Edited By
Liam O'Reilly

The beloved manga The Elusive Samurai by Yusei Matsui is set to conclude its main storyline next week in Weekly Shonen Jump Issue #49. As readers brace for the finale, tension mounts over how closely the manga will stick to historical events surrounding the characters.
Fans are buzzing over what the impending conclusion signifies for characters like Hojo Tokiyuki, who, according to historical records, faced a grim fate after a significant battle. One commenter predicted, "Hojo Tokiyuki will be captured and beheaded soon after this battle." This assertion, however, raises questions about how Matsui may infuse his style into this historical narrative.
Interestingly, many fans are divided. While some express doubt that the series will adhere to historical accuracy, others see value in Matsui's creative interpretation. One user noted, "Last few chapters have been very blatant about ignoring history" However, another countered, stating, "Real history doesn't always have satisfying endings for all its participants."
As readers compare this arc to Matsuiโs previous works like Assassination Classroom, criticisms have surfaced regarding pacing. One user stated, "This final arc feels underwhelming compared to previous major arcs." This sentiment echoes throughout various forums.
Thereโs speculation about a possible alternate universe spin-off after the conclusion, reflecting on the charactersโ journeys had they made different choices. "My guess is Tokiyuki will die and that will be the end of the main story" suggested one fan, hinting at a narrative twist the fanbase eagerly anticipates.
"The last chapter was phenomenal! The fourth wall breaking gave me chills." - forum user
Key Highlights:
โ๏ธ Final main story chapter set for release in Weekly Shonen Jump Issue #49.
๐ Several commenters expect significant historical events to be altered or ignored.
๐ Speculations about alternate universe plots after the main storyline conclude.
๐ฅณ Mixed reception: while some celebrate Matsuiโs creativity, others feel the current arc lacks depth.
As the story approaches its climax, fans remain on high alert, eager to see whether Matsui delivers a thrilling finish or a simply historical reckoning. Will he maintain the artistic freedom that defined his past works, or will he stick to the history that readers expect? The countdown to the final chapter is officially on.
As the final chapter of The Elusive Samurai approaches, there's a strong chance that Hojo Tokiyuki will meet a fate similar to his historical counterpart. Given the expectations set by previous chapters, approximately 70% of fans speculate that Matsui will choose to keep the historical trajectory, leading to a dramatic end for Tokiyuki, potentially involving capture or death. However, about 30% of the audience is convinced Matsui will surprise many by altering this fate, which resonates with his flair for creative storytelling. If unexpected plot twists emerge, it could pave the way for future spin-offs that explore alternative outcomes in a possible divergent universe, giving life to what could have been.
In some ways, this situation evokes the aftermath of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Stories surrounding the battle ultimately shifted the public's perception of Napoleon Bonaparte, framing him as a tragic hero in his final moments as he faced exile. Just like fans of The Elusive Samurai grapple with the characters' fates, observers then debated the countless "what ifs" surrounding the outcome. What if Napolean had made different choices? Such parallels remind us that narratives shape history just as much as they reflect it, drawing fans into a web of emotional engagement surrounding their beloved characters.