Yes, that idealized free spirit concept of the immortal Kato Buntaro no longer exists in the world. But I think thats good. Had he stayed like that he would have just been frozen solid at the peak of the mountain after all was said and done - frozen in wax which dripped down from icarus's wings when he flew too close to the sun. Humans aren't meant to live like that I don't think. They only die like that, as martyrs. This is a happy ending. He is the product of his own two hands, regardless of whether or not anyone approves or disproves of what he's done with himself. I respect that.
What draws me in to the main character of this story was what he represented. I don't think I was able to relate to him very much in his interest and disposition but I could emphasize with him viscerally. I live for the burning flame of passion, and I was able to feel it vicariously through him as he took these near death situations in stride. It inspires me to want to do more with my life, and at least be more decisive with myself. I want to proudly be able to say that I walked with my two feet into a hole rather than say that I luckily reached safety after putting my head in the ground. That thing that makes you tick, I want to find it. My tick, that is. I want to be able to look forward and earnestly pursue things I love even if they aren't the safest or the most logical.
I read this entire manga in the span of about 3 hours, and I really enjoyed it. I hope I'll be able to get a physical copy of at least a couple of the volumes if I am in a good position to.