Neither rain, nor snow, nor dark of night…
Creative Staff
Story/Art: Sorata Akiduki
Translation: Caleb Cook
Touch-up Art & Lettering: Brandon Bovia
Design: Alice Lewis
Editor: Karla Clark
What They Say
Shirayuki and Zen finally have “the talk” about their future together. Then, a heavy rain forces the party to take shelter at an inn after seeing off Sakaki. But just as night falls, Obi slips away!
Content: (please note that content portions of a review may contain spoilers):
After the very intimate kiss at the end of the previous volume, it looked like things were about to get very steamy for Shirayuki. The couple running around trying to find a quiet corner comes off as a bit spicier than I think was intended. My mind instantly went to the two young lovers searching for a place to mug down, when in actuality I think Zen just wanted a private conversation. For as smooth an operator as Zen is, we’re shown that in private he is just as flustered as Shirayuki about their growing intimacy.
Someone who isn’t shy about intimacy is a woman the group meets while escorting Raj’s aid back to the crossroad. While taking shelter from the rain at a nice inn the group meet Trow. She’s a spunky, flirty woman who is one of Obi’s former associates. We get a fleeting glimpse of Obi’s past in context with her, and it’s barely a taste of what his life must have been like. Obi remains a cipher even after this brief trip down memory lane. I’m starting to wonder if Obi even understands his own wants and desires. He clearly still has some feelings for Shirayuki but is still not overstepping.
I expected from the volume summary that Obi was actually going to take off and depart the group. I’m glad this series continues to dodge the obvious tropes of storytelling. More importantly, the characters continue to communicate with each other and are quick to admonish each other when they don’t. It’s so refreshing watching characters not behave like idiots.
What’s also refreshing is getting to see the cast topless for a while in the baths. Granted, this isn’t the type of series to revel in fanservice, but these slow character moments are very cozy.
Then the plot kicks back into gear again as Prince Izana drills his brother once again on his intentions. Zen is starting to fight back against his brother running his life. He no longer acts like just being in his presence is a huge hassle. They even enjoy a drink together. Shirayuki shares the news of her apprenticeship being over with the group and just as quickly as that duty calls.
Ryu and Shirayuki as assigned a reconnaissance trip up north to find out why communication from the state herbalists assigned in that area have been lacking. Rather than some desolate outpost, the two arrive in a bustling trade town with a beautiful research library. For the first time, Shirayuki and Ryu are alone to solve a situation on their own. We’re introduced to a bunch of side characters who will no doubt play a roll in whatever calamity is next to solve in the snowy north.
There are a couple of gag comics for extras in this volume and a small gallery of promotional images.
In Summary
With new status comes new responsibilities for Shirayuki. It’s nice to finally get a glimpse into Obi’s life before coming into the service of the second prince. Trow is a fun character and despite Obi’s claim that we aren’t likely to run into her again, I hope we do. The continuing courtship of Zen and Shirayuki remains adorable and I’m excited to see a different part of the country as the two young court alchemists head to the far north. I was hoping that it would be a chance for Shirayuki to win over Izana by herself, but if he did summon his brother then my hopes for that are already dashed. Still, it is a nice change of scenery and I’m looking forward to whatever conflict arises there.
Content Grade: B +
Art Grade: B +
Packaging Grade: N/A (Digital)
Text/Translation Grade: A
Age Rating: Teen
Released By: Viz Media
Release Date: July 7, 2020
MSRP: $9.99 US / $12.99 CN / £6.99 UK
