Madan No Ou to Vanadis

Source: http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis

Summary

Tigre, a minor noble of the country Brune is captured by one of the 7 Vanadis of the neighbouring

Zhcted Kingdom. Beings whose authority is 2nd to the King.

As he comes to terms with becoming a Prisoner of War he intrigues the Vanadis Eleanor and she takes interest in his exceptional skill with the Bow; a weapon disdained in the country of Brune.

While those who care for him and await his return do what they can in order to raise a hefty ransom to ensure his freedom. He decides to learn what he can from his neighbor and captor; inadvertently winning over the locals with his earnest and casual ways.

Meanwhile, trouble brews in Brune and a shadow closes in on his lands.

Interpretation

I like the casual and easygoing mentality of Tigre. Added with is sense of integrity and care for his land and people, he makes a rather likable main character.

The overbearing Ellen, Vanadis of Zhcted Kingdom starts off as an aloof power. But quickly show themselves to be reasonable and honorable. Although their interest and desire for challenges can be unsettling.

In my second read through of this series I am enjoying the potential and the not so subtle foreshadowing that lets you know if you hang around a little longer. Things will go up a few levels. The unique terms of the series don’t take too long to get used to and typically only relate to the names of Vanadis, Dragon Tools (weapons of Vanadis) and special attacks by Vanadis.

While the pacing may seem slow at times. I find it perfectly bearable as the ‘slice of life’ moments add enjoyability and make the characters much more likable.

I’d rate it an 8/10 because I enjoy the theme, potential and characters personalities. While kingdoms at odds are a common theme in stories. The inner struggles that are only just starting to come to light in this novel made it impossible to resist the second volume for me.

Rating 8/10

~Kanshisha13

Ps (It’s unlikely anything I’m rereading any time soon will fall below 8/10. Or anything on my foreseeable ‘want to read’ list >_>)