Daddy with sealed powers (which would explain the desire for the End Shiruken). We'll see.

I am also disappointed by next weeks theme. I don't know why the entire series has had this constant vibe of not wanting to take itself too seriously. That's what happens when you read too much Naruto and just pull the filler plots.