D.Gray-Man Volume 16
Story and Art: Katsura Hoshino
Rating: Older Teen
In the previous volume, the Black Order’s headquarters faced its greatest crisis to date as a level 4 Akuma manifested itself within the exorcist’s sanctuary. Having never seen a level 4, the majority of the Order is taken by surprise and easily defeated leaving a weakened Allen Walker to face the vicious demon alone.
As volume 16 opens, Allen finds himself quickly out matched, leaving a powerless Kanda and Lavi to hold off the Akuma while Lenalee has a new innocence implanted within her body. As the Level 4 tears through everything in its path, Allen and Lenalee make their final stand in an effort to defend the innocence. Afterward, the action doesn’t let up as a deadly virus breaks out transforming everyone that becomes infected into violent savages.
The previous volume left Allen and company in dire straits making the outcome here all the more enjoyable. D.Gray-Man has always managed to offer a satisfying conclusion to its multilayered story arcs and this is no exception. That being said, the story’s progression is put on hold halfway through, setting up an arc that holds no bearings on the plot. It’s understandable that the author wants to take a breather after the series of intense battles thus far but throwing in a zombie arc just feels so out of left field.
All quibbles aside, this is one of the strongest entries thus far in the series if for no other reason than the conclusion to the Level 4 Akuma Arc. As with the majority of shonen series, D.Gray-Man has done its fair share of stalling, never the less it continues to provide the darker edge that fans of the genre seek. Interesting little hints are dropped pertaining to the title’s direction which should pique interest for things to come.
D.Gray-Man Volume 16 - B+
Arata the Legend Volume 1
Story and Art: Yuu Watase
Rating: Teen
Two boys with strikingly similar appearances are pulled across dimensions, switching lives with one another and confronting challenges greater than any they ever imagined. Such is the premise for Arata the Legened, Fushiji Yugi creator Yuu Watase’s first foray into the shonen genre of manga.
In a magical realm where Gods are weapons and humans their masters, Arata is the successor of the Hime clan and next in line for the throne. Unfortunately, only a woman can take the throne. Forced to cross dress until his grandmother can think of a more desirable solution, Arata comes face to face with the current monarch only to bear witness to an attack on her by the royal guards. It is not long before he is accused of treason and forced to flee for his life.
In another world similar to our own, another boy named Arata undergoes trials of his own as he struggles with the daily rigors of student life. Having been picked on as a child, he has finally earned himself friends and popularity until an unwelcome face from his past unexpectedly transfers into his school sending Arata into an emotional downward spiral. As the diverging Arata’s run from their problems, each is swallowed up by a mysterious doorway, transporting each one into the other’s world and forcing them to confront the other’s problems.
While the pencil work is strong and the fantasy setting captivating, there is one minor complaint that while not entirely problematic, prevents the series from being a hit on all fronts. Despite the fact that the two Arata’s sport similar faces, supporting characters can’t seem to differentiate between the two regardless of the fact that their appearances from hair to dress are nothing alike.
Even so, Arata the Legend was an enjoyable introduction into this new world. In terms of fantasy Watase is clearly a master though the action scenes could use a little work. Stories like this usually offer a nice balance of action and adventure, both of which Arata succeeds at. This is a good first effort that will have readers looking forward to where the story goes next.
Arata the Legend Volume 1 - A
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