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Nurarihyon no Mago



Nura Rikuo looks like an average middle schooler with no remarkable traits but he is a different person when he is at home. Part human and 3/4 youkai, Rikuo is the successor of the Nura Clan --- an alliance of several youkai gathered by his grandfather Nurarihyon and his father Rihan before him. However, Rikuo does not want to acknowledge that part of his blood, choosing to live like a normal human instead. Some members of the clan see this as a weakness and begin to challenge Rikuo's abilities as a fighter and a leader. But Rikuo would gladly give up that post. This he cannot do and it would soon dawn on him that in order to protect his human friends and even his youkai family, he has to use his youkai powers to protect everyone. His ultimate test came at the hands of the wily Inugamigyoubu Tamazuki, leader of the Shikoku Hachijuhakki Yako faction.

The Kiyojuji Paranormal Patrol, Rikuo's friends and classmates. From left Shima, Kana, Torii, Kiyotsugu,  and Magi. Not included in photo, Yura

Some members of the Nura clan with Nurarihyon (center)
Inugamigyoubu Tamazuki

The premise of the story is promising although a main character who enjoys privileges of two different worlds might seem cliche. The mood in the first half of this 24-episode series is light and as the story progresses, formidable enemies appear which allows for a lot of improvement in Rikuo's abilities. Although plenty of characters are introduced the story never lost focus on Rikuo's internal conflict.

The supporting characters are likeable and there are a handful of funny and light scenes. The animation is good as well as the opening and ending themes. The only drawback is that the last few episodes did not sustain the buildup of the tension in the previous episodes. There is an expectation of an explosive ending but  the fight scenes preceding  Inugamigyoubu Tamazuki and Rikuo's fight are drawn out. That fight itself failed to deliver that promise. There are so many things lacking in the series that it is almost a chore to watch.

Rating: 6 out of 10

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