Yoruhashi, the creator of the dark fantasy manga “The Kingdoms of Ruin,” is set to launch a brand-new manga series in August 2025. Titled “Nemureru Mori no Rega” (Sleeping Rega, or literally, Sleeping Rega in the Woods), this “traditional battle fantasy” will appear in the September issue of Kodansha’s Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine, scheduled for release on August 8th. The story promises a grand adventure that unfolds when a beloved princess awakens from a deep slumber, drawing a clear reference to the classic fairy tale “Sleeping Beauty.”
Yoruhashi’s Rise to Prominence
Yoruhashi has become a notable figure in the manga world, particularly known for “The Kingdoms of Ruin” (Hametsu no Ōkoku), which debuted in April 2019 in Mag Garden’s Monthly Comic Garden magazine. This series is also available on Manga Doa, Mag Comi, and pixiv Comic websites, with Seven Seas Entertainment publishing it in English. The dark fantasy themes and compelling narrative of “The Kingdoms of Ruin” quickly garnered a dedicated following, leading to an anime adaptation that premiered in October 2023, streamed by Crunchyroll with an English dub.
In December 2022, yoruhashi also launched “Kokusan Shōjo Clarith” (Domestically Produced Girl Clarith) in Kodansha’s Shonen Magazine Edge. Although Shonen Magazine Edge ceased publication in October 2023, the manga found a new home on Kodansha’s Comic Days app in January 2024.
The Kingdoms of Ruin: A Dark Fantasy Epic
“The Kingdoms of Ruin” is set in a world where humanity once thrived through magic, gifted by witches. However, the rise of scientific advancement, known as the Gear Expansion, has rendered magic and witches obsolete. The Redia Empire, seeking to eliminate magic, initiates a ruthless witch hunt. Adonis, an apprentice to the witch Chloe, vows revenge against humanity after her execution.
The manga explores themes of revenge, technological advancement versus magic, and the consequences of extremism. With its dark tone and intense action sequences, “The Kingdoms of Ruin” has resonated with fans of the dark fantasy genre.
Other Works by Yoruhashi
While “The Kingdoms of Ruin” remains yoruhashi’s most recognized work, “Kokusan Shōjo Clarith” offers a different perspective on their storytelling abilities. Though details on this series are less readily available, its initial publication in Shonen Magazine Edge suggests a focus on younger audiences and potentially lighter themes compared to the dark and violent world of “The Kingdoms of Ruin.”
Nemureru Mori no Rega: A New Direction?
The announcement of “Nemureru Mori no Rega” has sparked interest due to its description as a “traditional battle fantasy” centered around a princess awakening from a deep sleep. This premise shares similarities with “Sleeping Beauty,” but yoruhashi’s unique storytelling style is likely to bring a fresh and potentially darker twist to the classic tale.
What to Expect
Given yoruhashi’s previous work, several elements can be anticipated in “Nemureru Mori no Rega”:
- Intriguing Characters: Yoruhashi excels at creating complex and compelling characters. Rega, the awakened princess, will likely be a multi-faceted character with her own motivations and struggles.
- Action-Packed Battles: As a “battle fantasy,” the manga will likely feature intense and well-choreographed fight scenes. Yoruhashi’s experience with “The Kingdoms of Ruin” suggests a talent for depicting action in a visually engaging manner.
- Dark Themes: While the premise may seem lighter than “The Kingdoms of Ruin,” yoruhashi often incorporates dark themes and mature content into their stories. “Nemureru Mori no Rega” may explore the darker aspects of the “Sleeping Beauty” tale, such as the consequences of curses, the nature of fate, and the cost of protecting a kingdom.
- Unique World-Building: Yoruhashi’s ability to create immersive and detailed worlds is evident in “The Kingdoms of Ruin.” “Nemureru Mori no Rega” will likely feature a richly developed world with its own history, cultures, and magical systems.
Potential Storylines
Several possible storylines could emerge from the premise of “Nemureru Mori no Rega”:
- The Reason for the Sleep: Why did Rega fall into a deep slumber? Was it a curse, a magical experiment, or a voluntary act? The answer to this question will likely drive the initial plot and reveal crucial information about the world.
- The State of the Kingdom: What has happened to Rega’s kingdom during her sleep? Has it prospered, fallen into ruin, or been conquered by enemies? Rega’s awakening may coincide with a crisis that she must resolve.
- The Battle Against Evil: What forces threaten Rega and her kingdom? Is there a malevolent entity seeking to exploit her awakening, or are there internal conflicts tearing the kingdom apart? Rega will likely have to fight to protect her people and secure her reign.
- The Search for Allies: Rega may need to gather allies to face the challenges ahead. These allies could include knights, mages, or even former enemies who share a common goal. The bonds she forms with these characters will be crucial to her success.
- The Exploration of Magic: How does magic work in this world? What are its limitations and consequences? Rega’s connection to magic, whether as a user or a target, will likely be a central theme.
Reception and Anticipation
The announcement of “Nemureru Mori no Rega” has already generated excitement among fans of yoruhashi and the fantasy genre. The combination of a familiar fairy tale with a potentially darker twist is an intriguing prospect, and many are eager to see how yoruhashi will reimagine the “Sleeping Beauty” story.
Early Reactions
- Enthusiasm for Yoruhashi’s Style: Fans of “The Kingdoms of Ruin” are eager to see yoruhashi apply their unique storytelling style to a new series. The dark themes, compelling characters, and intense action sequences that define their previous work are highly anticipated in “Nemureru Mori no Rega.”
- Curiosity About the “Battle Fantasy” Element: The description of the manga as a “traditional battle fantasy” has piqued the interest of action fans. The promise of exciting fight scenes and strategic combat is a major draw for many readers.
- Speculation on the “Sleeping Beauty” Twist: The connection to “Sleeping Beauty” has sparked numerous theories and predictions. Some fans believe that yoruhashi will subvert the traditional fairy tale tropes, while others expect a darker and more mature interpretation of the story.
- Anticipation for New Characters: Yoruhashi’s ability to create memorable and complex characters is highly valued by fans. The introduction of Rega and her potential allies and enemies is a major source of excitement.
Potential Impact
“Nemureru Mori no Rega” has the potential to become a major hit in the manga world. Yoruhashi’s established fanbase, combined with the intriguing premise and the universal appeal of “Sleeping Beauty,” could draw a wide audience. If the manga lives up to the initial expectations, it could further solidify yoruhashi’s position as a prominent figure in the dark fantasy genre.
Conclusion
Yoruhashi’s upcoming manga, “Nemureru Mori no Rega,” promises to be an exciting addition to the world of fantasy manga. With its blend of familiar fairy tale elements and yoruhashi’s signature dark style, the series has the potential to captivate readers and establish itself as a major success. As fans eagerly await its release in August 2025, the anticipation continues to build for the grand adventure that awaits when Rega awakens from her deep slumber.
