Let's escape the stress of the everyday world (if just for a bit) with some fantasy manga. We could all probably use the break. To begin, we'll look at some classic western-style fantasy, viewed through a heavy metal lens.
BASTARD!! (Basutado!! Ankoku no Hakaishin), by Kazushi Hagiwara. First published in 1988 and first published in North America in 2002.
PLOT:
The fantastical kingdom of Metallicana has long been at war not just with other kingdoms but also with powerful wizards set on conquest. It's here where young Yoko lives with her high priest father and her darling, innocent adopted brother Lucien. When their kingdom is threatened, she and her father must perform a dark ritual upon Lucien, transforming him into the reincarnation of the tall, strapping, foul-mouthed sorcerer Dark Schneider. Dark Schneider has no interest in saving anyone but himself, but his love of the ladies and his connection to Lucien allows Yoko to hold some control over him. Their kingdom is saved, but Dark Schneider's resurrection draws forth opponents from his past seeking revenge (and who are unafraid to use those around him as bait).
