Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Shuumatsu Nani Shitemasuka? Mou Ichido Dake, Aemasuka?
This sequel to Sukasuka had a lot to live up to, and while it's a decent read, it doesn't quite reach the emotional heights of its predecessor, in my opinion. Set five years after the original, Mou Ichido Dake, Aemasuka? follows Feodor, a markless imp in the military, and Tiat, one of the fairy warriors. The premise definitely has potential, but the execution feels a little uneven.
First Impressions
Initially, I was intrigued by the new characters and the setting. The idea of exploring the world after the events of Sukasuka is compelling. Getting to see how the fairies are coping and the military is functioning with new threats was interesting. However, I quickly realized that this story wasn't going to be a simple continuation.
What Works Well
The world-building, while leaning heavily on the established lore, still manages to offer glimpses into the changed landscape. The dynamic between Feodor and the fairies, especially Tiat, has moments of genuine connection. The idea of a markless imp struggling with his identity and supervising a group of girls destined for sacrifice is ripe with narrative possibilities. The author does a good job of setting up this conflict. The action scenes are well-written and engaging.
Areas of Concern
My main issue lies with the character development. Feodor and Tiat, while not carbon copies, feel a bit too similar to Willem and Chtholly. I feel like the author may have been aiming for a familiar dynamic but missed the mark, resulting in characters that lack the unique charm of their predecessors. The side characters, including the other fairies, are also underdeveloped. Panival's brief appearance, for example, is intriguing but ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. The story also tends to dwell on the events of the original series, which can feel repetitive and detract from the new narrative.
Final Verdict
Overall, Shuumatsu Nani Shitemasuka? Mou Ichido Dake, Aemasuka? is a decent read, especially if you're a fan of Sukasuka. However, it falls short of its potential due to underdeveloped characters and a reliance on the original series. I'd give it a solid 3.5/5. It's worth checking out if you're invested in the world, but don't expect it to reach the emotional depth of its predecessor.
