On the official website for the anime adaptation of the manga written and illustrated by Youhei Takemura, “Mato Seihei no Slave” (“Chained Soldier“), the production of a second season has been announced. What has been shown is just a short video of about 20 seconds, in which, although no release date or window is announced, it is at least made known that Kana Hanazawa will be the one to voice the character Ren Yamashiro, the commander of the Tenth Unit of the Anti-Demon Forces, and Commander-in-Chief of the entire organization.
As we well know, the first season was aired (and concluded) very recently, during the Winter 2024 season (January – March), consisting of a total of twelve episodes. Takashiro (also the author of the famous and successful franchise “Akame ga Kill!“) and Takemura began the publication of the manga “Mato Seihei no Slave” in January 2019, through Shueisha‘s Shonen Jump Plus service.
Production Team
- Gorou Kuji (Uramichi Oniisan, BEATLESS, Gi(a)rlish Number) is in charge of directing the anime at Seven Arcs studios.
- Yasuhiro Nakanishi (Kaguya-sama: Love is War, Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun, Carole & Tuesday) is responsible for writing and supervising the scripts.
- Hiroyuki Yoshii (Boku no Hero Academia, Steins;Gate, Bakemonogatari) is in charge of character design and animation direction.
- Kouta Yamamoto (86: Eighty Six, Bubble, Attack on Titan) is in charge of composing the soundtrack.
Synopsis
The manga “Mato Seihei no Slave” and its anime adaptation share a central plot that revolves around Yuuki Wakura and his unexpected foray into the world of Mato. In both, Yuuki is an ordinary high school student who is dragged into an alternate reality plagued by monsters and where women can acquire special powers through magical fruits. The story begins with his chance encounter with Kyoka Uzen, the captain of the Seventh Unit of the Capital Magic Defense Forces, who rescues him and offers him the opportunity to become her “slave.” Although initially reluctant, Yuuki accepts the role in the hope of gaining the strength necessary to protect his younger sister and others from the dangers of Mato.
As the narrative progresses, both in the manga and in the first season of the anime, the relationship between Yuuki and Kyoka is explored, as well as the dynamics within the Seventh Unit. Yuuki, despite his initially subordinate position, proves to be an invaluable member of the team, bringing his cunning and determination to critical situations. The plot is enriched by exploring the backgrounds and motivations of the characters, revealing complexities and internal conflicts that add depth to the story. The challenges they face go beyond battles against monsters, addressing themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of power.
The end of the first season of the anime leaves several plot threads open, setting the stage for future adventures and conflicts. Although the manga continues beyond the events covered in the anime, the first season successfully captures the essence of the original story, presenting a world full of dangers and wonders, and a group of characters who struggle to find their place and purpose in it. The interaction between the manga’s story and the anime adaptation offers followers of “Mato Seihei no Slave” a rich and nuanced narrative experience, maintaining anticipation and interest for what is to come.
Perhaps you, like us, have enjoyed the entire first season of “Mato Seihei no Slave” and are left wanting more, because what we have seen so far has left us craving for more (understand this as a good thing, it often happens with good stories). That being the case, there are plenty of reasons not to lose sight of possible announcements about the continuation of this promising franchise. And now, as always, it’s your turn: let us know in the comments your opinion on the first season, and your expectations for the next one. You know, we’ll be reading! 🙂
Images Source: Anime PONY CANYON Official YouTube Channel, Reddit