Blade & Bastard, Vol. 1 launches readers into a somber and gritty fantasy world crafted by Kumo Kagyu, the mind behind Goblin Slayer. At the center of the tale is Iarumas, a resurrected adventurer with no recollection of his past life. Earning a living by dragging fallen adventurers out of a dungeon, he’s dubbed “the corpse-hauler” and regarded with both suspicion and curiosity by others. Detached and enigmatic, Iarumas moves through a world where death is constant and memory is a fragile luxury.
The story takes a compelling turn when Iarumas encounters Garbage, a feral young swordswoman and the only survivor of her adventuring party. Reluctantly, the two form a partnership, delving deeper into the dungeon’s ever-present dangers. Their alliance is raw and unpredictable, reflecting the brutal nature of their surroundings. As they face traps, monsters, and the threat of a permanent second death, a unique bond slowly begins to form between them.
Kagyu’s approach to storytelling is intimate and unflinching, immersing readers in the bleak psyche of his protagonist. Rather than focusing on large-scale battles or grand quests, the narrative zooms in on personal trauma, survival, and fleeting trust. The dungeon itself becomes a metaphor for Iarumas’s fractured identity—an oppressive labyrinth full of echoes from a forgotten past. This emotional depth sets the series apart from more action-heavy fantasy titles.
Visually, the story comes to life through so-bin’s illustrations. The art perfectly matches the novel’s tone, capturing everything from shadowy corridors to the worn expressions of battle-hardened adventurers. These illustrations enhance the storytelling by deepening the atmosphere and giving form to the emotional undercurrents at play. Every panel feels heavy with mood and meaning, amplifying the impact of each pivotal moment.
In summary, Blade & Bastard, Vol. 1 offers a refreshing and grim alternative to conventional fantasy fare. With its focus on psychological depth, survivalist storytelling, and a gritty sense of realism, this volume stands as a strong opening to what promises to be a thought-provoking series. Iarumas and Garbage are far from traditional heroes, but their journey is undeniably compelling. If you’re a fan of dark fantasy that cuts deep, this one’s worth descending into.
