Manga Volume Nine

Lore & Background

The volume continues the central debate of the series: whether Diclonii violence is genetic or stems from human abuse. Lucy's vendetta against humanity and her desire for revenge are key drivers. The story takes place in Kamakura and Kanagawa, focusing on the beach house where Kouta and Yuka live. The Diclonii powers, including vectors with a limited range of two meters and the ability to sense one another, remain central to conflicts. The "vector virus" transmitted to human males, causing their children to be born as Diclonii (Silpelits), is a recurring plot element.

In Their Own Story

The narrative follows the ongoing struggle between the Diclonius Lucy and the humans trying to recapture her. Kouta and Yuka remain involved as Lucy shifts between her murderous and childlike personalities. The Special Assault Team continues its brutal attempts to retrieve her. Other Diclonii appear, their motivations shifting between obliviousness and murderous intent. The volume explores the consequences of the vector virus and the rapid aging of Silpelits, as seen with Mariko, Kurama's daughter. The setting in Kamakura provides a backdrop of tranquility contrasted with the eerie violence.

Reader's Guide

This volume advances the plot of the Diclonius species and their conflict with humanity. Key elements include the limited range of vectors (two meters) and the ability of Diclonii to sense each other. The debate over the source of Diclonii violence—genetic or from abuse—is explored. The vector virus is a critical plot device: when a Diclonius vector touches a human male, it causes his children to be born as Diclonii (Silpelits). Silpelits are sterile, female, and age rapidly. Only Lucy, the "queen," can reproduce. The volume continues the story of Kurama and his daughter Mariko, born a Diclonius after an incident where vectors penetrated Kurama without causing pain.

Did You Know?

• The series title comes from the German poem 'Elfenlied' ('song of the fairies'), which is featured in the story.
• The manga was serialized in Shueisha's seinen magazine *Weekly Young Jump* from June 6, 2002, to August 25, 2005.
• All Silpelits are sterile, female, and age rapidly; only Lucy, the 'queen,' can reproduce.
• The Diclonius vector virus is transmitted when a vector touches a human male, causing his children to be born as Diclonii.
• The story is set in Kamakura and Kanagawa, chosen by the author for its tranquility and geography.