Author: Masashi Kishimoto
Scanslated by Ketwaroo
[SPOILERS ABOUND]
Something of a new territory for HVO, I've decided to start reviewing the weekly releases of Naruto that have been scanslated by the unrelenting workforce of the Internet (god bless every one of them). The reason for this is mainly because I feel the most recent chapters would serve as an interesting contrast to VIZ's drawn out official release, reflecting how Kishimoto has developed as a mangaka over the past few years. Plus, like most of the modern world these days, I'm a total Naruto [manga] fanboy.
With chapter 300 we finally gain some insight into the enigmatic Sai as Sakura, Naruto and Yamato discover what's in his treasured picture book. And quite frankly, thank god for that. Sai has always had the potential to be a poor man's Sasuke; apart from their similarities in looks (albeit Sai is much poutier) they both have equally irritating levels of conceit, and it would have been pretty disappointing if Kishimoto played it straight.
Luckily, he hasn't and Sai's motivations are gradually becoming clear (although still cryptic with a number of mysteries still unexplained). Coupled with some interesting pieces of information from Kabuto and Orchimaru's conversation, we're starting to twig on the possible reasons for Sai's 'defection' beyond the explicit coup d'état agenda of Danzo. This is gives Sai some much needed pathos and I predict everyone will adore the boy by the end of this arc. Such is the fickle way of Internet fandom, eh?
Kabuto and Orochimaru's relationship is given a bit more narrative in this chapter as well, and I love the measured affection they seem to have for one another recently. Kabuto isn't just the obedient underling he came across as in earlier volumes and Orochi shows a definite reliance on his abilities as a medical nin. This also serves to strengthen the definite alliance Kabuto now has to Orochimaru, although who's to say how genuine it is with Kabuto being the confusingly mysterious bastard he is.
The artwork is in line with Kishimoto's high standard of quality. There's no action this chapter, but characters and scenery are rendered with a typically beautiful robustness. Sai's artbook in particular is wonderfully presented, with small hints of Kishimoto's enjoyment evident.
And as a side note (seeing as I've just started reviewing this), I have to say Kishimoto's 'new style' really floats my boat. His previous art style almost seems twee in comparison (as great as it was). Special kudos for Sakura, who is looking distinctly awesome, and I highly approve of Naruto's costume change!
Of course, this chapter's big revelation is the silhouetted appearance of Sasuke at the end, petulant and whingy as ever. I'm interested to see how Sasuke reacts to Sai and how they'll play off against each other in the coming weeks. The intrigue is generally maintained well with this chapter and even without any immediate action, things never get dull. As usual, the next release can't come soon enough!
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