When it all becomes too much … even prodigies need to take a break.
Creative Staff:
Story By: Riku Misora
Art By: Kotaro Yamada
Character Design By: Sacraneco
Translation: Caleb D. Cook
Lettering: Brandon Bovia
What They Say:
Conquering a third domain, working toward a democratic nation, and gaining the will of the people – the high school prodigies are on a roll, winning one victory after another! But even they aren’t entirely invincible, as Tsukasa and Ringo are ordered to take three days of bed rest due to overwork. And their downtime includes the two … going on a date?!
Content (please note that content portions of a review may contain spoilers):
With the fall of Fastidious Duke Gustav and Marquis Achride’s forces being summarily routed by superior forces and arms, it did not take long before the Seven Luminaries were able to make Dulleskoff, the capital of Buchwald Domain surrender. In gratitude to their help the secret insiders within the realm, the Blue Brigade, allowed the group relaxing luxuries only afforded to visiting dignitaries, and as the girls were enamored with soothing aromatherapy massages the boys succumbed to restful grand baths. However Tsukasa could not fully unwind as a sincere worry was on his mind, and he discussed this tension when all were reunited – he did not fully trust their new allies. It was during negotiations with the leader of Blue Brigade, Rommel Von Conrad, that this former prime minister noticed several imperceptible tics in the man’s gestures. From his experience in politics, he could immediately tell when someone was lying to him, and his suspicions were confirmed by their spy Shinobu, however for now this crooked man dealings would have to wait, for the doctor had a more pressing matter for Tsukasa and Ringo.
After careful observations of their leader and inventor’s outward physical appearance, the medical practitioner Keine could immediately tell these two out of the group where in duress, and if they did not take at least three days of rest, both would fall ill. Unable to argue against this genius doctor’s diagnosis, neither were in any state to complain and it came to a surprise to all when Tsukasa suggested they both hang out in the city – in other words … a date. While everyone was happy for this unexpected situation, it was Kumausa who helped to point out the obvious, this clever inventor had never been on an outing with a boy before, but she also does not want to lose out to Lyrule. So, with no other options Ringo begins collecting data from the other girls, and while their advice was at times impractical, it always came down to one thing – did she want to lose out to the elf? With her determination now fully ignited, the two met in the city but were soon inundated by people greeting these angels and thanking them for their hard work in unifying the kingdoms. However both soon realized they would never be able to relax with people recognizing them and making a fuss, so Tsukasa suggested they don disguises and went into a local clothing shop to buy new outfits and a new fad taking over, sets of fake byuma ears. But it was only then when her escort looked even cuter and Ringo once again began to doubt herself, but if she does not seize this rare opportunity to tell him how she feels … when will she ever confess her love to her savior?
In Summary:
While initially thinking this volume would be another semi-serious excursion of writer Misora-sensei introducing more advanced technology into this world, it was truly surprising to think this story was readily likable once we are shown the darker side the prodigies. Although it is true we have seen them participating in wars to help the needy and Tsukasa’s noble fault of fighting for the people, nothing is as tragic as what Ringo dealt with as a child and the sinister personality of Keine in showing how dedicated she is in aiding others. It is frightening to witness these changes in mangaka Yamada-sensei skillful use of pen to paper, with images which are normally lighthearted or barely suggesting in violence, but these two instances are chilling once the gravity of their situations settles in and makes the reader wonder what other secrets may be hidden away. If this is how future characters’ pasts will be revealed, then we may be in for something which will be an interesting divergence from the norm of this series, and allow us to see these prodigies may not be as untainted as we lead to believe. For from tragedy there is born strength and determination, and if this is how their histories will be uncovered then the future may be a grim one indeed.
Content Grade: A
Art Grade: A-
Packaging Grade: A-
Text/Translation Grade: A-
Age Rating: Mature
Released By: Yen Press
Release Date: November 5th, 2019
MSRP: $13.00
