Title: The King’s Beast Vol. 14
Author: Rei Toma
Publisher: Viz Media
Language: English
Format: Paperback
Pages: 168
Genre: Romance, Fantasy
Publication Date: December 3, 2024
The Story
We open up with Tenyou telling Rangetsu and Sougetsu that Kokai’s fate is in their hands. Being the Ajin of the former Emperor who tortured Sougetsu, he felt it was only right to let them decide whether he dies or he’s spared under the condition that he helps them.
When they return to the palace after making their decision, word has reached them that there has been fighting along the border between humans and Ajin. The anti-Ajin discrimination orders aren’t being followed and it seems that even Ajin supporters are beginning to turn against the Ajin because of all of the trouble that’s being caused. Tenyou goes to investigate and takes Rangetsu along with them. They travel under the guise of merchants and stop at a local pub to eat. There, they are put to sleep through alcohol; however, Rangetsu is kind of immune to those things. He catches the culprit but he escapes in a rather unique way.
After their return, they realize how dire the situation is becoming; however, there’s no time to ponder that as more news reaches them about an impending invasion. Prince Kougai rallies a troop and dispatches himself and his men to the border. There, the nation of Rohan launches an attack but thanks to the advanced warning, they are held back because of Kougai’s arrival. Kougai gives the order to attack; however, little did he know, Rohan was anticipating it!
Characters
Rangetsu showed some nice development when it came to deciding Kokai’s fate. Her reflection on her revenge, what she learned from it, and her promise to herself showed signs of maturation. She seems to be a bit wiser in her decision-making; however, when she is asked to spar as part of her military training, she becomes a bit reckless and her actions almost get her thrown out! So, it’s like one step forward, two steps back but all of these lessons are not lost on her. I feel that she is going to continue to grow!
Speaking of Rangetsu, she’s getting a bit more daring around Tenyou when it comes to showing affection for him. In fact, she realized this and had to stop herself before she went a bit too far, although, there was some indication there that she wanted to keep going! She’s certainly turning into a feisty little one!
Our new character Barre was pretty interesting. Sadly, going into detail about spoils a lot of things about this volume but it’ll be interesting to see how he unfolds from here on out!
Final Thoughts
This volume flew by! The story progressed at a pretty good clip but it wasn’t fast to where it felt rushed. The big focus here was placed on the Western border of the country with the Ajin resentment kicking in and the invasion by the nation of Rohan. Of course, this was hinted at for a couple of volumes now so it’s nice to see that the trigger was finally pulled. Despite everything getting underway, we are just getting started so I can see this playing out for quite a while.
The only complaint that I had with this volume was a plot point that’s used far too often. To not peel back the curtain too much, there is a bit of a forewarning of an event that closed out the volume and when you see it, you’ll see what types of flags are raised and how it’s easy to guess what will happen just based on the nature that the hints were presented in. If you’ve seen/read any fantasy story, then you’ll know how to spot it and then sigh because you know that it’s something that’s used a bit too often.
Outside of that little qualm, I thought this was an excellent volume. The story was brisk, yet meaningful, Rangetsu continues to develop, and some of the more affectionate parts are starting to get more steamy! Great volume all around and can’t wait to see what happens after that cliffhanger ending!
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This item was provided for review by VIZ Media
