A tying up of loose ends, along with the introduction of a new wrinkle
Creative Staff
Story/Art: Kazue Kato
Translation: John Werry
What They Say
The operation against Professor Gedoin’s diabolical Dream Town Inari was just the opening round in the growing conflict between the Knights of the True Cross and the Illuminati. As both sides regroup and lay plans for the future, the Exwires try to come to terms with what has happened. Though Izumo finds some peace and a new sense of purpose, serious questions about Renzo Shima’s betrayal still need to be answered. It’s not an easy thing for Rin and his friends to learn that they have become pawns in Mephisto’s schemes, but the game is on!
Content: (please note that content portions of a review may contain spoilers):
There’s technically still a little bit of wrap up, but with the start of this book, the previous arc is largely done with. Shima walks away, and the whole operation gets locked down. In the aftermath, though, Izumo learns the fate of her little sister. It’s a rather touching and bittersweet moment, as Izumo realizes her sister is safe and happy, but also that she no longer has a place in her life. Oh, and this also does flow into a nice little bonding moment between her an Shiemi.
As things follow on, we learn the key fact that Shima is actually a double spy. We get a bit of background on the matter and some slapstick, and Shima ends up right back in the main group. It’s a bit odd, but it certainly puts his character in an interesting place, as it’s hard to say for certain where his allegiances truly lay at this point. Which leads to his friends being forced to defend him, as he faces the potential of an investigation from the Knights of the True Cross.
Will they be able to trust him unconditionally despite all that’s happened? And just what is going on with Yukio, and will he end up drifting down a dark path himself?
In Summary
This volume is spent in its entirety on wrapping things up, meaning it slows things way down. There’s some great closure for Izumi that occurs as a result, which is greatly appreciated. The current situation with Shima also gets a lot of time, and he’s certainly in an interesting place as a result. On the other hand… not a lot more happens throughout. This doesn’t mean it’s bad per se, but it’s far from the most exciting volume, and it would be nice to see something a little more action packed, though it’s obviously understandable why it happened. Hopefully things will pick up next time around, but there are still worthwhile elements to the book, so fans shouldn’t find it too disappointing.
Content Grade: B
Art Grade: A-
Packaging Grade: B+
Text/Translation Grade: B+
Age Rating: 16+
Released By: Viz Media
Release Date: May 3rd, 2016
MSRP: $9.99
